bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Investigation the role of contrast on habituation and sensitisation effects in peripheral areas of graphical user interfaces
Authors: Lewandowska Anna , Dziśko Malwina , Jankowski Jaroslaw
Published: September 2022

Graphical user interfaces are designed so that the most important elements are usually located in the central part of the screen, where they catch the user’s attention. However, there are situations where it is necessary to attract the user’s attention to make him/her notice, e.g., a critical alert, which is customarily displayed in the peripheral area so as not to interact with the main content. Therefore, our focus is to deliver an increased visibility of content in the peripheral area of the display in a non-intrusive way. Thus, the main purpose of this work is to analyze the visibility of the stimulus (in the form of colored discs), displayed in the peripheral area of a screen, which distracts users from the central part of the interface. The habituation and sensitization effects were considered to study which parameters catch and hold the user’s attention, despite the length of their interaction with the system. The experiments performed indicated how the parameters should be set to reduce the habituation effect without the need to use content with the highest visual intensity. The results showed that a high visual intensity is not necessarily needed for the best impact. A medium contrast level, a horizontal or vertical display localization, and a flashing frequency of 2 Hz are sufficient to obtain the best visibility in the peripheral area. In the case of critical alerts and the need for short-term intensive stimuli, it is worth highlighting these with high contrast. This configuration should be the most effective if it is not a continuous operation. However, they can cause unnecessary irritation or even cognitive load for more extended usage.
Ice thickness monitoring for cryo-EM grids by interferometry imaging
Authors: Hohle Markus Matthias , Lammens Katja , Gut Fabian , Wang Bingzhi , Kahler Sophia , Kugler Kathrin , Till Michael , Beckmann Roland , Hopfner Karl-Peter , Jung Christophe
Published: September 2022

While recent technological developments contributed to breakthrough advances in single particle cryo-electron microscopy (cryo-EM), sample preparation remains a significant bottleneck for the structure determination of macromolecular complexes. A critical time factor is sample optimization that requires the use of an electron microscope to screen grids prepared under different conditions to achieve the ideal vitreous ice thickness containing the particles. Evaluating sample quality requires access to cryo-electron microscopes and a strong expertise in EM. To facilitate and accelerate the selection procedure of probes suitable for high-resolution cryo-EM, we devised a method to assess the vitreous ice layer thickness of sample coated grids. The experimental setup comprises an optical interferometric microscope equipped with a cryogenic stage and image analysis software based on artificial neural networks (ANN) for an unbiased sample selection. We present and validate this approach for different protein complexes and grid types, and demonstrate its performance for the assessment of ice quality. This technique is moderate in cost and can be easily performed on a laboratory bench. We expect that its throughput and its versatility will contribute to facilitate the sample optimization process for structural biologists.
Diabetes prevalence and risk factors, underestimated without oral glucose tolerance test, in rural Gombe-Matadi Adults, Democratic Republic of Congo, 2019
Authors: Muyer Muel Telo Marie-Claire , Botomba Steve , Poka Nickson , Mpunga Dieudonné , Sibongwere Deogratias Katsuva , Peñalvo José Luis , Sagastume Diana , Mapatano Mala Ali
Published: September 2022

An increase in the diabetes prevalence is reported worldwide. We aimed to determine the diabetes prevalence and its risk factors among adults in a rural area of the Democratic Republic of Congo. A cross-sectional study was conducted in 1531 inhabitants, selected by five stages, in the Health Zone of Gombe-Matadi. Diabetes was defined according to the American Diabetes Association and the International Diabetes Federation. Fasting glycemia and/or an oral glucose tolerance test were collected. We measured body mass index, waist circumference and blood pressure. Mann Whitney's and chi-square tests compared respondents with non-respondents. Multivariable logistic regression measured associations between diabetes and its risk factors. Crude and standardized prevalence of diabetes were 6.7% and 5.3%, respectively. Undiagnosed diabetes accounted for 58.8%. The oral glucose tolerance test alone diagnosed 2.6% of cases. Diabetes was more frequent in males, unemployed, obese and hypertensive (p < 0.05). Risk factors for diabetes were being male, aged ≥ 40 years, general and abdominal obesity associated with elderly, family history of diabetes, and hypertension. Diabetes in rural areas of the Democratic Republic of Congo appears to be underdiagnosed. The oral glucose tolerance test provides an opportunity to screen individuals for diabetes in this setting.
Frost resistance investigation of fiber reinforced recycled brick aggregate cementitious materials
Authors: Ji Yongcheng , Zhang Hongrui
Published: September 2022

