bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Eight new 2+2 doubly eclipsing quadruple systems detected
Authors: Zasche P. , Henzl Z. , Merc J. , Kára J. , Kučáková H.
Published: May 2024

We studied eight new doubly eclipsing stellar systems. We found that they are all rare examples of quadruple systems of 2 + 2 architecture, where both inner pairs are eclipsing binaries. Until now, such a configuration had only been proven for dozens of systems on the whole sky. We enlarged this rare group of systems with four stars in the Small Magellanic Cloud (SMC) galaxy and four brighter stars on the northern sky. These analysed systems are the following: OGLE SMC-ECL-2339 (both eclipsing periods of 0.72884 days and 3.39576 days; mutual orbital period of 5.95 years); OGLE SMC-ECL-3075 (1.35890 d, 2.41587 d, 9.75 yr); OGLE SMC-ECL-4756 (0.91773 d, 2.06047 d, 4.34 yr); OGLE SMC-ECL-6093 (0.90193 d, 2.03033 d, 31.2 yr); GSC 01949-01700 (0.24058 d, 0.75834 d, 21.7 yr); ZTF J171602.61+273606.5 (0.36001 d, 4.51545 d, 19.5 yr); WISE J210935.8+390501 (0.33228 d, 3.51575 d, 1.9 yr); and V597 And (0.46770 d, 0.35250, 20.4 yr). These systems constitute a rare selection of W UMa stars among the doubly eclipsing quadruples. For all of the systems, new dedicated observations were obtained as well. V597 And is definitely the most interesting system for several reasons: (1) the system is the brightest in our sample; (2) it is a rare quintuple (2 + 2) + 1 system; and (3) it is also closest to the Sun. It yielded the predicted angular separation of the two components of 57 mas, which is probably within the detection limits for modern, high-angular-resolution techniques.
Yellowish oral mass occurring after nasolabial dermal filler
Authors: Lombardi Niccolò , Lodi Giovanni
Published: May 2024

Intra-oral lesion of the lower lip occurred two months after nasolabial folds dermal filler. The lesion appeared as a yellowish submucosal painless mass of approximately 15mm on the intraoral side of the inferior lip. An incisional biopsy was performed and definitive diagnosis of foreign body reaction to calcium hydroxyapatite was made. The lesion underwent complete spontaneous regression within eight months.
Das Sjögren-Syndrom im Fokus
Authors: Zehrfeld Nadine , Witte Torsten , Ernst Diana
Published: May 2024

Was ist neu?

Diagnostik – Der Teufel steckt im Detail! Die Speicheldrüsensonografie (SGUS) hat sich in der Diagnostik des Sjögren-Syndroms (SjS) etabliert und kann zu einer höheren Sensitivität der geltenden Klassifikationskriterien führen, gleichwohl sie bislang nicht in die Kriterien aufgenommen wurde. In der Labordiagnostik erhalten die Subspezifizierung von anti-SSA/Ro-Antikörpern – ggf. auch neue Biomarker – eine zunehmende Bedeutung. Präventiv müssen psychische Belastungen im Auge behalten werden, und das kardiovaskuläre Risiko und das Lymphomrisiko spielen eine große Rolle. Mittels Cluster-Analysen konnten verschiedene Phänotyp-Gruppen erschlossen werden, denen sich klinische Parameter zuordnen lassen.

Therapie 2020 wurden Therapieempfehlungen publiziert, die sich an den klinischen Manifestationen des SjS orientieren und Medikamente empfehlen, die auch in der Therapie des systemischen Lupus erythematodes (SLE) oder bei der rheumatoiden Arthritis eingesetzt werden. In den EULAR-Empfehlungen hat die Anti-B-Zell-Therapie mit Rituximab und Belimumab für schwerwiegende Manifestationen Einzug gefunden, und Ianalumab ist ein weiterer aussichtsreicher Wirkstoff. Ein weiterer Schwerpunkt der aktuellen Forschung liegt in der Inhibition der Costimulation zwischen Immunzellen. Nach zuletzt enttäuschenden Ergebnissen von Abatacept sind mit Iscalimab und Dazodalibep aber auch auf dieser Therapieachse aussichtsreiche Wirkstoffe in der Pipeline.
Die Leberzirrhose als Multisystemerkrankung
Authors: Bettinger Dominik , Thimme Robert , Schultheiß Michael
Published: May 2024

Was ist neu?

Hepatorenales Syndrom Nicht nur hämodynamische Veränderungen können zur Entstehung des hepatorenalen Syndroms führen, sondern auch die bestehende Inflammation. Nach der aktuellen Leitlinie der EASL wird zwischen einer akuten Form (HRS-AKI) und einer chronischen Form (HRS-NAKI) unterschieden. Bei der Diagnose muss ein Volumenmangel ausgeschlossen werden. In der Therapie des HRS-AKI werden die splanchnische Vasodilatation mit konsekutiver renaler Minderperfusion und auch die Inflammation direkt adressiert.

Zirrhotische Kardiomyopathie Tumor-Nekrose-Faktor alpha (TNF-α) und Interleukin 1β haben einen negativen Einfluss auf die Inotropie des Myokards. Die komplexen Vorgänge, die bei einer CCM ablaufen, lassen sich diagnostisch nur eingeschränkt mit konventionellen Parametern abbilden. Daher wird in den aktuellen Diagnosekriterien die Messung der myokardialen Deformation mittels Speckle-Tracking-Echokardiografie empfohlen. Eine spezifische Therapie der CCM existiert aktuell nicht.

