bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Nanotechnology for bacteriophages, bacteriophages for nanotechnology
Authors: Raza Sada , Paczesny Jan
Published: September 2023

The first uses of nanotechnology were incidental, like in the cases of the first human-made nanostructures dating back to 600 BC when coatings of carbon nanotubes were made in ancient pottery shards or the famous 4th-century Lycurgus cup. Now, we carefully design functional nanostructures. These designs are often bio-inspired or composed of bio-parts. We are aiming to create life-like systems. The conflict will remain in defining the stage when such systems could be considered living. A similar dilemma is persistent in the realm of viruses, which are considered living or not, depending on the perception. This chapter describes the mutual relation between nanotechnology and bacteriophages (phages for short). Bacteriophages are viruses that infect bacteria and use bacterial cellular machinery to replicate. Phages are often seen as bio-nanomaterials with high specificity, uniform structure, and easy replication. Over the years, phages and nanomaterials have been helpful to each other in enhancing their applications. In different approaches, nano-phage particles work in synergy to derive better results. This chapter is divided into two major sections: ‘bacteriophages for nanotechnology’ and ‘nanotechnology for bacteriophages’.
Genetically encoded in situ gelation redox-responsive collagen-like protein hydrogel for accelerating diabetic wound healing
Authors: Jia Shuang , Wang Jie , Wang Xiaojie , Liu Xing , Li Shubin , Li Yimiao , Li Jiaqi , Wang Jieqi , Man Shad , Guo Zhao , Sun Yinan , Jia Zhenzhen , Wang Liyao , Li Xinyu
Published: September 2023

Genetically encoded collagen-like protein-based hydrogels have demonstrated remarkable efficacy in promoting the healing process in diabetic patients.
Interaction of supported phospholipid bilayers with diamond nanoparticles non-covalently functionalized with a cationic polyelectrolyte
Authors: Kuech Thomas R. , Ganji Nasim , Anastasia Caroline , Torelli Marco D. , Melby Eric S. , Mensch Arielle C. , Caudill Emily R. , Zimmermann Ralf , Hamers Robert J. , Pedersen Joel A.
Published: September 2023

Cationic polymer-wrapped diamond nanoparticles interact with lipid bilayers to reveal the influence of phospholipid composition and surface charge on nanoparticle-membrane interactions.
Dietary inflammatory index and renal cancer risk: a prospective study
Authors: Wu Jian , Yu Chenchen , Shivappa Nitin , Hébert James R. , Xu Xin
Published: September 2023

The dietary inflammatory index (DII) was positively associated with renal cancer risk in the Prostate, Lung, Colorectal, and Ovarian (PLCO) study.
The effects of Lactobacillus reuteri microcapsules on radiation-induced brain injury by regulating the gut microenvironment
Authors: Zhang Yizhi , Hu Jinglu , Song Xingshuang , Dai Jing , Tang Ziyan , Huang Guiyu , Jiao Wencheng , Wu Yanping , Wang Chenyun , Du Lina , Jin Yiguang
Published: September 2023

Lactobacillus reuteri microcapsules are a promising oral preparation, which provide new ideas and methods for the treatment of RIBI.
A review of the corrosion behavior of conventional and additively manufactured nickel–aluminum bronze (NAB) alloys: current status and future challenges
Authors: Morshed-Behbahani Khashayar , Bishop Donald Paul , Nasiri Ali
Published: September 2023

Corrosion behavior of conventionally produced and additively manufactured NABs are reviewed. The uniform and localized types of corrosion of NABs are discussed. The corrosion mechanisms for NAB alloys are discussed. Suggestions for future research on traditional and AMed NABs are offered.
3D Printing of continuous fiber composites using two-stage UV curable resin
Authors: Jiang Huan , Abdullah Arif M. , Ding Yuchen , Chung Christopher , L. Dunn Martin , Yu Kai
Published: September 2023

A two stage UV-curable resin is an ideal feedstock material to enable the printing of continuous fiber composites with outstanding mechanical properties. It also enables the repair, reshaping, and recycling of printed composites.
Strategies for chiral separation: from racemate to enantiomer
Authors: Sui Jingchen , Wang Na , Wang Jingkang , Huang Xin , Wang Ting , Zhou Lina , Hao Hongxun
Published: September 2023

Research progress and potential trends about six critical chiral resolution methods are summarized. Notable performance improvements based on the state-of-the-art “coupling” strategies are highlighted.
A focus on computer vision for non-contact monitoring of catalyst degradation and product formation kinetics
Authors: Buurma Niklaas J. , Bagley Scott W.
Published: September 2023

Cameras keep an eye on your reaction and provide quantitative data to support analysis of reaction kinetics (https://doi.org/10.1039/d2sc05702f).
Unveiling the structure and ion dynamics of amorphous Na3−xOHxCl antiperovskite electrolytes by first-principles molecular dynamics
Authors: Pham Tan-Lien , Guerboub Mohammed , Bouzid Assil , Boero Mauro , Massobrio Carlo , Shin Young-Han , Ori Guido
Published: September 2023

