bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Food Choices and Voluntary Simplicity in Intentional Communities:
Authors: Aguilar Jade
Published: April 2015

Drawing on interviews and ethnographic fieldwork at three egalitarian intentional communities in the United States, this article demonstrates how community members' race and class background affects their diet, food practices, and understanding of and commitment to voluntary simplicity. Previous research on food practices in intentional communities has typically focused on how diet is a way for members to “live their convictions,” and the community members in this study are no different. They too are using food choices to reflect what they value—namely, health, social welfare, environmental sustainability, and animal rights. This article builds upon this prior research by demonstrating how these stated values reflect predominantly white and middle-class dominant ideologies and unintentionally exclude, or make communal life more difficult for, nonwhite and lower-class members. This article also contributes to the scholarship on commitment in intentional communities by showing how the social class background of members impacts the sacrifices they are willing to make to stay in the community.
The Paleo Diet and the American Weight Loss Utopia, 1975–2014
Authors: Johnson Adrienne Rose
Published: April 2015

Paleo diets are both myths and manuals: they are myths of a lost golden age and utopian manuals for better bodies and a more perfect world. Paleo dieters believe that the human body is not adapted to civilization and reject modern ways of eating for foods that could have been hunted or gathered in the Paleolithic Era. Many of the estimated three million American Paleo dieters not only follow the dietary prescriptions, but also adopt the social, moral, and philosophical aspects of the Paleolithic way of life. The Paleo myth pathologizes the relationship between health and modernity, claiming that civilization has outpaced evolution and created a world hostile to human biology. Dieters believe that modern life has created a modern body hounded by false hungers, trapped in a fallen world, and overwhelmed by sadness, sickness, and stress. In turn, these diets promise that pre-agrarian or primitive living will restore the health and beauty enjoyed by our Paleolithic ancestors. Unlike earlier dreams of Lands of Plenty, Paleo diets promise refinement, paucity, and the instinctive recognition of natural pleasure. I argue that this mix of myth and manual creates a new type of embodied utopia in response to changing concepts and conditions of modernity.
Ustopian Breakfasts:
Authors: Boyd Shelley
Published: April 2015

In the third novel of Margaret Atwood's MaddAddam trilogy, breakfast creates a sense of hope and adaptability in the most dire of dystopias. In this postpandemic world where civilization is all but destroyed, the human survivors, who form a makeshift community with the Crakers, initially cling to reverse-utopian breakfasts: nostalgic replications of past meals that offer solace but have no long-term future because the material circumstances of their existence have ceased. Eventually recognizing that storytelling and food are powerful, interrelated tools for humanity's future reproduction, this tenuous community survives precisely because they imagine and reimagine themselves and their modes of consumption. In this way, MaddAddam offers a humble sense of hope through ever-changing breakfast foods that serve as both the physical means and symbol of humanity's imaginative reconstitution into the future.
Homeostatic synaptic depression is achieved through a regulated decrease in presynaptic calcium channel abundance
Authors: Gaviño Michael A , Ford Kevin J , Archila Santiago , Davis Graeme W
Published: April 2015

Homeostatic signaling stabilizes synaptic transmission at the neuromuscular junction (NMJ) of Drosophila, mice, and human. It is believed that homeostatic signaling at the NMJ is bi-directional and considerable progress has been made identifying mechanisms underlying the homeostatic potentiation of neurotransmitter release. However, very little is understood mechanistically about the opposing process, homeostatic depression, and how bi-directional plasticity is achieved. Here, we show that homeostatic potentiation and depression can be simultaneously induced, demonstrating true bi-directional plasticity. Next, we show that mutations that block homeostatic potentiation do not alter homeostatic depression, demonstrating that these are genetically separable processes. Finally, we show that homeostatic depression is achieved by decreased presynaptic calcium channel abundance and calcium influx, changes that are independent of the presynaptic action potential waveform. Thus, we identify a novel mechanism of homeostatic synaptic plasticity and propose a model that can account for the observed bi-directional, homeostatic control of presynaptic neurotransmitter release.
Distinct mechanisms underlie oral vs aboral regeneration in the cnidarian Hydractinia echinata
Authors: Bradshaw Brian , Thompson Kerry , Frank Uri
Published: April 2015

Cnidarians possess remarkable powers of regeneration, but the cellular and molecular mechanisms underlying this capability are unclear. Studying the hydrozoan Hydractinia echinata we show that a burst of stem cell proliferation occurs following decapitation, forming a blastema at the oral pole within 24 hr. This process is necessary for head regeneration. Knocking down Piwi1, Vasa, Pl10 or Ncol1 expressed by blastema cells inhibited regeneration but not blastema formation. EdU pulse-chase experiments and in vivo tracking of individual transgenic Piwi1+ stem cells showed that the cellular source for blastema formation is migration of stem cells from a remote area. Surprisingly, no blastema developed at the aboral pole after stolon removal. Instead, polyps transformed into stolons and then budded polyps. Hence, distinct mechanisms act to regenerate different body parts in Hydractinia. This model, where stem cell behavior can be monitored in vivo at single cell resolution, offers new insights for regenerative biology.
Evaluación del efecto antagonista de un consorcio bacteriano sobre Rhizoctonia solani Kühn en cultivos de arroz.
Authors: Amaíz Luis , Vargas Rosmary , Medina Luis , Izzeddin Noja , Valbuena Oscar
Published: April 2015

