bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effect of the energy of hydrocarbon ions on diamond-like carbon films deposited on alumina microparticles through repeated pulsed discharge in hollow cathode with methane gas
Authors: An Zhengjie , Zhao Junping , Lian Zhangxiang , Sun Xingyue , Luo Huang Jin , Le Ye , Ai Zhijun , Wu Zhicheng , Zhang Qiaogen
Published: February 2023

Diamond-like carbon (DLC)-modified alumina microparticles are expected to be an ideal filler that can greatly improve the thermal conductivity of epoxy-alumina composites with a high fill factor, while the composites can still maintain high dielectric properties. Plasma-enhanced chemical vapor deposition (PECVD) has been mostly used to prepare DLC film on bulk material, and the ion energy in the plasma shows a crucial influence on the properties of the DLC. However, the properties of the DLC on solid microparticles prepared through the PECVD method as well as the effect of the ion energy are still unclear. In this paper, DLC on alumina microparticles has been prepared through a highly efficient method of repeated pulsed hollow cathode discharge in methane gas, and the characteristics of the DLC on the alumina particles have been studied and analyzed. The morphology and bond composition of DLC on particles have been studied through electron microscopy, Raman spectrometer and x-ray photoelectron spectroscopy. The ion energy distribution in the discharge plasma was diagnosed and used to analyze its effect on the hybrid bond content of the DLC through correlation analysis. The correlation of the ion energies and the hybrid bond content of the DLC shows that hydrocarbon ions in the discharge plasma with an energy of 100–200 eV present the most benefit to the formation of the sp3 hybrid bond content of DLC film on alumina microparticles. In addition, hydrogen ions with an energy of 700–1000 eV are also beneficial to improve the sp3 hybrid bond content of the DLC film.
Insights on the variability of Cu filament formation in the SiO2 electrolyte of quantized-conductance conductive bridge random access memory devices
Authors: Maudet Florian , Hammud Adnan , Wollgarten Markus , Deshpande Veeresh , Dubourdieu Catherine
Published: February 2023

Conductive bridge random access memory devices such as Cu/SiO2/W are promising candidates for applications in neuromorphic computing due to their fast, low-voltage switching, multiple-conductance states, scalability, low off-current, and full compatibility with advanced Si CMOS technologies. The conductance states, which can be quantized, originate from the formation of a Cu filament in the SiO2 electrolyte due to cation-migration-based electrochemical processes. A major challenge related to the filamentary nature is the strong variability of the voltage required to switch the device to its conducting state. Here, based on a statistical analysis of more than hundred fifty Cu/SiO2/W devices, we point to the key role of the activation energy distribution for copper ion diffusion in the amorphous SiO2. The cycle-to-cycle variability is modeled well when considering the theoretical energy landscape for Cu diffusion paths to grow the filament. Perspectives of this work point to developing strategies to narrow the distribution of activation energies in amorphous SiO2.
Active site identification and CO oxidation in UiO-66-XX thin films
Authors: Eads Calley N , Hu Tianhao , Tian Yi , Kisslinger Kim , Tenney Samuel A , Head Ashley R
Published: February 2023

Metal-organic frameworks (MOFs) offer an intrinsically porous and chemically tunable platform for gas adsorption, separation, and catalysis. We investigate thin film derivatives of the well-studied Zr–O based MOF powders to understand their adsorption properties and reactivity with their adaption to thin films, involving diverse functionality with the incorporation of different linker groups and the inclusion of embedded metal nanoparticles: UiO-66, UiO-66-NH2, and Pt@UiO-66-NH2. Using transflectance IR spectroscopy, we determine the active sites in each film upon consideration of the acid-base properties of the adsorption sites and guest species, and perform metal-based catalysis with CO oxidation of a Pt@UiO-66-NH2film. Our study shows how surface science characterization techniques can be used to characterize the reactivity and the chemical and electronic structure of MOFs.
Structural and electronic structure evolution of K
x
Fe2−

y
Se2 from semiconducting phase to superconducting phase
Authors: Wang JiaJun , Zhu YongZheng , Li Li , Wang ManFu , Zheng Shuang , Cui Yan , Liu ShiMin , Zhang ZhiHua , He Ming , Song Bo , Zhao Mei
Published: February 2023

The structural parameters, magnetic property and electronic structure of K0.875+a
Fe1.5+b
Se2 have been studied by first principles calculations. An increase of K or Fe content leads to the evolution of the magnetic property and electronic structure of K0.875Fe1.5Se2. The introduction of extra K brings a slight rigid shift of the minority states, while the introduction of extra Fe breaks the vacancy order of Fe atoms, forming 1D chains, and causes the Fermi surfaces to display an obvious nesting feature. The K0.875Fe1.5Se2 is proven to be a semiconductor with a 61 meV gap, and the evolution from semiconducting phase to superconducting phase is mainly due to the suppression of a rhombus iron vacancy order and antiferromagnetic order with an increase in Fe content.
Improvement in quantum communication using quantum switch
Authors: Mitra Arindam , Badhani Himanshu , Ghosh Sibasish
Published: February 2023

