bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Performance Evaluation and Optimal Design Analysis of Continuous-Operation Solar-Driven Cooling Absorption Systems With Thermal Energy Storage
Authors: Patiño-Jaramillo Gustavo A. , Rivera-Alvarez Alejandro , Osorio Julian D.
Published: September 2023

A solar absorption cooling system consisting of a flat plate collector, thermal energy storage tank, and absorption chiller is analyzed in this work. A dimensionless model is developed from the energy balance on each component and the chiller’s characteristic performance curves. The model is used to determine the interaction and influence of different parameters such as tank size, solar collector area, chiller size, cooling load, cooling temperature, heat loss, and mass flow rates on the performance. From the analysis, smaller solar collector areas are required for lower cooling loads and smaller tank volumes. A specific cooling load of 1 × 10−5 will require a specific solar collector area between two and six times larger, depending on the initial tank temperature, than the area required for a baseline system that considers typical commercial design and operation parameters. A similar behavior was observed for the specific tank volume. For the baseline system, the minimum specific area of the collector of 9.57 is achieved for an initial tank temperature of 1.19. For a cooling load of 1 × 10−5, the optimum initial tank temperature will be 1.11 that results in a minimum specific solar collector area of 25.26. A specific tank volume of 4 × 10−4 will also have an optimum initial tank temperature of 1.11 that minimizes the specific solar collector area to a value of 28.18. The approach and analysis in this work can be used to determine design parameters for solar absorption cooling systems based on a proper relation among system’s dimensions to achieve optimum operation.
Effects of the Seal Wire on the Nonlinear Dynamics of the Aircraft Engine Turbine Blades
Authors: Tüfekci Mertol , El Haddad Fadi , Salles Loïc , Setchfield Richard , Renson Ludovic
Published: September 2023

Complicated systems made of multiple components are known to be difficult to model, considering their solutions can change dramatically even with the slightest variations in conditions. Aircraft engines contain such complicated systems, and some components in aircraft engines' turbines can cause significant changes in the system's overall response. Hence, this study is focused on investigating the behavior of a turbine blade of an aircraft engine and the effects of the contact between the blade and the seal wire on the dynamics of the blade-disk system. The investigation is performed via various numerical simulations in time and frequency domains. One sector of the bladed disk is modeled using the finite element method with the lock plate and the seal wire imposing cyclic symmetry boundary conditions in the static, modal, and frequency domain forced response analyses. In time domain analyses, the cyclic symmetry is replaced with simplified displacement restricting boundary conditions. The time domain analysis contains steady-state forced responses of the system. The results show that contact with the seal wire is not a major source of nonlinearity and damping. The contacts with the lock plate contribute more to the vibration damping than the seal wire. However, compared to the contacts at the root of the blade, both components remain less significant with regard to frictional damping and nonlinearity.
Techno-Economic Assessment of CO2-Based Power to Heat to Power Systems for Industrial Applications
Authors: Trevisan Silvia , Shamsi Syed Safeer Mehdi , Maccarini Simone , Barberis Stefano , Guedez Rafael
Published: September 2023

The industrial sector is a major source of wealth, producing about one-quarter of the global gross product. However, industry is also a major emitter of CO2 and it represents a key challenge toward achieving the worldwide CO2 emission reduction targets. Nowadays, about 22% of the overall energy demand is heating for the industrial sector, generating about 40% of the global CO2 emissions. Additionally, 30% of the final energy demand of the industrial sector is electricity. Solutions to decarbonize the industrial sector are needed. This work presents the techno-economic assessment of four different molten salts-based power-to-heat-to-heat and power solutions aiming at decarbonizing the industrial sector, requiring medium temperature heat. The systems are studied under different electric markets. Dispatch strategies and system sizing are identified to ensure optimal techno-economic performance. The main performance indicators investigated are the levelized cost of heat and electricity (LCoH and LCoE), the operational expenditure, and the attainable savings with respect to alternative business as usual solutions. The results highlight that the proposed system can be cost-competitive, particularly in markets characterized by low electricity prices and high daily price fluctuations, such as Finland. In these locations, LCoE as low as 100 €/MWh and LCoH lower than 55 €/MWh can be attained by the base system configuration. The introduction of high temperature heat pumps can provide further LCoH reduction of about 50%. This study sets the ground for further power-to-heat-to-heat and power techno-economic investigations addressing different industrial sectors and identifies main system design strategies.
The Impact of COVID-19 on Team Sport Engagement: The Perceptions of Adolescent Females in Victoria
Authors: Keane Rachel , Ruddock-Hudson Mandy
Published: September 2023

