Browse Articles

FPGA implementation and voice encryption application of a new hyperchaotic system with high complexity

Abstract This research work describes a new 4-D hyperchaotic system with high complexity. The proposed 4-D system is hyperchaotic as it has a bounded attractor set with two positive Lyapunov exponents. The large positive Lyapunov exponents of the new 4-D hyperchaotic system exhibit the high complexity of the proposed system. We also show that two nearly identical trajectories quickly separate, with significant differences emerging within just 0.6 seconds, which illustrates the high sensitivity of the state trajectories of the proposed hyperchaotic systems to initial conditions and significant unpredictability. Multistability for the newly proposed hyperchaotic system is illustrated by plotting two different coexisting hyperchaotic attractors for the identical values of the system’s parameters, but for non-identical initial conditions. We also explore offset boosting, a control strategy that allows us to convert the bipolar signal into a unipolar signal without changing the dynamics, which makes the proposed system more adaptable for a range of applications. The electronic implementation of the new system with high complexity is done herein by applying the well-known Euler’s method, which is implemented on a field-programmable gate array (FPGA). In this 4-D system, the nonlinear terms are the multiplication of two state variables that appear in each ordinary differential equation. The FPGA design for the newly developed hyperchaotic system with high complexity is implemented on the Zybo Z7-20 development board with xc7z020clg400-1. In this study, the potential of the new 4D hyperchaotic system in the field of information security was investigated and encryption of voice data was performed using the newly developed hyperchaotic system with high complexity. The variables of the system were evaluated with differential entropy analysis and high randomness levels were verified. The XOR-based encryption algorithm developed using these variables obtained with numerical solutions provides effective protection at time, frequency and statistical levels and allows lossless recovery of data.

Diagnostic performance of eNose technology in detecting colorectal cancer recurrence: A prospective evaluation

Introduction After curative treatment for colorectal cancer (CRC), there is a 15% risk of recurrence. Early detection of an asymptomatic recurrence may lead to curative treatment options. To date, follow-up strategies do not have optimal sensitivity and specificity. In this prospective study, we aimed to assess the diagnostic performance of eNose technology to detect recurrent CRC following curative surgery. Materials and methods A prospective evaluation study was performed to investigate whether eNose can discriminate patients with recurrent CRC following curative resection from patients without recurrent CRC based on VOC patterns during follow-up. The primary outcome measure is the diagnostic accuracy of eNose for detecting recurrence in CRC patients. With machine learning, a model was developed, and several performance metrics were used to evaluate the diagnostic performance of the eNose model. Results A total of 406 patients who underwent curative resection for CRC between 2018−2023, were included in the study. VOC analysis was used to detect recurrent CRC during follow-up. Although the eNose model demonstrated promising results in the train set with an AUC of 0.90 (95% CI:0.84–0.96), the corresponding accuracy of 0.56 was low. Moreover, with a corresponding sensitivity of 0.52, accuracy of 0.51, and AUC of 0.51 (95% CI:0.38–0.64), the performances in the test set, declined. Conclusion eNose technology is not able to accurately detect recurrent CRC after curative resection of the primary tumour. Larger studies are needed before clinical implementation can be realized, while the lack of reproducibility must be addressed.

Footprint morphology sheds light on running strategies in non-avian theropods

Abstract This study analyzes two trackways of the fastest running theropods in the fossil record, offering a rare opportunity to examine dinosaur biomechanics during high-speed locomotion. We focus on the distinct three-dimensional morphologies of footprints—La Torre 6B-01 and La Torre 6A-14 (Early Cretaceous, La Rioja, Spain)—produced by similar theropod trackmakers on the same surface. The La Torre 6B-01 footprints range from digitigrade to subdigitigrade, whereas the La Torre 6A-14 tracks vary from fully digitigrade to digitigrade with an elongated metatarsophalangeal area. These differences are interpreted as reflecting distinct phases of running locomotion, likely linked to changes in trackmaker behavior. Comparable morphologies occurred in other trackways that have been interpreted as produced by running trackmakers, from the Early Jurassic to the Late Cretaceous. These examples emphasize how different phases of a run—combined with variations in force exertion and autopodium positioning—can strongly influence footprint morphology. Our findings reveal that theropod dinosaurs employed running strategies more complex and dynamic than previously recognized. Subtle footprint features, such as the presence or absence of metatarsophalangeal impressions, can be directly tied to changes in posture, weight distribution, and muscular activity. This approach provides new perspectives on biomechanical evolution, showing that locomotor diversity and limb morphology shaped dinosaur adaptation and diversification.

