bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Study on the mechanism affecting the quality of micro-hole in ultrasonic-assisted drilling of high-speed circuit boards
Authors: Gao Zhisen , Shi Hongyan , Tao Sha , Liu Xianwen , Zhu Tao , Chen Zhuangpei
Published: April 2022

High-speed circuit boards are created to meet the high-speed signal transmission requirements of 5G communication technology, but the non-polar resins, flat glass fibers, and multiple and hard fillers used for this purpose have launched new challenges to their micro-hole processing. Micro-hole quality has always been a decisive factor in board performance, therefore, this paper proposes a new processing method for improving micro-hole drilling quality of high-speed circuit boards, establishes an ultrasonic-assisted drilling tool motion model. Then, this paper analyzes the changes in drilling method, material deformation, chip breakage and chip removal during ultrasonic-assisted drilling of printed circuit boards, to study the influence mechanism on micro-hole quality during ultrasound-assisted drilling. In addition, an experimental platform for ultrasonic-assisted drilling is designed and built, and single-factor experiments for verification of ultrasonic effects, optimization of drilling parameters, and orthogonal experiments for ultrasonic-assisted drilling of high-speed circuit boards are conducted on this platform. The experimental results show that the loading of ultrasonic vibration has a very obvious improvement on the situation of several machining defects such as hole wall roughness, entrance burr and nail head in micro-hole drilling of high-speed circuit boards. In addition, the influence order and better level combination of each processing parameter are obtained, which provides a theoretical research basis and processing instructions for the improvement of micro-hole quality of high-speed circuit boards.
Metagenome-assembled genomes reveal many novel microbial lineages in the geothermal springs of the subantarctic Kerguelen Islands
Authors: Allioux Maxime , Yvenou Stéven , Merkel Alexander , Cozannet Marc , Aube Johanne , Romancer Marc Le , Lavastre Véronique , Guillaume Damien , Alain Karine
Published: April 2022

The Kerguelen Islands, located in the southern part of the Indian Ocean, are very isolated geographically. They have been the subject of very few microbiological investigations. In particular, their microbial diversity has never been analyzed with high-throughput sequencing methods and no sequencing studies of the genomes of the microbial communities have been performed. In this article we performed the first metagenomics analysis of microorganisms present in Kerguelen hot springs. From four different hot springs, we assembled metagenomes and recovered 42 metagenome-assembled genomes, mostly associated with new taxa. Bacterial and archaeal MAGs were studied in details and showed affiliations to new species, genera, families and orders. Metabolic predictions from MAGs suggest the presence of heterotrophs and primary producers involved in the sulfur cycle. This paper, which focuses on only four of the dozens of hot springs in the Kerguelen Islands, is a preliminary study of the microorganisms, particularly thermophiles, inhabiting the hot springs of these insulated islands. These results show that more efforts should be made to better understand these ecosystems as they represent a reservoir of unknown microbial lineages and potential new metabolic pathways.
Cytoreductive prostatectomy improves survival outcomes in patients with oligometastases: a systematic meta-analysis
Authors: Mao Yifeng , Hu Mingqiu , Yang Gaowei , Gao Erke , Xu Wangwang
Published: April 2022

Background: At present, controversy remains regarding whether cytoreductive prostatectomy (CRP) should be performed for oligometastatic prostate cancer (OPC). The purpose of this study was to assess the efficacy of CRP for the treatment of OPC by conducting a systematic meta-analysis .Methods: Design A systematic review and meta-analysis, conducted in accordance with the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analysis statement.Data sources Publications included in the PubMed, Embase, the Cochrane Library, EBSCO, Web of Science (SCI) databases as of May 2022.Eligibility criteria Prospective studies comparing the efficacy of RP versus no RP in the treatment of OPC.Results: In total, 11 publications incorporating 888 patients were analyzed. Tumor-reducing prostatectomy was found to have no significant effect on long-term or short-term OS [OR=2.26, 95%CI(0.97,5.28), P=0.06 > 0.05] and [OR=1.73, 95%CI(0.83,3.58), P=0.14 > 0.05], but it significantly improved patient CSS [OR=1.77, 95%CI(1.01,310.), P=0.04 < 0.05]and[OR=2.71, 95%CI(1.72,4.29), P < 0.0001] and PFS [OR=1.93, 95%CI (1.25, 2.97), P=0.003 < 0.05].Conclusion: These results suggest that cytoreductive prostatectomy can confer survival benefits to OPC patients.
Efficient marker-assisted breeding for clubroot resistance in elite Pol-CMS rapeseed varieties by updating the PbBa8.1 locus
Authors: Guo Yiming , Li Bao , Li Mei , Zhu Hongjian , Yang Qian , Liu Xinhong , Qu Liang , Fan Lianyi , Wang Tonghua
Published: April 2022

