bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Structural and optical characterizations of zircon and zirconia nanopowders derived from zircon sands
Authors: Pratama Detak Yan , Hariyanto Budi , Purwaningsih Sri Yani , Hatta Agus Muhamad , Pratapa Suminar
Published: July 2024

This study explores the structural and optical properties of zircon (ZrSiO4) and zirconia (ZrO2) nanopowders using two types of natural Indonesian zircon sands. The former powders were synthesized through dissolution and non-dissolution methods, while the latter powders were synthesized using alkali fusion and co-precipitation techniques. x-ray fluorescence (XRF) analysis revealed a reduction in impurities post-synthesis. X-ray diffraction (XRD) and Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) analyses indicated that the dissolution process yielded pure zircon, whereas the non-dissolution method resulted in the presence of minor additional phases. For zirconia, all samples exhibited a tetragonal phase, albeit with varying structures. Optical properties were investigated using UV–vis spectroscopy, which showed that both materials exhibit high absorption in the ultraviolet region, with slight differences in wavelengths peak. Consequently, zircon and zirconia demonstrated similar band gap energies ranging from 3.76 to 3.95 eV and 3.99 to 4.06 eV, respectively. Photoluminescence testing further revealed identical emission peaks 350 nm for both materials, highlighting their comparable optical characteristics. This study provides valuable understandings into the synthesis and optical properties of zircon and zirconia nanopowders derived from Indonesian zircon sands, emphasizing their potential applications in various optical and electronic fields.
Exploring the structural, electronic, and optical properties of novel two-dimensional ABX-type materials
Authors: Mir Showkat H , Yadav Vivek K
Published: July 2024

A first-principles study of the structural, electrical, and optical properties of graphene-like two-dimensional (2D) materials ABX (A=Na/K, B=C/Si/Ge, and X=N/P/As) such as NaCN, KCN, NaCP, KCP, etc was undertaken using state-of-the-art Density Functional Theory (DFT). The investigation encompasses essential parameters such as structural stability through ab initio molecular dynamics (AIMD), electronic structure, and dielectric constants. The AIMD measurements reveal that the structures stay stable for up to 10 picoseconds (ps). Band structure calculations at the PBE level of theory revealed that most materials are semi-conducting with a band gap of 1-3 eV, except NaCN and KCN, which exhibited insulating behaviour. Using hybrid functional (HSE), only eight materials were identified to have a band gap in the visible range. Optical properties have also been investigated to understand their interaction with light. Peaks in the imaginary component of the dielectric function were attributed to inter-band transitions. Several materials were discovered to be optimal for photo-catalysis, while six were found to exhibit conductivity of the order of ∼1012 (Ω−1cm−1s−1) at room temperature.
A novel comprehensive method for weak signal blind detection based on adaptive quasi-periodic potential stochastic resonance and its application in bearing fault detection
Authors: He Lifang , Jiang Zhiyuan , Gao Yanxin
Published: July 2024

In order to solve the common output saturation of stochastic resonance systems and the limitation of classical index SNR for blind detection, a novel adaptive quasi-periodic potential stochastic resonance blind detection method is proposed. First, a model of quasi-periodic potential stochastic resonance (QPPSR) possessing infinite steady state is constructed and analyzed for its structure change pattern. The superior performance of the model is verified by using the fourth-order Runge–Kutta algorithm. Secondly, the mechanism of QPPSR is analyzed using the probability flow method, which reveals the relationship between system parameters and performance. Again, a novel comprehensive blind detection index (CBDI) is exquisitely constructed to make up for the shortcomings of each indicator. Finally, CBDI and QPPSR are constructed into an adaptive blind detection system and applied to bearing fault detection. The results analyzed by experiments verify the good engineering application prospect of CBDI-QPPSR.
PPN meets EFT of dark energy: post-Newtonian approximation in higher-order scalar-tensor theories
Authors: Saito Jin , Yao Zhibang , Kobayashi Tsutomu
Published: July 2024

We study the post-Newtonian limit of higher-order scalar-tensor theories that are degenerate in the unitary gauge. They can be conveniently described by the effective field theory (EFT) of dark energy. We determine all the parametrized post-Newtonian (PPN) parameters in terms of the EFT of dark energy parameters. Experimental bounds on the PPN parameters are then translated to constraints on the EFT parameters. We present a Lagrangian of a unitary degenerate higher-order scalar-tensor theory characterized by a single function of the kinetic term of the scalar field whose PPN parameters have the same values as in general relativity.
Speed of sound measurements and derived third and fourth acoustic virial coefficients of supercritical neon
Authors: Dietl Tobias , El Hawary Ahmed , Gavioso Roberto M , Hellmann Robert , Meier Karsten
Published: July 2024

We report comprehensive and accurate measurements of the speed of sound in neon. These measurements were carried out by a double-path-length pulse-echo technique and cover the temperature range between 200 K and 420  K with pressures up to 100 MPa. The standard uncertainties are 1.9 mK in temperature, 22 parts in 106 in pressure and 35 parts in 106 in speed of sound. The third and fourth acoustic virial coefficients of neon were derived from the speed of sound data in the temperature range of the measurements by fitting a fourth-order acoustic virial expansion in pressure with the second acoustic virial coefficient constrained from first-principles calculations. To support our claimed uncertainty, we determined the ratio

