bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effects of high- and low-yield moso bamboo (Phyllostachys edulis) forests on bacterial community structure
Authors: Liu Fang , Yuan Zong-sheng , Zeng Zhi-hao , Pan Hui
Published: June 2023

To study the characteristics of bacterial community structure in high-yield and low-yield moso bamboo (Phyllostachys edulis) forests, we collected bamboo rhizome, rhizome root, stem, leaf, rhizosphere soil, and non-rhizosphere soil from high- and low-yield forests in Yong'an City and Jiangle County of Fujian Province, China. The genomic DNA of the samples was extracted, sequenced and analyzed. The results show that: the common differences between the high-yield and low-yield P. edulis forest samples in the two regions were mainly in bacterial community compositions in the bamboo rhizome, rhizome root, and soil samples. Differences in the bacterial community compositions in the stem and leaf samples were insignificant. The bacterial species and diversity in rhizome root and rhizosphere soil of high-yield P. edulis forests were less than those of low-yield forests. The relative abundance of Actinobacteria and Acidobacteria in rhizome root samples of high-yield forests was higher than that in low-yield forests. The relative abundance of Rhizobiales and Burkholderiales in bamboo rhizome samples in high-yield forests was higher than that in low-yield forests. The relative abundance of Bradyrhizobium in bamboo rhizome samples in high-yield forests was higher than that in low-yield forests in the two regions. The change of bacterial community composition in P. edulis stems and leaves showed little correlation with high- or low-yields of P. edulis forests. Notably, the bacterial community composition of the rhizome root system was correlated with the high yield of bamboo. This study provides a theoretical basis for using of microbes to enhance the yields of P. edulis forests.
To infer the probability of cervical ossification of the posterior longitudinal ligament and explore its impact on cervical surgery
Authors: Zhu Jichong , Lu Qing , Zhan Xinli , Huang Shengsheng , Zhou Chenxing , Wu Shaofeng , Chen Tianyou , Yao Yuanlin , Liao Shian , Yu Chaojie , Fan Binguang , Yang Zhenwei , Gu Wenfei , Wang Yihan , Wei Wendi , Liu Chong
Published: June 2023

The ossification of the posterior longitudinal ligament (OPLL) in the cervical spine is commonly observed in degenerative changes of the cervical spine. Early detection of cervical OPLL and prevention of postoperative complications are of utmost importance. We gathered data from 775 patients who underwent cervical spine surgery at the First Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi Medical University, collecting a total of 84 variables. Among these patients, 144 had cervical OPLL, while 631 did not. They were randomly divided into a training cohort and a validation cohort. Multiple machine learning (ML) methods were employed to screen the variables and ultimately develop a diagnostic model. Subsequently, we compared the postoperative outcomes of patients with positive and negative cervical OPLL. Initially, we compared the advantages and disadvantages of various ML methods. Seven variables, namely Age, Gender, OPLL, AST, UA, BMI, and CHD, exhibited significant differences and were used to construct a diagnostic nomogram model. The area under the curve (AUC) values of this model in the training and validation groups were 0.76 and 0.728, respectively. Our findings revealed that 69.2% of patients who underwent cervical OPLL surgery eventually required elective anterior surgery, in contrast to 86.8% of patients who did not have cervical OPLL. Patients with cervical OPLL had significantly longer operation times and higher postoperative drainage volumes compared to those without cervical OPLL. Interestingly, preoperative cervical OPLL patients demonstrated significant increases in mean UA, age, and BMI. Furthermore, 27.1% of patients with cervical anterior longitudinal ligament ossification (OALL) also exhibited cervical OPLL, whereas this occurrence was only observed in 6.9% of patients without cervical OALL. We developed a diagnostic model for cervical OPLL using the ML method. Our findings indicate that patients with cervical OPLL are more likely to undergo posterior cervical surgery, and they exhibit elevated UA levels, higher BMI, and increased age. The prevalence of cervical anterior longitudinal ligament ossification was also significantly higher among patients with cervical OPLL.
Metabolic benefits of 17α-estradiol in liver are partially mediated by ERβ in male mice
Authors: Mondal Samim Ali , Mann Shivani N. , van der Linden Carl , Sathiaseelan Roshini , Kamal Maria , Das Snehasis , Bubak Matthew P. , Logan Sreemathi , Miller Benjamin F. , Stout Michael B.
Published: June 2023

Metabolic dysfunction underlies several chronic diseases. Dietary interventions can reverse metabolic declines and slow aging but remaining compliant is difficult. 17α-estradiol (17α-E2) treatment improves metabolic parameters and slows aging in male mice without inducing significant feminization. We recently reported that estrogen receptor α is required for the majority of 17α-E2-mediated benefits in male mice, but that 17α-E2 also attenuates fibrogenesis in liver, which is regulated by estrogen receptor β (ERβ)-expressing hepatic stellate cells (HSC). The current studies sought to determine if 17α-E2-mediated benefits on systemic and hepatic metabolism are ERβ-dependent. We found that 17α-E2 treatment reversed obesity and related systemic metabolic sequela in both male and female mice, but this was partially blocked in female, but not male, ERβKO mice. ERβ ablation in male mice attenuated 17α-E2-mediated benefits on hepatic stearoyl-coenyzme A desaturase 1 (SCD1) and transforming growth factor β1 (TGF-β1) production, which play critical roles in HSC activation and liver fibrosis. We also found that 17α-E2 treatment suppresses SCD1 production in cultured hepatocytes and hepatic stellate cells, indicating that 17α-E2 directly signals in both cell-types to suppress drivers of steatosis and fibrosis. We conclude that ERβ partially controls 17α-E2-mediated benefits on systemic metabolic regulation in female, but not male, mice, and that 17α-E2 likely signals through ERβ in HSCs to attenuate pro-fibrotic mechanisms.
Common juniper, an overlooked conifer with high invasion potential in protected areas of Patagonia
Authors: Franzese Jorgelina , Ripa Ramiro Rubén
Published: June 2023

