bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Peer teaching and Pecha Kucha for pharmacology
Authors: Qin Helen , Vaughan Brett , Morley Peter , Ng Louisa
Published: January 2022

Background

Peer teaching involves learners at the same level in their academic career aiding each other's education. In medical education, it has had success in clinical and procedural skills; we set out to design a pharmacology peer teaching initiative and evaluate its acceptability and value as a learning tool.

Approach

Second‐year medical students (n = 62) were invited to participate in a peer‐led pharmacology educational initiative over 2 months. Students created PowerPoint presentations on medications using Pecha Kucha principles (automatic slide advancement that emphasises concision through time and content limitations to sustain the audience's attention). Presentations occurred over eight, 1‐hour sessions, facilitated by senior academics.

Evaluation

The evaluation consisted of an anonymous questionnaire with 10 Likert‐scale questions and two open‐ended questions on the learners' perceptions of feasibility, acceptability and effectiveness in improving knowledge, teaching and independent learning skills. Fifty‐three students presented at well‐attended sessions. Twenty‐nine students completed the Kirkpatrick Level 1 evaluation with largely positive perceptions, including improved pharmacology knowledge (n = 21, 72%), teaching skills (n = 23, 79%) and independent learning skills (n = 22, 76%). Satisfaction with both the quality of peer teaching (n = 21, 72%) and presence of expert facilitators (97%, n = 28) was high. Three found the initiative burdensome, and 23 reported information overload. Nevertheless, 23 deemed the experience valuable. Facilitator reflections were also positive.

Implications

Our peer teaching initiative appeared useful to our learners, but in this process, we gained valuable information to improve the next iteration. We plan to use this format either for revision material or reduce session length and increase interval time between sessions to address the perceived information overload.
Histologic acute graft pyelonephritis after kidney transplantation: Incidence, clinical characteristics, risk factors, and association with graft loss
Authors: Powers Harry R. , Hellinger Walter C. , Cortese Cherise , Elrefaei Mohamed , Khouzam Samir , Spiegel Matthew , Li Zhuo , Wadei Hani M.
Published: January 2022

Background

Histologic acute graft pyelonephritis (HAGPN) after kidney transplantation (KT) has been assessed less frequently than urinary tract infections (UTIs) or clinical acute graft pyelonephritis. Risk factors for HAGPN, its association with graft loss, and measures that might prevent it are not known.

Methods

We performed a retrospective review of HAGPN cases identified from KT occurring between January 2008 and December 2017 at our institution. We compared the HAGPN cases to a randomly selected control group of KTs to identify risk factors using univariate and multivariate Cox regression models. The association between HAGPN and graft loss was also assessed, similarly.

Results

HAGPN was identified in 46 of 1391 patients (cumulative incidence, 5% [95% CI, 3%–7%]) undergoing KT at a single center from January 2008 through December 2017 (median time to diagnosis, 241 days after KT; interquartile range, 122–755 days). Indications for biopsy were follow‐up of treated rejection (n = 20 [43%]), KT protocol biopsy (n = 19 [41%]), and acute kidney injury (n = 7 [15%]). Histologic rejection, UTI, and asymptomatic bacteriuria (ASB) were present in 23 (50%), 9 (20%), and 16 (35%). Multivariate Cox proportional hazards models comparing KT recipients with or without HAGPN (n = 46 and n = 138, respectively) showed that HAGPN was associated with urologic complication by day 30, delayed graft function, previous UTI or ASB, and a history of rejection. In the univariate and multivariate analyses, HAGPN was associated with an increased risk of graft loss.

Conclusion

HAGPN is an infrequent, unanticipated, and clinically significant complication of KT.
Arterial malformations leading to bilateral spontaneous renal hemorrhage in a dog
Authors: Hall Georgina B. F. , Schwarz Tobias , Liuti Tiziana , Salgado Jorge P. A. , Ferreira Marisa F. , Willems Annelies L.
Published: January 2022

Objective

To describe the clinical presentation, diagnostic imaging, management, and follow‐up of a dog that presented with sequential, bilateral, spontaneous, subcapsular and perirenal hemorrhage (Wunderlich syndrome) due to bilateral renal arterial malformations.

Case Summary

A 9‐year‐old intact male Field Spaniel presented for acute onset abdominal pain following a possible syncopal episode. Abdominal ultrasonography, contrast‐enhanced ultrasound, and computed tomography (CT) revealed right‐sided perirenal hemorrhage that extended into the peritoneum. The dog was discharged following stabilization with analgesia, fluid therapy, and tranexamic acid. One month later, the patient presented with identical clinical signs. A CT scan at this stage revealed bilateral kidney infarcts with new left‐sided perirenal hemorrhage. Abdominal ultrasound and contrast‐enhanced ultrasound were repeated and showed similar findings. Follow up with four‐dimensional CT angiography revealed bilateral renal arterial malformations, likely causing spontaneous renal hemorrhage and secondary subcapsular hematomas , retroperitoneal and peritoneal hemorrhage.

