bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Thermotaxis of a deformable droplet in a confined Poiseuille flow
Authors: Panigrahi Devi Prasad , Karan Pratyaksh , Chakraborty Suman
Published: June 2022

A droplet under a thermal gradient is known to migrate in a preferential direction, as governed by the variation of its interfacial tension with temperature. Contradicting the outcome of reported asymptotic analysis, here we show that the calculation of the droplet migration by considering the variation of interfacial tension with the imposed thermal field alone may be fundamentally incorrect. This error is attributed to the dynamically evolving interfacial temperature field due to a two-way coupling between the thermal field and the flow field, mediated by the droplet deformation and thermal diffusion. By directly capturing an inherent nonlinear coupling between the thermal field and the flow field using explicit interface tracking in a three-dimensional space, our boundary integral based analysis reveals that a linearly decreasing temperature profile imposed along the direction of a plane Poiseuille flow enhances the migration speed of the droplet in both the axial and cross-stream directions. This is in sharp contrast to a prediction of decelerated motion of the droplet under the same imposed thermal field, as obtained from asymptotic theory. We attribute this discrepancy to an alteration of the surface tension mediated interfacial stress due to the locally evolving temperature field, and a consequent concomitant alteration in the interfacial viscous stress to realize a tangential force balance at the interface. From scaling arguments, we show that the resulting change in the viscous drag force may occur over an order of magnitude, disrupting the outcome as compared to that obtained from asymptotic analysis. These results are likely to bear significant implications in controllable separation and sorting of deformable entities in confined fluidic media.
Epistemologies of Touch in Early Modern Holy Autopsies
Authors: von Hoffmann Viktoria
Published: June 2022

This article explores the epistemic value of touch in Italian Renaissance anatomy. Using archival and printed postmortem records from canonization processes and anatomical writings, it shows that haptic expertise (Greekἅπτομαι [haptomai]: to touch) entailed not only the acquisition of practical skills but also the ability to discern, experience, and fully describe organic substances. Looking at the practices, languages, and theories underpinning medical and holy anatomies, I propose that haptic epistemologies lay at the heart of the understanding of the body in the early modern period, a time largely recognized to have transformed people's understanding and experience of visuality in the sciences and the arts.
When and what to eat? A scoping review of health outcomes of fasting in conjunction with a low-carbohydrate diet
Authors: Salehi Nasim , Walters Melanie
Published: June 2022

Over the last several decades, there has been an increase in chronic diseases such as neurodegenerative, inflammatory, cardiovascular disease (CVD) and cancer. Two eating patterns, a low-carbohydrate diet (LCD) and fasting, have been researched independently over this period and found to be beneficial in reducing many of these chronic diseases’ detrimental effects. However, there have been limited studies about the synergy of these eating patterns. This current scoping review aims to explore the evidence of the health outcomes of using a LCD in conjunction with fasting. Four databases were searched, and fifteen articles were found that fit the inclusion criteria. The articles reported positive effects of combining the two eating patterns for type 2 diabetes, CVD, inflammatory conditions and weight reduction and maintenance. LCD and fasting together provide synergy in decreasing metabolic syndrome (as the key causes of chronic illnesses), such as insulin levels, fasting glucose, blood pressure, TAG and regulating lipid profile. Due to the paucity of research, further high-quality studies are needed to substantiate this evidence.
Space use and site fidelity in the endangered Northern Bald Ibis Geronticus eremita: Effects of age, season, and sex
Authors: Puehringer-Sturmayr Verena , Krejci Julia , Schuster Richard , Kleindorfer Sonia , Kotrschal Kurt , Frigerio Didone , Loretto Matthias-Claudio
Published: June 2022

Understanding space use of endangered species is critical for conservation planning and management. The advances in technology and data analysis allow us to collect data with unprecedented quality and inform us about the movements and habitat use of individuals and groups. With only about 700 individuals left in the wild, the Northern Bald Ibis Geronticus eremita is currently categorised as ‘Endangered’. However, little is known about the movements of this avian species in relation to breeding and individual differences. Using GPS transmitters we studied the movements of 32 Northern Bald Ibis from a semi-wild free-flying colony at the Konrad Lorenz Research Center in Austria during 1–4 years per individual. We investigated how sex, age class, breeding and non-breeding season affect space use and site fidelity. We found that individuals consistently showed high site fidelity, adults more than juveniles, and space use was highly overlapping between individuals and over successive years. When moving between different areas birds used consistent flyways thereby avoiding direct routes over mountainous areas. Adults had more expansive space use during the breeding season as compared to the non-breeding season, while juveniles only showed a slight decrease during the non-breeding season. We found no sex differences regarding space use or site fidelity. Our results lead to a better understanding of how Northern Bald Ibis move through their environment and how they use foraging areas, roosting sites, and space in general that in turn can help to inform conservation management of extant colonies and reintroduction programmes for new colonies.
Social Spending and Income Inequality in Latin America. A Panel Data Approach
Authors: Quiñonez Pablo
Published: June 2022

