bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Mechanical Behavior of Buried HDPE Pipe Subjected to Surface Load: Constitutive Modeling and Finite Element Method Simulations
Authors: Wang Junqiang , Zha Sixi , Wang Yang , Zhang Ping , Lan Hui-Qing
Published: July 2024

In this paper, the Sherwood–Frost constitutive model was first used to simulate the stress response and deformation process of buried high-density polyethylene (HDPE) pipe subjected to surface load, where parameters in this model were obtained by fitting the results of uniaxial tensile tests with different rates and the pipe–soil model was conducted in abaqus. Apparent stress concentration and large deformation are observed in pipe cross section and are closely related to the magnitude and location of surface load. The increments of surface load and offset displacement have opposite effects on the mechanical behavior of pipes. Additionally, the location of the maximum stress appears to shift from the top or bottom to the left and right sides of the pipe cross section with the increment of surface load, and the region of peak hoop stress will show a decreasing trend of counterclockwise rotation. Then, based on stress failure criterion, the relationship between the ultimate bearing capacity of the pipe and the offset displacement was determined, which decided by the angle between the ground and the line connecting load center and cross section center of pipe. Finally, an offset of 0.6 m is a value of interest. When the offset between the load position and the pipe exceeds 0.6 m, the ultimate bearing capacity of the pipe will increase significantly with the increase of the offset. The results of the above research could provide the reference for the safety evaluation and maintenance strategy of gas polyethylene pipe under the surface load.
Accuracy of Steady Pneumatic Probes in Unsteady Turbomachinery Flows
Authors: Widera Tim Sebastian , Patzer Bastian , Behre Stephan , Jeschke Peter
Published: July 2024

This study shows that no additional measurement error due to unsteadiness was detected, when measuring in periodic turbomachinery flows at frequencies up to 5 kHz with steady, pneumatic probes. An experiment was designed, which consisted of abstracted rotors placed in the jet of a freestream wind tunnel. Five steady and unsteady probes were compared in the periodic, turbomachinery-like wakes at Mach numbers up to 0.8. The impacts of unsteadiness, probe head size and shape, and distance between probe and rotor were systematically investigated at up to 90 operating points. Within the limits imposed by unsteady pressure transducers, the experiments demonstrated the absence of a frequency-dependent effect on the measurements by comparing the time-averaged measurements of identically shaped steady and unsteady probes. Measurements with hemispherical five-hole probes of two sizes and kielhead probes at the same location deviated significantly due to different interaction with the upstream rotor. Distance variations between probe and rotor showed that each combination of probe and flow should be evaluated individually. The study concludes that pneumatic probes offer a reasonable means to measure the mean flow downstream of a rotor, accurately reproducing time-averaged values. However, careful individual evaluation of probes is essential to minimize measurement uncertainty.
Enhanced Boiling of Saturated Water Over 2 × 3 AISI 304 Tube Bundles Coated With Diamond-Like Carbon for Two-Phase Heat Exchanger Applications
Authors: Laskar Niloy , Moharana Subhakanta , Das Mihir K.
Published: July 2024

This study aims to address the endeavor of the research community to improve the two-phase heat transfer (HT) characteristics of AISI-304 tubes with low thermal conductivity. This is achieved by applying diamond-like carbon (DLC) coating over the smooth tube using PVD techniques. This article specifically examines the pool and flow boiling HT phenomena of distilled water over a 2 × 3 tube bundle (TB) coated with DLC and is compared with respect to a conventional smooth TB. The experimental wall superheat and heat transfer coefficients (HTC) of both smooth and coated TB are analyzed for a range of mass flux [20–100 kg/(m2s)], heat fluxes [15–75 kW/m2], and pitch-to-diameter ratio (P/D) [1.25, 1.6, and 1.95]. The findings show that the DLC-coated TB results in higher HTC than the smooth TB. The DLC-coated tubes have higher wettability, which facilitates the flooding of the nano-and micropores, leading to enhanced HT performance of TB. In particular, the DLC-coated TB showed a 40% increase in HTC at the lowest P/D in pool boiling mode and a 34% increase in flow boiling mode at the highest P/D. This clearly shows a distinctive feature of DLC-coated TB where the enhanced HT performance in pool and flow boiling modes occurred in the reverse arrangement of P/D. The qualitative study behind the better HT ability of DLC-coated TB is done through high-speed image visualization. The study can help to implement DLC-coated TB in two-phase heat exchangers as its excellent corrosion resistance and antifouling properties are well established.
Earmuff performance in the presence of high-level impulse from a recoilless weapon firing in a confined space
Authors: Li Zhiyu , Tao Gang , Wen Peng
Published: July 2024

A noise attenuation performance test was conducted on earmuffs using a recoilless weapon launch platform in a confined space, along with two acoustic test fixtures (ATFs). The overpressure at the ATF's effective tympanic membrane comprised direct sound at 185 dB sound pressure level (SPL) and reflected sound at 179 dB SPL. Wearing earmuffs reduced these peaks to 162 dB SPL and 169 dB SPL, respectively. The reflected sound from walls was defined as delayed sound. An analytical model for earmuff noise attenuation simulated their effectiveness. The simulation revealed that when the earmuffs attenuated delayed sound, the acoustic impedance of acoustic leakage and the acoustic impedance of the earmuff material decreased by 96% and 50%, respectively. The negative overpressure zone between direct and delayed sound decreased the earmuffs' fit against the ATF. Additionally, the enclosed volume between the earmuff and the ear canal decreased by 12%. After the installation of bandages on the earmuffs, the overpressure peak of delayed sound was reduced by 5 dB. Furthermore, the acoustic impedance of the earmuff's sound leakage path and the acoustic impedance of the earmuff material deformation path increased by 100% and 809%, respectively.
Loss-induced modal selection by a resistive wiremesh
Authors: Kuznetsova Svetlana , Aurégan Yves , Pagneux Vincent
Published: July 2024