Clubroot disease poses a severe threat to rapeseed (Brassica napus) production worldwide and has recently been spreading across China at an unprecedented pace. Breeding and cultivation of resistant varieties constitute a promising and environment-friendly approach to mitigating this threat. In this study, the clubroot resistance locus PbBa8.1 was successfully transferred into SC4, a shared paternal line of three elite varieties in five generations by recurrent selection. Specific KASP markers of clubroot resistance gene PbBa8.1 and its linked high erucic acid gene (FAE1) were designed and applied for foreground selection, while a 1000 + SNPs were selected and used for the background selection. This breeding strategy resulted recombinants had the highest recovery ratio of the recurrent parent genome (> 95%) at BC2F2, while breaking the linkage with FAE1 during the selection. An updated version of the paternal line (SC4R) was generated at BC2F3, showing significantly improved clubroot resistance at seedling stage by artificial inoculation and was comparable to that of the donor parent. Field trials of the three elite varieties and their updated versions in five environments indicated similar agronomic appearance and final yield. The introduced breeding strategy precisely pyramiding the PbBa8.1 and FAE1 loci with the assistants of technical markers in a shorter period and could be applied to other desirable traits for directional improvement in the future.
Graphene oxide decorated Tin sulphide quantum dots for electrochemical detection of dopamine and tyrosine
Authors: Hasheena M. , Ratnamala A. , Noorjahan M. , Reddy G. Deepthi , K Shiprath , H Manjunatha , K Chandra Babu Naidu
Published: April 2022

The current study highlights the design and construction of a sensitive and selective sensor for detection of dopamine and tyrosine using a GO-SnS2 quantum dots by a drop casting method on glassy carbon electrode. Highly porous nano-crystalline GO-SnS2 quantum dots were synthesized by using ultrasonication followed by hydrothermal method in a facile manner. XRD, SEM, XPS, TEM, and pore size distribution techniques were used to characterize the quantum dots that were produced. The newly fabricated electrode was evaluated for EIS (Electrochemical impedance spectroscopy), CV (cyclic voltammetry) and chronoamperometric methods. The observed limit of detection of dopamine was observed to be 26 nM. High selectivity and sensitivity were observed for electrochemical detection of dopamine and tyrosine.
Next-generation (sub-)kilometre-scale climate modelling for extreme storm-surge hazard projections
Authors: Denamiel Clea , Vilibić Ivica
Published: April 2022

Due to on-going global warming, extreme storm-surges are expected to threaten a greater number of coastal communities worldwide. However, global and regional climate simulations of extreme events are still not accurate enough to respond to the growing needs of the local decision makers to prepare for these rising hazards. Here, we present a new methodology using (sub-)kilometre-scale coupled atmosphere-ocean-wave models and demonstrate the feasibility to provide meter-scale assessments of the impact of climate change on storm-surge hazards. As a proof of concept, we show that sea-level variations and distributions can be derived at the climate scale in the Adriatic Sea small lagoons and bays. Following these preliminary results, we expect that the newly developed methodology could lead to more targeted mitigation strategies of the local storm-surge hazards in regions of the world particularly vulnerable to sea-level rise and atmospherically driven extreme events.
The potential role of serum tau protein (MAPT), neuronal cell adhesion molecule (NrCAM) and neprilysin (NEP) in neurodegenerative disorders development in psoriasis– preliminary results
Authors: Baran Anna , Nowowiejska Julia , Hermanowicz Justyna Magdalena , Sieklucka Beata , Krahel Julita Anna , Kiluk Paulina , Pawlak Dariusz , Flisiak Iwona
Published: April 2022

Psoriasis is one of the most common dermatoses, which shortens patients’ lives because of the wide comorbidity. However, little is known about its association with neurodegenerative diseases (NDs). We aimed to investigate whether psoriatics are at increased risk of NDs. 60 patients with plaque-type psoriasis were enrolled into the study. Serum concentrations of tau protein (MAPT), neuronal cell adhesion molecule (NrCAM) and neprilysin (NEP), which are NDs biomarkers and have been hardly studied in psoriasis before, were measured before and after 12 weeks of treatment with acitretin or methotrexate. NrCAM and NEP concentrations were significantly lower in patients than controls, whereas MAPT higher (all p < 0.05). There was no association between these markers and psoriasis severity, BMI or disease duration. After the treatment the concentration of NrCAM and NEP significantly increased and MAPT decreased (p < 0.001, p < 0.05, p < 0.01, respectively). Methotrexate had significant influence on the concentrations of all markers, hence it seems to have neuroprotective properties. Psoriasis severity and duration do not seem to affect the risk of neurodegenerative process. Our results suggest that NDs could be considered as another comorbidity of psoriasis and that further research are needed in order to establish their definite association.
Neuroanatomical predictors of real-time fMRI-based emotional brain regulation.
Authors: Caria Andrea , Grecucci Alessandro
Published: April 2022

Increasing evidence shows that learned control of BOLD activity in selected brain regions can support emotion regulation. Notably, a number of studies demonstrated that regulation of BOLD activity in several emotion-related areas leads to modifications of emotional behavior along with changes of neural activity in local and distributed networks, in both healthy individuals and individuals with emotional disorders. However, to date a comprehensive description of the neural mechanisms underlying self-regulation of the emotional brain is still lacking. Here, we aimed to delineate a neuroanatomical signature predictive of successful real-time fMRI-based anterior insula regulation, a neuromodulation procedure that has been previously shown to elicit changes in emotional stimuli perception in both healthy individuals and patients. Using a kernel ridge regression model, we investigated gray and white matter structural features discriminative of self-regulation of the anterior insula activity. Our multivariate regression analysis revealed that cortical and subcortical regions in the fronto-occipital and medial temporal lobes as well as the basal ganglia and cerebellum were good predictors of self-regulation of the anterior insula. Notably, the cerebellum appeared to have the largest weight for successful prediction of self-regulation of the anterior insula. Overall, our findings revealed a specific neuroanatomical topography relevant to emotional brain regulation. Ultimately, we reason that the observed neuroanatomical predictors of learned regulation might be important for designing and optimizing future protocols of patient-tailored interventions for emotional disorders.
High Fertility desire and Associated factors among People Living With HIV at the University of Gondar specialized hospital, Ethiopia; a cross-sectional study
Authors: Woretaw Abere , Aemro Agazhe
Published: April 2022