The benefits of early detection of biological invasions are widely recognized, especially for protected areas (PAs). However, research on incipient invasive plant species is scarce compared to species with a recognized history of invasion. Here, we characterized the invasion status of the non-native conifer Juniperus communis in PAs and interface areas of Andean Patagonia, Argentina. We mapped its distribution and described both the invasion and the environments this species inhabits through field studies, a literature review, and a citizen science initiative. We also modeled the species’ potential distribution by comparing the climatic characteristics of its native range with those of the introduced ranges studied. The results show that J. communis is now widely distributed in the region, occurring naturally in diverse habitats, and frequently within and close to PAs. This species can be considered an incipient invader with a high potential for expansion in its regional distribution range, largely due to its high reproductive potential and the high habitat suitability of this environment. Early detection of a plant invasion affords a valuable opportunity to inform citizens of the potential risks to high conservation value ecosystems before the invader is perceived as a natural component of the landscape.
A hybrid multifunctional physicochemical sensor suite for continuous monitoring of crop health
Authors: Hossain Nafize Ishtiaque , Tabassum Shawana
Published: June 2023

This work reports a first-of-its-kind hybrid wearable physicochemical sensor suite that we call PlantFit for simultaneous measurement of two key phytohormones, salicylic acid, and ethylene, along with vapor pressure deficit and radial growth of stem in live plants. The sensors are developed using a low-cost and roll-to-roll screen printing technology. A single integrated flexible patch that contains temperature, humidity, salicylic acid, and ethylene sensors, is installed on the leaves of live plants. The strain sensor with in-built pressure correction capability is wrapped around the plant stem to provide pressure-compensated stem diameter measurements. The sensors provide real-time information on plant health under different amounts of water stress conditions. The sensor suite is installed on bell pepper plants for 40 days and measurements of salicylic acid, ethylene, temperature, humidity, and stem diameter are recorded daily. In addition, sensors are installed on different parts of the same plant to investigate the spatiotemporal dynamics of water transport and phytohormone responses. Subsequent correlation and principal component analyses demonstrate the strong association between hormone levels, vapor pressure deficit, and water transport in the plant. Our findings suggest that the mass deployment of PlantFit in agricultural settings will aid growers in detecting water stress/deficiency early and in implementing early intervention measures to reduce stress-induced yield decline.
Characterization of bacteriophage vB_KleM_KB2 possessing high control ability to pathogenic Klebsiella pneumoniae
Authors: Peng Qin , Ma Zimeng , Han Qing , Xiang Fangfang , Wang Lushuang , Zhang Yibin , Zhao Yuting , Li Jianing , Xian Yaxin , Yuan Yihui
Published: June 2023

Klebsiella pneumoniae is a widespread pathogen of several human diseases. The emergence of multidrug-resistant K. pneumoniae makes the treatment of these diseases a significant challenge. The application of bacteriophages is a potential approach for dealing with the emergence of multidrug-resistant pathogenic bacteria. This study isolates a novel bacteriophage vB_KleM_KB2 that infects the multidrug-resistant clinical isolates of K. pneumoniae. The bacteriophage exhibits a short latent period of 10 min, and can effectively lyse the bacterium within 60 min. Notably, the bacteriophage can completely inhibit the growth of the host bacterium at the initial concentration of 107 CFU/mL with a low multiplicity of infection of 0.001, which proves its high lytic activity. Furthermore, the bacteriophage shows high environmental tolerances, which can facilitate the practical application of the bacteriophage. Analysis of the bacteriophage genome shows that the bacteriophage possesses a novel genome sequence and can represent a new bacteriophage genus. Considering the high lytic activity, short latent period, high stability, and novel genetic background, bacteriophage vB_KleM_KB2 enriches the bacteriophage library and provides a new alternative for controlling the diseases caused by multidrug-resistant pathogenic K. pneumoniae.
Evolution of cooperation in multiplex networks through asymmetry between interaction and replacement
Authors: Inaba Masaaki , Akiyama Eizo
Published: June 2023

