bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Enhancing all-optical switching of magnetization by He ion irradiation
Authors: Li Pingzhi , van der Jagt Johannes W. , Beens Maarten , Hintermayr Julian , Verheijen Marcel A. , Bruikman René , Barcones Beatriz , Juge Roméo , Lavrijsen Reinoud , Ravelosona Dafiné , Koopmans Bert
Published: October 2022

All-optical switching (AOS) of magnetization by a single femtosecond laser pulse in Co/Gd based synthetic ferrimagnets is the fastest magnetization switching process. On the other hand, He ion irradiation has become a promising tool for interface engineering of spintronic material platforms, giving rise to significant modification of magnetic properties. In this paper, we explore the use of He ion irradiation to enhance single pulse AOS of Co/Gd bilayer-based synthetic ferrimagnets. The intermixing of the constituent magnetic layers by He ion irradiation was both numerically simulated and experimentally verified. We theoretically modeled the effects of intermixing on AOS using the layered microscopic 3-temperature model and found that AOS is enhanced significantly by breaking the pristine Co/Gd interface through intermixing. Following this notion, we studied the threshold fluence of AOS as a function of He ion irradiation fluence. We found that the AOS threshold fluence can be reduced by almost 30%. Our study reveals the control of AOS by He ion irradiation, which opens up an industrially compatible approach for local AOS engineering.
Relative energies without electronic perturbations via alchemical integral transform
Authors: Krug Simon León , von Rudorff Guido Falk , von Lilienfeld O. Anatole
Published: October 2022

We show that the energy of a perturbed system can be fully recovered from the unperturbed system’s electron density. We derive an alchemical integral transform by parametrizing space in terms of transmutations, the chain rule, and integration by parts. Within the radius of convergence, the zeroth order yields the energy expansion at all orders, restricting the textbook statement by Wigner that the p-th order wave function derivative is necessary to describe the (2p + 1)-th energy derivative. Without the need for derivatives of the electron density, this allows us to cover entire chemical neighborhoods from just one quantum calculation instead of single systems one by one. Numerical evidence presented indicates that predictive accuracy is achieved in the range of mHa for the harmonic oscillator or the Morse potential and in the range of machine accuracy for hydrogen-like atoms. Considering isoelectronic nuclear charge variations by one proton in all multi-electron atoms from He to Ne, alchemical integral transform based estimates of the relative energy deviate by only few mHa from corresponding Hartree–Fock reference numbers.
On the origin of twist in 3D nucleation islands of tetrahedrally coordinated semiconductors heteroepitaxially grown along hexagonal orientations
Authors: Vennéguès P. , Largeau L. , Brändli V. , Damilano B. , Tavernier K. , Bernard R. , Courville A. , Rennesson S. , Semond F. , Feuillet G. , Cornet C.
Published: October 2022

In the first part of this paper, we present a model that explains and determines quantitatively the twists between nucleation islands in the case of a Volmer–Weber heteroepitaxial growth of tetrahedrally coordinated semiconductors along hexagonal orientations. These twists are caused by the network of the screw components of the 60° misfit dislocations. The orientations of the screw components are distributed randomly, and the maximum twist is obtained when all the screw components have the same orientation. The maximum twists are related to the density of misfit dislocations and, therefore, increase with the mismatch between the deposited materials and their substrate. In the second part of the paper, we study five systems having a large distribution of mismatches from 4% to 19%. For the four systems fulfilling the conditions necessary for the application of the model (plastic relaxation of grown islands), the measured maximum twists fit with the calculated values, thereby validating the model. The twists of nucleation islands are related to the mismatch and are, therefore, intrinsic to the material systems. The defects created at the coalescence of twisted islands determine the initial microstructure/defect distribution of the nucleation layer.
Strong coupling in the entanglement dynamics of two qubits interacting with a graphene nanodisk
Authors: Iliopoulos Nikos , Thanopulos Ioannis , Karanikolas Vasilios , Paspalakis Emmanuel
Published: October 2022

We investigate the entanglement dynamics of two qubits interacting with a graphene nanodisk using the macroscopic quantum electrodynamics method. By modifying the free-space decay rate of each qubit, we study the coupling strength between the nanoparticle and the qubits. We find that as the free-space decay rate increases, the decaying Rabi oscillations featured in the qubit population dynamics change to complex non-Markovian dynamical population evolution. This is also reflected on the concurrence, which at weak or moderate light–matter coupling conditions, attains values up to 0.5, while as the coupling conditions become stronger, larger values are also transiently observed. Our findings indicate that graphene nanostructures can provide a platform for the realization of high degree of entanglement in the strong coupling regime at the nanoscale, essential for quantum technology applications.
Analysis of a Solar Cookers Box-Type with inner reflectors by using CFD
Authors: Terres H , Chávez S , Lizardi A , Lara A , Morales J , Rodríguez R , Ruiz C , Reyes M , Andrade E
Published: October 2022

