bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Analyses of unpredictable properties of a wind-driven triboelectric random number generator
Authors: Kim Moon-Seok , Tcho Il-Woong , Choi Yang-Kyu
Published: October 2023

Wind-driven triboelectric nanogenerators (W-TENGs) are a promising candidate for an energy harvester because wind itself possesses unexhausted, ubiquitous, and clean properties. W-TENG has also been used as a random number generator (RNG) due to the inherent chaotic properties of wind that is also an entropy source. Thus, a W-TENG which simultaneously generates both power and true random numbers with a two-in-one structure, is a wind-driven RNG (W-RNG) like the Janus. However, a root cause of W-RNG unpredictability has not been elucidated. In this work, the unpredictability, which is essential and critical for an RNG, is statistically and mathematically analyzed by auto-correlation, cross-correlation, joint entropy, and mutual information. Even though the overall shape of the total output analog signals from the W-RNG looks like a sinusoidal wave that is not obviously unpredictable, discretized digital signals from the continuous analog output become unpredictable. Furthermore, partial adoption of 4-bit data from 8-bit raw data, with the aid of analog-to-digital converter hardware, further boosts the unpredictability. The W-RNG, which functions as a W-TENG, can contribute to self-powering and self-securing outdoor electrical systems, such as drones, by harvesting energy and generating true random numbers.
Treatment impact of newly approved therapeutic agents for metastatic urothelial carcinoma in Japan: a single-center retrospective study
Authors: Inoue Yuta , Yamada Takeshi , Fujihara Atsuko , Miyashita Masatsugu , Shiraishi Takumi , Okumi Masayoshi , Hongo Fumiya , Ukimura Osamu
Published: October 2023

Although recent clinical trials of new therapeutic agents for metastatic urothelial carcinoma have shown prolonged overall survival, there are few real-world evidence. To assess the impact of new therapeutic agents, we performed retrospective analysis for consecutive 158 metastatic urothelial carcinoma patients who performed systemic therapy in our institution between May 2008 and August 2023. We defined a period from May 2008 to December 2017, when pembrolizumab was first introduced to the clinical setting in the new therapeutic agents for metastatic urothelial carcinoma in Japan, as “pre new drug era” and a period from January 2018 to August 2023 as “post new drug era”. We compared overall survival between pre- and post- new drug era using Kaplan–Meier method with log rank test. Median overall survival of pre- and post- new drug era were 14.5 months (95% confidence intervals: 11.6–16.7) and 23.1 months (95% confidence intervals: 14.5-NA), respectively (p < 0.001). Five-year survival rate of pre- and post- new drug era was 7.0% (95% confidence intervals: 2.3–15.3) and 36.3% (95% confidence intervals: 21.4–51.5), respectively. Multivariable Cox proportional hazards regression analysis of factors associated with overall survival showed that enfortumab vedotin administration, administration of second-line or more systemic therapy, best overall response of SD, PR and CR in first-line systemic therapy, higher serum albumin and lower CRP were factors for overall survival prolongation. Introduction of new therapeutic agents for metastatic urothelial carcinoma contributed to the improvement of overall survival in comparison with the era without these agents.
Online positive-oriented counseling, taking vitamin D3 tablet, online lifestyle modification training on premenstrual syndrome: a 3-armed randomized clinical trial
Authors: Mahmoodi Maryam , Farajkhoda Tahmineh , Nadjarzadeh Azadeh , Zareei Mahmoodabadi Hassan
Published: October 2023

Lack of absolute treatment for premenstrual syndrome (PMS), its cyclic nature, considerable prevalence (70–90%), and its mental and physical burden imply necessity of effectiveness comparison of various treatments. Although antidepressant and hormonal drugs are well-known medications for PMS, in affected women who can’t tolerate, or don’t have compatibility or compliance with these drugs, other effective treatments have always been important concern. This study aimed to compare effectiveness of online positive-oriented counseling, taking vitamin D3 tablet, and online lifestyle modification training on alleviating PMS. 3-armed parallel randomized clinical trial was performed on 84 20–40-year-old eligible women with PMS. 84 women were randomly (www.random.org/sequenc) allocated into three groups, but data of 77 women (1, n = 25) online positive-oriented counseling group (6 sessions), (2, n = 27) vitamin D3 tablet group (one vitamin D3 tablet weekly for 6 weeks), and (3, n = 25) online lifestyle training group (6 sessions) were analyzed. Vitamin D3 was measured at baseline, week6 and fallow up week10. Primary outcome variable PMS was measured with Premenstrual Symptoms Screening Tool (PSST) at baseline, week 6, and follow-up week 10. Primary outcome satisfaction with intervention method was measured using satisfaction scale at week 6 and follow-up week 10. ANOVA, Repeated Measures, and Paired samples t-test were used for statistical analysis. There was no statistically significant difference in PMS at baseline between three groups respectively (33 ± 5.8, 34.1 ± 7.1, & 35.2 ± 6.4, P = 0.500). However, at follow-up week 10, there was statistically significant difference between three groups (22.3 ± 4.3, 25.4 ± 6.5, & 31.8 ± 6.5; P < 0.001), with greatest improvement in online positive-oriented counseling group (P < 0.001). Satisfaction differed significantly among three groups at week 6 (51 ± 6.8, 46.4 ± 12, & 42.3 ± 6.3, P = 0.001) and follow-up week 10 (55.7 ± 11.6, 51.4 ± 12; & 43 ± 3.3, P < 0.001), with most satisfaction in positive-oriented counseling group (P < 0.001). All three interventions alleviated PMS, but online positive-oriented counseling was more effective and satisfying. Superiority of positive-oriented counseling implies mechanism of adaptation, better relationships, forgiveness, self-mood-regulation, and feasibility of its skills that could be continued individually by women after counseling completion. It is recommended health providers, health policymakers and managers support use of these interventions in treatment program and clinical guidelines.