Cooperation is the foundation of society and has been the subject of numerous studies over the past three decades. However, the mechanisms underlying the spread of cooperation within a group are not yet fully comprehended. We analyze cooperation in multiplex networks, a model that has recently gained attention for successfully capturing certain aspects of human social connections. Previous studies on the evolution of cooperation in multiplex networks have shown that cooperative behavior is promoted when the two key processes in evolution, interaction and strategy replacement, are performed with the same partner as much as possible, that is, symmetrically, in a variety of network structures. We focus on a particular type of symmetry, namely, symmetry in the scope of communication, to investigate whether cooperation is promoted or hindered when interactions and strategy replacements have different scopes. Through multiagent simulations, we found some cases where asymmetry can promote cooperation, contrasting with previous studies. These results hint toward the potential effectiveness of not only symmetrical but also asymmetrical approaches in fostering cooperation within particular groups under certain social conditions.
Many-body correlations in one-dimensional optical lattices with alkaline-earth(-like) atoms
Authors: Bilokon Valeriia , Bilokon Elvira , Bañuls Mari Carmen , Cichy Agnieszka , Sotnikov Andrii
Published: June 2023

We explore the rich nature of correlations in the ground state of ultracold atoms trapped in state-dependent optical lattices. In particular, we consider interacting fermionic ytterbium or strontium atoms, realizing a two-orbital Hubbard model with two spin components. We analyze the model in one-dimensional setting with the experimentally relevant hierarchy of tunneling and interaction amplitudes by means of exact diagonalization and matrix product states approaches, and study the correlation functions in density, spin, and orbital sectors as functions of variable densities of atoms in the ground and metastable excited states. We show that in certain ranges of densities these atomic systems demonstrate strong density-wave, ferro- and antiferromagnetic, as well as antiferroorbital correlations.
Effects of PmDOME and PmSTAT knockdown on white spot syndrome virus infection in Penaeus monodon
Authors: Laohawutthichai Pasunee , Jatuyosporn Thapanan , Supungul Premruethai , Tassanakajon Anchalee , Krusong Kuakarun
Published: June 2023

Janus kinase/signal transducers and activators of transcription (JAK/STAT) signaling pathway plays an important role in antiviral immunity. This research reports the full-length DOME receptor gene in Penaeus monodon (PmDOME) and examines the effects of PmDOME and PmSTAT silencing on immune-related gene expressions in shrimp hemocytes during white spot syndrome virus (WSSV) infection. PmDOME and PmSTAT were up-regulated in shrimp hemocytes upon WSSV infection. Suppression of PmDOME and PmSTAT showed significant impacts on the expression levels of ProPO2 (melanization), Vago5 (interferon-like protein) and several antimicrobial peptides, including ALFPm3, Penaeidin3, CrustinPm1 and CrustinPm7. Silencing of PmDOME and PmSTAT reduced WSSV copy numbers and delayed the cumulative mortality caused by WSSV. We postulated that suppression of the JAK/STAT signaling pathway may activate the proPO, IFN-like antiviral cytokine and AMP production, resulting in a delay of WSSV-related mortality.
Associations between intrinsic capacity, functional difficulty, and fall outcomes among older adults in India
Authors: Muneera K. , Muhammad T. , Pai Manacy , Ahmed Waquar , Althaf S.
Published: June 2023

The construct of intrinsic capacity (IC) in the context of integrated care for older adults emphasizes functional assessment from a holistic perspective. It provides reliable and comparable insights on subsequent functioning and disability. Given the paucity of research on IC and health outcomes in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs), the present study examined the association of IC with geriatric conditions of functional limitations and multiple fall outcomes among older adults in India. The data used for analysis come from the first wave of the Longitudinal Aging Study in India (LASI), 2017–2018. The final sample size contains 24,136 older adults (11,871 males and 12,265 females) age 60 years or above. Multivariable binary logistic regression is employed to examine the association of IC and other explanatory factors with outcome variables of difficulty in activities of daily living (ADL) and instrumental activities of daily living (IADL), falls, fall injury, and multiple falls. Of the total sample, 24.56% of older adults were observed to be in the high IC category. The prevalence of ADL difficulty, IADL difficulty, falls, multiple falls and fall-related injury is estimated to be 19.89%, 45.00%, 12.36%, 5.49% and 5.57%, respectively. Older adults who reported high IC had a significantly lower prevalence of ADL difficulty (12.26% vs 22.38%) and IADL difficulty (31.13% vs 49.52%) than those who reported low IC. Similarly, a lower prevalence of falls (9.42% vs 13.34%), fall-related injury (4.10% vs 6.06%) and multiple falls (3.46% vs 6.16%) were reported among those who had high IC. After adjusting for a large number of confounders such as age, sex, health-related attributes and lifestyle behaviors, older adults with high IC had significantly lower odds of ADL difficulty [aOR: 0.63, CI: 0.52–0.76], IADL difficulty [aOR: 0.71, CI: 0.60–0.83], falls [aOR: 0.80, CI: 0.67–0.96], multiple falls [aOR: 0.73, CI: 0.58–0.96] and fall-related injury [aOR: 0.78, CI: 0.61–0.99]. That a high IC was independently associated with a lower risk of functional difficulty and fall outcomes in later life is of enormous value in predicting subsequent functional care needs. More specifically, the findings here imply that because regular IC monitoring can predict poor health outcomes in older adults, improvements in IC should be prioritized while formulating disability and fall prevention strategies.
Electro-optical properties of strained monolayer boron phosphide
Authors: Mortezaei Nobahari Mohammad
Published: June 2023

