bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Design of frequency reconfigurable planar antenna using artificial neural network
Authors: Kaur Navneet , Sivia Jagtar Singh , Rajni
Published: October 2021

In this paper, the design of frequency reconfigurable planar antenna by incorporation of metasurface superstrate (FRPA-MSS) is presented using an artificial neural network. The dual-layer radiating structure is created on a 1.524 mm thick Rogers RO4350B substrate board (εr = 3.48, tan δ = 0.0037). The candidate antenna is designed and analyzed using a high-frequency structure simulator (HFSS) tool. The transfer matrix method is employed for the successful retrieval of electromagnetic properties of the metamaterial. Frequency reconfiguration is achieved by placing the metasurface superstrate onto the rectangular patch antenna. A simplified ANN approach has been employed for the design of metasurface incorporated proposed antenna. Presented prototypes are characterized through experimental measurements. It is found from the practical observations that the proposed antenna effectively reconfigures the tuning range from 5.03 to 6.13 GHz. Moreover, the presented antenna operates efficiently with agreeable gain, good impedance matching, and stable pattern characteristics across the entire operational bandwidth. The experimental results obtained validate the simulated performance.
Mediation, Moderation, and Conditional Process Analysis: Concepts, Computations, and Some Common Confusions
Authors: Igartua Juan-José , Hayes Andrew F.
Published: October 2021

This work provides a conceptual introduction to mediation, moderation, and conditional process analysis in psychological research. We discuss the concepts of direct effect, indirect effect, total effect, conditional effect, conditional direct effect, conditional indirect effect, and the index of moderated mediation index, while providing our perspective on certain analysis and interpretation confusions that sometimes arise in practice in this journal and elsewhere, such as reliance on the causal steps approach and the Sobel test in mediation analysis, misinterpreting the regression coefficients in a model that includes a product of variables, and subgroups mediation analysis rather than conditional process analysis when exploring whether an indirect effect depends on a moderator. We also illustrate how to conduct various analyses that are the focus of this paper with the freely-available PROCESS procedure available for SPSS, SAS, and R, using data from an experimental investigation on the effectiveness of personal or testimonial narrative messages in improving intergroup attitudes.
Fallverantwortung Pflege am Klinikum Neumarkt
Authors: Wittmann Janina , Huber Kathrin , Kuusisto-Gussmann Eero , Krautz Bernhard
Published: October 2021

Zusammenfassung. Hintergrund: Eine wesentliche Voraussetzung für die Umsetzung einer personzentrierten Praxis ist eine Arbeitsumgebung, die eine professionelle Beziehungsgestaltung unterstützt. Folglich wurde im Kontext der Praxisentwicklung am Klinikum Neumarkt ein Fallverantwortungskonzept implementiert, das den Rahmen zur Umsetzung einer personzentrierten und systematischen Pflegeprozesssteuerung bietet. Im Spannungsfeld ökonomischer und pflegefachlicher Ansprüche gilt es, den Nutzen des Konzepts nachzuweisen. Zielsetzung: Das Vorhaben exploriert die Auswirkungen des Konzepts aus Sicht der Patient_innen, des interprofessionellen Teams und aus ökonomischer Perspektive. Methoden: Die multiperspektivische Evaluation erfolgte durch Einzelinterviews und eine ökonomische Routinedatenanalyse. Ergebnisse: Die Patient_innen und das interprofessionelle Team nehmen unter anderem eine personzentrierte Versorgung sowie die Steuerung des Pflegeprozesses wahr und weisen zugleich auf benötigte Ressourcen hin. Die Anzahl abgerechneter PKMS-Entgelte ist, bei den nach dem Fallverantwortungskonzept versorgten Patient_innen, signifikant erhöht (Odds Ratio: 4,00, 95%-Konfidenzintervall [2,15; 8,01], p < 0,001). Diskussion: Die Ergebnisse geben erste Hinweise auf die Wirksamkeit des Konzepts in Bezug auf eine systematische und personzentrierte Steuerung des Pflegeprozesses sowie auf die Rechtfertigung eines höheren Ressourceneinsatzes. Grenzen und Transfer: Die Implementierung des Konzepts ist eine einschneidende Veränderung für alle Beteiligten, die der Einbettung in eine strategische Praxisentwicklung bedarf.
The Regional Importance of Oxygen Demand and Supply for Historical Ocean Oxygen Trends
Authors: Buchanan Pearse James , Tagliabue Alessandro
Published: October 2021

Ocean deoxygenation is an emerging hazard for marine ecosystems and a fingerprint of anthropogenic change. Interior ocean oxygen concentrations respond to changes in ventilation that supply oxygen and the demand of biogeochemical processes that consume oxygen. A better understanding of their regional importance would improve confidence in Earth System Model projections, which underpin ecosystem risk and vulnerability assessments. Using a hindcast reanalysis simulation, we find that oxygen trends between 1975 and 2014 in low‐oxygen zones along eastern margins are strongly affected by biogeochemical processes that alter oxygen demand, while oxygen‐rich regions of the open ocean are driven by ventilation changes. A similar regional distinction emerges among CMIP6 Earth System Models. Therefore, while biogeochemical functioning is an important source of uncertainty in low‐latitude, low‐oxygen regions, uncertainty in global trends is due to insufficient physical supply changes in Earth System Models, which is confirmed using repeat hydrographic section data in the southern mid‐latitudes.
Unheard Voices: Underrepresented Families Perspectives of Pediatric Palliative Care
Authors: Sample Erika , Mikulic Chris , Christian-Brandt Allison
Published: October 2021