Objectives: The quality of life of people living with HIV( PLWHIV) has been improving due to the use of highly active antiretroviral therapy, which in turn results in an increased desire for childbearing. This study aimed to assess the prevalence and determinants of fertility desire among people on ART.Methods: An institution-based cross-sectional study was conducted among 407 PLWHIV the University of Gondar comprehensive and specialized hospital from August 1 to 30, 2021. A systematically random sampling technique was used to select the study subjects. The data was entered using EPI INFO version 7.2.2.6, analyzed with Stata 14.0, and described using frequency tables and texts. A binary logistic regression model was fitted to identify determinants of fertility desire.Results: Of 390 participants included in the analysis, 64.87% were females. The mean age of the respondents was 32.79 years (SD±10.89). The overall prevalence of fertility desire among PLWHIV was 44.87% (95% CI: 39.98–49.86). Of these, 42.29% desired fertility because they thought that they could have an HIV-negative child due to ART. Being male (AOR = 2.93), being on WHO treatment stage I (AOR = 2.49), living with HIV for more than 10 years (AOR = 2.50), being on a first-line ART regimen (AOR = 2.44), and having no child (AOR = 2.94) were all associated with fertility desire.Conclusion: A considerable proportion of PLWHIV have a desire for childbearing. Hence, sexuality and reproductive health counseling measures should consider the fertility needs of PLWHIV.
Impacts of Pasteurisation Temperature, Preservatives, Storage Duration and Soursop Puree Substitution for Sugar on Physicochemical, Antioxidant and Microbial Properties of Set-Type Yoghurt
Authors: Sanusi Mayowa Saheed , Sunmonu Musliu Olushola , Raji Akeem , Alaka Abdulquadri , Abdulazeez Ahmed , Joshua Victoria Auhoiza
Published: April 2022

This study aimed to evaluate the impacts of pasteurization temperature (80°C, 90°C and 100°C), soursop puree substitution for sugar (0%, 25%, and 50%), storage duration (7, 14 and 28 days) and preservatives (potassium sorbate, sodium benzoate and no preservative) on the physicochemical, antioxidant and microbial properties of set-type yoghurt. The water holding capacity and syneresis of the yoghurt varied as the soursop puree to sugar ratio increased. Replacement of sugar with 50% soursop puree increased ash, protein, carbohydrate, vitamin C, total phenolic content and DPPH of the yoghurt to 0.69%, 4.02%, 29.26%, 58.50%, 1.25 mg GAE/l and 34.40%, respectively and no coliform was detected. Lactic acid bacteria counts decreased as the storage duration increased while sodium benzoate inhibits mould and yeast counts more than the potassium sorbate. The soursop puree substitution with up to 50% of sugar could be used to produce yoghurt with potential health benefits and increased shelf life.
Macro-micro residual stress prediction and hot cracks formation mechanism during laser melt injection processing of ZrO2 particles into Ti6Al4V substrate
Authors: Ouyang Zipeng , Jin Hongxi , Cheng Qunlin , Chen Wenqi , Wei Yanhong , Chen Jicheng
Published: April 2022

Laser melt injection (LMI) is a promising technology to produce ceramic particles reinforced metal matrix composites (MMCs) to achieve surface modification and performance upgrading. In this paper, the LMI process was conducted on Ti6Al4V substrate with ZrO2 particles (ZrO2p) to produce functionally graded material for heat insulation. The track dimensions, particle distribution, and crack morphology of the MMC layer were studied, corresponding to varying laser power, and scanning velocity. The optical morphologies showed all outlines of MMC were in the shape of a lower lip, and there were cracks in the MMC layer. When the linear energy was lower than 6.0×103 J/m, the thickness of the MMC layer was under 0.4 mm, and the zirconia particles filled up the entire MMC layer. Then, a novel finite element model was proposed to calculate the thermal-mechanical characteristics during the LMI process, in both macro and micro scales, to expound on the crack formation mechanism. The simulated results showed that the distribution and volume fraction of ZrO2p greatly influenced the magnitude and distribution of macro and micro residual stress. For the three LMI macro models, the transversal tensile stress was mainly located in the middle segment with 350 MPa. The longitudinal stress at the start and end of the top surface was close to 0 MPa, and the entire MMC layer was almost tensile stress. Besides, the most considerable transversal stress was spread over the heat affect zone, but the most significant longitudinal stress was distributed on the MMC top surface. The two-dimension micro-scale models revealed the residual stress distributed remarkably uniformly in the ZrO2 particles, and the stress values were more significant than those of the Ti6Al4V substrate. Moreover, the particle spacing was more extensive, and the stress between particles got more significant with the volume fraction of ZrO2p. In this study, the largest micro longitudinal stress was 891 MPa between particles C1 and C2, the location with the minor transverse stress with 561 MPa. Further, due to the solidification shrinkage of the metal, the ZrO2p prevented the displacement of Ti6Al4V metal dislocation, which contributed to generating stress concentration points on the surface of ZrO2p. At the same time, the gaps caused between the Ti6Al4V matrix and the ZrO2p surface also provided the conditions for the formation of microcracks. Larger cracks would be generated after lots of microcracks were gathered.
Validation of physics-based ground shaking scenarios for empirical fragility studies: the case study of the 2009 L’Aquila earthquake
Authors: Rosti Annalisa , Smerzini Chiara , Paolucci Roberto , Penna Andrea , Rota Maria
Published: April 2022