In this paper, we use tight-binding approximation and linear response theory to study the electronic and optical properties of strained monolayer boron-phosphide (h-BP). Compared with the previous DFT study and adding on-site energy variation to the Hamiltonian, we propose a theoretical approach to investigate the strain effects on the electronic and optical properties of the h-BP. Applying tensile strain increases the gap while compressive strain reduces it as the maximum and minimum of the gap are 1.45 eV and 1.14 eV respectively and are related to the biaxial strain. Also, we investigate the optical conductivity and electron energy loss spectrum (EELS) of the pristine and strained h-BP. The absorption peak of the $$\Re\sigma_{xx,yy}$$

ℜ

σ

x
x
,
y
y

appears in energy about 4 eV but applying strain shifts the peak’s energy. Optical properties of pristine h-BP are isotopic and biaxial strain preserves this isotropy, but uniaxial strain exerts anisotropic behavior in the system.
The mismatch negativity to abstract relationship of tone pairs is independent of attention
Authors: Hsu Yi-Fang , Tu Chia-An , Chen Yuchun , Liu Huei-Mei
Published: June 2023

The mismatch negativity (MMN) implicating a comparison process between the deviant and the memory trace of the standard can be elicited by not only changes in physical features but also violations of abstract patterns. It is considered pre-attentive, yet the use of the passive design makes it difficult to exclude the possibility of attention leak. In contrast to how this issue has been well addressed with the MMN to physical changes, much less research directly investigated the attentional effect on the MMN to abstract relationships. Here we conducted an electroencephalography (EEG) experiment to study whether and how the MMN to abstract relationships is modulated by attention. We adapted the oddball paradigm of Kujala et al. by presenting occasional descending tone pairs among frequent ascending tone pairs, while additionally implementing a novel control of attention. Participants’ attention was either directed away from the sounds (with an engaging task of visual target detection, so that the sounds were task-irrelevant) or toward the sounds (with a conventional task of auditory deviant detection, so that the sounds were task-relevant). The MMN to abstract relationships appeared regardless of attention, confirming the pre-attentive assumption. The attention-independence of the frontocentral and supratemporal components of the MMN supported the notion that attention is not required to generate the MMN. At the individual level, a relatively equal number of participants showed attention enhancement and attention suppression. It is unlike the attentional modulation on the P3b, which was robustly elicited in the attended condition only. The concurrent collection of these two neurophysiological markers in both unattended and attended conditions might be potentially suitable for testing clinical populations showing heterogeneous deficits in auditory function independent/dependent of attention.
Carbon stocks of particle board and fiberboard in Japan
Authors: Kayo Chihiro , Sanjo Kotoko , Sato Issei , Liu Mengyuan , Prasetyadi Gianova Vierry , Hirahara Suguru
Published: June 2023

The carbon stock function of harvested wood products (HWPs) is attracting attention among climate change countermeasures. Among HWPs, particle board (PB) and fiberboard (FB) mainly use recycled materials. This study estimated carbon stocks of PB and FB and their annual changes over the past 70 years in Japan using three methods of the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change guidelines: Tiers 1–3. Tier 1 uses first order decay (FOD), a 25-year half-life, and the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations database. Tier 2 uses FOD, a 25-year half-life, and Japan-specific statistics. Tier 3 uses a log-normal distribution for the decay function and a 38–63-year half-life of building PB/FB. Japan’s PB and FB carbon stocks have increased for the past 70 years. The latest carbon stock in early 2022 and the annual change in carbon stock in 2021 was 21.83 million t-C and 0.42 million t-C/year, respectively for Tier 3. Tier 3 has the highest estimation accuracy by using decay functions and half-lives that match the actual conditions of building PB and FB, whereas Tiers 1 and 2 were underestimates. Approximately 40% of the carbon stock is derived from waste wood, which extends its utilization.
Chemoselective cycloisomerization of O-alkenylbenzamides via concomitant 1,2-aryl migration/elimination mediated by hypervalent iodine reagents
Authors: He Jiaxin , Du Feng-Huan , Zhang Chi , Du Yunfei
Published: June 2023

As an ambident nucleophile, controlling the reaction selectivities of nitrogen and oxygen atoms in amide moiety is a challenging issue in organic synthesis. Herein, we present a chemodivergent cycloisomerization approach to construct isoquinolinone and iminoisocoumarin skeletons from o-alkenylbenzamide derivatives. The chemo-controllable strategy employed an exclusive 1,2-aryl migration/elimination cascade, enabled by different hypervalent iodine species generated in situ from the reaction of iodosobenzene (PhIO) with MeOH or 2,4,6-tris-isopropylbenzene sulfonic acid. DFT studies revealed that the nitrogen and oxygen atoms of the intermediates in the two reaction systems have different nucleophilicities and thus produce the selectivity of N or O-attack modes.
Social transmission of bacterial symbionts homogenizes the microbiome within and across generations of group-living spiders
Authors: Rose Clémence , Lund Marie B , Søgård Andrea M , Busck Mette M , Bechsgaard Jesper S , Schramm Andreas , Bilde Trine
Published: June 2023

