bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
High performance field emission cathode based on the diamond nanowires prepared by nanocrystalline diamond films annealed in air
Authors: Wang Yang , Lin Chen , Zhang Jinwen
Published: January 2024

This paper reports the field emission (FE) characteristics of a diamond nanowires (DNWs) array. The nanocrystalline diamond (NCD) film was deposited on silicon by microwave plasma chemical vapor deposition (MPCVD) and then annealed in air forming DNWs and hydrogenated at last. A high-field flat-plate emission test structure with a 1.03 μm gap between anode and cathode was prepared and the electrical properties proved it feasible. The FE performance of DNWs array was measured in a vacuum test system and that of NCDs film as a comparison. Finally, their FE parameters were analyzed and extracted based on the Fowler–Nordheim (F-N) theory. The results show that transforming NCDs film into DNWs array can improve the FE characteristics greatly. The turn-on field is as low as 1.36 V μm−1 dropping by one order of magnitude, while the field enhancement factor and FE current density are up to 156.68 and 484.75 mA cm−2 respectively rising both by two orders of magnitude. This excellent FE performance stems from the characteristics of large aspect ratio, very small tip radius and high density of DNWs.
Complex characterisation of Cr-doped α-Al
2O3
for DBD applications
Authors: Svandova L , Pazderka M , Pribyl R , Stastny P , Kelar J , Kelar Tucekova Z , Slavicek P , Trunec M , Cernak M
Published: January 2024

Al

2

O

3

samples doped with

Cr

2

O

3

up to

10

vol.

%
(
12.7

wt

%
)

were investigated with respect to their electrical, structural and morphological properties relevant to their use as a dielectric barrier in dielectric barrier discharges (DBDs). The surface properties were analysed using atomic force microscopy and a scanning electron microscope. The structural properties were investigated using x-ray diffraction (XRD) analysis. Regarding electrical properties, we measured the dielectric constant of the material, the discharge ignition voltage in a coplanar configuration in the air as well as in nitrogen, and the working domains (WDs) of atmospheric pressure Townsend discharge (APTD). The charge-trapping properties of the studied samples were measured by an electrostatic voltmeter. There was observed a significant ignition voltage decrease with maximal decrease for sample doped with

1

vol.

%

Cr

2

O

3

. For the samples doped with

10

vol.

%

of

Cr

2

O

3

a rapid surface potential decay was observed that is important from the viewpoint of DBDs plasma filamentation due to the so-called surface memory effect. The WDs of the APTD showed variations, and it has been significantly extended for the 5Cr sample up to at least 24 kHz compared to other samples. Thus, the results presented in this paper show the potential of Cr-doped dielectric barriers and point towards future research directions.
Low dark current lateral Ge PIN photodetector array with resonant cavity effect for short wave infrared imaging
Authors: Yao Liqiang , Ji Ruoyun , Wu Songsong , Jiao Jinlong , He Fuxiu , Wang Dan , Wang Jianyuan , Li Cheng , Huang Wei , Ke Shaoying , Lin Guangyang , Chen Songyan
Published: January 2024

High-performance germanium (Ge) lateral PIN photodetector (PD) arrays for short wave infrared (SWIR) imaging based on Ge-on-insulator (GOI) platform was proposed and demonstrated. The high-quality GOI platform with top-Ge layer thickness of 1.25 μm and threading dislocation density of less than 105 cm−2 was prepared by using bonding and smart-cut technology. P-type and N-type regions with centrosymmetric racetrack shapes were introduced to lower the sidewall electric field and suppress the surface leakage current of the PD. Benefiting from the high-quality of the GOI platform and the unique design of lateral active regions, a low dark current of 2 nA under −1 V with outstanding rectification ratio of 2.1 × 106 were obtained at room temperature. Through constructing a vertical resonant cavity by SiO2 passivation layer and the Si/SiO2 substrate, the responsivity at 1550 nm was enhanced to 0.46 A W−1 with a high specific detectivity of 3.09 × 1010cm·Hz1/2 ·W−1 under −1 V. Ultimately, SWIR imaging was demonstrated by a Ge lateral PIN PD line array with 1 × 8 pixels under zero bias at room temperature. The results indicate that the proposed lateral Ge PD structure holds great application potential in the field of SWIR imaging.
A bearing fault diagnosis method with an improved residual Unet diffusion model under extreme data imbalance
Authors: Wang Huaqing , Zhang Wenbo , Han Changkun , Fu Zhenbao , Song Liuyang
Published: January 2024

