bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Metabolic acidosis and sudden infant death syndrome: overlooked data provides insight into SIDS pathogenesis
Authors: Goldwater Paul N. , Gebien Dov Jordan
Published: December 2024

Background

Decades of mainstream SIDS research based on the Triple Risk Model and neuropathological findings have failed to provide convincing evidence for a primary CNS-based mechanism behind putative secondary dyshomeostasis (respiratory or cardiac) or impaired arousal. Newly revealed data indicate that severe metabolic acidosis (and severe hyperkalemia) is a common accompaniment in SIDS. This supports the direct effect of sepsis on vital-organ function and occurrence of secondary CNS changes accompanied by the dyshomeostasis leading to SIDS.

Data sources

Using PubMed and Google Scholar literature searches, this paper examines how metabolic acidosis and sepsis might contribute to the underlying pathophysiologic mechanisms in SIDS.

Results

The discovery of a series of non-peer-reviewed publications provided the basis for a serious examination of the role of metabolic acidosis and sepsis in SIDS. Most SIDS risk factors relate directly or indirectly to infection. This consequently elevated the position of septic or superantigenic shock and viremia in causing secondary organ failure leading to SIDS. The latter could include diaphragmatic failure, as evidenced by peripheral respiratory (muscle) arrests in experimental septic shock, as well as infectious myositis and diaphragm myopathy in sudden unexpected deaths, including SIDS. In addition, just as acidosis lowers the threshold for ventricular fibrillation and sudden cardiac arrest, it could also contribute to similarly unstable diaphragm excitation states leading to respiratory failure.

Conclusions

This paper uniquely reveals compelling evidence for a connection between metabolic acidosis, sepsis, viral infections, and sudden unexpected child deaths and provides a solid basis for further work to define which pathway (or pathways) lead to the tragedy of SIDS. It is recommended that all autopsies in sudden unexpected deaths should include pH, bicarbonate, lactate, and electrolyte measurements, as well as diaphragm histology.
Performance improvements of virtual monoenergetic images in photon-counting detector CT compared with dual source dual-energy CT: Fourier-based assessment
Authors: Kawashima Hiroki , Ichikawa Katsuhiro , Yoshida Ryoichi , Katayama Takuto , Arimoto Makoto , Kataoka Jun , Nagata Hiroji , Kobayashi Satoshi
Published: December 2024

To confirm the performance improvement of virtual monoenergetic images (VMIs) for iodine contrast tasks in a clinical photon-counting detector CT (PCD CT) using Fourier-based assessment, compared with those in the latest-generation dual-source dual-energy CT (DECT). A water-filled bath with a diameter of 300 mm, which contains rod-shaped phantoms equivalent to diluted iodine (2 and 12 mg/mL), was scanned using PCD CT and DECT at 15, 7.5, and 3 mGy. VMIs were generated without any iterative reconstruction algorithm. Task transfer function (TTF), noise power spectrum (NPS), and slice sensitivity profile were evaluated for VMIs at 70 and 40 keV. The detectability index (d’) and the squared system performance function (SPF2) calculated by TTF2/NPS were compared. At 40 keV, the d’ values of PCD CT were higher (percentage increase of 25.7-39.9%) than those of DECT, whereas at 70 keV, the difference was rather small. The SPF2 values at 40 keV of PCD CT grew notably higher than those of DECT as the spatial frequency increased. The higher SPF2 values endorsed the lower image noise and the sharper edge of the rod phantom as observed. The d’ and SPF2 in VMIs at 40 keV of PCD CT were notably higher than those of DECT, which endorsed the clinical advantages of PCD CT that had been previously reported in various studies.
Higher Education in the US and Abroad: Historical and Contemporary Perspectives
Authors: Altbach Philip G. , Geiger Roger
Published: December 2024

At the start of the twentieth century, few Americans ever imagined getting a college degree. Less than 5 percent of children made it through high school, and approximately 1 percent of high school graduates enrolled in college. Two-year institutions were still a novelty, and four-year colleges catered to the 1 percent.1 Those numbers have changed dramatically. We now live in a world where 94 percent of Americans believe some college is “very important” to their lives and future prospects.2 Scholars tend to point to midcentury legislation—i.e., the GI Bill and Higher Education Act—as well as “College for All” movements as key drivers for the change. But the US isn’t alone. Globally, college-going has undergone a fundamental transformation during the past century. And the future promises the further expansion and reimagining of postsecondary education, though no doubt with surprising twists along the way.

For this policy dialogue, we asked Roger Geiger and Philip Altbach to discuss the past, present, and future of higher education in the US and abroad. Roger Geiger is a distinguished professor emeritus of higher education at Penn State University. He has written extensively on higher education history, with particular attention to research universities. His recent works include The History of American Higher Education: Learning and Culture from the Founding to World War II and American Higher Education since World War II: A History. Philip Altbach is a professor emeritus at Boston College, where he was a research professor and distinguished fellow at the Center for International Higher Education. He has received the NAFSA: Association of International Educators Houlihan Award for Distinguished Service and the Association for the Study of Higher Education’s Howard R. Bowen Distinguished Career Award. Both bring decades of research experience, professional expertise, and personal insight to this discussion.

