bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Opportunities in farming research from an operations management perspective
Authors: Gupta Sushil , Rikhtehgar Berenji Hossein , Shukla Manish , Murthy Nagesh N.
Published: March 2023

We review and analyze the farming (upstream agribusiness supply chain) research literature since 1965 to identify farming research opportunities for operations management (OM) researchers. A majority of reviewed papers in our corpus, until the turn of the 21st century, primarily focus on improving operational efficiency and effectiveness of farming using optimization techniques. However, during the last two decades, farmers’ welfare and the interests of other stakeholders have drawn OM researchers’ attention. This expanded focus on farming research has become possible due to the proliferation of mobile communication devices and the Internet as well as advancements in information technology platforms and social media. Our review also shows that there is a paucity of OM literature that leverages increased data availability from the emergence of precision agriculture and blockchain to address major challenges for the farming sector emanating from climate change, natural disasters, food security, and sustainable and equitable agriculture, among others. Big data, in conjunction with opportunities for field‐based experimentation, artificial intelligence and machine learning, and integration of predictive and prescriptive analytics, can be leveraged by OM scholars engaged in farming research. We zero in on specific questions, issues, and opportunities for research in farming.
New approach to undergraduate quality improvement
Authors: Robertson Callum , Smith Keenan , McGowan Andrew , Sammut Thomas , Boyle James G.
Published: March 2023

Background

While quality improvement (QI) is an essential component to modern day clinical practice, some foundation doctors fail to engage. This is compounded by a lack of formalised undergraduate QI teaching. We trial an undergraduate active learning workshop and evaluate it using a concurrent triangulation mixed methods design.

Approach

We constructed a 2‐hour interactive QI workshop utilising near‐peer educators for third year undergraduate medical students. Our workshop demonstrated an exemplary project and a template featuring evidenced‐based QI tools to grasp key concepts. Informal support was provided for student QI projects, undertaken in small peer groups. Utility was assessed using linked pre‐and‐post event questionnaires with Likert scales, free text thematic analysis and project completion rates.

Evaluation

We recruited 74 students to attend our workshops delivered over 3 months. We achieved high event satisfaction and significant improvements on baseline confidence. Free text comments suggested students perceive QI as an important part of the undergraduate curriculum, described barriers to engagement and the value they place on project autonomy. The workshop eased student feelings of anxiety and intimidation regarding change ideas. Nine projects were completed with one winning a poster prize at a regional conference.

Implications

We demonstrate a popular resource light model that can be scaled up to a variety of centres. Targeting QI teaching at the undergraduate level may be instrumental in developing QI culture in health care systems and address barriers to postgraduate involvement. Our study furthers the understanding of undergraduate students' perspectives of QI and demand for further sessions.
Deregulation of ζ‐carotene desaturase in Arabidopsis and tomato exposes a unique carotenoid‐derived redundant regulation of floral meristem identity and function
Authors: McQuinn Ryan P. , Leroux Julie , Sierra Julio , Escobar‐Tovar Lina , Frusciante Sarah , Finnegan E. Jean , Diretto Gianfranco , Giuliano Giovanni , Giovannoni James J. , León Patricia , Pogson Barry J.
Published: March 2023

A level of redundancy and interplay among the transcriptional regulators of floral development safeguards a plant's reproductive success and ensures crop production. In the present study, an additional layer of complexity in the regulation of floral meristem (FM) identity and flower development is elucidated linking carotenoid biosynthesis and metabolism to the regulation of determinate flowering. The accumulation and subsequent cleavage of a diverse array of ζ‐carotenes in the chloroplast biogenesis 5 (clb5) mutant of Arabidopsis results in the reprogramming of meristematic gene regulatory networks establishing FM identity mirroring that of the FM identity master regulator, APETALA1 (AP1). The immediate transition to floral development in clb5 requires long photoperiods in a GIGANTEA‐independent manner, whereas AP1 is essential for the floral organ development of clb5. The elucidation of this link between carotenoid metabolism and floral development translates to tomato exposing a regulation of FM identity redundant to and initiated by AP1 and proposed to be dependent on the E class floral initiation and organ identity regulator, SEPALLATA3 (SEP3).
A novel quantitative method to evaluate the contribution of platelet products to white thrombus formation in reconstituted blood under flow conditions
Authors: Fuchizaki Akihiro , Yasui Kazuta , Hayashi Tomoya , Tanaka Mitsunobu , Nagasato Tomoka , Ohnishi‐Wada Tomoko , Hosokawa Kazuya , Fujimura Yoshihiro , Shimogaki Kazushige , Hirayama Fumiya , Takihara Yoshihiro , Kimura Takafumi
Published: March 2023

Background and Objectives

Currently, the quality of platelet (PLT) products is evaluated using a series of in vitro tests, which only analyse PLTs as an inspection material. However, it would be ideal to assess the physiological functions of PLTs under conditions similar to the sequential blood haemostatic process. In this study, we attempted to establish an in vitro system where the thrombogenicity of PLT products was evaluated in the presence of red blood cells (RBCs) and plasma using a microchamber under constant shear stress (600/s).

Materials and Methods

Blood samples were reconstituted by mixing PLT products, standard human plasma (SHP) and standard RBCs. Each component was serially diluted keeping the other two components fixed. The samples were applied onto a flow chamber system (Total Thrombus‐formation Analysis System [T‐TAS]), and white thrombus formation (WTF) was assessed under large arterial shear conditions.