Amorphous antiperovskites show potential as solid-state electrolytes due to their versatile properties. Using first-principles molecular dynamics, we reveal the Na3−xOHxCl system's structural complexities, Na ion dynamics, H atom role, and ionic conductivity mechanisms.
Optimum number of cascade cells for multilevel inverter considering redundancy strategies based on cost and reliability optimization
Authors: Azimi Maede , Asadi Mehdi
Published: September 2023

This paper proposes an economical reliability‐oriented solution to determine the optimal number of cascade cells and redundancies for STATCOM using a Non‐Dominated Sorting Genetic (NSGA‐II) algorithm based on different redundancy configuration schemes. A multi‐objective optimization framework is presented, to minimize the total cost and maximize its reliability index by considering power quality issues. In the presented model, a new cost modelling is introduced considering the cost of inductor loss. The multilevel cascade topology with staircase modulation strategy is also taken into account. The effectiveness of the proposed optimization framework is validated by the NSGA‐II algorithm compared to the results of goal attainment and goal programming as decomposition single‐objective optimization methods. The results verify that the proposed multi‐objective optimization framework could be useful in the optimal selection of high‐voltage STATCOM levels in the presence of redundancies while ensuring the required level of reliability at the minimum cost. Also, the presented NSGA‐II optimization algorithm is applicable to maintain both objective functions at an acceptable value.
A model predictive control of three‐phase grid‐connected current‐source inverter based on optimization theory
Authors: Geng Yiwen , Zhou Tengfa , Cao Fucheng , Xin Yue , Wang Huibin
Published: September 2023

In the three‐phase grid‐connected current‐source inverters (CSIs), the resonance result from the AC‐side CL filter and the quality of the grid‐current waveform under the unbalanced and harmonic grid voltage conditions are two issues deserving attention. To solve the two problems, a continuous control set‐model predictive control (CCS‐MPC) method based on the optimization theory is proposed in the two‐phase synchronous coordinate frame in this paper. The constructed cost function takes grid‐connected current and output current of the inverter as control target, and obtains its optimal solution under the least‐squares method, where the optimal inverter‐side current reference is composed of inductor‐current proportional feedback, capacitor‐voltage proportional feedback, and inverter‐side current steady‐state value feedforward. The proposed method can easily realize the normal operation of three‐phase grid‐connected CSIs because the method can be determined by only one parameter under the unbalanced and distorted grids. Furthermore, in the proposed method, the proportional feedback of capacitor voltage can effectively suppress the CL filter resonance. Finally, simulation and experimental results verify the effectiveness of the proposed control strategy.
Ultra‐high gain quadratic boost DC–DC converter based on a three‐winding coupled inductor with reduced voltage stress for fuel cell‐based systems
Authors: Karimi Hajiabadi Mostafa , Mosallanejad Ali , Salemnia Ahmad
Published: September 2023

Here, an ultra‐high gain quadratic boost DC–DC converter (UQBC) based on the conventional quadratic boost converter (CQBC) and a three‐winding coupled inductor (TWCI) has been proposed. It benefits from an extensive voltage gain range and low voltage stress on semiconductors. In addition, the converter requires a reasonable number of components. This structure is suitable for connecting renewable DC power sources like fuel cells to a DC‐bus in DC microgrids. Unlike CQBC, the produced conversion ratio has been improved to [1+n+m+d(1+n)]/(1−d)2 thanks to integrating a TWCI into CQBC. As a result, the proposed quadratic boost converter gives a better step‐up factor than previously presented quadratic boost converters (QBC). Meanwhile, the employed improvement method has not adversely affected some critical parameters like voltage stress on semiconductors or the input current ripple. This paper presents the mathematical analysis and operating principle of the proposed topology for both continuous and discontinuous current modes (CCM and DCM). Experimental results are represented to validate the converter theory and its performance. Results indicate that a high gain and efficiency have been obtained. Also, the voltage stress on the power switch is reduced by one‐fourth by choosing a proper duty cycle and winding coefficient.
Design of auto‐tuning‐based adaptive controllers for voltage source converters with inductive loads
Authors: Zhang Zheng , Shehada Ahmed , Beig Abdul R , Boiko Igor
Published: September 2023

This paper presents an auto‐tuning method for dc‐ac voltage source converters (VSCs) with an inductive load that is based on the modified relay feedback test (MRFT). Controllers tuned by the proposed method can produce near‐optimal dynamic performance for dc–ac VSCs without requiring knowledge of the plant's parameters. The controller consists of a PID cascaded with a digital notch filter. The tuning involves two steps. In the first step, the MRFT is used to tune the digital notch filter to compensate for the LCL resonance resulting from the LC filter's interaction with the inductive load. In the second step, one more MRFT is used to tune the PID controller using optimal tuning rules that are derived in advance (offline). The proposed optimal for the class of the dc–ac VSCs tuning rules can guarantee a specified phase margin and near optimal transient performance for any randomly picked VSC. The performance of the proposed tuning of the PID + notch filter is verified by simulations and experiments. The dynamic response of the auto‐tuned controller compares well to the response of a theoretically optimal but non‐auto‐tuned PID + notch filter designed using the full knowledge of the LC filter and the load.
Towards predicting immersion in surround sound music reproduction from sound field features
Authors: Kiyan Roman , Bergner Jakob , Preihs Stephan , Wycisk Yves , Schössow Daphne , Sander Kilian , Peissig Jürgen , Kopiez Reinhard
Published: September 2023