Disentangling modes and fidelity of symbiont transmission are key for understanding host–symbiont associations in wild populations. In group-living animals, social transmission may evolve to ensure high-fidelity transmission of symbionts, since non-reproducing helpers constitute a dead-end for vertical transmission. We investigated symbiont transmission in the social spider Stegodyphus dumicola, which lives in family groups where the majority of females are non-reproducing helpers, females feed offspring by regurgitation, and individuals feed communally on insect prey. Group members share temporally stable microbiomes across generations, while distinct variation in microbiome composition exists between groups. We hypothesized that horizontal transmission of symbionts is enhanced by social interactions, and investigated transmission routes within (horizontal) and across (vertical) generations using bacterial 16S rRNA gene amplicon sequencing in three experiments: (i) individuals were sampled at all life stages to assess at which life stage the microbiome is acquired. (ii) a cross-fostering design was employed to test whether offspring carry the microbiome from their natal nest, or acquire the microbiome of the foster nest via social transmission. (iii) adult spiders with different microbiome compositions were mixed to assess whether social transmission homogenizes microbiome composition among group members. We demonstrate that offspring hatch symbiont-free, and bacterial symbionts are transmitted vertically across generations by social interactions with the onset of regurgitation feeding by (foster)mothers in an early life stage. Social transmission governs horizontal inter-individual mixing and homogenization of microbiome composition among nest mates. We conclude that temporally stable host–symbiont associations in social species can be facilitated and maintained by high-fidelity social transmission.
A cell-surface-anchored DNA probe coupled with hybridization chain reaction enzyme-free dual signal amplification for sensitive electrochemical detection of the cellular microenvironment
Authors: Ling Pinghua , Wang Linyu , Sun Xinyu , Xu Wenwen , Yang Pei , Tang Chuanye
Published: June 2023

A novel electrochemical sensing platform based on a DNAzyme anchored cell membrane and hybridization chain reaction enzyme-free dual signal amplification strategy was developed for sensitive metal ion detection in the cell microenvironment.
Ionic liquids membranes for liquid separation: status and challenges
Authors: Chen Shangqing , Dong Yanan , Sun Jingjing , Gu Peng , Wang Junfeng , Zhang Suojiang
Published: June 2023

The exciting research activities in the fields of ionic liquid membranes (ILMs) for liquid separation are reviewed, covering the preparation strategy, applicability, transport mechanism, and future perspectives.
Structural polymorphism in protein cages and virus-like particles
Authors: Lie Felicia , Szyszka Taylor N. , Lau Yu Heng
Published: June 2023

There are many native and engineered capsid-forming proteins which can self-assemble into different non-canonical structures. In this review, we categorise examples of structural polymorphism by their method of formation.
A new stable scheme against false data injection attacks in distributed control microgrid
Authors: Tahani Vahid , Haddad Zarif Mohammad , Gholizadeh Narm Hossein
Published: June 2023

False Data Injection (FDI) attacks can be injected into the communication links of microgrids and result in significant damages. An approach to detect false data injection (FDI) attacks is introduced and a method to maintain the average voltages of buses within an acceptable range is suggested. To this aim, the impacts of FDI are first studied and a detection mechanism is extracted based on the attack effects. Then, multiple local integral feedback is employed to maintain the voltages within a permitted interval. Next, the procedure to return the values to their initial conditions (following the removal of the attack) is addressed. Finally, the proposed methods are simulated by multiple attack scenarios and validated using experimental tests.
Just‐in‐time defect prediction enhanced by the joint method of line label fusion and file filtering
Authors: Zhang Huan , Kuang Li , Wu Aolang , Zhao Qiuming , Yang Xiaoxian
Published: June 2023

Just‐In‐Time (JIT) defect prediction aims to predict the defect proneness of software changes when they are initially submitted. It has become a hot topic in software defect prediction due to its timely manner and traceability. Researchers have proposed many JIT defect prediction approaches. However, these approaches cannot effectively utilise line labels representing added or removed lines and ignore the noise caused by defect‐irrelevant files. Therefore, a JIT defect prediction model enhanced by the joint method of line label Fusion and file Filtering (JIT‐FF) is proposed. Firstly, to distinguish added and removed lines while preserving the original software changes information, the authors represent the code changes as original, added, and removed codes according to line labels. Secondly, to obtain semantics‐enhanced code representation, a cross‐attention‐based line label fusion method to perform complementary feature enhancement is proposed. Thirdly, to generate code changes containing fewer defect‐irrelevant files, the authors formalise the file filtering as a sequential decision problem and propose a reinforcement learning‐based file filtering method. Finally, based on generated code changes, CodeBERT‐based commit representation and multi‐layer perceptron‐based defect prediction are performed to identify the defective software changes. The experiments demonstrate that JIT‐FF can predict defective software changes more effectively.
Deep reinforcement learning based state of charge estimation and management of electric vehicle batteries
Authors: Saba Irum , Tariq Muhammad , Ullah Mukhtar , Poor H. Vincent
Published: June 2023

