bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
An Effective Tag Estimation Method Based upon Artificial Neural Networks and Signal Strength for Anticollision in Radio Frequency Identification Systems
Authors: Alhuthali Shakir A. H. , Murad Mohsin , Tasadduq Imran A. , Awedh Mohammad Hamza , Rushdi Ali M. , Alotaibi Sultan
Published: August 2024

Radio frequency identification (RFID) technology has been widely used in applications such as access control, inventory management, spatial positioning, and object identification. Accurate tag estimation is one of the major challenges in RFID reader systems particularly in areas where large tag populations are to be identified such as shopping carts, warehouse inventory monitoring, and small ruminant farms. This paper proposes a new tag estimation technique employing artificial neural networks (ANNs) and signal strength to read large tag populations. The technique estimates the number of tags through the signal strength of the backscatter channel for efficient implementation of dynamic framed slotted Aloha (DFSA) protocol by analyzing the RN16 and the received signal strength indicator (RSSI). The ANN model is trained using the signal strength of various tag populations and can identify the number of tags with minimal errors. The proposed technique does not require any modification in the tags and is implemented as a minimal software script to be added to the tag estimation module of the reader. The proposed signal strength-ANN model is able to estimate the accurate number of tags thereby improving the performance of the employed DFSA model.
Deciphering the Socio-Ecological Determinants of Contemporary Collective Action in China: Insights from 2010–2016 Panel Data Analysis
Authors: Ma Yiwen , Chen Hao
Published: August 2024

The current study delves into the macro-level driving forces behind collective action in contemporary China, advancing beyond the constraints of previous narrower perspectives by adopting an all-encompassing socio-ecological and cultural approach. Utilizing the CASM-China database and analyzing 2454 socio-ecological indicators, we scrutinize the incidence of conventional, disruptive, and violent collective actions, alongside 11 manually coded triggers. Furthermore, employing panel data spanning from 2010 to 2016 enhances the robustness of our predictor selection, while a principal component analysis reveals a four–factor structure. Significantly, the Modernization dimension (factor 1) predicts both conventional and violent collective actions, correlating with issues such as “education” and “homeowner/property”. The Secondary and Tertiary Industries dimension (factor 2) forecasts disruptive collective action, associated with “pension/welfare” problems. In contrast, the Primary Industry dimension (factor 3) shows a negative correlation with violent and disruptive collective actions, particularly affecting “medical dispute” issues. The Living Condition dimension (factor 4) positively correlates with conventional collective action with various social issues. These findings deepen our comprehension of the intricate interplay between socio-cultural and ecological factors and collective action in China, offering new pathways for future research.
Vicarious vs experiential information in the consumer’s construal level on imported food safety risk perception
Authors: Choi Jae Chul
Published: August 2024

Consumers acquire information about the imported food safety risks through distal channels such as the Internet versus proximal channels such as direct experience, and these channels influence the consumer perception of safety. However, the empirical analysis of the sources of information (distal–proximal) channels is second to none. This article explores whether direct experience with imported food induces different levels of safety risks compared to distal information through social media. Based on the Construal Level Theory (CLT), the study examines consumer responses in a survey involving 500 respondents out of 1000 distributed in South Korea, using high-level construal (vicarious information) versus a low-level construal (direct experience) framework to assess food safety risk perception. We narrowed the imported food from China to South Korea to obtain a robust analysis. Our analysis shows that vicarious (distal) sources of information increase perceived food safety risks in the minds of the consumer, while direct experience (proximity) decreases food safety risks. In a supplementary analysis, those respondents who had visited China exhibited lower levels of food safety risk of the imported food. We infer that the lower-level construal (experience) mediates the effects of higher-level construal (indirect, social media) on the imported food safety risk. However, the correlation is nonlinear, explaining why some studies find proximity while others find distance in correlation with the food safety risk. In a contribution to the literature, this study answers a longstanding question regarding international business in food supplies, supports the CLT framework, and offers a policy recommendation for both Korea and China to enhance their information channels to counteract misinformation.
An evaluation of the use of plastic waste in the manufacture of plastic bricks
Authors: Rauniyar Abishek , Nakrani Rinkal Kishor , Narpala Saketh Reddy , Nehaun  , Arun Sija
Published: August 2024

An integrated analysis is performed for the present study, including an evaluation of the mechanical and durability properties of plastic brick, a cost-effectiveness analysis, and an eco-benefit analysis of recycling plastic waste into bricks. To promote sustainable construction practices, pp waste is used in plastic brick to replace waste material often discarded in landfills and burned. This study involved the preparation of 36 (230 mm × 110 mm × 90 mm) bricks. Modified fly ash containing 40, and 45% of the cement weight was incorporated into the samples. There is an increase in waste production among the Indian population. Some of these wastes pose a threat to the environment. There is also a significant amount of plastic waste in the country. Even though it is not biodegradable, it poisons trees and aquatic organisms. Thus, waste plastics were repurposed for use in the construction industry. Cement, fly ash, M sand, and plastic waste fibers are used to make plastic bricks. Polypropylene (PP) has a high deformation capacity and is a cost-effective material. Plastic waste is used in this study in the form of polypropylene fibers. To produce the bricks, different mix ratios were used in which PP waste was used in proportions of 5%, 10%, and 15% (represented as Mix1, Mix2, and Mix3), based on the total mixing of the polycarbonate substance volume of bricks. The purpose of this study is to investigate the feasibility of utilizing plastic wastes to produce a cost-effective and lightweight plastic brick for use in construction. Compressive strength, water absorption, soundness, efflorescence, and hardness tests were carried out on the bricks. The compressive strength of mix 2 at a load of 426 kg is the highest of the three plastic bricks tested. A comparison of this proportion with other mix proportions and conventional brick effectiveness.
Barriers and enablers to engagement with a type 2 diabetes remission project in the North East of England: qualitative perspectives of patients
Authors: Boocock Ruth C. , Haste Anna , Moore Helen J. , Lake Amelia A.
Published: August 2024