The relationship between social policy and inequality has often been contentious in Latin America. In this context, this article analysed the relationship between social spending and income inequality in the region in the short, medium, and long run. For this purpose, data on sixteen Latin American countries in the period 1990-2017 were gathered and analysed through a panel data study. The results showed that, in line with the findings at a global level, increased levels of overall social spending are indeed associated with reduced levels of income inequality in this region. However, each one of the four main areas of social spending were observed to have different effects on income inequality. Additionally, the results showed that, despite the reforms and the increases in budgets, the social protection and social services systems still have problems reaching those at the bottom of the income distribution in the region.
Passive intelligent reflecting surfaces based on reflectarray panels to enhance 5G millimeter-wave coverage
Authors: Martinez-de-Rioja Eduardo , Vaquero Álvaro F. , Arrebola Manuel , Carrasco Eduardo , Encinar Jose A. , Achour Maha
Published: June 2022

This paper presents the design of two passive shaped-beam reflectarrays acting as passive intelligent reflecting surfaces (IRSs) to enhance 5G millimeter-wave coverage in the 27.2–28.2 GHz band. The reflectarray panels have been designed to generate a broadened and deflected beam in dual-linear polarization (horizontal and vertical). The reflectarray cell provides a robust performance under incidence angles of up to 50°, with more than 360° of phase variation range. Phase-only synthesis based on the generalized intersection approach has been applied to obtain the phase distribution on each reflectarray panel, so that their radiation patterns comply with the beamwidth and pointing requirements of the scenario under study. The two reflectarrays show a stable performance in the 27.2–28.2 GHz band in terms of gain, side-lobe level, and cross-polarization. The results confirm the potential of this technology to implement passive low-cost IRSs that will contribute to improve millimeter-wave coverage in 5G wireless networks.
Der Beitrag von Advanced Practice Nurses in Schweizer Hausarztpraxen
Authors: Schlunegger Margarithe Charlotte , Palm Rebecca , Zumstein-Shaha Maya
Published: June 2022

Zusammenfassung. Hintergrund: Die Zunahme chronischer Erkrankungen, Multimorbidität sowie Fachkräftemangel machen eine Anpassung der Primärversorgung unabdingbar. Neue Versorgungsmodelle sind nötig, die sich an den Patientenbedürfnissen orientieren und somit umfassende Betreuung von chronisch Kranken sicherstellen. Dabei besteht in Schweizer Hausarztpraxen Potential hinsichtlich des Einsatzes von Advanced Practice Nurses. Ziel: In dieser Studie untersuchten wir den Beitrag von Advanced Practice Nurses im interprofessionellen Kontext in zwei Hausarztpraxen. Methode: Wir untersuchten anhand eines Multiple Case Studies Designs zwei Advanced Practice Nurses, angesiedelt in Hausarztpraxen in einer ländlichen Gegend und einer Bergregion. Dabei kamen qualitative und quantitative Methoden zur Anwendung. Als Zwischenschritt wurden Within-Case-Analysen durchgeführt und die Daten induktiv zu Fallvignetten zusammengeführt. Ergebnisse: Die Cases zeigten, dass Advanced Practice Nurses einen Beitrag in den Bereichen Förderung des Selbstmanagements, Prävention und Gesundheitsförderung bei komplexen, stabilen und instabilen Patientensituationen leisten, die bis jetzt durch andere Gesundheitsberufe in den Hausarztpraxen nur unzureichend abgedeckt wurden. Sie stärkten durch die hybride Anstellung und eine flexible, adressatengerechte Kommunikation das Schnittstellenmanagement. Schlussfolgerungen: Gemeinsamkeiten und Unterschiede zwischen Hausarztpraxen mit und ohne neue Berufsrollen sollten herausgearbeitet werden, um Lücken in der Versorgung von chronisch kranken Menschen konkret aufzuzeigen.
Fünf Tipps für den praktischen Ultraschall-Unterricht aus der Perspektive von Peer-Tutorinnen und -Tutoren
Authors: Blunier Anne-Sophie , Walter Robin , Hari Roman
Published: June 2022

Zusammenfassung. Beim Erlernen des diagnostischen Ultraschalls kommt dem praktischen Unterricht in Kleingruppen eine besondere Bedeutung zu. In diesem Artikel stellen wir fünf Tipps vor, die uns aus der Perspektive der Peer-Tutor_innen für einen gelungenen und effektiven Ultraschallunterricht als besonders wichtig erscheinen.
Seltener Zufallsbefund in einem studentischen Sonografiekurs – ein Fallbericht
Authors: Walter Robin , Moser Antonia , Jeker Lia , Hari Roman
Published: June 2022

Zusammenfassung. In einem Sonografie-Kurs des Medizinstudiums wurde bei einer gesunden, asymptomatischen Studentin eine grosse, flüssigkeitsgefüllte Raumforderung mittig im Unterbauch entdeckt und eine Überlaufblase vermutet. Trotz diverser interdisziplinärer Abklärungen konnte die Ätiologie der zystischen Formation nicht geklärt werden. Bei zunehmend symptomatischer Patientin wurde drei Monate nach Entdeckung des Zufallsbefundes die Diagnose eines zystischen Tumors im Unterbauch mit sekundärer Harnretention gestellt und eine operative Zystenexzision durchgeführt. Es zeigte sich eine grosse, seröse Paratubarzyste links mit Torsion der Tube ohne Ischämiezeichen und ohne Malignität. Zufallsbefunde im Ultraschall-Unterricht sind keine Seltenheit. Kursteilnehmende, Tutorinnen und Tutoren sowie Kursleitende müssen sich dessen bewusst sein und ein klares Prozedere kennen, um damit fachgerecht umzugehen.
Peer Teaching im Ultraschallunterricht: Werdegang, Motivation und Erlebnisse dreier Peer-Tutorinnen und -Tutoren
Authors: Oppliger Sarah , Donnet Laura , Hari Roman
Published: June 2022

