bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Contactless edge for edge recombination optimization in solar cell
Authors: Xue Shujian , Yang Guangan , Zhao Xing , Wu Jianfei , Li Run , Li Binhong , Xu Yong
Published: July 2024

As the conversion efficiency of solar cell approaching its theoretical limits, reducing the power loss during the collection and transmission process is a promising way to improve the performance of solar cell. Cleaved edges create recombination centers, causing up to 0.8%abs (absolute efficiency) of power loss or even more for 156 × 156 mm silicon solar cell. Due to the complexity of edge passivation technique, alternative methods are desired. This article proposes a method to minimize this problem. It is found that most of the recombination current of edge comes from the recombination near the contact and the space charge region (SCR). As a result, keeping the cleaved edge a certain distance away from the contacts and SCR can improve performance effectively. On the other hand, contactless edge can reduce the recombination from the SCR without extra manufacturing difficulty. The results indicate the edge recombination loss can be reduced to less than 0.4%abs after the distance is optimized appropriately.
Communication Protocols and QECCs from the Perspective of TQFT, Part I: Constructing LOCC Protocols and QECCs from TQFTs
Authors: Fields Chris , Glazebrook James F. , Marcianò Antonino
Published: July 2024

Topological quantum field theories (TQFTs) provide a general, minimal‐assumption language for describing quantum‐state preparation and measurement. They therefore provide a general language in which to express multi‐agent communication protocols, e.g., local operations, classical communication (LOCC) protocols. Here, LOCC protocols are constructed using TQFT and it is shown that LOCC protocols generically induce quantum error‐correcting codes (QECCs). Using multi‐observer scenarios described by quantum Darwinism and Bell/EPR experiments as examples, it is shown how these LOCC‐induced QECCs effectively convert entanglement into classical redundancy. In the accompanying Part II, it is shown that such QECCs can be regarded as implementing, or inducing the emergence of, spacetimes on the boundaries between interacting systems. The connection between inter‐agent communication and spacetime using BF and Chern‐Simons theories, and then using topological M‐theory is investigated.
Characterization of Composite Film Containing Polyvinyl Alcohol Cross‐Linked With Dialdehyde Cellulose Using Citric Acid as a Catalyst for Sustainable Packaging
Authors: Khin Myat Noe , Ahammed Shabbir , Aziz Tariq , Al‐Asmari Fahad , Sameeh Manal Y. , Cui Haiying , Lin Lin
Published: July 2024

This study is aimed at fabricating composite films by cross‐linking polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) and dialdehyde cellulose (DAC) in varying ratios using citric acid as a catalyst. The acetal formation between the two components was studied using FTIR. Characterizations of the physiochemical properties revealed that increasing the DAC ratio of the composite film improved the hydrophobicity, tensile strength and barrier properties (water vapour, UV and oxygen) of the films while reducing elongation at break (flexibility), swelling and solubility of the film in water. When the DAC ratio was elevated to 50%, the tensile strength was enhanced to 98 MPa. In comparison, flexibility diminished to 29%, the solubility of the film reduced to 10% and water vapour permeability was lower by two orders of magnitude than that of the control PVA film. The peroxide value of linoleic acid decreased from 21.2% ± 7.6 (packed with PVA film) to 9.9% ± 0.9 (packed with 50% DAC composite film) after 15 days. Furthermore, the composite films demonstrated effective absorption of UV radiation, with the order of effectiveness being UV‐C > UV‐B > UV‐A radiation. No significant difference in biodegradability was detected in the composite films with an increase in DAC ratio during indoor soil burial tests for 30 days. This study implies that the composite film could serve as an alternative sustainable packaging option, especially when transparency and high oxygen barrier properties are desired.
Improved EMI Shielding Behavior of Barium Ferrite Coated Carbon Fibers in Low‐Density Polyethylene Composites with an Optimized Electroless Coating Process
Authors: Praveen M. , Krishna R. Hari , Karthikeya G. S. , Kumaran P. Sampath , Nagabhushana B. M. , Mamatha G. M.
Published: July 2024

This study describes using carbon fibers coated with magnetic material as a filler in polyethylene for EMI shielding. It investigates how to utilize barium ferrite (BaFeO3) as a conducting filler in a polyethylene matrix by optimizing the conditions for its electroless deposition onto carbon fibers. Various polymer nanocomposite samples were prepared using varying concentrations of BFO@CF. Scanning electron microscopy is used to assess the surface appearance of the composite and the distribution of BFO@CF within the polymer matrix. Including MWCNT/graphene nanoplatelets exhibit superior shielding properties, and the polymer composite with the BFO@CF demonstrates enhanced mechanical properties. The 8.2 to 12.4 GHz frequency range is used to study the EMI shielding properties. For the composition ratio of LDPE: MWCNT: GNP: BFO@CF (50 : 5 : 47.5 : 2.5), a maximum shielding of 67 dB was attained. After BFO@CF was added to the matrix, the absorption mechanism rather than the reflection mechanism dominated the shielding mechanism. A thorough evaluation and discussion of the shielding mechanism and parameters are presented.
Quantification of Recycled Polypropylene Stabilizers for Quality Control by Liquid Chromatography–Tandem Mass Spectrometry Using Simple, Fast and Efficient Ultrasonic Extraction
Authors: Ito Shotaro , Nagatani Asahiro , Watanabe Hirohmi , Aoyagi Masaru
Published: July 2024

