bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
On the sensitivity analysis of the DEM oedometer experiment
Authors: Jahn Momme , Meywerk Martin
Published: July 2023

The discrete element method (DEM) is frequently used to investigate the behaviour of granular media (Bravo in Simulation of soil and tillage-tool interaction by the discrete element method, 2013; Tijskens et al. in J Sound Vib 266:493–514, 2003; Langston et al. in Chem Eng Sci 50:967–987, 1995; Kohring et al. in Comput Methods Appl Mech Eng 124:273–281, 1995; Stahl et al. in Granul Matter 13:417–428, 2011). The parameter calibration is a challenging task due to the large number of input parameters and the computational effort. Sometimes, this is performed with a trial-and-error approach as mentioned in Roessler et al. (Powder Technol 343:803–812, 2019), Rackl and Hanley (Powder Technol 307:73–83, 2017) based on laboratory tests, e.g. the pile experiment, the oedometer experiment and the shear test. To achieve a more suitable calibration, a better model understanding is necessary in which the influence of the DEM parameters is analysed. Consequently, the calibration can be focused on specific parameters, which have a significant influence on thef model response. If parameters with a negligibly small influence exist, the number of calibration parameters can be reduced. On this basis, it is possible to decide whether the laboratory test is suitable for the calibration of specific parameters or not. This is demonstrated with a sensitivity analysis based on Sobol’ indices for the oedometer laboratory test. In order to reduce the computational effort, the sensitivity analysis is performed with different metamodels of the oedometer simulation. The metamodels are fitted and validated with two separate sampling point sets. It is shown that the Young’s modulus for the investigated input space is the most significant parameter. This knowledge can be used to only focus the calibration on this significant parameter which enables an easier calibration and makes clear that for calibrating of other parameters this laboratory test is inappropriate. An algorithm of a force-driven plate is developed and shown which prevents non-physical states in which the interaction force between the particles and the loadplate exceeds the applied force.
An overview of surface forces and the DLVO theory
Authors: Agmo Hernández Víctor
Published: July 2023

This lecture text focuses on surface forces and interactions in a liquid medium, with particular emphasis on the surface-surface interactions described by the DLVO theory, i.e., van der Waals attraction and electric double-layer repulsion. The text begins by describing the fundamental forces of nature, their connection to intermolecular interactions, and how the latter result in measurable forces between surfaces and macroscopical objects. A step-by-step reasoning on how DLVO forces arise is then presented, accompanied by a simplified description of the mathematical derivations of the main equations within the framework of the theory. The connection between the DLVO theory and the prediction of the stability of colloidal systems is presented. Examples on how the colloidal stability can be controlled or tuned are presented. The shortcomings of the original DLVO theory are discussed, and recent extended models dealing with these issues are briefly described. The text closes with a general overview of some of the most relevant non-DLVO interaction.
Alkali fusion of bauxite refining residue (red mud-RM) to produce low carbon cements
Authors: Pavia S. , Goodhue R. , Alelweet O.
Published: July 2023

This paper creates hydraulic binders using waste and a low energy input. Cements are produced with a bauxite refining residue (red mud-RM), blended with limestone and lime, and fused at temperatures from 600 to 1200 °C. The Saudi RM investigated has significant Al and Si but low Ca. Therefore, lime (CaO) and limestone (CaCO3) are used, as a source of calcium, to harvest cementing hydrates.When calcining RM alone, reactive aluminium phases begin to form at c.300 °C. However, at c.900 °C, they turn into crystalline corundum (Al2O3), a more stable and less reactive phase. It is hoped that the Ca provided by the lime/limestone will react with the Al in the RM during fusion, to form reactive silicates and aluminates rather than inert corundum. Both types of fusion produced calcium silicates and aluminates with cementing properties. However, lime fusion required higher temperature. Limestone fusion produces cementing phases at lower temperature than lime fusion, due to the lower decomposition temperature of CaCO3 when compared to CaO. High temperature is required to break down CaO (melting point = 2572 °C), whereas CaCO3 decomposes at 600 °C and disappears at 850 °C. Despite the top alkali fusion temperature being much lower than the CaO melting point, the results demonstrate that calcium was released from the lime and entered reactions forming calcium silicates and aluminates. This is probably due to the high alkali content of the RM acting as a flux and lowering the decomposition temperature of the CaO.
Complexity theory as an exploratory paradigm: can scientific inquiry effectively measure individual’s challenging behaviour in a non-linear way
Authors: Tomas Krista
Published: July 2023

Theoretical constructs to explore neurocognitive management of challenging behaviour in young people are inherently fraught with the difficulty of what exactly is to be measured that is acceptably benchmarked against standard mechanistic scientific inquiry. Indeed, this identifies the potential for a new scientific paradigm to be developed that explains the links between complex brain systems and functions, the development of the mind and adolescent challenging behaviour. The imperative lies in overcoming the strictly linear nature of some of the current scientific inquiry methods embracing instead, tools that can measure the non-linear, unexpected and emergent features of change. These changes are elicited through the interaction of the brain and human environments, sometimes manifesting in chaotic and challenging behaviour. The objective of this article is to explore the subtleties of complexity theory, to determine an essential lead to a non-linear way of measuring challenging behaviour in adolescents. The brain is a complex system and CT provides, here, the framework for understanding the dynamic and often non-linear neural activity that shifts in response to changes in an individual’s environment. I pose the question; Exploring CT as an underpinning theoretical framework, is it demonstrated that there are methods of measuring the non-linearity of an individual’s challenging behaviour, in a way that meets the expectations of sound scientific inquiry? The method used is an exploratory review and is addressed in two parts. The first is how to explain challenging behaviour in a neuro-informed state of complexity and the second is whether it is possible to use Complexity Theory as an exploratory framework for determining the non-linear characteristics of challenging behaviour. The article concludes with suggestions that Complexity Theory is an evolving theoretical construct primed to advance a more in-depth understanding of the non-linearity of challenging behaviour. As such, Complexity Theory has the potential for exploring a new paradigm of scientific inquiry.
WeiTsing: a new face of Ca2+-permeable channels in plant immunity
Authors: Wang Feng-Zhu , Li Jian-Feng
Published: July 2023