In vehicle‐to‐grid (V2G) networks, electric vehicle (EV) batteries have significant potential as storage elements to smooth out variations produced by renewable and alternative energy sources and to address peak demand catering to smart grids. State estimation and management are crucial for assessing the performance of EV batteries. Existing approaches to these tasks typically do not include the effect of various parameters like route type, environmental conditions, current, and torque to estimate the state of charge (SoC) of EV batteries. In experiments, it is observed that the overall driving cost is affected by these parameters. A new method based on deep reinforcement learning is proposed to estimate and manage the SoC of nickel‐metal hybrid batteries, with an emphasis on the realisation of the parameters that affect a battery's health. The proposed deep deterministic policy gradient‐based SoC estimation and management for EV batteries, under the effect of battery parameters, are compared with the existing state‐of‐the‐art models to validate their usefulness in terms of overall battery life, thermal safety, and performance. The proposed method demonstrates an accuracy of up to 98.8% in SoC estimation and overall driving cost with less convergence time as compared to the state‐of‐the‐art models for EV batteries.
Peripheral Arterial Thrombosis following Russell's Viper Bites
Authors: Senthilkumaran Subramanian , Patel Ketan , Rajan Elanchezhian , Vijayakumar Pradeep , Miller Stephen W. , Rucavado Alexandra , Gilabadi Soheil , Sonavane Medha , Richards Nicholas J. , Williams Jarred , Williams Harry F. , Trim Steven A. , Thirumalaikolundusubramanian Ponniah , Gutiérrez José María , Vaiyapuri Sakthivel
Published: June 2023

Envenomings by Russell's viper (Daboia russelii), a species of high medical importance in India and other Asian countries, commonly result in hemorrhage, coagulopathies, necrosis, and acute kidney injury. Although bleeding complications are frequently reported following viper envenomings, thrombotic events occur rarely (reported only in coronary and carotid arteries) with serious consequences. For the first time, we report three serious cases of peripheral arterial thrombosis following Russell's viper bites and their diagnostic, clinical management, and mechanistic insights. These patients developed occlusive thrombi in their peripheral arteries and symptoms despite antivenom treatment. In addition to clinical features, computed tomography angiography was used to diagnose arterial thrombosis and ascertain its precise locations. They were treated using thrombectomy or amputation in one case that presented with gangrenous digits. Mechanistic insights into the pathology through investigations revealed the procoagulant actions of Russell's viper venom in standard clotting tests as well as in rotational thromboelastometry analysis. Notably, Russell's viper venom inhibited agonist-induced platelet activation. The procoagulant effects of Russell's viper venom were inhibited by a matrix metalloprotease inhibitor, marimastat, although a phospholipase A2 inhibitor (varespladib) did not show any inhibitory effects. Russell's viper venom induced pulmonary thrombosis when injected intravenously in mice and thrombi in the microvasculature and affected skeletal muscle when administered locally. These data emphasize the significance of peripheral arterial thrombosis in snakebite victims and provide awareness, mechanisms, and robust strategies for clinicians to tackle this issue in patients.
Language Delay in Patients with CLN2 Disease: Could It Support Earlier Diagnosis?
Authors: Nickel Miriam , Gissen Paul , Greenaway Rebecca , Cappelletti Simona , Hamborg Christiane , Ragni Benedetta , Ribitzki Tanja , Schulz Angela , Tondo Ilaria , Specchio Nicola
Published: June 2023

Neuronal ceroid lipofuscinosis type 2 (CLN2 disease) is a rare pediatric disorder associated with rapid neurodegeneration, and premature death in adolescence. An effective enzyme replacement therapy (cerliponase alfa) has been approved that can reduce this predictable neurological decline. The nonspecific early symptoms of CLN2 disease frequently delay diagnosis and appropriate management. Seizures are generally recognized as the first presenting symptom of CLN2 disease, but emerging data show that language delay may precede this. An improved understanding of language deficits in the earliest stage of CLN2 disease may support the early identification of patients. In this article, CLN2 disease experts examine how language development is affected by CLN2 disease in their clinical practices. The authors' experiences highlighted the timings of first words and first use of sentences, and language stagnation as key features of language deficits in CLN2 disease, and how deficits in language may be an earlier sign of the disease than seizures. Potential challenges in identifying early language deficits include assessing patients with other complex needs, and recognizing that a child's language abilities are not within normal parameters given the variability of language development in young children. CLN2 disease should be considered in children presenting with language delay and/or seizures to facilitate earlier diagnosis and access to treatment that can significantly reduce morbidity.
Understanding continuance intention of artificial intelligence (AI)-enabled mobile banking applications: an extension of AI characteristics to an expectation confirmation model
Authors: Lee Jung-Chieh , Tang Yuyin , Jiang SiQi
Published: June 2023

Artificial intelligence (AI) has been proven to be a disruptive financial technology in the context of mobile banking that can provide more practical value to users and banks. AI is a critical way of facilitating user acceptance and adoption of mobile banking applications (apps). Nevertheless, the ways in which AI features influence users’ continuance intention towards AI-enabled mobile banking apps have not been investigated from the perspective of an expectation confirmation model (ECM). To address this research gap, this paper develops a research model by combining two constructs pertaining to AI characteristics, namely, perceived intelligence and perceived anthropomorphism, and by using the ECM to explore users’ continuance intentions in this context. We employed a survey research method using a random sampling approach to collect 365 valid responses. A partial least squares approach was used to examine the model. The results show that both intelligence and anthropomorphism can increase user satisfaction via confirmation and perceived usefulness, which in turn fosters users’ willingness to continue to engage in mobile banking. This paper offers theoretical advancements, discusses future directions for mobile banking research and provides practical guidance to app developers with respect to designing and developing proper mobile banking apps using AI technology.
The emergence of populism as an institution and its recursive mechanisms: A socio-cognitive theory perspective
Authors: Rašković Matevž , Haynes Katalin Takacs , Vangeli Anastas
Published: June 2023