M

/

γ

0

between the molar mass M and the ideal-gas heat capacity ratio

γ

0

of the neon sample with a relative standard uncertainty of 7.7 parts in 106 by additional speed of sound measurements using a spherical resonator at 273.16 K.
Quantum plasmonic sensing by Hong–Ou–Mandel interferometry
Authors: Yoon Seungjin , Choi Yu Sung , Tame Mark , Yoon Jae Woong , Polyakov Sergey V , Lee Changhyoup
Published: July 2024

We propose a quantum plasmonic sensor using Hong–Ou–Mandel (HOM) interferometry that measures the refractive index of an analyte, embedded in a plasmonic beam splitter composed of a dual-Kretschmann configuration, which serves as a frustrated total internal reflection beamsplitter (BS). The sensing performance of the HOM interferometry, combined with single-photon detectors, is evaluated through Fisher information for estimation of the refractive index of the analyte. This is subsequently compared with the classical benchmark that considers the injection of a coherent state of light into the plasmonic BS. By varying the wavelength of the single photons and the refractive index of the analyte, we identify a wide range where a 50% quantum enhancement is achieved and discuss the observed behaviors in comparison with the classical benchmark. We expect this study to provide a useful insight into the advancement of quantum-enhanced sensing technologies, with direct implications for a wide range of nanophotonic BS structures.
Kinetic effects on the interaction of counter-propagating plasma shocks inside an ICF hohlraum
Authors: Zhang Xu , Liu Qing-kang , Zhang Wen-shuai , Zhang En-hao , Ning Xiao-chuan , Meng Fan-qi , Wang Yi-peng , Cai Hong-bo , Zhu Shao-ping
Published: July 2024

The interaction and interpenetration of two counter-propagating plasma shocks are investigated via hybrid fluid-PIC (particle-in-cell) simulations. This study seeks to probe the kinetic effects and ion collisions on the structure of colliding plasma shocks in complex multi-ion-species plasma, in particular, the presence of the expansion of high-Z plasma bubbles against the low-Z filled gas inside an ICF hohlraum. The superposition of shock wave results in a wave-like electric field in the downstream region. The electric field can further reduce the kinetic energy of the incoming particles, and modulate the ion density profile. It finally generates a new downstream platform of high temperature and high density. However, on the hundred-ps time scale, cumulative ion collisions can still significantly alter the structure of the shock wave and the reflection of ions by the shock front. This study will help to improve the predictions of hohlraum plasma states and the understanding of the shock wave interactions.
Propulsion mechanism of artificial flagellated micro-swimmers actuated by acoustic waves—theory and experimental verification
Authors: Liu Jinan , Fu Yiqiang , Wu Yifei , Ruan Haihui
Published: July 2024

This work examines the acoustically actuated motions of artificial flagellated micro-swimmers (AFMSs) and compares the motility of these micro-swimmers with the predictions based on the corrected resistive force theory (RFT) and the bar-joint model proposed in our previous work. The key ingredient in the theory is the introduction of a correction factor K in drag coefficients to correct the conventional RFT so that the dynamics of an acoustically actuated AFMS with rectangular cross-sections can be accurately modeled. Experimentally, such AFMSs can be easily manufactured based on digital light processing of ultra-violet (UV)-curable resins. We first determined the viscoelastic properties of a UV-cured resin through dynamic mechanical analysis. In particular, the high-frequency storage moduli and loss factors were obtained based on the assumption of time-temperature superposition (TTS), which were then applied in theoretical calculations. Though the extrapolation based on the TTS implied the uncertainty of high-frequency material response and there is limited accuracy in determining head oscillation amplitude, the differences between the measured terminal velocities of the AFMSs and the predicted ones are less than 50%, which, to us, is well acceptable. These results indicate that the motions of acoustic AFMS can be predicted, and thus, designed, which pave the way for their long-awaited applications in targeted therapy.
Decision analysis for prioritizing climate change adaptation options: a systematic review
Authors: Amanuma Eri , Fujii Minoru , Nakajima Kenichi , Hijioka Yasuaki
Published: July 2024

Climate change adaptation options need to be prioritized so that decision-makers make the appropriate choice among multiple options using decision analysis methods. Although different decision analysis methods are applied in different sectors, the status and challenges of applying the methods in various sectors have not been investigated to date because this is a rapidly developing research field. We systematically reviewed the decision analysis literature in climate change adaptation to investigate how decision analysis methods have been applied in each sector and to identify ongoing challenges. We found that most articles focused on the agriculture, water resources, coastal disaster, and river flooding subsectors, whereas no articles were found in the poverty, settlement, and wellbeing subsectors. The applications of decision analysis methods that can account for the deep uncertainty of adaptation (the deep uncertainty group) comprised about 15% of the total, and they were concentrated in the water resources and disaster-related subsectors. In the poverty, settlement, and wellbeing subsectors, it can be inferred that academic articles are scarce because it is challenging to study climate change projections due to the strong impact of socioeconomic conditions, and because the actors are often reported at the local or individual levels. Although the sectors where climate change impact projections have been developed may have led to a relatively large proportion of applications of the deep uncertainty group, the small number of applications suggests inadequate consideration of uncertainty in all sectors. In the future, it will be crucial for each sector to develop methods to evaluate deep uncertainty; these include using applications in the deep uncertainty group and combining multiple decision analysis methods.
Absorption of ultrashort laser pulses in medium with account for propagation effects
Authors: Astapenko V A
Published: July 2024

