bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Influence of propeller fouling on propulsion performance of an actual ship: a long-term analysis focusing on the power for keeping propeller’s rotation of a controllable pitch propeller
Authors: Torii Hiroaki , Kifune Hiroyasu
Published: October 2023

This study focuses on the shaft power at the neutral angle of a controllable pitch propeller to analyze the change in the required power due to propeller fouling. It is named and defined as a power for keeping propeller’s rotation (RP) because a propeller does not generate the net thrust to push the hull but dissipates the power to keep its constant speed. Statistical analysis was conducted using a decade of the observed data from a research vessel. This study assumed that the change in RP can be considered as an indicator showing the state of propeller fouling. In addition, the state of fouling on the hull can be estimated indirectly based on RP because the data correlated the shaft power under several operating conditions with RP on the same voyage. The fouling state was classified into three conditions based on RP. The comparison of shaft power at the same ship speed between the clean condition and the serious fouled condition showed that the shaft power was increased by 35% on average due to fouling. When the ship navigates under 10 knots, propeller fouling has a larger impact on the increase in shaft power than hull fouling.
Comparison between open-angle glaucoma and angle-closure glaucoma regarding the short-term optic disc vessel density changes after trabeculectomy
Authors: El-Haddad Nermien Salah El-Dien Mohammed , Abd Elwahab Adel , Shalaby Sawssan , Farag Mona Mohammad Aly , Alkassaby Mohammd , Ahmed Sanaa , Shawky Shrief
Published: October 2023

To compare the microvasculature of the optic disc in open-angle glaucoma (OAG) and angle-closure glaucoma (ACG) after trabeculectomy. This study included 34 patients divided into two groups based on the angle: (1) the OAG Group, which included 24 eyes from 24 patients, and (2) the ACG Group, which included ten eyes from 10 patients. All patients were subjected to comprehensive ophthalmic examinations. It included best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA), Goldmann applanation tonometry, gonioscopy, slit-lamp biomicroscopy, dilated fundus examination, and stereoscopic examination of the optic disc. The central corneal thickness was measured using a Nidek AL scan optical biometer. The visual field was evaluated by standard automated perimetry using Humphrey Field Analyzer (24–2 Swedish interactive threshold algorithm; Carl-Zeiss Meditec, Dublin, CA). Moreover, optical coherence tomography angiography (OCT-A) was performed utilizing the RTVue XR Avanti scanner (Optovue Inc., Fremont, CA, USA) preoperatively as well as 1 month after surgery. There was a statistically significant increase in optic disc vessel density (VD) in the whole image, radial peripapillary, inferior, superior, temporal, and nasal quadrant in OAG after surgery. Regarding the change in VD after surgery in ACG patients, there was a statistically significant increase in optic disc VD in the whole image, radial peripapillary, inferior, superior, temporal, and nasal quadrant in ACG after surgery.

Regarding the percentage of VD change following trabeculectomy surgery, there were highly significant differences between the two groups for the whole image, radial peripapillary, inferior quadrant, and temporal quadrant VD. Statistically significant changes were also observed in the superior and nasal quadrants of VD. However, no significant change in VD was detected within the disc. In conclusion, the optic disc VD improved after the reduction of intraocular pressure (IOP) by surgery in both OAG and ACG. However, ACG demonstrated a significant improvement than the OAG.
The limits of local search for weighted k-set packing
Authors: Neuwohner Meike
Published: October 2023

We consider the weighted k-set packing problem, where, given a collection $${\mathcal {S}}$$
S
of sets, each of cardinality at most k, and a positive weight function $$w:{\mathcal {S}}\rightarrow {\mathbb {Q}}_{>0}$$

w
:
S
→

Q

>
0

, the task is to find a sub-collection of $${\mathcal {S}}$$
S
consisting of pairwise disjoint sets of maximum total weight. As this problem does not permit a polynomial-time $$o(\frac{k}{\log k})$$

o
(

k

log
k

)

-approximation unless $$P=NP$$

P
=
N
P

(Hazan et al. in Comput Complex 15:20–39, 2006. https://doi.org/10.1007/s00037-006-0205-6), most previous approaches rely on local search. For twenty years, Berman’s algorithm SquareImp (Berman, in: Scandinavian workshop on algorithm theory, Springer, 2000. https://doi.org/10.1007/3-540-44985-X_19), which yields a polynomial-time $$\frac{k+1}{2}+\epsilon $$

k
+
1

2

+
ϵ

-approximation for any fixed $$\epsilon >0$$

ϵ
>
0

, has remained unchallenged. Only recently, it could be improved to $$\frac{k+1}{2}-\frac{1}{63,700,993}$$

k
+
1

2

-

1

63
,
700
,
993

by Neuwohner (38th International symposium on theoretical aspects of computer science (STACS 2021), Leibniz international proceedings in informatics (LIPIcs), 2021. https://doi.org/10.4230/LIPIcs.STACS.2021.53). In her paper, she showed that instances for which the analysis of SquareImp is almost tight are “close to unweighted” in a certain sense. But for the unit weight variant, the best known approximation guarantee is $$\frac{k+1}{3}+\epsilon $$