The purpose of this study was to qualitatively investigate the impact of restrictions in response to coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) on team sport engagement from the perspectives of Victorian adolescent females. In 2022, 10 female athletes aged between 14 and 17 years, recruited via snowball sampling, took part in semistructured interviews exploring their experiences and perceptions during the pandemic. Three higher order themes emerged: (a) team sport barriers during COVID-19, (b) emotional responses of athletes during COVID-19, and (c) behavioral reactions of athletes during COVID-19. Findings indicated that athletes reported harsh restrictions, a lack of social interaction, and resources severely impacted training, ultimately resulting in poor motivation, lowered mood, and decreased sport enjoyment. Athletes also expressed concern in relation to spreading the virus, adhering to restrictions, and discovering lost skills and ability postlockdown. Guided by the self-determination theory, the perceived reduction in motivation and sport engagement for Victorian female athletes during COVID-19 was a result of the added depletion of autonomy, relatedness, and competence during the strictest lockdowns worldwide. The practical implications of this research offered new qualitative insights into how extended lockdowns and limited sport engagement impacted participation of female youth athletes who resided in the most locked-down state in the world. It also provided a strong foundation to enhance female motivation and sport engagement through addressing athletes’ self-efficacy levels and encouraging enjoyable and socially simulating sporting contexts following the COVID-19 pandemic.
A spartin approach to lipophagy
Authors: Wong Wei
Published: September 2023

The autophagic degradation of lipid droplets requires the protein spartin.
Adaptation of rhizosphere bacterial communities of drought-resistant sugarcane varieties under different degrees of drought stress
Authors: Dao Jicao , Xing Yuanjun , Chen Chunyi , Chen Mianhe , Wang Ziting
Published: September 2023

Sugarcane is highly sensitive to changes in moisture, and increased drought severely restricts its growth and productivity. Recent studies have shown that plant growth-promoting microorganisms are essential to reduce the adverse effects of environmental stresses, especially drought. However, our knowledge about the dynamics of rhizosphere microbial community structure in sugarcane under varying degrees of drought stress is limited. We analyzed the effects of different degrees of drought stress on the rhizosphere microbial communities of Zhongzhe 1(ZZ1) and Zhongzhe 6(ZZ6) with differences in drought resistance, by combining soil enzyme activity, nutrient content, and physiological and morphological characteristics of sugarcane roots. The results showed that rhizosphere bacterial community began to change at a field capacity of 50%, enriching the sugarcane rhizosphere with drought-resistant bacteria. The core strains of ZZ1 and ZZ6 rhizosphere enrichment were mainly
Streptomycetales
,
Sphingomonadales
, and
Rhizobiales
. However, compared to ZZ1, the changes in rhizosphere bacterial abundance in ZZ6 were primarily associated with the abundance of
Streptomycetales
as drought levels increased.
Rhizobiales
and
Streptomycetales
, enriched in the rhizosphere of ZZ6 under drought, were positively correlated with root tip number and total root length (TRL), increasing the distribution area of roots and, thus, improving water and nutrient uptake by the roots thereby enhancing the resistance of sugarcane to drought stress. This research enhances our understanding of the composition of the rhizosphere microbial community in sugarcane under different levels of drought stress and its interaction with the roots, thereby providing valuable insights for enhancing drought resistance in sugarcane.

Importance

Drought stress is expected to further increase in intensity, frequency, and duration, causing substantial losses in sugarcane yields. Here, we exposed sugarcane to varying degrees of drought treatment during growth and quantified the eventual composition of the resulting sugarcane rhizosphere bacterial community groups. We found that sugarcane rhizosphere under mild drought began to recruit specific bacterial communities to resist drought stress and used the interactions of root tip number, total root length, and drought-resistant strains to improve sugarcane survival under drought. This research provides a theoretical basis for the rhizosphere microbiome to help sugarcane improve its resistance under different levels of drought stress.
Discovery of novel reversible inhibitor of DprE1 based on benzomorpholine for the treatment of tuberculosis
Authors: Xiang Wang , He Hualong , Duan Xianjie , He Zhiqun , Xu Xinyue , Liao Mengya , Teng Fei , Li Xiao , Luo Tianwen , Zeng Jumei , Yu Luoting , Gao Chao
Published: September 2023

About a quarter of the world’s population is infected with
Mycobacterium tuberculosis
, equivalent to about two billion people. With the emergence of multidrug-resistant tuberculosis, those existing anti-tuberculosis drugs no longer meet the demand for cure anymore; there is an urgent need for the development of new anti-tuberculosis drugs. Decaprenylphosphoryl-β-D-ribose 2´-epimerase (DprE1) has been proven to be a potential antimycobacterial target, and several inhibitors have entered clinical trial. Herein, we designed and synthesized a series of compounds based on the indole and benzomorpholine by using the strategy of scaffold hopping. The preferred compound
B18
showed strong antimycobacterial activity in H37Rv and drug-resistant clinical isolates. In addition, compound
B18
did not exhibit antimycobacterial efficacy against other species of strains. Subsequently, the target of
B18
was identified as DprE1 by analyzing spontaneous compound-resistant mutation data, and a docking study was performed to illustrate the binding mode between
B18
and DprE1. In general, compound
B18
is compatible to current DprE1 inhibitors, even higher phosphodiesterase 6C selectivity and plasma protein binding rate, which represent a new type of effective reversible DprE1 inhibitor.

