bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Synthesis and superconductivity of organometallic fullerides M(3−n)(NR4)(n)C60, where M = K, Rb; R = H, D, Me, Et, Bu; n = 1, 2, 3
Authors: Kulbachinskii V. A. , Ezhikov N. S. , Lunin R. A. , Bulychev B. M.
Published: January 2021

We present experimental data on the synthesis and investigation of the superconducting and structural properties of organometallic fullerides M(3−n)(NR4)(n)C60, where M = K, Rb; R = hydrogen H, deuterium D, methyl Me, ethyl Et, butyl Bu; n = 1, 2, 3, synthesized by exchange reactions of homofullerides of alkali metals of composition K3C60 and Rb3C60 with ammonium halides in the medium of absolute toluene or tetrahydrofuran (THF) at temperatures from 23°C to 110°C. We have studied also superconductivity in Rb2NH4C60 and Rb2ND4C60 samples with replacement of hydrogen for deuterium in ammonium, as well as in K2NH4C60 and K2ND4C60. The superconducting transition temperature did not change with replacement H by D within the measurement accuracy.
Magnetic and thermal properties of alloys close in composition to the spin gapless semiconductor Mn2CoAl
Authors: Semiannikova A. A. , Kourov N. I. , Korolev A. V. , Perevozchikova Yu. A. , Marchenkova E. B. , Korenistov P. S. , Domozhirova A. N. , Marchenkov V. V.
Published: January 2021

The field dependence of magnetization at T = 4.2 K and in magnetic fields of up to 70 kOe, temperature dependences of magnetization (2 K < T < 300 K), heat capacity (2 K < T < 30 K) and magnetic susceptibility (2 K < T < 1000 K) for Mn1.99Co0.96Al1.05 and Mn1.79Co1.25Al0.96 alloys, closed in composition to the Mn2CoAl spin gapless semiconductor, were studied. Alloys studied were demonstrated to be the band ferromagnets. Their high-field (H > 11 kOe) magnetization is described in the Stoner models with the Rhodes-Wohlfarth parameter pRW = 1.3 for Mn1.99Co0.96Al1.05 and pRW = 2.3 for Mn1.79Co1.25Al0.96. When the composition deviates from the stoichiometric Mn2CoAl, the spontaneous moment decreases slightly, the effective moment, on the contrary, increases. In this case, a negative sign of the temperature-independent component of the paramagnetic susceptibility is observed. The density of states n(EF) at Fermi level and the Debye temperature ΘD of studied alloys have the usual values for 3d-metal alloys.
Electric field ionization of boron acceptors in single-crystalline diamond
Authors: Altukhov I. V. , Kagan M. S. , Paprotskiy S. K. , Khvalkovskiy N. A. , Rodionov N. B. , Bol’shakov A. P. , Ral’chenko V. G. , Khmel’nitskiy R. A.
Published: January 2021

Vertical hole transport in single-crystalline diamond films with ohmic and Schottky contacts was studied at dc and pulsed electric fields up to ∼ 5⋅105 V/cm. Conductivity mechanisms at different fields were identified. The concentrations of free carriers (holes) and acceptors were determined. The hole recombination time at boron acceptors has been estimated. The mechanisms of electric field ionization of boron acceptors are discussed.
A map of control for cold atmospheric plasma jets: From physical mechanisms to optimizations
Authors: Lin Li , Keidar Michael
Published: January 2021

The study of cold atmospheric plasma (CAP) began about a decade ago. Currently, multiple applications of CAP have been discovered including biomedicine, nanomaterials, agriculture, and water purifications. At the current stage of these research fields, it is obvious that the next move will be CAP optimization for each specific application. For example, in the field of plasma-based cancer treatment, due to the different responses of cell lines, CAP can activate different biological pathways in different cells, i.e., to be selective. One of the most commonly used CAP types is the cold atmospheric plasma jet (CAPJ). However, without a full understanding of CAPJ physics, it is impossible to optimize the plasma for every application condition. Moreover, since each research team is equipped with its own CAPJ generator, the hardware behaviors vary significantly across researchers. Therefore, a complete big picture of CAPJ control and parameters is a critical milestone for future CAPJ optimization in these research fields. This Review provides a summary of how CAPJ parameters can be manipulated with the control inputs and hardware design to extend that the chemical compositions can be modified by the gas flow rate, discharge waveform, target properties, and local environment. Based on the control map summarized in this work, CAPJ users can easily optimize their device for a certain specific purpose, such as maximizing OH and H2O2 for cancer treatment or maximizing O3 and ultraviolet for sterilization. Therefore, this study sheds light on the general theory of CAPJ control and can be a basis for future optimization of low-temperature plasma devices. Consideration of the plasma control based on machine learning methods has been receiving interest recently and certainly will become a future hot topic.
First principles theoretical spectroscopy of methylene blue: Between limitations of time-dependent density functional theory approximations and its realistic description in the solvent
Authors: de Queiroz Thiago B. , de Figueroa Erick R. , Coutinho-Neto Maurício D. , Maciel Cleiton D. , Tapavicza Enrico , Hashemi Zohreh , Leppert Linn
Published: January 2021