Trial registration: RCT registration number: IRCT20191231045967N1, Registration date:11/02/2020, Registration timing: prospective (IRCT | Survey the effect of vitamin D3 tablet intake, positivism group consulting with changing in life style in the treatment of premenstrual syndrome in women).
miRNA-214-3p stimulates carcinogen-induced mammary epithelial cell apoptosis in mammary cancer-resistant species
Authors: Harman Rebecca M. , Das Sanjna P. , Kanke Matt , Sethupathy Praveen , Van de Walle Gerlinde R.
Published: October 2023

Mammary cancer incidence varies greatly across species and underlying mechanisms remain elusive. We previously showed that mammosphere-derived epithelial cells from species with low mammary cancer incidence, such as horses, respond to carcinogen 7, 12-Dimethylbenz(a)anthracene-induced DNA damage by undergoing apoptosis, a postulated anti-cancer mechanism. Additionally, we found that miR-214-3p expression in mammosphere-derived epithelial cells is lower in mammary cancer-resistant as compared to mammary cancer-susceptible species. Here we show that increasing miR-214 expression and decreasing expression of its target gene nuclear factor kappa B subunit 1 in mammosphere-derived epithelial cells from horses abolishes 7,12-Dimethylbenz(a)anthracene-induced apoptosis. A direct interaction of miR-214-3p with another target gene, unc-5 netrin receptor A, is also demonstrated. We propose that relatively low levels of miR-214 in mammosphere-derived epithelial cells from mammals with low mammary cancer incidence, allow for constitutive gene nuclear factor kappa B subunit 1 expression and apoptosis in response to 7, 12-Dimethylbenz(a)anthracene. Better understanding of the mechanisms regulating cellular responses to carcinogens improves our overall understanding of mammary cancer resistance mechanisms.
Coastal permafrost was massively eroded during the Bølling-Allerød warm period
Authors: Nogarotto Alessio , Noormets Riko , Chauhan Teena , Mollenhauer Gesine , Hefter Jens , Grotheer Hendrik , Belt Simon T. , Colleoni Florence , Muschitiello Francesco , Capotondi Lucilla , Pellegrini Claudio , Tesi Tommaso
Published: October 2023

The Bølling-Allerød interstadial (14,700–12,900 years before present), during the last deglaciation, was characterized by rapid warming and sea level rise. Yet, the response of the Arctic terrestrial cryosphere during this abrupt climate change remains thus far elusive. Here we present a multi-proxy analysis of a sediment record from the northern Svalbard continental margin, an area strongly influenced by sea ice export from the Arctic, to elucidate sea level - permafrost erosion connections. We show that permafrost-derived material rich in biospheric carbon became the dominant source of sediments at the onset of the Bølling-Allerød, despite the lack of direct connections with permafrost deposits. Our results suggest that the abrupt temperature and sea level rise triggered massive erosion of coastal ice-rich Yedoma permafrost, possibly from Siberian and Alaskan coasts, followed by long-range sea ice transport towards the Fram Strait and the Arctic Ocean gateway. Overall, we show how coastal permafrost is susceptible to large-scale remobilization in a scenario of rapid climate variability.
Applicability of a graphene oxide nanocomposite for fabrication of an electrochemical sensor for simultaneous detection of sunset yellow and rhodamine B in food samples
Authors: Golestaneh Mahshid
Published: October 2023

An electrochemical sensing platform was developed for the first time for the simultaneous determination of sunset yellow and rhodamine B. The proposed sensor was successfully employed for detection of these analytes in food samples.
A novel mesna-based electrochemical sensor embellished with silver nanoparticles for ultrasensitive analysis of modafinil
Authors: Hosny Noha M. , Gadallah Mohamed I. , Darwish Ibrahim A.
Published: October 2023

A newly fabricated AgNPs@MSN/PGE sensor was employed for nanomolar detection of modafinil (MOD), a promising post-COVID 19 drug. The sensor was characterized via CV, SEM, and EIS studies. This is the first SWV method for MOD analysis in human plasma.
Differences in the internal energies of ions in electrospray ionization mass spectrometers equipped with capillary–skimmer and capillary–RF lens interfaces
Authors: Asakawa Daiki , Yamamoto Ryoma , Hanari Nobuyasu , Saikusa Kazumi
Published: October 2023

The internal energy distribution of ions produced by electrospray ionization mass spectrometry strongly depends on whether a capillary–skimmer interface or capillary–RF lens interface was used for ion transport from ambient condition to the vacuum.
Single-chain multicolor-reporter templates for subcellular localization of molecular events in mammalian cells
Authors: Kim Sung-Bae , Paulmurugan Ramasamy , Kitada Nobuo , Maki Sojiro A.
Published: October 2023

Single-chain multicolor-reporter imaging templates were developed for the subcellular localization of molecular events in mammalian cells.
Triphosphiranes as phosphinidene-transfer agents – synthesis of regular and chelating NHC phosphinidene adducts
Authors: Siewert Jan-Erik , Schumann André , Wellnitz Tim , Dankert Fabian , Hering-Junghans Christian
Published: October 2023