Identifying and quantifying stabilizers in recycled plastics is crucial for utilizing recycled plastics in high‐value‐added applications while avoiding inhibitory effects between additives. However, identifying and quantifying stabilizers composed of multiple chemical classes with different chemical structures presents significant challenges. In this study, the time‐dependent extraction of 17 stabilizers, including six phenolic antioxidants, two phosphite antioxidants, two sulfur antioxidants, two hindered amine light stabilizers (HALS), and five ultraviolet absorbers, from a model polypropylene (PP), was investigated to observe the extraction behavior of these stabilizers. Using ultrasonic extraction on cryogenically ground PP powder, the 17 stabilizers were extracted almost quantitatively within a short duration of 1 h. Utilizing the developed extraction method, stabilizers in 10 types of commercially available recycled PP were quantified by liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry, and no significant matrix effects were observed. On average, nine types of stabilizers were detected per sample, highlighting the complexity of the stabilizer formulations in recycled PP. Sulfur antioxidants and HALS, which require caution due to their inhibitory effects, were found simultaneously in five samples, underscoring the importance of identifying and quantifying stabilizers in recycled PP.
Hearing the voice of a graduate Indian international student in the United States: Why my voice matters
Authors: Gopal Kriti
Published: July 2024

This contribution focuses on the experience of an emerging scholar practitioner within higher education who also identifies as an Indian international doctoral student. By using a scholarly personal narrative, the author has described their life experiences and negotiations as a part of their study abroad journey from India to the United States. Using various student development theories to understand international student experiences, the author has critiqued the use of a western lens and discussed the need for scholarship that allows practitioners to view international student experiences from a different perspective. This piece also discusses the emergence of the Indian student population within the United States over the last few years and calls out the need to have more research in areas that focus on their student experiences, the development of student development theories that allows practitioners to better understand Indian students’ experiences and future implications for international higher education within the United States.
Non-close-packed plasmonic Bravais lattices through a fluid interface-assisted colloidal assembly and transfer process
Authors: Feller Déborah , Otten Marius , Dimitriyev Michael S. , Karg Matthias
Published: July 2024

The assembly of colloids at fluid interfaces followed by their transfer to solid substrates represents a robust bottom-up strategy for creating colloidal monolayers over large, macroscopic areas. In this study, we showcase how subtle adjustments in the transfer process, such as varying the contact angle of the substrate and controlling deposition speed and direction, enable the realization of all five two-dimensional Bravais lattices. Leveraging plasmonic core–shell microgels as the building blocks, we successfully engineered non-close-packed plasmonic lattices exhibiting hexagonal, square, rectangular, centered rectangular, and oblique symmetries. Beyond characterizing the monolayer structures and their long-range order, we employed extinction spectroscopy alongside finite difference time domain simulations to comprehensively investigate and interpret the plasmonic response of these monolayers. Additionally, we probed the influence of the refractive index environment on the plasmonic properties by two methods: first, by plasma treatment to remove the microgel shells, and second, by overcoating the resulting gold nanoparticle lattices with a homogeneous refractive index polymer film.

Graphical Abstract
Renaturierungen nur auf freiwilliger Basis? Europa- und verfassungsrechtliche Betrachtungen zum politisch favorisierten Freiwilligkeitsprinzip
Authors: Möckel Stefan
Published: July 2024

Internationale Abkommen, europäische Rechtsakte und das deutsche Grundgesetz verpflichten die
deutschen Staatsorgane zum Schutz der natürlichen Lebensgrundlagen und beinhalten auch Wiederherstellungspflichten.
Entsprechende staatliche Renaturierungsvorhaben lösen allerdings regelmäßig größeren
Widerstand bei Grundeigentümern sowie land- und forstwirtschaftlichen Betrieben aus, auch wenn die
wenigsten Wiederherstellungsmaßnahmen ökonomische Nutzungen gänzlich ausschließen. Seit
der Umsetzung der europäischen Wasser-Rahmenrichtlinie sprechen sich die hiesigen Bundes- und Landesregierungen
in Anbetracht der Widerstände für einen Freiwilligkeitsgrundsatz bei landnutzungsrelevanten Maßnahmen
aus, sodass Renaturierungen nur bei Zustimmung der Betroffenen durchgeführt werden. Verschärft
wird der Konflikt zwischen Allgemeinwohlinteressen und Privatinteressen durch die zunehmende zeitliche Konkretisierung
nationaler Wiederherstellungspflichten im internationalen, europäischen und nationalen Recht. Danach
müssen bis 2027 gute Gewässerzustände erreicht sein sowie bis 2030 viele und bis 2050 alle
erforderlichen degenerierten Ökosysteme auf terrestrischen und marinen Flächen wesentlich verbessert
werden und Europa klimaneutral sein. Damit drängt sich die Frage auf, ob die Grundrechte einen Freiwilligkeitsgrundsatz
bei Wiederherstellungsvorhaben gebieten oder umgekehrt dessen gesetzliche Verankerung gegen relevante Vorschriften
im Grundgesetz (insbesondere Art. 3 Abs. 1 und 20a GG) verstoßen würde.
Facility Layout and Spatial Configuration Efficiency Assessment
Authors: Zhou Enbo , Murray Alan T.
Published: July 2024

