bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Capacitive compressive stress self-sensing behavior of cement mortar and its dependence on the thickness
Authors: Ozturk Murat
Published: January 2024

Capacitance based compressive stress/strain self-sensing properties and its dependence on thickness is presented for the fist time. Coplanar electrode configuration is used for the electrical measurements and known weights are used to create cyclic stresses on the mortar samples with different thicknesses. Mortar plates with 6 mm, 10 mm and 15 mm thicknesses are produced and capacitance change with stress application is measured with an inductance-capacitance-resistance meter (LCR meter). Capacitance value of the mortar with 6 mm, 10 mm and 15 mm thicknesses are 450 pF, 532 pF and 607 pF, respectively. Capacitance increases as thickness increases. However, stress sensitivities of the mortar with 6 mm, 10 mm and 15 mm thicknesses are measured as 3.1 × 10–6 P−1, 3.1 × 10–7 P−1 and 1.1 × 10–7 P−1. Stress sensitivity decreases with increasing the mortar thickness. While capacitive self-sensing is effective when the mortar thickness is known, capacitive self-sensing is ineffective with varying mortar thickness. This research contributes valuable insights into the practical application of capacitance-based sensing in materials subjected to compressive stresses, highlighting the need for considerations regarding thickness variations in real-world applications such as load monitoring and weighing.
Investigation of a highly-sensitive aluminum-based plasmonic device using antimonene for sensing applications
Authors: Shukla S , Sekhar C B R , Lath A , Arora P
Published: January 2024

Aluminum (Al) has gained popularity for surface plasmon resonance-based applications due to its affordability and compatibility with CMOS technology at the nanoscale. Over angle-interrogation mode, plasmonic interactions occurring at the metal-dielectric junction, are the outcomes of the attenuated total internal reflection phenomenon. Modified Al-based Kretschmann configuration results in phase-matching conditions that are seen as resonant points in the reflection characteristics. In our work, we have engineered an Al-based plasmonic device utilizing Antimonene as a 2D nanomaterial for bio-sensing purposes in the Near-Infrared (NIR) spectral domain. The study investigates the performance of Surface Plasmon Resonance (SPR) based refractive index sensor using different 2D nanomaterials with an optimized Al thickness of 30 nm. A comparative analysis of Al-based Kretschmann configurations in the presence of Graphene, Black Phosphorus, MXene, and Antimonene is presented using engineered intermediate layers. It is observed that the Al-antimonene-based plasmonic device exhibits improved sensing parameters in the NIR optical window.
Shared purity and concurrence of a mixture of ground and low-lying excited states as indicators of quantum phase transitions
Authors: Biswas George , Biswas Anindya , Sen Ujjwal
Published: January 2024

We investigate the efficacy of shared purity, a measure of quantum correlation that is independent of the separability-entanglement paradigm, as a quantum phase transition indicator in comparison with concurrence, a bipartite entanglement measure. The order parameters are investigated for thermal states and pseudo-thermal states, of the systems considered. In the case of the one-dimensional J
1 − J
2 Heisenberg quantum spin model and the one-dimensional transverse-field quantum Ising model, shared purity turns out to be as effective as concurrence in indicating quantum phase transitions. In the two-dimensional J
1 − J
2 Heisenberg quantum spin model, shared purity indicates the two quantum phase transitions present in the model, while concurrence detects only one of them. Moreover, we find diverging finite-size scaling exponents for the order parameters near the transitions in odd- and even-sized systems governed by the one-dimensional J
1 − J
2 model, as had previously been reported for quantum spins on odd- and even-legged ladders. It is plausible that the divergence is related to a Möbius strip-like boundary condition required for odd-sized systems, while for even-sized systems, the usual periodic boundary condition is sufficient.
First-principles study of slag impurity doped Na2Ti3O7 as anode material for Na-ion batteries
Authors: Gao Meng , Chen Haiyuan , Liu Donghua , Niu Xiaobin
Published: January 2024

Na2Ti3O7 (NTO) has attracted significant attention as a promising anode material for sodium-ion batteries (SIBs). However, its practical electrochemical performance is hindered by its inherently low electronic conductivity. To address this limitation, researchers have turned to elemental doping as an effective strategy to enhance the conductivity of NTO electrodes. Interestingly, the process of purifying titanium for NTO synthesis often yields Al and Ca impurities, which can be harnessed as cost-effective dopants. In this study, we employ first-principles calculations to conduct a comprehensive investigation into the structural, electronic, and sodium ion diffusion properties of NTO when doped with Al and Ca, either individually or in combination. Doping system structure has good stability. Our findings reveal that both Al or Ca single-doping Our findings reveal that all the Al and Ca single-doping, and AlCa co-doping transform NTO from semiconducting into metallicity. Notably, the sodium ion migration barriers for Ca single-doping greatly decrease (0.13 eV) compared with that of pristine NTO (0.23 eV), indicating fast ion transport. The insights gained from our research hold promise for the development of cost-effective multi-component anode materials for SIBs.
Optimized design of small sized low noise magnetic shielding cylinder
Authors: Sun Jinji , Zhao Xiuqi , Zhang Xu , Zhang Di , Zhao Zhenkai , Yang Jianzhi , Lu Yan
Published: January 2024

