bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The impact of nodes of information dissemination on epidemic spreading in dynamic multiplex networks
Authors: Feng Minyu , Li Xiangxi , Li Yuhan , Li Qin
Published: April 2023

Epidemic spreading processes on dynamic multiplex networks provide a more accurate description of natural spreading processes than those on single layered networks. To describe the influence of different individuals in the awareness layer on epidemic spreading, we propose a two-layer network-based epidemic spreading model, including some individuals who neglect the epidemic, and we explore how individuals with different properties in the awareness layer will affect the spread of epidemics. The two-layer network model is divided into an information transmission layer and a disease spreading layer. Each node in the layer represents an individual with different connections in different layers. Individuals with awareness will be infected with a lower probability compared to unaware individuals, which corresponds to the various epidemic prevention measures in real life. We adopt the micro-Markov chain approach to analytically derive the threshold for the proposed epidemic model, which demonstrates that the awareness layer affects the threshold of disease spreading. We then explore how individuals with different properties would affect the disease spreading process through extensive Monte Carlo numerical simulations. We find that individuals with high centrality in the awareness layer would significantly inhibit the transmission of infectious diseases. Additionally, we propose conjectures and explanations for the approximately linear effect of individuals with low centrality in the awareness layer on the number of infected individuals.
Algebraic approach to annihilation and repulsion of bound states in the continuum in finite systems
Authors: Shubin N. M.
Published: April 2023

We present an algebraic approach to the description of bound states in the continuum (BICs) in finite systems with a discrete energy spectrum coupled to several decay channels. General estimations and bounds on the number of linearly independent BICs are derived. We show that the algebraic point of view provides straightforward and illustrative interpretations of typical well-known results, including the Friedrich–Wintgen mechanism and the Pavlov-Verevkin model. Pair-wise annihilation and repulsion of BICs in the energy–parameter space are discussed within generic two- and three-level models. An illustrative algebraic interpretation of such phenomena in Hilbert space is presented.
Interactions between a heavy particle, air, and a layer of liquid
Authors: Jolley E. M. , Smith F. T.
Published: April 2023

As an aircraft flies through cloud at temperatures below freezing, it encounters ice particles and supercooled droplets, which results in the accretion of ice onto its surfaces and hence deformation of its aerodynamic shape. This can, in worst cases, cause series accidents. Here, we focus on tackling the common situation where there is a thin layer of water on the aircraft surface and the particles are similarly thin such as to be able to interact with the water layer. Three-way interaction occurs between air, water, and body motion: under suitable assumptions (including that the Reynolds and Froude numbers are large, and that the body is much denser than the air), the model allows the shape of the layer interface and pressure profile beneath the body to be calculated for a given body position. Simultaneously, this in turn allows the forces on the body to be calculated and hence the motion of the particle to be computed in full. The result is a wide range of possible motions of the particle, including both “sink” cases (the particle enters the water and becomes submerged) and “skim” cases (where the particle is launched back off the surface of the water following contact). The latter cases have analogy with traditional “stone skimming/skipping” games. Repeated skims and significant wakes are accommodated rationally.
A quantum mechanical model of field emission from a graphene blade type material
Authors: Lepetit Bruno
Published: April 2023

We present a simple quantum perturbative full dimensionality model to study field emission from a graphene blade within the frame of the Bardeen transfer Hamiltonian formalism. The material electronic wavefunction is obtained for a multidimensional square well potential specifically designed to reproduce two important characteristics of the material, the Fermi level, and the shape of the emitting orbitals. The wavefunction in the vacuum between the electrodes is obtained with a close coupling method in a finite domain. Our model provides the emitted current density with respect to the applied field. This allows us to discriminate the different functional forms proposed to fit the Fowler–Nordheim emission curves. Our model also provides information on emission patterns. Electron total energy distributions are computed for different field intensities and compared with other theoretical and experimental results.
The interplay of geometry and coarsening in multicomponent lipid vesicles under the influence of hydrodynamics
Authors: Bachini Elena , Krause Veit , Voigt Axel
Published: April 2023

We consider the impact of surface hydrodynamics on the interplay between membrane curvature and lipid composition in coarsening processes on model systems for biomembranes. This includes the influence on scaling laws and equilibrium configurations, which are investigated by computational studies of a surface two-phase flow problem with additional phase-dependent bending terms. These additional terms geometrically favor specific configurations. We find that the effect of hydrodynamics strongly depends on the composition. In situations where the composition allows a realization of a geometrically favored configuration, hydrodynamics enhances the evolution toward this configuration. We restrict our model and numerics to stationary surfaces of varying curvature and validate the numerical approach with various benchmark problems and convergence studies.
Integrating biogeography and behavioral ecology to rapidly address biodiversity loss
Authors: Marske Katharine A. , Lanier Hayley C. , Siler Cameron D. , Rowe Ashlee H. , Stein Laura R.
Published: April 2023