Zusammenfassung. Die Ultraschallausbildung ist in der Schweiz durch Kurse der Young Sonographers sowie der Universitäten bereits vielen Studierenden zugänglich. Viele Universitäten setzen dabei beim Unterrichten – aber auch bei Prüfungen, der Entwicklung von Lerninhalten sowie in der Lehrforschung – auf studentische Peer-Tutorierende. Dieses Interview exploriert die Motivation und Erlebnisse von einer Peer-Tutorin und zwei Peer-Tutoren im Ultraschallunterricht.
A Deep Dive Into Compassion
Authors: Lucarini Alice , Fuochi Giulia , Voci Alberto
Published: June 2022

Abstract: The present multi-sample study ( N = 723) explores in depth the construct of dispositional compassion and its assessment, relying on two recent multidimensional scales: the Sussex-Oxford Compassion Scale – toward Others (SOCS-O; Gu et al., 2020 ) and the Compassion Scale (CS; Pommier et al., 2020 ). First, we validated the two scales in Italian, finding substantial support for their original factor structures and second-order solutions aggregating first-order factors into a general dispositional compassion factor. Second, we tested the simultaneous links between SOCS-O and CS facets via network analysis to identify which facets stand at the core of dispositional compassion or are more distal. Kindness (CS) and Feeling (SOCS-O) facets were more central components of compassion, leaning on the ability to tune in to (CS Mindfulness) and understand others’ pain (SOCS-O Universality) and connected to the urge to alleviate that pain (SOCS-O Acting). Third, we explored the nomological net of correlates of dispositional compassion and examined the differences between the SOCS-O and the CS in their relationship with the correlates. Results supported the convergent and discriminant validity of the scales and showed that the SOCS-O, compared to the CS, may capture some emotionally aversive sides of compassion.
Dynamics of Pedogenic Carbonate Growth in the Tropical Domain of Myanmar
Authors: Licht A. , Kelson J. , Bergel S. , Schauer A. , Petersen S. V. , Capirala A. , Huntington K. W. , Dupont‐Nivet G. , Win Zaw , Aung Day Wa
Published: June 2022

Pedogenic carbonate is widespread at mid latitudes where warm and dry conditions favor soil carbonate growth from spring to fall. The mechanisms and timing of pedogenic carbonate formation are more ambiguous in the tropical domain, where long periods of soil water saturation and high soil respiration enhance calcite dissolution. This paper provides stable carbon, oxygen and clumped isotope values from Quaternary and Miocene pedogenic carbonates in the tropical domain of Myanmar, in areas characterized by warm (>18°C) winters and annual rainfall up to 1,700 mm. We show that carbonate growth in Myanmar is delayed to the driest and coldest months of the year by sustained monsoonal rainfall from mid spring to late fall. The range of isotopic variability in Quaternary pedogenic carbonates can be solely explained by temporal changes of carbonate growth within the dry season, from winter to early spring. We propose that high soil moisture year‐round in the tropical domain narrows carbonate growth to the driest months and makes it particularly sensitive to the seasonal distribution of rainfall. This sensitivity is also enabled by high winter temperatures, allowing carbonate growth to occur outside the warmest months of the year. This high sensitivity is expected to be more prominent in the geological record during times with higher temperatures and greater expansion of the tropical realm. Clumped isotope temperatures, δ13C and δ18O values of tropical pedogenic carbonates are impacted by changes of both rainfall seasonality and surface temperatures; this sensitivity can potentially be used to track past tropical rainfall distribution.
Wind‐Driven Currents in a “Wide” Narrow Channel, With Application to Douglas Channel, BC
Authors: Wan Di , Hannah Charles G. , Cummins Patrick F. , Foreman Michael G. G. , Dosso Stan E.
Published: June 2022

This paper applies a structured grid, 3‐Dimensional Regional Ocean Modeling System to examine wind‐driven currents of an idealized stratified channel, representative of Douglas Channel, British Columbia, Canada, where the increased marine activities require an improved understanding of the physical oceanography. The surface along‐channel elevation slope resulting from the wind stress is strongly affected by the surface stratification and can serve as a proxy for gauging surface stratification in operational systems. In the case of strong surface stratification, due to rotational effects an apparently narrow (width ≪ length) channel can be dynamically wide with pronounced cross‐channel variation. The thickness of the surface wind‐driven layer is scaled using the thermal wind relation, which provides a scaling factor to estimate the thickness of the surface layer. This scaling factor is not restricted to the wind‐driven flow and could be expanded to the surface mean estuarine outflow layers.
Remote Sensing Tracks Down “Plastic Plants” in Rivers
Authors: Wright Clarissa
Published: June 2022

Researchers are using remote sensing to track floating mats of plastic trapped in water hyacinth plants.
Association of genetic variants with patient reported quality of life and pain experience in patients in the UK NCRI Myeloma X Relapse [Intensive]) trial; an exploratory study
Authors: Snowden John A. , Ahmedzai Sam H. , Cox Angela , Cairns David A. , Ashcroft A. John , Williams Cathy , Cavenagh Jamie D. , Hockaday Anna , Brown Julia M. , Brock Ian W. , Morris Treen C. M. , Cook Gordon ,   on behalf of the National Cancer Research Institute Haemato-oncology Clinical Studies Group
Published: June 2022