This work shows the results and evaluation of a solar cooker box-type by using CFD. The values indicate where the highest temperature values happen inside the solar cooker. Also, values for density and airspeed were obtained. These results show where and how density and airspeed have the most important values during the water heating process. The effects of convection as a consequence of the temperature difference can guide possible improvements in future designs of solar cookers since if geometric shapes are used that take advantage of this heat transfer mechanism, the solar heating process can be better.
Design, fabrication and characterization of nonlinear photonic crystal fibers for sources of correlated photon pairs
Authors: Sicachá Mauricio Salazar , Minkovich Vladimir P
Published: October 2022

In this work, a series of silica glass photonic crystal fibers (PCFs) were designed through implementation of a numerical method [1] based on an experimental model that allows the calculation of chromatic dispersion from two structural parameters of the PCFs. Then, the PCFs were fabricated by stretching a structured preform using a calculated preliminary design. Some characterization techniques were implemented with the aim to find the PCF structural and optical properties. Finally, the developed PCFs were used for supercontinuum generation.
Tests of a new code that simulates the evolution of solar winds and CMEs
Authors: Guzmán F S , Mendoza Mendoza L F
Published: October 2022

We present the tests of a new code that solves Euler equations in three dimensions used to simulate the dynamics of the Solar Wind. The code is based on a finite volume discretization and uses high resolution shock capturing methods, with second order variable reconstructors and approximate flux formulae of the HLL class. It uses Cartesian coordinates and fixed mesh refinement. The equations are written in flux balance law form, which allows the evolution of conservative variables. The evolution is carried out using the method of lines with second order time integration. For the simulation of a solar wind we assume the Sun lies at the coordinate origin, and inject the fluid variables through the surface of a lego-sphere with radius 20R⊙, where all the characteristic speeds point outwards from the solar surface. We manage to obtain stationary winds that reproduce winds of literature in terms of density, velocity and temperature of the plasma. On top of the stationary wind it is possible to launch Coronal Mass Ejections (CMEs) that propagate through the stationary Solar Wind from the injection surface all the way to the Earth. Finally, in order to incorporate the role of orbiting satellites that monitor Solar Winds and CMEs, the code also measures wind variables at detector locations on their actual trajectories around the Sun.
Artificial vision algorithm for earth station location from CubeSats in narrow beam optical communications
Authors: Medina I , Santiago L , Hernández Gómez J J , Castillo R , Couder Castañeda C
Published: October 2022

The use of CubeSats promises several advantages within a low economical budget margin for different missions. Nowadays, data transfer through optical channels (lasercom) is considered a potential technology for satellite wireless communications, providing several advantages in terms of data transfer rate with lower energy consumption. However, a main drawback is the location of the Optical Ground Station (OGS). Therefore, an artificial vision algorithm for the processing of images captured by the camera of a CubeSat is proposed in this work, in order to carry out the identification and recognition of an OGS by means of a beacon signal, to aid the Pointing, Acquisition and Tracking (PAT) onboard subsystem for the communication’s stage.
Mesophases with chiral structure under constant electric field constrained by parallel plates with soft anchoring boundary conditions
Authors: Adapta García O , Reyes Cervantes J A
Published: October 2022

In this work, we present a new approach based on Euler-Lagrange equilibrium equations analysed from the phase space (PS) perspective to investigate states of elastic deformation of Cholesteric Liquid Crystals (N*) confined, which present an intrinsic chiral structure; between parallel plates by imposing soft anchoring boundary conditions (SAC) under a constant electric field-induced perpendicular to the plates. By minimizing the Frank-Oseen (FO) energy density, we obtain a set of equilibrium state integral equations and corresponding boundary conditions. We establish planar conditions on the plates that force the optical axis to align with a specific direction at the plates. We verify the convergence between SAC to strong anchoring conditions (SSC) whether the ratio between surface and bulk energy tends to infinity, under this condition we examine the different configurations of N* by variating the parameters of control, including a variation of potential difference. We also give a detailed derivation of the threshold electric field value, we show that above this value, there is a transition from N to N*, and below this value transition, N* to focal conic texture is observed. We discuss our results and address our conclusions.
On the importance of experiment in the development of quantum theory
Authors: Palacio Acuña C A , Ladino Luna D
Published: October 2022

This article examines models and theories of energy and matter behaviour developed in microscopic experiments of quantum mechanics; the branch of physics relating to the very small, which studies the physical properties of nature at atomic scales and subatomic particles. It is based on the idea that energy, at the sub-atomic level, can only be emitted and absorbed in discrete amounts - small units – called “quanta”. We begin by remembering that the ideas of the philosopher Democritus, on the assumption of a finite division of matter, led to the search for the atom, allowing the development of what is now known as physics. It is particularly discussed how the understanding of electricity made it possible to affirm and discover the nature of the atom, not as Democritus thought, but that its existence as a basic component of matter could be verified. In this text, we make a path of experiments and ideas that led to the current model of the atom, and that allowed the development of a theory about its nature and properties. Finally, conclusions on this brief study are presented.
Crystalline structure, oxygen defects and textural properties of the CeO2/SBA-15 nanomaterials
Authors: González Julio , Chen Lifang , Wang Jin An
Published: October 2022