In order to solve the problem of environmental pollution caused by construction waste, one typical waste of red bricks was selected as raw material in recycled concrete. This study presented recycled concrete by substituting some natural aggregates with treated red brick aggregates to study and analyze the degradation law mechanism of recycled brick aggregates concrete in the cold region. A total of fifteen categories of specimens and three experimental parameters were considered, which included numbers of freeze–thaw cycles (0, 50, and 100), steel fiber admixtures (0, 1, and 2%), and brick aggregate substitution rates (0, 25, 50, 75, and 100%), respectively. The quick freeze–thaw test method was selected to investigate recycled concrete's degradation mass loss rate and relative dynamic elastic modulus under various freeze–thaw cycles. The digital microscope and SEM were used to observe the internal microstructural changes in the specimens under different freeze–thaw times. In addition, the specimens’ microscopic damage morphology and damage mechanism were analyzed. Finally, the flexural strength of the frost-damaged specimens was tested to analyze the mechanical deterioration of the recycled concrete, and the numerical model corresponding to steel fiber dosing and recycled aggregate replacement rate was presented. The gray correlation analysis was used to quantify the influence of each experimental variable on the corresponding experimental indexes under various freeze–thaw cycles. Results showed that the specimen's mass decreased after freeze–thaw cycles, and the highest mass loss was found for the specimens with 50 and 75% brick substitution rates. In addition, the specimens showed the best relative dynamic modulus and the maximum flexural strength when the steel fiber doping was 1%. The numerical model agreed with experimental data and effectively predicted the specimens' mass loss rate, relative dynamic modulus, and flexural strength after freeze–thaw cycles. The gray correlation analysis showed that the steel fiber contents had a maximum correlation with the flexural strength, the brick substitution rates for the relative dynamic modulus, and mass loss controls the freeze–thaw cycles.
Predicting the risk of acute kidney injury after hematopoietic stem cell transplantation: development of a new predictive nomogram
Authors: Gan Zhaoping , Chen Liyi , Wu Meiqing , Liu Lianjin , Shi Lingling , Li Qiaochuan , Zhang Zhongming , Lai Yongrong
Published: September 2022

The purpose was to predict the risk of acute kidney injury (AKI) within 100 days after hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT) in patients with hematologic disease by using a new predictive nomogram. Collect clinical data of patients with hematologic disease undergoing HSCT in our hospital from August 2012 to March 2018. Parameters with non-zero coefficients were selected by the Least Absolute Selection Operator (LASSO). Then these parameters were selected to build a new predictive nomogram model. Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve, calibration curve, C-index, and decision curve analysis (DCA) were used for the validation of the evaluation model. Finally, the nomogram was further evaluated by internal verification. According to 2012 Kidney Disease Improving Global Guidelines (KDIGO) diagnostic criteria, among 144 patients, the occurrence of AKI within 100 days after HSCT The rate was 29.2% (42/144). The C-index of the nomogram was 0.842. The C-value calculated by the internal verification was 0.809. The AUC was 0.842, and The DCA range of the predicted nomogram was from 0.01 to 0.71. This article established a high-precision nomogram for the first time for predicting the risk of AKI within 100 days after HSCT in patients with hematologic diseases. The nomogram had good clinical validity and reliability. For clinicians, it was very important to prevent AKI after HSCT.
A polymeric nitrogen N$$_6$$–N$$_2$$ system with enhanced stability at low pressure
Authors: Benchafia El Mostafa , Wang Xianqin , Iqbal Zafar , Abedrabbo Sufian
Published: September 2022

Postulated in 1992 and synthesized in 2004 above 2000 K and 110 GPa, the singly-bonded nitrogen cubic gauche crystal (cg-PN) is still considered to be the ultimate high energy density material (HEDM). The search however has continued for a method to synthesize cg-PN at more ambient conditions or find HEDMs which can be synthesized at lower pressure and temperature. Here, using ab initio evolutionary crystal prediction techniques, a simpler nitrogen-based molecular crystal consisting of N$$_6$$

6

and N$$_2$$

2

molecules is revealed to be a more favorable polynitrogen at lower pressures. The energetic gain of  534 meV/atom over cg-PN and  138 meV/atom over the N$$_8$$

8

molecular crystal at zero pressure makes the N$$_6$$

6

–N$$_2$$

2

system more appealing. Dynamical and mechanical stabilities are investigated at 5 and 0 GPa, and vibrational frequencies are assessed for its Raman and IR spectra. The prospects of an experimental synthesis of the N$$_6$$

6

–N$$_2$$

2

polymeric system compared to cg-PN is higher because the C$$_{2h}$$

2
h

symmetry of N$$_6$$

6

within this crystal would be easier to target from the readily available N$$_3^-$$

3
-

azides and the observed N$$_{3}^+$$

3

+

and N$$_{3}^*$$

3

∗

radicals.
The ratio model between throughput and delay based on payload transmission time in wireless blockchain network
Authors: Shi Chun , Shan Chun
Published: September 2022

In wireless blockchain network (WBN), it is necessary to study the impact of delay performance on blockchain technology with different data rates, because the throughput performance is not the only goal. We propose an analysis model to evaluate network performance based on both delay performance and network performance. Firstly, we separate the communication process from business process in WBN, and package the business data into the payload in a frame. Secondly, we define throughput-time$$S_V$$SVas a ratio of throughput to data transmission rate and propose a ratio model of$$S_V$$SVto network delay. Then, we analyze the ratio model with the parameter of payload transmission time, which is defined as a ratio of payload in a frame to data transmission rate. Using the DATA/ACK type in IEEE 802.11, we learn that the optimal payload transmission time is independent of node number and only determined by some interframe space of access mechanism and propagation time. Finally, we analyze the performance of network delay and throughput between DATA/ACK type and RTS/CTS/DATA/ACK type based on payload transmission time. The simulation data verify the validity and accuracy of the proposed model.
Heterogeneous human–robot task allocation based on artificial trust
Authors: Ali Arsha , Azevedo-Sa Hebert , Tilbury Dawn M. , Robert Lionel P.
Published: September 2022