The Myeloma X trial provided a platform to explore genetics in relation to systematic assessment of patient-reported outcomes at key points during salvage treatment in multiple myeloma (MM) patients. Blood DNA was obtained in 191 subjects for single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) genotyping. By univariable analysis, the non-coding rs2562456 SNP, upstream of LINC00664, was associated with several relevant pain and health-related quality-of-life (HRQoL) scores at 100 days after allocation to consolidation with autologous stem cell transplantation or weekly cyclophosphamide. Presence of the minor (C) allele was associated with lower pain interference (p = 0.014) and HRQoL pain (p = 0.003), and higher HRQoL global health status (p = 0.011) and physical functioning (p = 0.007). These effects were not modified by treatment arm and were no longer significant at 6 months. Following induction therapy, the rs13361160 SNP near the CCT5 and FAM173B genes was associated with higher global health (p = 0.027) and physical functioning (p = 0.013). This exploratory study supports associations between subjective parameters in MM with SNPs previously identified in genome-wide association studies of pain. Conversely, SNPs in candidate genes involved in opioid and transporter pathways showed no effect. Further studies are warranted in well-defined cancer populations, and potentially assisted by whole genome sequencing with germline analysis in routine diagnostics in haematological cancers.
CircRNA-3302 promotes endothelial-to-mesenchymal transition via sponging miR-135b-5p to enhance KIT expression in Kawasaki disease
Authors: Ni Chao , Qiu Huixian , Zhang Shuchi , Zhang Qihao , Zhang Ruiyin , Zhou Jinhui , Zhu Jinshun , Niu Chao , Wu Rongzhou , Shao Chuxiao , Mamun Abdullah Al , Han Bo , Chu Maoping , Jia Chang
Published: June 2022

Endothelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EndMT) is implicated in myofibroblast-like cell-mediated damage to coronary artery wall of Kawasaki disease (KD) patients, which subsequently increases the risk of coronary artery aneurysm. Many circular RNAs (circRNAs) have been reported to be associated with cardiovascular diseases. However, the roles and underlying molecular mechanism of circRNAs in KD-associated EndMT remains indefinite. In this research, we screened out circRNA-3302 from human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs) treated by sera from healthy controls (HCs) or KD patients via circRNA sequencing (circRNA-seq). In addition, circRNA-3302 upregulation was verified in endothelial cells stimulated by KD serum and pathological KD mice modeled with Candida albicans cell wall extracts (CAWS). Moreover, in vitro experiments demonstrated that overexpression of circRNA-3302 could markedly induce EndMT, and silencing of circRNA-3302 significantly alleviated KD serum-mediated EndMT. To further explore the molecular mechanisms of circRNA-3302 inducing EndMT, RNA sequencing (RNA-seq), a dual-luciferase reporter system, nuclear and extra-nuclear RNA isolation, RT-qPCR and Western blot analyses and so on, were utilized. Our data demonstrated that circRNA-3302 contributed to the KD-associated EndMT via sponging miR-135b-5p to enhance KIT expression. Collectively, our results imply that circRNA-3302 plays an important role in KD-associated EndMT, providing new insights into minimizing the risks of developing coronary artery aneurysms.
The importance of molecular weight in determining the minimum dose of oat β-glucan required to reduce the glycaemic response in healthy subjects without diabetes: a systematic review and meta-regression analysis
Authors: Noronha Jarvis C. , Zurbau Andreea , Wolever Thomas M. S.
Published: June 2022

To determine the minimum amount of oat β-glucan (OBG) required to reduce glycaemic responses (MinDose), we conducted a systematic review and meta-regression analysis of acute, crossover, single-meal feeding trials that examined the effects of adding OBG or oat bran to a carbohydrate-containing test-meal versus a control test-meal containing an equivalent amount of available-carbohydrate (avCHO) from the same or similar source. Medline, Embase, and Cochrane Library were searched up to 18 August 2021. The primary outcome was glucose incremental-area-under-the-curve (iAUC). Secondary outcomes included insulin iAUC, and glucose and insulin incremental peak-rise (iPeak). Two independent reviewers extracted data. Results were expressed as ratio-of-means (RoM) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs). Linear associations were assessed by random effects meta-regression. MinDose was defined as the dose at which the upper 95% CI of the regression line cut the line of no effect (i.e., RoM = 1). Fifty-nine comparisons (n = 340) were included; 57 in healthy subjects without diabetes and two in subjects with diabetes; 24 high-MW (>1000 kg/mol), 22 medium-MW (300–1,000 kg/mol), and 13 low-MW (<300 kg/mol). In healthy subjects without diabetes the associations between OBG dose and glucose iAUC and iPeak were linear (non-linear p value >0.05). MinDoses for glucose iAUC for high-MW, medium-MW and low-MW OBG, respectively, were estimated to be 0.2 g, 2.2 g and 3.2 g per 30 g avCHO; MinDoses for glucose iPeak were less than those for iAUC. Insufficient data were available to assess MinDose for insulin, however, there was no evidence of a disproportionate increase in insulin. More high-quality trials are needed to establish MinDose in individuals with diabetes.
A novel HRAS c.466C>T p.(Phe156Leu) variant in two patients with attenuated features of Costello syndrome
Authors: Lindsey-Temple Suzanna , Edwards Matt , Rickassel Verena , Nauth Theresa , Rosenberger Georg
Published: June 2022