Results

We observed a good correlation between the PLT numbers in the test samples and WTF. The WTF of samples containing ≦10% SHP was significantly lower than those containing ≧40% SHP, and no difference was observed in WTF among samples containing 40%–100% SHP. WTF significantly declined in the absence of RBCs, whereas no change in WTF was observed in the presence of RBCs, over haematocrit range of 12.5%–50%.

Conclusion

The WTF assessed on the T‐TAS using reconstituted blood may serve as a new physiological blood thrombus test to quantitatively determine the quality of PLT products.
Concise review of non‐invasive physical plasma as a promising treatment option for radiation injuries of the skin
Authors: Dejonckheere Cas Stefaan , Schmeel Leonard Christopher , Stope Matthias Bernhard
Published: March 2023

Radiation injury has a complex pathophysiology and can result in long‐term impediment of the dermal barrier function. Historically, its treatment has been no different to that of thermal burns and it is not always possible to prevent an unpredictable and uncontrolled extension of the radiation‐induced reactions. Non‐invasive physical plasma (NIPP), a highly energised gas encompassing a combination of various reactive species, positively affects the key players involved in wound healing and proves to be a promising treatment option for chronic wounds and inflammatory skin disorders. Recent clinical evidence also suggests preliminary efficacy in radiation injury following therapeutic irradiation as a part of cancer therapy. Further research is warranted to also investigate the clinical value of NIPP in the context of unplanned or accidental radiation exposure, either as a topical treatment or possibly as an intraoperative procedure, to potentially improve the dermatological outcome and reduce symptoms in radiation victims.
Morphine‐induced mechanical hypersensitivity in mice requires δ receptors, β‐arrestin2, and c‐Src activity
Authors: Singleton Samuel , Hales Tim G.
Published: March 2023

Morphine diminishes pain, but its long‐term use is compromised by tolerance and hyperalgesia. Studies implicate δ receptors, β‐arrestin2 and Src kinase in tolerance. We examined whether these proteins are also involved in morphine‐induced hypersensitivity (MIH). A common pathway for tolerance and hypersensitivity may provide a single target to guide improved analgesic approaches. We examined mechanical sensitivity using automated von Frey in wild‐type (WT) and transgenic male and female C57Bl/6 mice before and after hind paw inflammation by complete Freund's adjuvant (CFA). CFA‐evoked hypersensitivity ceased on day 7 in WT but persisted for the 15‐day testing period in μ−/−. Recovery was delayed until day 13 in δ−/−. We explored the expression of opioid genes in the spinal cord using quantitative RT‐PCR. Restoration to basal sensitivity in WT occurred with increased δ expression. By contrast, κ expression was reduced, while μ remained unchanged. Daily morphine reduced hypersensitivity in WT on day 3 compared to controls; however, hypersensitivity recurred on day 9 and beyond. By contrast, WT had no recurrence of hypersensitivity in the absence of daily morphine. We used β‐arrestin2−/−, δ−/− and Src inhibition by dasatinib in WT to establish whether these approaches, which diminish tolerance, also attenuate MIH. While none of these approaches affected CFA‐evoked inflammation or acute hypersensitivity, all caused sustained morphine anti‐hypersensitivity, abolishing MIH. Like morphine tolerance, MIH in this model requires δ receptors, β‐arrestin2 and Src activity. Our findings suggest that MIH is caused by a tolerance‐induced reduction in endogenous opioid signalling.

image

Key points

Morphine is effective for treating severe acute pain, but tolerance and hypersensitivity often develop during its use in treating chronic pain.

It is unclear whether these detrimental effects share similar mechanisms; if so, it might be possible to develop a single approach to minimise both phenomena.

Mice deficient in μ receptors, δ receptors or β‐arrestin2 and wild type mice treated with the Src inhibitor dasatinib exhibit negligible morphine tolerance.

We show that these same approaches also prevent the development of morphine‐induced hypersensitivity during persistent inflammation.

This knowledge identifies strategies, such as the use of Src inhibitors, which may mitigate tolerance and morphine induced hyperalgesia.
A Numerical Analysis of Radio Frequency Heating of Coal With Different Ranks
Authors: Liu Rui , Dong Xuelin , Gao Deli
Published: March 2023

Radio frequency (RF) heating is a novel thermal stimulation method in developing coalbed methane (CBM). Various research has been conducted on the effect of electromagnetic (EM) heating on the physical properties of coal. However, few studies considered the working conditions of underground coal seam heating. This paper calculates the coal seam temperature distribution based on the coupling between electromagnetic wave propagation and heat transfer in a vertical well to study the influence of coal seam metamorphism and thermoelectric characteristics on temperature distribution. The reservoir thermophysical parameters related to temperature are considered in the heat transfer and wave equations, respectively. Numerical simulations reveal the influence of coal ranks and thermo-electrical properties on heating efficacy. Results indicate that the temperature in the vicinity of the RF heater is relatively high, and the whole heated zone forms an elliptical shape. Low-metamorphism coal, such as lignite, is more functional for RF heating and has a broad heating range, leading to a uniform diffusion coefficient enhancement and good thermal homogeneity. Higher thermal conductivity, lower specific heat capacity, and water saturation can expand the heating area and reduce the temperature near the borehole, benefiting the maintenance of wellbore integrity. The coal seam relative permittivity has little effect on the reservoir temperature when its value is between 2.4 and 6.4.
The relation between speaking-style categorization and speech recognition in adult cochlear implant users
Authors: Tamati Terrin N. , Janse Esther , Başkent Deniz
Published: March 2023

