bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Mechanical behavior analysis of fully grouted bolt under axial load
Authors: Liu Xiujun , Ma Zhanguo
Published: January 2023

Based on the idea of discretization and the force balance analysis of each mass spring element, a spring-element analysis method for bolt is proposed. By analyzing the mechanical behavior of the bond interface of the fully grouted bolt, three coupling models of the bond interface, the slider model, the spring model and the spring-slider model, are proposed. Using the spring-element method, five load transfer models, namely the slider model, the spring model, the modified spring model, the spring-pulled slider model, and the spring-slider model, were deduced. And get the bolt displacement distribution function, axial force distribution function and shear stress distribution function under each model. The five proposed models are verified, analyzed and discussed by using the pull-out test of the smooth steel bolt and the threaded steel bolt. It is verified by experiments that this study is helpful to comprehensively understand the mechanical behavior of fully grouted bolts under axial load. The proposed spring element analysis method is simple and easy to understand and the results are reasonable.
Electronic and steric effects controlling monomer–dimer self-assembly in 6H-1,4-diazepinoporphyrazines: an experimental and theoretical study
Authors: Tarakanov Pavel A. , Simakov Anton O. , Pushkarev Victor E. , Konev Dmitry V. , Goncharova Olga A. , Slesarenko Nikita A. , Tarakanova Ekaterina N. , Nefedov Sergey E. , Stuzhin Pavel A.
Published: January 2023

The main factors governing the dimer–monomer self-assembly in 6H-1,4-diazepinoporphyrazines are shown.
Insoluble oxalates modified K2XF6:Mn4+ (X = Ti, Ge, Si) red-emitting phosphors exhibiting excellent moisture resistance and luminescence for warm white light-emitting diodes
Authors: Han Lidan , Zhang Rui , Chen Yanhui , Jiang Chen , Wu Xiaoli
Published: January 2023

Insoluble MC2O4 (M = Ca, Sr, Ba, Mn) particles were modified on the K2XF6:Mn4+ (X = Ti, Ge, Si) surfaces, which prevent the hydrolysis of internal [MnF6]2− groups and promote the reduction of exposed Mn4+ ions into Mn2+ ones.
Direct fabrication of NbS2 nanoflakes on carbon fibers by atomic layer deposition for ultrasensitive cardiac troponin I detection
Authors: Huang Yazhou , Zhang Yunfei , Lv Junyan , Shao Yinfeng , Yang Dongfang , Cong Yuan
Published: January 2023

NbS2 nanoflakes were constructed by atomic layer deposition on carbon fiber paper. A biosensor based on NbS2NFs for acute myocardial infarction (AMI)-related cTnI detection was fabricated.
Mechanistic explorations on the decarboxylative allylation of amino esters via dual photoredox and palladium catalysis
Authors: Chen Qingqing , Zhang Ruizhong , Dang Yanfeng
Published: January 2023

The mechanism of decarboxylative allylation of amino esters via dual photoredox and palladium catalysis has been explored with DFT calculations, which reveal the cooperation of Pd catalysis, photocatalysis and substrate via single electron transfer.
Glycocalix[4]arenes and their affinity to a library of galectins: the linker matters
Authors: Konvalinková Dorota , Dolníček František , Hovorková Michaela , Červený Jakub , Kundrát Ondřej , Pelantová Helena , Petrásková Lucie , Cvačka Josef , Faizulina Margarita , Varghese Beena , Kovaříček Petr , Křen Vladimír , Lhoták Pavel , Bojarová Pavla
Published: January 2023

Glycocalix[4]arene ligands were prepared that had nanomolar affinity to galectins and induced their supramolecular aggregation. Lactose linkers and core conformations differed in their effect on galectin binding.
Recent developments of core–shell structured catalysts for the selective catalytic reduction of NOxwith ammonia
Authors: Li Huirong , Schill Leonhard , Fehrmann Rasmus , Riisager Anders
Published: January 2023

Recent developments in syntheses strategies, catalytic performance as well as structure–property relationships of core–shell structured catalysts for NH3-SCR of NOxwith improved low-temperature activity and poisoning tolerance is surveyed.
Future prospects and recent developments of polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF) piezoelectric polymer; fabrication methods, structure, and electro-mechanical properties
Authors: Mohammadpourfazeli Soha , Arash Shabnam , Ansari Afshin , Yang Shengyuan , Mallick Kaushik , Bagherzadeh Roohollah
Published: January 2023

Original approaches and engineering design tools to fabricate devices in piezoelectric PVDF-based energy harvesting and sensor application.
Conductivity and photoconductivity in a two-dimensional zinc bis(triarylamine) coordination polymer
Authors: Ngue Chin May , Ho Kuan Fu , Sainbileg Batjargal , Batsaikhan Erdembayalag , Hayashi Michitoshi , Lee Kuei Yi , Chen Ruei San , Leung Man Kit
Published: January 2023

This work highlights the importance of bis(triarylamine) redox-active linker in promoting the semiconductive and photoconductive behavior of a 2D zinc-based coordination polymer.
A chiral fluorescent Ir(iii) complex that targets the GPX4 and ErbB pathways to induce cellular ferroptosis
Authors: Zhao Xinyang , Zhang Jingyi , Zhang Wei , Guo Zijian , Wei Wei , Wang Xiuxiu , Zhao Jing
Published: January 2023