Magnetic shielded cylinder (MSC) is crucial in various applications, especially in the realm of medical weak magnetic signal measurement. However, designing a small volume, low noise MSC is a multi-objective optimization problem, with the objectives conflict with each other. To address the complexity arising from numerous variables in the optimal design of MSC with a small volume and low-noise, this paper proposes an optimal design method based on non-dominated sorting genetic algorithm II (NSGA-II) to realize the optimal design of MSC with a high shielding factor, small volume and low-noise. Firstly, an analytical model for the shielding factor of the MSC is established, and a multi-objective optimization model is given. Then, the NSGA-II algorithm is employed to obtain a series of Pareto frontier optimal solutions. Finally, the efficacy of this method is evaluated through simulation and experimentation. The results reveal that the radial and axial shielding factors of the optimized MSC achieve maximum values of 8.6 × 107 and 9.5 × 106 respectively. Meanwhile, the average axial noise and radial noise of the MSC between 1 and 100 Hz are 22 fT/Hz1/2 and 20 fT/Hz1/2 respectively. Practice has proven that this method can be used to optimize the design of small-volume, low-noise magnetic shields to improve the performance of magnetic shields.
A computational study of TiHfPtZ (Z = Al, Ga, In) quaternary heusler compounds for spintronics applications
Authors: Teli Nazir Ahmad , Mir Showkat Hassan , Sirajuddeen M Mohamed Sheik , Banu I B Shameem
Published: January 2024

First-principles calculations were employed to investigate the structural, phonon, electronic, and magnetic properties of newly designed quaternary Heusler compounds (TiHfPtZ; where Z = Al,Ga,In) for spintronics applications. The phonon dispersion reveals that new quaternary heusler compounds are dynamically stable. Density of states and band structure plots of TiHfPtZ (Z = Al,Ga,In) compounds shows the half-metallic nature with indirect energy band gaps 1.07 eV, 0.92 eV and 0.99 eV at the Fermi level in spin down channel respectively. Each system displays a magnetic moment of 3μ
B, which favors the half-metallic ferromagnetism and follows the Slater Pauling rule Mt = At −24 (Mt: total magnetic moment and At: total number of valence electrons). Moreover, Curie temperature was determined in each cell is 566 K.
Resolving degeneracies in Google search via quantum stochastic walks
Authors: Benjamin Colin , Dudhe Naini
Published: January 2024

The internet is one of the most valuable technologies invented to date. Among them, Google is the most widely used search engine. The PageRank algorithm is the backbone of Google search, ranking web pages according to relevance and recency. We employ quantum stochastic walks (QSWs) with the hope of bettering the classical PageRank (CPR) algorithm, which is based on classical continuous time random walks. We implement QSW via two schemes: only incoherence and dephasing with incoherence. PageRank using QSW with only incoherence or QSW with dephasing and incoherence best resolves degeneracies that are unresolvable via CPR and with a convergence time comparable to that for CPR, which is generally the minimum. For some networks, the two QSW schemes obtain a convergence time lower than CPR and an almost degeneracy-free ranking compared to CPR.
A new model to estimate shallow lake nitrogen removal rate based on satellite derived variables
Authors: Yan Xing , Han Haojie , Li Xiaohan , Huang Jing , Liu Xuemei , Xia Yongqiu , Yan Xiaoyuan
Published: January 2024

Lake nitrogen (N) removal, mainly resulting from bacterial denitrification that converts nitrate (NO3
−) to gaseous N (N2), is important for lake water quality and eutrophication control. However, quantifying lake N removal is challenging due to the high background atmosphere N2 concentration and the heavy burden of field surveys, leading to a decoupling of watershed N management and water quality improvement. Here, we developed and validated an innovative nonlinear model for lake N removal rate estimation by linking the N removal rates with remote sensing-derived variables (chlorophyll-a, chromophoric dissolved organic matter, and lake surface water temperature). The model was validated in shallow eutrophic Lake Taihu in the Yangtze River basin and at the global scale. Based on the new N removal model, we estimated that an annual average of 3.21 × 104 t N yr‒1 was removed in Lake Taihu from 2011 to 2020, accounting for 53%–66% of the total lake N loading. The remaining N loading after denitrification removal in Lake Taihu would be approximately 2.37 mg N l‒1, and 0.79 × 104 t N y‒1 of lake N loading still needs to be removed to meet the target of class IV water quality (1.5 mg N l‒1). This is the first study linking lake N removal in sediment microcosm incubations with reach-scale remote sensing derived variables, providing timely-much insights into lake N removal. This approach can be easily applied in other lakes with satellite derived data, to better understand lake N budget, drivers of eutrophication control, and watershed N management.
Synthesis and mechanistic approach to investigate crystallite size of NbSe2 nanoparticles
Authors: Bharucha Shivani R , Dave Mehul S , Giri Ranjan Kr , Chaki Sunil H , Limbani Tushar A
Published: January 2024