Objective: Each year, half a million families cope with pediatric life-threatening illness in the United States. While research on pediatric palliative care (PPC) is growing, literature focusing on caregivers and patients who identify as Black, indigenous, or people of color (BIPOC) is limited. Given disproportionate experiences of health care disparities among BIPOC families, further exploration of these families’ perspectives of PPC is imperative to improving health equity. The present topical review summarizes existing literature on BIPOC family experiences of PPC in order to inform current clinical practice and future research. Methods: Searches were conducted on databases including PubMed and PsycInfo, using the keywords pediatric palliative care, race, and ethnicity. Results: Based on available literature, regardless of ethnicity/race, families commonly identify clinician communication and management of patient pain as critical and desired components of PPC; however, research among BIPOC families suggests unmet needs across these domains as well as the need for improved physician cultural sensitivity. Conclusions: Existing PPC research among BIPOC families suggests unmet needs across domains, as well as the importance of attention to family culture and values. We conclude by providing recommendations for a culturally sensitive, family-centered approach to PPC; in addition to future mixed-methods research recommendations focusing on the experiences of BIPOC families.

Implications for Impact Statement

Literature has found that families commonly identify communication and pain management as key aspects of effective PPC, regardless of ethnic–racial background; however, BIPOC families additionally note the importance of cultural sensitivity with regards to their care. This review highlights the importance of culturally sensitive PPC and provides research and clinical recommendations for providing care from this inclusive approach.
Parents’ Own Words: Adjustment and Coping Following Infant Death in the NICU
Authors: Clark Olivia E. , Fortney Christine A. , Dunnells Zackery D. O. , Winning Adrien M. , Gerhardt Cynthia A. , Baughcum Amy E.
Published: October 2021

Objective: Research demonstrates the death of a child can be particularly traumatic for parents with long-lasting effects, yet the impact of losing an infant in the NICU remains understudied. This article aims to examine parent perceptions of emotional, social, occupational, familial, and physical impacts of their infant’s death in the NICU and to provide insight into the psychosocial needs of parents at this difficult time. Method: Twenty-nine mothers and 16 fathers representing 30 infants who died in a large, Midwestern, Level IV NICU, opted-in to interviews as part of a larger pilot study. Mothers and fathers participated an average of 38.45 ( SD = 16.73, range = 3–70) and 37.06 ( SD = 6.91, range = 3–62) months after death, respectively, and answered questions pertaining to the impact of infant loss. Three researchers used content analysis to produce themes describing the impact of infant loss on parents. Results: Parents described both negative and positive effects, underscoring both risk and resilience associated with bereavement. Findings highlight several similarities with families who experience the death of an older child, as well as some shared experiences between mothers and fathers. Results highlight both pain and growth in NICU parents following the death of their infant. Conclusions: Providers must thoughtfully incorporate family-centered communication, education, and preparation regarding bereavement, both as end of life approaches and following the death. Care should not conclude with the death but should continue to support parents and families as they navigate long-term grieving processes.

Implications for Impact Statement

Parents describe both positive and negative changes in their lives as a result of their infant’s death in the NICU, including occupational, social, emotional, and health-related changes. Parents also note differing grief trajectories and use of both formal and informal coping strategies. These findings reflect both pain and growth from their experience and highlights value of long-term bereavement care which may involve parent input, pediatric psychologists, and palliative care providers.
Exogenous miRNAs induce post-transcriptional gene silencing in plants
Authors: Betti Federico , Ladera-Carmona Maria Jose , Weits Daan A. , Ferri Gianmarco , Iacopino Sergio , Novi Giacomo , Svezia Benedetta , Kunkowska Alicja B. , Santaniello Antonietta , Piaggesi Alberto , Loreti Elena , Perata Pierdomenico
Published: October 2021

Plants seem to take up exogenous RNA that was artificially designed to target specific genes, followed by activation of the RNA interference (RNAi) machinery. It is, however, not known whether plants use RNAs themselves as signalling molecules in plant-to-plant communication, other than evidence that an exchange of small RNAs occurs between parasitic plants and their hosts. Exogenous RNAs from the environment, if taken up by some living organisms, can indeed induce RNAi. This phenomenon has been observed in nematodes and insects, and host Arabidopsis cells secrete exosome-like extracellular vesicles to deliver plant small RNAs into Botrytis cinerea. Here we show that micro-RNAs (miRNAs) produced by plants act as signalling molecules affecting gene expression in other, nearby plants. Exogenous miRNAs, such as miR156 and miR399, trigger RNAi via a mechanism requiring both AGO1 and RDR6. This emphasizes that the production of secondary small interfering RNAs is required. This evidence highlights the existence of a mechanism in which miRNAs represent signalling molecules that enable communication between plants.
Structure of Venezuelan equine encephalitis virus in complex with the LDLRAD3 receptor
Authors: Basore Katherine , Ma Hongming , Kafai Natasha M. , Mackin Samantha , Kim Arthur S. , Nelson Christopher A. , Diamond Michael S. , Fremont Daved H.
Published: October 2021