Unique Information Provided

This is the first reported case of both bilateral renal arterial malformations and bilateral spontaneous subcapsular and perirenal hemorrhage in the absence of neoplasia, coagulopathy, or trauma in a dog. Advanced imaging modalities, including selective angiography, were required to diagnose this condition successfully. Arterial malformations should be considered as a differential diagnosis in cases of hemoretroperitoneum. Nephrectomy due to perirenal hemorrhage should be cautiously considered, especially in the absence of angiography, because of the sequential bilateral nature of this case. Conservative management in this case resulted in a good long‐term outcome 10 months later.
Center of rotation of angulation‐based leveling osteotomy for stifle stabilization in skeletally immature dogs
Authors: Peycke Laura E. , McDougall Renee , Roca Rodrigo , Dycus David , Hulse Don A.
Published: January 2022

Objective

To describe short‐term outcomes of center of rotation of angulation (CORA)‐based leveling osteotomy (CBLO) in skeletally immature dogs with cranial cruciate ligament (CrCL) injury.

Study design

Retrospective case series.

Animals

Fifteen skeletally immature dogs (16 stifles).

Methods

Medical records of dogs with CrCL injury and radiographically documented open proximal tibial physis and tibial tuberosity apophysis managed with CBLO were reviewed. Clinical assessment, radiographic assessment, and complications were reviewed.

Results

Fifteen dogs (16 stifles) with radiographically documented open proximal tibial physis and tibial tuberosity apophysis and CrCL injury underwent a CBLO. Mean tibial plateau angle (TPA) was 26° preoperatively, 9° postoperatively, and 9° at final recheck. One dog developed 10° recurvatum of the proximal tibia secondary to inadvertent over rotation of the tibial plateau (TPA 3°) to protect primary repair of an insertional CrCL avulsion. Correction of the recurvatum was declined as the dog had full limb function. Two dogs developed a valgus deformity secondary to a plate screw engaging the distolateral aspect of the proximal tibial physis. Owners of these dogs reported normal function but requested surgical revision to prevent long‐term problems secondary to abnormal weight bearing. Both dogs regained full function following recovery from revision surgery. At a mean time of 23 months following surgery, all dogs continued to have full function as per phone conversation with owners.

Conclusion

With proper preoperative planning, CBLO is an option for skeletally immature dogs with CrCL injury.
Tracking Peripheral Artery Motion and Vascular Resistance With a Multimodal Wearable Sensor Under Pressure Perturbations
Authors: Wang Lu , Ansari Sardar , Cai Yingjie , McCracken Brendan , Hakam Tiba M. , Ward Kevin R. , Najarian Kayvan , Oldham Kenn R.
Published: January 2022

The status of peripheral arteries is known to be a key physiological indicator of the body's response to both acute and chronic medical conditions. In this paper, peripheral artery deformation is tracked by wearable photoplethysmograph (PPG) and piezo-electric (polyvinylidene difluoride, PVDF) sensors, under pressure-varying cuff. A simple mechanical model for the local artery and intervening tissue captures broad features present in the PPG and PVDF signals on multiple swine subjects, with respect to varying cuff pressure. These behaviors provide insight into the robustness of cardiovascular property identification by noninvasive wearable sensing. This is found to help refine noninvasive blood pressure measurements and estimation of systemic vascular resistance (SVR) using selected features of sensor amplitude versus applied pressure.
Model-Based Design and Optimization of Passive Shoulder Exoskeletons
Authors: Nasr Ali , Ferguson Spencer , McPhee John
Published: January 2022

To physically assist workers in reducing musculoskeletal strain or to develop motor skills for patients with neuromuscular disabilities, recent research has focused on exoskeletons. Designing exoskeletons is challenging due to the complex human geometric structure, the human-exoskeleton wrench interaction, the kinematic constraints, and the selection of power source characteristics. This study concentrates on modeling a 3D multibody upper-limb human-exoskeleton, developing a procedure of analyzing optimal assistive torque profiles, and optimizing the passive mechanism features for desired tasks. The optimization objective is minimizing the human joint torques. Differential-algebraic equations (DAEs) of motion have been generated and solved to simulate the complex closed-loop multibody dynamics. Three different tasks have been considered, which are common in industrial environments: object manipulation, over-head work, and static pointing. The resulting assistive exoskeleton's elevation joint torque profile decreases the specific task's human shoulder torque in computer simulations. The exoskeleton is not versatile or optimal for different dynamic tasks since the passive mechanism produces a specific torque for a given elevation angle. We concluded that designing a fully passive exoskeleton for a wide range of dynamic applications is impossible.
Inferring Extreme Values From Measured Averages Under Deep Uncertainty
Authors: Ben-Haim Yakov
Published: January 2022

