bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Down‐delta hydraulic geometry and its application to the rock record
Authors: Prasojo Octria A. , Hoey Trevor B. , Owen Amanda , Williams Richard D.
Published: November 2022

Palaeodischarge estimation is largely undertaken within fluvial settings. However, there are limited palaeodischarge estimates specifically from delta deposits, despite their significance globally. Estimating water palaeodischarges for deltas using catchment‐based approaches developed using data from fluvial settings requires estimating parameters from the rock record (for example, palaeotemperature, palaeoslope and palaeorelief). These may be difficult to determine, leading to under‐estimation or over‐estimation of palaeodischarge values due to differences in process‐form relationships between alluvial rivers and deltas. When a sediment‐conveying fluvial channel enters a standing body of water, delta lobes develop through repeating mouth bar deposition due to flow deceleration, forming a deltaic morphology with distributary channel networks that differ morphologically from those developed in unidirectional flowing alluvial rivers. This study provides empirical relationships determined across five climate regions, using 3823 measurements of distributary channel width from 66 river deltas alongside the trunk river bankfull discharge that feeds into the entire delta, using a hydraulic geometry scaling approach. Empirical relationships are developed from the global delta dataset between bankfull discharge and catchment area (Qb–A), and bankfull discharge and median distributary channel width (Qb–Wmed). These empirical relationships produce very strong statistical correlations, especially between Qb and Wmed, across different climate regions (Qb = 0.34 Wmed1.48, R2 = 0.77). However, both Qb–A and Qb–Wmed relationships have outliers that may be explained by particular hydrological or geomorphic conditions. These new empirical relationships derived from modern systems are then applied to Cretaceous outcrops (Ferron Sandstone and Dunvegan Formation). The comparatively simple scaling relationships derived here produced palaeodischarge estimates within the same order of magnitude as palaeodischarge values previously obtained using existing, more complex approaches. This study contributes to source‐to‐sink investigations by enabling palaeodischarge estimates that intrinsically account for climate impacts on channel geometry at the time of deposition, using measurements of channel width or catchment area of a deltaic outcrop.
Long‐term effects on weight loss and maintenance by intensive start with diet and exercise
Authors: Kaikkonen Kaisu M. , Korpelainen Raija , Vanhala Marja L. , Keinänen‐Kiukaanniemi Sirkka M. , Korpelainen Juha T.
Published: November 2022

This 36‐month study aimed to determine whether exercise intervention added to weight loss treatment in the beginning or at 6 months is effective for weight loss and long‐term weight maintenance. A total of 120 obese adults (body mass index >30) were randomly assigned to intensified behavioral modification (iBM), iBM+ additional exercise from 0 to 3 months (CWT1), iBM+ additional exercise from 6 to 9 months (CWT2), and a control group (CON). Questionnaires and measurements were collected at baseline, 3, 9, 24, and 36 months. The intervention consisted of an 12 months intensified weight‐loss period followed by a 24 months weight‐maintenance period. Eighty (67%) subjects (mean age 46.0 years, BMI 36.2) completed the trial. Compared with the control group, all three intervention groups had significant weight loss during the 36‐month intervention period (p < 0.001). The achieved weight loss remained significant at 36 months in the iBM (−6.8%, p < 0.001), the CWT1 (−5.8%, p < 0.001), and the CWT2 group (−3.9%, p < 0.001). The CWT1 group showed significant reduction in waist circumference at 9 months (−11.3 cm, p < 0.001), at 24 months (−8.8 cm, p < 0.001), and at 36 months (−8.7 cm, p < 0.001). Intensified behavioral modification alone and with exercise resulted in clinically significant weight loss and long‐term weight maintenance. The addition of exercise at the onset promoted greater reductions in waist circumference. In the treatment of obesity, including severe obesity, more intensive lifestyle interventions with exercise should be incorporated.
Peers’ emotionality and children's academic achievement in second grade: Testing the moderating role of children's behavioral self‐regulation
Authors: Hernández Maciel M. , Eisenberg Nancy , Valiente Carlos , Spinrad Tracy L. , Berger Rebecca H. , Johns Sarah K. , Diaz Anjolii , Gal‐Szabo Diana E. , Thompson Marilyn S. , Southworth Jody , Pina Armando A.
Published: November 2022