Niobium diselenide (NbSe2) belongs to the class of transition metal dichalcogenides (TMDCs) and exhibits peculiar features such as charge density waves, superconductivity, and periodic crystal lattice distortion. The main focus of the article is the synthesis and characterisation of NbSe2 NPs utilising the wet chemical precursor solution route at room temperature, followed by in-depth x-ray diffraction (XRD) characterisation and analysis using the aforementioned techniques. The EDS result demonstrated that the NbSe2 NPs are devoid of impurities and close to stoichiometry. The sample has a crystalline hexagonal structure with the lattice constants a = b = 3.443Å, c = 12.576 Å, and α = β = 90°, γ = 120°, according to the XRD results. The work emphasises the need of comprehending how lattice strain and crystallite size affect physical attributes. x-ray peak broadening was used to study the epitaxial crystallisation of NbSe2 NPs. Various methods for determining crystallite size, such as the Williamson–Hall (W-H) method, Debye–Scherrer plots, uniform deformation model (UDM), uniform stress deformation model (USDM), uniform deformation energy density model (UDEDM), size strain plot (SSP) method, and Halder-Wagner (H-W) method, are employed to comprehensively analyse the nanoparticle characteristics, and additionally, high-resolution transmission electron microscopy (HRTEM) is employed to visualise the morphology and particle size distribution of the synthesised NbSe2 NPs. Physical parameters, including lattice stress, strain, and energy density, are also evaluated more precisely from the XRD pattern reflection peaks. The outcomes shed light on the interplay between crystallite size, lattice strain, and their effects on the material’s properties and showed excellent intercorrelation of the average crystallite sizes as estimated by employing various methods.
Synthesis, evaluation, and monitoring of red amaranth extract for power production
Authors: Tanisa N Y , Khan K A , Salahuddin M
Published: January 2024

The scientific paper describes the synthesis of silver nanoparticles (Ag NPs) using a fresh red amaranth preparation and explores their potential to enhance the output current of a red amaranth bio-electrolytic cell. The study employed various analytical techniques such as x-ray diffraction (XRD), Fourier transform infrared (FTIR), ultraviolet-visible spectroscopy (UV–vis), dynamic light scattering (DLS), and Raman spectroscopy to characterise and detect the nanoparticles. The UV–vis analysis of the dripping media containing silver nanoparticles exhibited an absorption peak, indicating the presence of the nanoparticles. FTIR was utilised to examine the interaction between the biomaterial components and the oxidation and wrapping of silver nanoparticles. XRD analysis revealed that the synthesised nanoparticles possessed a naturally columnar shape and a face-centered cubic (FCC) structure. The average size and morphology of the nanoparticles were characterised by dynamic light scattering (DLS). Raman spectra revealed the unique surface-enhancing properties of synthesised Ag NPs. The research presented in the paper highlights the remarkable performance of silver nanoparticles in bio-electrolyte power generation systems. It emphasises a straightforward, cost-effective, and environmentally friendly method for producing Ag NPs using red amaranth extract. These findings contribute to the development of a novel framework for bio-electrochemical cells and emphasise the importance of further research on the effects of Ag NPs on these cells. It is found that the open circuit voltage is 3.254 V, short circuit current is 2.256 mA, and load current is 1.987 mA before using the Ag NPs and open circuit voltage is 5.678 volts, short circuit current is 4.212 mA, and load current is 2.887 mA after using the Ag NPs. It is seen that the values of the three parameters have been increased after using the Ag NPs, which ensured the significance of the use of Ag NPs.
Tamping the movement of the laser absorption cutoff position using gold foam hohlraum
Authors: ZHANG 张 Lu 璐 , LI 李 Liling 丽灵 , LIN 林 Zhiwei 稚伟 , DONG 董 Yunsong 云松 , JING 景 Longfei 龙飞 , ZHENG 郑 Jianhua 建华 , KUANG 况 Longyu 龙钰 , LI 黎 Hang 航 , ZHENG 郑 Jinhua 金华 , ZHANG 张 Jiyan 继彦 , SONG 宋 Tianming 天明 , ZHANG 张 Zhiyu 志宇 , ZHAO 赵 Yang 阳 , NIU 牛 Gao 高 , YANG 杨 Dong 冬 , YANG 杨 Jiamin 家敏 , DING 丁 Yongkun 永坤
Published: January 2024

In indirect-driven laser fusion experiments, the movement of the laser absorption layer will distort the radiation uniformity on the capsule. The gold foam has advantages in symmetry control and lowering wall plasma blowoff when used in an inertial confinement fusion (ICF) hohlraum. This work investigates the motion of the laser absorption cutoff position using low-density foam gold walls. It is found that the motion of the laser absorption cutoff position can be significantly mitigated through optimal initial low density, tailored to a specific laser shape. For a short square laser pulse, the laser absorption cutoff position remains almost stationary at an initial density of approximately 0.6 g cm−3. For a long-shaped laser pulse, the minimal motion of the laser absorption cutoff position is observed at an initial density of about 0.1 g cm−3. This approach allows for the adjustment of the symmetry of the hohlraum radiation source. The insights gained from this study serve as a crucial reference for optimizing the hohlraum wall density.
Compilation of algorithm-specific graph states for quantum circuits
Authors: Krishnan Vijayan Madhav , Paler Alexandru , Gavriel Jason , Myers Casey R , Rohde Peter P , Devitt Simon J
Published: January 2024

We present a quantum circuit compiler that prepares an algorithm-specific graph state from quantum circuits described in high level languages, such as Cirq and Q#. The computation can then be implemented using a series of non-Pauli measurements on this graph state. By compiling the graph state directly instead of starting with a standard lattice cluster state and preparing it over the course of the computation, we are able to better understand the resource costs involved and eliminate wasteful Pauli measurements on the actual quantum device. Access to this algorithm-specific graph state also allows for optimisation over locally equivalent graph states to implement the same quantum circuit. The compiler presented here finds ready application in measurement based quantum computing, NISQ devices and logical level compilation for fault tolerant implementations.
Low-complexity adaptive reconciliation protocol for continuous-variable quantum key distribution
Authors: Jiang Xue-Qin , Xue Shengyuan , Tang Jiahao , Huang Peng , Zeng Guihua
Published: January 2024

