bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Sleuthing out exotic quantum spin liquidity in the pyrochlore magnet Ce2Zr2O7
Authors: Bhardwaj Anish , Zhang Shu , Yan Han , Moessner Roderich , Nevidomskyy Andriy H. , Changlani Hitesh J.
Published: May 2022

The search for quantum spin liquids—topological magnets with fractionalized excitations—has been a central theme in condensed matter and materials physics. Despite numerous theoretical proposals, connecting experiment with detailed theory exhibiting a robust quantum spin liquid has remained a central challenge. Here, focusing on the strongly spin-orbit coupled effective S = 1/2 pyrochlore magnet Ce2Zr2O7, we analyze recent thermodynamic and neutron-scattering experiments, to identify a microscopic effective Hamiltonian through a combination of finite temperature Lanczos, Monte Carlo, and analytical spin dynamics calculations. Its parameter values suggest the existence of an exotic phase, a π-flux U(1) quantum spin liquid. Intriguingly, the octupolar nature of the moments makes them less prone to be affected by magnetic disorder, while also hiding some otherwise characteristic signatures from neutrons, making this spin liquid arguably more stable than its more conventional counterparts.
Methods for testing solubility of hydraulic calcium silicate cements for root-end filling
Authors: Camilleri J. , Wang C. , Kandhari S. , Heran J. , Shelton R. M.
Published: May 2022

Regulatory testing of hydraulic cements used in dentistry and standard test methods for root-end filling materials do not exist. The aim of this study was to identify a simple, reproducible method for testing the solubility of materials that set with water (hydraulic) used as root-end filling materials in dentistry. Commercial and prototype hydraulic cements were characterized by scanning electron microscopy and X-ray diffraction analyses and their solubilities were determined using ISO 6876; 2012 standard, a modified ISO 6876 method with media alternative to water and a new method measuring the percentage mass loss and volume change of materials (micro-CT method) from a single surface exposed to three solutions. The solubility testing was performed by three operators to enable an intra-laboratory comparison. The solubility data obtained from the two commercial and two prototype materials varied depending on the method used, with the ISO 6876 method identifying differences in solubility of the materials (p < 0.05) but when modified with alternative solutions, no differences were found (p > 0.05). The changes in solution thus effected the solubility of the tested materials. Inter-operator differences were observed with the weight changes determined from the new method indicating this method was not robust. The weight and volume assessments using the new method were not solution-dependent. The advantage of the proposed method compared with the ISO standard is its simplicity, enabling a number of tests to be performed on the same set of samples that also more closely mimics the clinical environment.
Structure-dependent recruitment and diffusion of guest proteins in liquid droplets of FUS
Authors: Kamagata Kiyoto , Iwaki Nanako , Kanbayashi Saori , Banerjee Trishit , Chiba Rika , Gaudon Virginie , Castaing Bertrand , Sakomoto Seiji
Published: May 2022

Liquid droplets of a host protein, formed by liquid–liquid phase separation, recruit guest proteins and provide functional fields. Recruitment into p53 droplets is similar between disordered and folded guest proteins, whereas the diffusion of guest proteins inside droplets depends on their structural types. In this study, to elucidate how the recruitment and diffusion properties of guest proteins are affected by a host protein, we characterized the properties of guest proteins in fused in sarcoma (FUS) droplets using single-molecule fluorescence microscopy in comparison with p53 droplets. Unlike p53 droplets, disordered guest proteins were recruited into FUS droplets more efficiently than folded guest proteins, suggesting physical exclusion of the folded proteins from the small voids of the droplet. The recruitment did not appear to depend on the physical parameters (electrostatic or cation–π) of guests, implying that molecular size exclusion limits intermolecular interaction-assisted uptake. The diffusion of disordered guest proteins was comparable to that of the host FUS, whereas that of folded proteins varied widely, similar to the results for host p53. The scaling exponent of diffusion highlights the molecular sieving of large folded proteins in droplets. Finally, we proposed a molecular recruitment and diffusion model for guest proteins in FUS droplets.
Composite solid electrolyte with Li+ conducting 3D porous garnet-type framework for all-solid-state lithium batteries
Authors: Li Chao , Huang Ying , Liu Xudong , Chen Chen , Feng Xuansheng , Zhang Zheng , Liu Panbo
Published: May 2022

A PEO-based composite solid electrolyte (CSE) reinforced by a three-dimensional (3D) porous garnet-type framework is reported.
Autophagy and evasion of the immune system by SARS-CoV-2. Structural features of the non-structural protein 6 from wild type and Omicron viral strains interacting with a model lipid bilayer
Authors: Bignon Emmanuelle , Marazzi Marco , Grandemange Stéphanie , Monari Antonio
Published: May 2022

The viral cycle of SARS-CoV-2 is based on a complex interplay with the cellular machinery, which is mediated by specific proteins eluding or hijacking the cellular defense mechanisms.
Radical 1,2,3-tricarbofunctionalization of α-vinyl-β-ketoesters enabled by a carbon shift from an all-carbon quaternary center
Authors: Zhang Qi , Chiou Mong-Feng , Ye Changqing , Yuan Xiaobin , Li Yajun , Bao Hongli
Published: May 2022