Addressing climate change and biodiversity loss will be the defining ecological, political, and humanitarian challenge of our time. Alarmingly, policymakers face a narrowing window of opportunity to prevent the worst impacts, necessitating complex decisions about which land to set aside for biodiversity preservation. Yet, our ability to make these decisions is hindered by our limited capacity to predict how species will respond to synergistic drivers of extinction risk. We argue that a rapid integration of biogeography and behavioral ecology can meet these challenges because of the distinct, yet complementary levels of biological organization they address, scaling from individuals to populations, and from species and communities to continental biotas. This union of disciplines will advance efforts to predict biodiversity’s responses to climate change and habitat loss through a deeper understanding of how biotic interactions and other behaviors modulate extinction risk, and how responses of individuals and populations impact the communities in which they are embedded. Fostering a rapid mobilization of expertise across behavioral ecology and biogeography is a critical step toward slowing biodiversity loss.
Crystallinity engineering for overcoming the activity–stability tradeoff of spinel oxide in Fenton-like catalysis
Authors: Guo Zhi-Yan , Sun Rongbo , Huang Zixiang , Han Xiao , Wang Haoran , Chen Cai , Liu Yu-Qin , Zheng Xusheng , Zhang Wenjun , Hong Xun , Li Wen-Wei
Published: April 2023

A precise modulation of heterogeneous catalysts in structural and surface properties promises the development of more sustainable advanced oxidation water purification technologies. However, while catalysts with superior decontamination activity and selectivity are already achievable, maintaining a long-term service life of such materials remains challenging. Here, we propose a crystallinity engineering strategy to break the activity–stability tradeoff of metal oxides in Fenton-like catalysis. The amorphous/crystalline cobalt-manganese spinel oxide (A/C-CoMnO
x
) provided highly active, hydroxyl group-rich surface, with moderate peroxymonosulfate (PMS)-binding affinity and charge transfer energy and strong pollutant adsorption, to trigger concerted radical and nonradical reactions for efficient pollutant mineralization, thereby alleviating the catalyst passivation by oxidation intermediate accumulation. Meanwhile, the surface-confined reactions, benefited from the enhanced adsorption of pollutants at A/C interface, rendered the A/C-CoMnO
x
/PMS system ultrahigh PMS utilization efficiency (82.2%) and unprecedented decontamination activity (rate constant of 1.48 min
−1
) surpassing almost all the state-of-the-art heterogeneous Fenton-like catalysts. The superior cyclic stability and environmental robustness of the system for real water treatment was also demonstrated. Our work unveils a critical role of material crystallinity in modulating the Fenton-like catalytic activity and pathways of metal oxides, which fundamentally improves our understanding of the structure–activity–selectivity relationships of heterogeneous catalysts and may inspire material design for more sustainable water purification application and beyond.
Cofunctioning of bacterial exometabolites drives root microbiota establishment
Authors: Getzke Felix , Hassani M. Amine , Crüsemann Max , Malisic Milena , Zhang Pengfan , Ishigaki Yuji , Böhringer Nils , Jiménez Fernández Alicia , Wang Lei , Ordon Jana , Ma Ka-Wai , Thiergart Thorsten , Harbort Christopher J. , Wesseler Hidde , Miyauchi Shingo , Garrido-Oter Ruben , Shirasu Ken , Schäberle Till F. , Hacquard Stéphane , Schulze-Lefert Paul
Published: April 2023

Soil-dwelling microbes are the principal inoculum for the root microbiota, but our understanding of microbe–microbe interactions in microbiota establishment remains fragmentary. We tested 39,204 binary interbacterial interactions for inhibitory activities in vitro, allowing us to identify taxonomic signatures in bacterial inhibition profiles. Using genetic and metabolomic approaches, we identified the antimicrobial 2,4-diacetylphloroglucinol (DAPG) and the iron chelator pyoverdine as exometabolites whose combined functions explain most of the inhibitory activity of the strongly antagonistic
Pseudomonas brassicacearum
R401. Microbiota reconstitution with a core of
Arabidopsis thaliana
root commensals in the presence of wild-type or mutant strains revealed a root niche-specific cofunction of these exometabolites as root competence determinants and drivers of predictable changes in the root-associated community. In natural environments, both the corresponding biosynthetic operons are enriched in roots, a pattern likely linked to their role as iron sinks, indicating that these cofunctioning exometabolites are adaptive traits contributing to pseudomonad pervasiveness throughout the root microbiota.
Effect of radial-shear rolling on particle's morphology and mechanical properties of AA7075 alloy
Authors: Gamin Yury , Akopyan Torgom , Kin Tatiana , Galkin Sergey , Aleshchenko Aleksander
Published: April 2023

Effect of radial shear rolling on the morphology of intermetallic particles, and the mechanical properties of 7075 alloy at different processing temperatures and heat treatment after deformation was investigated. The results were consistent with data on metallographic investigation of phase particle shape, counts, and distribution. It was found that the formation, quantitative distribution, and circularity of particles at the surface and in the centre of the bar depended on the processing temperature and temperature gradient between surface and centre and were defined with a scheme of stresses in the deformation zone. The values of strength properties for all bars obtained by RSR depended on the processing regimes, while plasticity (elongation to failure δ = 14%–20%) increased with the growth of processing temperature.