As a vital constituent of rotating machinery, rolling bearings assume a pivotal function in ensuring the stable operation of equipment. Recently, deep learning (DL)-based methods have been able to diagnose bearing faults accurately. However, in practical applications, the severe data imbalance caused by the limited availability of fault data compared to the abundance of healthy data poses challenges to the effective training of DL models, leading to a decrease in diagnostic accuracy. In this paper, a bearing fault diagnosis method with the improved residual Unet diffusion model (IResUnet-DM) based on a data generation strategy is proposed to solve the extreme data imbalance. Initially, a deep feature extraction network named improved residual Unet is built, which effectively enhances the information learning ability from vibration signals of the Unet network by one-dimensional residual block and self-attention block. Furthermore, the IResUnet-DM is constructed, which generates vibration signals under extreme data imbalance based on a probability model. The variational bound on the negative log-likelihood of the distribution of generated data was optimized to make the generated data similar to the real data distribution. Finally, wide deep convolutional neural network and one-dimensional ResNet classification networks were used for fault identification to verify the validity and generalization of the IResUnet-DM. Experiment results at different data imbalance rates on two bearing datasets demonstrate that the proposed method can effectively improve fault diagnosis accuracy under extreme data imbalances and outperform the comparison method.
Beam diagnostics with silicon pixel detector array at PADME experiment
Authors: Bertelli S. , Bossi F. , Di Giulio C. , Di Meco E. , Dimitrova K. , De Sangro R. , Domenici D. , Frankenthal A. , Ferrarotto F. , Finocchiaro G. , Foggetta L.G. , Garattini M. , Georgiev G. , Gianotti P. , Ivanov S. , Ivanov Sv. , Kozhuharov V. , Leonardi E. , Long E. , Mancini M. , Oceano I. , Oliva F. , Organtini G.C. , Piperno G. , Raggi M. , Sarra I. , Simeonov R. , Spadaro T. , Spiriti E. , Taruggi C. , Vilucchi E. , Valente P. , Variola A.
Published: January 2024

During 2022 data taking (Run III) PADME searched for a resonant production and a visible decay of the X17 particle into e+e-. A precise knowledge within 1% uncertainty of the number of positrons was required for the observation. To that purpose, an array of 2 × 6 Timepix3 (total of 512 × 1536 pixels) hybrid pixel detectors operated in data-streaming mode with ToA resolution of 1.56 ns for every pixel was employed. Two methods for data acquisition were developed. A frame-based method, integrating the number of hits for each individual pixel for a predefined period of time served for monitoring the beam conditions and to provide a rough estimation of the beam distribution and number of positrons. A data streaming mode exploiting the nanosecond time resolution of Timepix3 detector was used for precise characterization of the transverse beam profile and the distribution of the incident positrons within each bunch of ∼ 200 ns duration.
Study on deconvolution of alpha-particle spectra using metaheuristic optimization and multivariate analysis
Authors: Li Xuebin , Pan Lantian , Yang Luchun , Jin Zhao
Published: January 2024

To find a global optimal solution and obtain further insight
into the parameters of the peak shape fitting function,
metaheuristic optimization algorithms, and multivariate analysis
techniques are employed to study the deconvolution of alpha-particle
spectra. An improved peak shape model composed of the
Bortels-Collaers function and Lévy distribution function, which
aims to handle the high-energy tailing, is proposed. A newly
developed metaheuristic optimization method, Bonobo Optimizer (BO)
is adopted to seek optimal parameters in the peak shape
function. Multivariate analysis (MVA) techniques are used to find
hidden information in the shape model. Pearson's correlation tells
the mutual variation relationship among parameters, while
Multidimensional scaling (MDS) shows similarities of parameters
through a 2D plot. Effects of parameters upon the regression
accuracy are obtained via the Student t-test. Self-organizing
Mapping (SOM) is utilized to mine intrinsic relations among these
parameters through visual images. AM243-1 test alpha spectra example
is selected to examine the proposed methodology. The improved model
is more accurate when handling the high-energy tailing
features. Compared with traditional gradient-based optimization
algorithms, BO can find global solutions without tedious work in
initial solution setting and constraint handling. More information
is mined through MVA and further understanding of the peak shape
function is obtained.
Controlling a bio-inspired miniature blimp using a depth sensing neural-network camera
Authors: Pham Huy Q , Singh Shreyansh , Garratt Matthew , Ravi Sridhar
Published: January 2024

Miniature blimps are lighter-than-air vehicles which have become an increasingly common unmanned aerial system research platform due to their extended endurance and collision tolerant design. The UNSW-C bio-inspired miniature blimp consists of a 0.5 m spherical mylar envelope filled with helium. Four fins placed along the equator provide control over the three translatory axes and yaw rotations. A gondola attached to the bottom of the blimp contains all the electronics and flight controller. Here, we focus on using the UNSW-C blimp as a platform to achieve autonomous flight in GPS-denied environments. The majority of unmanned flying systems rely on GPS or multi-camera motion capture systems for position and orientation estimation. However, such systems are expensive, difficult to set up and not compact enough to be deployed in real environments. Instead, we seek to achieve basic flight autonomy for the blimp using a low-priced and portable solution. We make use of a low-cost embedded neural network stereoscopic camera (OAK-D-PoE) for detecting and positioning the blimp while an onboard inertia measurement unit was used for orientation estimation. Flight tests and analysis of trajectories revealed that 3D position hold as well as basic waypoint navigation could be achieved with variance (<0.1 m). This performance was comparable to that when a conventional multi-camera positioning system (VICON) was used for localizing the blimp. Our results highlight the potentially favorable tradeoffs offered by such low-cost positioning systems in extending the operational domain of unmanned flight systems when direct line of sight is available.
Research on high and low temperature rheological properties of TPU/SBR composite modified asphalt
Authors: Chen Jiangcai , Liu Yu , Rong Hongliu , Liang Mingmei , Liu Yusong , Huang Richeng
Published: January 2024