IMPORTANCE

Drug therapy remains the cornerstone of tuberculosis (TB) treatment, yet first-line anti-tuberculosis drugs are associated with significant adverse effects that can compromise patient outcomes. Moreover, prolonged and widespread use has led to an alarming rise in drug-resistant strains of
Mycobacterium tuberculosis
, including multidrug-resistant [MDR-tuberculosis (TB)] and extensively drug-resistant (XDR-TB) forms. Urgent action is needed to develop novel anti-tuberculosis agents capable of overcoming these challenges. We report that compound
B18
, a decaprenylphosphoryl-β-D-ribose 2´-epimerase inhibitor with a benzomorpholine backbone, exhibits potent activity against not only the non-pathogenic strain H37Ra, but also the pathogenic strain H37Rv and clinical MDR and XDR strains. Preliminary druggability studies indicate that
B18
possesses high safety and acceptable pharmacokinetic properties, rendering it a promising candidate for further development as a novel anti-tuberculosis agent.
Coexisting Nb-enriched basalts and arc volcanic rocks in the northern Qiangtang Terrane, China: Implications for the effects of ambient mantle on subduction zone magmatism
Authors: Zhang Ze , Chen Sheng-Sheng , Sun Da-Wei , Gao Sen
Published: September 2023

The petrogenesis of Nb-enriched basalts (NEBs) is controversial. NEBs are generally considered to form by melting of either a mixed enriched and depleted mantle source or a mantle wedge metasomatized by adakitic melts. Here we present geochronological, petrological, geochemical, and Sr-Nd-Os isotope data for Early Permian volcanic rocks from the Tuotuohe area in the northern Qiangtang Terrane, China. The studied volcanic rocks can be divided into two groups: arc basalts and basaltic andesites in the lower sequence and NEBs in the upper sequence. Zircon grains from one basaltic andesite sample in the lower sequence yielded a concordia age of 302.0 ± 1.1 Ma. The geochemical and isotopic characteristics suggest that the NEBs were derived from a mixed source consisting of enriched mid-oceanic ridge basalts (MORB)- to oceanic-island basalt-like ambient mantle and slab-derived fluids, whereas the arc basalts and basaltic andesites originated from a source made of the MORB-type ambient mantle modified by slab-derived melts. We propose for the first time that the Nb enrichment of the NEBs was most likely inherited from high-Nb ambient mantle and is independent of the addition of slab-derived components. In addition to slab-derived components, the nature of the ambient mantle is also an important factor controlling the diversity of arc magmatism. Our new findings show that the Late Carboniferous−Early Permian magmatism in the northern Qiangtang Terrane was related to northward subduction of the Paleo-Tethys Ocean, suggesting that subduction might have occurred in at least the Early Permian rather than in the previously thought Middle Permian.
Chronology and erosion rate of the Pinedale glaciation, Colorado Front Range (USA), inferred from the sedimentary record of glacial Lake Devlin
Authors: Dethier David P. , Leopold Matthias , Völkel Jörg , Buylaert Jan-Pieter , Murray Andrew , Nelson Robert E. , Madole Richard , Corbett Lee B. , Bierman Paul , Rosenbaum Joseph
Published: September 2023

Glacial and periglacial sediments and landforms record the chronology of glaciation and amount of Pleistocene erosion during colder periods that added substantially to global sediment budgets and contributed to the global CO2 cycle. The now-drained glacial Lake Devlin, dammed in a Front Range tributary valley by a glacier in the North Branch of Boulder Creek (Colorado, USA) preserves an important sedimentary archive of the ca. 32−14 ka Pinedale glaciation, recording both paleoclimate information and an integrated measure of glacial and periglacial erosion rates over a full glacial cycle. Despite rapid erosion of fine-grained deposits after the lake drained, most sediment generated during Pinedale time remains as legacy deposits in the catchment. Geomorphic evidence and dating of glaciolacustrine sediment from surface exposures demonstrate that the ca. 30 ka Pinedale glacial advance was nearly as extensive as the local Late Glacial Maximum at ca. 20 ka. Sedimentary archives dated by 14C, optically stimulated luminescence, and cosmogenic nuclides extend earlier studies (Madole et al., 1973) of pollen and magnetic susceptibility (MS) in cores from the glaciolacustrine deposits of Lake Devlin and of Pinedale climate. Records suggest short-term warming and biotic change at ca. 15 ka after ∼14 kyr of cold, dry conditions punctuated by MS peaks at ca. 26.5 ka, 20 ka, and 16.5 ka. Lake Devlin drained catastrophically after ca. 14 ka, millennia after ice had retreated upvalley from the lateral moraine that dammed the lake. Sediment production during the Pinedale was equivalent to a periglacial and glacial erosion rate of ∼70 mm kyr−1, several times higher than long-term rates in the adjacent Front Range, but much lower than rates measured where modern glaciers are eroding weak bedrock in zones of rapid rock uplift, such as SSE Alaska, USA. Data from the Lake Devlin basin contribute to contemporary discussions of how glacial erosion influences the global CO2 cycle.
Linking source and sink: The timing of deposition of Paleogene syntectonic strata in Central Asia
Authors: Cheng Feng , Zuza Andrew V. , Jolivet Marc , Mulch Andreas , Meijer Niels , Guo Zhaojie
Published: September 2023