Effective human–robot collaboration requires the appropriate allocation of indivisible tasks between humans and robots. A task allocation method that appropriately makes use of the unique capabilities of each agent (either a human or a robot) can improve team performance. This paper presents a novel task allocation method for heterogeneous human–robot teams based on artificial trust from a robot that can learn agent capabilities over time and allocate both existing and novel tasks. Tasks are allocated to the agent that maximizes the expected total reward. The expected total reward incorporates trust in the agent to successfully execute the task as well as the task reward and cost associated with using that agent for that task. Trust in an agent is computed from an artificial trust model, where trust is assessed along a capability dimension by comparing the belief in agent capabilities with the task requirements. An agent’s capabilities are represented by a belief distribution and learned using stochastic task outcomes. Our task allocation method was simulated for a human–robot dyad. The team total reward of our artificial trust-based task allocation method outperforms other methods both when the human’s capabilities are initially unknown and when the human’s capabilities belief distribution has converged to the human’s actual capabilities. Our task allocation method enables human–robot teams to maximize their joint performance.
Mathematical analysis of the effect of process conditions on the porous structure development of activated carbons derived from Pine cones
Authors: Kwiatkowski Mirosław , Gómez-Delgado Edward , Nunell Gisel Vanesa , Bonelli Pablo Ricardo , Cukierman Ana Lea
Published: September 2022

This paper presents the results of a study on the influence of the degree of impregnation and activation temperature on the formation of the porous structure of activated carbons (ACs) obtained from Pine cones by the chemical activation process using potassium hydroxide as an activator. The advanced new numerical clustering based adsorption analysis (LBET) method, together with the implemented unique numerical procedure for the fast multivariant identification were applied to nitrogen and carbon dioxide adsorption isotherms determined for porous structure characterization of the ACs. Moreover, the Quenched Solid Density Functional Theory (QSDFT) method was chosen to determine pore size distributions. The results showed a significant influence of the primary structure of Pine cones on the formation of the porous structure of the developed ACs. Among others, it was evidenced by a very high degree of surface heterogeneity of all the obtained ACs, irrespective of the degree of impregnation with potassium hydroxide and the activation temperature. Moreover, the analysis of carbon dioxide adsorption isotherms showed, that the porous structure of the studied ACs samples contains micropores accessible only to carbon dioxide molecules. The results also showed a significant advantage of the LBET method over those conventionally used for porous structure analysis based on Brunauer–Emmett–Teller (BET) and Dubinin–Raduskevich (DR) equations, because it takes into account surface heterogeneities. The novel analyses methods were more fully validated as a reliable characterization tool, by extending their application to the isotherms for ACs developed from the same precursor by phosphoric acid activation, and for samples arising from these ACs, further subjected to additional post-treatments. The effect of the raw material used as precursor was moreover analysed by comparison with previous reported results for other ACs. The complementarity of the results obtained with the LBET and QSDFT methods is also noteworthy, resulting in a more complete and reliable picture of the analyzed porous structures.
Semibulk RNA-seq analysis as a convenient method for measuring gene expression statuses in a local cellular environment
Authors: Muto Kyoko , Tsuchiya Issei , Kim Soo Hyeon , Nagasawa Satoi , Takishita Mariko , Tsugawa Koichiro , Saito Hiroaki , Komazaki Yusuke , Torii Toru , Fujii Teruo , Suzuki Yutaka , Suzuki Ayako , Seki Masahide
Published: September 2022

When biologically interpretation of the data obtained from the single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-seq) analysis is attempted, additional information on the location of the single cells, behavior of the surrounding cells, and the microenvironment they generate, would be very important. We developed an inexpensive, high throughput application while preserving spatial organization, named “semibulk RNA-seq” (sbRNA-seq). We utilized a microfluidic device specifically designed for the experiments to encapsulate both a barcoded bead and a cell aggregate (a semibulk) into a single droplet. Using sbRNA-seq, we firstly analyzed mouse kidney specimens. In the mouse model, we could associate the pathological information with the gene expression information. We validated the results using spatial transcriptome analysis and found them highly consistent. When we applied the sbRNA-seq analysis to the human breast cancer specimens, we identified spatial interactions between a particular population of immune cells and that of cancer-associated fibroblast cells, which were not precisely represented solely by the single-cell analysis. Semibulk analysis may provide a convenient and versatile method, compared to a standard spatial transcriptome sequencing platform, to associate spatial information with transcriptome information.
Comparison of cine cardiac magnetic resonance and echocardiography derived diameters of the aortic root in a large population-based cohort
Authors: Wenzel Jan-Per , Nikorowitsch Julius , bei der Kellen Ramona , Dohm Luisa , Girdauskas Evaldas , Lund Gunnar , Bannas Peter , Blankenberg Stefan , Kölbel Tilo , Cavus Ersin , Müllerleile Kai , Kaul Michael Gerhard , Adam Gerhard , Weinrich Julius Matthias
Published: September 2022

Transthoracic echocardiography (TTE) and cine cardiac magnetic resonance imaging (CMR) are established imaging methods of the aortic root. We aimed to evaluate the comparability of measurements in TTE and standard cine CMR sequences of the aortic root. Our study included 741 subjects (mean age 63.5 ± 8 years, 43.7% female) from the Hamburg City Health Study (HCHS). Subjects underwent CMR and TTE. Aortic root measurements were performed at the level of the aortic annulus (AoAn), sinus of Valsalva (SoV), and sinotubular junction (STJ) by standard cine CMR in left ventricular long axis and left ventricular outflow tract view. Measurements were performed applying the leading-edge to leading-edge (LL) convention and inner-edge to inner-edge (II) convention in TTE and the II convention in CMR. Inter correlation coefficients (ICCs) demonstrated high inter- and intraobserver reproducibility for CMR and TTE measurements of SoV and STJ (ICCs 0.9–0.98) and moderate reproducibility for AoAn (ICCs 0.68–0.91). CMR measurements of SoV and STJ showed strong agreement with TTE: while correlations were comparable (r = 0.75–0.85) bias was lower with TTE II (bias − 0.1 to − 0.74) versus TTE LL measurements (mean bias − 1.49 to − 2.58 mm). The agreement for AoAn was fair (r = 0.51–0.57) with variable bias (mean bias 0.39–3.9). Standard cine CMR and TTE derived aortic root measurements are reproducible and comparable with higher agreement for TTE II instead of LL measurements. These results support an interchangeable application of TTE and standard CMR for screening of aortic root diseases thereby possibly reducing redundant multimodality imaging.
Multi-institution model (big model) versus single-institution model of knowledge-based volumetric modulated arc therapy (VMAT) planning for prostate cancer
Authors: Fukunaga Jun-ichi , Tamura Mikoto , Ueda Yoshihiro , Kamima Tatsuya , Shimizu Yumiko , Muraki Yuta , Nakamatsu Kiyoshi , Monzen Hajime
Published: September 2022

