bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Size-dependent effect on the interaction of surface waves in micropolar thermoelastic medium with dual pore connectivity
Authors: Das Soumik , Dutta Rachaita , Craciun Eduard-Marius , Sur Abhik , Barak M S , Gupta Vipin
Published: May 2024

This research tackles a critical knowledge gap in Rayleigh surface wave propagation. It offers a comprehensive analysis that surpasses previous limitations. A size-dependent micropolar medium with unique void distributions and thermal effects is considered in this work. The constitutive relations and equations of motion for a nonlocal micropolar thermoelastic medium with double voids (MTMWDV) have been established by using Eringen’s nonlocal elasticity theory. Employing the three-phase-lag thermoelasticity theory (TPLTE), the study utilizes a wave-mode method to derive analytical solutions for Rayleigh waves in a nonlocal MTMWDV. To gain a comprehensive understanding of wave behavior, we solve the characteristic equation and analyze its roots, applying a filter based on the surface wave decay condition. A medium with stress-free and isothermal boundaries is explored through computational simulations to determine the attenuation coefficient and phase velocity. Furthermore, particle motion analysis is conducted to complement the analytical and computational approaches. Moreover, the influence of the nonlocal parameter and various thermoelastic models on these wave phenomena is investigated. The validity of the current mathematical model is confirmed through the derivation of particular scenarios.
High responsivity VIS-NIR photodetector based on (PEA)2PbI4/P3HT heterojunction
Authors: Zhang Haiting , Wu Wenyao , Zhong Xuanqi , Du Langlang , Fu Zhendong , WenBao Sun , Liu Jiangnan , Song Xiaoxian , Zhang Jingjing , Liang Ying , Dai Zijie , Ren Yunpeng , Ye Yunxia , Ren Xudong , Yao Jianquan
Published: May 2024

Two-dimensional (2D) Ruddlesden–Popper (RP) perovskite is an ideal platform for building high-performance photodetectors due to its unique structure, excellent stability, and tunable bandgap. However, 2D perovskite heterojunction photodetectors are still less reported. In this work, the photodetector based on (PEA)2PbI4/P3HT heterojunction was prepared by the liquid-phase solution method under air conditions, which showed a responsivity (R) of 8.38 A W−1 and a specific detectivity (D*) of 6.53 × 1011Jones under 808 nm light. In addition, the device has a transient response time of 79.57 μs/484 μs and a high stability performance that maintains more than 95% of the photocurrent under continuous cycling tests and shows good cyclic stability after 30 days without encapsulation. This work provides a promising strategy for extending 2D perovskite photodetectors in the VIS to NIR spectral range.
Rotating kiselev black holes in f(R, T) gravity
Authors: Ghosh Sushant G , Islam Shafqat Ul , Maharaj Sunil D
Published: May 2024

Exact solutions describing rotating black holes can provide significant opportunities for testing modified theories of gravity, which are motivated by the challenges posed by dark energy and dark matter. Starting with a spherical Kiselev black hole as a seed metric, we construct rotating Kiselev black holes within the f(R, T) gravity framework using the revised Newman-Janis algorithmthe f(R, T) gravity-motivated rotating Kiselev black holes (FRKBH) with additional parameter quintessence parameter ω and state parameter γ, apart from mass M and spin a, which encompasses, as exceptional cases, Kerr (K = 0) and effective Kerr-Newman (K = Q
2) black holes. These solutions give rise to distinct classes of black holes surrounded by fluids while considering specific values of the w for viable choices for the f(R, T) function. From the parameter space or domain of existence of black holes defined by a and γ for FKRBH, we discover that when a
1 < a < a
2, there is a critical value γ = γ

E
which corresponds to extreme value black holes portrayed by degenerate horizons. When a < a
1 (a > a
2), we encounter two distinct critical values γ = γ

E1, γ

E2 with γ

E1 > γ

E2 (or γ = γ

E3, γ

E4 with γ

E3 > γ

E4). We discuss the horizon and global structure of FKRBH spacetimes and examine their dependence on parameters w and γ. This exploration is motivated by the remarkable effects of f(R, T) gravity, which gives rise to diverse and intricate spacetime structures within the domain where black holes exist.
GaInX3 (X = S, Se, Te): Ultra-low thermal conductivity and excellent thermoelectric performance
Authors: Duan 段 Zhi-Fu 志福 , Ding 丁 Chang-Hao 长浩 , Ding 丁 Zhong-Ke 中科 , Xiao 肖 Wei-Hua 威华 , Xie 谢 Fang 芳 , Luo 罗 Nan-Nan 南南 , Zeng 曾 Jiang 犟 , Tang 唐 Li-Ming 黎明 , Chen 陈 Ke-Qiu 克求
Published: May 2024

Seeking intrinsically low thermal conductivity materials is a viable strategy in the pursuit of high-performance thermoelectric materials. Here, by using first-principles calculations and semiclassical Boltzmann transport theory, we systemically investigate the carrier transport and thermoelectric properties of monolayer Janus GaInX
3 (X = S, Se, Te). It is found that the lattice thermal conductivities can reach values as low as 3.07 W⋅m−1⋅K−1, 1.16 W⋅m−1⋅K−1 and 0.57 W⋅m−1⋅K−1 for GaInS3, GaInSe3, and GaInTe3, respectively, at room temperature. This notably low thermal conductivity is attributed to strong acoustic-optical phonon coupling caused by the presence of low-frequency optical phonons in GaInX
3 materials. Furthermore, by integrating the characteristics of electronic and thermal transport, the dimensionless figure of merit ZT can reach maximum values of 0.95, 2.37, and 3.00 for GaInS3, GaInSe3, and GaInTe3, respectively. Our results suggest that monolayer Janus GaInX
3 (X = S, Se, Te) is a promising candidate for thermoelectric and heat management applications.
FL-Online: An x-ray crystallographic web-server for atomic-scale structure analysis of biomolecule
Authors: Wang 王 Bintang 宾堂 , Niu 牛 Tongxin 彤欣 , Fan 范 Haifu 海福 , Ding 丁 Wei 玮
Published: May 2024