Determining the age of siliciclastic continental sequences in the absence of comprehensive biostratigraphy or radiometric dating of geological markers (e.g., volcanic layers) is inherently challenging. This issue is well exemplified in the current debate on the age of Cenozoic terrestrial strata in Central Asia, where competing age models constrained by non-unique paleomagnetic correlations are interpreted to reflect the growth of the Tibetan Plateau and its impact on Central Asian climate change. Here we present a new approach to evaluate competing age models by comparing the onset of rapid basement exhumation constrained by low-temperature thermochronology in the sediment source region with the initiation of growth strata in the adjacent sedimentary sink. We first validate this method in regions with well-constrained age models and subsequently apply this approach to the Tarim and Qaidam Basins in the northern Tibetan Plateau. The results of this analysis show that syntectonic sedimentation had already initiated during the Paleocene–Eocene and was followed by intensified Oligocene–Miocene mountain building along the northern margin of the plateau. Based on this refined Paleogene tectonic history, we further arrive at a temporal correlation between Paleogene tectonism in Northern Tibet and the retreat of the Proto-Paratethys Sea, a major water body that extended across Eurasia and was closely associated with climatic and biodiversity changes. We thus highlight the previously underestimated role tectonics in Northern Tibet had in the evolution and demise of the Proto-Paratethys Sea during the Paleogene.
Calcite-aragonite seas as a driver of echinoderm evolution? Experimental insight and deep-time decoupling
Authors: Cole Selina R. , Wright David F. , Thompson Jeffrey R.
Published: September 2023

Seawater magnesium (Mg) and calcium (Ca) have undergone secular fluctuations throughout the Phanerozoic, controlling whether the dominant calcium carbonate precipitant is calcite or aragonite + high-Mg calcite. Although these oscillations in seawater Mg/Ca ratios have been implicated as an important control on Phanerozoic diversification of calcifying marine organisms, determining the degree to which Mg/Ca ratios affected different clades requires integration of experimental data with historical patterns of biodiversity from the fossil record. We explore short-term and long-term responses of echinoderms to shifting calcite-aragonite seas by combining experimental and deep-time biodiversity investigations. While experimental results support a strong relationship between Mg/Ca ratios and short-term echinoderm regeneration rates, patterns of Phanerozoic echinoderm diversification dynamics show no correspondence with Mg/Ca ratios or calcite-aragonite sea transitions. This decoupling between short- and long-term responses of echinoderms to seawater Mg/Ca ratios suggests echinoderms were relatively unaffected by seawater chemistry throughout their evolutionary history, possibly due to their ability to alter skeletal Mg fractionation and/or adapt to gradual shifts in seawater chemistry. Notably, our results indicate a strict uniformitarian extrapolation of experimental results over geological time scales may not be appropriate for many calcifying marine invertebrates. Instead, the effect of seawater Mg/Ca ratios should be evaluated for individual clades using both experimental and deep-time biodiversity data in a time series.
Exploring the pain and disability continuum in adolescents with non-traumatic anterior knee pain: a mediation analysis using individual participant data of prospective studies
Authors: Holden Sinead , Lee Hopin , van Middelkoop Marienke ,   The Adolescent Knee Health Group, Rathleff Michael Skovdal
Published: September 2023

Objective

To use individual patient data (IPD) to investigate if the effect of pain on sports-related disability is mediated through physical (lower extremity isometric strength) or psychological (depression/anxiety and knee confidence) factors in adolescents with non-traumatic anterior knee pain.

Methods

This study included four datasets from a previously harmonised IPD dataset. Prior to analysis, the protocol and analysis approach were predefined and published on Open Science Framework. Potential mediators were pre-sepcified as isometric knee and hip strengths, self-reported anxiety/depression and confidence in the knee, all

measured at 12 weeks after baseline evaluation. Mediation analyses were undertaken using the CMAVerse package in RStudio using the regression-based approach to decompose the total effect of the exposure (pain at baseline evaluation) on the outcome (sports-related disability at 6 months) into the ‘indirect effect’ (the portion of the total effect acting through the mediators) and the ‘direct effect’.

Results

Two-hundred and seventy-nine adolescents with non-traumatic knee pain were included in the analysis. Median age was 13 (range 10–19), and 72% were women. Baseline pain was associated with sports-related disability at 6 months. There was no evidence of the association being mediated by any of the proposed mediators (total natural indirect effect for strength 0.01 (−1.14 to 1.80) and psychological factors 0.00 (−0.66 to 2.02)).

Conclusion

We found an effect of pain on sports-related disability at 6 months which appears to be independent of lower extremity muscle strength, or depression/anxiety and knee confidence in adolescents with non-traumatic anterior knee pain.
Client-reported quality of facility-managed medication abortion compared with pharmacy-sourced self-managed abortion in Bangladesh
Authors: Jacobson Laura E , Baum Sarah E , Pearson Erin , Chowdhury Rezwana , Chakraborty Nirali M , Goodman Julia M , Gerdts Caitlin , Darney Blair G
Published: September 2023

Objective

We used the newly developed Abortion Care Quality Tool (ACQTool) to compare client-reported quality of medication abortion care by source (facility-managed vs pharmacy-sourced self-managed abortion (SMA)) in Bangladesh.

Methods

We leveraged exit and 30-day follow-up surveys collected to develop and validate the ACQTool collected at nongovernmental organisation (NGO)-supported or -operated facilities in the public and private sector and pharmacies from three districts in Bangladesh. We used bivariate statistics to compare 18 client-reported quality indicators grouped in six domains and eight abortion outcomes, by source (facility vs pharmacy). We used multivariable logistic regression to identify factors associated with selected quality indicators and outcomes (abortion affordability, information provision, and knowing what to do for an adverse event), controlling for client sociodemographic characteristics.