We established a multi-institution model (big model) of knowledge-based treatment planning with over 500 treatment plans from five institutions in volumetric modulated arc therapy (VMAT) for prostate cancer. This study aimed to clarify the efficacy of using a large number of registered treatment plans for sharing the big model. The big model was created with 561 clinically approved VMAT plans for prostate cancer from five institutions (A: 150, B: 153, C: 49, D: 60, and E: 149) with different planning strategies. The dosimetric parameters of planning target volume (PTV), rectum, and bladder for two validation VMAT plans generated with the big model were compared with those from each institutional model (single-institution model). The goodness-of-fit of regression lines (R2 and χ2 values) and ratios of the outliers of Cook’s distance (CD) > 4.0, modified Z-score (mZ) > 3.5, studentized residual (SR) > 3.0, and areal difference of estimate (dA) > 3.0 for regression scatter plots in the big model and single-institution model were also evaluated. The mean ± standard deviation (SD) of dosimetric parameters were as follows (big model vs. single-institution model): 79.0 ± 1.6 vs. 78.7 ± 0.5 (D50) and 0.13 ± 0.06 vs. 0.13 ± 0.07 (Homogeneity Index) for the PTV; 6.6 ± 4.0 vs. 8.4 ± 3.6 (V90) and 32.4 ± 3.8 vs. 46.6 ± 15.4 (V50) for the rectum; and 13.8 ± 1.8 vs. 13.3 ± 4.3 (V90) and 39.9 ± 2.0 vs. 38.4 ± 5.2 (V50) for the bladder. The R2 values in the big model were 0.251 and 0.755 for rectum and bladder, respectively, which were comparable to those from each institution model. The respective χ2 values in the big model were 1.009 and 1.002, which were closer to 1.0 than those from each institution model. The ratios of the outliers in the big model were also comparable to those from each institution model. The big model could generate a comparable VMAT plan quality compared with each single-institution model and therefore could possibly be shared with other institutions.
A study on the influence of service robots’ level of anthropomorphism on the willingness of users to follow their recommendations
Authors: Abdi Elahe , Tojib Dewi , Seong Alexander Kenwa , Pamarthi Yamika , Millington-Palmer George
Published: September 2022

Service robots are increasingly deployed in various industries including tourism. In spite of extensive research on the user’s experience in interaction with these robots, there are yet unanswered questions about the factors that influence user’s compliance. Through three online studies, we investigate the effect of the robot anthropomorphism and language style on customers’ willingness to follow its recommendations. The mediating role of the perceived mind and persuasiveness in this relationship is also investigated. Study 1 (n = 89) shows that a service robot with a higher level of anthropomorphic features positively influences the willingness of users to follow its recommendations while language style does not affect compliance. Study 2a (n = 168) further confirms this finding when we presented participants with a tablet vs. a service robot with an anthropomorphic appearance while communication style does not affect compliance. Finally, Study 2b (n = 122) supports the indirect effect of anthropomorphism level on the willingness to follow recommendations through perceived mind followed by persuasiveness. The findings provide valuable insight to enhance human–robot interaction in service settings.
Effect of densification on the physical and mechanical properties of the inner part of oil palm trunk impregnated with methylene diphenyl diisocyanate
Authors: Mangurai Silvia Uthari Nuzaverra Mayang , Hermawan Dede , Hadi Yusuf Sudo , Sulastiningsih Ignasia Maria , Basri Efrida , Abdillah Imam Busyra , Maulana Muhammad Iqbal , Purusatama Byantara Darsan , Park Se Yeong , Lee Seung Hwan , Febrianto Fauzi , Kim Nam Hun
Published: September 2022

Oil palm (Elaeis guineensis Jacq.) plantations in Indonesia are increasing over the past few years. After economic productivity, however, the unproductive oil palm trunks are felled and mostly go to waste, especially the inner part of the oil palm trunk (IOPT). There are several modification methods to utilize IOPT, such as impregnation and densification. Methylene diphenyl diisocyanate (MDI) is a common resin used for impregnation in composite industries because it is non-toxic and has excellent physical and mechanical properties but it has never been applied for the impregnation of IOPT. This study aimed to analyze the effect of densification on the physical and mechanical properties of the inner part of oil palm trunk (IOPT) impregnated using methylene diphenyl diisocyanate (MDI) resin to obtain valuable information regarding the efficient utilization of unproductive oil palm trunks. IOPT was densified and compregnated with compression ratios (CRs) of 20% and 30%. The physical properties (density, moisture content (MC), and water absorption (WA)) and mechanical properties (modulus of elasticity (MOE), modulus of rupture (MOR), and hardness) of the compregnated samples were better than those of the densified samples. The density and mechanical properties at CR 30% were higher than those at CR 20%. The improvements in density, MC, and WA of the compregnated IOPT with CR 30% were 127%, 54%, and 70%, respectively, compared to that in untreated IOPT. Furthermore, improvements in the MOE, MOR, and hardness of the compregnated IOPT with CR 30% were 489%, 379%, and 393%, respectively. The mechanical properties of the compregnated IOPT at CR 20% and 30% increased two- to three-fold from strength class V in control IOPT to strength class III in compregnated IOPT with CR 20% and to strength class II in compregnated IOPT with CR 30%, respectively.
Venular amyloid accumulation in transgenic Fischer 344 Alzheimer’s disease rats
Authors: Bishay J. , Beckett T. L. , Lai A. Y. , Hill M. E. , McMahon D. , McLaurin J.
Published: September 2022