The current study examined the relation between speaking-style categorization and speech recognition in post-lingually deafened adult cochlear implant users and normal-hearing listeners tested under 4- and 8-channel acoustic noise-vocoder cochlear implant simulations. Across all listeners, better speaking-style categorization of careful read and casual conversation speech was associated with more accurate recognition of speech across those same two speaking styles. Findings suggest that some cochlear implant users and normal-hearing listeners under cochlear implant simulation may benefit from stronger encoding of indexical information in speech, enabling both better categorization and recognition of speech produced in different speaking styles.
Speed-Related Abilities Are Similarly Improved After Sled Training Under Different Magnitudes of Velocity Loss in Highly Trained Soccer Players
Authors: Grazioli Rafael , Loturco Irineu , Veeck Filipe , Setuain Igor , Zandavalli Laura A. , Inácio Martinho , Pinto Ronei S. , Cadore Eduardo L.
Published: March 2023

Purpose: We examined the effects of two 8-week resisted-sprint training programs under different magnitudes of velocity loss (VL) on the speed-related performance of highly trained soccer players. Methods: Twenty-one soccer players (age: 25.9 [5.4] y) were randomly assigned to 1 of 2 groups: (1) the “moderate-load group,” players who trained with sled loads that induced 15%VL relative to unloaded sprint velocity (n = 11); and (2) the “heavy-load group,” players who trained with sled loads that induced 40% VL relative to unloaded sprint velocity (n = 10). Linear sprint (10 m), curve sprint, change-of-direction speed, resisted-sprint performance at 15% VL and 40% VL, and vertical jumping ability were tested pretraining and posttraining. A 2-way repeated-measures analysis of variance was used to test for differences between groups. In addition, percentage changes were calculated for speed-related abilities and compared with their respective coefficients of variation to determine whether individual changes in performance were greater than the test variance (ie, “true change”). Results: A main effect of time was detected for 10-m sprint, curve sprint, change-of-direction speed, and 15% VL and 40% VL resisted-sprint times, with significant decreases in sprint times (P = .003, P = .004, P = .05, P = .036, and P = .019, respectively). Jump variables did not change significantly over time. There were no group-by-time interactions for any tested variable (P > .05), but the “true change” analysis revealed meaningful individual changes in both groups. Conclusions: Both moderate- and heavy-sled loading conditions may optimize the development of speed-related abilities in highly trained soccer players. Nevertheless, resisted-sprint training responses may differ meaningfully when assessed on an individual basis.
Team Values: Bringing Athletes Into the Process Successfully
Authors: Grant Matthew A.
Published: March 2023

The purpose of this practical advances article was to describe a successful process involving youth athletes in the development of shared core values for a club swim team and share lessons learned and applications found therein. A purposeful, convenience sample of local USA Swimming club swimmers participated in the development of the shared core values for their team. Data were collected through the administration of three sequential worksheets during the swimmers’ winter holiday break from school. All responses were analyzed using a simplistic mixed methods approach. Results presented five shared core values with associated definitions, actions, and expectations derived directly from the athletes; the primary researcher/head coach added simple quotes from the athletes, when applicable, as an easy memory tool. Lessons learned from the process of this study and practical applications are discussed.
NLR immune receptor–nanobody fusions confer plant disease resistance
Authors: Kourelis Jiorgos , Marchal Clemence , Posbeyikian Andres , Harant Adeline , Kamoun Sophien
Published: March 2023

Plant pathogens cause recurrent epidemics, threatening crop yield and global food security. Efforts to retool the plant immune system have been limited to modifying natural components and can be nullified by the emergence of new pathogen strains. Made-to-order synthetic plant immune receptors provide an opportunity to tailor resistance to pathogen genotypes present in the field. In this work, we show that plant nucleotide-binding, leucine-rich repeat immune receptors (NLRs) can be used as scaffolds for nanobody (single-domain antibody fragment) fusions that bind fluorescent proteins (FPs). These fusions trigger immune responses in the presence of the corresponding FP and confer resistance against plant viruses expressing FPs. Because nanobodies can be raised against most molecules, immune receptor–nanobody fusions have the potential to generate resistance against plant pathogens and pests delivering effectors inside host cells.
Two domestications for grapes
Authors: Allaby Robin G.
Published: March 2023

Glacial cycles and wild adaptations shaped grape domestication and the rise of wine
The first but not the last
Authors: Thorp H. Holden
Published: March 2023

After 2 years in Washington, DC, Alondra Nelson is returning to Princeton. A highly decorated sociologist who has written and studied extensively on the intersection of genetics and race, she was appointed by President Joe Biden as deputy director for science and society in the Office of Science and Technology Policy (OSTP) in 2021. The following year, when Eric Lander was removed as the head of that office, Nelson stepped in as its interim director until Arati Prabhakar was named permanent director 8 months later. I recently spoke with Nelson, about a range of issues, from scientific publishing to artificial intelligence. She clearly leaves behind a legacy of science policy-making that encourages equity.
Wild mammals add up to a ‘shockingly tiny’ total biomass
Authors: Pennisi Elizabeth
Published: March 2023