With rapid regional development and urbanization, many public and private facilities and infrastructures (e.g., sirens, cellphone base stations, bike sharing stations, wind turbines, etc.) require regular renovation or supplementation. Evaluating existing facility efficiency and expanding to new facility locations are of broad interest among stakeholders, including businesses, urban planners, government agencies, and the public more generally. Such evaluation can be used to improve overall social accessibility, equity and efficiency by reconfiguring or adding new facilities in the best way possible. A regularly distributed lattice is often viewed as an optimal configuration given important observed properties and characteristics. In this paper, we formulate a spatial optimization model to evaluate spatial coverage efficiency. Specifically, given two sets of points, the model seeks the optimal location and orientation of an idealized lattice to align with an existing facility configuration. The distance between existing facilities and the ideally configured lattice under the optimal alignment represents efficiency. An iterative heuristic based on gradient descent and spatial indexing is developed to solve this problem. Extensive computational experience demonstrates the importance of this problem and the effectiveness of the derived solution approach, as well as highlights assistance provided to decision makers in identifying inefficiencies as well as improving existing infrastructure service systems.
Autophagy-related biomarkers in hepatocellular carcinoma and their relationship with immune infiltration
Authors: Li Tingting , Zhang Lin
Published: July 2024

Background

Autophagy regulation plays vital roles in many cancers. We aimed to investigate the expression, prognostic value, and immune infiltration of autophagy-related genes in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) by bioinformatics analysis.

Method

Human autophagy-related differentially expressed genes (DEGs) between adjacent and HCC tissues were identified. We performed Gene Ontology (GO) and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) enrichment analyses. We also evaluated immune infiltration and the response to tumor-sensitive drugs. Finally, we verified the expression of these proteins in clinical samples by immunohistochemistry (IHC), RNA isolation and real-time reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT‒PCR).

Results

A total of 57 autophagy-related DEGs were identified. The HUB genes (BIRC5, CDKN2A, SPP1, and IGF1) were related to the diagnosis and prognosis of HCC. The HUB genes were significantly enriched in immune-related pathways. Furthermore, correlation analysis revealed that HUB gene expression was associated with immune infiltration. We identified 35 tumor-sensitive drugs targeting the HUB genes. Finally, by IHC, we discovered that the protein of CDKN2A, BIRC5, and SPP1 were upregulated in HCC tissues, while IGF1 was downregulated in HCC tissues compared with the levels in paracarcinoma tissues; by RT‒PCR, we discovered that the mRNA of CDKN2A, BIRC5, and SPP1 were upregulated in HCC tissues, while the mRNA of IGF1 was downregulated in HCC tissues compared with the levels in paracarcinoma tissues.

Conclusion

We screened and validated four autophagy-related genes associated with immune infiltration and prognosis in patients with HCC.
Is doxycycline post-exposure prophylaxis being utilised in Germany? Insights from an online survey among German men who have sex with men
Authors: Wagner Laura , Boesecke Christoph , Baumgarten Axel , Scholten Stefan , Schellberg Sven , Hoffmann Christian , Audebert Franz , Noe Sebastian , Erber Johanna , Lee Marcel , Triebelhorn Julian , Schneider Jochen , Spinner Christoph D. , Voit Florian
Published: July 2024

Purpose

Doxycycline post-exposure prophylaxis (Doxy-PEP) reduces the likelihood of Chlamydia and early syphilis by approximately two-thirds. Currently, data on the frequency of Doxy-PEP use in men who have sex with men (MSM) are limited. This study aimed to assess knowledge, attitude towards, and frequency of Doxy-PEP use among MSM in Germany.

Methods

We conducted a national online survey in Germany from summer to fall 2023, recruiting MSM and transgender women. Participants were invited to complete the online survey through social media, online dating platforms, and print media advertisements with active recruitment and poster advertising in private practices, tertiary outpatient clinics, and MSM community events in Germany.

Results

In total, 438 participants completed the survey and were included in the analysis, and 285 (65.1%) were living with the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) or taking HIV-pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP). Overall, 170 participants (38.8%) had heard of Doxy-PEP, and 275 (62.8%) would consider taking it, but only 32 (7.3%) reported having ever taken Doxy-PEP. The most common reason for a negative attitude towards Doxy-PEP were apprehension about insufficient detailed information, and concerns about antibiotic resistance. Doxy-PEP users were more likely to be on HIV-PrEP, had a higher self-reported risk of bacterial sexually transmitted infections (STIs), and often had a history of bacterial STIs.