Here, we report an Ir(iii) complex that contains a novel chiral pyridine RAS-selective lethal ligand and effectively inhibits GPX4 and FSP1 to induce ferroptosis in human fibrosarcoma (HT-1080) cells.
Modeling the resistive viscoelasticity of conductive polymer composites for sensor usage
Authors: Mu Quanyi , Wang Jikun , Kuang Xiao
Published: January 2023

Our experiment-validated model uses only a single set of parameters to predict the resistive relaxation behaviors of CPCs under different strain and different loading rates, and can describe the resistance response under complex loading conditions.
Numerical and experimental investigation of static wetting morphologies of aqueous drops on lubricated slippery surfaces using a quasi-static approach
Authors: Gupta Shivam , Bhatt Bidisha , Sharma Meenaxi , Khare Krishnacharya
Published: January 2023

Combined approach of Surface Evolver simulations and experiments to predict the static wetting morphologies of drops on thin lubricating fluid coated slippery surfaces using a quasi-static approach.
Structured liquids stabilized by polyethyleneimine surfactants
Authors: Li Mingwei , Sun Shuyi , Qin Rongrong , Wang Meng , Wang Yongkang , Yang Yang , Wu Zhanpeng , Shi Shaowei
Published: January 2023

We present a novel polyethyleneimine surfactant (PEIS) with redox responsiveness. With PEIS, emulsions and all-liquid devices can be constructed, showing promising applications in encapsulation, cargo release, and chemical separations.
Probing how Ti- and Nb-substitution affect the stability and improve the electrochemical performance of β- and ε-LiVOPO4
Authors: Hidalgo Marc Francis V. , Buyuker Isik Su , Kamm Gabrielle E. , Zhu Zhuoying , Grenier Antonin , Zuba Mateusz J. , Deng Zhi , Zong Yanxu , Kaplan Carol , Chernova Natasha A. , Zhou Guangwen , Piper Louis F. J. , Ong Shyue Ping , Chapman Karena W. , Whittingham M. S.
Published: January 2023

LiVOPO4 is a promising next-generation multi-electron cathode material, boasting a theoretical capacity of 305 mA h g−1, significantly higher than any commercially used Li-ion battery cathode material.
Highly efficient photocatalytic formic acid decomposition to syngas under visible light using CdS nanorods integrated with crystalline W2N3 nanosheets
Authors: Wang Taotao , Chen Muqing , Wu Jinbao , Du Pingwu
Published: January 2023

An efficient photocatalytic system was constructed by combining crystalline W2N3 nanosheets and CdS nanorods for formic acid decomposition to produce syngas under visible light.
Perovskite solar cell with SnO2 mesoporous thin films as electron transport layer: facile fabrication, investigation of the effects of growth parameters
Authors: Abed Morteza , Ghasemi Behrooz , Habibolahzadeh Ali , Oveisi Hamid
Published: January 2023

Mesoporous SnO2 thin films were prepared via a facile sol gel-based method. The effects of two different solvents (ethanol and 1-butanol), different drying conditions (relative humidity (RH) of 34 and 80%), and calcination temperatures (TC  =  300, 400, and 500 °C) on the structural and surface properties of the layers were investigated. The SnO2 thin films prepared with butanol exhibited lower thickness, lower surface area, and higher surface macro-roughness. The polarity, viscosity, and steric hindrance of solvents were compared and their effects on the final layer properties were discussed. The results of characterization analyses revealed that thicker and puffier SnO2 thin films with a higher surface area were obtained under higher humidity. Higher TC resulted in higher surface macro-roughness, while the highest surface area of 88.2 m2/g was obtained for mild TC  =  400 °C. Perovskite solar cells (PSCs) were fabricated with different mesoporous SnO2 thin films and an electron transport layer (ETL). The highest power conversion efficiency of 13.09% was obtained for the PSCs containing SnO2 thin film prepared with ethanol as solvent, dried under RH = 80%, and calcined at TC  =  400 °C. The factors describing the best performance were explored and discussed.
EURAD EC project – overview of the routes work package: identified key issues and open questions about waste management routes in Europe, from cradle to grave
Authors: Marsal François , Leoni Elisa , Bornhoeft Marie-Charlotte , Coninx Stefan , De Bock Chris , Feinhals Joerg , Harvey Elizabeth , Kastbjerg Nielsen Ole , Kutina Iryna , Maitre Mélanie , Mikšová Jitka , Rooses Adrien , Savidou Anastasia , Swahn Johan , Vuorio Marja , Wasselin Virginie , Železnik Nadja
Published: January 2023

The ROUTES Work Package (WP) is one of the two strategic studies being conducted as part of the European Joint Programme on Radioactive Waste Management (EURAD). ROUTES’ objectives are (i) to provide a framework for European Union’s member states (MS) to share methodologies, experiences, and knowledge in situations in which a waste management strategy is difficult to define as well as to (ii) to compare national approaches and strategies of waste management. The work considers national programmes at different stages of their development and deals with different amounts and types of radioactive waste. The expected output is identifying Research & Development (R&D) needs and opportunities for collaboration between MS, which need not be confined to ROUTES or EURAD frameworks. This work has enabled ROUTES partners to identify key issues such as retrieving poorly characterised legacy waste from a predisposal or disposal facility, implementing specific waste management solutions in the absence of well-defined WAC or developing innovative or shared solutions for MS that have only limited amounts of waste to manage. Discussion of these questions is illustrated through some of the case studies identified and analysed under the ROUTES WP.
Electromagnetic pinned solitons for space debris detection
Authors: Sen Abhijit , Mukherjee Rupak , Yadav Sharad K. , Crabtree Chris , Ganguli Gurudas
Published: January 2023