HEQ policy dialogues are, by design, intended to promote an informal, free exchange of ideas between scholars. At the end of the exchange, we offer a list of references for readers who wish to follow up on sources relevant to the discussion.
Psychiatry’s New Validity Crisis: The Problem of Disparate Validation
Authors: Zautra Nicholas
Published: December 2024

In response to the DSM’s crisis in validity, psychiatry has seen a proliferation of alternative research frameworks (HiTOP, the Network Approach, RDoC) for studying and classifying psychiatric disorders. In this paper, I argue the existence of multiple frameworks in which each employs their own standards of validity is problematic methodologically speaking for trying to do any kind of unified validation work. Fundamental disagreements concerning the underlying phenomenon, sources of validating evidence, and the very nature of validity move each framework into an unrecognized plurality. The consequence for psychiatry is a new validity crisis.
Methodological and reporting recommendations for clinical trials in Nutritional Psychiatry: Guidelines from the International Society for Nutritional Psychiatry Research
Authors: Marx Wolfgang , Visser Marjolein , Wallace Caroline , Jacka Felice N. , Bayes Jessica , Francis Heather , Opie Rachelle , Hockey Meghan , Teasdale Scott B. , Sanchez Villegas Almudena , O’Neil Adrienne , Su Kuan-Pin , Rucklidge Julia J. , Berk Michael , Lopresti Adrian , Mischoulon David , Johnstone Jeanette M. , Staudacher Heidi M.
Published: December 2024

Research on nutraceutical and dietary interventions in psychiatry has grown substantially, but progress is hindered by methodological inconsistencies and limited reporting standards. To address this, the International Society for Nutritional Psychiatry Research presents the first guidelines on clinical trial design, conduct, and reporting for future clinical trials in this area. Recommendations were developed using a Delphi process including eighteen researchers with considerable clinical trial expertise and experience in either methodology, nutraceutical, or dietary interventions in psychiatry. These guidelines provide forty-nine recommendations for clinical trial design and outcomes, five for trial reporting, and seven for future research priorities. The recommendations included in these guidelines are designed to inform both nutraceutical and dietary clinical trial interventions in Nutritional Psychiatry. Common themes include an emphasis on the importance of a multidisciplinary research team and integration of co-design processes into the conduct and design of clinical research, methods to improve transparency and replicability of trial outcomes, and measures to address common biases in nutrition trials. Furthermore, we provide recommendations for future research including examining a greater variety of nutraceutical and dietary interventions, scalable delivery models, effectiveness and implementation studies, and the need to investigate these interventions in the prevention and management of less studied psychiatric conditions (e.g. schizophrenia and bipolar disorder). Recommendations included within these guidelines are intended to improve the rigor and clinical relevance of ongoing and future clinical trials in Nutritional Psychiatry.
French Law, Danish Cartoons, and the Anthropology of Free Speech
Authors: Candea Matei
Published: December 2024

The “Danish cartoons controversy” has often been cast as a paradigm case of the blindness of liberal language ideologies to anything beyond the communication of referential meaning. This article returns to the case from a different angle and draws a different conclusion. Following recent anthropological interest in the way legal speech grounds the force of law, the article takes as its ethnographic object a 2007 ruling by the French Chamber of the Press and of Public Liberties. This much-trumpeted document ruled that the Charlie Hebdo magazine’s republication of the cartoons did not constitute a hate speech offense. The article examines the form as well as the content of the ruling itself and situates it within the entangled histories of French press law, revolutionary antinomianism, and the surprisingly persistent legal concern with matters of honor. The outcome of the case (the acquittal of Charlie Hebdo) may seem to substantiate a view of liberal language ideology as incapable of attending to the performative effects of signs. Yet, a closer look challenges this now familiar image of Euro-American “representationalism,” and suggests some broader avenues of investigation for a comparative anthropology of liberalism and free speech.
Finn Malmgren and polar exploration
Authors: Alfei Pier Paolo
Published: December 2024

The research aims to reconstruct a transnational history of Finn Malmgren’s contribution to the exploration of the Arctic, with a specific focus on the polar air expeditions of Norge (1926) and Italia (1928). The analysis of archive sources consulted in Italy, Norway, and Sweden sheds light on some key aspects of these two expeditions. In particular, the study of numerous unpublished documents – from the correspondence with personalities such as Umberto Nobile and Anna Nordenskjöld to the contemporary testimonies of Adalberto Mariano and Filippo Zappi – offers new insights into issues such as the international meteorological cooperation during the preparation of the Norge expedition and the march on the pack of Malmgren, Mariano and Zappi.
Prolonged seed submersion influences germination and early seedling growth of Amazonian floodplain trees
Authors: Veiga Josephina B. , Piedade Maria T. F. , Franco Augusto C. , Costa Gilvan S. , Ferreira Cristiane S.
Published: December 2024

Seeds of many Amazonian floodplain forest trees are dispersed during high-water periods and spend weeks or months underwater until the flooding retreats. To assess whether prolonged seed submersion affects germination and early seedling development, an experiment was carried out in a greenhouse with seeds of Campsiandra laurifolia, Cassia leiandra, Crataeva tapia, Ilex inundata, Macrolobium acaciifolium, Nectandra amazonum, Pouteria glomerata, Psidium acutangulum, Sorocea duckei, and Vitex cymosa. They are common in this type of forest, differ in fruit type, number of seeds per fruit, fruit dimensions, and fresh mass and have fruits or seeds that can float. Seeds were collected in a Central Amazonian floodplain forest (flooded approximately 6 months year−1; water column of 5 m) and germinated in (1) irrigated soil or (2) underwater (water column of 5–7 cm) for 6 months. Seeds that germinated underwater were transferred to drained soil. Seeds of all species germinated underwater and developed seedlings when transferred to soil. However, submersion reduced the germination percentage of Psidium acutangulum, N. amazonum, P. glomerata and V. cymosa. Six species delayed germination in water. Ca. leiandra, I. inundata and P. glomerata did not differ in mean germination time in drained soil and underwater, whereas S. duckei seeds germinated faster underwater. Seed submersion negatively affected seedling growth (shoot length) of three species but did not affect seedling biomass. Timing of fruit dispersal, fruit buoyancy and high number of seeds per fruit can be critical for species with seeds that are not as able to cope with long-term submersion.
The limits of social architecture: the tension between aims and actions
Authors: Holden Samuel
Published: December 2024