Humans and domestic species far outweigh other mammals
Wealth gap in biomedical research is growing
Authors: Kaiser Jocelyn
Published: March 2023

Women and Black researchers are less likely to hold multiple NIH grants
The Coming of Age of Nucleic Acid Vaccines during COVID-19
Authors: Rando Halie M. , Lordan Ronan , Kolla Likhitha , Sell Elizabeth , Lee Alexandra J. , Wellhausen Nils , Naik Amruta , Kamil Jeremy P. ,   COVID-19 Review Consortium, Gitter Anthony , Greene Casey S. ,   COVID-19 Review Consortium, Barton John P. , Boca Simina M. , Boerckel Joel D. , Brueffer Christian , Byrd James Brian , Capone Stephen , Capone Shikta , Dattoli Anna Ada , Dziak John J. , Field Jeffrey M. , Ghosh Soumita , Gitter Anthony , Goel Rishi Raj , Greene Casey S. , Guebila Marouen Ben , Himmelstein Daniel S. , Hu Fengling , Jadavji Nafisa M. , Kamil Jeremy P. , Knyazev Sergey , Kolla Likhitha , Lee Alexandra J. , Lordan Ronan , Lubiana Tiago , Lukan Temitayo , MacLean Adam L. , Mai David , Mangul Serghei , Manheim David , McGowan Lucy D’Agostino , Meyer Jesse G. , Mundo Ariel I. , Naik Amruta , Park YoSon , Perrin Dimitri , Qi Yanjun , Rafizadeh Diane N. , Ramsundar Bharath , Rando Halie M. , Ray Sandipan , Robson Michael P. , Rubinetti Vincent , Sell Elizabeth , Shinholster Lamonica , Skelly Ashwin N. , Sun Yuchen , Sun Yusha , Szeto Gregory L. , Velazquez Ryan , Wang Jinhui , Wellhausen Nils
Published: March 2023

The SARS-CoV-2 pandemic has caused untold damage globally, presenting unusual demands on but also unique opportunities for vaccine development. The development, production, and distribution of vaccines are imperative to saving lives, preventing severe illness, and reducing the economic and social burdens caused by the COVID-19 pandemic.
Association of
qacA/B
and
smr
Carriage with Staphylococcus aureus Survival following Exposure to Antiseptics in an
Ex Vivo
Venous Catheter Disinfection Model
Authors: McNeil J. Chase , Sommer Lauren M. , Vallejo Jesus G. , Hulten Kristina G. , Kaplan Sheldon L.
Published: March 2023

Antiseptic agents, including chlorhexidine gluconate (CHG), are commonly utilized in the health care environment to reduce rates of health care-associated infections. A number of efflux pump genes, including
smr
and
qacA/B
, have been reported in
Staphylococcus aureus
isolates that are associated with higher MICs and minimum bactericidal concentrations (MBCs) to CHG.
Expression of Human Endogenous Retrovirus Group K (HERV-K) HML-2 Correlates with Immune Activation of Macrophages and Type I Interferon Response
Authors: Russ Eric , Mikhalkevich Natallia , Iordanskiy Sergey
Published: March 2023

The human endogenous retrovirus group K subgroup, HML-2, is known to be elevated in a long list of inflammation-associated diseases. However, a clear mechanism for HML-2 upregulation in response to inflammation has not been defined.
Bacteroides thetaiotaomicron, a Model Gastrointestinal Tract Species, Prefers Heme as an Iron Source, Yields Protoporphyrin IX as a Product, and Acts as a Heme Reservoir
Authors: Meslé Margaux M. , Gray Chase R. , Dlakić Mensur , DuBois Jennifer L.
Published: March 2023

Research on bacterial iron metabolism has historically focused on the host-pathogen relationship, where the host suppresses pathogen growth by cutting off access to iron. Less is known about how host iron is shared with bacterial species that live commensally in the anaerobic human GI tract, typified by members of phylum
Bacteroidetes
.
Discriminating carbon dioxide sources during volcanic unrest: The case of Campi Flegrei caldera (Italy)
Authors: Buono Gianmarco , Caliro Stefano , Paonita Antonio , Pappalardo Lucia , Chiodini Giovanni
Published: March 2023

Large calderas are among the main emitters of volcanic CO2, which is mainly supplied by the deep degassing of magmatic fluids. However, other sources of non-magmatic CO2 can also occur due to the intense interaction among magmatic fluids, wide hydrothermal systems, and their host rocks. In particular, massive amounts of CO2 are released by calderas during unrest phases and have been often detected before eruptions. An accurate assessment of CO2 sources is thus fundamental to properly understand gas monitoring signals during volcanic crises. We focused on the restless Campi Flegrei caldera, in southern Italy, where CO2 fluxes at the Solfatara-Pisciarelli hydrothermal site have been progressively increasing up to 4000–5000 t/d during the ongoing unrest that started in 2005. Theoretical models of magma degassing have been able to reproduce the CO2-N2-He variations at the Solfatara fumaroles. However, a time-dependent deviation between measured and modeled N2/CO2 and He/CO2, well correlated with the temporal evolution of ground uplift and temperature of the hydrothermal system, has been observed since 2005. We show that these variations are controlled by intense physical-chemical perturbation of the hydrothermal system, which is driving the decarbonation of hydrothermal calcite stored in reservoir rocks. This process is providing large volumes of non-magmatic CO2 during the current unrest, contributing up to 20%–40% of the total fumarolic CO2.
Syntectonic sediment loading and fold-thrust belt structural architecture: An example from the central Appalachians (USA)
Authors: Evans Mark A.
Published: March 2023