FL-Online (http://fanlab.ac.cn) is an out-of-box modern web service featuring a user-friendly interface and simplified parameters, providing academic users with access to a series of online programs for biomolecular crystallography, including SAPI-online, OASIS-online, C-IPCAS-online and a series of upcoming software releases. Meanwhile, it is a highly scalable and maintainable web application framework that provides a powerful and flexible solution for academic web development needs. All the codes are open-source under MIT licenses in GitHub.
Enhancing aqueous Zn-Mn battery performance using Na+ ion conducting ceramic membrane
Authors: Senthilkumar S.T. , Alawadhi Hussain , Allagui Anis
Published: May 2024

The low cell voltage and capacity of conventional Zn-MnO2 batteries often result in limited energy density. In this study, we assembled a Zn-MnO2 battery based on the acid-alkaline electrolyte decoupled concept and reversible MnO2/Mn2+ deposition/dissolution chemistry to increase the cell voltage and capacity. We used a Na+ ion conducting NASICON ceramic membrane in the battery to decouple the acid and alkaline electrolytes effectively. The assembled Zn-MnO2 battery demonstrated a cell voltage of 2.43 V and a coulombic efficiency (CE) of 90% at a current density of 0.2 mA/cm2. It also exhibited excellent rechargeability with continuous charge and discharge cycles. After 100 cycles, the battery exhibits a capacity of 0.36 mAh with a maximum CE of 93.42%. A study on the battery’s self-discharge performance showed that a maximum of 71% capacity could be recovered from the charged battery after 24 hours of rest. Finally, we fabricated a pouch-type acid-alkaline electrolyte decoupled Zn-MnO2 battery and examined its feasibility.
Light absorption enhancement in dye-sensitized solar cells using thin nanostructured photoelectrodes
Authors: Alqaydi Maitha S , Oboudi Saad , Zhang Di
Published: May 2024

As thin-film solar cells are the attraction of many research works nowadays, dye-sensitized solar cells (DSSCs) among other types hold the promise of excellent cost/performance ratio because of the relatively low material costs and simple processing conditions. In order to improve its relatively low performance, different approaches are being explored to enhance the photon-to-current conversion efficiency. Notably, one of the most accessible approaches is by modifying the optical characteristics of the photoelectrode of DSSCs to improve light trapping within the cell. Here, we introduce a cost-effective nanopatterning process done on the photo-active TiO2 photoelectrode layer for better light absorption. This simple technique resulted in increased cell short-circuit current density (from 4.664 to 5.963 mA/cm2) which consequently enhanced cell efficiency (from 2.243 to 2.819%). Furthermore, without compromising the absorption significantly, nanopatterned photoelectrodes with a smaller thickness can lead to reduced material costs and possibly allowing the construction of semitransparent cells. This work can contribute to an attainable efficient DSSC manufacturing route for practical applications.
Investigation of gamma induced effects on the properties of gamma irradiated Ce2S3 thin films
Authors: Aldawood S.
Published: May 2024

Nanostructure cerium sulphide (Ce2S3) thin films were prepared using successive ionic layer adsorption and reaction (SILAR). The properties of the prepared samples were investigated as a function of gamma rays’ doses of 0, 250, 500, and 1000Gy, respectively. The X-ray diffraction (XRD) results suggest an orthorhombic phase structure for Ce2S3 thin films and the crystallinity is enhanced with increasing gamma-ray doses. The irradiated thin films exhibit a variation in the energy band gap associated with the quantum confinement effect with larger grain size. This simple strategy of modifying properties of Ce2S3 thin films by the incident gamma rays can be an attractive way to investigate this material for dosimetry and radiation detection.
Development and characterization of a clay-graphite-CeO2 composite electrode for simultaneous detection of heavy metals
Authors: Nizar Sondos , El-Kordy Abderrazek , Elgamouz Abdelaziz , Kawde Abdelnasser , Laoui Tahar
Published: May 2024

A carbon paste electrochemical sensor doped with clay impregnated with cerium oxide (CeO2), CPE/Clay/CeO2, was developed and used for the electrochemical sensing of four heavy metals, Cd(II), Pb(II), Cu(II) and Hg(II). The optimum ratio of clay/CeO2 and sintering temperature were found to be 10 wt.% Clay/CeO2 and 1000°C respectively. Heavy metals were sensed simultaneously on the 10 wt.% Clay/CeO2@1000°C sensor using square wave voltammetry (SWV), which was found to yield the highest current density, with optimum parameters: potential increment 0.001 V, amplitude 0.07 V, frequency 15 Hz, preconditioning potential -1.0 V, preconditioning time of 30 s. Linear range calibration curves were obtained in the ranges of 2.0-28 μM, 2.0-25 μM, 2.0-28 μM, 2.0-28 μM for Cd(II), Pb(II), Cu(II) and Hg(II), with respective limit of detection (LOD) and limit of quantitation (LOQ) of 0.42, 1.4 μM for Cd(II), 0.37, 1.2 μM for Pb(II), 0.28, 0.94 μM for Cu(II) and 0.31, 1.0 μM for Hg(II). The prepared CPE/Clay/CeO2 sensor showed a very high selectivity toward the selected heavy metals.
Removal of rhodamine b and alizarin red from aqueous solutions by oxidized carbon nanotubes: kinetics and isotherm Study
Authors: Khalil Abdelrahman K. A. , Almanassra Ismail W. , Chatla Anjaneyulu , Atieh Muataz Ali , Laoui Tahar
Published: May 2024