Plants employ pattern- and effector-triggered immunity (PTI and ETI) to synergistically defend invading pathogens and insect herbivores. Both PTI and ETI can induce cytosolic Ca2+ spikes, despite in different spatiotemporal patterns, to activate downstream Ca2+-dependent immune signaling cascades. While multiple families of Ca2+-permeable channels at the plasma membrane have been uncovered, the counterparts responsible for Ca2+ release from intracellular stores remain poorly understood. In a groundbreaking paper published recently by Cell, the authors reported that WeiTsing, an Arabidopsis endoplasmic reticulum (ER)-resident protein that was specifically expressed in the pericycle upon Plasmodiophora brassicae (Pb) infection, could form resistosome-like Ca2+-conducting channel and protect the stele of Brassica crops from Pb colonization. As the channel activity of WeiTsing was indispensable for its immune function, the findings highlight a previously underappreciated role of Ca2+ release from intracellular repertoire in promoting plant disease resistance.
Statistical Quality Control: Acceptance Sampling Plans in the Light of Fuzzy Mathematics
Authors: Bhattacharyya Surajit
Published: July 2023

Statistical quality control is a productivity enhancing and regulatory technique with three factors––Management, Methods and Mathematics. More precisely, if we want to properly design a self-regulating system for quality, we have to look to the field of cybernetics for design information. Quality improvement management aims to decrease variability, which leads to decrease the costs, the production time, the number of defects, scrap, rework,––and increase the customer satisfaction. Many problems in these scientific investigations generate non-precise data incorporating non-statistical uncertainty. A non-precise observation of a qualitative variable can be described by a special type of membership function defined on the set of all real numbers called a fuzzy number. In this paper, I have thoroughly discussed Acceptance sampling plans (Single, Double, Chain and Sequential) by attributes with the help of fuzzy parameters (mainly by fuzzy Poisson distribution and hypotheses testing). Finally many examples have been used and at last the paper ends with a comparative study.
An ASC‐Based Unitary Matrix Pencil Method for Parameter Estimation of Group Target
Authors: Sun Xiyuan , Gu Pengfei , He Zi , Wen Hao , Ding Dazhi , Guo Shaoqing , Li You
Published: July 2023

The unitary matrix pencil (UMP) method has been successfully applied to antenna array optimization. In this paper, the UMP method is applied to the parameter estimation of target detection based on the attributed scattering center (ASC) model. This method can accurately estimate the number of arbitrary group targets in the space. First, the RCS is reconstructed based on the ASC model. Since the unitary matrix can be used to process the parameter estimation of the echo with “sum of attenuation exponents,” the unitary matrix is constructed by the samples from this reconstructed RCS. Moreover, the stronger scattering center can be characterized via the larger singular values, and the number of group targets can be obtained by solving the number of large singular values. Then, singular value decomposition is performed on this unitary matrix, and some larger singular values are screened by setting an appropriate threshold. The higher estimation accuracy can be obtained by fusing the echoes from multiple frequencies and angles. Besides, the estimation accuracies of this proposed method in this paper are discussed under different signal‐to‐noise ratios considering the noise in the actual scene. Simulation results show that this method can effectively and accurately estimate the number of group targets, and it shows strong robustness.
A Machine Learning Framework for Predicting and Understanding the Canadian Drought Monitor
Authors: Mardian Jacob , Champagne Catherine , Bonsal Barrie , Berg Aaron
Published: July 2023

Drought is a costly natural disaster that impacts economies and ecosystems worldwide, so monitoring drought and communicating its impacts to individuals, communities, industry, and governments is important for mitigation, adaptation, and decision‐making. This research describes a novel machine learning framework to predict and understand the Canadian Drought Monitor (CDM). This fully automated approach is trained on nearly two decades of expert analysis and would assist the comprehensive monitoring of drought impacts without the continued requirement of ground support, a benefit in many data‐limited areas across the country. The framework also integrates the Shapley Additive Explanation (SHAP) variable importance metric to provide insight into drought dynamics in near real‐time, demonstrating its usefulness for understanding the value of different data sets for drought assessments and dispelling the commonly held misconception that machine learning models are not useful for inference. The results demonstrate that the model can effectively predict the CDM maps and realistically capture the evolution of drought events over time. A SHAP analysis found that the Prairie drought of 2015 was related to a strong El Niño event that reduced water supply to a region already facing long‐term water deficits, and the subsequent reduction in groundwater availability was detected by the Gravity Recovery and Climate Experiment satellite. Overall, this research shows strong potential to streamline the CDM methodology, integrate scientific insight into operations in near real‐time using SHAP values, and provide an avenue to retrospectively extend the CDM for evaluating current and future drought events in a historical context.
Sedimentary Records of Liquefaction: Implications From Field Studies
Authors: Świątek Szymon , Belzyt Szymon , Pisarska‐Jamroży Małgorzata , Woronko Barbara
Published: July 2023