There is a tension within social architecture between aims and actions. Emerging in response to the increasingly anti-social nature of the urban, some claim the aim of social architecture is to challenge and build beyond various contemporary urban crises. This aim, however, is at odds with the primarily small scale and contextually grounded nature social architecture operates on. Some proponents avoid this tension by arguing that their aim is to materially improve the communities they are engaged with, however this has been critiqued as limiting social architecture’s potential. Within this paper, I advance previous critiques that have been made of social architecture through an examination of literature fields both inside and outside of architecture, and through a yearlong fieldwork study. Firstly, I explore the definition of the phrase in its use both by proponents and detractors of the movement. Secondly, I situate social architecture's emergence within architecture and use this to further the critiques of the tension between its aims and actions through the lens of reification. Thirdly the fieldwork serves as a contextual basis to manifest these critiques. Finally, with the aims of social architecture brought into question, the paper speculates upon what social architecture’s aim could be. This paper furthers the critiques of social architecture while suggesting that, through reframing its aim, social architecture could be used to demonstrate that alternatives to the present moment are possible.
Beyond perspectival vision: case studies of Wang Shu’s landscape painting-inspired parallel projection drawings
Authors: Jin Xin
Published: December 2024

Despite the growing body of literature on Chinese architecture, contemporary Chinese architects’ critical approaches to drawing have received little scrutiny. To address this research gap, this essay examines the 2012 Pritzker Architecture Prize laureate Wang Shu’s creative uses of modern parallel projection methods. The essay focuses on Wang’s specific drawing strategies that have allowed him to reconcile the disengaged mode of seeing that is engrained in parallel projection with the immersive spectatorship that traditional Chinese landscape painting epitomises.

First, through a literature review, this paper highlights Wang’s observations regarding the a-perspectival nature of Chinese landscape painting. Rather than being a perspectival window for the disengaged gaze, the landscape painting invites viewers to inhabit the pictorial space. Second, through comparative studies of selected cases, this essay investigates how Wang’s acknowledgement of the landscape painting’s a-perspectival traits has influenced his specific strategies when using parallel projection methods. The examined cases include Wang’s drawings for the Chen Mo Art Studio (Haiyan, 1998), the Tengtou Pavilion (Shanghai, 2009-10), and the Xiangshan Campus of the China Academy of Art Phases I and II (Hangzhou, 2002-08).

The essay concludes by highlighting significant changes in Wang’s later parallel projection drawings. Wang’s work has increasingly delineated architectural terrains as sensory topographies to foster viewers’ time-bound immersive spectatorships. Moreover, when serving his architectural ideas, Wang’s drawings have transcended the geometric representation of depth by implying spaces that exceed the limits of projection drawings. By examining his drawings, this essay sheds light on a salient yet underexamined aspect of Wang’s architectural undertakings. By investigating in-depth case studies of contemporary Chinese architectural drawings, this essay takes a crucial step towards a better understanding of this hitherto understudied domain.
The Role of the Great Plains Low‐Level Jet in Moisture Transport, Streamflow, and Flooding in the Missouri River Basin
Authors: Wise Erika K. , Dannenberg Matthew P. , McCabe Gregory J.
Published: December 2024

The Missouri River Basin, one of the primary agricultural regions in North America, is prone to large hydroclimatic variability and extreme events. The Great Plains low‐level jet (GPLLJ) is one of the major sources of moisture transport into this region, and concerns over moisture extremes already seen in the interior U.S. have been linked to changes in GPLLJ. However, the relationship between GPLLJ and precipitation in this region remains uncertain, with studies showing conflicting results that may be related to distinct types of jet events. Here, we use daily GPLLJ data to study connections between different types of jet events and precipitation, integrated water vapor transport, and synoptic conditions to better understand GPLLJ‐streamflow linkages. We assess GPLLJ conditions during historical flood events and potential future changes using CMIP6 projections. We find: (a) in May–September, GPLLJ is associated with 29%–46% of monthly precipitation and with increased precipitation intensity; (b) GPLLJ has a consistently positive impact on Missouri River streamflow over the warm season; (c) coupled jets have a larger impact on moisture transport than uncoupled jets, but streamflow impact is reduced, likely due to seasonal timing; (d) unusual jet conditions preceded historical warm‐season flood events; and (e) future projections indicate relatively small changes in GPLLJ meridional wind velocities along with large increases in moisture transport driven by humidity increases. Although future streamflow will be partially dependent on snowmelt from the upper basin, the projected intensification of warm‐season moisture transport to the Missouri River suggests possible increases in future flood risk.
Noise causes cardiovascular disease: it’s time to act
Authors: Münzel Thomas , Daiber Andreas , Engelmann Nicole , Röösli Martin , Kuntic Marin , Banks Jamie L.
Published: December 2024

Background

Chronic transportation noise is an environmental stressor affecting a substantial portion of the population. The World Health Organization (WHO) and various studies have established associations between transportation noise and cardiovascular disease (CVD), such as myocardial infarction, stroke, heart failure, and arrhythmia. The WHO Environmental Noise Guidelines and recent reviews confirm a heightened risk of cardiovascular incidents with increasing transportation noise levels.