Portopulmonale Hypertonie und hepatopulmonales Syndrom Es konnte gezeigt werden, dass die bestehende Inflammation eine entscheidende Rolle spielt. Proinflammatorische Zytokine führen zu einer Akkumulation von Makrophagen und einer vermehrten Adhärenz von Monozyten in der Lunge. Bei Patienten mit einer Leberzirrhose sollte das Screening auf eine Hypoxie mittels Pulsoxymetrie erfolgen. Als erster Schritt wird die Durchführung einer arteriellen Blutgasanalyse empfohlen. Therapeutisch erfolgt in erster Linie eine symptomatische Gabe von Sauerstoff.

Hepatische Enzephalopathie Ansammlungen von toxischen Substanzen im Gehirn sind Ursache einer HE und es können sich vermehrt entzündliche Mediatoren, wie TNF-α oder IL-6, messen lassen. Die Diagnose wird mittels West-Haven-Kriterien und z.B. Zahlenverbindungstest oder dem „Animal Naming Test“ gestellt. In der Akutphase einer HE können auch verzweigtkettige Aminosäuren eingesetzt werden.

Relative Nebenniereninsuffizienz Pathophysiologisch spielt auch hier eine Inflammation eine wichtige Rolle, wodurch die adrenale Steroidsynthese gehemmt wird. Für die Diagnostik der NNRI bietet sich die Bestimmung des freien Serumkortisols an. Bei Patienten mit einer Leberzirrhose und einem septischen Schock kann eine Hydrokortisonsubstitution sinnvoll sein.
Vorhofflimmern – Was ist bei chronischer Nierenerkrankung und Hämodialyse zu beachten?
Authors: Schlieper Georg
Published: May 2024

Was ist neu?

Scores zur Risikoeinschätzung Die chronische Nierenerkrankung (CKD) ist eine häufige Komorbidität bei Vorhofflimmern, wobei der CHA2DS2-VASc-Score bei höhergradiger CKD nicht validiert ist und bei Dialysepatienten nur einen geringen prädiktiven Wert aufweist.

Risikoreduktion Nach den aktuellen Empfehlungen der European Society of Cardiology (ESC) sind Nicht-Vitamin-K-antagonistische Orale Antikoagulanzien (NOAK) einer Vitamin-K-Hemmung vorzuziehen. Aufgrund der teilweisen renalen Elimination von NOAK ist die Dosis bei CKD anzupassen. Mehrere Studien deuten inzwischen auf ein akzeptables Sicherheitsprofil von NOAKs bei CKD hin, wobei größere randomisierte Studien nach wie vor fehlen. Die Ergebnisse von prospektiven Studien mit einem Placebo-Behandlungsarm, d.h. ohne Antikoagulationstherapie, sind noch ausstehend.

Vorhofohrverschluss bei Kontraindikationen Sollten Kontraindikationen für eine antithrombotische Therapie vorliegen, kann ein Vorhofohrverschluss diskutiert werden. Die Wirksamkeit und Sicherheit des Vorhofohrverschlusses muss jedoch noch besser evaluiert werden.
Bone Marrow Mesenchymal Stem Cells-derived Exosomes Promote Survival of Random Flaps in Rats through Nrf2-mediated Antioxidative Stress
Authors: Zhu Lin , Niu Qifang , Li Delong , Li Mozi , Guo Wenwen , Han Zhengxue , Yang Yang
Published: May 2024

Background Random flaps are the most used defect repair method for head and neck tumors and trauma plastic surgery. The distal part of the flap often undergoes oxidative stress (OS), ultimately leading to flap necrosis. Stem cells' exosomes exhibit potential effects related to anti-inflammatory, regenerative, and antioxidant properties. Nuclear factor erythroid-2-related factor 2 (Nrf2) is an important factor in regulating oxidative balance. Exosomes have been reported to monitor its transcription to alleviate OS. This study examined the impacts and underlying mechanisms of antioxidant actions of exosomes derived from bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells (BMSCs-Exo) on random flaps.

Methods BMSCs-Exo were injected into the tail veins of rats on days 0, 1, and 2 after surgery of random flaps. The rats were euthanized on day 3 to calculate the survival rate. Immunohistochemical staining, western blotting, dihydroethidium probe, superoxide dismutase, and malondialdehyde assay kits were used to detect the OS level. Human umbilical vein endothelial cells were cocultured with BMSCs-Exo and ML385 (an inhibitor of Nrf2) in vitro.

Results BMSCs-Exo may significantly improve the survival rate of the random flaps by reducing apoptosis, inflammation, and OS while increasing angiogenesis. Besides, BMSCs-Exo can also increase mitochondrial membrane potential and reduce reactive oxygen species levels in vitro. These therapeutic effects might stem from the activation of the Kelch-like enyol-CoA hydratase (ECH)-associated protein 1 (Keap1)/Nrf2 signaling pathway.