LDLRAD3 is a recently defined attachment and entry receptor for Venezuelan equine encephalitis virus (VEEV)1, a New World alphavirus that causes severe neurological disease in humans. Here we present near-atomic-resolution cryo-electron microscopy reconstructions of VEEV virus-like particles alone and in a complex with the ectodomains of LDLRAD3. Domain 1 of LDLRAD3 is a low-density lipoprotein receptor type-A module that binds to VEEV by wedging into a cleft created by two adjacent E2–E1 heterodimers in one trimeric spike, and engages domains A and B of E2 and the fusion loop in E1. Atomic modelling of this interface is supported by mutagenesis and anti-VEEV antibody binding competition assays. Notably, VEEV engages LDLRAD3 in a manner that is similar to the way that arthritogenic alphaviruses bind to the structurally unrelated MXRA8 receptor, but with a much smaller interface. These studies further elucidate the structural basis of alphavirus–receptor interactions, which could inform the development of therapies to mitigate infection and disease against multiple members of this family.
The cellular environment shapes the nuclear pore complex architecture
Authors: Schuller Anthony P. , Wojtynek Matthias , Mankus David , Tatli Meltem , Kronenberg-Tenga Rafael , Regmi Saroj G. , Dip Phat V. , Lytton-Jean Abigail K. R. , Brignole Edward J. , Dasso Mary , Weis Karsten , Medalia Ohad , Schwartz Thomas U.
Published: October 2021

Nuclear pore complexes (NPCs) create large conduits for cargo transport between the nucleus and cytoplasm across the nuclear envelope (NE)1–3. These multi-megadalton structures are composed of about thirty different nucleoporins that are distributed in three main substructures (the inner, cytoplasmic and nucleoplasmic rings) around the central transport channel4–6. Here we use cryo-electron tomography on DLD-1 cells that were prepared using cryo-focused-ion-beam milling to generate a structural model for the human NPC in its native environment. We show that—compared with previous human NPC models obtained from purified NEs—the inner ring in our model is substantially wider; the volume of the central channel is increased by 75% and the nucleoplasmic and cytoplasmic rings are reorganized. Moreover, the NPC membrane exhibits asymmetry around the inner-ring complex. Using targeted degradation of Nup96, a scaffold nucleoporin of the cytoplasmic and nucleoplasmic rings, we observe the interdependence of each ring in modulating the central channel and maintaining membrane asymmetry. Our findings highlight the inherent flexibility of the NPC and suggest that the cellular environment has a considerable influence on NPC dimensions and architecture.
Development, evaluation of the PNA RT-LAMP assay for rapid molecular detection of SARS-CoV-2
Authors: Bat-Ochir Chinbayar , Kim Yeon-Sook , Kim Han Gyeul , Lee Si Seok , Lee Han Woo , Park Hee Kyung
Published: October 2021

Dual-labeled PNA probe used RT-LAMP molecular rapid assay targeting SARS-CoV-2 ORF1ab and N genes was developed, and the analytical, clinical performances for detection of SARS-CoV-2 RNA extracted from clinical nasopharyngeal swab specimens were evaluated in this study. Data showed that this assay is highly specific for SARS-CoV-2, and the absolute detection limit is 1 genomic copy per microliter of viral RNA which can be considered to be comparable to gold-standard molecular diagnostic method real-time reverse transcriptase PCR. Both clinical sensitivity and specificity against a commercial real-time RT-PCR assay were determined as identical. In conclusion, the PNA RT-LAMP assay showed high analytical and clinical accuracy which are identical to real-time RT-PCR which has been routinely used for the detection of SARS-CoV-2.
Enhanced super-resolution microscopy by extreme value based emitter recovery
Authors: Ma Hongqiang , Jiang Wei , Xu Jianquan , Liu Yang
Published: October 2021

Super-resolution localization microscopy allows visualization of biological structure at nanoscale resolution. However, the presence of heterogeneous background can degrade the nanoscale resolution by tens of nanometers and introduce significant image artifacts. Here we investigate and validate an efficient approach, referred to as extreme value-based emitter recovery (EVER), to accurately recover the distorted fluorescent emitters from heterogeneous background. Through numerical simulation and biological experiments, we validated the accuracy of EVER in improving the fidelity of the reconstructed super-resolution image for a wide variety of imaging characteristics. EVER requires no manual adjustment of parameters and has been implemented as an easy-to-use ImageJ plugin that can immediately enhance the quality of reconstructed super-resolution images. This method is validated as an efficient way for robust nanoscale imaging of samples with heterogeneous background fluorescence, such as thicker tissue and cells.
An innovative ovine model of severe cardiopulmonary failure supported by veno-arterial extracorporeal membrane oxygenation
Authors: Heinsar Silver , Jung Jae-Seung , Colombo Sebastiano Maria , Rozencwajg Sacha , Wildi Karin , Sato Kei , Ainola Carmen , Wang Xiaomeng , Abbate Gabriella , Sato Noriko , Dyer Wayne Bruce , Livingstone Samantha Annie , Pimenta Leticia Pretti , Bartnikowski Nicole , Bouquet Mahe Jeannine Patricia , Passmore Margaret , Vidal Bruno , Palmieri Chiara , Reid Janice D. , Haqqani Haris M. , McGuire Daniel , Wilson Emily Susan , Rätsep Indrek , Lorusso Roberto , Suen Jacky Y. , Bassi Gianluigi Li , Fraser John F.
Published: October 2021