Alizarin Red and Rhodamine B are widely used dyes in the textile, paper, and plastic industries. However, the disposal or release of these dyes into the environment can negatively impact on both the environment and human health. In the present study, oxidized carbon nanotubes (OCNT) were used to eliminate Alizarin Red and Rhodamine B from contaminated water in batch adsorption experiments. The adsorption outcomes suggested that OCNT has the potential to be an effective material for the removal of these dyes from contaminated water. The kinetics modeling revealed that the adsorption process of both dyes onto OCNT follows the pseudo-second-order model, indicating a chemisorption process. Moreover, the OCNT has indicated fast kinetics in which the equilibrium was achieved in 4 h. The isotherm study demonstrated that the Freundlich isotherm model best fits the experimental data, suggesting that dyes’ adsorption onto OCNT is a monolayer adsorption process. The maximum adsorption capacities were 124.7 and 614.7 mg/g for Rhodamine B and Alizarin Red, respectively. The adsorption of these dyes was found to be more efficient at pH values of 6-8. This study suggests that OCNT can be an effective adsorbent for removing Alizarin Red and Rhodamine B from contaminated water.
Determination of energy band gap of α-LiIO3 doped with L-Arginine and L-Nitroarginine amino acids using diffuse reflectance spectroscopy
Authors: Danghyan A.A. , Bezhanova L.S. , Apreyan R.A. , Sukiasyan R.P. , Margaryan N.B. , Atanesyan A.K.
Published: May 2024

An accurate determination of the band gap energy is crucial for predicting the photophysical and photochemical properties of investigated materials. In the present work, the dependence of the energy band gap (Eg
) of α-LiIO3 crystals doped with L-arginine and L-nitroarginine amino acids was obtained. The method, based on the simultaneous fitting of many absorption mechanisms to the spectral dependence of the Kubelka-Munk function estimated from diffuse reflection data, as well as Tauc's method, has been applied to determine the energy band gap. In the case of a small dopant concentration, additional electron states appear within the band gap of the crystals. As a result, a broad absorption band appears in the material spectrum. The optical transmittance spectra were recorded using an Agilent Cary 60 spectrophotometer in the spectral range 190–1100 nm.
Field tuning study and RF electromagnetic design of a continuous-wave RFQ with ramped inter-vane voltage for AB-BNCT
Authors: Li H.P. , Chen Y.Q. , Su H.Q. , Kong G.Q. , Li J.L. , Deng W.T. , Wang S.
Published: May 2024

A compact radio frequency quadrupole (RFQ) linac for accelerator-based boron neutron capture therapy is being developed at Xi'an Jiaotong University. By adopting a ramped inter-vane voltage in the beam dynamics design, the RFQ could accelerate a continuous wave proton beam to 2.6 MeV over a length of 4 m, effectively decreasing costs and saving space. To meet the beam-dynamics requirements, both the vane width and undercut were optimized during the electromagnetic design. In addition, π-mode stabilization loops were included to increase the mode separation, and fixed tuners with varying diameters were installed to obtain close frequency-tuning sensitivity. It was established that the field unflatness can be controlled within ±1.5% when all tuners remain at their nominal insertion depth. Optimized cooling-channel design was completed, and multi-physics analysis was conducted. The water tuning coefficients of the vane and wall channels were analyzed to establish the ability to fine tune the RFQ during operation.
Development of bipolar high-current correction magnet power supply for TPS facility
Authors: Wang Baosheng , Liu Kuobin , Wong Yongseng
Published: May 2024

Taiwan Photon Source (TPS) is a globally renowned 3 GeV
synchrotron accelerator light source. With a successful decade of
operation, various subsystems have continuously improved and
maintained an optimal research facility environment. Presently,
there is a concerted effort towards energy conservation. This
technical report focuses on the future development of the TPS-II
Permanent Magnet Trim Coil Power Supply for the correction magnet,
emphasizing a Bipole high-current correction magnet power
source. According to the prototype specifications, the maximum
output current is 20 A with an operating voltage of 48 V. This
augmentation increases the amplitude of the magnetic field
correction in the permanent magnet-associated Trim core, providing
greater flexibility in manufacturing the permanent magnet correction
coils. To design a power supply with high current and stability, the
system adopts the Danisense DP50-IP-B DC Current Transducers (DCCT)
as the current feedback component and Metal-Oxide-Semiconductor
Field-Effect Transistors (MOSFETs) as power switches in a
full-bridge (H-bridge) configuration. The driving frequency is set
at 40 kHz. Analog modulation control circuitry and protective
circuits ensure precise control loop modulation. In the power
laboratory, a hardware prototype circuit was constructed, featuring
a 48 V input voltage, 20 A output current, a maximum power of
960W, and a current ripple component maintained within
100 μA. This experiment validates the control loop design of
the prototype, showcasing the ability to achieve rapid and stable
output current performance. Using a 1 V input reference signal for
small-signal testing, the bandwidth displayed a -3 dB bandwidth
of 8.51 kHz. Long-term current stability is within ± 10 ppm,
and interface compatibility with the existing TPS correction magnet
power source interface allows direct operation within the current
system.
Close-to-equilibrium heat capacity
Authors: Khodabandehlou Faezeh , Maes Christian
Published: May 2024