Electromagnetic “pinned” solitons in the form of stationary nonlinear waves are studied within the framework of an inertial magneto-hydrodynamic model. These structures, that can arise when a charged source moves in a magnetized plasma, have a velocity that is equal to the source velocity and, hence, appear as “pinned” structures that envelope the source. We investigate the excitation of such solitons in the Low Earth Orbit region due to the passage of charged orbital debris objects. The spatial size of these electromagnetic solitons, typically of the order of a few ion skin depths, can be very large in this region. Such solitons can be detected using a variety of ground- or orbit-based radio sounding techniques and may provide a convenient additional means of tracking small sized orbital debris objects that are difficult to spot optically.
Prediction and mitigation of nonlocal cascading failures using graph neural networks
Authors: Jhun Bukyoung , Choi Hoyun , Lee Yongsun , Lee Jongshin , Kim Cook Hyun , Kahng B.
Published: January 2023

Cascading failures in electrical power grids, comprising nodes and links, propagate nonlocally. After a local disturbance, successive resultant can be distant from the source. Since avalanche failures can propagate unexpectedly, care must be taken when formulating a mitigation strategy. Herein, we propose a strategy for mitigating such cascading failures. First, to characterize the impact of each node on the avalanche dynamics, we propose a novel measure, that of Avalanche Centrality (AC). Then, based on the ACs, nodes potentially needing reinforcement are identified and selected for mitigation. Compared with heuristic measures, AC has proven to be efficient at reducing avalanche size; however, due to nonlocal propagation, calculating ACs can be computationally burdensome. To resolve this problem, we use a graph neural network (GNN). We begin by training a GNN using a large number of small networks; then, once trained, the GNN can predict ACs efficiently in large networks and real-world topological power grids in manageable computational time. Thus, under our strategy, mitigation in large networks is achieved by reinforcing nodes with large ACs. The framework developed in this study can be implemented in other complex processes that require longer computational time to simulate large networks.
Impact of filtering on photonic time-delay reservoir computing
Authors: Danilenko G. O. , Kovalev A. V. , Viktorov E. A. , Locquet A. , Citrin D. S. , Rontani D.
Published: January 2023

We analyze the modification of the computational properties of a time-delay photonic reservoir computer with a change in its feedback bandwidth. For a reservoir computing configuration based on a semiconductor laser subject to filtered optoelectronic feedback, we demonstrate that bandwidth selection can lead to a flat-topped eigenvalue spectrum for which a large number of system frequencies are weakly damped as a result of the attenuation of modulational instability by feedback filtering. This spectral configuration allows for the optimization of the reservoir in terms of its memory capacity, while its computational ability appears to be only weakly affected by the characteristics of the filter.
All-epitaxial resonant cavity enhanced long-wave infrared detectors for focal plane arrays
Authors: Petluru P. , Muhowski A. J. , Kamboj A. , Mansfield N. C. , Bergthold M. , Shaner E. A. , Klem J. F. , Wasserman D.
Published: January 2023

We demonstrate a monolithic all-epitaxial resonant-cavity architecture for long-wave infrared photodetectors with substrate-side illumination. An nBn detector with an ultra-thin (t≈350 nm) absorber layer is integrated into a leaky resonant cavity, formed using semi-transparent highly doped (n++) epitaxial layers, and aligned to the anti-node of the cavity's standing wave. The devices are characterized electrically and optically and demonstrate an external quantum efficiency of ∼25% at T=180 K in an architecture compatible with focal plane array configurations.
Microstructure and properties of FexCrMnAlCu high-entropy alloy
Authors: Feng Li , Yuan Yudong , Bian Chunhua , Wang Ning , Ma Kai
Published: January 2023

FexCrMnAlCu ( x = 0, 0.5, 1, 1.5, 2) high-entropy alloys were prepared by vacuum arc melting in this study. The effects of the element Fe on the microstructure evolution, mechanical properties, and wear behaviour of FexCrMnAlCu were evaluated. Results show that all FexCrMnAlCu consisted of dendrites (disordered BCC) and interdendritic (disordered FCC) structures. With an increase in Fe, uniformly distributed rod-like precipitates (Φ50 nm × 300 nm) rich in Al and Cu (ordered BCC) were formed in the dendrites; the volume fraction of the dendrites increased gradually, whereas the content of the interdendritic structures decreased. Through mechanical property testing, it was found that the content of precipitates significantly affected the strength and hardness of the FexCrMnAlCu.
Oscillation of higher-order canonical delay differential equations: comparison theorems
Authors: Salah Hend , Moaaz Osama , Cesarano Clemente , Elabbasy Elmetwally M
Published: January 2023

In this work, we study the oscillatory properties of a higher-order neutral delay differential equation. By using the principle of comparison with equations of the first order we establish a set of new oscillation criteria for this equation under the canonical condition. Furthermore, the new criteria extend and complement some previous results in the literature. To that end, we compare these criteria by applying them to special cases of the equations under consideration in order to determine which one is the most efficient and least restrictive.
Limits on the cosmic neutrino background
Authors: Bauer Martin , Shergold Jack D.
Published: January 2023