In this study, a series of CeO2/SBA-15 nanomaterials were synthesized by varying the CeO2 content. These materials were characterized by different techniques to determine their textural, surface chemical and crystalline properties. Crystallite size and oxygen defects were determined by Microanalysis Using X-Ray Diffraction (MAUD) software based on the Rietveld refinement method. The results showed that the crystallite size slightly increased from 5.6 to 8.4 nm and the surface area decreased from 620 to 370 m2/g as CeO2 content increased from 5 to 10, 15 to 20wt%. The oxygen occupancy that was associated with oxygen defects was found in the crystalline structure of CeO2. The defect concentration was between 6.18 and 14.42%, depending on the ceria content and dispersion. This study confirmed that the CeO2/SBA-15 nanomaterials have larger surface area, highly dispersed CeO2 nanoparticles, and a big number of oxygen defects in the crystalline structure, which can be used in different catalytic reactions.
Adsorption of NO and NO2 on a M-doped graphene+ semifullerene (C30) surface (M= Ti, Pt, Li): a DFT study
Authors: Delgado-Jimenez N , Canales-Lizaola M , Ramirez-De-Arellano J M , Magana L F
Published: October 2022

In this study Density Functional Theory (DFT) was used to explore the adsorption of NO, and NO2 molecules on a carbon nanostructure formed by an hexagonal semi-fullerene (C30) chemisorbed in a graphene layer doped with titanium, platinum or lithium. The NO molecule is chemisorbed for the Pt-doped system, with an adsorption energy of -4.28 eV. For the Ti-doped system, the NO molecule is physisorbed, with an energy of -0.401 eV. Finally, we found that the NO
2 molecule is physisorbed by the Li-doped system, with an adsorption energy of -0.163 eV.
Effect of the mass of the load and slope of the road on fuel economy and carbon dioxide emissions for a heavy-duty pickup
Authors: Dominguez Perez D N , Dominguez Vergara N , Pantoja Gallegos J L
Published: October 2022

The fuel economy and carbon dioxide emissions (CO
2) of a heavy duty pickup moving in a driving cycle is calculated using the sofware UAMmero. The driving cycle consists of three parts: in the first part the vehicle is simulated to travel in an urban region in which the speed changes constantly, in the second part the simulated vehicle travels in a highway with a cruise speed of 88.514 kilometers/hour and in the third part the simulated vehicle travels at a cruise speed of 104.607 kilometers per hour. Results for the fuel economy and CO
2 emissions for a 4.407 ton, six gear transmission, 200 horse power diesel engine heavy Duty pickup are presented for different masses of the loads and slopes of the road. These results are part of a study to propose a method to certify heavy duty vehicles for fuel economy and CO
2 emissions in Mexico.
Mutual information analysis between NO2 and O3 pollutants measured in Mexico City before and during 2020 Covid-19 pandemic year
Authors: Ramírez-Rojas A , Cárdenas-Moreno P R , Vargas C A
Published: October 2022

The estimation of statistical dependence between two variables monitored simultaneously, which can come from a complex system, is an important task because allows identify temporal correlations between the components that are involved in the dynamical evolution of the studied system. In many areas of study, like environmental sciences, there are many problems associated with atmospheric pollution, weather, greenhouse effect or climatic change, among others, that remain open today. In general, the variables of complex systems are often linked through nonlinear relations which involve stochastic processes. In order to assessment correlations between random variables, the suitable measure employed to quantify the dependency is the mutual information (MI). In this work we perform a preliminary analysis of temporal dependence between nitrogen dioxide (NO2) and ozone (O3) monitored in the Mexico City Metropolitan Area (MCMA) during the years 2015, 2018 and 2020 being the last the Covid-19 pandemic year. The interest of this study is because NO2 is emitted in large volumes by cars, trucks and industries and O3 is a product from NO2. The aim is to estimate the global correlation between both gases by means the mutual information in three different conditions.
Propagation of Type II spicules into the solar corona I. A Thermomechanical toy model (Plasma rise phase)
Authors: Díaz-Figueroa E. E. , González-Avilés J. J. , Ares de Parga G.
Published: October 2022

In this paper, we study the propagation of jets with some characteristics of Type II spicules into the solar corona using a thermomechanical (TM) approximation. Embedding two plasmas with different densities (one representing the chromospheric plasma and the other the coronal plasma) in cylindrical sections, we use iterative processes to calculate the final temperatures due to the mixture between both plasmas. The resulting process dissipates heat that could represent a potential source of the solar corona’s high temperatures (106 K).
Propagation of Type II spicules into the solar corona II. A Thermomechanical toy model (Plasma escape and descent phase)
Authors: Díaz-Figueroa E. E. , González-Avilés J. J. , de Parga G. Ares
Published: October 2022

This paper studies Phases 2 and 3 of jets’ propagation with some Type II spicules characteristics into the solar corona using a thermomechanical (TM) approximation. Embedding two plasmas with different densities (one representing the chromospheric plasma and the other the coronal plasma) in cylindrical sections, we use iterative processes to calculate the final temperatures due to the mixture between both plasmas. The heating process produced by phase 2 of descent and phase 3, which corresponds to plasma not trapped, could represent a source that maintains the current temperature of the low corona.
Oxidation/cobalt ion-exchange method to improve biotite electrochemical properties
Authors: Xia Yan , Huang Zhiliang
Published: October 2022