The absorption of ultrashort laser pulses in an optically dense medium is theoretically studied based on the total absorption coefficient over the entire duration of the pulse, taking into account the effects of propagation and reflection of pulse from vacuum/medium interface. The approach is the generalization of our previous work (available at: www.nobelprize.org/prizes/physics/2023/summary), which traced a ‘bridge’ between the micro- and macro-description of radiation processes in a medium induced by electromagnetic pulses of arbitrary duration. The expression for the total absorption coefficient is obtained in terms the complex refractive index of the medium. Various limits of this expression are considered. Numerical calculations of the dependence of the total absorption coefficient on the parameters of the laser pulses and the thickness of the medium layer were carried out and the results obtained were discussed.
Strong spinning thermal radiation enabled by germanium-based chiral dielectric metasurface
Authors: Guo Xu , Wu Biyuan , Li Hongju , Liu Haotuo , Gao Ying , Wu Xiaohu
Published: July 2024

Spinning thermal radiation refers to the phenomenon of selective emission of circularly polarized waves from chiral structures with polarization dependence or symmetry breaking. This phenomenon finds diverse applications in fields such as radiation detection and chiral sensing. In this study, we introduce a dielectric metasurface composed of a periodic arrangement of germanium (Ge) elliptical disks, which can exhibit circular dichroism (CD) with a maximum value of approximately 0.93 at the optimal structural parameters. The physical mechanism of the strong CD is analyzed through the polarization conversion and distributions of the electric field. Moreover, the influence of structural parameters on the spinning thermal radiation is also analyzed. It is found that the CD is closely related to the height and period of the Ge-based chiral dielectric metasurface rather than the rotation angle. This work not only provides valuable insights into the design and optimization of spinning thermal radiation using metasurfaces, but also holds promise for its engineering applications in the field of thermal detection.
Quantification of Young's modulus of kaolin, sodalite and nanocomposite based polycaprolactone/sodalite using atomic force microscopy
Authors: Elhachemi Kenza , Khellafi Habib , Bendouba Mostefa , Djebli Abdelkader
Published: July 2024

The mechanical properties of clays, zeolite, and nanocomposite reinforced by these minerals are unique regarding their states and functions. Nevertheless, it is difficult to acknowledge the degrees of mechanical properties because of the nano-size of these materials and the broad distribution of these properties. This study aims to the quantification of Young’s modulus of three materials, namely kaolin, sodalite, and nanocomposite PCL/sodalite using the atomic force microscope (AFM). The Oliver-Pharr and Hertz models are considered for this quantification. The values of these modulus ranging from 11.19 to 69.15 GPa for the Oliver-Pharr model and 10.89 to 127.09 GPa for Hertz model (kaolin). On the other side, the Young’s modulus of sodalite varies between 69.02 and 12.01 GPa for the Hertz and the Oliver-Pharr models (sodalite). This modulus for nanocomposite ranges from 1.75 to 6.66 GPa and 1.63 to 45.36 GPa for the cited models, This research presents a simple and easy way to calculate this modulus without resorting to Nano-indentation. Moreover, this technique was also used to investigate the morphology of these materials. Therefore, it was deduced that the mechanical and morphological properties of the studied materials are completely different, especially nanocomposites, even though they have the same origin, which is kaolinite.
Facilities and practices for linear response Hubbard parameters U and J in Abinit
Authors: MacEnulty Lórien , Giantomassi Matteo , Amadon Bernard , Rignanese Gian-Marco , O’Regan David D
Published: July 2024

Members of the density functional theory (DFT)+U family of functionals are increasingly prevalent methods of addressing errors intrinsic to (semi-) local exchange-correlation functionals at minimum computational cost, but require their parameters U and J to be calculated in situ for a given system of interest, simulation scheme, and runtime parameters. The self-consistent field (SCF) linear response approach offers ab initio acquisition of the U and has recently been extended to compute the J analogously, which measures localized errors related to exchange-like effects. We introduce a renovated post-processor, the lrUJ utility, together with this detailed best-practices guide, to enable users of the popular, open-source Abinit first-principles simulation suite to engage easily with in situ Hubbard parameters and streamline their incorporation into material simulations of interest. Features of this utility, which may also interest users and developers of other DFT codes, include n-degree polynomial regression, error analysis, Python plotting facilities, didactic documentation, and avenues for further developments. In this technical introduction and guide, we place particular emphasis on the intricacies and potential pitfalls introduced by the projector augmented wave method, SCF mixing schemes, and non-linear response, several of which are translatable to DFT+U(+J) implementations in other packages.
Environmental and energy efficiency of a selected municipal wastewater treatment plant – a case study
Authors: Przydatek Grzegorz , Golonka Monika , Barsan Narcis , Mosnegutu Emilian , Chitimus Alexandra-Dana , Irimia Oana
Published: July 2024