Conclusion BMSCs-Exo improved the tissue antioxidant capacity by regulating the Keap1/Nrf2 signaling pathway. BMSCs-Exo may be a new strategy to solve the problem of random flap necrosis.
Accessing meta-Enone-Substituted Anisoles using ArN2BF4 as Precatalyst via Rearrangement of Alkyne-Tethered Cyclohexadienones
Authors: Das Utpal , Rai Archana
Published: May 2024

A method for the rearrangement of alkyne-tethered cyclohexadienone to furnish meta-enone-substituted anisoles using arene diazonium tetrafluoroborate salts as precatalyst was developed. The reaction proceeds via intramolecular 1,6-enyne cyclization-aromatization and oxetene ring opening. The same protocol was also employed to obtain phthalide-substituted anisoles. The reactions are atom economic, have a broad substrate scope and amenable to gram-scale synthesis. Further synthetic transformations of the products were also performed.
Upfront Low-Dose Cytarabine with Prednisolone for Langerhans Cell Histiocytosis with Liver Dysfunction: A Ray of Hope
Authors: Hegde Niranjan Gurunath , Sivasankaran Meena S. , G. Vimal Kumar , Munirathnam Deenadayalan
Published: May 2024

The management of Langerhans cell histiocytosis (LCH) with accompanying liver dysfunction poses significant challenges, and this prompted the development of a modified low-dose cytarabine and prednisolone regimen. In this prospective observational study on children with LCH and liver dysfunction, four patients underwent induction and maintenance chemotherapy. The induction phase included 5 days of 100 mg/m2 cytarabine and 4 weeks of 40 mg/m2 daily prednisolone, with subsequent tapering. Maintenance included a regimen of 5 days of 100 mg/m2 cytarabine, along with oral prednisolone, repeated every 3 weeks. Complete disease resolution occurred after varying chemotherapy cycles. Three patients had liver transplants, and the chemotherapy resumed for 52 weeks after the transplant. In one child, chemotherapy was continued after reaching remission. In conclusion, a modified, less toxic low-dose cytarabine-based chemotherapy effectively managed LCH with liver dysfunction, with liver transplantation as a postremission treatment option.
Modification of Bioactive Properties in Food Protein Hydrolysates by Alcalase and Trypsin
Authors: Jogi Nishithkumar , Mathew Anjaly , Mamatha Bangera Sheshappa
Published: May 2024

Background Protein hydrolysates are the fragments of proteins that form during the hydrolysis with promised bioactive properties. Enzymatic hydrolysis produces bioactive peptides with specific amino acid profile. Among all the properties, angiotensin-I converting enzyme (ACE-I) inhibitory activity of the protein hydrolysates attained maximum attention to combat life-threatening disease like hypertension.

Methodology In the present study 10 protein-rich food sources (> 20% protein content on dry basis) were used to prepare protein hydrolysates using alcalase and trypsin to investigate the effect of enzymes on ACE-I inhibitory and antioxidant activity.

Results Among all the sources, the highest degree of hydrolysis was observed in sardine (62.89%) followed by soybean (61.24%) when hydrolyzed by alcalase. Kidney pea exhibited highest ACE-I inhibitory activity with IC50 value of 0.517 and 0.521 when hydrolyzed using both trypsin and alcalase, respectively. All the sources selected showed nonsignificant changes in ACE-I inhibitory activity between alcalase and trypsin (p < 0.05) except Bengal gram and chicken. Antioxidant activity was higher in alcalase hydrolyzed egg yolk (43.08%).

Conclusion Among the sources, all animal proteins hydrolyzed using alcalase exhibited significantly higher (p < 0.05) antioxidant activity than trypsin. However, protein hydrolysates prepared from sardine using alcalase would yield bioactive peptides with higher ACE-I inhibitory and antioxidant activity. Therefore, use of alcalase as a substitution for trypsin would be economical for large-scale production. Henceforth, food protein hydrolyzed by alcalase can be used as a functional ingredient for the development of functional or nutraceutical foods to combat lifestyle diseases.
Off-Pump Reduces Risk of Coronary Bypass Grafting in Patients with High MELD-XI Score
Authors: Richter Markus , Moschovas Alexandros , Bargenda Steffen , Freiburger Sebastian , Mukharyamov Murat , Caldonazo Tulio , Kirov Hristo , Doenst Torsten
Published: May 2024

Background This study aimed to assess the influence of the model of end-stage liver disease without International Normalized Ratio (INR) (MELD-XI) score on outcomes after elective coronary artery bypass surgery (CABG) without (Off-Pump) or with (On-Pump) cardiopulmonary bypass.

Methods We calculated MELD-XI (5.11 × ln serum bilirubin + 11.76 × ln serum creatinine in + 9.44) for 3,535 consecutive patients having undergone elective CABG between 2009 and 2020. A MELD-XI threshold was determined using the Youden Index based on receiver operating characteristics. Propensity score matching and logistic regression was performed to identify risk factors for inhospital mortality and Major Adverse Cardiac and Cerebrovascular Event (MACCE).

Results Patients were 68 ± 10 years old (76% male). Average MELD-XI was 10.9 ± 3.25. The MELD-XI threshold was 11. Patients below this threshold had somewhat lower EuroSCORE II than those above (3.5 ± 4 vs. 4.1 ± 4.7, p < 0.01), but mortality was almost four times higher above the threshold (below 1.5% vs. above 6.2%, p < 0.001). Two-thirds of patients received Off-Pump CABG. There was a trend towards higher risk in Off-Pump patients. Mortality was numerically but not statistically different to On-Pump below the MELD XI threshold (1.3 vs. 2.2%, p = 0.34) and was significantly lower above the threshold (4.9 vs. 8.9%, p < 0.02). Off-Pump above the threshold was also associated with less low-output syndrome and fewer strokes. Equalizing baseline differences by propensity matching verified the significant mortality difference above the threshold. Multivariable regression analysis revealed MELD-XI, On-Pump, atrial fibrillation, and the De Ritis quotient (Aspartate aminotransferase (ASAT)/Alanine Aminotransferase (ALAT)) as independent predictors of mortality.