This qualitative research sought to identify factors influencing patient choice of, and patient-related internal and external enablers and barriers to engagement with, type 2 diabetes (T2D) remission strategies offered by the Remission in diabetes (REMI.D) project. Patients had a choice of three diets: Total Diet Replacement (TDR)-Formula Food Products, TDR-Food, and Healthy lifestyle approach; and three activity pathways: Everyday life, General Practitioner referral, and Social hub. Semi-structured interviews were recorded and transcribed. Thematic analysis used the Framework Method and NVivo 12 to assist with generation and organisation of codes, inductive and deductive (Theoretical Domains Framework). The REMI.D project was a place-based approach (place in this case being defined as two local authorities with significant rates of deprivation) situated in the North East of England. Twenty patients out of a possible 65 patients took part. Areas of interest included: patient choice, patient intention, patient adherence, patient non-adherence, and patient stigma. Addition of a more moderate dietary strategy (not dissimilar to the diet in the Healthier You NHS Diabetes Prevention Programme) to the existing NHS England T2D Path to Remission programme may enable more patients to achieve remission or delayed progression with deprescribing of diabetes medications. Embedding a tailored physical activity path within or as a bolt-on to the NHS programme requires consideration. Limited resources should be targeted towards patients who identify with more barriers or fewer opportunities for health behaviour modification. Further research on use of virtual programmes in deprived areas is warranted.
Quality of couple relationship and associated factors in parents of NICU-cared infants during the first year after birth
Authors: Persson Christine , Ericson Jenny , Eriksson Mats , Salari Raziye , Flacking Renée
Published: August 2024

Objective

To describe factors associated with quality of couple relationships among parents of infants cared for in neonatal intensive care units (NICUs) 1 year after birth and examine the trajectory of the relationship quality compared to parents from maternity units (MUs).

Study design

Longitudinally comparative cohort design. Parents answered surveys during the first year after discharge about the couple relationship, social support, and depressive symptoms.

Results

Better social support and a hospital stay of 7–14 days were positively associated with the couple relationship in NICU mothers, whereas not having slept together with the partner and infant during hospitalization were negatively associated. Depressive symptoms were negatively associated with the relationship among NICU fathers. There were no differences in trajectory of the relationship quality between NICU and MU parents.

Conclusion

To strengthen couple relationships, it could be important to improve social support, facilitate space and time for support, and enable togetherness during hospitalization.
Translucency and colour masking ability of hybrid CAD/CAM materials with different thicknesses: in vitro study
Authors: Tolba Zeinab Omar , Hassanien Eman Ezzat Youssef
Published: August 2024

Objective

To evaluate effect of material thickness and translucency of two different hybrid CAD/CAM materials on their masking ability.

Materials and Methods

40 rectangular-shaped specimens (12 × 14 mm) were obtained from Vita Enamic and Grandio blocks at 0.5 and 1 mm-thick (n = 10/group). Colour parameters of specimens were measured on PMMA tooth-coloured replica backgrounds (A2, C4) and black, white backings using dental spectrophotometer. Translucency parameter (TP) and masking ability (∆E00) values of tested materials with 0.5, and 1 mm thicknesses were calculated. Quantitative variables were compared between groups using student t-test.

Results

TP and ∆E00 significantly decreased as thickness of tested materials increased. Grandio showed significantly higher TP values. There were significantly lower ΔE00 values for Vita Enamic compared to Grandio at 1 mm thickness and inversely insignificant at 0.5 mm. The 0.5 mm-thick ∆E00 of tested materials was above clinical acceptability threshold, whereas, 1 mm-thick did not exceed showing better masking properties.

Conclusions

Thickness is more effective for colour masking than translucency. In thin thickness, the masking ability is less effective, irrespective of tested materials. Translucency of tested materials was affected by their composition. Both hybrid CAD/CAM materials are promising alternatives for masking dark discolouration at 1 mm-thick.
A national survey of the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on training and wellbeing of restorative and mono-speciality specialist trainees in the UK and Ireland
Authors: Mylonas Petros , Spicer Olivia , Chin Jann Siew
Published: August 2024

Introduction COVID-19 emergency and associated measures across the UK and Ireland during the first and third waves of the pandemic disrupted mainstream dental services and training across all specialties.

Aims Investigate the effect of COVID-19 pandemic on training, mental health and wellbeing of specialty trainees (STs) in restorative dentistry and associated mono-specialities across the United Kingdom and Ireland.

Materials and methods A cross-sectional survey was conducted exploring experiences of STs in restorative dentistry, prosthodontics, endodontics and periodontics (n = 101) across the United Kingdom and Ireland during the first (March 2020) and third (July 2021) waves of the pandemic. Results were analysed quantitatively and qualitatively.