In road engineering, SBS modifier has been widely applied in China to enhance the quality of asphalt pavement. However, without considering the physical and chemical properties of SBS modifier and the asphalt substrate, alternative polymerization methods for asphalt modification that offer better performance and economic benefits have not been explored. In this study, an approach was taken to compound modify the base asphalt by incorporating Thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) and Styrene Butadiene Rubber (SBR). The high and low temperature rheological properties of the modified asphalt were examined using tests such as Rotational Viscosity (RV) test, Dynamic Shear Rheological test (DSR), Multiple Stress Creep Rheological test (MSCR), and Bending Beam Rheological test (BBR). The modification mechanism of the mixed modified asphalt, combining SBR and TPU, was investigated through fluorescence microscope testing. The RV test revealed that the inclusion of TPU and SBR enhanced the viscosity of the asphalt to a certain extent, affording it favorable workability during construction and improved resistance against high temperature deformation. DSR and MSCR tests demonstrated that the incorporation of TPU significantly bolstered the external load resistance, deformation recovery, rutting resistance, and overall stability of the SBR modified asphalt under high temperature conditions; The BBR test proves that the composite modified asphalt has excellent low temperature crack resistance. The FM tests have shown that TPU are effective in reducing the segregation that may occur in SBR-modified asphalt, thus improving the performance of the composite modified asphalt.
Development and tribological investigation of B4C reinforced AA5082 Aluminum alloy cast composites for automotive applications
Authors: Singh Gurpreet , Sharma Neeraj , Singh Pankaj Kumar , Hossain Ismail , Gupta Shaman
Published: January 2024

In this work, AA5082 alloy is used as base alloy to fabricate aluminum composites using fine reinforced particles of boron carbide (B4C). The conventional method of stir casting is employed for the production of composites. The particles are used with varying weight % of 5, 10, 15 and 20 for the composite fabrication. The microstructures of the composites are examined using the Scanning Electron Microscopy and x-ray Diffraction patterns. The hardness of the composites is tested and found to increase from 73 HV in base alloy to 93 HV in the AA5082 composite having B4C proportion of 15%. However, a slight decrease in hardness is also observed at higher wt% of B4C which could be due to agglomeration of particles. Evaluation of yield strength showed an escalation in the strong point with the addition of reinforced particles under the effect of orowan strengthening mechanism. Wear analysis conducted on Tribometer indicates that the escalation of load and sliding distance is proportional to the loss of material in composites whereas, wear declined with the rise of sliding speed. The micrograph examination of the wear tracks reveals the material removal mechanism from the composite as abrasive in nature. Pitting at certain places is also observed.
The spatial scaling of mutualistic network diversity
Authors: Sandor Manette E , Tingley Morgan W , Elphick Chris S
Published: January 2024

How species richness scales spatially is a foundational concept of community ecology, but how biotic interactions scale spatially is poorly known. Previous studies have proposed interactions-area relationships (IARs) based on two competing relationships for how the number of interactions scale with the number of species, the ‘link-species scaling law’ and the ‘constant connectance hypothesis.’ The link-species scaling law posits that the number of interactions per species remains constant as the size of the network increases. The constant connectance hypothesis says that the proportion of realized interactions remains constant with network size. While few tests of these IARs exist, evidence for the original interactions-species relationships are mixed. We propose a novel IAR and test it against the two existing IARs. We first present a general theory for how interactions scale spatially and the mathematical relationship between the IAR and the species richness-area curve. We then provide a new mathematical formulation of the IAR, accounting for connectance varying with area. Employing data from three mutualistic networks (i.e. a network which specifies interconnected and mutually-beneficial interactions between two groups of species), we evaluate three competing models of how interactions scale spatially: two previously published IAR models and our proposed IAR. We find the new IAR described by our theory-based equation fits the empirical datasets equally as well as the previously proposed IAR based on the link-species scaling law in one out of three cases and better than the previously-proposed models in two out of three cases. Our novel IAR improves upon previous models and quantifies mutualist interactions across space, which is paramount to understanding biodiversity and preventing its loss.
PNAd-expressing vessels characterize the dermis of CD3+ T-cell-mediated cutaneous diseases
Authors: Budair Fatimah Mohammad , Nomura Takashi , Hirata Masahiro , Kabashima Kenji
Published: January 2024

T-cell recruitment to skin tissues is essential for inflammation in different cutaneous diseases; however, the mechanisms by which these T cells access the skin remain unclear. High endothelial venules expressing peripheral node address in (PNAd), an L-selectin ligand, are located in secondary lymphoid organs and are responsible for increasing T-cell influx into the lymphoid tissues. They are also found in non-lymphoid tissues during inflammation. However, their presence in different common inflammatory cutaneous diseases and their correlation with T-cell infiltration remain unclear. Herein, we explored the mechanisms underlying the access of T cells to the skin by investigating the presence of PNAd-expressing vessels in different cutaneous diseases, and its correlation with T cells’ presence. Skin sections of 43 patients with different diseases were subjected to immunohistochemical and immunofluorescence staining to examine the presence of PNAd-expressing vessels in the dermis. The correlation of the percentage of these vessels in the dermis of these patients with the severity/grade of CD3+ T-cell infiltration was assessed. PNAd-expressing vessels were commonly found in the skin of patients with different inflammatory diseases. A high percentage of these vessels in the dermis was associated with increased severity of CD3+ T-cell infiltration (P < 0.05). Additionally, CD3+ T cells were found both around the PNAd-expressing vessels and within the vessel lumen. PNAd-expressing vessels in cutaneous inflammatory diseases, characterized by CD3+ T-cell infiltration, could be a crucial entry point for T cells into the skin. Thus, selective targeting of these vessels could be beneficial in cutaneous inflammatory disease treatment.
Community-Wide Universal HIV Test and Treat Intervention Reduces Tuberculosis Transmission in Rural Uganda: A Cluster-Randomized Trial
Authors: Marquez Carina , Atukunda Mucunguzi , Nugent Joshua , Charlebois Edwin D , Chamie Gabriel , Mwangwa Florence , Ssemmondo Emmanuel , Kironde Joel , Kabami Jane , Owaraganise Asiphas , Kakande Elijah , Ssekaynzi Bob , Abbott Rachel , Ayieko James , Ruel Theodore , Kwariisima Dalsone , Kamya Moses , Petersen Maya , Havlir Diane V , Balzer Laura B
Published: January 2024