Applications of the quantum switch on quantum channels have recently become a topic of intense discussion. In the present work, we show that some useless (for communication) channels may provide useful communication under the action of quantum switch for several information-theoretic tasks: quantum random access codes, quantum steering, etc. We demonstrate that the quantum switch can also be useful in preventing the loss of coherence in a system when only coherence-breaking channels are the available channels for communication. We also show that if a useless quantum channel does not provide useful communication even after using a quantum switch, concatenating the channel with another suitable quantum channel, and subsequently using the switch, one may achieve useful communication. Finally, we discuss how the introduction of noise in the quantum switch can reduce the advantage that the switch provides.
Synthesis of microcrystalline cellulose from sugarcane bagasse and its incorporation into Polyvinyl Alcohol (PVA) matrix to test the composites mechanical properties
Authors: Dien Le Vinh , Dat Tran Tan , Khanh Tran Thien , Trinh Huu Vinh
Published: February 2023

Plastic pollution and energy consumption are two of the most significant problems facing modern society. While the non-degradability of plastic leaves negative impacts on Earth’s ecosystem, fossil fuel usage as an energy source greatly contributes to air pollution and consequently human health. Scientists are focusing efforts on biodegradable materials and energy-neutral methods to develop a replacement for plastics and fossil fuels. This study was conducted to extract cellulose from bagasse, synthesize microcrystalline cellulose (MCC) and apply it to composites formation, and finally examine their mechanical properties. Furthermore, modified starch E1404 was used as a reference reinforcement agent in two distinct ways: solid starch and hydrated starch. Results show that Polyvinyl Alcohol (PVA) film with 10% microcrystalline cellulose MCC reinforcement has the lowest tensile strength value based on ATSM D882 standard reaching a mean value of 3.92 MPa in stress peak (nearly half the value of pure PVA). Regarding the starch composite, hydrated starch composites show better tensile strength than solid starch composites at higher starch content (PVA/Starch 6:4).
Hybrid effects of carbon nanotubes and steel fiber on dynamic mechanical properties of ultra-high performance concrete
Authors: Li Shaojie , Yan Jun , Ma Huijuan , Lyu Xuxu , Zhang Yuling , Du Shiguo
Published: February 2023

This study aims to investigate the hybrid effects of carbon nanotubes (CNTs) and steel fiber (SF) on dynamic mechanical behavior of ultra-high performance concrete (UHPC) under the high-speed dynamic loading effects. The functionalized CNTs content varied from 0.0% to 0.20%, and SF volume content was added from 0.5% to 2.0%. The UHPC specimens were tested at strain rates ranging from about 60 s-1 to 240 s-1 using the split Hopkinson pressure bar. The dynamic behavior of specimens was evaluated in terms of stress–strain relationships, energy absorption capacity and failure patterns. Test results show that dynamic compressive properties of UHPC are strongly sensitive to strain rates. The individual addition of CNTs obviously improves the dynamic performance of plain UHPC, and there exists an optimal CNTs content of about 0.10% to achieve better improvement effects. The dynamic increase factor (DIF) is almost unrelated to CNTs content but closely correlated to strain rate variations, which can be well described by a modified empirical formula. Furthermore, it is found that the hybrid CNTs and SF display more significant reinforcing effects on dynamic properties of UHPC, as the UHPC specimen with 0.10% CNTs and 2.0% SF exhibits the highest dynamic compressive strength and toughness. Meanwhile, UHPC reinforced by hybrid fibers is less sensitive to high strain rates compared to plain UHPC. From microscopic observations, it is reasonably believed CNTs and SF exert synergistic reinforcing effects on UHPC matrix in view of their respective characteristics, which are more significant in improving the interfacial transition zone (ITZ) structure between SF and the surrounding matrix. This work promotes a fundamental understanding for the reinforcing effects of CNTs on UHPC, and provides an effective strategy to reinforce UHPC from multiscale perspectives.
Rational synthesis of gold-ceria catalysts supported on reduced graphene oxide with remarkable activity for CO oxidation
Authors: Zedan Abdallah F. , Moussa Sherif , El-Shall M. Samy
Published: February 2023

Gold (Au)- and ceria (CeO2)-based catalysts are amongst the most active catalysts for the gas phase CO oxidation reaction. Nevertheless, nanosized Au and CeO2 catalysts may encounter heat-induced sintering in thermochemical catalytic reactions. Herein, we report on the rational one-pot synthesis of ceria-reduced graphene oxide (CeO2-RGO) using a facile ethylenediamine (EDA)-assisted solvothermal method. Standalone RGO and free-standing CeO2 were also prepared using the same EDA-assisted method for comparison. We then incorporated Au into the prepared samples by colloidal reduction and evaluated the catalytic activity of the different catalysts for CO oxidation. The RGO-supported CeO2 surpassed the free-standing CeO2, exhibiting a 100% CO conversion at 285 oC compared to 340 oC in the case of CeO2. Interestingly, the RGO-supported Au/CeO2 catalysts outperformed the Au/CeO2 catalysts and achieved a 100% CO conversion at 76 oC compared to 113 oC in the case of Au/CeO2. Additionally, the Au/CeO2-RGO catalyst demonstrated remarkable room-temperature activity with simultaneous 72% CO conversion. This outstanding performance was attributed to the unique dispersion and size characteristics of the RGO-supported CeO2 and Au catalysts in the ternary Au/CeO2-RGO nanocomposite, as revealed by TEM and XPS, among other techniques.
Ballistic impact assessment of Aluminium Alloy 7075 T6, Kevlar and basalt fiber reinforced composite laminate with different nano fillers
Authors: C Rakeshkumar , Jayakumar K.S.
Published: February 2023