Based on the analysis of environmental and energy efficiency in the years 2019–2021 in the selected sewage treatment plant (WWT) located in the southern Poland with mechanical-biological wastewater treatment, it was found that the highest level of pollution reduction of 98% enabled the highest BOD5 concentration to be reduced more than 800 times. The operation of the sewage treatment plant was characterized by variable efficiency of the treatment process, which was demonstrated by significant differences in chemical indicators (BOD5, COD, P, TSS and N). Low average concentration of total nitrogen below 4 mg l−1 occurred with a reduction of pollutants at a level not exceeding 90%. Noticeable energy consumption of 1.58 kWh m−3 related to the increase in the amount of treated sewage, confirmed by a moderate correlation, indicated the need to optimize the treatment process.
Normed Amenability and Bounded Cohomology over Non-Archimedean Fields
Authors: Fournier-Facio Francesco
Published: July 2024

We study continuous bounded cohomology of totally disconnected locally compact groups with coefficients in a non-Archimedean valued field

K

\mathbb {K}

. To capture the features of classical amenability that induce the vanishing of bounded cohomology with real coefficients, we start by introducing the notion of normed

K

\mathbb {K}

-amenability, of which we prove an algebraic characterization. It implies that normed

K

\mathbb {K}

-amenable groups are locally elliptic, and it relates an invariant, the norm of a

K

\mathbb {K}

-amenable group, to the order of its discrete finite

p
p

-subquotients, where

p
p

is the characteristic of the residue field of

K

\mathbb {K}

. Moreover, we prove a characterization of discrete normed

K

\mathbb {K}

-amenable groups in terms of vanishing of bounded cohomology with coefficients in

K

\mathbb {K}

.

The algebraic characterization shows that normed

K

\mathbb {K}

-amenability is a very restrictive condition, so the bounded cohomological one suggests that there should be plenty of groups with rich bounded cohomology with trivial

K

\mathbb {K}

coefficients. We explore this intuition by studying the injectivity and surjectivity of the comparison map, for which surprisingly general statements are available. Among these, we show that if either

K

\mathbb {K}

has positive characteristic or its residue field has characteristic

0
0

, then the comparison map is injective in all degrees. If

K

\mathbb {K}

is a finite extension of

Q

p

\mathbb {Q}_p

, we classify unbounded and non-trivial quasimorphisms of a group and relate them to its subgroup structure. For discrete groups, we show that suitable finiteness conditions imply that the comparison map is an isomorphism; this applies in particular to finitely presented groups in degree

2
2

.

A motivation as to why the comparison map is often an isomorphism, in stark contrast with the real case, is given by moving to topological spaces. We show that over a non-Archimedean field, bounded cohomology is a cohomology theory in the sense of Eilenberg–Steenrod, except for a weaker version of the additivity axiom which is however equivalent for finite disjoint unions. In particular there exists a Mayer–Vietoris sequence, the main missing piece for computing real bounded cohomology.
Maximizing Access to Cell Biology for PEERS: Retracting the term minority in favor of a more inclusive lexicon
Authors: Vonhoff Fernando , Ko’omoa-Lange Dana-Lynn , Davis Jamaine S. , Termini Christina M. , Martínez-Montemayor Michelle M.
Published: July 2024

The word minority, when used incorrectly, is a condescending term that segregates, inaccurately represents groups as being smaller or less important, and fuels microaggressions. Scientific societies and other institutions have normalized using the word minority, or the “M word,” to refer to members of underrepresented groups in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM). The message put forth using the term minority often directly conflicts with the inclusive agenda these societies seek to enact. More inclusive acronyms such as PEER (Persons Excluded because of their Ethnicity or Race) have been created to more accurately reflect the active process of exclusion by institutions. Here, we detail the rationale behind the decision to eradicate the word minority from the name of a prominent committee within the American Society for Cell Biology (ASCB). The ASCB Minority Affairs Committee changed its name to the Maximizing Access to Cell Biology for PEERS Committee. Herein, we emphasize the basis for the name change and highlight the contradictions intrinsic to the word minority in this context. We highlight why swift action is required for this rewording within the context of a committee dedicated to supporting the inclusion of PEERs in the scientific community.
Flexible Bayesian estimation of incubation times
Authors: Gressani Oswaldo , Torneri Andrea , Hens Niel , Faes Christel
Published: July 2024

The incubation period is of paramount importance in infectious disease epidemiology as it informs about the transmission potential of a pathogenic organism and helps the planning of public health strategies to keep an epidemic outbreak under control. Estimation of the incubation period distribution from reported exposure times and symptom onset times is challenging as the underlying data is coarse. We developed a new Bayesian methodology using Laplacian-P-splines that provides a semiparametric estimation of the incubation density based on a Langevinized Gibbs sampler. A finite mixture density smoother informs a set of parametric distributions via moment matching and an information criterion arbitrates between competing candidates. Algorithms underlying our method find a natural nest within the EpiLPS package, which has been extended to cover estimation of incubation times. Various simulation scenarios accounting for different levels of data coarseness are considered with encouraging results. Applications to real data on coronavirus disease 2019, Middle East respiratory syndrome, and Mpox reveal results that are in alignment with what has been obtained in recent studies. The proposed flexible approach is an interesting alternative to classic Bayesian parametric methods for estimation of the incubation distribution.
Three-type precursors for low-temperature solution-processed void-and-crack-free copper(I) iodide films: comparison of electrical conductivities and optical transparency
Authors: Ishizaki Manabu , Koya Naoki , Gotoh Yoshitomo , Muramatsu Kodai , Kurihara Masato
Published: July 2024