Article highlights Radial shear rolling makes it possible to obtain aluminium alloy bars with a gradient structure and a combination of high strength and ductility. The influence of the RSR method is reflected in the nature of the distribution of dispersive particles in the matrix of alloy. Mechanical properties of bars subjected to the RSR method depend on the initial processing regimes, while the level of plasticity increases with the growth of processing temperature.
Effects of rare earth elements on AlCoCrFeNi2.1 eutectic high-entropy alloy
Authors: Gu Ze-Hao , Nong Zhi-Sheng , Su Kan , Wang Ji-Jie , Zhu Jing-Chuan
Published: April 2023

In order to explore the effect of rare earth elements (REEs) on the eutectic high-entropy alloys (EHEAs), 0.2 atomic per cent of Sc, Y, and La elements were added to the AlCoCrFeNi2.1(REE0) EHEA in this work. The phase composition, element distribution, electrochemical properties and mechanical properties of the alloys were analysed. The results showed that the AlCoCrFeNi2.1-based HEAs are still composed of Co, Cr, Fe (face-centred cubic)-rich phase and Al, Ni (face-centred cubic)-rich phase. After Sc, Y, La were added, Ni2Sc, Al2Y, Al2La and other intermetallics were formed in the AlCoCrFeNi2.1 alloy. In addition, it was proved that Y element can promote the formation of hexagonal close-packed (HCP) phase. AlCoCrFeNi2.1Y0.2(Y0.2) alloy has excellent corrosion resistance. AlCoCrFeNi2.1Sc0.2(Sc0.2) alloy has the best mechanical properties.

HIGHLIGHTS With the addition of rare earth elements, the face-centred cubic phase and the B2 phase still exist in the alloy. In addition, there are intermetallics in the alloys. Combined with first-principles calculations, it was determined that the Laves phases in AlCoCrFeNi2.1Y0.2 alloy may be Al2Y, Al3Y or AlY. The Laves phase in the AlCoCrFeNi2.1La0.2 alloy may be Al2La, Al3La or LaNi5. The addition of Y element can promote the formation of HCP phase in AlCoCrFeNi2.1 alloy. The generated HCP phase occupies the position of the original B2 phase. Y element can also improve corrosion resistance. The Vickers hardness of AlCoCrFeNi2.1Sc0.2 alloy is 20% higher than that of AlCoCrFeNi2.1 alloy, while the compressive strength of 1897 MPa and the compressive deformation of 26% are retained.
ARMO: automated and reliable multi-objective model for lymph node metastasis prediction in head and neck cancer
Authors: Zhou Zhiguo , Chen Liyuan , Dohopolski Michael , Sher David , Wang Jing
Published: April 2023

Objective. Accurate diagnosis of lymph node metastasis (LNM) is critical in treatment management for patients with head and neck cancer. Positron emission tomography and computed tomography are routinely used for identifying LNM status. However, for small or less fluorodeoxyglucose (FDG) avid nodes, there are always uncertainties in LNM diagnosis. We are aiming to develop a reliable prediction model is for identifying LNM. Approach. In this study, a new automated and reliable multi-objective learning model (ARMO) is proposed. In ARMO, a multi-objective model is introduced to obtain balanced sensitivity and specificity. Meanwhile, confidence is calibrated by introducing individual reliability, whilst the model uncertainty is estimated by a newly defined overall reliability in ARMO. In the training stage, a Pareto-optimal model set is generated. Then all the Pareto-optimal models are used, and a reliable fusion strategy that introduces individual reliability is developed for calibrating the confidence of each output. The overall reliability is calculated to estimate the model uncertainty for each test sample. Main results. The experimental results demonstrated that ARMO obtained more promising results, which the area under the curve, accuracy, sensitivity and specificity can achieve 0.97, 0.93, 0.88 and 0.94, respectively. Meanwhile, based on calibrated confidence and overall reliability, clinicians could pay particular attention to highly uncertain predictions. Significance. In this study, we developed a unified model that can achieve balanced prediction, confidence calibration and uncertainty estimation simultaneously. The experimental results demonstrated that ARMO can obtain accurate and reliable prediction performance.
Patient-specific neural networks for contour propagation in online adaptive radiotherapy
Authors: Smolders A , Lomax A , Weber DC , Albertini F
Published: April 2023

Objective. fast and accurate contouring of daily 3D images is a prerequisite for online adaptive radiotherapy. Current automatic techniques rely either on contour propagation with registration or deep learning (DL) based segmentation with convolutional neural networks (CNNs). Registration lacks general knowledge about the appearance of organs and traditional methods are slow. CNNs lack patient-specific details and do not leverage the known contours on the planning computed tomography (CT). This works aims to incorporate patient-specific information into CNNs to improve their segmentation accuracy. Approach. patient-specific information is incorporated into CNNs by retraining them solely on the planning CT. The resulting patient-specific CNNs are compared to general CNNs and rigid and deformable registration for contouring of organs-at-risk and target volumes in the thorax and head-and-neck regions. Results. patient-specific fine-tuning of CNNs significantly improves contour accuracy compared to standard CNNs. The method further outperforms rigid registration and a commercial DL segmentation software and yields similar contour quality as deformable registration (DIR). It is additionally 7–10 times faster than DIR. Significance. patient-specific CNNs are a fast and accurate contouring technique, enhancing the benefits of adaptive radiotherapy.
Experimental evaluation of convolutional neural network-based inter-crystal scattering recovery for high-resolution PET detectors
Authors: Lee Seungeun , Lee Jae Sung
Published: April 2023

