bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Transcriptional changes of proteins of the thioredoxin and glutathione systems in Acanthamoeba spp. under oxidative stress – an RNA approach
Authors: Köhsler Martina , Leitsch David , Loufouma Mbouaka Alvie , Wekerle Maximilian , Walochnik Julia
Published: May 2022

The thioredoxin (Trx) and the glutathione (GSH) systems represent important antioxidant systems in cells and in particular thioredoxin reductase (TrxR) has been shown to constitute a promising drug target in parasites. For the facultative protozoal pathogen Acanthamoeba, it was demonstrated that a bacterial TrxR as well as a TrxR, characteristic of higher eukaryotes, mammals and humans is expressed on the protein level. However, only bacterial TrxR is strongly induced by oxidative stress in Acanthamoeba castellanii. In this study, the impact of oxidative stress on key enzymes involved in the thioredoxin and the glutathione system of A. castellanii under different culture conditions and of clinical Acanthamoeba isolates was evaluated on the RNA level employing RT-qPCR. Additionally, the effect of auranofin, a thioredoxin reductase inhibitor, already established as a potential drug in other parasites, on target enzymes in A. castellanii was investigated. Oxidative stress induced by hydrogen peroxide led to significant stimulation of bacterial TrxR and thioredoxin, while diamide had a strong impact on all investigated enzymes. Different strains displayed distinct transcriptional responses, rather correlating to sensitivity against the respective stressor than to respective pathogenic potential. Culture conditions appear to have a major effect on transcriptional changes in A. castellanii. Treatment with auranofin led to transcriptional activation of the GSH system, indicating its role as a potential backup for the Trx system. Altogether, our data provide more profound insights into the complex redox system of Acanthamoeba, preparing the ground for further investigations on this topic.
Fäkaler Mikrobiota Transfer (FMT) bei Kindern und Jugendlichen
– Review und Stellungnahme der GPGE AG Mikrobiom
Authors: Joachim Alexander , Schwerd Tobias , Hölz Hannes , Sokollik Christiane , Konrad Lukas Alfons , Jordan Alexander , Lanzersdorfer Roland , Schmidt-Choudhury Anjona , Hünseler Christoph , Adam Rüdiger
Published: May 2022

Das menschliche Mikrobiom und im speziellen die gastrointestinale Mikrobiota sind mit Gesundheit und Krankheit assoziiert. Eine Störung ihrer Zusammensetzung oder Funktion (Dysbiose) spielen eine Rolle bei der Entstehung von kindergastroenterologischen Krankheitsbildern. Der fäkale Mikrobiota-Transfer (FMT) ist eine spezielle Intervention, bei der intestinale Mikrobiota eines gesunden Spenders transferiert werden.

In diesem Review beschreiben wir die aktuelle Studienlage bezüglich FMT bei pädiatrischen Patient*innen. Für rezidivierende C. difficile-Infektionen bestehen eine gute Datenlage und Empfehlungen der entsprechenden Fachgesellschaften. Bei der Behandlung von chronisch-entzündlichen Darmerkrankungen (CED) mittels FMT liegen erste Daten vor, die auf eine Reduktion der Krankheitsschwere hindeuten.

Nebenwirkungen traten in Studien häufig auf, zeigten sich aber meist milde und transient. Zu in der Pädiatrie besonders bedeutsamen langfristigen Nebenwirkungen eines FMT existieren kaum Daten.

Bei der praktischen Durchführung besteht große Unklarheit, welche Modalitäten und Applikationsrouten angewendet werden sollten. Rechtlich gilt Spenderstuhl im deutschsprachigen Raum als Arzneimittel, für das keine Zulassung vorliegt.

Insgesamt sind die Erkenntnisse zu den physiologischen Zusammenhängen, Wirkungen und Nebenwirkungen noch unzureichend und rechtliche Rahmenbedingungen erschweren die Durchführung. Weitere klinische Studien auf dem Gebiet sind zwingend notwendig.
New method for real-time visualization and quantitative characterization of early colorectal cancer in endoscopy: a pilot study
Authors: Wagner Andrej , Zandanell Stephan , Ziachehabi Alexander , Mitrakov Alexander , Klieser Eckhard , Neureiter Daniel , Kiesslich Tobias , Mayr Christian , Berr Frieder , Fedoruk Michael , Singhartinger Franz , Holzinger Josef
Published: May 2022

Background and study aims Endoscopic optical diagnosis is crucial to the therapeutic strategy for early gastrointestinal cancer. It accurately (> 85 %) predicts pT category based on microsurface (SP) and vascular patterns (VP). However, interobserver variability is a major problem. We have visualized and digitalized the graded irregularities based on bioinformatically enhanced quantitative endoscopic image analysis (BEE) of high-definition white-light images.

Methods In a pilot study of 26 large colorectal lesions (LCLs, mean diameter 39 mm), we retrospectively compared BEE variables with corresponding histopathology of the resected LCLs.

Results We included 10 adenomas with low-grade intraepithelial neoplasia (LGIN), nine with high-grade intraepithelial neoplasia (HGIN) and early adenocarcinoma (EAC), and seven deeply submucosal invasive carcinomas. Quantified density (d) and nonuniformity (CU) of vascular and surface structures correlated with histology (rs d VP: –0.77, rs CU VP: 0.13, rs d SP: –0.76, and rs CU SP: 0.45, respectively). A computed BEE score showed a sensitivity and specificity of 90 % and 100 % in the group with LGINs, 89 % and 41 % in the group with HGINs and EACs, and 100 % and 95 % in the group with deeply invasive carcinoma, respectively.