The ballistic response of hybrid laminates made from Kevlar and Basalt fibers, epoxy, and AA 7075-T6 aluminum sheets was studied. Aluminum oxide (Al2O3), silicon dioxide (SiO2), magnesium hydroxide (Mg (OH)2), and tapioca flour were employed as micro- and nano-fillers in this investigation. The nanofillers were incorporated into the Kevlar and Basalt fibers using polyethylene glycol, which were then arranged between two aluminum sheets with a thickness of 1.8 mm in the sequence KBKBKB up to 20 layers. The ballistic impact strength of STF-treated hybrid laminates saturated with a variety of nanofillers was tested and compared to the strength of hybrid laminates that were not impregnated with nanofillers. Hybrid composite laminates made in the lab were put through their paces with a gas-equipped gun and a high-speed camera to measure how they performed under certain ballistic impact conditions. A high-speed camera was used to record the collision between the target and bullet with a mass of 15 g, which made it easier to figure out the different mechanisms of energy absorption. The projectile penetration provided assistance in the investigation of the effect of the deposition of nano-fillers on the layer of Kevlar and basalt fibers in the hybrid laminate. This evaluation was conducted to determine the impact strength and energy absorption capacity of the material. Analyzing the relationship between sample density and impact strength allows us to compare how well different samples survive ballistic impact. The results demonstrated that the ballistic impact resistance and impact energy absorption of Kevlar and basalt fibers were greatly improved after nano-fillers were deposited onto the surfaces of the fibers. When compared to magnesium hydroxide and silicon carbide powder, aluminum oxide has the maximum energy absorption capacity after being deposited. The addition of tapioca flour has had the smallest impact on the laminates' ability to absorb energy. Based on these results, it appears that polyethylene glycol-coated nano-fillers applied to Kevlar and Basalt fabrics have the potential to enhance the interfacial adhesion between the binder and the fibers in hybrid composite laminates.
Modified entropy based least square channel estimation technique for 5G massive multiple input multiple output universal filtered multicarrier systems
Authors: Shaik Nilofer , Malik Praveen Kumar
Published: February 2023

These days’ Massive multiple input multiple output (mMIMO) systems have become popular because of their enhanced data transmission rates, robustness against multipath fading, enhanced spectral efficacy, and ability to communicate with a more significant number of users with immense coverage. The critical challenge of the mMIMO systems is precisely replenishing the channel state information (CSI), along with the synchronization between receiver and transmitter. The CSI has recovered with the help of various channel estimation (CE) techniques. This paper presents a modified entropy-based least square CE technique for 5G mMIMO-UFMC systems. The proposed CE technique performance is novel and better than the Least Square (LS) and minimum mean square error (MMSE) CE techniques. The proposed CE technique was evaluated using MATLAB, and its performance results are shown in the simulation. The performance results of the proposed CE are evaluated based on the mean square error (MSE) and bit error rate (BER) of the obtained signal. The executed results prove that the proposed CE is efficient compared to conventional CE methods. The performance of the MCM techniques with respect to the proposed CE is also presented in this paper. This paper also explains the analytical assessment of the LS, MMSE, and MELS CE techniques. The results show that at high values of SNR, the proposed algorithm outperforms the LS and MMSE for both BER and MSE.
A stage-wise non-Gaussian statistical process control strategy
Authors: Mishra Bhagwan Kumar , Das Anupam
Published: February 2023

The article delves into the development of a Non-Gaussian Process Monitoring Strategy for a Copper Cathode Manufacturing Unit (CCMU). The monitoring strategy being devised highlighted the issue of multi-stage process monitoring via the usage of Multi-block Independent Component Analysis (MBICA) techniques. MBICA is the multi-block variant of ICA technique which is prevalently used for process laden with non-Gaussian or non-normal data. Development of the monitoring strategy involved detection of fault(s) and their subsequent diagnosis. Detection of fault(s) was carried out by employment of I2 control chart whose control limit was established via Bootstrap procedure. The diagnosis of the detected fault was carried out by employment of fault diagnostic statistic. An amalgamation of MBICA and Multivariate Exponentially Weighted Moving Average (MEWMA) are also known as MBICA-MEWMA approach was also proposed for detection of incipient fault(s). The monitoring strategy thus developed was showcased for a CCMU which specialised in the manufacture of copper cathode which has got varied practical applications. The monitoring strategy thus devised was able to detect and diagnose the faults with appreciable accuracy.
Microstructure, mechanical and electrochemical studies of dissimilar friction stir welded aluminium alloys
Authors: Padmavathi Tejavath , Naik Banoth Balu
Published: February 2023