This work examines the impact of local losses produced by a resistive wiremesh on the modes of an acoustic cavity. In the one-dimensional case, we demonstrate the ability to selectively affect the modes, ranging from being completely unaffected by the wiremesh to being fully absorbed by it. This effect can be used to filter the cavity modes. In the two-dimensional case, higher order modes are considered and we discuss the effect of wiremesh tilt on the cavity modes. A new type of mode that is localized on the wiremesh with a purely imaginary eigenfrequency has been identified. These findings show that wiremeshes are ultrabroadband lossy metasurfaces offering a straightforward way to explore passive non-Hermitian systems.
Does a Hip Muscle Activation Home Exercise Program Change Movement Patterns on the Forward Step-Down Test?
Authors: McCallister Erin , Hughs Caroline , Smith Mia , Flowers Daniel W.
Published: July 2024

Context: Poor knee biomechanics contribute to knee joint injuries. Neuromuscular control over knee position is partially derived from the hip. It is unknown whether isolated activation training of the gluteal muscles improves lower-extremity frontal plane mechanics. This study examined if a home-based hip muscle activation program improves performance on the Forward Step-Down Test as well as increases surface electromyography (sEMG) activation of the gluteal muscles. Design: The study utilized a single-group repeated-measures design. Methods: Thirty-five participants (24 females, mean age = 23.17 [SD 1.36] years) completed an 8-week hip muscle activation program. The Forward Step-Down Test score and sEMG of gluteus maximus and medius were assessed preintervention and postintervention. Results: Forward Step-Down Test scores improved significantly from preintervention (Mdn = 3.5) to postintervention (Mdn = 3.0, T = 109, P = .010, r = .31.), but this result did not meet clinical significance. sEMG analysis revealed a significant increase in mean gluteus maximus activation (P = .028, d = 1.19). No significant dose–response relationship existed between compliance and the Forward Step-Down Test scores or sEMG results. Conclusions: A home-based hip activation program increases gluteus maximus activation without clinically significant changes in frontal plane movement quality. Future studies may find clinical relevance by adding motor learning to the activation training program to improve functional muscle use.
The Effects of Augmenting Balance Training with Stroboscopic Goggles on Postural Control in Chronic Ankle Instability Patients: A Critically Appraised Topic
Authors: Mohess Joshua S. , Lee Hyunwook , Uzlaşir Serkan , Wikstrom Erik A.
Published: July 2024

Clinical Scenario: Individuals with chronic ankle instability (CAI) typically complete balance training protocols to improve postural control and reduce recurrent injury risk. However, the presence of CAI persists after traditional balance training protocols suggesting that such programs may be missing elements that could be beneficial to patients. Visual occlusion modalities, such as stroboscopic goggles, may be able to augment balance training exercises to further enhance postural control gains in those with CAI. However, a cumulative review of the existing evidence has yet to be conducted. Focused Clinical Question: Does wearing stroboscopic goggles during balance training result in greater improvements to postural control than balance training alone in those with CAI? Summary of Key Findings: All 3 studies indicated that the stroboscopic goggles group had statistically significant improvements in either a measure of static or dynamic postural control relative to the standard balance training group. However, significant improvements were not consistent across all postural control outcomes assessed in the included studies. Clinical Bottom Line: Postural control may improve more in those with CAI when stroboscopic goggles were worn while completing balance training exercises relative to completing balance training exercises alone. Strength of Recommendation: Overall, consistent moderate- to high-quality evidence was present in the 3 studies, suggesting grade C evidence for the use of stroboscopic goggles during balance training in those with CAI.
N-terminal acetylation of Set1-COMPASS fine-tunes H3K4 methylation patterns
Authors: Woo Hyeonju , Oh Junsoo , Cho Yong-Joon , Oh Goo Taeg , Kim Seon-Young , Dan Kisoon , Han Dohyun , Lee Jung-Shin , Kim TaeSoo
Published: July 2024

H3K4 methylation by Set1-COMPASS (complex of proteins associated with Set1) is a conserved histone modification. Although it is critical for gene regulation, the posttranslational modifications of this complex that affect its function are largely unexplored. This study showed that N-terminal acetylation of Set1-COMPASS proteins by N-terminal acetyltransferases (NATs) can modulate H3K4 methylation patterns. Specifically, deleting NatA substantially decreased global H3K4me3 levels and caused the H3K4me2 peak in the 5′ transcribed regions to shift to the promoters. NatA was required for N-terminal acetylation of three subunits of Set1-COMPASS: Shg1, Spp1, and Swd2. Moreover, deleting Shg1 or blocking its N-terminal acetylation via proline mutation of the target residue drastically reduced H3K4 methylation. Thus, NatA-mediated N-terminal acetylation of Shg1 shapes H3K4 methylation patterns. NatB also regulates H3K4 methylation, likely via N-terminal acetylation of the Set1-COMPASS protein Swd1. Thus, N-terminal acetylation of Set1-COMPASS proteins can directly fine-tune the functions of this complex, thereby substantially shaping H3K4 methylation patterns.
Convergent evolution toward a slow pace of life predisposes insular endotherms to anthropogenic extinctions
Authors: Xiong Ying , Rozzi Roberto , Zhang Yizhou , Fan Liqing , Zhao Jidong , Li Dongming , Yao Yongfang , Xiao Hongtao , Liu Jing , Zeng Xianyin , Xu Huailiang , Jiang Yanzhi , Lei Fumin
Published: July 2024