Copper(I) iodide is a wide-bandgap (colorless) p-type semiconductor with a high Seebeck coefficient. Although copper(I) iodide is promising for fabricating transparent thermoelectric devices and hole-transfer layers of solar cells, the insolubility in common solvents due to 3-dimensional coordination networks has been a drawback to constructing low-temperature solution-processed thin films. Moreover, it is challenging to fabricate void-and-crack-free copper(I) iodide thin films through a convenient spin-coating process. In limited solvents of acetonitrile and diethyl sulfide, copper(I) iodide is dissolved by forming soluble copper(I) iodide complexes; however, void-and-crack-free copper(I) iodide thin films have never been prepared. In this study, we report that copper(I) iodide–alkanolamine complexes are soluble in alcohols and the spin-coated complexes undergo thermal decomposition to a copper(I) iodide thin film at moderately low temperatures until 150 °C. We discover that the copper(I) iodide–alkanolamines show different properties such as solubility and melting/decomposition temperatures depending on their structures. Specifically, by using 1-amino-2-propanol, we obtain void-and-crack-free and transparent copper(I) iodide thin films with controlled thicknesses of >50 nm. The conductivity, carrier density, mobility, and Seebeck coefficient of the copper(I) iodide thin film are 9.35 S·cm−1, 6.38 × 1019 cm−3, 0.96 cm2·V−1·S−1, and 192 µV·K−1, respectively.
Enhancing fault-clearing algorithm for renewable-energy-based distribution systems using artificial neural networks
Authors: Mohamed Rania G , Ebrahim M A , Abdel Aleem Shady H E
Published: July 2024

Integrating small and large-scale photovoltaic (PV) solar systems into electrical distribution systems has become mandatory due to increased electricity bills and the concern for limiting greenhouse gases. However, the reliable and efficient operation of PV-based distribution systems can be confronted by the intermittence and high variability of solar sources and their consequential faults. In this regard, this article suggests a moderated fault-clearing strategy based on the incremental conductance–maximum power point tracking (IC–MPPT) technique and artificial neural networks (ANNs) to enhance fault detection, localization, and restoration processes in PV-based distribution systems. The proposed strategy leverages IC–MPPT to ensure optimal power generation from the PV solar system, even in the presence of faults. By tracking the maximum power point, the algorithm maintains the performance of the system and mitigates against the impact of faults on the output power. Furthermore, an ANN is employed to improve fault detection and localization accuracy. The developed ANN-based moderated fault-clearing strategy is trained using historical data and fault scenarios, enabling it to recognize fault patterns and make informed decisions through extensive simulations and comparisons with traditional fault-clearing methods. To accomplish this study, benchmarks in PV-based distribution systems are constructed and employed using the MATLAB®/Simulink® software package. Moreover, to validate the efficacy of the developed ANN-based moderated fault-clearing strategy, a real case study of a 1-MW PV-based distribution system in an industrial field located in Giza governorate, Egypt, is tested and investigated. The obtained results demonstrate the effectiveness of the IC–MPPT and ANN-based moderated fault-clearing strategy in achieving faster fault detection, precise fault localization, and efficient restoration in PV solar-based distribution systems while preserving maximum power extraction under small and large system disturbances. Furthermore, IC–MPPT based on an ANN achieves an average power of 98.556 kW and 299.632 kWh energy availability, whereas the IC–MPPT based on a proportional–integral controller achieves 95.7996 kW and 283.4036 kWh, and the classic perturb-and-observe MPPT algorithm achieves 92.2657 kW and 276.8014 kWh.
Magnetic properties of N-nonylphenothiazine radical cations depending on counter anions
Authors: Naing Sett Aung , Naota Takeshi , Shiomi Daisuke , Matsuda Kentaro , Sato Kazunobu , Suzuki Shuichi
Published: July 2024

Magnetic properties of N-nonylphenothiazine radical cations were found to vary depending on their counter ions. The radical cations in NTf2− (bis(N-trifluoromethanesulfonyl)imide ion), OTf− (trifluoromethanesulfonate), and BF4− salts formed π-dimer with strong antiferromagnetic interactions. The SbF6− salt exhibited paramagnetic properties with quite weak antiferromagnetic interaction. Interestingly, the NTf2− salt transformed into the paramagnetic liquid state upon heating to 78 °C.
A simple synthesis of luminescent π-conjugated materials having fDTBT derivatives
Authors: Nakagawa Yuta , Miki Kensyo , Yamaguchi Yoshihiro
Published: July 2024