This paper explores and validates the use of ground shaking scenarios generated via 3D physics-based numerical simulations (PBS) for seismic fragility studies. The 2009 L’Aquila seismic event is selected as case-study application, given the availability of a robust and exhaustive post-earthquake database, gathering observed seismic damages detected on several building typologies representative of the Italian built environment, and of a validated numerical model for PBS ground shaking scenarios. Empirical fragility curves are derived as a function of different seismic intensity measures, by taking advantage of an improved statistical technique, overcoming possible uncertainties in the resulting estimates entailed by data aggregation. PBS-based fragility functions are compared to the corresponding sets of curves relying on updated ShakeMaps. The predictive capability of the adopted simulation strategies is then verified in terms of seismic damage scenarios, by respectively coupling PBS- and ShakeMap-based fragility models with the corresponding ground shaking scenarios. Comparison of observed and predicted damage distributions highlights the suitability of PBS for region-specific seismic vulnerability and risk applications.
Predicting neurodegenerative disease using pre-pathology gut microbiota composition: a longitudinal study in mice modeling Alzheimer’s disease pathologies
Authors: Borsom Emily M. , Conn Kathryn , Keefe Christopher R. , Herman Chloe , Orsini Gabrielle M. , Hirsch Allyson H. , Avila Melanie Palma , Testo George , Jaramillo Sierra A. , Bolyen Evan , Lee Keehoon , Caporaso J. Gregory , Cope Emily
Published: April 2022

The gut microbiota-brain axis is suspected to contribute to the development of Alzheimer’s Disease (AD), a neurodegenerative disease characterized by amyloid-β plaque deposition, neurofibrillary tangles, and neuroinflammation. To evaluate the role of the gut microbiota-brain axis in AD, we characterized the gut microbiota of 3xTg-AD mice modeling amyloidosis and tauopathy and wild type (WT) genetic controls. Fecal samples were collected fortnightly from 4 to 52 weeks, and the V4 region of the 16S rRNA gene was amplified and sequenced on an Illumina MiSeq. RNA was extracted from the colon and hippocampus, converted to cDNA, and used to measure immune gene expression using RT-qPCR. Diversity metrics were calculated using QIIME 2, and a Random Forest classifier was applied to predict bacterial features that are important in predicting mouse genotype. Gut microbiota were compositionally distinct early in life between 3xTg-AD mice and WT mice (PERMANOVA 8 weeks, p = 0.001, 24 weeks, p = 0.039, and 52 weeks, p = 0.058). We demonstrate that mouse genotype was correctly predicted 90–100% using fecal microbiome composition. Finally, we demonstrate that Bacteroides species relative abundance increased over time in 3xTg-AD mice. Taken together, we demonstrate that changes bacterial gut microbiota composition at pre-pathology timepoints are predictive of development of AD pathologies.
Development and characterization of 165 SNP markers in Mimosa bimucronata (Candolle) O. Kuntze
Authors: Wang Qian , Zhang Chun-Hui , Wang Chun-Jing , Wan Ji-Zhong
Published: April 2022

Mimosa bimucronata (Candolle) O. Kuntze, native to the American tropics, is the worst invasive tree species in China, where it is distributed in the southern coastal areas of Guangdong and Fujian provinces. It is characterized by rapid growth and waterlogging resistance, and was introduced in China for slope and bank protection. However, there is still a lack of effective molecular markers for its invasion management. In this study, we used a qubit dsDNA HS assay kit to extract DNA, and DNBSEQ-500 whole genome re-sequencing technology to obtain single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) markers. In total, we developed and characterized 165 SNP markers. Observed (HO) and expected heterozygosity (HE) ranged from 0.0667 to 0.1000, and 0.1800 to 0.5000, respectively. The polymorphic information content (PIC) ranged from 0.1638 to 0.3750. These SNP markers will help to analyze the population genetic structure and assess the invasion risk for M. bimucronata.
Cell landscape of larval and adult Xenopus laevis at single-cell resolution
Authors: Liao Yuan , Ma Lifeng , E Weigao , Yang Lei , Fang Xing , Guo Qile , Ruan Fanwei , Wang Jingjing , Zhang Peijing , Sun Zhongyi , Chen Haide , Lin Zhongliang , Wang Xueyi , Wang Xinru , Sun Huiyu , Chen Ming , Zhou Yincong , Shen Wanhua , Han Xiaoping , Guo Guoji
Published: April 2022

Using Microwell-seq, we analyzed more than 500,000 single cells covering all major Xenopus tissues to construct the first Xenopus cell landscape to date. Common cell lineage-specific transcription factors have been identified in vertebrates, including fish, amphibians and mammals. A comparison of larval and adult erythrocytes revealed larval and adult-specific hemoglobin subtypes and a cluster of erythrocytes containing both larval and adult hemoglobin, mainly at NF59. In addition, cell lineages originating from all three layers exhibited both antigen processing and presentation during metamorphosis, indicating a common regulatory mechanism in metamorphosis. Our study provides a comprehensive resource for research on Xenopus developmental biology.
Molecular characterisation and tracking of the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2, Thailand, 2020–2022
Authors: Puenpa Jiratchaya , Rattanakomol Patthaya , Saengdao Nutsada , Chansaenroj Jira , Yorsaeng Ritthideach , Suwannakarn Kamol , Thanasitthichai Somchai , Vongpunsawad Sompong , Poovorawan Yong
Published: April 2022

Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) is a severe and frequently lethal disease caused by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus-2 (SARS-CoV-2) that surfaced in Thailand in early 2020. As of this writing, there have been 3,303,169 reported cases and 24,075 deaths in Thailand. This study investigated molecular characterisation and the evolution of the SARS-CoV-2 identified during 2020–2022 in Thailand. Two hundred and sixty-eight SARS-CoV-2 strains, collected mostly in Bangkok during 2020–2022 from COVID-19 patients, were characterised by partial genome sequencing. Moreover, 5,627 positive SARS-CoV-2 samples were identified as variants of the virus (GRY/Alpha, GK/delta, GRA/Omicron BA.1 and GRA/Omicron BA.2) by multiplex real-time reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) assays. The results revealed that clade GH caused the predominant outbreak in the second wave (December 2020–January 2021), clade GRY/Alpha in the third wave (April–June 2021), clade GK/delta in the fourth wave (July–December 2021), and clade GRA/Omicron in the fifth wave (January–March 2022). The evolutionary rate in the outbreak was 2.60×10− 3 (95% highest posterior density [HPD], 1.72×10− 3 to 3.62×10− 3) nucleotide substitutions per site per year. Continued molecular surveillance of SARS-CoV-2 is crucial for monitoring emerging variants to prevent possible new COVID-19 outbreaks.
Awareness and Attitudes of Secondary School Students about Physiology Discipline in Southwest Region, Nigeria
Authors: Yusuf Issa Olakunle , Faborode Oluwaseun Samuel , Adeyemi Damilare Hakeem , Odewole Olaolu Joseph , Ajisafe Joy Adebowale , Dare Ayobami , Olaniyan Olugbemi Temitope , Onasanwo Samuel Adetunji
Published: April 2022

Physiology remains one of the core disciplines on which all biological and medical sciences were founded. In Nigeria, it is known that most students study Physiology at the undergraduate level by chance and not by choice and end up performing poorly, which could be mainly due to low awareness and knowledge of the discipline, its opportunities, and prospects. Therefore, this study investigated the awareness, attitude, and knowledge about physiology among senior secondary school students in Southwest Nigeria. A cross-sectional of 544 students in science-based senior secondary schools in south-west Nigeria were sampled. Our results showed a high level of awareness, with television being the dominant medium of information. However, knowledge of Physiology was low, while most of the students also showed interest in knowing more about it. Although gender does not seem to influence the level of knowledge, females had a better attitude towards learning about physiology. Similarly, residence did not affect attitude, howbeit associated with the level of knowledge. In conclusion, the high awareness and low knowledge observed in this study would give insights to educate students at the early stages of education about the opportunity and prospects of Physiology and other science-related disciplines.
Hydrogel-Based, Dynamically Tunable Plasmonic Metasurfaces
Authors: Zhang Jian , Li Qiang , Dai Chenjie , Cheng Mingliang , Hu Xin , Kim Hyun-Sik , Yang Heesun , Preston Daniel , Li Zhongyang , Zhang Xuefeng , Lee Won-Kyu
Published: April 2022

Flat metasurfaces with subwavelength meta-atoms can be designed to manipulate the electromagnetic parameters of incident light and enable unusual light-matter interactions beyond the capabilities of the constituent materials themselves. Although hydrogel-based metasurfaces have the potential to control optical properties dynamically in response to environmental conditions, the pattern resolution of these surfaces has typically been limited to microscale features or larger, limiting capabilities at the nanoscale and precluding effective use in metamaterials. This paper reports a general approach to developing reversibly tunable plasmonic metasurfaces with hydrogel meta-atoms at the subwavelength scale. Periodic arrays of hydrogel nanodots with continuously tunable diameters between 180 nm and 240 nm were fabricated on silver substrates, resulting in humidity-responsive surface plasmon polaritons (SPPs) at the nanostructure-metal interfaces. The peaks of the SPPs were controlled reversibly by absorbing or releasing water within the hydrogel matrix; the matrix subsequently generated plasmonic color rendering in the visible spectrum. We demonstrated that metasurfaces designed with these spatially patterned nanodots of varying sizes can benefit applications in anti-counterfeiting and generate multicolored displays with single-nanodot resolution. Furthermore, we showed system versatility exhibited by broadband beam-steering on a phase modulator consisting of hydrogel supercell units in which the size variations of constituent hydrogel nanostructures engineer the wavefront of reflected light from the metasurface.
Unsupervised Generative Learning with Handwritten Digits
Authors: Dolgikh Serge
Published: April 2022