k
+
1

3

+
ϵ

(Fürer and Yu in International symposium on combinatorial optimization, Springer, 2014. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-319-09174-7_35). Using this observation as a starting point, we conduct a more in-depth analysis of close-to-tight instances of SquareImp. This finally allows us to generalize techniques used in the unweighted case to the weighted setting. In doing so, we obtain approximation guarantees of $$\frac{k+\epsilon _k}{2}$$

k
+

ϵ
k

2

, where $$\lim _{k\rightarrow \infty } \epsilon _k = 0$$

lim

k
→
∞

ϵ
k

=
0

. On the other hand, we prove that this is asymptotically best possible in that local improvements of logarithmically bounded size cannot produce an approximation ratio below $$\frac{k}{2}$$

k
2

.
Smallholder farmer resilience to extreme weather events in a global food value chain
Authors: Thompson William J. , Varma Varun , Joerin Jonas , Bonilla-Duarte Solhanlle , Bebber Daniel P. , Blaser-Hart Wilma , Kopainsky Birgit , Späth Leonhard , Curcio Bianca , Six Johan , Krütli Pius
Published: October 2023

Extreme weather events have severe impacts on food systems, especially for smallholders in global food value chains (GFVCs). There is an urgent need to understand (a) how climate shocks manifest in food systems, and (b) what strategies can enhance food system resilience. Integrating satellite, household and trade data, we investigate the cascading impacts after two consecutive hurricanes on smallholder banana farmers in Dominican Republic, and determinants of their recovery. We found that farmers experienced an ‘all-or-nothing’ pattern of damage, where 75% of flooded farmers lost > 90% of production. Recovery of regional production indicators took ca. 450 days. However, farm-level recovery times were highly variable, with both topographic and human capital factors determining recovery. Utilising this case study, we show that engaging in a GFVC impeded recovery via ‘double exposure’ of production loss and losing market access. Our results suggest that strategies to enhance resilience, with a particular focus on recovery, in GFVCs should promote trader loyalty, facilitate basin-scale collaboration and expand risk-targeted training.
Embracing Culturally Relevant Computational Thinking in the Preschool Classroom: Leveraging Familiar Contexts for New Learning
Authors: Quinn Margaret F. , Caudle Lori A. , Harper Frances K.
Published: October 2023

Computational thinking (CT) is an important twenty-first century skill that begins developing early. Recent interest in incorporating early CT experiences in early childhood education (i.e., preschool) has increased. In fact, the early years mark an important time during which initial competencies are acquired, interest and motivation begins to form, and in which children may develop a sense of belonging in STEM fields. As a result, providing children with access to robotics and computer science experiences to support CT that are also developmentally appropriate and culturally relevant is key. This paper uses the “powerful ideas” of computer science, seven developmentally appropriate CT concepts that children can learn, as a framework and explores the experiences of two (composite) teachers who participated in and co-developed a culturally relevant robotics program and the processes they undertake to support children’s CT development and learning. This paper considers practices that support the seven key powerful ideals while leveraging existing instructional routines and contexts that are already occurring in most classrooms, such as centers, small group activities, classroom environments, and read-alouds. Of note, this paper prioritizes approaches that acknowledge, center, and feature the ethnic, cultural, and linguistic backgrounds of young children and their families. Identifying affordable and accessible practices, this paper provides educators with tangible, integrated, and authentic practices to support children’s computational thinking, STEM learning, and sense of belonging.
The scientists’ responsibility in communicating the sustainability crisis
Authors: Rödel Jürgen , Frisch Alexander , Damjanovic Dragan
Published: October 2023

Humankind and, in general, all life on earth, face a fundamental sustainability crisis. We have realized many decades ago that both our sources and our sinks on our planet are limited. International treaties have been adopted, panels have been formed and assessments have been published. Yet, almost all nations regularly fail to comply with their goals. Many potential barriers to swift actions exist, and sustainability in its many facets reveals complex interdependencies and rebounds. Humankind relies on an infrastructure in terms of energy supply, housing, and others, which take decades to change. At the same time, we face tipping points, which describe an irreversible acceleration of degradation of our fundamental life’s resources. This concerns not only the climate crisis, which is visible in so many nations with floods and heat waves and a surge of new temperature extremes and costs due to mitigation and adaptation. No, the problem also lies in a set of planetary limits, including a terrifying loss of agricultural soil, an increasing level of acidity in the oceans, enhanced nitridation, and loss of biodiversity and natural habitats. In this situation, it appears obvious, that scientists, meaning all scientists beyond our representatives in international panels, need to respond. We need to inform ourselves across the disciplines and disseminate available information into society. We need to spell out that a transformation of society is required combining technological advances and a change in lifestyle with a reduction in demand for our planet’s sources and sinks.
Trends in Domestic Violence and Firearm Domestic Violence During COVID-19 in Five US Cities
Authors: Tomsich Elizabeth A. , Schleimer Julia P. , McCort Chris D. , Wintemute Garen J.
Published: October 2023

Purpose

The COVID-19 pandemic and resulting social and economic disruptions may be associated with increased risk for reported domestic violence (DV) and firearm-involved DV (FDV). This study examines trends in DV, FDV, and the proportion of DV incidents that involved firearms (FDV/DV) in five large US cities before and during the coronavirus pandemic.