Rhizoctonia solani Kühn es un hongo fitopatógeno que ataca cultivos de arroz provocando disminución en el rendimiento de sus cosechas. Este trabajo evaluó el comportamiento de un consorcio bacteriano denominado “Lp” como agente biocontrolador del hongo fitopatógeno. Se determinó el efecto antifúngico de Lp frente a R. solani en cultivos duales in vitro; obteniéndose un 62 ± 1% de inhibición de crecimiento del hongo en medio Agar Papa Dextrosa y 58,0 ± 0,5% en agar nutritivo. El efecto antagónico estuvo relacionado a una actividad proteolítica extracelular presentes en sobrenadantes libres de células obtenidos de Lp, lo cual se determinó por zimografía. En pruebas de germinación en condiciones de laboratorio, la aplicación de Lp estimuló el crecimiento de plántulas de arroz. Estudios de campo preliminares indican un incremento de 44% en la producción de grano de arroz en cultivos tratados con Lp. Estos resultados demuestran que este consorcio bacteriano puede ser empleado como agente biocontrolador del hongo fitopatógeno R. solani Kühn.
Foundations for a Scholarly Communications Program: Interviewing Faculty at a Small Public Liberal Arts College
Authors: Swoger Bonnie JM , Brainard Sue Ann , Hoffman Kimberly Davies
Published: April 2015

INTRODUCTION Librarians at SUNY Geneseo, a small liberal arts college, conducted interviews with eighty-seven professors to learn about faculty attitudes and practices related to scholarly communications and open access. Our project can serve as a model for other small college libraries wishing to engage faculty in a discussion about scholarly communications while dealing with staff constraints and limited budgets. The interviews provided an excellent opportunity for outreach and education, and revealed faculty concerns about open access, digital scholarship, peer review, data storage and management, and co-publishing with students. DESCRIPTION OF PROJECT Interview results were shared with library staff as well as faculty, college administration, and the committee responsible for tenure and promotion decisions. Librarians were able to incorporate this knowledge into their work and make stronger connections between faculty and the library. The Scholarly Communication Team used this information to plan workshops and events aimed at faculty, and identified important topics for further professional development for librarians. We were also able to spark campus-wide conversation about scholarly communication issues. NEXT STEPS Listening to faculty concerns has proven the single best way for librarians to remain responsive and relevant in the scholarly life of the campus. As a result of this project, all library liaisons at our institution will include scholarly communication issues as a regular part of their work.
Structural basis of sugar recognition by SCFFBS2 ubiquitin ligase involved in NGLY1 deficiency
Authors: Satoh Tadashi , Yagi‐Utsumi Maho , Ishii Nozomi , Mizushima Tsunehiro , Yagi Hirokazu , Kato Ryuichi , Tachida Yuriko , Tateno Hiroaki , Matsuo Ichiro , Kato Koichi , Suzuki Tadashi , Yoshida Yukiko
Published: August 2024

The cytosolic peptide:N‐glycanase (PNGase) is involved in the quality control of N‐glycoproteins via the endoplasmic reticulum‐associated degradation (ERAD) pathway. Mutations in the gene encoding cytosolic PNGase (NGLY1 in humans) cause NGLY1 deficiency. Recent findings indicate that the F‐box protein FBS2 of the SCFFBS2 ubiquitin ligase complex can be a promising drug target for NGLY1 deficiency. Here, we determined the crystal structure of bovine FBS2 complexed with the adaptor protein SKP1 and a sugar ligand, Man3GlcNAc2, which corresponds to the core pentasaccharide of N‐glycan. Our crystallographic data together with NMR data revealed the structural basis of disparate sugar‐binding specificities in homologous FBS proteins and identified a potential druggable pocket for in silico docking studies. Our results provide a potential basis for the development of selective inhibitors against FBS2 in NGLY1 deficiency.
Development of nanobodies against the coat protein of maize chlorotic mottle virus
Authors: Njeru Faith , Zwaenepoel Olivier , Haesaert Geert , Misinzo Gerald , De Jonghe Kris , Gettemans Jan
Published: August 2024

Maize lethal necrosis (MLN) is a maize disease caused by the maize chlorotic mottle virus (MCMV), a potyvirus which causes yield losses of 30–100%. The present study aimed to isolate nanobodies against the MCMV coat protein (CP) for the diagnosis of MLN. MCMV CP expressed in Escherichia coli was used for llama immunization. VHH (i.e. variable heavy domain of heavy chain) gene fragments were prepared from blood drawn from the immunized llama and used to generate a library in E. coli TG1 cells. MCMV specific nanobodies were selected by three rounds of phage display and panning against MCMV CP. The selected nanobodies were finally expressed in E. coli WK6 cells and purified. Eleven MCMV‐specific nanobodies were identified and shown to detect MCMV in infected maize plants. Thus, our results show that nanobodies isolated from llama immunized with MCMV CP can distinguish infected and healthy maize plants, potentially enabling development of affordable MCMV detection protocols.
Adaptive ILC methods with less adaption parameters for non‐parameterized nonlinear continuous systems with nonsingular control gain matrices
Authors: Ding Ya‐Qiong , Li Xiao‐Dong
Published: August 2024