Objective. One major limiting factor for achieving high resolution of positron emission tomography (PET) is a Compton scattering of the photon within the crystal, also known as inter-crystal scattering (ICS). We proposed and evaluated a convolutional neural network (CNN) named ICS-Net to recover ICS in light-sharing detectors for real implementations preceded by simulations. ICS-Net was designed to estimate the first-interacted row or column individually from the 8 × 8 photosensor amplitudes. Approach. We tested 8 × 8, 12 × 12, and 21 × 21 Lu2SiO5 arrays with pitches of 3.2, 2.1, and 1.2 mm, respectively. We first performed simulations to measure the accuracies and error distances, comparing the results to previously studied pencil-beam-based CNN to investigate the rationality of implementing fan-beam-based ICS-Net. For experimental implementation, the training dataset was prepared by obtaining coincidences between the targeted row or column of the detector and a slab crystal on a reference detector. ICS-Net was applied to the detector pair measurements with moving a point source from the edge to center using automated stage to evaluate their intrinsic resolutions. We finally assessed the spatial resolution of the PET ring. Main results. The simulation results showed that ICS-Net improved the accuracy compared with the case without recovery, reducing the error distance. ICS-Net outperformed a pencil-beam CNN, which provided a rationale to implement a simplified fan-beam irradiation. With the experimentally trained ICS-Net, the degree of improvements in intrinsic resolutions were 20%, 31%, and 62% for the 8 × 8, 12 × 12, and 21 × 21 arrays, respectively. The impact was also shown in the ring acquisitions, achieving improvements of 11%–46%, 33%–50%, and 47%–64% (values differed from the radial offset) in volume resolutions of 8 × 8, 12 × 12, and 21 × 21 arrays, respectively. Significance. The experimental results demonstrate that ICS-Net can effectively improve the image quality of high-resolution PET using a small crystal pitch, requiring a simplified setup for training dataset acquisition.
Stable interaction-induced Anderson-like localization embedded in standing waves
Authors: Zhang Na , Ke Yongguan , Lin Ling , Zhang Li , Lee Chaohong
Published: April 2023

We uncover the interaction-induced stable self-localization of few bosons in finite-size disorder-free superlattices. In these nonthermalized multi-particle states, one of the particles forms a superposition of multiple standing waves, so that it provides a quasi-random potential to localize the other particles. We derive effective Hamiltonians for self-localized states and find their energy level spacings obeying the Poisson statistics. The spatial distribution of the localized particles decays exponentially, which is refered to Anderson-like localization (ALL). Surprisingly, we find that the correlated self-localization can be solely induced by interaction in the well-studied Bose–Hubbard models, which has been overlooked for a long time. We propose a dynamical scheme to detect self-localization, where long-time quantum walks of a single particle form a superposition of multiple standing waves for trapping the subsequently loaded particles. Our work provides an experimentally feasible way to realize stable ALL in translation-invariant disorder-free few-body systems.
Event-related causality in stereo-EEG discriminates syntactic processing of noun phrases and verb phrases
Authors: Cometa Andrea , d’Orio Piergiorgio , Revay Martina , Bottoni Franco , Repetto Claudia , Russo Giorgio Lo , Cappa Stefano F , Moro Andrea , Micera Silvestro , Artoni Fiorenzo
Published: April 2023

Objective. Syntax involves complex neurobiological mechanisms, which are difficult to disentangle for multiple reasons. Using a protocol able to separate syntactic information from sound information we investigated the neural causal connections evoked by the processing of homophonous phrases, i.e. with the same acoustic information but with different syntactic content. These could be either verb phrases (VP) or noun phrases. Approach. We used event-related causality from stereo-electroencephalographic recordings in ten epileptic patients in multiple cortical and subcortical areas, including language areas and their homologous in the non-dominant hemisphere. The recordings were made while the subjects were listening to the homophonous phrases. Main results. We identified the different networks involved in the processing of these syntactic operations (faster in the dominant hemisphere) showing that VPs engage a wider cortical and subcortical network. We also present a proof-of-concept for the decoding of the syntactic category of a perceived phrase based on causality measures. Significance. Our findings help unravel the neural correlates of syntactic elaboration and show how a decoding based on multiple cortical and subcortical areas could contribute to the development of speech prostheses for speech impairment mitigation.
Validating neutral-beam current drive simulations in the TJ-II stellarator
Authors: Mulas S. , Cappa Á. , Martínez-Fernández J. , López Bruna D. , Velasco J.L. , Estrada T. , Gómez-Manchón J.M. , Liniers M. , McCarthy K.J. , Pastor I. , Medina F. , Ascasíbar E.
Published: April 2023