Herein, we report an intermolecular, radical 1,2,3-tricarbofunctionalization of α-vinyl-β-ketoesters to achieve the goal of building molecular complexity via the one-pot multifunctionalization of alkenes.
Docking rings in a solid: reversible assembling of pseudorotaxanes inside a zirconium metal–organic framework
Authors: Li Xia , Xie Jialin , Du Zhenglin , Jiang Long , Li Guangqin , Ling Sanliang , Zhu Kelong
Published: May 2022

A T-shaped ligand was designed as struts for building a zirconium metal–organic framework. Acid–base switchable docking and releasing a 24-membered crown ether inside crystals was successfully accomplished via post-synthetic modification.
A solution-processed MoS2/graphene heterostructure mediated by a bifunctional block copolymer as a non-noble metal platform for hydrogen evolution
Authors: Plantzopoulou Andriana , Sideri Ioanna K. , Stergiou Anastasios , Kafetzi Martha , Pispas Stergios , Arenal Raul , Tagmatarchis Nikos
Published: May 2022

A molybdenum disulfide/graphene heterostructure exhibiting excellent HER performance was prepared and characterized.
Performance analysis of linear permanent magnet Vernier machine using mixed subdomain and magnetic equivalent circuit techniques including end‐effect
Authors: Amini Sohrab , Faiz Jawad
Published: May 2022

Performance analysis of a linear permanent magnet Vernier machine (LPMVM), which has a complex structure, is mostly based on the finite element methods, while for its optimisation or sensitivity analysis a quick mathematical technique is desirable. This paper introduces an LPMVM and its principles of operation. Then, a mixed subdomain and magnetic equivalent circuit are applied to extract magnetic field equations in various parts of the machine, in which the end‐effect in included. Besides, the electromotive force, thrust force, normal force and electric equivalent circuit are determined. An LPMVM was prototyped and tested to verify the accuracy of the proposed method.
Improving the polarisation and depolarisation current measuring method to avoid ground wire interference
Authors: Yang Fan , Zhou Kai , Akram Shakeel , Nazir Muhammad Tariq
Published: May 2022

The ground wire is significantly interfered by the current above 1 μA in the industrial field during the traditional polarisation and depolarisation current (PDC) measurement. This paper explains a method to test PDC from high‐voltage wire using a principle of equipotential picoammeter, which is completely isolated from the ground wire and connected in series with the high voltage wire. In this method, a device is designed with a multi‐range automatic switching function. The device can automatically switch the test range current from 1 pA to 10 mA with a resolution of 1 pA. To demonstrate the device and effectiveness of this new method, the traditional and the proposed new device are used to test the PDC of cable samples in the laboratory as well as in an industrial environment. It is worth noting that there is almost no interference on the Earth wire in the laboratory environment but massive interference in the industrial environment using a traditional method of PDC measurement from ground or Earth wire. The new method of high‐voltage testing can efficiently eliminate the interference and accurately measure PDC in a strong industrial interference environment. Furthermore, the wiring of this new method and device is relatively simple, which is convenient for industrial applications.
Learning interactive multi‐object segmentation through appearance embedding and spatial attention
Authors: Gui Yan , Zhou Bingqiang , Zhang Jianming , Sun Cheng , Xiang Lingyun , Zhang Jin
Published: May 2022

Deep learning approaches to interactive image segmentation are typically formulated as a binary labeling problem. A model trained to make predictions within a fixed set of labels (i.e., foreground and background labels) cannot be used to directly predict the binary masks of multiple objects of interest, which greatly limits its flexibility and adaptivity. The use of different classes of clicks as input is opted for and the first end‐to‐end learning model for multi‐object segmentation, based on a new designed neural network, is developed. The network consists of a visual feature extractor, a recurrent attention module and a dynamic segmentation head, extracts user click‐adapted appearance embedding features and spatial attention features, and then learns to transform this information into a segmentation of multiple objects. It is also proposed to train the network using a joint loss function, taking the embedding learning into account for segmentation. Comprehensive experiments are conducted on three benchmark datasets to demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposed method. It performs favorably against state‐of‐the‐art approaches on the multiple object segmentation task, for example, with 0.15 s per image, 0.06 s per object and mean IoU & F1 score of 84.90% on Pascal VOC 2012 validation set. It is further shown that the method can be used in numerous vision applications such as image recoloring and colorization.
The BINGO Project
Authors: Abdalla Filipe B. , Marins Alessandro , Motta Pablo , Abdalla Elcio , Ribeiro Rafael M. , Wuensche Carlos A. , Delabrouille Jacques , Fornazier Karin S. F. , Liccardo Vincenzo , Maffei Bruno , de Mericia Eduardo J. , Otobone Carlos H. N. , dos Santos Juliana F. R. , Silva Gustavo B. , Vieira Jordany , Barretos João A. M. , Barosi Luciano , Brito Francisco A. , Queiroz Amilcar R. , Villela Thyrso , Wang Bin , Costa Andre A. , Ferreira Elisa G. M. , Landim Ricardo G. , Novaes Camila Paiva , Peel Michael W. , Santos Larissa , dos Santos Marcelo V. , Zhang Jiajun
Published: May 2022

Context.The Baryon Acoustic Oscillations from Integrated Neutral Gas Observations (BINGO) telescope was designed to measure the fluctuations of the 21 cm radiation arising from the hyperfine transition of neutral hydrogen. It is also aimed at measuring the baryon acoustic oscillations (BAO) from such fluctuations, thereby serving as a pathfinder to future, deeper intensity mapping surveys. The requirements for the Phase 1 of the projects consider a large reflector system (two 40 m-class dishes in a crossed-Dragone configuration) illuminating a focal plane with 28 horns to measure the sky, with two circular polarizations in a drift scan mode to produce measurements of the radiation in intensity (I) as well as the circular (V) polarization.