In this article, for non‐parameterized nonlinear continuous (NPNC) multiple‐input multiple‐output (MIMO) systems, two combined iteration‐domain and time‐domain adaptive iterative learning control (ILC) algorithms are proposed to track iteration‐varying reference trajectories repetitively over a finite time interval. Different from the general requirement in adaptive control community that the control gain matrices of the controlled systems are real symmetric and positive‐definite, only the nonsingular property of the control gain matrices is assumed. Moreover, there are just two adaption parameters and one adaption parameter involved in the proposed two adaptive ILC algorithms respectively such that the computation load and memory‐space are greatly saved. A simulation example is utilized to illustrate the effectiveness of the two proposed adaptive ILC algorithms with less adaption parameters.
Intelligent Supramolecular Modification for Implants: Endogenous Regulation of Bone Defect Repair in Osteoporosis
Authors: Zhou Xingyu , Jiang Junhui , Dang Junbo , Wang Yilong , Hu Ruibo , Shen Chen , Zhao Tianhao , Sun Dahui , Wang Guibin , Zhang Mei
Published: August 2024

Addressing osteoporosis‐related bone defects, a supramolecular strategy is innovated for modifying carbon fiber reinforced polyether ether ketone (CF/PEEK) composites. By covalently attaching intelligent macromolecules via in situ RAFT polymerization, leveraging the unique pathological microenvironment in patients with iron‐overloaded osteoporosis, intelligent supramolecular modified implant surface possesses multiple endogenous modulation capabilities. After implantation, surface brush‐like macromolecules initially resist macrophage adhesion, thereby reducing the level of immune inflammation. Over time, the molecular chains undergo conformational changes due to Fe (III) mediated supramolecular self‐assembly, transforming into mechanistic signals. These signals are then specifically transmitted to pre‐osteoblast cell through the binding capacity of the KRSR short peptide at the molecular terminus, induced their osteogenic differentiation via the YAP/β‐catenin signaling axis. Furthermore, osteoblasts secrete alkaline phosphatase (ALP), which significantly hydrolyzes phosphate ester bonds in surface macromolecular side groups, resulting in the release of alendronate (ALN). This process further improves the local osteoporotic microenvironment. This intelligent surface modification tailors bone repair to individual conditions, automatically realize multiple endogenous regulation once implanted, and truly realize spontaneous activation of a series of responses conducive to bone repair in vivo. It is evidenced by improved bone regeneration in iron‐overloaded osteoporotic rabbits and supported by in vitro validations.
Comprehensive Modelling for Time‐Dependent Magneto‐Optical Transmission Spectrum of Hematite Ferrofluid
Authors: Aboqara Noha S. , Morshed Ahmed Hisham E. , Sabry Yasser M.
Published: August 2024

Optical field enhancement maximization has been the ultimate objective of applications covering random lasers, spectroscopy, and ‐importantly‐ targeted drug delivery. Consequently, scientists resorted to plasmonic based approaches, which rendered the entire approach inapplicable due to biodegradability concerns. In another work, an experimental realization for a method of magneto‐optical transmission maximization is reported. However, possible limitations on the higher excitation power needed for biomedical applications are still questionable. Furthermore, a comprehensive, quantitative understanding of all material and design related parameters influencing this enhancement is still needed for complete control over possible applications. Therefore, successfully derives a model for the magneto‐optical transmission under a time‐varying 0–4 kHz magnetic field, exhaustively accounting for material and design related phenomena; birefringence of hematite, dissipation, randomness, and anisotropy on the dielectric function, scattering cross‐section, and polarizability, for the first time. The model achieves an accuracy of 99.99% over the band 300–1100 nm and exhausts the model limitations to the decay time constant of Cotton–Mouton co‐effects. The dynamics of the problem are also derived, accounting for the influence of the magnetic field on the viscosity of the ferrofluid, which leads to an in‐depth, required understanding of the magneto‐optic interactions with ferrofluids for efficient applicability.
Electrodes for High‐𝜅 Molecular Crystal Antimony Trioxide Gate Dielectrics for 2D Electronics
Authors: Ranjan Alok , Zeng Lunjie , Olsson Eva
Published: August 2024

Wafer‐scale deposition of high‐𝜅 gate dielectrics compatible with atomically thin van der Waals layered semiconductors (e.g., MoS2, WS2, WSe2) is urgently needed for practical applications of field effect transistors based on 2D materials. A study on a high‐𝜅 molecular crystal antimony trioxide (Sb2O3) gate dielectric examined the role of electrode material on dielectric degradation and breakdown. It is demonstrated that the thin films of Sb2O3 can be uniformly deposited on a wafer scale. The current–voltage (I–V) curves show tightly controlled distributions of both leakage current and breakdown voltage. Electrical measurements reveal that defects are generated gradually upon electrical stressing. The evaluation of degradation is based on charge trapping, stress‐induced leakage current, and dielectric breakdown measurements. The breakdown voltage distribution follows a tight monomodal Weibull distribution suggesting a high quality of the film. Comparing Ti and Au as gate electrodes, both the breakdown field and the tunnel current are affected by the choice of electrode material. Transmission electron microscopy reveals that the chemistry at the electrode/Sb2O3 interface plays an important role and that Ti scavenges oxygen from the Sb2O3, forming a defective oxide layer at the Ti/Sb2O3 interface. For the Au electrode, this interfacial reaction is completely absent, improving the dielectric performance.
Photoelectrochemical synthesis of chloroprocaine from procaine coupled with hydrogen generation
Authors: Chen Wangsong , Pan Nenghui , Luo Lan , Miao Yucong , Zhang Shanshan , Zhang Zhiyuan , Zhang Ruikang , Li Zhenhua , Shao Mingfei
Published: August 2024