We prepared a hydrated mica mineral material with larger layer spacing by oxidized/cobalt ion exchange. The structural evolution during the modification and the electrochemical properties of the final obtained hydrated Co-mica were investigated. Results showed that the layer spacing of black mica increased, and the electrochemical properties were enhanced. In the oxidation environment, the divalent iron ions in the octahedral layer of black mica are oxidized. The potassium ions bound by Coulomb force in the black mica layer structure can be detached cobalt ions support the large layer spacing in the form of hydrated ions. Electrochemical performance tests showed that the electrochemical properties of hydrated Comica hydrate were significantly improved after the increase in layer spacing. The first discharge specific capacity of black mica raw ore was 1.769 F/g, and the first discharge-specific capacitance of hydrated Co-mica prepared by the oxide/cobalt ion-exchange method reached 4.305 F/g, which was significantly enhanced.
A generic lithium-ion battery integration model considering multiphysics
Authors: Wang Tong , Mao Shanxiang , Zhang Yifan , Chen Junru , Ge Chenchen , Zheng Hua
Published: October 2022

Battery is widely suggested as a reservoir to fasten the power balance between supply and demand. Amongst a variety of batteries, lithium-ion battery technology is the most promoted. However, most of the battery models in the power system simulation are assumed that the battery has a fixed electrical performance, while in reality, this is related to various factors, such as temperature and aging. In order to precisely model the battery, this paper proposes an easy-to-use lithium battery model considering multiphysics, including electrodynamic field, thermodynamic field, and lifetime field. The parameter identification of the proposed model has also been provided. Real battery experimental data serves to verify the accuracy of the proposed model. The simulation results prove that the temperature and aging can significantly degrade battery performance, the process of which can be well captured by the proposed model.
Research on the influence of secondary heat network characteristics on wind power consumption in the combined electric and heat system
Authors: Song Baiyue , Guan Wanlin , Guo Huaiyu , Song Zhi , Rong Shuang , Liu Yanlong , You Chao
Published: October 2022

With the large-scale investment of thermal power units in the “Three Norths” area, the coupling of the combined electric and heat system has become more and more close, leading to a huge number of abandoned wind. On the basis of the traditional thermal system model, physical characteristics of the secondary heat network are added, and an optimal scheduling model of the combined electric and heat system considering the operation characteristics of the secondary heat network is established. The influence of the operation characteristics of the secondary heat network on the heat loss and wind power consumption of the thermal system is studied. Based on this, different conditions are set up to study the influence of heat-exchange efficiency of heat exchange stations and the diameter of secondary heat network pipes on the combined electric and heat system. The simulation analysis shows that the heat network characteristics of the secondary heat network need to be considered in the scheduling analysis of the combined electric and heat system. In addition, the system air curtailment rate can be reduced by improving the heat exchange efficiency of the heat-exchange station and changing the diameter of the secondary heat network pipeline.
Seismic responses of a long-span transmission tower and tower-line system
Authors: Shen Guohui , Yu Hangcong , Yu Liang , Li Buhui , Yao Jianfeng
Published: October 2022

The seismic responses of a long-span transmission tower (LTT) and tower-line system (TL) are presented in the paper. The mode decomposition response spectrum method (MDR) and time domain analysis method (TD) are both employed to obtain the seismic responses. The axial stress of the main member of the tower and TL obtained using these two methods are compared. Results show that the first six vibration frequencies of the tower and TL are quite close. The axial stresses of main members under the TL condition undertake greater values than those under the tower condition. Based on the time analysis method, the axial stresses of the main member under the TL condition are much larger than those under the tower condition, indicating that the mass effect of the transmission line has a similar effect as tuned mass dampers in reducing the seismic response. For the TL, the MDR presents much larger values than those of the TD which may partially contribute to the fact that the coupling effect of the line and the tower cannot be well addressed by the mode decomposition method.
Development of line abnormal diagnosis system for overhead transmission lines
Authors: Li Bocheng , Niu Jie , He Zhiqiang , Liu Lanlan , Wang Zhenyu , Peng Shasha , Dong Guiling
Published: October 2022

Overhead transmission line is the main way of power transmission, and its safe and stable operation is particularly important. Due to the complex network, transmission distance, large voltage grade serious problems such as frequent failure, this paper breaks through the transmission line fault location of traditional single, set induction electric wires, fault location, line insulation monitoring technology at an organic whole, developed of the transmission line abnormal diagnosis system, and realized the electrical characteristics of overhead transmission line multidimensional awareness. In this way, it can provide accurate information for maintenance personnel and ensure the safe and stable operation of the transmission network.
Research on automatic detection method of Microgrid bad data considering manifold sorting
Authors: Chen Fengchao , Zhou Lide , He Yipeng , Rao Huan
Published: October 2022