Averages are measured in many circumstances for diagnostic, predictive, or surveillance purposes. Examples include average stress along a beam, average speed along a section of highway, average alcohol consumption per month, average gross domestic product (GDP) over a large region, and a student's average grade over 4 yr of study. However, the average value of a variable reveals nothing about fluctuations of the variable along the path that is averaged. Extremes—stress concentrations, speeding violations, binge drinking, poverty and wealth, and intellectual incompetence in particular topics—may be more significant than the average. This paper explores the choice of design variables and performance requirements to achieve robustness against uncertainty when interpreting an average, in face of uncertain fluctuations of the averaged variable. Extremes are not observed, but robustness against those extremes enhances the ability to interpret the observed average in terms of the extremes. The opportuneness from favorable uncertainty is also explored. We examine the design of a cantilever beam with uncertain loads. We derive four generic propositions, based on info-gap decision theory, that establish necessary and sufficient conditions for robust or opportune dominance, and for sympathetic relations between robustness to pernicious uncertainty and opportuneness from propitious uncertainty. Some of the highlights are as follows: (1) Averages are used for diagnosis, prediction, or surveillance, but hide important extremes. (2) Averages are measured on uncertain varying processes. (3) Info-gap theory is employed to model and manage process uncertainty. (4) Assessing robustness to uncertainty enables interpretation of averages regarding adverse extremes. (5) Assessing opportuneness from uncertainty enables interpretation of averages regarding favorable extremes.
Mathematical Model for Combined Effects of Temperature and Pressure in Causing Soft Tissue Injury
Authors: McGregor Gary L. , Rego Bruno V. , Diller Kenneth R.
Published: January 2022

Pressure and thermal injuries affect millions of lives every year. Both types of injury have been a focal priority for the medical community to understand and treat, especially since World War II. Typically, each injury mechanism is studied in isolation due to differences in the primary factors causing the trauma. The serial confluence of applied tissue deformation, inflammation, and ischemia imposed over time combine to cause mechanically derived injury, whereas high or low temperatures are causative factors for thermal injuries. Modeling and simulation analyses have been used to develop an understanding of both types of injury pathways to predict threshold conditions for the onset of damage and to develop methods of prevention. Although thermal and mechanical injury processes are often viewed independently, prior experiments have demonstrated that these two phenomena may have active cross-coupling. Temperature can act as a prophylactic or accelerant to pressure injuries, depending on its magnitude, to radically alter the shape, position, time, and final disposition. In this study, we developed a finite element model to predict injury as a function of time, temperature, mechanical deformation, and local blood perfusion. The model embodies an equation with constitutive terms that are relevant to physiological processes that govern the development of injury. The current model is a composite derived from regression of experimental data and conformation to the physiological structure. It expresses highly nonlinear coupling across the domains of thermal, mechanical, and fluid transport and is solved for composite hard and soft tissue geometry combinations. We evaluated the model for a broad range of trauma conditions defined by subject morphology, mechanical loading, temperature, and time. Moreover, we implemented the model within a finite element framework to estimate the risk of injury for specific stress conditions via large-scale simulations.
Estimating Concrete Strength From Nondestructive Testing With Few Core Tests Considering Uncertainties
Authors: Dauji Saha , Karmakar Soubhagya
Published: January 2022

Important facilities constructed during last decades of 20th century are near completion of design life. For extending their service life or to evaluate these for new demands (loads), assessment of strength of concrete in existing structure becomes necessary, a task generally performed with nondestructive tests (NDT); ultrasonic pulse velocity (USPV) and rebound hammer being most commonly executed. Compressive strength is estimated using empirical expressions relating NDT to partially destructive tests (PDT) such as core test. For the development of structure-specific expressions, results of adequate number (depending on variability and desired confidence level) of PDT are essential but these might not be available due to operational constraints. Correlation expressions from literature could be used in such cases but having been developed for different ingredients, curing regimes, and environmental exposure conditions, there would be associated uncertainties. A practical method for the estimation of these uncertainties is not readily available in the literature. This article proposes the statistical approach of resampling for quantifying the uncertainty of indirect strength estimates using expressions from literature. Parametric (probability distribution) and nonparametric (bootstrap) tools are employed and demonstrated with a case study from India. Both parametric and nonparametric approaches could capture across-member variability whereas overall uncertainty incorporation, as well as repeatability, was better in nonparametric approach. Parametric approach is traditionally used and well accepted by practitioners in contrast to nonparametric methods, which have certain advantages. The detailed methodology enumerated in the article would be very useful for practitioners across the world.
A Novel Design of Rack Mount Server Thermal Simulator: Design, Assembly, and Experimental Verification
Authors: Mohsenian Ghazal , Hoang Cong Hiep , Nemati Kourosh , Alissa Hussam , Tradat Mohammad , Fallahtafti Najmeh , Radmard Vahideh , Murray Bruce , Sammakia Bahgat
Published: January 2022

