This paper presents an approach to improve the robustness of tip-tilt controllers for fast-steering mirror (FSM)-based laser beam steering (LBS) systems in the presence of dynamic disturbances such as external shocks. To this end, we propose the addition of a disturbance observer (DOB)-based anti-shock controller in parallel to the original linear servo control loop to improve its control performance in the presence of external shocks. To increase the tip-tilt control performance against external shocks, the DOB-based control method, which is an improved control method for eliminating nonperiodic disturbances, is implemented in the original tip-tilt control system. Results indicate that the control error of the DOB-based anti-shock controller decreased, resulting in an efficient improvement in its disturbance-rejection performance.

In this paper, the mechanism of combined process of ion beam sputtering (IBS) and HF acid etching on the chemical structure defects of fused silica and its laser damage resistance perfor-mance were investigated. During the removal process of surface material, the sputtering effect causes lattice atoms to detach from their original positions, forming a large number of unsaturated structures on silica surface, which improves the chemical activity of Si and O atoms, accelerates the chemical reaction process between surface atoms and water molecules, increases the content of hydroxyl (OH-) groups in the shallow layer, and enhances the photothermal weak absorption intensity. However, the presence of OH- groups reduces the bonding strength of Si-O, destroys the spatial network structure of silica bulk, and reduces the mechanical strength of silica surface, resulting in a decrease in its laser damage resistance performance. The paper reveals for the first time the mechanism of IBS to change the structure characteristics of silica material, accelerate the surface hydroxylation process, and thereby reduces the laser damage resistance performance. This work provides technical guidance for effectively suppressing chemical structure defects on silica surface and improving laser damage resistance performance of optical components under high-flux laser irradiation.

This study presents an effective control algorithm to improve the robustness of fast steering mirror (FSM)-based laser beam steering systems against dynamic disturbances such as repetitive disturbances resulting from operating conditions. A stable control system must be able to maintain the required high-precision control even when dynamic disturbances affect the FSM system. In this study, an improved control method is proposed using an internal model principle (IMP)-based nonlinear controller with a disturbance observer (DOB) for the FSM system. This IMP-based controller with DOB can attenuate the residual control error signal under dynamic disturbance conditions.

Osteoporosis is considered a serious public health problem, particularly affecting the postmenopausal period. In 2018, in the Republic of Kazakhstan the total and primary incidence was 10 and 3.7 cases per 100,000 adults, respectively. The objective is to study osteoporosis prevalence and indicate main factors affecting low bone mineral density by screening adult population of Abay region, Kazakhstan. The target group were 641 respondents aged between 18 and 65 years old, Kazakh population living in Abay region since birth. All participants filled out questionnaire and had a bone mineral density measurement by dual energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA) between July 15, 2023 and February 29, 2024. Logistic regression analysis was conducted to assess the association between low bone mineral density and key demographic characteristics, aforementioned lifestyle factors and nutrition habits. We identified the prevalence of low bone density and osteoporosis at the level of 34.1% with the highest prevalence in the older population group (50+ years) - 48.3%. Regression analysis revealed a number of indicators associated with the likelihood of bone sparing. However, only 4 of these showed significance in the final multivariate model (R2=22.4%). These included age (AOR 1.05), body mass index (AOR 0.92), fracture history (AOR 1.64), consumption of nuts and dried fruits were associated with lower prevalence of osteoporosis (AOR 0.48). Our study was the first in Kazakhstan that investigates the association of key demographic, behavior and anamnestic factors with low mineral density.

A Berry geometrical phase is identified in a strongly metastable system containing dynamically responsive clathrate hydrate structures within a crystal-fluid material. High energy degeneracy in the associated chemistry produces local stability and false vacuum conditions that lead to non-extensive and non-additive contributions in the fundamental thermodynamic relation. Application of Ginzburg-Landau theory and the scaling laws reveals a coherence length and a penetration depth for a macro-scale dual superconductor. The coherence length determines non-extensive volume changes whilst its inverse gives the Higgs mass. The penetration depth determines the extent of QCD vacuum suppression whilst its inverse gives the vector boson mass together with indirect manifestation as non-additive hyperbolic curvature. Simultaneous emergence of the Ginzburg-Landau superconducting phase transition is consistent with gauge-invariant coupling of the scalar field to the Yang-Mills action in QCD. The discovery of an energy gap in the gradient energy term of the system Lagrangian is associated with a critical correlation length revealed in the transition from a gapped to a gapless superconducting state. Together with the emergence and absorption of the Higgs-like scalar field, a mechanism for describing a renormalized QCD mass gap arises.

The article studies and analyzes a hybrid power source system, lithium battery, and fuel cell assisted by flexible photovoltaic panels for hybrid electric vehicles (HEVs). The new configuration operates based on optimizing the performance of the dual power source to maximize the available energy and operating time. The operational mode simulates specific driving conditions in urban, peripheral, and intercity routes under variable driving patterns and traffic conditions. The simulation results show that the new configuration increases the hybrid electric vehicle performance, providing higher reliability despite the more complex design. The proposed system reduces the external power supply dependence and avoids unexpected sudden stops due to energy exhaustion. The new configuration also extends the vehicle driving range depending on driving mode and route conditions. The vehicle driving range extension may reach up to 276.3 km. The hybridization of fuel cells with lithium battery and PV panel assistance enhances battery management, reducing battery servicing and increasing lifespan. The proposed topology is cheaper than a single fuel cell power system by 17.2%, reducing the total cost related to the single battery power system if we consider the battery recharge for its entire lifespan. The cost saving is 2.6% for the American market and 14.8% for the European one.

The undoped and tungsten (W)-doped vanadium dioxide (VO₂) thin films were prepared by electron beam evaporation associated with ion-beam assisted deposition (IAD). The influence of different W-doped contents (3%-5%) on the optical, electrical, structural, and thermos-mechanical properties of VO₂ thin films was investigated experimentally. Spectral transmittance results showed that with the increase of W-doped contents, the transmittance in the visible light range (400-750 nm) decreases from 60.2% to 53.9%, and the transmittance in the infrared wavelength range (2.5 μm to 5.5 μm) drops from 55.8% to 15.4%. As the W-doped content increases, the residual stress in the VO₂ thin film decreases from -0.276 GPa to -0.238 GPa, but the surface roughness increases. For temperature-dependent spectroscopic measurements, heating the VO2 thin films from 30°C to 100°C showed the most significant change in transmittance for the 5% W-doped VO₂ thin film. When the heating temperature exceeds 55°C, the optical transmittance drops significantly, and the visible light transmittance drops by about 11%. Finally, X-ray Diffraction (XRD) and scanning electron microscope (SEM) were used to evaluate the microstructure characteristics of VO₂ thin films.

Preterm infants have increased body adiposity at term equivalent age and risk for adverse metabolic outcomes. The aim of the study was to define how nutrient intake may impact body composition (BC) of very low birth weight infants fed with early progressive enteral feeding and standard fortification. Eighty-six infants with

Background/Objectives: Population aging is rapidly increasing, and the importance of preventive medicine has been stressed. Health checkup, diet, and exercise are of paramount importance. This study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of a personalized dual-task intervention that combined exercise with cognitive tasks in improving physical and cognitive functions among independently living elderly individuals. Methods: Participants were aged >65 years who were mostly independent in their activities of daily living, divided into 2 groups. The group receiving the 20-min robot-assisted session was compared to the group receiving traditional functional restoration training. This randomized trial assessed the impact of this intervention on the 30-s chair stand test score and Montreal Cognitive Assessment-Japanese version score of the participants. Results: Both scores significantly improved in the intervention group, indicating enhanced lower-limb function and cognitive capabilities. Conclusions: These findings suggest that integrating cognitive tasks with physical exercise can be a potent strategy to improve overall well-being in the elderly, offering valuable insights for designing comprehensive preventive health programs tailored to this demographic.

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

Machine Learning deals with creating algorithms capable of learning from the provided data. These systems have a wide range of applications and can also be a valuable tool for scientific research which in recent years has been focused on finding new diagnostic techniques for particle accelerator beams. In this context SPARC_LAB is positioned, a facility located at the Frascati National Laboratories of INFN, where the progress of beam diagnostics is one of the main developments of the entire project. With this in mind, you aim to present the design of two neural networks aimed at predicting the spot size of the electron beam of the plasma-based accelerator at SPARC_LAB, which powers an undulator for the generation of x-ray Free Electron Laser (XFEL). Data-driven algorithms use two different data preprocessing techniques, namely autoencoder neural network and PCA. With both approaches, the predicted measurements can be obtained with an acceptable margin of error and most importantly without activating the accelerator, thus saving time, even compared to a simulator that can produce the same result but much more slowly. The goal is to lay the groundwork for creating a digital twin of linac and conducting virtualized diagnostics using an innovative approach.

We report a novel dual-band barrier infrared detector (DBIRD) design using type-II superlattices (T2SLs). The DBIRD structure consists of back-to-back barrier diodes: a "blue channel" (BC) diode which has an nBp architecture, an n-type layer of larger bandgap for absorbing blue band infrared/barrier/p-type layer, and a "red channel" (RC) diode which has an pBn architecture, a p-type layer of smaller bandgap for absorbing red band infrared/barrier/n-type layer. Each has a unipolar barrier using a T2SL lattice matched to a GaSb substrate to impede the flow of majority carriers from the absorbing layer. Each channel in the DBIRD can be independently accessed with a low bias voltage, as is preferable for high-speed thermal imaging. Device modeling of DBIRDs and simulation results of the current-voltage characteristics under dark and illuminated conditions are also presented. They predict that dual-band operation of the DBIRD will produce low dark currents and 27-33% quantum efficiencies for the in-band photons in the BC with λc=5.58 μm, and a nearly-constant 33% in the RC with λc=8.05 μm. The spectral quantum efficiency of the BC for 500 K blackbody radiation is approximately 20% over the range of λ=3 − 4.2 μm, while that of the RC has a peak of 42% at 5.7 μm. The DBIRD may provide improved high-speed dual-band imaging in comparison with NBn dual-band detectors.

This paper presents two control design strategies for voltage regulation in a single inductor dual output (SIDO) DC-DC Buck converter system. Based on a nominal multiple input multiple output (MIMO) plant model and performance requirements, both an LQR and a decoupled PI control laws are designed to control the power converter system, under parametric uncertainties such as voltage source variation, CPL power variation, and load resistance variation. Therefore, the SIDO converter can cascade operating, which may cause the undesired effects of voltage oscillation and reduce the system's stability margin. The control performance was assessed under both uncertainties resistive loading and power variation of a constant power load (CPL). A SIDO DC-DC Buck converter board has been developed for experimental tests. The experimental results show that the LQR strategy, compared to the PI strategy, presented a robust performance in the presence of parametric uncertainties in the resistive loads being, however, sensitive to uncertainties due to the presence of CPL loads.

Sleep quality is known to affect automatic and executive brain functions such as gait control and cognitive processing. This study aimed to assess the effect of dual tasks on gait spatiotemporal parameters among young adults with good and poor sleep quality in the United Arab Emirates. In total, 65 young adults with a mean age of 21.1±2.5 were assessed for gait analysis during single-task and dual-task conditions. The participants’ sleep quality was assessed using the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI), and gait was assessed using the BTS Gaitlab System. The participants were asked to walk at natural speed as a single-task condition, followed by walking while performing a cognitive task as a dual-task condition. The parameters assessed included the gait velocity (m/s), cadence (steps/min), step width (m), and stride length (m). The DTC on each gait parameter was calculated. The Mann–Whitney U test was used to compare the differences in the DTC on gait variables between the good and poor sleep quality groups, and the Spearman correlation test was used to assess the correlation between total PSQI scores and the DTC. At a significance level of p<0.05, a significant difference in cadence between the two sleep quality groups was observed, in addition to a positive correlation between sleep quality and the DTC effect on gait mean velocity, cadence, and stride length. Our findings also revealed a greater DTC on participants with poorer sleep quality. These findings contribute to our understanding of the significance of sleep quality in gait performance while multitasking in younger populations.