Refractory cardiogenic shock (CS) often requires veno-arterial extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (VA-ECMO) to sustain end-organ perfusion. Current animal models result in heterogenous cardiac injury and frequent episodes of refractory ventricular fibrillation. Thus, we aimed to develop an innovative, clinically relevant, and titratable model of severe cardiopulmonary failure. Six sheep (60 ± 6 kg) were anaesthetized and mechanically ventilated. VA-ECMO was commenced and CS was induced through intramyocardial injections of ethanol. Then, hypoxemic/hypercapnic pulmonary failure was achieved, through substantial decrease in ventilatory support. Echocardiography was used to compute left ventricular fractional area change (LVFAC) and cardiac Troponin I (cTnI) was quantified. After 5 h, the animals were euthanised and the heart was retrieved for histological evaluations. Ethanol (58 ± 23 mL) successfully induced CS in all animals. cTnI levels increased near 5000-fold. CS was confirmed by a drop in systolic blood pressure to 67 ± 14 mmHg, while lactate increased to 4.7 ± 0.9 mmol/L and LVFAC decreased to 16 ± 7%. Myocardial samples corroborated extensive cellular necrosis and inflammatory infiltrates. In conclusion, we present an innovative ovine model of severe cardiopulmonary failure in animals on VA-ECMO. This model could be essential to further characterize CS and develop future treatments.
Effect of body mass index on the association between alcohol consumption and the development of chronic kidney disease
Authors: Hashimoto Yusaku , Imaizumi Takahiro , Kato Sawako , Yasuda Yoshinari , Ishimoto Takuji , Kawashiri Hiroaki , Hori Akihiro , Maruyama Shoichi
Published: October 2021

The influence of body mass or metabolic capacity on the association between alcohol consumption and lower risks of developing chronic kidney disease (CKD) is not fully elucidated. We examined whether the body mass index (BMI) affects the association between drinking alcohol and CKD. We defined CKD as an estimated glomerular filtration rate decline < 60 mL/min/1.73 m2 and/or positive proteinuria (≥ 1+). Participants were 11,175 Japanese individuals aged 40–74 years without baseline CKD who underwent annual health checkups. Daily alcohol consumption at baseline was estimated using a questionnaire, and the participants were categorized as “infrequent (occasionally, rarely or never),” “light (< 20 g/day),” “moderate (20–39 g/day),” and “heavy (≥ 40 g/day).” Over a median 5-year observation period, 936 participants developed CKD. Compared with infrequent drinkers, light drinkers were associated with low CKD risks; adjusted hazard ratios (95% confidence intervals) were 0.81 (0.69–0.95). Stratified by BMI (kg/m2), moderate drinkers in the low (< 18.5), normal (18.5–24.9), and high (≥ 25.0) BMI groups had adjusted hazard ratios (95% confidence intervals) of 3.44 (1.60–7.42), 0.75 (0.58–0.98), and 0.63 (0.39–1.04), respectively. Taken together, the association between alcohol consumption and CKD incidence was not the same in all the individuals, and individual tolerance must be considered.
Results of an early second PCR test performed on SARS-CoV-2 positive patients may support risk assessment for severe COVID-19
Authors: Mizrahi Barak , Bivas-Benita Maytal , Kalkstein Nir , Akiva Pinchas , Yanover Chen , Yehezkelli Yoav , Kessler Yoav , Alon Sharon Hermoni , Rubin Eitan , Chodick Gabriel
Published: October 2021

Identifying patients at increased risk for severe COVID-19 is of high priority during the pandemic as it could affect clinical management and shape public health guidelines. In this study we assessed whether a second PCR test conducted 2–7 days after a SARS-CoV-2 positive test could identify patients at risk for severe illness. Analysis of a nationwide electronic health records data of 1683 SARS-CoV-2 positive individuals indicated that a second negative PCR test result was associated with lower risk for severe illness compared to a positive result. This association was seen across different age groups and clinical settings. More importantly, it was not limited to recovering patients but also observed in patients who still had evidence of COVID-19 as determined by a subsequent positive PCR test. Our study suggests that an early second PCR test may be used as a supportive risk-assessment tool to improve disease management and patient care.
Clinical validation of automated and rapid mariPOC SARS-CoV-2 antigen test
Authors: Koskinen Juha M. , Antikainen Petri , Hotakainen Kristina , Haveri Anu , Ikonen Niina , Savolainen-Kopra Carita , Sundström Kati , Koskinen Janne O.
Published: October 2021

COVID-19 diagnostics was quickly ramped up worldwide early 2020 based on the detection of viral RNA. However, based on the scientific knowledge for pre-existing coronaviruses, it was expected that the SARS-CoV-2 RNA will be detected from symptomatic and at significant rates also from asymptomatic individuals due to persistence of non-infectious RNA. To increase the efficacy of diagnostics, surveillance, screening and pandemic control, rapid methods, such as antigen tests, are needed for decentralized testing and to assess infectiousness. A novel automated mariPOC SARS-CoV-2 test was developed for the detection of conserved structural viral nucleocapsid proteins. The test utilizes sophisticated optical laser technology for two-photon excitation and individual detection of immunoassay solid-phase particles. We validated the new method against qRT-PCR. Sensitivity of the test was 100.0% (13/13) directly from nasopharyngeal swab specimens and 84.4% (38/45) from swab specimens in undefined transport mediums. Specificity of the test was 100.0% (201/201). The test's limit of detection was 2.7 TCID50/test. It showed no cross-reactions. Our study shows that the new test can detect infectious individuals already in 20 min with clinical sensitivity close to qRT-PCR. The mariPOC is a versatile platform for syndromic testing and for high capacity infection control screening of infectious individuals.
Stable pseudo[3]rotaxanes with strong positive binding cooperativity based on shape-persistent aromatic oligoamide macrocycles
Authors: Sobiech Thomas A. , Zhong Yulong , Sánchez B. Laura S. , Kauffmann Brice , McGrath Jillian K. , Scalzo Christina , Miller Daniel P. , Huc Ivan , Zurek Eva , Ferrand Yann , Gong Bing
Published: October 2021