Objective

We present a narrative review of the evidence from epidemiologic studies and translation studies on the adverse cardiovascular effects of transportation noise.

Methods

We describe the results of a recent Umbrella+ review that combines the evidence used in the 2018 WHO Environmental Noise Guidelines with more recent (post-2015) high-quality systematic reviews of original studies. High-quality systematic reviews were included based on the quality of literature search, risk of bias assessment, and meta-analysis methodology using AMSTAR 2.

Results

Epidemiologic studies show that exposure to high levels of road traffic noise for several years lead to numerous adverse health outcomes, including premature deaths, ischemic heart disease (IHD), chronic sleep disturbances, and increased annoyance. Mechanistically, noise exposure triggers oxidative stress, inflammation, endothelial dysfunction, and circadian rhythm disruptions. These processes involve the activation of NADPH oxidase, mitochondrial dysfunction, and nitric oxide synthase uncoupling, leading to vascular and cardiac damage. Studies indicate that chronic noise exposure does not result in habituation, and susceptible individuals, such as those with pre-existing CVD, are particularly vulnerable.
Therapeutic Implications of Recent Genomic Discoveries in Schizophrenia
Authors: Clapcote S. J.
Published: December 2024

There have been no fundamental advances in the treatment of schizophrenia for decades, largely due to a poor understanding of the pathophysiology of the disorder. Since schizophrenia has a substantial genetic component, with estimated heritability of ∼65–80%, genomic studies provide a rational route to obtain novel mechanistic insights and facilitate the discovery of new drug targets and thence treatments. This chapter focuses on how recent genomic discoveries in schizophrenia, fuelled by technological advancements in high-throughput genomics and computational biology, are helping to identify novel therapeutic targets, as well as allowing for more effective and safe use of existing medications.
A simple and stable dual-emission fluorescent system based on R6G/Eu-MOF for the rapid and sensitive determination of orientin
Authors: Xu Huifeng , Huang Weihua , Pan Rui , Chen Ronglin , Wang Lili , Yu Yun , Li Xihai , Zhu Xi
Published: December 2024

A scheme of the preparation of R6G/Eu-MOF and the sensing principle of OT.
Optimized separation of astaxanthin stereoisomers from microbial sources using chiral HPLC
Authors: Han Xuehua , Wang Xin , Chen Yanhong , Yang Yuanfan , Du Xiping , Li Zhipeng , Jiang Zedong , Ni Hui , Li Qingbiao
Published: December 2024

Astaxanthin (AST) is a high-value antioxidant, and its efficient isolation and utilization are challenging owing to the presence of different stereoisomers from various sources.
Chitosan as a fluorescent probe for the detection of the AIE-active food colorant quinoline yellow
Authors: Gu Yuan , Wu Jianwei , Lin Bingyong , Wang Yueliang , Yao Yuanyuan , Chen Lifen , Xu Jianguo , Guo Longhua
Published: December 2024

The food colorant quinoline yellow was found to be a novel AIEgen. Chitosan was utilized as a fluorescent probe for quinoline yellow detection in beverages.
Insights into the structural complexity and local disorder of crystalline AsTe3 from semi-automated first-principles modelling
Authors: Cadars Sylvian , Masson Olivier , Laval Jean-Paul , Shuaib Firas E. , Piarristeguy Andrea , Delaizir Gaëlle , Bouzid Assil
Published: December 2024

A semi-automated protocol is designed to construct and evaluate structural models of the yet-unsolved crystal structure of the recently-discovered metastable AsTe3 thermoelectric material and shed light on electronic-structure–property relationships.
Near-infrared downshifting luminescence of Ca2LaTaO6:Nd3+/Yb3+/K+ phosphors and their applications: solar cells and anti-counterfeiting
Authors: Liu Hang , Tian Haozhou , Sun Chunhui , Wang Qiang , Zhu Hongqun , Yang Xuezhong , Wang Haoran , Zhang Yuhong
Published: December 2024

A series of Nd3+/Yb3+ co-doped Ca2LaTaO6 (CLTO) phosphors are synthesized by a high temperature solid phase method.
Arbitrary and active colouring of solar cells with negligible loss of efficiency
Authors: Zhang Yan-Song , Yetkin Hasan Arif , Agha Hakam , Gharabeiki Sevan , Kizhakidathazhath Rijeesh , Merges Lena , Poeira Ricardo G. , Lagerwall Jan P. F. , Dale Phillip J.
Published: December 2024

Self-assembled cholesteric liquid crystals uniquely enable non-spectral coloured and thermochromic covered highly efficient photovoltaic devices for aesthetic integration.
Laser writing of metal-oxide doped graphene films for tunable sensor applications
Authors: Rathod Shasvat , Snowdon Monika , Tino Matthew Peres , Peng Peng
Published: December 2024

This study presents affordable fiber laser direct writing of durable and flexible, graphene-metal nanoparticle sensors with highly tunable responses.
Catalyst-assisted growth of CsPbBr3 perovskite nanowires
Authors: Shreteh Karam , Volokh Michael , Mokari Taleb
Published: December 2024