Conclusion Elective CABG patients with elevated MELD-XI scores are at increased risk for perioperative mortality and morbidity. This risk can be significantly mitigated by performing CABG Off-Pump.
Practical Considerations in Computerized Surgical Planning for Frontofacial Surgery
Authors: Blondin Mario S. , Dunson Blake , Runyan Christopher M.
Published: May 2024

The field of frontofacial surgery has advanced considerably, building on the pioneering techniques of Paul Tessier, with computerized surgical planning (CSP) emerging as a critical component. CSP has enhanced the precision and efficiency of surgeries for craniofacial dysostoses and hypertelorism, resulting in improved outcomes. This review delves into the importance of understanding orbital anatomy and the crucial bony and soft tissue landmarks essential to the application of CSP in frontofacial procedures, encompassing Le Fort III and monobloc advancements, as well as the correction of hypertelorism.
Small business development in stabilizing Alberta’s economy (Canada)
Authors: Ressin Marat
Published: May 2024

This paper considers small businesses as an effective sector that solves current problems in the structure of the economy. The study aims to develop a set of measures (tools) for involving small businesses in stabilizing Alberta’s economy. The methodology includes the monitoring of the economy within Alberta’s regional borders over time; statistical analysis of the small business sector before and during the pandemic in the structure of the economy; as well as grouping and converting quantitative measurements into a qualitative summary of the main economic principles. These steps are aimed at developing a set of measures (tools) for involving small businesses in the economy of the province and the country as a whole. The growth of small enterprises ensures a practice focused on productivity, innovation, and society, which is confirmed by the dominant share of small businesses in the gross domestic product created by the dominant share of small businesses in the gross domestic product created by the private sector of the province. Thus, focusing on the economic principles of small businesses, a complex of measures is proposed for mobilization to maximize the economic result at the provincial level in the context of strengthening the national economy. In practice, the findings will help the local government to determine a set of beneficial policies, contributing to the utilization of the advantages of the local economy in the sphere of business production. Entrepreneurs are provided with an opportunity to qualitatively utilize economic opportunities, recognizing the risks of the external environment.
Volatile threshold switching devices for hardware security primitives: Exploiting intrinsic variability as an entropy source
Authors: Choi Wooseok , Kwon Ohhyuk , Lee Jangseop , Oh Seungyeol , Heo Seongjae , Ban Sanghyun , Seo Yoori , Kim Dongmin , Hwang Hyunsang
Published: May 2024

In the age of the Internet of Things, the proliferation of edge devices has resulted in a significant increase in personal information that is susceptible to theft and counterfeiting at various stages of data communication. As a result, substantial attention has been focused on hardware (HW) security elements, such as the true random number generator and physical unclonable function. With the recent surge in research and development of emerging memristors, which exploit the inherent variability of these devices, there has been a notable increase in studies on HW security. Particularly, volatile threshold switch (TS) devices, which exhibit insulator/metal characteristics below/above a certain threshold voltage, show great promise as security devices due to their lower power consumption and higher cycling endurance compared to nonvolatile memory devices. Despite the promising attributes and increasing demand for TS devices for HW security, there remains a lack of a comprehensive overview covering various TS devices and their potential contributions to HW privacy. To address this gap, this review provides an encompassing analysis of different types of TS devices and their performance in HW security literature, providing insight into current limitations and the future prospects of HW security primitives based on TS devices.
Spatial virtual recovery design technology of ancient buildings based on 3D laser scanning technology
Authors: Wang Jiachun , Song Jungyu , Feng Minxuan
Published: May 2024

Due to the persistent advancements in science and technology, the implementation of digital technology in the preservation of cultural heritage is progressively expanding. One of the focal points of research lies in the spatial virtual restoration design technology of ancient edifices, which is based on three-dimensional laser scanning technology. The study initially outlines the process of obtaining point cloud data via 3D laser scanning technology and subsequently executes denoising, splicing, and simplification processing on the point cloud. Subsequently, the pre-processed data undergo 3D mesh model construction. Finally, an effective repair technique is implemented to address the void phenomenon present during the modeling process. To construct the implicit surface, the RBF method is employed and new vertices are adjusted, resulting in a more accurate spatial virtual restoration of ancient buildings (ABs). The study found that using the radial basis function based void repair method resulted in a mean void repair accuracy of 92.38% in the west wall, an improvement of 3.08% compared to the Liepa-based method. In addition, this method achieved the highest accuracy of 98.94% on the north wall, improving by 6.37% compared to the Poisson grid editing algorithm. Meanwhile, the RBF-based method repaired cavities in the west wall model with an average runtime of only 20.613 s, resulting in a 19.16 s reduction compared to the Liepa-based method. In addition, the method’s average repair time for the north wall was only 5.364 s, a decrease of 13.28 s compared to the Poisson grid editing algorithm. This shows that combining 3D laser scanning technology and cavity repair technology can acquire high-quality point cloud data of historic structures, create precise 3D models, and achieve spatial virtual restoration. This offers a new and efficient technological approach to preserving and passing down ABs.
Edge modes of the Helmholtz–Onsager gas in a multiply connected domain
Authors: McQueen Richard , Lim Chjan C.
Published: May 2024