In this paper, we dive into the exciting world of wireless communication, focusing on how millimeter-wave technology and Multiple-Input Multiple-Output phased array antennas are shaping the future of 5G and the upcoming 6G technologies. We cover the latest advancements in millimeter-wave and beam-forming technologies, emphasizing their role in enhancing network security and efficiency in automotive vehicles through dual radar communication. Our discussion spans the benefits, applications, challenges, and solutions of these technologies individually from millimeter-wave to beam-forming technology and joint radar communications, alongside a look at their theoretical and practical implementations. We emphasize the integration of beam-forming technology in joint radar communications for future automotive vehicles and its impact on automotive systems, smart cities, and the Internet of Things (IoT). Looking ahead, we discuss the potential of these technologies to transform future tech landscapes, while also addressing the security implications of merging communication and radar capabilities. This paper aims to provide a clear view of the advancements and prospects of millimeter-wave, beam-forming, and dual radar communication technologies.

Chromium (Cr) metal has garnered significant attention in alloy systems owing to its exceptional properties, such as high melting point, low density, and superior oxidation and corrosion resistance. However, its processing capabilities are hindered by the high Ductile-Brittle Transition Temperature (DBTT). Recently, powder bed fusion-laser beam for metals (PBF-LB/M) has emerged as a promising technique, offering the fabrication of net shapes and precise control over crystallographic texture. Nevertheless, research investigating the mechanism underlying crystallographic texture development in pure Cr via PBF-LB/M still needs to be conducted. This study explores the impact of scan speed on relative density and crystallographic texture. At the optimal scan speed, an increase in grain size attributed to epitaxial growth was observed, resulting in the formation of cubic texture. Consequently, a reduction in High Angle Grain Boundaries (HAGB) was achieved, suppressing defects such as cracks and enhancing relative density up to 98.1%. Furthermore, with increasing densification, Vickers hardness also exhibited a corresponding increase. These findings underscore the efficacy of PBF-LB/M for processing metals with high DBTT properties.

In this paper, we establish the necessary and sufficient conditions for solving a dual split quaternion matrix equation AXB=C, and present the general solution expression when solvability is achieved. As an application, we delve into the necessary and sufficient condition for the existence of Hermitian solution to this equation by using a newly defined real representation method. Furthermore, we obtain the solutions for the dual split quaternion matrix equations AX=C and XB=C. Finally, we provide a numerical example to demonstrate the findings of this paper.

Due to the extraordinary mechanical properties of ultra-high-performance concrete (UHPC), the shear stirrups in UHPC beams could potentially be removed. The aim of this study is to determine the effect of beam height and steel fiber volume content on the shear behavior of non-stirrup UHPC beams under a larger shear span-depth ratio (up to 2.8). Eight beams were designed and fabricated, including six non-stirrup UHPC beams and two comparing stirrup-reinforced normal concrete (NC) beams. The experimental results demonstrated that the volume content of steel fiber could be a crucial factor affecting the ductility, cracking strength, and shear strength of non-stirrup UHPC beams and altering their failure modes. Additionally, the height of the beam had a considerable effect on its shear resistance. This study revealed that the French standard formulae were more accurate for the UHPC beams with larger shear span-depth ratios and PCI-2021 formulae greatly overestimate the shear capacity of UHPC beams with larger shear span-depth ratios. Xu’s formulae were more accurate for the steel fiber-reinforced UHPC beams with larger shear span-depth ratios.

Electromobility promises to efficiently mitigate consequences of increasing traffic volume and its accompanied greenhouse gas emissions. On an individual level, electrified bikes allow emission free electrified mobility at moderate costs and consequently their stock has increased significantly in recent years. This simultaneously increases the demand for spare parts, which are often manufacturer or application-specific, and due to many variants, challenging to provide for the market. This article evaluates powder-based and extrusion-based metal additive manufacturing of a typical electrified bike component to demonstrate an alternative spare parts supply. The investigation demonstrates how these parts can be additively manufactured function equivalent and with sufficient mechanical properties, also taking economical aspects into account. Furthermore, the needed resources and related environmental consequences for metal-based additive manufacturing spare-part production are compared for both process routes. The results show that both routes are capable of producing spare-parts at comparatively same mechanical performance and resource costs, while needed resources such as energy, gases and manufacturing time are significantly lower for powder-based, respectively machine costs for extrusion-based additive manufacturing. Therefore, additive manufacturing offers a promising opportunity to produce parts in small quantities resource efficient and rapidly.

Dissimilar welds between ferritic and austenitic steels represent a good solution for exploiting the best performance of stainless steels at high and low temperatures and in aggressive environments, while minimizing costs. Therefore, they are widely used in nuclear and petrochemical plants, however, due to the different properties of the steels involved, the welding process can be challenging. Fusion welding can be specifically addressed to connect low-carbon, or low-alloy steels, with high-alloy steels, which have similar melting point. Welding of thick plates can be performed with electric arc in multiple passes or in a single pass by means of a laser beam equipment. Since microstructure and consequently mechanical properties of the weld are closely related to composition, the choice of the filler metal and processing parameters, which in turn affects the dilution rate, plays a fundamental role. Numerous technical solutions were proposed for welding dissimilar steels and much research was developed on the weldment metallurgy; therefore, this article is aimed at a review of the most recent scientific literature on the issues relating to the fusion welding of ferritic / austenitic steels. Two specific sections are dedicated respectively to electric arc and laser beam welding; finally, metallurgical issues, related to dilution and thermal field are debated in the discussion section.

This study aimed to demonstrate the potential role of Dual Energy CT in assessing Bone Mineral Density (BMD) in postmenopausal women. A retrospective study was conducted on 51 postmenopausal female patients who underwent DXA and DECT examinations for other clinical reasons. DECT images were acquired with spectral imaging using a 256-slice system. These images were processed and visualized using an HAP(fat) map. Statistical analysis was performed using the Bland-Altman method to assess agreement between DXA and DECT HAP(fat) measurements. Mean BMD, vertebral and femoral T-scores were obtained. For vertebral analysis, the Bland-Altman plot showed an inverse correlation (R2: -0.042; RMSE: 0.690) between T-scores and DECT HAP(fat) values for measurements from L1 to L4, while a good linear correlation (R2: 0.341; RMSE: 0.589) it was found for measurements at the femoral neck. In conclusion, we demonstrated the enhanced accuracy of BMD calculation through DECT, finding a statistically significant correlation only at the femoral neck where BMD results do not seem to be influenced by the overlap of the measurements on cortical and trabecular bone. This outcome could be beneficial in the future by reducing radiation exposure for patients already undergoing follow-up for chronic conditions.

Very heavy stratiform precipitation (> 200 mm/per day) occurred in the Hokitika region on the west coast of the South Island of New Zealand on 18 June 2015, under north-westerlies with small CAPE (< 25 J/kg). Analyses of model simulations and observations showed that this heavy rainfall was due to cold front lifting enhanced by orographic lifting over the Southern Alps. At 1.5 km grid-length, the model terrain underestimated the average height of the 103 tallest mountains over the South Island by ~ 800 m. This leads to weaker orographic lifting and mountain blocking, and a faster-moving and stronger cold front in the Hokitika region. As a result, large errors in the heavy rainfall prediction occur. By increasing either the resolved or the sub-grid mountain heights, the simulated rainfall errors were largely reduced through stronger orographic lifting and mountain blocking, and a better simulation of the cold front movement and strength. All the experiments have the same “flow-over” regime with mountain waves and/or wave breaking (Fm ranges 0.61 – 1.21). However, the rainfall amount and distribution on the windward side of mountains altered significantly. Our new findings were that the Southern Alps can have significant indirect effects on heavy rainfall by altering the speed and strength of the cold front, in addition to the well-known direct dynamical effects (i.e., orographic lifting and mountain blocking). A combination of these direct and indirect effects makes the heavy rainfall simulation sensitive to mountain heights even under the same “flow-over” regime.

Modal testing is a common step in aerostructure design, serving to validate the predicted natural frequencies and mode shapes obtained through computational methods. The strategic placement of sensors during testing is crucial to accurately measuring the intended natural frequencies. However, conventional methodologies for sensor placement are often time-consuming and involve iterative processes. This study explores the potential of machine learning techniques to enhance sensor selection methodologies. Three machine learning-based approaches are introduced and assessed, comparing their efficiency with established techniques. The evaluation of these methodologies is conducted using a numerical model of a beam to simulate real-world scenarios. The results offer insights into the efficacy of machine learning in optimizing sensor placement, presenting an innovative perspective on enhancing the efficiency and precision of modal testing procedures in aerostructure design.

Microwave radiation diagnosis technology can detect thermal changes in skin tissue earlier than anatomical changes, but its detection accuracy is limited by non-target radiation interference in the measurement environment, additional measurement errors of system units, and energy scattering and transmission between skin tissues. This paper aims to address the scientific challenges of analyzing the forward and inversion modelling detection mechanism of layered accurate temperature measurement of human skin tissue based on multi-band. The study focuses on the construction of a pencil beam antenna optimization system, the optimization strategy of high-sensitivity correlated radiometer architecture, and the high-precision multi-band forward and inversion modelling detection algorithm. The key technologies include: (1) A new method of integrated modeling and multi-index optimization of antenna with high directivity and small aperture is proposed, and a priori knowledge-guided neural network of pencil beam distribution is constructed to realize the inversion model of antenna structural parameters; (2) The influence mechanism of high sensitivity correlated radiometer architecture error is analyzed, and a periodic phase shift error correction algorithm based on uniform polar circle is designed; (3) Combining deep learning theory and hyperparameter optimization framework, an iterative model is established, and the objective function modified by the penalty factor is defined to realize a new detection method combining forward and inversion. This paper presents a theoretical foundation for the industrialization of microwave radiation diagnostic technology.

This paper revisits the analytical theory of fractional vibrations with the highlights in five aspects. First, we address the cases of structures with frequency dependent mass or damping or stiffness in Sections 2-4. Second, we introduce the theory based on the general second-order vibration motion equation with frequency dependent elements (mass, damping, stiffness) in Sections 5-7. Third, we present the analytical theory of seven specific classes of second-order vibration systems with frequency dependent mass or damping or stiffness in Sections 8 and 9. Fourth, we bring forward the analytical theory of seven classes of fractional vibration systems in Sections 10-12. Finally, as an application, we give the closed form expression of the forced response to multi-fractional Euler-Bernoulli beam in Section 13. The explanation of the nonlinearity of fractional vibrations is given in Section 14.

Hydrogen is considered as an ideal substitute to the traditional fossil fuels because of its widespread sources, high calorific value of combustion, and zero carbon emissions. The electrocatalytic water-splitting to produce hydrogen is also deemed to be the best approach, however, it is a challenge to make high-efficient and low-cost electrocatalysts. Single-atom catalysts (SACs) are considered the most promising candidate to replace the traditional noble-metal catalysts. Compared with SACs, the dual-atom catalysts (DACs) are of greater attraction including higher metal loading, more versatile active sites, and excellent catalytic activity. In the review, several general synthetic strategies and structural characterization methods of DACs are introduced, and the mechanisms of hydrogen evolution reaction (HER) and oxygen evolution reactions (OER) are discussed. The authors hope that the review has given some insights and inspiration to the researchers about DACs in electrocatalytic water-splitting.

The p53 tumor suppressor protein is an activator of transcription. Diverse stress factors lead to various sets of posttranslational modifications of p53 what results in different sets of upregulat-ed genes. We noticed that actinomycin D and nutlin-3a (A+N) synergize in inducing activating phosphorylations of p53 and upregulation of selected p53-target genes. Here we found that one of these genes is DUSP13, which codes for poorly-studied, dual-specificity phosphatase having at least two isoforms, one expressed in testis and the other in skeletal muscles. In cancer cells ex-posed to A+N, DUSP13 is expressed from an alternative promoter in intron, what results in ex-pression of isoform named TMDP-L1. The luciferase reporter tests demonstrated that this pro-moter is activated by both endogenous and ectopically expressed p53. We showed for the first time that mRNA expressed from this promoter actually produces the protein, which can be de-tected by Western blotting in all examined cancer cell lines with wild-type p53 exposed to A+N. In some cell lines it is also induced by clinically relevant camptothecin or by nutlin-3a acting alone. This isoform, fused with green fluorescent protein localizes in perinuclear region of cells. Thus, TMDP-L1 isoform may be an important element of p53-regulated stress response system.