Costello syndrome (CS) is caused by heterozygous HRAS germline mutations. Most patients share the HRAS variant p.Gly12Ser that is associated with a typical, homogeneous phenotype. Rarer pathogenic HRAS variants (e.g., p.Thr56Ile) were identified in individuals with attenuated CS phenotypes. The obvious phenotypical variability reflects different dysfunctional consequences of distinct HRAS variants. We report on two boys with the novel de novo HRAS variant c.466 C > T p.(Phe156Leu). Both had severe feeding difficulties, airway obstruction and developmental delay, which are typical findings in CS. They showed subtle facial and dermatologic features consistent with attenuated CS. They significantly differed in their musculoskeletal, cardiovascular and endocrinologic manifestations underscoring the clinical variability of individuals with identical, in particular rarer pathogenic HRAS variants. Functional studies revealed enhanced effector-binding, increased downstream signaling activation and impaired growth factor-induced signaling dynamics in cells expressing HRASPhe156Leu. Our data further illustrate the molecular and phenotypic variability of CS.
Bidirectional mechanical switching window in ferroelectric thin films predicted by first-principle-based simulations
Authors: Liu Jianyi , Chen Weijin , Wu Mengjun , Sun Fei , Huang Xiang , Zheng Yue
Published: June 2022

Mechanical control of ferroelectric domain evolution has attracted much interest over the past decade. Nevertheless, bidirectional 180° mechanical switching, i.e., a complete cycle of mechanical writing and then erasing of a ferroelectric nanodomain, has not yet been realized in tip-film architectures. Here, via first-principles-based molecular dynamics simulations, we demonstrate that bidirectional 180° mechanical switching is possible in tip-film architectures when screening condition of ferroelectric films and tip loading force are within an appropriate window. The switching utilizes a delicate competition between the flexoelectric field and an overlooked effective dipolar field. The effective dipolar field dominates at small tip force and trigger switching from a downward single-domain state to an upward poly-domain state, whereas the flexoelectric field dominates at relatively large tip force and enables a back-switching. Bidirectional mechanical switching is achieved by applying tip force pulses with alternatively varying strength. The dipole-dipole interaction dynamics play important roles in mechanical switching.
Long-term interactive corrosion between International Simple Glass and stainless steel
Authors: Mohanty Chandi , Guo Xiaolei , Kaya Huseyin , Gin Stephane , Yang Kun , Zhang Zelong , Kim Seong H. , Lian Jie , Wang Jianwei , Frankel Gerald S.
Published: June 2022

The interactive corrosion between stainless steel 316 (SS) and International Simple Glass (ISG) has been studied for 12 months. The samples were placed in intimate contact to create crevice corrosion conditions on SS in a 0.6 M NaCl solution with and without 142 ppm dissolved silica species enriched in 29Si. Corrosion on SS was observed with large pits located close to the crevice mouth at the end of 1 year in 0.6 M NaCl solution. The SS corrosion was also associated with the dissolution of nearby glass in a highly localized manner. When the leaching solution was saturated with silica species, the corrosion rate of SS was suppressed. However, the presence of SS enhances ISG dissolution in both conditions. The implications of the observed phenomena on the long-term storage of nuclear waste are discussed.
Unraveling the role of tungsten as a minor alloying element in the oxidation NiCr alloys
Authors: Volders Cameron , Angelici Valentina Avincola , Waluyo Iradwikanari , Hunt Adrian , Árnadóttir Líney , Reinke Petra
Published: June 2022

Ni-based superalloys offer a unique combination of mechanical properties, corrosion resistance and high temperature performance. Near ambient pressure X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy was used to study in operando the initial steps of oxidation for Ni-5Cr, Ni-15Cr, Ni-30Cr and Ni-15Cr-6W at 500 °C, p(O2)=10−6 mbar. The comparison of oxide evolution for these alloys quantifies the outsized impact of W in promoting chromia formation. For the binary alloys an increase in chromia due to Cr-surface enrichment is followed by NiO nucleation and growth thus seeding a dual-layer structure. The addition of W (Ni-15Cr-6W) shifts the reaction pathways towards chromia thus enhancing oxide quality. Density functional theory calculations confirm that W atoms adjacent to Cr create highly favorable oxygen adsorption sites. The addition of W supercharges the reactivity of Cr with oxygen essentially funneling oxygen atoms into Cr sites. The experimental results are discussed in the context of surface composition, chemistry, reactant fluxes, and microstructure.
Measuring Rényi entanglement entropy with high efficiency and precision in quantum Monte Carlo simulations
Authors: Zhao Jiarui , Chen Bin-Bin , Wang Yan-Cheng , Yan Zheng , Cheng Meng , Meng Zi Yang
Published: June 2022