The formation of CsPbBr3 NW via the solution–solid–solid. At elevated temperatures, the ME catalyst undergoes a phase transition, facilitating the diffusion of reactants and the subsequent precipitation of solid CsPbBr3 nanowires.
Increasing the dual-enzyme cascade biocatalysis efficiency and stability of metal–organic frameworks via one-step coimmobilization for visual detection of glucose
Authors: Chen Haotian , Yan Zelong , Ning Jiangyue , Bao Xingyan , Ding Li , Shu Chang
Published: December 2024

Increasing the dual-enzyme cascade biocatalysis efficiency and stability of metal–organic frameworks via one-step coimmobilization for visual detection of glucose has been illustrated.
Aqueous solution of biogenic carboxylic acids as sustainable catalysts and green reaction media for the high-yielding synthesis of Biginelli adducts, Hantzsch esters, and substituted pyridines
Authors: Prabhakar Poornachandra Shamanna , Sahoo Jitendra , Alnaser Ibrahim A. , Seikh Asiful H. , Karim Mohammad Rezaul , Dutta Saikat
Published: December 2024

Biginelli adducts and Hantzsch esters are produced from substituted benzaldehydes using gluconic acid aqueous solution (GAAS) as a sustainable catalyst and reaction medium. A one-pot, two-step synthesis of substituted pyridines is also reported.
Evaluation of first-principles Hubbard and Hund corrected DFT for defect formation energies in non-magnetic transition metal oxides
Authors: Lambert Daniel S. , O'Regan David D.
Published: December 2024

A cost-effective and fast DFT+U+J technique qualitatively matches with expensive simulations for defect simulations.
Synthesis and phase purity of the negative thermal expansion material ZrV2O7
Authors: Miliūtė Aistė , Bustamante Joana , Karafiludis Stephanos , Zöllner Moritz , Eddah Mustapha , Emmerling Franziska , Mieller Björn , George Janine , Stawski Tomasz M.
Published: December 2024

Meticulous synthesis methods are crucial for achieving high-purity ZrV2O7. Optimized solid-state synthesis can provide sufficient mixing of precursors, while sol–gel methods effectively produce single-phase materials through near-atomic-level mixing.
Solid-state emissions of 4H-chromenones with simple structures: mechanochromism and polymer-based doped ultralong room-temperature phosphorescence
Authors: Huang Huaiying , Liu Miaochang , Qiu Xiaoyu , Qian Jiayin , Dai Wenbo , Lei Yunxiang , Ding Qiuping , Wu Huayue , Huang Xiaobo
Published: December 2024

A series of 4H-chromenones using triphenylamine and 9-phenyl-9H-carbazole as electron-donating units exhibited mechanochromic properties based on different crystal stacking modes and ultralong room-temperature phosphorescence.
Tools and techniques for quantitative glycoproteomic analysis
Authors: Kong Siyuan , Zhang Wei , Cao Weiqian
Published: December 2024

Recent advances in mass spectrometry (MS)-based methods have significantly expanded the capabilities for quantitative glycoproteomics, enabling highly sensitive and accurate quantitation of glycosylation at intact glycopeptide level. These developments have provided valuable insights into the roles of glycoproteins in various biological processes and diseases. In this short review, we summarize pertinent studies on quantitative techniques and tools for site-specific glycoproteomic analysis published over the past decade. We also highlight state-of-the-art MS-based software that facilitate multi-dimension quantification of the glycoproteome, targeted quantification of specific glycopeptides, and the analysis of glycopeptide isomers. Additionally, we discuss the potential applications of these technologies in clinical biomarker discovery and the functional characterization of glycoproteins in health and disease. The review concludes with a discussion of current challenges and future perspectives in the field, emphasizing the need for more precise, high-throughput and efficient methods to further advance quantitative glycoproteomics and its applications.
The Effects of Whole-Body Exercise on Swallowing Function in Older Adults With Parkinson's Disease: A Proof-of-Principle Study
Authors: Chan Harmonie , Tang Ada , Li Oliver , Orprecio A.J. , Abrams Sophia Werden , Wiley Elise , MacDonald Kyle , Ma Jinhui , Namasivayam-MacDonald Ashwini
Published: December 2024

Purpose:

Rodent models suggest that when respiratory demands increase during an exercise program, tongue and thyroarytenoid muscles engage to maintain a patent airway, leading to increased muscle strength. This suggests that nonspecific exercises that increase respiratory rate may improve swallowing. As such, the purpose of this proof-of-principle study was to determine the potential for whole-body exercise to improve tongue strength, cough strength, and self-reported swallowing function in older adults with Parkinson's disease (PD).

Method:

Nine community-dwelling adults with PD (six men, three women;
M
±
SD
age = 73 ± 7 years) were enrolled in a 10-week (30 min/session, three sessions/week, for a total of 30 sessions) virtual, whole-body exercise program, designed to increase respiratory rate. Demographic, frailty (Strength, Assistance in walking, Rise from a chair, Climb stairs, and Falls [SARC-F]), mobility (Schwab & England Activities of Daily Living Scale), and swallowing (tongue strength, cough strength, Eating Assessment Tool 10 [EAT-10]) measures were collected. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and linear mixed models.