Island vertebrates have evolved a number of morphological, physiological, and life history characteristics that set them apart from their mainland relatives. However, to date, the evolution of metabolism and its impact on the vulnerability to extinction of insular vertebrates remains poorly understood. This study used metabolic data from 2813 species of tetrapod vertebrates, including 695 ectothermic and 2118 endothermic species, to reveal that island mammals and birds evolved convergent metabolic strategies toward a slow pace of life. Insularity was associated with shifts toward slower metabolic rates and greater generation lengths in endotherms, while insularity just drove the evolution of longer generation lengths in ectotherms. Notably, a slow pace of life has exacerbated the extinction of insular endemic species in the face of anthropogenic threats. These findings have important implications for understanding physiological adaptations associated with the island syndrome and formulating conservation strategies across taxonomic groups with different metabolic modes.
Prodrug-inspired adenosine triphosphate–activatable celastrol-Fe(III) chelate for cancer therapy
Authors: Li Hanrong , Li Yifan , Zhang Lingpu , Wang Nan , Lu Dong , Tang Dongsheng , Lv Yitong , Zhang Jinbo , Yan Heben , Gong He , Zhang Ming , Nie Kaili , Hou Yi , Yu Yingjie , Xiao Haihua , Liu Chaoyong
Published: July 2024

Celastrol (CEL), an active compound isolated from the root of
Tripterygium wilfordii
, exhibits broad anticancer activities. However, its poor stability, narrow therapeutic window and numerous adverse effects limit its applications in vivo. In this study, an adenosine triphosphate (ATP) activatable CEL-Fe(III) chelate was designed, synthesized, and then encapsulated with a reactive oxygen species (ROS)–responsive polymer to obtain CEL-Fe nanoparticles (CEL-Fe NPs). In normal tissues, CEL-Fe NPs maintain structural stability and exhibit reduced systemic toxicity, while at the tumor site, an ATP-ROS–rich tumor microenvironment, drug release is triggered by ROS, and antitumor potency is restored by competitive binding of ATP. This intelligent CEL delivery system improves the biosafety and bioavailability of CEL for cancer therapy. Such a CEL-metal chelate strategy not only mitigates the challenges associated with CEL but also opens avenues for the generation of CEL derivatives, thereby expanding the therapeutic potential of CEL in clinical settings.
Robust reprogramming of glia into neurons by inhibition of Notch signaling and nuclear factor I (NFI) factors in adult mammalian retina
Authors: Le Nguyet , Vu Trieu-Duc , Palazzo Isabella , Pulya Ritvik , Kim Yehna , Blackshaw Seth , Hoang Thanh
Published: July 2024

Generation of neurons through direct reprogramming has emerged as a promising therapeutic approach for treating neurodegenerative diseases. In this study, we present an efficient method for reprogramming retinal glial cells into neurons. By suppressing Notch signaling by disrupting either
Rbpj
or
Notch1/2
, we induced mature Müller glial cells to reprogram into bipolar- and amacrine-like neurons. We demonstrate that Rbpj directly activates both Notch effector genes and genes specific to mature Müller glia while indirectly repressing expression of neurogenic basic helix-loop-helix (bHLH) factors. Combined loss of function of
Rbpj
and
Nfia/b/x
resulted in conversion of nearly all Müller glia to neurons. Last, inducing Müller glial proliferation by overexpression of dominant-active Yap promotes neurogenesis in both
Rbpj
- and
Nfia/b/x/Rbpj
-deficient Müller glia. These findings demonstrate that Notch signaling and NFI factors act in parallel to inhibit neurogenic competence in mammalian Müller glia and help clarify potential strategies for regenerative therapies aimed at treating retinal dystrophies.
Comparative single-cell transcriptional and proteomic atlas of clinical-grade injectable mesenchymal source tissues
Authors: Ruoss Severin , Nasamran Chanond A. , Ball Scott T. , Chen Jeffrey L. , Halter Kenneth N. , Bruno Kelly A. , Whisenant Thomas C. , Parekh Jesal N. , Dorn Shanelle N. , Esparza Mary C. , Bremner Shannon N. , Fisch Kathleen M. , Engler Adam J. , Ward Samuel R.
Published: July 2024