Chloroprocaine is favored in anesthesia for its effectiveness and safety but is produced through complex, environmentally harmful processes. There is a growing interest in developing greener, more cost‐effective methods for producing chloroprocaine. Here, we establish a green and cost‐effective photoelectrochemical (PEC) approach for synthesizing chloroprocaine from procaine using a WO3 photoanode with oxygen vacancies. Achieving a high yield of 18.8 μmol cm−2 h−1 with selectivity of 92% and FE of 99%, this method leverages a free radical chain mechanism initiated by Cl· radicals formed over the WO3. The incorporation of oxygen vacancies enhances light absorption and charge separation, facilitating Cl· and Cl2 generation critical for its synthesis. We successfully produced 37.4 mg of chloroprocaine and 5.4 mL of hydrogen using a self‐powered PEC device, demonstrating the method effectiveness and environmental friendliness for chloroprocaine synthesis and hydrogen production.
Comprehensive research on the correlation between microstructure and mechanical properties of polyacrylonitrile‐based precursor fibers prepared by wet‐spinning
Authors: Liu Yong , Dai Shengtao , Guo Peipei , Li Honglong , Guo Zongwei , Shang Lei , Ao Yuhui
Published: August 2024

Polyacrylonitrile (PAN)‐based precursor fibers with different mechanical properties prepared by wet‐spinning and its correlation with microstructure was researched, the primary structural factors that affecting its properties were analyzed. The tensile strength and modulus of precursor fibers increased from 4.63 cN/dtex to 9.16 cN/dtex and 99.09 cN/dtex to 168.92 cN/dtex, respectively, with the increase in crystallinity from 69.29% to 87.84% and orientation degree increased from 83.95% to 93.81%, high performance precursor fibers could be achieved by decrease in the crystallite size and interlayer spacing, these aggregation structure plays a decisive role to the mechanical properties of fibers. The integrality of aggregation structure and properties could reflected by boiling water shrinkage behavior and glass transition temperature from the side. The fracture morphology of fibers with different properties were studied by scanning electron microscope (SEM) and three fracture characteristics were observed, PF1 and PF3 presented the radial extended fracture without microfibril pull out, radial cluster fracture with the pull out of microfibril for PF2, PF4–PF6, together with the axial splitting pattern in PF6, which was revealed by microfibrils/fibrils in longitudinal and transverse combined with solution etching. Precursor fibers with less voids, without serious skin‐core, continuous arrangement, tightly stacked, well‐developed and complete oriented microfibrils/fibrils, exhibited excellent mechanical properties. Possible fracture process was given from the perspective of aggregation structure and microfibrils/fibrils, which become dominant factors determining properties of precursor fibers. Improve the performance could be achieved by regulating surface structure and cross‐sectional shape. As one of the main structural factors that determining properties, by reducing diameter could minimize the numbers and sizes of defects.
Does dissection influence weight bias among doctor of physical therapy students?
Authors: Rompolski Krista , Pascoe Michael A.
Published: August 2024

Anatomy with human dissection may help to develop respect for the human body and professionalism; however, dissection may worsen students' attitudes about body weight and adiposity. The purpose of this study was to measure weight bias among Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) students enrolled in gross anatomy and determine if, and how the experience of dissection impacts weight bias. Ninety‐seven DPT students (70 University of Colorado [CU], 27 Moravian University [MU]) were invited to complete a survey during the first and final weeks of their anatomy course. The survey included demographic items, two measures of weight bias—the Modified Weight Bias Internalized Scale (M‐WBIS) and the Attitudes Towards Obese Persons (ATOP) Scale—and open‐ended questions for the students who participated in dissection (CU students) that explored attitudes about body weight and adiposity. At baseline, there were no significant differences (p > 0.202) in ATOP, M‐WBIS, or BMI between the two universities. The mean scores on both the ATOP and M‐WBIS indicated a moderate degree of both internalized and externalized weight bias. There were no significant changes in ATOP (p = 0.566) or M‐WBIS scores (p = 0.428). BMI had a low correlation with initial M‐WBIS scores (⍴ = 0.294, p = 0.038) and a high correlation with change scores in CU students (⍴ = 0.530, p = 0.011). Future studies should utilize the same measures of weight bias in other healthcare trainees to facilitate comparison and incorporate larger populations of DPT students.
Who posts the advertisement: The influence of advertising authorship on in‐feed advertising effectiveness
Authors: Ma Chenya , Zhou Hang , Wang Ling , Jiang Yushi
Published: August 2024

