bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Analysis of a new extension version of the exponential model using improved adaptive progressive censored data and its applications
Authors: Alqasem Ohud A. , Elshahhat Ahmed , Abd Elwahab Maysaa Elmahi , Nassar Mazen
Published: June 2024

This article covers the issue of evaluating the two shape parameters and reliability metrics of a novel Kumaraswamy-exponential lifetime distribution, whose density exhibits a left-skewed, right-skewed, or symmetric shape, through a type-II improved adaptive progressively censored sample. Both conventional and Bayesian viewpoints are used to evaluate the various parameters, which include point and interval estimations. While the estimation of one of the shape parameters requires a numerical solution, the other shape parameter estimation can be carried out in closed form by the classical method. Besides, the likelihood method’s asymptotic traits are employed to provide interval estimations for all parameters. Leveraging the Markov chain Monte Carlo process, the symmetric squared loss function and independent gamma priors are taken into account for calculating Bayes points and the highest posterior density interval estimations. To illustrate the accuracy, compare estimation methods, and show the applicability of the various suggested methods, a simulation examination and a pair of applications are looked at. In the end, four accuracy indicators are taken into consideration to figure out the best progressive censoring pattern. The numerical results indicate that when collecting samples using the suggested censored procedure, it is advisable to use the Bayesian estimation approach for evaluating the Kumaraswamy-exponential distribution.
Dielectric loss due to charged-defect acoustic phonon emission
Authors: Turiansky Mark E. , Van de Walle Chris G.
Published: June 2024

The coherence times of state-of-the-art superconducting qubits are limited by bulk dielectric loss, yet the microscopic mechanism leading to this loss is unclear. Here, we propose that the experimentally observed loss can be attributed to the presence of charged defects that enable the absorption of electromagnetic radiation by the emission of acoustic phonons. Our explicit derivation of the absorption coefficient for this mechanism allows us to derive a loss tangent of 7.2 × 10−9 for Al2O3, in good agreement with recent high-precision measurements [Read et al., Phys. Rev. Appl. 19, 034064 (2023)]. We also find that for temperatures well below ∼0.2 K, the loss should be independent of temperature, which is also in agreement with observations. Our investigations show that the loss per defect depends mainly on properties of the host material, and a high-throughput search suggests that diamond, cubic BN, AlN, and SiC are optimal in this respect.
Excitonic emission and phonon anharmonicity in Cs3Sb2Br9
Authors: Samanta Debabrata , Manna Gouranga , Chaudhary Sonu Pratap , Bhattacharyya Sayan , Mukherjee Goutam Dev
Published: June 2024

We investigate emission characteristics, phonon–phonon, and electron–phonon interactions in a lead-free halide perovskite Cs3Sb2Br9 through temperature-dependent photoluminescence, Raman scattering, and x-ray diffraction measurements. The exciton–optical phonon coupling leads to below bandgap broad emissions, arising from self-trapped excitons recombination. The anomalous temperature dependence of the lowest frequency Raman mode is attributed to the phonon–phonon and electron–phonon interactions. The temperature-dependent x-ray diffraction measurement reveals a minimum in the volume thermal expansion coefficient at around 120 K. We also quantify the quasiharmonic contributions to the phonon frequency shift for all Raman modes.
Calibration and validation of the foundation for a multiphase strength model for tin
Authors: Nguyen Thao , Burakovsky Leonid , Fensin Saryu J. , Luscher Darby J. , Prime Michael B. , Cady Carl , Gray George T. , Jones David R. , Martinez Daniel T. , Rowland Richard L. , Sjue Sky , Sturtevant Blake T. , Valdez James A.
Published: June 2024

In this work, the Common Model of Multi-phase Strength and Equation of State (CMMP) model was applied to tin. Specifically, calibrations of the strength-specific elements of the CMMP foundation were developed with a combination of experiments and theory, and then the model was validated experimentally. The first element of the foundation is a multi-phase analytic treatment of the melt temperature and the shear modulus for the solid phases. These models were parameterized for each phase based on ab initio calculations using the software VASP (Vienna Ab initio Simulations Package) based on density functional theory. The shear modulus model for the ambient β phase was validated with ultrasonic sound speed measurements as a function of pressure and temperature. The second element of the foundation is a viscoplastic strength model for the β phase, upon which strength for inaccessible higher-pressure phases can be scaled as necessary. The stress–strain response of tin was measured at strain rates of 10−3 to 3×103s−1 and temperatures ranging from 87 to 373 K. The Preston–Tonks–Wallace (PTW) strength model was fit to that data using Bayesian model calibration. For validation, six forward and two reverse Taylor impact experiments were performed at different velocities to measure large plastic deformation of tin at strain rates up to 105s−1. The PTW model accurately predicted the deformed shapes of the cylinders, with modest discrepancies attributed to the inability of PTW to capture the effects of twinning and dynamic recrystallization. Some material in the simulations of higher velocity Taylor cylinders reached the melting temperature, thus testing the multiphase model because of the presence of a second phase, the liquid. In simulations using a traditional modeling approach, the abrupt reduction of strength upon melt resulted in poor predictions of the deformed shape and non-physical temperatures. With CMMP, the most deformed material points evolved gradually to a mixed solid–liquid but never a fully liquid state, never fully lost strength, stayed at the melt temperature as the latent heat of fusion was absorbed, and predicted the deformed shape well.
On the use of submerged piezoelectric MFCs for dual viscosity sensing and energy harvesting
Authors: Alattar Basil , Ghommem Mehdi , Sabouni Rana , Abdelkefi Abdessattar
Published: June 2024