Background

Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) treatment reduces tuberculosis (TB) disease and mortality; however, the population-level impact of universal HIV-test-and-treat interventions on TB infection and transmission remain unclear.

Methods

In a sub-study nested in the SEARCH trial, a community cluster-randomized trial (NCT01864603), we assessed whether a universal HIV-test-and-treat intervention reduced population-level incident TB infection in rural Uganda. Intervention communities received annual, population-level HIV testing and patient-centered linkage. Control communities received population-level HIV testing at baseline and endline. We compared estimated incident TB infection by arms, defined by tuberculin skin test conversion in a cohort of persons aged 5 and older, adjusting for participation and predictors of infection, and accounting for clustering.

Results

Of the 32 trial communities, 9 were included, comprising 90 801 participants (43 127 intervention and 47 674 control). One-year cumulative incidence of TB infection was 16% in the intervention and 22% in the control; SEARCH reduced the population-level risk of incident TB infection by 27% (adjusted risk ratio = 0.73; 95% confidence interval [CI]: .57–.92, P = .005). In pre-specified analyses, the effect was largest among children aged 5–11 years and males.

Conclusions

A universal HIV-test-and-treat intervention reduced incident TB infection, a marker of population-level TB transmission. Investments in community-level HIV interventions have broader population-level benefits, including TB reductions.
Appraisal of amyloidosis imaging practices in the Middle East/North Africa (PYP-MENA)
Authors: Al Badarin Firas , Garashi Masoud , Aljizeeri Ahmed , Tabbalat Ramzi , Allam Adel , Bouyoucef Salah Eddine , Chauhdary Ammar
Published: January 2024

Aims

Whereas recommendations to optimize performance and yield of cardiac scintigraphy studies with bone-seeking tracers have been published, little is known about real-world adherence to these best practices, especially outside North America and Europe. Accordingly, we described imaging practices with this modality in a sample of nuclear laboratories in the Middle East/North Africa (MENA) region.

Methods and results

Laboratories performing radionuclide imaging for cardiac amyloidosis in the MENA region were invited to participate in this study to describe installed camera systems, type and dose of bone-avid tracers used, imaging protocols, and criteria used for study interpretation. Out of 19 invited sites, 10 completed the survey (70% government-run; 90% accredited), sites have been involved with amyloid imaging for a median of 49 months (interquartile range 24–60). The median injected dose was 20 mCi (range 10–25), and PYP was used by 90% of sites in this sample. Planar imaging with single photon emission computed tomography (SPECT) reconstruction was performed at all sites, including seven sites that performed SPECT/CT reconstruction. Lastly, only 50% of sites relied on evidence of myocardial uptake by SPECT to confirm the diagnosis of ATTR cardiomyopathy, while the rest relied on visual assessment and heart/contralateral ratio.

Conclusion

This study is the first to describe variation in imaging practices across sites in the MENA region, especially in acquisition protocols and interpretation standards. Eliminating heterogeneities identified by this study will harmonize image interpretation and reporting and will facilitate successful conduct of regional multi-centre studies.
Current management of atrial fibrillation in routine practice according to the last ESC guidelines: an EHRA physician survey—how are we dealing with controversial approaches?
Authors: Guerra Jose M , Moreno Weidmann Zoraida , Perrotta Laura , Sultan Arian , Anic Ante , Metzner Andreas , Providencia Rui , Boveda Serge , Chun Julian
Published: January 2024

Aims

Although guidelines for the management of atrial fibrillation (AF) are regularly published, many controversial issues remain, limiting their implementation. We aim to describe current clinical practice among European Heart Rhythm Association (EHRA) community according to last guidelines.

Methods and results

A 30 multiple-choice questionnaire covering the most controversial topics related to AF management was distributed through the EHRA Research Network, National Societies, and social media between January and February 2023. One hundred and eighty-one physicians responded the survey, 61% from university hospitals. Atrial fibrillation screening in high-risk patients is regularly performed by 57%. Only 42% has access to at least one programme aiming at diagnosing/managing comorbidities and lifestyle modifications, with marked heterogeneity between countries. Direct oral anticoagulants are the preferred antithrombotic (97%). Rhythm control is the preferred strategy in most AF phenotypes: symptomatic vs. asymptomatic paroxysmal AF (97% vs. 77%), low vs. high risk for recurrence persistent AF (90% vs. 72%), and permanent AF (20%). I-C drugs and amiodarone are preferred while dronedarone and sotalol barely used. Ablation is the first-line therapy for symptomatic paroxysmal AF (69%) and persistent AF with markers of atrial disease (57%) and is performed independently of symptoms by 15%. In persistent AF, 68% performs only pulmonary vein isolation and 32% also additional lesions.