We present the first comprehensive discussion of constraints on the cosmic neutrino
background (CνB) overdensity, including theoretical, experimental and cosmological limits for
a wide range of neutrino masses and temperatures. Additionally, we calculate the sensitivities of
future direct and indirect relic neutrino detection experiments and compare the results with the
existing constraints, extending several previous analyses by taking into account that the CνB
reference frame may not be aligned with that of the Earth. The Pauli exclusion principle strongly
disfavours overdensities ην
≫ 1 at small neutrino masses, but allows for overdensities 
ην
≲ 125 at the KATRIN mass bound mν
≃ 0.8 eV. On the other
hand, cosmology strongly favours 0.2 ≲ ην
≲ 3.5 in all scenarios. We find
that direct detection proposals are capable of observing the CνB without a significant
overdensity for neutrino masses mν
≳ 50 meV, but require an overdensity 
ην
≳ 3 × 105 outside of this range. We also demonstrate that relic neutrino
detection proposals are sensitive to the helicity composition of the CνB, whilst some may be
able to distinguish between Dirac and Majorana neutrinos.
A Robust RFI Identification Method for Radio Interferometry Based on LightGBM
Authors: Li Weijie , Cao Zhong , Deng Hui , Mei Ying , Chen Linjie , Wang Feng
Published: January 2023

Radio frequency interference is an essential factor affecting the observation data quality of radio telescopes. In constructing the Square Kilometer Array (SKA) radio interferometer, dealing with radio frequency interference (RFI) effectively is always a hot issue in data processing. Traditional identification methods have poor precision or recall, and existing machine-learning-based methods have complicated models and low processing efficiency. We propose a LightGBM identification method based on previous machine-learning research to identify RFI. Based on the data of SKA1-LOW simulation observations, we construct five visibility function data sets, one for modeling and the rest for validation. The experimental results show that the F
2-score reaches 0.9583, and the training and prediction speed are much more efficient than those of convolutional neural networks in a similar recent study. Then, we further investigate the effectiveness of this model in identifying RFI from actual MeerKAT observations. The results show that the overall effectiveness is comparable to tools such as Tfcrop and Rflag, improving over existing methods in identification speed.
Quasi-static approximation error of electric field analysis for transcranial current stimulation
Authors: Gaugain Gabriel , Quéguiner Lorette , Bikson Marom , Sauleau Ronan , Zhadobov Maxim , Modolo Julien , Nikolayev Denys
Published: January 2023

Objective. Numerical modeling of electric fields induced by transcranial alternating current stimulation (tACS) is currently a part of the standard procedure to predict and understand neural response. Quasi-static approximation (QSA) for electric field calculations is generally applied to reduce the computational cost. Here, we aimed to analyze and quantify the validity of the approximation over a broad frequency range. Approach. We performed electromagnetic modeling studies using an anatomical head model and considered approximations assuming either a purely ohmic medium (i.e. static formulation) or a lossy dielectric medium (QS formulation). The results were compared with the solution of Maxwell’s equations in the cases of harmonic and pulsed signals. Finally, we analyzed the effect of electrode positioning on these errors. Main results. Our findings demonstrate that the QSA is valid and produces a relative error below 1% up to 1.43 MHz. The largest error is introduced in the static case, where the error is over 1% across the entire considered spectrum and as high as 20% in the brain at 10 Hz. We also highlight the special importance of considering the capacitive effect of tissues for pulsed waveforms, which prevents signal distortion induced by the purely ohmic approximation. At the neuron level, the results point a difference of sense electric field as high as 22% at focusing point, impacting pyramidal cells firing times. Significance. QSA remains valid in the frequency range currently used for tACS. However, neglecting permittivity (static formulation) introduces significant error for both harmonic and non-harmonic signals. It points out that reliable low frequency dielectric data are needed for accurate transcranial current stimulation numerical modeling.
Mass transport in oscillatory electroosmotic viscoelectric flow in a hydrophobic microchannel with steric effect
Authors: Baños R , Arcos J , Bautista O , Méndez F
Published: January 2023

We conduct a numerical study of viscoelectric and steric effects on an oscillatory electroosmotic flow (OEOF) and their impact on the mass transport of a passive solute through a hydrophobic microchannel. In many applications of electroosmosis, zeta potentials as high as 100–200 mV can be found; in such a situation, the Debye–Hückel approximation is no longer valid, and the steric effect must be considered because the crowding of finite-sized ions close to the microchannel walls. In addition to the previous effect, the local viscosity can be increased due to the viscoelectric effect for strong electric potentials induced in the electric double layer. Earlier works have studied the mass transfer caused by an OEOF; however, the combined effects’ influence has not been considered. This research suggests that under an appropriate combination of the viscoelectric and steric effects, together with the microchannel hydrophobicity, the mass transport can be controlled and notably enhanced compared with the case where such effects are disregarded. An interesting behavior occurs for relatively high values of the steric factor ν, where there is a linear dependence between the mass transport

Q
˜

and the viscoelectric factor

f
˜

; in contrast, for low values of ν, the relationship

Q
˜

−

f
˜

is non-linear.
Computational study on the impact of Nb doping on electronic structure, magnetic and optical properties of hexagonal bilayer BN
Authors: Debebe Mesikerem Mesele , Hailemariam Sintayehu Mekonnen
Published: January 2023

We investigate the impact of Niobium (Nb) doping on the electronic structure, and magnetic and optical properties of the bilayer hexagonal boron nitride (BL hBN) using spin-polarized density functional theory (DFT). The calculated values of formation energy reveal the structural stability of Nb-doped BL hBN. The structural parameter analysis indicates the bond length and lattices constant of BL hBN increase due to Nb doping. In addition, it is found that the energy band gap of BL hBN is reduced from 5.1 eV to 3.9 eV due to 5.5% of Nb doping. Moreover, the obtained magnetic moment of 2 μ