The susceptibility of grains in sediment to the liquefaction process causes the development of deformation structures. Some sediments undergo liquefaction, others do not. There is a group of sediments especially prone to liquefaction, which was proven during laboratory experiments. However, the field results are often slightly different from those obtained experimentally because of many unpredictable factors influencing the course of the liquefaction process. For this reason, we tested 144 samples of unconsolidated Quaternary‐age sediments, collected from eight study sites in Germany, Lithuania and Latvia, which have been liquefied. We also present some new dating results. These samples were divided into two groups of soft‐sediment deformation structures: concave up (e.g., injection structures) and concave down (e.g., load casts, pseudonodules). The granulometry of all deformation types was statistically evaluated, which allowed identifying textural differences between sediment contained in concave up and concave down structures. We suggest that the mobilization of silt fraction is responsible for the further deforming process. We also confirm that the maximum content of clay in sediment prone to liquefaction cannot exceed 14%, but only with a significant content of coarser fractions (silt and sand). Moreover, we identified two separate zones of the specific grain size in which only concave down structures or only concave up structures develop as an effect of liquefaction, and the third “transitional zone” where all forms occur. The “transitional zone” is separated from the concave up structures and concave down structures zones by two “gap zones” in which no liquefied sediments were observed.
Associations between lifestyle factors and levels of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFASs), phthalates and parabens in follicular fluid in women undergoing fertility treatment
Authors: Hallberg Ida , Björvang Richelle D. , Hadziosmanovic Nermin , Koekkoekk Jacco , Pikki Anne , van Duursen Majorie , Lenters Virissa , Sjunnesson Ylva , Holte Jan , Berglund Lars , Persson Sara , Olovsson Matts , Damdimopoulou Pauliina
Published: July 2023

Background

Concerns have been raised whether exposure to endocrine-disrupting chemicals (EDCs) can alter reproductive functions and play a role in the aetiology of infertility in women. With increasing evidence of adverse effects, information on factors associated with exposure is necessary to form firm recommendations aiming at reducing exposure.

Objective

Our aim was to identify associations between lifestyle factors including the home environment, use of personal care products (PCP), and dietary habits and concentrations of EDCs in ovarian follicular fluid.

Methods

April-June 2016, 185 women undergoing ovum pick-up for in vitro fertilisation in Sweden were recruited. Correlation analyses were performed between self-reported lifestyle factors and concentration of EDCs analysed in follicular fluid. Habits related to cleaning, PCPs, and diet were assessed together with concentration of six per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFASs) [PFHxS, PFOA, PFOS, PFNA, PFDA and PFUnDA], methyl paraben and eight phthalate metabolites [MECPP, MEHPP, MEOHP, MEHP, cxMinCH, cxMiNP, ohMiNP, MEP, MOHiBP]. Spearman’s partial correlations were adjusted for age, parity and BMI.

Results

Significant associations were discovered between multiple lifestyle factors and concentrations of EDCs in ovarian follicular fluid. After correctingpvalues for multiple testing, frequent use of perfume was associated with MEP (correlationρ = 0.41 (confidence interval 0.21–0.47),p < 0.001); hens’ egg consumption was positively associated with PFOS (ρ = 0.30 (0.15–0.43),p = 0.007) and PFUnDA (ρ = 0.27 (0.12–0.40),p = 0.036). White fish consumption was positively associated with PFUnDA (ρ = 0.34 (0.20–0.47),p < 0.001) and PFDA (ρ = 0.27 (0.13–0.41),p = 0.028). More correlations were discovered when considering the raw uncorrectedpvalues. Altogether, our results suggest that multiple lifestyle variables affect chemical contamination of follicular fluid.

Impact statement

This study shows how lifestyle factors correlate with the level of contamination in the ovary by both persistent and semi-persistent chemicals in women of reproductive age. Subsequently, these data can be used to form recommendations regarding lifestyle to mitigate possible negative health outcomes and fertility problems associated with chemical exposure, and to inform chemical policy decision making. Our study can also help form the basis for the design of larger observational and intervention studies to examine possible effects of lifestyle changes on exposure levels, and to unravel the complex interactions between biological factors, lifestyle and chemical exposures in more detail.
Effectiveness of iodine for continuous decontamination of dental unit waterline
Authors: Petchphayaprai Chatchaya , Chotipan Chutimon , Sa-ngiampak Pitchayapa , Thotsaporn Kittisak , Ampornaramveth Ruchanee Salingcarnboriboon
Published: July 2023

Objective

Dental Unit Waterlines (DUWLs) are contaminated by various species of microorganisms. DUWLs should be disinfected appropriately to control microbial contamination. This study investigated the effectiveness of devices continuously releasing iodine to control microbial contamination in DUWLs.

Materials and methods

Ten dental chair units (DCU) at Chulalongkorn University were randomized into the iodine and control groups. After setting iodine treatment devices, the DCU was allowed to operate normally. 25 ml of water from airotors lines were collected weekly for enumerating bacteria. The viability of biofilms in DUWLs was quantified by ATP testing kit. The amount of iodine released into the procedural water was also quantified.