Conclusion

There is marked heterogeneity in AF management and limited accordance to last guidelines in the EHRA community. Most of the discrepancies are related to the main controversial issues, such as those related to AF screening, management of comorbidities, pharmacological treatment, and ablation strategy.
An RNAi screen for conserved kinases that enhance microRNA activity after dauer in Caenorhabditis elegans
Authors: Roka Pun Himal , Karp Xantha
Published: January 2024

Gene regulation in changing environments is critical for maintaining homeostasis. Some animals undergo a stress-resistant diapause stage to withstand harsh environmental conditions encountered during development. MicroRNAs are one mechanism for regulating gene expression during and after diapause. MicroRNAs downregulate target genes posttranscriptionally through the activity of the microRNA-induced silencing complex. Argonaute is the core microRNA-induced silencing complex protein that binds to both the microRNA and to other microRNA-induced silencing complex proteins. The 2 major microRNA Argonautes in the Caenorhabditis elegans soma are ALG-1 and ALG-2, which function partially redundantly. Loss of alg-1 [alg-1(0)] causes penetrant developmental phenotypes including vulval defects and the reiteration of larval cell programs in hypodermal cells. However, these phenotypes are essentially absent if alg-1(0) animals undergo a diapause stage called dauer. Levels of the relevant microRNAs are not higher during or after dauer, suggesting that activity of the microRNA-induced silencing complex may be enhanced in this context. To identify genes that are required for alg-1(0) mutants to develop without vulval defects after dauer, we performed an RNAi screen of genes encoding conserved kinases. We focused on kinases because of their known role in modulating microRNA-induced silencing complex activity. We found RNAi knockdown of 4 kinase-encoding genes, air-2, bub-1, chk-1, and nekl-3, caused vulval defects and reiterative phenotypes in alg-1(0) mutants after dauer, and that these defects were more penetrant in an alg-1(0) background than in wild type. Our results implicate these kinases as potential regulators of microRNA-induced silencing complex activity during postdauer development in C. elegans.
Transcriptionally Active Defective HIV-1 Proviruses and Their Association With Immunological Nonresponse to Antiretroviral Therapy
Authors: Scrimieri Francesca , Bastian Estella , Smith Mindy , Rehm Catherine A , Morse Caryn , Kuruppu Janaki , McLaughlin Mary , Chang Weizhong , Sereti Irini , Kovacs Joseph A , Lane H Clifford , Imamichi Hiromi
Published: January 2024

A subset of antiretroviral therapy-treated persons with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), referred to as immunological nonresponders (INRs), fails to normalize CD4+ T-cell numbers. In a case-control study involving 26 INRs (CD4 < 250 cells/µL) and 25 immunological responders (IRs; CD4 ≥ 250 cells/µL), we evaluated the potential contribution of transcriptionally competent defective HIV-1 proviruses to poor CD4+ T-cell recovery. Compared to the responders, the INRs had higher levels of cell-associated HIV RNA (P = .034) and higher percentages of HLA-DR+ CD4+ T cells (P < .001). While not encoding replication-competent viruses, the RNA transcripts frequently encoded HIV-1 Gag-p17 and Nef proteins. These transcripts and/or resulting proteins may activate pathway(s) leading to the immunological nonresponse phenotype.
Artifactual atomic displacements on surfaces using annular dark-field images with image simulation
Authors: Kobayashi Shunsuke , Ooe Kousuke , Nakayama Kei , Kuwabara Akihide
Published: January 2024

We investigated artifactual atomic displacements on a Pt (111) surface using annular dark-field (ADF) scanning transmission electron microscopy images under ideal conditions with multi-slice image simulation. Pt atomic columns on the surface exhibited artifact displacement. The bright spots shifted slightly toward the interior of the crystal, indicating that ADF imaging underestimates atomic distance measurements on the crystal surface. Multiple peak fitting is an effective method for determining the positions of bright spots and obtaining more accurate atomic positions while reducing the impact of surface-related artifacts. This is important for the measurement of interatomic distances on crystal surfaces, particularly for catalyst particles.
H i galaxy signatures in the SARAO MeerKAT galactic plane survey – II. The Local Void and its substructure
Authors: Kurapati Sushma , Kraan-Korteweg Renée C , Pisano D J , Chen Hao , Rajohnson Sambatriniaina H A , Steyn Nadia , Frank Bradley , Serra Paolo , Goedhart Sharmila , Camilo Fernando
Published: January 2024

The Local Void is one of the nearest large voids, located at a distance of 23 Mpc. It lies largely behind the Galactic Bulge and is therefore extremely difficult to observe. We use H i 21 cm emission observations from the SARAO MeerKAT Galactic Plane Survey (SMGPS) to study the Local Void and its surroundings over the Galactic longitude range 329° < ℓ < 55°, Galactic latitude |b| < 1.5°, and redshift cz < 7500 $\rm km \, s^{-1}$. We have detected 291 galaxies to median rms sensitivity of 0.44 mJy per beam per 44 $\rm km \, s^{-1}$ channel. We find 17 galaxies deep inside the Void, 96 at the border of the Void, while the remaining 178 galaxies are in average density environments. The extent of the Void is ∼58 Mpc. It is severely underdense for the longitude range 350° < ℓ < 35° up to redshift z < 4500 $\rm km \, s^{-1}$. The galaxies in the Void tend to have H i masses that are lower (by approximately 0.25 dex) than their average density counterparts. We find several potential candidates for small groups of galaxies, of which two groups (with 3 members and 5 members) in the Void show signs of filamentary substructure within the Void.
Two rest-frame wavelength measurements of galaxy sizes at z < 1: the evolutionary effects of emerging bulges and quenched newcomers
Authors: George Angelo , Damjanov Ivana , Sawicki Marcin , Arnouts Stéphane , Desprez Guillaume , Gwyn Stephen , Picouet Vincent , Birrer Simon , Silverman John
Published: January 2024