Aims.In this paper, we present the optical design for the instrument. We describe the optical arrangement of the horns in the focal plane to produce a homogeneous and well-sampled map after the end of Phase 1, as well as the intensity and polarization properties of the beams. Our analysis provides an optimal model for the location of the horns in the focal plane, producing a homogeneous and Nyquist-sampled map after the nominal survey time.

Methods.We used the GRASP package to model the focal plane arrangement and performed several optimization tasks to arrive at the current configuration, including an estimation of the sidelobes corresponding to the diffraction patterns of the two mirrors. The final model for the focal plane was defined through a combination of neural network and other direct optimization methods.Results.We arrived at an optimal configuration for the optical system that includes the focal plane positioning and the beam behavior of the instrument. We present an estimate of the expected sidelobes both for intensity and polarization, as well as the effect of band averaging on the final sidelobes, as well as an estimation of the cross-polarization leakage for the final configuration.Conclusions.We conclude that the chosen optical design meets the requirements for the project in terms of polarization purity and area coverage as well as a homogeneity of coverage so that BINGO can perform a successful BAO experiment. We further conclude that the requirements on the placement and rms error on the mirrors are also achievable so that a successful experiment can be conducted.
Effect of hygrothermal environment on tensile properties of carbon fiber epoxy resin composites
Authors: DU Yong , MA Yu′e
Published: May 2022

[0]16, [90]16, [±45]4s and [+45/0/0/-45/-45/0/0/+45]s were fabricated to study the influence of the different ply lay-up on the moisture absorption and tensile properties of TG800/E207 carbon fiber epoxy resin composite laminates at a hygrothermal environment of 80℃ and 90%RH. Moisture absorption curves, damage morphology after moisture absorption, fracture morphology, load-displacement curves and strength degradation were analyzed. The results show that the moisture absorption curves of TG800/E207 composite laminates present multi-stage phenomenon. The moisture adsorption reached equilibrium at a moisture absorption time of 1 608 hours. The equilibrium moisture content of [90]16 is the lowest and its saturated moisture content is only 0.806%; the equilibrium moisture content of [+45/0/0/-45/-45/0/0/+45]s is the highest and its saturated moisture absorption rate is 0.876%. The failure load of [0]16, [90]16, [±45]4s and [+45/0/0/-45/-45/0/0/+45]s samples decreased by 13.8%, 27.36%, 10.7% and 25.6%, respectively. The saturated moisture absorption of [90]16 is the lowest, but its tensile strength degradation is the most serious.
An improved initial alignment method based on adaptive robust CKF algorithm
Authors: LI Pu , YANG Tao , MU Hongwei
Published: May 2022

When the misalignment angle is a large angle in the strapdown inertial navigation system (SINS), it is necessary to establish a nonlinear error model to estimate the error. Hence, an improved initial alignment method based on adaptive robust CKF algorithm is proposed in this paper. Firstly, based on the analysis results, SINS/GPS nonlinear error model is established. Secondly, in the view of observation gross errors and inaccurate noise statistical characteristics, adaptive robust CKF algorithm is designed. Finally, according to simulation analysis and experiment, adaptive robust CKF algorithm can augment the stability, improve filter estimation accuracy and convergence rate, which significantly improves the initial alignment ability of strapdown inertial navigation system at large azimuth misalignment angle.
Configuration system design and longitudinal flight simulation verification of variable stability helicopter
Authors: FANG Wei , QIU Tianlin , LI Deshang , WANG Haowei
Published: May 2022

For in-flight simulation of variable stability helicopter, how to have the ability to change a wide range of response characteristics and ensure flight safety is an important design problem. This paper proposes configuration design technology of the variable stability helicopter, which purpose is to safely change steady-state and dynamic response characteristics of the variable stability helicopter, and make the pilot feel good or poor helicopter response characteristics. The configuration control system of the variable stability helicopter is designed theoretically, and the configuration switch logic is studied from the perspective of flight safety. The numerical simulation test of the longitudinal configuration control law was carried out, and the configuration control law and configuration switch logic were added to the ground closed-loop test to verify. The results show that the expected response characteristics of the helicopter are obtained by applying the configuration system design technology.
Preparation, properties and drug controlled release mechanism of pH/salt dual-sensitive poly(ether-based imidazoles ionic liquid) gel
Authors: ZHAO Yamei , LIU Xingyue , HUO Mengdan , LI Zecheng , YANG Jing
Published: May 2022