Conclusions In this pilot study, BEE showed promise as a tool for endoscopic characterization of LCLs during routine endoscopy. Prospective clinical studies are needed.
M. R. Kukrit Pramoj’s theory of good governance and political change: the dialectics of Farang Sakdina
Authors: Waters Tony
Published: May 2022

M. R. Kukrit Pramoj wrote Farang Sakdina in 1957–1958 as both a theoretical critique of western development planners, and the Marxist critics of Thai society like Jit Phoumisak. Kukrit’s critique was that both used only European examples to prescribe development policies for Thailand. By this he meant that the Americans insisted on modernization theory, and Soviet theoreticians insisted on Marx’s historical materialism. Kukrit responded that data developed from Europe is not applicable to Thailand because European feudalism had different attitudes toward land and labor than the ancient Thai “feudalism” known as sakdina. A textual analysis of Kukrit’s book Farang Sakdina reveals Kukrit proposes a dialectical theory of historical change in which the “contradictions” within society are continually resolved and reconstituted. Kukrit uses this data to analyze politics and kingship in England, Thailand, and implicitly, other countries.
Classical dynamics from self-consistency equations in quantum mechanics
Authors: Bru J.-B. , de Siqueira Pedra W.
Published: May 2022

During the last three decades, Pavel Bóna developed a non-linear generalization of quantum mechanics, which is based on symplectic structures for normal states. One important application of such a generalization is a general setting that is very convenient to study the emergence of macroscopic classical dynamics from microscopic quantum processes. We propose here a new mathematical approach to Bóna’s non-linear quantum mechanics. It is based on C0-semigroup theory and has a domain of applicability that is much broader than Bóna’s original one. It highlights the central role of self-consistency. This leads to a mathematical framework in which the classical and quantum worlds are naturally entangled. In this new mathematical approach, we build a Poisson bracket for the polynomial functions on the Hermitian weak*-continuous functionals on any C*-algebra. This is reminiscent of a well-known construction for finite-dimensional Lie algebras. We then restrict this Poisson bracket to states of this C*-algebra by taking quotients with respect to Poisson ideals. This leads to densely defined symmetric derivations on the commutative C*-algebras of real-valued functions on the set of states. Up to a closure, these are proven to generate C0-groups of contractions. As a matter of fact, in generic commutative C*-algebras, even the closableness of unbounded symmetric derivations is a non-trivial issue. Some new mathematical concepts are introduced, which are possibly interesting by themselves: the convex weak* Gâteaux derivative and the state-dependent C*-dynamical systems. Our recent results on macroscopic dynamical properties of lattice-fermion and quantum-spin systems with long-range, or mean-field, interactions corroborate the relevance of the general approach we present here.
A strong anti-noise segmentation algorithm based on variational mode decomposition and multi-wavelet for wearable heart sound acquisition system
Authors: Xiahou Shiji , Liang Yuhang , Ma Min , Du Mingrui
Published: May 2022

Wearable devices have now been widely used in the acquisition and measurement of heart sound signals with good effect. However, the wearable heart sound acquisition system (WHSAS) will face more noise compared with the traditional system, such as Gaussian white noise, powerline interference, colored noise, motion artifact noise, and lung sound noise, because users often wear these devices for running, walking, jumping or various strong noise occasions. In a strong noisy environment, WHSAS needs a high-precision segmentation algorithm. This paper proposes a segmentation algorithm based on Variational Mode Decomposition (VMD) and multi-wavelet. In the algorithm, various noises are layered and filtered out using VMD. The cleaner signal is fed into multi-wavelet to construct a time–frequency matrix. Then, the principal component analysis method is applied to reduce the dimension of the matrix. After extracting the high order Shannon envelope and Teager energy envelope of the heart sound, we accurately segment the signals. In this paper, the algorithm is verified through our developing WHSAS. The results demonstrate that the proposed algorithm can achieve high-precision segmentation of the heart sound under a mixed noise condition.
Defining “giant” electrostriction
Authors: Yu Jiacheng , Janolin Pierre-Eymeric
Published: May 2022

The recent discovery of “giant” electrostrictors has re-ignited the interest in electrostriction, an electromechanical coupling existing in all dielectrics but overshadowed by its linear counterpart: piezoelectricity. In this Review, after a reminder of “classical” electrostriction, we propose a definition of “giant” electrostriction based on two empirical relations (“Newnham” relation and the one we posit). From this definition, we review previous reports on “giant” electrostrictors to assess their nature. Focusing on the ones satisfying our definition, we compare their performances and characteristics. We also identify some of the hurdles to overcome before their adoption in the wide range of electromechanical applications, despite their fundamental and applicative interests.
Image shift correction, noise analysis, and model fitting of (cathodo-)luminescence hyperspectral maps
Authors: Tappy Nicolas , Fontcuberta i Morral Anna , Monachon Christian
Published: May 2022