When evaluating surround sound loudspeaker reproduction, perceptual effects are commonly analyzed in relationship to different loudspeaker configurations. The presented work contributes to this by modeling perceptual effects based on acoustic properties of various reproduction formats. A model of immersion in music listening is derived from the results of an experimental study analyzing the psychological construct of immersive music experience. The proposed approach is evaluated with respect to the relationship between immersion ratings and sound field features obtained from re-recordings of the stimuli using a spherical microphone array at the listening position. Spatial sound field parameters such as inter-aural cross-correlation (IACC), diffuseness and directivity are found to be of particular relevance. Further, immersion is observed to reach a point of saturation with greater numbers of loudspeakers, which is confirmed to be predictable from the physical properties of the sound field. Although effects related to participants and musical pieces outweigh the impact of sound field features, the proposed approach is found to be suitable for predicting population-average ratings, i.e. immersion experienced by an average listener for unknown content. The proposed method could complement existing research on multichannel loudspeaker reproduction by establishing a more generalizable framework independent of particular speaker setups.
Maternal Hyperglycemia Induces Autonomic Dysfunction and Heart
Failure in Older Adult Offspring
Authors: da Silva Odair Alves , Duarte Glória Pinto , Lahlou Saad
Published: September 2023

Aims Offspring exposed to an adverse fetal environment, such as
gestational diabetes, may manifest increased susceptibility to several chronic
diseases later in life. In the present study, the cardiovascular function of
three different ages of offspring from diabetic rats was evaluated.

Methods and results Diabetes mellitus was induced in pregnant rats by a
single dose of streptozotocin (50 mg/kg). The offspring from
diabetic (OD) and control rats (OC) were evaluated at three different ages: 6,
12 or 18 months. In the corresponding OC groups, fasting glycemia, baseline mean
arterial pressure, and sympathetic tonus increased in the OD rats at 12 (OD12)
and 18 (OD18) months of age, while cardiac hypertrophy was observed in all OD
groups. Cardiac function evaluation in vivo showed low left ventricular
systolic pressure and+dP/dt in the OD18 rats, suggesting a
systolic dysfunction. OD12 and OD18 groups showed high left ventricle
end-diastolic pressure, suggesting a diastolic dysfunction. OD groups showed an
age-related impairment of both baroreflex-mediated tachycardia and
baroreflex-mediated bradycardia in OD12 and OD18 rats. In isolated hearts from
OD18 rats, both inotropic and tachycardiac responses to increasing isoproterenol
were significantly reduced compared to the corresponding OC group.

Conclusion These results suggest that gestational diabetes triggers the
onset of hyperglycemia hypertension with impaired baroreflex sensitivity and
heart failure in older age of offspring, representing important risk factors for
death. Therefore, ensuring optimal glycemic control in diabetic pregnancy is
important and serves as a key to preventing cardiovascular disease in the
offspring in their older age.
Squash Cytology Diagnosing Plasmacytoma of Frontal Bone as First Presentation of Nonsecretory Multiple Myeloma
Authors: Nagose Vaishali B. , Patil Swapnil B. , Mahajan Neha A.
Published: September 2023

Plasmacytoma of bone is one of the criteria for diagnosing plasma cell myeloma (multiple myeloma). A plasmacytoma involving a frontal bone is unusual, with only few being reported so far. Also, when typical clinical presentation is absent, diagnosis is usually not suspected clinicoradiologically. We report a rare case of frontal bone plasmacytoma presenting as a lump over the forehead, the squash cytology of which gave the diagnosis of neoplastic etiology. Thus, squash cytology helped in early and definitive diagnosis in this patient, hastening meticulous diagnostic investigations and appropriate management. With full workup, the final diagnosis of a nonsecretory multiple myeloma was made.
Possible Role of Mitochondrial Transfer RNA Gene 5816 A > G Genetic Polymorphism (m.5816A > G) in a 3-Year-Old Child with Dystonia: Report of a Case
Authors: Wang Sumei , Liang Minglu , Ma Jiehui , Huang Sheng , Fan Lili , Zhu Feng , Sun Dan
Published: September 2023

Background Mutations in the mitochondrial transfer RNA (mt-tRNA) gene are a hotspot for mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) mutations and are most common in mitochondrial diseases.

Methods We identified the mt-tRNA gene 5816 A > G (m.5816 A > G) mutation in a 3-year-old child with dystonia who died. We performed clinical evaluation, genetic analysis, and biochemical investigation with mitochondrial function testing.

Results Our patient was found to have dystonia with hyperlactatemia. Electroencephalogram findings were abnormal in children with numerous multifocal spikes, multispike, spikes and slow waves, slow waves and low amplitude fast waves, more pronounced in the occipital region bilaterally, and occurring continuously during sleep. One year later, the preexisting patient had seizures lasting 1 to 2 hours and subsequently died. mtDNA sequencing revealed that the proband, her mother, and her grandmother all carried the m.5816A > G mutation. Oxygen consumption rate (OCR) assays revealed that the proband's basal resting OCR, adenosine triphosphate production, proton leak, maximal respiration, and spare capacity OCR were all significantly lower compared with healthy children of the same age.