Results

The continuous presence of iodine could significantly control bacterial contamination in the DUWL to be less than 500 CFU/mL, the standard level recommended by the Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Iodine treatment can reduce bacterial CFU up to 98–100%. Biofilm viability in the iodine group was slightly lower than that of the control group though not statistically significant. After eleven months, the average iodine release was measured to be 3.6 ppm which is still effective in controlling bacterial contamination.

Conclusion

Continuously supplying iodine in DUWLs effectively controls microbial contamination.
Twisting, untwisting, and retwisting of elastic Co-based nanohelices
Authors: Du Wei , Gao Feng , Cui Peng , Yu Zhiwu , Tong Wei , Wang Jihao , Ren Zhuang , Song Chuang , Xu Jiaying , Ma Haifeng , Dang Liyun , Zhang Di , Lu Qingyou , Jiang Jun , Wang Junfeng , Pi Li , Sheng Zhigao , Lu Qingyi
Published: July 2023

The reversible transformation of a nanohelix is one of the most exquisite and important phenomena in nature. However, nanomaterials usually fail to twist into helical crystals. Considering the irreversibility of the previously studied twisting forces, the reverse process (untwisting) is more difficult to achieve, let alone the retwisting of the untwisted crystalline nanohelices. Herein, we report a new reciprocal effect between molecular geometry and crystal structure which triggers a twisting-untwisting-retwisting cycle for tri-cobalt salicylate hydroxide hexahydrate. The twisting force stems from competition between the condensation reaction and stacking process, different from the previously reported twisting mechanisms. The resulting distinct nanohelices give rise to unusual structure elasticity, as reflected in the reversible change of crystal lattice parameters and the mutual transformation between the nanowires and nanohelices. This study proposes a fresh concept for designing reversible processes and brings a new perspective in crystallography.
Basin record of a Miocene lithosphere drip beneath the Colorado Plateau
Authors: He John J. Y. , Kapp Paul
Published: July 2023

The sinking of gravitationally unstable lithosphere beneath high-elevation plateaus is proposed to be a key driver of their uplift. Numerical geodynamic models predict that lithosphere removal can lead to transient, dynamic topographic changes that could be preserved in the surface record, particularly in sedimentary deposits of lakes or playas that are subsequently inverted. However, few such examples have been documented. Here we show that the Miocene Bidahochi Basin, which was partially and intermittently filled by the Hopi Paleolake, preserves a record of the quasi-elliptical surface response to a viscous drip of lithosphere >100 km beneath the Colorado Plateau. New detrital zircon U-Pb, Lu-Hf, and trace-element data reveal systematic isotopic, geochemical, temperature and fO2 transitions in magmatism proximal to the basin. Integration of geophysical, geochemical, and geological evidence supports a spatially and temporally varying record of subsidence and uplift that is consistent with models of progressive dripping beneath plateaus with thick lithosphere. We demonstrate that dynamic topography at the scale of individual lithosphere drips can be recognized on the Colorado Plateau, despite the strength of its lithosphere.
Highly selective oxidation of benzene to phenol with air at room temperature promoted by water
Authors: Xie Jijia , Li Xiyi , Guo Jian , Luo Lei , Delgado Juan J. , Martsinovich Natalia , Tang Junwang
Published: July 2023

Phenol is one of the most important fine chemical intermediates in the synthesis of plastics and drugs with a market size of ca. $30b1 and the commercial production is via a two-step selective oxidation of benzene, requiring high energy input (high temperature and high pressure) in the presence of a corrosive acidic medium, and causing serious environmental issues2–5. Here we present a four-phase interface strategy with well-designed Pd@Cu nanoarchitecture decorated TiO2 as a catalyst in a suspension system. The optimised catalyst leads to a turnover number of 16,000–100,000 for phenol generation with respect to the active sites and an excellent selectivity of ca. 93%. Such unprecedented results are attributed to the efficient activation of benzene by the atomically Cu coated Pd nanoarchitecture, enhanced charge separation, and an oxidant-lean environment. The rational design of catalyst and reaction system provides a green pathway for the selective conversion of symmetric organic molecules.
Human displacements, fatalities, and economic damages linked to remotely observed floods
Authors: Mester Benedikt , Frieler Katja , Schewe Jacob
Published: July 2023

We present a new open source dataset FLODIS that links estimates of flood-induced human displacements, fatalities, and economic damages to flooded areas observed through remote sensing. The dataset connects displacement data from the Internal Displacement Monitoring Centre (IDMC), as well as data on fatalities and damages from the Emergency Events Database (EM-DAT), with the Global Flood Database (GFD), a satellite-based inventory of historic flood footprints. It thereby provides a spatially explicit estimate of the flood hazard underlying each individual disaster event. FLODIS contains two datasets with event-specific information for 335 human displacement events and 695 mortality/damage events that occurred around the world between 2000 and 2018. Additionally, we provide estimates of affected population, GDP, and critical infrastructure, as well as socio-economic indicators; and we provide geocoding for displacement events ascribed to other types of disasters, such as tropical cyclones, so that they may be linked to corresponding hazard estimates in future work. FLODIS facilitates integrated flood risk analysis, allowing, for example, for detailed assessments of local flood-damage and displacement vulnerability.
Cuproptosis-related risk score based on machine learning algorithm predicts prognosis and characterizes tumor microenvironment in head and neck squamous carcinomas
Authors: Ye Maodong , Zhang Guangping , Lu Yongjian , Ren Shuai , Ji Yingchang
Published: July 2023