Methylene blue [3,7-Bis(di-methylamino) phenothiazin-5-ium chloride] is a phenothiazine dye with applications as a sensitizer for photodynamic therapy, photoantimicrobials, and dye-sensitized solar cells. Time-dependent density functional theory (TDDFT), based on (semi)local and global hybrid exchange-correlation functionals, fails to correctly describe its spectral features due to known limitations for describing optical excitations of π-conjugated systems. Here, we use TDDFT with a non-empirical optimally tuned range-separated hybrid functional to explore the optical excitations of gas phase and solvated methylene blue. We compute solvated configurations using molecular dynamics and an iterative procedure to account for explicit solute polarization. We rationalize and validate that by extrapolating the optimized range separation parameter to an infinite amount of solvating molecules, the optical gap of methylene blue is well described. Moreover, this method allows us to resolve contributions from solvent–solute intermolecular interactions and dielectric screening. We validate our results by comparing them to first-principles calculations based on the GW+Bethe–Salpeter equation approach and experiment. Vibronic calculations using TDDFT and the generating function method account for the spectra’s subbands and bring the computed transition energies to within 0.15 eV of the experimental data. This methodology is expected to perform equivalently well for describing solvated spectra of π-conjugated systems.
Anisotropic complex refractive index of β-Ga2O3 bulk and epilayer evaluated by terahertz time-domain spectroscopy
Authors: Agulto Verdad C. , Toya Kazuhiro , Phan Thanh Nhat Khoa , Mag-usara Valynn Katrine , Li Jiajun , Empizo Melvin John F. , Iwamoto Toshiyuki , Goto Ken , Murakami Hisashi , Kumagai Yoshinao , Sarukura Nobuhiko , Yoshimura Masashi , Nakajima Makoto
Published: January 2021

Homoepitaxial film and semi-insulating bulk β-Ga2O3 with (001) orientation were studied using terahertz time-domain spectroscopy (THz-TDS) in the frequency region from 0.2 to 3.0 THz parallel to the [100] and [010] directions. The static permittivity of the bulk was determined to be 10.0 and 10.4 along the a-axis and b-axis, respectively, and the refractive index values at 0.2 THz are 3.17 and 3.23 for each axis. The electrical resistivity of the epilayer was extracted with good accuracy by employing the Drude–Lorentz model and without the use of electrical contacts. This noninvasive and contact-free material evaluation through THz-TDS proves to be a powerful tool for probing and obtaining various types of information about β-Ga2O3 materials such as bulk and thin films for the development of β-Ga2O3-based device applications.
Enhancing computational performance of a spin-wave reservoir computer with input synchronization
Authors: Watt Stuart , Kostylev Mikhail , Ustinov Alexey B.
Published: January 2021

A spin-wave delay-line active-ring oscillator has recently been proposed as a suitable substrate to implement the physical reservoir computing model. The concept displays the required properties of fading memory and nonlinearity characteristic to the model. In this paper, we improve the concept by increasing the signal delay time in the yttrium-iron garnet film by more than four times, and we examine further the improved system by evaluating experimentally the performance on two benchmark classification tasks. The short-term memory (STM) task evaluates the linear memory characteristics of the RC, while the parity-check (PC) task evaluates the nonlinear computing capability. Adequate performance on both is achieved, and the linear memory is shown to be strongly dependent on the synchronization between the reservoir computer (RC) inputs and the active-ring circulation time. The extended delay time and other major improvements result in STM and PC capacities reaching maximum values of 4.68 and 1.74, respectively.
Efficient and affordable thermomagnetic materials for harvesting low grade waste heat
Authors: Dzekan Daniel , Waske Anja , Nielsch Kornelius , Fähler Sebastian
Published: January 2021

Industrial processes release substantial quantities of waste heat, which can be harvested to generate electricity. At present, the conversion of low grade waste heat to electricity relies solely on thermoelectric materials, but such materials are expensive and have low thermodynamic efficiencies. Although thermomagnetic materials may offer a promising alternative, their performance remains to be evaluated, thereby hindering their real-world application. Here, the efficiency and cost effectiveness of thermomagnetic materials are evaluated for the usage in motors, oscillators, and generators for converting waste heat to electricity. The analysis reveals that up to temperature differences of several 10 K, the best thermomagnetic materials have the potential to compete with thermoelectric materials. Importantly, it is found that the price per watt of some thermomagnetic materials is much lower compared to that of present-day thermoelectrics, which can become competitive with conventional power plants. This materials library enables the selection of the best available thermomagnetic materials for harvesting waste heat and gives guidelines for their future development.
Direct evidence that KNDy neurons maintain gonadotropin pulses and folliculogenesis as the GnRH pulse generator
Authors: Nagae Mayuko , Uenoyama Yoshihisa , Okamoto Saki , Tsuchida Hitomi , Ikegami Kana , Goto Teppei , Majarune Sutisa , Nakamura Sho , Sanbo Makoto , Hirabayashi Masumi , Kobayashi Kenta , Inoue Naoko , Tsukamura Hiroko
Published: January 2021