Conclusion The present case demonstrates a childhood dystonia caused by a mt-tRNA gene 5816 A > G mutation, which has never been reported before. Our findings provide valuable new insights into the pathogenic mechanism and function of the m.5816A > G mutation.
Experimental data management platform for data-driven investigation of combinatorial alloy thin films
Authors: Song Jaeho , Jo Haechan , Kim Taeyeop , Lee Dongwoo
Published: September 2023

Experimental materials data are heterogeneous and include a variety of metadata for processing and characterization conditions, making the implementation of data-driven approaches for developing novel materials difficult. In this paper, we introduce the Thin-Film Alloy Database (TFADB), a materials data management platform, designed for combinatorially investigated thin-film alloys through various experimental tools. Using TFADB, researchers can readily upload, edit, and retrieve multi-dimensional experimental alloy data, such as composition, thickness, x-ray diffraction, electrical resistivity, nanoindentation, and image data. Furthermore, composition-dependent properties from the database can easily be managed in a format adequate to be preprocessed for machine learning analyses. The high flexibility of the software allows the management of new types of materials data that can be potentially acquired from new combinatorial experiments.
Impact of the oxidation temperature on the density of single-photon sources formed at SiO2/SiC interface
Authors: Kaneko Mitsuaki , Takashima Hideaki , Shimazaki Konosuke , Takeuchi Shigeki , Kimoto Tsunenobu
Published: September 2023

The impact of oxidation temperature on the formation of single photon-emitting defects located at the silicon dioxide (SiO2)/silicon carbide (SiC) interface was investigated. Thermal oxidation was performed in the temperature range between 900 and 1300 °C. After oxidation, two different cooling processes—cooling down in N2 or O2 ambient—were adopted. Single photon emission was confirmed with second-order correlation function measurements. For the samples cooled in an N2 ambient, the density of interface single photon sources (SPSs) increased with decreasing oxidation temperature with a density that could be controlled over the 105 to 108 cm−2 range. For the O2 cooled samples, on the other hand, many interface SPSs were formed irrespective of the oxidation temperature. This is attributed to the low-temperature oxidation during the cooling process after oxidation.
Gate-tunable hysteresis response of field effect transistor based on sulfurized Mo
Authors: Mathew S. , Reiprich J. , Narasimha S. , Abedin S. , Kurtash V. , Thiele S. , Scheler T. , Hähnlein B. , Schaaf P. , Jacobs H. O. , Pezoldt J.
Published: September 2023

Hysteresis effects and their tuning with electric fields and light were studied in thin film molybdenum disulfide transistors fabricated from sulfurized molybdenum films. The influence of the back-gate voltage bias, voltage sweep range, illumination, and AlOx encapsulation on the hysteresis effect of the back-gated field effect transistors was studied and quantified. This study revealed the distinctive contribution of MoS2 surface, MoS2/SiO2 interface defects and their associated traps as primary sources of of hysteresis.
Investigation of wide-range trap energy spectra of typical aerospace polymer dielectric materials by using photo-stimulated discharge method
Authors: Zou Fangzheng , Yang Xiong , Zhao Xin , Lian Ruhui , Liu Haoyan , Li Wenrui , Song Baipeng , Zhang Guanjun
Published: September 2023

The presence of space charge in polymer insulation materials has emerged as a critical constraint in the advancement of polymer materials for high-voltage electrical devices. Trap properties play a pivotal role in governing the storage and transport of space charges. Thus, precise characterization of the distribution of charge trap energy spectra in polymer dielectric materials holds immense scientific significance for enhancing the properties and applications of such materials. In response, the author develops a platform utilizing the photo-stimulated discharge (PSD) method to measure the trap energy spectra of polymer dielectric materials. This platform allows for accurate, intuitive, and effective characterization of trap parameters across a broader range while preserving the original features of trap energy levels. Experimental results have shown that the laser light source employed in the platform does not induce photodegradation or photodamage to the tested samples. The validity of the PSD measurement system has been confirmed under diverse experimental conditions, yielding trap spectra and pertinent parameters for four representative polymer materials: polyimide, polyester, polyvinylidene fluoride, and polyethylene. This work presents a scientifically effective approach to characterize trap energy spectra in polymer dielectrics, providing valuable insights into the characterization of such spectra.
The metabolic response of Araucaria angustifolia embryogenic cells to heat stress is associated with their maturation potential
Authors: Kaziuk Fernando Diego , Furlanetto Ana Luiza Dorigan de Matos , dos Santos André Luis Wendt , Floh Eny Iochevet Senegal , Donatti Lucelia , Merlin Rocha Maria Eliane , Fortes Fabiane , Martinez Glaucia Regina , Cadena Silvia Maria Suter Correia
Published: September 2023