Triphosphiranes deliver phosphinidene units to NHCs. A comprehensive series of regular NHCPs is presented and phenylene bridged bis(NHCP)s are introduced.
Constructing an efficient electrocatalyst for water oxidation: an Fe-doped CoO/Co catalyst enabled by in situ MOF growth and a solvent-free strategy
Authors: Liu Sanmei , Yang Yanping , Zhong Minli , Li Shengchen , Shi Shunli , Xiao Weimin , Wang Shuhua , Chen Chao
Published: October 2023

The in situ MOF growth strategy for M-CoO/Co (M = metal species) electrocatalysts was developed via solvent-free process. The Fe-CoO/Co electrocatalyst had a tight interface and highly dispersed metal species, thus exhibiting excellent OER activity.
Synthesis of a MOF-derived magnetite quantum dots on surface modulated reduced graphene oxide composite for high-rate lithium-ion storage
Authors: Jia Ruixin , Yu Longbiao , Han Zhenqi , Liu Shuo , Shang Panpan , Deng Siqi , Liu Xuehua , Xu Binghui
Published: October 2023

A Fe3O4 QDs@C/RGO composite anode with superior rate capabilities is rationally engineered from a metal–organic framework (MOF) domain on surface modulated RGO precursor.
Molecular transport and water condensation inside mesopores with wettability step gradients
Authors: Despot Laura , Hinduja Chirag , Lehn Robert , Mikolei Joanna , Richter Timo , Köbschall Kilian , Stanzel Mathias , Berger Rüdiger , Hussong Jeanette , Ceolín Marcelo , Andrieu-Brunsen Annette
Published: October 2023

Mesoporous silica films with adjustable wettability and wettability step gradients are fabricated. An influence of the upper hydrophobic layer thickness on water vapor adsorption and condensation as well as on mass and fluid transport is observed.
Regioselective [2 + 1] photocycloaddition of 2-pyridones with diazo compounds
Authors: He Fengya , Sun Ziyi , Li Chenyue , Jiang Zibin , Miao Hui , Li Qinglin , Wu Chenggui
Published: October 2023

A novel strategy for the regioselective cyclopropanation of 2-pyridones under photocatalyst-free conditions, showing excellent regio- and stereo-selectivity, is reported.
Fluorescent styryl pyridine-N-oxide probes for imaging lipid droplets
Authors: Dubey Yogesh , Mahalingavelar Paramasivam , Rajput Deeksha , Shewale Dipeshwari J. , Soppina Virupakshi , Kanvah Sriram
Published: October 2023

Sub-cellular imaging with styryl fluorophores: the zwitterion labels lipid droplets and the cation stains mitochondria.
Enantioselective 1,4-addition of diarylphosphine oxides to α,β-unsaturated ketones catalyzed by oxazaborolidines
Authors: Qian Jinyi , Zhao Hengyuan , Gao Qi , Chen Lirong , Shi Yinrui , Li Jiuling , Guo Yafei , Fan Baomin
Published: October 2023

A new application of oxazaborolidines in enantioselective phospha-Michael addition to α,β-unsaturated ketones under mild reaction conditions was developed and the possible mechanism is described.
Synthesis of functional polyacrylamide (co)polymers by organocatalyzed post-polymerization modification of non-activated esters
Authors: Li Guoqing , Zhang Zhiyi , Xiao Wenhao , Wu Tongtong , Xu Jinbao
Published: October 2023

Synthesis of functional polyacrylamide (co)polymers by organocatlyted post-polymerization modification of poly(2,2,2-trifluoroethyl acrylate).
Magnetic nanoparticles modified with a copper(i) complex as a novel and efficient reusable catalyst for A3coupling leading to C–N bond formation
Authors: Li Wei , Yan Jinlong , Xu Wenjing , Zhang Li Yan
Published: October 2023

In this work a novel nanomagnetic copper complex was employed in one-pot multicomponent A3coupling reactions of aldehydes, amines, and alkynes as efficient catalyst for preparing propargylamines.
Past-expiration-date liquid disinfectants to deactivate biological and chemical toxins on building material surfaces
Authors: Wang Je-Chuang , Huang Wen-Chien , Cheng Ken-Fa , Liu Nien-Tung , Wu Kuo-Hui
Published: October 2023

In this study, we evaluated the deactivating efficacy of T4-102 and DF-200 disinfectants that were past their expiration date when used to deactivate biological and chemical toxins on building material surfaces.
Enhancing the Ag-loading capacity on Ti3C2Tx sheets as hybrid fillers to form composite coatings with excellent antibacterial properties
Authors: Deng Yajun , Zhou Zijie , Zhang Changan , Li Hui , Lan Jianfeng , Wu Jianhua , Wang Shibin
Published: October 2023

The settlement of microorganisms is an unwanted process in various practical fields, where also the first attaching microorganisms could promote other bacterial adhesion, causing an acceleration of bioaccumulation on the solid surface and damage to the surface functions.
Force-field-enhanced neural network interactions: from local equivariant embedding to atom-in-molecule properties and long-range effects
Authors: Plé Thomas , Lagardère Louis , Piquemal Jean-Philip
Published: October 2023

We introduce FENNIX (Force-Field-Enhanced Neural Network InteraXions), a hybrid approach between machine-learning and force-fields.
Synergistically remodulating H+/Ca2+ gradients to induce mitochondrial depolarization for enhanced synergistic cancer therapy
Authors: Wang Xiaoni , Ge Xiyang , Guan Xiaowen , Ouyang Jin , Na Na
Published: October 2023