Bone marrow aspirate concentrate (BMAC) and adipose-derived stromal vascular fraction (ADSVF) are the most marketed stem cell therapies to treat a variety of conditions in the general population and elite athletes. Both tissues have been used interchangeably clinically even though their detailed composition, heterogeneity, and mechanisms of action have neither been rigorously inventoried nor compared. This lack of information has prevented investigations into ideal dosages and has facilitated anecdata and misinformation. Here, we analyzed single-cell transcriptomes, proteomes, and flow cytometry profiles from paired clinical-grade BMAC and ADSVF. This comparative transcriptional atlas challenges the prevalent notion that there is one therapeutic cell type present in both tissues. We also provide data of surface markers that may enable isolation and investigation of cell (sub)populations. Furthermore, the proteome atlas highlights intertissue and interpatient heterogeneity of injected proteins with potentially regenerative or immunomodulatory capacities. An interactive webtool is available online.
How sex and gender shape functional brain networks
Authors: Matte Bon Gloria , Kraft Dominik , Kaufmann Tobias
Published: July 2024

Sex and gender differences exist in the prevalence and clinical manifestation of common brain disorders. Identifying their neural correlates may help improve clinical care.
H-NS involved in positive regulation of glycerol dehydratase gene expression in
Klebsiella pneumoniae
2e
Authors: Li Le , Li Qiang , Xiao Yuting , Ma Jiangshan , Liu Gao-Qiang
Published: July 2024

Glycerol dehydratase is the key and rate-limiting enzyme in the 1,3-propanediol synthesis pathway of
Klebsiella pneumoniae
, which determined the producing rate and yield of 1,3-propanediol. However, the expression regulation mechanism of glycerol dehydratase gene
dhaB
remains poorly unknown. In this study, a histone-like nucleoid-structuring (H-NS) protein was identified and characterized as the positive transcription regulator for
dhaB
expression in
K. pneumoniae
2e, which exhibited high tolerance against crude glycerol in our previous study. Deletion of
hns
gene significantly decreased the transcription level of
dhaB
in
K. pneumoniae
2e, which led to a remarkable defect on strain growth, glycerol dehydratase activity, and 3-hydroxypropanal production during glycerol fermentation. The transcription level of
dhaB
was significantly up-regulated in crude glycerol relative to pure glycerol, while the inactivation of H-NS resulted in more negative effect for transcription level of
dhaB
in the former. Though the H-NS expression level was almost comparable in both substrates, its multimer state was reduced in crude glycerol relative to pure glycerol, suggesting that the oligomerization state of H-NS might have contributed for positive regulation of
dhaB
expression. Furthermore, electrophoretic mobility shift and DNase I footprinting assays showed that H-NS could directly bind to the upstream promoter region of
dhaB
by recognizing the AT-rich region. These findings provided new insight into the transcriptional regulation mechanism of H-NS for glycerol dehydratase expression in
K. pneumoniae
, which might offer new target for engineering bacteria to industrially produce 1,3-propanediol.

IMPORTANCE

The biological production of 1,3-propanediol from glycerol by microbial fermentation shows great promising prospect on industrial application. Glycerol dehydratase catalyzes the penultimate step in glycerol metabolism and is regarded as one of the key and rate-limiting enzymes for 1,3-propanediol production. H-NS was reported as a pleiotropic modulator with negative effects on gene expression in most studies. Here, we reported for the first time that the expression of glycerol dehydratase gene is positively regulated by the H-NS. The results provide insight into a novel molecular mechanism of H-NS for positive regulation of glycerol dehydratase gene expression in
K. pneumoniae
, which holds promising potential for facilitating construction of engineering highly efficient 1,3-propanediol-producing strains.
Activated sludge microbial community assembly: the role of influent microbial community immigration
Authors: Gibson Claire , Jauffur Shameem , Guo Bing , Frigon Dominic
Published: July 2024

Wastewater treatment plants (WWTPs) are host to diverse microbial communities and receive a constant influx of microbes from influent wastewater. However, the impact of immigrants on the structure and activities of the activated sludge (AS) microbial community remains unclear. To gain insight on this phenomenon known as perpetual community coalescence, the current study utilized controlled manipulative experiments that decoupled the influent wastewater composition from the microbial populations to reveal the fundamental mechanisms involved in immigration between sewers and AS-WWTP. The immigration dynamics of heterotrophs were analyzed by harvesting wastewater biomass solids from three different sewer systems and adding to synthetic wastewater. Immigrating influent populations were observed to contribute up to 14% of the sequencing reads in the AS. By modeling the net growth rate of taxa, it was revealed that immigrants primarily exhibited low or negative net growth rates. By developing a protocol to reproducibly grow AS-WWTP communities in the lab, we have laid down the foundational principles for the testing of operational factors creating community variations with low noise and appropriate replication. Understanding the processes that drive microbial community diversity and assembly is a key question in microbial ecology. In the future, this knowledge can be used to manipulate the structure of microbial communities and improve system performance in WWTPs.