Results

Of 550 abortion clients, 146 (26.5%) received a facility-managed medication abortion and 404 (73.5%) had a pharmacy-sourced SMA. Clients reported higher quality in facilities for five indicators, and higher in pharmacies for two indicators; the remaining 11 indicators were not different by source. Compared with facility-based clients, pharmacy clients had higher odds of reporting that the cost of abortion was affordable (adjusted odds ratio (aOR) 3.55; 95% CI 2.27 to 5.58) but lower odds of reporting high information provision (aOR 0.14; 95% CI 0.09 to 0.23). Seven of eight abortion outcomes showed no differences; pharmacy clients had lower odds of knowing what to do if an adverse event occurred (aOR 0.45; 95% CI 0.23 to 0.82).

Conclusions

In Bangladesh, there is no difference in client-reported quality of medication abortion care between health facilities and pharmacies for the majority of quality and outcome indicators. However, information provision and preparedness were higher quality at facilities, while pharmacies were more affordable.
Idiopathic granulomatous mastitis: a 5-year retrospective review of cases in a tertiary centre in Dublin, Ireland
Authors: Houlihan Elaine , Ryan Katherine , Mannion Jennifer , Hennessy Grace , Dunne Barbara , Connolly Elizabeth , O'Connell Brian
Published: September 2023

Aims

Idiopathic granulomatous mastitis (IGM) is a rare, benign, inflammatory breast disorder of unknown aetiology usually affecting women of reproductive age. It classically presents as a unilateral painful breast mass. It is frequently mistaken for carcinoma or other inflammatory breast diseases. Diagnostic investigations include clinical examination, appropriate imaging and tissue sampling. A link between IGM and infection with theCorynebacteriumspecies in particularCorynebacterium kroppenstedtiihas been described.

Methods

A retrospective single-centre cohort study was conducted over a 5-year period (2017–2022); all cases of IGM were identified.

Results

Forty-one patients were diagnosed with IGM. Breast lump was the most common presenting complaint (n=29). The average age was 45 years. Eighteen patients had samples sent for culture and sensitivity, 11 of which had positive microbiology results indicative ofCorynebacteriumspp infection.

An 82% resolution rate (27 of 33) was recorded in those who received either a short-antibiotic course or none at all. Eight patients reported persistent disease at 3 months, five of which had evidence ofCorynebacteriumspp.

Discussion

This 5-year review highlights the impact of IGM in a tertiary centre in Dublin, Ireland. Although no treatment guidelines exist, options include antibiotics, immunomodulators and surgery. Due to risk of fistulae and unfavourable cosmetic outcomes, surgery should be reserved for refractory IGM. We suspect that there may be a subset of patients where prolonged antibiotic therapy should be considered. Defining this subgroup requires further study, but likely includes those with cystic neutrophilic granulomatous mastitis, relapsing disease and in whomCorynebacteriumspp is recovered.
Social determinants of ethnic disparities in SARS-CoV-2 infection: UK Biobank SARS-CoV-2 Serology Study
Authors: Omiyale Wemimo , Holliday Jo , Doherty Nicola , Callen Howard , Wood Natasha , Horn Edward , Burnett Frances , Young Allen , Lewington Sarah , Fry Dan , Bešević Jelena , Conroy Megan , Sheard Simon , Feng Qi , Welsh Samantha , Effingham Mark , Young Alan , Collins Rory , Lacey Ben , Allen Naomi
Published: September 2023

Background

The social determinants of ethnic disparities in risk of SARS-CoV-2 infection during the first wave of the pandemic in the UK remain unclear.

Methods

In May 2020, a total of 20 195 adults were recruited from the general population into the UK Biobank SARS-CoV-2 Serology Study. Between mid-May and mid-November 2020, participants provided monthly blood samples. At the end of the study, participants completed a questionnaire on social factors during different periods of the pandemic. Logistic regression yielded ORs for the association between ethnicity and SARS-CoV-2 immunoglobulin G antibodies (indicating prior infection) using blood samples collected in July 2020, immediately after the first wave.

Results

After exclusions, 14 571 participants (mean age 56; 58% women) returned a blood sample in July, of whom 997 (7%) had SARS-CoV-2 antibodies. Seropositivity was strongly related to ethnicity: compared with those of White ethnicity, ORs (adjusted for age and sex) for Black, South Asian, Chinese, Mixed and Other ethnic groups were 2.66 (95% CI 1.94–3.60), 1.66 (1.15–2.34), 0.99 (0.42–1.99), 1.42 (1.03–1.91) and 1.79 (1.27–2.47), respectively. Additional adjustment for social factors reduced the overall likelihood ratio statistics for ethnicity by two-thirds (67%; mostly from occupational factors and UK region of residence); more precise measurement of social factors may have further reduced the association.

Conclusions

This study identifies social factors that are likely to account for much of the ethnic disparities in SARS-CoV-2 infection during the first wave in the UK, and highlights the particular relevance of occupation and residential region in the pathway between ethnicity and SARS-CoV-2 infection.
Predictive value of metabolic profiling in cardiovascular risk scores: analysis of 75 000 adults in UK Biobank
Authors: Jin Danyao , Trichia Eirini , Islam Nazrul , Lewington Sarah , Lacey Ben
Published: September 2023

Background

Metabolic profiling (the extensive measurement of circulating metabolites across multiple biological pathways) is increasingly employed in clinical care. However, there is little evidence on the benefit of metabolic profiling as compared with established atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (CVD) risk scores.