The vortex gas is an approximation used to study 2D flow using statistical mechanics methodologies. We investigate low positive Onsager temperature states for the vortex gas on an annular domain. Using mean field theory, microcanonical sampling of the point gas model, and canonical sampling of a lattice model, we find evidence for edge modes at low energy states.
Bidirectional reflectance measurements over a micrometric surface area using a goniospectrophotometer
Authors: Saha Dipanjana , Gevaux Lou , Frisvad Jeppe Revall , Obein Gael
Published: May 2024

The increasing use of a spatially varying bidirectional reflectance distribution function (svBRDF) to describe the appearance of an object raises the important question of how BRDF values change when measured on a small scale. For this reason, we present a new goniospectrophotometer with the ability to measure the BRDF at the micrometer scale (μBRDF). The instrument produces BRDF measurements with a measurement surface diameter of 31 µm. This device is designed to aid in the extension of the BRDF metrological scale from centimeter to micrometer size. We support the credibility of our μBRDF measurements using a specially made test sample with uniform diffuse white dots on a uniform black background, measuring its bidirectional reflectance in one geometrical configuration at many spatial locations. This sample can easily be modeled using a few unknown parameters. The agreement between our measurements and the model demonstrates the credibility of the measurement technique.
The application of cosine similarity measures with Laplacian energy to q-rung orthopair fuzzy graphs in decision-making problems
Authors: Atheeque A. Mohamed , Basha S. Sharief , Pratyusha Nune , Reddy C. Raghavendra , Alam Md Nur , Ahmad Hijaz , Tarakaramu Nainaru , K. Sreenivasulu
Published: May 2024

Q-rung orthopair fuzzy sets (q-ROFS), which are better than the intuitionistic and Pythagorean fuzzy sets, are a significant tool for expressing ambiguous information. Their key feature is that their ability to represent a larger space of uncertain information is based on the fact that the product of the qth power of the membership degree and the qth power of the degrees of non-membership is equal to or less than 1. Under these circumstances, we train group decision-making problems in the study using q-rung orthopair fuzzy inclination associations. Through the calculation of the standard deviation of one separable q-rung orthopair inclination association to the others and the unclear evidence of q-rung orthopair fuzzy inclination connections, we propose a novel approach to estimate the qualified reputation weights of authority. The “internal” and “impartial” evidence of authority is taken into consideration by this new mindset. Subsequently, we included the weights of authorities into the q-rung orthopair fuzzy inclination relations and used a relative similarity approach to determine the relevance of replacements and the best substitutes. The planned techniques' usefulness and realism are demonstrated by the contrast analysis with additional methods through mathematical demonstrations, both of which show the fuzzy set’s membership degree and non-membership degree, respectively.
Three Carleman routes to the quantum simulation of classical fluids
Authors: Sanavio C. , Scatamacchia R. , de Falco C. , Succi S.
Published: May 2024

We discuss the Carleman approach to the quantum simulation of classical fluids, as applied to (i) lattice Boltzmann, (ii) Navier–Stokes, and (iii) Grad formulations of fluid dynamics. Carleman lattice Boltzmann shows excellent convergence properties, but it is plagued by nonlocality which results in an exponential depth of the corresponding circuit with the number of Carleman variables. The Carleman Navier–Stokes offers a dramatic reduction of the number Carleman variables, which might lead to a viable depth, provided locality can be preserved and convergence can be achieved with a moderate number of iterates also at sizeable Reynolds numbers. Finally, it is argued that Carleman Grad might combine the best of Carleman lattice Boltzmann and Carleman Navier–Stokes.
Experimental and simulation studies on ELM characteristics under a plasma current ramping up discharge on EAST
Authors: Li Bang , Ming Tingfeng , Li Yanlong , Shi Qiqi , Deng Rongjing , Hou Shanwei , Wu Xiaohe , Yang Yanjie , Fan Kaixuan , Liu Xiaoju , Xia Tianyang , Zang Qing , Gao Xiang , Li GuoQiang
Published: May 2024

Previous experimental results show that the poloidal mode spacing of the filamentary structures increases and the dominant toroidal mode number decreases in the edgelocalized mode (ELM) rising phase with increasing plasma current. In addition, the experimental results in this paper show that the energy loss ratio of the pedestal (ΔW/Wped) decreases as the edge safety factor (q95) increases. The BOUT++ three-field two-fluid model can reproduce the experimental results and provide a possible explanation mechanism. The pedestal density plays an important role in the characteristics of filamentary structures as the current ramps up. On the one hand, the resistivity related to the pedestal density drives the instability of the peeling–ballooning mode, and the resistive effect is stronger in the high current case, making the dominant toroidal mode number lower and the corresponding poloidal mode spacing wider in the high current case. A low q95 corresponds to a high pedestal collision rate and a high pedestal energy loss ratio. On the other hand, the ELM crash process is dominated by resistivity, so the ratio of pedestal energy loss caused by ELM is not inversely proportional to the pedestal collision rate.
Fluid statics of a self-gravitating isothermal sphere of van der Waals' gas
Authors: Giordano Domenico , Amodio Pierluigi , Iavernaro Felice , Mazzia Francesca , Ván Péter , Szücs Mátyás
Published: May 2024