In the present investigation, the influence of tool rotational speed (900, 1100, 1300, and 1500 rpm) on microstructure, mechanical characteristics, and corrosion behavior of friction stir welding (FSW) of dissimilar Al5083–6061 alloys was studied. Optical and scanning electron microscopes were used to study the microstructural features. The grain size measured at the stir zone (SZ) decreased considerably in contrast with the base materials (BM) but increased with tool rotational speed. The mixing degrees of two materials at the SZ are enhanced by increasing rotational speeds. The mechanical properties, such as hardness and tensile properties, were studied using Vicker’s hardness tester and universal testing machine. The hardness of the weld joints is inferior to that of the base metal, and uniform hardness distribution and the highest average hardness in SZ were obtained at 1100 rpm. The higher strength and elongation of 202 MPa and 5.2%, respectively, were achieved at 1100 rpm, with joint efficiency of 65%, due to optimum heat input, and the lowest tensile strength and elongation of 156 MPa and 3.2%, respectively, were obtained at 1300 rpm with a joint efficiency of 50% due to excess heat input. It is curious to note that an increase in tensile elongation accompanies the enhancement of weld strength. The fracture occurred at the retreating side of the heat-affected zone as it is the weakest zone in the FSWed joint. Different corrosion tests, such as immersion, open circuit potential, and Tafel polarization tests, were carried out using an electrochemical workstation. The corrosion findings showed that the corrosion resistance of the samples increased after the welding, and the highest corrosion resistance was obtained at 1100 rpm.
Fricke identities, Frobenius 𝑘-characters and Markov equation
Authors: Buchstaber V.M. , Veselov A.P.
Published: February 2023

In 1896 Frobenius and Fricke published two seemingly unrelated papers: Frobenius started to develop his theory ofkk-characters for finite groups motivated by Dedekind’s question about factorisation of the group determinant, while Fricke followed Klein’s approach to the uniformization theorem. We show that in fact these two works can be naturally linked and both are related to remarkable Markov’s paper of 1880 on arithmetic of binary quadratic forms.
Interpolated Apéry numbers, quasiperiods of modular forms, and motivic gamma functions
Authors: Golyshev Vasily , Zagier Don
Published: February 2023

We extend the definitions of the sequences used by Apéry in his proof of the irrationality of 

ζ
(
3
)

\zeta (3)

to non-integral values of the index and relate the value with index 

−
1

/

2

-1/2

to the central value of the

L
L

-series of the unique normalized cusp form of weight 4 on 

Γ
0

(
8
)

\Gamma _0(8)

. We also discuss the notion of quasiperiods of modular forms and relate the Apéry numbers of other half-integral indices to these. We further explain the conjectural relationship of the Taylor expansion around 0 of a different interpolation of the Apéry numbers to a generalized version of the Gamma Conjecture, and discuss interpretations of the various results with families of Calabi-Yau manifolds, mirror symmetry, and motivic gamma functions.
High Dynamic Range Dual-Modal White Light Imaging Improves the Accuracy of Tumor Bed Sampling After Neoadjuvant Therapy for Breast Cancer
Authors: Zhang Meng , Liao Jun , Jia Zhanli , Qin Chenchen , Zhang Lingling , Wang Han , Liu Yao , Jiang Cheng , Han Mengxue , Li Jinze , Wang Kun , Wang Xinran , Bu Hong , Yao Jianhua , Liu Yueping
Published: February 2023

Objectives

Accurate evaluation of residual cancer burden remains challenging because of the lack of appropriate techniques for tumor bed sampling. This study evaluated the application of a white light imaging system to help pathologists differentiate the components and location of tumor bed in specimens.

Methods

The high dynamic range dual-mode white light imaging (HDR-DWI) system was developed to capture antiglare reflection and multiexposure HDR transmission images. It was tested in 60 specimens of modified radical mastectomy after neoadjuvant therapy. We observed the differential transmittance among tumor tissue, fibrosis tissue, and adipose tissue.

Results

The sensitivity and specificity of HDR-DWI were compared with x-ray or visual examination to determine whether HDR-DWI was superior in identifying tumor beds. We found that tumor tissue had lower transmittance (0.12 ± 0.03) than fibers (0.15 ± 0.04) and fats (0.27 ± 0.07) (P < .01).

Conclusions

HDR-DWI was more sensitive in identifying fiber and tumor tissues than cabinet x-ray and visual observation (P < .01). In addition, HDR-DWI could identify more fibrosis areas than the currently used whole slide imaging did in 12 samples (12/60). We have determined that HDR-DWI can provide more in-depth tumor bed information than x-ray and visual examination do, which will help prevent diagnostic errors in tumor bed sampling.
Increased reporting of cerebrovascular accidents with use of risankizumab observed in the Food and Drug Administration Adverse Events Reporting System (FAERS)
Authors: Egeberg Alexander , Thyssen Jacob P
Published: February 2023

Recent observational data have suggested an increased risk of cerebrovascular accidents associated with exposure to risankizumab. This article discusses these findings and highlights why there is a need for future observational studies investigating this potential signal.
Modular segregation drives causality of the dynamic oscillatory network responses during threat processing
Authors: Gonzalez-Escamilla Gabriel , Chirumamilla Venkata C , Koirala Nabin , Anwar Abdul R , Tüscher Oliver , Vogt Johannes , Horstmann Phillip , Meyer Benjamin , Bonanno George A , Groppa Sergiu , Muthuraman Muthuraman
Published: February 2023

Physiological responses to threat and stress stimuli entrain synchronized neural oscillations among cerebral networks. Network architecture and adaptation may play a critical role in achieving optimal physiological responses, while alteration can lead to mental dysfunction.