Method

We examined monthly trends in DV and FDV during January 1, 2018 through December 31, 2020, which included the early part of the pandemic, using Poisson or negative binomial regressions. We used binomial regressions to assess trends in FDV/DV. We considered the onset of the pandemic to be March 2020.

Results

Findings varied across outcomes and cities. DV decreased in three cities: Kansas City (Incidence Rate Ratio (IRR), 0.88; 95% confidence interval (CI), 0.86–0.90), Los Angeles (IRR, 0.99; 95% CI, 0.99–1.00), and Nashville (IRR, 0.99; 95% CI, 0.99–1.00) relative to trends pre-pandemic. FDV increased in three cities: Chicago (IRR, 1.05; 95% CI, 1.02–1.08), Los Angeles (IRR, 1.08; 95% CI, 1.06–1.10), and Nashville (IRR, 1.03; 95% CI, 1.01–1.05) and decreased in one: Kansas City (IRR, 0.89; 95% CI, 0.87–0.90). FDV/DV increased in three cities: Chicago (Risk Ratio (RR), 1.04; 95% CI, 1.02–1.06), Los Angeles (RR, 1.09; 95% CI, 1.07–1.11), and Nashville (RR, 1.04; 95% CI, 1.02–1.06).

Conclusions

We found variation among cities in trends in reported DV, FDV, and FDV/DV during the first months of the coronavirus pandemic. Variation may be due to a number of factors, including differences in baseline DV and FDV rates; economic strain and unemployment; compliance with social distancing; firearm ownership and purchasing; the availability of DV services; delays in court processing and the early release of prisoners; and community-law enforcement relations.
Gravity from holomorphic discs and celestial $$Lw_{1+\infty }$$ symmetries
Authors: Mason Lionel
Published: October 2023

The study of physical theories in various signatures has been important for uncovering structures not easily visible or definable in Lorentz signature. In split signature, global twistor constructions for conformally self-dual (SD) gravity and Yang–Mills construct solutions from twistor data that can be expressed in terms of free data without gauge freedom. This is developed for asymptotically flat SD gravity to give a fully nonlinear encoding of the asymptotic gravitational data in terms of a real homogeneous generating function h on the real twistor space. The recently discovered $$Lw_{1+\infty }$$

L

w

1
+
∞

celestial symmetries, when real, act locally as passive Poisson diffeomorphisms on the real twistor space. The twistor data, h, generates an imaginary such Poisson transformation that then generates the gravitational field by shifting the real slice of the twistor space. The twistor chiral sigma models, whose correlators yield the Einstein gravity tree-level S-matrix, are reformulated as theories of holomorphic discs in twistor space whose boundaries lie on the deformed real slice determined by h. The real $$Lw_{1+\infty }$$

L

w

1
+
∞

symmetries act on the corresponding formula for the S-matrix geometrically with vanishing Noether currents, but imaginary generators yield graviton vertex operators that generate gravitons in the perturbative expansion. A generating function for the all plus 1-loop amplitude, the analogous framework for Yang–Mills, possible interpretations in Lorentz signature and similar open string formulations of twistor and ambitwistor strings in 4d in split signature, are briefly discussed.
Spatial Analysis to Investigate the Relationship Between Tourism and Wellbeing in Italy
Authors: Firza Najada , Antonucci Laura , Crocetta Corrado , d’Ovidio Francesco Domenico , Monaco Alfonso
Published: October 2023

The level and variety of services offered by tourist destinations are intricately linked to the overall health and condition of its area. We would like to investigate the existence of a possible connection between tourism and the social, economic, and environmental well-being of a territory. The tourism industry can improve the general well-being of a specific area by promoting consumption, reducing the income gap, and improving infrastructures. However, the well-being of the territory through enhancing the specific features of the local context and its factors of excellence can also influence tourism.

In this context, we applied Machine Learning methods to investigate the relationship between tourism and well-being in Italy. The analysis used Italian BES indicators at the provincial level, referred to a time window of 17 years (2004–2020). We developed a Machine Learning algorithm based on a hybrid (unsupervised and supervised) approach to study 51 well-being indexes and 9 tourism indicators. We found a close connection (80% of accuracy) between tourism and well-being. We also selected a group of tourism indicators that have a strong effect on this connection. Using eXplainable Artificial Intelligence (XAI) methods, we detected that tourism in low season periods ranks first for importance followed by the spread of farms business and urban green areas density. Our research suggests that improved social, economic, environmental, and health well-being can positively spill over the effect on tourism arrivals and revenues in the long period.
Scaling and Evolution of Stellar Magnetic Activity
Authors: Işık Emre , van Saders Jennifer L. , Reiners Ansgar , Metcalfe Travis S.
Published: October 2023