We develop a nonequilibrium increment method in quantum Monte Carlo simulations to obtain the Rényi entanglement entropy of various quantum many-body systems with high efficiency and precision. To demonstrate its power, we show the results on a few important yet difficult (2 + 1)dquantum lattice models, ranging from the Heisenberg quantum antiferromagnet with spontaneous symmetry breaking, the quantum critical point with O(3) conformal field theory (CFT) to the toric code$${{\mathbb{Z}}}_{2}$$Z2topological ordered state and the Kagome$${{\mathbb{Z}}}_{2}$$Z2quantum spin liquid model with frustration and multi-spin interactions. In all these cases, our method either reveals the precise CFT data from the logarithmic correction or extracts the quantum dimension in topological order, from the dominant area law in finite-size scaling, with very large system sizes, controlled errorbars, and minimal computational costs. Our method, therefore, establishes a controlled and practical computation paradigm to obtain the difficult yet important universal properties in highly entangled quantum matter.
The positive dimension of schizotypy is associated with a reduced attenuation and precision of self-generated touch
Authors: Asimakidou Evridiki , Job Xavier , Kilteni Konstantina
Published: June 2022

The brain predicts the sensory consequences of our movements and uses these predictions to attenuate the perception of self-generated sensations. Accordingly, self-generated touch feels weaker than an externally generated touch of identical intensity. In schizophrenia, this somatosensory attenuation is substantially reduced, suggesting that patients with positive symptoms fail to accurately predict and process self-generated touch. If an impaired prediction underlies the positive symptoms of schizophrenia, then a similar impairment should exist in healthy nonclinical individuals with high positive schizotypal traits. One hundred healthy participants (53 female), assessed for schizotypal traits, underwent a well-established psychophysics force discrimination task to quantify how they perceived self-generated and externally generated touch. The perceived intensity of tactile stimuli delivered to their left index finger (magnitude) and the ability to discriminate the stimuli (precision) was measured. We observed that higher positive schizotypal traits were associated with reduced somatosensory attenuation and poorer somatosensory precision of self-generated touch, both when treating schizotypy as a continuous or categorical variable. These effects were specific to positive schizotypy and were not observed for the negative or disorganized dimensions of schizotypy. The results suggest that positive schizotypal traits are associated with a reduced ability to predict and process self-generated touch. Given that the positive dimension of schizotypy represents the analogue of positive psychotic symptoms of schizophrenia, deficits in processing self-generated tactile information could indicate increased liability to schizophrenia.
Impact of mandatory vaccination against serogroup C meningococci in targeted and non-targeted populations in France
Authors: Taha Samy , Taha Muhamed-Kheir , Deghmane Ala-Eddine
Published: June 2022

Since January 2018, mandatory vaccination against meningococci serogroup C has been implemented in France for children <2 years with a recommended catch-up vaccination until the age of 24 years. We aimed to analyse the impact of mandatory vaccination on populations not targeted by it (2–24 years old). We used the database of the national reference centre for meningococci to collect the number of invasive meningococcal disease (IMD) cases before (2016–2017) and after (2018–2019) the mandatory vaccination. The cultured isolates were sequenced and submitted for genomic comparison. The total number of cases was 1706, including 376 cases of IMD serogroup C. Mandatory vaccination correlated with a significant decrease among the <2 years old and a decreasing trend among the 2–14 years old group but not among 15–25 years of age. This observation may be explained by the vaccine coverage that is still low among adolescents and young adults. Moreover, the genomic analysis revealed the co-circulation of two major genotypes belonging to the clonal complex ST-11 whose distribution differed across the age groups in accord with cyclic variations of genotypes. It is important to increase specific knowledge on meningococcal epidemiology and vaccination to involve them in establishing the vaccination strategy.
A chimeric thermostable M2e and H3 stalk-based universal influenza A virus vaccine
Authors: Subbiah Jeeva , Oh Judy , Kim Ki-Hye , Shin Chong-Hyun , Park Bo Ryoung , Bhatnagar Noopur , Seong Baik-Lin , Wang Bao-Zhong , Kang Sang-Moo
Published: June 2022

We developed a new chimeric M2e and H3 hemagglutinin (HA) stalk protein vaccine (M2e-H3 stalk) by genetic engineering of modified H3 stalk domain conjugated with conserved M2e epitopes to overcome the drawbacks of low efficacy by monomeric domain-based universal vaccines. M2e-H3 stalk protein expressed and purified from Escherichia coli was thermostable, displaying native-like antigenic epitopes recognized by antisera of different HA subtype proteins and influenza A virus infections. Adjuvanted M2e-H3 stalk vaccination induced M2e and stalk-specific IgG antibodies recognizing viral antigens on virus particles and on the infected cell surface, CD4+ and CD8+ T-cell responses, and antibody-dependent cytotoxic cell surrogate activity in mice. M2e-H3 stalk was found to confer protection against heterologous and heterosubtypic cross-group subtype viruses (H1N1, H5N1, H9N2, H3N2, H7N9) at similar levels in adult and aged mice. These results provide evidence that M2e-H3 stalk chimeric proteins can be developed as a universal influenza A virus vaccine candidate for young and aged populations.
Finger Movement Recognition via High-Density Electromyography of Intrinsic and Extrinsic Hand Muscles
Authors: Hu Xuhui , Song Aiguo , Wang Jianzhi , Zeng Hong , Wei Wentao
Published: June 2022