Results:

Baseline frailty and mobility severity scores indicated mild PD severity. Post-exercise, four of nine participants demonstrated improvement in either anterior or posterior tongue strength, as well as cough strength. Three participants with higher exercise heart rate or rating of perceived exertion scores reported a decrease in EAT-10 scores to a level of below clinical concern (< 3). Results from linear mixed models demonstrated no statistically significant effects on any measures of swallowing function.

Conclusions:

Findings from this pilot study suggest potential signal for a higher intensity whole-body exercise program to improve self-reported swallowing function, given that heart rate and/or exertion intensity that met or exceeded the target was associated with positive changes in self-reported swallowing function, but not tongue or cough strength. Future research including a larger sample size and intervention controls is needed to further elucidate a relationship between whole-body exercise and swallowing.
Evolution of the star formation rate surface density main sequence
Authors: Nadolny Jakub , Michałowski Michał J. , Parente Massimiliano , Solar Martín , Nowaczyk Przemysław , Ryzhov Oleh , Leśniewska Aleksandra
Published: December 2024

Context. Recent high-redshift (z >  4) spatially resolved observations with the James Webb Space Telescope have shown the evolution of the star formation rate (SFR) surface density (ΣSFR) and its main sequence in the ΣSFR − M* diagram (ΣSFRMS). The ΣSFRMS is already observed at cosmic morning (z ∼ 7.5). The use of ΣSFR is physically motivated because it is normalized by the area in which the star formation occurs, and this indirectly considers the gas density. The ΣSFR − M* diagram has been shown to complement the widely used (specific) SFR-M*, particularly when selecting passive galaxies.

Aims. We establish the ΣSFR evolution since z = 12 in the framework of the L-GALAXIES2020 semi-analytical model (SAM), and we interpret recent observations.

Methods. We estimated ΣSFR(–M*) and the cosmic star formation rate density (CSFRD) for the simulated galaxy population and for the subsamples, which were divided into stellar mass bins in the given redshift.

Results. The simulated ΣSFR decreases by ∼3.5 dex from z = 12 to z = 0. We show that galaxies with different stellar masses have different paths of ΣSFR evolution. We find that ΣSFRMS is already observed at z ∼ 11. The simulated ΣSFRMS agrees with the observed one at z = 0, 1, 2, 5, and 7.5 and with individual galaxies at z >  10. We show that the highest ΣSFRMS slope of 0.709 ± 0.005 is at z ∼ 3 and decreases to ∼0.085 ± 0.003 at z = 0. This is mostly driven by a rapid decrease in SFR with an additional size increase for the most massive galaxies in this redshift range. This coincides with the dominance of the most massive galaxies in the CSFRD from the SAM. Observations show the same picture, in which the ΣSFR evolutionary path depends on the stellar mass, that is, more massive galaxies have higher ΣSFR at all redshifts. Finally, using the slope and normalization evolution, we derived the simulated ΣSFRMS as a function of stellar mass and redshift.
Optimal parameter identification of hydro-pneumatic suspension for mine cars
Authors: Liu Yuchang , Wang Shuai , Li Geqiang , Mao Bo , Dong Zhenle , Li Donglin
Published: December 2024

This article proposes a method for matching parameters of hydro-pneumatic suspension with the goal of improving the vehicle ride comfort of mine cars. Considering the nonlinear characteristics of the hydro-pneumatic suspension, a 7-DOF dynamic model is established for the entire vehicle, The Kepler optimization algorithm is applied for parameter matching and simulation analysis of the hydro-pneumatic suspension based on vehicle ride comfort. Comparative verification shows that compared with the fitness functions of other algorithms, the KOA algorithm converges the fastest and has the highest precision in obtaining the optimal solution. After matching, there is a significant reduction in the suspension dynamic deflection, with the degree of attenuation for the four wheels at approximately 55.13%, the attenuation of vehicle body acceleration reduced by 12.7%, and the reduction in wheel dynamic load at around 10%, with a minimum of 3.16% for the right rear wheel and a maximum of 16.62% for the right front wheel. The KOA optimization algorithm exhibits significant advantages in parameter matching of hydro-pneumatic suspensions, resulting in a noticeable improvement in vehicle ride comfort.
MOCVD growth of β-Ga2O3 with fast growth rates (>4.3 μm/h), low controllable doping, and superior transport properties
Authors: Yu Dong Su , Meng Lingyu , Zhao Hongping
Published: December 2024

Si-doped β-phase (010) Ga2O3 epi-films with fast growth rates were comprehensively investigated using trimethylgallium (TMGa) as the Ga precursor via metalorganic chemical vapor deposition (MOCVD). Two main challenges facing the MOCVD growth of thick (010) β-Ga2O3 films with fast growth rates include high impurity carbon (C) incorporation and rough surface morphologies due to the formation of imbedded 3D pyramid-shaped structures. In this work, two different categories of oxygen source (high-purity O2 > 99.9999% and O2* with 10 ppm of [H2O]) were used for β-Ga2O3 MOCVD growth. Our study revealed that the size and density of the 3D defects in the β-Ga2O3 epi-films were significantly reduced when the O2* was used. In addition, the use of off-axis (010) Ga2O3 substrates with 2° off-cut angle leads to further reduction of defect formation in β-Ga2O3 with fast growth rates. To suppress C incorporation in MOCVD β-Ga2O3 grown with high TMGa flow rates, our findings indicate that high O2 (or O2*) flow rates are essential. Superior room temperature electron mobilities as high as 110–190 cm2/V·s were achieved for β-Ga2O3 grown using O2* (2000 sccm) with a growth rate of 4.5 μm/h (film thickness of 6.3 μm) within the doping range of 1.3 × 1018–7 × 1015 cm−3. The C incorporation is significantly suppressed from ∼1018 cm−3 to <5 × 1016 cm−3 ([C] detection limit) for β-Ga2O3 grown using high O2 (O2*) flow rate of 2000 sccm. Results from this work will provide guidance on developing high-quality, thick β-Ga2O3 films required for high power electronic devices with vertical configurations.
Azimuthally segmented MIG-type electron beam for terahertz harmonic gyrotron
Authors: Chen Xianfei , Xiao Houxiu , Xia Donghui , Han Xiaotao
Published: December 2024