In continuous-variable quantum key distribution systems, reconciliation is a crucial step that significantly affects the secret key rate (SKR). The rateless protocol based on Raptor codes can achieve high reconciliation efficiency at low signal-to-noise ratios (SNRs). However, the high complexity of low-density parity-check (LDPC) codes used for the precoding in Raptor codes limits the speed of reconciliation. In this paper, we propose an adaptive reconciliation protocol by modifying Raptor codes. The length of random binary sequences is increased because we remove the LDPC precoding that adds redundancy. The modified Raptor codes reduce the complexity of encoding with better performance. The proposed protocol gives a reconciliation efficiency higher than 98.1% in the SNR below −20 dB and maintains a certain SKR in long-distance transmission.
Piezoelectric polymer based acoustic energy harvester for implantable medical devices
Authors: Jawad Husnain , Zhang Wei , Abbasi Saadullah Farooq , Qing Yajie , Sheng Chenxu , Hu Laigui
Published: January 2024

Wireless implantable devices (WIDs) have the potential to revolutionize biomedical sensing, but their power supplies face significant challenges. Traditional energy transfer methods such as inductive and RF have limitations due to associated tissue losses. This work demonstrates a promising approach to this problem, using a flexible implantable ultrasound energy harvester (IUEH) made of biocompatible Poly (vinylidene fluoride-co-trifluoro ethylene) (P(VDF-TrFe)) free-standing film. Unlike commonly used piezoceramic devices, IUEH can be fabricated using economical solution processing methods such as spin coating. In addition, the PVDF-TrFE Ultrasound energy harvesters are rarely reported in the literature. The device performance of the polymer IUEH was investigated in air, water, and animal meat tissue, and the results show that it can generate a power output of 1.1 mW cm−2 in meat, and 1.4 mW cm−2 in water at 80 kHz. The device fabricated using a free-standing piezoelectric thin film, offers an optimum output that is comparable to other P(VDF-TrFe) based high-frequency devices. Additionally, its flexible design, lower costs, and biocompatibility make it a promising alternative to lead-based devices; thus, offering safety, affordability, and quick customization, while promoting minimally invasive procedures and driving innovation in medical device development.
Intensifying human-driven heatwaves characteristics and heat related mortality over Africa
Authors: Adigun Paul , Abah Emmanuel Owoicho , Ajileye Oluwaseun David
Published: January 2024

Heatwaves in Africa are expected to increase in frequency, number, magnitude, and duration. This is significant because the health burden is only expected to worsen as heatwaves intensify. Inadequate knowledge of the climate’s impact on health in developing nations such as Africa makes safeguarding the health of vulnerable groups at risk challenging. In this study, we quantify possible roles of human activity in heatwave intensification during the historical period, and project the future risk of heat-related mortality in Africa under two Representative Concentration Pathways (RCP26) and (RCP60). Heatwaves are measured using the Excess Heat Factor (EHF); the daily minimum (Tn
) and maximum (Tx
) are used to compute the EHF index; by averaging Tx
and Tn
. Two heat factors, significance and acclimatization are combined in the EHF to quantify the total excess heat. Our results confirm the intensification of heatwaves across Africa in recent years is due anthropogenic activity (increase in greenhouse gas concentration and changes in land use). The Return event highlights the potential future escalation of heatwave conditions brought on by climate change and socioeconomic variables. RCP26 projects a substantial rise in heat-related mortality, with an increase from about 9000 mortality per year in the historical period to approximately 23 000 mortality per year at the end of the 21st century. Similarly, RCP60 showed an even more significant increase, with heat-related mortality increasing to about 43 000 annually. This study highlights the potentially growing risk of intensifying heatwaves in Africa under different emission scenarios. It projects a significant increase in heatwave magnitude, number, duration, frequency, and heat-related mortality. Africa’s low adaptive capacity will amplify the impact, emphasizing the need for emissions reduction and effective adaptation measures.
Effects of air pollution on emergency room visits for mental disorders: risks and effect modification by comorbid physical disorders and personal characteristics
Authors: Yoo Eun-hye , Roberts John E , Chen Kai
Published: January 2024

Emerging evidence suggests that exposure to ambient air pollution negatively impacts mental health. However, little is known about potential moderators of such effects, including pre-existing physical disorders and personal characteristics. This study investigated if the effects of daily changes in levels of air pollutants among individuals with mental disorders (MDs) vary depending on comorbid physical disorders, age, sex, or race/ethnicity. We used a time-stratified case-crossover design that compared the levels of PM2.5 and NO2 on days leading up to MD-related emergency room (ER) visits to levels on control days. The sample consisted of individuals with MDs for their primary diagnosis, including both patients with a second diagnosis and those without. We conducted a stratified analysis to examine potential effect modifications by individuals’ demographic characteristics (sex, age, and race/ethnicity) or a diagnosis of a physical disorder (cardiovascular disease, diabetes mellitus, and respiratory disease). We found that both PM2.5 and NO2 were significantly associated with ER visits for MDs. Per 10 µg m−3 increase in daily PM2.5 and per 10 ppb increase in NO2 concentration were associated with 1.07% (95% CI: 0.81%, 1.34%) and 0.56% (95% CI: 0.42%, 0.69%) increase in ER visits for MDs, respectively. We also found significantly greater susceptibility among younger persons (below 18 years old), Black, and individuals with respiratory disease. Exposures to both PM2.5 and NO2 were significantly associated with ER visits for MDs, and these adverse effects were more pronounced among youth, Black and individuals with respiratory disease as a comorbid physical disorder.
More Talk, Less Conflict: Evidence from Requiring Informal Discovery Conferences
Authors: Helland Eric , Yun Minjae
Published: January 2024