Although there is interest in the role of peers in children's schooling experiences, few researchers have examined associations and related underlying processes between peers’ emotionality, an aspect of temperament, and children's academic achievement. This study evaluated whether target children's (N = 260) own self‐regulation, assessed with two behavioral measures, served a moderating function for associations between peers’ emotionality and children's own academic achievement in second grade. There was a positive association between peers’ positive emotionality and reading scores for children with higher self‐regulation. Peers’ negative emotionality was negatively related to target children's reading scores, particularly for children with higher self‐regulation levels, but was unrelated to math scores. Peers’ positive and negative emotionality did not predict math scores, and there was no strong evidence for the moderating role of target children's self‐regulation in this association. This study highlights the potential role of children's self‐regulation in modulating peer effects on academic achievement, particularly reading.
Gene detection in a family with monilethrix and treatment with 5% topical minoxidil
Authors: Shen Qingli , Fu Zhonghua , Du Pengqiang , Wang Jianbo
Published: November 2022

Objective

To determine the causative gene mutation in a family with monilethrix and observe the therapeutic effect of 5% topical minoxidil.

Method

Clinical data from a family with monilethrix were collected. Peripheral blood samples were taken from the proband, the parents, and 100 unrelated healthy controls. Genomic DNA was extracted. The genetic variation sites were screened with exome sequencing and verified by Sanger sequencing. The proband was treated with 5% topical minoxidil (1 mL twice daily). Hair quality was examined by dermoscopy before and after treatment.

Results

The proband and her father have the heterozygous missense variant c.1204G > A (p.E402K) in exon 7 of theKRT86gene. However, the mutation was not found in the mother and healthy controls. The proband was treated with 5% topical minoxidil. Hair density and hair shaft quality improved significantly after 6 months of treatment. No adverse events occurred during treatment.

Conclusion

This study shows that p.E402K is a mutation “hot spot” in patients with autosomal dominant monilethrix in China. Treatment with 5% topical minoxidil, is safe and effective.
The role of topical capsaicin gel in pain management during microfocused ultrasound treatment for neck laxity
Authors: Vachiramon Vasanop , Tanratana Pansakorn , Anuntrangsee Tanaporn , Palakornkitti Pasita , Yeesibsean Nitina , Kungvalpivat Pintusorn , Fabi Sabrina
Published: November 2022

Background

The transient receptor potential vanilloid 1 (TRPV1) provides a heat and pain sensation (nociception). Capsaicin, a TRPV1 agonist, has been shown to induce a refractory period in the nerve terminal expressing TRPV1 and create long‐term nerve terminal defunctionalization.

Objective

To evaluate the efficacy of capsaicin for pain reduction during microfocused ultrasound with visualization (MFU‐V) treatment.

Methods and materials

A randomized, split‐side study including 24 subjects was conducted. A combined 0.025% capsaicin gel and topical anesthetic were randomly applied on one side of the neck, and a topical anesthetic monotherapy was applied on the contralateral side for 30 min before MFU‐V treatment. Pain score (visual analog scale, 0–10) was evaluated at T1 (before MFU‐V), T2a (after the 4.5‐mm transducer treatment), T2b (after the 3.0‐mm transducer treatment), and T3 (after the entire treatment). Side effects were recorded.

Results

Mean pain scores at T2a for combined and single regimens were 5.19 (±2.26) and 6.91 (±1.72), respectively (p < 0.001). The capsaicin‐treated side had a lower pain score at T2b and T3 (p < 0.001). Redness was longer on the capsaicin‐treated side (112.67 vs. 10.68 min, p < 0.001). No other adverse events including contact dermatitis were reported.

Conclusion

A single application of a combined 0.025% capsaicin gel with topical anesthesia produces a significantly lesser pain score during the MFU‐V treatment. Defunctionalization of TRPV1 may explain the alleviation of painful sensations caused by heat from MFU‐V.
Genomic sequence of the HLA‐A*02:01:209 allele identified in a solid organ recipient
Authors: Thakker Nirali C. , Buch Hiteshree , Chaudhary Akshay , Shah Parth , Kumar Prabin
Published: November 2022

The novel HLA‐A allele HLA‐A*02:01:209 sequence identified in a solid organ recipient.
Tectonics may affect closed watersheds used to monitor climate change and human activity effects
Authors: Jiménez‐Bonilla Alejandro , Díaz‐Azpiroz Manuel , Rodríguez Miguel Rodríguez
Published: November 2022