We demonstrate the potential of unimorph beams equipped with macro fiber composites to integrate viscosity sensing and energy harvesting functionalities into a single device. The viscosity sensing component involves measuring the quality factor and resonance frequency peak associated with the second out-of-plane mode of vibration. We showcase the suitability of the present sensing device for liquids of wide range of kinematic viscosities from 1 to 1543.5 cSt. Following the quality factor-based sensing approach, the sensor reached a sensitivity of S = −0.0019/cSt. The amplitude-based sensing mechanism demonstrated a sensitivity of S = −3.3 mV/cSt. The viscosities of motor oil and glycerin, determined using the generated calibration curves, are found in close agreement with those obtained from a conventional rotational viscometer. The proposed sensing device holds great promise for online viscosity measurement, particularly for high-viscosity fluids, simple design, ease of operation, and partial self-sensing capability, thanks to energy harvesting.
Predicting epidemic threshold in complex networks by graph neural network
Authors: Wang Wu , Li Cong , Qu Bo , Li Xiang
Published: June 2024

To achieve precision in predicting an epidemic threshold in complex networks, we have developed a novel threshold graph neural network (TGNN) that takes into account both the network topology and the spreading dynamical process, which together contribute to the epidemic threshold. The proposed TGNN could effectively and accurately predict the epidemic threshold in homogeneous networks, characterized by a small variance in the degree distribution, such as Erdős–Rényi random networks. Usability has also been validated when the range of the effective spreading rate is altered. Furthermore, extensive experiments in ER networks and scale-free networks validate the adaptability of the TGNN to different network topologies without the necessity for retaining. The adaptability of the TGNN is further validated in real-world networks.
A novel asymmetric tri-stable piezoelectric vibration energy harvester for low-orbit vibration energy harvesting enhancement
Authors: Man Dawei , Hu Qingnan , Jiang Bangdong , Zhang Yu , Tang Liping , Xu Qinghu , Chen Dong , Chen Leiyu
Published: June 2024

This study introduces an innovative asymmetric tri-stable piezoelectric vibration energy harvester (ATPVEH) augmented with an elastic base (EB), aimed at optimizing energy capture from low-orbit vibrations. This design incorporates a uniquely configured asymmetric tri-stable piezoelectric cantilever beam, positioned within a U-shaped block that is further enhanced by an elastic base. A strategically placed spring (kf)–mass (Mf) system, situated between the U-shaped block and the constrained end of the beam, significantly boosts the vertical displacement of the beam during vibrational events. We developed a dynamic model for the ATPVEH+EB utilizing Lagrange’s equations, exploring the impact of various factors—including the asymmetry of the potential well, the stiffness of the elastic base, the mass of the spring–mass system, and the load resistance—on the system’s nonlinear dynamic responses. Our findings indicate that the ATPVEH+EB facilitates more efficient energy harvesting from low-orbit vibrations, demonstrating dual response peaks across its operational frequency spectrum. Notably, the displacement and output voltage amplitudes of the ATPVEH+EB can be enhanced by increasing mf or decreasing kb, whereas the peak output power transitions toward a lower frequency range as the load resistance escalates. Both theoretical analyses and numerical simulations corroborate the ATPVEH+EB’s superior performance in harvesting energy within low-orbit vibrational environments.
Characteristics of the flow around finite wall-mounted square cylinders and the mechanism of tonal noise
Authors: Wang Yanan , Ma Boyu , Hu Zhiwei , Thompson David
Published: June 2024

Motivated by the need to reduce the noise from train pantographs, numerical simulations are carried out for the flow over finite wall-mounted square cylinders with different aspect ratios at a Reynolds number of 1.5×104. Five aspect ratios (height-to-width ratios) are taken into account, namely, 1.4, 4.3, 7.1, 10, and 12.9. The effect of the aspect ratio on the aerodynamic coefficients, the near-wall flow topologies, and the pressure distributions are studied in detail to give insight into the noise generation mechanisms. The pressure rate of change dp/dt on the cylinder surfaces is adopted to evaluate the dipole noise source. It turns out that distributions of dp/dt are closely related to flow evolutions near the free ends and the wall-mounting junctions of cylinders with different aspect ratios. High levels of dp/dt are found close to lateral trailing edges of the cylinder, while the strength grows quickly as the aspect ratio is increased. The far-field noise emitted from these cylinders is predicted using the Ffowcs Williams–Hawkings acoustic analogy and validated with wind tunnel measurements available in the literature. For receivers located in the cross-flow direction, a single acoustic tone near a Strouhal number of 0.1 is observed for cylinders with aspect ratios not greater than seven, while an additional tone at a higher Strouhal number occurs as the aspect ratio is further increased. The underlying mechanism of the tonal noise emitted to the far field is also investigated by combining the noise source localization and dynamic mode decompositions.
Environmental DNA metabarcoding reveals the effect of river slope on diadromous fish communities in island rivers
Authors: Kumai Yusuke , Kobayashi Tatsushi , Yamakawa Takashi , Sado Tetsuya , Miya Masaki , Kuroki Mari
Published: June 2024