Magnetic activity is a ubiquitous feature of stars with convective outer layers, with implications from stellar evolution to planetary atmospheres. Investigating the mechanisms responsible for the observed stellar activity signals from days to billions of years is important in deepening our understanding of the spatial configurations and temporal patterns of stellar dynamos, including that of the Sun. In this paper, we focus on three problems and their possible solutions. We start with direct field measurements and show how they probe the dependence of magnetic flux and its density on stellar properties and activity indicators. Next, we review the current state-of-the-art in physics-based models of photospheric activity patterns and their variation from rotational to activity-cycle timescales. We then outline the current state of understanding in the long-term evolution of stellar dynamos, first by using chromospheric and coronal activity diagnostics, then with model-based implications on magnetic braking, which is the key mechanism by which stars spin down and become inactive as they age. We conclude by discussing possible directions to improve the modeling and analysis of stellar magnetic fields.
Visualization of pressure fluctuation characteristics of weapon bay on unmanned aerial vehicle using delayed detached eddy simulation
Authors: Liu Yu , Chen Binqi , Shi Yong , Rong A.
Published: October 2023

In the present study CFD simulation with delayed detached eddy simulation (DDES) are performed to investigate pressure fluctuation environment on an open cavity and weapon bay of UAV. The main purpose of this study is to explore the aerodynamic noise level of complex cavities with slant ceiling and irregular length–depth ratio. First, two cases on an open cavity at Ma 0.85 are analyzed to determine the slant ceiling influence, which shows that the sound pressure levels increase by 1 dB due to the transverse flow effect. Then, a typical weapon bay on unmanned aerial vehicle is simulated to investigate the aerodynamic noise environment. The overall sound pressure level in the weapon bay is up to 157 dB, and when the Mach number turns from 0.6 to 0.8, the amplitude of all modes increases about 16–23 dB. The main focuses of this investigation are to discuss the mechanism of noise generation in a slant ceiling cavity and determine the pressure fluctuation characteristic of a typical weapon bay on unmanned aerial vehicle.

Graphical abstract
Innovating the Innovation System Thinking: a Systemism Model
Authors: Skjølsvik Kjell Olav , Kaloudis Aristidis
Published: October 2023

The complexity of an innovation system, how it works and how to achieve high performance, represents a significant management challenge. As in any complex system, in an innovation system it is mandatory to operate with a clear idea of the various key elements and relationships in the system, what constitutes the emerging properties of the system and to identify effective channels to influence the performance of such a system. Bearing this in mind, we adopt a systemism approach, applying the principles of Mario Bunge’s CESM metamodel. We suggest a new generic model that can be adapted to fit many different aspects of real-life innovation decision making. An important objective for this generic model is to combine all critical internal and external systemic factors, i.e., to depict all critical nodes and interaction processes between subsystems (internal factors) and all critical nodes and interactions processes with the broader innovation ecosystem (external factors). Another key objective was to establish a model suitable for communication and decision making that is compatible with the key terms and the definitions in the new ISO 56000 standard on innovation management. The paper defines the main elements of a generic innovation model and exemplifies the potential usefulness of the model by showcasing three distinct applications. We hope that our new systemism model could be an additional tool for better strategic management with respect to emerging properties of knowledge dynamics, risk assessment and mitigation, and the monitoring and continuous improvement of critical innovation processes.
Severe Acute Malnutrition: The Potential of Non-Peanut, Non-Milk Ready-to-Use Therapeutic Foods
Authors: Akinmoladun Oluwaseun F. , Bamidele Oluwaseun P. , Jideani Victoria A. , Nesamvuni Cebisa N.
Published: October 2023

Purpose of Review

This review provides information on the prospect and effectiveness of ready-to-use therapeutic foods (RUTFs) produced locally without the addition of milk and peanut.

Recent Findings

The foods used in fighting malnutrition in the past decades contributed little to the success of the alleviation program due to their non-effectiveness. Hence, RUTFs are introduced to fight malnutrition. The peanut allergies, the high cost of milk, and the high production cost of peanut RUTF have made its distribution, treatment spread, and accessibility very slow, especially in areas where it is highly needed. There is a need, therefore, for a low-cost RUTF that is acceptable and effective in treating severe acute malnutrition among under-5 children.

This review shows both the success and failure of reported studies on the use of non-peanut and non-milk RUTF, including their cost of production as compared to the standard milk and peanut-based RUTF. It was hypothesised that replacing the milk ingredient component with legumes like soybeans can reduce the cost of production of RUTFs while also delivering an effective product in managing and treating severe acute malnutrition (SAM). Consumers generally accept them better because of their familiarity with the raw materials.
Photocatalytic mediated destruction of 2-chlorobiphenyl by a ZnO-[10%]BiOI p-n heterojunction: effect of some process parameters
Authors: Ashiegbu D. C. , Potgieter H.
Published: October 2023