Discovery is the formal process of exchanging information under the supervision of the courts. Since managing discovery is costly, courts have implemented case management techniques to reduce motion practice in discovery. This study examines whether case management techniques can reduce the likelihood of a discovery dispute. We attempt to untangle the impact of specific judges from the use of a particular case management technique. We focus on the use of informal discovery conferences (IDCs) in which parties meet with the judge before filing a motion to compel. The problem with simply testing whether IDCs reduce the number of discovery motions is that the use of an IDC is likely endogenous. Our solution to this endogeneity is to use the random assignment of judges. Since some judges have a higher propensity to use IDCs and some courts have begun requiring them, we have two sources of policy variation. Using this estimation strategy, we find that IDCs reduce the number and presence of discovery motions. (JEL K13, K40, K41)
Sexually dimorphic murine brain uptake of the 18 kDa translocator protein PET radiotracer [18F]LW223
Authors: Knyzeliene Agne , Wimberley Catriona , MacAskill Mark G , Alcaide-Corral Carlos J , Morgan Timaeus E F , Henry Martyn C , Lucatelli Christophe , Pimlott Sally L , Sutherland Andrew , Tavares Adriana A S
Published: January 2024

The 18 kDa translocator protein is a well-known biomarker of neuroinflammation, but also plays a role in homeostasis. PET with 18 kDa translocator protein radiotracers [11C]PBR28 in humans and [18F]GE180 in mice has demonstrated sex-dependent uptake patterns in the healthy brain, suggesting sex-dependent 18 kDa translocator protein expression, although humans and mice had differing results. This study aimed to assess whether the 18 kDa translocator protein PET radiotracer [18F]LW223 exhibited sexually dimorphic uptake in healthy murine brain and peripheral organs. Male and female C57Bl6/J mice (13.6 ± 5.4 weeks, 26.8 ± 5.4 g, mean ± SD) underwent 2 h PET scanning post-administration of [18F]LW223 (6.7 ± 3.6 MBq). Volume of interest and parametric analyses were performed using standard uptake values (90–120 min). Statistical differences were assessed by unpaired t-test or two-way ANOVA with Šidak’s test (alpha = 0.05). The uptake of [18F]LW223 was significantly higher across multiple regions of the male mouse brain, with the most pronounced difference detected in hypothalamus (P < 0.0001). Males also exhibited significantly higher [18F]LW223 uptake in the heart when compared to females (P = 0.0107). Data support previous findings on sexually dimorphic 18 kDa translocator protein radiotracer uptake patterns in mice and highlight the need to conduct sex-controlled comparisons in 18 kDa translocator protein PET imaging studies.
Post-transcatheter aortic valve implantation isolated PR prolongation: incidence and clinical significance
Authors: Perel Nimrod , Tovia-Brodie Oholi , Schnur Asher , Acha Moshe Rav , Levi Nir , Cohen Yogev , Dvir Danny , Glikson Michael , Michowitz Yoav
Published: January 2024

Aims

Conduction abnormalities post-transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI) are common. Post-TAVI PR prolongation was mainly studied as an adjunct to new-onset bundle branch block. The net effect of isolated PR prolongation (IPRP) without post-TAVI QRS changes is not well known. The aim of this study was to define the incidence and clinical significance of post-TAVI IPRP.

Methods and results

A total of 1108 consecutive TAVI patients were reviewed. Patients with IPRP were compared with patients without post-TAVI electrocardiogram (ECG) changes. Clinical outcomes included permanent pacemaker implantation (PPI) and overall mortality. A total of 146 patients with IPRP were compared with 290 patients without post-TAVI ECG changes. At 1 year follow-up, 4 (2.7%) and 7 (2.4%) patients underwent PPI (P = 0.838) and 10 (6.8%) and 25 (8.6%) died (P = 0.521), from the study and control groups, respectively. No patient with IPRP and narrow QRS underwent PPI during 1 year post-TAVI, and all death events were non-cardiac except one unknown cause. Permanent pacemaker implantation rates among patients with IPRP and wide QRS were higher (n = 4, 12.1%), compared with patients with wide QRS without post-TAVI ECG change (n = 3, 4%) however not reaching statistical significance (P = 0.126). Multivariate Cox proportional hazards model demonstrated that in patients with narrow QRS, neither PR prolongation nor baseline or maximal PR intervals was associated with the combined endpoint of PPI and mortality. However, in patients with wide QRS, baseline PR intervals and QRS width, but not PR prolongation were associated with the combined outcome.

Conclusion

Post-TAVI IPRP in patients with narrow QRS is not associated with adverse outcome. This finding may translate clinically into a more permissive approach to these patients.
Optical mapping and optogenetics in cardiac electrophysiology research and therapy: a state-of-the-art review
Authors: Baines Olivia , Sha Rina , Kalla Manish , Holmes Andrew P , Efimov Igor R , Pavlovic Davor , O’Shea Christopher
Published: January 2024