Conclusion

The study demonstrated high awareness and strong interest in Doxy-PEP among MSM in Germany, most of whom were living with HIV or taking HIV-PrEP; however, the actual usage of Doxy-PEP remains low in the summer and fall of 2023.
From da Vinci to cybersecurity: tracing the evolution of autonomous vehicles and ensuring safe platooning operations
Authors: Hussein Noon
Published: July 2024

Since Leonardo da Vinci’s creation of a self-propelled cart in the 1500s (Palmer. in Significant figures in world history p. 75--7, 2018), the evolution of Autonomous Vehicles (AVs) has aimed to revolutionize transportation. While AVs promise improved safety, traffic efficiency, and industrial optimization by reducing human intervention, ensuring their security remains paramount. This paper provides a thorough literature review spanning from historical milestones to contemporary advancements in AV technology. It delves into the significance of Vehicular Ad-hoc NETworks (VANETs) for safety applications and underscores the critical role of speed harmonization and string stability in safeguarding AV platoons. Furthermore, the paper addresses cybersecurity threats targeting platoon networks, advocating for research into encryption mechanisms, road-side units, control algorithms, hybrid communications, and on-board system security to bolster communication security within platoons. By advocating for a balance between AV technological advancements and robust security measures, this paper facilitates safe and reliable AV platooning operations.
Distribution and determinants of healthcare costs for self-care behaviours among patients with type 2 diabetes across low-resource communities in Nepal
Authors: Dahal Padam Kanta , Rawal Lal , Ademi Zanfina , Mahumud Rashidul Alam , Paudel Grish , Vandelanotte Corneel
Published: July 2024

Background

Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) is a global public health problem, imposing significant financial burden on its’ management and care. Patients’ self-care behaviours can help to reduce the financial burden on healthcare resources. However, no studies have examined the distribution of healthcare costs related to self-care behaviours in low and lower middle-income countries. Therefore, this study aimed to explore the distribution and associated determinants of healthcare expenses incurred on self-care behaviours among patients with T2DM in low-resource communities in Nepal.

Methods

We conducted a cross-sectional study, collecting data from 481 patients with T2DM across low-resource communities in the Kavrepalanchok and Nuwakot districts of Nepal. We applied micro-costing with a bottom-up approach to estimate the healthcare costs for 6 month periods. Self-care behaviours were assessed using a self-reported questionnaire. The relationship between healthcare expenses and self-care behaviours was modelled by using a generalised linear model with an identity-link function and 10,000 bootstrapping resampling techniques.

Results

The average healthcare cost for managing T2DM is US $22.87 per patient for 6 months. Patients who engaged in footcare had the highest total expenses at US $71.98, followed by those who regularly conducted glucose monitoring (US $29.55), met physical activity recommendations (US $23.68), adhered to prescribed medication intake (US $23.59) and adhered to recommended dietary habits (US $22.98). Those patients who met the physical activity guidelines, regularly conducted glucose monitoring, and engaged in footcare had 18%, 32%, and 102% higher expenses respectively, compared to their counterparts.

Conclusions

Footcare was the most expensive and least practised component of self-care behaviour for managing T2DM, followed by glucose monitoring and physical activity, underscoring the significance of making these behaviours affordable and accessible in diabetes management. This provides valuable insight for decision-makers to prioritise and ensure these behaviours are affordable for patients with diabetes.

Graphical Abstract
Artificial intelligence for sustainability: opportunities and risks of utilizing Earth observation technologies to protect forests
Authors: Causevic Amar , Causevic Sara , Fielding Matthew , Barrott Julia
Published: July 2024

Extreme heat, massive floods, and ever-longer droughts caused by climate change are intensifying in magnitude and intensity across the globe. Forests are threatened by increases in the average global temperature and human-driven economic activity. Artificial intelligence and Earth observation technologies present opportunities to improve environmental sustainability, promoting Sustainable Development Goals through more efficient forest management and stewardship. These technologies can potentially improve the mapping, understanding, and monitoring of forests’ ecosystem services, directly aiding humanity’s efforts to combat climate change. However, increased use of these technologies could also create new risks, making these efforts counterproductive. This perspective article identifies opportunities and risks of using artificial intelligence and Earth observation technologies to protect forests globally. It discusses how risks can be mitigated and what governance mechanisms should be used to design sustainable forest-focused artificial intelligence.
STAR‐ESDM: A Generalizable Approach to Generating High‐Resolution Climate Projections Through Signal Decomposition
Authors: Hayhoe Katharine , Scott‐Fleming Ian , Stoner Anne , Wuebbles Donald J.
Published: July 2024

High‐resolution climate projections are critical to assessing climate risk and developing climate resilience strategies. However, they remain limited in quality, availability, and/or geographic coverage. The Seasonal Trends and Analysis of Residuals empirical statistical downscaling model (STAR‐ESDM) is a computationally‐efficient, flexible approach to generating such projections that can be applied globally using predictands and predictors sourced from weather stations, gridded data sets, satellites, reanalysis, and global or regional climate models. It uses signal processing combined with Fourier filtering and kernel density estimation techniques to decompose and smooth any quasi‐Gaussian time series, gridded or point‐based, into multi‐decadal long‐term means and/or trends; static and dynamic annual cycles; and probability distributions of daily variability. Long‐term predictor trends are bias‐corrected and predictor components used to map predictand components to future conditions. Components are then recombined for each station or grid cell to produce a continuous, high‐resolution bias‐corrected and downscaled time series at the spatial and temporal scale of the predictand time series. Comparing STAR‐ESDM output driven by coarse global climate model simulations with daily temperature and precipitation projections generated by a high‐resolution version of the same global model demonstrates it is capable of accurately reproducing projected changes for all but the most extreme temperature and precipitation values. For most continental areas, biases in 1‐in‐1000 hottest and coldest temperatures are <0.5°C and biases in the 1‐in‐1000 wet day precipitation amounts are <5 mm/day. As climate impacts intensify, STAR‐ESDM represents a significant advance in generating consistent high‐resolution projections to comprehensively assess climate risk and optimize resilience globally.
Nearshore Flow Dynamics Over Shore‐Oblique Bathymetric Features During Storm Wave Conditions
Authors: Szczyrba L. , Mulligan R. P. , Pufahl P. , Humberston J. , McNinch J.
Published: July 2024