Representations play an important role in learning of artificial and biological systems that can be attributed to identification of characteristic patterns in the sensory data. In this work we attempted to approach the question of the origin of general concepts from the perspective of purely unsupervised learning that does not use prior knowledge of concepts to acquire the ability to recognize common patterns in a learning process resembling learning of biological systems in the natural environment. Generative models trained in an unsupervised process with minimization of generative error with a dataset of images of handwritten digits produced structured sparse latent representations that were shown to be correlated with characteristic patterns such as types of digits. Based on the identified density structure, a proposed method of iterative empirical learning produced confident recognition of most types of digits over a small number of learning iterations with minimal learning data. The results demonstrated the possibility of successful incorporation of unsupervised structure in informative representations of generative models for successful empirical learning and conceptual modeling of the sensory environments.
Comparison of vertebroplasty and kyphoplasty for osteoporotic spinal fractures: An observational study using administrative data from England
Authors: Gray William K. , Day Jamie , Briggs Tim WR , Hutton Mike
Published: April 2022

Purpose
To investigate the variation in the use of, and outcomes for, vertebroplasty (VP) and balloon kyphoplasty (BKP) techniques for osteoporotic spinal fracture for patients operated on within the National Health Service in England.
Methods
This was an observational analysis of administrative data. Data were extracted from the Hospital Episodes Statistics database for the period 1st April 2011 to 31st March 2018 for all VP and BKP procedures. Patients aged < 19 years, with metastatic carcinoma and undergoing other decompression procedures were excluded. The primary outcome was repeat spinal surgery within one year. Secondary outcomes were 30-day emergency readmission, death within one year, extended hospital stay, post-procedural pain within 30 days and post-procedural haemorrhage or infection within 30 days. Multilevel, multivariable logistic regression was used to adjust for covariates.
Results
Data were available for 5,792 VP and 3,136 BKP patients operated on at 96 hospital trusts. In the 63 trusts that conducted more than 20 procedures during the study period, the proportion of procedures conducted as BKP varied from 0–100%. There was no difference in any of the outcomes between VP and BKP patients or between trusts performing ≥ 70% and ≤ 30% of procedures as BKP.
Conclusions
There is no evidence that VP is associated with poorer outcomes than VP. The greater costs of performing BKP may be hard to justify as healthcare budgets continue to be put under pressure as they recover from the coronavirus pandemic.
Universe: the dynamics of the minimum and maximum expansion states
Authors: Petrakis Sócrates Georges
Published: April 2022

Two proposals stand out in describing the evolution of the Universe; the predominant one predicts that the expansion began at a certain instant and will not preserve a variation of energy that performs work; flat Universe (Ω = 1) is advocated by relativistic calculations and observational data, with an end at its maximum expansion (3D Space); the other proposal considers that the Universe is cyclical, always alternating phases of expansion and contraction. This article aims to demonstration that these two perspectives can be correct by not being distinct, but complementary. Supported by the immutability of physical laws, analyses of concepts define an exclusive presence of 1D Space in static states of minimum and maximum expansion of the Universe. With our Universe (3D Space) created and existing between these extreme states, each dynamic is highlighted and completes the usual relativity. The concept of absolute rest energy (1D Space) become applicable; thus, the complete evolution of the Universe is described as spatially dynamic in a perpetual time dimension, always recreating our Universe, and making possible a relative maintenance of any existence.
Influence of PEDOT:PSS and MWCNTs concentration on the morphological, thermal and electrical properties of cotton fabrics
Authors: Alamer Fahad Alhashmi
Published: April 2022

The high conductivity, lightness and flexibility of conducting electronic textiles in a wide range of applications is drawing increasing attention. This work uses a simple drop casting method to fabricate conductive cotton fabrics with low sheet resistance using multi walled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs), poly (3,4 ethylenedioxy thiophene) poly(styrenesulfonate) (PEDOT:PSS), and a mixture of both. Low sheet resistances of 16.39 Ω/□, 5.49 Ω/□ and 2.86 Ω/□ were achieved by the concentrations of 41.50 wt.% MWCNTs, 28.51 wt.% PEDOT:PSS and 60.27 wt.% MWCNTs/PEDOT:PSS respectively. Furthermore, the temperature dependent behavior of PEDOT:PSS treated cotton fabric showed both semiconductor and metal behavior that was dependent on the concentration of PEDOT:PSS. By contrast, temperature studies of MWCNTs treated cotton fabric showed only semiconductor behavior. Moreover, MWCNTs/PEDOT:PSS cotton fabrics exhibited semiconductor behavior alone due to the effect of MWCNT particles. In addition, the conductive cottons are easy to make, are safe and low cost which indicates making them a promising electronic textile for applications in the future.
Medical communication and advocacy through eye-tracking AAC: Implications for applied linguistics
Authors: Bhattacharya Usree , Pradana Wisnu A. , Wei Xing , Tarquinio Daniel , Datta Olivia , Anderson Kaleigh , Cruz-Díaz Nicole
Published: April 2022

Historically, individuals with Rett syndrome, a rare neurodevelopmental disorder, have been cast as “silent angels,” “nonverbal,” and “speechless.” As a consequence, they have not been consulted in their medical care. Recently, however, augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) devices that use eye-tracking technology have facilitated communication for individuals with Rett syndrome. Yet, no prior research has investigated how such communication occurs within medical settings. Through an applied linguistics lens that centers the analysis of language use, we construct a case report capturing how Kalika, a child with Rett syndrome, offers medical information. Kalika’s device-mediated language use suggests multiple implications for applied linguistics scholars and language educators, including: broadening notions of speaking, increasing consideration of AAC, exploring more device-mediated language use, extending multimodal considerations, nuancing notions of communicative competence, presuming competence, and, last but not least, more deliberately espousing principles of linguistic justice in our field.
Review:	Trubnikova,	Victoriya,	&	Garofolin,	Benedetta.	(2020). Lingua	e	interazione.	Insegnare	la	pragmatica	a	scuola [Language	and	interaction.	Teaching	pragmatics	at	school].	Edizioni	ETS.
Authors: Gesuato Sara
Published: April 2022