Fluid inclusion microthermometry of synkinematic veins is used to estimate the maximum syntectonic load that was deposited on the wedge top in the central Appalachians (northeastern United States) during the Alleghanian orogeny. The restored loads indicate two major depocenters during the Alleghanian orogeny: one above Broadtop synclinorium, with as much as 7 km of Pennsylvanian–Permian load probably sourced by the erosion of rocks uplifted by the growing Blue Ridge massif and emplacement of the North Mountain thrust sheet; the other above the Anthracite belt, with as much as 16 km of syntectonic load likely sourced by the erosion of rocks uplifted by the growing Reading Prong massif. The loads were generally <3 km in the intervening Juniata culmination. In areas of high load, the structural architecture of the basin is that of widely spaced thrusts (~17–22 km) with large leadingedge anticlines in the Cambrian–Ordovician lithotectonic unit, while in areas of low load, thrusts are more closely spaced (~15 km) and deformed into an imbricate stack. The relationship between observed syntectonic loads, thrust spacing, and structural style reflect modeled relationships.
On different modes of a filamentary atmospheric pressure plasma jet: modeling, laser schlieren deflectometric and high-speed camera investigations
Authors: Wolff Thorben , Foest Rüdiger , Kersten Holger
Published: March 2023

We investigated a filamentary non-thermal atmospheric pressure plasma jet used for coating applications. The plasma jet exhibits two different modes, the stationary mode and the locked mode, in which the filaments rotate around the plasma jet axis. We present a model for the modes and verify it by measurements with high-speed camera and laser schlieren deflectometry. Laser schlieren deflectometry investigations reveal a drift of the rotation frequency over time towards lower values. Additionally, relations between the filament rotation frequency and gas flow as well as input power, respectively, are investigated by the laser schlieren deflectometry. Correlation between rotation frequency and gas flow show a linear dependence and with increasing power the rotation frequency increases as well. All the results are in agreement with the proposed model.

Graphical abstract
A Self-Improved Optimizer-Based CNN for Wind Turbine Fault Detection
Authors: Ahilan T. , Narasimhulu Andriya , Prasad D. V. S. S. S. V.
Published: March 2023

In comparison to other alternative energy sources, wind power is more affordable and environmentally friendly, making it one of the most significant energy sources in the world. It is vital to monitor the condition of each wind turbine in the farm and recognize the various states of alert since difficulties with the operation as well as maintenance of wind farms considerably contribute to the rise in their overall expenses. The Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition (SCADA) data-based continuous observation of wind turbine conditions is the most widely used existing strategy to detect the fault early by preventing the wind turbine from reaching a shutdown stage. Several parameters irrelevant to the faults are saved in the SCADA system while the wind turbine is operating. To increase the efficacy of wind turbine fault diagnostics, optimally selected SCADA data parameters are required for fault prediction. Hence, this paper introduces an optimized Convolutional Neural Network (CNN)-based wind turbine fault identification method. For more precise detection, a Self-Improved Slime Mould Algorithm (SI-SMA) is used for the optimal selection of SCADA parameters as well as weight optimization of CNN. The proposed SI-SMA method is an enhanced form of the standard Slime Mould Algorithm (SMA). Eventually, an error analysis and a stability analysis are carried out to check the overall effectiveness of the suggested approach. In particular, the root mean square error (RMSE) of the implemented algorithm is lower, and it is 0.69%, 1.58%, 0.81% and 1.71% better than the existing FF, GWO, WOA and SMA models.
A Trilayer Polymer Composite with Macroscopic Gradient Dielectric Constant Distribution for Advanced Energy Storage Capacitors
Authors: Ye Hu , Zhou Yujiu , Chen Fujia , Zhao Yuetao , Pan Qifeng , Xu Jianhua
Published: March 2023

With the increased demand for electrical devices, there is an urgent requirement to explore advanced materials for capacitors. Composite is an effective way to improve performance through materials and structure design. Herein, an asymmetric three-layer structure with gradient dielectric constant through the solution casting method is reported. This unique design of construction consists of a buffer layer pristine poly(vinylidene fluoride-co-hexafluoropropylene) (P(VDF-HFP)) embedded between high insulation linear materials polyurea (PUA) and high polarization non-linear materials P(VDF-HFP)/BT nanocomposite. The experimental and simulation results demonstrate that the linear layer ensures high insulation of the composite and relatively high efficiency, while the nanocomposite layer acts as a high dielectric layer to enhance polarization. Typically, the buffer layer could effectively avoid overconcentration of the electric field on the PUA layer, which results in high breakdown strength of the trilayer composite. As a result, an ultrahigh breakdown strength of 5970 kV/cm and excellent energy storage density of 8.2 J/cm3can be obtained, which were 45% and 2.15 times higher than that of pristine P(VDF-HFP). This asymmetric structure strategy provides a successful case in exploring high-performance energy storage materials.
The potential extent of Early Triassic Kockatea Shale equivalent source rocks in the Northern Carnarvon and Perth Basins, Western Australia
Authors: Taniwaki T. , Elders C. , Holman A.I. , Grice K.
Published: March 2023