The practice of commissioning data centers (DCs) is necessary to confirm the compliance of the cooling system to the information technology equipment (ITE) load (design capacity). In a typical DC, there are different types of ITE, each having its physical characteristics. Considering these geometrical and internal differences among ITE, it is infeasible to use the actual ITE as a self-simulator. Hence, a separate device called load bank is employed for that purpose. Load banks create a dummy thermal load to analyze, test, and stress the cooling infrastructure. Available commercial load banks do not accurately replicate a server's airflow patterns and transient heat signatures which are governed by thermal inertia, energy dissipation, flow resistance, and fan system behavior. In this study, a novel prototype of the server called server simulator was designed and built with different components to be used as a server mockup. The server simulator accurately captured air resistance, heat dissipation, and the functionality of actual server behavior. Experimental data showed up to 93% improvement in ITE passive and active flow curves using the designed server simulator compared to the commercial load bank. Furthermore, the experimental results demonstrated a below 5% discrepancy on the critical back pressure and free delivery point between the actual ITE and the designed server simulator. In addition, experimental data indicated that the developed server simulator improved the actual ITE thermal mass by 27% compared to the commercial load bank.
Scale-Resolving Simulations of a Statistically Targeted Forcing Method for Synthetic Turbulence Generation in a Freestream Turbulence
Authors: Shobayo Olalekan O. , Walters D. Keith
Published: January 2022

Computational fluid dynamics results for synthetic turbulence generation of freestream turbulence by a proposed statistically targeted forcing (STF) method are presented. The STF method has been previously documented for homogeneous isotropic and anisotropic turbulence and formulated to introduce a fluctuating velocity field with a distribution of first and second moments that match a user-specified target mean velocity and Reynolds stress tensor, by incorporating deterministic time-dependent forcing terms into the momentum equation for the resolved flow. This study extends its applicability to generation of freestream turbulence in scale-resolving simulations in which flow is spatially developing. The method provides flexibility in regions where synthetic turbulence needs to be generated or damped, for use in engineering level scale-resolving simulations such as large eddy simulation (LES), and hybrid Reynolds-averaged Navier–Stokes (RANS)-LES. The objective of this study is to evaluate the performance of the proposed STF method in simulations that incorporate monotonically integrated LES (MILES), Smagorinsky (SMAG) LES subgrid stress model, and dynamic hybrid RANS-LES (DHRL) model in reproducing inflow freestream turbulent flow, and the capability of each model to reproduce proper energy decay characteristics downstream of forcing. Results are inter-rogated and compared to target statistical velocity and turbulent stress distributions for inflow turbulence and evaluated in terms of energy spectra. Analysis of the influence of STF model parameters, mesh resolution, and LES subgrid stress model on the results is investigated. Results show that the STF method can successfully reproduce desired statistical distributions in a nearly isotropic freestream turbulent flow.
Suggestion on Improving Small Branch BOSS Joints Welding Quality
Authors: Wu Chongzhi , Zhu Ruifeng , Yu Pengteng , Sun Haoming , Zhou Qingli
Published: January 2022

Due to the structural constraints, mandatory volumetric examination is not implemented on small branch BOSS joints of nuclear power plant, which leads to internal defects cannot be detected thoroughly, causing potential risk to the safe and stable operation. Key factors affecting the welding quality of small branch BOSS joints are systematically analyzed in this paper. Besides, practical suggestions are provided on the operating level to improve the welding quality, including groove design, welding process, welder qualification and nondestructive examination. On this basis, further improvement suggestions are proposed to revise the codes and regulatory guides.
Anomalous excitations of atomically crafted quantum magnets
Authors: Brinker Sascha , Küster Felix , Parkin Stuart S. P. , Sessi Paolo , Lounis Samir
Published: January 2022

High–energy resolution spectroscopic studies of quantum magnets proved extremely valuable in accessing magnetodynamics quantities, such as energy barriers, magnetic interactions, and lifetime of excited states. Here, we investigate a previously unexplored flavor of low-energy spin excitations for quantum spins coupled to an electron bath. In sharp contrast to the usual tunneling signature of two steps symmetrically centered around the Fermi level, we find a single step in the conductance. Combining time-dependent and many-body perturbation theories, magnetic field–dependent tunneling spectra are explained as the result of an interplay between weak magnetic anisotropy energy, magnetic interactions, and Stoner-like electron-hole excitations that are strongly dependent on the magnetic states of the nanostructures. The results are rationalized in terms of a noncollinear magnetic ground state and the dominance of ferro- and antiferromagnetic interactions. The atomically crafted nanomagnets offer an appealing model for the exploration of electrically pumped spin systems.
Effects of shape and solute-solvent compatibility on the efficacy of chirality transfer: Nanoshapes in nematics
Authors: Nemati Ahlam , Querciagrossa Lara , Callison Corinne , Shadpour Sasan , Nunes Gonçalves Diana P. , Mori Taizo , Cui Ximin , Ai Ruoqi , Wang Jianfang , Zannoni Claudio , Hegmann Torsten
Published: January 2022

Chirality, as a concept, is well understood at most length scales. However, quantitative models predicting the efficacy of the transmission of chirality across length scales are lacking. We propose here a modus operandi for a chiral nanoshape solute in an achiral nematic liquid crystal host showing that that chirality transfer may be understood by unusually simple geometric considerations. This mechanism is based on the product of a pseudoscalar chirality indicator and of a geometric shape compatibility factor based on the two-dimensional isoperimetric quotients for each nanoshape solute. The model is tested on an experimental set of precisely engineered gold nanoshapes. These libraries of calculated and in-parallel acquired experimental data among related nanoshapes pave the way for predictive calculations of chirality transfer in nanoscale, macromolecular, and biological systems, from designing chiral discriminators and enantioselective catalysts to developing chiral metamaterials and understanding nature’s innate ability to transfer homochirality across length scales.
The boundary for quantum advantage in Gaussian boson sampling
Authors: Bulmer Jacob F. F. , Bell Bryn A. , Chadwick Rachel S. , Jones Alex E. , Moise Diana , Rigazzi Alessandro , Thorbecke Jan , Haus Utz-Uwe , Van Vaerenbergh Thomas , Patel Raj B. , Walmsley Ian A. , Laing Anthony
Published: January 2022