B
and 4 μ

B
for Nb concentrations of 5.55% and 11.11% respectively, indicate the turning of the paramagnetic behavior of pure BL hBN to ferromagnetic. Besides, we have also found that the first and second nearest neighboring (NN) magnetic interaction between two dopants (Nb atoms) is ferromagnetic. Whereas, the third nearest neighbor interaction is antiferromagnetic. More interestingly, using mean field theory together with spin-polarized DFT ferromagnetic transition temperature (T
c
) of 367 K is obtained for 11.11% of Nb-doped BL hBN. Furthermore, a significant enhancement of the absorption coefficient due to Nb doping in both the visible and mid-to-far-infrared regions was observed. Based on those results, we suggest that Nb-doped BL hBN is a good candidate material for nanoelectronics, spintronics, and optoelectronics applications.
Reduced graphene oxide-ferrite microcomposites based on petung bamboo (dendrocalamus asper) charcoal and iron sand as lightweight microwave absorbing materials
Authors: Mashuri Mashuri , Usman Adam Aswin , Suyatno Suyatno
Published: January 2023

Reduced graphene oxide-ferrite (rGO/Fe3O4) microcomposites as lightweight microwave absorbing materials has been successfully synthesized from petung bamboo and iron sand by mechanical mixing method at different rGO content (0:1, 1:0, 1:1, 1:2, 1:3, 2:1 and 3:1 wt%). Reduced graphene oxide as dielectric material was synthesized from petung bamboo charcoal using carbonization method and ferrite as magnetic material was synthesized from iron sand using extraction-milling method. Structural characterization by x-ray Fluorosence, Fourier Transform Infrared, Vibrating Sample Magnetometry, x-ray Diffraction, Scanning Electron Microscopy proved that micrometer sized reduced graphene oxide ferrite in the microcomposites was responsible for the ferromagnetic behavior of the composites. The reflection loss of microcomposites measured in the microwave frequency range of 8–12 GHz using a Vector Network Analyzer. The results showed that at the micro scale, rGO had a higher absorption power with maximum reflection loss (RL

m
) value of −21.81 dB at matching frequency (f

m
) 10.85 GHz compared with Fe3O4 (RL

m
value of −9.25 dB at f

m
= 10.60 GHz) at thickness of 1 mm. The rGO/Fe3O4 (2:1 wt%) microcomposites microwave absorber shows the optimum absorption with maximum reflection loss value of −16.51 dB at matching frequency (f

m
) 10.74 GHz at thickness of 1 mm. The use of natural materials and the controlled rGO/Fe3O4 microcomposites structure with simple synthesis methods, which the urgent need for developing high performance lightweight microwave abrsorbing materials and are environmentally friendly.
Feasibility of using the Leap Motion Controller to administer conventional motor tests: a proof-of-concept study
Authors: Kincaid Clay , Johnson Paula , Charles Steven K
Published: January 2023

Although upper-limb movement impairments are common, the primary tools for assessing and tracking impairments in clinical settings are limited. Markerless motion capture (MMC) technology has the potential to provide a large amount of quantitative, objective movement data in routine clinical use. Many past studies have focused on whether MMC are sufficiently accurate. However, another necessary step is to create meaningful clinical tests that can be administered via MMC in a robust manner. Four conventional upper-limb motor tests common in clinical assessments (visually guided movement, finger tapping, postural tremor, and reaction time) were modified so they can be administered via a particular MMC sensor, the Leap Motion Controller (LMC). In this proof-of-concept study, we administered these modified tests to 100 healthy subjects and present here the successes and challenges we encountered. Subjects generally found the LMC and the graphical user interfaces of the tests easy to use. The LMC recorded movement with sufficiently high sampling rate (>106 samples/s), and the rate of LMC malfunctions (mainly jumps in time or space) was low, so only 1.9% of data was discarded. However, administration of the tests also revealed some significant weaknesses. The visually guided movement test was easily implemented with the LMC; the modified reaction time test worked reasonably well with the LMC but is likely more easily implemented with other existing technologies; and the modified tremor and finger tapping tests did not work well because of the limited bandwidth of the LMC. Our findings highlight the need to develop and evaluate motor tests specifically suited for MMC. The real strength of MMC may not be in replicating conventional tests but rather in administering new tests or testing conditions not possible with conventional clinical tests or other technologies.
Molnupiravir-associated nail and hair fluorescence on Wood’s lamp examination
Authors: Huang Xiaoling , Asawanonda Pravit , Oon Hazel H
Published: January 2023

In a patient who had been treated with molnupiravir, nail and hair fluorescence were observed under Wood’s lamp examination. The fluorescence persisted even after 90 days following the last dose of molnupiravir. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first case reporting molnupiravir-associated nail and hair fluorescence.
Longitudinal association of electrocardiogram abnormalities with major adverse cardiac events in people with Type 2 diabetes: the Hoorn Diabetes Care System cohort
Authors: Harms Peter P , Elders Petra P J M , Rutters Femke , Lissenberg-Witte Birgit I , Tan Hanno L , Beulens Joline W J , Nijpels Giel , van der Heijden Amber A ,   for ESCAPE-NET
Published: January 2023

Aims

To investigate the association of (changes in) electrocardiogram (ECG) abnormalities with incident major adverse cardiac events (MACE) in people with Type 2 diabetes (T2D) without pre-existing cardiovascular disease (CVD).