We analyse the size evolution of 16 000 star-forming galaxies (SFGs) and 5000 quiescent galaxies (QGs) with mass M* > 109.5 M⊙ at 0.1 < z < 0.9 from the COSMOS field using deep CLAUDS + HSC imaging in two rest-frame wavelengths, 3000 Å (UV light) and 5000 Å (visible light). With half-light radius (Re) as proxy for size, SFGs at characteristic mass M0 = 5 × 1010 M⊙ grow by 20 per cent (30 per cent) in UV (visible) light since z ∼ 1 and the strength of their size evolution increases with stellar mass. After accounting for mass growth due to star formation, we estimate that SFGs grow by 75 per cent in all stellar mass bins and in both rest-frame wavelengths. Redder SFGs are more massive, smaller and more concentrated than bluer SFGs and the fraction of red SFGs increases with time. These results point to the emergence of bulges as the dominant mechanism for the average size growth of SFGs. We find two threshold values for the stellar mass density within central 1 kpc (Σ1): all SFGs with log Σ1 ≳ 9 are red and only QGs have log Σ1 ≳ 9.7. The size of M* = M0 QGs grows by 50 per cent (110 per cent) in the UV (visible) light. Up to $\sim 20~{{\rm per\,cent}}$ of this increase in size of massive QGs is due to newcomers (recently quenched galaxies). However, newcomers cannot explain the observed pace in the size growth of QGs; that trend has to be dominated by processes affecting individual galaxies, such as minor mergers and accretion.
Democracy’s Values and Ideals: A Duboisian Defence
Authors: Basevich Elvira
Published: January 2024

This essay offers a Duboisian defense of democracy’s expressive and experimental values. It argues that the expressive value of democracy supports an ideal of inclusion, whereas the experimental value of democracy supports that of innovation. One appeals to the ideal of inclusion to extend to excluded groups codified constitutional protections and to condemn white hypocrisy. The ideal of innovation, in contrast, helps one reimagine what constitutional protections should be in the first place. Drawing on Du Bois’s writings, this essay argues that the civic activities of black American counter-publics exhibited both experimental and expressive democratic values. In particular, it highlights the innovations of black women civic leaders who reimagined care work under a public conception of the common good. It concludes that counter-publics shape the asymmetric moral insight of its participants, namely, the oppressed.
The Faithfulness to Fact
Authors: Harris Kimberly Ann
Published: January 2024

W.E.B. Du Bois regarded social reform as a legitimate object for the scientist. This paper argues that he gave a place to nonepistemic values in scientific reasoning and, to counter the effects of scientific racism, he constructed his approach around the belief that scientists must adopt an assumption or scientific hypothesis that African Americans are human. His engagement in scientific research was a way to reform the society in which he lived, which in turn, led him to defend the faithfulness to fact as his conception of scientific objectivity. This essay examines his sophisticated theory of facts, account of the difference between the natural and human sciences, and the unique instantiation of a pragmatist theory of truth.
Bilateral hand dactylitis: An unusual presentation of the great imitator: Tuberculosis
Authors: Bulut Gökten Dilara , Yümün Kavak Fatma , Mercan Rıdvan
Published: January 2024

The incidence of tuberculosis in developed countries has decreased over the years due to the use of effective tuberculosis drugs and improvements in socio-economic conditions. However, with the ease of global transport and increased travel to countries with high tuberculosis prevalence, the reduction in extrapulmonary tuberculosis cases has been less significant compared with the overall decrease in tuberculosis cases. Extrapulmonary tuberculosis can manifest in a variety of ways. Tuberculous dactylitis, a rare form of tuberculous osteomyelitis, was first described by Rankin in 1886. It mainly affects the short tubular bones in the hands and feet of children and is sometimes called ‘spina ventosa’. A 42-year-old male patient initially presented to an external centre reporting swelling and pain in the hand joints of one year’s duration. Despite one year of treatment with leflunomide and methylprednisolone (16 mg) and a history of methotrexate use during this period, he experienced no improvement. The patient’s condition worsened after the start of sulfasalazine. Dermatological examination was performed due to the presence of haemorrhagic crusted papules and plaques on the ventral surface of both hands. A wound culture was taken, but no bacterial growth was observed. One week after the initial evaluation, the patient complained of persistent foul-smelling nasal discharge, which led to an evaluation by the infectious disease department. At this time, the Quantiferon test was positive. Mycobacterial culture on Days 1 and 3 showed growth of the Mycobacterium tuberculosis complex.
The dimeric deubiquitinase USP28 integrates 53BP1 and MYC functions to limit DNA damage
Authors: Jin Chao , Einig Elias , Xu Wenshan , Kollampally Ravi Babu , Schlosser Andreas , Flentje Michael , Popov Nikita
Published: January 2024