Dental pulp chamber volume is a fundamental measurement in the field of endodontics, but also in forensic sciences, teaching and training, or tissue engineering. This study evaluates the precision of cone beam computed tomography (CBCT) in comparison with computed micro-tomography (micro-CT) in evaluating pulp chamber volume of upper central incisors ex vivo. The intra-operator and inter-operator error were evaluated, and the results for the two techniques were compared with a T-test for paired samples. Intra-operator and inter-operator errors were >0.05, indicating an adequate reproducibility in each operator and no significant differences between their meas-urements. On the other hand, no significant differences between the two measurement techniques. The present results demonstrate that CBCT is a precise, feasible and reproducible technique for evaluation of dental pulp chamber volume ex vivo. Results provided with this method are suitable for different medical branches but also for teaching and training of undergraduate and post-graduate students. Furthermore, the findings of this study carry significant clinical implications, as accurate assessment of pulp chamber volume is critical in the diagnosis and treatment of various endodontic conditions. The ability of CBCT to provide reliable 3D dental anatomy measurements can enhance the planning of endodontic treatments by allowing for a better understanding of internal tooth morphology. Additionally, the precision and reproducibility of CBCT in assessing pulp chamber volume can contribute to improved clinical outcomes and reduced complications during endodontic procedures. These findings further support the increasingly vital role of CBCT in modern clinical practice and underscore its value as an indispensable tool in the field of dentistry.

(1) Background: The prediction of cervical lesions evolution is a challenge for clinicians. The prospective study aimed to determine and compare the predictive accuracy of cytology, HPV genotyping, and p16/Ki67 dual staining alone or in combination with personal risk factors for the prediction of progression, regression or persistence of cervical lesions in human papillomavirus (HPV)-infected patients; (2) Methods: This prospective study included HPV-positive patients with or without cervical lesions that underwent follow-up. Descriptive statistics and sensitivity analysis for individual or combined index tests were used for data analysis; (3) Results: The highest predictive performance for the progression of cervical lesions was achieved by a model that comprised a Pap smear suggestive of high-grade squamous intraepithelial lesion (HSIL), the presence of 16/18 HPV strains, a positive p16/Ki67 dual staining result along with the presence of at least 3 clinical risk factors, which had a sensitivity (Se) of 74.42%, a specificity of 97.92%, an area under the receiver operating curve (AUC) of 0.961, and an accuracy of 90.65%. The prediction of cervical lesions regression or persistence was modest; (4) Conclusions: Multiple testing or new biomarkers should be used to improve HPV-positive patient surveillance, especially for cervical lesion regression or persistence prediction.

Computational simulations of three-dimensional flow around a NACA 0018 wing with an aspect ratio of AR=5 are carried out using the Unsteady Reynolds-Averaged Navier-Stokes (URANS) equations with the Shear-Stress Transport turbulence model closure. Simulations were performed to capture the aerodynamic stall hysteresis using a developed Pseudo-Transient Continuation (PTC) method based on a dual time step approach in the CFD code OpenFOAM. The flow was characterized by an incompressible Mach number of M=0.12 and a moderate Reynolds number Re=0.67×10^6. The results obtained indicate the presence of a noticeable aerodynamic hysteresis in the static dependencies of the force and moment coefficients, as well as the manifestation of bi-stable flow separation patterns, accompanied by the development of asymmetry in the stall zone. The URANS simulation results are in good agreement with the experimental data obtained for the NACA 0018 finite aspect ratio wing from the low-speed wind tunnel under the same test conditions. A new phenomenological bifurcation model of aerodynamic stall hysteresis under static and dynamic conditions is formulated, which is proven to be able to closely match the experimental data.

Recognition, decoding and tracking of vortex patterns is of increasing importance in many fields reaching from astronomical observation of distant galaxies to turbulence phenomena in liquids or gases. Currently, coherent light beams with orbital angular momentum (OAM) are of particular interest for optical communication, metrology, micro-machining or particle manipulation. One common task is to identify characteristic spiral patterns in pixelated intensity maps at real-world signal-to-noise ratios. Recently, Fast Fourier Transform (FFT) was applied to the quantitative analysis of spiral interference patterns of OAM beams. Our study considers this approach in more detail. It is demonstrated that specific information can be extracted by combining conformal mapping by polar transform with determining one- or two-dimensional angular frequency spectra either in spatially fixed or scanning mode. Results of proof-of-principle experiments are presented.

We propose a method for creating parallel Bessel-like vortical optical needles with an arbitrary axial intensity distribution via superposition of different cone-angle Bessel vortices. We analyze the interplay between the separation of individual optical vortical needles and their respective lengths and introduce a super-Gaussian function as their axial profile. We also analyze the physical limitations to observe well-separated optic needles, as they are influenced by mutual interference of the individual beams. To verify our theoretical and numerical results, we generate controllable spatial arrays of individual Bessel beams with various numbers and spatial separations by altering the spectrum of the incoming laser beam via the spatial light modulator. We demonstrate experimentally how to implement such beams using a diffractive mask. The presented method facilitates the creation of diverse spatial intensity distributions in three dimensions, potentially finding applications in specific microfabrication tasks or other contexts. These beams may have benefits in laser material processing applications such as nanochannel machining, glass via production, modification of glass refractive indices, and glass dicing.

Ralstonia solanacearum is the pathogen responsible for Ralstonia solanacearum, which is soil-borne, infests plant conduits to cause disease.They are not easy to control and are harmful.Therefore the development of a controlled-release agent responsive to the pathogen's soil temperature and moisture conditions could aid in its control. Corn kernel powder is used as a carrier for Tetramycin biopesticide, with various compounds tested for bonding.They were then made by extrusion moulding.Temperature and wetness responsive components, including Pentaerythritol Tetrastearate, Pentaerythritol Tetraoleate, Polyethylene Glycol Stearate, and Polyethylene Glycol Monooleate,are compounded and coated onto Tetramycin cores to form an intermediate shell layer. Finally, Ethyl cellulose(EC)and Hydroxypropyl methyl cellulose(HPMC) are dissolved and sprayed onto the outermost layer to complete the pellet's shell layer.After the evaluation of texture performance test,DSC analysis,TG test,temperature and humidity response performance test, as well as pellet cross-section SEM observation, field effectiveness test, etc., the preferred formulations were screened.The results showed that the preferred Core formulation:Corn kernel powder:Tetramycin aqueous:Xanthan gum mass ratio=13.5:23:2; Intermediate Shell layer:PETS: PETO: PEG400MO mass ratio=10:30:10; and Outer Shell layer: Ethyl cellulose (EC):Hydroxypropyl methyl cellulose (HPMC) mass ratio=5:1.Under soil conditions of high incidence of Ralstonia solanacearum, i.e., sustained warmth (30-35℃) and high humidity (30% moisture content), the formulated pills showed a release rate of 95.18% to 96.24% over a period of 35 days. Moreover, they showed a stepwise cyclic release process under alternating warm and humid-dry and cold conditions.In field tests on tobacco, a relative preventive efficacy of 54.74% was achieved 106 days post-transplanting. Soil bacterial community structure analysis revealed a significant decrease (2.28-2.84 times) in the abundance of Solanaceae Raelia under Tetramycin pellet treatment compared to the control. Additionally, fungal community structure showed highter consistency initially across various soil depths, with diversity differences between soil layers reestablished later (106 days), while the predominant categories of bacteria and fungi remained unchanged.In this study, we successfully developed a nucleoshell-type slow-controlled release pill embedded with Tetramycin. This pill effectively responded to temperature and humidity changes, resulting in high efficacy in disease prevention.This development holds significant promise for effectively improving drug utilization and easing application challenges, offering broad prospects for Ralstonia solanacearum prevention and control in agriculture.

Nuclear waste is one of the most important environmental problems of nuclear power plants. A novel renewable distillation method has been proposed for an on-site recycling of the spent nuclear fuel and separation of its valuable components from the fissile isotopes, which is especially applicable for reactors using liquid fuels.

To enhance the applicability of dual-phase high-entropy alloys (HEAs) like Fe32Cr33Ni29Al3Ti3, fabricated via selective laser melting (SLM), a focus on improving their mechanical properties is essential. As part of this effort, heat treatment was explored. This study compares the microstructure and mechanical properties of the as-printed sample with those cooled in water after undergoing heat treatment at temperatures ranging from 1000 to 1200 ℃ for 1 hour. Both pre- and post-treatment samples reveal a dual-phase microstructure comprising FCC and BCC phases. Although heat treatment led to a reduction in tensile and yield strength, it significantly increased ductility compared to the as-printed sample. This strength-ductility trade-off is related to changes in grain sizes with ultrafine grains enhancing strength and micron grains optimizing ductility, also the influence of the content of FCC/BCC phases and dislocation density. In particular, the sample heat-treated at 1000 °C for 1 hour and then water-cooled exhibited a better combination of strength and ductility, a yield strength of 790 MPa, and an elongation of 13%. This research offers innovative perspectives on crafting dual-phase HEA of Fe32Cr33Ni29Al3Ti3, allowing for tailorable microstructure and mechanical properties through a synergistic approach involving SLM and heat treatment.

In a concrete beam initially crack is generated at the tension side under the effect of flexure, shear and torsional loadings. Accordingly, these weak concrete members require repair and/or strengthening to increase or restore their internal load capacity. In the current experimental and numerical investigations on concrete beam having different width to depth ratio of notch on its ultimate flexural load under one-point loading was considered. Further, the flexural behavior performance of notch concrete beam repaired with the three repair materials cement mortar, bacterial mortar and adhesive was also examined. Consequently, a comparative study is imple-mented between the experimental and numerical results. Concrete Damage plasticity (CDP) model was used for finite element numerical analysis of beam. The differences in numerical and experimental measured results ranges from 0.65 - 22.20 % for the ultimate load carrying capacity. As the notch size increases the ultimate load carrying capacity of beam was reduced. Addition-ally, linear regression model is used to predict the ultimate load values at an interval of 5 mm notch width up to maximum width of notch 100 mm. It can be observed that the ultimate load capacity for repaired beam is increased as compared to the notch beam for all the three repairing materials under consideration. The maximum ultimate load was increased in case of notch beam repaired using adhesive. As compared to the cement mortar the performance of the bacterial mortar in terms of the ultimate load was more. The bacterial mortar is found more sustainable and more durable as a repair material for the concrete structures.

A significantly reduced stress concentration effect and a stable deformation behavior are exhibited by the arc-like S-shaped auxetic structure. Analytical works beyond the bar and hinge method to capture structural effects, such as bending, shearing, etc., in the S-structure are scarce in the literature. The deformation pattern of the S-structure is dominated by bending and shearing within the linear elastic region. In this work, Timoshenko beam theory is used to derive closed-form expressions for overall elastic modulus and Poisson’s ratio. This agrees well with the results of finite element simulations. An adjusted R-square value of over 0.99 and almost 0.82 is obtained for elastic modulus and Poisson’s ratio, respectively. From parametric studies, it’s established that under quasi-static transverse load, strut thickness and the angle `α’ are the most important parameters for controlling elastic modulus, specific energy absorption, negative Poisson’s ratio (NPR) effect, and relative density of the entire auxetic structure. Also, it’s found that energy absorption and elastic modulus increase together. Interestingly, the elastic modulus of the structure under transverse load lies in the range from 3 MPa to 250 MPa, which means this structure is compliant enough and can be used in cushioning, packaging, soft robotics applications, etc.

Dual quaternions have wide applications in automatic differentiation, computer graphics, mechanics and others. Due to its application in control theory, the matrix equation AXB=C has been extensively studied. However, there is currently limited information on matrix equation AXB=C over the dual quaternion algebra. In this paper, we provide the necessary and sufficient conditions for the solvability of the dual quaternion matrix equation AXB=C, and present the expression for the general solution when it is solvable. As an application, we derive the ϕ-Hermitian solutions for the dual quaternion matrix equation AXAϕ=C, where the ϕ-Hermitian extends the concepts of Hermiticity and η-Hermiticity. Lastly, we present a numerical example to verify the main research results of this paper.

The co-occurrence of substance use disorders (SUDs) and psychiatric conditions, often referred to as comorbidity or concurrent disorders, presents intricate challenges in both diagnosis and treatment. This comprehensive narrative review aims to synthesize and critically evaluate the existing evi-dence surrounding the management of individuals with comorbid SUDs and psychiatric disorders. Comorbidity in these domains carries profound implications for clinical practice, research, and policymaking, emphasizing the need for a holistic understanding of the intricate dynamics that arise when these conditions coexist. This review explores recent research findings, evidence-based guidelines, and emerging trends within the field, offering valuable insights for clinicians, re-searchers, and policymakers seeking to navigate the complex terrain of comorbidity in substance use and psychiatric disorders.