Understanding the natural factors that influence diadromous fish communities in river ecosystems is crucial for effective biodiversity management. However, this remains an unexplored and challenging task. Here, the relationship between river morphology and diadromous fish communities within rivers was explored. We focused on river slope and estuary size, as these may constrain their upstream migration and affect the availability of important nursery grounds for some species. Using environmental DNA metabarcoding, we investigated the diadromous fish communities within 12 rivers of subtropical Yakushima Island, southern Japan, and compared the community differences among rivers with different river slopes and estuary sizes. Fewer diadromous fish species were detected in rivers with steeper slopes and smaller estuaries. Additionally, the community similarity was greater among rivers with analogous gradients and estuary sizes. These results indicate that river slopes exert a species-selective effect on diadromous fish communities by affecting their upstream migration and estuarine habitat availability, thereby playing a crucial role in shaping the composition of these communities within rivers. Conserving gentle-gradient rivers with large estuaries would be crucial for preserving the diversity of diadromous fish species, which play a crucial role in shaping biodiversity especially in rivers of subtropical and tropical oceanic islands.
A Cartesian diver to study oscillations and internal gravity waves in a stratified fluid
Authors: Carpineti Marina , Spongano Irene , Croccolo Fabrizio , Vailati Alberto
Published: June 2024

We propose a variation of the well-known Cartesian diver experiment where, instead of moving in a uniform fluid, the diver floats in a fluid stratified in density. In contrast to the original experiment, for a given external pressure the diver can stop in a stable equilibrium position within the fluid, at the depth where the surrounding density matches its own. By varying the applied pressure, the density of the diver changes and it moves until it reaches a new stable equilibrium condition at a different depth. When a sudden pressure pulse is applied, the diver, pushed off its equilibrium position, starts oscillating due to a restoring force that depends on the density gradient. The oscillations produce internal gravity waves that are typical of stratified fluids, when a portion of them is displaced and transmits its motion to the surrounding fluid. Although they are extremely difficult to observe, gravity waves are particularly interesting, as they typically occur in the atmosphere and in the stars. We propose a simple experiment and suggest a way to make the internal gravity waves visible. The experiment can be realized by students with easy-to-find household objects and used to improve their understanding of many concepts and laws of hydrodynamics, but also to introduce them to complex phenomena of general interest.
Cloud chamber using Peltier cooling
Authors: Barrett S D
Published: June 2024

The design of a simple, compact, inexpensive cloud chamber is described and examples of particle tracks from cosmic rays and a radioactive sample are shown. A temperature gradient is established in the chamber through the use of a simple heater at the top and Peltier modules at the base, eliminating the need for dry ice. Using a few millilitres of isopropyl alcohol it starts to show particle tracks a few minutes after being switched on and operates for over two hours without any intervention. The cloud chamber is constructed using components that can be readily obtained at a total cost of about £40.
Synergistic utilization of cost-effective glycerophosphate and biologically active zein for innovative minimally invasive smart thermo-responsive hydrogels for potential hard tissue engineering applications
Authors: Khan Moiz U din , Afzaal Aqsa , Shahnaz  , Gilani Mazhar Amjad , Perveen Shagufta , Sharif Faiza , Asif Anila , Faisal Abrar , Nazir Muhammad Shahid , Huck Olivier , Tabassum Sobia
Published: June 2024

Skeletal defects are the second-leading cause of disability worldwide, prompting the development of smart solutions for treatment. Calcium glycerophosphate (Ca–GP), chitosan (CS), hydroxyapatite (HA), and zein (ZN) were used to fabricate these thermo-responsive hydrogels. Ca–GP, an economically viable and bioactive glycerophosphate source, remains relatively underexplored. Natural protein ZN and the gold standard bone regenerative biomaterial HA were incorporated as reinforcing agents. The resulting composite hydrogels (HGs) exhibit a sol phase at 4 °C–10 °C and transition to gels at body temperature within 4–6 min. Their good injectability and the ability to be easily shaped into complex structures further support their great potential as minimally invasive solutions for treatment. The addition of ZN significantly improved the mechanical and biological properties of the HGs. The highest ZN concentration resulted in the strongest mechanical strength, measuring 52.2 MPa at 40% strain. HGs exhibited optimal swelling and degradation rates. Scanning electron microscopy analysis supported their porous nature. In vitro cell culture assays and wound healing assays demonstrated their excellent biocompatibility and regenerative potential. Drug-loaded HGs exhibited up to 90% drug release and antibacterial activity. All these results support their promising potential to support the regeneration of skeletal defects in a minimally invasive manner.
Controlling many-body quantum chaos: Bose–Hubbard systems
Authors: Beringer Lukas , Steinhuber Mathias , Diego Urbina Juan , Richter Klaus , Tomsovic Steven
Published: June 2024