A DNA nanocomplex of Ca@DNA–MF was successfully prepared for synergistic three-channel mitochondrial depolarization via synergistically remodulating H+/Ca2+ gradients, providing a synergistic strategy for enhanced cancer therapy with low toxicity.
A collagen-immobilized nanodevice for in situ ratiometric imaging of cancer biomarkers in the tumor microenvironment
Authors: Tian Fengyu , Zhou Shurui , Xie Shiyi , Zhang Zhenhua , Peng Ling , Jiang Ling , Wang Zeyuan , Nie Zhou , Huang Yan
Published: October 2023

We reported a multifunctional fusion protein and constructed collagen-immobilized nanodevices based on it for in situ ratiometric imaging of cancer biomarkers in the tumor microenvironment.
New insights into H2activation by intramolecular frustrated Lewis pairs based on aminoboranes: the local electrophilicity index of boron as a suitable indicator to tune the reversibility of the process
Authors: Barrales-Martínez César , Durán Rocío , Jaque Pablo
Published: October 2023

The condensed-to-boron electrophilicity index (ωB) is a tunable property to rationally perform modifications for reaching reversibility in H2activation by intramolecular aminoborane frustrated Lewis pairs.
Rate-dependent stress-order coupling in main-chain liquid crystal elastomers
Authors: Wei Chen , Cao Scott , Zhou Yu , Lin Dehao , Jin Lihua
Published: October 2023

This study reports rate-dependent measurements and relaxation of stress, director rotation, and shear strain in main-chain nematic LCEs subjected to uniaxial tension with various initial directors, which is further explained by an analytical model.
Acid-inducing {110}/{121} facet junction formation boosting the selectivity and activity of CO2 photoreduction by BaTiO3 nanoparticles
Authors: Cai Weihua , Wang Yabo , Zhao Lei , Sun Xun , Xu Jun , Chen Jin , Shi Ruochen , Ma Peihong , Que Meidan
Published: October 2023

With the introduction of {110} facets and an increasing exposure ratio, the photoreduction CO2 reaction of acid-etched BaTiO3 occurs on different facets of BaTiO3, and the corresponding reactants/products and photocatalytic mechanism are presented.
Low-cost and high-performance selenium indoor photovoltaics
Authors: Wei Zhouqing , Lu Wenbo , Li Zongbao , Feng Mingjie , Yan Bin , Hu Jin-Song , Xue Ding-Jiang
Published: October 2023

We replace high-cost Au with low-cost Cu as the electrode that greatly reduces the cost of Se photovoltaics. The resulting Se cells achieve an efficiency of 10.4% under indoor illumination at 500 lux.
Tuning the electrochemical performance of covalent organic framework cathodes for Li- and Mg-based batteries: the influence of electrolyte and binder
Authors: Lužanin Olivera , Dantas Raquel , Dominko Robert , Bitenc Jan , Souto Manuel
Published: October 2023

We present an approach to improve the electrochemical performance of an anthraquinone-based covalent organic framework (COF) cathode material in metal anode (Li, Mg) batteries through proper selection of the electrolyte and binder.
Novel anti-VEGFR2 antibody-conjugated nanobubbles for targeted ultrasound molecular imaging in a rabbit VX2 hepatic tumor model
Authors: Yu Houqiang , Zheng Shuanghua , Wang Cai , Xing Jun , Li Ling
Published: October 2023

In this study, anti-VEGFR2 antibodies were incorporated into uniform-sized (260.9 ± 3.3 nm with a polydispersity index of 0.168 ± 0.036, n = 3) nanobubbles for targeted ultrasound molecular imaging on rabbit VX2 orthotopic hepatic tumors.
Tetrahedral DNA nanostructure-corbelled click chemistry-based large-scale assembly of nanozymes for ratiometric fluorescence assay of DNA methyltransferase activity
Authors: Cao Guohui , Jia Huiying , Xu Shuling , Xu Ensheng , Wang Pin , Xue Qingwang , Wang Huaisheng
Published: October 2023

We engineer DTN-corbelled click chemistry to trigger a HCR assembling a large-scale of nanozymes for ratiometric fluorescence detection of DNA Dam. The biosensor displayed a low detection limit of 0.001 U mL−1 for Dam MTase and was effective in real sample and methylation inhibitor screenings.
Multifunctional biocompatible Ni/Ni–P nanospheres for anti-tumor “neoadjuvant phototherapy” combining photothermal therapy and photodynamic therapy
Authors: Song Peizhe , Jin Shujuan , Cao Yue , Zhang Shaopeng , Yin Na , Zhang Hao , Wang Daguang
Published: October 2023

Multifunctional Ni/Ni-P/PEI/ICG nanoplatform can serve as “neoadjuvant phototherapy” combining photodynamic and photothermal therapy, and contrast agent for magnetic resonance imaging, which allows for both treatment and diagnosis.
A Transparent Mask and Clear Speech Benefit Speech Intelligibility in Individuals With Hearing Loss
Authors: Yi Hoyoung , Choudhury Moumita , Hicks Candace
Published: October 2023

Purpose:

The purpose of the study is to investigate the impacts of a surgical mask and a transparent mask on audio-only and audiovisual speech intelligibility in noise (i.e., 0 dB signal-to-noise ratio) in individuals with mild-to-profound hearing loss. The study also examined if individuals with hearing loss can benefit from using a transparent mask and clear speech for speech understanding in noise.

Method:

Thirty-one individuals with hearing loss (from 22 to 74 years old) completed keyword identification tasks to measure face-masked speech intelligibility in noise. A mixed-effects logistic regression model was used to examine the effects of face masks (no mask, transparent mask, surgical mask), presentation modes (audio only, audiovisual), speaking styles (conversational, clear), noise type (speech-shaped noise [SSN], four-talker babble [4-T babble]), hearing groups (mild hearing loss [MHL], greater than MHL: GHL), and their interactions on binary accuracy of keyword identification.