Results In total, 28 postgraduate trainees responded, yielding a 28% response rate. STs reported perceived impact on their training in March 2020 and July 2021, with some redeployed to urgent dental care duties in this time period. STs reported reduction in speciality-level clinical activities and a negative impact on mental health and wellbeing in both March 2020 and July 2021. A total of 12 STs felt COVID-19 negatively impacted their future careers.

Conclusion The COVID-19 pandemic negatively impacted clinical training and mental health of STs in restorative dentistry and associated mono-specialities across the United Kingdom and Ireland. Increased flexibility and accounting for lost clinical activities could have improved ST morale and wellbeing.
Rupatadine-inhibited OTUD3 promotes DLBCL progression and immune evasion through deubiquitinating MYL12A and PD-L1
Authors: Sui Ying , Shen Ziyang , Li Xiaoyou , Lu Ya , Feng SiTong , Ma Rong , Wu Jianzhong , Jing Changwen , Wang Zhuo , Feng Jifeng , Cao Haixia
Published: August 2024

The obstacle to effectively treating Diffuse Large B-cell Lymphoma (DLBCL) lies in the resistance observed toward standard therapies. Identifying therapeutic targets that prove effective for relapsed or refractory patients poses a significant challenge. OTUD3, a deubiquitinase enzyme, is overexpressed in DLBCL tissues. However, its role in DLBCL has not been investigated. Our study has brought to light the multifaceted impact of OTUD3 in DLBCL. Not only does it enhance cell survival through the deubiquitination of MYL12A, but it also induces CD8+ T cell exhaustion within the local environment by deubiquitinating PD-L1. Our findings indicate that the OTUD3 inhibitor, Rupatadine, exerts its influence through competitive binding with OTUD3. This operation diminishes the deubiquitination of both MYL12A and PD-L1 by OTUD3. This research unveils the central and oncogenic role of OTUD3 in DLBCL and highlights the potential clinical application value of the OTUD3 inhibitor, Rupatadine. These findings contribute valuable insights into addressing the challenges of resistant DLBCL cases and offer a promising avenue for further clinical exploration.
Preserving a qubit during state-destroying operations on an adjacent qubit at a few micrometers distance
Authors: Motlakunta Sainath , Kotibhaskar Nikhil , Shih Chung-You , Vogliano Anthony , McLaren Darian , Hahn Lewis , Zhu Jingwen , Hablützel Roland , Islam Rajibul
Published: August 2024

Protecting qubits from accidental measurements is essential for controlled quantum operations, especially during state-destroying measurements or resets on adjacent qubits, in protocols like quantum error correction. Current methods to preserve atomic qubits against such disturbances waste coherence time, extra qubits, and introduce additional errors. We demonstrate the feasibility of in-situ state-reset and state-measurement of trapped ions, achieving  >99.9% fidelity in preserving an ‘asset’ ion-qubit while a neighboring ‘process’ qubit is reset, and  >99.6% preservation fidelity while applying a detection beam for 11 μs on the same neighbor at a distance of 6 μm. This is achieved through precise wavefront control of addressing optical beams and using a single ion as both a quantum sensor for optical aberrations and an intensity probe with  >50 dB dynamic range. Our demonstrations advance quantum processors, enhancing speed and capabilities for tasks like quantum simulations of dissipation and measurement-driven phases, and implementing error correction.
Multiple temperatures and melting of a colloidal active crystal
Authors: Massana-Cid Helena , Maggi Claudio , Gnan Nicoletta , Frangipane Giacomo , Di Leonardo Roberto
Published: August 2024

Thermal fluctuations constantly excite all relaxation modes in an equilibrium crystal. As the temperature rises, these fluctuations promote the formation of defects and eventually melting. In active solids, the self-propulsion of “atomic” units provides an additional source of non-equilibrium fluctuations whose effect on the melting scenario is still largely unexplored. Here we show that when a colloidal crystal is activated by a bath of swimming bacteria, solvent temperature and active temperature cooperate to define dynamic and thermodynamic properties. Our system consists of repulsive paramagnetic particles confined in two dimensions and immersed in a bath of light-driven E. coli. The relative balance between fluctuations and interactions can be adjusted in two ways: by changing the strength of the magnetic field and by tuning activity with light. When the persistence time of active fluctuations is short, a single effective temperature controls both the amplitudes of relaxation modes and the melting transition. For more persistent active noise, energy equipartition is broken and multiple temperatures emerge, whereas melting occurs before the Lindemann parameter reaches its equilibrium critical value. We show that this phenomenology is fully confirmed by numerical simulations and framed within a minimal model of a single active particle in a periodic potential.
Convergent direct and indirect cortical streams shape avoidance decisions in mice via the midline thalamus
Authors: Ma Jun , O’Malley John J. , Kreiker Malaz , Leng Yan , Khan Isbah , Kindel Morgan , Penzo Mario A.
Published: August 2024