Methods

UK Biobank is a prospective study of 0.5 million participants, aged 40–69 at recruitment. Analyses were restricted to 74 780 participants with metabolic profiling (measured using nuclear magnetic resonance) and without CVD at baseline. Cox regression was used to compare model performance before and after addition of metabolites to QRISK3 (an established CVD risk score used in primary care in England); analyses derived three models, with metabolites selected by association significance or by employing two different machine learning approaches.

Results

We identified 5097 incident CVD events within the 10-year follow-up. Harrell’s C-index of QRISK3 was 0.750 (95% CI 0.739 to 0.763) for women and 0.706 (95% CI 0.696 to 0.716) for men. Adding selected metabolites did not significantly improve measures of discrimination in women (Harrell’s C-index of three models are 0.759 (0.747 to 0.772), 0.759 (0.746 to 0.770) and 0.759 (0.748 to 0.771), respectively) or men (0.710 (0.701 to 0.720), 0.710 (0.700 to 0.719) and 0.710 (0.701 to 0.719), respectively), and neither did it improve reclassification or calibration.

Conclusion

This large-scale study applied both conventional and machine learning approaches to assess the potential benefit of metabolic profiling to well-established CVD risk scores. However, there was no evidence that metabolic profiling improved CVD risk prediction in this population.
Global taxation of electronic nicotine and non-nicotine delivery systems: a cross-country evaluation
Authors: Dauchy Estelle , Fuss Caroline
Published: September 2023

Background

Taxation is a key component of tobacco products’ regulation given its proven effectiveness to generate revenue and achieve public health goals. The diversity of the market for e-cigarettes (electronic nicotine delivery systems and electronic non-nicotine delivery systems, ENDS/ENNDS) complicates comparative analyses per unit, thus challenging efforts to assess countries’ excise tax burdens for e-cigarettes. Further complicating taxes on e-cigarettes is the necessity to balance two public health priorities: (1) deterring initiation among people who have never smoked, and (2) supporting cessation efforts among people currently smoking or who previously smoked. This study evaluates and compares excise tax burdens and tax system characteristics of e-cigarettes across 54 countries.

Methods

To determine countries’ excise tax burdens per millilitre of e-liquid, we collect a unique database of tax characteristics and prices in countries where ENDS/ENNDS are currently sold. We calculate the excise tax per millilitre of e-liquid and convert e-liquid prices to a comparable price per millilitre across countries.

Results

Thirty countries employ a specific excise system, 10 apply an ad valorem system, 9 apply a tiered specific system, 1 applies a tiered ad valorem system and 4 apply a mixed tax system. The excise tax burden is highest in Belarus (87.2%, specific), Norway (81.2%, tiered specific) and Egypt (74.7%, mixed), and lowest in Costa Rica (7.4%, ad valorem), Paraguay (2.9%, ad valorem) and Croatia (0%, specific).

Conclusion

The advantages of one tax system over another are context specific. Tax burdens tend to be much larger in countries that use a specific tax than in countries that use a value-based (ad valorem) tax.
Bias and accuracy of body weight trait evaluations of an F2 chicken using single-step genomic best linear unbiased prediction (ssGBLUP)
Authors: Asadollahi Hamed , Mahyari Saeid Ansari , Vaez Torshizi Rasoul , Emrani Hossein , Ehsani Alireza
Published: September 2023

The objectives of this study were (i) to compare the accuracy and bias of estimates of breeding values for body weight (BW) at 2–7 weeks of age using pedigree-based best linear unbiased prediction (BLUP) and single-step genomic BLUP (ssGBLUP) methods, and (ii) to determine the best level of minor allele frequencies (MAFs) for pre-selection of SNPs for genomic prediction (GP). Records of 488 F2 broiler chickens obtained from crossbreeding of fast-growing Arian chickens and slow-growing Iranian native chickens at 2–7 weeks of age were used. Samples were genotyped using Illumina Chicken 60K BeadChip. To investigate the effect of MAFs on the accuracy of prediction, 48 379 quality-controlled SNPs were grouped into five subgroups with MAF bins 0.05–0.1, 0.1–0.2, 0.2–0.3, 0.3–0.4, and 0.4–0.5. Our results confirmed the superiority of ssGBLUP compared to traditional BLUP methodology. The average accuracy of GP improved by 59.03%, 220.34%, 0.46%, 5.61%, 0.45%, and 2.73% using ssGBLUP compared to BLUP for BW at 2–7 weeks of age, respectively. Depending on the age group, using a subset of SNPs with a specific MAF bin compared to all SNPs resulted in a remarkable improvement of GP accuracy for the observed traits.
Efficiency enhancement of leakage detection and localization methods using leakage gradient and most affected sensors
Authors: Cai Ziyuan , Dziedzic Rebecca , Li S. Samuel
Published: September 2023