This work develops a quantum control application of many-body quantum chaos for ultracold bosonic gases trapped in optical lattices. It is long known how to harness exponential sensitivity to changes in initial conditions for control purposes in classically chaotic systems. In the technique known astargeting, instead of a hindrance to control, the instability becomes a resource. Recently, this classical targeting has been generalized to quantum systems either by periodically countering the inevitable quantum state spreading or by introducing a control Hamiltonian, where both enable localized states to be guided along special chaotic trajectories toward any of a broad variety of desired target states. Only strictly unitary dynamics are involved; i.e. it gives acoherent quantum targeting. In this paper, the introduction of a control Hamiltonian is applied to Bose–Hubbard systems in chaotic dynamical regimes. Properly selected unstable mean field solutions can be followed particularly rapidly to states possessing precise phase relationships and occupancies. In essence, the method generates a quantum simulation technique that can access rather special states. The protocol reduces to a time-dependent control of the chemical potentials, opening up the possibility for application in optical lattice experiments. Explicit applications to custom state preparation and stabilization of quantum many-body scars are presented in one- and two-dimensional lattices (three-dimensional applications are similarly possible).
Enhancing the robustness of interdependent networks by positively correlating a portion of nodes
Authors: Liang Yuan , Qi Mingze , Huangpeng Qizi , Yan Liang , Duan Xiaojun
Published: June 2024

Cascading failures caused by interdependencies make modern coupled systems extremely fragile to failures. In existing network robustness enhancing methods, maximizing interlayer degree-degree correlations has been proven to be an effective way to improve the robustness of interdependent networks under random failures. Here, we propose a portion of nodes positively correlated strategy (PNC) to improve network robustness by positively correlating a portion of nodes, in which the nodes that are positively correlated are selected in descending order of degree, starting at a cutoff value. Based on percolation theory, we verify the effectiveness of PNC on different networks. And find that, when the nodes with the highest degree are preferentially correlated, i.e. the cutoff value takes the maximum degree, this strategy achieves a state-of-the-art optimization effect. In particular, for interdependent scale-free networks with power-law exponent γ that satisfies

2
<
γ
<
3

, we theoretically demonstrate that the highest degree preferentially correlated mode can maximize network robustness by changing the coupling state of the near 0 proportion of nodes. For γ = 3, such a mode can make the network turn into a second-order phase transition at the collapse point. Finally, we discuss the relationship between the robustness of optimized networks and common links in real-world networks.
Third sound detectors in accelerated motion
Authors: Bunney Cameron R D , Barroso Vitor S , Biermann Steffen , Geelmuyden August , Gooding Cisco , Ithier Grégoire , Rojas Xavier , Louko Jorma , Weinfurtner Silke
Published: June 2024

An accelerated observer moving through empty space sees particles appearing and disappearing, while an observer with a constant velocity does not register any particles. This phenomenon, generally known as the Unruh effect, relies on an initial vacuum state, thereby unifying the experience of all inertial observers. We propose an experiment to probe this observer-dependent detector response, using a laser beam in circular motion as a local detector of superfluid helium-4 surface modes or third sound waves. To assess experimental feasibility, we develop a theoretical framework to include a non-zero temperature initial state. We find that an acceleration-dependent signal persists, independent of the initial temperature. By introducing a signal-to-noise measure we show that observing this signal is within experimental reach.
About gravitational radiation of semi local strings with non compact internal modes
Authors: Morano Alejandro , Santillán Osvaldo P.
Published: June 2024

The present work studies the gravitational radiation of a non abelian vortex with a non compact internal moduli describing its excitations. This situation may be realised by semi-local supersymmetric vortices [1]–[8], although supersymmetry is not necessary for this to happen. In the situation considered along this work, the internal space has infinite volume, and a largely energetic perturbation propagates along the object, even though the vortex line may not be moving. A specific configuration is presented, in which the internal space is the resolved conifold with its Ricci flat metric. The curious feature about it is that it corresponds to a static vortex, that is, the perturbation is only due to the internal modes. Even being static, the emission of gravitational radiation is in the present case of considerable order. This suggest that the presence of slowly moving objects that can emit a large amount of gravitational radiation is a hint of non abelianity.
Melting of W/Cu flat type component for main limiter and its impact on plasma operation in EAST experiments
Authors: Xuan Chuannan , Zhu Dahuan , Gao Binfu , Yan Rong , Guo Zongxiao , Ding Rui , Wang Baoguo , Zi Pengfei , Wang Yang , Chen Junling ,   the EAST Team
Published: June 2024