Close to equilibrium, the excess heat governs the static fluctuations. We study the heat capacity in that McLennan regime, i.e. in linear order around equilibrium, using an expression in terms of the average energy that extends the equilibrium formula in the canonical ensemble. It is derivable from an entropy and it always vanishes at zero temperature. Any violation of an extended Third Law is therefore a nonlinear effect.
Tunable Fano resonance in a novel compact metal–insulator–metal structure
Authors: Tang Ding-Kang
Published: May 2024

A novel compact scheme to realize tunable Fano resonance is proposed and investigated theoretically and numerically. The scheme is based on two slot cavities in a metal–insulator–metal structure. The model and formation mechanism of Fano resonance in this structure are studied. A new method based on four-mode temporal coupled-mode theory is used to analyze model of the structure with two slot cavities. Compared with previous studies, this method only considers the interaction between modes within two cavities rather than considering the energy coupling between them. The tunability and slow light phenomenon in the new structure are also studied. It is believed that research in this article can provide a new method to achieve Fano resonance. Furthermore, it is helpful to establish the Fano resonance model and reveal the formation mechanism of Fano resonance.
Screening methods for thermotolerance in pollen
Authors: Stokes Madeleine , Geitmann Anja
Published: May 2024

Plant reproduction is highly susceptible to temperature stress. The development of the male gametophyte in particular represents a critical element in the reproductive cycle with high sensitivity to elevated temperatures. Various methods have been used to test the effect of temperature stress on pollen performance or to determine the degree of susceptibility of given species and genotypes. The information gained informs the development of new crop varieties suited to grow under warmer conditions arising through climate change and facilitates predicting the behaviour of natural populations under these conditions. The characterization of pollen performance typically employs the terms ‘pollen viability’ and ‘pollen vigour’, which, however, are not necessarily used consistently across studies. Pollen viability is a nominal parameter and is often assayed relying on cellular features as proxy to infer the capability of pollen grains to germinate and complete double fertilization. Alternatively, pollen germination can be determined through in vitro growth assays, or by monitoring the ability of pollen tubes to complete different progamic steps in vivo (ability to reach an ovule, release sperm cells, lead to seed set). Pollen vigour is an ordinal parameter that describes pollen tube growth rate or the efficiency of pollen tube growth as inferred by its morphology or growth pattern. To ensure consistent and relevant terminology, this review defines these terms and summarizes the methodologies used to assess them.
‘I Said I’m Young You Know I Can Plan Something Good You Know’: Understanding Language and Migration Through Time
Authors: Santello Marco
Published: May 2024

Applied linguistics has started to consider the importance of time for the understanding of meaning-making, for example in the conceptualization of chronotopes, or in stressing the relevance of speed and entrepreneurial views of the self for migrants. This study takes a step ahead by starting from the concept of memory as mobile, following Michel de Certeau (1990), and looking at the different ways in which the experience of time plays a role in living and recounting migration. Focusing on the journey of a young African from Italy to Germany and then reluctantly back to Italy, this article points to the relevance of time as projected (marked by [un]awareness of possible developments), personal (based on relationality), and influenced by concrete circumstances (events and processes). The findings also unveil tensions between planning and the unforeseen for tactics concerning language, highlighting the role of future projections.
Removing unwanted variation between samples in Hi-C experiments
Authors: Fletez-Brant Kipper , Qiu Yunjiang , Gorkin David U , Hu Ming , Hansen Kasper D
Published: May 2024

Hi-C data are commonly normalized using single sample processing methods, with focus on comparisons between regions within a given contact map. Here, we aim to compare contact maps across different samples. We demonstrate that unwanted variation, of likely technical origin, is present in Hi-C data with replicates from different individuals, and that properties of this unwanted variation change across the contact map. We present band-wise normalization and batch correction, a method for normalization and batch correction of Hi-C data and show that it substantially improves comparisons across samples, including in a quantitative trait loci analysis as well as differential enrichment across cell types.
Robustness and classification capabilities of MRI radiomic features in identifying carotid plaque vulnerability
Authors: Meddings Zakaria , Rundo Leonardo , Sadat Umar , Zhao Xihai , Teng Zhongzhao , Graves Martin J
Published: May 2024

Objectives

To assess how radiomic features may be combined with plaque morphological and compositional features identified by multi-contrast MRI to improve upon conventional risk assessment models in determining culprit carotid artery lesions.

Methods

Fifty-five patients (mean age: 62.6; 35 males) with bilateral carotid stenosis who experienced transient ischaemic attack (TIA) or stroke were included from the CARE-II multi-centre carotid imaging trial (ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT02017756). They underwent MRI within 2 weeks of the event. Classification capability in distinguishing culprit lesions was assessed by machine learning. Repeatability and reproducibility of the results were investigated by assessing the robustness of the radiomic features.

Results

Radiomics combined with a relatively conventional plaque morphological and compositional metric-based model provided incremental value over a conventional model alone (area under curve [AUC], 0.819 ± 0.002 vs 0.689 ± 0.019, respectively, P = .014). The radiomic model alone also provided value over the conventional model (AUC, 0.805 ± 0.003 vs 0.689 ± 0.019, respectively, P = .031). T2-weighted imaging-based radiomic features had consistently higher robustness and classification capabilities compared with T1-weighted images. Higher-dimensional radiomic features outperformed first-order features. Grey Level Co-occurrence Matrix, Grey Level Dependence Matrix, and Grey Level Size Zone Matrix sub-types were particularly useful in identifying textures which could detect vulnerable lesions.