Playa lakes developed in closed watersheds have been used as environmental impact indicators (global warming, water extractions, etc.), but they could be also sensitive to active tectonics. Our study area is located in the main watershed in the western Betics, the northern branch of the Gibraltar arc, which is within the fold‐and‐thrust belt. This area is characterized by an endorheic zone that includes some playa lakes floored by low‐permeable rocks. Our study shows the reduction or disappearance of playa‐lake flooded surfaces due to the reduction in their watershed area. This area reduction is favoured by stream catchments related to knickpoints, which seem to be generated by the quaternary activity of a dextral‐transpressive band within the Betics fold‐and‐thrust belt. χ map also shows the higher erosion power of Mediterranean streams, which will likely catch this endorheic area in tectonics quiescence.

Statement of significance

Playa lakes developed in closed watersheds are commonly used to study environmental impacts such as global warming or water extractions. In this work, we analyse how these endorheic systems are sensitive to small water balance variations due to active tectonics. The endorheic area we chose to apply this new approach is located in the main Atlantic‐Mediterranean water divide of the western Betics (northern branch of the Gibraltar arc). The recent tectonics in this fold‐and‐thrust belt segment provoked the Atlantic‐Mediterranean gateway closure and the Messinian Salinity Crisis at 5.6 My. Our study of playa‐lake flooded surface and watershed modifications, together with structural and other geomorphic analyses such as the χ index, never before has it been made to detect active structures. Active tectonics likely influenced in the medium‐term evolution of the studied watersheds and this study is useful to predict both landscape and drainage network evolution in the future. In fact, the possible effect of active tectonic should be taken into account when using closed watersheds to monitor the impacts of climate change and/or local stressors such as water pumping activities.
The ‘Candidatus Phytoplasma tritici’ effector SWP12 degrades the transcription factor TaWRKY74 to suppress wheat resistance
Authors: Bai Bixin , Zhang Guoding , Li Yue , Wang Yanbin , Sujata Shrestha , Zhang Xudong , Wang Licheng , Zhao Lei , Wu Yunfeng
Published: November 2022

‘Candidatus Phytoplasma tritici’ (‘Ca. P. tritici’) is an insect‐borne obligate pathogen that infects wheat (Triticum aestivum) causing wheat blue dwarf disease, and leads to yield losses. SWP12 is a potential effector secreted by ‘Ca. P. tritici’ that manipulates host processes to create an environment conducive to phytoplasma colonization, but the detailed mechanism of action remains to be investigated. In this study, the expression of SWP12 weakened the basal immunity of Nicotiana benthamiana and promoted leaf colonization by Phytophthora parasitica, Sclerotinia sclerotiorum, and tobacco mild green mosaic virus. Moreover, the expression of SWP12 in wheat plants promoted phytoplasma colonization. Triticum aestivum WRKY74 and N. benthamiana WRKY17 were identified as host targets of SWP12. The expression of TaWRKY74 triggered reactive oxygen species bursts, upregulated defense‐related genes, and decreased TaCRR6 transcription, leading to reductions in NADH dehydrogenase complex (NDH) activity. Expression of TaWRKY74 in wheat increased plant resistance to ‘Ca. P. tritici’, and silencing of TaWRKY74 enhanced plant susceptibility, which indicates that TaWRKY74 is a positive regulator of wheat resistance to ‘Ca. P. tritici’. We showed that SWP12 weakens plant resistance and promotes ‘Ca. P. tritici’ colonization by destabilizing TaWRKY74.
Law and the labour of reproduction: Constituting gestational work
Authors: Collard Juliane
Published: November 2022