In order to improve the quality of Microgrid data, an automatic detection method of Microgrid bad data considering manifold ordering is proposed. The ELM network design and training model was constructed to extract the characteristic quantities of Microgrid data. Then, after analyzing the generation conditions of bad data, the quartile distance method is used to divide the identification interval of bad data, so as to improve the detection accuracy fundamentally. Then the Microgrid data are mapped to corresponding points in multi-dimensional vectors to form a weighted graph model. Considering the approximate manifold structure of data, a high-dimensional data automatic detection method based on manifold ordering is designed. The sorting scores of data nodes are calculated by confidence propagation, and the automatic detection results of bad data are obtained. Experimental results show that the root-mean-square error of monitoring results decreases obviously when the proposed method is used to detect bad data of Microgrid, indicating that the proposed method improves the accuracy of data detection.
Optimization and self-dispatching of hydro-power companies in the electricity market
Authors: Liang Zhencheng , Liang Qingqing , Li Ling , Luo Cuiyun
Published: October 2022

The deepening reform of the power system has resulted in increased competition between electricity market participants. The ADP method is applied to solve the optimal self-dispatch problem of hydro-power companies under uncertain conditions. Firstly, according to the characteristics of hydropower generation technology and self-dispatching, the operation model of hydropower is given. Then, according to the organization and trading behavior of the forward contract market and day-ahead market, a medium and long-term contract quantity decision framework based on stochastic programming is given. Based on the stochastic programming decision framework, the ADP method is used to solve the generation and water decisions in each stage, and the distribution strategy of the electricity quantity of forward transactions and day-trading electricity quantity is obtained. Finally, an example is given to demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposed model and ADP method.
Adaptive Control of Cover Wind Speed on Fume Hood
Authors: Zhou Shengjie , Yue You , Xu Chen , Ou Chuangang
Published: October 2022

During experiments carried out in the fume hood, the fluidity and viscosity of the air in the fume hood cause problems such as turbulence and gas viscosity, which affect the accuracy of wind speed measurement on the fume hood. As a solution to these problems, an adaptive control system of wind speed on the fume hood based on the Kalman filter is designed. The improved Kalman filter is used to reduce the influence of turbulence and gas viscosity on the measurement of cover wind speed, and improve the measurement accuracy. The adaptive PID control algorithm is used to adjust the air valve to improve the control accuracy of cover wind speed. Experiments revealed that our proposed system for hood control outperforms traditional alternatives: it can effectively improve the measurement accuracy and control accuracy of the cover wind speed, reduce the number of control times of the air valve, improve the service life of the fume hood, and ensure the safety of experimenters.
SARS-CoV-2 down-regulates ACE2 through lysosomal degradation
Authors: Lu Yi , Zhu Qingwei , Fox Douglas M. , Gao Carol , Stanley Sarah A. , Luo Kunxin
Published: October 2022

SARS-CoV-2 down-regulates ACE2 by inducing clathrin- and AP2-dependent endocytosis, leading to its degradation in the lysosome, which may contribute to disease pathology.
Gender Discrimination towards Female Arab Teenagers in Israel and Their Involvement in Severe Violence: The Mediating Role of Closeness to Parents
Authors: Jeries-Loulou Lana J
Published: October 2022

The field of antisocial behaviour has been systematically ignoring women, particularly from ethnic minorities, probably because they occupy a lower position in society. Based on intersectionality theory, the current study examined perceptions of being discriminated against as a result of being a female in a conservative society, which restricts familial support, and the contribution of such discrimination towards violence against others amongst female Arab adolescents. The present study is based on a sample of 404 Arab female adolescents and young women (aged 12–21 years) in Israel. Participants completed a structured, anonymous self-report questionnaire. The results showed that perpetration of severe violence by female participants was correlated significantly and positively with affiliation with delinquent peers, perceived ethnonational discrimination and sexual victimisation. Conversely, closeness to parents was significantly and negatively correlated with perpetration of severe violence by female participants. The findings also showed that the association between gender discrimination and severe physical violence was mediated by closeness to parents. The findings suggest that traditional patriarchal attitudes towards gender roles might be a risk factor for antisocial behaviour and involvement in delinquency. They also highlight the critical role of parental factors in mediating violent behaviours amongst female adolescents experiencing gender discrimination in a patriarchal society.
MNK1/2 contributes to periorbital hypersensitivity and hyperalgesic priming in preclinical migraine models
Authors: Lackovic Jacob , Price Theodore J , Dussor Gregory
Published: October 2022

Migraine is thought to involve sensitization of the trigeminal nociceptive system. In preclinical pain models, activation of MNK-eIF4E signalling contributes to nociceptor sensitization and the development of persistent pain. Despite these observations, the role of MNK signalling in migraine remains unclear. Here, we investigate whether activation of MNK contributes to hypersensitivity in two rodent models of migraine. Female and male wild-type (WT) and MNK1 knock-out mice were subjected to repeated restraint stress or a dural injection of interleukin-6 (IL-6) and tested for periorbital hypersensitivity and grimacing. Upon returning to baseline thresholds, stressed mice were administered a low dose of the nitric oxide donor sodium nitroprusside and mice previously injected with IL-6 were given a second dural injection of pH 7.0 to test for hyperalgesic priming.