Current concepts of corticothalamic organization in the mammalian brain are mainly based on sensory systems, with less focus on circuits for higher-order cognitive functions. In sensory systems, first-order thalamic relays are driven by subcortical inputs and modulated by cortical feedback, while higher-order relays receive strong excitatory cortical inputs. The applicability of these principles beyond sensory systems is uncertain. We investigated mouse prefronto-thalamic projections to the midline thalamus, revealing distinct top-down control. Unlike sensory systems, this pathway relies on indirect modulation via the thalamic reticular nucleus (TRN). Specifically, the prelimbic area, which influences emotional and motivated behaviors, impacts instrumental avoidance responses through direct and indirect projections to the paraventricular thalamus. Both pathways promote defensive states, but the indirect pathway via the TRN is essential for organizing avoidance decisions through disinhibition. Our findings highlight intra-thalamic circuit dynamics that integrate cortical cognitive signals and their role in shaping complex behaviors.
Targeting fatty acid oxidation enhances response to HER2-targeted therapy
Authors: Nandi Ipshita , Ji Linjia , Smith Harvey W. , Avizonis Daina , Papavasiliou Vasilios , Lavoie Cynthia , Pacis Alain , Attalla Sherif , Sanguin-Gendreau Virginie , Muller William J.
Published: August 2024

Metabolic reprogramming, a hallmark of tumorigenesis, involves alterations in glucose and fatty acid metabolism. Here, we investigate the role of Carnitine palmitoyl transferase 1a (Cpt1a), a key enzyme in long-chain fatty acid (LCFA) oxidation, in ErbB2-driven breast cancers. In ErbB2+ breast cancer models, ablation of Cpt1a delays tumor onset, growth, and metastasis. However, Cpt1a-deficient cells exhibit increased glucose dependency that enables survival and eventual tumor progression. Consequently, these cells exhibit heightened oxidative stress and upregulated nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2) activity. Inhibiting Nrf2 or silencing its expression reduces proliferation and glucose consumption in Cpt1a-deficient cells. Combining the ketogenic diet, composed of LCFAs, or an anti-ErbB2 monoclonal antibody (mAb) with Cpt1a deficiency significantly perturbs tumor growth, enhances apoptosis, and reduces lung metastasis. Using an immunocompetent model, we show that Cpt1a inhibition promotes an antitumor immune microenvironment, thereby enhancing the efficacy of anti-ErbB2 mAbs. Our findings underscore the importance of targeting fatty acid oxidation alongside HER2-targeted therapies to combat resistance in HER2+ breast cancer patients.
Mass vaccination with reassortment-impaired live H9N2 avian influenza vaccine
Authors: Cargnin Faccin Flavio , Cáceres C. Joaquin , Gay L. Claire , Seibert Brittany , van Bentem Nick , Rodriguez Luis A. , Soares Fraiha Ana Luiza , Cardenas Matias , Geiger Ginger , Ortiz Lucia , Carnaccini Silvia , Kapczynski Darrell R. , Rajao Daniela S. , Perez Daniel R.
Published: August 2024

Avian influenza poses a severe threat to poultry production and global food security, prompting the development of vaccination programs in numerous countries. Modified live virus (MLV) vaccines, with their potential for mass application, offer a distinct advantage over existing options. However, concerns surrounding reversion, recombination, and unintended transmission have hindered the progress of MLV development for avian influenza in poultry. To address these concerns, we engineered reassortment-impaired, non-transmissible, safe, immunogenic, and protective MLVs through the rearrangement of internal gene segments and additional modifications to the surface gene segments HA and NA. The unique peptide marker aspartic acid-arginine-proline-alanine-valine-isoleucine-alanine-asparragine (DRPAVIAN) was incorporated into HA, while NA was modified to encode the chicken interleukin-18 (ckIL18) gene (MLV-H9N2-IL). In vitro, the MLV-H9N2 and MLV-H9N2-IL candidates demonstrated stability and virus titers comparable to the wild-type H9N2 strain. In chickens, the MLV-H9N2 and MLV-H9N2-IL candidates did not transmit via direct contact. Co-infection studies with wild-type virus confirmed that the altered HA and NA segments exhibited fitness disadvantages and did not reassort. Vaccinated chickens showed no clinical signs upon vaccination, all seroconverted, and the inclusion of ckIL18 in the MLV-H9N2-IL vaccine enhanced neutralizing antibody production. A significant decrease in viral loads post-challenge underscored the protective effect of the MLVs. The MLV-H9N2-IL vaccine, administered via drinking water, proved immunogenic in chickens in a dose-dependent manner, generating protective levels of neutralizing antibodies upon aggressive homologous virus challenge. In summary, this study lays the groundwork for safe MLVs against avian influenza suitable for mass vaccination efforts.
Esoteric beliefs and CAM impact SARS-CoV-2 immunization drivers, uptake and pediatric immunization views in Germany
Authors: Jäckle Sebastian , Timmis James K.
Published: August 2024