The fusion of penetrating peptides (PPs), e.g., cell penetration peptides (CPPs), or antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) together with antimicrobial agents is an expanding research field. Specific AMPs, such as lactoferricin B (LfcinB), have demonstrated strong antibacterial, antifungal, and antiparasitic activity, as well as valuable anticancer activity, proving beneficial in the development of anticancer conjugates. The resulting conjugates offer potential dual functionality, acting as both an anticancer and an antimicrobial agent. This is especially necessary in cancer treatment where microbial infections pose a critical risk. Leukemic cells frequently exhibit altered outer lipid membranes compared to healthy cells, making them more sensitive to compounds that interfere with their membrane. In this communication, we revisited and reanalyzed our earlier research on LfcinB and its conjugates. Furthermore, we carried out new experiments with a specific focus on cell proliferation, changes in membrane asymmetric phosphatidylserine location, intracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation, mitochondrial functions, and in vitro bacterial topoisomerase inhibition.

Background: Dual disorders (DD) involve the coexistence of substance use disorder (SUD) with another mental illness, often from psychotic and affective categories. This study explores the ef-fectiveness of brexpiprazole, a third-generation antipsychotic, in individuals diagnosed with schizophrenia spectrum disorder (DSM-V) and comorbid AUD/SUD (DSM-V). Methods: Eighteen enrolled patients underwent psychometric assessments at baseline and one month into brexpiprazole treatment administered at a mean dosage of 2 mg/day. Results: Brexpiprazole demonstrated significant reductions in psychopathological burden (PANSS total score, p=0.004), improved CGI total score (p=0.042), and decreased MOAS total score (p=0.012). Quality of life improved in SF-36 subscales (p<0.05). Substance craving reduction, though observed, did not reach statistical significance. Conclusions: This study provides initial evidence supporting brexpiprazole's efficacy and safety with positive effects on psychopathology and quality of life, emphasizing the need for tailored, comprehensive treatment strategies in this complex patient population.

Clinical screening tests for balance and mobility often fall short of predicting fall risk. Cognitive distractors and unpredictable external stimuli, common in busy natural environments, contrib-ute to this risk, especially in the elderly. Less is known about the effects of upper sensory-motor coordination such as coordinating one’s hand with an external stimulus. We combined move-ment sonification and affordable inertial motion sensors to develop a task for the precise meas-urement and manipulation of full-body interaction with stimuli in the environment. In a double-task design, we studied how a supra-postural activity affected quiet stance. The supra-postural task consisted of rhythmic synchronization with a repetitive auditory stimulus. The stimulus was attentionally demanding because it was being modulated continuously. The participant’s hand movement was sonified in real-time, and their goal was to synchronize their hand move-ment with the stimulus. In the unpredictable condition, the tempo changed at random points in the trial. A separate sensor recorded postural fluctuations. Young healthy adults were compared to elderly participants without known risk of falling. Results supported the hypothesis that su-pra-postural coordination would entrain postural control. The effect was stronger in the elderly, supporting the idea that diminished reserve capacities reduce the ability to isolate postural con-trol from sensory-motor and cognitive activity.

Cervical cancer, primarily caused by high-risk human papillomavirus (HR-HPV) types 16 and 18, is a major global health concern. Persistent HR-HPV infection can progress from reversible pre-cancerous lesions to invasive cervical cancer, which is driven by the oncogenic activity of human papillomavirus (HPV) genes, particularly E6 and E7. Traditional screening methods, including cytology and HPV testing, have limited sensitivity and specificity. This review explores the ap-plication of p16/Ki-67 dual-staining cytology for cervical cancer screening. This advanced im-munocytochemical method allows for simultaneously detecting p16 and Ki-67 proteins within cervical epithelial cells, offering a more specific approach for triaging HPV-positive women. Dual staining and traditional methods are compared, demonstrating their high sensitivity and negative predictive value but low specificity. The increased sensitivity of dual staining results in higher detection rates of CIN2+ lesions, which is crucial for preventing cervical cancer progression. However, its low specificity may lead to increased false-positive results and unnecessary biopsies. The implications of integrating dual staining into contemporary screening strategies, particularly considering the evolving landscape of HPV vaccination and changes in HPV genotype prevalence are also discussed. New guidelines and further research are necessary to elucidate the long-term effects of integrating dual staining into screening protocols.

FV (finger vein) identification is a biometric identification technology that extracts the features of FV images for identity authentication. To address the limitations of CNN-based FV identification, particularly the challenge of small receptive fields and difficulty in capturing long-range dependencies, an FV identification method Let-Net(Large kernel and attention mechanism Network) was introduced, which combines local and global information. Firstly, Let-Net employs large kernels to broaden the receptive field and incorporates depthwise convolution with residual connections to reduce parameter count. Secondly, Let-Net integrates an attention mechanism to enhance the information flows in channels and spaces for more comprehensive and distinctive FV feature extraction. The experimental results on nine public datasets show that Let-Net has excellent identification performance, and the EER and accuracy rate on the FV_USM dataset can reach 0.04% and 99.77%. The parameter number and FLOPs of Let-Net are only 0.89M and 0.25G, which means that the time cost of training and reasoning of the model is low, and it is easier to deploy and integrate into various applications.

Research on spatio-temporal geostatistical modelling remains a critical challenge in numerous scientific and engineering disciplines. This work introduces a novel extension of the dual kriging the spatio-temporal dual kriging (ST-DK) whose drift functions with fixed and adaptive coefficients are established. The approach appears to be effective in modelling complex spatio-temporal dynamics, particularly when relevant auxiliary variables exert substantial influence on the target variable. To illustrate its performance, we compare the ST-DK model with the classical spatio-temporal regression kriging (ST-RK) method for estimating temperature and air pressure data across Thailand in 2018. Our findings demonstrate that both ST-DK and ST-RK models, when utilizing adaptive coefficients, outperform their constant coefficient counterparts. Furthermore, the ST-DK method consistently exhibits superior performance compared to the ST-RK model.

The dual-station Interferometric Synthetic Aperture Radar (InSAR) system can overcome the physical limitations imposed by the baseline of single-station dual-antenna InSAR. It provides greater flexibility and can enhance elevation measurement accuracy through a well-designed baseline configuration.Unmanned aerial vehicles (UAV) equipped with dual-station InSAR, with relatively low cost and high flexibility, are useful for mapping and land resource exploration. However, due to challenges including spatiotemporal synchronization and motion errors, there are limited reports on UAV-borne dual-station InSAR. This paper proposes a comprehensive method for processing data from small UAV-borne dual-station InSAR by integrating two-way synchronization chain signals. The proposed method includes compensation for time and phase synchronization errors, trajectory refinement with synchronized chain and Position and Orientation System (POS) data, high-precision dual-station InSAR imaging and interferometric processing. Height inversion results based on the proposed method is also provided, demonstrating the effectiveness of the proposed method and improving interferometric accuracy at calibration points from 0.66 meters to 0.42 meters.

The dual leucine zipper kinase (DLK) alias mitogen-activated protein 3 kinase 12 (MAP3K12) has gained much attention in recent years. DLK belongs to the mixed lineage kinases, characterized by homology to serine/threonine and tyrosine kinase but exerts serine/threonine kinase activity. DLK has been implicated in many diseases including several neurodegenerative diseases, glaucoma, and diabetes mellitus. As a MAP3K, it is generally assumed that DLK becomes phosphorylated and activated by upstream signals and phosphorylates and activates itself, the downstream serine/threonine MAP2K, and ultimately MAPK. In addition, other mechanisms such as protein-protein interactions, proteasomal degradation, dephosphorylation by various phosphatases, palmitoylation, and subcellular localization have been shown to be involved in the regulation of DLK activity or its fine-tuning. In the present review, the diverse mechanisms regulating DLK activity will be summarized to provide a better insight into DLK action and possibly new targets to modulate DLK function.

People wore clothes for warmth, survival and necessity in modern life as well but in modern era, eco-friendliness, shorten production time, design, and intelligence also matters. The seamless bonding technology strengthen the bond between fabrics in textiles, while Grey relational analysis (GRA) can be applied to fabrics to measure the relationship between data series and determine the closeness of each data series. In this study, polyurethane prepolymer, 2-Hydroxyethyl acrylate (2-HEA) as an end-capping agent, and n-octyl acrylate (ODA) as a photo-initiator were used to synthesize dual-curing polyurethane hot-melt adhesive. The Taguchi quality engineering and grey relational analysis used to discuss the influence of different mole ratio of NCO:OH, and the effect of the molar ratio of addition of octyl decyl acrylate on the mechanical strength. The Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) results showed the termination of prepolymer's polymerization reaction and the C=O peak intensity at 1730 cm-1 indicating the efficient bonding to main chain. The high molecular weight polymer (20,000-30,000) described by advanced polymer chromatography (APC) confirmed the polyurethane polymer bonded with octyl decyl acrylate to achieve the photo-thermosetting effect. The thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) results showed the thermal decomposition temperature of polyurethane hot melt adhesive also increased and highest pyrolysis temperature (349.89℃) for the polyhydric alcohols. The high value of shear strength (34.94 kg/cm2) as well as peel strength (1.68 kg/cm) were also observed in dual-cure photo-thermosetting polyurethane hot melt adhesive. The signal-to-noise ratio also used to generate the grey relational degree. It was observed that the best parameter ration of NCO: OH was 4:1 with 5 moles of monomer. The Taguchi quality engineering method was used to find the parameters of single quality optimization, and then the grey relation calculation was used to obtain the parameter combination of multi-quality optimization for thermosetting polyurethane hot melt adhesive. The study aims to meet the requirements of seamless bonding in textile factories and optimized experimental parameter design by setting target values can effectively increase production speed, reduce processing time and costs as well.

As most of the current dynamic positioning systems are based on model ships, they cannot accu-rately reflect the motion state, position changes, and mutual influence of each part of the dynamic positioning system of actual ships in complex environments. Other actual ships such as cargo ships cannot add various sensors and auxiliary equipment to verify and analyze the positioning system. This article takes the intelligent research and training dual-use ship of Dalian Maritime University, which integrates scientific research and training, as the object of study. This ship will not be affected by the voyage period and route and can choose a suitable sea area for research. Therefore, in order to improve the accuracy and reliability of the dynamic positioning system, research on the ship’s dynamic positioning system was carried out. Firstly, an accurate mathematical model of ship motion was established, and the hydrodynamic derivatives of ship model motion were obtained by nu-merical calculation, and applied to the three-degree-of-freedom model of the intelligent research and training dual-use ship. Then, the model was used as part of the closed-loop simulation model of the ship’s dynamic positioning system, and the terminal sliding mode controller was used for sim-ulation and emulation, thereby obtaining ideal simulation test results. This research helps to im-prove the accuracy and reliability of the dynamic positioning system and provides new ideas and methods for ship motion control.

The use of friction-based Beam-to-Column Connections (BCC)s for earthquake-resistant Moment Resistant Frames (MRFs), aiming at eliminating damage to beam end sections due to the development of plastic hinges, has taken hold since the early eighties. Different technical solutions were proposed for steel structures, some were also designed for timber structures, while few more recent studies concern friction joints employed in reinforced concrete structures. Research aimed at characterizing the behavior of joints has focused on the evaluation of the tribological properties of the friction materials, coefficient of friction, shape and stability of the hysteresis cycles, influence of the temperature, speed of load application, effects of the application method, stability of preload, the influence of seismic excitation characteristics on the structural response, statistical characterization of amplitude and frequency of the slip excursion during seismic excitation. Studies aimed at identifying the design parameters capable of optimizing performance have focused attention mainly on the slip threshold, device stiffness, and deformation capacity. This review compiles the main and most recent solutions developed for MRFs. Furthermore, the pros and cons for each solution are highlighted, focusing on the dissipative capacity, shape and stability of hysteresis loops. In addition, the common issues affecting all friction connections, namely characteristics of friction shims and the role of bolt preload, are discussed. Based on the above considerations, a guideline can be outlined, which can help to choose the appropriate solutions for beam-to-column connections for MRFs.