IMPORTANCE

In biological wastewater treatment processes, the microbial community composition is essential in the performance and stability of the system. This study developed a reproducible protocol to investigate the impact of influent immigration (or perpetual coalescence of the sewer and activated sludge communities) with appropriate reproducibility and controls, allowing intrinsic definitions of core and immigrant populations to be established. The method developed herein will allow sequential manipulative experiments to be performed to test specific hypothesis and optimize wastewater treatment processes to meet new treatment goals.
Highly divergent and diverse viral community infecting sylvatic mosquitoes from Northeast Brazil
Authors: da Silva Alexandre Freitas , Machado Laís Ceschini , da Silva Luisa Maria Inácio , Dezordi Filipe Zimmer , Wallau Gabriel Luz
Published: July 2024

Mosquitoes can transmit several pathogenic viruses to humans, but their natural viral community is also composed of a myriad of other viruses such as insect-specific viruses (ISVs) and those that infect symbiotic microorganisms. Besides a growing number of studies investigating the mosquito virome, the majority are focused on few urban species, and relatively little is known about the virome of sylvatic mosquitoes, particularly in high biodiverse biomes such as the Brazilian biomes. Here, we characterized the RNA virome of 10 sylvatic mosquito species from Atlantic forest remains at a sylvatic–urban interface in Northeast Brazil employing a metatranscriptomic approach. A total of 16 viral families were detected. The phylogenetic reconstructions of 14 viral families revealed that the majority of the sequences are putative ISVs. The phylogenetic positioning and, in most cases, the association with a high RNA-dependent RNA polymerase amino acid divergence from other known viruses suggests that the viruses characterized here represent at least 34 new viral species. Therefore, the sylvatic mosquito viral community is predominantly composed of highly divergent viruses highlighting the limited knowledge we still have about the natural virome of mosquitoes in general. Moreover, we found that none of the viruses recovered were shared between the species investigated, and only one showed high identity to a virus detected in a mosquito sampled in Peru, South America. These findings add further in-depth understanding about the interactions and coevolution between mosquitoes and viruses in natural environments.

IMPORTANCE

Mosquitoes are medically important insects as they transmit pathogenic viruses to humans and animals during blood feeding. However, their natural microbiota is also composed of a diverse set of viruses that cause no harm to the insect and other hosts, such as insect-specific viruses. In this study, we characterized the RNA virome of sylvatic mosquitoes from Northeast Brazil using unbiased metatranscriptomic sequencing and in-depth bioinformatic approaches. Our analysis revealed that these mosquitoes species harbor a diverse set of highly divergent viruses, and the majority comprises new viral species. Our findings revealed many new virus lineages characterized for the first time broadening our understanding about the natural interaction between mosquitoes and viruses. Finally, it also provided several complete genomes that warrant further assessment for mosquito and vertebrate host pathogenicity and their potential interference with pathogenic arboviruses.
Evolutionary trajectory for nuclear functions of ciliary transport complex proteins
Authors: Ewerling Alexander , May-Simera Helen Louise
Published: July 2024

Cilia and the nucleus were two defining features of the last eukaryotic common ancestor. In early eukaryotic evolution, these structures evolved through the diversification of a common membrane-coating ancestor, the protocoatomer. While in cilia, the descendants of this protein complex evolved into parts of the intraflagellar transport complexes and BBSome, the nucleus gained its selectivity by recruiting protocoatomer-like proteins to the nuclear envelope to form the selective nuclear pore complexes. Recent studies show a growing number of proteins shared between the proteomes of the respective organelles, and it is currently unknown how ciliary transport proteins could acquire nuclear functions and
vice versa
. The nuclear functions of ciliary proteins are still observable today and remain relevant for the understanding of the disease mechanisms behind ciliopathies. In this work, we review the evolutionary history of cilia and nucleus and their respective defining proteins and integrate current knowledge into theories for early eukaryotic evolution. We postulate a scenario where both compartments co-evolved and that fits current models of eukaryotic evolution, explaining how ciliary proteins and nucleoporins acquired their dual functions.
Mantle structure, anisotropy, and dynamics of the Mendocino Triple Junction, northern California, USA
Authors: Yang Ziqiang , Zhao Dapeng , Dong Yunpeng , Cheng Bin
Published: July 2024

We determined a detailed 3-D model of P-wave anisotropic tomography of the crust and upper mantle beneath the Mendocino Triple Junction (northern California, USA) by using a large number of high-quality P-wave travel-time data of local and teleseismic events recorded by the dense seismic network on the North American continent. Our results show the presence of a slab window and the upwelling asthenosphere material through the slab window directly contacts the surrounding plates. A high-velocity anomaly is revealed at depths of ~300–400 km beneath the triple junction, which reflects a fragment of the Monterey microplate associated with breaking-off of the Farallon plate. Depth-varying seismic anisotropy occurs in the upper mantle and exhibits a circular pattern, which is mainly caused by 3-D mantle flow around the southern edge of the Gorda plate. Subduction-driven corner flow appears in the mantle wedge. After the Farallon plate first contacted the North American plate, as it broke apart and a slab window formed, the Pacific plate captured the plate remnant and moved northwestward together. Then the Monterey plate fractured and sank into the mantle, where it was subjected to shearing forces from both the Pacific and North American plates and moved to its current position.
Unveiling an ignored taphonomic window in the early Cambrian Chengjiang Biota
Authors: Lei Xiangtong , Cong Peiyun , Zhang Shangnan , Wei Fan , Anderson Ross P.
Published: July 2024