Hyperspectral imaging is an important asset of modern spectroscopy. It allows us to perform optical metrology at a high spatial resolution, for example in cathodoluminescence in scanning electron microscopy. However, hyperspectral datasets present added challenges in their analysis compared to individually taken spectra due to their lower signal to noise ratio and specific aberrations. On the other hand, the large volume of information in a hyperspectral dataset allows the application of advanced statistical analysis methods derived from machine-learning. In this article, we present a methodology to perform model fitting on hyperspectral maps, leveraging principal component analysis to perform a thorough noise analysis of the dataset. We explain how to correct the imaging shift artifact, specific to imaging spectroscopy, by directly evaluating it from the data. The impact of goodness-of-fit-indicators and parameter uncertainties is discussed. We provide indications on how to apply this technique to a variety of hyperspectral datasets acquired using other experimental techniques. As a practical example, we provide an implementation of this analysis using the open-source Python library hyperspy, which is implemented using the well established Jupyter Notebook framework in the scientific community.
The overpoling effect of alternating current poling on rhombohedral Pb(Mg1/3Nb2/3)O3-PbTiO3 single crystals
Authors: Wan Haotian , Luo Chengtao , Kim Hwang-Pill , Chung Ching-Chang , Chang Wei-Yi , Yamashita Yohachi , Jiang Xiaoning
Published: May 2022

The overpoling effect of alternating current poling (ACP) was studied on [001]-orientated rhombohedral Pb(Mg1/3Nb2/3)O3-0.26PbTiO3 (PMN-0.26PT) single crystals. Our experimental results showed that the property enhancement from the ACP was remarkable only when the poling cycle number (NL) was kept low. When ACP was continued after the saturation, dielectric and piezoelectric properties gradually dropped down to traditional direct current poled levels or even lower. Such a decrease in material properties caused by the large NL during ACP was defined as the “overpoling effect of ACP” in this study. The following lattice symmetry and domain structure characterization studies were performed through x-ray diffraction (XRD) and piezoelectric force microscopy (PFM) to find the origin of the overpoling effect. The XRD measurements combined with temperature dependence of dielectric properties demonstrated that the field-induced phase transition continued when the samples became overpoled. Further PFM measurements illustrated that the domain density of the overpoled ACP sample was significantly lower than that of the normal one, while the “2R” domain configuration was maintained through the ACP process. In addition, the hysteresis loop characterization indicated large decreases in the coercive fields. The discovered overpoling effect of ACP could help us understand the mechanisms of ACP and optimize the ACP process.
10-nanosecond dead time and low afterpulsing with a free-running reach-through single-photon avalanche diode
Authors: Farina S. , Labanca I. , Acconcia G. , Ghioni M. , Rech I.
Published: May 2022

The reduction of detector dead time represents an enabling factor in several photon counting applications. In this work, we investigate the free-running operation of reach-through single-photon avalanche diodes (SPADs) at ultra-low dead times. By employing a fast active quenching circuit with direct bonding to the detector, we are able to achieve a 10 ns dead time with a thick SPAD by Excelitas, still maintaining extremely low afterpulsing probabilities (below 1.5%).
Geant4 simulations of x-ray photon pileup produced by runaway electrons in streamer discharges
Authors: Pantuso J. G. , da Silva C. L. , Sanchez J. T. , Bowers G. S.
Published: May 2022

Runaway electron acceleration is the keystone process responsible for the production of energetic radiation by lightning and thunderstorms. In the laboratory, it remains undetermined if runaway electrons are merely a consequence of high electric fields produced at the ionization fronts of electrical discharges, or if they impact the discharge formation and propagation. In this work, we simulate photon pileup in a detector next to a spark gap. We compare laboratory measurements to ensembles of monoenergetic electron beam simulations performed with Geant4 (using the Monte Carlo method). First, we describe the x-ray emission properties of monoenergetic beams with initial energies in the 20 to 75 keV range. Second, we introduce a series of techniques to combine monoenergetic beams to produce general-shape electron energy spectra. Third, we proceed to attempt to fit the experimental data collected in the laboratory, and to discuss the ambiguities created by photon pileup and how it constrains the amount of information that can be inferred from the measurements. We show that pileup ambiguities arise from the fact that every single monoenergetic electron beam produces photon deposited energy spectra of similar qualitative shape and that increasing the electron count in any beam has the same qualitative effect of shifting the peak of the deposited energy spectrum toward higher energies. The best agreement between simulations and measurements yields a mean average error of 8.6% and a R-squared value of 0.74.
Nonlinear multiphoton modification of glass substrates for fabrication of high aspect ratio through-glass vias
Authors: Lee Min-Kai , Yu Jyun-Zong , Chang Hsin-Yu , Chang Chia-Yuan , Liu Chien-Sheng , Lin Pai-Chen
Published: May 2022

To meet the demands of high-frequency wireless communications and Internet of Things (IoT) applications, modern integrated circuit (IC) packages should support operating frequencies in the GHz range and be implemented on fine substrate structures. Glass has many advantages as an interposer material for three-dimensional IC (3D-IC) designs, including tunable electrical and mechanical properties, amenability to large-scale processing, and high optical transparency in the visible range. Moreover, glass is easily processed to produce the through-glass vias (TGVs) required to realize high-frequency circuit designs and microelectromechanical systems devices. The present study proposes a method for patterning TGVs on glass substrates via a nonlinear multiphoton-assisted modification process performed using single-pulse irradiation by a 1030-nm picosecond laser. A theoretical model is additionally proposed to describe the glass substrate modification mechanism induced by the nonlinear multiphoton excitation effect. The feasibility of the proposed method is demonstrated by patterning a TGV array with a high aspect ratio of 1:10 and a taper angle of ∼2° on a Corning SGW3 glass substrate.
Enhanced electromagnetic interference (EMI) shielding in BiFeO3–graphene oxide nanocomposites over X-band frequency region
Authors: Reshi Hilal Ahmad , Pillai Shreeja , Singh Avanish Pratap , Dhawan S. K. , Shelke Vilas
Published: May 2022