Significance

Reports suggest that at least 25% of women suffering from reproductive disorders are due to hypothalamic dysfunction. Pulsatile gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) regimens are used for infertile women. Thus, elucidation of the GnRH/gonadotropin pulse generator is warranted to improve therapeutic approaches for these disorders. Normal pulsatile gonadotropin release and folliculogenesis were rescued by transfecting the kisspeptin gene (Kiss1) into the hypothalamic neurokinin B (NKB) neurons in globalKiss1knockout infertile female rats but not by transfecting outside the NKB neurons. Our results demonstrate that kisspeptin/NKB/dynorphin A (KNDy) neurons serve as the GnRH pulse generator, and >20% KNDy neurons are enough to maintain GnRH/gonadotropin pulses and folliculogenesis in female rats. The findings provide a potential therapeutic aspect for hypothalamic reproductive disorders.
GRK5 is a regulator of fibroblast activation and cardiac fibrosis
Authors: Eguchi Akito , Coleman Ryan , Gresham Kenneth , Gao Erhe , Ibetti Jessica , Chuprun J. Kurt , Koch Walter J.
Published: January 2021

Significance

Pathological remodeling of the heart is a hallmark of chronic heart failure (HF) and these structural changes further perpetuate the disease. G protein-coupled receptor (GPCR) kinase 5 (GRK5) has been shown to cause deleterious effects on the cardiomyocyte during HF; however, its effects in cardiac fibroblasts, the crucial cell type responsible for maintaining the structural integrity of the heart, is not understood. Here, we use in vitro and in vivo methods to demonstrate that inhibition of GRK5 inhibits fibroblast activation and attenuates the fibrotic response in the heart.
On clitic placement and gradience of strength of FP in Western Ibero-Romance
Authors: Graham Lamar A.
Published: January 2021

Old (Medieval and Classical) Spanish permitted finite enclisis and as such is classified as a strong-F language, as are many archaic varieties of Romance languages. Notable about Old Spanish is that, prior to the 1500s, interpolation arrangements were acceptable and rather common, as is still the case of Galician and some dialects of Portuguese. However, from the 1500s onward, interpolation in Old Spanish was no longer productive, much like modern Asturian. This is evidence that the “strong-weak” dichotomy of FP is insufficient to explain the situation of the languages. I argue that the strength of FP should be described as not only “weak” or “strong,” but instead on a gradient scale to distinguish languages that permit a range of possible clitic arrangements.
Crop domestication and indigenous crops.
Authors: Morgan Lynette
Published: January 2021

Plant domestication is the genetic modification of a wild species to create a new form of a plant altered to meet human needs (Doebley et al., 2006). The basis of domestication is intentional selection by farmers, a process which eventually lead to improvements in plant adaptation to cultivation, yields, nutritional quality, ease of propagation and harvest, and a number of other desirable characteristics. The term 'domesticated' may also be used to refer to plants that are morphologically and genetically distinct from their wild ancestors as a result of artificial selection, or that are no longer known to occur outside of cultivation (Meyer et al., 2012). 'Semi-domesticated' refers specifically to crops that may be under cultivation and selection, but are not clearly genetically or morphologically distinct from the wild type, while undomesticated includes plants that are still wild-harvested with no artificial selection having occurred. Crop domestication served a vital purpose for the human race. It allowed nomadic societies to become settled, ensured a secure food supply, and contributed to the development of many aspects of civilisation. By the process of selection from wild ancestors and plant breeding over millennia, high yielding, reliable and improved compositional quality crops could be produced from generation to generation. Worldwide, the domestication process has seen the domination of just a handful of staple crops that now contribute to a high proportion of human energy intake.
Energy use in horticulture.
Authors: Morgan Lynette
Published: January 2021

Horticultural production requires the use of many different forms of energy. These energy sources range from natural energy such as light, heat and human labour to the widespread use of fossil fuels, electricity and natural gas, which dominate large scale, modern agriculture systems. Energy has been a vital input for efficient production ever since man first began to cultivate crops. Initially, the only energy sources available were human labour to cultivate, sow, weed, fertilize, irrigate, maintain and harvest crops. However, domesticated animals became a major energy source, replacing some of the heavy work required in early horticultural systems. With the development of modern horticultural systems, machinery and equipment, new, energy-intensive technologies in the post-World War II era began to dramatically increase food production (Pelletier et al., 2011). In the second half of the 20th century global food production more than doubled (Khan and Hanjra, 2009). It is projected to continue to increase until 2050 to meet the demands of continued growing populations. This requirement for ever-increasing volumes of food production, coupled with growing societal affluence and demand for a wide and diverse range of horticultural products exported around the globe, will see energy use become even more of a significant factor within the horticultural industry.
The risk factors and incidence of major infectious diseases in patients with ankylosing spondylitis receiving tumor necrosis factor inhibitors
Authors: Koo Bon San , Lim Yu-Cheol , Lee Min-Young , Jeon Ja-Young , Yoo Hyun-Jeong , Oh In-Sun , Shin Ju-Young , Kim Tae-Hwan
Published: January 2021

Objectives

This study aimed to evaluate the risk factor and incidence of infections in patients receiving tumor necrosis factor inhibitor (TNFi) therapy for ankylosing spondylitis using data from the national health insurance service.

Methods

This was a retrospective cohort study. Data regarding patients with ankylosing spondylitis prescribed TNFis were obtained from an insurance claims database of the Health Insurance Review & Assessment Service in Korea. Outcomes used were incidence rates of serious infection, pneumonia, tuberculosis, and herpes zoster during the follow-up period as well as the relationship between each TNFi and sex, hazard ratio (HR) of infection-related risk factors, and incidence of infections.