A type of actively cooled W/Cu flat-type component with high heat exhaust capacity was installed as limiter during the EAST spring plasma campaign in 2022, aiming to support the long pulse operation. Unfortunately, severe melting phenomena with obvious droplets ejection of the flat-type W/Cu limiter was repeatedly monitored by CCD and IR cameras, which not only induced the failure of component but also seriously influenced plasma operation. The high temperature around midplane of W/Cu flat-type main limiter is identified to be closely connected with ICRF induced fast ions loss. Indeed, the surface temperature of W/Cu flat-type main limiter was too high to ignore. The damage of flat-type structure, however, usually started between the joint interface of W plates and CuCrZr heat sink material. Such damage would in turn lead to the gradual increase of surface temperature which eventually would cause melting of W plates. Once melting events occurred on the W/Cu flat-type main limiter, the vast majority of cases would result in plasma disruption. Moreover, the damage of main limiter would rapidly deteriorate. Hence, more attention should be paid to how to improve the fatigue lifetime of the joint interface. Such test results of flat-type W/Cu component for limiter are important references for the improvement and application of W/Cu flat-type component for high heat flux area in fusion devices.
Development of an organ-on-chip model for the detection of volatile organic compounds as potential biomarkers of tumour progression
Authors: Bayona Clara , Wrona Magdalena , Ranđelović Teodora , Nerín Cristina , Salafranca Jesús , Ochoa Ignacio
Published: June 2024

Early detection of tumours remains a significant challenge due to their invasive nature and the limitations of current monitoring techniques. Liquid biopsies have emerged as a minimally invasive diagnostic approach, wherein volatile organic compounds (VOCs) show potential as compelling candidates. However, distinguishing tumour-specific VOCs is difficult due to the presence of gases from non-tumour tissues and environmental factors. Therefore, it is essential to develop preclinical models that accurately mimic the intricate tumour microenvironment to induce cellular metabolic changes and secretion of tumour-associated VOCs. In this study, a microfluidic device was used to recreate the ischaemic environment within solid tumours for the detection of tumour-derived VOCs. The system represents a significant advance in understanding the role of VOCs as biomarkers for early tumour detection and holds the potential to improve patient prognosis; particularly for inaccessible and rapidly progressing tumours such as glioblastoma.
Environmental satisfaction of resettlement households after land acquisition in vietnam: a case study in Hai Phong city
Authors: Huong Tran Thi Lan , Phương Tran Thi Lan , Dat Tran Tho , Truong Dinh Duc
Published: June 2024

Land acquisition and resetlement are sensitive issues because of its large impacts on the life of local people and communities, especially in developing nations. In Vietnam, recently, land acquisition is increasingly popular to serve infrastructure development and socio-economic projects. This study aims to identify factors affecting household environmental satisfaction after land acquisition and resetlement in Hai Phong city. The empirical study model is proposed based on theoretical model by Shin (2016) and empirical studies on environmental satisfaction. We conducted 2 focus group discussions with stakeholders and a survey sample of 585 households in 03 resetlement areas to collect data. Cronbach’ Alpha test, exploratory factor analysis, and multiple regressions were used for data analysis. Results showed 6 main factors affecting the extent of respondents’ environmental satisfaction after land acquisition, including employment and income, local government, public services and facilities, social networks, environment and health and education. Among them, employment and income is strongest impact factor. From the results, some solutions were proposed to increase satifactions and stabilize livelihoods for people after land acquisition in Hai Phong and Vietnam.
Spatial assessment of pollutants concentration in air and soils impacted by industrial wastes in lagos state, Nigeria
Authors: Ozabor Famous , Wekpe Vremudia Onyeayana , Tega Eyetan , Ojoh Collins
Published: June 2024

The mega city of Lagos, Nigeria is plagued by various environmental issues, chief amongst them being environmental pollution induced by poor and disjointed urban industrial waste management practices. This study aimed to identify and quantify the types of urban industrial waste generated in Lagos State. The State plays host to the largest population base in Nigeria with over twenty million people. The study adopted a quasi-experimental design. Soil, industrial waste generation and pollutant levels were determined with the aid of a thermal mass gas flow meter. Industrial wastes were measured in situ using a weighting scale, while surface soil samples were collected at depths of 0–30 cm. Results show that 20% of the industrial waste generated in the metropolis was ignitable (possibility of spontaneous combustion). The results were thereafter compared with international standards on the permissible limits for various pollutants in air and soil of Lagos State. Ikorodu had the greatest contribution of industrial waste generated in Lagos, followed by Ikeja, Oshodi, Ojo/Alaba and Surulere. The implications of these results and findings is that a lot needs to be done in terms of appropriate legislation, enforcement and tracking of industrial waste generation in Lagos State for effective monitoring and implementation of management strategies.
Performance evaluation of ruthenium complexes and organic sensitizers in ZnO-based dye-sensitized solar cells
Authors: Ayub Muniba , Shahzad Nadia , Javed Ahad Hussain , Mehmood Sana , Nadeem Saad , Khan Zuhair S , Shakir Sehar , Liaqat Faroha , Shabir Ghulam , Abbas Faisal , Shahzad Muhammad Imran , Pugliese Diego
Published: June 2024