We study the tight focusing properties of generic bright and dark HyOPS beams in the presence of primary coma. The role of the polarization singularity index and handedness of the polarization of the HyOPS beams on the focused structure has been discussed. Results have been presented for the total intensity, component intensities, and component phase distributions for left-, and right-handed bright and dark star and lemon types singularities. The presence of primary coma distorted the focal plane intensity distributions for both positive and negative index generic C-points. Coma is known to disturb the circular symmetry of the focal plane intensity distribution. Similarly in tight focusing polarization is known to disturb the symmetry. Therefore, a beam with structured and inhomogeneous polarization distribution tightly focused under the influence of coma is a fit case to study. It is found that the presence of primary coma aberration in the focusing system produces a positional shift of the high-intensity peaks and a reduction of the intensity on one side of the center. As the strength of the primary coma increases, the focal plane intensity distributions shift more and more toward the right from the initial position. Unlike the scalar vortex case, in the case of HyOPS beams, the focal plane intensity distribution undergoes rotation, as the helicity of the HyOPS beams is inverted, in addition to shifting. All the component phase distributions are found to be embedded with phase vortices of charge ±1.

Optical beam splitter is used for dividing an input optical beam into several separate beams with specific power ratio. Usually, conventional beam splitters have bulky dimensions and fixed dividing ratio which significantly limit the design of new miniaturized optical devices and integrated optical circuits. We propose and investigate a novel physical concept of a miniaturized planar optical splitter/coupler with a switching element in the form of a photonic molecule (PM) pair dispersing input optical fluxes along multiple ways with variable power proportions. The structural design of the proposed splitter is based on a silicon-on-insulator (SOI) platform and composed of high-quality resonators in the form of electromagnetically coupled submicron-sized microcylinders. The control on the power division ratio and the selection of optical beam directions is realized by tuning the photonic splitter structure to the corresponding resonance of PM supermode. Compared to known analogues, the proposed design is easy to fabricate, suitable for integration into a "System-on-a-chip" platform and can dynamically change the beam power division ratio by input wave-phase manipulation.

Liquid argon technology is widely used by many previous and current neutrino experiments, and it is also promising for future large-scale neutrino experiments. When detecting neutrinos using liquid argon, many hadrons are involved, which can also interact with argon nuclei. In order to gain a better understanding of detection processes, and to simulate neutrino events, knowledge of hadron-argon cross sections is needed. This paper describes a new procedure, which improves upon the previous work with a multi-dimensional unfolding, to measure hadron-argon cross sections in a liquid argon time projection chamber. Through a simplified version of simulation, we demonstrate the validity of this procedure.

Over recent years, nanocarriers have played an ever-increasing role in clinical and biomedical applications owing to their unique physicochemical properties and surface functionalities. Lately, much effort has been directed towards the development of smart, stimuli-responsive nanocarriers that are capable of releasing their cargos in response to specific stimulus. These intelligent-responsive nanocarriers can be further surface-functionalized so as to achieve active tumor targeting in a sequential manner, which can be simply modulated by the stimuli. By applying this methodological approach, these intelligent-responsive nanocarriers can be directed to different target-specific organs, tissues or cells, and exhibit on-demand controlled drug release that may enhance therapeutic effectiveness and reduce systemic toxicity. Light, an external stimulus, is one of the most promising triggers for use in nanomedicine to stimulate on-demand drug release from nanocarriers. Light-triggered drug release can be achieved by light irradiation at different wavelengths, either in UV, visible or even NIR region, depending on the photophysical properties of the photo-responsive molecule embedded in the nanocarrier system, the structural characteristics and material composition of the nanocarrier system. In this review, we highlighted the emerging functional role of light in nanocarriers, with emphasis on light-responsive liposomes and dual-targeted stimuli-responsive liposomes. Moreover, we provided the up-to-date phototriggered targeting strategies and mechanisms of light-triggered drug release from liposomes and NIR-responsive nanocarriers. Lastly, we addressed the current challenges, advances, and future perspectives for the deployment of light-responsive liposomes in targeted drug delivery and therapy.

This article develops duality principles and related convex dual formulations suitable for the local optimization of non-convex primal formulations for a large class of models in physics and engineering. The results are based on standard tools of functional analysis, calculus of variations and duality theory. In particular, we develop applications to a Ginzburg-Landau type equation.

During the COVID-19 pandemic, the circulation of non–SARS-CoV-2 respiratory viruses changed throughout the world. This study aimed to analyze the effect of respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), metapneumovirus (MPV), rhinovirus (RV), and parainfluenza (PIV)-3 single infection, dual co-infection, and viral load on cytokine and chemokine expression in 300 Mexican patients with ARIs negative for SARS-CoV-2. Molecular detection and viral load were performed by RT-qPCR. Cytokine and chemokine expression was determined in samples positive for single RSV, MPV, RV, or PIV-3 infection, and in the most frequent dual co-infections, by a cytokine panel using a magnetic-bead-based multiplex immunoassay. Of the patients positive for viral infection, 91.7% had a single infection and 8.3% had dual co-infections. In this study, RSV was the respiratory virus with the highest prevalence, and the most common dual co-infection was RV+RSV. On the other hand, RV infections had the highest viral loads compared to the other viruses detected. FGF basic, MIP-1α IL-8, IP-10, MCP-1, IFN-γ, and RANTES showed differential expression between single infections and dual co-infections compared to healthy patients. We report, for the first time, the circulation of non-SARS-CoV-2 viruses in the south of Mexico and the cytokine and chemokine profiles associated with these viruses.

Most shear tests are performed as standard three- or four-point bending tests, i.e., on one-way simply supported specimens subjected to concentrated loads. The major disadvantage is that these conditions usually do not correspond to the support and load condition of real structures. Structural members such as beams or slabs, are often multi-span components and subjected to distributed loads. As a consequence, the complex shear behavior, including crack kinematics, shear transfer mechanisms, and shear capacity, is studied almost only simply supported members with concentrated load. Positive impacts on the shear behavior resulting from continuous systems and distributed loads are thus neglected in the derivation of calculation models and in the development of design specifications. To incorporate the effect of continuous members and distributed loading conditions, more experimental investigations are necessary. Therefore, a total of 16 bending shear tests on CFRP reinforced concrete members without shear reinforcement were carried out. The tests specimens were tested as simply supported beams or as simply supported beams with loaded cantilever to simulate the continuous system with concentrated and distributed loads. Furthermore, the shear slenderness was varied by using different span lengths and degrees of restraint in the systems with intermediate support. All test specimens were made of high-strength concrete and were reinforced with a multilayer grid-like CFRP reinforcement in longitudinal direction. There was no shear reinforcement installed in the investigated shear span. This paper focuses the influence of the support conditions and load arrangements on crack development as well as on shear strength.

Engineering application of additively manufactured (AM) metallic materials is quite limited by their fatigue behaviors which are very inconsistent with that of conventionally wrought or cast ones. Here, based on advanced material characterization techniques, such as focused ion beam (FIB), scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and transmission electron microscopy (TEM), the mi-crostructures underneath fracture surfaces were thoroughly investigated in an AM aluminium (AlSi10Mg) alloy with horizontal and vertical building orientation endured very-high-cycle fa-tigue (VHCF) loading under stress ratios R = –1, 0 and 0.5. Two VHCF failure specimens A and B were representatively selected to further SEM examine and TEM samples preparation via FIB milling. Specimen A was horizontally printed and failed at R = –1; specimen B was vertically printed and failed at R = 0. TEM samples A1 and B1 were lifted from locations near the crack ini-tiation sites on the fracture surfaces of specimens A and B; The locations of TEM samples A2 and B2 kept away from the crack origin sites but still within the “fish-eye” region of crack steady growth. TEM observations show that there was no characteristic microstructure induced by VHCF in different oriented specimens and under various R values.

Fractional calculus is defined by expanded integer order integration and differentiation. In this paper, multiple mathematical models of a nonlinear dual tank device are precisely formulated by fractional calculus. Using the accurate model, multivariable Fractional-Order Controller is designed for the nonlinear device. The merits of the fractional-order design include: 1) Control of multivariable nonlinearities, 2) Compensation of uncertainties, 3) Elimination of coupling effects. Simulations and experiments are conducted to verify the precision of the fractional order models and the effectiveness of the multivariable fractional-order control design.

The study proposes a theoretical method for evaluating the 'safety against derailment' indicator of a specialized train composition for the transportation of very long rails. A composition of nine wagons, suitable for the transportation of rails with a length of 120 m, is considered. For the remaining recommended rail lengths, the number of wagons is reduced or increased, the method being modified depending on the required configuration. In accordance with the requirements of EN 14363:2019, the composition is in a curve with a radius of R=150 m. The rails bend, some of them contact the vertical stanchions of the wagon and cause additional transverse forces, which are balanced in the rail track. This is a prerequisite for derailment of the vehicle. The goal of the study is to determine the additional transverse forces that arise because of the bent rails. The task is statically indeterminate, and considering the dimensions of the rails, its solution becomes seriously difficult. For the purposes of the study, the finite element method was used. Based on the displacements of the support points of the rails (caused by the geometry of the curve) the bending line of the elastic load is determined and the forces in the supports are calculated. A group of five rails is considered, with results multiplied proportionally for cases other than five. The resulting forces are considered when determining the derailment safety criterion defined by EN 14363:2019.

Endoscopic medical images can suffer from uneven illumination, low contrast, and lack of texture information due to the use of point directional light sources and the presence of narrow tissue structures, posing diagnostic difficulties for physicians. In this paper, a deep learning-based su-pervised illumination enhancement network is designed for low-light endoscopic images, aiming to improve both global illumination and local details. Initially, a global illumination enhancement module is formulated utilizing a higher-order curve function to improve global illumination. Sec-ondly, a local feature extraction module incorporating dual attention is designed to capture local detailed features. Considering the significance of color fidelity in biomedical scenarios, the designed loss function prioritizes introducing color loss to alleviate image color distortion. Compared with seven state-of-the-art enhancement algorithms on Endo4IE endoscopic datasets, experimental re-sults show that the proposed method can better enhance low-light endoscopic images and avoid image color distortion. It provides an efficient method to enhance images captured by endoscopes which can effectively assist clinical diagnosis and treatment.

The insufficient toughness of concrete can lead to the occurrence of crack expansion, ultimately resulting in a decline in the physical and mechanical properties such as bearing capacity and deformation characteristics of structural components. In severe cases, this may lead to brittle failure, where the entire structure and system fail suddenly without significant deformation after being stressed. Additionally, during the process of shear and bending failure of reinforced concrete beams, the cracks generated on the side of the beam are mostly I-II composite cracks. Considering the material nonlinearity and geometric irregularity of reinforced concrete, it is of great significance to study the dynamic evolution law of crack expansion in reinforced concrete members. Based on experimental data, this paper aims to utilize the nonlinear finite element simulation software Abaqus to conduct finite element simulations of crack expansion in simple supported reinforced concrete beams. By accurately controlling the constitutive curves of concrete and reinforcement materials, the design of seismic performance of structural members can be enhanced, thereby making essential contributions to the preliminary analysis of actual crack control engineering. The nonlinear finite element results indicate that the joint cracks of the frame with the floor slab primarily manifest as flexural cracks, with the concrete damage degree of the floor slab being higher than that of the beam. This finding underscores the importance of considering the behavior of concrete and reinforcement materials in designing for seismic performance and crack control in actual engineering applications.

The groundbreaking Advanced Forest-Based Tagging Framework (AFTF) represents a paradigm shift in the domain of information extraction from medical texts. AFTF introduces a novel dual-binary tree structure that redefines how entity-relation triples are extracted. This innovative approach directly tackles the limitations of traditional linear and graph-based methods, effectively addressing challenges related to overlapping triples and computational efficiency. The AFTF model stands as a beacon of excellence, surpassing established baselines by significant margins in comprehensive evaluations on two pivotal medical datasets. Notably, AFTF achieves remarkable improvements in F1 scores, showcasing its prowess in accurate information extraction from complex medical narratives. Beyond its exceptional performance in the medical domain, AFTF exhibits remarkable versatility. This adaptability is vividly demonstrated through its robust performance across three diverse public datasets, further affirming its position as a versatile and reliable solution for information extraction tasks. This paper provides a comprehensive exposition of the AFTF architecture, shedding light on its innovative design principles and its efficient handling of intricate medical texts. AFTF represents a groundbreaking step forward in the realm of information extraction, promising enhanced accuracy, efficiency, and adaptability for a wide range of applications.