Advertisers typically publish in‐feed ads with two types of authorship: brand or influencer, yet little is known about the effectiveness of in‐feed ads between these two authors. In this study, we investigated the interactions and mechanisms of ad authorship (brand vs. influencer) and brand type (luxury vs. mass) on advertising effectiveness, and tested the moderating effect of upward social comparison based on the stereotype content model. A pilot study, by coding the secondary data from Most Liked WeChat Moment Ads, found that a greater proportion of luxury (vs. mass) brands were authored by brands (vs. influencers). Study 1 used eye tracking technique to identify the interactive effect of ad authorship and brand type on visual attention. Study 2 further identified perceived competence and warmth as mediators. Study 3 verified the moderating effect of upward social comparison on the above effects. This paper contributes to the theoretical literature on in‐feed advertising by showing the interactive effect of advertising authorship and brand types on advertising effectiveness. It also offers valuable insights for luxury or mass brands on strategically leveraging the brand itself or influencer for advertising.
Chemical Modification of Insulin Using Flow Chemistry
Authors: Chen Haoyu , Mishra Narendra Kumar , Martos‐Maldonado Manuel C. , Roholm Sandie , Sørensen Kasper K. , Jensen Knud J.
Published: August 2024

Chemical modification of proteins is of growing importance to generate new molecular probes for chemical biology and for the development of new biopharmaceuticals. For example, two approved, long‐acting insulin variants are lipidated at the LysB29 side‐chain. Acylations of proteins have so far been performed in batch‐mode. Here we describe the use of flow chemistry for site‐selective acylation of a small protein, insulin. To the best of our knowledge this is the first report on flow chemistry for chemical modification of insulin. The first step was to develop reaction conditions for acylation of Lys B29 that gave a soluble mixture and thus was compatible with flow chemistry in a microreactor; this included selection of a soluble base. Secondly, the conditions, such as reagent ratios and flow rate were optimized. Third, the use of these conditions for the acylation with a wide range of acids was demonstrated. Finally, Boc‐protected insulins were synthesized. Insulin remained stable towards these flow chemistry conditions. This use of flow chemistry for the chemical modification of insulin opens the prospect of producing chemically modified biopharmaceuticals by flow chemistry with fewer byproducts.
A framework for incorporating behavioural change into individual‐level spatial epidemic models
Authors: Ward Madeline A. , Deardon Rob , Deeth Lorna E.
Published: August 2024

Epidemic trajectories can be substantially impacted by people modifying their behaviours in response to changes in their perceived risk of spreading or contracting the disease. However, most infectious disease models assume a stable population behaviour. We present a flexible new class of models, called behavioural change individual‐level models (BC‐ILMs), that incorporate both individual‐level covariate information and a data‐driven behavioural change effect. Focusing on spatial BC‐ILMs, we consider four “alarm” functions to model the effect of behavioural change as a function of infection prevalence over time. Through simulation studies, we find that if behavioural change is present, using an alarm function, even if specified incorrectly, will result in an improvement in posterior predictive performance over a model that assumes stable population behaviour. The methods are applied to data from the 2001 U.K. foot and mouth disease epidemic. The results show some evidence of a behavioural change effect, although it may not meaningfully impact model fit compared to a simpler spatial ILM in this dataset.
Fast and scalable inference for spatial extreme value models
Authors: Chen Meixi , Ramezan Reza , Lysy Martin
Published: August 2024

The generalized extreme value (GEV) distribution is a popular model for analyzing and forecasting extreme weather data. To increase prediction accuracy, spatial information is often pooled via a latent Gaussian process (GP) on the GEV parameters. Inference for GEV‐GP models is typically carried out using Markov Chain Monte Carlo (MCMC) methods, or using approximate inference methods such as the integrated nested Laplace approximation (INLA). However, MCMC becomes prohibitively slow as the number of spatial locations increases, whereas INLA is applicable in practice only to a limited subset of GEV‐GP models. In this article, we revisit the original Laplace approximation for fitting spatial GEV models. In combination with a popular sparsity‐inducing spatial covariance approximation technique, we show through simulations that our approach accurately estimates the Bayesian predictive distribution of extreme weather events, is scalable to several thousand spatial locations, and is several orders of magnitude faster than MCMC. A case study in forecasting extreme snowfall across Canada is presented.
Adhesion, Stability and Electronic Properties of Ag/SnO2 Interface from First‐Principles Calculation
Authors: Xu Yunhui , Li Jintao , Teng Wensong , Cui Defeng , Zhou Xiaolong
Published: August 2024

The interfacial bonding state between each oxide and the silver matrix in AgCuOIn2O3SnO2 electrical contact materials remains unclear. To address this, first‐principles calculations using density‐functional theory are employed to establish the low‐index surfaces of Ag and SnO2 and perform convergence tests. Computational results reveal that the Ag (111) surface and the SnO2(110)‐O surface exhibit the highest stability among their respective low‐index surfaces. Consequently, these surfaces are chosen to form the interfacial model, and their atomic structure, adhesion work, and interfacial energies are systematically analyzed. The results demonstrate that the stability and interfacial bonding strength of the Ag(111)/SnO2(110)‐O interface are high, exhibiting metallic properties and strong conductivity. Moreover, at an interface spacing of d0 = 2.4 Å, the interface stability is optimal. The redistribution of charge at the interface induces significant changes in the local atomic density of states, particularly noticeable in the Ag and O atoms. Additionally, the Ag/SnO2 interface is predominantly bonded through ionic interactions, contributing to its robust bonding.
Modified third‐order sliding mode control with adaptive gains for a multiphase PMSG wind turbine under double‐phase open fault
Authors: Bounadja Elhadj , Belhadj Djilali Abdelkadir , Yahdou Adil
Published: August 2024