Ruthenium (Ru) dyes are a well-known player in the field of dye-sensitized solar cells (DSSCs) due to their high efficiency and excellent stability. Their properties and complexes have been studied for almost three decades. Although these sensitizers show better performances, their high cost makes these third-generation solar devices less economical. Organic dyes have recently been explored as an alternative to Ru-based dyes due to their easy and low-cost synthesis. A comparative performance evaluation of Ru complexes and dicyanoisophorone and rhodanine organic dyes in ZnO-based DSSCs is here reported. All the Ru complexes showed better performance in comparison to organic dyes except R-4. Among the Ru sensitizers, R-3 exhibited the highest efficiency of 1.21% followed by R-2, which is attributed to the presence of several anchoring groups such as carboxyl, nitro and amine. However, the presence of more nitrogen-based groups has drastically reduced the performance as observed for R-4, which is the least performing dye among the Ru-based ones. On the contrary, organic sensitizers S-06 and P-4 revealed to be less efficient with respect to R-3 owing to the presence of only one anchoring group and weak photoanode/dye interaction.
Exploring the interplay of technology, pro-family and prosocial behavior in settlement formation
Authors: Gracia-Lázaro Carlos , Hernández Alexis R , Maciel-Cardoso Felipe , Moreno Yamir
Published: June 2024

We present an agent-based model that explores the intricate relationship between pro-family and prosocial behaviors and their impact on settlement formation. The objective is to investigate how the technological level and various constraints influence the transition from pro-family to prosocial behavior. The model incorporates factors such as the specialization requirements of the technology, societal tolerance, and dynamic interactions within a synthetic population, where individuals may prioritize either their family or their own settlement. Agents’ fitness is determined by two components: the proportion of pro-family agents within their family and the fraction of prosocial agents in their settlement, along with its size. Our findings reveal that (i) the technological level drives the transition from pro-family to prosocial behavior, and (ii) the developmental requirements of the technology shape the smoothness of this transition, ranging from abrupt to gradual. These results emphasize the significance of considering the interplay between the technological level, the nature of the technology, and cultural influences when examining settlement patterns and the dynamics of pro-family and prosocial behaviors in human societies.
Meiosis-specific functions of kinetochore protein SPC105R required for chromosome segregation in Drosophila oocytes
Authors: Joshi Jay N. , Changela Neha , Mahal Lia , Jang Janet , Defosse Tyler , Wang Lin-Ing , Das Arunika , Shapiro Joanatta G. , McKim Kim
Published: June 2024

The reductional division of meiosis I requires the separation of chromosome pairs towards opposite poles. We have previously implicated the outer kinetochore protein SPC105R/KNL1 in driving meiosis I chromosome segregation through lateral attachments to microtubules and coorientation of sister centromeres. To identify the domains of SPC105R that are critical for meiotic chromosome segregation, an RNAi-resistant gene expression system was developed. We found that the SPC105R C-terminal domain (aa 1284-1960) is necessary and sufficient for recruiting NDC80 to the kinetochore and building the outer kinetochore. Furthermore, the C-terminal domain recruits BUBR1, which in turn recruits the cohesion protection proteins MEI-S332 and PP2A. Of the remaining 1283 amino acids, we found the first 473 are most important for meiosis. The first 123 amino acids of the N-terminal half of SPC105R contain the conserved SLRK and RISF motifs that are targets of PP1 and Aurora B kinase and are most important for regulating the stability of microtubule attachments and maintaining metaphase I arrest. The region between amino acids 124 and 473 are required for lateral microtubule attachments and biorientation of homologues, which are critical for accurate chromosome segregation in meiosis I.
Does pollination interact with the abiotic environment to affect plant reproduction?
Authors: Rodelius Isabella B , Iler Amy M
Published: June 2024

Background and Aims

Abiotic and biotic components of the environment both limit plant reproduction, but how they interact with one another in combination is less understood. Understanding these interactions is especially relevant because abiotic and biotic environmental components respond differently to various drivers of global change. Here, we aim to understand whether the effects of pollination (biotic component) on plant reproduction depend on soil moisture (abiotic component), two factors known to affect plant reproduction and that are changing with global change.

Methods

We conducted pollen supplementation experiments for two plant species, Delphinium nuttallianum and Hydrophyllum fendleri, in subalpine meadows in the Western USA across 4 years that varied in soil moisture. In a separate 1-year field experiment, we crossed water addition with pollen supplementation factorially. We measured the proportion of fruit set, seeds per fruit and seeds per plant, in addition to stomatal conductance, to determine whether plant physiology responded to watering.

Key Results

In the 4-year study, only H. fendleri reproduction was pollen limited, and this occurred independently of soil moisture. Experimental water addition significantly increased soil moisture and stomatal conductance for both species. The effect of pollen addition on reproduction depended on the watering treatment only for H. fendleri fruit production. Reproduction in D. nuttallianum was not significantly affected by pollen addition or water addition, but it did respond to interannual variation in soil moisture.