Cuproptosis is a recently discovered type of programmed cell death that shows significant potential in the diagnosis and treatment of cancer. It has important significance in the prognosis of HSNC. This study aims to construct a cuproptosis-related prognostic model and risk score through new data analysis methods such as machine learning algorithms for the prognosis analysis of HSNC. Protein–protein interaction network and machine learning methods were employed to identify hub genes that were used to construct a TreeGradientBoosting model for predicting overall survival. The relationship between the risk scores obtained from the model and features such as tumor microenvironment (TME) and tumor immunity was explored. The C-indexes of the TreeGradientBoosting model in the training and validation cohorts were 0.776 and 0.848, respectively. The nomogram based on risk scores and clinical features showed good performance, and distinguished the TME and immunity between high-risk and low-risk groups. The cuproptosis-associated risk score can be used to predict prognoses, TME, and tumor immunity of HNSC patients.
Newt A1 cell-derived extracellular vesicles promote mammalian nerve growth
Authors: Middleton Ryan C. , Liao Ke , Liu Weixin , de Couto Geoff , Garcia Nahuel , Antes Travis , Wang Yizhou , Wu Di , Li Xinling , Tourtellotte Warren G. , Marbán Eduardo
Published: July 2023

Newts have the extraordinary ability to fully regenerate lost or damaged cardiac, neural and retinal tissues, and even amputated limbs. In contrast, mammals lack these broad regenerative capabilities. While the molecular basis of newts’ regenerative ability is the subject of active study, the underlying paracrine signaling factors involved remain largely uncharacterized. Extracellular vesicles (EVs) play an important role in cell-to-cell communication via EV cargo-mediated regulation of gene expression patterns within the recipient cells. Here, we report that newt myogenic precursor (A1) cells secrete EVs (A1EVs) that contain messenger RNAs associated with early embryonic development, neuronal differentiation, and cell survival. Exposure of rat primary superior cervical ganglion (SCG) neurons to A1EVs increased neurite outgrowth, facilitated by increases in mitochondrial respiration. Canonical pathway analysis pinpointed activation of NGF/ERK5 signaling in SCG neurons exposed to A1EV, which was validated experimentally. Thus, newt EVs drive neurite growth and complexity in mammalian primary neurons.
Accuracy and limitation of plaque detection by coronary CTA: a section-to-section comparison with optical coherence tomography
Authors: Cao J. Jane , Shen Linghong , Nguyen James , Rapelje Kathleen , Porter Craig , Shlofmitz Evan , Jeremias Allen , Cohen David J. , Ali Ziad A. , Shlofmitz Richard
Published: July 2023

Plaques identified by Coronary CT angiography (CCTA) are important in clinical diagnosis and primary prevention. High-risk plaque features by CCTA have been extensively validated using optical coherence tomography (OCT). However, since their general diagnostic performance and limitations have not been fully investigated, we sought to compare CCTA with OCT among consecutive vessel sections. We retrospectively compared 188 consecutive plaques and 84 normal sections in 41 vessels from 40 consecutive patients referred for chest pain evaluation who had both CCTA and OCT with a median time lapse of 1 day. The distance to reference points were used to co-register between the modalities and the diagnostic performance of CCTA was evaluated against OCT. Plaque categories evaluated by CT were calcified, non-calcified and mixed. The diagnostic performance of CCTA was excellent for detecting any plaque identified by OCT with the sensitivity, specificity, negative and positive predictive values and accuracy of 92%, 98%, 99%, 84% and 93%, respectively. The lower than expected negative predictive value was due to failure of detecting sub-millimeter calcified (≤ 0.25 mm2) (N = 12) and non-calcified plaques (N = 4). Misclassification of plaque type accounted for majority of false negative findings (25/41, 61%) which was most prevalent among the mixed plaque (19/41, 46%). There was calcification within mixed plaques (N = 5) seen by CCTA but missed by OCT. Our findings suggest that CCTA is excellent at identifying coronary plaques except those sub-millimeter in size which likely represent very early atherosclerosis, although the clinical implication of very mild atherosclerosis is yet to be determined.
Neuroanatomy of reduced distortion of body-centred spatial coding during body tilt in stroke patients
Authors: Tani Keisuke , Iio Shintaro , Kamiya Masato , Yoshizawa Kohei , Shigematsu Takashi , Fujishima Ichiro , Tanaka Satoshi
Published: July 2023

Awareness of the direction of the body’s (longitudinal) axis is fundamental for action and perception. The perceived body axis orientation is strongly biased during body tilt; however, the neural substrates underlying this phenomenon remain largely unknown. Here, we tackled this issue using a neuropsychological approach in patients with hemispheric stroke. Thirty-seven stroke patients and 20 age-matched healthy controls adjusted a visual line with the perceived body longitudinal axis when the body was upright or laterally tilted by 10 degrees. The bias of the perceived body axis caused by body tilt, termed tilt-dependent error (TDE), was compared between the groups. The TDE was significantly smaller (i.e., less affected performance by body tilt) in the stroke group (15.9 ± 15.9°) than in the control group (25.7 ± 17.1°). Lesion subtraction analysis and Bayesian lesion-symptom inference revealed that the abnormally reduced TDEs were associated with lesions in the right occipitotemporal cortex, such as the superior and middle temporal gyri. Our findings contribute to a better understanding of the neuroanatomy of body-centred spatial coding during whole-body tilt.
Spatial and temporal variability of the acoustic repertoire of Antarctic minke whales (Balaenoptera bonaerensis) in the Weddell Sea
Authors: Filún Diego , van Opzeeland Ilse
Published: July 2023