Canada has recently emerged as a hotspot in a burgeoning global surrogacy bio‐economy. On the grounds that any commercial trade in reproductive capabilities would result in the exploitation of marginalised women willing to sell their eggs and wombs, Canada's Assisted Human Reproduction Act (AHRA) bans commercial surrogacy, allowing only for altruistic arrangements. Drawing together analysis of the AHRA and related legal, regulatory, and policy documents, feminist political economic theory, and a growing body of critical social scientific scholarship on surrogacy, this paper troubles altruism as a means of insulating surrogacy from market‐based exploitation. It contributes to the extant literature an explicit focus on the law as a key site in the reproduction of the gendered division of labour. Acknowledging the serious concerns that dog commercial markets in reproductive biology, it argues that the legal constitution of gestational work as altruistic is part of a broader juridico‐economic apparatus that has systematically devalued reproductive labour under capitalism. Efforts to insulate surrogacy from the market by legally designating it as a gift freely given facilitate the ongoing appropriation of reproductive labour, which is assigned, once again, to the realm of non‐value. A feminist political‐economic critique of altruism, this paper does not forward an argument in favour of commercialisation. Rather, its aim is to upend the commercial/altruistic binary that has circumscribed so much of the thinking and legislating around surrogacy.
Simulated keratometry and central corneal thickness measured in cats by autokeratometer, ultrasonic pachymeter, and Galilei G6™
Authors: de Andrade Ramos Leticia , Seullner Brandão Cláudia Valéria , Arce Carlos Guillermo , Micheline Laura , Gordon Gandolfi Micaella , Padovani Carlos Roberto
Published: November 2022

Objective

The aims of this study were to compare the central corneal thickness (CCT) measured by an ultrasonic pachymeter (SP‐100, Tomey, Japão) versus the Galilei G6™ (Ziemer Ophthalmics System AG, Port, Switzerland) and to compare the simulated keratometry (SimK) measured by an autokeratometer (KM 500 Nidek) versus the Galilei G6™.

Animal studied

Eighteen mixed‐breed cats, 10 males, and eight females, aged between 18 and 48 months, were evaluated (n = 36 eyes).

Procedure(S)

The cats were manually restrained using a blanket. The operator held the autokeratometer close to the eye and measured the SimK. Next, one anesthetic eye drop was applied; the operator lightly touched the corneal using the ultrasound pachymeter and measured the CCT. At another moment, the cats were sedated using meperidine and xylazine and then evaluated using the Galilei. Student'st‐test was employed to perform the statistical analyzes.

Results

Considering the CCT, the ultrasound pachymeter provided mean ± SD of 623.03 ± 48.17 μm and the Galilei 617.34 ± 53.38 μm. The autokeratometer produced a SimK of 38.20 ± 0.84D (8.84 ± 0.20 mm) and the Galilei 38.37 ± 0.83D (8.80 ± 0.19 mm). The CCT and SimK did not differ statistically regardless of the device used.

Conclusion

To the best of the authors' knowledge, this is the first work to compare the CCT measured by the Galilei versus the ultrasonic pachymeter and to compare the SimK measured by the Galilei versus the keratometer in cats. No statistical difference was found considering the CCT and the SimK measured by the different devices.
CT features of gastrointestinal spindle cell, epithelial, and round cell tumors in 41 dogs
Authors: De Magistris A.V. , Rossi F. , Valenti P. , Anson A. , Penninck D.G. , Agut A. , Specchi S.
Published: November 2022

There is sparse published information on computed tomographic (CT) characteristics of canine gastrointestinal tumors. The purposes of this multi‐center, retrospective, descriptive study were to describe the CT features of histologically‐confirmed canine gastrointestinal spindle cell, epithelial, and round cell tumors and, when available, describe the corresponding ultrasound findings. The inclusion criteria were as follows: availability of pre‐and post‐contrast CT study, and a histopathological diagnosis of the lesions. Recorded parameters were tumor size, location, gastrointestinal wall layers involvement, lesion's growth and enhancement patterns, tumor margination, presence of stenosis, mineralization, ulcerations, lymphadenopathy, or other lesions in the abdomen/thorax. When available, ultrasound images were evaluated. Forty‐one dogs met the inclusion criteria and had the following histological diagnoses: 21/41 (51%) spindle cells (7 leiomyomas, 14 leiomyosarcomas/gastrointestinal stromal tumors (GISTs)), 13/41 (32%) epithelial (adenocarcinoma), and 7/41 (17%) round cell (lymphoma) tumors. The growth pattern was concentric, eccentric, and mixed in epithelial, spindle cell, and round cell tumors, respectively. Spindle cell tumors had the largest main volume and involved the outer gastrointestinal layer with an unaffected inner layer. Leiomyosarcomas/GISTs showed irregular margins compared to leiomyomas. Only lymphomas showed multifocal gastrointestinal involvement. Nine carcinomas and six spindle cell tumors caused partial stenosis with secondary sub‐obstruction. Mineralizations were more frequent in spindle cell tumors (10/21) and absent in lymphomas. Lymphadenomegaly was widespread in lymphomas, regional in leiomyosarcomas‐GISTs and adenocarcinomas, and absent in leiomyomas. The reported CT features may be useful in prioritizing the differential diagnosis between spindle cell, epithelial, and round cell tumors, similar to those reported on ultrasound.
Linear external skeletal fixation applied in minimally invasive fashion for stabilization of nonarticular tibial fractures in dogs and cats
Authors: Sherman Alec H. , Kraus Karl H. , Watt Danielle , Yuan Lingnan , Mochel Jonathan P.
Published: November 2022