Identifying the boundary beyond which quantum machines provide a computational advantage over their classical counterparts is a crucial step in charting their usefulness. Gaussian boson sampling (GBS), in which photons are measured from a highly entangled Gaussian state, is a leading approach in pursuing quantum advantage. State-of-the-art GBS experiments that run in minutes would require 600 million years to simulate using the best preexisting classical algorithms. Here, we present faster classical GBS simulation methods, including speed and accuracy improvements to the calculation of loop hafnians. We test these on a ∼100,000-core supercomputer to emulate GBS experiments with up to 100 modes and up to 92 photons. This reduces the simulation time for state-of-the-art GBS experiments to several months, a nine–orders of magnitude improvement over previous estimates. Last, we introduce a distribution that is efficient to sample from classically and that passes a variety of GBS validation methods.
Pembrolizumab induces HIV latency reversal in people living with HIV and cancer on antiretroviral therapy
Authors: Uldrick Thomas S. , Adams Scott V. , Fromentin Remi , Roche Michael , Fling Steven P. , Gonçalves Priscila H. , Lurain Kathryn , Ramaswami Ramya , Wang Chia-ching Jackie , Gorelick Robert J. , Welker Jorden L. , O’Donoghue Liz , Choudhary Harleen , Lifson Jeffrey D. , Rasmussen Thomas A. , Rhodes Ajantha , Tumpach Carolin , Yarchoan Robert , Maldarelli Frank , Cheever Martin A. , Sékaly Rafick , Chomont Nicolas , Deeks Steven G. , Lewin Sharon R.
Published: January 2022

In people living with HIV (PLWH) on antiretroviral therapy (ART), virus persists in a latent form where there is minimal transcription or protein expression. Latently infected cells are a major barrier to curing HIV. Increasing HIV transcription and viral production in latently infected cells could facilitate immune recognition and reduce the pool of infected cells that persist on ART. Given that programmed cell death protein 1 (PD-1) expressing CD4
+
T cells are preferentially infected with HIV in PLWH on ART, we aimed to determine whether administration of antibodies targeting PD-1 would reverse HIV latency in vivo. We therefore evaluated the impact of intravenous administration of pembrolizumab every 3 weeks on HIV latency in 32 PLWH and cancer on ART. After the first infusion of anti–PD-1, we observed a median 1.32-fold increase in unspliced HIV RNA and 1.61-fold increase in unspliced RNA:DNA ratio in sorted blood CD4
+
T cells compared to baseline. We also observed a 1.65-fold increase in plasma HIV RNA. The frequency of CD4
+
T cells with inducible virus evaluated using the
tat/rev
limiting dilution assay was higher after 6 cycles compared to baseline. Phylogenetic analyses of HIV
env
sequences in a participant who developed low concentrations of HIV viremia after 6 cycles of pembrolizumab did not demonstrate clonal expansion of HIV-infected cells. These data are consistent with anti–PD-1 being able to reverse HIV latency in vivo and support the rationale for combining anti–PD-1 with other interventions to reduce the HIV reservoir.
New Insights of Transcriptional Regulator AflR in Aspergillus flavus Physiology
Authors: Wang Peng , Xu Jia , Chang Perng-Kuang , Liu Zhemin , Kong Qing
Published: January 2022

Past studies of the
A. flavus
aflR
gene and its orthologues in related
Aspergillus
species were solely focused on their roles in secondary metabolism. In this study, we used the Δ
aflR
and OE strains to demonstrate the role of
aflR
in growth and development of
A. flavus
.
Numerical models of Farallon plate subduction: Creating and removing a flat slab
Authors: Currie Claire A. , Copeland Peter
Published: January 2022

Flat-slab subduction has affected parts of North America, South America, and Asia over the past 250 m.y. In these areas, reconstructions show that the subducting plate became subhorizontal below the continent for ~5 to >30 m.y., followed by foundering of the slab and resumption of steep-angle subduction. Using two-dimensional numerical models, we examine the factors that control the development and removal of a flat slab. Models are based on the Late Cretaceous to Oligocene Farallon flat slab below the southwestern United States. We find that the primary control on subduction geometry is the oceanic plate density structure. Subduction of a buoyant oceanic plateau creates a flat-slab segment that moves inboard at approximately the rate of continental trenchward motion (4–5 cm/yr). Steepening is initiated with eclogitization of the oceanic plateau crust. Once the plateau density exceeds that of the mantle, the slab undergoes rollback through progressive trenchward-directed detachment from the continent at a rate of 2–10 cm/yr. Rollback is enhanced by: (1) weakening of the overlying continental mantle lithosphere, inferred to result from slab-derived hydrous fluids, and (2) a slowdown in plate velocities; the rate and amount of oceanic eclogitization are second-order effects. Conversely, rollback is hindered by a strong oceanic plate and interactions between the slab and high-viscosity lower mantle. For the ~2000-km-long Farallon slab, the Conjugate Shatskey Rise plateau must have remained buoyant for 20–30 m.y. after subduction. This was followed by rapid rollback caused by both plateau eclogitization and continental weakening, leaving an area of thinned and hydrated continental lithosphere.
Adults with learning disabilities want loving relationships, but may need support
Authors: Saul Helen , Gursul Deniz , Powell Martha , McCarthy Michelle
Published: January 2022