Results:

In the audio-only mode, the GHL group showed reduced speech intelligibility regardless of other factors, whereas the MHL group showed decreased speech intelligibility for the transparent mask more than for the surgical mask. The use of a transparent mask was advantageous for both hearing loss groups. Clear speech remediated the detrimental effects of face masks on speech intelligibility in noise. Both groups tended to perform better in SSN versus 4-T babble.

Conclusions:

The findings indicate that, when using face masks, either a transparent mask or a surgical mask negatively affects speech understanding in noise for individuals with hearing loss. Using a transparent mask and clear speech could be a potential solution to improve speech intelligibility in communication with face masks in noise.
The historical active episodes of the disks around γ Cassiopeiae (B0.5 IVe) and 59 Cygni (B1 IVe) revisited
Authors: Baade D. , Labadie-Bartz J. , Rivinius Th. , Carciofi A. C.
Published: October 2023

The observations of all known major activity phases of the disks around the classical Be stars γ Cas and 59 Cyg with low-mass companions are comprehensively reviewed and purely qualitatively evaluated again, though taking advantage of new insights gained over the past 25 yr into the physics of Be disks. Both stars have exhibited activity cycles in the violet-to-red (V/R) flux ratio of emission lines with two peaks. This activity is indistinguishable from those of the vast majority of Be stars and so probably were caused by one-armed (m= 1) disk oscillations. The anomalous high-activity phases from 1932 to 1942 in γ Cas and between 1972 and 1976 in 59 Cyg were distinguished fromm= 1 density waves by large variations in the separations of pairs of emission peaks. In two consecutive cycles, shell phases during which the emission peaks were maximally separated alternated with single (blended) emission peaks. The amplitude in peak separation of more than a factor of two implies a high-amplitude variation in the disk aspect angle. When the peaks were blended and the disk was viewed closest to face-on, local maxima in visual brightness probably occurred inγCas, and the visibility of the stellar absorption lines was reduced, as is expected from increased free-bound emission into the line of sight (there is no time-resolved photometry for 59 Cyg from the event in the 1970s). In y Cas, the pre-event V/R variability (pre-event observations of 59 Cyg do not exist) was practically identical tom= 1 variability. In spite of the subsequent rapid rise in amplitude (up to ~4), the V/R variations connected smoothly in phase but may require an explanation involving the 3D structure of the disk. The phasing of single-peak and shell stages relative to the V/R activity was the same in both cycles ofγCas, whereas this is not clear for 59 Cyg. During both high-activity cycles ofγCas, but at different phases, transient additional pairs of emission lines appeared inγCas that were much sharper than the main ones and they also had different peak separations and V/R ratios. In the second instance, their velocities were up to ~+500 km s−1. The extremely rapid excitation of the activity phases and their short duration of only two cycles in both stars may indicate a resonant behavior of an unidentified nature. In both stars, the line emission was strongly developed at the onset of the high-activity phases but it basically disappeared at the end of them, and the disks may have been dynamically destroyed. The atypical disk variations were presumably triggered by enhanced interactions between a disk and companion star. In both systems, there seems to be less evidence for a mass-loss outburst than for a reduced mass-injection rate into the disk. The resulting lower viscous coupling between a disk and star would have facilitated the tilting of the disk.
Self-consistent simulation of photoelectrons in exoplanet winds: Faster ionisation and weaker mass-loss rates
Authors: Gillet A. , García Muñoz A. , Strugarek A.
Published: October 2023

Context. Close-in exoplanets undergo extreme irradiation levels leading to hydrodynamic atmospheric escape and the formation of planetary winds. The planetary mass-loss is governed by several physical mechanisms, including photoionisation that may impact the evolution of the atmosphere. The stellar radiation energy deposited as heat strongly depends on the energy of the primary electrons following photoionisation and on the local fractional ionisation. All these factors affect the model-estimated atmospheric mass-loss rates and other characteristics of the outflow in ways that have not been clearly elucidated. Moreover, the shape of the XUV stellar spectra strongly influences the photoionisation and heating deposition in the atmosphere. Substantial changes are to be expected in the planetary mass-loss rate.

Aims. We study the effect of secondary ionisation by photoelectrons on the ionisation and heating of the gas for different planet-star systems. We focus on the local and planet-wise effects, to clearly demonstrate the significance of these interactions.

Methods. Using the PLUTO code, we performed 1D hydrodynamics simulations for a variety of planets and stellar types. We included planets in the size range from Neptune to Jupiter, and stars from M dwarfs to Sun-like.

Results. Our results indicate a significant decrease in the planetary mass-loss rate for all planetary systems when secondary ionisation is taken into account. The mass-loss rate is found to decrease by 43% for the more massive exoplanets to 54% for the less massive exoplanets orbiting Sun-like stars, and up to 52% for a Jovian-like planet orbiting an M-type star. Our results also indicate much faster ionisation of the atmosphere due to photoelectrons.