Surface electromyography (sEMG) is commonly used to observe the motor neuronal activity within muscle fibers. However, decoding dexterous body movements from sEMG signals is still quite challenging. In this paper, we present a high-density sEMG (HD-sEMG) signal database that comprises simultaneously recorded sEMG signals of intrinsic and extrinsic hand muscles. Specifically, twenty able-bodied participants performed 12 finger movements under two paces and three arm postures. HD-sEMG signals were recorded with a 64-channel high-density grid placed on the back of hand and an 8-channel armband around the forearm. Also, a data-glove was used to record the finger joint angles. Synchronisation and reproducibility of the data collection from the HD-sEMG and glove sensors were ensured. The collected data samples were further employed for automated recognition of dexterous finger movements. The introduced dataset offers a new perspective to study the synergy between the intrinsic and extrinsic hand muscles during dynamic finger movements. As this dataset was collected from multiple participants, it also provides a resource for exploring generalized models for finger movement decoding.
Epidemiologically-based strategies for the detection of emerging plant pathogens
Authors: Mastin Alexander J. , van den Bosch Frank , Bourhis Yoann , Parnell Stephen
Published: June 2022

Emerging pests and pathogens of plants are a major threat to natural and managed ecosystems worldwide. Whilst it is well accepted that surveillance activities are key to both the early detection of new incursions and the ability to identify pest-free areas, the performance of these activities must be evaluated to ensure they are fit for purpose. This requires consideration of the number of potential hosts inspected or tested as well as the epidemiology of the pathogen and the detection method used. In the case of plant pathogens, one particular concern is whether the visual inspection of plant hosts for signs of disease is able to detect the presence of these pathogens at low prevalences, given that it takes time for these symptoms to develop. One such pathogen is the ST53 strain of the vector-borne bacterial pathogen Xylella fastidiosa in olive hosts, which was first identified in southern Italy in 2013. Additionally, X. fastidiosa ST53 in olive has a rapid rate of spread, which could also have important implications for surveillance. In the current study, we evaluate how well visual surveillance would be expected to perform for this pathogen and investigate whether molecular testing of either tree hosts or insect vectors offer feasible alternatives. Our results identify the main constraints to each of these strategies and can be used to inform and improve both current and future surveillance activities.
Robust model selection using the out-of-bag bootstrap in linear regression
Authors: Rabbi Fazli , Khalil Alamgir , Khan Ilyas , Almuqrin Muqrin A. , Khalil Umair , Andualem Mulugeta
Published: June 2022

Outlying observations have a large influence on the linear model selection process. In this article, we present a novel approach to robust model selection in linear regression to accommodate the situations where outliers are present in the data. The model selection criterion is based on two components, the robust conditional expected prediction loss, and a robust goodness-of-fit with a penalty term. We estimate the conditional expected prediction loss by using the out-of-bag stratified bootstrap approach. In the presence of outliers, the stratified bootstrap ensures that we obtain bootstrap samples that are similar to the original sample data. Furthermore, to control the undue effect of outliers, we use the robust MM-estimator and a bounded loss function in the proposed criterion. Specifically, we observe that instead of minimizing the penalized loss function or the conditional expected prediction loss separately, it is better to minimize them simultaneously. The simulation and real-data based studies confirm the consistent and satisfactory behavior of our bootstrap model selection procedure in the presence of response outliers and covariate outliers.
Reducing the energy cost of walking with low assistance levels through optimized hip flexion assistance from a soft exosuit
Authors: Kim Jinsoo , Quinlivan Brendan T. , Deprey Lou-Ana , Arumukhom Revi Dheepak , Eckert-Erdheim Asa , Murphy Patrick , Orzel Dorothy , Walsh Conor J.
Published: June 2022

As we age, humans see natural decreases in muscle force and power which leads to a slower, less efficient gait. Improving mobility for both healthy individuals and those with muscle impairments/weakness has been a goal for exoskeleton designers for decades. In this work, we discover that significant reductions in the energy cost required for walking can be achieved with almost 50% less mechanical power compared to the state of the art. This was achieved by leveraging human-in-the-loop optimization to understand the importance of individualized assistance for hip flexion, a relatively unexplored joint motion. Specifically, we show that a tethered hip flexion exosuit can reduce the metabolic rate of walking by up to 15.2 ± 2.6%, compared to locomotion with assistance turned off (equivalent to 14.8% reduction compared to not wearing the exosuit). This large metabolic reduction was achieved with surprisingly low assistance magnitudes (average of 89 N, ~ 24% of normal hip flexion torque). Furthermore, the ratio of metabolic reduction to the positive exosuit power delivered was 1.8 times higher than ratios previously found for hip extension and ankle plantarflexion. These findings motivated the design of a lightweight (2.31 kg) and portable hip flexion assisting exosuit, that demonstrated a 7.2 ± 2.9% metabolic reduction compared to walking without the exosuit. The high ratio of metabolic reduction to exosuit power measured in this study supports previous simulation findings and provides compelling evidence that hip flexion may be an efficient joint motion to target when considering how to create practical and lightweight wearable robots to support improved mobility.
Effect of distributed Bragg reflectors on photoluminescence properties of CH3NH3PbI3 film
Authors: Jiang Feng , Xiao Zhiguang , Dong Mengqi , Song Jiawen , Wang Yinong
Published: June 2022