Methods and results

A prospective longitudinal study of 11 993 people with T2D without known CVD from the Hoorn Diabetes Care System cohort. Annually repeated measurements (1998–2018), included cardiovascular risk factors, over 70 000 ECG, and self-reported cardiovascular events. ECG abnormalities were classified according to the Minnesota Classification as prolonged PR duration, prolonged QRS duration, left QRS-axis, QS pattern, ST-segment/T-wave abnormalities, or tall R-wave. The association of ECG abnormalities with MACEs was assessed using time-dependent Cox-regression models, adjusted for time-varying cardiovascular risk factors, and medication use [hazard ratios (HRs) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs)]. During a median follow-up of 6.6 (IQR, 3.1–10.7) years, 5445 (45.4%) of the participants had an ECG abnormality (prevalent or incident) at any of the median 6 (IQR, 3–10) annual ECG recordings, and 905 people (7.5%) had a MACE (529 coronary heart disease (CHD), 250 heart failure (HF), and 126 sudden cardiac arrest (SCA)). After adjustment, most ECG abnormalities were associated with HF: prolonged QRS duration [HR, 4.01 (95% CI, 2.67–6.03)], QS pattern [2.68 (0.85–8.49)], ST-segment/T-wave abnormalities [4.26 (2.67–6.80)], and tall R-wave [2.23 (1.33–3.76)]. Only QS pattern [2.69 (1.20–6.03)] and ST-segment/T-wave abnormalities [2.11 (1.48–3.02)] were associated with CHD. These associations were robust across age, sex, hypertension, or estimated CVD risk subgroups.

Conclusion

In people with T2D without pre-existing CVD, ECG abnormalities related to decelerated conduction, ischaemia, and hypertrophy are predominantly early signs of emerging HF, while only abnormalities related to ischaemic disorders are signs of CHD.
Macroeconomic fluctuations and individual use of psychotropic medications: evidence from Swedish administrative data
Authors: Dackehag Margareta , Ellegård Lina Maria , Gerdtham Ulf-G , Nilsson Therese
Published: January 2023

Background

A growing literature finds that adult mental health worsens during economic downturns. Current insights on the relationship between macroeconomic fluctuations and psychotropic medication are based on self-reported information or aggregate measures on prescriptions. This study assesses the relationship between local macroeconomic conditions and individual use of psychotropic medication as reported in administrative registers.

Methods

We use local information on unemployment linked to individual-level longitudinal data on detailed psychotropic drug consumption from administrative registers, for individuals in working age (20–65) in Sweden 2006–13. Any psychotropic medication uptake and the related number of redeemed prescriptions are the primary outcomes. Mortality is considered a secondary outcome.

Results

Among young men (aged 20–44) and older women (aged 45–65), we find reduced use of psychotropic medication (2–4% compared to the mean) when the local labor market conditions deteriorate. The relationship is driven by reduced use of antidepressants. The same age-gender groups experience a significantly higher risk of mortality in bad times.

Conclusions

This study shows that economic downturns may not only put strain on individuals’ mental health but also on their access to psychopharmaceutic treatments.
(Dis)order and (in)justice in a heating world
Authors: Eckersley Robyn
Published: January 2023

Conventional accounts of the relationship between international order and justice treat order as necessarily prior to justice because it is a precondition for the management of conflict and for collective debates about justice. This contribution takes the climate change challenge as an opportunity to challenge and enlarge this account from the perspective of critical political ecology. This approach highlights the more fundamental socio-ecological conditions that are necessary for the stability and possibility of political order itself. It also directs more systematic attention to how orders themselves disorder the climate in ways that also constitute climate injustices. Structurally generated injustices of this kind cannot be addressed solely at the level of a single regime (via the Paris Agreement). They also require a transformation of the constitutive norms and practices of the international liberal economic order in which the climate regime is embedded so that the order serves the objectives and principles of the regime. However, this is unlikely, and the contribution reflects on the implications for the legitimacy and functional viability of states and the international order in a heating world.
Progress, decolonization and global justice: a tragic view
Authors: Lu Catherine
Published: January 2023

What does making progress in global justice mean? What are the barriers to progress? This article introduces the notion of tragic progress, against assertions by International Relations realists that tragedy and progress are mutually exclusive concepts, and as a complement to notions of ‘pragmatic progress’ and ‘bounded progress’ offered by IR constructivists and philosophical pragmatists. Tragic progress refers to the disruptive and often painful process of self-examination spurred by contexts of crisis, both for individuals and for wider collectives. Focusing on the multiperspectival structure of tragic narratives, tragic reversals and the moments of recognition they invite, I argue that the devices of tragedy direct our attention to mechanisms for unlearning, and stimulate the pursuit of self-knowledge and transformation in contexts of crisis as a basis for social change. The contemporary crisis of international order can be interpreted as a tragic reversal for its practitioners and adherents, with the potential to generate moments of recognition that increase their receptivity to polymorphic claims of justice, many of which have been buried, muffled or repressed. The call to decolonize international order can be interpreted as a call for tragic progress, which consists of unlearning colonial subjectivities, practices and commitments, thereby opening up opportunities to make possibility out of dispossession, slavery, genocide, and other social, political and moral horrors of our time.
Approval regulation and learning, with application to timing of merger control
Authors: Ottaviani Marco , Wickelgren Abraham L
Published: January 2023