BiFeO3–graphene oxide (BFO–GO) nanocomposites were synthesized through ultra-sonication under mild heating, and their electromagnetic interference (EMI) shielding performance was investigated. The nanocomposites preserve the crystalline phase with R3c symmetry as analyzed by Rietveld refinement of x-ray diffraction data. The Raman spectroscopy and x-ray photoelectron spectroscopy studies confirm the formation of structured GO in nanocomposites samples. Magnetic hysteresis curves indicate unsaturated magnetic behavior. The interfacial polarization is dominating in BFO–GO composites as estimated from frequency dependent complex parameters determined in line with the Nicolson–Ross–Weir algorithm. The BFO–GO nanocomposites showed EMI shielding effectiveness of 18 dB (93% attenuation) over the measured frequency range. The oxide composite is a suitable EMI shielding material for techno-commercial applications.
Phase-based causality analysis with partial mutual information from mixed embedding
Authors: Vlachos Ioannis , Kugiumtzis Dimitris , Paluš Milan
Published: May 2022

Instantaneous phases extracted from multivariate time series can retain information about the relationships between the underlying mechanisms that generate the series. Although phases have been widely used in the study of nondirectional coupling and connectivity, they have not found similar appeal in the study of causality. Herein, we present a new method for phase-based causality analysis, which combines ideas from the mixed embedding technique and the information-theoretic approach to causality in coupled oscillatory systems. We then use the introduced method to investigate causality in simulated datasets of bivariate, unidirectionally paired systems from combinations of Rössler, Lorenz, van der Pol, and Mackey–Glass equations. We observe that causality analysis using the phases can capture the true causal relation for coupling strength smaller than the analysis based on the amplitudes can capture. On the other hand, the causality estimation based on the phases tends to have larger variability, which is attributed more to the phase extraction process than the actual phase-based causality method. In addition, an application on real electroencephalographic data from an experiment on elicited human emotional states reinforces the usefulness of phases in causality identification.
Nematic liquid crystals blended ferroelectric nanoparticles (BaTiO3): A perspective way for improving the response time and photoluminescence for electro-optical devices
Authors: Singh Bhupendra Pratap , Sikarwar Samiksha , Manohar Rajiv , Shah Asmita , Singh Dharmendra Pratap , Herman Jakub , Pandey Kamal Kumar
Published: May 2022

We represent a detailed study of a dilute suspension of ferroelectric barium titanate nanoparticles (BaTiO3 NPs) in a nematic matrix by probing dielectric, electro-optical, and optical properties. The strong local surface electric field (order of ∼1010 Vm−1) of BaTiO3 produces pseudonematic domains within the matrix, which renders an enhancement in both the perpendicular and parallel components of dielectric permittivity that increases with increasing NP concentrations. Due to changes in molecular ordering, the dielectric anisotropy of pristine nematic increases by 10.7%, 24.6%, and 33.3% after the addition of 0.1, 0.3, and 0.5 wt. % BaTiO3 NPs with subsequent lowering in threshold voltage. Interestingly, the nematic-BaTiO3 blended cells showed 23.2%, 49.3% and 67.6% faster electro-optic response for 0.1, 0.3, and 0.5 wt. % of NPs, respectively. In the nematic matrix, BaTiO3 NPs act like chromophores resulting in a bathochromic shift in fluorescence spectra due to an enhanced degree of conjugation. This investigation reveals that the ferroelectric BaTiO3 NPs-nematic composites will be suitable for superior fluorescent electro-optical devices.
DFT investigations of KTiOPO4Mx (M = K, Na, and Li) anodes for alkali-ion battery
Authors: Huang Jiajia , Cai Xu , Li Yanli , Fang Zhongpu , Li Yi , Lin Wei , Huang Shuping , Zhang Yongfan
Published: May 2022

The properties of KTiOPO4Mx (M = K, Na, and Li; x = 0.000–1.000) as an anode for potassium-ion batteries (PIBs), sodium-ion batteries (SIBs), and lithium-ion batteries (LIBs) are investigated by density functional theory calculations. Our work reveals that the electrochemical performance of KTiOPO4 as an anode for PIBs is superior to that for SIBs and LIBs, in terms of average voltage and ion diffusion kinetics. The ab initio molecular dynamics simulations indicate that the KTiOPO4Mx anode exhibits high structural stability, and alkali ion intercalation contributes to accelerating ion diffusion during the charging process. Particularly, the low activation energy of 0.406 eV of K migration on surface KTP(210), obtained by the climbing-image nudged elastic band method, suggests a high-rate capability. The systematical comparison of the performance of KTiOPO4 as an anode for PIBs, SIBs, and LIBs on the theoretical perspective clarifies that a large channel is not always promising for small radius ion intercalation and diffusion.
Infrared spectroscopy of ions and ionic clusters upon ionization of ethane in helium droplets
Authors: Erukala Swetha , Feinberg Alexandra J. , Moon Cheol Joo , Choi Myong Yong , Vilesov Andrey F.
Published: May 2022