DNA replication is a major source of endogenous DNA damage in tumor cells and a key target of cellular response to genotoxic stress. DNA replication can be deregulated by oncoproteins, such as transcription factor MYC, aberrantly activated in many human cancers. MYC is stringently regulated by the ubiquitin system - for example, ubiquitination controls recruitment of the elongation factor PAF1c, instrumental in MYC activity. Curiously, a key MYC-targeting deubiquitinase USP28 also controls cellular response to DNA damage via the mediator protein 53BP1. USP28 forms stable dimers, but the biological role of USP28 dimerization is unknown. We show here that dimerization limits USP28 activity and restricts recruitment of PAF1c by MYC. Expression of monomeric USP28 stabilizes MYC and promotes PAF1c recruitment, leading to ectopic DNA synthesis and replication-associated DNA damage. USP28 dimerization is stimulated by 53BP1, which selectively binds USP28 dimers. Genotoxic stress diminishes 53BP1–USP28 interaction, promotes disassembly of USP28 dimers and stimulates PAF1c recruitment by MYC. This triggers firing of DNA replication origins during early response to genotoxins and exacerbates DNA damage. We propose that dimerization of USP28 prevents ectopic DNA replication at transcriptionally active chromatin to maintain genome stability.
Transcriptome Analysis of Rice Root Tips Reveals Auxin, Gibberellin and Ethylene Signaling Underlying Nutritropism
Authors: Yamazaki Kiyoshi , Ohmori Yoshihiro , Takahashi Hirokazu , Toyoda Atsushi , Sato Yutaka , Nakazono Mikio , Fujiwara Toru
Published: January 2024

Nutritropism is a positive tropism toward nutrients in plant roots. An NH4+ gradient is a nutritropic stimulus in rice (Oryza sativa L.). When rice roots are exposed to an NH4+ gradient generated around nutrient sources, root tips bend toward and coil around the sources. The molecular mechanisms are largely unknown. Here, we analyzed the transcriptomes of the inside and outside of bending root tips exhibiting nutritropism to reveal nutritropic signal transduction. Tissues facing the nutrient sources (inside) and away (outside) were separately collected by laser microdissection. Principal component analysis revealed distinct transcriptome patterns between the two tissues. Annotations of 153 differentially expressed genes implied that auxin, gibberellin and ethylene signaling were activated differentially between the sides of the root tips under nutritropism. Exogenous application of transport and/or biosynthesis inhibitors of these phytohormones largely inhibited the nutritropism. Thus, signaling and de novo biosynthesis of the three phytohormones are necessary for nutritropism. Expression patterns of IAA genes implied that auxins accumulated more in the inside tissues, meaning that ammonium stimulus is transduced to auxin signaling in nutritropism similar to gravity stimulus in gravitropism. SAUR and expansin genes, which are known to control cell wall modification and to promote cell elongation in shoot gravitropism, were highly expressed in the inside tissues rather than the outside tissues, and our transcriptome data are unexplainable for differential elongation in root nutritropism.
A century journey of organelles research in the plant endomembrane system
Authors: Zhuang Xiaohong , Li Ruixi , Jiang Liwen
Published: January 2024

We are entering an exciting century in the study of the plant organelles in the endomembrane system. Over the past century, especially within the past 50 years, tremendous advancements have been made in the complex plant cell to generate a much clearer and informative picture of plant organelles, including the molecular/morphological features, dynamic/spatial behavior, and physiological functions. Importantly, all these discoveries and achievements in the identification and characterization of organelles in the endomembrane system would not have been possible without: (1) the innovations and timely applications of various state-of-art cell biology tools and technologies for organelle biology research; (2) the continuous efforts in developing and characterizing new organelle markers by the plant biology community; and (3) the landmark studies on the identification and characterization of the elusive organelles. While molecular aspects and results for individual organelles have been extensively reviewed, the development of the techniques for organelle research in plant cell biology is less appreciated. As one of the ASPB Centennial Reviews on “organelle biology,” here we aim to take a journey across a century of organelle biology research in plants by highlighting the important tools (or landmark technologies) and key scientists that contributed to visualize organelles. We then highlight the landmark studies leading to the identification and characterization of individual organelles in the plant endomembrane systems.
Ubiquitin E3 Ligase FBXO9 Regulates Pluripotency by Targeting DPPA5 for Ubiquitylation and Degradation
Authors: Swenson Samantha A , Dobish Kasidy K , Peters Hendrik C , Bea Winship C , Willow Hynes-Smith R , Caplan Mika , Wittorf Karli J , Ghosal Gargi , Buckley Shannon M
Published: January 2024

Embryonic stem cells (ESCs) and induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) have unique characteristics where they can both contribute to all three germ layers in vivo and self-renewal indefinitely in vitro. Post-translational modifications of proteins, particularly by the ubiquitin proteasome system (UPS), control cell pluripotency, self-renewal, and differentiation. A significant number of UPS members (mainly ubiquitin ligases) regulate pluripotency and influence ESC differentiation with key elements of the ESC pluripotency network (including the “master” regulators NANOG and OCT4) being controlled by ubiquitination. To further understand the role of the UPS in pluripotency, we performed an RNAi screen during induction of cellular reprogramming and have identified FBXO9 as a novel regulator of pluripotency associated protein DPPA5. Our findings indicate that FBXO9 silencing facilitates the induction of pluripotency through decreased proteasomal degradation of DPPA5. These findings identify FBXO9 as a key regulator of pluripotency.
Nursing Student Success
Authors: Cox Angela , Copeland Darcy
Published: January 2024

AIM

The aim of this concept analysis was to develop a comprehensive definition of nursing student success.