Conclusions. We built a self-consistent model including secondary ionisation by photoelectrons to evaluate its impact on mass-loss rates. We find that photoelectrons affect the mass-loss rates by factors that are potentially important for planetary evolution theories. We also find that enhanced ionisation occurs at altitudes that are often probed with specific atomic lines in transmission spectroscopy. Future modelling of these processes should include the role of photoelectrons. For this purpose, we make a simple but accurate parameterisation for atomic hydrogen atmospheres available.
Dossier « Recherches sur la question animale : entre mobilisations sociétales et innovations technologiques » – « Slaughter free/Cultured meat ». Une morale de marchand
Authors: Porcher Jocelyne
Published: October 2023

À Singapour récemment, un restaurant branché a servi des nuggets préparés avec de la viande de poulet in vitro. Selon les clients, le produit était semblable en goût et en texture à la « viande conventionnelle ». Dans le National Review, un magazine conservateur, le journaliste Matthew Scully se réjouit de cette innovation et en souligne le caractère réhumanisant. L’objectif de l’article est d’interroger cette réhumanisation en montrant que le développement de la viande cultivée repose sur ce que Mauss appelait « une morale de marchand ». La viande cultivée renvoie à des enjeux économiques puissants et produit des alliances plus économicopolitiques qu’éthiques. Bien loin de nous « réhumaniser », elle conduit au contraire à remplacer le travail vivant des humains et des animaux par le travail mort des machines. Autrement dit, à nous déshumaniser et à nous asservir.
Burkholderia vietnamiensis causing bacteremia in patients suffering from B-cell acute lymphocytic leukemia: A case series and review of literature
Authors: Kar Mitra , Dubey Akanksha , Sahu Chinmoy , Patel Sangram Singh
Published: October 2023

Burkholderia cepacia complex consists of 24 species of microorganisms that include B. cepacia, B. multivorans, B. cenocepacia, B. vietnamiensis, B. ambifaria, and many more. It is a ubiquitous microorganism found in the soil and aquatic milieu. The probability of infections in immunocompetent individuals is rare, but an increase in the population of immunocompromised patients in the past decade has attributed to increasing incidence of infections caused by these microorganisms. The most common infections caused by these isolates include bacteremia, pneumonia, genital tract infections, and surgical wound infections. Their potential to cause nosocomial outbreaks in wards of immunocompromised patients is well known. In this case series, we describe three cases of community-acquired Burkholderia vietnamiensis bacteremia in patients suffering from B-cell acute lymphocytic leukemia and their antibiotic sensitivity pattern to guide the treatment of these individuals.
Influence of Distal Reference Point of the Tibial Mechanical Axis on the Ankle and Hindlimb Alignment Change after Total Knee Arthroplasty
Authors: Kikuchi Kenichi , Nakano Naoki , Ishida Kazunari , Kuroda Yuichi , Hayashi Shinya , Tsubosaka Masanori , Kamenaga Tomoyuki , Matsushita Takehiko , Kuroda Ryosuke , Matsumoto Tomoyuki
Published: October 2023

The alignment philosophy in total knee arthroplasty (TKA) has tended to shift from the gold standard of mechanically aligned technique to personalized alignment, such as the kinematically aligned (KA) technique. However, the influences of different surgical techniques on lower limb alignment relative to the ground are not fully investigated. This study investigated the influence of the ankle and hindlimb alignment change after mechanically aligned TKA and KA-TKA. The varus osteoarthritic patients who underwent TKAs were divided into a mechanically aligned TKA group (group M, n = 50) and a KA-TKA group (group K, n = 50). Radiographic parameters (hip–knee–calcaneus [HKC] angle, hip–knee–ankle [HKA] angle, talar tilt angle [TTA], and tibiocalcaneal angle [TCA]) were investigated using full-length standing radiographs. The deviation angle (ΔTA; angle between the tibial mechanical axis [TMA] and the ground tibial mechanical axis [gTMA]) and the change of ΔTA (cΔTA) were also assessed. These parameters were compared between the two groups, along with the correlation between the preoperative HKA angle and other parameters. ΔTA, TTA, and TCA showed no differences between the groups pre- and postoperatively, and no significant changes were observed postoperatively. The preoperative HKA angle showed a significant negative correlation with cΔTA in both groups (group M: r = –0.33, p = 0.02; group K: r = –0.29, p = 0.04) although no correlation was observed the with preoperative TTA and TCA. Despite no change in ΔTA after surgery, the preoperative varus deformity was associated with a change in the deviation between gTMA and TMA after surgery. A severely varus knee may be inappropriate for ground KA-TKA.
Comprehension of wh-questions among Jordanian children with autism spectrum disorder and specific language impairment
Authors: Issa Hassan Mohammad Bani , Ying Jong Hui , Azam Yasir Bin
Published: October 2023

This study investigates the comprehension of wh-questions among Jordanian Arabic-speaking children by comparing both (subject and object) “which” and “who” questions. The sample consisted of 45 Jordanian children: 15 with autism spectrum disorder (ASD), 15 with specific developmental language impairment (SDLI) and 15 typically developing (TD) children aged between 6 and 8 years. To achieve the objectives of this study, a binary task consisting of pictures with two-figure selection and pictures with three-figure selection was used. To analyze the data, a one-way repeated measures ANOVA was used to examine the comprehension of wh-questions among the three groups. The findings revealed that the ASD and SDLI groups performed better in subject wh-questions compared to object wh-questions. Moreover, the study also found that “which” questions constituted a problem for both ASD and SDLI Jordanian children. In addition, earlier grammatical competence acquired by children with ASD and SDLI (i.e., word order) guides their later wh-question comprehension. ASD and SDLI children showed impairment in answering subject and object questions. Meanwhile, the TD children showed better performance in who and which questions, although they exhibited difficulty in understanding object questions compared to subject questions. The conclusions indicate that the SDLI group performed better than the ASD group in terms of the number of correct answers and comprehension of wh-questions, while The ASD group performed better in the three-figures tasks over the two-figure tasks, in contrast to the children in the other groups, who performed better in the two-figure tasks.
Multifractal scaling analyses of the spatial diffusion pattern of COVID-19 pandemic in Chinese mainland
Authors: Long Yuqing , Chen Yanguang , Li Yajing
Published: October 2023