In this paper, we analyze the results of neutral-beam current drive (NBCD) experiments performed in the TJ-II stellarator with the aim of validating the theoretical predictions. Both parallel and anti-parallel injection with respect to the magnetic field were explored using co (NBI1) and counter (NBI2) beams at different injected beam power and plasma densities. The fast-ion current driven by both beams was simulated with the Monte Carlo code ASCOT and the electron response to the fast-ion current was calculated analytically using a model valid for an arbitrary magnetic configuration and a low collisionality plasma. Despite the uncertainties associated to the determination of experimental inputs, the model reproduces with rather good agreement the toroidal current measured in NBI2 plasmas. However, the current driven by NBI1 is less than half the predicted one. Possible reasons for this discrepancy are discussed. Among the probable causes, yet to be studied, the most likely is the increased presence of lithium in the plasma when NBI1 is injected, this being the result of its irregular deposition during wall conditioning.
Research of radon diffusion behavior in liquid scintillator
Authors: Xu Zhongfang , Guo Cong , Liu Jincang , Zhang Yongpeng , Zhang Peng , Yang Changgen , Tang Quan , Liu Yu , Li Chi , Guan Tingyu
Published: April 2023

Radon and its daughters are one of the most important
background sources for low-background liquid scintillator (LS)
detectors. The study of the diffusion behavior of radon in the LS
contributes to the analysis of the related background caused by
radon. Methodologies and devices for measuring radon's diffusion
coefficient and solubility in materials are developed and
described. The radon diffusion coefficient in the LS was measured
for the first time and the solubility coefficient was also
obtained. In addition, the radon diffusion coefficient in the
polyolefine film which is consistent with data in the literature was
measured to verify the reliability of the diffusion device.
Imaging of gamma photons from activated gold wire using a high-energy gamma camera after irradiation of neutrons from boron neutron capture therapy (BNCT) system
Authors: Yamamoto Seiichi , Hu Naonori , Kataoka Jun , Koshikawa Nanase , Kanai Yasukazu , Tanaka Hiroki , Ono Koji
Published: April 2023

Gold wire is commonly used for quality assurance (QA) of the neutron beam in a boron neutron capture therapy (BNCT) system. It is set in water and irradiated with the neutron beam, and then 412-keV gamma photons from the activated gold wire are measured by a semiconductor detector. Since this procedure takes time and labor, a more efficient method is desired. To reduce the time and labor to measure the radioactivity of an activated gold wire, we carried out imaging of 412-keV gamma photons from the activated gold wire using a developed high-energy gamma camera. After the gold wire was set in the depth direction in a water-filled phantom and irradiated with neutron beams using the BNCT system, gamma photon imaging was conducted with the developed high-energy gamma camera. On the measured image, a depth profile was set to obtain the neutron distribution, and this was compared with the profile sequentially measured with a semiconductor detector. An image of the 412-keV gamma photons was obtained with an imaging time of 1.5 hours. The estimated depth profile of the neutron beam from the gamma camera image closely matched that measured with a semiconductor detector. Imaging of the gamma photons emitted from the activated gold wire was possible, and it offers an efficient method to measure the thermal neutron distribution of the BNCT system. This method has the potential to reduce the time and labor for QA of a BNCT system.
Changing cropland in changing climates: quantifying two decades of global cropland changes
Authors: Kennedy Jennifer , Hurtt George C , Liang Xin-Zhong , Chini Louise , Ma Lei
Published: April 2023

Climate change is impacting global crop productivity, and agricultural land suitability is predicted to significantly shift in the future. Responses to changing conditions and increasing yield variability can range from altered management strategies to outright land use conversions that may have significant environmental and socioeconomic ramifications. However, the extent to which agricultural land use changes in response to variations in climate is unclear at larger scales. Improved understanding of these dynamics is important since land use changes will have consequences not only for food security but also for ecosystem health, biodiversity, carbon storage, and regional and global climate. In this study, we combine land use products derived from the Moderate Resolution Imaging Spectroradiometer with climate reanalysis data from the European Centre for Medium-Range Weather Forecasts Reanalysis v5 to analyze correspondence between changes in cropland and changes in temperature and water availability from 2001 to 2018. While climate trends explained little of the variability in land cover changes, increasing temperature, extreme heat days, potential evaporation, and drought severity were associated with higher levels of cropland loss. These patterns were strongest in regions with more cropland change, and generally reflected underlying climate suitability—they were amplified in hotter and drier regions, and reversed direction in cooler and wetter regions. At national scales, climate response patterns varied significantly, reflecting the importance of socioeconomic, political, and geographic factors, as well as differences in adaptation strategies. This global-scale analysis does not attempt to explain local mechanisms of change but identifies climate-cropland patterns that exist in aggregate and may be hard to perceive at local scales. It is intended to supplement regional studies, providing further context for locally-observed phenomena and highlighting patterns that require further analysis.
Prediction of Rubber Yield Based on Soil Water Content
Authors: Cahyo A N , Ardika R
Published: April 2023