We subject to scrutiny the physical consistency of adopting the perfect-gas thermodynamic model within self-gravitation circumstances by studying the fluid statics of a self-gravitating isothermal sphere with the van der Waals' thermodynamic model, whose equation of state features well-known terms that account for molecular attraction and size. The governing equations are formulated for any thermodynamic model with two intensive degrees of freedom, applied with the van der Waals' model and solved numerically in nondimensional form by finite-difference algorithms. After a brief summary of thermodynamic characteristics possessed by the van der Waals' model, and relevant to the present study, we proceed to the description of the results in terms of comparative graphs illustrating radial profiles of density, pressure, and gravitational field. We complement them with graphs that compare the dependence of central and wall densities on gravitational number for both perfect-gas and van der Waals' models and that attest dramatically and unequivocally how the presence of molecular-attraction and -size terms removes questionable fluid-statics results systematically found accompanying the perfect-gas model in standard treatments. We also describe, within a very brief and preliminary digression, how the sanitizing action of the mentioned terms affects the thermodynamics of the isothermal sphere by providing evidence of how the gravitational correction to entropy corresponding to the van der Waals' model makes sure that there is no risk of gravothermal catastrophes, negative specific heats, and thermal instabilities. Furthermore, we investigate the phenomenology related to self-gravitationally induced both liquid-gas phase equilibria and metastable-gas states and we describe how they arise naturally and self-consistently from the governing equations. We conclude with a summary of the main results and with a challenging proposal of future work meant to attempt a revalorization the perfect-gas model.
Prediction of giant anomalous Nernst effect in Sm(Co,Ni)5
Authors: Chiba Naoki , Masuda Keisuke , Uchida Ken-ichi , Miura Yoshio
Published: May 2024

Sm-Co bulk alloys are well-known permanent magnets having large remanent magnetizations and coercive forces and are widely used in many industrial products. Recently, a large transverse thermoelectric conversion was observed for SmCo5 over a wide temperature range in the absence of magnetic fields. The large thermoelectric conductivity tensors (αxy) was also confirmed by the first-principles density functional theory (DFT) calculations. In this study, we predicted further enhancement of the αxy by including Ni in Co site of SmCo5. We showed that the αxy of Sm(Co1−xNix)5 increases with increasing the Ni ratio and takes the maximum value αxy = 11.3 A K−1 m−1 around x = 0.08 at 300 K, which is about 77% enhancement of αxy = 6.4 A K−1 m−1 in SmCo5. We clarified that the band proximity points near the nodal line of Sm(Co0.92Ni0.08)5 are the main contributing factor to the large Berry curvature, providing the steep slope of the energy dependence in the anomalous Hall conductivity around the Fermi energy.
The interplay of casing material and detonation wave shock parameters in steel witness plate dent formation
Authors: Johnson Emily M. , Johnson Catherine E.
Published: May 2024

This study uses both experimentation and simulation to investigate how varying casing material around cylindrical Composition-B charges affects witness plate response and diagnoses the cause of the differences in the dents produced. Through experimentation, it was found that consistent dents are produced from repeated tests and characteristically different dents are produced by charges with different casing material. Charges cased in viscoelastic materials produced shallower dents than those without casing. Simulation was validated against the experimental dents, and the detonation wave parameters were measured for 25 differently cased charges: 15 metals and 10 polymers. Regression fit relationships were derived relating dent parameters to casing density, casing impedance, casing tensile strength, detonation pressure, detonation velocity, impulse, and time of arrival. Specifically, it was found that the dent volume was negatively correlated with the detonation velocity and the impulse of the detonation wave was negatively correlated with dent depths across the charge. The density of the casing material was shown to be linked to the width of the witness dents. Additional dent tests were simulated for trinitrotoluene (TNT) charges cased in a single polymer and a single metal. The relationships derived for Composition-B were adjusted to fit TNT using TNT equivalency and calculated the measured detonation wave values to within 10% accuracy. Finally, it was concluded that the measurable distinctions observed in the witness dents were not a result of the casing material itself, but of the changes in the detonation wave caused by its interaction with the casing material.
Mechanical properties and impact behavior of frozen clay: Insights from static mechanical tests, fly-plate tests, and split-Hopkinson pressure bar analysis
Authors: Li Wei , Yu Liyuan , Tan Yizhong , Wu Liangrui , Qian Jiayu
Published: May 2024

The presence of frozen clay as a natural protective material makes it a crucial layer of defense against potential impacts in various engineering projects. Studying the strength and deformation characteristics of frozen clay is, therefore, particularly important. In this study, static mechanical tests, the Hopkinson impact test, and fly-plate tests were conducted on frozen clay to identify its mechanical properties under an impact load. The uniaxial compression strength, flexural strength, and elastic modulus displayed a linear increase with the change in temperature. The fractal dimension was used to describe the failure characteristics of frozen clay, yielding values ranging from 1.5691 to 1.8785. At the same temperature, the fractal dimension exhibited a strain rate effect as the strain rate increased. A light gas gun system was then used to conduct fly-plate tests on frozen clay at varying temperatures (−3, −20 °C, and ordinary temperature). The impact process was meticulously analyzed, considering factors such as shock wave velocity, particle velocity behind the shock wave, impact pressure, and volume strain. Moreover, our investigation plotted the D–u (volume strain–particle velocity) and P–μ shock (impact pressure–shock wave velocity) adiabatic curves. Notably, we observed that samples with a higher initial strength exhibited an increased resistance to compression under an identical initial density and moisture content, resulting in a discernible leftward shift of the P–μ curve. The results provide a theoretical basis and technical support for similar projects in the future.
On anomalous transport of multi-species plasma associated with the resistive ballooning and resistive drift waves driven turbulence
Authors: Krasheninnikov S. I.
Published: May 2024