Recent studies demonstrate that sociopolitical attitudes partially explain variance in (SARS-CoV-2) vaccine hesitancy and uptake. Other attitudes, such as those towards esoteric beliefs, complementary and alternative medicine (CAM), and religion, have also been proposed. However, pertinent studies provide limited direction for public health efforts, as the impact of such attitudes has been tested in isolation or on different outcomes. Moreover, related associations between SARS-CoV-2 immunization drivers as well as views towards other modes of immunization (e.g., routine pediatric immunization), remain unclear. Based on a sample of ~7400 survey participants (Germany), where esoteric belief systems and CAM (Waldorf, homeopathy) are rather prevalent, and controlling for other sociological factors, we found that (i) individuals with positive attitudes towards Waldorf education and homeopathy are significantly less likely to have received a (further) dose of SARS-CoV-2 vaccine compared to those with positive views of mainstream medicine; (ii) for the former, immunization decisions are primarily driven by external pressures, and for the latter overwhelmingly by voluntary considerations; (iii) attitudes influencing adult SARS-CoV-2 vaccine uptake similarly influence views towards routine pediatric immunization. Our findings provide significant evidence informing a more nuanced design of public health and communication campaigns, and pertinent policies.
Unveiling teleconnection drivers for heatwave prediction in South Korea using explainable artificial intelligence
Authors: Lee Yeonsu , Cho Dongjin , Im Jungho , Yoo Cheolhee , Lee Joonlee , Ham Yoo-Geun , Lee Myong-In
Published: August 2024

Increasing heatwave intensity and mortality demand timely and accurate heatwave prediction. The present study focused on teleconnection, the influence of distant land and ocean variability on local weather events, to drive long-term heatwave predictions. The complexity of teleconnection poses challenges for physical-based prediction models. In this study, we employed a machine learning model and explainable artificial intelligence to identify the teleconnection drivers for heatwaves in South Korea. Drivers were selected based on their statistical significance with annual heatwave frequency ( | R | > 0.3, p < 0.05). Our analysis revealed that two snow depth (SD) variabilities—a decrease in the Gobi Desert and increase in the Tianshan Mountains—are the most important and predictive teleconnection drivers. These drivers exhibit a high correlation with summer climate conditions conducive to heatwaves. Our study lays the groundwork for further research into understanding land–atmosphere interactions over these two SD regions and their significant impact on heatwave patterns in South Korea.
Multimodal dynamic luminescence of self-activated Na2CaGe2O6 phosphor via defect manipulation
Authors: Zhu Nannan , Wang Ting , Guo Longchao , Zhu Xuanyu , Bu Weifang , Yue Yang , Yu Xue
Published: August 2024

A multi-mode dynamic optical output for anti-counterfeiting and information encryption with the as-explored self-activated phosphor is achieved.
Quercetin-loaded nanoarchaeosomes for breast cancer therapy: a ROS mediated cell death mechanism
Authors: Ariraman Subastri , Seetharaman Abirami , Babunagappan Kaviya Vijayalakshmi , Sudhakar Swathi
Published: August 2024

Quercetin-loaded nanoarchaeosomes showed significant cell death in the breast cancer cell line MCF-7 through the generation of reactive oxygen species (ROS).
Boosting the performance of microbial fuel cells fed with partially treated buffalo milkmaid wastewater using modified CC/Co anodes: bacterial activity insights
Authors: Abotaleb Ahmed , Saleh Ahmed Mahmoud , Ali Shehab E. , Barakat Nasser A. M. , EL-Shatoury Sahar , Shaltout Amina , El Shahawy Abeer
Published: August 2024

Open circuit voltage for all assembled M.F.C.s.
Demand response potential evaluation based on feature fusion with expert knowledge and multi‐image
Authors: Liu Jiale , Cai Xinlei , Meng Zijie , Jin Xin , Cheng Zhangying , Pan Tingzhe
Published: August 2024

Potential evaluation to assist demand response decisions has garnered significant attention with the development of new power systems. However, existing data‐driven methods are challenging to properly exploit multivariate features and the process of response potential evaluation is unclear. Therefore, the authors propose an evaluation method that fuses expert features with multi‐image inputs and analyses the model evaluation process based on gradient. First, typical load profiles are extracted by the proposed procedure. Next, features derived from expert knowledge are calculated from the perspectives of adjustability, regularity, and sensitivity of electricity usage. Additionally, the typical load profile's recurrence plot, Markov leapfrog field, and Gramian angle field are created and incorporated into the colourful image as inputs. Then, the evaluation results are obtained by a two‐stream neural network fusing multivariate features. In the experiments, the proposed method is validated and discussed by comparing with many existing methods using London household users' data under the time‐of‐use price, providing new insights for demand response potential evaluation.
VLTI/GRAVITY interferometric measurements of the innermost dust structure sizes around active galactic nuclei
Authors:   GRAVITY Collaboration:, Amorim A. , Bourdarot G. , Brandner W. , Cao Y. , Clénet Y. , Davies R. , de Zeeuw P. T. , Dexter J. , Drescher A. , Eckart A. , Eisenhauer F. , Fabricius M. , Feuchtgruber H. , Förster Schreiber N. M. , Garcia P. J. V. , Genzel R. , Gillessen S. , Gratadour D. , Hönig S. , Kishimoto M. , Lacour S. , Lutz D. , Millour F. , Netzer H. , Ott T. , Perraut K. , Perrin G. , Peterson B. M. , Petrucci P. O. , Pfuhl O. , Prieto A. , Rabien S. , Rouan D. , Santos D. J. D. , Shangguan J. , Shimizu T. , Sternberg A. , Straubmeier C. , Sturm E. , Tacconi L. J. , Tristram K. R. W. , Widmann F. , Woillez J.
Published: August 2024