We reconstructed cortical and sub-cortical source time series from high-density electroencephalography, which were then fed into community architecture analysis. Dynamic alterations were evaluated in terms of flexibility, clustering coefficient and global and local efficiency, as parameters of community allegiance. Transcranial magnetic stimulation was applied over the dorsomedial prefrontal cortex during the time window relevant for physiological threat processing and effective connectivity was computed to test the causality of network dynamics.

A theta band-driven community re-organization was evident in key anatomical regions conforming the central executive, salience network and default mode networks during instructed threat processing. Increased network flexibility entrained the physiological responses to threat processing. The effective connectivity analysis showed that information flow differed between theta and alpha bands and were modulated by transcranial magnetic stimulation in salience and default mode networks during threat processing.

Theta oscillations drive dynamic community network re-organization during threat processing. Nodal community switches may modulate the directionality of information flow and determine physiological responses relevant to mental health.
Effect of Coronavirus Disease 2019 Lockdowns on Identification of Advanced Human Immunodeficiency Virus Disease in Outpatient Clinics in Uganda
Authors: Nalintya Elizabeth , Sekar Preethiya , Kavuma Paul , Kigozi Joanita , Ssuna Martin , Kirumira Paul , Naluyima Rose , Namuli Teopista , Musa Fred Turya , Skipper Caleb P , Hullsiek Kathy Huppler , Ellis Jayne , Boulware David R , Meya David B , Rajasingham Radha
Published: February 2023

Using data from 67 Ugandan human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) clinics (July 2019–January 2022), we report a 40% (1005/1662) reduction in the number of people with HIV presenting to care after August 2021 compared to prepandemic levels, with a greater proportion presenting with advanced HIV disease (20% vs 16% in the pre–coronavirus disease 2019 period).
Warm versus cold blood cardioplegia in paediatric congenital heart surgery: a randomized trial
Authors: Stoica Serban , Smartt Helena J M , Heys Rachael , Sheehan Karen , Walker-Smith Terrie , Parry Andrew , Beringer Richard , Ttofi Iakovos , Evans Rebecca , Dabner Lucy , Ghorbel Mohamed T , Lansdowne William , Reeves Barnaby C , Angelini Gianni D , Rogers Chris A , Caputo Massimo
Published: February 2023

OBJECTIVES

Intermittent cold blood cardioplegia is commonly used in children, whereas intermittent warm blood cardioplegia is widely used in adults. We aimed to compare clinical and biochemical outcomes with these 2 methods.

METHODS

A single-centre, randomized controlled trial was conducted to compare the effectiveness of warm (≥34°C) versus cold (4–6°C) antegrade cardioplegia in children. The primary outcome was cardiac troponin T over the 1st 48 postoperative hours. Intensive care teams were blinded to group allocation. Outcomes were compared by intention-to-treat using linear mixed-effects, logistic or Cox regression.

RESULTS

97 participants with median age of 1.2 years were randomized (49 to warm, 48 to cold cardioplegia); 59 participants (61%) had a risk-adjusted congenital heart surgery score of 3 or above. There were no deaths and 92 participants were followed to 3-months. Troponin release was similar in both groups [geometric mean ratio 1.07; 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.79–1.44; P = 0.66], as were other cardiac function measures (echocardiography, arterial and venous blood gases, vasoactive-inotrope score, arrhythmias). Intensive care stay was on average 14.6 h longer in the warm group (hazard ratio 0.52; 95% CI 0.34–0.79; P = 0.003), with a trend towards longer overall hospital stays (hazard ratio 0.66; 95% CI 0.43–1.02; P = 0.060) compared with the cold group. This could be related to more unplanned reoperations on bypass in the warm group compared to cold group (3 vs 1).

CONCLUSIONS

Warm blood cardioplegia is a safe and reproducible technique but does not provide superior myocardial protection in paediatric heart surgery.
Health Emergency and Asylum Law in the European Union
Authors: Nicolosi Salvatore Fabio
Published: February 2023

The rapid spread of COVID-19 in Europe has led to the further deterioration of the crisis concerning the application of the provisions of European Union (EU) asylum law in most Member States. Accordingly, this article aims to shed light on the impact that the health emergency is having on the Common European Asylum System (CEAS). This requires a twofold legal analysis. First, the article discusses whether health emergencies, like that caused by COVID-19, should affect the scope of States’ obligations stemming from the CEAS, such as the principle of non-refoulement and access to asylum procedures. In this connection, it reviews, in light of international law obligations and the EU border control regime, the policy responses and legislative measures adopted by EU Member States during the first few weeks of the pandemic that resulted in the closure of borders to asylum seekers. Secondly, the article investigates whether the CEAS legal toolbox contains adequate provisions that can be applied in emergency situations. Thus it analyses the impact of the health emergency on reception conditions for asylum seekers. Based on the findings of this twofold analysis, it is concluded that certain rights, such as the right to seek asylum, cannot be suspended – not even during a situation of health emergency – and that it is all the more urgent to redesign a CEAS that takes account of the challenges posed by future situations of health emergency.
Breast Angiosarcoma: Imaging Features With Histopathologic Correlation
Authors: Kapoor Megha M , Yoon Esther C , Yang Wei T , Patel Miral M
Published: February 2023