Strong evidence demonstrates a significant association between cerebral amyloid angiopathy (CAA) and Alzheimer’s disease (AD). For this reason, interest in understanding the underlying vascular pathologies that contribute to AD remain. CAA research has primarily focused on arterioles and capillaries, overlooking the draining venules. Therefore, this study sought to examine venular amyloid pathology and its relationship to arteriolar amyloidosis throughout AD progression in the TgF344-AD rat model. Antibodies targeting the amyloid-beta peptide (Aβ) sequence suggest morphological differences between arteriolar and venular amyloid. Mass spectrometric analyses of isolated cortical parenchymal plaques, arteriolar and venular amyloid demonstrated presence of Aβ in all three samples, as well as proteins known to be associated with AD. Histopathological analysis indicates a significant age effect for both arteriolar and venular amyloid accumulation, with accumulation initiated in the somatosensory cortex followed by the motor and cingulate cortex. Lastly, significant arteriolar amyloid accumulates relative to venular amyloid deposition in AD progression. Overall, understanding venular and arteriolar amyloid pathology provides insight into the complex connection between CAA and AD.
A first insight into the genetics of maturity trait in Runner × Virginia types peanut background
Authors: Kunta Srinivas , Parimi Pragna , Levy Yael , Kottakota Chandrasekhar , Chedvat Ilan , Chu Ye , Ozias-Akins Peggy , Hovav Ran
Published: September 2022

'Runner' and 'Virginia', the two main market types of Arachis hypogaea subspecies hypogaea, differ in several agricultural and industrial characteristics. One such trait is time to maturation (TTM), contributing to the specific environmental adaptability of each subspecies. However, little is known regarding TTM's genetic and molecular control in peanut in general, and particularly in the Runner/Virginia background. Here, a recombinant inbred line population, originating from a cross between an early-maturing Virginia and a late-maturing Runner type, was used to detect quantitative trait loci (QTL) for maturity. An Arachis SNP-array was used for genotyping, and a genetic map with 1425 SNP loci spanning 24 linkage groups was constructed. Six significant QTLs were identified for the maturity index (MI) trait on chromosomes A04, A08, B02 and B04. Two sets of stable QTLs in the same loci were identified, namely qMIA04a,b and qMIA08_2a,b with 11.5%, 8.1% and 7.3%, 8.2% of phenotypic variation explained respectively in two environments. Interestingly, one consistent QTL, qMIA04a,b, overlapped with the previously reported QTL in a Virginia × Virginia population having the same early-maturing parent ('Harari') in common. The information and materials generated here can promote informed targeting of peanut idiotypes by indirect marker-assisted selection.
Mesoscopic and macroscopic investigation of a dolomitic marble subjected to thermal damage
Authors: Liu Jian-bin , Zhang Zhong-jian , Leung Anthony Kwan
Published: September 2022

Thermal loading is an important factor that could lead to the weakening and deterioration of rock materials. Understanding the thermal properties of rocks and their evolution under different high temperatures is important in the post-fire-hazard evaluation and cultural heritage conservation. Yet it is challenging to understand the evolution of thermally-induced changes in rock properties and to quantitatively study degrees of thermal damage when samples are limited. This study investigates the effects of high temperatures (i.e., 200 °C, 400 °C, 600 °C, 800 °C, and 1000 °C) on a dolomitic marble using combined mesoscopic and macroscopic testing techniques. The test results show that increasing marble temperature led to a deterioration of physical properties (i.e., increasing open porosity and weight loss; but decreasing P-wave velocity) and mechanical properties (i.e., increasing axial strain corresponding with the peak stress; but decreasing uniaxial compressive strength, Young’s modulus, and brittleness). There existed a threshold temperature of 600 °C, which marks different thermal damage mechanisms. Below the threshold, the rock deterioration was mainly caused by physical changes such as crack propagation and grain breakage, which can be characterized by mesoscopic parameters (i.e., linear crack density and mineral grain size distribution). On the contrary, when the temperature was higher than the threshold, the deterioration was caused by chemical changes, including mineral decomposition and re-crystallization, which was indicated by the changes in mineral compositions and relative atomic mass calculation. Based on the experimental results (e.g., mineralogical and physico-mechanical changes) and obtained relationships between the parameters in mesoscale and macroscale, a novel scheme for thermal damage evaluation is proposed to estimate thermally-induced changes in macroscopic parameters (e.g., Young’s modulus) based on the corresponding mesoscopic parameters (e.g., particle size distribution and linear crack density).
Changes in plasma free fatty acids in obese patients before and after bariatric surgery highlight alterations in lipid metabolism
Authors: Hierons Stephen J. , Abbas Kazim , Sobczak Amélie I. S. , Cerone Michela , Smith Terry K. , Ajjan Ramzi A. , Stewart Alan J.
Published: September 2022