Recently, considerable work has been directed at development of a ultra-compact X-ray free-electron laser based on emerging techniques in high field cryogenic acceleration, with attendant dramatic improvements in electron beam brightness, and state-of-the-art concepts in beam dynamics, magnetic undulators, and X-ray optics. A full conceptual design of a 1 nm XFEL with a length and cost over an order of magnitude below current XFELs has resulted from this effort. This instrument has been developed with an emphasis on permitting exploratory scientific research in a wide variety of fields in a university setting. Concurrently, compact FELs are being urgently developed for use as an instrument to enable next generation chip manufacturing through use as a high flux, few-nm lithography source. This new role suggests consideration of XFELs to addressed urgently emerging demands in this sector, as identified by recent national need studies, for new radiation sources aimed at chip manufacturing: a coherent hard X-ray source which enables frontier metrology methods. Indeed, it has been shown that one may use coherent X-rays to perform 10 nm-class resolution surveys of macroscopic, cm-scale structures such as chips, using ptychographic laminography. As the XFEL is a very promising candidate for realizing such methods, we present here an analysis of the issues and likely solutions associated with extending the UCXFEL to harder X-rays (above 7 keV), much higher fluxes and levels of coherence, and methods of applying such a source for ptychographic laminography to micro-electronic device measurements. We discuss the development path to move the concept to rapid realization of a transformative FEL-based application, outlining FEL and metrology system challenges.

To estimate the progressive collapse resistance capacity of a multi-column frame tube structure with the assembled truss beam composite floor (ATBCF), the pushdown analysis, and the nonlinear dynamic analysis as well, are conducted for such a structure by using the alternate load path (ALP) method. The bearing capacities of the remaining structures at three different work conditions, which are the side middle column failure, the edge middle column failure, and the corner column failure, are individually studied, and the collapse mechanism for the remaining structures is analyzed from the aspects of the internal force redistribution and the failure mode of the second defense line. Simultaneously, the influence of the column failure time on the dynamic response of the remaining structure and the dynamic amplification coefficient are discussed. The results show that the residual bearing capacity of the remaining structure with the bottom corner column failure is higher than that of the one with the side or edge middle column failure, while the latter has a stronger plastic deformation capacity. When the ALP method is adopted to operate the progressive collapse analysis, it is reasonable to take the column failure time as 0.1 times of the first-order vertical vibration period of the remaining structure, and it is suitable to set the dynamic amplification coefficient as of 2.0, which is the ratio of the maximum dynamic displacement to the static displacement of the remaining structure under the transient loading condition.

Background: Antibiotic-containing carrier systems are one option that offers the advantage of releasing active ingredients over a longer period of time. In vitro sustained drug release from a carrier system consisting of microporous β-TCP ceramic and alginate has been reported in previous works. Alginate dialdehyde (ADA) gelatin gel showed both better mechanical properties when loaded into a β-TCP ceramic and higher biodegradability than pure alginate. Methods: Dual release of daptomycin and BMP-2 was measured on days 1, 2, 3, 6, 9, 14, 21, and 28 by HPLC and ELISA. After release, the microbial efficacy of the daptomycin was verified and the biocompatibility of the composite was tested in cell culture. Results: Daptomycin and the model compound FITC protein A (n=30) were released from the composite over 28 days. A Daptomycin release above the minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) by day 9 and a burst release of 71.7 ± 5.9 % were observed in the loaded ceramics. Low concentrations of BMP-2 were released from the loaded ceramics over 28 days.

Banana (Musa spp.) is an important crop to the economies of many developing countries. In the north of Argentina, a sub-tropical region, banana plants grow in a suboptimal environment that limits yield because only one harvest per year is achieved. The objective of this work was to characterize the agroecological aptitude of Formosa, Argentina, for banana production, through the behavior of three varieties of international use: Willians, Jafa and Gran Enano, evaluated during five consecutive campaigns. The three-way data analysis technique called Multiple Factor Analysis (MFA) was used for evaluating varieties’ performances across cycles of production. The results allowed inferring the existence of genotype x environment (GEI) interaction, corroborated by two-way factorial ANOVA. In order to determine how this suboptimal environment affects the development of each genotype of this perennial crop, Dual Multiple Factor Analysis (DMFA) was applied to jointly analyze the correlation structure among traits contributing to the performance of each variety at each campaign. The correlation structures between variables were different in each population and varied among campaigns. All traits showed a great variation across years and genotypes, the fruit peel thickness being the most discrepant throughout the campaigns. However, Formosa appeared as a promising subtropical agroecological environment to produce banana because varieties’ performances were acceptable for large scale production systems. In addition to evaluating the adequate aptitude for cultivating banana in Formosa considering the significant effect of GEI, this research makes a methodological contribution by proposing the use of three-way data analysis MFA and DMFA in Agronomy Science.

(1) Background: This study evaluated the spatial position and anatomical characteristics related to impacted third molars by map-reading strategy using cone beam computed tomography (CBCT). (2) Methods: To determine the positioning of impacted third molars on CBCT it was used Winter's and Pell &amp; Gregory's classifications, and the presence of external root resorption in mandibular second molars were based on Herman´s classification. The relationship between the mandibular third molar root apex and the mandibular canal was also analyzed. Fisher’s exact test was used to comparative statistical analysis. The significance level considered was 5%. (3) Results: The results showed that according to Winter's classification, 48.06 % of impacted teeth were in the mesioangular position. Using Pell &amp; Gregory's classification, 43.22% of the impacted molars were in the position B and C, and 54.2% of the teeth were class II. 69.7% of teeth showed an absence of contact between the root apex and the mandibular canal and there was no occurrence of external root resorption in the distal of second molar in 88.7%. (4) Conclusions: The map-reading strategy using CBCT scans for anatomical positions and characteristics of impacted third molars increases professional confidence and establishes a parameter of quality and safety in the surgical procedure for the patient.

This study employed e-Vol DX cone beam computed tomography (CBCT) software to assess dentin remnants in the furcation area of mesial canals in mandibular molars during root canal retreatment (RCR). Four groups (Reciproc®, ProTaper Next®, Race Evo®, Protaper Gold®) were subjected to RCR, and CBCT images were captured before (T1) and after (T2) treatment. Measurements of remaining dentin thickness at 1 mm and 3 mm below the furcation were scrutinized. Results revealed no significant differences in mean thicknesses of mesiobuccal (MB) and mesiolingual (ML) canals at 1 mm and 3 mm from the furcation pre-treatment (T1). Post-treatment (T2) showed analogous findings, with no significant differences in mean thicknesses. However, disparities surfaced between MB and ML canals at both distances, both before and after retreatment. In essence, the evaluated instruments exhibited safety in RCR, implying their appropriateness for use in critical areas of mandibular molars without inducing excessive wear. This study underscores the instruments' reliability in navigating danger zones during RCR, contributing valuable insights for dental practitioners handling complex root canal scenarios in mandibular molars.

A novel concrete beam-column connection utilizing L-shaped steel bars is proposed to address the growing demand for prefabricated buildings and to ensure good seismic performance in such beam-column structures. After positioning two prefabricated beams with L-shaped tendons into the designated connection points at the top and bottom of the columns, concrete is poured into the post-cast section of the joint and the composite beam area, realizing a connection between the beams and columns. Quasi-static tests were performed on four combined nodes and one cast-in-place node to investigate their failure modes and stress mechanisms. Seismic performance indices, including hysteretic curves, skeleton curves, ductility performance, and energy dissipation capacity, were analyzed. Concurrently, the finite element method (FEM) was employed for parameter analysis. By integrating the test and FEM results, an equation for calculating the shear capacity of the connection was derived. The findings demonstrate that the hysteresis curve of the newly developed prefabricated joints is relatively full, with their overall performance index comparable to that of cast-in-place joints. Additionally, enhancing the post-casting area of concrete, the length of the L-shaped bars, the concrete strength in the composite beam region, the axial compression ratio, or the steel tube dimensions can effectively improve overall performance. The derived equation for the shear-bearing capacity of the connection satisfies design and application requirements.

The limitations of conventional sensors have made phased array antennas increasingly crucial for gathering information and communication applications in intelligent transportation systems. Compact cylindrical arrays, in particular, are favored for their ability to achieve azimuth angle scan. However, the substantial mutual coupling effect between elements on curved surfaces and its implication in these arrays remains unclear, which is a crucial factor to consider when such arrays are used for multibeam applications. This study investigated the effect of mutual coupling in a dual-slant-polarized cylindrical array. The results showed that mutual coupling is essential for achieving an ultra-wide bandwidth. Mutual coupling is predominantly observed among elements that are closely positioned. The study also analyzes the impact of mutual coupling on scan impedance and radiation characteristics for multibeam applications and reveals that these arrays exhibit robust multibeam capability, hence having great potential for use in intelligent transportation systems.

Chest X-ray (CXR) is the first tool globally employed to detect cardiopulmonary pathologies. These acquisitions are highly affected by scattered photons due to the large field-of-view required. Scatter in CXRs introduces background in the images, which reduces their contrast. We developed three deep learning-based models to estimate and correct the scatter contribution to CXRs. We used a Monte Carlo (MC) ray-tracing model to simulate CXRs from human models obtained from CT scans using different configurations (depending on the availability of dual-energy acquisitions). The simulated CXRs contained the separated contribution of direct and scattered X-rays in the detector. These simulated datasets were then used as the reference for the supervised training of several NN. Three NN models (single and dual energy) were trained with the MultiResUNet architecture. The performance of the NN models was evaluated on CXRs obtained with the MC code from chest CTs of patients affected by COVID-19. The results showed that the NN models were able to estimate and correct the scatter contribution to CXRs with an error &lt;5%, being robust to variations in the simulation setup and improving the contrast in soft tissue. The single-energy model was tested with real CXRs, providing robust estimations of the scatter-corrected CXRs.

Introduction Cone Beam Computed Tomography (CBCT) scans should be digitally oriented using a reference plane before being evaluated for patient growth and treatment outcome. Current orientation planes are usually dependent on the Porion points. Using more reliable landmarks than the Porion, we introduce the Acta plane and investigate its reliability as an alternative reference plane for cases in which the Porion point is inaccessible. Methods To test its reliability, a dental student and an orthodontist located sixteen skeletal and dental landmarks in sixteen CBCT scans, before and after reorientation. Also, four measurements were calculated based on these landmarks’ coordinates. The reorientation of these CBCT scans with the Acta plane was done by another dental student. Intraclass Correlation Coefficient (ICC) was calculated before and after orientation, intra- and inter-examiner. The data were tested for significance through the Shapiro Wilk test with a threshold set at 0.05. Through the ICC variation of the points’ coordinates, this article also evaluated the reliability of this plane with the t-paired and exact-sign tests. Results: The identification of landmarks was more reliable in the reoriented CBCT images than in the original images, with a significant increase of 0.012 in the median of the ICC. Linear and angular measures showed no significant differences between groups. Conclusion This plane is a reliable alternative for the orientation of CBCT images. The design of the Acta plane might allow the use of a smaller field of view and, consequently, a reduction in the radiation dose.

In this paper, based on the symmetrical reliability theory, a research method for the safety factor of overall overturning stability of continuous beam bridge under carbon fiber reinforced polymers (CFRP) during cantilever and horizontal rotation construction is proposed. Under the premise that the given target reliability index is known, the method solves the overall overturning stability safety factor of continuous beam bridge under carbon fiber reinforced polymers during cantilever and horizontal rotation construction by using the symmetrical reliability analysis theory and considering the randomness of structural parameters. This method is used to calculate the safety factor and the design reinforcement aera of CRFP of overturning stability and the design reinforcement aera of CRFP of a continuous beam bridge, and the parameters are analyzed. The calculation results show that the randomness of parameters will have a great impact on the overall safety factor and the CRFP aera of overturning stability of cantilever and horizontal rotation construction of continuous beam bridge, and ignoring the influence of randomness of parameters will lead to overestimation of the overall safety factor and underestimation of the CRFP aera of overturning stability of cantilever and horizontal rotation construction of continuous beam bridge.

Machine Learning (ML) has proved its capabilities in different scientific and industrial fields, but it needs to be further investigated in the construction industry for practical utilization. One of the use cases of ML is delegating the structural calculation process. In this study, to discuss ML’s capabilities in performing the work of a structural designer, calculations of concrete sections based on ACI (American Concrete Institute) as a case study were selected. At first, all manual design steps and standard considerations for a concrete beam section were coded parametrically in MATLAB. After comparing with structural design references to prove the accuracy of codes in calculating shear and bending capacities, the parametric results were used as initial data (Look−up table) for training the ML operators. Regarding different types of ML techniques and as a comparison between them, in the next steps, all essential codes for Fuzzy Logic (FL), Neural Network (NN) and Adaptive Neuro-Fuzzy Inference System (ANFIS) were coded in the same platform. The performance of the three coded ML operators to replace (delegate) standard calculations compared to direct calculations was individually investigated and displayed through parametric examples. After initial examples, the influences of the number of parameters and size of the Look−up table on the accuracy of each operator were discussed. The study concluded that although all three operators can delegate the standard calculation, the precision of the results differs considerably. In case of the desirable size of the Look−up table, ANFIS operators can represent the standard calculations with a different number of parameters and entirely high precision.