BACKGROUND

Nursing student success has traditionally been viewed as timely program completion and passing the licensure exam on the first attempt. Little consideration has been given to holistic indicators of success that are inclusive of student well-being and mastery of self-care skills.

METHOD

Nursing student success was examined using Walker and Avant’s eight-step process of concept analysis.

RESULTS

This concept analysis defined nursing student success in a holistic manner characterized by the achievement of performance standards, acquisition of nursing knowledge, skills, and competencies, and attainment of educational goals while experiencing a state of personal thriving.

CONCLUSION

This concept analysis highlights the need for academic programs and accrediting bodies to embrace holistic perspectives of nursing student success that are inclusive of student well-being and mastery of self-care skills.
An Exploratory Study of Undergraduate Nursing Students’ Experiences of Group Work in Block Model Teaching
Authors: Irvine Susan , Tangalakis Kathy
Published: January 2024

The study’s aim was to examine students’ perceptions of group work taught in a block model in the first unit of an undergraduate nursing program. The study used a qualitative descriptive design with open-ended questions. Data from 27 students were analyzed using thematic analysis. Three main themes emerged from the data: 1) unmet expectations, 2) cognitive and metacognitive strategies (subtheme, reflection), and 3) engagement. The benefits and challenges associated with group work using the block model are highlighted, along with implications for education, practice, and further research.
The Effect of Movement-Based Mind-Body Therapies on Quality of Life and Function in Older Adults With Cancer: A Systematic Review
Authors: Campione Elizabeth , Irwin Kent E. , Chladek Nicole , Kaplan Lucas , Murphy Brittany
Published: January 2024

Background:

The number of adults 65 years or older is expected to grow, and with that the prevalence of cancer will increase as well. Cancer and cancer treatment in addition to the aging process negatively impact quality of life (QoL) and function in older adults. Mind-body therapies have shown promising effects in reducing cancer-related side effects, but no systematic reviews have been conducted showing the effectiveness of movement-based mind-body therapies (MBMBTs) in 65 years and older adults with cancer. The purpose of this systematic review was to determine whether MBMBTs are effective in improving QoL and function in older adults with cancer.

Methods:

This review followed the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses Guidelines (PROSPERO registration no. CRD42021282484). MEDLINE, CINAHL, AgeLine, and CENTRAL were searched from January 2000 through September 2021. Methodological quality was assessed according to the Modified Downs and Black checklist.

Results:

A total of 6322 articles were screened for eligibility, and 11 met the inclusion criteria. Of the included studies, 2 were of limited quality, 6 of moderate quality, and 3 of strong quality. In 10 of the 11 included studies, the MBMBTs of yoga and Qigong showed improvements or no change in QoL and function in older adults with cancer.

Conclusion:

Movement-based mind-body therapies are safe and effective treatments that could lead to improvements, or at least no decline, in QoL and function in older adults with cancer. Research focused on the older adult population with cancer is limited and would benefit from further exploration.
The Effect of Human Growth Hormone Treatment on the Development of Slipped Capital Femoral Epiphysis: A Cohort Analysis With 6 Years of Follow-up
Authors: Mittal Mehul , Momtaz David , Gonuguntla Rishi , Singh Aaron , Dave Dhyan , Mohseni Mahshid , Torres-izquierdo Beltran , Schaibley Claire , Hosseinzadeh Pooya
Published: January 2024

Background:

Slipped capital femoral epiphysis (SCFE) is a common hip disorder in adolescents that can result in substantial complications, impacting the quality of life. Human Growth Hormone (HGH) administration may elevate the risk of SCFE, though the relationship remains unclear. Clarifying this association could enable better monitoring and earlier diagnosis of SCFE in patients receiving HGH. The aim of the study is to investigate the association between HGH administration and the incidence of SCFE.

Methods:

This retrospective cohort study utilized data from the TriNetX research database from January 2003 to December 2022. The study included 2 cohorts: an HGH cohort including 36,791 patients aged below 18 years receiving HGH therapy and a control group consisting of patients who did not receive HGH therapy. A 1:1 propensity score matching technique was employed to ensure comparability between the HGH and no-HGH cohorts. The primary outcome measure was the development of SCFE identified by International Classification of Diseases codes. For comparative analysis, both risk ratios (RR) and hazard ratios were computed to evaluate the association between HGH therapy and the development of SCFE.

Results:

The HGH cohort had an increased risk of SCFE compared with the no-HGH cohort (RR: 3.5, 95% CI: 2.073, 5.909, P<0.001) and had an increased hazard of developing SCFE (hazard ratio: 2.627, 95% CI: 1.555, 4.437, P<0.001). Patients with higher exposure to HGH (defined as >10 prescriptions) had an RR of 1.914 (95% CI: 1.160, 3.159, P=0.010) when compared with their counterparts with ≤10 prescriptions.

Conclusions:

In the largest study to date, HGH administration was associated with an elevated risk of SCFE in children in a dose-dependent manner.

Level of evidence:

Level III—therapeutic retrospective cohort study.