In the northern Perth Basin (Western Australia), the Early Triassic Kockatea Shale is the primary petroleum source rock. Possible source rocks in the Northern Carnarvon Basin are more varied and include the Upper Jurassic Dingo Claystone as well as the Early Triassic Locker Shale. Biomarker analyses were conducted on petroleum samples from these basins to understand the nature of the petroleum systems. Many of the analysed petroleum samples contain carotenoids (okenane, chlorobactane and isorenieratane) derived from photosynthetic sulfur bacteria, suggesting that their source rocks were deposited under conditions of photic zone euxinia (PZE) and/or derived from microbialites. In the northern Perth Basin, the major lithofacies contributing to the source rock are dark coloured mudstones deposited under PZE conditions and/or derived from microbialites. In the southern Perth Basin, the potential source rock is either Permian, Jurassic or Cretaceous in age as indicated by the low concentrations or absence of carotenoids and the Triassic biomarker
n
-C
33
alkylcyclohexane. There is also a possibility that the Lower Triassic Locker Shale is the source rock of petroleum in the Tubridgi field on the Peedamullah Shelf of the Northern Carnarvon Basin, based on the similarity of biomarkers to Perth Basin petroleum sourced from the Kockatea Shale. However, the possibility of charge from the Upper Jurassic Dingo Claystone cannot be entirely excluded.

Supplementary material:
biomarker dataset is available at
https://doi.org/10.6084/m9.figshare.c.6452153
JS Capsules: A Framework for Capturing Fine-grained JavaScript Memory Measurements for the Mobile Web
Authors: Naseer Usama , Benson Theophilus A.
Published: March 2023

Understanding the resource consumption of the mobile web is an important topic that has garnered much attention in recent years. However, existing works mostly focus on the networking or computational aspects of the mobile web and largely ignore memory, which is an important aspect given the mobile web's reliance on resource-heavy JavaScript. In this paper, we propose a framework, called JS Capsules, for characterizing the memory of JavaScript functions and, using this framework, we investigate the key browser mechanics that contribute to the memory overhead. Leveraging our framework on a testbed of Android mobile phones, we conduct measurements of the Alexa top 1K websites. While most existing frameworks focus on V8 - the JavaScript engine used in most popular browsers - in the context of memory, our measurements show that the memory implications of JavaScript extends far beyond V8 due to the cascading effects that certain JavaScript calls have on the browser's rendering mechanics. We quantify and highlight the direct impact that website DOM have on JavaScript memory overhead and present, to our knowledge, the first root-cause analysis to dissect and characterize their impact on JavaScript memory overheads.
SLITS: Sparsity-Lightened Intelligent Thread Scheduling
Authors: Jin Wangkai , Peng Xiangjun
Published: March 2023

A diverse set of scheduling objectives (e.g., resource contention, fairness, priority, etc.) breed a series of objective-specific schedulers for multi-core architectures. Existing designs incorporate thread-to-thread statistics at runtime, and schedule threads based on such an abstraction (we formalize thread-to-thread interaction as the Thread-Interaction Matrix). However, such an abstraction also reveals a consistently-overlooked issue: the Thread-Interaction Matrix (TIM) is highly sparse. Therefore, existing designs can only deliver sub-optimal decisions, since the sparsity issue limits the amount of thread permutations (and its statistics) to be exploited when performing scheduling decisions.

We introduce Sparsity-Lightened Intelligent Thread Scheduling (SLITS), a general scheduler design for mitigating the sparsity issue of TIM, with the customizability for different scheduling objectives. SLITS is designed upon the key insight that: the sparsity issue of the TIM can be effectively mitigated via advanced Machine Learning (ML) techniques. SLITS has three components. First, SLITS profiles Thread Interactions for only a small number of thread permutations, and form the TIM using the run-time statistics. Second, SLITS estimates the missing values in the TIM using Factorization Machine (FM), a novel ML technique that can fill in the missing values within a large-scale sparse matrix based on the limited information. Third, SLITS leverages Lazy Reschedule, a general mechanism as the building block for customizing different scheduling policies for different scheduling objectives. We show how SLITS can be (1) customized for different scheduling objectives, including resource contention and fairness; and (2) implemented with only negligible hardware costs. We also discuss how SLITS can be potentially applied to other contexts of thread scheduling.

We evaluate two SLITS variants against four state-of-the-art scheduler designs. We highlight that, averaged across 11 benchmarks, SLITS achieves an average speedup of 1.08X over the de facto standard for thread scheduler - the Completely Fair Scheduler, under the 16-core setting for a variety of number of threads (i.e., 32, 64 and 128). Our analysis reveals that the benefits of SLITS are credited to significant improvements of cache utilization. In addition, our experimental results confirm that SLITS is scalable and the benefits are robust when of the number of threads increases. We also perform extensive studies to (1) break down SLITS components to justify the synergy of our design choices, (2) examine the impacts of varying the estimation coverage of FM, (3) justify the necessity of Lazy Reschedule rather than periodic rescheduling, and (4) demonstrate the hardware overheads for SLITS implementations can be marginal (<1% chip area and power).
DiffForward: On Balancing Forwarding Traffic for Modern Cloud Block Services via Differentiated Forwarding
Authors: Zhu Wenzhe , Li Yongkun , Xu Erci , Li Fei , Xu Yinlong , Lui John C. S.
Published: March 2023