Obesity is a complex disease that increases an individual’s risk of developing other diseases and health-related problems. A common feature is dyslipidemia characterized by increased levels of plasma lipids, which include non-esterified fatty acids (NEFAs). The role of NEFAs in obesity-related morbidity is interesting as NEFAs constitute a reservoir of metabolic energy, are principal components of cell membranes and are precursors for signalling molecules. Bariatric surgery promotes sustained weight loss in severely obese patients, reducing the incidence and severity of co-morbidities. In this study we measure changes in circulating NEFA species in plasma samples taken from 25 obese individuals before and 9 months after Roux-en-Y gastric bypass surgery. The mean weight of the cohort reduced by 29.2% from 149.0 ± 25.1 kg pre-surgery to 105.5 ± 19.8 kg post-surgery and the BMI by 28.2% from 51.8 ± 6.3 kg/m2 pre-surgery to 37.2 ± 5.4 kg/m2. Mean glycated haemoglobin (HbA1c) reduced from 6.5 ± 1.3 to 5.5 ± 0.5%, consistent with the intervention leading to improved glycaemic control, particularly in those who were dysglycemic prior to surgery. Total and LDL cholesterol concentrations were markedly reduced following surgery. Concentrations of seven NEFAs were found to decrease 9 months after surgery compared to pre-surgery levels: myristate, palmitoleate, palmitate, linoleate, oleate, stearate and arachidonate. Bariatric surgery led to increased lipogenesis and elongase activity and decreased stearoyl-CoA desaturase 1 activity. This study therefore highlights metabolic changes that take place following gastric bypass surgery in severely obese patients.
Discrepancy of echocardiography and computed tomography in initial assessment and 2-year follow-up for monitoring Marfan syndrome and related disorders
Authors: Beetz Nick Lasse , Trippel Tobias Daniel , Philipp Karla , Maier Christoph , Walter-Rittel Thula , Shnayien Seyd , Gehle Petra
Published: September 2022

Patients with Marfan syndrome and related disorders are at risk for aortic dissection and aortic rupture and therefore require appropriate monitoring. Computed tomography (CT) and transthoracic echocardiography (TTE) are routinely used for initial diagnosis and follow-up. The purpose of this study is to compare whole-heart CT and TTE aortic measurement for initial work-up, 2-year follow-up, and detection of progressive aortic enlargement. This retrospective study included 95 patients diagnosed with Marfan syndrome or a related disorder. All patients underwent initial work-up including aortic diameter measurement using both electrocardiography-triggered whole-heart CT and TTE. Forty-two of these patients did not undergo aortic repair after initial work-up and were monitored by follow-up imaging within 2 years. Differences between the two methods for measuring aortic diameters were compared using Bland–Altman plots. The acceptable clinical limit of agreement (acLOA) for initial work-up, follow-up, and progression within 2 years was predefined as <  ± 2 mm. Bland–Altman analysis revealed a small bias of 0.2 mm with wide limits of agreement (LOA) from + 6.3 to − 5.9 mm for the aortic sinus and a relevant bias of − 1.6 mm with wide LOA from + 5.6 to − 8.9 mm for the ascending aorta. Follow-up imaging yielded a small bias of 0.5 mm with a wide LOA from + 6.7 to − 5.8 mm for the aortic sinus and a relevant bias of 1.1 mm with wide LOA from + 8.1 to − 10.2 mm for the ascending aorta. Progressive aortic enlargement at follow-up was detected in 57% of patients using CT and 40% of patients using TTE. Measurement differences outside the acLOA were most frequently observed for the ascending aorta. Whole-heart CT and TTE measurements show good correlation, but the frequency of measurement differences outside the acLOA is high. TTE systematically overestimates aortic diameters. Therefore, whole-heart CT may be preferred for aortic monitoring of patients with Marfan syndrome and related disorders. TTE remains an indispensable imaging tool that provides additional information not available with CT.
Capturing, clarifying, and consolidating the curiosity-creativity connection
Authors: Koutstaal Wilma , Kedrick Kara , Gonzalez-Brito Joshua
Published: September 2022

The cognitive-motivational concepts of curiosity and creativity are often viewed as intertwined. Yet, despite the intuitively strong linkage between these two concepts, the existing cognitive-behavioral evidence for a curiosity-creativity connection is not strong, and is nearly entirely based on self-report measures. Using a new lab-based Curiosity Q&A task we evaluate to what extent behaviorally manifested curiosity—as revealed in autonomous inquiry and exploration—is associated with creative performance. In a preregistered study (N = 179) we show that, as hypothesized, the novelty of the questions that participants generated during the Curiosity Q&A Task significantly positively correlated with the originality of their responses on a divergent-thinking task (the conceptually-based Alternative Uses Task). Additionally, the extent to which participants sought out information that was implicitly missing in the presented factual stimuli ("gap-related information foraging") positively correlated with performance on two predominantly convergent-thinking tasks (the Remote Associates Task and Analogy Completion). Question asking, topic-related information foraging, and creative performance correlated with trait-based "interest-type" curiosity oriented toward exploration and novelty, but not with "deprivation-type" curiosity focused on dispelling uncertainty or ignorance. Theoretically and practically, these results underscore the importance of continuing to develop interventions that foster both creative thinking and active autonomous inquiry.
Voltage-sensing phosphatase (Vsp) regulates endocytosis-dependent nutrient absorption in chordate enterocytes
Authors: Ratanayotha Adisorn , Matsuda Makoto , Kimura Yukiko , Takenaga Fumiko , Mizuno Tomoaki , Hossain Md. Israil , Higashijima Shin-ichi , Kawai Takafumi , Ogasawara Michio , Okamura Yasushi
Published: September 2022