Helium droplets are unique hosts for isolating diverse molecular ions for infrared spectroscopic experiments. Recently, it was found that electron impact ionization of ethylene clusters embedded in helium droplets produces diverse carbocations containing three and four carbon atoms, indicating effective ion–molecule reactions. In this work, similar experiments are reported but with the saturated hydrocarbon precursor of ethane. In distinction to ethylene, no characteristic bands of larger covalently bound carbocations were found, indicating inefficient ion–molecule reactions. Instead, the ionization in helium droplets leads to formation of weaker bound dimers, such as (C2H6)(C2H4)+, (C2H6)(C2H5)+, and (C2H6)(C2H6)+, as well as larger clusters containing several ethane molecules attached to C2H4+, C2H5+, and C2H6+ ionic cores. The spectra of larger clusters resemble those for neutral, neat ethane clusters. This work shows the utility of the helium droplets to study small ionic clusters at ultra-low temperatures.
Femtosecond-to-millisecond mid-IR spectroscopy of photoactive yellow protein uncovers structural micro-transitions of the chromophore’s protonation mechanism
Authors: van Wilderen Luuk J. G. W. , Blankenburg Larissa , Bredenbeck Jens
Published: May 2022

Protein structural dynamics can span many orders of magnitude in time. Photoactive yellow protein’s (PYP) reversible photocycle encompasses picosecond isomerization of the light-absorbing chromophore as well as large scale protein backbone motions occurring on a millisecond timescale. Femtosecond-to-millisecond time-resolved mid-infrared spectroscopy is employed here to uncover structural details of photocycle intermediates up to chromophore protonation and the first structural changes leading to the formation of the partially unfolded signaling state pB. The data show that a commonly thought stable transient photocycle intermediate is actually formed after a sequence of several smaller structural changes. We provide residue-specific spectroscopic evidence that protonation of the chromophore on a few hundreds of microseconds timescale is delayed with respect to deprotonation of the nearby E46 residue. That implies that the direct proton donor is not E46 but most likely a water molecule. Such details may assist the ongoing photocycle and protein folding simulation efforts on the complex and wide time-spanning photocycle of the model system PYP.
Upper bound for permanent orientation of symmetric-top molecule induced by linearly polarized electric fields
Authors: Liang Hao , Peng Liang-You
Published: May 2022

Many symmetric top molecules are among the most important polyatomic molecules. The orientation of a polyatomic molecule is a challenging task, which is at the heart of its quantum control and crucial for many subsequent applications in various fields. Most recent studies focus on the temporary orientation achieved via the quantum revivals. In this study, we reveal the underlying mechanism behind the observed permanent orientation and discuss strategies for a higher degree of permanent orientation. By a careful analysis of symmetry and unitary, it is possible to estimate an upper bound of ⟨⟨cosθ⟩⟩<(2−2)/4≈0.1464 for a molecule in its thermal equilibrium states using a linear field. We show that this bound can be reached for an oblate symmetric-top molecule in the high temperature limit. To demonstrate different possible schemes, we take CHCl3 as an example. Simply with designed microwave fields, one can permanently orient CHCl3 with a degree of ⟨cos θ⟩ ≈ 0.045. We show that this value can be significantly increased by adding one or more pump pulses.
The pattern of breeding and management within the New Zealand Thoroughbred breeding industry 2005–2015. (II) The mare population
Authors: Chin Y. Y. , Rogers C. W. , Gee E. K. , Stafford K. J. , Cameron E. Z.
Published: May 2022

Context The New Zealand Thoroughbred breeding industry is heavily focused on producing horses for the export market and there has been a reduction in the number of horses racing in the past 20 years. The impact of these production constraints, and changes in production focus, have not been described at a national herd level. Aim To describe the breeding management, reproductive performance, and careers of the New Zealand Thoroughbred broodmare herd during the 2005/06–2015/16 breeding seasons. Methods The demographics, population structure, reproductive efficiency, breeding management and career descriptors of Thoroughbred mares were examined using descriptive analysis. Gestation length was modelled using a linear mixed effects model. The impact of different variables on breeding career were quantified by calculating odds ratio. Results There was a consistent reduction in the size of the national broodmare herd over the 10 years investigated. Half of the mares not retained for breeding were mares that were breed to low-cost stallions. Despite a short (∼100 days) commercial breeding season few (20%) mares were mated early in the season (September), with most mating (70%) occurring between October and November. The 27 days mean foaling to conception interval (FCI) suggests that FCI was artificially shortened and most pregnancy was achieved within first oestrus cycle post-partum. Mare career length and lifetime productivity was positively associated with the stud fee of the first stallion that the mare was mated to and number of foals registered for racing. Conclusion Mare replacement and loss within the national herd was disproportionately associated with mares that were producing foals for a contracting domestic racing market. There was a constricted breeding season with most mares being mated within the first oestrous cycle post-partum. Mare retention and breeding success were positively associated with the service fee of the sire and progeny that had raced, reflecting the commercial pressure of the industry on mare management. Implication The changes in the broodmare herd and management reflects the increasing proportion of the industry focusing on breeding foals that will appeal to the export market. The economic drivers for early born foals provide management challenges as these are not aligned with the optimal reproductive season of the horse.
Advanced technologies in studying plant photosynthesis: principles and applications
Authors: Zavafer Alonso , Fan Dayong , Murakami Keach
Published: May 2022

The foreword to this special issue on the advanced technologies in studying photosynthesis focuses on the main contributions of Fred Chow, one of the key Australian scientists studying light reactions in plants.
Physicochemical mechanisms of FT-NIRS age prediction in fish otoliths
Authors: Passerotti Michelle S. , Reichert Marcel J. M. , Robertory Bailey A. , Marsh Zachary , Stefik Morgan , Quattro Joseph M.
Published: May 2022