Shore‐oblique bathymetric features occur around the world and have been statistically correlated with enhanced shoreline retreat on sandy beaches. However, the physical mechanisms that explain a causal relationship are not well understood. In this study, radar remote sensing observations and results from a phase‐resolved numerical model explore how complex morphology alters nearshore hydrodynamics. Observations at selected times during high‐energy storm events as well as a suite of idealized simulations indicate that shore‐oblique features induce strong spatial variations in the water surface elevation, wave breaking patterns, and mean current pathways. Re‐emergent offshore flows and longshore current accelerations occur near the shoreward apex of the oblique nearshore features. The results suggest that complex bathymetric morphology exerts a powerful control on nearshore hydrodynamics and increases the potential for enhanced cross‐shore and alongshore sediment transport.
On the Layered Structure and Seasonal Variation of the Water Exchanges in the Sulawesi Sea Areas As Well As the Associated Dynamics
Authors: Zhang Hua , Peng Shiqiu , Qian Yu‐Kun , Li Shaotian
Published: July 2024

The layered structure and seasonal variation of the water exchanges in the Sulawesi Sea areas, as well as the corresponding dynamics, are investigated using HYCOM data. A net inward water mass transport is identified in the upper and intermediate layers in the Sulawesi Sea and it is compensated by the net outward transport in the deep layer. As an important source of this net inward transport, the southward flow through the Sibutu Passage (denoted hereafter as Sibutu Flow) reaches 5.06 Sv in winter, accounting for ∼43% of the net inflow. However, it decreases substantially to 1.79 Sv in summer, accounting for only 12% of the inflow. Further analysis reveals that this Sibutu Flow modulates the seasonal variation of the corresponding outward flow at the Makassar Strait, the major exit of the water mass in the Sulawesi Sea. In winter, the enhancement of the Sibutu Flow associated with the greater intrusion of Kuroshio water into the Luzon Strait produces a stronger eastward pressure gradient force, suppressing the surface intrusion of the Mindanao Current. Conversely, this pressure gradient force weakens and shifts westward in summer, permitting a larger water intrusion from the eastern section. Given that the outward Makassar Flow is the main passage of the Indonesian Throughflow (ITF), our study highlights the essential role of the Sibutu Flow in modulating seasonal variabilities of the ITF via the Makassar Strait and, thus, the transfer of water masses and heat content between the Pacific and Indian Oceans.
Geodynamic and Climatic Forcing on Late‐Cenozoic Exhumation of the Southern Patagonian Andes (Fitz Roy and Torres del Paine massifs)
Authors: Muller Veleda A. P. , Sue Christian , Valla Pierre G. , Sternai Pietro , Simon‐Labric Thibaud , Gautheron Cécile , Cuffey Kurt M. , Grujic Djordje , Bernet Matthias , Martinod Joseph , Ghiglione Matias C. , Reiners Peter , Willett Chelsea , Shuster David , Herman Frédéric , Baumgartner Lukas , Braun Jean
Published: July 2024

High‐relief glacial valleys shape the modern topography of the Southern Patagonian Andes, but their formation remains poorly understood. Two Miocene plutonic complexes in the Andean retroarc, the Fitz Roy (49°S) and Torres del Paine (51°S) massifs, were emplaced between 16.9–16.4 Ma and 12.6–12.4 Ma, respectively. Subduction of oceanic ridge segments initiated ca. 16 Ma at 54°S, leading to northward opening of a slab window with associated mantle upwelling. The onset of major glaciations caused drastic topographic changes since ca. 7 Ma. To constrain the respective contributions of tectonic‐mantle dynamics and fluvio‐glacial erosion to rock exhumation and landscape evolution, we perform inverse thermal modeling of a new data set of zircon and apatite (U‐Th)/He from the two massifs, complemented by apatite 4He/3He data for Torres del Paine. Our results show rapid rock exhumation recorded only in the Fitz Roy massif between 10 and 8 Ma, which we ascribe to local mantle upwelling forcing surface uplift and intensified erosion around 49°S. Both massifs record a pulse of rock exhumation between 7 and 4 Ma, which we interpret as enhanced erosion during the beginning of Patagonian glaciations. After a period of erosional and tectonic quiescence in the Pliocene, increased rock exhumation since 3–2 Ma is interpreted as the result of alpine glacial valley carving promoted by reinforced glacial‐interglacial cycles. This study highlights that glacial erosion was the main driver to rock exhumation in the Patagonian retroarc since 7 Ma, but that mantle upwelling might be a driving force to rock exhumation as well.
Emerging Risk to Dengue in Asian Metropolitan Areas Under Global Warming
Authors: Jing Cheng , Wang Guojie , Ebi Kristie L. , Su Buda , Wang Xiaoming , Chen Dong , Jiang Tong , Kundzewicz Zbigniew W.
Published: July 2024