Araucaria angustifolia is a critically endangered species and its distribution can be affected by an increase in temperature. In this study, we evaluated the effects of heat stress (30°C) on Araucaria angustifolia cell lines responsive (SE1) and non-responsive (SE6) to the development of somatic embryos. The viability of both cell lines was reduced by heat stress and mitochondria were the organelles most affected. Heat stress for 24 h increased the reactive oxygen species (ROS) levels in SE1 cells, followed by a reduction at 48 and 72 h. In SE6 cells, an increase occurred after 24 and 48 h of stress, returning to control levels at 72 h. H2O2 levels were increased after 24 h for both SE1 and SE6 cells, being higher for SE6. Interestingly, at 48 and 72 h, H2O2 levels decreased in SE1 cells, while in SE6, the values returned to the control levels. The respiration of SE6 cells in the presence of oxidisable substrates was inhibited by heat stress, in agreement with the high lipid peroxidation levels. The AaSERK1 gene was identified in both cultures, with greater expression in the SE1 line. Heat stress for 24 and 48 h increased gene expression only in this cell line. The activity of peroxidase, superoxide dismutase and enzymes of the glutathione/ascorbate cycle was increased in both cell lines subjected to heat stress. Catalase activity was increased only in SE6 cells at 72 h of exposure. These results show that responsive SE1 cells can modulate ROS levels more efficiently than SE6 when these cells are stressed by heat. This ability may be related to the maturation capacity of these cells.
Researchers use synchrotron X-rays to image a single atom
Authors: Dumé Isabelle
Published: September 2023

According to researchers in the US, the resolution of a technique known as synchrotron X-ray scanning tunnelling microscopy (SX-STM) has reached the single-atom limit for the first time.
India launches Chandrayaan-3 mission to the Moon
Authors: Banks Michael
Published: September 2023

Chandrayaan-3, India’s third Moon mission, was successfully launched last month from the Satish Dhawan Space Centre. The $75m mission consists of a lander and rover and was fired into space by the country’s Launch Vehicle Mark 3 rocket.
From bottom-up to top-down
Authors: Johnston Hamish
Published: September 2023

Deputy director of the School of Computing at the Australian National University, Amanda Barnard talks to Hamish Johnston about research at the interface of computational modelling, applied machine learning and artificial intelligence.
New material controls transmission of light, heat and microwaves
Authors: Jarman Sam
Published: September 2023

Inspired by the colour-changing skin of squid, researchers in China have designed a material that can switch between being transparent and opaque to radiation at visible, infrared and microwave wavelengths.
Dens Milne: 1967–2023
Authors: Durrani Matin
Published: September 2023

We are sad to report the death of a long-standing and much admired colleague.
How to think like a scientist
Authors: Kakalios James
Published: September 2023

Solving our political polarization problem could be possible with one single, simple but very hard step, argues James Kakalios.
Using cosmic muons to predict natural disasters
Authors: Allen Michael
Published: September 2023

Michael Allen peers into the depths of natural disasters, as he speaks to the physicists who are using muon tomography to get a better understanding of volcanoes and tropical cyclones.
The possible impact of human activity and climate change on the potential suitable habitats of Taxus wallichianavar.mairei (Taxaceae) evaluated by ensemble modeling techniques
Authors: Wang Jiahong , Qian Qifeng , Jia XiaoJing , Yu Bing , Sun Caihua , Tao Qian
Published: September 2023

In the current work, we examined the possible changes in potential suitable habitats of Taxus wallichiana var. mairei (Taxaceae) under the influence of human activity and climate change using ensemble modeling techniques. T. wallichiana var. mairei is an endangered subtropical coniferous evergreen tree and is often used in medical applications. It is mainly distributed in southern China and has experienced several degenerations due to human activity in recent decades. Its growth is also very sensitive to climate change. The area of its highly suitable habitat under current climate conditions was approximately 2.31 × 106 km2, as estimated by our ensemble models, accounting for 81.85% of its total suitable habitat. The ensemble model results showed that the mean diurnal range (bio2) was the most critical environment variable affecting the performance of the ensemble models. Human activity had an overall negative influence on the suitable habitats of T. wallichiana var. mairei under current climate conditions. Under the influence of future climate change, the ensemble model predicted that the highly suitable habitat would convert to low- to medium-suitability or be lost, with the predicted loss of highly suitable habitat at the end of this century ranging from 30.40% to 96.55%. The predicted changes were more intense with increases in the severity of global warming. In addition, the ensemble model also predicted a shift in the distribution of total suitable habitats toward higher elevations. The results of this study should provide information for conservation purposes.
Assessing potential coastal flood exposure along the Port-Bouët Bay in Côte d’Ivoire using the enhanced bathtub model
Authors: Kouakou Marcel , Tiémélé Jacques André , Djagoua Éric , Gnandi Kissao
Published: September 2023