State-of-the-art innovations in optical cardiac electrophysiology are significantly enhancing cardiac research. A potential leap into patient care is now on the horizon. Optical mapping, using fluorescent probes and high-speed cameras, offers detailed insights into cardiac activity and arrhythmias by analysing electrical signals, calcium dynamics, and metabolism. Optogenetics utilizes light-sensitive ion channels and pumps to realize contactless, cell-selective cardiac actuation for modelling arrhythmia, restoring sinus rhythm, and probing complex cell–cell interactions. The merging of optogenetics and optical mapping techniques for ‘all-optical’ electrophysiology marks a significant step forward. This combination allows for the contactless actuation and sensing of cardiac electrophysiology, offering unprecedented spatial–temporal resolution and control. Recent studies have performed all-optical imaging ex vivo and achieved reliable optogenetic pacing in vivo, narrowing the gap for clinical use. Progress in optical electrophysiology continues at pace. Advances in motion tracking methods are removing the necessity of motion uncoupling, a key limitation of optical mapping. Innovations in optoelectronics, including miniaturized, biocompatible illumination and circuitry, are enabling the creation of implantable cardiac pacemakers and defibrillators with optoelectrical closed-loop systems. Computational modelling and machine learning are emerging as pivotal tools in enhancing optical techniques, offering new avenues for analysing complex data and optimizing therapeutic strategies. However, key challenges remain including opsin delivery, real-time data processing, longevity, and chronic effects of optoelectronic devices. This review provides a comprehensive overview of recent advances in optical mapping and optogenetics and outlines the promising future of optics in reshaping cardiac electrophysiology and therapeutic strategies.
Towards a geodetic earthquake catalogue for Central America: detecting coseismic deformation in Costa Rica using Sentinel-1 InSAR
Authors: Araya Maria C , Biggs Juliet
Published: January 2024

Earthquake source parameters can be estimated using seismological observations, but the identification of the fault responsible is often complicated by location uncertainties and the inherent ambiguity between nodal planes. Satellite Interferometric Synthetic Aperture Radar (InSAR) can be used to observe ground deformation and model fault geometry but is limited by climate conditions (water vapour) and ground coverage (dense vegetation). In the tropics, the atmosphere is dynamic and most regions are densely vegetated, making detecting coseismic deformation challenging. Here, we perform a systematic inspection of coseismic interferograms from Sentinel-1 SAR images, to assess their suitability for detecting coseismic deformation in Costa Rica. Using data from the seismological network, we target seven earthquakes between 2016 and 2020 with depths $\le \, 20$ km and magnitudes Mw 5.3–6.2. For each event, we use the seismic parameters to compute line-of-sight displacements for ascending and descending geometries and for both nodal planes and generate 12- and 24-d coseismic interferograms where available. We obtain interferograms with coseismic displacement signals for three of the seven earthquakes. We invert the geodetic data to retrieve the earthquake source parameters but the lack of offshore geodetic coverage causes trade-offs between parameters and large uncertainties. The Jacó and Golfito earthquakes likely occurred on the subduction interface and the geodetic locations were 6–9 km closer to the coast than previous seismic estimates. The Burica earthquake occurred on a shallow steeply dipping thrust fault in the outer forearc. For the other earthquakes, no coseismic deformation was detected due to atmospheric noise or poor coherence. These results demonstrate the suitability of 12-d Sentinel-1 interferograms for monitoring shallow earthquakes of magnitude > Mw 5.7 in Central America. This approach can be used to begin a surface deformation catalogue for the region, which will ultimately help improve the understanding of active deformation processes and improve hazard maps.
The impact of glycosylation on the structure, function, and interactions of CD14
Authors: Quintana Jon Imanol , Delgado Sandra , Rábano Miriam , Azkargorta Mikel , Florencio-Zabaleta Mirane , Unione Luca , Vivanco Maria dM , Elortza Félix , Jiménez-Barbero Jesús , Ardá Ana
Published: January 2024

CD14 is an innate immune receptor that senses pathogen-associated molecular patterns, such as lipopolysaccharide, to activate the innate immune response. Although CD14 is known to be glycosylated, detailed understanding about the structural and functional significance of this modification is still missing. Herein, an NMR and MS-based study, assisted by MD simulations, has provided a 3D-structural model of glycosylated CD14. Our results reveal the existence of a key N-glycosylation site at Asn282 that exclusively contains unprocessed oligomannnose N-glycans that perfectly fit the concave cavity of the bent-solenoid shaped protein. This site is not accessible to glycosidases and is fundamental for protein folding and secretion. A second N-site at Asn151 displays mostly complex N-glycans, with the typical terminal epitopes of the host cell-line expression system (i.e. βGal, α2,3 and α2,6 sialylated βGal, here), but also particularities, such as the lack of core fucosylation. The glycan at this site points outside the protein surface, resulting in N-glycoforms fully exposed and available for interactions with lectins. In fact, NMR experiments show that galectin-4, proposed as a binder of CD14 on monocytes to induce their differentiation into macrophages-like cells, interacts in vitro with CD14 through the recognition of the terminal glycoepitopes on Asn151. This work provides key information about CD14 glycosylation, which helps to better understand its functional roles and significance. Although protein glycosylation is known to be dynamic and influenced by many factors, some of the features found herein (presence of unprocessed N-glycans and lack of core Fuc) are likely to be protein specific.
Changes in institution for mental diseases (IMD) ownership status and insurance acceptance over time
Authors: Hollander Mara A G , Patton Alexandra , Shields Morgan C
Published: January 2024