Modern cloud block service provides cloud users with virtual block disks (VDisks), and it usually relies on a forwarding layer consisting of multiple proxy servers to forward the block-level writes from applications to the underlying distributed storage. However, we discover that severe traffic imbalance exists among the proxy servers at the forwarding layer, thus creating a performance bottleneck which severely prolongs the latency of accessing VDisks. Worse yet, due to the diverse access patterns of VDisk s, stable traffic and burst traffic coexist at the forwarding layer, and thus making existing load balancing designs inefficient for balancing the traffic at the forwarding layer of VDisk s, as they are unaware of and also lacks the ability to differentiate the decomposable burst and stable traffic. To this end, we propose a novel traffic forwarding scheme DiffForward for cloud block services. DiffForward differentiates the burst traffic from stable traffic in an accurate and efficient way at the client side, then it forwards the burst traffic to a decentralized distributed log store to realize real-time load balance by writing the data in a round-robin manner and balances the stable traffic by segmentation. DiffForward also judiciously coordinates the stable and burst traffic and preserves strong consistency under differentiated forwarding. Extensive experiments with reallife workloads on our prototype show that DiffForward effectively balances the traffic at the forwarding layer at a fine-grained subsecond level, thus significantly reducing the write latency of VDisks.
A Genetic Programming-based Framework for Semi-automated Multi-agent Systems Engineering
Authors: Mc Donnell Nicola , Duggan Jim , Howley Enda
Published: March 2023

With the rise of new technologies, such as Edge computing, Internet of Things, Smart Cities, and Smart Grids, there is a growing need for multi-agent systems (MAS) approaches. Designing multi-agent systems is challenging, and doing this in an automated way is even more so. To address this, we propose a new framework, Evolved Gossip Contracts (EGC). It builds on Gossip Contracts (GC), a decentralised cooperation protocol that is used as the communication mechanism to facilitate self-organisation in a cooperative MAS. GC has several methods that are implemented uniquely, depending on the goal the MAS aims to achieve. The EGC framework uses evolutionary computing to search for the best implementation of these methods. To evaluate EGC, it was used to solve a classical NP-hard optimisation problem, the Bin Packing Problem (BPP). The experimental results show that EGC successfully discovered a decentralised strategy to solve the BPP, which is better than two classical heuristics on test cases similar to those on which it was trained; the improvement is statistically significant. EGC is the first framework that leverages evolutionary computing to semi-automate the discovery of a communication protocol for a MAS that has been shown to be effective at solving an NP-hard problem.
Electrochemical Sensor Based on Co-Doped FePS3 Nanosheets for Ultra-Sensitive Detection of Dopamine in Human Serum
Authors: Shan Wei , Ma Xiuyun , Chen Guobo , Xu Feicui , Zhao Haizhou , Dong Lei , Yan Xuefeng , Bi Zhaoshun , Yu Liangmin , Qiu Meng
Published: March 2023

Electrochemical dopamine (DA) sensors become important for the early diagnosis of psychiatric disorders like schizophrenia and Parkinson’s disease due to their fast response, simplicity, and portability. However, traditional electrode modification materials such as noble metals and metal oxides have shortcomings such as high cost, low conductivity, or limited catalytic performance. Two-dimensional sulfide materials contribute to the smooth electrode reaction because of their ultra-high specific superficial area and favorable electrocatalysis properties, however, their low carrier mobility and poor electroconductibility limit the detection signal. In this paper, Co-doped FePS3 nanosheets were employed for DA detection for the first time. Fe0.9Co0.1PS3 nanosheets exhibited a detection limit of 120 nM, a linear range 0.25–100 μM and 120–500 μM, and possessed high recovery and reproducible stability when applied to human serum samples. Furthermore, according to the in situ XPS characterization, S atoms located on the outmost layer of Fe0.9Co0.1PS3 nanosheets could be combined with the phenolic hydroxyl oxygen of DA, which makes electrode reaction from DA to dopamine quinone easier. Co-doping can further enhance the above effect, and increase the carrier mobility of FePS3 nanosheets. This work demonstrated electrochemical sensors based on metal phosphorus trisulfide materials have tremendous potential for future application in mental disorder diagnosis.
Corrosion of Synthetic Intermetallic Compounds and AA7075-T6 in Dilute Harrison’s Solution and Inhibition by Cerium(III) Salts
Authors: Rodič Peter , Milošev Ingrid , Frankel Gerald S.
Published: March 2023