Voltage-sensing phosphatase (Vsp) is a unique membrane protein that translates membrane electrical activities into the changes of phosphoinositide profiles. Vsp orthologs from various species have been intensively investigated toward their biophysical properties, primarily using a heterologous expression system. In contrast, the physiological role of Vsp in native tissues remains largely unknown. Here we report that zebrafish Vsp (Dr-Vsp), encoded by tpte gene, is functionally expressed on the endomembranes of lysosome-rich enterocytes (LREs) that mediate dietary protein absorption via endocytosis in the zebrafish mid-intestine. Dr-Vsp-deficient LREs were remarkably defective in forming endosomal vacuoles after initial uptake of dextran and mCherry. Dr-Vsp-deficient zebrafish exhibited growth restriction and higher mortality during the critical period when zebrafish larvae rely primarily on exogenous feeding via intestinal absorption. Furthermore, our comparative study on marine invertebrate Ciona intestinalis Vsp (Ci-Vsp) revealed co-expression with endocytosis-associated genes in absorptive epithelial cells of the Ciona digestive tract, corresponding to zebrafish LREs. These findings signify a crucial role of Vsp in regulating endocytosis-dependent nutrient absorption in specialized enterocytes across animal species.
Statistical verifications and deep-learning predictions for satellite-to-ground quantum atmospheric channels
Authors: Trinh Phuc V. , Carrasco-Casado Alberto , Takenaka Hideki , Fujiwara Mikio , Kitamura Mitsuo , Sasaki Masahide , Toyoshima Morio
Published: September 2022

Laser communications from small satellite platforms empowers the establishment of quantum key distribution (QKD), relying on quantum superposition states of single photons to realize unconditional security between distant parties at a global scale. Although recent breakthrough experiments have demonstrated the feasibility of satellite-to-ground QKD links, the underlying statistical characteristics of quantum atmospheric channels have not been well-understood and experimentally verified in the literature. In this paper, we highlight that classical atmospheric statistical models can be applied for describing random fluctuations of the quantum channels. To verify this fact, we report a statistical verification study of quantum atmospheric channels from the world’s first low-Earth orbit (LEO) 50-kg-class microsatellite-to-ground quantum-limited communication experiment. The verified statistical model is then applied to numerically investigate the quantum bit-error rate (QBER) and secret-key length (SKL) of a decoy-state efficient Bennett-Brassard 1984 (BB84) QKD protocol with optimized parameters considering finite-key effects, implemented over a LEO 6-unit (6U)-CubeSat-to-ground link. Important insights of the physical channel effects including pointing errors and atmospheric turbulence on the QBER and SKL are then revealed. Finally, we present a study using a deep-learning-based long short-term memory (LSTM) recurrent neural network (RNN) for predicting photon-count fluctuations over quantum atmospheric channels.
Competition between the superconducting spin-valve effect and quasiparticle spin-decay in superconducting spin-valves
Authors: Stoddart-Stones B. , Montiel X. , Blamire M. G. , Robinson J. W. A.
Published: September 2022

In a ferromagnet/normal metal/ferromagnet spin-valve, spin dependent scattering causes a difference in resistance between antiparallel (AP) and parallel (P) magnetization states. The resistance difference, ΔR = R(AP) − R(P) is positive due to increased scattering of majority and minority spin-electrons in the AP-state. If the normal metal is substituted for a superconductor, the superconducting spin-valve effect occurs: in the AP-state the net magnetic exchange field acting on the superconductor is lowered and the superconductivity is reinforced meaning R(AP) decreases. For current-perpendicular-to-plane spin-valves, existing experimental studies show that the normal state effect dominates (ΔR > 0) over the superconducting spin valve effect (ΔR < 0). Here however, we report a crossover from giant magnetoresistance (ΔR > 0) to the superconducting spin-valve effect (ΔR < 0) in current-perpendicular-to-plane ferromagnet/superconductor/ferromagnet spin-valves as the superconductor thickness decreases below a critical value.
Correction: Direct analysis of metabolites in the liver tissue of zebrafish exposed to fiproles by internal extractive electrospray ionization mass spectrometry
Authors: Liu Jun , Lu Haiyan , Hua Xiuyi , Gu Yu , Pan Wenhao , Dong Deming , Liang Dapeng
Published: September 2022

Correction for ‘Direct analysis of metabolites in the liver tissue of zebrafish exposed to fiproles by internal extractive electrospray ionization mass spectrometry’ by Jun Liu et al., Analyst, 2021, 146, 4480–4486, https://doi.org/10.1039/D1AN00490E.
Ionic encapsulation of a methanol carbonylation catalyst in a microporous metal–organic framework
Authors: Ivko Samuel A. , Bailey Tom , Brammer Lee , Haynes Anthony
Published: September 2022

A post-synthetically modified UiO-66-type MOF is used to heterogenise the active rhodium catalyst from the Monsanto methanol carbonylation process using electrostatic interactions.
Regiodivergent cascade cyclization/alkoxylation of allenamides via N-protecting group driven rearrangement to access indole and indoline derivatives
Authors: Chaudhary Dhananjay , Yadav Suman , Maurya Naveen Kumar , Kumar Dharmendra , Ishu Km , Kuram Malleswara Rao
Published: September 2022