Using N-vinylimidazole as the reactant and introducing different ether-based side chains pH/salt dual-sensitive poly(imidazole ionic liquid) gel (P[CnOC2vim]Cl, n=1, 2, 3) was designed and synthesized. The structure characteristic of the gel was determined by IR spectra and SEM. The swelling ratio of gel under different conditions was investigated, including releasing property for ciprofloxacin (CIP) and berberine (Ber). The results showed that P[CnOC2vim]Cl(n=1, 2, 3) gel exhibits typical pH-sensitivity and salt-sensitivity. Its swelling ratio increased first and then decreased, and reached the maximum when the value of pH was 7.4; the swelling rate is smaller under the higher concentration of the NaCl. Furthermore, P[COC2vim]Cl gel with the short ether chain has the highest release rate of CIP and Ber at pH=7.4, the release behavior is in accord with the first-order kinetic equation. With the increase of the side chain of ether group, the cumulative release rate of P[CnOC2vim]Cl(n=2, 3) gel to CIP and Ber decreased obviously, and the behavior comforts to Higuchi kinetic equation. The results suggest that P[CnOC2vim]Cl(n=1, 2, 3) gel is the pH/salt dual-sensitive potential carrier for controlled drug release.
Cytotoxic Polyprenylated Benzoylphloroglucinol Derivatives from the Branches of Garcinia schomburgkiana
Authors: Kaennakam Sutin , Sukandar Edwin Risky , Rassamee Kitiya , Siripong Pongpun ,   Santi Tip-pyang
Published: May 2022

Five undescribed polyprenylated benzoylphloroglucinol derivatives (1 – 5), named garschomcinols A – E, and five known analogues (6 – 10) were isolated from the
branches of Garcinia schomburgkiana. Their structures were determined on the basis of 1D and 2D NMR and HRESIMS analyses. The absolute configuration of the bicyclo [3.3.1]nonane core
structure of the polyprenylated benzoylphloroglucinols was assigned by comparison of its experimental electronic circular dichroism data with that of related compounds. All isolated
compounds were evaluated for their cytotoxicity in vitro against five cancer cell lines. Compound 6 showed potent cytotoxicity against five cancer cell lines including KB, HeLa
S3, HT-29, MCF-7, and Hep G2 with IC50 values in the range of 5.05 – 7.03 µM.
Assessment of Oral Health and Healthy Habits in Adult Patients with Congenital Hemophilia
Authors: Czajkowska Sylwia , Rupa-Matysek Joanna , Gil Lidia , Surdacka Anna
Published: May 2022

Objectives The objective of our study was to assess the current knowledge, the oral health status, and the pro-health needs of patients with hemophilia.

Materials and Methods The study included 77 patients with known hemophilia. The study included the assessment of dental indicators related to caries incidence (decayed, missing, and filled teeth [DMFT] and decayed, missing, and filled permanent teeth or surfaces [DMFS]), caries treatment (treatment index), oral hygiene status (Approximal Plaque Index [API] and simplified oral hygiene index [OHI-S]), and periodontal status (bleeding on probing [BoP]). A questionnaire addressed symptoms of hemorrhagic diathesis and health-promoting habits. The influence of routine management (“on-demand” vs. prophylactic therapy), type of hemophilia (A, B), and severity of clotting factor deficiency (mild, moderate, or severe) on oral health was assessed.

Statistical Analysis The tests used in the study were Shapiro–Wilk, Mann–Whitney, Kruskal–Wallis, and Dunn's tests. The level of significance was set at p < 0.05.

Results Patients with hemophilia showed a higher prevalence of caries compared with patients without hemorrhagic diathesis (DMFT 14 and 9, and DMFS 30 and 15, respectively), and they also presented a higher bleeding index value during probing and worse effectiveness of hygienic interdental procedures. The type of therapy and secondary prophylaxis used and the type and severity of hemophilia did not affect the oral health status.

Conclusions Patients with hemophilia have an increased risk of developing dental caries. Undertaking educational activities related to the prevention of oral diseases is necessary to improve oral health.
Disentangling the Relationship Between Social Protection and Social Cohesion: Introduction to the Special Issue
Authors: Burchi Francesco , Loewe Markus , Malerba Daniele , Leininger Julia
Published: May 2022

While there is substantial evidence of the effect of social protection on poverty and vulnerability, limited research has focused on societal outcomes. This paper serves as introduction to a special issue (SI) examining the relationship between social protection and social cohesion in low- and middle-income countries. Over the last years, social cohesion has emerged as a central goal of development policy. The introduction and the papers in the SI use a common definition of social cohesion as a multi-faceted phenomenon, comprising three attributes: cooperation, trust and inclusive identity. This introductory article provides a conceptual framework linking social protection to social cohesion, shows the current empirical evidence for the bi-directional linkages, and highlights how the papers in the SI contribute to filling existing research gaps. In addition to this introduction, the SI encompasses seven papers, covering different world regions and social protection schemes, and using different quantitative and qualitative methods.
Correlation of fast electron ejections, terahertz waves, and harmonics emitted from plasma mirrors driven by sub-relativistic ultrashort laser pulse
Authors: Wang Xiang-bing , Hu Guang-yue , Shen Bai-fei , Tang Hui-bo , Zhang Zhi-meng , Gu Yu-qiu
Published: May 2022