Conclusions

Although we found some evidence for the effect of a biotic interaction depending on abiotic conditions, it was only for one aspect of reproduction in one species, and it was in an unexpected direction. Our work highlights interactions between the abiotic and biotic components of the environment as an area of further research for improving our understanding of how plant reproduction responds to global change.
Understanding the Impacts of COVID-19 and Other Disaster Experiences on Motivations to Prepare for Future Disasters
Authors: Jung Jeesoo , Pyles Loretta
Published: June 2024

Social workers are recognising the increasing frequency and severity of disasters within the context of climate change, and are concerned with supporting communities in preparing, coping and building resilience. Although social workers have had positive impacts on disaster relief and recovery throughout the world, they have been less influential in impacting communities’ and individuals’ abilities to prepare for future disasters, which requires addressing the structural causes and impacts of disasters. While concerned with macro-level and neoliberal causes and dimensions of disasters, the focus of this research is on micro-level perspectives. Our study investigates whether past experiences of pandemics, including coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), along with other disasters, translate into motivation to prepare for future disasters. We derived the sample from the 2021 US National Household Survey and analysed it using logistic regression analysis. Findings suggest that certain disaster experiences, such as COVID-19 and technological disasters, along with heightened risk perceptions of pandemics and natural disasters, increased people’s motivation for disaster preparedness. Such motivation is influenced by sociodemographic characteristics, including race/ethnicity and disability. Using a transformative social work practice lens to articulate implications for social workers, we emphasise addressing root causes of disasters, community-level change work and whole-person, intersectional support and interventions.
Exploring S100A8/A9, neopterin, and MMP3 in familial Mediterranean fever
Authors: Kilinc Ozgur C , Akdeniz Yonca S , Taskin Zuleyha , Karabulut Mehmet , Kaya Arif , Bolayırlı Ibrahim Murat , Can Gunay , Ugurlu Serdal
Published: June 2024

Familial Mediterranean fever (FMF) is characterized by inflammatory attacks due to overactivation of pyrin inflammasome. This study aimed to investigate the reliability of S100A8/A9, neopterin, and matrix metalloproteinase 3 (MMP3) at monitoring subclinical inflammation and disease activity, and at differentiating FMF attacks from appendicitis, the most common misdiagnosis among FMF patients. Blood samples (n = 75), comprising from FMF patients during an attack (n = 20), the same FMF patients during the attack-free period (n = 14), patients with appendicitis (n = 24), and healthy volunteers (n = 17) were obtained. Duplicate determinations of S100A8/A9, neopterin, and MMP-3 levels were conducted using the enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). FMF patients with and without attack and patients with appendicitis had significantly elevated S100A8/A9 levels compared to healthy volunteers (P-values: < 0.001, 0.036, 0.002, respectively). Patients with appendicitis and FMF patients with and without attack had significantly increased serum neopterin levels compared to healthy volunteers (P-value: < 0.001). MMP3 levels were significantly higher among patients with appendicitis and FMF patients during attack compared to healthy controls (P-values: < 0.001, 0.001). Serum levels of S100A8/A9, neopterin, and MMP3 were increased significantly during attacks compared to attack-free periods among FMF patients (P-values: 0.03, 0.047, 0.007). S100A8/A9 emerges as a valuable marker for monitoring disease activity. Neopterin and S100A8/A9 might help physicians to monitor subclinical inflammation during the attack-free periods of FMF patients. MMP3 might aid in diagnosing FMF attacks when distinguishing between attack and attack-free periods is challenging.
Preparation and degradability of novel cross-linked functional hydrogels from enzymatic synthesized α-1,3-glucan and its carboxymethyl derivative
Authors: Su Zhengyu , Kinoshita Haruka , Ogaito Makoto , Takeda Yoichi , Toyotake Yosuke , Wakayama Mamoru
Published: June 2024

In this research, we prepared novel hydrogels from enzymatically synthesized α-1,3-glucan and its carboxymethyl derivative by crosslinking with ethylene glycol diglycidyl ether. The resulting hydrogels were highly swellable and pH-sensitive with an enhanced, highly developed structure, and showed excellent protein/dye adsorption performances. Furthermore, the hydrogels had good biodegradability and could be degraded in soil extract solution. The prepared hydrogels have potential applications as green and environmentally-friendly adsorbents for the effective removal of organic dyes in printing and dyeing wastewater.
Identifying Veterans Who Benefit From Nirmatrelvir-Ritonavir: A Target Trial Emulation
Authors: Yan Lei , Bui David , Li Yuli , Rajeevan Nallakkandi , Rowneki Mazhgan , Berry Kristin , Argraves Stephanie , Huang Yuan , Hynes Denise M , Cunningham Francesca , Huang Grant D , Aslan Mihaela , Ioannou George N , Bajema Kristina L
Published: June 2024

Background

Nirmatrelvir-ritonavir is recommended for persons at risk for severe coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) but remains underutilized. Information on which eligible groups are likely to benefit from treatment is needed.

Methods

We conducted a target trial emulation study in the Veterans Health Administration comparing nirmatrelvir–ritonavir treated versus matched untreated veterans at risk for severe COVID-19 who tested positive for severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) from April 2022 through March 2023. We measured incidence of any hospitalization or all-cause mortality at 30 days. Outcomes were measured for the entire cohort, as well as among subgroups defined by 30-day risk of death or hospitalization, estimated using an ensemble risk prediction model.