Revealing spatio-temporal evolution regularity in the spatial diffusion of epidemics is helpful for preventing and controlling the spread of epidemics. Based on the real-time COVID-19 datasets by prefecture-level cities, this paper is devoted to exploring the multifractal scaling in spatial diffusion pattern of COVID-19 pandemic and its evolution characteristics in Chinese mainland. The ArcGIS technology and box-counting method are employed to extract spatial data and the least square regression based on rescaling probability (μ-weight method) is used to calculate fractal parameters. The results show multifractal distribution of COVID-19 pandemic in China. The generalized correlation dimension spectrums are inverse S-shaped curves, but the fractal dimension values significantly exceed the Euclidean dimension of embedding space when moment orderq«0. The local singularity spectrums are asymmetric unimodal curves, which slant to right. The fractal dimension growth curves are shown as quasi S-shaped curves. From these spectrums and growth curves, the main conclusions can be drawn as follows: First, self-similar patterns developed in the process of COVID-19 pandemic, which seems to be dominated by multifractal scaling law. Second, the spatial pattern of COVID-19 across China can be characterized by global clustering with local disordered diffusion. Third, the spatial diffusion process of COVID-19 in China experienced four stages, i.e., initial stage, the rapid diffusion stage, the hierarchical diffusion stage, and finally the contraction stage. This study suggests that multifractal theory can be utilized to characterize spatio-temporal diffusion of COVID-19 pandemic, and the case analyses may be instructive for further exploring natural laws of spatial diffusion.
Properties and influence of magnetic fields on iron particles of anisotropic magnetorheological elastomers
Authors: Nguyen Quang Du , Truong Hoa Thi , Nguyen Xuan Bao , Le Cung , Nguyen Minh Tien
Published: October 2023

The magnetorheological elastomer (MRE) is an intelligent material whose mechanical properties can be rapidly adjusted under a magnetic flux density. This material’s mechanical properties change due to the interaction between the iron particles inside the material. Understanding the influence of magnetic flux on iron particles in MRE materials is essential. Studies have proven that the distance and angle of inclination between iron particles significantly affect the magnetic flux density and the interaction force between the particles. Therefore, the distribution of iron particles substantially affects the material’s properties. However, understanding magnetic flux through magnetic particles is necessary to improve the material’s mechanical properties and to design magnetic field systems in systems using the materials. This study maps three problems affecting magnetic flux density to the properties of MRE. First, the mechanical characteristics of the MRE were presented in the frequency, amplitude, magnetic flux density, and magnetic flux inclination domains relative to the particle chain. Next, the influence of the magnetic flux on the particle chain was investigated based on the dipole interaction model and the magnetic force on iron particles. The finite element method also explored the magnetic flux distribution in the MRE material. Finally, the response of the single-degree-of-freedom damping system is tested experimentally. The results show that the influence of the magnetic flux on the iron particles in the MRE material is significant. The research results aim to improve the mechanical properties of MRE materials.
A unified description of mean velocity in transitional- and turbulence-developed boundary layers
Authors: Tang Fan , Ji Yong
Published: October 2023

This study presents a unified algebraic model based on the multi-layer mixing length to quantify the mean velocity of the transitional and fully turbulent boundary layer. Mean velocity profiles from direct numerical simulations of the zero-pressure-gradient boundary layer are being investigated. By using the gradient descent method, three parameters in the multi-layer mixing length are optimized and determined at each streamwise location. It turns out that the multi-layer mixing length model describes mean velocity profiles well, and the corresponding relative deviation is around 2%. This value is not less than, or even better than, the compared Nickels’ model [Nickels, J. Fluid Mech. 521, 217–239 (2004)]. Moreover, the variation of the three optimal parameters with Rex is similar to the streamwise development of the friction coefficient. This similarity offers a supplementary way to comprehend the transition process. The results confirm that the multi-layer length function is suitable for modeling transitional boundary layers.
Research on protection adaptability and optimization scheme of VSC/LCC DC parallel hybrid system
Authors: Wang A. Ting , Chen B. Kun , XingYang Hu C. , Li D. Hengxuan , Zhang E. Long’en , Ye F. Pangqi
Published: October 2023

With the continuous development of high-voltage direct current (HVDC) technology and the relative concentration of power load and power, the HVDC parallel hybrid system will inevitably appear again. Because conventional DC transmission (LCC HVDC) and flexible DC transmission (VSC HVDC) in existing hybrid multi-infeed HVDC systems operate independently and are not coordinated with each other, and there is a gap in the research on the protection coordination relationship between VSC/LCC parallel hybrid systems and their near-area AC systems, it is necessary to study them systematically. This paper studies the protection coordination relationship between the VSC/LCC DC parallel hybrid system and its near area AC system, simulates and analyzes the typical faults of the hybrid multi-feed DC system, and puts forward a protection optimization scheme suitable for the VSC/LCC DC parallel hybrid system, which improves the safe and stable operation ability of the power grid, eliminates the hidden dangers of subsequent operation and maintenance, and provides a reference basis for further research.
Shear force enhances adhesion of
Pseudomonas aeruginosa
by counteracting pilus-driven surface departure
Authors: Palalay Jessica-Jae S. , Simsek Ahmet N. , Reed Jessie L. , Koch Matthias D. , Sabass Benedikt , Sanfilippo Joseph E.
Published: October 2023