This study involved the synthesis, characterization, and application of various photocatalysts and heterojunctions using zinc oxide (ZnO), tungsten trioxide (WO3), and bismuth oxyiodide (BiOI) for the photo-abatement of 2-chlorobiphenyl (2CBP). Scanning electron microscopy revealed a variety of morphologies for all composites, while energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy only identified reference elements and X-ray diffraction patterns displayed crystalline patterns with no impurity peaks. The absorbance of the heterostructures exhibited slight red shifts as WO3 and BiOI were etched into ZnO. Except for ZnO-[10%]WO3, the band gaps of all composites decreased/narrowed as the doping of WO3 and BiOI into ZnO increased. Nitrogen sorption isotherms revealed that almost all the prepared materials had a Type IV isotherm, and the heterostructures showed higher surface area measurements compared to the undoped composites. The ZnO-[10%]BiOI heterojunction, which displayed the best photoactivity, was further investigated to analyze the influence of some operating conditions. Results revealed that the initial pollutant concentration influenced the degree of photodegradation, which decreased with increased initial 2CBP concentration. The optimum photocatalytic performance was detected at neutral pH. The pseudo-first order kinetic model showed that doubling the heterojunction’s weight increased the rate constant from 0.0054 to 0.0089 min−1, while increasing the pH to 11.3 resulted in an 18-fold reduction. Overall, the study demonstrated the potential application of ZnO-[10%]BiOI heterostructure as a highly effective photocatalyst for recalcitrant contaminants in water.
Global existence and non-uniqueness for the Cauchy problem associated to 3D Navier–Stokes equations perturbed by transport noise
Authors: Pappalettera Umberto
Published: October 2023

We show global existence and non-uniqueness of probabilistically strong, analytically weak solutions of the three-dimensional Navier–Stokes equations perturbed by Stratonovich transport noise. We can prescribe either: (i) any divergence-free, square integrable intial condition; or (ii) the kinetic energy of solutions up to a stopping time, which can be chosen arbitrarily large with high probability. Solutions enjoy some Sobolev regularity in space but are not Leray–Hopf.
Implementation Research in Refugee Resettlement: A Rapid Scoping Review
Authors: Potocky Miriam
Published: October 2023

The world today has the highest number of refugees in history. Resettlement is a durable solution for some. Due to the stressors and traumas of forced migration, resettled refugees experience disproportionate rates of physical and mental health difficulties. Dissemination of knowledge about evidence-based interventions for this population has advanced greatly; however, knowledge about implementation is scant. This rapid scoping review was conducted to identify the characteristics of implementation research in refugee resettlement and commonly reported implementation barriers. Four major databases were searched for relevant studies conducted from 2018 to 2023. Data were extracted on implementation characteristics, outcomes, and barriers. Frequency analyses were conducted to summarize the data. Fifty-three studies were included. The most frequently implemented evidence-based interventions were physical health education/promotion, trauma-focused therapies, and parenting interventions. Acceptability and feasibility were the most frequently studied implementation outcomes, typically measured by client retention rates. The most common implementation strategies were adapting an intervention to the local refugee context, training stakeholders, and using iterative evaluation. Reported rates of desirable outcomes were high. Most studies used mixed methods, one-group pretest–posttest, or qualitative research designs. The most cited implementation barriers were lack of time, budget constraints, workflow disruption, and limited availability of interpreters. This study is the first to assess implementation research in refugee resettlement. This is a nascent field with potential for improving service quality and outcomes for this vulnerable population. Limitations and suggestions for application are discussed.
Critical Minerals for a Carbon-Neutral Future
Authors: Kreiner Douglas , Hammarstrom Jane , Day Warren
Published: October 2023

The Earth Mapping Resources Initiative is filling data gaps and fostering more holistic understanding of critical mineral resources in the United States using a novel mineral systems framework.
On the In Situ Observations of Irregularities During Rocket Flights From Thumba for Different Geophysical Conditions and the Associated Causative Mechanisms
Authors: Sruthi T. V. , Manju G. , Mridula N. , Pant Tarun K. , Sreelatha P. , John Rosmy , Thampi R. Satheesh , Aneesh A. N. , Abhishek J. K.
Published: October 2023

Electron density and Neutral Wind (ENWi) probe and/or Langmuir probe were flown on three different rocket flights from equatorial station Thumba (8.5°N, 77°E), during daytime, eclipse time, and post sunset time respectively, of low solar activity period, to study ionization irregularities in the E region of the ionosphere. The spectral characteristics observed using the payloads were analyzed during the three different rocket flights. The 15 January 2010 solar eclipse event and “SOUREX 1” wind and electron density measurements confirm the validity of the wind shear theory for equatorial regions during the eclipse and post sunset periods, when electrojet is weak, using wind and electron density irregularity measurements from the same instrument (ENWi) for the first time. The spectral indices in the range of −1.2 to −1.78 and the strong wind shear due to gravity wave winds during the eclipse time as well as the post sunset time, confirm the role of neutral turbulence in the generation of irregularities in the 95–112 km altitude region. The spectral index of −2.0 to −2.7 and the presence of irregularities in the negative gradient regions establishes the role of wind‐driven gradient drift instability (GDI) in generating irregularities during the SOUREX 1 post sunset flight for altitudes below 93 km. Further, the role of gradient drift instability in triggering ionization irregularities during the daytime on 14 January 2010 is unraveled by the spectral index of −2.03 and the presence of irregularities in the positive gradient regions alone.
A 3D Petrofabric Examination of Martian Breccia NWA 11220 via X‐Ray Computed Microtomography: Evidence for an Impact Lithology
Authors: Goodwin A. , Tartèse R. , Garwood R. J. , Almeida N. V.
Published: October 2023