State Medicaid programs are prohibited from using federal dollars to pay institutions for mental diseases (IMDs)—freestanding psychiatric facilities with more than 16 beds. Increasingly, regulatory mechanisms have made payment of treatment in these settings substantially more feasible. This study evaluates if changing financial incentives are associated with increases in for-profit ownership among IMD facilities relative to non-IMD facilities, as well as greater increases in Medicaid acceptance among for-profit IMD facilities relative to for-profit non-IMD facilities. We used data from the 2014–2020 National Mental Health Services Surveys and examined 11 945 facility-years. Relative to non-IMDs, the increase in for-profit ownership among IMDs was 6.6 percentage points greater. The largest proportional change in Medicaid acceptance occurred among for-profit IMD facilities relative to for-profit non-IMDs (18.5 percentage points). Existing research is mixed on the quality of inpatient and residential psychiatric care provided in for-profit vs nonprofit and public facilities, as well as in IMD relative to non-IMD facilities. As payment policy increasingly incentivizes for-profit facilities to enter the psychiatric care space, we should be mindful of the impact of these decisions on patient safety.
Lessons from Lyme Bay (UK) to inform policy, management, and monitoring of Marine Protected Areas
Authors: Renn Chloe , Rees Sian , Rees Adam , Davies Bede F R , Cartwright Amy Y , Fanshawe Sam , Attrill Martin J , Holmes Luke A , Sheehan Emma V
Published: January 2024

This decade represents a critical period to profoundly rethink human–nature interactions in order to address the interwoven climate and biodiversity crises. Marine Protected Areas (MPAs) demonstrate promise for increasing ecosystem resilience and reversing habitat and population declines, but outcomes vary considerably from context to context. Partially protected areas offer a compromise between ecological recovery and the social needs of local communities, but their success is contingent on an array of factors. This in-depth review summarizes 15 years of marine conservation research and impact in Lyme Bay (southwest UK), to serve as a model for the future adoption of partially protected MPAs. The findings from the UK’s longest integrated socioecological monitoring MPA study are presented and supplemented by an evaluation of the whole-site management approach as a core element of Lyme Bay’s achievements. The journey from research to improved monitoring and ambitious policy is illustrated within and interspersed with stories of novel discoveries, ongoing challenges, and method developments. What started as a dedicated group of community members has grown into an immense collaboration between fishers, scientists, NGOs, and regulators, and their combined efforts have sent ripple effects of positive change across the globe.
CdbC: a disulfide bond isomerase involved in the refolding of mycoloyltransferases in Corynebacterium glutamicum cells exposed to oxidative conditions
Authors: Jeong Haeri , Kim Younhee , Lee Heung-Shick
Published: January 2024

In Corynebacterium glutamicum cells, cdbC, which encodes a protein containing the CysXXCys motif, is regulated by the global redox-responsive regulator OsnR. In this study, we assessed the role of the periplasmic protein CdbC in disulfide bond formation and its involvement in mycomembrane biosynthesis. Purified CdbC efficiently refolded scrambled RNaseA, exhibiting prominent disulfide bond isomerase activity. The transcription of cdbC was decreased in cells grown in the presence of the reductant dithiothreitol (DTT). Moreover, unlike wild-type and cdbC-deleted cells, cdbC-overexpressing (P180-cdbC) cells grown in the presence of DTT exhibited retarded growth, abnormal cell morphology, increased cell surface hydrophobicity and altered mycolic acid composition. P180-cdbC cells cultured in a reducing environment accumulated trehalose monocorynomycolate, indicating mycomembrane deformation. Similarly, a two-hybrid analysis demonstrated the interaction of CdbC with the mycoloyltransferases MytA and MytB. Collectively, our findings suggest that CdbC, a periplasmic disulfide bond isomerase, refolds misfolded MytA and MytB and thereby assists in mycomembrane biosynthesis in cells exposed to oxidative conditions.
The ethics of influence in state-regulated schools: Tillson v. Rawls
Authors: Clayton Matthew
Published: January 2024

John Tillson’s Children, Religion and the Ethics of Influence develops and deploys the ‘epistemic criterion’ for deciding whether teachers should promote belief in particular propositions. He defends that criterion by arguing that it promotes human well-being and enables individuals to fulfil their duty to pursue the truth. In this article I draw on John Rawls’ conception of political liberalism to suggest that the epistemic criterion is an inappropriate basis for the political community’s shaping of children’s beliefs.
H i galaxy signatures in the SARAO MeerKAT Galactic Plane Survey – I. Probing the richness of the great attractor wall across the inner zone of avoidance
Authors: Steyn Nadia , Kraan-Korteweg Renée C , Rajohnson Sambatriniaina H A , Kurapati Sushma , Chen Hao , Frank Bradley , Serra Paolo , Staveley-Smith Lister , Camilo Fernando , Goedhart Sharmila
Published: January 2024

This paper presents the first H i results extracted from the South African Radio Astronomy Observatory (SARAO) MeerKAT Galactic Plane Survey (SMGPS) – a narrow strip (Δb ∼ 3°) along the southern Milky Way. The primary goal consisted in tracing the great attractor (GA) wall across the innermost zone of avoidance. We reduced a segment spanning the longitude range 302° ≤ ℓ ≤ 332° for the redshift range z ≤ 0.08. The superb SMGPS sensitivity (rms = 0.3–0.5 mJy beam−1 per 44 km s−1 channel) and angular resolution (∼31″ × 26″) lead to a detection limit of log(MH i/M⊙) ≥ 8.5 at the GA distance ($\mbox{$V_{\rm {hel}}$}\, \sim 3500{\!-\!}6500$ km s−1). A total of 477 galaxy candidates were identified over the full redshift range. A comparison of the few H i detections with counterparts in the literature (mostly HIZOA) found the H i fluxes and other H i parameters to be highly consistent. The continuation of the GA wall is confirmed through a prominent overdensity of N = 214 detections in the GA distance range. At higher latitudes, the wall moves to higher redshifts, supportive of a possible link with the Ophiuchus cluster located behind the Galactic Bulge. This deep interferometric H i survey demonstrates the power of the SMGPS in improving our insight of large-scale structures at these extremely low latitudes, despite the high obscuration and continuum background.
You Say I Want a Revolution
Authors: Salkin Wendy
Published: January 2024