Linking physiological state to movement dynamics in an open ocean predator, the blue shark (Prionace glauca)

The movement behavior of open ocean fishes is challenged by metabolic demands resulting from sustained swimming and the availability of resources in a dynamic, ephemeral environment. Advances in electronic tagging and tracking technologies have permitted unprecedented opportunities to describe the movements of open ocean fishes in these environments, however, our understanding of the mechanistic drivers of individual variation in movement performance is limited. In this study, we tested the hypothesis that movement capacities of open ocean sharks would be related to physiology and body condition. We measured the physiological status (e.g., energy stores and body condition) of blue sharks ( Prionace glauca ) captured in the open ocean, and then tracked their movements over 45 days. We then explored for relationships between physiological metrics and individual differences in metrics of movement behavior (distance traveled, activity space, behavioral state, and tortuosity) of the tracked blue sharks. Analyses detected consistent positive relationships between individual plasma triglyceride concentrations and body condition (sampled at time of capture) on distance traveled, activity space, behavioral state, and tortuosity - up to 45 days post tagging, with models explaining up to 79% of individual variation in movement. These findings highlight the potential role of metabolic lipid reserves in shaping movement behavior of open ocean, predatory sharks in patchy, ephemeral environments. More broadly, they offer new insight into the factors which may influence individual variation in the timing and scale of movement in oceanic fishes.

Polish translation and cultural adaptation of the Lower Extremity Functional Scale (LEFS) for adults with lower extremity complaints

RIPK3 inhibitor GSK872 targets angiotensin II induced cardiomyocyte hypertrophy by regulating Ca2+/ calmodulin dependent protein kinase II

Receptor interacting protein kinase 3 (RIPK3) plays a crucial role in the signaling pathway of necrotic apoptosis, and calcium/calmodulin dependent protein kinase II (CaMKII) is a novel substrate for RIPK3 induced regulated necrosis. The aim of this study is to investigate the regulation and mechanism of RIPK3 on AngII induced cardiomyocyte hypertrophy. Using AngII to stimulate myocardial cells for 72 hours, inducing myocardial cell hypertrophy; Intervention of RIPK3 expression using RIPK3 inhibitor GSK872. Detect indicators related to myocardial hypertrophy, cell damage, regulatory necrosis, CaMKII activation and gene expression, oxidative stress, mitochondrial membrane potential, etc. After AngII stimulation of cardiomyocytes, the expression of hypertrophy markers ANP and BNP increased, LDH release increased, ATP levels decreased, splicing factors ASF and SC35 expression increased, CaMKII oxidation and phosphorylation levels increased, and CaMKIIδ alternative splicing was disrupted. However, treatment with GSK872 can alleviate myocardial dysfunction, inhibit CaMKII activation, correct CaMKIIδ variant splicing disorder and ultimately alleviating myocardial hypertrophy. In addition, pretreatment with RIPK3 can reduce the accumulation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) induced by AngII, decrease the activity of ASF and SC35, and restore mitochondrial membrane potential. RIPK3 inhibitor GSK872 can inhibit the activation of CaMKII, alleviate regulated necrosis and oxidative stress to alleviate myocardial hypertrophy. It has a protective effect on myocardial hypertrophy and is expected to become a new targeted drug for clinical treatment of dilated cardiomyopathy and heart failure.