The nanoporous (NP) GaN distributed Bragg reflector (DBR) was prepared by using electrochemical etching. Then the NP-GaN DBR was pretreated by using ozone treatment. Atomic force microscopy and X-ray diffraction (XRD) were used to investigate the influence of ozone treatment on the structure of the substrates. The hybrid organic–inorganic CH3NH3PbI3 perovskite films were grown on the NP-GaN DBR and reference substrates by using a one-step solution method. The XRD and field emission scanning electron microscopy test results indicate the high quality of the prepared CH3NH3PbI3 perovskite films. The photoluminescence intensity of the prepared CH3NH3PbI3 perovskite film on the NP-GaN DBR substrate is ~ 3.5 times higher than that of the film on the reference substrate, with a 3.6 nm spectral blue-shift. The enhancement should be contributable to amplify spontaneous emission by resonant cavity, while the blue-shift could be contributable to stoichiometric difference of the films on different substrates.
Overexpression of satellite RNAs in heterochromatin induces chromosomal instability and reflects drug sensitivity in mouse cancer cells
Authors: Tamaki Sawako , Suzuki Koichi , Abe Iku , Endo Yuhei , Kakizawa Nao , Watanabe Fumiaki , Saito Masaaki , Tsujinaka Shingo , Miyakura Yasuyuki , Ohta Satoshi , Tago Kenji , Yanagisawa Ken , Konishi Fumio , Rikiyama Toshiki
Published: June 2022

Overexpression of satellite RNAs in heterochromatin induces chromosomal instability (CIN) through the DNA damage response and cell cycle checkpoint activation. Although satellite RNAs may be therapeutic targets, the associated mechanisms underlying drug sensitivity are unknown. Here, we determined whether satellite RNAs reflect drug sensitivity to the topoisomerase I inhibitor camptothecin (CPT) via CIN induction. We constructed retroviral vectors expressing major satellite and control viruses, infected microsatellite stable mouse colon cancer cells (CT26) and MC38 cells harboring microsatellite instability, and assessed drug sensitivity after 48 h. Cells overexpressing satellite RNAs showed clear features of abnormal segregation, including micronuclei and anaphase bridging, and elevated levels of the DNA damage marker γH2AX relative to controls. Additionally, overexpression of satellite RNAs enhanced MC38 cell susceptibility to CPT [half-maximal inhibitory concentration: 0.814 μM (control) vs. 0.332 μM (MC38 cells with a major satellite), p = 0.003] but not that of CT26. These findings imply that MC38 cells, which are unlikely to harbor CIN, are more susceptible to CIN-induced CPT sensitivity than CT26 cells, which are characterized by CIN. Furthermore, CPT administration upregulated p53 levels but not those of p21, indicating that overexpression of major satellite transcripts likely induces CPT-responsive cell death rather than cellular senescence.
Identification of soil particle size distribution in different sedimentary environments at river basin scale by fractal dimension
Authors: Wang Yanyan , He Yujiang , Zhan Jiang , Li Zhiping
Published: June 2022

The geomorphology of river basin is complex, and its soil sedimentary characteristics are poorly defined. To study the spatial variability of soil structure in different sedimentary environments at the basin scale, 356 sets of soil samples were collected from five typical sedimentary environments in the Yellow River Basin and the Haihe River Basin, including the upper and lower reaches of the rivers, mountain-front plains, central alluvial plains and eastern coastal plains. The particle size distribution (PSD) of the soil samples was obtained using a laser particle size analyzer, and the fractal dimension (D) of the soil structure was derived by applying fractal theory. The PSD, D and the correlation between them were analyzed by  the Pearson correlation method for typical sedimentary environments in two basins. The results show that: (1) The main soil types in the typical geological environments in the basin are sand, loamy sand, sandy loam, silty loam, and silty soil. The soil particle size in the upper and lower reaches of the rivers was higher than that in the plain areas. (2) In the plane, The D value descended in different regions in the following order: the mountain-front plain > the eastern coastal plain > the upper Yellow River > the central alluvial plain > the lower Yellow River. In the vertical direction for both rivers, the D value showed a decreasing trend with increasing burial depth. (3) The model results showed a cubic polynomial correlation between D values and PSD, which was closely related to the non-uniformity of particle size during sorting and deposition. The soil PSD and fractal characteristics are effective tools for the quantitative evaluation of soil structure in various sedimentary environments in the basin.
Multi-block data integration analysis for identifying and validating targeted N-glycans as biomarkers for type II diabetes mellitus
Authors: Adua Eric , Afrifa-Yamoah Ebenezer , Peprah-Yamoah Emmanuel , Anto Enoch Odame , Acheampong Emmanuel , Awuah-Mensah Kwaafo Akoto , Wang Wei
Published: June 2022

Plasma N-glycan profiles have been shown to be defective in type II diabetes Mellitus (T2DM) and holds a promise to discovering biomarkers. The study comprised 232 T2DM patients and 219 healthy individuals. N-glycans were analysed by high-performance liquid chromatography. The multivariate integrative framework, DIABLO was employed for the statistical analysis. N-glycan groups (GPs 34, 32, 26, 31, 36 and 30) were significantly expressed in T2DM in component 1 and GPs 38 and 20 were related to T2DM in component 2. Four clusters were observed based on the correlation of the expressive signatures of the 39 N-glycans across T2DM and controls. Cluster A, B, C and D had 16, 16, 4 and 3 N-glycans respectively, of which 11, 8, 1 and 1 were found to express differently between controls and T2DM in a univariate analysis $$(p < 0.05)$$

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. Multi-block analysis revealed that trigalactosylated (G3), triantennary (TRIA), high branching (HB) and trisialylated (S3) expressed significantly highly in T2DM than healthy controls. A bipartite relevance network revealed that HB, monogalactosylated (G1) and G3 were central in the network and observed more connections, highlighting their importance in discriminating between T2DM and healthy controls. Investigation of these N-glycans can enhance the understanding of T2DM.