Since the attribution of the bio-duck call to Antarctic minke whales (AMW Balaenoptera bonaerensis), different studies have retrospectively identified several bio-duck call types at various sites throughout the Southern Hemisphere. The function of their vocal behavior however, remains largely unknown. Further insights into their repertoire usage may help to reveal the function of their calls. Here, we use passive acoustic monitoring (PAM) data collected across six locations throughout the Weddell Sea (WS) in 2013 and from PALAOA Station (Ekström Ice Shelf, eastern WS) in 2015, 2016 and 2017. In 2013, we detected 11 bio-duck call types throughout the WS between May and December, with additional acoustic activity in February on the western recorder AMW calls fell into four general call clusters. Seasonal patterns of calls showed variability between locations and years. Furthermore, this is the first study to show that similar to other baleen whale species, AMWs also produce songs.
Diversity and potential plant growth promoting capacity of seed endophytic bacteria of the holoparasite Cistanche phelypaea (Orobanchaceae)
Authors: Petrosyan Kristine , Thijs Sofie , Piwowarczyk Renata , Ruraż Karolina , Kaca Wiesław , Vangronsveld Jaco
Published: July 2023

Salt marshes are highly dynamic, biologically diverse ecosystems with a broad range of ecological functions. We investigated the endophytic bacterial community of surface sterilized seeds of the holoparasitic Cistanche phelypaea growing in coastal salt marshes of the Iberian Peninsula in Portugal. C. phelypaea is the only representative of the genus Cistanche that was reported in such habitat. Using high-throughput sequencing methods, 23 bacterial phyla and 263 different OTUs on genus level were found. Bacterial strains belonging to phyla Proteobacteria and Actinobacteriota were dominating. Also some newly classified or undiscovered bacterial phyla, unclassified and unexplored taxonomic groups, symbiotic Archaea groups inhabited the C. phelypaea seeds. γ-Proteobacteria was the most diverse phylogenetic group. Sixty-three bacterial strains belonging to Bacilli, Actinomycetes, α-, γ- and β-Proteobacteria and unclassified bacteria were isolated. We also investigated the in vitro PGP traits and salt tolerance of the isolates. Among the Actinobacteria, Micromonospora spp. showed the most promising endophytes in the seeds. Taken together, the results indicated that the seeds were inhabited by halotolerant bacterial strains that may play a role in mitigating the adverse effects of salt stress on the host plant. In future research, these bacteria should be assessed as potential sources of novel and unique bioactive compounds or as novel bacterial species.
Characterization of the spontaneously recharging natural hydrogen reservoirs of Bourakebougou in Mali
Authors: Maiga Omar , Deville Eric , Laval Jérome , Prinzhofer Alain , Diallo Aliou Boubacar
Published: July 2023

In today’s race to find ways to produce cheap and green hydrogen, the natural hydrogen wells in Bourakebougou offer a promising solution and are a good example of how H2 can be produced in the natural environment. Not only has one well been successfully exploited to generate electricity for the local village, but twenty-four other exploratory boreholes have also demonstrated the presence of natural H2 in the surrounding area. The Bourakebougou H2 field offers a unique opportunity for geoscientists to determine the key characteristics of natural hydrogen reservoirs. This paper presents the coring, logging, and geochemistry studies that were performed to better characterize the nature of the Bourakebougou H2-bearing reservoirs. The shallowest main reservoir, in which there is the highest content of H2, is made of dolomitic carbonate (Neoproterozoic cap carbonate). These carbonates are largely karstified and show a high degree of heterogeneity in porosity (0.21–14.32%). Based on the analysis of the drilling imagery of the carbonated reservoirs, the accumulation of hydrogen occurs in the karst (void) representing a secondary porosity in the rock matrix. Other reservoirs, especially the deepest ones, are porous sandstone rocks with much more homogeneous porosities (4.52–6.37%) compared to the massive carbonates. For the wells analysed, the neutron tool reacted in a specific way when there is the presence of hydrogen. Hence, it stands out as being the primary tool to detect the presence of natural hydrogen beyond simple gas logging. When comparing a H2 reservoir system to classical oil and gas reservoir systems, the results show that the hydrogen reservoir is a dynamic system that is progressively recharged in H2-rich gas at the production timescale.
Factors associated with knowledge and attitude towards maternity waiting homes among pregnant women: baseline results from a cluster-randomized trial in rural Ethiopia
Authors: Yarinbab Teklemariam Ergat , Gesesew Hailay Abrha , Harrison Margo Shawn , Belachew Tefera
Published: July 2023