When an ultrashort laser pulse incidents onto a plasma mirror, there exist fast electron ejections, terahertz (THz) radiation, and harmonic generation simultaneously. We investigated the correlation of these three emission phenomena at a preplasma density gradient scale length of (0.05–1)λ and sub-relativistic laser intensity (a0 = 0.4) via particle-in-cell simulation. It is shown that THz radiation is positively correlated with fast electron ejections. As the gradient scale length increases, both enhance first, reach a maximum at 0.4λ, and then degrade at a longer scale length. Harmonic generation, on the other hand, presents the strongest radiation at a sharp surface of 0.05λ and then decays continuously at a softer gradient, indicating that it has an anti-correlation with the fast electron ejections at first (<0.4λ) but turns into a positive correlation at a softer gradient. We find that the laser energy absorption mechanism plays a vital role in the correlation among these emission phenomena. At a sharp boundary of <0.4λ gradient scale length, the Brunel mechanism is dominated, and the absorption rate increases gradually with the increasing gradient scale length. However, at the softer boundary of >0.4λ, the absorption rate decreases continuously according to stochastic heating, and the dependence on laser polarization is eventually lost. The transition of laser absorption mechanisms alters the correlation among fast electrons, THz driven by ejected fast electrons via coherent transition radiation, and harmonics excited by bounded electrons.
Contact line dynamics of pulsatile fluid interfaces modulated by patterned substrates
Authors: Flores Gerónimo J. , Hernández-Machado A. , Corvera Poiré E.
Published: May 2022

We study the dynamics of microfluidic fronts driven by pulsatile pressures in the presence of patches of hydrophilic wetting on the walls of the confining media. To do so, we use a recently developed phase-field model that takes inertia into account. We track the interface position in channels with different spacing between the patches and observe that the smaller the spacing, the faster the advancement of the front. We find that the wetting patterning induces a modulating dynamics of the contact line that causes an effective wetting, which in turn determines the modulation of the interface velocity. We characterize the modulation frequency in terms of wetting pattern, inertia, and surface tension, via the capillary pressure, viscosity, and confinement.
3.8-octave broadband nearfield generation with high stability and high tolerance using a gradually varying thickness thin-film waveguide
Authors: Tachizaki Takehiro
Published: May 2022

The generation of an optical near-field spot through a gradually varying thickness waveguide composed of metallic and dielectric thin films was comprehensively analyzed by the finite element method. The incident angle of the excitation beam, excitation wavelength, and material dependent strength of the near-field hotspot were evaluated using three different material combinations. The analysis showed that the waveguide can generate a near-field spot with an electric field stronger than that of the excitation beam in the wide spectral range, reaching from visible 488 nm to mid-infrared 7000 nm (3.8-octave). From the wedge angle and excitation position dependency, the thin-film waveguide with varying thickness indicated the high stability, high freedom of design, and high tolerance to process precision. These manifold advantages progress optoelectronics, plasmonics, and nanotechnologies, including nanometric spectroscopy.
An experimental study of the water entry trajectories of truncated cone projectiles: The influence of nose parameters
Authors: Sui Yu-Tong , Li Shuai , Ming Fu-Ren , Zhang A-Man
Published: May 2022

We report on an experimental study of the trajectories of truncated cone projectiles on water entry. The water entry trajectory stability is of great significance to the motion control of projectile. In this paper, the truncated cone nose shape can be described by the area of the leading plane and the cone angle α. Two high-speed cameras are used to capture the trajectories of the projectiles and the initial stage of cavity dynamics. We reveal that the trajectory stability of a projectile is highly dependent on the wetted surface of the nose, which is determined by the location of the separation line between the surfaces of the cavity and body. The increase in the leading plane area is beneficial to the formation of a stable trajectory, in which only the leading plane is wetted. In an unstable trajectory case, the large hydrodynamic moment from the wetted surface on the side of the nose causes a significant rotation of the projectile. However, for the projectile with the cone angle α≳60°, though the side of the nose is fully wetted, the trajectory of the projectile turns into stable again. Results show that the attitude deflection of the projectile is determined by the cone angle of the nose. It is also found that the attitude deflection results in an irregular cavity, which further aggravates the rotation of the projectile. We quantify the relationship between the trajectory stability and two nose parameters systematically, and a phase diagram is obtained for a large parameter space. The findings in this work can be used as a reference for future designs to ensure stable trajectories on water entry.
Development of a smart active respirator for comfortable and hygienic breathing
Authors: Bhattacharyya Neha , Singh Soumendra , Ghosh Ria , Banerjee Amrita , Adhikari Aniruddha , Halder Animesh , Goswami Mahasweta , Chattopadhyay Arpita , Mondal Pulak , Natto Sameer S. A. , Ahmed Saleh A. , Mallick Asim Kumar , Pal Samir Kumar
Published: May 2022

The current COVID-19 pandemic has increased the use of facial masks globally, which of late have registered their presence as a part of our civilization. The N95 mask is one of the most popular choices under the current situation. However, the available masks cannot provide breathing comfort for an extended period, which results in rebreathing of exhaled air that is CO2 rich, and which remains in the breathing space of the respirator. Furthermore, problems like moisture settlement on the covered area of the face due to the multiple layers of fabric-like material causes significant discomfort. Hence, the need for a mask with an air-purification activity is the need of the hour. The present innovation relates to the invention of a mask that is battery-powered or solar-operated and addresses the aforementioned problems. This mask not only regulates the airflow, which is beneficial to our body in every way, but also lowers the discomfort of sweating and heating. The effect of the addition of the self-developed active respirator to the commercially available masks on the inspired CO2 level, thermal comfort, and speech clarity has been demonstrated in this study. We have exhibited through in vitro experiments that the filtration capability of the active-respirator improvised mask, we call the Bose shield, does not deter from that of the standard N95 mask. To our understanding, the use of this novel mask can reduce the occurrence of CO2 rebreathing in respiratory protective devices and its impact on workers who inevitably wear them for a prolonged period of time.
Structure, stability, and rheological properties of zirconia suspensions in the presence of nanocrystals: Effects of ionic strength
Authors: Danesh Marziyeh , Mauran Damien , Berry Richard , Pawlik Marek , Hatzikiriakos Savvas G.
Published: May 2022