Conclusions

The combination of MRI-based radiomic features and lesion morphological and compositional parameters provided added value to the reference-standard risk assessment for carotid atherosclerosis. This may improve future risk stratification for individuals at risk of major adverse ischaemic cerebrovascular events.

Advances in knowledge

The clinical relevance of this work is that it addresses the need for a more comprehensive method of risk assessment for patients at risk of ischaemic stroke, beyond conventional stenosis measurement. This paper shows that in the case of carotid stroke, high-dimensional radiomics features can improve classification capabilities compared with stenosis measurement alone.
Vitamin D: Analytical Advances, Clinical Impact, and Ongoing Debates on Health Perspectives
Authors: Cavalier Etienne , Makris Konstantinos , Heijboer Annemieke C , Herrmann Markus , Souberbielle Jean-Claude
Published: May 2024

Background

Vitamin D, acknowledged since the 1930s for its role in preventing rickets, gained additional prominence in relation to fragility fracture prevention in the late 1980s. From the early 2000s, connections between vitamin D deficiency and extra-skeletal pathologies emerged, alongside increased awareness of widespread deficits. This prompted crucial debates on optimal serum concentrations, expected to conclude when the outcomes of high-dose supplementation randomized controlled trials were available. Skepticism arose with inconclusive results from these trials.

Content

This review begins with an exploration of vitamin D metabolism, followed by a detailed description of the measurement of vitamin D metabolites and the crucial role of standardization. Subsequent sections focus on the association of vitamin D with bone health and explore the extra-skeletal effects. The review concludes with a comprehensive discussion on the definition of vitamin D status and its implications for supplementation.

Despite standardization efforts, assay variations and challenges still exist, especially in specific patient groups. Vitamin D supplementation has a significant impact on bone metabolism and optimal vitamin D status improves the efficacy of antiresorptive drugs such as bisphosphonates. The extra-skeletal effects of vitamin D remain debated, but may include potential benefits in conditions such as respiratory infections and cancer mortality, particularly in deficient individuals. The definition of vitamin D sufficiency is nuanced, especially when variations in population groups and analytical methods are taken into account. Despite ongoing debates and recent mega-trials tempering enthusiasm, vitamin D remains a complex and essential element in human health. Further research is needed to clarify its role in various health outcomes and guide supplementation strategies.
Victoria Chick (1936–2023), a Restless Challenger to Mainstream Economics: An Appreciation
Authors: Marcuzzo Maria Cristina , Repapis Constantinos , Toporowski Jan
Published: May 2024

In this article on Victoria (Vicky) Chick (1936–2023), we intend to cover the main research areas into which Chick devoted her life’s work. We categorise the contributions into three broad fields. First, her work on Keynes’s General Theory and the message that economists have taken from it since its publication. Chick wrote extensively on the many misinterpretations of the General Theory that have clouded its message. Instead, through her writings, she offered an alternative perspective and interpretative line that became central to the post-Keynesian school of thought. Second, her work on Keynes gave her the starting point for her novel understanding on the monetary nature of the economy and was the inspiration in the development of the banking stages of history approach that shows the evolutionary nature of banking theory and practice. Finally, the way in which The General Theory built its argument and the misinterpretation that many mainstream economists took from it led Chick to develop her methodological approach on open and closed systems of analysis and the importance of developing judgement as part of teaching in economics.
Multiple factors influenced the aggregation behavior of adult Eucryptorrhynchus scrobicuatus (Coleoptera: Curculionidae)
Authors: Sun Xuewen , Guo Wenjuan , Wang Lu , Xin Xin , Yang Xuerong , Wen Junbao
Published: May 2024

Eucryptorrhynchus scrobiculatus (Motschulsky) (Coleoptera: Curculionidae) is a notorious pest of Ailanthus altissima (Mill.) Swingle (Sapindales: Simaroubaceae). E. scrobiculatus adults typically aggregate under leaves and in soil crevices at the base of A. altissima in the field. We hypothesize that the environmental factors and conspecific signals determine their aggregation behavior. To test this, we investigated adult numbers in light-exposed and shaded areas of the sample trees and conducted experiments in both field and lab settings. Results revealed that (i) greater adult distribution in shaded areas; (ii) significant influence of temperature and illumination on aggregation tendency in the field; (iii) no gender-based difference in aggregation degree and maximum aggregation between light and dark; (iv) the host plant triggering the aggregation tendency, negatively affected in the absence; (v) the aggregation tendency of E. scrobiculatus weakened with the temperature gradually changing to ordinary temperature; and (vi) mutual attraction and chemical attraction between males and females. Thus, the aggregation behavior was influenced by factors including temperature, light intensity, host plant, and conspecific signals, but light’s role was not obvious in the lab.
A Genome-wide Association Study of Susceptibility to Upper Urinary Tract Infections
Authors: Flatby Helene M , Ravi Anuradha , Liyanarachi Kristin V , Afset Jan E , Rasheed Humaira , Brumpton Ben M , Hveem Kristian , Åsvold Bjørn O , DeWan Andrew T , Solligård Erik , Damås Jan K , Rogne Tormod
Published: May 2024

Background

Our goal was to identify genetic and modifiable risk factors for upper urinary tract infections (UTIs).

Methods

We used data from UK Biobank, the Trøndelag Health Study, and the Michigan Genomics Initiative to conduct genome-wide association studies and sex-stratified analyses on upper UTI. Mendelian randomization (MR) analyses were conducted to examine potential causal relationships between cardiometabolic risk factors and upper UTIs.