Anomalous transport of multi-species plasma related to the resistive ballooning and resistive drift wave turbulence is considered in a “cold” ion approximation. It is found that similar to the resistive drift wave turbulence [see A. R. Knyazev and S. I. Krasheninnikov, Phys. Plasmas 31, 012502 (2024); and S. I. Krasheninnikov and R. D. Smirnov, Phys. Plasmas (to be published)] the addition of the ballooning drive does not change the main features of anomalous transport of the multi-species plasma: (i) The transport of all ion species is described as a transport of the passive scalars in the turbulent field of the electrostatic potential and electron density perturbation; (ii) the density of ion species with a larger ratio of the mass to charge has the tendency to the accumulation/depletion in the vortices of plasma flow; and (iii) the cross-field transport of all plasma species (including electrons and ions) is described by the same anomalous transport coefficient.
Old forests are irreplaceably cool
Authors: Grant Andrew
Published: May 2024

Satellite measurements confirm that the sudden disappearance of mature tropical forests has a more drastic effect on local land temperature than does the gradual growth of young forests.
Antimicrobial resistance in production animals
Authors: Trott Darren J. , McWhorter Andrea , Hewson Kylie , Abraham Rebecca , Abraham Sam
Published: May 2024

There is growing recognition of the significant role food production animals play in the dissemination of antimicrobial-resistant bacteria. This issue is particularly relevant in the realm of food production, where the administration of antibiotics of importance to human health to animals can foster the emergence of resistant bacterial strains that may be transmitted to humans through the food supply chain. Further, resistance can develop to antibiotics of importance for animal health which can create health and productivity issues. Cross-sectional surveys of Australian food animal production systems have revealed that very low levels of antimicrobial resistance (AMR) are present in key bacterial species. Expansion of AMR surveillance in food production systems is, however, needed to improve the detection sensitivity of emerging resistances of importance to human and animal health. Scalable high throughput technologies, such as the robotic antimicrobial susceptibility platform (RASP), represents a step-fold change in the capacity to accurately detect AMR. Enhanced surveillance along with improved biosecurity, industry engagement and antimicrobial stewardship will contribute to maintaining low levels of AMR in Australia’s food production systems.
What does the future hold? Improved detection, treatment and management of One Health AMR
Authors: Lithgow Trevor J. , Blaskovich Mark A. T.
Published: May 2024

Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is the poster child for the need for a ‘One Health’ approach that develops solutions across the human, agricultural and environmental sectors. This article provides a viewpoint of where AMR research is heading in the future, from the perspective of three Australian initiatives specifically established to combat AMR: the Centre to Impact AMR, the ARC Training Centre for Environmental and Agricultural Solutions to Antimicrobial Resistance, and the Community for Open Antimicrobial Drug Discovery.
CRISPRi screens identify the lncRNA,
LOUP
, as a multifunctional locus regulating macrophage differentiation and inflammatory signaling
Authors: Halasz Haley , Malekos Eric , Covarrubias Sergio , Yitiz Samira , Montano Christy , Sudek Lisa , Katzman Sol , Liu S. John , Horlbeck Max A. , Namvar Leila , Weissman Jonathan S. , Carpenter Susan
Published: May 2024

Long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) account for the largest portion of RNA from the transcriptome, yet most of their functions remain unknown. Here, we performed two independent high-throughput CRISPRi screens to understand the role of lncRNAs in monocyte function and differentiation. The first was a reporter-based screen to identify lncRNAs that regulate TLR4-NFkB signaling in human monocytes and the second screen identified lncRNAs involved in monocyte to macrophage differentiation. We successfully identified numerous noncoding and protein-coding genes that can positively or negatively regulate inflammation and differentiation. To understand the functional roles of lncRNAs in both processes, we chose to further study the lncRNA
LOUP
[lncRNA originating from upstream regulatory element of
SPI1
(also known as PU.1)], as it emerged as a top hit in both screens. Not only does
LOUP
regulate its neighboring gene, the myeloid fate–determining factor
SPI1
, thereby affecting monocyte to macrophage differentiation, but knockdown of
LOUP
leads to a broad upregulation of NFkB-targeted genes at baseline and upon TLR4-NFkB activation.
LOUP
also harbors three small open reading frames capable of being translated and are responsible for
LOUP
’s ability to negatively regulate TLR4/NFkB signaling. This work emphasizes the value of high-throughput screening to rapidly identify functional lncRNAs in the innate immune system.
Virtual Reality, Artificial Intelligence and Language Learning
Authors: Schütze Ulf
Published: May 2024

It is intriguing and challenging to learn a language by diving into the worlds of Virtual Reality (3-D environments, avatars, games) and Artificial Intelligence (chatbots, agents). What are the issues and benefits of these technological innovations? Taking readers on a journey through the brain, this book explains how VR and AI may foster and sustain connectivity between language faculties, the senses/emotions, working and long-term memory, and attention. With the speed of technological innovation increasing, cognitive demand as well as aspects of intrinsic motivation are analyzed, charted, and discussed, as these may become essential for future development of language learning experiences. This volume should be of interest to instructors, researchers, and students of languages and linguistics, cognitive psychology, and computer science.
Understanding, measuring, and differentiating task enjoyment from foreign language enjoyment
Authors: Li Chengchen , Dewaele Jean-Marc
Published: May 2024