Objective

The objective of this study was to evaluate the use of linear external skeletal fixation (ESF) applied using minimally invasive techniques in dogs and cats.

Study design

Retrospective study.

Animals

Forty‐nine dogs and 6 cats.

Methods

Medical records of cases with nonarticular tibial fractures, repaired using linear ESF at a single academic institution between July 2010 and 2020, were reviewed. All records of cases that had nonarticular tibial fractures repaired using linear ESF were included. Information was collected regarding signalment, surgical procedures performed, perioperative care, radiographic evaluation, and postoperative complications.

Results

Intraoperative imaging was used in 40/55 (72%) of cases. Tibal plateau angle (TPA), tibial mechanical medial proximal and distal tibial angles (mMPTA and mMDTA, respectively) were not affected by intraoperative imaging (P = .344, P = .687, P = .418). A total of 22 (40%) complications occurred. Of these, 18 were considered minor and 4 were considered major. Open fractures had more major complications than closed fractures (P = .019). All fractures reached radiographic union of the fracture. The mean ± SD time to external fixator removal was 71 ± 48 days.

Conclusion

Linear ESF applied using minimally invasive techniques with or without intraoperative imaging was an effective treatment for nonarticular tibial fractures.

Clinical significance

Closed application of linear ESF should be considered as a minimally invasive option for stabilizing nonarticular tibial fractures.
Adapting Consumer Product Design to the Circular Economy
Authors: Ferrero Vincenzo , Morris K. C. , Hapuwatte Buddhika
Published: November 2022

Transition to a Circular Economy (CE) will be facilitated by information transfer between life cycle stages, and, particularly, the transition can be accelerated at the product design stage where the decisions have impact throughout the life cycle. Product design, which is often manual, subjective, and speculative, can be enhanced by data transfer from other stages of product, manufacturing, material, and supply chain life cycles. Mutually, the CE system can benefit from design systems that are real-time, designer-in-the-loop, and dynamic with respect to life cycle information streams. Five identified challenges toward adapting product design to the CE are

1. Consolidation and identification of DfX areas critical to the CE

2. Realization of a digital thread to the design activities

3. Incorporation of designer-in-the-loop and AI design agents

4. Introduction of CE data-driven design methods

5. Development of CE design standards

A literature review in each challenge area identifies future research areas. Finally, a preliminary circular product design convergence model is introduced to illustrate a CE consumer product design system that addresses the challenges and research opportunities. The work contributes a framework within which product design can be improved to aid in the realization of Design-for-the-CE. The circular product design convergence model can be a framework for exploring standards-driven and validated solutions to these challenges.
Review of Human-Machine Interaction Towards Industry 5.0: Human-Centric Smart Manufacturing
Authors: Yang Jialu , Liu Tianyuan , Liu Ying , Morgan Phillip
Published: November 2022

Human-centric smart manufacturing (HCSM) is one of the essential pillars in Industry 5.0. Hence, human-machine interaction (HMI), as the centre of the research agenda for the advances of smart manufacturing, has also become the focus of Industry 5.0. As Industry 5.0 proposed three core concepts of human-centric, sustainable and resilient, the design orientation of HMI needs to change accordingly. Through understanding the state-of-the-art of HMI research, the technology roadmap of HMI development in the smart manufacturing paradigm can be shaped. In this paper, the focus is to review how HMI has been applied in smart manufacturing and predict future opportunities and challenges when applying HMI to HCSM. In this paper, we provide an HMI framework based on the interaction process and analyse the existing research on HMI across four key aspects: 1) Sensor and Hardware, 2) Data Processing, 3) Transmission Mechanism, and 4) Interaction and Collaboration. We intend to analyse the current development and technologies of each aspect and their possible application in HCSM. Finally, potential challenges and opportunities in future research and applications of HMI are discussed and evaluated, especially considering that the focus of design in HCSM shifts from improving productivity to the well-being of workers and sustainability.
Normalization and Dimension Reduction for Machine Learning in Advanced Manufacturing
Authors: Huang Jida , Kwok Tsz-Ho
Published: November 2022