Six-residue aromatic oligoamide macrocycles bind bipyridinium guest G to form stable, compact pseudo[3]rotaxanes with strong positive cooperativity.
Visualizing the degradation of nerve agent simulants using functionalized Zr-based MOFs: from solution to hydrogels
Authors: Su Hongyan , Huang Pengcheng , Wu Fang-Ying
Published: October 2021

Visualizing the degradation of nerve agent simulants was achieved by stimulating the fluorescence recovery of UiO-66-NH2 in solution and in the vapor phase.
Norepinephrine exhibits thermo-optical nonlinearity under physiological conditions
Authors: Sakshi  , Swain Bikash Chandra , Das Anand Kant , Pathak Nitesh Kumar , Tripathy Umakanta
Published: October 2021

First report to show the monoamine neurotransmitter, norepinephrine (NE), exhibits thermo-optical nonlinearity under physiological conditions.
Leach-resistant Pt nanoparticles on a silica support serving as a clean, efficient, and recyclable catalyst for solvent-free hydrosilylation
Authors: Komati Srinivas , Lewis Kenrick M. , Dasgupta Debarshi , Kothapalli Kalyanachakravarthi , Srikanth Abirami , Sarkar Alok
Published: October 2021

A highly active heterogeneous Pt nanocatalyst enables hydrosilylation synthesis of organofunctional silicones in a simple and atom efficient manner.
Preprogrammed microfluidic system for parallel anti-reflection coating by layer-by-layer assembly
Authors: Li Zhenglin , Yeom Bongjun , Kim Sung-Jin
Published: October 2021

We present a device that can scan and optimize the condition of a nanofilm coating in a parallel and ultrafast manner without using off-chip controllers.
D–π*–A type planar chiral TADF materials for efficient circularly polarized electroluminescence
Authors: Zhang Da-Wei , Teng Jin-Ming , Wang Yin-Feng , Han Xiao-Ni , Li Meng , Chen Chuan-Feng
Published: October 2021

D–π*–A type planar chiral TADF emitters were synthesized and the enantiomer-based CP-OLEDs exhibited EQEmax of up to 20.1%.
Mucoviscidose: Quand les bactéries coopèrent pour mieux régner
Authors: Dorado Doncel Romane , Larcher Philéas , Schmitter Céline , Zouaghi Sarah
Published: October 2021

Le dossier que nous présentons a été rédigé par les étudiantes et étudiants de Master 1 de Biologie de l’École Normale Supérieure de Lyon à l’issue de l’UE Microbiologie Moléculaire et Structurale (2020-2021).

Le Master de Biologie de l’ENS de Lyon accueille chaque année environ 40 étudiants en M1 et en M2 et propose une formation de haut niveau à la recherche en biosciences. Chaque étudiant y construit son parcours à la carte, en choisissant ses options parmi un large panel de modules, favorisant ainsi une approche pluridisciplinaire des sciences du vivant, et cela en relation étroite avec les laboratoires de recherche du tissu local, national et international.

En participant à diverses activités scientifiques liées aux UE de leur formation, les étudiants préparent également l’obtention du Diplôme de l’ENS de Lyon, qui valide leur scolarité à l’ENS. La rédaction du présent dossier, qui vise à transmettre de façon claire les messages issus d’une sélection d’articles scientifiques publiés récemment dans le domaine de la microbiologie, constitue l’une de ces activités connexes proposées aux étudiants.
Modeling of generation of characteristic x-ray radiation under vacuum heating of electrons of nanocylinders
Authors: Kostenko O. F.
Published: October 2021

A model is developed for the generation of hot electrons near the surfaces of ionized cylinders by a laser field of nonrelativistic intensity, which allows one to go beyond the electrostatic approximation and takes into account the absorption of the laser field energy by the generated electrons. A model of Kα x-ray generation in a copper substrate, when the cylinders are located on the substrate obliquely and parallel to each other, and the laser field propagates perpendicularly to the substrate, is also considered. It is revealed that the Kα radiation yield depends rather strongly on the angle of inclination of the cylinders. The optimal parameters, the cylinder radius multiplied by the laser wavenumber, the angle of inclination of the cylinders, and direction of the linearly polarized laser electric field, are determined at the laser field amplitude aL = 0.2. With these parameters, the yield of Kα radiation from a copper substrate covered with cylinders is 2.7 times higher than the maximum yield of Kα radiation from the substrate covered with ionized clusters under the same irradiation conditions and 4 times higher than the maximum yield of Kα radiation from a flat copper target irradiated by a p-polarized laser field of the same amplitude. An increase in the yield of Kα radiation from the substrate covered with nanocylinders as compared to the yield of Kα radiation from the substrate covered with ionized clusters is due to an increase in the number of accelerated electrons.
Tunable contacts and device performances in graphene/group-III monochalcogenides MX (M = In, Ga; X = S, Se) van der Waals heterostructures
Authors: Guo Hailing , Yin Yiheng , Niu Huan , Robertson John , Zhang Zhaofu , Guo Yuzheng
Published: October 2021