This study aims to conceptualize and measure task-specific enjoyment and examine its links with
general foreign language enjoyment. A 23-item Task Enjoyment Scale was developed based on interview
data obtained after the completion of an L2 oral task. The scale was subsequently validated with two cohorts of
Chinese university EFL learners. Exploratory factor analysis revealed three dimensions: task enjoyment-self,
task enjoyment-task characteristics, and task enjoyment-social. Further confirmatory
factor analyses confirmed a 10-item Task Enjoyment Scale representing the three-factor structure.
Correlation analyses revealed varying positive relationships between task enjoyment, foreign language enjoyment, and
their dimensions. We highlight that task enjoyment may be the foundation of foreign language enjoyment, and that
learners may also bring enduring foreign language enjoyment to a specific task, contributing to the temporary
experience of task enjoyment, which may be linked to task performance. We conclude that enjoyment, whether
task-specific or general, is vital, and a primary non-linguistic goal for L2 teachers is to make L2 tasks/learning as
enjoyable as possible.
Task complexity, task features, and task anxiety at low L2 proficiency levels
Authors: Donate Angela , Leow Ronald P.
Published: May 2024

TBLT is a growing research strand in the instructed second language acquisition (ISLA) literature.
However, there is a paucity of studies on the role of individual differences (ID) such as task anxiety in L2 tasks
(Baralt & Gurzynski-Weiss, 2011; Donate, 2021). Importantly, very few studies have examined this learner factor in connection with task
complexity, and what features in L2 tasks contribute to learners’ anxiety during task performance. To gain a better
understanding of task-related features contributing to task anxiety, two L2 oral narrative tasks with varied cognitive
demands were investigated using a mixed method design. 51 early-stage learners of Spanish performed the two tasks and
responded to a task anxiety scale at two points in time during the tasks. The results showed that the complex task led
to more anxiety than the simple task, but the former also appeared to have led to more enjoyment. At the same time,
learners in the simple task reported experiencing more anxiety after task completion than in the middle. In addition,
code complexity, in particular vocabulary demands, the absence of planning time, oral task modality, and task
repetition1 contributed to task anxiety. The potential benefits of
manipulating specific task features to mitigate the effects of anxiety and increase enjoyment during oral task
performance are discussed in relation to lower proficiency levels.
Written languaging, language aptitude, and L2 learning through dictogloss tasks
Authors: Ishikawa Masako , Révész Andrea
Published: May 2024

Languaging, learners’ reflections/comments on language use, has been shown to facilitate second
language (L2) learning, presumably because it creates opportunities for noticing L2 constructions. If so, it would
appear that the extent to which learners can make use of these opportunities might be influenced by their aptitude, as
those with greater aptitude may be more prone to learning through noticing. Little research, however, has been
conducted to explore this possibility. This study investigated whether learners with varying degrees of language
analytic ability differentially benefit from engaging in written languaging when it is integrated into task-based
work. The study employed a pretest-posttest-delayed posttest design, with 64 participants assigned to two groups. As
part of dictogloss tasks, one group engaged in written languaging when comparing their reconstructed text with the
original. The other group received the same treatment but did not have the opportunity to carry out written languaging
during the dictogloss procedure. We measured language analytic ability with Part 4 of the MLAT, Part 2 of the LABJ,
and the LLAMA_F test. A grammar production test and a grammar recognition test were included to assess development in
the knowledge of the target construction, the if-clause of the present counterfactual conditional. Spearman
correlations revealed that language analytic ability had stronger relationship to participants’ learning when they did
not engage in written languaging than when they did during the dictogloss task. We interpreted this finding as
suggesting that written languaging can help mitigate the influence of language analytic ability on L2 learning.
The effects of planning type, working memory, and anxiety on L2 writing performance
Authors: An Hyejin , Li Shaofeng
Published: May 2024

This study explores (1) the effect of planning type on second language learners’ writing
performance and (2) the role of working memory and anxiety in different types of planning. 48 Korean high school
English as a foreign language learners participated in the study. Each learner composed a written narrative under one
of the three planning conditions: pre-task planning, within-task planning, and no planning. The results showed that
pre-task planning enhanced fluency, while within-task planning led to greater accuracy. Regarding the impact of
individual difference factors, it was found that that working memory was a significant predictor of morphosyntactic
accuracy of the pre-task planning group’s writing. Anxiety significantly predicted morphosyntactic accuracy across all
planning conditions, and it was a significant predictor of the syntactic complexity of the essays written under the
pre-task planning condition. Working memory and anxiety were not predictive of fluency and overall writing
quality.
A review of learner motivation and engagement research in task-based language teaching
Authors: Namkung Yoon , Kim YouJin
Published: May 2024

This chapter presents a systematic review of 54 studies on learner motivation and engagement in the
research domain of TBLT. The review focuses on various learner (e.g., first language), contextual (e.g., institution),
and task (e.g., task modality) characteristics in previous research. The operationalizations of learner motivation and
engagement in TBLT as well as the main themes of the findings in previous studies are investigated. The results of our
analysis revealed that learner motivation and engagement research in TBLT have examined a limited scope of learner
groups, contexts, and task features. Further, studies have adopted diverse operationalizations to capture the
multi-componential nature of the two constructs. In terms of the tools used to investigate learner motivation in TBLT,
research has heavily relied on questionnaires and verbal reports. The findings suggest a need for more longitudinal
research and more research using a bottom-up approach to examine the two constructs.