The exceptionally preserved soft-bodied fossils from the Chengjiang Biota of southwest China have proved to be critical for our understanding of the biodiversity and ecology of the Cambrian explosion of animals. Almost all previously reported soft-bodied Chengjiang fossils are from the event mudstone beds (EB) of the Yu’anshan Formation. Here, we present the first comprehensive investigation of the soft-bodied fossils from the interbedded background mudstone beds (BGB), based on collections made across the past decade, and characterize their preservation. Soft internal cellular organs/tissues, such as digestive tracts and glands, cardiovascular systems, nervous systems, and musculature, are predominantly preserved as carbonaceous compressions, in contrast to their iron oxide–rich preservation in the EB. Our work highlights two distinct preservation modes within a single Burgess Shale–type Lagerstätte, possibly due to the complex interplay of decay, kerogenization, and pyritization.
High-precision U-Pb geochronology for the Miocene Climate Optimum and a novel approach for calibrating age models in deep-sea sediment cores
Authors: Kasbohm Jennifer , Schoene Blair , Thomas Ellen , Hull Pincelli
Published: July 2024

Scientific ocean drilling cores recovered years ago (legacy cores), especially as recovered by rotary drilling, commonly show incomplete recovery and core disturbance. We present a novel method to date such cores by presenting the first high-precision U-Pb zircon ages targeting the duration of the Miocene Climate Optimum (MCO; ca. 17–14 Ma) from volcanic ashes at Ocean Drilling Program Site 1000 (on the Nicaragua Rise in the Caribbean Sea). We place these ages within a newly developed framework to address incomplete core recovery and use them to calibrate a high-resolution bulk carbonate δ13C and δ18O record. Our Site 1000 ages show that volcanism of the Columbia River Basalt Group (CRBG) large igneous province was coincident with the interval of greatest sustained MCO warmth at this site. However, if the CRBG were the primary driver of the MCO, our chronology may allow for outgassing preceding volcanism as a major source of CO2. We thus document a promising new way to obtain highly resolved, accurate, and precise numerical age models for legacy deep-sea sediment cores that does not depend on correlation to other records.
Supplemental Material: To rush into the secret house of death: The fate of a Tournaisian plant
Authors: Gastaldo Robert A. , al. et
Published: July 2024

Evidence of Sanford Quarry sand volcanoes (boils) and megaflora preserved in association with Sanfordiacaulis densifolia. Mohr circle analysis between normal and shear stress, cohesive strength, and angle of repose for the Albert Formation used as the basis for the interpretation of sediment slumping.  
Supplemental Material: Central Afar: An analogue for oceanic plateau development
Authors: Rime Valentin , al. et
Published: July 2024

Additional discussion on the definition of oceanic plateaus, literature review of the characteristics of other ROMPs and other oceanic features, details on crustal balancing, calculation of the fraction of magmatic addition in Central Afar, and references used to construct the figures. 
Non-invasive respiratory support in children and young adults with complex medical conditions in pediatric palliative care
Authors: Fauroux Brigitte , Taytard Jessica , Ioan Iulia , Lubrano Marc , Le Clainche Laurence , Bokov Plamen , Dudoignon Benjamin , Debelleix Stephane , Galode Francois , Coutier Laurianne , Sigur Elodie , Labouret Geraldine , Ollivier Morgane , Binoche Alexandra , Bergougnioux Jean , Mbieleu Blaise , Essid Aben , Hullo Eglantine , Barzic Audrey , Moreau Johan , Jokic Mikael , Denamur Sophie , Aubertin Guillaume , Schweitzer Cyril
Published: July 2024

Objective

Dyspnoea and sleep-disordered breathing (SDB) are common in children with life-limiting conditions but studies on treatment with non-invasive ventilation (NIV) or continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) are scarce. The aim of the study was to describe children treated with long-term NIV/CPAP within a paediatric palliative care programme in France.

Methods

Cross-sectional survey on children and young adults with complex medical conditions treated within the French paediatric NIV network with long-term NIV/CPAP. Characteristics of the patients were analysed and patient-related outcome measures of NIV/CPAP benefit were reported.

Results

The data of 50 patients (68% boys), median age 12 (0.4–21) years were analysed. Twenty-three (46%) patients had a disorder of the central nervous system and 5 (10%) a chromosomal anomaly. Thirty-two (64%) patients were treated with NIV and 18 (36%) with CPAP. NIV/CPAP was initiated on an abnormal Apnoea-Hypopnoea Index in 18 (36%) of the patients, an abnormal nocturnal gas exchange alone in 28 (56%), and after an acute respiratory failure in 11 (22%) of the patients. Mean objective NIV/CPAP adherence was 9.3±3.7 hours/night. NIV/CPAP was associated with a decrease in dyspnoea in 60% of patients, an increase in sleep duration in 60% and in sleep quality in 74%, and an improvement in parents’ sleep in 40%.

Conclusions

In children with life-limiting conditions, long-term NIV/CPAP may be associated with relief of dyspnoea, an improvement of SDB and an improvement in parents’ sleep.
Associations between device-measured and self-reported physical activity and common mental disorders: Findings from a large-scale prospective cohort study
Authors: Wang Zhe , Cao Zhi , Min Jiahao , Duan Tingshan , Xu Chenjie
Published: July 2024

Objectives

To investigate the associations between device-measured and self-reported physical activity (PA) and incident common mental disorders in the general population.

Design and setting

Large-scale prospective cohort study.

Participants

Using the UK Biobank data, a validated PA questionnaire was used to estimate self-reported weekly PA in 365 656 participants between 2006 and 2010 while 91 800 participants wore wrist-worn accelerometers for 7 days in 2013–2015 to derive objectively measured PA. All the participants were followed up until 2021.

Main outcome measures

Incidences of depression and anxiety were ascertained from hospital inpatient records. Cox proportional hazards models and restricted cubic splines were used to assess the associations between subjectively and objectively measured PA and common mental disorders.