Graphene-based van der Waals (vdW) heterostructures have attracted extensive attention for applications like nanoelectronics. The graphene and group-III monochalcogenide (MX, M = In and Ga and X = S and Se) heterostructures were established herein, and the electronic properties were investigated by the first-principles calculation. These heterostructures form an n-type Schottky contact at the interface and the Schottky barrier height can be modulated by the external strain. With graphene as electrodes, the device performances of the 9 nm MX metal-oxide-semiconductor FETs (MOSFETs) are investigated. Based on the computed tunneling probability and transfer characteristics, the GaSe MOSFET with a graphene electrode stands out with the highest tunneling probability and largest on-off ratio. We believe these results can provide physical insights into designing and fabricating devices based on the graphene and group-III monochalcogenide heterostructures.
How the environment affects early embryonic development
Authors: Sirard Marc-André
Published: October 2021

In the field of animal reproduction, the environment associated with gametes and embryos refers to the parents’ condition as well as conditions surrounding gametes and embryos in vivo or in vitro. This environment is now known to influence not only the functionality of the early embryo but potentially the future phenotype of the offspring. Using transcriptomic and epigenetic molecular analysis, and the bovine model, recent research has shown that both the female and the male metabolic status, for example age, can affect gene expression and gene programming in the embryo. Evidence demonstrates that milking cows, which are losing weight at the time of conception, generates compromised embryos and offspring with a unique metabolic signature. A similar phenomenon has been associated with different culture conditions and the IVF procedure. The general common consequence of these situations is an embryo behaving on ‘economy’ mode where translation, cell division and ATP production is reduced, potentially to adapt to the perceived future environment. Few epidemiological studies have been done in bovines to assess if these changes result in a different phenotype and more studies are required to associate specific molecular changes in embryos with visible consequences later in life.
The human olfactory bulb processes odor valence representation and cues motor avoidance behavior
Authors: Iravani Behzad , Schaefer Martin , Wilson Donald A. , Arshamian Artin , Lundström Johan N.
Published: October 2021

Significance

Whether an odor's perceived valence induces an approach response or triggers avoidance is critical for survival, and yet little is known about the neural mechanisms supporting this decision. Using electrophysiological measures from the human olfactory bulb (OB), the first processing stage of the olfactory system, and measures of full-body movement, we provide evidence that this process is initiated in the human OB. We demonstrate that odor valence is associated with both gamma and beta activity in the OB. Furthermore, we show that unpleasant odors have privileged temporal OB access, as indicated by early beta activity that is linked to a preparatory neural motor response in the motor cortex, which, in turn, is associated behaviorally with a fast full-body avoidance response.
Twisted distorted wave Born approximation as a new tool to investigate collisional processes
Authors: Singh Prithvi , Champion Christophe , Sharma Ram K
Published: October 2021

In this work, we report on triply differential ionization cross sections (e,2e) for atomic and molecular targets, namely, Ar(3p), Kr(4p), Xe(5p) and H2 impacted by twisted electron beams. The calculations were performed within the distorted wave Born approximation by using twisted and distorted waves for describing the incident and outgoing electrons, respectively. We found that the triply differential cross sections were strongly influenced by both the opening angle θ

p
and the orbital angular momentum OAM number m. Comparisons with experiments as well as existing results were reported.
Predicted stable high-pressure phases of copper-nitrogen compounds
Authors: Zhou Yuting , Jiang Xingxing , Zheng Yueshao , Xie Sheng-Yi , Feng Yexin , Chen Keqiu
Published: October 2021

The nitrogen-rich compounds are promising candidates for high-energy-density applications, owing to the large difference in the bonding energy between triple and single/double nitrogen bonds. The exploration of stable copper–nitrogen (Cu–N) compounds with high-energy-density has been challenging for a long time. Recently, through a combination of high temperatures and pressures, a new copper diazenide compound (P63/mmc-CuN2) has been synthesized (Binns et al 2019 J. Phys. Chem. Lett.
10 1109–1114). But the pressure-composition phase diagram of Cu–N compounds at different temperatures is still highly unclear. Here, by combining first-principles calculations with crystal structure prediction method, the Cu–N compounds with different stoichiometric ratios were searched within the pressure range of 0–150 GPa. Four Cu–N compounds are predicted to be thermodynamically stable at high pressures, Pnnm-CuN2, two CuN3 compounds with the P-1 space group (named as I-CuN3 and II-CuN3) and P21/m-CuN5 containing cyclo-N5
−. Finite temperature effects (vibrational energies) play a key role in stabilizing experimentally synthesized P63/mmc-CuN2 at ∼55 GPa, compared to our predicted Pnnm-CuN2. These new Cu–N compounds show great promise for potential applications as high-energy-density materials with the energy densities of 1.57–2.74 kJ g−1.
Magnetic field driven phase transitions in EuTiO3
Authors: Pappas P , Calamiotou M , Polentarutti M , Bais G , Bussmann-Holder A , Liarokapis E
Published: October 2021