The Martian regolith breccia Northwest Africa (NWA) 11220 and paired stones represent the only known meteorites that sample a clastic sub‐surface lithology from Mars. By applying X‐ray computed microtomography to monomineralic clasts, we identify three phases that can be automatically segmented by thresholding X‐ray attenuation greyscale values: (A) feldspars, (B) pyroxene and apatite, and (C) iron‐rich oxides and sulfides, confirmed via scanning electron microscopy and Raman spectroscopy. For these three phases, we demonstrate scale invariance in size and shape for sand‐sized clasts and smaller, a characteristic commonly observed for clast populations generated by fragmentation without further sorting from sedimentary transport (e.g., Aeolian or fluvial processes). Additionally, by assessing the preferred orientation of fitted ellipses and ellipsoids to manually segmented proto‐breccia clasts in two and three dimensions, we identified a weak planar fabric that likely resulted from compaction rather than impact transport. Combining clast size distribution with evidence for nested textures inside proto‐breccia clasts, we propose that NWA 11220 has experienced a minimum of two hypervelocity impact events and should be considered a lithified impact ejecta lithology with little to no reworking via surface regolith processes.
Patient, Family, Community, and Health Care System Predictors of Continuous Glucose Monitor Use
Authors: Enlow Paul T. , Thomas Courtney , Milkes Amy , Carakushansky Mauri , Doyle Daniel , Wysocki Tim , Alderfer Melissa A.
Published: October 2023

Objective:

Continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) systems can improve psychosocial and health outcomes among youth with type 1 diabetes (T1D). However, inconsistent use of CGM is common in youth and negates the clinical benefits of these devices. The current study sought to identify individual-, family-, community- and health care system-level predictors of greater CGM use in adolescents with T1D.

Method:

Adolescents with T1D ( n = 66), ages 12–18 years, participated in a 3-month, prospective, observational study. Participants completed self-report questionnaires at baseline measuring individual (self-efficacy to manage T1D), family (collaborative parent involvement), community (diabetes-specific social support from friends), and health care system (insurance) predictor variables. Data on CGM use (i.e., number of days adolescents wore their CGM ≥ 12 hr) were collected monthly. Generalized linear mixed-effects models were used to examine associations between predictor variables and CGM use over time.

Results:

Adolescents (53% male, 83% white) averaged 15.03 years old ( SD = 1.72 years), had an average glycated hemoglobin of 8.18% ( SD = 1.89%), and used their CGM an average of 18.89 days each month ( SD = 11.31). Self-efficacy to manage T1D was positively associated with CGM use (rate ratio = 1.21, p = .03). Collaborative parent involvement, diabetes-specific social support from friends, and type of insurance were not associated with CGM use.

Conclusions:

Greater self-efficacy predicted more CGM use. Interventions that bolster diabetes self-efficacy may help promote consistent CGM use. Future research should continue to examine predictors of CGM use from family, community, and health care system domains.

Implications for Impact Statement

Results from this study suggest that improving adolescents’ self-efficacy in their ability to manage their diabetes can help them use continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) more consistently. Interventions that bolster self-efficacy, including diabetes self-management education and coping skills training, may help adolescents who are struggling to use CGM more consistently. More research is needed to understand how family, community, and health care system variables affect CGM use.
Cost-effectiveness analysis of prophylactic laser peripheral iridotomy for primary angle-closure suspect in Japan
Authors: Fujita Asahi , Konishi Takaaki , Sakata Rei , Hashimoto Yohei , Yasunaga Hideo , Aihara Makoto
Published: October 2023

Background/Objectives

This study aimed to compare the cost-effectiveness of prophylactic laser peripheral iridotomy (LPI) with that of observation for primary angle-closure suspect (PACS) in Japan.

Subjects/Methods

A Markov model was developed to compare the costs and utilities of prophylactic LPI with those of observation of 40-year-old patients with PACS. In the model with a yearly cycle over a 20-year time horizon, the disease was postulated to irreversibly progress from PACS to primary angle closure, followed by primary angle-closure glaucoma, unilateral blindness, and bilateral blindness. The parameters were estimated mainly based on a recent randomised controlled trial and analyses of Japanese claims data. The incremental cost-effectiveness ratio was estimated from the healthcare payer’s perspective and evaluated at the willingness-to-pay 5 million Japanese Yen per quality-adjusted life-year. The observation period and the age at entry into the cohort was changed to account for a variety of clinical courses in sensitivity analyses. We conducted one-way deterministic sensitivity analysis and probabilistic sensitivity analysis with Monte Carlo simulations with 10 000 iterations.

Results

The incremental cost-effectiveness ratio of LPI was 2,287,662 Japanese Yen (14,298 pounds sterling) per quality-adjusted life-year, which was below the willingness-to-pay threshold. The ratios were approximately 4 and 8 million in the 15-year and 10-year time horizons, respectively. Increasing the age at entry had little influence on the incremental cost-effectiveness ratio. The deterministic and probabilistic sensitivity analyses indicated that the results were robust.