This article analyzes the optimal combination of ex ante and ex post regulation of an activity in a two-period model. Additional information about the sign and extent of the externality associated with the activity becomes available only once a private party undertakes the activity, but undoing the activity at that stage is costly. We characterize when the regulator should commit not to reevaluate the activity ex post. The case for ex post regulation is strengthened if the private party can signal its private information about the consequences of the activity, but it is weakened if the cost of undoing the activity can be manipulated.
Assessment of prescribing patterns and medication errors related to prescriptions in hospitalized diabetes mellitus type-2 patients in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan
Authors: Ur Rahman Jamil , Ahmad Tawseef , Khan Muhammad , Ur Rahman Asad , Ghani Samia , Ullah Khan Faiz
Published: January 2023

Objectives

Diabetes mellitus (DM type-2) is a common, non-transmittable disease that affects people all over the world. Polypharmacy and inappropriate prescribing are more common in diabetic individuals. One of the most critical and fundamental abilities a doctor requires is the ability to write prescriptions. In emerging countries like Pakistan, irrational drug prescribing is a major healthcare issue. This study aims to investigate the prescriptions errors in patients with DM type-2 prescriptions admitted in medical wards and outpatients’ visits departments at Khyber teaching hospital.

Methods

In the Khyber Teaching Hospital in Peshawar, a prospective study was done to determine medicine prescribing patterns and identify prescription errors in hospitalized patients with DM type-2. Over the course of two months, 86 patients’ prescriptions were collected from the hospital’s medical ward. The pattern of prescriptions was investigated using WHO-recommended indicators, and prescription mistakes were identified. DM type-2 was shown to be substantially more common in females than in males in this clinical investigation. For the data analysis, various statistical methods were used and data were visualized.

Key findings

DM type-2 was more common in adults above the age of 65, according to age groups (51–60). It was revealed that the average number of medications per prescription was 8.37%. In this study, we discovered that patients with DM type-2 had higher rates of hypertension than those with other disorders. The percentage of prescriptions with generic names was 3.61%, antibiotics were 15.69%, and injectables were 47.22% of the total 720 medications prescribed. The dose strength was absent in 18.75% of the 720 medications, and 6.25% of the pharmaceuticals had an incorrect dosage form.

Conclusion

To promote reasonable drug therapy, the prescription pattern and prescription errors have highlighted the necessity to build an accurate system of documenting and analysing therapy before issuing a prescription.
Validity of Coronavirus Disease 2019 International Classification of Diseases, Tenth Revision in the Urgent Care Setting and Impact on Antibiotic Prescribing Rates
Authors: Medvedeva Natalia , Ong’uti Sharon , Hersh Adam L , Chang Amy , Mui Emily , Stenehjem Edward , Ha David , Holubar Marisa
Published: January 2023

We validated  different coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) International Classification of Diseases, Tenth Edition (ICD-10) encounter definitions across 2 urgent care clinics.

Sensitivity of definitions varied throughout the pandemic.

Inclusion of COVID-19 and COVID-19-like illness (CLI) ICD-10s rendered highest sensitivity but lowest specificity.

Antibiotic prescribing rates were low for COVID-19 ICD-10 encounters, increasing with CLI ICD-10 encounters.
Correlates of Coronavirus Disease 2019 Inpatient Mortality at a Southern California Community Hospital With a Predominantly Hispanic/Latino Adult Population
Authors: Gatto Nicole M , Freund Debbie , Ogata Pamela , Diaz Lisa , Ibarrola Ace , Desai Mamta , Aspelund Thor , Gluckstein Daniel
Published: January 2023

Background

Studies of inpatient coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) mortality risk factors have mainly used data from academic medical centers or large multihospital databases and have not examined populations with large proportions of Hispanic/Latino patients. In a retrospective cohort study of 4881 consecutive adult COVID-19 hospitalizations at a single community hospital in Los Angeles County with a majority Hispanic/Latino population, we evaluated factors associated with mortality.

Methods

Data on demographic characteristics, comorbidities, laboratory and clinical results, and COVID-19 therapeutics were abstracted from the electronic medical record. Cox proportional hazards regression modeled statistically significant, independently associated predictors of hospital mortality.

Results

Age ≥65 years (hazard ratio [HR] = 2.66; 95% confidence interval [CI] = 1.90–3.72), male sex (HR = 1.31; 95% CI = 1.07–1.60), renal disease (HR = 1.52; 95% CI = 1.18–1.95), cardiovascular disease (HR = 1.45; 95% CI = 1.18–1.78), neurological disease (HR = 1.84; 95% CI = 1.41–2.39), D-dimer ≥500 ng/mL (HR = 2.07; 95% CI = 1.43–3.0), and pulse oxygen level <88% (HR = 1.39; 95% CI = 1.13–1.71) were independently associated with increased mortality. Patient household with (1) multiple COVID-19 cases and (2) Asian, Black, or Hispanic compared with White non-Hispanic race/ethnicity were associated with reduced mortality. In hypoxic COVID-19 inpatients, remdesivir, tocilizumab, and convalescent plasma were associated with reduced mortality, and corticosteroid use was associated with increased mortality.