We developed a simple and rapid process for synthesizing dithieno[3′,2′:3,4;2″,3″:5,6]benzo[1,2-c][1,2,5]thiadiazole (fDTBT) derivatives using crystalline sulfur and internal alkynes, wherein thiophene is cyclized to benzothiadiazole. Cyclized derivatives were synthesized in 3 or 5 steps using this reaction, whereas the conventional synthesis methods involved 7 steps and hazardous reactions with explosive properties. The absorption spectra of the synthesized fDTBT derivatives in chloroform solution revealed a new absorption band owing to the cyclization. All 3 compounds exhibited orange-to-red luminescence, and the maximum absolute quantum yield was determined to be 67%, demonstrating excellent luminescence.
Global-local graph attention: unifying global and local attention for node classification
Authors: Lin Keao , Xie Xiaozhu , Weng Wei , Du Xiaofeng
Published: July 2024

Graph Neural Networks (GNNs) are deep learning models specifically designed for analyzing graph-structured data, capturing complex relationships and structures to improve analysis and prediction. A common task in GNNs is node classification, where each node in the graph is assigned a predefined category. The Graph Attention Network (GAT) is a popular variant of GNNs known for its ability to capture complex dependencies by assigning importance weights to nodes during information aggregation. However, the GAT’s reliance on local attention mechanisms limits its effectiveness in capturing global information and long-range dependencies. To address this limitation, we propose a new attention mechanism called Global-Local Graph Attention (GLGA). Our mechanism enables the GAT to capture long-range dependencies and global graph structures while maintaining its ability to focus on local interactions. We evaluate our algorithm on three citation datasets (Cora, Citeseer, and Pubmed) using multiple metrics, demonstrating its superiority over other baseline models. The proposed GLGA mechanism has been proven to be an effective solution for improving node classification tasks.
Double-territory STEMI with cardiogenic shock in immune thrombocytopenic purpura with severe thrombocytopenia—a case report
Authors: Vijayachandra Yerramareddy , Wilson Antony , Sreeram Jayalakshmi , Mahesh Kumar Aishwarya
Published: July 2024

Background

Myocardial infarction (MI) in a patient with immune thrombocytopenia is a rare scenario which is very challenging to manage.

Case summary

We present a rare case of a patient with immune thrombocytopenic purpura who developed double territory segment-elevation MI with cardiogenic shock. She had an extremely rare presentation with a fresh mobile thrombus in the aortic root which was trap-dooring the right coronary artery ostium and extending into the artery with an embolism into the distal left anterior descending artery. We managed this patient conservatively with excellent recovery owing to the dangerous location of the hanging thrombus, and severe thrombocytopenia.

Conclusions

Multidisciplinary approach is required for the management of MI in patients with pre-existing blood disorders, with therapy tailored to the patient's presentation and treatment requirements.
PEPhub: a database, web interface, and API for editing, sharing, and validating biological sample metadata
Authors: LeRoy Nathan J , Khoroshevskyi Oleksandr , O’Brien Aaron , Stępień Rafał , Arslan Alip , Sheffield Nathan C
Published: July 2024

Background

As biological data increase, we need additional infrastructure to share them and promote interoperability. While major effort has been put into sharing data, relatively less emphasis is placed on sharing metadata. Yet, sharing metadata is also important and in some ways has a wider scope than sharing data themselves.

Results

Here, we present PEPhub, an approach to improve sharing and interoperability of biological metadata. PEPhub provides an API, natural-language search, and user-friendly web-based sharing and editing of sample metadata tables. We used PEPhub to process more than 100,000 published biological research projects and index them with fast semantic natural-language search. PEPhub thus provides a fast and user-friendly way to finding existing biological research data or to share new data.

Availability

https://pephub.databio.org
The diplomatic authority of William Davison
Authors: Cousins Rosalyn
Published: July 2024

Secretary William Davison (d. 1608) is best known for his involvement in the execution of Mary, queen of Scots, in 1587. This article explores Davison’s earlier diplomatic career, specifically his mission to the Low Countries in autumn 1585. It argues, first, that Davison was an influential political actor prior to his elevation to the privy council, as he fulfilled significant diplomatic responsibilities and was highly regarded by his conciliar patrons; and second, that study of Davison’s diplomatic career casts new light on familiar debates over mid-Elizabethan diplomacy, men of business and patron-client relationships.
Genomic data provides insights into the evolutionary history and adaptive differentiation of two tetraploid strawberries
Authors: Lin Hanyang , Chen Luxi , Cai Chaonan , Ma Junxia , Li Junmin , Ashman Tia-Lynn , Liston Aaron , Dong Ming
Published: July 2024