Leaks cause substantial economic and water losses for water distribution networks (WDNs). Thus, it is imperative to detect and localize leaks. This paper proposes an efficient set of methods for detecting and localizing leaks, with three main steps: model calibration, leak detection, and leak localization. First, demands, pipe diameter, and pipe roughness in the hydraulic model are calibrated with a genetic algorithm (GA). The X-bar method and cumulative sum control chart are then implemented to detect pipe bursts and incipient leaks, respectively. Lastly, a reduced search space is defined and searched with a GA to locate leaks. The proposed strategy was tested on the hypothetical WDN of L-Town from the Battle of the Leakage Detection and Isolation Methods. Results show that 12 of 19 leaks were detected, and 8 of the 12 leakages were accurately located. Compared with other approaches, the proposed approach is more efficient and equally effective.
Pantheon+ tomography and Hubble tension
Authors: Wang Deng
Published: September 2023

The recently released Type Ia supernovae (SNe Ia) sample, Pantheon+, is an updated version of Pantheon and has very important cosmological implications. To explore the origin of the enhanced constraining power and internal correlations of datasets in different redshifts, we perform a comprehensively tomographic analysis of the Pantheon+ sample without and with the Cepheid host distance calibration, respectively. Specifically, we take two binning methods to analyze the Pantheon+ sample, i.e., equal redshift interval and equal supernovae number for each bin. For the case of equal redshift interval, after dividing the sample to 10 bins, the first bin in the redshift range$$z\in [0.00122, \, 0.227235]$$z∈[0.00122,0.227235]dominates the constraining power of the whole sample. For the case of equal supernovae number, the first three low redshift bins prefer a large matter fraction$$\Omega _m$$Ωmand only the sixth bin gives a relatively low cosmic expansion rate$$H_0$$H0. For both binning methods, we find no obvious evidence of evolution of$$H_0$$H0and$$\Omega _m$$Ωmat the$$2\,\sigma $$2σconfidence level. The inclusion of the SH0ES calibration can significantly compress the parameter space of background dynamics of the universe in each bin. When not considering the calibration, combining the Pantheon+ sample with cosmic microwave background, baryon acoustic oscillations, cosmic chronometers, galaxy clustering and weak lensing data, we give the strongest$$1\,\sigma $$1σconstraint$$H_0=67.88\pm 0.42$$H0=67.88±0.42km$$\hbox {s}^{-1}$$s-1$$\hbox {Mpc}^{-1}$$Mpc-1. However, the addition of the calibration leads to a global shift of the parameter space from the combined constraint and$$H_0=68.66\pm 0.42$$H0=68.66±0.42km$$\hbox {s}^{-1}$$s-1$$\hbox {Mpc}^{-1}$$Mpc-1, which is inconsistent with the Planck-2018 result at about$$2\,\sigma $$2σconfidence level.
Triple plasmon-induced transparency and polarization-insensitive optical switch based on monolayer patterned graphene metamaterial
Authors: Liu Zhimin , Qin Yipeng , Zhou Fengqi , Zhuo Shanshan , Ji Cheng , Yang Guangxin , Xie Yadong , Yang Ruihan , Luo Xin
Published: September 2023

This study introduces a single-layer patterned graphene metamaterial, composed of a graphene ring (GR), two parallel graphene strips (TPGSs), two vertical graphene strips (TVGSs), and a graphene block (GB), which achieves triple plasmon-induced transparency (TPIT) in the terahertz (THz) frequency range using coupled mode theory (CMT) and the finite-difference time-domain (FDTD) technique. Moreover, a synchronized electro-optical switch with four modulation modes is implemented by dynamically adjusting graphene’s Fermi level, exhibiting modulation degrees of amplitude (MDA) of 88.3%, 94.7%, 86.9%, and 89.0% at 1.69[Formula: see text]THz, 3.14[Formula: see text]THz, 3.95[Formula: see text]THz, and 4.67[Formula: see text]THz, respectively. In addition, the modes excited by TPGSs and TVGSs interconvert due to the proposed structure’s symmetry, accounting for the polarization insensitivity of TPIT. The enhanced MDA and polarization insensitivity of the electro-optical switch presented in this study significantly surpass those of comparable electro-optical switches. As a result, the polarization insensitivity of multiple optical switches to incident light fields offers a promising approach for designing optoelectronic devices.
Predicting magnetization plateaus in hexagonal boron nitride-like system: A theoretical study
Authors: Fadil Z. , Raorane Chaitany Jayprakash , Cahaya Adam B. , El Fdil R. , Karam Steve , Khan Aftab Aslam Parwaz , Nguyen Tan N. , Kim Seong Cheol
Published: September 2023

This research employs Monte Carlo simulations to explore the ground state phase diagrams, hysteresis cycles, and magnetization plateaus of hexagonal boron nitride-like system. Specifically, the ground state phase diagrams are meticulously analyzed with respect to the crystalline field (D), exchange coupling parameter ([Formula: see text]), and external magnetic field (H), and are presented on the ([Formula: see text]), ([Formula: see text]), and ([Formula: see text]) planes. The study observes various stable spin configurations for different parameter values. Furthermore, this investigation delves into the behavior of sublattices of the magnetization plateaus, under the influence of exchange coupling parameter ([Formula: see text]), temperature (T), and the crystalline field (D). The outcomes of this study hold significant implications for the development of magnetic materials for diverse applications.
Mathematical Modeling and Teaching of Outer Magnetic Field of a Solenoid Using Smartphones
Authors: Erol Mustafa , Kara Ayşenur
Published: September 2023