TiO₂ nanotube-supported Cu(II)-Schiff base complex as an efficient heterogeneous catalyst for A³ coupling reactions under solvent-free conditions

Prevalence of Schistosoma bovis and Schistosoma haematobium hybrids in endemic communities in Ghana

Background Schistosomiasis, a debilitating parasitic disease caused by Schistosoma species, poses significant public health challenges in tropical regions, particularly in sub-Saharan Africa. There is growing evidence of species hybridization which may affect transmission dynamics, host range, and treatment resistance and hamper effective control strategies. This study investigated the prevalence and genetic diversity of Schistosoma bovis and Schistosoma haematobium hybrids in endemic communities in Ghana. Methods A cross-sectional study was conducted with urine samples collected from 840 schoolchildren in Ga South and Birim North districts. Microscopy was used for initial screening, followed by molecular characterization and sequencing to confirm species identification and detection of hybrids. Prevalence rates were calculated, and genetic analyses were performed using phylogenetic methods based on the COX 1 gene of Schistosoma bovis and Schistosoma haematobium hybrids. Results Of 840 samples analysed, 96 tested positive for S. haematobium , yielding a prevalence of 11.42% [CI 95 : 9.26–13.96]. The highest prevalence in Ga South was among 13–17-year-olds [23.27%; CI 95 : 16.52–31.77], while in Birim North, it was among 5–9-year-olds [4.82%; CI 95 : 1.96–11.75]. The highest prevalence of infection in both districts: 22.58% [95% CI: 17.53–28.60] in Ga South and 4.23% [95% CI: 2.26–7.83] in Birim North was reported in males. Molecular characterization revealed that 33.33% [32/96, CI 95 : 24.70–43.27] of the samples initially diagnosed as S. haematobium were identified to be S. bovis and 11.49% [11/96, CI 95 : 6.56–19.39] of cases were hybrids. Conclusion The findings of this study highlight the prevalence of S. bovis and S. haematobium hybrids in Ghana, emphasizing the importance of accurate diagnostics and targeted control measures. Continued surveillance and research are essential to address the emerging challenges posed by schistosomiasis in endemic regions.

Superior mucoepidermoid carcinoma detection with ⁶⁸Ga-FAPI PET/CT reflects FAP-α expression and MAML2 fusion status

Protocol for evaluation of Movember’s scaling what works grant funding program: Supporting the delivery of mental health interventions for men & boys in Australia, Canada and the United Kingdom

Background Mental ill health among men and boys is a significant global issue, with barriers to recognising symptoms, seeking help, and accessing services. In response, Movember launched the Scaling What Works (SWW) grant funding in 2022. This initiative supports 17 diverse mental health projects across Australia, Canada, and the UK, targeting communities, schools, and workplaces to address the varied needs and contexts of men and boys. Methods Our evaluation protocol outlines the approach to assessing the SWW program across four domains: implementation, effectiveness, cost (implementation and cost-effectiveness), and scalability. Using the Intervention Scalability Assessment Tool (ISAT) as a framework, we aim to embed scalability considerations into the evaluation design. Data will be collected qualitatively and quantitatively from project participants, facilitators, and Movember staff throughout the funding period. Effectiveness will be measured using the Personal Wellbeing Index (PWI) as a universal outcome across projects. Scalability will be assessed using a purpose-built tool developed in consultation with ISAT’s creator, tailored to project-specific needs. Conclusion This evaluation will provide insights into program effectiveness, implementation strategies, delivery costs, and cost-effectiveness. With a strong focus on scalability, it aims to inform mental health service providers and funders on best practices for scaling interventions within grant-funded contexts.

The FMRFamide-like peptide FLP-11 regulates the production and secretion of the TGF-β-like protein DAF-7 during Caenorhabditis elegans larval development

Motion detection or time-lapse? A comparison of camera trap triggers for monitoring breeding taiga bean geese (Anser fabalis fabalis)

Game cameras have emerged over the recent years as an effective research tool for collecting various types of data on wild animals, and they are used increasingly also in avian studies. However, choosing the best method to collect data depends on the aim of the research and the characteristics of the target species and its habitat. Here, we compared the performance of two trigger methods of game cameras, passive infrared (PIR) motion sensor and time-lapse triggering, in capturing images of taiga bean goose ( Anser fabalis fabalis ) during two successive breeding seasons in peatlands across Finland in 2020–2021. While accounting for differences in camera effort (difference in the number of hours cameras using different trigger types were operational), we found daily capture probability (probability of at least one goose being present in photos during one day) associated with time-lapse to be marginally higher compared to motion triggered cameras. However, there was no difference in the daily number of geese between the two trigger modes. We also found the daily capture probability and detected number of geese to vary significantly between years, but this could be attributed to random inter-annual variation. In general, we find 15-minute interval time-lapse to be a more suitable method compared to motion triggered cameras to study seasonally elusive ground dwelling birds like the taiga bean goose due to fewer required visits to camera sites and thus less disturbance caused to the birds during the sensitive breeding period. However, using cameras with both trigger types side-by-side would likely lead to best overall capture probability, as indicated by the higher percentage of detection positive time periods when goose detections from both camera types were combined, compared to the percentage derived for either of the trigger types alone.