Wind energy production systems (WEPS) are increasingly vital in the transition to renewable energy sources, with permanent magnetic synchronous generators (PMSG) being widely adopted due to their high efficiency and reliability. Developing robust control methods is essential to ensure that WEPS operate efficiently even under adverse conditions. This study focuses on optimizing control strategies for WEPS utilizing a 5‐phase PMSG and addresses challenges posed by double‐phase open fault (DPOF) scenarios. Unlike conventional second‐order sliding mode control (SOSMC) based on the super‐twisting algorithm (STA), the proposed method enhances performance by elevating the sliding surface time derivative degree to a third order and modifying the discontinuous term of STA with an arctangent function, promising to reduce chattering effects. Additionally, an adaptation law adjusts the improved STA gains, forming adaptive‐gain third‐order sliding mode control (AG‐TOSMC), which outperforms SOSMC under various disturbances such as wind speed fluctuations, parameter changes, and DPOF scenarios. The AG‐TOSMC enhances the quality of active and reactive power by reducing fluctuation ratios compared with the SOSMC. The efficiency of WEPS increases to 98.5% with AG‐TOSMC, surpassing the 93.5% achieved with SOSMC. Additionally, a DPOF test confirms the aptitude of the 5‐phase PMSG to work under degraded circumstances, supplying appropriate electrical power to the network without significant adverse effects. Numerical simulations validate the efficiency of the suggested WEPS and its control, demonstrating superior performance achieved with AG‐TOSMC.
Bound and resonance states of highly charged H‐ and He‐like ions under weakly coupled plasma environment
Authors: Mondal S. , Sil A. N. , Dutta S. , Nandi S. , Mukhopadhyay T. K. , Saha J. K.
Published: August 2024

The position of bound () states as well as doubly excited resonance , () states of symmetry has been determined for highly charged He‐like ions (, , , , , and Ar16+) along with their respective one‐electron thresholds (, , and ) under weakly coupled plasma environment. These particular ions and their respective charge states are selected due to their frequent occurrence in astrophysical and laboratory plasmas. Ritz variational method with multi‐exponent explicitly correlated Hylleraas type basis and pure‐exponential basis set are adopted for tackling He‐ and H‐like ions, respectively. The resonance width of a few low‐lying resonance states is determined using the stabilization method under different plasma conditions. Ionization potential depression is noted for both the bound and resonance states of the plasma‐embedded ions. It is evident that the width (or the lifetime) of the considered resonance states originating from different dominant configurations follows different patterns w.r.t. the plasma screening length.
The effect of years of schooling and age on CERAD‐MX performance in Mexican preclinical carriers of the APPV717I mutation: Randomized data simulation
Authors: Zuno‐Reyes Angélica , Pérez‐Rubio Karina , Flores‐González Martín Alonso , Torres Ricardo Jauregui , Dumois‐Petersen Sofía , Figuera Luis E. , Ringman John M. , Matute Esmeralda
Published: August 2024

INTRODUCTION

We aimed to determine the effect of years of schooling (YoS) and age on the Mexican adaptation of the Consortium to Establish a Registry for Alzheimer's Disease (CERAD‐MX) scores in preclinical carriers group (PCG) and non‐carriers group (NCG) of the APPV717I mutation.

METHODS

We included 39 first‐degree Mexican relatives of APPV717I carriers (PCG = 15; NCG = 24). We report eight CERAD‐MX tasks: Mini‐Mental State Examination (MMSE), Word List Learning (WLL), Delayed Recall (WLD) and Recognition (WLR), Constructional Praxis Copy (CPC) and Recall (CPR), Semantic Verbal Fluency (SVF), and Verbal Boston Naming (VBN), comparing both groups’ performance and simulating new samples’ random vectors by inverse transform sampling.

RESULTS

PCG and NCG performed similarly on CERAD‐MX. In both groups, YoS and age influence all z scores. A positive age effect resulted for PCG on CPC and SVF; for the NCG on MMSE, SVF, and VBN.

DISCUSSION

All tasks are influenced by YoS. Higher YoS/younger age or YoS/older age interactions affected different tasks, suggesting that YoS confounds outcomes.

Highlights

Years of schooling (YoS) and age affect the Mexican adaptation of the Consortium to Establish a Registry for Alzheimer's Disease scores of APPV717I preclinical carriers.

Preclinical carriers underperformed non‐carriers on Constructional Praxis Recall.

Fewer YoS emerges as a confounding variable when detecting cognitive failures.

Younger participants in both groups overperformed the older ones in the Memory tasks.