MNK1 knock-out mice were significantly less hypersensitive than the WT following dural IL-6 and did not prime to pH 7.0 or sodium nitroprusside. Furthermore, treatment with the selective MNK inhibitor, eFT508, in WT mice prevented hypersensitivity caused by dural IL-6 or pH 7.0. Together, these results implicate MNK-eIF4E signalling in the development of pain originating from the dura and strongly suggest that targeting MNK inhibition may have significant therapeutic potential as a treatment for migraine.
The genetic landscape of autosomal dominant polycystic kidney disease in Kuwait
Authors: Ali Hamad , Naim Medhat , Senum Sarah R , AlSahow Ali , Bahbahani Yousif , Abu-Farha Mohamed , Abubaker Jehad , Mohammad Anwar , Al-Hunayan Adel , Asbeutah Akram M , Zayed Mohamed , Devarajan Sriraman , Hussain Naser , John Sumi Elsa , Channanath Arshad , Thanaraj Thangavel Alphonse , Al-Ali Mohammad , AlMousawi Mustafa , Al-Mulla Fahd , Harris Peter C
Published: October 2022

Background

Autosomal dominant polycystic kidney disease (ADPKD) is the most common renal monogenic disease, characterized by bilateral accumulation of renal fluid-filled cysts leading to progressive renal volume enlargement and gradual impairment of kidney function, often resulting in end-stage renal disease. Kuwait could provide valuable genetic insights about ADPKD, including intrafamilial phenotypic variation, given its large household size. This study aims to provide a comprehensive description of the pathogenic variants linked to ADPKD in the Kuwaiti population using multiple genetic analysis modalities and to describe and analyse the ADPKD phenotypic spectrum in terms of kidney function, kidney volume and renal survival.

Methods

A total of 126 ADPKD patients from 11 multiplex families and 25 singletons were recruited into the study. A combination of targeted next-generation sequencing (tNGS), long-range polymerase chain reaction, Sanger sequencing and multiplex ligation-dependent probe amplification were utilized for genetic diagnosis. Clinical evaluation was conducted through renal function testing and ultrasonographic kidney volume analysis.

Results

We identified 29 ADPKD pathogenic mutations from 36 families achieving an overall molecular genetic diagnostic rate of 112/126 (88.9%), including 29/36 (80.6%) in families. A total of 28/36 (77.8%) families had pathogenic mutations in PKD1, of which 17/28 (60.7%) were truncating, and 1/36 (2.8%) had a pathogenic variant in the IFT140 gene. A total of 20/29 (69%) of the identified ADPKD mutations were novel and described for the first time, including a TSC2-PKD1 contiguous syndrome. Clinical analysis indicated that genetically unresolved ADPKD cases had no apparent association between kidney volume and age.

Conclusion

We describe for the first time the genetic landscape of ADPKD in Kuwait. The observed genetic heterogeneity underlining ADPKD along with the wide phenotypic spectrum reveal the level of complexity in disease pathophysiology. ADPKD genetic testing could improve the care of patients through improved disease prognostication, guided treatment and genetic counselling. However, to fulfil the potential of genetic testing, it is important to overcome the hurdle of genetically unresolved ADPKD cases.
Does veno-arterial carbon dioxide gradient provide an adequate estimation of cardiac index in pulmonary hypertension?
Authors: Siuba Matthew T , Bhardwaj Abhishek , Kirincich Jason , Perez Oscar , Flanagan Patrick , Lane James , Toth David , Paul Deborah , Lehr Carli , Duggal Abhijit , Tonelli Adriano R
Published: October 2022

Aims

Pulmonary hypertension (PH) management is dependent on cardiac output (CO) assessment. The gold standard Fick method for CO and cardiac index (CI) measurement is not widely available. An accessible and reliable method for CO/CI estimation is needed not only in catheterization labs but also in other environments such as the intensive care unit, where pulmonary artery catheters are less likely to be used. We hypothesized that veno-arterial carbon dioxide gradient (PvaCO2) is a reliable surrogate for Fick CI in patients with PH.

Methods and results

A single-centre retrospective analysis of patients with PH who underwent direct Fick CI (DFCI) measurement during right heart catheterization. The primary outcome was correlation between PvaCO2 and DFCI. To assess the agreement between central and mixed venous CO2 values, a separate prospective cohort of patients was analysed. Data from 186 patients with all haemodynamic types of PH were analysed. PvaCO2 moderately correlated with Fick CI, R = −0.51 [95% confidence interval (CI): −0.61, −0.39]. A higher PvaCO2 was associated with an increased risk of CI < 2.5 L/min/m2 (odds ratio: 1.88, 95% CI: 1.55, 2.35). Low thermodilution CI with normal veno-arterial carbon dioxide gradient values was associated with a thermodilution underestimation of Fick CI. In the prospective analysis of 32 patients, central venous CO2 overestimated mixed venous values (mean difference 3.3, 95% CI: 2.5, 4.0) and there was poor agreement overall (limits of agreement −1.10, 7.59).