Context Fourier transform near-infrared spectroscopy (FT-NIRS) is of interest to fisheries managers for rapid age prediction in fish otoliths, yet the underlying prediction mechanism is unknown. Aims To better understand drivers of FT-NIRS age prediction, we evaluated FT-NIRS spectra and age prediction models for otoliths of red snapper, Lutjanus campechanus, related to otolith structure, mass, and constituents (calcium carbonate (CaCO3) and protein). Methods Spectra were collected from a set of whole otoliths (n = 84, 0–28 years) and again sequentially after grinding to powder and subsampling a fixed mass of each ground otolith. Protein content was also measured (n = 26) and related to spectra. Key results Age prediction was diminished in ground and fixed-mass otolith models, but remained within 2 years of traditional ages. Protein content (0.43–0.92% weight) increased significantly with age, implying a concomitant decrease in CaCO3 content. FT-NIRS models predicted protein content to within 0.04%, but protein variability hindered modelling. Spectral characteristics of both CaCO3 and protein are evident in otolith spectra and are implicated in age-prediction models. Conclusions Changes in otolith composition, mass, and structure underlie FT-NIRS age prediction, but compositional changes inform the majority of age prediction. Implications These results provide a foundation for understanding FT-NIRS age prediction.
Genomic insights into zokors’ phylogeny and speciation in China
Authors: Liu Xi , Zhang Shangzhe , Cai Zhenyuan , Kuang Zhuoran , Wan Na , Wang Yinjia , Mao Leyan , An Xuan , Li Fang , Feng Tuo , Liang Xiaolong , Qiao Zhenglei , Nevo Eviatar , Li Kexin
Published: May 2022

Significance

Phylogenies are the basis of many ecological and evolutionary studies. However, zokor phylogeny and speciation patterns are heavily debated. This study disentangled the phylogeny and speciation of zokors genomically. Six species of the
Eospalax
were separated into high-altitude
E. baileyi
and
E. smithi
and the rest four low-altitude species by recent Qinghai-Tibet Plateau uplift 3.6 million y ago.
E. rothschildi
and
E. smithi
speciated south of the Qinling–Huaihe Line, where refuges were supplied during glaciation. Introgression and incomplete lineage sorting led to the complex phylogeny of zokors. Genomic islands were formed due to ancient polymorphisms and divergence hitchhiking. This study concluded that climatic, geological, and tectonic events shaped the phylogeny and speciation of zokors in China.
Competing interactions give rise to two-state behavior and switch-like transitions in charge-rich intrinsically disordered proteins
Authors: Zeng Xiangze , Ruff Kiersten M. , Pappu Rohit V.
Published: May 2022

Significance

Intrinsically disordered regions (IDRs) of proteins, when tethered to folded domains, function either as flexible tails or as linkers between domains. Most IDRs are polyampholytes that comprise a mixture of oppositely charged residues. Recent measurements of tethered polyampholytes showed the tendency of arginine- and lysine-rich sequences to behave very differently from one another. Using computer simulations, we show that these differences are determined by differences in free energies of hydration, steric volumes, and other considerations. Further, the interplay between electrostatic attractions and favorable free energies of hydration creates distinct stable states for polyampholytic IDRs. These findings have implications for switch-like transitions and the regulation of effective concentrations of interaction motifs by IDRs.
The X in seX-biased immunity and autoimmune rheumatic disease
Authors: Jiwrajka Nikhil , Anguera Montserrat C.
Published: May 2022

Sexual dimorphism in the composition and function of the human immune system has important clinical implications, as males and females differ in their susceptibility to infectious diseases, cancers, and especially systemic autoimmune rheumatic diseases. Both sex hormones and the X chromosome, which bears a number of immune-related genes, play critical roles in establishing the molecular basis for the observed sex differences in immune function and dysfunction. Here, we review our current understanding of sex differences in immune composition and function in health and disease, with a specific focus on the contribution of the X chromosome to the striking female bias of three autoimmune rheumatic diseases.
The facilities and performance of TianQin laser ranging station
Authors: Zhang Caishi , Gao Tianquan , Cao Yuyan , Fan Zhongwei , Fu Honglin , Gu De-Feng , Han Xida , Huang Yutao , Kang Lin , Li Ke , Li Ming , Li Rongwang , Li Yu-Qiang , Li Zhulian , Li Zun-Biao , Lian Jun-Xiang , Liu Junchi , Liu Qi , Liu Sheng-Qian , Liu Yuan , Mei Jianwei , Pi Xiaoyu , Shao Cheng-Gang , Sun Ji , Tan Yu-Jie , Tang Yuhua , Tu Liang-Cheng , Wang Panpan , Wang Saijin , Wu Peiheng , Wu Qinglin , Xiong Liang , Xiong Yao-Heng , Xue Chao , Yan Yong , Yang Shan-Qing , Yeh Hsien-Chi , Zhai Dongsheng , Zhang Haitao , Zhang Hongbo , Zhang Labao , Zhang Lihua , Zhao Hong-Chao , Zhou Guo-Dong , Luo Jun
Published: May 2022