We propose an azimuthally segmented configuration of a MIG-type (magnetron injection gun) electron beam with azimuthal periodicity for terahertz harmonic gyrotrons, featuring enhanced mode selection. By azimuthally modulating the emitter ring of MIG into segments to generate several electron beamlets (small-orbit) evenly distributed in the electron guiding phase, we can selectively induce the degeneracy of the oppositely rotating waves of the desired harmonic mode, forming a standing-wave like pattern that nearly doubles the mode's coupling strength to the beam. The proposed approach can help to mitigate the mode competition and increase the output power of the terahertz harmonic gyrotron, paving the way for advancement in the development of gyrotrons with higher frequencies and higher harmonics.
In situ etching of β-Ga2O3 using tert-butyl chloride in an MOCVD system
Authors: Gorsak Cameron A. , Bowman Henry J. , Gann Katie R. , Buontempo Joshua T. , Smith Kathleen T. , Tripathi Pushpanshu , Steele Jacob , Jena Debdeep , Schlom Darrell G. , Xing Huili Grace , Thompson Michael O. , Nair Hari P.
Published: December 2024

In this study, we investigate in situ etching of β-Ga2O3 in a metalorganic chemical vapor deposition system using tert-butyl chloride (TBCl). We report etching of both heteroepitaxial 2¯01-oriented and homoepitaxial (010)-oriented β-Ga2O3 films over a wide range of substrate temperatures, TBCl molar flows, and reactor pressures. We infer that the likely etchant is HCl (g), formed by the pyrolysis of TBCl in the hydrodynamic boundary layer above the substrate. The temperature dependence of the etch rate reveals two distinct regimes characterized by markedly different apparent activation energies. The extracted apparent activation energies suggest that at temperatures below ∼800 °C, the etch rate is likely limited by desorption of etch products. The relative etch rates of heteroepitaxial 2¯01 and homoepitaxial (010) β-Ga2O3 were observed to scale by the ratio of the surface energies, indicating an anisotropic etch. Relatively smooth post-etch surface morphology was achieved by tuning the etching parameters for (010) homoepitaxial films.
High-performance AlGaN/GaN HEMTs with Hf0.5Zr0.5O2-based ferroelectric gate by pulsed laser deposition
Authors: Liu Chuanqi , Zhu Zimeng , Jiao Peijie , Qiao Guang , Hao Lin , Guo Hui , Pan Danfeng , Wu Di , Chen Dunjun
Published: December 2024

This Letter demonstrates AlGaN/GaN high-electron-mobility transistors (HEMTs) with Hf0.5Zr0.5O2 (HZO) ferroelectric gate dielectric using pulsed laser deposition (PLD). An ultrathin Al2O3 interlayer grown by atomic layer deposition is used to avoid destroying the AlGaN surface and decreasing the electron density of a two-dimensional electron gas channel before PLD. The high-quality HZO on AlGaN/GaN heterostructure contributes to the good insulating and ferroelectric properties of the HZO film, yielding a superior ON/OFF current ratio of 4 × 1011 and a low sub-threshold slope (SS) of 53.2 mV/dec. Moreover, the electrical characteristics of the device are systematically investigated before and after gate poling. In combination with the analysis of schematic band diagrams, we found that ferroelectric polarization can effectively regulate the capture and release processes of channel electrons by Al2O3/AlGaN interface defects. These results show that HZO-based ferroelectric HEMTs have great potential for high frequency, low power consumption, and multi-functional devices.
Time transfer and clock synchronization with ghost frequency comb
Authors: Joshi Binod , Smith Thomas A. , Shih Yanhua
Published: December 2024

We report an experimental demonstration of a time transfer and distant clock synchronization scheme based on what we have labeled as a ghost frequency comb, observed from the nonlocal correlation measurements of a laser beam. Unlike a conventional frequency comb, the laser beam used in this work does not consist of a pulse train but instead it is in a continuous-wave operation. The laser beam, consisting of half a million longitudinal cavity modes from a fiber ring laser, is split into two beams, each sent to a distant observer. In their local measurements, both observers observe constant intensity with no pulse structure present. Surprisingly, a pulse train of comb-like, ultra-narrow peaks is observed from their nonlocal correlation function measurement. This observation makes an important contribution to the field of precision spectroscopy, as we show in optical correlation-based nonlocal timing and positioning.
A reversible positive and negative photoconductivity behavior modulated by polarization effect
Authors: Tang Zhenhua , Lai Xi-Cai , Fang Junlin , Feng Leyan , Yao Di-Jie , Zhang Li , Jiang Yan-Ping , Liu Qiu-Xiang , Tang Xin-Gui , Zhou Yi-Chun , Gao Ju
Published: December 2024