Conclusions

Our results indicate that prophylactic LPI for middle-aged patients with PACS is cost-effective in Japan.
Genomic signals of local adaptation across climatically heterogenous habitats in an invasive tropical fruit fly (Bactrocera tryoni)
Authors: Parvizi Elahe , Vaughan Amy L. , Dhami Manpreet K. , McGaughran Angela
Published: October 2023

Local adaptation plays a key role in the successful establishment of pest populations in new environments by enabling them to tolerate novel biotic and abiotic conditions experienced outside their native range. However, the genomic underpinnings of such adaptive responses remain unclear, especially for agriculturally important pests. We investigated population genomic signatures in the tropical/subtropical Queensland fruit fly,Bactrocera tryoni, which has an expanded range encompassing temperate and arid zones in Australia, and tropical zones in the Pacific Islands. Using reduced representation sequencing data from 28 populations, we detected allele frequency shifts associated with the native/invasive status of populations and identified environmental factors that have likely driven population differentiation. We also determined that precipitation, temperature, and geographic variables explain allelic shifts across the distribution range ofB. tryoni. We found spatial heterogeneity in signatures of local adaptation across various climatic conditions in invaded areas. Specifically, disjunct invasive populations in the tropical Pacific Islands and arid zones of Australia were characterised by multiple significantly differentiated single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs), some of which were associated with genes with well-understood function in environmental stress (e.g., heat and desiccation) response. However, invasive populations in southeast Australian temperate zones showed higher gene flow with the native range and lacked a strong local adaptive signal. These results suggest that population connectivity with the native range has differentially affected local adaptive patterns in different invasive populations. Overall, our findings provide insights into the evolutionary underpinnings of invasion success of an important horticultural pest in climatically distinct environments.
Spin-filtered measurements of Andreev bound states in semiconductor-superconductor nanowire devices
Authors: van Driel David , Wang Guanzhong , Bordin Alberto , van Loo Nick , Zatelli Francesco , Mazur Grzegorz P. , Xu Di , Gazibegovic Sasa , Badawy Ghada , Bakkers Erik P. A. M. , Kouwenhoven Leo P. , Dvir Tom
Published: October 2023

Semiconductor nanowires coupled to superconductors can host Andreev bound states with distinct spin and parity, including a spin-zero state with an even number of electrons and a spin-1/2 state with odd-parity. Considering the difference in spin of the even and odd states, spin-filtered measurements can reveal the underlying ground state. To directly measure the spin of single-electron excitations, we probe an Andreev bound state using a spin-polarized quantum dot that acts as a bipolar spin filter, in combination with a non-polarized tunnel junction in a three-terminal circuit. We observe a spin-polarized excitation spectrum of the Andreev bound state, which can be fully spin-polarized, despite strong spin-orbit interaction in the InSb nanowires. Decoupling the hybrid from the normal lead causes a current blockade, by trapping the Andreev bound state in an excited state. Spin-polarized spectroscopy of hybrid nanowire devices, as demonstrated here, is proposed as an experimental tool to support the observation of topological superconductivity.
Tracing multiple scattering trajectories for deep optical imaging in scattering media
Authors: Kang Sungsam , Kwon Yongwoo , Lee Hojun , Kim Seho , Hong Jin Hee , Yoon Seokchan , Choi Wonshik
Published: October 2023

Multiple light scattering hampers imaging objects in complex scattering media. Approaches used in real practices mainly aim to filter out multiple scattering obscuring the ballistic waves that travel straight through the scattering medium. Here, we propose a method that makes the deterministic use of multiple scattering for microscopic imaging of an object embedded deep within scattering media. The proposed method finds a stack of multiple complex phase plates that generate similar light trajectories as the original scattering medium. By implementing the inverse scattering using the identified phase plates, our method rectifies multiple scattering and amplifies ballistic waves by almost 600 times. This leads to a significant increase in imaging depth—more than three times the scattering mean free path—as well as the correction of image distortions. Our study marks an important milestone in solving the long-standing high-order inverse scattering problems.
Ambient noise differential adjoint tomography reveals fluid-bearing rocks near active faults in Los Angeles
Authors: Liu Xin , Beroza Gregory C. , Li Hongyi
Published: October 2023

Water scarcity is a pressing issue in California. We develop ambient noise differential adjoint tomography that improves the sensitivity to fluid-bearing rocks by canceling bias caused by noise sources. Here we image the shallow S-wave velocity structure using this method beneath a linear seismic array (LASSIE) in Los Angeles Basin, which shows significant velocity reduction marking a major regional water producer, the Silverado aquifer, along with other fluid-bearing structures. Based on the S-wave tomography and previous P-wave studies, we derive the porosity in Long Beach and discover that the rock from 1-2 km depth surrounding the Newport-Inglewood Fault contains abundant fluids with pore-fluid fraction ~0.33. The high-porosity rock around the fault coincides with previously observed week-long shallow seismicity south of LASSIE array in Long Beach. The imaged S-wave velocity in the top layer shows a similar trend in the geotechnical layer Vs 30, suggesting additional applications to ground motion prediction.
Emergence of cortical network motifs for short-term memory during learning
Authors: Chia Xin Wei , Tan Jian Kwang , Ang Lee Fang , Kamigaki Tsukasa , Makino Hiroshi
Published: October 2023