The study

McCarthy M, Bates C, Elson N, Hunt S, Milne-Skillman, Forrester-Jones R. ‘Love makes me feel good inside and my heart is fixed’: What adults with intellectual disabilities have to say about love and relationships.
J Appl Res Intellect Disabil
2021;00:1-11.

To read the full NIHR Alert, go to:
https://evidence.nihr.ac.uk/alert/romantic-relationships-adults-with-learning-disabilities/
Assessing intra-annual density fluctuations across and along white pine stems
Authors: Miller Elise W. , Rademacher Tim , Fonti Patrick , Seyednasrollah Bijan , Richardson Andrew D.
Published: January 2022

Intra-annual density fluctuations (IADFs) are triggered by environmental cues, but whether they are distributed uniformly throughout the stem is not well documented. The spatial distribution of IADFs could help us understand variations in cambial sensitivity to environmental cues throughout the tree. We investigate how IADF distribution varies radially, longitudinally, and circumferentially within white pine (Pinus strobus L.) stems. We took wood samples at breast height, near branches, and at the top of the trees. We identified IADFs visually and measured their radial position within a ring as well as their circumferential arc in cross-sections. Intra-annual density fluctuations occurred in 22.2% of rings. The radial position of IADFs within a ring was remarkably consistent at roughly 80% of the total annual radial increment across heights, trees, and years of formation. The main factors affecting the likelihood of IADF occurrence were ring width, year of formation, and the interaction between the two. Being near branches or at the top of the tree slightly increased the probability of occurrence. Though the sample size was not large enough to provide conclusive results about the circumferential distribution of IADFs, our data suggest that the circumferential arc of the IADFs might be conserved throughout the stem.
SNHG8 promotes cell proliferation, migration, and invasion of nasopharyngeal carcinoma cells as an oncogene through miR-588/HMGA2 axis
Authors: Luan Qiang , Yang Ruifang , Lin Lejun , Li Xuecheng
Published: January 2022

Nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NC) poses a threat to the life of patients. Long non-coding RNA (LncRNA) is a novel kind of non-coding RNA, which plays a pivotal role through sponge microRNA (miRNA). Abnormal expression of small nucleolar RNA host gene 8 (SNHG8) is involved in various tumors; however, the role of SNHG8 in NC remains unknown. Quantitative real-time PCR (qRT-PCR) and Western blotting was employed to detect the expression levels of SNHG8, miR-588, and high mobility group A2 (HMGA2). Cell proliferation, migration, and invasion were analyzed by CCK-8 and transwell assays. miR-588 binding sites in SNHG8 were predicted by LncBase analysis. Luciferase reporter and RNA pull-down assay were used to confirm the interaction of SNHG8 and miR-588. SNHG8 was highly expressed in NC cells. The prognosis of the patients with NC in the high expression levels of SNHG8 was poorer than that in the low expression levels. The expression of SNHG8 was closely related to tumor size, TNM stage, and distal metastasis. Knockdown of SNHG8 inhibited cell proliferation, migration, and invasion of NC. SNHG8 targeted miR-588. Inhibition of miR-588 could partially reverse the knockdown of SNHG8 in NC cells, and miR-588 targeted HMGA2. In conclusion, SNHG8 promotes proliferation, migration, and invasion of NC cells through miR-588/HMGA2 in NC as an oncogene.
Experimental investigation of dynamic vibration absorption to design an improved particle damper
Authors: Zhang Kai , Kou Farong
Published: January 2022

We introduce a tuned particle damper (TPD) to improve the damping performance of the traditional particle damper by adding a dynamic vibration absorption structure. To better design a TPD as a dynamic vibration absorber (DVA), we changed the dynamics of a DVA system based on a primary cantilever system by introducing stainless steel balls and a carbon steel mass block. Using a series of sine-sweep tests on the primary cantilever system attached with a spring-mass system, we obtained frequency response function (FRF) curves under different conditions. Our experimental results show that the dynamic behavior of the primary cantilever system was more prominent on the resonance peak closer to the mass control area, whereas the dynamic behavior of the additional spring-mass system is more prominent on the resonance peak closer to the stiffness control area. Based on these results, we analyzed the abnormal but desirable dynamic characteristics of TPD presented in the discrete mass experiment, and the results indicates preliminary success with our design of a TPD.
Neural Network (NN)-Based RSM-PSO Multiresponse Parametric Optimization of the Electro Chemical Discharge Micromachining Process During Microchannel Cutting on Silica Glass
Authors: Bellubbi Sadashiv , Mallick Bijan , Hameed Azzam Sabah , Dutta Pijush , Sarkar Manoj Kumar , Nanjundaswamy Sathisha
Published: January 2022