Coastal flooding is a growing concern for many communities worldwide due to climate change. This study focuses on the Port-Bouët Bay, located in Abidjan, Côte d’Ivoire. A coastal flood model based on the enhanced bathtub model was used to map the present and future flood extent and assess exposure to quantify the likely affected populations, buildings, and land uses for different scenarios. The model incorporated a digital elevation model, surface roughness, flood water source, and the once a century extreme sea-level scenarios. Validation was conducted against GPS coordinates of recently flooded zones. The analysis revealed that, under current conditions, around 21.58 hectares are vulnerable to flooding, and approximately 2465 people and 544 buildings are exposed to flooding today. Based on future projections, the extent of flooding is anticipated to increase by different ranges depending on the time period and the climate change conditions. By the end of the century, the increase in flooding extent could reach a percentage of 27%, 37%, and 90% under SSP1-2.6, SSP2-4.5, and SSP5-8.5, respectively. The impacts would consequently be worsened with greater number of people and assets exposed to future coastal flood hazard. The land use analysis showed that informal settlements are the occupation most exposed, followed by residential settlements, commercial and industrial land, in that order. The spatial disaggregation of this exposure across neighborhoods indicates that Sogefiha is the most exposed, followed by Petit-Bassam and Vridi. However, a substantial increase in coastal flooding in Vridi by 2100 under the SSP5-8.5 scenario could lead to significant exposure level change for this scenario. This information is critical for evaluating and managing present and future coastal flood risks in the Port-Bouët Bay area and for informing decision-making processes.
Effect of loading/unloading rate on instrumented indentation measurements in alloy Cu-2%Be
Authors: Montecinos S , Tognana S , Salgueiro W
Published: September 2023

The influence of the loading/unloading rate on the indentation strain rate, hardness and elastic modulus in Cu-2wt%Be samples subjected to different aging treatments was analyzed. Homogenized samples were aged for 1 and 10 h at 400 °C to induce the formation of γ′ and γ precipitates, and instrumented indentation tests were performed at different loading rates between 0.15 and 1 mN s−1. The indentation curves of all the samples were influenced by the loading/unloading rate, but the behavior of the samples with precipitates was different from that of the homogenized samples. Strain rate levels during loading were also influenced by the loading rate. The strain rate increased almost linearly with the loading rate in the homogenized sample and the sample with γ′ nanoprecipitates, while it experienced a decelerated increase with the loading rate in the sample with γ phase. The hardness and reduced modulus were estimated from the indentation curves using the Oliver and Pharr method. Hardness remained almost constant at approximately 2.4 GPa as the rate was varied in the homogenized sample. On the other hand, the samples with γ′ and γ phase exhibited higher hardness values at 0.15 mN s−1, while it remained approximately constant for the other rates. The reduced modulus increased with the loading/unloading rate and this increase was more pronounced for the sample with γ precipitates, with a higher sensitivity of the reduced modulus increase.
Numerical analysis for electromagnetic scattering with nonlinear boundary conditions
Authors: Nick Jörg
Published: September 2023

This work studies time-dependent electromagnetic scattering from obstacles whose interaction with the wave is fully determined by a nonlinear boundary condition. In particular, the boundary condition studied in this work enforces a power law type relation between the electric and magnetic fields along the boundary. Based on time-dependent jump relations of classical boundary operators, we derive a nonlinear system of time-dependent boundary integral equations that determines the tangential traces of the scattered electric and magnetic fields. These fields can subsequently be computed at arbitrary points in the exterior domain by evaluating a time-dependent representation formula.

Fully discrete schemes are obtained by discretizing the nonlinear system of boundary integral equations with Runge–Kutta based convolution quadrature in time and Raviart–Thomas boundary elements in space. Error bounds with explicitly stated convergence rates are proven, under the assumption of sufficient regularity of the exact solution. The error analysis is conducted through novel techniques based on time-discrete transmission problems and the use of a new discrete partial integration inequality. Numerical experiments illustrate the use of the proposed method and provide empirical convergence rates.
Beyond Historicity: Aesthetic Authenticity in Cinematic Adaptations of Non-/Anti-Realist Fiction
Authors: Dridi Yosr
Published: September 2023

The literature on authenticity in adaptation studies seems to be focused almost entirely on adaptations of either historical and (auto-)biographical literary texts or non-fiction narratives. The usual case studies are often generically limited to heritage and historical films, period dramas, documentaries, and biopics, to the exclusion of non-/anti-realist genres. However, there is more to adaptation than empirically and/or historically verifiable source texts, which warrants an examination of authenticity in adaptations of fantastical, science-fictional, and gothic fictions away from the fixation on historicity and veracity. This paper proposes an aesthetic (metadiscursive and experiential) outlook on authenticity in genre adaptations, namely George Miller’s adaptation of A. S. Byatt’s ‘The Djinn in the Nightingale’s Eye’, Three Thousand Years of Longing (2022); Denis Villeneuve’s adaptation of Ted Chiang’s ‘Story of Your Life’, Arrival (2016); and the different adaptations of Mary Shelley’s Frankenstein. Metadiscursively, authenticity depends on the self-consciousness of artistic representation, the extent to which the source text and its cinematic adaptation acknowledge their status as fictional narratives and their representational, medium-specific limits and potentials. Experientially, authenticity is judged by the degree of audience immersion in the storyworld, the feeling (generated by diegetic techniques) that what they are watching is experientially plausible despite the implausibility of the genre itself. Without lapsing in excessive realism and verbatim fidelity, an authentic adaptation is heedful of the paradoxes surrounding authenticity itself in any fictional narrative, attentive to their aesthetic and thematic treatment in the source text, aware of the representational affordances of the literary and cinematic media, and capable of offering the audience an immersive experience.
A cross-sectional study of sensory-motor neuropsychological function among sewage plant and sewage net workers exposed to hydrogen sulphide when handling wastewater
Authors: Goffeng Lars Ole , Austigard Åse Dalseth , Svendsen Kristin H , Skare Øivind , Einarsdottir Elin , Madsø Lene , Heldal Kari Kulvik
Published: September 2023

Objectives

Workers at sewage treatment plants are exposed to a complex mixture of toxins, including hydrogen sulphide (H2S). An issue of concern among sewage workers, is possible negative nervous system effects from low-level H2S exposure. Empirical neuropsychological evidence indicates both that low-dose exposure to H2S exposure affects the nervous system, and the contrary, that such exposure may facilitate nervous system function, since H2S is an endogenously produced central nervous system (CNS) gasotransmitter. The aim of this study is to describe a possible association between the H2S component of the total exposure and long-term effects on neuropsychological motor function among wastewater workers.