Learning of adaptive behaviors requires the refinement of coordinated activity across multiple brain regions. However, how neural communications develop during learning remains poorly understood. Here, using two-photon calcium imaging, we simultaneously recorded the activity of layer 2/3 excitatory neurons in eight regions of the mouse dorsal cortex during learning of a delayed-response task. Across learning, while global functional connectivity became sparser, there emerged a subnetwork comprising of neurons in the anterior lateral motor cortex (ALM) and posterior parietal cortex (PPC). Neurons in this subnetwork shared a similar choice code during action preparation and formed recurrent functional connectivity across learning. Suppression of PPC activity disrupted choice selectivity in ALM and impaired task performance. Recurrent neural networks reconstructed from ALM activity revealed that PPC-ALM interactions rendered choice-related attractor dynamics more stable. Thus, learning constructs cortical network motifs by recruiting specific inter-areal communication channels to promote efficient and robust sensorimotor transformation.
Antiviral responses in a Jamaican fruit bat intestinal organoid model of SARS-CoV-2 infection
Authors: Hashimi Marziah , Sebrell T. Andrew , Hedges Jodi F. , Snyder Deann , Lyon Katrina N. , Byrum Stephanie D. , Mackintosh Samuel G. , Crowley Dan , Cherne Michelle D. , Skwarchuk David , Robison Amanda , Sidar Barkan , Kunze Anja , Loveday Emma K. , Taylor Matthew P. , Chang Connie B. , Wilking James N. , Walk Seth T. , Schountz Tony , Jutila Mark A. , Bimczok Diane
Published: October 2023

Bats are natural reservoirs for several zoonotic viruses, potentially due to an enhanced capacity to control viral infection. However, the mechanisms of antiviral responses in bats are poorly defined. Here we established a Jamaican fruit bat (JFB, Artibeus jamaicensis) intestinal organoid model of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus-2 (SARS-CoV-2) infection. Upon infection with SARS-CoV-2, increased viral RNA and subgenomic RNA was detected, but no infectious virus was released, indicating that JFB organoids support only limited viral replication but not viral reproduction. SARS-CoV-2 replication was associated with significantly increased gene expression of type I interferons and inflammatory cytokines. Interestingly, SARS-CoV-2 also caused enhanced formation and growth of JFB organoids. Proteomics revealed an increase in inflammatory signaling, cell turnover, cell repair, and SARS-CoV-2 infection pathways. Collectively, our findings suggest that primary JFB intestinal epithelial cells mount successful antiviral interferon responses and that SARS-CoV-2 infection in JFB cells induces protective regenerative pathways.
Ventral striatal islands of Calleja neurons bidirectionally mediate depression-like behaviors in mice
Authors: Zhang Yun-Feng , Wu Jialiang , Wang Yingqi , Johnson Natalie L. , Bhattarai Janardhan P. , Li Guanqing , Wang Wenqiang , Guevara Camilo , Shoenhard Hannah , Fuccillo Marc V. , Wesson Daniel W. , Ma Minghong
Published: October 2023

The ventral striatum is a reward center implicated in the pathophysiology of depression. It contains islands of Calleja, clusters of dopamine D3 receptor-expressing granule cells, predominantly in the olfactory tubercle (OT). These OT D3 neurons regulate self-grooming, a repetitive behavior manifested in affective disorders. Here we show that chronic restraint stress (CRS) induces robust depression-like behaviors in mice and decreases excitability of OT D3 neurons. Ablation or inhibition of these neurons leads to depression-like behaviors, whereas their activation ameliorates CRS-induced depression-like behaviors. Moreover, activation of OT D3 neurons has a rewarding effect, which diminishes when grooming is blocked. Finally, we propose a model that explains how OT D3 neurons may influence dopamine release via synaptic connections with OT spiny projection neurons (SPNs) that project to midbrain dopamine neurons. Our study reveals a crucial role of OT D3 neurons in bidirectionally mediating depression-like behaviors, suggesting a potential therapeutic target.
The therapeutic value of bifidobacteria in cardiovascular disease
Authors: Tang Jia , Wei Yumeng , Pi Chao , Zheng Wenwu , Zuo Ying , Shi Peng , Chen Jinglin , Xiong Linjin , Chen Tao , Liu Huiyang , Zhao Qianjiao , Yin Suyu , Ren Wei , Cao Peng , Zeng Nan , Zhao Ling
Published: October 2023

There has been an increase in cardiovascular morbidity and mortality over the past few decades, making cardiovascular disease (CVD) the leading cause of death worldwide. However, the pathogenesis of CVD is multi-factorial, complex, and not fully understood. The gut microbiome has long been recognized to play a critical role in maintaining the physiological and metabolic health of the host. Recent scientific advances have provided evidence that alterations in the gut microbiome and its metabolites have a profound influence on the development and progression of CVD. Among the trillions of microorganisms in the gut, bifidobacteria, which, interestingly, were found through the literature to play a key role not only in regulating gut microbiota function and metabolism, but also in reducing classical risk factors for CVD (e.g., obesity, hyperlipidemia, diabetes) by suppressing oxidative stress, improving immunomodulation, and correcting lipid, glucose, and cholesterol metabolism. This review explores the direct and indirect effects of bifidobacteria on the development of CVD and highlights its potential therapeutic value in hypertension, atherosclerosis, myocardial infarction, and heart failure. By describing the key role of Bifidobacterium in the link between gut microbiology and CVD, we aim to provide a theoretical basis for improving the subsequent clinical applications of Bifidobacterium and for the development of Bifidobacterium nutritional products.