Results

A total of 2515 patients were included. There were no significant differences among the hazard ratios of TNFis for serious infection, pneumonia, and herpes zoster. However, the hazard ratio of tuberculosis was significantly higher for infliximab than for etanercept (adjusted HR 8.40 [95% confidence interval: 1.06–66.91]). In the subgroup analysis by sex, women treated with golimumab had a significantly higher hazard of herpes zoster than those treated with etanercept (adjusted HR 12.40 [95% confidence interval: 1.40–109.58]).

Conclusion

We recommend that risk factors for these infectious diseases be identified prior to prescribing TNFis in these patients.
MEFV E148Q variant is more associated with familial Mediterranean fever when combined with other non-exon 10 MEFV variants in Japanese patients with recurrent fever
Authors: Fujimoto Kyoko , Hidaka Yukiko , Koga Takuma , Kaieda Shinjiro , Yamasaki Satoshi , Nakashima Munetoshi , Hoshino Tomoaki , Yamamoto Ken , Nishikomori Ryuta , Ida Hiroaki
Published: January 2021

Objective

To investigate the genetic characteristics of one of the MEFV gene variants, p.Glu148Gln (E148Q), in patients with familial Mediterranean fever (FMF) and examine its significance in Japanese patients with recurrent fever.

Methods

The clinical phenotype and genomic variants of systemic autoinflammatory diseases (SAIDs), including MEFV, were analyzed in 211 Japanese patients with recurrent fever. Genetic analysis was performed via next-generation sequencing of exons, including exon-intron boundaries.

Results

Twelve patients met the diagnostic criteria for SAIDs other than FMF. Considering 199 patients with recurrent fever, 137 cases (68.8%) were clinically diagnosed with FMF. Although Bonferroni-adjusted p-value did not reach significance level, the group containing heterozygous E148Q and other variants tended to be at higher risk of developing the FMF phenotype (nominal p = .036) than the group with heterozygous E148Q only. Comparison between the group with heterozygous E148Q and other variants and the heterozygous group containing non-E148Q showed no statistically significant difference in FMF phenotype expression (nominal p = 1.00).

Conclusion

Patients with heterozygous E148Q and other variants exhibited higher expression of FMF phenotype than those with heterozygous E148Q only, and suggested that other variants than E148Q as well as exon 10 variants might contribute to the FMF phenotype.
Biochemical reconstitutions reveal principles of human γ-TuRC assembly and function
Authors: Wieczorek Michal , Ti Shih-Chieh , Urnavicius Linas , Molloy Kelly R. , Aher Amol , Chait Brian T. , Kapoor Tarun M.
Published: January 2021

The formation of cellular microtubule networks is regulated by the γ-tubulin ring complex (γ-TuRC). This ∼2.3 MD assembly of >31 proteins includes γ-tubulin and GCP2-6, as well as MZT1 and an actin-like protein in a “lumenal bridge” (LB). The challenge of reconstituting the γ-TuRC has limited dissections of its assembly and function. Here, we report a biochemical reconstitution of the human γ-TuRC (γ-TuRC-GFP) as a ∼35 S complex that nucleates microtubules in vitro. In addition, we generate a subcomplex, γ-TuRCΔLB-GFP, which lacks MZT1 and actin. We show that γ-TuRCΔLB-GFP nucleates microtubules in a guanine nucleotide–dependent manner and with similar efficiency as the holocomplex. Electron microscopy reveals that γ-TuRC-GFP resembles the native γ-TuRC architecture, while γ-TuRCΔLB-GFP adopts a partial cone shape presenting only 8–10 γ-tubulin subunits and lacks a well-ordered lumenal bridge. Our results show that the γ-TuRC can be reconstituted using a limited set of proteins and suggest that the LB facilitates the self-assembly of regulatory interfaces around a microtubule-nucleating “core” in the holocomplex.
Plasmodium falciparum erythrocyte membrane protein 1 variants induce cell swelling and disrupt the blood–brain barrier in cerebral malaria
Authors: Adams Yvonne , Olsen Rebecca W. , Bengtsson Anja , Dalgaard Nanna , Zdioruk Mykola , Satpathi Sanghamitra , Behera Prativa K. , Sahu Praveen K. , Lawler Sean E. , Qvortrup Klaus , Wassmer Samuel C. , Jensen Anja T.R.
Published: January 2021

Cerebral malaria (CM) is caused by the binding of Plasmodium falciparum–infected erythrocytes (IEs) to the brain microvasculature, leading to inflammation, vessel occlusion, and cerebral swelling. We have previously linked dual intercellular adhesion molecule-1 (ICAM-1)– and endothelial protein C receptor (EPCR)–binding P. falciparum parasites to these symptoms, but the mechanism driving the pathogenesis has not been identified. Here, we used a 3D spheroid model of the blood–brain barrier (BBB) to determine unexpected new features of IEs expressing the dual-receptor binding PfEMP1 parasite proteins. Analysis of multiple parasite lines shows that IEs are taken up by brain endothelial cells in an ICAM-1–dependent manner, resulting in breakdown of the BBB and swelling of the endothelial cells. Via ex vivo analysis of postmortem tissue samples from CM patients, we confirmed the presence of parasites within brain endothelial cells. Importantly, this discovery points to parasite ingress into the brain endothelium as a contributing factor to the pathology of human CM.
Group-III-nitride and halide-perovskite semiconductor gain media for amplified spontaneous emission and lasing applications
Authors: Ng Tien Khee , Holguin-Lerma Jorge A , Kang Chun Hong , Ashry Islam , Zhang Huafan , Bucci Giada , Ooi Boon S
Published: January 2021