Fluid flow is thought to prevent bacterial adhesion, but some bacteria use adhesins with catch bond properties to enhance adhesion under high shear forces. However, many studies on bacterial adhesion either neglect the influence of shear force or use shear forces that are not typically found in natural systems. In this study, we use microfluidics and single-cell imaging to examine how the human pathogen
Pseudomonas aeruginosa
interacts with surfaces when exposed to shear forces typically found in the human body (0.1 pN to 10 pN). Through cell tracking, we demonstrate that the angle between the cell and the surface predicts if a cell will depart the surface. We discover that at lower shear forces, type IV pilus retraction tilts cells away from the surface, promoting surface departure. Conversely, we show that higher shear forces counterintuitively enhance adhesion by counteracting type IV pilus retraction-dependent cell tilting. Thus, our results reveal that
P. aeruginosa
exhibits behavior reminiscent of a catch bond, without having a specific adhesin that is enhanced by force. Instead,
P. aeruginosa
couples type IV pilus dynamics and cell geometry to tune adhesion to its mechanical environment, which likely provides a benefit in dynamic host environments.
Forging a “civil discourse”
Authors: Anduaga Aitor
Published: October 2023

The academic and, subsequently, social legitimation of Basque studies – namely, their constitution as a subject of
scholarly inquiry in the early twentieth century – is proposed as a key factor in the early process of standardisation of the
Basque language: this legitimation created a climate that was propitious to the development of civil discourse and favourable to
the pursuit of consensus regarding the construction of a literary standard. In its support, I evidence the breadth and strength of
the involved actors’ ideology, as well as the influence of civil discourse and the spirit of consensus upon the three phases that
characterised Basque standardisation: (1) the ideological polarisation that led to consensual failure around 1901; (2) the
ideological depolarisation that culminated in the foundation of the Academy of the Basque Language in 1918; and (3) the
ideological repolarisation that caused the breakdown of civil discourse during Primo de Rivera’s dictatorship (1923–1930). Its
standardisation was closely linked to the promotion of the journal Revista Internacional de Estudios Vascos and
the use of scientific-inductive method in modern Bascology. Oddly, historians and linguists have almost completely ignored the
influence of the legitimation of an area study (linked to a particular language) on that language’s standardisation.
A binary inflectional voice contrast in Mabaan (Western Nilotic)
Authors: Andersen Torben
Published: October 2023

In Mabaan, a Western Nilotic language, there is a binary inflectional voice contrast in the morphology of verbs. In addition to a morphologically unmarked basic voice, there is a fully productive applicative voice, which is morphologically marked. This applicative voice may be called circumstantial in order to distinguish it from another applicative voice, which is derivational, namely benefactive. The circumstantial voice turns an adjunct into an object, making an intransitive verb transitive and a transitive verb ditransitive. In a main clause, however, a transitive verb needs to be detransitivized via antipassive derivation in order for an adjunct to become object through the circumstantial voice. In some types of subordinate clauses, by contrast, any verb can get the circumstantial voice, whatever its transitivity, derivational status and meaning. This voice is obligatory in relative clauses when the relativized constituent is an adjunct and in some types of adverbial clauses.
Shadow education: new areas of inquiry in teaching, learning and development (Educación en la sombra: nuevas áreas de estudio sobre enseñanza, aprendizaje y desarrollo)
Authors: Yung Kevin-Wai-Ho , Entrich Steve R. , Bautista Alfredo
Published: October 2023

Shadow education research has expanded rapidly worldwide in the past decades. Whilst most studies have focused on somewhat broad dimensions of shadow education (for example, its prevalence, nature and characteristics at different educational levels, or its impact on social inequalities), there are various important micro dimensions of this phenomenon that have received limited scholarly attention. In fact, the field lacks research on topics such as the impact of shadow education on students’ developmental outcomes beyond grades and performance scores, teaching and learning practices or the effects of related policies on the various educational stakeholders. This special issue contributes to filling these gaps. The first part of this introductory article briefly defines the concept of shadow education and discusses its evolvement, before identifying the trends and gaps in the extant research. The second part describes the structure and content of the special issue. After the present introduction, readers will find a ‘Prospectives’ article, followed by four empirical studies. These contributions investigate innovative topics and identify new areas of inquiry in shadow education pertaining to teaching, learning and development.
Inhibition effect of nano-silica synergistic corrosion inhibitor on 110SSsteel in ultra-high temperature organic acidic environment
Authors: Du Juan , Li Ce , Liu Pingli , Liu Jinming , Chen Xiang , Wang Guan , Zuo Zixuan , Huang Chengxi , Lou Fengcheng , Wang Ming
Published: October 2023

Compared to hydrochloric acid, organic acids can reduce the acid rock reaction rate in high-temperature reservoir acidification. Although corrosion inhibitors can reduce the corrosion of acid on the pipe string, the ultra-high temperature makes the effectiveness of corrosion inhibitors unsatisfactory. We found that the use of nano-silica can improve the effectiveness of corrosion inhibitors in organic acid systems. Some interesting findings are as follows. Firstly, the ultra-high temperature made the adsorption film of LD-H uneven or incomplete. Next, the high-temperature corrosion inhibition ability of corrosion inhibitors was enhanced by adding nano-silica to organic acids, with a corrosion inhibition rate of up to 99%. Furthermore, the addition of nano-silica made the adsorption membrane of LD-H more complete or uniform, which more effectively inhibited corrosion reactions. By enhancing the adsorption capacity of corrosion inhibitors and filling adsorption membranes, nano-silica enhanced the corrosion inhibition effect of LD-H in organic acid systems.