We present new Very Large Telescope Interferometer (VLTI)/GRAVITY near-infrared interferometric measurements of the angular size of the innermost hot dust continuum for 14 type 1 active galactic nuclei (AGNs). The angular sizes are resolved on scales of ∼0.7 mas and the inferred ring radii range from 0.028 to 1.33 pc, comparable to those reported previously and a factor of 10−20 smaller than the mid-infrared sizes in the literature. Combining our new data with previously published values, we compiled a sample of 25 AGNs with bolometric luminosity ranging from 1042 to 1047 erg s−1, with which we studied the radius-luminosity (R − L) relation for the hot dust structure. Our interferometric measurements of radius are offset by a factor of 2 from the equivalent relation derived through reverberation mapping. Using a simple model to explore the dust structure’s geometry, we conclude that this offset can be explained if the 2 μm emitting surface has a concave shape. Our data show that the slope of the relation is in line with the canonical R ∝ L0.5 when using an appropriately non-linear correction for bolometric luminosity. In contrast, using optical luminosity or applying a constant bolometric correction to it results in a significant deviation in the slope, suggesting a potential luminosity dependence on the spectral energy distribution. Over four orders of magnitude in luminosity, the intrinsic scatter around the R − L relation is 0.2 dex, suggesting a tight correlation between the innermost hot dust structure size and the AGN luminosity.
The eventful life of GS-z14-0, the most distant galaxy at redshift z = 14.32
Authors: Ferrara A.
Published: August 2024

We developed a model for the star formation history (SFH) of super-early galaxies and applied it to GS-z14-0, the most distant galaxy known, located at z = 14.32 (294 million years after the Big Bang). The SFH, starting at z = 26.7, is complex. Initially (z > 18), the galaxy experiences feedback-regulated phases that are bursty, relatively faint (reaching MUV = −18.4), and unattenuated. When dust shielding allows for a smooth star formation rate (SFR), the galaxy quickly becomes heavily obscured. During this obscured phase, which lasts for approximately 20% of the total star-forming time, 70% of the observed stars are formed. Super-early galaxies in this phase should be detectable by ALMA. Twenty-six million years before observation, as the galaxy becomes super-Eddington, a powerful radiation-driven outflow clears most of the dust and significantly reduces the SFR by a factor of seven, from 100 → 15 M⊙ yr−1. The galaxy transitions into a “blue monster” dominating the bright end of the UV luminosity function. When the outflow ceases due to decreased dust opacity, the galaxy relaxes into a post-starburst phase, in which it is currently observed. Our model accurately reproduces all the observed and inferred properties of the galaxy. The analysis of this extreme system opens exciting opportunities for studying the beginnings of the luminous Universe.
Spectroscopic survey of faint planetary-nebula nuclei
Authors: Reindl Nicole , Bond Howard E. , Werner Klaus , Zeimann Gregory R.
Published: August 2024

We present an analysis of 17 H-rich central stars of planetary nebulae (PNe) observed in our spectroscopic survey of nuclei of faint Galactic PNe carried out at the 10-m Hobby-Eberly Telescope. Our sample includes ten O(H) stars, four DAO white dwarfs (WDs), two DA WDs, and one sdOB star. The spectra were analyzed by means of NLTE model atmospheres, allowing us to derive the effective temperatures, surface gravities, and He abundances of the central stars. Sixteen of them were analyzed for the first time, increasing the number of hot H-rich central stars with parameters obtained through NLTE atmospheric modeling by approximately 20%. We highlight a rare hot DA WD central star, Abell 24, which has a Teff likely in excess of 100 kK, as well as the unusually high gravity mass of 0.70 ± 0.05 M⊙ for the sdOB star Pa 3, which is significantly higher than the canonical extreme horizontal-branch star mass of ≈0.48 M⊙. By investigating Zwicky Transient Facility light curves, which were available for our 15 northern objects, we found none of them show a periodic photometric variability larger than a few hundredths of a magnitude. This could indicate that our sample mainly represents the hottest phase during the canonical evolution of a single star when transitioning from an asymptotic giant branch star into a WD. We also examined the spectral energy distributions, detecting an infrared excess in six of the objects, which could be due to a late-type companion or to hot (≈103 K) and/or cool (≈100 K) dust. We confirm previous findings that spectroscopic distances are generally higher than found through Gaia astrometry, a discrepancy that deserves to be investigated systematically.
Research on detection technology of photolysis rate of atmospheric trace gases
Authors: Liu Zhihong , Si Fuqi , Li Haoran , Song Runze
Published: August 2024

A detection system for measuring the optical velocity of trace gases was built based on a micro-spectrometer, including an optical receiver, a radiation calibration system, a spectrometer system, and a host computer software. Using Python language and PyQt5 framework, the system’s host computer software was designed and developed, including the data collection and spectrometer control module storage module, and the real-time data display module for online continuous monitoring of the photolysis rate. Through field experiments, the photolysis rates of NO2, O3, H2O2, HONO, and HCHO were measured and inverted. The photolysis rate measurement results were compared and verified with a standard instrument ( UF-CCD photolysis spectrometer produced by Metcon, Germany ). The results show that the photolysis rate measurement system and the standard instrument results are linearly fitted, and R 2 is both higher than 0.90. At the same time, the diurnal variation patterns of NO2, HONO, and H2O2 were analyzed. The results showed that the pattern of gas photolysis rate was consistent with changes in solar radiation intensity. The gas photolysis rate gradually increased in the morning, reached a peak at noon, and then reached a peak in the afternoon. gradually decreases. By analyzing the uncertainty of the system, the total system error is approximately 5.07 %. The feasibility and measurement accuracy of the developed photolysis rate measurement system were verified.
Study of seepage patterns and calculation of infiltration coefficients of loose stacked layers on slopes under rainfall action
Authors: He Chengcheng
Published: August 2024