Ethiopia has implemented maternity waiting homes over the last several decades; however, its utilization is low. This study aimed to assess the factors associated with knowledge of and attitude towards maternity waiting homes among pregnant women in rural Ethiopia. The baseline survey was conducted from September 15 to October 30, 2022, in rural Southern Ethiopia. Survey data were collected from 320 women in their second trimester of pregnancy. The data analysis was performed using SPSS version 25. The mean age of the participants was 27.79 (SD ± 6.242) years. Nearly two-thirds (57.5%) of the participants had no formal education and more than three-fourths (72.5%) were housewives. Only approximately one-fourth (23.75%) of the participants used maternity waiting homes. Furthermore, 33.75% had good knowledge, 28.75% had favorable attitudes, and around one-fourth (26.25%) had good male partner involvement. Age group 30 to 39 years (AOR 4.78, 95% CI 1.12–20.36), household income (AOR 6.41, 95% CI 2.78–14.81), having pregnancy intention (AOR 2.63, 95% CI 1.21–5.73), and history of obstetric complications (AOR 6.72, 95% CI 2.81–16.07) were significantly associated with good knowledge about maternity waiting homes. Similarly, age group 30 to 39 years (AOR 4.23, 95% CI 1.14–15.65), household income (AOR 7.12, 95% CI 3.26–15.55), having pregnancy intention (AOR 2.57, 95% CI 1.21–5.47), and history of obstetric complications (AOR 5.59, 95% CI 2.30–13.59) were significantly associated with favorable attitudes towards maternity waiting homes. Providing health education and promoting male partner participation through educating couples may improve women’s access to maternity waiting homes.
High incidence of AZF duplications in clan-structured Iranian populations detected through Y chromosome sequencing read depth analysis
Authors: Hajiesmaeil Mogge , Ravasini Francesco , Risi Flavia , Magnarini Giorgia , Olivieri Anna , D’Atanasio Eugenia , Galehdari Hamid , Trombetta Beniamino , Cruciani Fulvio
Published: July 2023

The ampliconic region of the human Y chromosome consists of large duplicated sequences that can undergo non-allelic homologous recombination (NAHR), resulting in structural rearrangements that may cause infertility, especially when they occur in the azoospermia factor b/c (AZFb/c) region. Although AZF duplications have long been neglected due to the technical limitations of STS-based studies that focused mainly on deletions, recent next generation sequencing (NGS) technologies provided evidence for their importance in fertility. In this study, a NGS read depth approach was used to detect AZFb/c rearrangements in 87 Iranians from different ethnic groups. The duplication frequency in Iran proved to be twice as high as in the "1000 Genomes" dataset. Interestingly, most duplications were found in patrilineal ethnic groups, possibly as a consequence of their lower male effective population size which can counteract negative selection. Moreover, we found a large 8.0 Mb duplication, resulting in a fourfold increase in the copy number of AZFc genes, which to our knowledge is the largest duplication ever reported in this region. Overall, our results suggest that it is important to consider not only AZF deletions but also duplications to investigate the causes of male infertility, especially in patrilineal clan-based populations.
Lifespan-extending interventions induce consistent patterns of fatty acid oxidation in mouse livers
Authors: Watanabe Kengo , Wilmanski Tomasz , Baloni Priyanka , Robinson Max , Garcia Gonzalo G. , Hoopmann Michael R. , Midha Mukul K. , Baxter David H. , Maes Michal , Morrone Seamus R. , Crebs Kelly M. , Kapil Charu , Kusebauch Ulrike , Wiedrick Jack , Lapidus Jodi , Pflieger Lance , Lausted Christopher , Roach Jared C. , Glusman Gwênlyn , Cummings Steven R. , Schork Nicholas J. , Price Nathan D. , Hood Leroy , Miller Richard A. , Moritz Robert L. , Rappaport Noa
Published: July 2023

Aging manifests as progressive deteriorations in homeostasis, requiring systems-level perspectives to investigate the gradual molecular dysregulation of underlying biological processes. Here, we report systemic changes in the molecular regulation of biological processes under multiple lifespan-extending interventions. Differential Rank Conservation (DIRAC) analyses of mouse liver proteomics and transcriptomics data show that mechanistically distinct lifespan-extending interventions (acarbose, 17α-estradiol, rapamycin, and calorie restriction) generally tighten the regulation of biological modules. These tightening patterns are similar across the interventions, particularly in processes such as fatty acid oxidation, immune response, and stress response. Differences in DIRAC patterns between proteins and transcripts highlight specific modules which may be tightened via augmented cap-independent translation. Moreover, the systemic shifts in fatty acid metabolism are supported through integrated analysis of liver transcriptomics data with a mouse genome-scale metabolic model. Our findings highlight the power of systems-level approaches for identifying and characterizing the biological processes involved in aging and longevity.
Atmospheric radiocarbon levels were highly variable during the last deglaciation
Authors: Talamo Sahra , Friedrich Michael , Adolphi Florian , Kromer Bernd , Heaton Timothy J. , Cercatillo Silvia , Muscheler Raimund , Paleček Dragana , Pelloni Enrico , Tassoni Laura , Toniello Vladimiro , Wacker Lukas
Published: July 2023