Rational design of cisplatin and carboplatin complexes for enhanced anticancer efficacy based on DFT QTAIM and docking analyses

Abstract Cisplatin (CP) and carboplatin (CBP), two key platinum‑based anticancer drugs, face clinical limitations that prompt the search for new strategies to enhance efficacy and reduce toxicity. This study applies density functional theory (DFT), quantum theory of atoms in molecules (QTAIM), molecular docking, and spectroscopic analyses to explore possible synergistic effects of cisplatin–carboplatin [CP–CBP] complexes in breast and cervical cancers. Structural optimizations show small bond‑length adjustments in the [CP–CBP] complexes, which strengthen intermolecular interactions and overall stability. Thermodynamic analyses confirm their exothermic nature (ΔH < 0), indicating thermodynamic stability, while adsorption energies (Ead = − 14.69, − 12.47, − 14.27 kcal/mol for States I, II, III) suggest enhanced bioavailability and controlled release in aqueous environments, though higher gas-phase energies indicate stronger interactions. Quantum descriptors, including electrophilicity index (ω) and chemical potential (μ), reveal increased reactivity and improved drug-target interactions, supporting enhanced anticancer potential. Spectroscopic analyses (UV–Vis, IR) confirm altered electronic transitions, reinforcing stability and reactivity changes. Molecular docking indicates that [CP–CBP] complexes outperform individual CP and CBP, with State III achieving − 3.75 kcal/mol (Ki = 1.78 μM) for aromatase and State II − 5.48 kcal/mol (Ki = 96.86 μM) for HER2. CBP stabilizes CP, preventing degradation, enhancing solubility, and enabling controlled release, reducing toxicity. These findings highlight [CP–CBP] complexes as a promising platinum‑based chemotherapeutic strategy with potentially improved pharmacokinetics, warranting further in vitro and in vivo validation for targeted cancer therapy.

A pilot study on early microgliogenesis following unilateral vestibular neurectomy: A key player in vestibular compensation?

Following unilateral vestibular damage, several behavioral deficits arise, referred to as vestibular syndrome. At the central level the vestibular syndrome is associated with an imbalance in neuronal activity between the two vestibular nuclei (VN). Its recovery is correlated with a rebalancing of the electrophysiological activity between both VN, known as vestibular compensation. Key plasticity mechanisms within the VN involved in this mechanism include, among others, neurogliogenesis, modulation of neuronal excitability and increased histamine release. In this study, we aimed to characterize the acute glial cell differentiation lineage in response to unilateral vestibular neurectomy (UVN) in the deafferented VN. We further assessed whether this response is influenced by the histaminergic system. To achieve this, betahistine dihydrochloride (BD), was used to stimulate histamine synthesis and release in the VN. After UVN, 2 animal groups were treated orally during 3 days with either BD treatment (UVN BD group, 50 mg/kg/day) or placebo (UVN placebo group). We present preliminary evidence of acute and abundant microgliogenesis restricted to the deafferented VN in both groups. This phenomenon does not appear to be mediated by BD treatment but may reflect an intrinsic biological adaptative mechanism. Further investigations, including Sholl analysis, would be essential to characterize microglia, which may represent a key player in vestibular compensation.

Using stereodynamical portraits to visualize polarized rotational angular momentum distributions in H2–surface collisions