The TianQin Project is aiming at gravitational wave (GW) detection in space. TianQin GW observatory comprises three satellites orbiting on 1 × 105 km Earth orbits to form an equilateral-triangle constellation. In order to minimize the variations in arm lengths and breathing angles, the satellites must be launched and adjusted precisely into an optimized orbit. Therefore, satellite laser ranging must be used to enhance the precision of satellite orbit determination. To develop the capability of satellite laser ranging for TianQin’s orbit, the TianQin Laser Ranging Station has been designed and constructed to perform high-precision laser ranging for TianQin satellites and lunar laser ranging as well. Applying a 1064 nm Nd: YAG laser with 100 Hz repetition frequency, 80 pico-second pulse duration, and 2 × 2 array of superconducting nanowire single-photon detectors, we have obtained the laser echo signals from the five lunar retro-reflector arrays, and the measurement data have been packaged into 234 normal points (NPs), including a few data measured during the full-moon lunar phase. Each NP is calculated from continuous measurement for about ten minutes and the statistical error of the NPs is about 7 mm (1σ).
Ion-photoelectron entanglement in photoionization with chirped laser pulses
Authors: Vrakking Marc J J
Published: May 2022

The investigation of coherent dynamics induced by photoionization of atoms or molecules by extreme ultra-violet (XUV) attosecond laser pulses requires careful consideration of the degree of ion + photoelectron entanglement that results from the photoionization process. Here, we consider coherent H2
+ vibrational dynamics induced by photoionization of neutral H2 by a chirped attosecond laser pulse. We show that chirping the attosecond laser pulse leads to ion + photoelectron entanglement and the transition from a pure to a mixed state. This transition is characterized by evaluating the purity, which is close to unity for a transform-limited attosecond laser pulse and which decreases to a value that is determined by the number of vibrational states populated in the photoionization process for increasing values of the chirp parameter. In the calculations, the vibrational dynamics is probed by calculating time-delayed dissociation of the H2
+ cation by a short ultra-violet (UV) laser pulse. Independent of the magnitude of the chirp, the coherent vibrational dynamics can be recovered by recording the XUV-UV delay-dependent kinetic energy release in coincidence with the kinetic energy of the accompanying photoelectron.
Ultrasensitive fully transparent amorphous Ga2O3 solar-blind deep-ultraviolet photodetector for corona discharge detection
Authors: Liu Haowen , Zhou Shuren , Zhang Hong , Ye Lijuan , Xiong Yuanqiang , Yu Peng , Li Wanjun , Yang Xun , Li Honglin , Kong Chunyang
Published: May 2022

Solar-blind deep-ultraviolet photodetectors are one of the most effective tools to detect corona discharge because high-voltage corona discharge is always accompanied by deep-ultraviolet light (UVC, 200–280 nm), referred to as solar-blind signals. In this study, a fully transparent metal-semiconductor-metal solar-blind photodetector with Al-doped ZnO (AZO) transparent electrodes was successfully constructed based on amorphous Ga2O3 film (a-Ga2O3) and prepared by radio frequency magnetron sputtering. The as-fabricated fully transparent device exhibits excellent performance, including an ultra-low dark current of 2.84 pA, a high photo-to-dark current ratio of 1.41 × 107, superb rejection ratio (R254/R400 = 2.93 × 105), a large responsivity of 2.66 A W−1, superb detectivity (4.84 × 1014 Jones), and fast response speed (rise/fall time: 24 μs/1.24 ms). It is worth noting that the fully transparent a-Ga2O3 photodetector demonstrates ultra-high sensitivity to weak solar-blind signals, far below the 100 nW cm−2 threshold of the test equipment. It also has high-resolution detection capabilities for subtle changes in radiation intensity. Acting as a sensor for the high-voltage corona discharge simulation detection system, the fully transparent a-Ga2O3 photodetector can clearly detect extremely weak solar-blind signals. The results described in this work serve as proof-of-concept for future applications of amorphous Ga2O3 solar-blind deep-ultraviolet photodetectors in high-voltage corona discharge detection.
Tunable narrow transparency windows induced by the coupled quasi-guided modes in borophene plasmonic nanostructure
Authors: Long Tianqi , Zhang Liangang , Wang Ling-Ling , Lin Qi
Published: May 2022

A grating-assisted triple-layer continuous borophene sheets structure is presented to investigate the phase-coupled plasmonic induced transparency effect at the near-infrared communication band. In the proposed structure, the diffraction grating is utilized to couple the normal incident waves, which excites the quasi-guided mode in triple-layer continuous borophene sheets. Compared to the patterned structure, the requirement of complicated processing techniques and extra doping configurations for the tuning of carrier density can be avoided by using the continuous borophene sheet. Additionally, the narrower transparency windows are shown in the spectral responses via the phase coupling between two detuned quasi-guided modes with high quality factors. The transparency windows can be efficiently tuned by adjusting the carrier densities in borophene sheets or the separation distances between the borophene sheets. The analytical results based on temporal coupled mode theory and transfer matrix method are consistent with the numerical simulations via finite-difference time-domain calculations. The proposed scheme provides the promising design of a tunable plasmon-induced transparency component that is compatible with optical communication technology.
Scattering lifetime and high figure of merit in CsAgO predicted by methods beyond relaxation time approximation
Authors: Sharma Vineet Kumar , Kanchana V , Gupta Mayanak K , Mittal Ranjan
Published: May 2022