Results

One genome-wide significant (P ≤ 5E-08) locus was associated with the susceptibility to upper UTI, located near TSN in the female-only analysis. Additionally, we identified suggestive (P ≤ 5E-06) loci near DNAI3 for females, SCAMP1−AS1 for males, and near TSN, LINC00603, and HLA-DQA2 for both sexes. In MR analyses, higher genetically predicted lifetime smoking scores were associated with an increased risk of developing upper UTI for females and both sexes (odds ratio [OR], 4.84, P = 4.50E-06 and OR, 2.79, P = 3.02E-05, respectively).

Conclusions

We found that genetic variants near TSN was associated with the risk of upper UTIs among females. In addition, we found several genetic loci with suggestive associations with the risk of upper UTIs. Finally, MR analyses found smoking to be a potential causal risk factor for upper UTIs.
Bacteriophages to control Vibrio alginolyticus in live feeds prior to their administration in larviculture
Authors: Tadeu Amanda Dias , Duarte João , Trindade David , Costa Pedro , Venâncio Cátia , Lopes Isabel , Oliveira Vanessa , Gomes Newton C M , Almeida Adelaide , Pereira Carla
Published: May 2024

Aims

This study aimed to evaluate the efficiency of two phages [VB_VaC_TDDLMA (phage TDD) and VB_VaC_SRILMA (phage SRI)] alone and in a cocktail to control Vibrio alginolyticus in brine shrimp before their administration in larviculture.

Methods and results

Phages were isolated from seawater samples and characterized by host spectrum, growth parameters, adsorption rate, genomic analysis, and inactivation efficiency. Both phages belong to the Caudoviricetes class and lack known virulence or antibiotic-resistance genes. They exhibit specificity, infecting only their host, V. alginolyticus CECT 521. Preliminary experiments in a culture medium showed that phage TDD (reduction of 5.8 log CFU ml−1 after 10 h) outperformed phage SRI (reduction of 4.6 log CFU ml−1 after 6 h) and the cocktail TDD/SRI (reduction of 5.2 log CFU ml−1 after 8 h). In artificial marine water experiments with Artemia franciscana, both single phage suspensions and the phage cocktail, effectively inactivated V. alginolyticus in culture water (reduction of 4.3, 2.1, and 1.9 log CFU ml−1 for phages TDD, SRI, and the phage cocktail, respectively, after 12 h) and in A. franciscana (reduction of 51.6%, 87.3%, and 85.3% for phages TDD, SRI, and the phage cocktail, respectively, after 24 h). The two phages and the phage cocktail did not affect A. franciscana natural microbiota or other Vibrio species in the brine shrimp.

Conclusions

The results suggest that phages can safely and effectively control V. alginolyticus in A. franciscana prior to its administration in larviculture.
Reporting after removal: the effects of journalist expulsion on foreign news coverage
Authors: DeButts Matt , Pan Jennifer
Published: May 2024

What happens to international media reporting when governments expel foreign journalists? Countries around the world expel foreign reporters, yet there is no consensus about the effects of such expulsions. We argue there are three possible outcomes of expulsion: a chilling effect, resilience, and backlash. Using China as a case study, we evaluate these competing theories by collecting a novel dataset of foreign news stories about China and applying time-series causal inference methods to measure the effects of expulsion on information origination, composition, and reach after March 2020, when the Chinese government expelled a large number of foreign correspondents. Results show that expelled media organizations did not experience a chilling effect or backlash on reporting and may have changed their production processes to account for expulsion. These findings suggest that news organizations can remain resilient to the impact of extraordinary events which target the organization and disrupt internal production processes.
Resonant absorption of standing MHD waves in coronal loops in the absence of directional symmetry: the effect of weak plasma flow
Authors: Bahari Karam
Published: May 2024

The oscillation properties of standing magnetohydrodynamic waves in coronal loops has been investigated. A coronal loop is modelled as a straight cylinder with purely axial magnetic field and field aligned plasma flow. The loop model includes an inhomogeneous transitional layer that causes the wave to be resonantly damped. Our aim is to obtain the solution describing a resonantly damped standing kink wave in a flowing loop with the directional symmetry of the loop being broken due to the presence of plasma flow. In the absence of damping the standing wave is a superposition of two waves propagating in the opposite directions that have the same frequency but different wavenumbers. However, the same approach cannot be used when there is damping because the decrements of the two propagating waves are different. We suggest that in the case of relatively weak flow, as is the case in coronal loops, the effect of flow on the decrements can be neglected. Then the decrements of the two waves are the same and the solution describing the damped standing kink wave is a superposition of two resonantly damped propagating waves.
Supermassive black holes from runaway mergers and accretion in nuclear star clusters
Authors: Kritos Konstantinos , Berti Emanuele , Silk Joseph
Published: May 2024

Rapid formation of supermassive black holes occurs in dense nuclear star clusters that are initially gas-dominated. Stellar-mass black hole remnants of the most massive cluster stars sink into the core, where a massive runaway black hole forms as a consequence of combined effects of repeated mergers and Eddington-limited gas accretion. The associated gravitational wave signals of high-redshift extreme mass-ratio inspirals are a unique signature of the nuclear star cluster scenario.
Clustering of dark matter in the cosmic web as a probe of massive neutrinos
Authors: Khoshtinat Mohadese , Ansarifard Mohammad , Hassani Farbod , Baghram Shant
Published: May 2024