Conclusions

We corroborate several previously identified mortality risk factors and find evidence that the combination of factors associated with mortality differ between populations.
An immersive field trip focused on beef production increases the sense of belonging in ethnoracial minority college students
Authors: Drewery Merritt L , Cooper Jade V , Waliczek Tina M , Wickersham Tryon A
Published: January 2023

Sense of belonging is a student’s sense of feeling accepted, valued, and included by others in their discipline. Imposter syndrome is self-perceived intellectual fraud in areas of success. Sense of belonging and imposter syndrome can influence behavior and well-being and are linked to academic and career outcomes. Our objective was to evaluate if a 5-d tour of the beef cattle industry changed college students’ sense of belonging and imposter tendencies with a focus on ethnicity/race. Procedures involving human subjects were approved by the Texas State University (TXST) IRB (#8309). Students from TXST and Texas A&M University (TAMU) attended a beef cattle industry tour in the Texas Panhandle in May 2022. Identical pre- and post-tests were administered immediately before and after the tour. Statistical analyses were conducted with SPSS v.26. Independent sample t-tests were used to evaluate the change from pre- to post-survey and one-way ANOVA was used to evaluate the effect of ethnicity/race. Students (n = 21) were mostly female (81%); attended TAMU (67%) or TXST (33%); and were White (52%), Hispanic (33%), or Black (14%). “Hispanic” and “Black” were combined as a single variable to analyze differences between White and ethnoracial minority students. Before the tour, there was a difference (P = 0.05) in sense of belonging in agriculture between White (4.33 ± 0.16) and ethnoracial minority (3.73 ± 0.23) students such that White students had stronger belonging. There was no change (P = 0.55) in White students’ sense of belonging as a result of the tour, from 4.33 ± 0.16 to 4.39 ± 0.44. However, there was a change (P ≤ 0.01) in ethnoracial minority students’ sense of belonging, from 3.73 ± 0.23 to 4.37 ± 0.27. There was no change (P = 0.36) in imposter tendencies from the pre-test (58.76 ± 2.46) to the post-test (60.52 ± 2.79). Ultimately, participating in the tour increased ethnoracial minority, but not White, students’ sense of belonging and did not impact imposter syndrome tendencies across or within ethnicity/race. One benefit of implementing experiential learning opportunities in dynamic social environments is the potential to improve students’ sense of belonging, especially in disciplines and careers where ethnoracial minority people are underrepresented.
The effects of increasing dietary total Ca/total P ratios on growth performance, Ca and P balance, and bone mineralization in nursery pigs fed diets supplemented with phytase
Authors: Zhai Hengxiao , Bergstrom Jon , Zhang Jingcheng , Dong Wei , Wang Zhenzhen , Stamatopoulos Kostas , Cowieson Aaron J
Published: January 2023

The objective of this study was to investigate the effects of increasing dietary total Ca/total P ratios on growth performance, digestibility of Ca and P, bone mineralization, and concentrations of Ca and P in urine and plasma in nursery pigs. There were six diets in a randomized complete block design, including one positive control and five diets corresponding to five total Ca/total P ratios: 0.55, 0.73, 0.90, 1.07, and 1.24 (analyzed as 0.58, 0.75, 0.93, 1.11, and 1.30). These five diets were deficient in P but supplemented with 1,000 phytase units/kg feed. Each diet was fed to six pens of eight pigs (four barrows and four gilts per pen). All diets contained 3 g/kg TiO2, and fecal samples were collected from each pen on days 5–7 of trial. At the end, one pig per pen was sacrificed to collect the right tibia and urine in the bladder. The results showed that increasing dietary Ca/P ratio to 0.93 increased gain:feed but then gain:feed decreased as the Ca/P ratio was increased to 1.30 (linear and quadratic, P < 0.05). Although average daily gain and final BW were unaffected by changing Ca/P ratio in diet, dry bone weight; weights of bone ash, Ca and P; and bone Ca/P ratio increased linearly (P < 0.001) with increasing dietary Ca/P ratio. The percent bone Ca showed a tendency to increase (P = 0.064). Increasing dietary Ca/P ratio decreased apparent total tract digestibility (ATTD) of Ca and P linearly (P < 0.05) and the concentration of digestible P linearly (P < 0.001), but increased the concentration of digestible Ca (linear and quadratic effects: P < 0.01) and the digestible Ca/P ratio (linear effect: P < 0.001). In plasma, the concentration of Ca increased both linearly (P < 0.01) and quadratically (P = 0.051), whereas the concentration of P tended (linear and quadratic, P < 0.10) to decrease with increasing dietary Ca/P ratio. Similarly, in urine, the concentration of Ca increased both linearly and quadratically (P < 0.05), whereas the concentration of P decreased linearly (P < 0.01). In conclusion, increasing the dietary Ca/P ratio reduced feed efficiency but increased bone mass and the amounts of Ca and P deposited in bone of nursery pigs fed diets supplemented with 1,000 FYT/kg phytase. The increases in bone growth led to a reduction of urinary P excretion that exceeded the decreased digestible P supplied in diet with the widening dietary Ca/P ratios.
‘What did you do to them Klaus?’: The Klaus Fuchs Atomic Espionage Case and its Impact on the Scientific Community in early Cold War Britain
Authors: Kassimeris George , Price Oliver
Published: January 2023

The atomic spy, Klaus Fuchs, was one of the most notorious figures of the early Cold War. The story of his espionage and the impact it had has been the subject of extensive historical research. This article provides a new angle on the Fuchs case by examining the repercussions of his actions on his friends, colleagues, and the wider scientific community in Britain that have previously been overlooked. It argues that the subsequent fall-out led several atomic scientists to have their own loyalties questioned and be subjected to extensive and sustained surveillance. As the article will show, the inevitable era of suspicion that the Fuchs case ushered in did damage to the reputations, careers, and prospects of certain scientists. By examining the repercussions, the article helps to provide a first insight into the experience of some British scientists during the early years of the Cold War.