Conclusion

Veno-arterial carbon dioxide gradient moderately correlates with Fick CI and may be useful to identify patients with low CI. Central and mixed venous CO2 values should not be used interchangeably in PH.
Association between basic life support and survival in sports-related sudden cardiac arrest: a meta-analysis
Authors: Michelland Laurianne , Murad Mohammad H , Bougouin Wulfran , Van Der Broek Mark , Prokop Larry J , Anys Soraya , Perier Marie-Cécile , Cariou Alain , Empana Jean Philippe , Marijon Eloi , Jouven Xavier , Jabre Patricia
Published: October 2022

Aims

To evaluate the association of basic life support with survival after sports-related sudden cardiac arrest (SR-SCA).

Methods and results

In this systematic review and meta-analysis, a search of several databases from each database inception to 31 July 2021 without language restrictions was conducted. Studies were considered eligible if they evaluated one of three scenarios in patients with SR-SCA: (i) bystander presence, (ii) bystander cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR), or (iii) bystander automated external defibrillator (AED) use and provided information on survival. Risk of bias was evaluated using Risk of Bias in Non-randomized Studies of Interventions. The primary outcome was survival at the longest follow up. The meta-analysis was conducted using the random-effects model. The Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development, and Evaluations (GRADE) approach was used to rate certainty in the evidence. In total, 28 non-randomized studies were included. The meta-analysis showed significant benefit on survival in all three groups: bystander presence [odds ratio (OR) 2.55, 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.48–4.37; I2 = 25%; 9 studies—988 patients], bystander CPR (OR 3.84, 95% CI 2.36–6.25; I2 = 54%; 23 studies—2523 patients), and bystander AED use (OR 5.25, 95% CI 3.58–7.70; I2 = 16%; 19 studies—1227 patients). The GRADE certainty of evidence was judged to be moderate.

Conclusion

In patients with SR-SCA, bystander presence, bystander CPR, and bystander AED use were significantly associated with survival. These results highlight the importance of witness intervention and encourage countries to develop their first aid training policy and AED installation in sport settings.
Tree detection and diameter estimation based on deep learning
Authors: Grondin Vincent , Fortin Jean-Michel , Pomerleau François , Giguère Philippe
Published: October 2022

Tree perception is an essential building block toward autonomous forestry operations. Current developments generally consider input data from lidar sensors to solve forest navigation, tree detection and diameter estimation problems, whereas cameras paired with deep learning algorithms usually address species classification or forest anomaly detection. In either of these cases, data unavailability and forest diversity restrain deep learning developments for autonomous systems. Therefore, we propose two densely annotated image datasets—43 k synthetic, 100 real—for bounding box, segmentation mask and keypoint detections to assess the potential of vision-based methods. Deep neural network models trained on our datasets achieve a precision of 90.4 % for tree detection, 87.2 % for tree segmentation and centimeter accurate keypoint estimations. We measure our models’ generalizability when testing it on other forest datasets, and their scalability with different dataset sizes and architectural improvements. Overall, the experimental results offer promising avenues toward autonomous tree felling operations and other applied forestry problems. The datasets and pre-trained models in this article are publicly available on GitHub (https://github.com/norlab-ulaval/PercepTreeV1).
The evolving representative elementary volume size in crystalline and granular rocks under triaxial compression approaching macroscopic failure
Authors: McBeck J A , Cordonnier B , Renard F
Published: October 2022

Determining the size of the representative elementary volume (REV) for properties of fracture networks, such as porosity and permeability, is critical to robust upscaling of properties measured in the laboratory to crustal systems. Although fractured and damaged rock may have higher porosity and permeability than more intact rock, and thus exert a dominant influence on fluid flow, mechanical stability and seismic properties, many of the analyses that have constrained the REV size in geological materials have used intact rock. The REV size is expected to evolve as fracture networks propagate and coalesce, particularly when fracture development becomes correlated and the growth of one fracture influences the growth of another fracture. As fractures propagate and open with increasing differential stress, the REV size may increase to accommodate the larger fractures. The REV size may also increase as a consequence of the increasing heterogeneity of the fracture network, as many smaller fractures coalesce into fewer and longer fractures, and some smaller fractures stop growing. To quantify the evolving heterogeneity of fracture networks, we track the REV size of the porosity throughout eleven triaxial compression experiments under confining stresses of 5–35 MPa. Acquiring X-ray tomography scans after each increase of differential stress provides the evolving 3-D fracture network in four rock types: Carrara marble, Westerly granite, quartz monzonite and Fontainebleau sandstone. In contrast to expectations, the REV size does not systematically increase toward macroscopic failure in all of the experiments. Only one experiment on sandstone experiences a systematic increase in REV size because this rock contains significant porosity preceding loading, and it subsequently develops a localized fracture network that spans the core. The REV size may not systematically increase in most of the experiments because the highly heterogeneous porosity distributions cause the REV to become larger than the core. Consistent with this idea, when the rock does not have a REV, the fractures tend to be longer, thicker, more volumetric, and closer together than when the rock hosts a REV. Our estimates of the REV for the porosity of the sandstone are similar to previous work: about two to four times the mean grain diameter, or 0.5–1 mm. This agreement with previous work and the <15 per cent change in the REV size in two of the sandstone experiments suggests that when a system composed of sandstone does not host a localized, system-spanning fracture network, estimates of the REV derived from intact sandstone may be similar to estimates derived from damaged sandstone. Using the existing REV estimates derived from intact sandstone to simulations with more damaged crust, such as the damage zone adjacent to large crustal faults, will allow numerical models to robustly simulate increasingly complex crustal systems.
Adherence to aerobic and muscle-strengthening components of the physical activity guidelines and mental health
Authors: Shannon Stephen , Carlin Angela , Woods Catherine , Nevill Alan M , Murphy Niamh , Murphy Marie H
Published: October 2022