With the advances in sensing and communication techniques, data collection has become much easier in manufacturing processes. Machine learning (ML) is a vital tool for manufacturing data analytics to leverage the underlying informatics carried by data. However, the varieties of data formats, dimensionality, and manufacturing types hugely hinder the learning efficiency of ML methods. Data preparation is critical for exploiting the potential of ML in manufacturing problems. This paper investigates how data preparation affects the ML efficacy in manufacturing data. Specifically, we study the influences of data normalization and dimension reduction on the ML performance for various types of manufacturing problems. We conduct comparison studies of data with/without pre-processing on different manufacturing processes, such as casting, milling, and additive manufacturing. Experimental results reveal that different pre-processing methods have a distinct effect on learning efficiency. Normalization is helpful for both numerical and image data, while dimension reduction — this paper uses principal component analysis (PCA) — is not useful for low-dimensional numerical manufacturing data. Combining both normalization and PCA can significantly enhance the learning efficiency of high-dimensional data. After that, we summarize several practical guidelines for manufacturing data preparation for ML, which provide a valuable basis for future manufacturing data analysis with ML approaches.
Design Target Achievement Index: A Differentiable Metric to Enhance Deep Generative Models in Multi-Objective Inverse Design
Authors: Regenwetter Lyle , Ahmed Faez
Published: November 2022

Deep Generative Machine Learning Models have been growing in popularity across the design community thanks to their ability to learn and mimic complex data distributions. While early works are promising, further advancement will depend on addressing several critical considerations such as design quality, feasibility, novelty, and targeted inverse design. We propose the Design Target Achievement Index (DTAI), a differentiable, tunable metric that scores a design’s ability to achieve designer-specified minimum performance targets. We demonstrate that DTAI can drastically improve the performance of generated designs when directly used as a training loss in Deep Generative Models. We apply the DTAI loss to a Performance-Augmented Diverse GAN (PaDGAN) and demonstrate superior generative performance compared to a set of baseline Deep Generative Models including a Multi-Objective PaDGAN and specialized tabular generation algorithms like the Conditional Tabular GAN (CTGAN). We further enhance PaDGAN with an auxiliary feasibility classifier to encourage feasible designs. To evaluate methods, we propose a comprehensive set of evaluation metrics for generative methods that focus on feasibility, diversity, and satisfaction of design performance targets. Methods are tested on a challenging benchmarking problem: the FRAMED bicycle frame design dataset featuring mixed-datatype parametric data, heavily skewed and multimodal distributions, and ten competing performance objectives.
Energetic Investigation of Common Pilot Operation and the Energy Saving Potential of Electromechanical Valve Actuators
Authors: Vonderbank Tobias , Schmitz Katharina
Published: November 2022

Small hydraulic valves are usually actuated by electromechanical transducers such as solenoids or voice coils. Normally, the necessary actuation forces grow with increasing size of the valve. Therefore, the application of direct electromechanical actuators is nowadays limited to valves of nominal size 10 or smaller. Larger valves are usually pilot operated, which is characterized by high power density and large achievable forces. However, these systems are inefficient due to the principle-related drain oil and further system specific losses in the pilot circuit.

As shown in previous research, electromechanical actuation systems can be implemented on large sized directional control valves as a viable alternative to pilot operated valves [1–3]. In this contribution, the energy saving potential of alternative electromechanical actuation systems is analyzed. Therefore a comparison of the overall energetic output in common hydraulic pilot circuits and electromechanical actuation based on a prototype of a designed electromechanical actuation system [3] is carried out at a positive overlapped 4-way, 3-state dircetional control valve. Beyond the pure actuator, the study also addresses the complexity of the entire hydraulic system. The influence of the system design and the control approach are taken into account to depict the entire system.
An Improved Elastic and Non-Contact Smart Sealing Concept for Digital Micro Hydraulic Valves
Authors: Scherrer Matthias , Scheidl Rudolf
Published: November 2022