A mild, palladium-catalyzed domino Heck-cyclization/alkoxylation sequence of aryl halide tethered allenamides was developed, providing regiodivergent indole and indoline derivatives controlled by the N-protecting group.
Synthesis and 83Kr NMR spectroscopy of Kr@C60
Authors: Hoffman Gabriela , Bacanu George R. , Marsden Elizabeth S. , Walkey Mark C. , Sabba Mohamed , Bloodworth Sally , Tizzard Graham J. , Levitt Malcolm H. , Whitby Richard J.
Published: September 2022

Synthesis of Kr@C60 is achieved by a synthetic route that involves quantitative encapsulation of krypton by an open-cage derivative of C60. Fine structure is observed in the 13C NMR spectrum, and 83Kr NMR characterisation is carried out.
Are you still using organic dyes? Colorimetric formaldehyde analysis for true photocatalytic-activity evaluation
Authors: Amalia Fitri Rizki , Takashima Mai , Ohtani Bunsho
Published: September 2022

Colorimetric formaldehyde analysis can evaluate “true” photocatalytic activity induced by photoabsorption of a “photocatalyst” with high reliability compared with gas-chromatographic analyses.
Porous carbon nanoarchitectonics for the environment: detection and adsorption
Authors: Bhadra Biswa Nath , Shrestha Lok Kumar , Ariga Katsuhiko
Published: September 2022

As a post-nanotechnology concept, nanoarchitectonics has emerged from the 20th century to the 21st century. This review summarizes the recent progress in the field of metal-free porous carbon nanoarchitectonics.
Recent advances in tellurite molybdate/tungstate crystals
Authors: Guo Xiaojie , Gao Zeliang , Tao Xutang
Published: September 2022

In this work, recent advances in tellurite molybdate/tungstate crystals have been systematically reviewed, including crystal growth, research of physical properties, theoretical analysis, and some electric/optical devices.
High gas sensing performance of inorganic and organic molecule sensing devices based on the BC3N2 monolayer
Authors: Liu Guogang , Chen Tong , Dong Xiansheng , Huang Lin , Xu Zhonghui , Xiao Xianbo
Published: September 2022

The adsorption analysis revealed that the BC3N2-based gas sensors have a strong anisotropy, showing high gas sensitivity to the organic gas molecule C2H2.
Molecular partition coefficient from machine learning with polarization and entropy embedded atom-centered symmetry functions
Authors: Zhu Qiang , Jia Qingqing , Liu Ziteng , Ge Yang , Gu Xu , Cui Ziyi , Fan Mengting , Ma Jing
Published: September 2022

Efficient prediction of the partition coefficient (log P) between polar and non-polar phases could shorten the cycle of drug and materials design.
Effects of decaffeinated green coffee extract supplementation on anthropometric indices, blood glucose, leptin, adiponectin and neuropeptide Y (NPY) in breast cancer survivors: a randomized clinical trial
Authors: Bahmannia Mahsa , Azizzade Maryam , Heydari Sahar , Nasrollahzadeh Javad , Rabiei Samira , Naja Farah , Sheikhi Mobarakeh Zahra , Hejazi Jalal , Hejazi Ehsan
Published: September 2022

This study aimed to evaluate the effects of decaffeinated green coffee extract (DGCE) supplementation on anthropometric indices, blood glucose, leptin, adiponectin, and neuropeptide Y (NPY) in breast cancer survivors with obesity.
Effects of whole-grain barley and oat β-glucans on postprandial glycemia and appetite: a randomized controlled crossover trial
Authors: Caferoglu Zeynep , Aytekin Sahin Gizem , Gonulalan Zafer , Hatipoglu Nihal
Published: September 2022

This study aimed to determine the postprandial effects of barley bread and oat bread, grain sources of β-glucans, on glycaemia and appetite by comparison with white bread and whole-wheat bread.
Miniaturized lithium-ion batteries for on-chip energy storage
Authors: Wang Zhangci , Chen Yuhang , Zhou Yuyu , Ouyang Jun , Xu Shuo , Wei Lu
Published: September 2022

Customizable miniaturized lithium-ion batteries are expected to play an irreplaceable role as on-chip power supplies for smart microelectronics and advanced microsystems.
Effect of chalcogen bonding interactions on molecular structures; theoretical and crystallographic studies on two palladium(ii) acetate complexes
Authors: Al-Noaimi Mousa , Awwadi Firas F. , Hendal Abdellah , Aljammal Azzam , Talib Wamidh H. , Mahmod Asma Ismail
Published: September 2022

New palladium complexes, [Pd(L)(OAc))], have been synthesized. The complexes and their ligand have been characterized by X-ray crystal structure analysis. Interestingly, the molecular structures of the two complexes are stabilized by S⋯O chalcogen bonds.
A new short synthesis route for favipiravir and its analogue: Their tautomerization behaviour
Authors: Ghosh Priyanka , Panda Subhra Jyoti , Purohit Chandra Shekhar
Published: September 2022

Halogen substitution in a pyrazine ring is achieved in an efficient manner. The solid state data revealed the formation of two types of halogen bonding in the structures.
Photoswitchable block copolymers based on main chain α-bisimines
Authors: Thai Linh Duy , Guimaraes Thiago R. , Spann Sebastian , Goldmann Anja S. , Golberg Dmitri , Mutlu Hatice , Barner-Kowollik Christopher
Published: September 2022

We introduce linear diblock copolymers (BCPs) consisting of readily accessable and photoswitchable α-bisimine units in the polymer backbone.