Aedes sp. mosquitoes are changing their geographic range in response to climate change. This is of concern because these mosquitoes can carry dengue fever and other viral diseases. Changing weather patterns can also increase the numbers of Aedes mosquitoes, leading to greater human exposure and enhancing population health risks. We project the geographic distribution of Aedes and associated changes in populations exposed to dengue in Asian metropolitan areas under warming scenarios from 1.5°C to 5.0°C above pre‐industrial temperatures, using multi‐model ensembles. With global warming, the southern part of the Arabian Peninsula, the coast of the Arabian Sea in southern Iran, southern Pakistan in West Asia, the Korean Peninsula, most of the Japanese islands, and parts of North China in East Asia are projected to become suitable for dengue transmission. The numbers of metropolitan areas exposed to dengue is projected to change from 142 (48%) in the reference period (1995–2014) to 211 (71%) at 5.0°C warming. With the combined impact of socioeconomic and climate change, population exposure to dengue in Asian metropolitan areas is projected to increase from 263 (multi‐model range 252–268) million in 1995–2014 to 411 (394–432) million, 446 (420–490) million, 509 (475–601), 558 (493–685) and 587 (529–773) million, respectively, at 1.5°C, 2.0°C, 3.0°C, 4.0°C and 5°C warming, with an average of 2.9 million new people exposed to dengue fever in metropolitan areas each year.
Tracing Ocean Circulation and Mixing From the Arctic to the Subpolar North Atlantic Using the 129I–236U Dual Tracer
Authors: Dale Duncan , Christl Marcus , Vockenhuber Christof , Macrander Andreas , Ólafsdóttir Sólveig , Middag Rob , Casacuberta Núria
Published: July 2024

This study represents the first use of the artificial radionuclides 129I and 236U, released into the ocean mainly from Nuclear Reprocessing Plants, as a dual tracer in the vicinity of Iceland with novel estimation of ocean circulatory pathways and mixing in the region. Iceland lies at the gateway to the Arctic where warm, saline Atlantic waters interact with waters of Arctic origin in ways that have critical consequences for the strength and stability of the Atlantic Meridional Overturning Circulation. Many of these interactions are not yet fully understood, such as how Atlantic water circulates around the Arctic Ocean and Nordic Seas and the composition and fate of the major overflows of the Greenland‐Scotland Ridge. Using new and previous measurements of 129I and 236U in seawater, we present a new method of appraising water mass provenance and mixing in the form of the 129I–236U dual mixing plot. With this method, we estimate that at least half the Atlantic‐origin water entering the Arctic Ocean circulates around the Canada Basin before exiting at Fram Strait and that this outflow is increased by about 40% by mixing with Return Atlantic Water “short‐circuiting” the Arctic Ocean at Fram Strait. We present tracer‐based evidence that water carried by the East Greenland Current has an unbroken pathway to the Faroe‐Shetland Channel and that Iceland‐Scotland Overflow Water (ISOW) entrains 60% Labrador Sea Water during transit past southeast Iceland. We present an unambiguous way to differentiate ISOW from DSOW after they partially merge in the Irminger Sea.
Advances in the study of phencyclidine-induced schizophrenia-like animal models and the underlying neural mechanisms
Authors: Li Dabing , Pan Qiangwen , Xiao Yewei , Hu Kehui
Published: July 2024

Schizophrenia (SZ) is a chronic, severe mental disorder with heterogeneous clinical manifestations and unknown etiology. Research on SZ has long been limited by the low reliability of and ambiguous pathogenesis in schizophrenia animal models. Phencyclidine (PCP), a noncompetitive N-methyl-D-aspartate receptor (NMDAR) antagonist, rapidly induces both positive and negative symptoms of SZ as well as stable SZ-related cognitive impairment in rodents. However, the neural mechanism underlying PCP-induced SZ-like symptoms is not fully understood. Nondopaminergic pathophysiology, particularly excessive glutamate release induced by NMDAR hypofunction in the prefrontal cortex (PFC), may play a key role in the development of PCP-induced SZ-like symptoms. In this review, we summarize studies on the behavioral and metabolic effects of PCP and the cellular and circuitary targets of PCP in the PFC and hippocampus (HIP). PCP is thought to target the ventral HIP-PFC pathway more strongly than the PFC-VTA pathway and thalamocortical pathway. Systemic PCP administration might preferentially inhibit gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) neurons in the vHIP and in turn lead to hippocampal pyramidal cell disinhibition. Excitatory inputs from the HIP may trigger sustained, excessive and pathological PFC pyramidal neuron activation to mediate various SZ-like symptoms. In addition, astrocyte and microglial activation and oxidative stress in the cerebral cortex or hippocampus have been observed in PCP-induced models of SZ. These findings perfect the hypoglutamatergic hypothesis of schizophrenia. However, whether these effects direct the consequences of PCP administration and how about the relationships between these changes induced by PCP remain further elucidation through rigorous, causal and direct experimental evidence.
Robustness and exploration between the interplay of the nonlinear co-dynamics HIV/AIDS and pneumonia model via fractional differential operators and a probabilistic approach
Authors: Rashid Saima , Hamidi Sher Zaman , Raza Muhammad Aon , Shafique Rafia , Alsubaie Assayel Sultan , Elagan Sayed K.
Published: July 2024