Over the decades, evolutionists and ecologists have shown intense interest in the role of polyploidization in plant evolution. Without clear knowledge of the diploid ancestor(s) of polyploids, we would not be able to answer fundamental ecological questions such as the evolution of niche differences between them or its underlying genetic basis. Here, we explored the evolutionary history of two Fragaria tetraploids, Fragaria corymbosa and Fragaria moupinensis. We de novo assembled five genomes including these two tetraploids and three diploid relatives. Based on multiple lines of evidence, we found no evidence of subgenomes in either of the two tetraploids, suggesting autopolyploid origins. We determined that Fragaria chinensis was the diploid ancestor of F. corymbosa while either an extinct species affinitive to F. chinensis or an unsampled population of F. chinensis could be the progenitor of F. moupinensis. Meanwhile, we found introgression signals between F. chinensis and Fragaria pentaphylla, leading to the genomic similarity between these two diploids. Compared to F. chinensis, gene families related to high ultraviolet (UV)-B and DNA repair were expanded, while those that responded towards abiotic and biotic stresses (such as salt stress, wounding, and various pathogens) were contracted in both tetraploids. Furthermore, the two tetraploids tended to down-regulate defense response genes but up-regulate UV-B response, DNA repairing, and cell division gene expression compared to F. chinensis. These findings may reflect adaptions toward high-altitude habitats. In summary, our work provides insights into the genome evolution of wild Fragaria tetraploids and opens up an avenue for future works to answer deeper evolutionary and ecological questions regarding the strawberry genus.
SlDELLA interacts with SlPIF4 to regulate arbuscular mycorrhizal symbiosis and phosphate uptake in tomato
Authors: Li Lan , Ge Shibei , He Liqun , Liu Ruicheng , Mei Yuhong , Xia Xiaojian , Yu Jingquan , Zhou Yanhong
Published: July 2024

Arbuscular mycorrhizal symbiosis (AMS), a complex and delicate process, is precisely regulated by a multitude of transcription factors. PHYTOCHROME-INTERACTING FACTORS (PIFs) are critical in plant growth and stress responses. However, the involvement of PIFs in AMS and the molecular mechanisms underlying their regulator functions have not been well elucidated. Here, we show that SlPIF4 negatively regulates the arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF) colonization and AMS-induced phosphate uptake in tomato. Protein–protein interaction studies suggest that SlDELLA interacts with SlPIF4, reducing its protein stability and inhibiting its transcriptional activity towards downstream target genes. This interaction promotes the accumulation of strigolactones (SLs), facilitating AMS development and phosphate uptake. As a transcription factor, SlPIF4 directly transcriptionally regulates genes involved in SLs biosynthesis, including SlCCD7, SlCDD8, and SlMAX1, as well as the AMS-specific phosphate transporter genes PT4 and PT5. Collectively, our findings uncover a molecular mechanism by which the SlDELLA-SlPIF4 module regulates AMS and phosphate uptake in tomato. We clarify a molecular basis for how SlPIF4 interacts with SLs to regulate the AMS and propose a potential strategy to improve phosphate utilization efficiency by targeting the AMS-specific phosphate transporter genes PTs.
Agricultural intensification reduces selection of putative plant growth-promoting rhizobacteria in wheat
Authors: Reid Tessa E , Kavamura Vanessa N , Torres-Ballesteros Adriana , Smith Monique E , Abadie Maïder , Pawlett Mark , Clark Ian M , Harris Jim A , Mauchline Tim H
Published: July 2024

The complex evolutionary history of wheat has shaped its associated root microbial community. However, consideration of impacts from agricultural intensification has been limited. This study investigated how endogenous (genome polyploidization) and exogenous (introduction of chemical fertilizers) factors have shaped beneficial rhizobacterial selection. We combined culture-independent and -dependent methods to analyze rhizobacterial community composition and its associated functions at the root–soil interface from a range of ancestral and modern wheat genotypes, grown with and without the addition of chemical fertilizer. In controlled pot experiments, fertilization and soil compartment (rhizosphere, rhizoplane) were the dominant factors shaping rhizobacterial community composition, whereas the expansion of the wheat genome from diploid to allopolyploid caused the next greatest variation. Rhizoplane-derived culturable bacterial collections tested for plant growth-promoting (PGP) traits revealed that fertilization reduced the abundance of putative plant growth-promoting rhizobacteria in allopolyploid wheats but not in wild wheat progenitors. Taxonomic classification of these isolates showed that these differences were largely driven by reduced selection of beneficial root bacteria representative of the Bacteroidota phylum in allopolyploid wheats. Furthermore, the complexity of supported beneficial bacterial populations in hexaploid wheats was greatly reduced in comparison to diploid wild wheats. We therefore propose that the selection of root-associated bacterial genera with PGP functions may be impaired by crop domestication in a fertilizer-dependent manner, a potentially crucial finding to direct future plant breeding programs to improve crop production systems in a changing environment.
Clinical Characteristics and Treatment of Marjolin’s Ulcer at a Major Burn Center in Northwest China: A Retrospective Review of 126 Cases
Authors: Luo Yuming , Liu Mengdong , Zhang Siyu , Yang Qiying , Gao Xiaowen , Han Juntao , Zhu Liang , Li Jun
Published: July 2024