This volume presents a theoretical and practical approach to the teaching of pragmatics in primary and secondary educational contexts. Targeting first language (L1), second language (L2), and foreign language (FL) teachers, the volume starts by introducing key concepts in pragmatics, providing an overview of theoretical notions in communicative competence, and drawing pedagogical implications from these notions. The book then reports findings from a survey conducted among language teachers on their views on and experience with the teaching of linguistic pragmatics. Finally, a 5-step inductive-explicit pedagogical model is put forward for raising metapragmatic awareness and developing receptive and productive pragmatic skills among learners of varied age groups. A rich set of sample activities illustrates how to put the model into practice and to adapt it to learners’ specific needs.
5D and 6D SCFTs from $\mathbb{C}^3$ orbifolds
Authors: Tian Jiahua , Wang Yinan
Published: April 2022

We study the orbifold singularities X=\mathbb{C}^3/\GammaX=ℂ3/Γ
where \GammaΓ
is a finite subgroup of SU(3)SU(3).
M-theory on this orbifold singularity gives rise to a 5d SCFT, which is
investigated with two methods. The first approach is via 3d McKay
correspondence which relates the group theoretic data of
\GammaΓ
to the physical properties of the 5d SCFT. In particular, the 1-form
symmetry of the 5d SCFT is read off from the McKay quiver of
\GammaΓ
in an elegant way. The second method is to explicitly resolve the
singularity XX
and study the Coulomb branch information of the 5d SCFT, which is
applied to toric, non-toric hypersurface and complete intersection
cases. Many new theories are constructed, either with or without an IR
quiver gauge theory description. We find that many resolved Calabi-Yau
threefolds, \widetilde{X}X̃,
contain compact exceptional divisors that are singular by themselves.
Moreover, for certain cases of \GammaΓ,
the orbifold singularity \mathbb{C}^3/\Gammaℂ3/Γ
can be embedded in an elliptic model and gives rise to a 6d (1,0) SCFT
in the F-theory construction. Such 6d theory is naturally related to the
5d SCFT defined on the same singularity. We find examples of rank-1 6d
SCFTs without a gauge group, which are potentially different from the
rank-1 E-string theory.
Associative bond swaps in molecular dynamics
Authors: Ciarella Simone , Ellenbroek Wouter
Published: April 2022

We implement a three-body potential to model associative bond swaps, and release it as part of the HOOMD-blue software.
The use of a three-body potential to model swaps has been proven to be effective and has recently provided useful insights into the mechanics and dynamics of adaptive network materials such as vitrimers. It is elegant because it can be used in plain molecular dynamics simulations without the need for topology-altering Monte Carlo steps, and naturally represents typical physical features such as slip-bond behavior.
It is easily tunable with a single parameter to control the average swap rate.
Here, we show how associative bond swaps can be used to speed up the equilibration of systems that self-assemble by avoiding traps and pitfalls, corresponding to long-lived metastable configurations.
Our results demonstrate the possibilities of these swaps not only for modeling systems that are associative by nature, but also for increasing simulation efficiency in other systems that are modellable in HOOMD-blue.
Turning Shops into Housing? Planning Deregulation, Design Quality and the Future of the High Street in England
Authors: Clifford Ben , Madeddu Manuela
Published: April 2022

The changing fortunes of the high street have been a subject of interest for some time, with a view that trends such as the shift to more online retailing as well as changing pa erns of work, mobility and prosperity may impact the viability and vacancy of retail units. These pa erns
and concerns have been exacerbated by recent governance reforms in England. At the same time as a global pandemic has reduced footfall and threatened many shops with closure, the government has been deregulating the urban planning system so that local governments have less ability to exert
control over the use and design of buildings. This has been seen particularly in the form of what is known as 'permi ed development', which allows commercial buildings to be converted to residential use without needing planning permission and which was increased in scope in August 2021. This
deregulation has been driven by a neoliberal, market utopian understanding of the so-called 'housing crisis' in England. An existing trend of converting high street shops to residential use is thus likely to accelerate. In this article, we examine the drivers for adaptive reuse of commercial
buildings as residential use and the deregulatory governance context currently surrounding this in England. We then consider data on the rate of conversion and provide case studies of diff erent quality conversions of shops to dwellings, arguing that there is insufficient a ention being paid
to design quality, particularly in terms of the quality of housing being provided for residents of these conversions. This might mean that conversions threaten the wellbeing of residents – consigning them to 'future slums' (BBBBC, 2020) – and also the vibrancy of high streets and
the broader quality of the public realm. We argue that incremental conversions, not bound within any broader planning, of high street functions (or what it means to lose active frontages, without compensation) are a threat to overall place quality. We therefore propose design principles and
make policy recommendations that seek to achieve the eff ective governance of commercial to residential conversion whilst sustaining that place quality.
Music on Main: Supporting a Tangle of Main Streets during the Covid-19 Pandemic
Authors: Izenberg Jacob , Farrand Douglas , Kaufman Molly Rose , Fullilove Mindy Thompson
Published: April 2022