In this article, we considered a nonlinear compartmental mathematical model that assesses the effect of treatment on the dynamics of HIV/AIDS and pneumonia (H/A-P) co-infection in a human population at different infection stages. Understanding the complexities of co-dynamics is now critically necessary as a consequence. The aim of this research is to construct a co-infection model of H/A-P in the context of fractional calculus operators, white noise and probability density functions, employing a rigorous biological investigation. By exhibiting that the system possesses non-negative and bounded global outcomes, it is shown that the approach is both mathematically and biologically practicable. The required conditions are derived, guaranteeing the eradication of the infection. Furthermore, adequate prerequisites are established, and the configuration is tested for the existence of an ergodic stationary distribution. For discovering the system’s long-term behavior, a deterministic-probabilistic technique for modeling is designed and operated in MATLAB. By employing an extensive review, we hope that the previously mentioned approach improves and leads to mitigating the two diseases and their co-infections by examining a variety of behavioral trends, such as transitions to unpredictable procedures. In addition, the piecewise differential strategies are being outlined as having promising potential for scholars in a range of contexts because they empower them to include particular characteristics across multiple time frame phases. Such formulas can be strengthened via classical techniques, power law, exponential decay, generalized Mittag-Leffler kernels, probability density functions and random procedures. Furthermore, we get an accurate description of the probability density function encircling a quasi-equilibrium point if the effect of H/A-P minimizes the propagation of the co-dynamics. Consequently, scholars can obtain better outcomes when analyzing facts using random perturbations by implementing these strategies for challenging issues. Random perturbations in H/A-P co-infection are crucial in controlling the spread of an epidemic whenever the suggested circulation is steady and the amount of infection eliminated is closely correlated with the random perturbation level.
Healthcare resource utilisation and costs associated with AL amyloidosis: a retrospective matched cohort study
Authors: Shen Shih-Pei , Hou Hsin-An , Huang Kuan-Chih , Goh Choo Hua , Qiu Hong , Rothwell Lee Anne , Wu Kwang-Wei , Chandwani Hitesh , Liu Yanfang , Tang Chao-Hsiun
Published: July 2024

We conducted a retrospective population-based, matched cohort study using the National Health Insurance Research Database to estimate healthcare resource utilisation (HRU) and costs in patients with newly diagnosed AL amyloidosis in Taiwan. Cases were matched 10:1 by age, sex, and area of residence to patients without AL amyloidosis (comparators) randomly selected from the database during the same time period. Annual all-cause HRU and costs for 3 years were quantified. AL amyloidosis-attributable costs were obtained by subtracting all-cause HRU costs incurred by comparators from cases. The mean age of all patients was 60.78 years and 59.07% were male. Co-morbidities were more frequent in cases than comparators. By 6 months after diagnosis, 12.1% of cases had died versus 0.9% of comparators. In the first year, cases had 103% more outpatient visits, 177% more emergency room visits, were hospitalised 4-times more frequently, and spent 5.5-times more days in hospital than comparators, and total healthcare costs were > sixfold higher. Costs incurred during the first year after diagnosis accounted for 55% of the 3-year cumulative cost. High HRU costs associated with delayed diagnosis and end-organ damage indicate a need for earlier diagnosis and more effective treatments for AL amyloidosis.
New nano-complexes targeting protein 3S7S in breast cancer and protein 4OO6 in liver cancer investigated in cell line
Authors: Faheem Shaima M. , Osman Hiam M. , El-Tabl Abdou S. , Abd-El Wahed Moshira M. , Younes Sara M.
Published: July 2024

Cancer, a lethal ailment, possesses a multitude of therapeutic alternatives to combat its presence, metal complexes have emerged as significant classes of medicinal compounds, exhibiting considerable biological efficacy, especially as anticancer agents. The utilization of cis-platin in the treatment of various cancer types, including breast cancer, has served as inspiration to devise novel nanostructured metal complexes for breast cancer therapy. Notably, homo- and hetero-octahedral bimetallic complexes of an innovative multifunctional ether ligand (comprising Mn(II), Ni(II), Cu(II), Zn(II), Hg(II), and Ag(I) ions) have been synthesized. To ascertain their structural characteristics, elemental and spectral analyses, encompassing IR, UV–Vis, 1H-NMR, mass and electron spin resonance (ESR) spectra, magnetic moments, molar conductance, thermal analysis, and electron microscopy, were employed. The molar conductance of these complexes in DMF demonstrated a non-electrolytic nature. Nanostructured forms of the complexes were identified through electron microscopic data. At ambient temperature, the ESR spectra of the solid complexes exhibited anisotropic and isotropic variants, indicative of covalent bonding. The ligand and several of its metal complexes were subjected to cytotoxicity testing against breast cancer protein 3S7S and liver cancer protein 4OO6, with the Ag(I) complex (7) evincing the most potent effect, followed by the Cu(II) with ligand (complex (2)), Cis-platin, the ligand itself, and the Cu(II)/Zn(II) complex (8). Molecular docking data unveiled the inhibitory order of several complexes.
Earliest evidence of human occupations and technological complexity above the 45th North parallel in Western Europe. The site of Lunery-Rosieres la-Terre-des-Sablons (France, 1.1 Ma)
Authors: Despriée Jackie , Moncel Marie-Hélène , Courcimault Gilles , Voinchet Pierre , Jouanneau Jean-Claude , Bahain Jean-Jacques
Published: July 2024