This study addresses the behavior of an aluminum alloy and its components in conditions simulating the presence of atmospheric salts. The corrosion of synthetic intermetallic compounds (IMCs) Al2Cu, Al2CuMg, Al7Cu2Fe, MgZn2, and bulk aluminum alloy 7075-T6 was studied in dilute Harrison’s solution (DHS, 0.35 wt% (NH4)2SO4 + 0.05 wt% NaCl). For IMCs, electrochemical measurements were performed using a microcell, and a standard electrochemical cell was used to study the bulk alloy. Separately measured cathodic and anodic potentiodynamic polarization curves were recorded, and prolonged immersion was characterized using electrochemical impedance spectroscopy. Samples were characterized using scanning electron microscopy, energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy. Bulk AA7075-T6 was less susceptible to corrosion in DHS than in chloride solution stemming from the beneficial presence of sulfate ions and lower chloride concentration. The susceptibility of IMCs to corrosion in DHS increased in the order Al2Cu < Al7Cu2Fe < Al2CuMg < MgZn2 due to the increased dissolution of Mg in the presence of ammonium ions. The relative nobility of IMCs was determined based on the galvanic current density. Further, the possibility of using cerium chloride, nitrate and acetate salts as corrosion inhibitors in DHS was evaluated. Ce salts acted as inhibitors for the alloy during 14 d testing, forming a Ce hydroxide layer. The degree of protection depended on the type of anion, with acetate Ce salt giving the most efficient protection. For the IMC, however, inhibition by Ce salts did not occur during short measurements in the microcell, indicating the importance of galvanic interaction with the alloy matrix in the inhibition mechanism, which was confirmed by long-term measurements of the alloy.
Investigation on Fe-Doped AlGaN/GaN HEMT at 148 GHz Using E-FPL Technology for High-Frequency Communication Systems
Authors: Angen Franklin S. , I. V Binola K Jebalin , Chander Subhash , Kumar Raj , Ajayan J. , Nirmal D.
Published: March 2023

In this research work, design of the Extended Field Plate Length (E-FPL) T-gate with Fe doped AlGaN buffer structure on the graded Aluminum Gallium nitride (AlGaN)/ Gallium nitride (GaN) high electron mobility transistor (HEMT) is proposed. The gate length of 60 nm with an ExFPL up to 50 nm towards the drain shows remarkable improvement in breakdown voltage. Meanwhile, the drain current (IDS) and transconductance (GM) is further improved by the Fe doped AlGaN Buffer design. In radio frequency (RF) small signal analysis this device exhibits a peak current-gain cutoff frequency fT of 148 GHz. This device has improved transconductance of 24% with high frequency has compared with conventional GaN HEMT device. It is highly compatible with military applications such as Radio Frequency (RF) upstream transmitters, ship and aircraft communication transmitters and High-frequency Radars (HFRs).
Omega‐6: Its Pharmacology, Effect on the Broiler Production, and Health
Authors: Nur Mahendra Mohamad Yusril , Kamaludeen Juriah , Pertiwi Herinda
Published: March 2023

Lipids and oils are the primary sources of monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fatty acids (MUFA and PUFA), which are necessary for human and animal health. Omega‐3 and omega‐6 are essential nutrients for broilers. Omega‐6 members, such as linolenic acid, are essential for broilers and must be obtained through feed. Vegetable oils are the primary source of omega‐6 added to broiler feeds. Unsaturated fatty acids are better digested and absorbed than saturated fatty acids and generate more energy at a lower cost, boosting productivity. Feeding supplements with omega‐6 can increase the fatty acid content in meat and increase weight, carcass, viscera, and FCR. The quality of meat taste and antioxidant content was also improved after giving omega‐6 and influencing mineral metabolism. Broiler reproductive performance is also enhanced by reducing late embryonic mortality, hence enhancing fertility, hatchability, sperm quality, and sperm quantity. Meanwhile, for broiler health, omega‐6 can lower cholesterol levels, triglycerides, very low‐density lipoprotein, and low‐density lipoprotein. It also supports support for T‐helper cell (TH)‐2‐like IgG titers, increasing prostaglandins, eicosanoids, and antioxidants. In addition, it also supports anti‐inflammation. Other researchers have extensively researched and reviewed studies on the effects of omega‐6 on poultry. Meanwhile, in this review, we provide new findings to complement previous studies. However, further studies regarding the effects of omega‐6 on other poultry are needed to determine the performance of omega‐6 more broadly.
Abstract ED12-3: ATR inhibitors and PARP1 selective PARP inhibitors
Authors: Tutt Andrew
Published: March 2023

The targeting of Homologous Recombination deficient (HRD) malignancy using a synthetic lethal strategy based on the inhibition and trapping of PARP1 on DNA in manner that leads to tumour selective effects via dependency on the function of HR gene products such as BRCA1, BRCA2 and PALB2 for DNA replication fitness is now well established. However, there is a need to improve both the frequency and duration of response in the licensed indications and to explore combination PARP inhibitor (PARPi) strategies that may be effective a broader range of breast cancers with functional deficiencies in HR and the wider DNA damage response. ATR inhibitors exacerbate replication stress that is toxic to HR deficient cells. Combinations of an ATR inhibition (ATRi) and PARPi have been shown to be synergistic and to be active in PARPi resistant pre-clinical model contexts. The development of combination strategies of these agents and of platinums and ATRi have been limited by combinatorial toxicity but have recently reported results in breast cancer. PARP1 is part of a family of PARP enzymes and currently licensed PARPi inhibit several family members that underpin some of their toxicity. New PARP1 selective agents have recently reported results in early phase trials. I will review some of the mechanistic rationale, preclinical data and relevant clinical trial data in my lecture.

Citation Format: Andrew Tutt. ATR inhibitors and PARP1 selective PARP inhibitors [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the 2022 San Antonio Breast Cancer Symposium; 2022 Dec 6-10; San Antonio, TX. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2023;83(5 Suppl):Abstract nr ED12-3.