Group-III-nitride optical devices are conventionally important for displays and solid-state lighting, and recently have garnered much interest in the field of visible-light communication. While visible-light laser technology has become mature, developing a range of compact, small footprint, high optical power components for the green-yellow gap wavelengths still requires material development and device design breakthroughs, as well as hybrid integration of materials to overcome the limitations of conventional approaches. The present review focuses on the development of laser and amplified spontaneous emission (ASE) devices in the visible wavelength regime using primarily group-III-nitride and halide-perovskite semiconductors, which are at disparate stages of maturity. While the former is well established in the violet-blue-green operating wavelength regime, the latter, which is capable of solution-based processing and wavelength-tunability in the green-yellow-red regime, promises easy heterogeneous integration to form a new class of hybrid semiconductor light emitters. Prospects for the use of perovskite in ASE and lasing applications are discussed in the context of facile fabrication techniques and promising wavelength-tunable light-emitting device applications, as well as the potential integration with group-III-nitride contact and distributed Bragg reflector layers, which is promising as a future research direction. The absence of lattice-matching limitations, and the presence of direct bandgaps and excellent carrier transport in halide-perovskite semiconductors, are both encouraging and thought-provoking for device researchers who seek to explore new possibilities either experimentally or theoretically. These combined properties inspire researchers who seek to examine the suitability of such materials for potential novel electrical injection devices designed for targeted applications related to lasing and operating-wavelength tuning.
Spin polarization in lateral two-dimensional heterostructures
Authors: Hannan Mousavi S , Simchi H
Published: January 2021

In this work, we study the spin polarization in the MoS(Se)2–WS(Se)2 transition metal dichalcogenide heterostructures by using the non-equilibrium Green’s function method and a three-band tight-binding model near the edges of the first Brillouin zone. Although it has been shown that the structures have no significant spin polarization in a specific range of energy of electrons, by applying a transverse electric field in the sheet of the metal atoms, shedding light on the sample, and under a small bias voltage, a significant spin polarization in the structure could be created. Besides, by applying a suitable bias voltage between leads and applying the electric field, a noticeable spin polarization can be found even without shedding the light on the heterostructures.
Confinement effect enhanced Stoner ferromagnetic instability in monolayer 1T-VSe2
Authors: He Junyi , Xie Qing , Xu Gang
Published: January 2021

Monolayer 1T-VSe2 has been reported as a room-temperature ferromagnet. In this work, by using the first-principles calculations, we unveil that the ferromagnetism in monolayer 1T-VSe2 is originated from its intrinsic huge Stoner instability enhanced by the confinement effect, which can eliminate the interlayer coupling, and lead to a drastic increase of the density of states at the Fermi level due to the presence of Van Hove singularity. Our calculations also demonstrate that the Stoner instability is very sensitive to the interlayer distance. These results provide a useful route to modulate the nonmagnetic to ferromagnetic transition in few-layers or bulk 1T-VSe2, which also shed light on the enhancement of its Curie temperature by enlarging the interlayer distance.
Exotic ΩΩ dibaryon states in a molecular picture *
Authors: Chen Xiao-Hui , Wang Qi-Nan , Chen Wei , Chen Hua-Xing
Published: January 2021

We investigate the exotic

dibaryon states with

and

in a molecular picture. We construct a tensor

molecular interpolating current and calculate the two-point correlation function within the method of QCD sum rules. Our calculations indicate that the masses of the scalar and tensor dibaryon states are

and

, respectively, which are below the

threshold. Within error, these results do not negate the existence of loosely bound molecular

dibaryon states. These exotic strangeness

and doubly-charged

dibaryons, if they exist, may be identified in heavy-ion collision processes in the future.
Effects of stream restoration by legacy sediment removal and floodplain reconnection on water quality
Authors: McMahon Patrick , Beauchamp Vanessa B , Casey Ryan E , Salice Christopher J , Bucher Kyle , Marsh Melinda , Moore Joel
Published: January 2021

The effectiveness of many stream restorations in improving water quality is unmeasured. In the Mid-Atlantic region of the United States, activity by European settlers resulted in upland erosion and deposition of sediments 1–3 m in thickness in stream valleys. Subsequently, streams incised those legacy sediments creating steep, exposed banks, infrequent floodplain inundation, and water tables disconnected from floodplains. Legacy sediment removal (LSR) and floodplain reconnection (FR) proposes water quality improvement by restoration to a hydrological state closer to pre-European. We investigated water quality at nine sites, six restored with LSR/FR and three comparison sites. Nitrogen baseflow concentrations and fluxes were elevated in urban and agricultural watersheds with little apparent effect due to restoration. Denitrification appeared to be constrained by carbon availability. Ion concentrations were elevated in all watersheds compared to a forested reference and represent a substantial ecological stressor for the post-restoration aquatic community. Storm event data from one site suggest small reductions in nutrient and sediment loads across the restored reach. High-frequency time series indicate that restoration effects are not observable at larger scales. The effects of restoration, particularly for denitrification, may not be observable for years and can be obscured by weather and climate-driven variability.
Managing aquaculture in multi-use freshwater bodies: the case of Jatiluhur reservoir
Authors: Taskov D A , Telfer T C , Bengtson D A , Rice M A , Little D C , Murray F J
Published: January 2021