Randomized data simulation increases statistical power when analyzing rare diseases.
The impacts of fire vary among vertical strata: Responses of ant communities to long‐term experimental burning
Authors: Brassard François , Murphy Brett P. , Andersen Alan N.
Published: August 2024

Fire is a powerful tool for conservation management at a landscape scale, but a rigorous evidence base is often lacking for understanding its impacts on biodiversity in different biomes. Fire‐induced changes to habitat openness have been identified as an underlying driver of responses of faunal communities, including for ants. However, most studies of the impacts of fire on ant communities consider only epigeic (foraging on the soil surface) species, which may not reflect the responses of species inhabiting other vertical strata. Here, we examine how the responses of ant communities vary among vertical strata in a highly fire‐prone biome. We use a long‐term field experiment to quantify the effects of fire on the abundance, richness, and composition of ant assemblages of four vertical strata (subterranean, leaf litter, epigeic, and arboreal) in an Australian tropical savanna. We first document the extent to which each stratum harbors distinct assemblages. We then assess how the assemblage of each stratum responds to three fire‐related predictors: fire frequency, fire activity, and vegetation cover. Each stratum harbored a distinct ant assemblage and showed different responses to fire. Leaf litter and epigeic ants were most sensitive to fire because it directly affects their microhabitats, but they showed contrasting negative and positive responses, respectively. Subterranean ants were the least sensitive because of the insulating effects of soil. Our results show that co‐occurring species of the same taxonomic group differ in the strength and direction of their response to fire depending on the stratum they inhabit. As such, effective fire management for biodiversity conservation should consider species in all vertical strata.
Revisiting the ecology and evolution of burying beetle behavior (Staphylinidae: Silphinae)
Authors: Potticary Ahva L. , Belk Mark C. , Creighton J. Curtis , Ito Minobu , Kilner Rebecca , Komdeur Jan , Royle Nick J. , Rubenstein Dustin R. , Schrader Matthew , Shen Sheng‐Feng , Sikes Derek S. , Smiseth Per T. , Smith Rosemary , Steiger Sandra , Trumbo Stephen T. , Moore Allen J.
Published: August 2024

Investigating fundamental processes in biology requires the ability to ground broad questions in species‐specific natural history. This is particularly true in the study of behavior because an organism's experience of the environment will influence the expression of behavior and the opportunity for selection. Here, we provide a review of the natural history and behavior of burying beetles of the genus Nicrophorus to provide the groundwork for comparative work that showcases their remarkable behavioral and ecological diversity. Burying beetles have long fascinated scientists because of their well‐developed parenting behavior, exhibiting extended post‐hatching care of offspring that varies extensively within and across taxa. Despite the burgeoning success of burying beetles as a model system for the study of behavioral evolution, there has not been a review of their behavior, ecology, and evolution in over 25 years. To address this gap, we leverage a developing community of researchers who have contributed to a detailed knowledge of burying beetles to highlight the utility of Nicrophorus for investigating the causes and consequences of social and behavioral evolution.
Sexual selection and life history interact to influence the evolution of paternal care
Authors: de Blonk Taya , Udu Isimeme N. , Bonsall Michael B. , Klug Hope
Published: August 2024

Parental care is essential to offspring survival in many species. Understanding why males of some species provide care, whereas others do not, has received substantial attention. Previous research has found that sexual selection can favor paternal care, yet we still do not fully understand why sexual selection favors male care in some species but not others. It is also unclear when paternal care versus other preferred male trait(s) will be favored by sexual selection. We hypothesize that sexual selection can interact with basic life history to influence the conditions under which paternal care and/or another preferred male trait will be favored by sexual selection. We used a mathematical approach in which males alone provide parental care and exhibit a non‐care trait that is preferred in mate choice. Using this approach, we demonstrate that life‐history characteristics (stage‐specific mortality, fertilization success, gamete numbers) can interact with sexual selection to influence the evolution of paternal care and/or a preferred non‐care trait. In particular, whether (1) adult mortality, egg mortality, and fertilization success are high versus low and (2) a tradeoff exists between paternal care and a non‐care preferred trait will influence whether selection most strongly favors additional paternal care or a non‐care preferred trait. In general, we would expect strong selection for more male care when it is preferred in mate choice. In some cases, mate preferences for paternal care can inhibit selection for a preferred non‐care trait. Mate preferences for paternal care can also broaden the life‐history conditions under which we would expect the elaboration of male care to occur.
Feasibility study of a single‐primer extension‐based microhaplotype NGS system
Authors: Zhu Qiang , Shu Panyin , Wang Haoyu , Wei Yifan , Wang Yuting , Wang Yufang , Zhang Ji
Published: August 2024

DNA degradation has been a thorny problem in forensic science. Shortening the amplicon length of the genetic markers improves the analysis of degraded DNA effectively. Microhaplotype (MH) has been proposed as a potential genetic marker that can be used for degraded DNA analysis. In the present study, a 146‐plex MH‐next‐generation sequencing (NGS) system with an average Ae of 6.876 was constructed. Unlike other MH studies, a single‐primer extension (SPE)‐based NGS library preparation method was used to improve the detection of MH markers for degraded DNA. SPE employs a locus‐specific and universal primer to amplify target fragments, reducing the necessity for complete fragment sequences. SPE might effectively mitigate the impact of degradation on amplification. However, SPE produces amplicons of varying lengths, posing challenges in allele calling for SPE‐NGS data. To address this issue, this study proposed a flexible allele‐calling strategy to improve amplicon detection. In addition, this study evaluated the forensic efficacy of the system using 12 low‐template samples (from 1 ng to 7.8 pg), 10 mock‐degraded DNA with various degrees of degradation, and 8 forensic casework samples. When the template is as low as 7.8 pg, our system can accurately detect at least 37 loci and achieves a random match probability (RMP) of 10−30 using the complete allele‐calling strategy. Eighty‐two loci can be detected, and RMP can reach 10−54 using a flexible allele‐calling strategy. After 150 min of 98°C treatment, 36 loci can still be detected, and an RMP of 10−5 can be obtained using the flexible allele‐calling strategy. Furthermore, the number of single nucleotide polymorphism detected at different DNA amounts and degradation levels suggests that the SPE method combined with a flexible allele‐calling strategy is effective.
Collaborative operation strategy of multiple microenergy grids considering demand‐side energy‐sharing behavior
Authors: Mao Yunshou , Wan Kai , Xu Deming , Long Dafeng
Published: August 2024