The large-scale structure of the Universe is distributed in a cosmic web. Studying the distribution and clustering of dark matter particles and haloes may open up a new horizon for studying the physics of the dark Universe. In this work, we investigate the nearest neighbour statistics and spherical contact function in cosmological models with massive neutrinos. For this task, we use the relativistic N-body code, gevolution, and study particle snapshots at three different redshifts. In each snapshot, we find the haloes and evaluate the letter functions for them. We show that a generic behaviour can be found in the nearest neighbour, G(r), and spherical contact functions, F(r), which makes these statistics promising tools to constrain the total neutrino mass.
The LOFAR Two-metre Sky Survey: The nature of the faint source population and SFR–radio luminosity relation using
prospector
Authors: Das Soumyadeep , Smith Daniel J B , Haskell Paul , Hardcastle Martin J , Best Philip N , Duncan Kenneth J , Arnaudova Marina I , Shenoy Shravya , Kondapally Rohit , Cochrane Rachel K , Drake Alyssa B , Gürkan Gülay , Małek Katarzyna , Morabito Leah K , Prandoni Isabella
Published: May 2024

Spectral energy distribution (SED) fitting has been extensively used to determine the nature of the faint radio source population. Recent efforts have combined fits from multiple SED-fitting codes to account for the host galaxy and any active nucleus that may be present. We show that it is possible to produce similar-quality classifications using a single energy-balance SED fitting code, prospector, to model up to 26 bands of UV–far-infrared aperture-matched photometry for ∼31 000 sources in the ELAIS-N1 field from the LOFAR Two-Metre Sky Survey (LoTSS) deep fields first data release. One of a new generation of SED-fitting codes, prospector accounts for potential contributions from radiative active galactic nuclei (AGN) when estimating galaxy properties, including star formation rates (SFRs) derived using non-parametric star formation histories. Combining this information with radio luminosities, we classify 92 per cent of the radio sources as a star-forming galaxy, high-/low-excitation radio galaxy, or radio-quiet AGN and study the population demographics as a function of 150 MHz flux density, luminosity, SFR, stellar mass, redshift, and apparent r-band magnitude. Finally, we use prospector SED fits to investigate the SFR–150 MHz luminosity relation for a sample of ∼133 000 3.6 μm-selected z < 1 sources, finding that the stellar mass dependence is significantly weaker than previously reported, and may disappear altogether at $\log _{10} (\mathrm{SFR}/M_\odot \, \mathrm{yr}^{-1}) \gt 0.5$. This approach makes it significantly easier to classify radio sources from LoTSS and elsewhere, and may have important implications for future studies of star-forming galaxies at radio wavelengths.
Low dialysate sodium and 48-h ambulatory blood pressure in patients with intradialytic hypertension: a randomized crossover study
Authors: Iatridi Fotini , Malandris Konstantinos , Ekart Robert , Xagas Efstathios , Karpetas Antonios , Theodorakopoulou Marieta P , Karagiannidis Artemios , Georgiou Areti , Papagianni Aikaterini , Sarafidis Pantelis
Published: May 2024

Background

Intradialytic hypertension (IDH) is associated with increased risk for cardiovascular events and mortality. Patients with IDH exhibit higher 48-h blood pressure (BP) levels than patients without this condition. Volume and sodium excess are considered a major factor contributing in the development of this phenomenon. This study evaluated the effect of low (137 mEq/L) compared with standard (140 mEq/L) dialysate sodium concentration on 48-h BP in patients with IDH.

Methods

In this randomized, single-blind, crossover study, 29 patients with IDH underwent four hemodialysis sessions with low (137 mEq/L) followed by four sessions with standard (140 mEq/L) dialysate sodium, or vice versa. Mean 48-h BP, pre-/post-dialysis and intradialytic BP, pre-dialysis weight, interdialytic weight gain (IDWG) and lung ultrasound B-lines were assessed.

Results

Mean 48-h systolic/diastolic BP (SBP/DBP) were significantly lower with low compared with standard dialysate sodium concentration (137.6 ± 17.0/81.4 ± 13.7 mmHg with low vs 142.9 ± 14.5/84.0 ± 13.9 mmHg with standard dialysate sodium, P = .005/P = .007, respectively); SBP/DBP levels were also significantly lower during the 44-h and different 24-h periods. Low dialysate sodium significantly reduced post-dialysis (SBP/DBP: 150.3 ± 22.3/91.2 ± 15.1 mmHg with low vs 166.6 ± 17.3/94.5 ± 14.9 mmHg with standard dialysate sodium, P < .001/P = .134, respectively) and intradialytic (141.4 ± 18.0/85.0 ± 13.4 mmHg with low vs 147.5 ± 13.6/88.1 ± 12.5 mmHg with standard dialysate sodium, P = .034/P = .013, respectively) BP compared with standard dialysate sodium. Pre-dialysis weight, IDWG and pre-dialysis B lines were also significantly decreased with low dialysate sodium.

Conclusions

Low dialysate sodium concentration significantly reduced 48-h ambulatory BP compared with standard dialysate sodium in patients with IDH. These findings support low dialysate sodium as a major non-pharmacologic approach for BP management in patients with IDH.