Fluctuation of monthly rainfall resulted in fluctuation of monthly rubber yield. This study was aimed to determine a model to predict rubber yield based on soil water content. This study was conducted at Indonesian Rubber Research Institute, South Sumatera in May 2022. The plant materials used in this study were rubber clones PB 260 that were planted in 2001 in two blocks of rubber field. The soil texture in these two blocks was clay loam with good drainage conditions. The average of monthly soil water content and rubber yield data for 11 years from the first block was used to determine the model. Whereas the average of monthly soil water content and rubber yield data for 12 years from the second block was used to validate the model. The soil water content was generated by field water balance calculation. The regression and correlation analysis showed that the highest correlation and the most suitable model to predict rubber yield based on soil water content was the power model with formula Y = 0.0668X2.1423 (coefficient of determination (R2) = 0.80). Where, Y = rubber yield (kg/month) and X = soil water content (%). Furthermore, the validation of the model showed that the goodness of match (GOM), Pearson correlation coefficient (R), coefficient of determination (R2), and root mean square error (RMSE) were 0.94, 0.95, 0.90. and 10.3 respectively. These values showed that the model was accurate and strong enough to predict rubber yield based on soil water content.
Endophytic phosphate solubilization and potential nitrogen-fixing bacteria in the leaf and root of rice planted on the conventional wetland
Authors: Shofiyah L , Sudadi  , Dewi W S , Cahyani V R
Published: April 2023

Endophytic bacteria inhabit internal plant tissue and generally promote plant growth, showing no external sign of infection or negative effect on their host plant. Endophytes play diverse roles including nutrient acquisition, production of phytohormones and siderophores, protection against abiotic stresses. The purpose of this study was to isolate and characterize endophytic bacteria which have the specific capability of the acquisition of nutrients especially Phosphate Solubilizing Bacteria (PSB) and potentially Nitrogen Fixing Bacteria (NFB) from the leaf and root of rice planted on the conventional wetland of Inceptisol. Isolation of endophytic bacteria was conducted by sterilizing the surface of plant samples and then inoculating using the spread plate method on pikovskaya and yeast extract mannitol agar media. The growing bacterial colonies on the media showed that the diversity and population density of endophytic PSB in the root was higher than in the leaf tissue, namely 4 types of isolates with 1,526x105 CFU/g in the root and 2 types of isolates with 0.0395x105 CFU/g in the leaf. On the other hand, the diversity of endophytic potentially NFB in the leaf was higher than in the root tissue namely 5 and 3 types of isolates, but the population density was higher in the root at the level 11,55x105 CFU/g than in the leaf at 5,976x105 CFU/g. The next research is necessary to compare endophytic bacteria from rice planted in inorganic and organic cultivation systems, and continued with the examination of the effect of inoculation of those endophytic bacteria to the targeted crops.
Evaluation of land suitability for cocoa (Theobroma cacao L) in Kebonagung District, Pacitan Regency, East Java, Indonesia
Authors: Herawati A , Herdiansyah G , Rahayu  , Supriyadi  , Nugraheni G R
Published: April 2023

Pacitan Regency is one of the potential areas for the development of cocoa (Theobroma cacao L). Plants need certain conditions to produce optimally. Land suitability is a way to find out whether land conditions in Kebonagung District are suitable or not for cocoa plants. This study evaluates land suitability for cocoa plants in Kebonagung District, Pacitan Regency. The research was conducted using descriptive method through a survey approach. Based on the overlay of soil type maps, topographic maps, rainfall maps, and administrative maps, ten land map units (LMU) were obtained. Morphological analysis and soil characteristics were carried out qualitatively in the field and quantitatively in the laboratory. Determination of land suitability is done by matching the characteristics of the land with the conditions for growing cocoa plants. The results showed that at LMU 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 8, 9, and 10 were moderately suitable for the class of land suitability, while LMU 1 and 7 were marginally suitable. The limiting factors are the length of the dry month, humidity, pH, available potassium, base saturation (BS), erosion hazard and slope. After improving the limiting factor, the potential land suitability class was obtained in the S2 class (moderately suitable) for all LMUs.
Digital light processing-bioprinted poly-NAGA-GelMA-based hydrogel lenticule for precise refractive errors correction
Authors: Jia Shuo , Yang Jirong , Lau Aaron Dzi-Shing , Chen Fushun , Bu Yashan , Cai Erlong , Wang Huogang , Chieng Herng-Ee , Sun Tianhao , Zhou Zhiyong , Ruan Changshun , Weijia Lu William , Chan Jonathan Cheuk-Hung
Published: April 2023