The magnetic molecular interferometer (MMI) is a molecular beam scattering apparatus, which allows the polarization of the rotational angular momentum (J) of ortho-H2 molecules to be controlled using tunable magnetic fields before they collide with a surface, and their J′ polarization to be determined after the collision. In the current work, quantum population distribution functions, or “stereodynamical portraits,” are used to visualize the rotational angular momentum polarization of ortho-H2 molecules that the MMI creates before the collision with the surface, revealing that the sensitivity of the MMI to stereodynamic effects which depend on the orientation of J with respect to the surface normal can be increased by manipulating the H2 molecules with two perpendicular magnetic fields rather than just a single field. They can also be used to depict the polarization dependence of a H2-surface collision, as shown by the example considered here, where it is found that when H2 molecules undergo diffractive scattering from a Cu(511) surface, different J polarizations are selected to scatter into different diffraction channels, just as different polarizations of J′ are created after scattering. Signals measured with the MMI are necessarily dependent on both the rotational polarization the MMI creates and the dependence of the molecule-surface collision on this, and it is demonstrated that for flux detection measurements it would be possible to analyze the data directly in terms of the polarization moments which characterize these two properties to gain a more immediate insight into the stereodynamics of the collision than is possible using alternative analysis methods.

Towards advanced AI-based solutions for securing IoMT in smart health information systems

Evaluating age-friendly smart city policy design: A PMC-Index analysis of chinese provincial frameworks

The intersections of rapid demographic aging and urban digitalization present unprecedented governance challenges, yet current smart city evaluation frameworks inadequately address age-friendly policy implementation. This study addresses the critical analytical gap in evaluating age-friendly dimensions within smart city policy frameworks through development of an adapted Policy Modeling Consistency (PMC-Index) methodology. Analyzing 18 provincial-level policy documents in China (2011–2024) through integrated text mining techniques, this research examines relationships between policy text characteristics and implementation effectiveness. Statistical analysis reveals significant correlations (r = 0.83, p < 0.001) between textual features and implementation outcomes. Principal component analysis identifies three determinants of policy effectiveness: implementation mechanism sophistication (42.3% variance), resource integration capacity (28.7%), and stakeholder coordination efficiency (18.4%). The adapted framework explains 71.8% of implementation variance, substantially exceeding conventional approaches. The study links textual analysis with implementation assessment, offering empirical guidance for age-friendly smart urban governance.

Analytic gradients for EOM-DEA-CCSD and EOM-DIP-CCSD: Theory, implementation, and application to diradicals

Equation-of-motion coupled-cluster theory with single and double excitations (EOM-CCSD) provides a robust framework for describing a wide range of electronically excited and open-shell states. Among its various formulations, the double electron-attachment (EOM-DEA-CCSD) and double ionization potential (EOM-DIP-CCSD) methods are particularly effective for treating diradicals and other types of open-shell species. To enable accurate geometry optimizations and property calculations, we present the derivation and implementation of analytic nuclear gradients for EOM-DEA-CCSD and EOM-DIP-CCSD. These new capabilities were illustrated by calculations of singlet–triplet gaps in benzyne diradicals as well as characterization of molecules relevant to quantum information science. We further extended the framework to include spin–orbit coupling calculations for EOM-DEA-CCSD states, allowing calculations of intensity borrowing and intersystem crossings.

Automated image inpainting for historical artifact restoration using hybridisation of transfer learning with deep generative models

Machine learning-based prediction of the axial load capacity of UHPC strengthened reinforced concrete columns: A comparative analysis

This study develops and evaluates machine learning (ML) models to predict the axial load capacity (Pu) of reinforced concrete (RC) columns strengthened with ultra-high-performance concrete (UHPC) jackets. A comprehensive experimental database containing 105 test samples with 17 key input parameters was compiled from the literature, representing the most extensive dataset of UHPC-jacketed RC columns to date. Using this database, a machine learning (ML) framework was established to predict the ultimate axial load capacity, employing six models: Extremely Randomized Trees (ER) model, K-Nearest Neighbors (KNN), Light Gradient Boosting Machine (LightGBM), Xgboost, CatBoost, and Cascade Forward Neural Networks (CFNNs). The CatBoost model achieved the best performance with R² = 0.983, MAE = 177 kN, and RMSE = 211 kN, significantly outperforming traditional design codes such as ACI 318 and EC2. In addition to high predictive accuracy, SHAP analysis was conducted to interpret the influence of each parameter, providing new insights into the mechanical behavior and governing factors of UHPC-jacketed RC columns. These findings highlight the capability of advanced ML to capture complex nonlinear effects more effectively than traditional methods. The proposed framework not only provides new insights into the mechanics of UHPC–RC columns but also offers a reliable predictive tool to support safer and more efficient design for strengthening.