Radiocarbon dating provides a key chronological framework for studying past environmental changes. Raw radiocarbon ages measured in samples must be converted to calendar ages using an appropriate calibration curve. Tree-ring datasets provide the gold-standard for developing a precise curve of atmospheric radiocarbon levels over long-time scales. Here, we reconstruct atmospheric radiocarbon levels using a millennium-long section of tree-ring chronology segments that extend into the last glacial period. The samples were obtained from subfossil larch trees recovered from clay quarries at Revine, Italy. Our reconstruction shows higher variations in the amplitude of atmospheric radiocarbon between 18,475 and 17,350 calendar years before the present than that detected in the IntCal20 calibration curve. Comparing the new tree-ring based reconstruction with Beryllium-10 fluxes derived from ice cores, we hypothesise that these variations are driven by solar variability. Our results demonstrate the unique value of sub-decadal radiocarbon sequences derived from glacial tree-ring chronologies.
Behavioral factors and SARS-CoV-2 transmission heterogeneity within a household cohort in Costa Rica
Authors: Sun Kaiyuan , Loria Viviana , Aparicio Amada , Porras Carolina , Vanegas Juan Carlos , Zúñiga Michael , Morera Melvin , Avila Carlos , Abdelnour Arturo , Gail Mitchell H. , Pfeiffer Ruth , Cohen Jeffrey I. , Burbelo Peter D. , Abed Mehdi A. , Viboud Cécile , Hildesheim Allan , Herrero Rolando , Prevots D. Rebecca ,   for the RESPIRA Study Group, Aparicio Amada , Moreno Karla , Wong Roy , Morera Melvin , Abdelnour Arturo , Calderón Alejandro , Camacho Kattia , Ivankovich Gabriela , Yock Adriana , Castro Roberto , Cortés Bernal , Loría Viviana , Ocampo Rebecca , Barboza-Solis Cristina , Fantin Romain
Published: July 2023

Introduction

Variability in household secondary attack rates and transmission risks factors of SARS-CoV-2 remain poorly understood.

Methods

We conducted a household transmission study of SARS-CoV-2 in Costa Rica, with SARS-CoV-2 index cases selected from a larger prospective cohort study and their household contacts were enrolled. A total of 719 household contacts of 304 household index cases were enrolled from November 21, 2020, through July 31, 2021. Blood specimens were collected from contacts within 30–60 days of index case diagnosis; and serum was tested for presence of spike and nucleocapsid SARS-CoV-2 IgG antibodies. Evidence of SARS-CoV-2 prior infections among household contacts was defined based on the presence of both spike and nucleocapsid antibodies. We fitted a chain binomial model to the serologic data, to account for exogenous community infection risk and potential multi-generational transmissions within the household.

Results

Overall seroprevalence was 53% (95% confidence interval (CI) 48–58%) among household contacts. The estimated household secondary attack rate is 34% (95% CI 5–75%). Mask wearing by the index case is associated with the household transmission risk reduction by 67% (adjusted odds ratio = 0.33 with 95% CI: 0.09–0.75) and not sharing bedroom with the index case is associated with the risk reduction of household transmission by 78% (adjusted odds ratio = 0.22 with 95% CI 0.10–0.41). The estimated distribution of household secondary attack rates is highly heterogeneous across index cases, with 30% of index cases being the source for 80% of secondary cases.

Conclusions

Modeling analysis suggests that behavioral factors are important drivers of the observed SARS-CoV-2 transmission heterogeneity within the household.
Decoupling of the anode and cathode ultrasonic responses to the state of charge of a lithium-ion battery
Authors: Liu Xueting , Deng Zhe , Liao Yaqi , Du Jinqiao , Tian Jie , Liu Zijun , Shen Yue , Huang Yunhui
Published: July 2023

A special battery architecture to measure the anode and cathode caused ultrasonic response to SoC change separately.
Properties of aqueous electrolyte solutions at carbon electrodes: effects of concentration and surface charge on solution structure, ion clustering and thermodynamics in the electric double layer
Authors: Finney Aaron R. , Salvalaglio Matteo
Published: July 2023

CμMD simulations demonstrate the effect of applied surface charge and solution concentration on the structure and thermodynamic properties of ions and water in the electric double layer.
Modular reprogrammable 3D mechanical metamaterials with unusual hygroscopic deformation modes
Authors: Bai Yisong , Liu Chuanbao , Li Yang , Li Jinxu , Qiao Lijie , Zhou Ji , Bai Yang
Published: July 2023

3D mechanical metamaterials with reprogrammable moisture-induced tunable expansion, shear, and twist deformation modes are achieved through easy block building, like LEGO bricks.
Non-noble metal catalysts for preventing chlorine evolution reaction in electrolytic seawater splitting
Authors: Guan Zhixi , Yang Lin , Wu Lianhui , Guo Daying , Chen Xi'an , Wang Shun
Published: July 2023

Herein, we review the current status of selective seawater oxidation based on four aspects, including competition of the reactions, mechanism analysis, catalyst classification, and evaluation of catalyst efficiency.
Sodium ion doped graphitic carbon nitride with high crystallinity for superior photocatalytic hydrogen evolution efficiency
Authors: Han Xue , Kang Yuna , Song Shuang , Lu Rong , Yu Anchi
Published: July 2023

Photogenerated electron decay kinetics studies unravel the correlation between high crystallinity of Na+-doped and NH4Cl-assisted Na+-doped graphitic carbon nitride and their superior photocatalytic water splitting hydrogen evolution activities.
Construction of high-performance circularly polarized multiple-resonance thermally activated delayed fluorescence materials via the structural optimization of peripheral groups
Authors: Li Wenjing , Lv Qixin , Sun Chengxi , Deng Junyuan , Zhou Cefeng , Zhang Yewen , Li Ping , Chen Runfeng
Published: July 2023

The electron-donating/withdrawing abilities of the peripheral groups and the steric hindrance effects should be two key optimization parameters in constructing high-performance CP-MR-TADF materials.