The pressure on scarce freshwater resources from intensifying human activity is rising across the globe. This study presents the case of Jatiluhur—Indonesia’s largest reservoir, where unregulated aquaculture expansion has contributed to environmental degradation and associated conflicts with other water-users. Aiming to identify a strategy to improve the sustainability of cage aquaculture within Jatiluhur reservoir and other freshwater bodies facing similar challenges, this study consisted of an initial analysis of time bound satellite images of the reservoir and a systematic survey of 112 aquaculture farms. The results revealed that, with more than 45 000 production units in 2020, more than half of which are placed outside government-approved aquaculture zones, the carrying capacity of the reservoir is exceeded. An analysis of the farm-level production practices, pertinent to environmental regulation, indicated the existence of three main production strategies, with significant differences in eutrophication potential among them that would lead to better articulated policy actions. A feed manufacturer-focused policy to reduce total phosphorus levels in formulated diets by more than half, but still within the optimal level for fish performance, would have the most impact. Enforcement of registration and removal of illegal production units supported by satellite-based monitoring of compliance are key recommendations to support intensive cage culture remaining an important economic activity.
Spin-dependent optical transitions in yttrium iron garnet
Authors: Chen Jiunn , Hsu Hua-Shu , Lo Fang-Yuh
Published: January 2021

This study reviewed the electronic structure using density functional theory (DFT) and demostrated the transmission of optical magnetic circular spectrum in probing spin-dependent optical transitions in yttrium iron garnet (YIG). DFT + U results suggested that the t2 orbital of tetrahedral irons are polarized by exchange-splitting O(2p) bands. Such polarization was found to be essential for the kinetic exchange and magnetism in YIG. DFT + U results also identified the spin-polarized energy gaps in YIG. On the basis of the distinctions of Fe3O4 [J. Chen et al, Phys. Rev. B, 98, 085 141 (2018)] and YIG in electronic band features along with their manifestations in an optical magnetic circular diachroism (OMCD) spectrum, a map of spin-dependent optical transitions in YIG is presented. Based on the analysis of OMCD spectra at room temperature, the majority-spin and minority-spin gap in YIG are determined to be 2.45 and 2.25 eV, respectively.
The Effect of Alcohol Cue Exposure on Tobacco-Related Cue Reactivity: A Systematic Review
Authors: Ritchie Emma V , Fitzpatrick Chelsea , Ronksley Paul E , Leung Alexander A , Seidel Sydney , McGrath Daniel S
Published: January 2021

Aims

To examine the effect of alcohol cue exposure on tobacco-related cravings, self-administration and other measures of tobacco-related cue reactivity.

Methods

We searched Medline, PsycINFO, Embase, CINAHL and Scopus from inception to May 2020 for articles reporting on a combination of cue reactivity (and/or cross-cue reactivity), alcohol use and tobacco consumption. A semi-quantitative analysis and study quality assessment were performed for the included articles.

Results

A total of 37 articles met our inclusion criteria and were included in the systematic review. Most studies (60%) reported that alcohol cue exposure increased tobacco cravings, but only 18% of studies reported that alcohol cue exposure resulted in an increase in ad libitum smoking. There was also substantial heterogeneity between studies due to differences in methodology related to alcohol cue exposure, measures of tobacco cravings, as well as variable participant and study characteristics.

Conclusions

Alcohol cue exposure can increase cravings for tobacco. This has important implications for individuals who use both substances but are trying to quit one or both.
Exploring the relationship between soil and plant evolutionary diversity in the Roraima table mountain OCBIL, Guayana Highlands
Authors: Campos Prímula Viana , Schaefer Carlos Ernesto G R , Pontara Vanessa , Senra Eduardo Osório , Viana Pedro Lage , Oliveira Fábio Soares , Candido Hugo Galvão , Villa Pedro Manuel
Published: January 2021