Rainfall is one of the most important factors inducing landslide occurrence, and previous researchers have carefully studied the stages of rainfall infiltration as well as the factors that affect infiltration (e.g., rainfall intensity, rainfall duration, initial water content and dry density). However, previous studies using homogeneous soils were overly idealised and ignored the effects of water content and dry density on infiltration, which vary with depth. In this paper, based on indoor rainfall infiltration tests under the above initial conditions and influencing factors, the following patterns were found: (1) dry density and water content of natural soils tend to increase along the direction of gravity under long-term gravity and repeated rainfall evapotranspiration; (2) stepped dry density increases infiltration resistance, which increases the total response time; stepped initial water content decreases infiltration water volume, which decreases the total response time; stepped dry density and water content have the shortest total response time;(3) The increase in dry density delayed the sudden change point in the permeability coefficient, and the initial moisture content had little effect on the sudden change point.
Temporal-spatio Changes of Vegetation Cover and Its Relationship with Terrain Factors in Jinzhai County
Authors: Dong Chuanbin , Lituanas Chris Rey M.
Published: August 2024

By monitoring and studying changes in vegetation coverage, we can assess the stability and biodiversity of ecosystems, and promptly identify changes and issues in the ecological environment. This study was based on Landsat data and selects data from 2003 to 2023, including 2003, 2007, 2011, 120, 152, 2019, and 2023.The pixel binary model was used to calculate the vegetation coverage of Jinzhai County for the past 20 years and 6 periods. Combining trend analysis to study the temporal-spatio changes characteristics of vegetation cover in Jinzhai County. Combining DEM data and distribution index methods to explore the relationship between vegetation coverage and terrain factors. Results showed that: (1) The vegetation cover in Jinzhai County showed an overall increasing trend, mainly with MH-FVC and H-FVC. (2) The vegetation coverage was closely related to terrain factors. With the continuous increase of elevation and slope, the vegetation coverage in Jinzhai County continues to increase.
Gastrointestinal Bleeding as a Clinical Manifestation of Strongyloides stercoralis Hyperinfection in a Patient with HIV: A Case Report
Authors: Badaró Pedro Felipe Miranda , Machado Cláudia de Abreu Cardoso , de Freitas Luiz Antônio Rodrigues , Branco Renata Dias Araujo , da Silva Bruno César
Published: August 2024

Strongyloidiasis, caused by the nematode Strongyloides stercoralis, is an often neglected parasitic disease, with deeper prevalence in tropical and subtropical regions. This parasitic infection can range from asymptomatic to symptomatic, with nonspecific manifestations, including gastrointestinal symptoms. Herein, we reported the case of an human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)-positive patient, under effective antiretroviral treatment with a normal CD4 count, who was hospitalized due to gastrointestinal bleeding. The diagnosis of strongyloidiasis hyperinfection was confirmed following endoscopic biopsies of both the gastric and duodenal mucosa. Subsequently, a treatment regimen of ivermectin at a dosage of 200 mcg/kg/day for a duration of 14 days was initiated, leading to notable amelioration in the patient's clinical presentation. In considering the differential diagnosis of gastrointestinal bleeding, it is crucial to explore various possibilities, including peptic ulcers, portal hypertension, and cancer. Among immunocompromised individuals like those with HIV, chronic infection can compromise the Th2 immune response, which is pivotal in combating helminthic infections. This underscores the importance of remembering intestinal parasitosis, particularly strongyloidiasis, in such cases. Even in patients with preserved CD4 counts, careful evaluation for opportunistic infections in HIV-positive individuals is paramount. Early initiation of treatment is essential to mitigate the risk of serious complications.
Spatiotemporally controlled microvortices provide advanced microfluidic components
Authors: Saito Makoto , Arai Fumihito , Yamanishi Yoko , Sakuma Shinya
Published: August 2024

Microvortices are emerging components that impart functionality to microchannels by exploiting inertia effects such as high shear stress, effective fluid diffusion, and large pressure loss. Exploring the dynamic generation of vortices further expands the scope of microfluidic applications, including cell stimulation, fluid mixing, and transport. Despite the crucial role of vortices’ development within sub-millisecond timescales, previous studies in microfluidics did not explore the modulation of the Reynolds number (Re) in the range of several hundred. In this study, we modulated high-speed flows (54 <

Re

< 456) within sub-millisecond timescales using a piezo-driven on-chip membrane pump. By applying this method to microchannels with asymmetric geometries, we successfully controlled the spatiotemporal development of vortices, adjusting their behavior in response to oscillatory flow directions. These different vortices induced different pressure losses, imparting the microchannels with direction-dependent flow resistance, mimicking a diode-like behavior. Through precise control of vortex development, we managed to regulate this direction-dependent resistance, enabling the rectification of oscillatory flow resembling a diode and the ability to switch its rectification direction. This component facilitated bidirectional flow control without the need for mechanical valves. Moreover, we demonstrated its application in microfluidic cell pipetting, enabling the isolation of single cells. Consequently, based on modulating high-speed flow, our approach offers precise control over the spatiotemporal development of vortices in microstructures, thereby introducing innovative microfluidic functionalities.
Do moral values change with the seasons?
Authors: Hohm Ian , O’Shea Brian A. , Schaller Mark
Published: August 2024