The electronic transport behaviour of CsAgO has been discussed using the theory beyond relaxation time approximation from room temperature to 800 K. Different scattering mechanisms such as acoustic deformation potential scattering, impurity phonon scattering, and polar optical phonon scattering are considered for calculating carrier scattering rates to predict the absolute values of thermoelectric coefficients. The scattering lifetime is of the order of 10−14 s. The lattice thermal transport properties like lattice thermal conductivity and phonon-lifetime have been evaluated. The calculated lattice thermal conductivity equals 0.12 and 0.18 W mK−1 along ‘a’ and ‘c’ axes, respectively, at room temperature, which is very low compared to state-of-the-art thermoelectric materials. The anisotropy in the electrical conductivity indicates that the holes are favourable for the out-of-plane thermoelectrics while the electrons for in-plane thermoelectrics. The thermoelectric figure of merit for holes and electrons is nearly same with a value higher than 1 at 800 K for different doping concentrations. The value of the thermoelectric figure of merit is significantly higher than the existing oxide materials, which might be appealing for future applications in CsAgO.
Monitoring of silicone adhesive in space solar cells with an embedded multi-parameter TFBG sensor in a simulated space environment
Authors: Fazzi Luigi , Dias Nuno , Holynska Malgorzata , Tighe Adrian , Rampini Riccardo , Groves Roger M
Published: May 2022

In this research the ageing of a silicone adhesive in a simulated space environment is monitored through an embedded three parameter tilted fibre Bragg grating (TFBG) sensor. Here, the silicone is used as an adhesive between two thin cover glasses, and the space environmental ageing is simulated by thermal cycles in high vacuum conditions (better than 10−5 mbar). These operational conditions can induce variations in the silicone adhesive with respect to its original properties such as dimensional stability, chemical composition, generated contaminants, discoloration and, mechanical or optical degradation. Therefore, surrounded by the adhesive, in the centre of the cover glass sandwich, a weakly tilted FBG sensor was placed to obtain information from its spectra on the state of the polymer during the test. Specifically, the temperature, strain and refractive index (RI) of the silicone can be, simultaneously and separately, measured from the spectrum of a single TFBG from selected resonance peaks. These parameters can be used to evaluate the ‘health’ state of the silicone during the vacuum thermal cycles. The simultaneous TFBG thermomechanical measurements gave a solution to the non-localized measuring issues when using classical fibre optic or electrical strain-gauges and a thermocouple to compensate the temperature and to better understand the material behaviour. The trends of the measured parameters are reported during the entire testing time, and at the end of the test, the optical fibre sensor measured a negative strain of ∼100 μϵ and a positive RI variation of ∼0.002.
A laser interferometer accelerometer for vibration sensitive cryogenic experiments
Authors: Bajpai R , Tomaru T , Yamamoto K , Ushiba T , Kimura N , Suzuki T , Yamada T , Honda T
Published: May 2022

Monitoring motion originating from ultra low-temperature cooling systems like cryocoolers is important for vibration sensitive cryogenic experiments like KAGRA. Since no high sensitivity commercial cryogenic accelerometers are available, we developed a compact self-calibrating accelerometer with a Michelson interferometer readout for cryogenic use. Change in calibration factor and drop in interferometer output originating from temperature drop were the main concerns which were tackled. Sensitivity of

3.38
×

10

−
11

m/

H
z

at 1 Hz was achieved at 300 K. The accelerometer was tested inside the KAGRA cryostat; showed stable operation down to 12 K in 0.1–100 Hz band with only 1% visibility drop. Our accelerometer can be employed in low vibration cryogenic environment for a multitude of applications.
Facile electrooxidation of ethanol on reduced graphene oxide supported Pt–Pd bimetallic nanocomposite surfaces in acidic media
Authors: Yellatur Chandra Sekhar , Padmasale Raghavendra , T Maiyalagan , Loka Subramanyam Sarma
Published: May 2022

Development of electrocatalysts with extended homogeneity and improved metal–support interactions is of urgent scientific need in the context of electrochemical energy applications. Herein, bimetallic Pt–Pd nanoparticles with good homogeneity are fabricated using a convenient solution phase chemical reduction method onto a reduced graphene oxide (rGO) support. X-ray diffraction studies revealed that Pt–Pd/rGO possesses the crystallite size of 3.1 nm. The efficacies of Pt–Pd/rGO catalyst (20 wt% Pt + 10 wt% Pd on rGO support, Pt:Pd atomic ratio = 1:1) towards ethanol electrooxidation reaction (EOR) are evaluated in acidic conditions by cyclic voltammetry using catalyst-coated glassy carbon electrode as a working electrode. With the better dispersion on rGO support the Pt–Pd/rGO nancomposite catalyst exhibit highest mass specific activity (0.358 mA/µg-Pt) which is observed to be 1.9 times of similarly synthesized 20 wt% Pt/rGO (0.189 mA/µg-Pt) and 2.5 times of commercial 20 wt% Pt/C (0.142 mA/µg-Pt), respectively. Apart from the observed improved EOR activity, the Pt–Pd/rGO catalyst exhibited better stability than Pt/rGO and Pt/C catalysts. Strong synergy offered by Pt, Pd and rGO support could contribute to the observed higher EOR activity of Pt–Pd/rGO.
Assessing the concepts of electricity and magnetism of science and engineering students
Authors: Ozdes Koca Nazife
Published: May 2022

This work is aimed to assess the performance of two groups of students from colleges of Science, Education and Engineering on the understanding of electricity and magnetism concepts. To conduct this assessment, the Electricity and Magnetism Conceptual Assessment (EMCA) test was implemented twice as a pre-test and a post-test for two calculus-based physics-2 courses offered at the Sultan Qaboos University in Oman in the Spring & Fall 2019 semesters. These courses cover the topics of electricity, magnetism and partly thermal physics. The normalized gains for both groups of students are in the medium gain category. The performance of genders in the EMCA is not statistically distinguishable. The students’ misconceptions are identified and compared with those obtained elsewhere.