The rise of populism worldwide provides an excellent setting to explore the dynamic relationships among international business (IB), institutional context, and IB policymaking. It also has important implications for multinational enterprises (MNEs). To understand populism’s recursiveness, such relationships need to be examined more broadly from a social psychology lens; also, within IB and IB policy research. While populism has been attracting widespread attention among many different IB stakeholders, our understanding of populism at the nexus of politics, the economy and social psychology remains undertheorized and, sometimes, misunderstood. We employ socio-cognitive theory (SCT) to answer how populism arises (RQ1) and establishes itself as an institution (RQ2). By shedding light on the origin and mechanics of populism’s recursive nature, the logic of “proto-institutions”, which we employ to understand institutional change in the context of populism, helps advance institutional theory within an IB context. Exploring the implications of populism for MNEs helps advance theory on MNE non-market strategies (NMSs) and shed light on MNEs’ corporate political activities. The re-framing of populism as a wicked problem further provides a theoretical toolkit for IB policy research. We present several future research directions for IB and IB policy research, as well as MNE research.
A non-defect precursor gate oxide breakdown model
Authors: Cheung Kin P.
Published: June 2023

Understanding defect creation is central to efforts to comprehend gate dielectric breakdown in metal-oxide-semiconductor-field-effect-transistors (MOSFETs). While gate dielectrics other than SiO2 are now popular, models developed for SiO2 breakdown are used for these dielectrics too. Considering that the Si–O bond is very strong, modeling efforts have focused in ways to weaken it so that defect creation (bond-breaking) is commensurate with experimental observations. So far, bond-breaking models rely on defect-precursors to make the energetics manageable. Here, it is argued that the success of the percolation model for gate oxide breakdown precludes the role of defect precursors in gate oxide breakdown. It is proposed that defect creation involves “normal” Si–O bonds. This new model relies on the fact that hole transport in SiO2 is in the form of a small polaron—meaning that it creates a transient local distortion as it travels. It is this transient distortion that enables normal Si–O bonds to be weakened (albeit transiently) enough that breaking the bonds at a rate commensurate with measurements becomes possible without the help of the externally applied field.
A 4-fold categorical equivalence
Authors: Maresca Ray
Published: June 2023

In this note, we will illuminate some immediate consequences of work done by Reineke in [Algebr. Represent. Theory 16 (2013), no. 5. 1313–1314] that may prove to be useful in the study of elliptic curves. In particular, we will construct an isomorphism between the category of smooth projective curves with a category of quiver Grassmannians. We will use this to provide a 4-fold categorical equivalence between a category of quiver Grassmannians, smooth projective curves, compact Riemann surfaces, and fields of transcendence degree 1 over

C

\mathbb {C}

. We finish with noting that the category of elliptic curves is isomorphic to a category of quiver Grassmannians, whence providing an analytic group structure to a class of quiver Grassmannians.
‘There’s Got to Be a Better Ending than That’: Enacting Agency in Film Adaptations of Romeo and Juliet for Children
Authors: Rowe Rebecca
Published: June 2023

William Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet (1597) is a play that supposedly focuses on young people, yet, when the play is adapted into the family film format, creators make some rather drastic changes for their young audience, changes that are often belittled by scholars and critics alike, especially when the films end happily. The Lion King II (1998) and Gnomeo and Juliet (2011) are perfect examples of how such adaptations can play with genre and audience in significantly more sophisticated ways than scholars often acknowledge. I argue that these films rescript the intergenerational tragedy of Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet in order to show how youth hold the power to change their societies, an empowering message that resonates with the family film format. In this article, I note three major changes that work towards empowering young viewers: First, the films free Shakespeare’s Juliet from her confinement so that she can become an active part in her own society. Second, the films highlight the problem with the parents’ over-protectiveness. Finally, the lovers’ survival shifts the result of their romance from stilted love and uneasy peace to societal change. These accumulating elements suggest that the happy endings do more than simply bowdlerize but rather accomplish the films’ systemic goal of fostering youth agency. Ultimately, my analysis of these films suggests a new interpretation of adaptations of canonical texts made for children that places these changes within wider discussions of childhood instead of bemoaning changes to a centuries-old text.
Assessing cognitive function in longitudinal studies of ageing worldwide: some practical considerations
Authors: De Looze Céline , Feeney Joanne , Seeher Katrin M , Amuthavalli Thiyagarajan Jotheeswaran , Diaz Theresa , Kenny Rose Anne
Published: June 2023