Refractive disorder is the most prevalent cause of visual impairment worldwide. While treatment of refractive errors can bring improvement to quality of life and socio-economic benefits, there is a need for individualization, precision, convenience, and safety with the chosen method. Herein, we propose using pre-designed refractive lenticules based on poly-NAGA-GelMA (PNG) bio-inks photo-initiated by digital light processing (DLP)-bioprinting for correcting refractive errors. DLP-bioprinting allows PNG lenticules to have individualized physical dimensions with precision achievable to 10 µm (μm). Material characteristics of PNG lenticules in tests included optical and biomechanical stability, biomimetical swelling and hydrophilic capability, nutritional and visual functionality, supporting its suitability as stromal implants. Cytocompatibility distinguished by morphology and function of corneal epithelial, stromal, and endothelial cells on PNG lenticules suggested firm adhesion, over 90% viability, phenotypic maintenance instead of excessive keratocyte-myofibroblast transformation. In-vitro immune response analyzed by illumina RNA sequencing in human peripheral blood mononuclear cells indicated that PNG lenticules activated type-2 immunity, facilitating tissue regeneration and suppressing inflammation. In-vivo performance assessed using intrastromal keratoplasty models in New Zealand white rabbits illustrated that implantation of PNG lenticules maintained stable optical pathway, induced controlled stromal bio-integration and regeneration, avoided complications such as stromal melt, interface scarring, etc, but exerted no adverse effects on the host. Postoperative follow-up examination on intraocular pressure, corneal sensitivity, and tear production remained unaffected by surgery up to 1-month post-implantation of PNG lenticules. DLP-bioprinted PNG lenticule is a bio-safe and functionally effective stromal implants with customizable physical dimensions, providing potential therapeutic strategies in correction of refractive errors.
Effect of addition of alumina and rare-earth oxide particles on the corrosion resistance and mechanism of low carbon low alloy steel
Authors: Gao Yu-long , Xiao Zhi-xia , Liu Bao-xi , Kong Ling-hao , Feng Jian-hang , Huifen Peng
Published: April 2023

The corrosion mechanism of the low carbon low alloy steel with Al2O3 particles and rare Earth (RE) oxide particles was compared in a simulated marine environment. It is shown that when the Al2O3-containing particles are introduced, the number density of nonmetallic particles of the steel increases twice, and the average particle size decreases from approximately 2.4 μm to 1.4 μm. With the introduction of Al2O3-containing particles, the amount of pitting corrosion increases. Furthermore, pitting corrosion occurs more uniformly owing to the fineness of the Al2O3 particles, thereby leading to smaller, shallower pits after the Al2O3 particles are shed. Hence, the corrosion performance of the steel with Al2O3 particles is significantly improved than that of the steel without Al2O3 particles. By adding RE oxide particles into steel, the nonmetallic particles in steel are refined but not as effectively as that achieved by adding the Al2O3-containing particles. Different from Al2O3 particles, Cu is obviously enriched in the location of RE oxide particles at the initial corrosion stage, which makes the steel exhibit the best corrosion resistance. Cu enrichment is attributed to the mobile Cu present in the rust layer and to the micro acid region formed around the RE oxide particles.
Explicit bounds for products of primes in AP
Authors: Balasubramanian Ramachandran , Ramaré Olivier , Srivastav Priyamvad
Published: April 2023

For all

q
≥
2

q\ge 2

and for all invertible residue classes

a
a

modulo 

q
q

, there exists a natural number that is congruent to

a
a

modulo 

q
q

and that is the product of exactly three primes, all of which are below

(

10

15

q

)

5

/

2

(10^{15}q)^{5/2}

.
Negative eigenvalues of non-local Schrödinger operators with sign-changing potentials
Authors: Molchanov S. , Vainberg B.
Published: April 2023

Simon’s results on the negative spectrum of recurrent Schrödinger operators (

d
=
1
,
2

d=1,2

) are extended to a wider class of potentials and to non-local operators. An example of

L
1

−

L^1-

potental is constructed for which the essential spectrum of two dimensional Schrödinger operator covers the whole axis. Some counterexamples are provided for transient operators (

d
≥
3

d\geq 3

) showing that the assumptions on the potential for the validity of the Cwikel-Lieb-Rozenblum estimate can’t be improved significantly.
Fusion products of twisted modules in permutation orbifolds
Authors: Dong Chongying , Li Haisheng , Xu Feng , Yu Nina
Published: April 2023

Let

V
V

be a vertex operator algebra,

k
k

a positive integer and

σ
\sigma

a permutation automorphism of the vertex operator algebra

V

⊗
k

V^{\otimes k}

. In this paper, we determine the fusion product of any

V

⊗
k

V^{\otimes k}

-module with any

σ
\sigma

-twisted

V

⊗
k

V^{\otimes k}

-module.
Cortical dynein drives centrosome clustering in cells with centrosome amplification
Authors: Mercadante Dayna L. , Aaron William A. , Olson Sarah D. , Manning Amity L.
Published: April 2023

Cortical dynein contributes to clustering of supernumerary centrosomes during mitosis such that disruption of cortical dynein results in unclustered spindles and multipolar divisions. Computational modeling further indicates that centrosome clustering is sensitive to both cortical dynein motor activity and dynamic localization.
Head lice: evidence that resistance to physically acting treatments is developing
Authors: Burgess Ian F , Brunton Elizabeth R
Published: April 2023

We describe cases of head louse infestation not cured by topical products based on synthetic oils in which all stages of lice survived treatment on more than one occasion. These observations provide evidence that some populations of head lice are developing tolerance/resistance to these physically acting treatments.
Postsurgical hypertrophic scars after nonmelanoma skin cancer surgical excision: clinical and confocal microscopy outcomes of topical 5-fluorouracil in an adjuvant setting
Authors: Dika Emi , Mussi Martina , Lambertini Martina , Vaccari Sabina , Baraldi Carlotta , Campione Elena , Scotti Biagio , Stancic Bor Hrvatin , Zengarini Corrado
Published: April 2023