Despite a clear distinction between aerobic and muscle strengthening (MS) components in the physical activity guidelines, public health surveillance has largely focused only on aerobic components, limiting the reach of epidemiological research on the physical activity guidelines. Hence, this study investigated the association between adherence to both components (i.e. aerobic and muscle-strengthening) of the World Health Organization’s physical activity guidelines and mental health among the college student population. A cross-sectional study was conducted among a nationally representative sample of Irish college students (7088 participants, M age: 23.17 years; 50.9% female). Participants were categorized as meeting both components of the guidelines (n = 41%), only the aerobic component (n = 25.3%) or the MS component (n = 7.3%), and neither (n = 26.4%). Group membership effects on mental health was determined through mixed univariate ANOVAs, with a Bonferroni correction for post hoc analyses to assess multiple comparisons. Results revealed that meeting both components of the guidelines was significantly (all p < 0.01) associated with greater self-reported happiness, body image and general health, and less mental ill-being, relative to all other respective groupings. Meeting aerobic or MS components in isolation was significantly (p < 0.05) associated with better happiness, general health and body image compared to not meeting either component. To conclude, 59% of the college-aged population are insufficiently active, and adherence to both guideline components is positively associated with mental health. Co-produced, evidence-based, physical activity interventions are needed in students and could contribute to mental health promotion.
The SmMYB36-SmERF6/SmERF115 module regulates the biosynthesis of tanshinones and phenolic acids in salvia miltiorrhiza hairy roots
Authors: Li Qi , Fang Xin , Zhao Ying , Cao Ruizhi , Dong Juane , Ma Pengda
Published: October 2022

Tanshinone and phenolic acids are the most important active substances of Salvia miltiorrhiza, and the insight into their transcriptional regulatory mechanisms is an essential process to increase their content in vivo. SmMYB36 has been found to have important regulatory functions in the synthesis of tanshinone and phenolic acid; paradoxically, its mechanism of action in S. miltiorrhiza is not clear. Here, we demonstrated that SmMYB36 functions as a promoter of tanshinones accumulation and a suppressor of phenolic acids through the generation of SmMYB36 overexpressed and chimeric SmMYB36-SRDX (EAR repressive domain) repressor hairy roots in combination with transcriptomic-metabolomic analysis. SmMYB36 directly down-regulate the key enzyme gene of primary metabolism, SmGAPC, up-regulate the tanshinones biosynthesis branch genes SmDXS2, SmGGPPS1, SmCPS1 and down-regulate the phenolic acids biosynthesis branch enzyme gene, SmRAS. Meanwhile, SmERF6, a positive regulator of tanshinone synthesis activating SmCPS1, was up-regulated and SmERF115, a positive regulator of phenolic acid biosynthesis activating SmRAS, was down-regulated. Furthermore, the seven acidic amino acids at the C-terminus of SmMYB36 are required for both self-activating domain and activation of target gene expression. As a consequence, this study contributes to reveal the potential relevance of transcription factors synergistically regulating the biosynthesis of tanshinone and phenolic acid.
DNA-free genome editing in grapevine using CRISPR/Cas9 ribonucleoprotein complexes followed by protoplast regeneration
Authors: Najafi Samaneh , Bertini Edoardo , D’Incà Erica , Fasoli Marianna , Zenoni Sara
Published: October 2022

CRISPR/Cas9 genome editing technology can overcome many limitations of traditional breeding, offering enormous potential for crop improvement and food production. Although the direct delivery of Cas9-single guide RNA (sgRNA) ribonucleoprotein (RNP) complexes to grapevine (Vitis vinifera) protoplasts has been shown before, the regeneration of edited protoplasts into whole plants has not been reported. Here, we describe an efficient approach to obtain transgene-free edited grapevine plants by the transfection and subsequent regeneration of protoplasts isolated from embryogenic callus. As proof of concept, a single-copy green fluorescent protein reporter gene (GFP) in the grapevine cultivar Thompson Seedless was targeted and knocked out by the direct delivery of RNPs to protoplasts. CRISPR/Cas9 activity, guided by two independent sgRNAs, was confirmed by the loss of GFP fluorescence. The regeneration of GFP− protoplasts into whole plants was monitored throughout development, confirming that the edited grapevine plants were comparable in morphology and growth habit to wild-type controls. We report the first highly efficient protocol for DNA-free genome editing in grapevine by the direct delivery of preassembled Cas9-sgRNA RNP complexes into protoplasts, helping to address the regulatory concerns related to genetically modified plants. This technology could encourage the application of genome editing for the genetic improvement of grapevine and other woody crop plants.