Intrauterine adhesions (IUA) has become one of the main causes of female infertility, how to effectively prevent postoperative re-adhesion has been a clinical challenge. In this study, a mussel-inspired dual-network hydrogel was proposed for postoperative anti-adhesion of IUA. First, calcium alginate/polyacrylamide (CA-PAM) hydrogel was prepared by covalent and Ca2+ cross-linking. Benefiting from abundant phenolic hydroxyl groups, polydopamine (PDA) was introduced to further enhance the adhesion ability and biocompatibility. This CA-PAM hydrogel immersed in 10 mg/mL dopamine solution possessed remarkable mechanical strength (elastic modulus > 5 kPa) and super stretchability (with a breaking elongation of 720%). At the same time, it shown excellent adhesion more than 6 kPa. Surprisingly, the coagulation index of the hydrogel was 27.27 ± 4.91, demonstrating attractive coagulation performance in vitro and the potential for rapid hemostasis after surgery.

The effects of co-addition CeO2 and SiC particles on the morphology, surface cracks, microstructure, precipitated phases and wear property of plasma beam spraying Fe55-based coatings on 1025 steel were investigated by optical microscopy (OM), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), energy-dispersive X-ray spectrometer (EDS), ultra-deep field microscope and wet sand rubber wheel friction tester, respectively. The results showed that the dendrite exhibited a directional growth pattern perpendicular to the substrate and the transitional states of microstructure with the co-addition CeO2 and SiC particles. With addition of CeO2 or SiC affected the flowability of molten steel at macro level, leading to a reduction in the liquid phase diffusion coefficient DL of Cr and C and resulted in a decrease in the G/R ratio. The dendrites changed into equiaxed grains. The main phase composition of Fe55 welding layer is Cr7C3, γ-Fe. The grain boundaries consisted mainly of a reticular eutectic structure. The worn-out uniformly surface of the Fe55+1.5 wt% SiC+0.01wt% CeO2 with Ra was 0.28 μm was smoother than that of other samples. The sub-wear mechanisms during the friction process were microploughing and microcutting. The hardness and toughness of Fe55+1.5 wt% SiC+0.01wt% CeO2 were well-matched, avoiding excessive microcutting and microplastic deformation.

The main goal and essential parameter of laser light conversion is achieving higher laser brightness. That is the main reason why we take one light source to pump another. For every application the desired laser beam must have the highest available beam quality and highest achievable power. Usually by increasing one parameter, you incur a loss in the other. Here we present a method for delaying the reduction in beam quality by using a spatially structured optical pump for a membrane external cavity laser resonator. A slight increase in brightness is achieved under the same focusing conditions just by changing the pump intensity profile. By using a dynamically changing pump pattern a controllable output laser mode can be achieved.

Spinal metastatic tumors are common and often cause debilitating symptoms. Image-guided percutaneous thermal ablation (IPTA) has gained significant recognition in managing spinal column tumors due to its exceptional precision and effectiveness. Conventional guidance modalities, including computed tomography, fluoroscopy, and ultrasound, have been important in targeting spinal column tumors while minimizing harm to adjacent critical structures. This study presents a novel approach utilizing a fusion of Cone Beam Computed Tomography with Magnetic Resonance Imaging to guide percutaneous thermal ablation for four patients with secondary spinal column tumors. The visual analog scale (VAS) evaluated procedure effectiveness during an 18-month follow-up. Percutaneous vertebroplasty was performed in two cases, and a thermostat was used during all procedures. Imaging was performed using the Stealth Station navigation system Spine 8 (SSS8) and a 1.5T MRI machine. The fusion of CBCT with MRI allowed precise tumor localization and guidance for thermal ablation. Initial results indicate successful tumor ablation and symptom reduction, emphasizing the potential of CBCT-MRI fusion in spinal column tumor management. This innovative approach is promising in optimizing therapy for secondary spinal column tumors. Further studies are necessary to validate its efficacy and applicability.

Osteoarthritis (OA) is a prevalent disease and the leading cause of pain, disability, and quality of life deterioration. Our study sought to evaluate the image quality and dose of cone-beam com-puted tomography arthrography (CBCT-A) and compare them to digital radiography (DR) for OA diagnosis. Overall, 32 cases of CBCT-A and DR with OA met inclusion criteria and were prospectively analyzed. The Kellgren and Lawrence classification (KLC) stage, sclerosis, osteo-phytes, erosions, and mean joint width (MJW) were compared between CBCT-A and DR. Image quality was excellent in all CBCT-As, with excellent inter-observer agreement. OA un-der-classification was noticed with DR for MJW (p=0.02), osteophyte detection (<0.0001), and KLC (P<0.0001). The HU values obtained for the CBCT did not correspond to the values for MDCT, with a greater mean deviation obtained with the MDCT HU for MBIR1 than MBIR2. CBCT-A has been found to be more reliable for OA diagnosis than DR as revealed by our results using three-point rating scale for the qualitative image analysis, with higher quality and an ac-ceptable dose. Moreover, the use of this imaging technique permits the preoperative assessment of extremities in OA diagnosis, the upright position and bone microarchitecture analysis being two other advantages of CBCT-A.

Although hundreds of keV in energy gain have already been demonstrated in dielectric laser accelerators (DLAs), there remains challenge in creating structures that can confine electrons for multiple millimeters. We focus here on dual gratings with single sided drive, which have experimentally demonstrated energy modulation numerous times. Using a FTDT simulation to find the fields within various DLA structures and correlating these results with particle tracking simulation, we look at the impact of teeth height and width, as well as gap and offset, on the performance of these structures. We find a tradeoff between electron throughput and acceleration, but that for any given grating geometry there is a gap and offset that will allow some charge acceleration. For our 780 nm laser wavelength, this results in a 1200 nm optimal gap size for most gratings.

Objective: To analyze the clinical efficacy and safety of monotherapy and dual therapy in patients with early ischemic stroke. Methods: The study was conducted from August 2020 to August 2021, and 80 patients with early ischemic stroke who received treatment at our hospital during this period were selected as the study population. They were randomly divided into a control group and an observation group, with 40 patients in each group. The control group received conventional monotherapy, while the observation group received conventional dual therapy. The efficacy and safety indicators of the two groups were compared.Results: The treatment efficacy, functional recovery, blood indicators, and inflammation markers in the observation group were all superior to those in the control group (all, P<0.05); there was no significant difference in the drug safety profile between the two groups (P>0.05).Conclusion: The dual antiplatelet therapy is more ideal than monotherapy for treating patients with early ischemic stroke. It can further promote the recovery of neurological and cognitive function, improve hematological and inflammatory response indicators in patients, and the safety of this regimen is comparable to monotherapy.

A new method for multi-shot reconstruction of high-energy photon distributions in the context of studying the interaction between a beam and a plasma in plasma wakefield acceleration (PWFA) experiments is presented. The study investigates the effects of beam perturbations on betatron radiation and analyzes how these perturbations can lead to hosing, a transverse instability that can degrade the quality of the beam. The potential of betatron radiation spectroscopy as a non-invasive diagnostic technique for PWFA experiments is also emphasized.

In this paper we demonstrate first ever dual-period diffraction gratings that do not require electrical tuning to obtain the effect of period change. Our method allows for multiplication of the base period by proper modification of the subsequent slits of the grating. The proposed elements are fabricated by selective photopolymerization of a composite based on nematic liquid crystal. The gratings are formed by polymer stabilization of liquid crystal in different orientations of the molecules in selected grating slits to allow for period manipulation. The operating principle is based on changing the phase delay introduced by the slits depending on polarization direction of incident light with respect to the director in each type of slit, which allows to change the grating’s period. The proposed technique was successfully utilized to obtain diffraction gratings with either doubling or tripling of the period.

Dual antiplatelet therapy (DAPT), comprising aspirin and a P2Y12 receptor inhibitor, is the cornerstone of post-percutaneous coronary intervention treatment to prevent stent thrombosis and reduce the risk of adverse cardiovascular events. The selection of an optimal DAPT regimen, considering the interplay of various antiplatelet agents, patient profiles, and procedural characteristics, remains an evolving challenge. Traditionally, a standard duration of 12 months has been recommended for DAPT in most patients. While contemporary guidelines provide general frameworks, DAPT modulation with longer or shorter treatment courses followed by aspirin or P2Y12 inhibitor monotherapy are evolving towards an individualized strategy to optimize the balance between efficacy and safety. This review comprehensively examines the current landscape of DAPT strategies after coronary stenting, with a focus on emerging evidence for treatment individualization.

The majority of current methods for measuring the angular deflection of a laser beam enable measurement only in one selected plane. However, there are tasks in which measurements of laser beam deflections in 3D are required. In this paper, we present a way of enabling two-axial measurements of the deflection of a beam based on a single-axis sensor. The key idea is to direct a laser beam alternately into one of two arms of a measurement system. In the first arm, the beam is transmitted directly to the angular sensor, while in the second, the beam is directed to the sensor via a special optical element that rotates the plane of the beam deflection; in other words, this element changes the deflection in the horizontal plane into a deflection in the vertical plane, and vice versa. To alternate the path of the beam, a variable phase retarder and a polarising beamsplitter are used. The proposed technique is experimentally verified, and the results confirm its effectiveness.

The utilization of dual-potential mode of integrated array (IDA) electrodes and other two-electrode systems has revolutionized electrochemical detection by enabling the simultaneous and independent detection of two species, accompanied by the exhibition of unique characteristics. In contrast to conventional dual-potential electrodes, the rotating ring disk electrodes (RRDE), IDA electrodes demonstrate analogous yet vastly improved performance metrics, characterized by remarkable collection efficiency and sensitivity. Notably, due to the distinctive microscale structure of IDA electrode, the special “feedback” effect makes IDA a unique signal amplifier. In recent decades, the research surrounding IDA electrodes has garnered escalating interest due to their attractive attributes. This review centers its focus on the fabrication and applications of IDA electrodes. In the realm of fabrication, two critical breakthroughs are poised for realization: the achievement of reduced dimensions and the diversification of materials. Established fabrication methods for IDA electrodes encompass photolithography, inkjet printing, and direct laser writing, each affording distinct advantages in terms of size and precision in IDA construction. Predominantly employed materials for IDA electrodes include gold, platinum, and carbon, with the selection of fabrication methods guided by considerations such as material properties, desired dimensions, cost-efficiency, and specific application requisites. Within the domain of applications, IDA electrodes, capitalizing on their distinctive attributes, have found utility in diverse fields. This review summarizes the applications of IDA electrodes based on their fundamental working principles, encompassing redox cycling, resistance modulation, capacitance variations, and more. The potential for further development of this specialized tool to exhibit enhanced properties holds substantial promise.

5G low-earth orbit satellite communications offer enhanced wireless coverage beyond the reach of 5G terrestrial networks, with important implications, particularly for automated and connected vehicles. Such wireless automotive mass-market applications demand well-designed compact user equipment antenna terminals offering non-terrestrial jointly with terrestrial communications. The antenna should be low-profile, conformal, and meet specific parameter values for gain and operational frequency bandwidth, tailored to the intended applications, in line with the aesthetic design requirements of passenger cars. This work presents an original concept for a dual-band nested circularly polarized automotive user terminal that operates at the S-band frequencies around 3.5 GHz and Ka-band frequencies around 28 GHz, namely within the 5G new-radio bands n78 and n257, respectively. The proposed terminal is designed to be integrated into the plastic components of a passenger vehicle. The arrays consist of 2×2 aperture-coupled corner-truncated microstrip slot patch antenna elements for the n78 band and of 4×4 single-layer edge-truncated microstrip circular slot patch antenna elements for the n257 band. The embedded arrays offer, across the two bands, respectively 9.9 and 13.7 dBi measured realized gain and 3-dB axial ratio bandwidths of 100 and 1500 MHz for the n78 and n257 bands along the broadside direction. Detailed link budget calculations anticipate uplink data rates of 21 and 6 Mbit/s, respectively, deeming it suitable for various automotive mobility and internet-of-things applications.