The site of LuneryRosieres la-Terre-des-Sablons (Lunery, Cher, France) comprises early evidence of human occupation in mid-latitudes in Western Europe. It demonstrates hominin presence in the Loire River Basin during the Early Pleistocene at the transition between an interglacial stage and the beginning of the following glacial stage. Three archaeological levels sandwiched and associated with two diamicton levels deposited on the downcutting river floor indicate repeated temporary occupations. Lithic material yields evidence of simple and more complex core technologies on local Jurassic siliceous rocks and Oligocene millstone. Hominins availed of natural stone morphologies to produce flakes with limited preparation. Some cores show centripetal management and a partially prepared striking platform. The mean ESR age of 1175 ka ± 98 ka obtained on fluvial sediments overlying the archaeological levels could correspond to the transition between marine isotopic stages (MIS) 37 and 36, during the normal Cobb Mountain subchron, and in particular at the beginning of MIS 36. The Lunery site shows that hominins were capable of adapting to early glacial environmental conditions and adopting appropriate strategies for settling in mid-latitude zones. These areas cannot be considered as inhospitable at that time as Lunery lies at some distance from the forming ice cap.
Genetically synthesized supergain broadband wire-bundle antenna
Authors: Vovchuk Dmytro , Uziel Gilad , Machnev Andrey , Porins Jurgis , Bobrovs Vjaceslavs , Ginzburg Pavel
Published: July 2024

High-gain antennas are essential hardware devices, powering numerous daily applications, including distant point-to-point communications, safety radars, and many others. While a common approach to elevate gain is to enlarge an antenna aperture, highly resonant subwavelength structures can potentially grant high gain performances. The Chu-Harrington limit is a standard criterion to assess electrically small structures and those surpassing it are called superdirective. Supergain is obtained in a case when internal losses are mitigated, and an antenna is matched to radiation, though typically in a very narrow frequency band. Here we develop a concept of a spectrally overlapping resonant cascading, where tailored multipole hierarchy grants both high gain and sufficient operational bandwidth. Our architecture is based on a near-field coupled wire bundle. Genetic optimization, constraining both gain and bandwidth, is applied on a 24-dimensional space and predicts 8.81 dBi realized gain within a half-wavelength in a cube volume. The experimental gain is 8.22 dBi with 13% fractional bandwidth. The developed approach can be applied across other frequency bands, where miniaturization of wireless devices is highly demanded.
A tunable multi-timescale Indium-Gallium-Zinc-Oxide thin-film transistor neuron towards hybrid solutions for spiking neuromorphic applications
Authors: Velazquez Lopez Mauricio , Linares-Barranco Bernabe , Lee Jua , Erfanijazi Hamidreza , Patino-Saucedo Alberto , Sifalakis Manolis , Catthoor Francky , Myny Kris
Published: July 2024

Spiking neural network algorithms require fine-tuned neuromorphic hardware to increase their effectiveness. Such hardware, mainly digital, is typically built on mature silicon nodes. Future artificial intelligence applications will demand the execution of tasks with increasing complexity and over timescales spanning several decades. The multi-timescale requirements for certain tasks cannot be attained effectively enough through the existing silicon-based solutions. Indium-Gallium-Zinc-Oxide thin-film transistors can alleviate the timescale-related shortcomings of silicon platforms thanks to their bellow atto-ampere leakage currents. These small currents enable wide timescale ranges, far beyond what has been feasible through various emerging technologies. Here we have estimated and exploited these low leakage currents to create a multi-timescale neuron that integrates information spanning a range of 7 orders of magnitude and assessed its advantages in larger networks. The multi-timescale ability of this neuron can be utilized together with silicon to create hybrid spiking neural networks capable of effectively executing more complex tasks than their single-technology counterparts.
Promoting Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion for Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders in Speech-Language-Hearing Sciences
Authors: Huang Timothy , Du Yao , Sun Siena , Ito Nadhiya , Sun Lei , Yu Betty , Cheng Li-Rong Lilly , Chiou Hsinhuei Sheen
Published: July 2024

Purpose:

The purpose of this viewpoint is to outline and describe the Asian Pacific Islander (API) Speech-Language-Hearing Caucus's initiatives to promote diversity, equity, and inclusion for Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders (AAPIs) in speech-language pathology and audiology. Specifically, we discuss the caucus's efforts through research and community advocacy. Through research, the Counter Story Project, led by Breslin et al. (2022), was a qualitative study that documented and analyzed systemic racism experienced by AAPI professionals. Thematic findings revealed microaggressions in professional settings and racial overgeneralizations on AAPIs' communication and cultural upbringing. Through community advocacy, the caucus provides a wide array of programs and events, including Anti-Racism Learning Community, API Speaker Series, Bilingual Assessment and Treatment Resources, Career Panel, API Caucus Research and Clinical Symposium, Graduate School Panel, API Scholarship, and API Mentorship Program.

Conclusion:

Through these initiatives, the caucus strives for recruitment and retention of AAPI audiologists and speech-language pathologists to achieve its long-term mission of providing accessible and quality speech, language, and hearing services to AAPI communities in the United States.