Cellulose nanocrystals (CNCs) are used as a stabilizing agent in water-based zirconia suspensions at high concentration. The effects of CNC and NaCl concentrations were studied on the stability, adsorption, zeta potential, size, and rheology of slurries. We characterized samples and visualized CNCs at the surface of solid particles by scanning electron microscopy. The results confirm that the adsorption capacity of CNC on the surface of zirconia particles increases as salt concentration increases and causes an increase in the viscoelastic properties and a denser structure on the surface of adsorbent. The presence of counter-ions from the added electrolyte shortens the range of electrostatic repulsion between CNC particles through screening its electrical double layer resulting in more adsorption of adsorbate on the zirconia surface and, thus, provides stabilization.
Supplementation of reduced protein diets with
Authors: Dao Hiep Thi , Sharma Nishchal K. , Barekatain Reza , Kheravii Sarbast K. , Bradbury Emma J. , Wu Shu-Biao , Swick Robert A.
Published: May 2022

Context Necrotic enteritis (NE) has been considered a major threat to broiler gut health and growth performance. Aims This study aimed at investigating the effects of l-arginine (Arg) or l-citrulline (Cit) supplementation on intestinal morphology, short-chain fatty acid (SCFA), microbiota count, gut permeability, and pH in broilers fed reduced-protein diets during subclinical NE challenge. Methods Ross 308 cockerels (n = 720) were randomly assigned to six experimental treatments with eight replicates of 15 birds per pen. The treatments were standard protein without NE challenge (SP−), or with NE challenge (SP+); reduced protein (two percentage points lower crude protein) without NE challenge (RP−), or with NE challenge (RP+); RP+ plus added Arg (103% of Ross 308 requirement, RPA+) and RPC+ where supplemental Arg in RPA+ was replaced with Cit. A 2 × 2 factorial arrangement was employed for the first four treatments. Factors were NE (− or +) and protein concentration (SP or RP). Treatments SP+, RP+, RPA+, and RPC+ were analysed by one-way ANOVA. Key results Necrotic enteritis × protein interactions were detected for serum fluorescein isothiocyanate dextran (FITC-d) level, C. perfringens (P < 0.05) count in the caeca (P < 0.01), and acetic acid (P < 0.01) and total SCFA concentrations in the ileum on Day 16 (P < 0.001). Feeding the RP diet reduced serum FITC-d concentration, number of C. perfringens in the caeca, and increased acetic acid and total SCFA concentrations in the ileum compared with the SP group only in birds challenged with NE. Birds in the RPC+ treatment had greater jejunal villus height (P < 0.001), and lower caecal C. perfringens and Enterobacteriaceae count than did those in the SP+ treatment (P ≤ 0.001). Conclusions The results indicated a benefit to gut health of broilers during NE challenge when replacing crystalline Arg with Cit in RP diets. Implications In part, replacement of Arg by Cit in the RP diets is of great potential to increase gut health, reduce growth loss, thus, minimising negative effects of NE in broilers.
Stability and change in a changing environment: soft-bottom benthic molluscs in the Peel–Harvey Estuary over 42 years
Authors: Wells Fred E. , Gagnon Marthe Monique , Spilsbury Francis , Whisson Corey
Published: May 2022

Context Eutrophication caused extensive macroalgal blooms in the Peel–Harvey Estuary, Western Australia, in the 1970s. Nutrient inputs were reduced and an artificial channel was constructed in 1994 to increase marine flushing. Aims This study examines benthic mollusc populations in the estuary in 1978, 2000 and 2020, to determine what changes have occurred in the estuaries over time. Methods Quantitative samples were made at 10 sites in autumn and spring of each year; physical and chemical parameters were measured in 2000 and 2020. Key results Species composition was stable, dominated by Arthritica semen and Hydrococcus brazieri; however, there have been substantial changes in abundance of these and less common species. Conclusions The exact cause(s) of density changes could not be determined, but it is likely to be due to a combination of factors. Implications Further changes in mollusc assemblages in south-western Australian estuaries are expected as the climate warms and dries and the estuaries are stressed by human population growth.
Seasonal population dynamics and movement patterns of a critically endangered, cave-dwelling bat,
Authors: van Harten Emmi , Lawrence Ruth , Lumsden Lindy F. , Reardon Terry , Bennett Andrew F. , Prowse Thomas A. A.
Published: May 2022