Marjolin’s ulcer (MU) is a rare, aggressive skin tumor. There are numerous case reports but large long-term studies are lacking, necessitating further exploration of its treatment. This study aimed to summarize and analyze the characteristics, treatment methods, and prognosis of MU. We retrospectively analyzed the clinical data of 126 patients with MU, treated between January 2013 and January 2023 at the burn center. Demographic data, clinical characteristics, treatment, and prognosis were statistically analyzed. Of the 126 included patients, 104 were followed up for 0.1–10.2 years. The most common cause of the primary injury was flame burn (50.8%). Lesions were commonly observed on the lower limbs (47.6%). The predominant histopathological type was squamous cell carcinoma (92.8%). Among the 126 patients, 35 (27.8%) presented with bone invasion, 37 (29.4%) presented with enlarged lymph nodes, and 9 (7.1%) had lymph node metastasis. Extensive local excision (83.3%) was the most common surgical procedure; the defect was repaired using skin grafting (41.9%), free flaps (37.1%), and local flaps (21.0%). Multivariate analysis revealed that bone invasion and lymph node involvement were risk factors for postoperative recurrence. Survival analysis showed that age, latency period, pathological type, and recurrence were significant risk factors for survival. Extensive local resection is necessary to eradicate tumors, and patient follow-up should be more frequent within 1 year postoperatively. As MU is preventable, it is essential to reach a quick diagnosis and avoid delayed management before the occurrence of deadly metastases.
A molecular approach to unravel trophic interactions between parasitoids and hyperparasitoids associated with pecan aphids
Authors: Slusher Eddie K , Cottrell Ted , Gariepy Tara , Acebes-Doria Angelita , Querejeta Coma Marina , Toledo Pedro F S , Schmidt Jason M
Published: July 2024

Advances in molecular ecology can overcome many challenges in understanding host–parasitoid interactions. Genetic characterization of the key-players in systems helps to confirm species and identify trophic linkages essential for ecological service delivery by biological control agents; however, relatively few agroecosystems have been explored using this approach. Pecan production consists of a large tree perennial system containing an assortment of seasonal pests and natural enemies. As a first step to characterizing host–parasitoid associations in pecan food webs, we focus on aphid species and their parasitoids. Based on DNA barcoding of field-collected and reared specimens, we confirmed the presence of 3 species of aphid, one family of primary parasitoids, and 5 species of hyperparasitoids. By applying metabarcoding to field-collected aphid mummies, we were able to identify multiple species within each aphid mummy to unravel a complex food web of 3 aphids, 2 primary parasitoids, and upward of 8 hyperparasitoid species. The results of this study demonstrate that multiple hyperparasitoid species attack a single primary parasitoid of pecan aphids, which may have negative consequences for successful aphid biological control. Although further research is needed on a broader spatial scale, our results suggest multiple species exist in this system and may suggest a complex set of interactions between parasitoids, hyperparasitoids, and the 3 aphid species. This was the first time that many of these species have been characterized and demonstrates the application of novel approaches to analyze the aphid-parasitoid food webs in pecans and other tree crop systems.
A censored quantile transformation model for Alzheimer’s Disease data with multiple functional covariates
Authors: Ma Shaopei , Tang Man-lai , Yu Keming , Härdle Wolfgang Karl , Wang Zhihao , Xiong Wei , Zhang Xueliang , Wang Kai , Zhang Liping , Tian Maozai
Published: July 2024

Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is a progressive disease that starts from mild cognitive impairment and may eventually lead to irreversible memory loss. It is imperative to explore the risk factors associated with the conversion time to AD that is usually right-censored. Classical statistical models like mean regression and Cox models fail to quantify the impact of risk factors across different quantiles of a response distribution, and previous research has primarily focused on modelling a single functional covariate, possibly overlooking the interdependence among multiple functional covariates and other crucial features of the distribution. To address these issues, this paper proposes a multivariate functional censored quantile regression model based on dynamic power transformations, which relaxes the global linear assumption and provides more robustness and flexibility. Uniform consistency and weak convergence of the quantile process are established. Simulation studies suggest that the proposed method outperforms the existing approaches. Real data analysis shows the importance of both left and right hippocampal radial distance curves for predicting the conversion time to AD at different quantile levels.
Variable importance based interaction modelling with an application on initial spread of COVID-19 in China
Authors: Zhang Jianqiang , Chen Ze , Yang Yuhong , Xu Wangli
Published: July 2024

Interaction selection for linear regression is useful in many fields of modern science, yet very challenging. Existing methods focus on finding one optimal model but they may perform poorly in terms of stability for high-dimensional data, and they do not typically deal with categorical predictors. In this paper, we introduce a variable importance based interaction modelling (VIBIM) procedure for learning interactions in a linear regression model with both continuous and categorical predictors. We apply the VIBIM procedure to a COVID-19 data and show that the VIBIM approach leads to better models in terms of interpretability, stability, reliability, and prediction.
Encephalocele as a complication post-craniosynostosis surgery
Authors: Talahma Imad , Abuzneid Yousef S , Ismail Ameer , Alqam Lina , Mufreh Amaal , Shama'a Bara Abu
Published: July 2024

Duraplasty is one of the most common neurosurgical procedures which complications include iatrogenic pseudomeningocele, which is common, but ossification of pseudomeningocele following cranial surgery is a rare event. We present a case of a 2-year-old male patient who came to our hospital with a huge bulge in his head and weakness in the right arm and leg. He had a history of sagittal craniosynostosis with a postoperative cranioplasty complication of left parital pseudomeningocele. He underwent a duraplasty, but the bulge recurred with failed cerebrospinal fluid aspiration and external ventricular drain, changing in size periodically. Computed tomography showed that the bulge was a median and left paramedian parital encephalocele, so encephalocele with ossification was diagnosed and a cranioplasty was done. This case highlights that iatrogenic encephaloceles with ossification can develop after duraplasty repair in the parital region. Also, if a postoperative pseudomeningocele changes in size or consistency, clinicians should look for ossification.