Results

During a median follow-up of 12.6 years, 16 589 cases of depression, 13 905 cases of anxiety and 5408 cases of comorbid depression and anxiety were documented in the questionnaire-based cohort. We found J-shaped associations of self-reported PA with incident risk of depression and anxiety, irrespective of PA intensities. The lowest risk for depression occurred at 550, 390, 180 and 560 min/week of light-intensity PA (LPA), moderate-intensity PA (MPA), vigorous-intensity PA (VPA) and moderate-to-vigorous PA (MVPA), respectively. During a median follow-up of 6.9 years, a total of 2258 cases of depression, 2166 cases of anxiety and 729 cases of comorbid depression and anxiety were documented in the accelerometer-based cohort. We found L-shaped associations of device-measured MPA and VPA with incident depression and anxiety. MPA was adversely associated with incident depression and anxiety until 660 min/week, after which the associations plateaued. The point of inflection for VPA occurred at 50 min/week, beyond which there was a diminished but continued reduction in the risks of depression and anxiety.

Conclusion

Different patterns of associations between self-reported and device-measured PA and mental health were observed. Future PA guidelines should fully recognise this inconsistency and increasingly employ objectively measured PA standards.
Reframing the clinical phenotype and management of cryptococcal meningitis
Authors: Rocha Maria Francisca , Bain Hamish D C , Stone Neil , Meya David , Darie Lucia , Toma Ahmed K , Lunn Michael P T , Mehta Arpan R , Coughlan Charles
Published: July 2024

Cryptococcal meningitis is an important global health problem, resulting from infection with the yeastCryptococcus, especiallyCryptococcus neoformansandCryptococcus gattii, which cause a spectrum of disease ranging from pulmonary and skin lesions to life-threatening central nervous system involvement. The diagnosis and management of cryptococcal meningitis have substantially changed in recent years. Cryptococcal meningitis often occurs in people living with advanced HIV infection, though in high-income countries with robust HIV detection and treatment programmes, it increasingly occurs in other groups, notably solid-organ transplant recipients, other immunosuppressed patients and even immunocompetent hosts. This review outlines the clinical presentation, management and prognosis of cryptococcal meningitis, including its salient differences in people living with HIV compared with HIV-negative patients. We discuss the importance of managing raised intracranial pressure and highlight the advantages of improved multidisciplinary team working involving neurologists, infectious disease specialists and neurosurgeons.
AAC Choo spring barley
Authors: Khanal Raja , MacEachern Dan , Badea Ana , Copley Tanya , Telmosse Genevieve
Published: July 2024

‘AAC Choo’ is a spring, two-row, general purpose barley ( Hordeum vulgare L.) released by the Ottawa Research and Development Centre, Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada. AAC Choo is high in yield, good lodging resistance, and moderately susceptible to Fusarium head blight (caused by Fusarium graminearum Schwabe). AAC Choo is recommended for commercial production in eastern Canada.
Closed-loop control of surface preparation for metallizing fiber-reinforced polymer composites
Authors: Shokri Shiva , Sedigh Pooria , Hojjati Mehdi , Kwok Tsz Ho
Published: July 2024

This study introduces a novel approach to enhance the surface properties of fiber-reinforced polymer composites through thermal spray coatings, utilizing a metal mesh as an anchor to improve coating adhesion. A critical step in this process is achieving optimal exposure of the metal mesh by sandblasting prior to coating. To address this challenge, we propose a closed-loop control system designed to inspect and blast parts effectively. Our method leverages top-view microscope images as inputs, employing a convolutional neural network (CNN) to correlate these images with the corresponding exposure levels of the metal mesh, measured via a destructive method. Upon training, the CNN model accurately estimates the exposure level solely from the top-view images, facilitating real-time feedback to guide subsequent sandblasting operations. Unlike traditional manual inspection methods, which demand expertise and experience, our automated approach streamlines the inspection process using a cost-effective portable digital microscope. Experimental findings validate the efficacy of our method in successfully discerning surface preparation status with an accuracy rate of 95% and demonstrate its practical utility in closed-loop control. Our study not only offers a robust methodology for quantifying surface preparation data but also presents a significant advancement in automating the inspection process. Moreover, the broader implications of our approach extend to various manufacturing sectors, where defect detection and closed-loop control are crucial for optimizing production efficiency and product quality.
Canonical torsor bundles of prescribed rational functions on complex curves
Authors: Zuevsky A.
Published: July 2024

The prescribed rational functions constitute a subset of rational functions satisfying certain symmetry and analyticity conditions. Over a smooth complex curve [Formula: see text], we construct explicitly a bundle [Formula: see text] with values in the prescribed rational functions. An intrinsic coordinate-independent formulation (the main result of the paper, Proposition 1) for such bundles is given. The construction presented in this paper is useful for studies of the canonical cosimplicial cohomology of infinite-dimensional Lie algebras on smooth manifolds, as well as for the purposes of conformal field theory and the theory of foliations.
Thermodynamics, phase transition and Joule–Thomson expansion of 4-D Gauss–Bonnet AdS black hole
Authors: Hegde Kartheek , Ahmed Rizwan C. L. , Ajith K. M. , Naveena Kumara A. , Ali Md Sabir , Punacha Shreyas
Published: July 2024