Methods

Workers (N = 138) treating wastewater in 6 sewage-treatment plants, or in the sewer net system participated in a cross-sectional study. H2S exposure was expressed in a dichotomous exposure variable defining currently H2S-exposed (N = 112) and unexposed referent workers (N = 26), and a variable defining a job-exposure matrix for long-term total typical workplace H2S exposure. The participants went through neuropsychological tests for hand coordination, reaction time (SRT), and balance, and completed questionnaires. Pearson chi-square test or independent samples t-test was used when comparing the currently H2S-exposed workers with the unexposed control group. Multiple linear regression was used to assess associations between the independent variables age, smoking and exposure variables, and the neuropsychological tests.

Results

The analyses indicate increased SRT in the currently H2S-exposed group compared to controls (mean [SD] = 225.8 [29.9] versus 210.7 [26.3] ms, P = 0.019), and an association between increased SRT and current H2S-exposure in the total study sample (β = 14.7, P = 0.026, R2 = 0.06, P = 0.050). Blindfolded balance testing indicates a nonsignificant trend in the total study sample, of reduced balance in the highest versus lowest H2S total long-term exposure-index group (Sway area [mean {SD}, mm2: 702 [410] versus 581 [278]), and a significant association between total long-term H2S exposure and reduced balance among smokers (Sway area, mm2 [β = 38.7, P = 0.039], mean sway, mm [β = 0.3, P = 0.015]).

Conclusion

The observed trends and associations may be due to exposure peaks in certain work operations and pinpoint the importance of minimizing and avoiding exposure peaks, also when H2S time-weighted average measurements do not exceed an occupational exposure limit of 5 ppm.
Prospects and perspectives: inferring physiological and regulatory targets for CAM from molecular and modelling approaches
Authors: Chomthong Methawi , Griffiths Howard
Published: September 2023

Background and Scope

This review summarizes recent advances in our understanding of Crassulacean Acid Metabolism (CAM) by integrating evolutionary, ecological, physiological, metabolic and molecular perspectives. A number of key control loops which moderate the expression of CAM phases, and their metabolic and molecular control, are explored. These include nocturnal stomatal opening, activation of phosphoenolpyruvate carboxylase by a specific protein kinase, interactions with circadian clock control, as well as daytime decarboxylation and activation of Rubisco. The vacuolar storage and release of malic acid and the interplay between the supply and demand for carbohydrate reserves are also key metabolic control points.

Future Opportunities

We identify open questions and opportunities, with experimentation informed by top-down molecular modelling approaches allied with bottom-up mechanistic modelling systems. For example, mining transcriptomic datasets using high-speed systems approaches will help to identify targets for future genetic manipulation experiments to define the regulation of CAM (whether circadian or metabolic control). We emphasize that inferences arising from computational approaches or advanced nuclear sequencing techniques can identify potential genes and transcription factors as regulatory targets. However, these outputs then require systematic evaluation, using genetic manipulation in key model organisms over a developmental progression, combining gene silencing and metabolic flux analysis and modelling to define functionality across the CAM day–night cycle. From an evolutionary perspective, the origins and function of CAM succulents and responses to water deficits are set against the mesophyll and hydraulic limitations imposed by cell and tissue succulence in contrasting morphological lineages. We highlight the interplay between traits across shoots (3D vein density, mesophyll conductance and cell shrinkage) and roots (xylem embolism and segmentation). Thus, molecular, biophysical and biochemical processes help to curtail water losses and exploit rapid rehydration during restorative rain events. In the face of a changing climate, we hope such approaches will stimulate opportunities for future research.
Cessation of berry growth coincides with leaf complete stomatal closure at pre-veraison for grapevine (Vitis vinifera) subjected to progressive drought stress
Authors: Knipfer T , Wilson N , Jorgensen-Bambach N E , McElrone A J , Bartlett M K , Castellarin S D
Published: September 2023

Background and Aims

Drought events have devasting impacts on grape berry production. The aim of this study was to investigate berry growth in the context of leaf stomatal closure under progressive drought stress.

Methods

Potted grapevine plants (varieties ‘Syrah’ and ‘Cabernet Sauvignon’) were evaluated at pre-verasion (30–45 d after anthesis, DAA) and post-veraison (90–107 DAA). Berry diameter, berry absolute growth rate (AGR), leaf stomatal conductance (Gs) at midday, plant water potential at predawn and midday (ΨPD and ΨMD, respectively), and soil relative water content were measured repeatedly. The ΨPD-threshold of 90 % loss in stomatal conductance (Gs10, i.e. complete stomatal closure) was determined. Data were related to plant dehydration phases I, II and III with corresponding boundaries Θ1 and Θ2, using the water potential curve method.