Negative photoconductive devices exhibit a significant reduction in conductivity under illumination, enabling high-contrast optical modulation and promising great potential in optics. In this study, an ITO/BFCO/TiO2/FTO device was simply fabricated through a synergistic application of sol-gel and magnetron sputtering techniques. Interestingly, the ferroelectric polarization can be reversibly modulated by a low bias voltage in the ITO/BFCO/TiO2/FTO device, thereby exhibiting bipolar voltage dependent reversible behavior of positive and negative photoconductivity. This mechanism has been discussed, where the combined effect of illumination and applied voltage induces internal polarization reversal in Bi2FeCrO6, leading to a transition in the resistance state from low to high. This transition results in an elevation of the energy band, thereby impeding the migration of charge carriers. Additionally, femtosecond laser transient absorption spectroscopy reveals redshift in the initial absorption peak, indicating changes in the band structure induced by illumination, crucial for understanding carrier dynamics in a non-equilibrium state.
Indexing pragmatic functions of kiss-teeth through embodiment and viewpoint construction
Authors: Schnellinger Tatjana
Published: December 2024

Everyday discourse involves interpreting composite utterances like speech-with-gesture composites. Taking a
multimodal and discourse-pragmatic perspective, this single-case study explores the complexity of meaning-making by considering
the interweaving of gesture-speech composites and discursive strategies in talk-in-interaction. Specifically, the paper examines
various pragmatic functions of kiss-teeth (i.e., a conventionalised sound gesture) when combining it with other multimodal
resources. The data for this study was derived from an interview conducted during ethnographic fieldwork in Suriname in 2022. The
results show that kiss-teeth has several discourse-pragmatic functions in various contexts, including (1) conveying a reprimand,
(2) participating in flirtatious teasing and (3) engaging in gossip. While the research suggests that the meaning of kiss-teeth is
closely tied to various multimodal resources, the study also considers the participant’s uses of viewpoint constructions for
perspective-taking in demonstrations of kiss-teeth as diverse social actions. The analysis illustrates that the participant
indexes distinct gesture functions through viewpoint constructions which rely on descriptions, depictions, and composite
utterances. By analysing viewpoint construction, the study does not only aim to scrutinise the gesture’s meanings but also how
kiss-teeth contributes to the interaction as a whole. Ultimately, the findings point to the importance of gesture-speech
composites and narrative discourse strategies in talk-in-interaction.
Performance of a vibration damper using a new compressible magnetorheological fluid with microspheres
Authors: Bajkowski J M , Bajer C I , Dyniewicz B , Bajkowski J , Leonowicz M
Published: December 2024

A novel magnetorheological (MR) fluid was synthesised by incorporating compressible, nonmagnetic polyurethane microspheres and ferromagnetic iron particles into polyalphaolefin oil. This innovative composition reduces sedimentation, enhances compressibility beyond that of conventional MR fluids, and achieves comparable yield stress with a lower concentration of iron particles. The new MR fluid was evaluated in a prototype translational vibration damper under dynamic conditions across a range of excitation frequencies. The damper’s response with the compressible fluid differed significantly from that observed with non-compressible fluids. Upon activation, the MR fluid increased flow resistance and enhanced the damper’s elastic response, posing unique challenges for further optimisation. Experimental results demonstrate the potential of employing such compressible MR fluids in applications requiring controlled material characteristics.
Retrieval of energy-momentum tensor for self-gravitating and collapsing thin spherical shell
Authors: Lin Wenbin
Published: December 2024

We prove the post-Newtonian time-dependent metric of the self-gravitating and collapsing infinitely-thin spherical shell does satisfy Einstein field equations to the corresponding order. Meanwhile, the leading-order components of the thin spherical shell’s energy-momentum tensor are recovered.
Geometry of phase transitions in systems of infinite degrees of freedom
Authors: Kirilenko Valentin
Published: December 2024

Recent investigations have demonstrated that the origin of phase transitions may be explained by particular changes in the geometry of hypersurfaces, specifically Hamiltonian level sets, within phase space. This study offers a geometric explanation for phase transitions in systems of infinite degrees of freedom, demonstrating the versatility of this framework of phase transitions. An alternative microcanonical ensemble is proposed, whose partition function is well defined on infinite dimensional phase spaces, and whose phase transitions are associated with transitions in the canonical ensemble. The derivatives of the associated partition function and its entropy are shown to depend solely on the curvatures and covariant derivatives of curvatures of the potential energy level sets. Consequently, the occurrence of phase transitions in systems of infinite degrees of freedom may be explained by certain geometric behaviors of potential energy level sets, expanding and reinforcing the geometric explanation of the origin of phase transitions.
Matching and calibration of FSC single cylinder engine
Authors: Cheng Lin , Wang Guna , Lv Jiangyi
Published: December 2024

To participate in Formula Student of China, the CRF450X single-cylinder engine is selected as the power source. The researchers used the MOTEC-M400 model ECU as an electric control unit to upgrade the electronic control fuel injection system. To restore the original power of the engine, you can create a crankshaft signal disk, install a camshaft position sensor, add a pressure cavity intake pipe, and include an oxygen sensor. Then, we optimize the calibration by adjusting the basic injection pulse width and ignition angle to obtain the power and torque characteristic curves of the engine. Through the upgrade of the electric injection system, the oil injection time and ignition time are accurately controlled, achieving the purpose of reducing fuel consumption and improving the performance of the car.