The production of miniature parts by the electrochemical discharge micromachining process ([Formula: see text]-ECDM) draws the most of attractions into the industrial field. Parametric influences on machining depth (MD), material removal rate (MRR), and overcut (OC) have been propounded using a mixed electrolyte (NaOH:KOH- 1:1) varying concentrations (wt.%), applied voltage ([Formula: see text]), pulse on time ([Formula: see text]s), and stand-off distance (SOD) during microchannel cutting on silica glass (SiO[Formula: see text]). Analysis of variances has been analyzed to test the adequacy of the developed mathematical model and multiresponse optimization has been performed to find out maximum MD with higher material removal at lower OC using desirability function analysis as well as neural network (NN)-based Particle Swarm Optimization (PSO). The SEM analysis has been done to find unexpected debris. MD has been improved with better surface quality using a mixed electrolyte at straight polarity using a tungsten carbide (WC) cylindrical tool along with [Formula: see text], [Formula: see text], and [Formula: see text] axis movement by computer-aided subsystem and combining with the automated spring feed mechanism. PSO-ANN provides better parametric optimization results for micromachining by the ECDM process.
Minimal Soft Topologies
Authors: Ameen Zanyar A. , Al Ghour Samer
Published: January 2022

A collection of all soft topologies over a fixed universe forms a complete lattice. One might ask: what will be the structure of minimal or maximal topologies in this lattice concerning specific topological properties? We know that the soft discrete topology is maximal soft [Formula: see text]-spaces, for [Formula: see text], in terms of the given soft point theory. As a result, we find it interesting to study the construction of minimal soft [Formula: see text] topologies. We show that the minimal soft [Formula: see text] is a nested soft topology whose base is the complements of all soft point closures. The minimal soft [Formula: see text] is the cofinite soft topology. The minimal soft [Formula: see text] (respectively, [Formula: see text]) is a soft topology in which each soft open (respectively, soft regular) filter base has only one adherent soft point and is convergent. Finally, the minimal soft [Formula: see text] topologies are subclasses of soft compact topologies.
MaLTeSQuE 2021 Workshop Summary
Authors: Feitosa Daniel , Catolino Gemma , Lenarduzzi Valentina , Ampatzoglou Apostolos
Published: January 2022

The 5th edition of the Machine Learning Techniques for Software Quality Evaluation (MaLTeSQuE 2021) workshop was held virtually (originally in Athens, Greece) on August 23rd, 2021, colocated with the 29th ACM Joint Meeting on European Software Engineering Conference and Symposium on the Foundations of Software Engineering (ESEC/FSE 2021). MaLTeSQuE received a total of ten submissions from all over the world, from which six papers and three abstracts were included in the program. The program also featured a keynote by Tim Menzies on the future of machine learning techniques for software quality. This report summarizes the event and insights stemmed from the keynote and presentations in the three sessions of the workshop.
Report from the 3rd Int. Workshop on Education through Advanced Software Engineering and Artificial Intelligence (EASEAI '21)
Authors: Henry Julie , Praphamontripong Upsorn , Serban Camelia , Vescan Andreea
Published: January 2022

With the development and widespread of digital technologies, ev- eryday life has been profoundly transformed. The general public, as well as specialized audiences, have to face an ever-increasing amount of knowledge and learn new abilities. The EASEAI work- shop series addresses that challenge by looking at software en- gineering, education, and arti cial intelligence research elds to explore how they can be combined. Speci cally, this workshop brings together researchers, teachers, and practitioners who use advanced software engineering tools and arti cial intelligence tech- niques in the education eld and through a transgenerational and transdisciplinary range of students to discuss the current state of the art and practices, and establish new future directions. More information at https://easeai.github.io.
Stochastic Vector Techniques in Ground-State Electronic Structure
Authors: Baer Roi , Neuhauser Daniel , Rabani Eran
Published: January 2022

We review a suite of stochastic vector computational approaches for studying the electronic structure of extended condensed matter systems. These techniques help reduce algorithmic complexity, facilitate efficient parallelization, simplify computational tasks, accelerate calculations, and diminish memory requirements. While their scope is vast, we limit our study to ground-state and finite temperature density functional theory (DFT) and second-order many-body perturbation theory. More advanced topics, such as quasiparticle (charge) and optical (neutral) excitations and higher-order processes, are covered elsewhere. We start by explaining how to use stochastic vectors in computations, characterizing the associated statistical errors. Next, we show how to estimate the electron density in DFT and discuss effective techniques to reduce statistical errors. Finally, we review the use of stochastic vectors for calculating correlation energies within the second-order Møller-Plesset perturbation theory and its finite temperature variational form. Example calculation results are presented and used to demonstrate the efficacy of the methods.
Efficient Charge Storage Capability of BiFeO3-Based Bi-Phase Nanocomposites
Authors: Ali Singay , Younis Muhammad , Yaqub Muhammad Atif , Ramay Shahid M. , Atiq Shahid
Published: January 2022