Over 55 million people live with dementia worldwide. With 40% of modifiable risk factors estimated to contribute to dementia, the potential for prevention is high, and preventive measures, at an early stage of cognitive decline, are likely to positively influence future dementia trends. Countries need reliable health data and adequate measurement tools to quantify, monitor and track early changes in cognitive capacity in the general population. Many cognitive tests exist; however, there is no consensus to date about which instruments should be employed, and important variations in measurement have been observed. In this narrative review, we present a number of cognitive tests that have been used in nationally representative population-based longitudinal studies of ageing. Longitudinal panel studies of ageing represent critical platforms towards capturing the process of cognitive ageing and understanding associated risk and protective factors. We highlight optimal measures for use at a population level and for cross-country comparisons, taking into consideration instrument reliability, validity, duration, ease of administration, costs, literacy and numeracy requirements, adaptability to sensory and fine motor impairments and portability to different cultural and linguistic milieux. Drawing upon the strengths and limitations of each of these tests, and the experience gained and lessons learnt from conducting a nationally representative study of ageing, we indicate a comprehensive battery of tests for the assessment of cognitive capacity, designed to facilitate its standardised operationalisation worldwide.
Urinary retention and mydriasis secondary to topical glycopyrronium for axillary hyperhidrosis
Authors: Green Holly Hoshall , Ray Lance , Buchanan Jennie , Matsler Nikolaus
Published: June 2023

Purpose

Glycopyrronium, also known as glycopyrrolate, is an antimuscarinic competitive inhibitor of acetylcholine widely utilized topically for its anticholinergic properties in dermatology. A single topical glycopyrronium tosylate (GT) formulation is available on the market, and prescription of this medication has become increasingly popular among dermatologists. This medication has a relatively notable adverse effect profile and carries risks that patients need to be counseled on before initiation.

A 22-year-old female presented to our emergency department (ED) with a chief complaint of difficulty urinating for 48 hours and blurred vision for 2 weeks. Over the course of a week, she visited the ED once and urgent care multiple times due to complications associated with combination use of GT and cetirizine. Although these clinical effects were reversible, the patient impact in our case was profound given the time, cost, and invasive nature of these visits.

Conclusion

The notable adverse effects of GT should be considered when prescribing this agent.
A-06 Football-playing Youth May Have Lower Baseline TOMM Trial 1 Performance Than Youth In Other Sports
Authors: Baldini D , Ellis-Stockley M , Tupou T A , Steinbaugh A , Flowers J , Alvis W , Hirst R B
Published: June 2023

Purpose

The TOMM assesses whether examinees’ memory performance is valid (Tombaugh, 1996). American football players have increased risk of invalid performance on baseline testing, possibly due to wanting to resume play after injury, and these results have been replicated in collegiate football players. America’s four most popular sports are football, basketball, soccer and baseball. Youth football players remain understudied, and the sports at the highest risk of suboptimal performance are unknown.

Methods

A univariate analysis of covariance examined mean TOMM Trial 1 scores in baseline youth athletes (n=143, 79.9% male), comparing football players (n=79) and non-football players (n=64). Quade’s ANCOVAs also examined soccer, baseball and basketball vs. non-respective sports players, excluding participants who played football (n=42, 23, 23, respectively). Gender was covaried.

Results

Youth athletes in the football group performed significantly worse on TOMM Trial 1 than participants in the non-football group (M=45.96, 47.81, respectively, p=.033). There were no group differences in performance on TOMM Trial 1 in soccer, baseball, and basketball players (p=.33, .35, .38, respectively).

Conclusions

These results indicate that youth athletes who play football may be at a higher risk of suboptimal test performance than other sports, similar to previous findings in older football players. More scrutiny for this population may be necessary during baseline testing in order to ensure the safest return to play possible. Education on concussion effects and the importance of valid baseline testing should also be implemented.
A-07 TOMM Trial 1 Provides Sensitivity Over Rey-15 And Reliable Digit Span In Youth Football Players.
Authors: Baldini D , Flowers J , Eve H , Ellis-Stockley M , Vang L , Steinbaugh A , Hirst R B
Published: June 2023

Purpose

Performance validity testing (PVT) provides information about response bias in neuropsychological testing. Adult football players have increased risk of invalid performance on baseline testing, perhaps due to wanting to resume play following concussion. Youth athletes have shown similar behavior, yet youth football players remain under-studied. This study examined which PVTs have the best utility for youth athletes.

Methods

Three univariate analyses of covariance compared mean baseline test performance on three PVT’s (Rey-15 item test combined, TOMM Trial 1, and Reliable Digit Span) in a youth athlete baseline evaluation sample (n=143, 79.9% male) ages 8-18 (mean=11.94) who played football (n=79) to those who played other sports (n=64). Gender was included as a covariate.

Results

Mean scores on TOMM trial 1 for youth football players were significantly lower than athletes who did not play football (M=45.96, 47.81, respectively, p=.033). There were no group differences on the RDS or Rey-15 item tests (p=.14, .88, respectively). Further, five football players failed TOMM trial 1, compared to one non-football player.

Conclusions

These results may indicate that the TOMM is more sensitive to validity performance in youth football players, compared to RDS and Rey-15. Youth may benefit from increased education on the consequences of premature return to play and importance of optimal performance on baseline testing. Continued research on PVTs for youth may help neuropsychologists make more informed decisions on PVT selection.