An underexamined insight of W. E. B. Du Bois’s John Brown is that John Brown worked for much of his life to cultivate democratic relationships with the Black Americans with and for whom he worked. Brown did so through practicing deference and deliberation, and by seeking authorization. However, Brown’s commitment to these practices faltered at a crucial moment in decision making: when he raided Harpers Ferry absent widespread support. Examining this aspect of John Brown brings into relief an overlooked tragic choice Brown made: To act in accordance with his own substantive vision of what justice required, Brown eschewed democratic ideals and practices that grounded the distinctive relations of equality he had cultivated with the Black communities with and for whom he worked.
Chromatin remodeler CHD8 is required for spermatogonial proliferation and early meiotic progression
Authors: Nitahara Kenta , Kawamura Atsuki , Kitamura Yuka , Kato Kiyoko , Namekawa Satoshi H , Nishiyama Masaaki
Published: January 2024

Meiosis is a key step during germ cell differentiation, accompanied by the activation of thousands of genes through germline-specific chromatin reorganization. The chromatin remodeling mechanisms underpinning early meiotic stages remain poorly understood. Here we focus on the function of one of the major autism genes, CHD8, in spermatogenesis, based on the epidemiological association between autism and low fertility rates. Specific ablation of Chd8 in germ cells results in gradual depletion of undifferentiated spermatogonia and the failure of meiotic double-strand break (DSB) formation, leading to meiotic prophase I arrest and cell death. Transcriptional analyses demonstrate that CHD8 is required for extensive activation of spermatogenic genes in spermatogonia, necessary for spermatogonial proliferation and meiosis. CHD8 directly binds and regulates genes crucial for meiosis, including H3K4me3 histone methyltransferase genes, meiotic cohesin genes, HORMA domain-containing genes, synaptonemal complex genes, and DNA damage response genes. We infer that CHD8 contributes to meiotic DSB formation and subsequent meiotic progression through combined regulation of these meiosis-related genes. Our study uncovers an essential role of CHD8 in the proliferation of undifferentiated spermatogonia and the successful progression of meiotic prophase I.
Categorizing Vaping Intensity Among Youth
Authors: Xie Catherine , Jeffers Abra M , Winickoff Jonathan P
Published: January 2024

Introduction

Increasing electronic cigarette use among youth has led to a need for a novel intensity measure of e-cigarette use and its association with nicotine addiction variables.

Aims and Methods

Using a cross-sectional study of the 2018–2019 PATH Wave 5 Youth survey, a new intensity metric of e-cigarette use, the average number of puffs per month as a function of frequency (days of use per month), number of uses per day and number of puffs per use, was developed for adolescent e-cigarette users. Using logistic regression, standard addiction measures were tested for association with higher quartile (Q) of e-cigarette intensity: Q1 (1–5 puffs), Q2 (6–50 puffs), Q3 (51–528 puffs), and Q4 (529 + puffs).

Results

Among 1051 current youth e-cigarette users, cravings were associated with greater intensity of use (Q2: aOR = 1.90, 95% CI: 0.94–3.87; Q3: aOR = 6.91, 95% CI: 3.25–14.69; and Q4: aOR = 21.48, 95% CI: 10.03–45.97). Craving associations exceeded the corresponding aORs for the identical regression using the frequency of use. Higher intensity was significantly associated with being an older adolescent (aOR = 1.85), best friend use (aOR: 3.35), not thinking about quitting (aOR: 2.51), and lower perceived addiction (aOR: 1.95).

Conclusions

This study found that an intensity metric (puffs per month) was strongly associated with cravings, best friend use, harm perception, and lack of intention to quit. This metric provides a more accurate picture of the intensity of youth e-cigarette use than other commonly used measures and may be important for understanding the current and future impact of the youth e-cigarette epidemic.

Implications

Adolescent addiction to e-cigarettes affects learning, memory, and attention. However, it is unknown whether the intensity of use, puffs per month, differs from frequency, days of use per month, and in relation to addiction measures. This study provides evidence that high-intensity use characterized by puffs per month has a stronger association with cravings compared to frequency, which suggests puffs per month may be a better measure of nicotine exposure. This new intensity metric may give insights into youth e-cigarette use patterns, addiction, and appropriate treatment of intense but intermittent users.
Progesterone Metabolism in Digitalis and Other Plants—60 Years of Research and Recent Results
Authors: Klein Jan
Published: January 2024

5β-Cardenolides are pharmaceutically important metabolites from the specialized metabolism of Digitalis lanata. They were used over decades to treat cardiac insufficiency and supraventricular tachycardia. Since the 1960s, plant scientists have known that progesterone is an essential precursor of cardenolide formation. Therefore, biosynthesis of plant progesterone was mainly analyzed in species of the cardenolide-containing genus Digitalis during the following decades. Today, Digitalis enzymes catalyzing the main steps of progesterone biosynthesis are known. Most of them are found in a broad range of organisms. This review will summarize the findings of 60 years of research on plant progesterone metabolism with particular focus on the recent results in Digitalis lanata and other plants.