Micro-gyroscopes based on the Coriolis principle are widely employed in inertial navigation, motion control, and vibration analysis applications. This paper presents our main contributions which include a novel dual-frame optomechanical gyroscope, a unique photonic crystal cavity design, and advanced numerical simulation and optimization methods. The proposed design utilizes an optical cavity formed between dual oscillating frames, whereby input rotation induces a measurable phase shift via optomechanical coupling. Actuation of the frames is achieved electrostatically via an interdigitated comb-drive design. Through theoretical modeling based on cavity optomechanics and finite element simulation, the operating principle and performance parameters are evaluated in detail. Results indicate an expected angular rate sensitivity of 22.8 mV/°/s and angle random walk of 7.1×10-5 °/h1/2, representing superior precision than to existing micro-electromechanical systems gyroscopes of comparable scale. Detailed analysis of the optomechanical transduction mechanism suggests this dual-frame approach could enable angular vibration detection with resolution exceeding state-of-the-art solutions.

The main objective of the paper is to provide a thorough analysis of currently used modulation control schemes for single phase bidirectional dual active bridge DC/DC converter. In this article, it will be shown that single phase shift, extended phase shift and Dual phase shift modulation schemes are special cases of triple phase shift (TPS) modulation scheme. The article aims to highlight six TPS switching modes and their complements with the operational constraints. Unlike previous studies that regarded TPS as a complex scheme, this paper simplifies the analysis of each mode and aims to standardize the understanding of TPS modulation in DAB converters. Power equations, range of power transferred and zero voltage switching (ZVS) are derived for all the modes under TPS without assuming fundamental component analysis. Additionally, a generic optimization algorithm is developed to show the advantages of TPS modulation and thus, detailed analysis presented in this paper provides valuable insights for single phase DAB converter designers in identifying a wide range of optimization algorithms to achieve higher efficiency under TPS modulation. This analysis contributes to the advancement of bidirectional DAB converter technology and facilitates its application in various power electronic systems.

In this paper, an adaptive technology and the interconnection and damping assignment passivity-based control method are combined to solve the stabilization problem for underactuated mechanical systems with uncertainties (including matched and unmatched). Uncertainties include unknown friction coefficients and unknown terms in kinetic energy and potential energy. A novel adaptive interconnection and damping assignment passivity-based control scheme is proposed and an adaptive stabilization controller is designed to make the closed-loop system locally stable. Verification is conducted on the ball and beam system, taking into account uncertainties of friction coefficients, kinetic energy, and potential energy. The locally asymptotic stability is demonstrated using the LaSalle’s invariance principle and approximate linearization. The effectiveness of the proposed control law is verified through numerical simulations.

To maintain a healthy lifestyle, adults rely on their ability to walk while simultaneously managing multiple tasks that challenge their coordination. This study investigates the impact of cognitive dual-task on lower limb muscle activities in 21 healthy young adults during both gait initiation and steady-state gait. We utilized wireless electromyography sensors to measure muscle activities, along with a 3D motion capture system and force plates to detect the phases of gait initiation and steady-state gait. Participants were asked to walk at their self-selected pace, and we compared single-task and dual-task conditions. We analyzed mean muscle activation and co-contraction in the biceps femoris, vastus lateralis, gastrocnemius, and tibialis anterior muscles. The findings revealed that during gait initiation with the dual-task condition, there was a decrease in mean muscle activation and an increase in mean muscle c-contraction between the swing and stance limb compared to the single-task condition. In steady-state gait, there was also a decrease in mean muscle activation in the dual-task condition compared to the single-task condition. When participants performed dual-task activities during gait initiation, early indicators of reduced balance capability were observed. Additionally, during dual-task steady-state gait, knee stabilizer muscles exhibited signs of altered activation, contributing to balance instability.

A multispectral superconducting nanowire single photon detector sensitive to different incident photon wavelength bands, is proposed. The SNSPD consists of a Distributed Bragg Reflector, a gold mirror, and two regions employing four NbN nanowires. Using the DBR both as a filter and a reflector, two distinct detection bands are created. The first detection band has a peak absorbance of > 0.75 at a wavelength of 1143 nm, while the second band has an absorbance of > 0.70 in the wavelength range 1440 to 2000 nm. The design of the device can be tuned to provide sensitivity in different wavelength bands. While SNSPDs do not typically provide photon wavelength sensitivity, the band-selection design proposed in this work opens up potential applications for future quantum communication technology.

Three monoruthenium complexes 1(PF6)23(PF6)2 bearing a N(CH3)-bridged ligand have been synthesized and characterized. These complexes have a general formula of [Ru(bpy)2(L)](PF6)2, where L is a 2,5-di(N-methyl-N-(pyrid-2-yl)amino)pyrazine (dapz) derivative with various substituents and bpy is 2,2′-bipyridine. The photophyscial and electrochemical properties of these compounds have been examined. The solid-state structure of complex 3(PF6)2 is studied by single crystal X-ray analysis. These complexes show two well-separated emission bands centered at 451 and 646 nm (max = 195 nm) for 1(PF6)2, 465 and 627 nm (max = 162 nm) for 2(PF6)2, and 455 and 608 nm (max = 153 nm) for 3(PF6)2 in dilute acetonitrile solution, respectively. The emission maxima of the higher-energy emission bands of these complexes are similar, while the lower-energy emission bands are dependent on the electronic nature of substituents. These complexes display two consecutive redox couples owing to the stepwise oxidation of the N(CH3)-bridged ligand and ruthenium component. In addition, density functional theory (DFT) and time-dependent density functional theory (TD-DFT) calculations are carried out to elucidate these experimental findings.

Vehicle re-identification research under surveillance cameras has yielded impressive results. However, the challenge of Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV)-based vehicle re-identification (ReID) presents a high degree of flexibility, mainly due to complicated shooting angles, occlusions, low discrimination of top-down features, and significant changes in vehicle scales. To address this, we propose a novel Dual Mixing Attention Network (DMANet) to extract discriminative features robust to variations in viewpoint. Specifically, we first present a plug-and-play Dual Mixing Attention Module (DMAM) to capture pixel-level pairwise relationships and channel dependencies, where DMAM is composed of Spatial Mixing Attention (SMA) and Channel Mixing Attention (CMA). First, the original feature is divided according to the dimensions of spatial and channel to obtain multiple subspaces. Then, a learnable weight is applied to capture the dependencies between local features in the mixture space. Finally, the features extracted from all subspaces are aggregated to promote their comprehensive feature interaction. Moreover, the DMAM can be readily inserted into backbone networks at any depth to improve vehicle discrimination. The experiments show that the proposed structure gains a better performance compared with the representative methods in the UAV-based vehicle ReID task. Our code and models will be publicly released.

The results of electron-beam processing of Mn-Zn ferrite samples using pulsed and continuous electron beams in the forevacuum pressure range (10 Pa) are presented. We find that continuous electron-beam processing leads to surface structuring of the ferrite, changes in elemental composition on the surface, and electrical property modification. The degree of ferrite parameter changes exhibits a threshold behavior. For surface processing temperatures below 900 °C, changes are barely noticeable, while for temperatures over 1100 °C the surface resistance decreases by more than an order of magnitude. Electron-beam processing with millisecond pulse duration and pulse energy density exceeding 15 J/cm² results in the formation of low zinc content melt islands, while the remaining surface area (outside the islands) elemental content and ferrite properties remain largely unchanged. The thickness of the modified layer depends on the processing mode and can be controlled over the range 0.1–0.5 mm. Because of its low resistance, the modified layer can be utilized to enhance the RF-absorbing properties of the ferrite.

In view of the complexity of the pile foundation underpinning structure system and the stringent requirements of the construction process, this paper briefly describes the necessity of introducing epoxy resin reinforcing adhesive of planting rebar in the design of pile foundation underpinning beam structure to im-prove the mechanical properties of the underpinning beam new and old concrete joint surfaces and proposes a new type of pile foundation underpinning beam system construction method by “chiseling + prestressed reinforcement + epoxy resin reinforcing adhesive”. This paper uses an actual pile foundation underpinning project of an urban overpass as a prototype, designs and creates a model structure with a similarity ratio of 1/6, and performs repeated pro-gressive static loading tests to study the load carrying capacity, displacement change, and other properties of the underpinning structure, as well as analyses and distorts the overall working performance and failure mode of them. On this basis, the prototype structure's finite element analysis model was built, and the finite element analysis results were compared with the test results to get the mechanical properties and deformation characters of the actual pile foundation under-pinning structure system corresponding to the actual underpinning beam load. This paper's study can lay the theoretical and experimental foundation for the smooth development of similar projects.

Legume-rhizobial symbiosis leads to to the formation of root nodules, where rhizobia reside and develop into bacteroids to reduce nitrogen into ammonium for plant growth, which leaves an opening question as how plant immunity is attenuated in nodules in the presence of large number of foreign bacteria. In Medicago truncatula, mutation in NAD1 (Nodules with Activated Defense 1) only produces necrotic nodules with overactivated immunity, indicating NAD1 is an indispensable component required for suppressing immunity in nodules. In this study, a dual RNA-seq transcriptomic technology was performed to extensively analyze gene expressions in nad1-1 mutant nodules. We indenifited 89 DEGs in symbiotic nitrogen fixation and 89 DEGs in immunity in Medicago truncatula at 10 dpi. Simultaneously, we indenifited 27 DEGs in fix and nif genes in Sinorhizobium meliloti. Then we identified 56 DEGs related to stress, including ROS, NO, and NCR, most of which were upregulated in Sinorhizobium meliloti. Our analyses of nitrogen fixation-defective plant nad1-1 mutants with overactivated defense indicate that host use plant immunity to control massive bacterial colonization during early and late symbiotic stages. Our findings provide insight into the function of NAD1 in improvement or inhibition of plant immune response to maintain symbiosis during rhizobial endosymbiosis.

Ion beam-assisted deposition (IBAD) has been proposed as a promising texturing technology that uses film epitaxy method to obtain biaxial texture on a non-textured metal or compound substrate. Magnesium oxide (MgO) is the most well explored texturing material. In order to obtain the optimal biaxial texture, the actual thickness of the IBAD-MgO film must be controlled within 12 nm. Due to the bombardment of ion beams, IBAD-MgO has large lattice deformation, poor texture and many defects in the films. In this work, an additional homogeneous epitaxy MgO (epi-MgO) layer has been deposited on the IBAD-MgO layer by electron-beam evaporation. The biaxial texture can be optimized by the deposition of additional epi-MgO layer. The effects of growth temperature, film thickness, deposition rate and oxygen flux on the texture and morphology of the epi-MgO film were systematically studied. After the research of epi-MgO process, the best full width at half maximum (FWHM) values were 2.2 for the out-of-plane texture and 4.8° for the in-plane texture, respectively. Subsequently, the LaMnO3 cap layer and YBa2Cu3O7-x (YBCO) functional layer was deposited on the epi-MgO layer to test the quality of MgO layer. Finally, the critical current density of YBCO films is 6MA/cm2 (77K, 500nm, self-field), indicating that this research provides a high-quality MgO substrate for the YBCO layer.

This paper aims to determine the effect of local corrosion at three different corrosion areas, the 1. entire area, 2. constant moment area, and 3. constant shear area, on the flexural performance of RC beams. To analyze this, an experimental study was carried out to prepare two series of RC beams (200×300×2800mm) created with three different degree of corrosion inducing local rebar corrosion. Furthermore, two-series of experimental tests were conducted under different loading types by monotonic and cyclic loading. It was observed that strength capacity reduction grows in the order of the corroded RC specimens induced: the 1. entire area > 2. constant moment area > 3. constant shear area, as the average corrosion rate increases. Our test results further show that the yield and ultimate strength was kept nearly equivalent to the uncorroded RC specimen by the average corrosion rate of 10% and 15%, respectively. Over these corrosion rates, the yield strength and ultimate strength dropped significantly. Compared to test results under a monotonic loading condition, the structural capacity under a cyclic loading condition decreased with a more pronounced tendency for each corrosion case as the corrosion rate increased. A longitudinal crack was developed throughout and adjacent to the corrosion areas, as the corrosion rate increased. Thus, we can infer that strength reduction may be strongly influenced by this longitudinal crack.