The influence of an external static magnetic field (up to 480 mT) on the structural properties of EuTiO3 (ETO) polycrystalline samples was examined by powder XRD at the Elettra synchrotron facilities in the temperature range 100–300 K. While the cubic to tetragonal structural phase transition temperature in this magnetic field range remains almost unaffected, significant lattice effects appear at two characteristic temperatures (∼200 K and ∼250 K), which become more pronounced at a critical threshold field. At ∼200  K a change in the sign of magnetostriction is detected attributed to a modification of the local magnetic properties from intrinsic ferromagnetism to intrinsic antiferromagnetism. These data are a clear indication that strong spin–lattice interactions govern also the high temperature phase of ETO and trigger the appearance of magnetic domain formation and phase transitions.
Lattice dynamics of zircon-type NdVO4 and scheelite-type PrVO4 under high-pressure
Authors: Marqueño T , Pellicer-Porres J , Errandonea D , Santamaria-Perez D , Martinez-Garcia D , Rodríguez-Hernández P , Muñoz A , Nieves-Pérez I , Achary S N , Bettinelli M
Published: October 2021

Zircon-type NdVO4 and scheelite-type PrVO4 have been studied by means of Raman spectroscopy up to approximately 20 GPa. In the first compound, zircon-scheelite and scheelite-fergusonite phase transitions are reported at 6.4(3) and 19.6(4) GPa, respectively. In the case of scheelite-type PrVO4, a reversible phase transition to a PbWO4-III structure is observed at 16.8(5) GPa. In both cases, a scheelite-type structure is recovered in a metastable state at low pressures. The pressure evolution of the Raman modes is also reported. Our experimental findings are supported by ab initio calculations, which allowed us to discuss the role of mechanic and dynamical instabilities in the phase transition mechanisms.
Design of high-quality reflectors for vertical III–V nanowire lasers on Si
Authors: Zhang Xin , Yang Hui , Zhang Yunyan , Liu Huiyun
Published: October 2021

Nanowires (NWs) with a unique one-dimensional structure can monolithically integrate high-quality III–V semiconductors onto Si platform, which is highly promising to build lasers for Si photonics. However, the lasing from vertically-standing NWs on silicon is much more difficult to achieve compared with NWs broken off from substrates, causing significant challenges in the integration. Here, the challenge of achieving vertically-standing NW lasers is systematically analysed with III–V materials, e.g. GaAs(P) and InAs(P). The poor optical reflectivity at the NW/Si interface results severe optical field leakage to the substrate, and the commonly used SiO2 or Si2N3 dielectric mask at the interface can only improve it to ∼10%, which is the major obstacle for achieving low-threshold lasing. A NW super lattice distributed Bragg reflector is therefore proposed, which is able to greatly improve the reflectivity to >97%. This study provides a highly-feasible method to greatly improve the performance of vertically-standing NW lasers, which can boost the rapid development of Si photonics.
Enhancement of heavy ion track-etching in polyimide membranes with organic solvents
Authors: Froehlich Kristina , Scheuerlein Martin Christoph , Ali Mubarak , Nasir Saima , Ensinger Wolfgang
Published: October 2021

The effect of organic solvents on the ion track-etching of polyimide (PI) membranes is studied to enhance the nanopore fabrication process and the control over pore diameter growth. To this end, two approaches are employed to investigate the influence of organic solvents on the nanopore fabrication in PI membranes. In the first approach, the heavy ion irradiated PI samples are pretreated with organic solvents and then chemically etched with sodium hypochlorite (NaOCl) solution, resulting up to ∼4.4 times larger pore size compared to untreated ones. The second approach is based on a single-step track-etching process where the etchant (NaOCl) solution contains varying amounts of organic solvent (by vol%). The experimental data shows that a significant increase in both the bulk-etch and track-etch rates is observed by using the etchant mixture, which leads to ∼47% decrease in the nanopore fabrication time. This enhancement of nanopore fabrication process in PI membranes would open up new opportunities for their implementation in various potential applications.
Simulations of positive streamers in air in different electric fields: steady motion of solitary streamer heads and the stability field
Authors: Francisco Hani , Teunissen Jannis , Bagheri Behnaz , Ebert Ute
Published: October 2021

We simulate and characterize positive streamers in ambient air in homogeneous background electric fields from 4.5 to 26 kV cm−1 in a 4 cm gap. They can accelerate or decelerate depending on the background electric field. Many experiments have shown that a streamer keeps propagating in a stable manner in the so-called stability field of 4.5 to 5 kV cm−1. Our fluid streamer simulations in STP air show that: (1) in a homogeneous field larger than 4.675 kV cm−1, a single streamer accelerates, and in a lower field, it decelerates and eventually stagnates with a small radius and very high field enhancement. (2) In a field of 4.675 kV cm−1, the streamer head propagates with an approximately constant velocity of 6.7 × 104 m s−1 and an optical radius of 55 μm over distances of several centimeters as a stable coherent structure. These values for the radius and velocity agree well with measurements of so-called minimal streamers. (3) Behind the uniformly translating streamer head, the channel conductivity decreases due to electron attachment and recombination, and the electric field returns to its background value about 1 cm behind the head. The propagation behavior of the solitary streamer agrees with the original definition of the stability field, which is the homogeneous field in which a streamer can propagate with a constant speed and shape.
Distorted mirror images organised by cuspoid and umbilic caustics
Authors: Berry M V
Published: October 2021

The anatomy of the distorted and topologically disrupted images of an extended object after reflection by curved mirrors, and of their refraction analogues, e.g. in gravitational lensing, is determined by the caustic surfaces enveloping the ray family issuing from each point of the object. Simulations are presented of reflections of the same object when organised by each of the five caustics (elementary catastrophes) that are stable in three-dimensional space: the fold, cusp, swallowtail, elliptic and hyperbolic umbilic catastrophes. The object is a picture of a face, whose familiar features make the image distortions and disruptions easier to understand. An important distinction is between mirrors curved in one direction and those curved in two.
Autophagy deficiency boosts the production of kojic acid in the filamentous fungus Aspergillus oryzae
Authors: Chen Junlin , Arioka Manabu
Published: October 2021