Here, we report a facile synthesis of bi-phase nanocomposites of the form (1−x)BiFeO3−xPbTiO3 for their efficient utilization in modern day energy storage gadgets. X-ray diffraction confirmed the distorted rhombohedral structure of pure BiFeO3 while PbTiO3 exhibited tetragonal structure and hence confirmed the formation of nanocomposites. Morphological analysis revealed the reduction in particle size, improvement in bulk density and decrease in porosity with the increase of PbTiO3 contents. A wide dispersion in dielectric response was explained on the basis of Maxwell-Wagner model. A significant improvement in dielectric behavior was observed when PbTiO3 was added in the composite. The contribution of grains and grain boundaries in the electrical response of these composites was witnessed through impedance analysis. The nature of charge transport mechanism was established using electric modulus spectroscopy. These kinds of nanocomposites are recommended for the improvement of data storage capacity of devices as compared with phase-pure compounds.
Impedance Modeling for Mixed Conductors with Simultaneous Insertion & Electrocatalytic Reactions: A Case Study of Transition-Metal Hydroxides in Aqueous Electrolyte
Authors: Liang Allen Yu-Lun , Chueh William C
Published: January 2022

Electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) is commonly used to investigate the kinetics of mixed ionic–electronic conductor (MIEC) electrodes. Across various applications, MIECs exhibit ionic (e.g., insertion) and/or electronic (e.g., electrocatalytic) charge transfer reactions at the electrode/electrolyte interface. Bulk storage and transport of charge carriers also couple with these interfacial reactions. Here, we build a generalized, physics-based impedance model for MIECs with an ion-blocking current collector and explore how bulk and interfacial resistance, chemical capacitance, and DC polarization affect the impedance response. Using transition metal hydroxides as a case study, we provide guidance on extracting reaction kinetics or bulk resistance from the Nyquist plots in interface- or bulk-controlled conditions, respectively. Generalizing our EIS analysis enables a robust analysis of MIEC kinetics for a diverse set of systems.
A Novel Three-Way Decision Model for Improving Computational Thinking Based on Grey Correlation Analysis
Authors: Xu Ruiyang , Jiang Chunmao , Sun Lijuan
Published: January 2022

Computational thinking (CT) is an approach that applies the fundamental concepts of computer science to solve problems, design systems, and understand human behavior, which can help students develop lifetime learning and generate new topics. It has been the elements of competency expected of the next generation of talents. However, the current research on computational thinking evaluation is still at a relatively weak stage. The existing related evaluation research is still limited to traditional curriculum evaluation methods. Therefore, the training effect of computational thinking cannot be well quantified, and the characteristics of students cannot be further explored. In this work, we propose a three-way decision model for improving computation thinking. We first developed a system of evaluation metrics, including five specific primary indicators and several secondary indicators. Next, the weight of each indicator was determined by applying an expert similarity measure, consequently getting the best metric sequence. We employ a grey correlation analysis to calculate the distance of each test result from this optimal sequence. Then, we trisect the set of testers based on the distance to build three regions of high score sequences, medium score sequences, and low score sequences inspired by the three-way decision. We can then exploit these rules on target students in the relatively low regions to improve their computational thinking. An example analysis illustrates the effectiveness and applicability of the method. This article provides a solid theoretical basis for improving students’ computational thinking ability. Teaching administrators can conveniently formulate computational thinking teaching strategies, and timely warning and intervention for students with poor computational thinking ability can effectively improve students’ computational thinking ability. The corresponding training measures are given to students of different ability levels to achieve differentiated and personalized training.
Intelligent Interactive English Teaching Discrete Data Modeling and Simulation
Authors: Li Xin
Published: January 2022

This study attempts to explore the discrete data modeling and simulation of smart interactive English teaching based on mobile APP, expecting to explore the effective teaching strategies for deep integration of mobile APP technology and smart interactive English teaching, and to conduct discrete data modeling and simulation of English teaching. In this study, we propose a discrete data modeling algorithm for smart interactive English teaching based on discrete data points and normal vectors using B splines. By adding normal vector constraints, this method can maintain good fitting results even when the data points are discrete. The method consists of four parts, namely, discrete point parameterization, B-spline dominant point selection, node vector determination, and least-squares fitting, including both data point error and normal vector error. The mobile APP-based initial intelligent interactive English teaching should adhere to the four principles of autonomy of English course learning, adhere to teacher dominance in the language classroom, grasp the humanistic nature of English course content, and focus on the practical nature of English course implementation. The interactive learning environment based on mobile APP can promote students’ in-depth understanding of knowledge. The higher the student’s interest in learning, the deeper the degree of understanding; the more diverse the learning methods, the more it can promote students’ in-depth understanding of knowledge; the stronger the degree of interaction, the higher the level of understanding. The discrete data modeling of smart interactive English teaching proposed in this study provides a theoretical reference for the design and production of interactive learning resources for English courses, according to which the interactive learning resources for English courses are produced to make up for the lack of English course resources.