Main streets are an amalgam of civic, commercial, and public spaces that serve as urban places of connection and exchange. Many factors have undermined the commercial functions of main street, but the Covid-19 pandemic has been a particularly severe stressor. This paper describes the
manner in which the University of Orange Music City team planned festivals to support their local main streets during the pandemic. Drawing on the authors' previously developed box-circle-line-tangle model of main street social function, this paper uses the example of the Music City Festival
to underscore how careful a ention to the tangle of main streets can stimulate new thinking and action in support of these crucial centres.
Clinical and immunological efficacy of azoximer bromide in pertussis in children
Authors: Popova O. P. , Blyakher M. S. , Fyodorova I. M. , Koteleva S. I. , Kapustin I. V. , Skirda T. A. , Bunin S. V.
Published: April 2022

Цель исследования. Клинико-иммунологическая оценка эффективности применения азоксимера бромида у больных коклюшем.

Характеристика детей и методы исследования. Под наблюдением находились 50 детей от 6 мес до 14 лет. В комплекс терапии 25 детей (основной группы) был включен азоксимера бромид, 25 больных (группа сравнения) получали базисную терапию.

Результаты. Выраженность симптомокомплекса у больных обеих наблюдаемых групп соответствовала течению среднетяжелой формы коклюша. Клинический диагноз был подтвержден методом полимеразной цепной реакции у 60±6,9%, иммуноферментным анализом — у 80±5,7% детей. Как в основной, так и в группе сравнения преобладали пациенты, которые переносили коклюш в ассоциации с острыми респираторными вирусными инфекциями (96,0±3,9 и 92,0±5,4% соответственно). Сочетанное течение коклюша с вирусными инфекциями осложнялось развитием бронхита у 8 (32,0±9,3%), пневмонией — у 7 (28,0±9,0%) детей в основной группе, а в группе сравнения бронхиты наблюдались у 9 (36,0±9,6%), пневмонии — у 5 (20±8,0%) больных. Сопоставление результатов лечения в двух группах детей показало эффективность азоксимера бромида по основным клинико-иммунологическим параметрам. Лечебный эффект определялся прежде всего уменьшением частоты приступов кашля и исчезновением на этом фоне явлений гипоксии. Положительная динамика отмечалась в субпопуляционном составе лимфоцитов, что касалось прежде всего содержания NK-клеток. Интенсивность продукции специфических антител к коклюшному микробу в основной группе также была выше, чем в группе сравнения.

Заключение. Применение азоксимера бромида в комплексе терапии больных коклюшем способствует уменьшению и сокращению основных клинических проявлений, а так же улучшению иммунологических параметров.
Prevalence of congenital malformations in the Republic of Sakha (Yakutia)
Authors: Demikova N. S. , Podol’naya M. A. , Sukhomyasova A. L. , Lapina A. S. , Sleptsov A. N. , Fedorov A. I. , Maksimova N. R.
Published: April 2022

Purpose. The study aims at assessing and analyzing the prevalence of congenital malformations in the Republic of Sakha (Yakutia) based on the data from birth defects surveillance from 2012 to 2019.

Material and methods. The data of congenital malformations monitoring in the Republic of Sakha (Yakutia) for 2012–2019 are analyzed. There were revealed 1104 cases of congenital malformations of obligate registration. The total number of births was 122,413. The prevalence of birth defects was calculated per 10000 births.

Results. The prevalence of congenital malformations in the Republic of Sakha was obtained. The analysis of the dynamics of the congenital malformations prevalence has been carried out. No changes in the birth defects prevalence for the analyzed period have been shown.

Conclusion. Regional monitoring makes it possible to obtain and analyze congenital malformations prevalence.
Variety of effects of silicon dioxide colloid in the treatment of antibiotic-associated diarrhea in children
Authors: Zakirova A. M. , Faizullina R. A. , Moroz T. B. , Shayapova D. T. , Kadriev A. G. , Rashitova E. L. , Klyushkina A. I. , Kadriev A. A. , Gilfanov N. M.
Published: April 2022

Antibiotic-associated diarrhea (AAD) is a key aspect of pediatrics concerning antibiotic therapy Purpose. The article aims at investigating the effects of colloidal silicon dioxide in the treatment of antibiotic-associated diarrhea in children. Materials and methods. Using parametric and nonparametric methods of analysis, 83 patients were examined (treatment group — 41 children who used colloidal silicon dioxide and the control group — 42 children) of both sexes (mean age (13.7 ± 2.6) years) with pathology of the lower respiratory tract (acute bronchitis or community-acquired pneumonia), who developed AAD against the background of ABT. Results. When using colloidal silicon dioxide in 75.6% of children, diarrhea decreased by the 2nd day and stopped by the 4th day (median — 0 points). Against the background of taking the drug throughout the treatment, there was a marked 3-fold decrease in all AAD values. The assessment of the efficacy and safety of the drug according to the data of medical researchers was 3.4 points. Analysis of subjective data on the tolerability of the drug showed «excellent» and «good». Against the background of the full course of treatment with colloidal silicon dioxide, a 2 times more pronounced decrease in the characteristics of AAD was noted. Conclusion. The presented data are intended to focus the attention of pediatricians on the rational use of ABT, timely diagnosis of an unwanted drug reaction in the form of AAD and its correction. The studied drug showed high efficacy and safety, which makes it possible to recommend it as a symptomatic treatment of diarrhea that developed against the background of ABT treatment in the complex therapy of diseases of the lower respiratory tract in children.