Context Seasonal migration and movements of bats have important implications for their conservation. The southern bent-winged bat (Miniopterus orianae bassanii), a critically endangered cave-dwelling taxon in Australia, has been described as undertaking regional-scale migration between maternity and non-breeding caves. Aims To describe the seasonal cycle of movements by the southern bent-winged bat, including migration and congregation events of different sex- and age-classes in the population. Methods We tagged a total of 2966 southern bent-winged bats with passive integrated transponder (PIT) tags. Antennas were used to detect bats in flight at a major maternity cave and a key non-breeding cave in south-east South Australia, from January 2016 to August 2019. We used capture–resight histories to visualise population patterns and model the daily encounter probability for each sex- and age-class at the respective roost sites. Key results Bats congregated at the maternity cave for most of the year, with different seasonal patterns among sex- and age-classes. Seasonal movements were associated with behaviour over winter months: most of the population dispersed from the maternity cave from May and a staged return occurred among population classes from July through September. A previously undescribed movement occurred in adult females and juveniles each year: these classes left the maternity cave in late summer, when juveniles became independent, and returned in early mid-autumn, later undertaking winter dispersal. Complex underlying movements of individuals occurred throughout the year, with individuals able to fly 72 km between roosting caves in just a few hours. Conclusions Seasonal movements are a key aspect of the life history of this taxon. The newly reported movement of adult females and juveniles conforms to the maternal guidance hypothesis, whereby mothers guide their young to suitable non-breeding caves and hibernation sites. In addition to seasonal movements, some individuals moved 72 km between caves multiple times over short time periods, including on successive nights. This 72-km overnight flight distance more than doubles the previous distance used to inform management buffer zones. Extended congregation of bats at the maternity cave highlights resource limitation in the surrounding area as a potential threat to this population. Implications The dynamic nature of the population has implications for the management of emerging risks, including mortality at windfarms and potential rapid spread of the exotic white-nose syndrome.
Bayesian modelling reveals differences in long-term trends in the harvest of native and introduced species by recreational hunters in Australia
Authors: Moloney Paul D. , Gormley Andrew M. , Toop Simon D. , Flesch Jason S. , Forsyth David M. , Ramsey David S. L. , Hampton Jordan O.
Published: May 2022

Context Little is known about wildlife harvesting by licensed recreational hunters in Australia, where both native and introduced species are hunted. It is important to understand harvest trends to assess sustainability for native species and implications for population control of introduced species. Aim The aim of this study was to analyse trends in hunter participation, activity and efficiency, and wildlife harvest, including effects of climate, in Victoria, Australia, for three game species groups: introduced deer, native waterfowl (ducks) and one native grassland species, stubble quail (Coturnix pectoralis). Methods Telephone surveys of a random sample of licenced Victorian hunters were performed annually from 2009 to 2019. Hunters were asked to quantify their hunting effort and the number of animals harvested. The respondents’ answers were analysed to estimate measures of hunter success, activity and efficiency. Bayesian modelling was applied to these data, accounting for changes over time, differences between survey periods for all licence types, and random effects for over-dispersion. The effect of climate on game bird hunter activity and harvest was estimated, as measured by the El Niño-Southern Oscillation (ENSO). Results Over 11 years, annual deer harvest (all species) increased exponentially, at a mean annual rate of 17% (95% credible interval: 14–21%), and the number of deer hunters increased at 8% (5–11%). In contrast, for ducks and stubble quail, hunter numbers remained relatively unchanged, with no evidence of consistent change to total harvests over time, unrelated to changes in environmental conditions or regulations. The annual duck harvest was influenced by ENSO and hunting regulations. The annual stubble quail harvest exhibited ‘boom-and-bust’ dynamics, with an exceptionally large harvest immediately after a La Niña season. Conclusions Long-term monitoring of harvest trends in south-eastern Australia revealed stark differences between introduced deer and native birds: harvest of deer increased rapidly whereas equivalent rates for game birds were either stable or declining. Seasonal effects had a strong influence on game bird harvest. Environmental and regulatory conditions were influential for harvest outcomes for ducks and stubble quail. Implications This study filled a key knowledge gap around managing harvesting of game species, but increased scrutiny is warranted in this field.
Woody species do not differ in dormancy progression: Differences in time to budbreak due to forcing and cold hardiness
Authors: Kovaleski Al P.
Published: May 2022

Significance

Better knowledge of dormancy (plant “hibernation”) is required to understand future adaptation of woody perennial plants facing warmer climates. Typical dormancy research uses time to budbreak to define the transition from a warm temperature nonresponsive to a responsive state (long vs. short time to budbreak). Based on this phenotyping method, species diverge in dormancy transition times during winter. Here, dynamics of bud cold hardiness (lowest survival temperature) for many species are used to show convergence in their response to winter chilling. Therefore, previous studies determining chilling requirement based on budbreak may describe adaptation to an environment but do not accurately describe physiological dormancy transitions. Further, cold hardiness dynamics can be used for field predictions of bud cold hardiness and budbreak.
A transient peak in marine sulfate after the 635-Ma snowball Earth
Authors: Peng Yongbo , Bao Huiming , Jiang Ganqing , Crockford Peter , Feng Dong , Xiao Shuhai , Kaufman Alan Jay , Wang Jiasheng
Published: May 2022

Significance

Earth system’s response to major perturbations is of paramount interest. On the basis of multiple isotope compositions for pyrite, carbonate-associated sulfate, carbonates, and organics within, we inferred that the much-debated, enigmatic, extremely
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C-depleted calcite cements in the ∼635-Ma cap carbonates in South China preserve geochemical evidence for marine microbial sulfate reduction coupled to anaerobic oxidation of methane. This interpretation implies the existence of a brief interval of modern-level marine sulfate. We determined that this interval coincides with the earliest Ediacaran
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O-depletion episode, and both likely occurred within ∼50 ky since the onset of the 635-Ma meltdown, revealing an astonishing pace of transformation of the Earth system in the aftermath of Earth’s latest snowball glaciation.
The syntax of nominal modification and complex noun phrases in Siwkolan Amis
Authors: Jheng Wei-Cherng Sam
Published: May 2022