In this paper, we explore the thermodynamic and phase transition properties of asymptotically AdS black holes within Einstein–Gauss–Bonnet gravity, focusing on Joule–Thomson expansion. Thermodynamics is studied in the extended phase space, where the cosmological constant serves as thermodynamic pressure. We observe that the black hole undergoes a phase transition similar to that of a van der Waals system. We analyze charged and neutral cases separately to distinguish the effect of charge and Gauss–Bonnet parameter on critical behavior and examine the phase structure. We find that the Gauss–Bonnet coupling parameter behaves similarly to black hole charge or spin, guiding the phase structure. To understand the underlying phase structure determined by the Gauss–Bonnet coefficient [Formula: see text], we introduce a new order parameter. We discover that the change in the conjugate variable to the Gauss–Bonnet parameter acts as an order parameter, demonstrating a critical exponent of [Formula: see text] in the vicinity of the critical point. Since the phase structure is analogous to that of a van der Waals fluid, we investigate the Joule–Thomson expansion of the black hole. We analytically study the Joule–Thomson expansion, focusing on three key characteristics: the Joule–Thomson coefficient, inversion curves and isenthalpic curves. We obtain isenthalpic curves in the T–P plane and illustrate the cooling–heating regions.
ADVANCES IN NANOMATERIALS AS LUBRICANT ADDITIVES: A SYSTEMIC REVIEW
Authors: NATARAJAN R. BALAJI , JANCIRANI J. , VASANTHAN B. , JEEVAMALAR J.
Published: July 2024

The paper provides an overview of the significance of nanomaterials as additives, in the tribological performance of lubricants. This review describes the ascendancy of different nanoparticles such as carbon-based nanoparticles, metallic nanoparticles, oxide nanoparticles, sulphide nanoparticles, nanocomposites, hybrid and bimetallic nanoparticles in lubricants. The study also evaluates the underlying principles of lubricant-nanoparticle interactions and their effects on wear prevention and friction reduction. The key parameters including particle morphology, particle size, weight concentration, and functionalization of the particle surface, that determine the friction and wear characteristics are discussed. Also, the science behind surface interaction and various mechanisms involved in friction and wear modification is described. The review highlights the prospect of various nanomaterials in the field of lubrication and facilitates development of advanced nanolubricants with superior tribological properties, that attributes to the reduction in energy consumption and improved performance.
DEPOSITION BEHAVIOR OF WC-17Co COLD-SPRAYED COMPOSITE COATING ON HYDRO TURBINE STEELS
Authors: SINGH HARVINDER , KUMAR MANOJ , SINGH RAJDEEP , KUMAR SANTOSH
Published: July 2024

Cold spraying is a promising technique for depositing wear-resistant coatings on components like hydroturbine steels. This paper highlights the feasibility of hard WC-17Co coating on 13Cr4Ni hydroturbine steel. The coating was deposited at 25, 30, and 40 bar at 800∘C and 50 bar at 900∘C. Further, different characterization techniques (SEM, XRD) were used to analyze the developed coatings. The Vicker hardness testing was employed to determine the hardness of the coated sample. It was observed that WC-17Co coatings deposited at 40 bar and 800∘C offered a maximum hardness of up to 275 Hv, which is an excellent quality for anti-wear applications in hydro turbine blades.
Ultrafast response of diketo-pyrrolo-pyrrole dyes with large two-photon absorption enhancement as well as AIE property
Authors: Ni Haoran , Wang Yaochuan , Hong Lin , Zhang Ding , Jiang Yihua , Wang Yizhuo , Liu Dajun , Hua Jianli
Published: July 2024

To study the effect of terminal groups substituent on the two-photon absorption (TPA) properties of [Formula: see text]-[Formula: see text]-[Formula: see text]-[Formula: see text]-[Formula: see text] structural dyes with diketo-pyrrolo-pyrrole (DPP) as central electron acceptor group, linear/transient absorption spectroscopy, one/two-photon fluorescence spectra, open-aperture [Formula: see text]-scan, and excited states quantum chemical calculations have been performed to systematically study the intermediate product electron acceptor J0 as well as three [Formula: see text]-[Formula: see text]-[Formula: see text]-[Formula: see text]-[Formula: see text] structural dyes using benzene, triphenylamine and 2,3-methoxy-triphenylamine as terminal electron donors, named as J1, J2, and J3, respectively. The intermediate product electron acceptor itself exhibits a relatively large TPA response, which indicates the DPP group has a large conjugated system. J2, with strong electron-donating ability groups triphenylamine as terminal groups, shows a large TPA cross-section of 534[Formula: see text]GM, which is approximately 10 times larger than that of J1 with weak electron pushing/pulling abilities groups benzene as terminal groups (51[Formula: see text]GM). The result indicates that the electron-donating abilities of terminal groups do play a key role in TPA response. Furthermore, methoxy substituent on the terminal triphenylamine groups can further effectively increase the TPA response, J3 exhibits a 15-fold enhancement compared with that of J1. Transient absorption spectra and quantum chemical calculation results are well accorded with the experimental results. Terminal substituents with strong electron donor groups are beneficial for the formation of intramolecular charge transfer (ICT) process. Besides, methoxy substituent in the terminal of triphenylamine groups can further enhance the degree of ICT and induce AIE characteristics in the molecule.