The outer magnetic field of a solenoid is commonly ignored and misinterpreted assuming that it is effectively nothing, however in reality, it assuredly exists, nevertheless, reasonably challenging to resolve and teach. Therefore, this work suggests a mathematical modeling approach for determining and teaching the outer magnetic field of a solenoid based on Biot–Savart’s law. The mathematical modeling is managed by using a smartphone embedded with an appropriate magnetic field sensor and application tool. During the performance, the solenoid’s magnetic field is basically varied by changing the current flowing through and the magnetic field is measured by means of smartphone for various distances. The theoretical resolution of the outer magnetic field is also tackled based on the Biot–Savart’s law which leads to a challenging and unknown integral. This approach provides accessibility for physics, teachers and educators to teach and internalize the outer magnetic field of a solenoid and relating Biot–Savart law in a better manner.
Two Simple Experiments Using FFT with Digital Devices in the Introductory Physics Laboratory
Authors: Tufino Eugenio , Gratton Luigi , Oss Stefano
Published: September 2023

We propose two experiments suited for high school and/or undergraduate physics laboratory which are aimed at the discovery of the practical meaning and utility of the FFT analysis as a mathematical and graphical instrument. They intend to discriminate different periodic signals in various situations, ranging from basic, demonstrative measurements to very complex, real-research experiments. In our proposal, inexpensive digital instruments can be used, with surprisingly accurate results.
The bHLH transcription factor ASCL1 promotes differentiation of endocrine cells in the stomach and is regulated by Notch signaling
Authors: Hibdon Elise S. , Keeley Theresa M. , Merchant Juanita L. , Samuelson Linda C.
Published: September 2023

Although Notch signaling is known to regulate cellular differentiation in the stomach, downstream effectors are poorly described. Here we demonstrate that the bHLH transcription factor ASCL1 is expressed in endocrine cells in the stomach and is required for formation of neurogenin-3-dependent enteroendocrine cells but not enterochromaffin-like cells. We also demonstrate that Ascl1 expression is inhibited by Notch signaling, suggesting that ASCL1 is a Notch-regulated transcriptional effector directing enteroendocrine cell fate in the mouse stomach.
The emerging roles of deep crypt secretory cells in colonic physiology
Authors: Schumacher Michael A.
Published: September 2023

Deep crypt secretory (DCS) cells are a population of epithelial cells located at the colonic crypt base that share some similarities to Paneth and goblet cells. They were initially defined as c-Kit expressing cells, though subsequent work showed that they are more specifically marked by Reg4 in the murine colon. The best-understood function of DCS cells at present is supporting the stem cell niche by generating Notch and EGF ligands. However, as these cells also express immunoregulatory (e.g., Ccl6) and host defense (e.g., Retnlb) genes, it is likely they have additional functions in maintaining colonic health outside of maintenance of the stem niche. Recent advances in single-cell transcriptomic profiling hint at additional epithelial and immune roles that may exist for these cells and have aided in elucidating their developmental lineage. This review highlights the emerging evidence supporting a crucial role for DCS cells in intestinal physiology, the current understanding of how these cells are regulated, and their potential role(s) in colonic disease.
How and Why Does Metabolism Scale with Body Mass?
Authors: White Craig R. , Marshall Dustin J.
Published: September 2023

Most explanations for the relationship between body size and metabolism invoke physical constraints; such explanations are evolutionarily inert, limiting their predictive capacity. Contemporary approaches to metabolic rate and life history lack the pluralism of foundational work. Here, we call for reforging of the lost links between optimization approaches and physiology.
A Review on the Antimutagenic and Anticancer Effects of Cysteamine
Authors: Lee Chun-Man
Published: September 2023

Cancer is one of the leading causes of death worldwide. First-line treatments usually include surgery, radiotherapy, and/or systemic therapy. These methods can be associated with serious adverse events and can be toxic to healthy cells. Despite the new advances in cancer therapies, there is still a continuous need for safe and effective therapeutic agents. Cysteamine is an aminothiol endogenously synthetized by human cells during the degradation of coenzyme-A. It has been safely used in humans for the treatment of several pathologies including cystinosis and neurodegenerative diseases. Cysteamine has been shown to be a potent antimutagenic, anticarcinogenic, and antimelanoma in various in vitro and in vivo studies, but a review on these aspects of cysteamine’s use in medicine is lacking in the current literature. The efficacy of cysteamine has been shown in vitro and in vivo for the treatment of different types of cancer, such as gastrointestinal cancer, pancreatic cancer, sarcomas, hepatocellular carcinoma, and melanoma, leading to the significant reduction of lesions and/or the increase of survival time. Although the mechanisms of action are not fully understood, possible explanations are (i) free radical scavenging, (ii) alteration of the tumor cell proliferation by affecting nucleic acid and protein synthesis or inhibition of DNA synthesis, and (iii) hormone regulation. In conclusion, regarding the high safety profile of cysteamine and the current literature data presented in this article, cysteamine might be considered as an interesting molecule for the prevention and the treatment of cancer. Further clinical studies should be performed to support these data in humans.