Results

Participants were 87% male with median age 66 years and 16% unvaccinated. Compared with matched untreated participants, those treated with nirmatrelvir-ritonavir (n = 24 205) had a lower 30-day risk for hospitalization (1.80% vs 2.30%; risk difference [RD], −0.50% points [95% confidence interval {CI}: −.69 to −.35]) and death (0.11% vs 0.30%; RD, −0.20 [95% CI: −.24 to −.13]). The greatest reductions in combined hospitalization or death were observed in the highest risk quartile (RD −2.85 [95% CI: −3.94 to −1.76]), immunocompromised persons (RD −1.91 [95% CI: −3.09 to −.74]), and persons aged ≥75 years (RD −1.16 [95% CI: −1.73 to −.59]). No reductions were observed in the 2 lowest risk quartiles or persons younger than 65 years.

Conclusions

Nirmatrelvir-ritonavir was effective in reducing 30-day hospitalization and death in older veterans, those at highest predicted risk for severe outcomes, and immunocompromised groups. Benefit was not observed in younger veterans or groups at lower predicted risk for hospitalization and death.
Mapping of lymph node metastasis from esophageal squamous cell carcinoma after neoadjuvant treatment: a prospective analysis from a high-volume institution in China
Authors: Wang Cai-Zhang , Zhang Han-Lu , Shang Qi-Xin , Gu Yi-Min , Yang Yu-Shang , Wang Wen-Ping , Hu Yang , Yuan Yong , Chen Long-Qi
Published: June 2024

The study aimed to describe the prevalence of lymph node metastases per lymph node station for esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC) after neoadjuvant treatment. Clinicopathological variables of ESCC patients were retrieved from the prospective database of the Surgical Esophageal Cancer Patient Registry in West China Hospital, Sichuan University. A two-field lymphadenectomy was routinely performed, and an extensive three-field lymphadenectomy was performed if cervical lymph node metastasis was suspected. According to AJCC/UICC 8, lymph node stations were investigated separately. The number of patients with metastatic lymph nodes divided by those who underwent lymph node dissection at that station was used to define the percentage of patients with lymph node metastases. Data are also separately analyzed according to the pathological response of the primary tumor, neoadjuvant treatment regimens, pretreatment tumor length, and tumor location. Between January 2019 and March 2023, 623 patients who underwent neoadjuvant therapy followed by transthoracic esophagectomy were enrolled. Lymph node metastases were found in 212 patients (34.0%) and most frequently seen in lymph nodes along the right recurrent nerve (10.1%, 58/575), paracardial station (11.4%, 67/587), and lymph nodes along the left gastric artery (10.9%, 65/597). For patients with pretreatment tumor length of >4 cm and non-pathological complete response of the primary tumor, the metastatic rate of the right lower cervical paratracheal lymph nodes is 10.9% (10/92) and 10.6% (11/104), respectively. For patients with an upper thoracic tumor, metastatic lymph nodes were most frequently seen along the right recurrent nerve (14.2%, 8/56). For patients with a middle thoracic tumor, metastatic lymph nodes were most commonly seen in the right lower cervical paratracheal lymph nodes (10.3%, 8/78), paracardial lymph nodes (10.2%, 29/285), and lymph nodes along the left gastric artery (10.4%, 30/289). For patients with a lower thoracic tumor, metastatic lymph nodes were most frequently seen in the paracardial station (14.2%, 35/247) and lymph nodes along the left gastric artery (13.1%, 33/252). The study precisely determined the distribution of lymph node metastases in ESCC after neoadjuvant treatment, which may help to optimize the extent of lymphadenectomy in the surgical management of ESCC patients after neoadjuvant therapy.
Hybrid convergent procedure with proactive oesophageal cooling for the treatment of long-standing persistent atrial fibrillation: a case series
Authors: Velasco Alejandro , Buch Chirag , Hui Dawn , Joseph Christopher , Onsager David , Zagrodzky William , Kulstad Erik , Nayak Hemal M
Published: June 2024

Background

The hybrid convergent procedure is approved to treat symptomatic patients with long-standing persistent atrial fibrillation (AF). Despite direct visualization during surgical ablation as well as the use of luminal oesophageal temperature (LET) monitoring, oesophageal injury is still possible. A dedicated device for proactive oesophageal cooling has recently been cleared by the Food and Drug Administration to reduce the likelihood of ablation-related oesophageal injury resulting from radiofrequency cardiac ablation procedures. This report describes the first uses of proactive oesophageal cooling for oesophageal protection during the epicardial ablation portion of hybrid convergent procedures.

Case summary

Five patients with long-standing persistent AF underwent hybrid convergent ablations with the use of proactive oesophageal cooling as means of oesophageal protection. All cases were completed successfully with no adverse effects. Most notably, cases were shorter when compared to cases using LET monitoring, likely due to lack of pauses for overheating of the oesophagus that would otherwise be required to prevent damage to the oesophagus.

Discussion

This report describes the first uses of proactive oesophageal cooling for oesophageal protection during the epicardial ablation portion of five hybrid convergent procedures. Use of cooling enabled uninhibited deployment of lesions without the need to pause energy delivery due to elevated temperatures in the oesophagus, providing a feasible alternative to LET monitoring.