In recent years, as the energy market continues to change, an emerging business model is gradually emerging as an energy provider (EP). The participation of EP as an independent entity in the distribution network investment model not only helps realize a win–win situation for multiple stakeholders but also promotes the innovation and sustainable development of the energy industry. However, in the energy system, EPs, grids, microenergy grids (MEGs), and shared energy storage service providers usually belong to different stakeholders, and their respective pursuit of profit maximization can easily lead to uncontrolled competition, which greatly reduces market efficiency. To address the varying ownership structures within the energy system, a refined bilevel coordinated optimization operation model is introduced, rooted in the master–slave game theory. In this model, the EP assumes the role of the master, while the MEG operator and the shared energy storage operator (SESO) act as slaves. A peer‐to‐peer energy‐sharing mechanism between MEGs and an energy trading mechanism between MEGs and shared energy storage is used to further increase the local consumption rate of new energy. Simulation results demonstrate that the proposed method not only boosts the revenues of an EP, SESO, and MEG operators but also effectively accounts for the MEG's energy storage needs and SESOs' profitability.
Assessment of pillar stability and its control in a double roadway layout
Authors: Huang Wanpeng , Zhao Tongyang , Zhang Chengguo , Liu Yaxin , Sui Le , Hou Tao , Jiang Donghai
Published: August 2024

To solve the problem of controlling the stability of small coal pillars under the mining disturbance of the adjacent working face, the fourth panel 403 and 404 working faces of the Gaojiabao coal mine with two mining roadways is taken as the object of this research. The comprehensive research method of combining mechanical theory analysis, coal dynamic disturbance experiments and field engineering practice was adopted. First, the analysis determined the magnitude and frequency of fracture‐related disturbance loading on the overburden roof of the working face; next, the strain and stress threshold indicators of the coal body, sensitive to the external disturbance load of 103 J magnitude (continuous disturbance deformation), were tested and obtained through a self‐developed rock creep disturbance experimental system, and the stress threshold indicators of coal body specimens sensitive to creep disturbance were defined as the long‐term strength. Then, a coal pillar‐roof mechanics structure model was established in the premining and postmining areas of the working face, and the overlying support pressure on the coal pillar body was analysed. Finally, a small coal pillar composite reinforcement support technology with ‘two‐way buttressing anchor cable for pressure reinforcement + steel pipe concrete pier column + overhead roof break’ was designed to ensuring that the coal pillar body would not be destabilised by cumulative disturbance and large deformation under disturbance. According postmining area support capacity calculations, the support loading acting on the coal pillar is approximately 17593 kN, with the stress being 2.93 MPa; and the factor of safety is approximately 1.23. After engineering practice application of this approach, the vertical deformation of the small coal pillar body and side heave disturbance deformation were effectively controlled during the working face mining disturbance, the vertical deformation of the reinforced coal pillar was only 187 mm, and the side heave deformation was finally stabilised at approximately 124 mm, which maintained good stability.
Investigating the Dual Synergistic Amalgamation of CeO2@WO3/GO Electrodes for Supercapacitor Application
Authors: Obodo Raphael M. , Nsude Hope E. , Eze Chimezie U. , Duru Miletus O. , Ikhioya Imosobomeh L. , Anosike Joseph N. , Aniezi Joseph N. , Omugbe Ekwevugbe , Mbamara Chinonso , Elejere Ugochukwu C. , Usman Muhammad , Ahmad Ishaq , Maaza M.
Published: August 2024

Scientists and researchers are investigating new energy conversion and storage devices continuously because of the current global hike in energy crisis. In this study, we utilized graphene oxide (GO) and composites of transition metallic oxides (CeO2@WO3) to fabricate electrodes intended for use in supercapacitor electrodes. These electrodes' morphology demonstrates a uniform distribution of sphere and platelet nanoparticles. The XRD measurements for these manufactured electrodes showed a noticeable crystalline character. These electrodes have outstanding electrochemical performance due to their relatively low bandgap energies. The electrochemical tests demonstrated the exceptional charge storage capabilities of the different electrodes, suggesting that CeO2/GO, WO3/GO, and CeO2@WO3/GO electrodes could be useful electrodes for supercapacitor applications. Numerous electrochemical findings made it abundantly evident that the creation of bimetallic CeO2@WO3/GO composites enhanced the supercapacitive performance and cycle stability of the electrodes.