We found that the expression of genes involved in kojic acid (KA) biosynthesis, kojA, kojR, and kojT, was highly elevated in the Aspergillus oryzae autophagy-deficient mutants. In agreement, KA production was much increased in these mutants. Nuclear translocation of KojR, a transcription factor, was observed in the autophagy mutants before they were starved, explaining why KA production was boosted.
Rediscover: an R package to identify mutually exclusive mutations
Authors: Ferrer-Bonsoms Juan A , Jareno Laura , Rubio Angel
Published: October 2021

Motivation

Discover is an algorithm developed to identify mutually exclusive genomic events. Its main contribution is a statistical analysis based on the Poisson–Binomial (PB) distribution to take into account the mutation rate of genes and samples. Discover is very effective for identifying mutually exclusive mutations at the expense of speed in large datasets: the PB is computationally costly to estimate, and checking all the potential mutually exclusive alterations requires millions of tests.

Results

We have implemented a new version of the package called Rediscover that implements exact and approximate computations of the PB. Rediscover exact implementation is slightly faster than Discover for large and medium-sized datasets. The approximation is 100–1000 times faster for them making it possible to get results in less than a minute with a standard desktop. The memory footprint is also smaller in Rediscover. The new package is available at CRAN and provides some functions to integrate its usage with other R packages such as maftools and TCGAbiolinks.

Availability and implementation

Rediscover is available at CRAN (https://cran.r-project.org/web/packages/Rediscover/index.html).

Supplementary information

Supplementary data are available at Bioinformatics online.
Inequality in Exposure to Crime, Social Disorganization and Collective Efficacy: Evidence from Greater Manchester, United Kingdom
Authors: Lymperopoulou Kitty , Bannister Jon , Krzemieniewska-Nandwani Karolina
Published: October 2021

This paper assesses the relevance of social disorganization and collective efficacy in accounting for neighbourhood inequalities in the exposure to crime. Specifically, it questions the potential of community and voluntary organizations to enhance informal social control and reduce exposure to crime. It utilizes calls-for-service (incident) data for Greater Manchester (UK) and a Bayesian spatio-temporal modelling approach. Contrary to expectations, the research finds that measures of social disorganization (concentrated disadvantage aside) and collective efficacy hold a limited effect on neighbourhood exposure to crime. We discuss the implications of these findings for criminological inquiry and theoretical development, highlighting the necessity of such endeavour to account for the national political-economy and welfare regime of research settings
1023 An Audit of The Prevalence of Frailty and The Impact on Surgical Management and Resource Use, For Vascular Inpatients Using the National Vascular Registry (NVR) Frailty Classifications
Authors: Hitchman L , Palmer J , Sethi S , Chetter I
Published: October 2021

Aim

To determine if the NVR frailty score was being routinely collected on all relevant vascular patients on admission, identify the prevalence of frailty in vascular inpatients and determine if frailty was associated with a higher mortality and morbidity.

Method

A prospective audit of consecutive patients admitted onto the vascular ward who were eligible for inclusion on the NVR. Data was collected from electronic patient records and paper case notes between November 2019 and February 2020. The primary outcome was completeness of frailty assessment. Secondary outcomes were prevalence of frailty and mortality and morbidity associated with frailty score.

Results

Frailty status was documented in 65% of patients. 43% (28/65) were assessed to be frail. The 30-day mortality rate was 1.53% (1/65). 26.15% (17/65) had one or more complication. The commonest complications were graft occlusions, acute kidney injury, hospital acquired pneumonia and groin infections. 93.84% (61/65) were discharged home. There was no correlation between frailty and number of post-operative complications (p = 0.394), length of stay (p = 0.171) or mortality (p = 0.371).

Conclusions

This audit found frailty assessment is poorly assessed and the current NVR frailty classification did not correlate to increase mortality or morbidity in this patient cohort.
1087 Establishing Guidelines for VTE Prophylaxis for Acute ENT Admissions
Authors: Wallace J , Hepburn K , O'Hanlon J , Davis S
Published: October 2021

Aim

VTE prophylaxis is a vital aspect of patient safety. The decision whether to offer pharmacological thromboprophylaxis is a balance of risk versus benefit. There is a low incidence of VTE in ENT patients, admissions are often short and active bleeding on admission is not uncommon (epistaxis patients, already on anticoagulation are particularly difficult to manage}. There are no clear, specialty specific guidelines to assist in these frequently encountered endeavours.

Method

The number of emergency ENT admissions who had a documented VTE during admission or in the 28 days following was used to calculate the incidence of VTE in acute admissions. An audit of VTE prophylaxis and documentation was also conducted using 20 admissions over 24 hours.

Results

Incidence was 0.12%. 75% had a documented VTE risk assessment. Only 50% patients were prescribed chemical and mechanical thromboprophylaxis. 0% had appropriately documented that the patient did not require thromboprophylaxis on the drug chart (as per trust guidelines).

Conclusions

The results showed that both documentation and prescribing related to VTE prevention were poor. By highlighting the low incidence amongst this patient group, we were able to establish clearer guidance for VTE prophylaxis in acute ENT admissions and a protocol to standardise the management of anticoagulation in actively bleeding epistaxis patients.