Moral values guide consequential attitudes and actions. Here, we report evidence of seasonal variation in Americans’ endorsement of some—but not all—moral values. Studies 1 and 2 examined a decade of data from the United States (total N = 232,975) and produced consistent evidence of a biannual seasonal cycle in values pertaining to loyalty, authority, and purity (“binding” moral values)—with strongest endorsement in spring and autumn and weakest endorsement in summer and winter—but not in values pertaining to care and fairness (“individualizing” moral values). Study 2 also provided some evidence that the summer decrease, but not the winter decrease, in binding moral value endorsement was stronger in regions with greater seasonal extremity. Analyses on an additional year of US data (study 3; n = 24,199) provided further replication and showed that this biannual seasonal cycle cannot be easily dismissed as a sampling artifact. Study 4 provided a partial explanation for the biannual seasonal cycle in Americans’ endorsement of binding moral values by showing that it was predicted by an analogous seasonal cycle in Americans’ experience of anxiety. Study 5 tested the generalizability of the primary findings and found similar seasonal cycles in endorsement of binding moral values in Canada and Australia (but not in the United Kingdom). Collectively, results from these five studies provide evidence that moral values change with the seasons, with intriguing implications for additional outcomes that can be affected by those values (e.g., intergroup prejudices, political attitudes, legal judgments).
Excitation of soliton like structures in radio-frequency capacitively coupled plasmas
Authors: Elbadawy A , Elkamash I S , El-Siragy N M , Shihab M
Published: August 2024

In this study, we examine the kinetics of radio-frequency capacitively coupled plasma discharges using the Particle-In-Cell method. Plasma is generated by applying two radiofrequencies (60 MHz and 1MHz), which results in the formation of a plasma sheath in the entire discharge region with electron density that oscillates between the two electrodes. However, ions remain relatively stationary. By increasing the gas pressure and radio-frequency power, or replacing helium gas with argon gas, a neutral discharge region known as the plasma bulk is formed. In this neutral discharge regime, electrons oscillate only in the sheath. Prior to the formation of the plasma bulk, the discharge is referred to as a non-neutral discharge, in which soliton-like electron structures are present. An analytical model is presented to interpret the simulation results, and the Korteweg-de Vries equations predicted the existence of damped electron- and ion-soliton-like structures. In the non-neutral discharge regime, supersonic electron solitons can be observed when the driven radio-frequency is much smaller than the electron plasma frequency. Supersonic ion soliton-like structures are present in the non-neutral discharge generated via radio-frequencies comparable to or smaller than the ion plasma frequency.
Authenticated hierarchical quantum state sharing based on non-maximally entangled states
Authors: Zhou Tianai , Chen Xiu-Bo , Xu Gang , Guo Ying
Published: August 2024

Hierarchical quantum state sharing (HQSTS) provides a way for the quantum state from one party to another among multiple parties asymmetrically. In the process, it is necessary to ensure the legitimacy and authenticity of participants to defend against attacks caused by neglecting authentication. Hence, we propose a three-phase probabilistic HQSTS protocol with identity authentication. Firstly, the legitimacy of participants is verified in the identity authentication phase, which effectively prevents impersonation and deception. Secondly, the sender Alice sends the target quantum state to three agents asymmetrically, which implies that there is a hierarchy of agents regarding their ability to recover the secret state. The high authority agent can recover the state without the cooperation of all agents, while the low authority agent has to recover the state with the cooperation of all agents. Thirdly, based on the non-maximally entangled cluster states, the sharing of the arbitrary three-qubit states is realized, which increases the amount of information transmitted. Using the Qiskit framework, the quantum circuit and simulation results for a particular case are given to verify the feasibility and correctness of our protocol. Moreover, the security of the protocol is analyzed from the perspective of both internal and external attacks.
Minimal model for chirally induced spin selectivity: spin-orbit coupling, tunneling and decoherence
Authors: Mena Miguel , Varela Solmar , Berche Bertrand , Medina Ernesto
Published: August 2024

Here we review a universal model for chirally induced spin-selectivity (CISS) as a standalone effect occurring in chiral molecules. We tie together the results of forward scattering in the gas phase to the results for photoelectrons in chiral self-assembled monolayers, and the more contemporary results in two terminal transport setups. We discuss the ingredients that are necessarily present in all experiments to date, which we identify as: (i) chirality, be it point, helical or configurational, (ii) the spin–orbit coupling as the spin active coupling of atomic origin, (iii) decoherence as a time-reversal symmetry breaking mechanism that avoids reciprocity relations in the linear regime and finally (iv) tunneling that accounts for the magnitude of the spin polarization effect. This proposal does not discard other mechanisms that can yield comparable spin effects related to interactions of the molecule to contacts or substrates that have been proposed but are less universal or apply to specific situations. Finally, we discuss recent results suggesting CISS as a molecular phenomenon in the realms of enantiomer selectivity, coherent electron transfer, and spin effects in chiroptical activity.