Postsurgical hypertrophic scars management after skin cancer surgical excision can be challenging. In this work we evaluated clinically and with confocal microscopy the outcomes after using topical fluorouracil in an adjuvant setting.
Treatment of hidradenitis suppurativa with brodalumab in biologic treatment failures: experiences from a specialty clinic
Authors: Kearney Niamh , Hughes Rosalind , Kirby Brian
Published: April 2023

Hidradenitis suppurativa (HS) is characterized by increased interleukin (IL)-17A/C/F. Two open-label trials of brodalumab, an IL-17 receptor antagonist, have been completed, with 8 of 10 patients receiving brodalumab fortnightly and 10 of 10 patients receiving brodalumab weekly achieving 75% Hidradenitis Suppurativa Clinical Response. All patients were biologic ‘experienced’ but were not reported to have failed biologic treatment. We report outcomes for eight patients with HS who had failed at least one biologic, treated with brodalumab 210 mg fortnightly, to provide real-world evidence. Four of eight patients remain on brodalumab, with a mean treatment duration of 11.3 months. All patients who remain on brodalumab subjectively report continued treatment efficacy. The mean Dermatology Life Quality Index reduced from 20.6 to 16.8 at week 16. All patients required concurrent antibiotics due to flares. Brodalumab may be effective in patients who have previously failed multiple biologics, but efficacy in our real-world study falls short of the two open-label trials. This may reflect severe treatment-resistant disease. In the absence of further licensed treatments for HS, brodalumab may be a good option following adalimumab failure.
Predator and Alien: the threat of predatory journals and conferences
Authors: Leducq Sophie , Bonsu Natalie , Clement Kate , Barlow Richard , Williams Hywel C
Published: April 2023

Predatory journals, first recognized in the early 2000s, are fraudulent publications characterized by aggressive marketing solicitations and deviation from best publishing practices. These journals claim to be legitimate scholarly publications, and accept articles with no or poor peer review processes or quality checks, with rapid publication on payment by authors. They are a global threat as they are dishonest, lack transparency and seek only financial gain. More recently, predatory conferences have emerged and are expanding rapidly. Although they appear to be legitimate scientific conferences, they are also characterized by an overriding profit motive, with no concern for academic values. Predatory journals and conferences are on the rise; dermatology trainees, readers and those new to publishing and conferences are vulnerable to predatory exploitation. The consequences of falling victim to such predation include damage to the external reputation of the authors and their institution, and heightened concerns about the legitimacy of the research. This educational review defines predatory journals and conferences, and summarizes their distinguishing features such as a poor or no peer review process, rapid acceptance, flattering language and lack of meeting. It highlights the consequences of publishing in a predatory journal or attending a predatory conference, and outlines several tools available that dermatology researchers can use to recognize and reduce the likelihood of falling prey to a predatory journal or conference.
Balanced Off-Chain Payment Channel Network Routing Strategy Based On Weight Calculation
Authors: Liu Ya , Wu Yuanhang , Zhao Fengyv , Ren Yanli
Published: April 2023

Off-chain payment channel network is an effective solution to deal with low throughput and high load on the blockchain. However, the quality of the routing scheme will directly affect the performance of the off-chain network system. Existing routing schemes cannot select an appropriate transaction path according to the actual needs of user nodes. And they may also lead to network congestion, channel imbalance and node centralization. This paper proposes a new balanced routing selection scheme based on weight calculation called BRBW, which builds a weight model by Analytic Hierarchy Process. BRBW comprehensively considers the channel capacity, handling fee and path length to improve transaction success rate, reduce channel congestion and maintain the long-term sustainability of the payment channel. It uses a modified maximum flow algorithm to find paths with sufficient capacity and selects the transaction path for a large payment through linear programming. Finally, we do some experiments and compare with state-of-the-art approaches in the test environment. Simulation results show that under the same network environment, the payment success rate of the BRBW is above 75%, and the channel utilization rate is about 10% higher than other schemes.
Formal Employment and Organised Crime: Regression Discontinuity Evidence from Colombia
Authors: Khanna Gaurav , Medina Carlos , Nyshadham Anant , Tamayo Jorge , Torres Nicolas
Published: April 2023

Safety net programs, common in settings with high informality like Latin America, often use a means test to establish eligibility. We ask: in settings in which organised crime provides lucrative opportunities in the informal market, will discouraging formal employment via benefits eligibility criteria increase criminal enterprise activity? We link administrative socioeconomic microdata with the universe of arrests in Medellín over a decade, and exploit exogenous variation in formal-sector employment around a socioeconomic-score cutoff, below which individuals receive generous benefits if not formally employed. Regression discontinuity estimates confirm this policy reduced formal-sector employment and generated a corresponding increase in arrests associated with organised crime. We do not find increases for crimes unlikely to be associated with organised entities, such as crimes of impulse or opportunity. Effects on arrests are strongest in neighbourhoods where organised crime is most prevalent.