Trial registration

ClinicalTrials.gov study number NCT05430438.
Teams and Bankruptcy
Authors: Baghai Ramin P , Silva Rui C , Ye Luofu
Published: May 2024

We study how the human capital embedded in teams is affected by, and reallocated through, corporate bankruptcies. After a bankruptcy, U.S. inventors produce fewer and less impactful patents. Moreover, teams become less stable. Consequently, compared to inventors that rely less on teamwork, the performance of team inventors deteriorates more. These findings point to the loss of team-specific human capital as a cost of resource reallocation through bankruptcy. Acquisitions by industrial firms and joint mobility of inventors with past collaborations limit these losses, suggesting that the labor market and the market for corporate control help preserve team-specific human capital in bankruptcies.
Mystery and Miracle in Nursing
Authors: Cowling William Richard
Published: May 2024

This study of mystery and miracles in nursing offers a unique perspective in examning and understanding these phenomena grounded in a unitary science framework and guided by unitary appreciative inquiry. It examined 6 years of postings from an online course that gave nurses globally the opportunity to describe and elaborate upon experiences of mystery and miracles in their professional and personal lives. The analysis and synopsis processes used revealed the diversity and uniqueness of mystery and miracle phenomena and acceptance by nurses of their reality without need for scientific explanation despite the tendency to dismiss them by colleagues.
Functional and Radiological Outcomes of Surgically Treated Coxa-vara in Children
Authors: Rajbhandari Ansul , Aryal Rajendra , Bahadur Chand Birendra , Gurung Yam Prakash , Banskota Ashok Kumar , Banskota Bibek
Published: May 2024

Background:

Coxa vara is a condition in which the neck-shaft angle of the femur decreases below its normal value (<110 degrees) based on age. The deformity can be primarily caused by a congenital defect of the femoral neck cartilage or by secondary causes related to skeletal dysplasia, trauma, infection, and pathological bone disorders. The surgical treatment aims to restore the normal anatomy, thereby improving the mechanics and function of the hip joint. Generally, the HE angles should be corrected to <35 to 40 degrees, converting the shear forces into compressive forces. Our study aims to report the surgical outcome of coxa vara with various pathologies using radiographic measurement and functional scoring.

Methods:

Thirty-eight hips in 28 patients who underwent surgery for treatment of coxa-vara from 2013 to 2022 were included. Radiographic parameters like Hilgenreiner-epiphyseal angle and neck-shaft angle were assessed preoperatively and at the latest follow-up. Harris hip score was used for functional outcome.

Results:

The mean age was 11.13 (5 to 18). The average follow-up was 48 (ranging from 24 to 96) months. The mean preoperative neck-shaft angle was 82 degrees, and the Hilgenreiner-epiphyseal angle was 71 degrees. At the latest follow-up, the mean neck-shaft angle was 127 degrees, and the Hilgenreiner-epiphyseal angle was 33 (P<0.001). The Harris hip score improved from 63 preoperatively to 92 at the latest follow-up (P<0.001). There was no recurrence of deformities at the mean follow-up of 37.87 months. Four complications occurred with k-wire fixation in whom revalgus osteotomy was done.

Conclusions:

Surgical correction of coxa vara in various pathologies can be done successfully with the Hilgenreiner-epiphyseal angle corrected to ≤ 35 degrees or the neck shaft angle corrected to >110 degrees to prevent deformity recurrence. The majority of the patients reported improvement in hip function. However, a longer-term follow-up is required to determine further outcomes regarding the recurrence of the deformity.
Changes in Fracture Shortening Occur in the First 2 Weeks Following Completely Displaced Adolescent Clavicle Fractures
Authors: Perkins Crystal A. , Nepple Jeffrey J. , Pang Joshua H. , Busch Michael T. , Edmonds Eric W. , Ellis Henry B. , Kocher Mininder S. , Li Ying , Pandya Nirav K. , Pennock Andrew T. , Sabatini Coleen S. , Spence David D. , Willimon Samuel C. , Wilson Philip L. , Heyworth Benton E.
Published: May 2024

Background:

Shortening of midshaft clavicle fractures has been described as a critical fracture characteristic to guide treatment. The degree to which shortening may change in the initial weeks following injury has not been well studied. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the change in shortening of adolescent clavicle fractures in the first 2 weeks following injury.

Methods:

This was a multicenter study of prospectively collected data, which was acquired as a part of a cohort study of adolescent clavicle fractures. A consecutive series of patients 10 to 18 years of age with completely displaced diaphyseal clavicle fractures with baseline radiographs 0 to 6 days from the date of injury, as well as 7 to 21 days from the date of injury, were included. Measurements of end-to-end (EES) and cortex-to-corresponding-cortex (CCS) shortening were performed.

Results:

A total of 142 patients were included. Baseline radiographs were obtained at a mean of 1.0 day following injury with mean EES of 22.3 mm, and 69% of patients demonstrating >20 mm of shortening. Follow-up radiographs obtained at a mean of 13.8 days postinjury demonstrated a mean absolute change in EES of 5.4 mm. Forty-one percentage of patients had >5 mm of change in EES. When analyzing changes in shortening relative to the specific threshold of 20 mm, 18 patients (41%) with <20 mm EES increased to ≥20 mm EES, and 19 patients (19%) with ≥20 mm EES decreased to <20 mm EES at 2-week follow-up.

Conclusions:

Clinically significant changes in fracture shortening occurred in 41% of adolescents with completely displaced clavicle fractures in the first 2 weeks after injury. In 26% of patients, this resulted in a change from above or below the commonly used shortening threshold of 20 mm, potentially altering the treatment plan by many providers. There is no evidence to suggest that adolescent clavicle fracture shortening affects outcomes, and as such, the authors do not advocate for the use of this parameter to guide treatment. However, among physicians who continue to use this parameter to guide treatment, this study supports that repeat radiographic assessment 2 weeks postinjury may be a better measure of the true shortening of this common adolescent injury.

Level of Evidence:

Level IV—case series.