Breast angiosarcoma is a rare malignancy of endothelial origin that can be categorized as primary angiosarcoma (PAS) or secondary angiosarcoma (SAS) based on etiology. Primary angiosarcoma typically affects younger women with no known risk factors, whereas SAS of the breast typically develops in older women who have undergone breast cancer treatment. There are two types of SAS, one that develops in the setting of chronic lymphedema and one that develops as a radiation-associated neoplasm after breast-conserving therapy (BCT). Clinically, PAS often presents as a palpable mass that may be rapidly growing, whereas SAS presents with skin changes such as erythematous plaques or nodules or with areas of skin discoloration. Mammographically, the appearance of PAS can be nonspecific and may be obscured by the dense tissue that is characteristic of the young patient population it typically affects. Cases of mammographically occult PAS have been visible at US and MRI. Mammography and US have been found to be less sensitive than MRI for the diagnosis of secondary radiation-associated angiosarcoma. Angiosarcomas, both PAS and SAS, are graded, depending on degree of differentiation, as low, intermediate, or high grade. Endothelial markers such as ERG and CD31 immunohistochemical stains are used to support the diagnosis of angiosarcomas. In this article, we review the clinical presentation, imaging findings, associated histopathology, and treatment of primary and secondary breast angiosarcoma.
Unrecognized sexual dysfunction in gay and bisexual men after prostate cancer treatment: the antecedents and impact of anodyspareunia
Authors: Wheldon Christopher W , Bates Alex J , Polter Elizabeth J , Rosser B R Simon , Kapoor Aditya , Talley Kristine M C , Haggart Ryan , Kohli Nidhi , Konety Badrinath R , Mitteldorf Darryl , Ross Michael W , West William , Wright Morgan
Published: February 2023

Background

Anodyspareunia may be an adverse outcome of prostate cancer (PCa) treatment for gay, bisexual, and other men who have sex with men (GBM).

Aim

The aims of this study were to (1) describe the clinical symptoms of painful receptive anal intercourse (RAI) in GBM following PCa treatment, (2) estimate the prevalence of anodyspareunia, and (3) identify clinical and psychosocial correlates.

Methods

This was a secondary analysis of baseline and 24-month follow-up data from the Restore-2 randomized clinical trial of 401 GBM treated for PCa. The analytic sample included only those participants who attempted RAI during or since their PCa treatment (N = 195).

Outcomes

Anodyspareunia was operationalized as moderate to severe pain during RAI for ≥6 months that resulted in mild to severe distress. Additional quality-of-life outcomes included the Expanded Prostate Cancer Index Composite (bowel function and bother subscales), the Brief Symptom Inventory–18, and the Functional Assessment of Cancer Therapy–Prostate.

Results

Overall 82 (42.1%) participants reported pain during RAI since completing PCa treatment. Of these, 45.1% experienced painful RAI sometimes or frequently, and 63.0% indicated that the pain was persistent. The pain at its worst was moderate to very severe for 79.0%. The experience of pain was at least mildly distressing for 63.5%. Painful RAI worsened for a third (33.4%) of participants after completing PCa treatment. Of the 82 GBM, 15.4% were classified as meeting criteria for anodyspareunia. Antecedents of anodyspareunia included a lifelong history of painful RAI and bowel dysfunction following PCa treatment. Those reporting symptoms of anodyspareunia were more likely to avoid RAI due to pain (adjusted odds ratio, 4.37), which was negatively associated with sexual satisfaction (mean difference, −2.77) and self-esteem (mean difference, −3.33). The model explained 37.2% of the variance in overall quality of life.

Clinical Implications

Culturally responsive PCa care should include the assessment of anodyspareunia among GBM and explore treatment options.

Strengths and Limitations

This is the largest study to date focused on anodyspareunia among GBM treated for PCa. Anodyspareunia was assessed with multiple items characterizing the intensity, duration, and distress related to painful RAI. The external validity of the findings is limited by the nonprobability sample. Furthermore, the cause-and-effect relationships between the reported associations cannot be established by the research design.

Conclusions

Anodyspareunia should be considered a sexual dysfunction in GBM and investigated as an adverse outcome of PCa treatment.
Dual Functions oflabialResolve the Hox Logic of Chelicerate Head Segments
Authors: Gainett Guilherme , Klementz Benjamin C , Blaszczyk Pola O , Bruce Heather S , Patel Nipam H , Sharma Prashant P
Published: February 2023

Despite an abundance of gene expression surveys, comparatively little is known about Hox gene function in Chelicerata. Previous investigations of paralogs of labial (lab) and Deformed (Dfd) in a spider have shown that these play a role in tissue maintenance of the pedipalp segment (lab-1) and in patterning the first walking leg identity (Dfd-1), respectively. However, extrapolations of these data across chelicerates are hindered by the existence of duplicated Hox genes in arachnopulmonates (e.g., spiders and scorpions), which have resulted from an ancient whole genome duplication (WGD) event. Here, we investigated the function of the single-copy ortholog of lab in the harvestman Phalangium opilio, an exemplar of a lineage that was not subject to this WGD. Embryonic RNA interference against lab resulted in two classes of phenotypes: homeotic transformations of pedipalps to chelicerae, as well as reduction and fusion of the pedipalp and leg 1 segments. To test for combinatorial function, we performed a double knockdown of lab and Dfd, which resulted in a homeotic transformation of both pedipalps and the first walking legs into cheliceral identity, whereas the second walking leg is transformed into a pedipalpal identity. Taken together, these results elucidate a model for the Hox logic of head segments in Chelicerata. To substantiate the validity of this model, we performed expression surveys for lab and Dfd paralogs in scorpions and horseshoe crabs. We show that repetition of morphologically similar appendages is correlated with uniform expression levels of the Hox genes lab and Dfd, irrespective of the number of gene copies.
DeepBIO: an automated and interpretable deep-learning platform for high-throughput biological sequence prediction, functional annotation and visualization analysis
Authors: Wang Ruheng , Jiang Yi , Jin Junru , Yin Chenglin , Yu Haoqing , Wang Fengsheng , Feng Jiuxin , Su Ran , Nakai Kenta , Zou Quan , Wei Leyi
Published: February 2023