This work investigates the syntax of nominal modification involving the linkerain Siwkolan Amis, one of the dialects of Amis, an Austronesian language spoken in Taiwan. Based on the two observed types of NP-ellipsis patterns and the formal licensing condition, I argue that Amis displays two types of modification. Modifiers in direct modification are functional heads projecting extended functional projections of NP, whereas those in indirect modification are modifier phrases base-generated at [Spec, ModP]. This distinction adds weight toJ. Wu’s (2003)view that relative clauses and description-denoting modifiers marked by -ayare clausal modifiers that have a full-fledged CP structure from a cartographic perspective. Furthermore, I argue thataprojects the Modifier Phrase (ModP) and is a modificatory clitic endowed with a [+mod] feature that attaches to a head element moving from a lower head position to form a morphological word. Very much in line withPhilip (2012), the proposed analysis suggests thatais endowed with an interpretative profile in marking a modification relation between an extended functional projection (a modifier phrase) and a dependent word (a modified noun) in the nominal domain. Issues involved in dealing with the structure of Amis complex noun phrases are discussed.
Influence of Ru on the microstructure and performance of WC-Co cemented carbides
Authors: Zeng Hong , Liu Wenbin , Wei Chongbin
Published: May 2022

This study investigated the microstructure and properties of cemented carbides before and after the addition of Ru. The hardness and elastic modulus of the binder phase of Ru-containing cemented carbides were higher, and the hardness at room temperature and high temperature were also high. In particular, the oxidation resistance of Ru-containing cemented carbides was enhanced at high temperatures. Therefore, the solid solution-strengthening effect of the binder phase containing Ru was significant, which was conducive to the improvement of the high-temperature hardness and enhancement of the high-temperature characteristics of the alloy.
Nanoparticles reinforced Al-matrix composites fabricated by combination of pre-distribution and deformation: A review
Authors: Zhang Dong-Dong , He Xi-Ya , Liu Yu , Gao Ya-Li , Geng Run
Published: May 2022

The microstructure and properties of Al-matrix composites are directly determined by ceramic particles in the matrix, such as synthetic methods, morphologies, sizes, interface, etc., especially the distribution of particles. Hereinto, Al-matrix nanocomposites, which show brilliant, comprehensive properties, have been widely studied. How to give full play to its advantages in further applications in automotive and aerospace areas has attracted considerable attention from researchers. In this review, current development on the pre-distribution of reinforcement particles and deformation processes and microstructure, mechanical properties of Al-matrix composites reinforced with in-situ and ex-situ nanoparticles will be addressed. In addition, the corresponding development prospects and challenges of nanoparticles reinforced Al-matrix composites fabricated by a combination of pre-distribution and deformation were also summarised.
Effect of asymmetric rolling on corrosion behaviour of AZ31B magnesium alloy sheet
Authors: Jia Hongmin , Ren Xianwei , Wang Mengrui
Published: May 2022

In this study, symmetric rolling (SR), unidirectional asymmetric rolling (UASR) and reverse asymmetric rolling (RASR) were conducted in AZ31B alloy, and the corrosion behaviour of AZ31B alloy deformed via these processes mentioned above were studied. The results indicated that samples deformed via the RASR process exhibited a more homogeneous microstructure with refined grains. As a result, samples deformed via the RASR process had the highest open circuit potential (OCP), corrosion potential ( Ecorr) and the lowest corrosion current density ( icorr),  underwent slightly localised corrosion, suggesting that the RASR process is beneficial to improve the corrosion resistance of Mg alloy.
Differential performance of RoseTTAFold in antibody modeling
Authors: Liang Tianjian , Jiang Chen , Yuan Jiayi , Othman Yasmin , Xie Xiang-Qun , Feng Zhiwei
Published: May 2022

Antibodies are essential to life, and knowing their structures can facilitate the understanding of antibody–antigen recognition mechanisms. Precise antibody structure prediction has been a core challenge for a prolonged period, especially the accuracy of H3 loop prediction. Despite recent progress, existing methods cannot achieve atomic accuracy, especially when the homologous structures required for these methods are not available. Recently, RoseTTAFold, a deep learning-based algorithm, has shown remarkable breakthroughs in predicting the 3D structures of proteins. To assess the antibody modeling ability of RoseTTAFold, we first retrieved the sequences of 30 antibodies as the test set and used RoseTTAFold to model their 3D structures. We then compared the models constructed by RoseTTAFold with those of SWISS-MODEL in a different way, in which we stratified Global Model Quality Estimate (GMQE) into three different ranges. The results indicated that RoseTTAFold could achieve results similar to SWISS-MODEL in modeling most CDR loops, especially the templates with a GMQE score under 0.8. In addition, we also compared the structures modeled by RoseTTAFold, SWISS-MODEL and ABodyBuilder. In brief, RoseTTAFold could accurately predict 3D structures of antibodies, but its accuracy was not as good as the other two methods. However, RoseTTAFold exhibited better accuracy for modeling H3 loop than ABodyBuilder and was comparable to SWISS-MODEL. Finally, we discussed the limitations and potential improvements of the current RoseTTAFold, which may help to further the accuracy of RoseTTAFold’s antibody modeling.