OCBIL theory aims to develop hypotheses that explain the evolutionary ecology of biota on old, climatically buffered, infertile landscapes (OCBILs). The table mountain OCBILs of the Guayana Highlands are a major centre of Neotropical plant diversity; however, knowledge about the underlying mechanisms of plant community assembly at the mountaintops is still limited. We evaluated the effect of a fine-scale geoenvironmental gradient on the phylogenetic metrics of plant communities on the iconic, highly isolated Roraima table mountain of the Guayana Highlands. We selected three specific geoenvironments: Bonnetia-shrubby rupestrian grassland, peaty rupestrian grassland and sandy rupestrian grassland. We evaluated evolutionary history using species richness and phylogenetic metrics and analysed effects of the soil on phylogenetic metrics using linear models. Of the 55 species surveyed, 40% are endemic to the Guayana Highlands. Bonnetia-shrubby rupestrian grassland showed higher species richness (47) than peaty rupestrian grassland (30) and sandy rupestrian grassland (24). We observed significant differences in phylogenetic diversity and structure among geoenvironments. The highest phylogenetic diversity was found for Bonnetia-shrubby rupestrian grassland and sandy rupestrian grassland. Peaty rupestrian grassland had significantly lower mean pairwise phylogenetic distance and all standardized phylogenetic metrics. The values of standardized phylogenetic metrics were close to zero, suggesting random phylogenetic structure. The linear models revealed that soil texture explained most of the variation in phylogenetic metrics. Our results might be related to the long geological history of tepuis and the accumulation of lineages over tens of millions of years, which supports the OCBIL theory.
Estimation of local treatment effects under the binary instrumental variable model
Authors: Wang Linbo , Zhang Yuexia , Richardson Thomas S , Robins James M
Published: January 2021

Instrumental variables are widely used to deal with unmeasured confounding in observational studies and imperfect randomized controlled trials. In these studies, researchers often target the so-called local average treatment effect as it is identifiable under mild conditions. In this paper we consider estimation of the local average treatment effect under the binary instrumental variable model. We discuss the challenges of causal estimation with a binary outcome and show that, surprisingly, it can be more difficult than in the case with a continuous outcome. We propose novel modelling and estimation procedures that improve upon existing proposals in terms of model congeniality, interpretability, robustness and efficiency. Our approach is illustrated via simulation studies and a real data analysis.
Apathy in small vessel cerebrovascular disease is associated with deficits in effort-based decision making
Authors: Saleh Youssuf , Le Heron Campbell , Petitet Pierre , Veldsman Michele , Drew Daniel , Plant Olivia , Schulz Ursula , Sen Arjune , Rothwell Peter M , Manohar Sanjay , Husain Masud
Published: January 2021

Patients with small vessel cerebrovascular disease frequently suffer from apathy, a debilitating neuropsychiatric syndrome, the underlying mechanisms of which remain to be established. Here we investigated the hypothesis that apathy is associated with disrupted decision making in effort-based decision making, and that these alterations are associated with abnormalities in the white matter network connecting brain regions that underpin such decisions. Eighty-two patients with MRI evidence of small vessel disease were assessed using a behavioural paradigm as well as diffusion weighted MRI. The decision-making task involved accepting or rejecting monetary rewards in return for performing different levels of physical effort (hand grip force). Choice data and reaction times were integrated into a drift diffusion model that framed decisions to accept or reject offers as stochastic processes approaching a decision boundary with a particular drift rate. Tract-based spatial statistics were used to assess the relationship between white matter tract integrity and apathy, while accounting for depression. Overall, patients with apathy accepted significantly fewer offers on this decision-making task. Notably, while apathetic patients were less responsive to low rewards, they were also significantly averse to investing in high effort. Significant reductions in white matter integrity were observed to be specifically related to apathy, but not to depression. These included pathways connecting brain regions previously implicated in effort-based decision making in healthy people. The drift rate to decision parameter was significantly associated with both apathy and altered white matter tracts, suggesting that both brain and behavioural changes in apathy are associated with this single parameter. On the other hand, depression was associated with an increase in the decision boundary, consistent with an increase in the amount of evidence required prior to making a decision. These findings demonstrate altered effort-based decision making for reward in apathy, and also highlight dissociable mechanisms underlying apathy and depression in small vessel disease. They provide clear potential brain and behavioural targets for future therapeutic interventions, as well as modelling parameters that can be used to measure the effects of treatment at the behavioural level.
The Bully Pulpit:trolling the trolls with polysemous monstrosity
Authors: Snider Madison
Published: January 2021

The photography of Haley Morris-Cafiero partakes in a larger feminist response to the vitriol of online misogyny that implicates the current moderation environment of online social platforms. This analysis illuminates Morris-Cafiero’s work of transgressive feminist art, using the body as a means for subverting the gaze of online misogyny and fat-shaming and presenting it anew. Morris-Cafiero uses self-portraiture to remark on the subject of online harassment as both the recipient and the sender. Bringing gendered histories of monstrosity into conversation with contemporary gendered online harassment, this article argues that the work of The Bully Pulpit exemplifies a new conception of polysemous monstrosity through which to understand the presentation of self, both for the artist and her trolls.
The International Classification of Health Interventions: an ‘epistemic hub’ for use in public health
Authors: Fortune Nicola , Madden Richard , Riley Therese , Short Stephanie
Published: January 2021

The current lack of a common basis for collecting data on population-level prevention and health promotion interventions causes public health to be relatively invisible within broader health systems, making it vulnerable to funding cuts when there is pressure to reduce spending. Further, the inconsistent use of terms for describing interventions hinders knowledge translation and building an evidence base for public health practice and policy. The International Classification of Health Interventions (ICHI), being developed by the World Health Organization, is a standard statistical classification for interventions across the full scope of health systems. ICHI has potential to meet the need for a common language and structure for describing and capturing information about prevention and health promotion interventions.