Here, we present DeepBIO, the first-of-its-kind automated and interpretable deep-learning platform for high-throughput biological sequence functional analysis. DeepBIO is a one-stop-shop web service that enables researchers to develop new deep-learning architectures to answer any biological question. Specifically, given any biological sequence data, DeepBIO supports a total of 42 state-of-the-art deep-learning algorithms for model training, comparison, optimization and evaluation in a fully automated pipeline. DeepBIO provides a comprehensive result visualization analysis for predictive models covering several aspects, such as model interpretability, feature analysis and functional sequential region discovery. Additionally, DeepBIO supports nine base-level functional annotation tasks using deep-learning architectures, with comprehensive interpretations and graphical visualizations to validate the reliability of annotated sites. Empowered by high-performance computers, DeepBIO allows ultra-fast prediction with up to million-scale sequence data in a few hours, demonstrating its usability in real application scenarios. Case study results show that DeepBIO provides an accurate, robust and interpretable prediction, demonstrating the power of deep learning in biological sequence functional analysis. Overall, we expect DeepBIO to ensure the reproducibility of deep-learning biological sequence analysis, lessen the programming and hardware burden for biologists and provide meaningful functional insights at both the sequence level and base level from biological sequences alone. DeepBIO is publicly available at https://inner.wei-group.net/DeepBIO.
From animal collective behaviors to swarm robotic cooperation
Authors: Duan Haibin , Huo Mengzhen , Fan Yanming
Published: February 2023

The collective behaviors of animals, from schooling fish to packing wolves and flocking birds, display plenty of fascinating phenomena that result from simple interaction rules among individuals. The emergent intelligent properties of the animal collective behaviors, such as self-organization, robustness, adaptability and expansibility, have inspired the design of autonomous unmanned swarm systems. This article reviews several typical natural collective behaviors, introduces the origin and connotation of swarm intelligence, and gives the application case of animal collective behaviors. On this basis, the article focuses on the forefront of progress and bionic achievements of aerial, ground and marine robotics swarms, illustrating the mapping relationship from biological cooperative mechanisms to cooperative unmanned cluster systems. Finally, considering the significance of the coexisting-cooperative-cognitive human-machine system, the key technologies to be solved are given as the reference directions for the subsequent exploration.
Prevalence and characterization of food insecurity in a Canadian paediatric emergency department
Authors: MacBain Elspeth , Eltorki Mohamed , Marjerrison Stacey , Pardhan Alim , Wahi Gita , Ngo Quang N
Published: February 2023

Objectives

Food insecurity (FI) is associated with a number of adverse child health outcomes and increased emergency department (ED) use. The COVID-19 pandemic exacerbated the financial hardship faced by many families. We sought to determine the prevalence of FI among children with ED visits, compare this to pre-pandemic rates, and describe associated risk factors.

Methods

From September to December 2021, families presenting to a Canadian paediatric ED were asked to complete a survey screening for FI along with health and demographic information. Results were compared to data collected in 2012. Multivariable logistic regression was used to measure associations with FI.

Results

In 2021, 26% (n = 173/665) of families identified as food insecure compared to 22.7% in 2012 (n = 146/644) a difference of 3.3% (95% CI [−1.4%, 8.1%]). In multivariable analysis, greater number of children in the home (OR 1.19, 95% CI [1.01, 1.41]), financial strain from medical expenses (OR 5.31, 95% CI [3.45, 8.18]), and a lack of primary care access (OR 1.27, 95% CI [1.08, 1.51]) were independent predictors of FI. Less than half of families with FI reported use of food charity, most commonly food banks, while one-quarter received help from family or friends. Families experiencing FI expressed a preference for support through free or low-cost meals and financial assistance with medical expenses.

Conclusion

More than one in four families attending a paediatric ED screened positive for FI. Future research is needed to examine the effect of support interventions for families assessed in medical care facilities including financial support for those with chronic medical conditions.
Hypersomnia and narcolepsy in 42 adult patients with craniopharyngioma
Authors: Dodet Pauline , Noiray Camille , Leu-Semenescu Smaranda , Lefevre Etienne , Nigam Milan , Faucher Pauline , Maranci Jean-Baptiste , Jublanc Christel , Poitou Christine , Arnulf Isabelle
Published: February 2023

Study Objectives

To evaluate sleep, sleepiness, and excessive need for sleep in patients with craniopharyngioma (a suprasellar tumor which can affect sleep–wake systems).