Key Results

At pre-veraison, berry AGR declined together with leaf Gs in response to soil drying in both varieties. Berry AGR transitioned from positive to negative (shrinkage) values when leaf Gs approached zero. The Gs10-threshold was −0.81 MPa in ‘Syrah’ and −0.74 MPa in ‘Cabernet Sauvignon’ and was linked to boundary Θ1. At post-veraison, berry AGR was negligible and negative AGR values were not intensified by increasing drought stress in either variety.

Conclusion

Leaf complete stomatal closure under progressive drought stress coincides with cessation of berry growth followed by shrinkage at pre-veraison (growth stage 1).
Synthesis of isomaltooligosaccharides using 4-O-α-d-isomaltooligosaccharylmaltooligosaccharide 1,4-α-isomaltooligosaccharohydrolase
Authors: Kitagawa Noriaki , Watanabe Hikaru , Mori Tetsuya , Kawauchi Yuki , Aga Hajime , Ushio Shimpei , Yamamoto Koryu
Published: September 2023

Isomaltooligosaccharides (IMOs), including isomaltose, are valuable oligosaccharides, and the development of methods to synthesize high-purity IMOs has long been underway. We recently discovered a novel enzyme, 4-O-α-d-isomaltooligosaccharylmaltooligosaccharide 1,4-α-isomaltooligosaccharohydrolase (IMM-4IH), that showed promise for improving the synthesis process. In this study, we establish methods for synthesizing isomaltose and IMOs consisting of a variety of degrees of polymerization from starch using IMM-4IH. With 5% substrate, by combining IMM-4IH with 1,4-α-glucan 6-α-glucosyltransferase from Bacillus globisporus N75, the yield of isomaltose was 63.0%; incorporating isoamylase and cyclomaltodextrin glucanotransferase increased the yield to 75.3%. On the other hand, by combining IMM-4IH with 1,4-α-glucan 6-α-glucosyltransferase from Paenibacillus sp. PP710, IMOs were synthesized. The inclusion of isoamylase and α-amylase led to the 136 mM IMOs, consisting of oligosaccharides from isomaltose to isomaltodecaose, from 10% starch. The development of these efficient methods will be an important contribution to the industrial production of IMOs.
The impact of food availability on risk-induced trait responses in prey
Authors: Sheriff Michael J , Mancini Isabella , Aguiar Olivia K , DiNuzzo Eleanor R , Maloney-Buckley Sophia , Sonnega Sam , Donelan Sarah C
Published: September 2023

Prey respond to predation risk by altering their morphology, physiology, and behavior, responses that may come at a cost to prey foraging and growth. However, their perception of risk may depend upon the environmental context in which the interaction occurs. Here, we examined how food availability influenced prey’s responses to a nonlethal but free-ranging predator. We used an experimental mesocosm set-up of an intertidal system of green crab (Carcinus maenas) predators and dogwhelk snail (Nucella lapillus) prey, with blue mussels as the basal resource. We measured individual Nucella risk-aversion behavior (summed value of their habitat use) and their growth throughout the 28-day experiment. We found that when Nucella were exposed to predation risk, they had greater risk-aversion behavior when food was available as compared to when food was not. We also found that risk-aversion behavior increased over time in all treatments but that individuals exposed to predation risk with food always had greater risk-aversion behavior. Nucella had significantly more growth when provided with food as compared to without. In treatments with food, snails exposed to predation risk had significantly reduced growth compared to those not exposed to risk. In treatments without food, predation risk had no effect on growth. Our results support the hypothesis that greater resource availability significantly increases individual risk responses and the costs of risk avoidance, thus food magnifies risk-induced non-consumptive effects. They provide insights into context-based predation risk effects and how individuals may prioritize safety versus foraging depending upon perceived risk, food availability, and the costs of responding.
Competition for acoustic space in a temperate-forest bird community
Authors: Staniewicz Agata , Sokołowska Emilia , Muszyńska Adrianna , Budka Michał
Published: September 2023

Animals that communicate by acoustic signaling share a common acoustic environment. Birds are particularly vocal examples, using a wide repertoire of broadcast signals for mate attraction and territorial defense. However, interference caused by sounds that overlap in frequency and time can disrupt signal detection and reduce reproductive success. Here, we investigated competition avoidance mechanisms used by the bird community inhabiting a primeval lowland temperate forest in Białowieża, Eastern Poland. We recorded the dawn chorus at 84 locations in early and late spring and calculated dissimilarity indices of the broadcast signals to examine how species with greater song similarities use spatial and temporal partitioning to avoid competition for acoustic space throughout the breeding season. The bird community changed its use of acoustic space throughout the day and season. Birds did not use spatial partitioning of signal space when we looked at recording locations over the whole study period, but they did in a seasonal context, with species more acoustically different than expected by chance recorded at the same point in the same part of the season. Our results also indicate that daily temporal niche partitioning may only occur at certain times before sunrise, with no evidence of large-scale temporal partitioning between species vocalizing during the same 1-min recordings in daytime. These results contribute toward our understanding of the evolution of bird communication and highlight the strategies employed by different species to improve their signal transmission.