We report on a developmental appraisal conducted to examine the strengths and limitations of ICHI for coding interventions delivered for public health purposes. Our findings highlight classification challenges in relation to: consistently identifying separate components within multi-component interventions; operationalizing the ICHI concept of intervention target when there are intermediary targets as well as an ultimate target; coding an intervention component that involves more than one ICHI target or action; and standardising what is being counted. We propose that, alongside its purpose as a statistical classification, ICHI can play a valuable role as an ‘epistemic hub’, to be used flexibly by public health actors to meet a range of information needs, and as a basis for improved communication and exchange.
Assessment of the effects of exposure to extremely low-frequency magnetic fields on MDCK epithelial cell lines under a controlled environment
Authors: Domínguez Gonzalo , Cardiel Eladio , Sánchez Elsa , Hernández Pablo-Rogelio
Published: January 2021

To assess the effects of exposure to extremely low-frequency magnetic fields (ELF-MFs) on MDCK cell lines, experiments were performed in a chamber under controlled conditions (temperature, humidity and CO2). Therefore, the measured physicochemical and electrical changes in the cells are due solely to the magnetic field exposure and not to external factors. A developed sinusoidal magnetic field generator produced the ELF-MFs with a uniform magnetic field and adjustable intensity and frequency. Three experimental indicators were used: (i) transepithelial electrical impedance (TEEI); (ii) cell migration and proliferation; and (iii) expression of the proteins of the tight junctions, and changes in the area and shape of the cell nuclei. No significant effects on TEEI values were observed when 10 and 50 G 60 Hz magnetic fields were applied to confluent cell monolayers. There were no significant differences in migration and proliferation of the cell monolayer exposed to 60 Hz magnetic fields10 and 50 G , but a contact inhibition factor was observed. The expression of the CLDN-1 protein decreased by 90% compared with the control, while ZO-1 protein expression increased by 120%. No significant effects were observed in the area and shape of the cell nuclei. Experimentation in a controlled environment, under physiological conditions, ensures that the observed effects were strictly due to exposure to magnetic fields. Different exposure conditions are necessary to determine the impact on TEEI and cell migration–proliferation indicators.
Optimizing Helmet Pad Placement Using Computational Predicted Injury Pattern to Reduce Mild Traumatic Brain Injury
Authors: Tan X Gary , Matic Peter
Published: January 2021

Introduction

This effort, motivated and guided by prior simulated injury results of the unprotected head, is to assess and compare helmet pad configurations on the head for the effective mitigation of blast pressure transmission in the brain in multiple blast exposure environments.

Materials and Methods

A finite element model of blast loading on the head with six different helmet pad configurations was used to generate brain model biomechanical responses. The blast pressure attenuation performance of each pad configuration was evaluated by using the calculated pressure exposure fraction in the brain model. Monte Carlo simulations generated repetitive blast cumulative exposures.

Results

Significant improvement of a 6-Pad Modified configuration compared to a 6-Pad Baseline configuration indicates the importance of providing protection against the side blast. Both 12-Pad configurations are very effective in mitigating pressure in the brain. Repetitive blast exposure statistics for operational exposures shows that pad configurations with a larger number of pads and smaller gaps between pads perform better than the configurations with a smaller number of pads and larger gaps between pads.

Conclusions

Optimizing helmet pad size and/or placement could provide an improved protection by minimizing the side blast orientation effects and mitigating high-pressure fields in the brain from repeated blast exposures.
Mechanical Assessment of Tissue Properties During Tourniquet Application
Authors: Hooke Alexander W , Hallbeck M Susan , Prytz Erik , Jonson Carl-Oscar , Lowndes Bethany R
Published: January 2021

Introduction

Successful tourniquet application increases survival rate of exsanguinating extremity hemorrhage victims. Tactile feedback during tourniquet application training should reflect human tissue properties in order to increase success in the field. This study aims to understand the mechanical properties of a human limb during tourniquet application.

Method

Six cadaveric extremities—three uppers and three lowers—were tested from three body mass index groups: low (<19) healthy (19-24), and overweight (>24). Each specimen donned with a tourniquet and mounted to a servo-hydraulic testing machine, which enabled controlled tightening of the tourniquet while recording the tourniquet tension force and strap displacement. A thin-film pressure sensor placed between the specimen and the tourniquet recorded contact pressure. Each limb was tested with the tourniquet applied at two different sites resulting in testing at the upper arm, forearm, thigh, and shank.

Results

The load displacement curves during radial compression were found to be nonlinear overall, with identifiable linear regions. Average contact pressure under the tourniquet strap at 200N and 300N of tension force was 126.3 (σ = 41.2) mm Hg and 205.3 (σ = 75.3) mm Hg, respectively. There were no significant differences in tissue stiffness or contact pressure at 300N of tension force between limb (upper vs. lower) or body mass index. At 200N of tension, the upper limb had significantly higher contact pressure than the lower limb (P = 0.040). Relative radial compression was significantly different between upper (16.74, σ = 4.16%) and lower (10.15, σ = 2.25%) extremities at 200N tension (P = 0.005).

Conclusions

Simulation of tissue compression during tourniquet application may be achieved with a material exhibiting elastic properties to mimic the force-displacement behavior seen in cadaveric tissue or with different layers of material. Different trainers for underweight, healthy, and overweight limbs may not be needed. Separate tourniquet training fixtures should be created for the upper and lower extremities.