Methods

A retrospective study of all adult patients living with craniopharyngioma referred to the sleep clinic, who received a sleep interview, nocturnal polysomnography, multiple sleep latency tests (MSLT), and 18-h bed rest polysomnography. Their sleep measurements were compared with those of age- and sex-matched healthy controls.

Results

Of 54 patients screened with craniopharyngioma, 42 were analyzed, 80% of whom complained of excessive daytime sleepiness. Sleep testing revealed that 6 (14.3%) of them had secondary narcolepsy (including one with cataplexy), and 11 (26.2%) had central hypersomnia associated with a medical disorder. Compared with controls, patients were more frequently obese, had a shorter mean sleep latency on MSLT, and slept longer on the first night. There was a nonsignificant trend for patients with (vs. without) narcolepsy and hypersomnia to be younger, to have a higher body mass index, to be more likely to have received radiation therapy, and to have more severe damage to the hypothalamus after surgery. Treatment with stimulants (modafinil, pitolisant, and methylphenidate) was beneficial in 9/10 patients.

Conclusions

Nearly half of the patients with craniopharyngioma and sleep disorders have a central disorder of hypersomnolence (narcolepsy and hypersomnia), which should be investigated and lead to considerations beyond sleep apnea syndrome in these obese patients.
A hybrid data-mining framework for train rescheduling strategy pattern discovery
Authors: Chen Ruirui , Ge Xuekai , Huang Ping , Wen Chao
Published: February 2023

This study presents a hybrid data-mining framework based on feature selection algorithms and clustering methods to perform the pattern discovery of high-speed railway train rescheduling strategies (RSs). The proposed model is composed of two states. In the first state, decision tree, random forest, gradient boosting decision tree (GBDT) and extreme gradient boosting (XGBoost) models are used to investigate the importance of features. The features that have a high influence on RSs are first selected. In the second state, a K-means clustering method is used to uncover the interdependences between RSs and the influencing features, based on the results in the first state. The proposed method can determine the quantitative relationships between RSs and influencing factors. The results clearly show the influences of the factors on RSs, the possibilities of different train operation RSs under different situations, as well as some key time periods and key trains that the controllers should pay more attention to. The research in this paper can help train traffic controllers better understand the train operation patterns and provides direction for optimizing rail traffic RSs.
The Genetic Requirements for HiVir-Mediated Onion Necrosis by Pantoea ananatis, a Necrotrophic Plant Pathogen
Authors: Shin Gi Yoon , Dutta Bhabesh , Kvitko Brian
Published: February 2023

Pantoea ananatis is an unusual bacterial pathogen that lacks typical virulence determinants yet causes extensive necrosis in onion foliage and bulb tissues. The onion necrosis phenotype is dependent on the expression of the phosphonate toxin, pantaphos, which is synthesized by putative enzymes encoded by the HiVir (high virulence) gene cluster. The genetic contributions of individual hvr genes in HiVir-mediated onion necrosis remain largely unknown, except for the first gene, hvrA (phosphoenolpyruvate mutase, pepM), whose deletion resulted in the loss of onion pathogenicity. In this study, using gene-deletion mutation and complementation, we report that, of the ten remaining genes, hvrB to hvrF are also strictly required for the HiVir-mediated onion necrosis and in-planta bacterial growth, whereas hvrG to hvrJ partially contributed to these phenotypes. As the HiVir gene cluster is a common genetic feature shared among the onion-pathogenic P. ananatis strains that could serve as a useful diagnostic marker of onion pathogenicity, we sought to understand the genetic basis of HiVir-positive yet phenotypically deviant (non-pathogenic) strains. We identified and genetically characterized inactivating single nucleotide polymorphisms in the essential hvr genes of six phenotypically deviant P. ananatis strains. Finally, inoculation of cell-free spent medium of the isopropylthio-β-galactoside (IPTG)-inducible promoter (Ptac)-driven HiVir strain caused P.  ananatis–characteristic red onion scale necrosis as well as cell death symptoms in tobacco. Co-inoculation of the spent medium with essential hvr mutant strains restored in-planta populations of the strains to the wild-type level, suggesting that necrotic tissues are important for the proliferation of P. ananatis in onion.

[Formula: see text] Copyright © 2023 The Author(s). This is an open access article distributed under the CC BY-NC-ND 4.0 International license .
Factors Associated With Changes in Patient-Centered Care in Undergraduate Nursing Students
Authors: Heo Seongkum , Haley Brandy , Wright Patricia , Barone Claudia P. , Anders Michael , Bertulfo Tara , Troyan Patricia
Published: February 2023

AIM

The purpose of this study was to examine active listening, self-awareness, and empathy and how they relate to changes in patient-centered care (PCC) in undergraduate nursing students.

BACKGROUND

PCC is associated with better patient outcomes, but the level of PCC has been found to be low in nursing students.

METHOD

This secondary analysis used baseline and follow-up data at two time points from 50 undergraduate nursing students.

RESULTS

Changes in self-awareness were associated with changes in PCC directly (Follow-Up 1) or directly and indirectly through the effects on changes in empathy (Follow-Up 2), controlling for age, experience, and intervention. Changes in active listening were associated with changes in PCC only indirectly through the effect on changes in empathy only at Follow-Up 2.

CONCLUSION

Changes in self-awareness and active listening need to be the first targets of interventions to improve PCC in undergraduate nursing students.