A non-contacting sealing concept is presented which employs an elasto-hydrodynamic principle to reduce an initially large gap between seal and counter-surface to a small value for tolerable leakage. The seal is a circular ring, made of polymeric material to enable the intended radial deformation. It has basically rectangular cross section but two slightly conical surfaces: The outer girthed area in order to get a hydrostatic feedback from the pressure field in the sealing gap; and the lower pressure sided front face to limit the radial ring deflection. An analytical model based on a perfect geometry assumption demonstrates the function principle and analysis the role of main design parameters. An FEM model which can take complex ring deformation and partial contact of seal with its counter-surface into account shows a deeper insight to effects not covered by the analytical model and shows a reasonable agreement with experimental investigations made with a prototype.
Micromirror fabrication for co-packaged optics using 3D nanoimprint technology
Authors: Nakamura Fumi , Suzuki Kenta , Noriki Akihiro , Amano Takeru
Published: November 2022

Co-packaged optics (CPO) is a key technology for addressing power bottlenecks in datacenters by integrating optical and electrical components and replacing electrical wiring with optical links. In the CPO module where silicon chips are embedded on the substrate and polymer waveguides are integrated as optical connections, a pair of 3D micromirrors can achieve low-loss and wideband optical coupling from silicon photonics to polymer waveguides. The shape of the polymer micromirror patterned by grayscale photo lithography depends on process conditions and requires high fabrication accuracy. In this study, photonanoimprint technology is adopted for stable micromirror fabrication. The imprint process for a polymer micromirror was considered from a hyperelastic analysis using the finite element method. The master mold was prepared using grayscale lithography with photosensitive polyimide as a template of a polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) replica mold. The micromirror fabrication was demonstrated on a 4-in. silicon wafer. By imprinting into a guide groove structure with a PDMS replica mold, over 30 μm-height micromirrors were stably obtained multiple times by a step-and-repeat imprint. The linear part of the patterned mirror by the imprint process was more than 23.5 μm for four times imprinting, and the fabricated mirror shape was improved compared with grayscale lithography. The total height misalignment is 5 μm for 12 mirrors in four imprints, and 70% coupling efficiency in calculation was achieved.
Model for the current plateau observed on the (310) plane of a room temperature W field electron source
Authors: Swanson L. W. , Schwind G. A. , Vos S. L.
Published: November 2022

An unexpected pause is observed in the usual exponential current decay when residual gas adsorption occurs on the (310) plane of a room temperature W field emitter (CFE). For most ultrahigh vacuum environments currently achievable, the primary residual gas is H2. High index crystal planes are known to consist of terraces separated by step walls. For a (310) orientation, the bcc crystal terraces and step walls consist of (100) and (110) orientations, respectively. Evidence is presented that the step wall adsorption sites are the preferential sites for initial H2 adsorption causing the work function (ϕ) to decrease. According to Fowler–Nordheim (FN) theory, which relates the CFE emission current and ϕ, the current should increase. Instead, the decrease in ϕ is accompanied by a concomitant decrease in the FN equation pre-exponential factor, which leads to a relatively constant value of the CFE current until these step-wall sites are saturated, after which the ϕ increases with further H2 adsorption. The latter leads to an exponential decrease in the emission current. This fortuitous balance between the ϕ and FN equation pre-exponential factor upon initial H2 adsorption appears to be unique to the (310) crystal plane of a W CFE.
The nature of non-native speech sound representations
Authors: Baese-Berk Melissa M. , Chandrasekaran Bharath , Roark Casey L.
Published: November 2022

Most current theories and models of second language speech perception are grounded in the notion that learners acquire speech sound categories in their target language. In this paper, this classic idea in speech perception is revisited, given that clear evidence for formation of such categories is lacking in previous research. To understand the debate on the nature of speech sound representations in a second language, an operational definition of “category” is presented, and the issues of categorical perception and current theories of second language learning are reviewed. Following this, behavioral and neuroimaging evidence for and against acquisition of categorical representations is described. Finally, recommendations for future work are discussed. The paper concludes with a recommendation for integration of behavioral and neuroimaging work and theory in this area.
FSVPy: A python-based package for fluorescent streak velocimetry (FSV)
Authors: Lin Han , Blackwell Brendan C. , Call Connor C. , Liu Shanliangzi , Liu Claire , Driscoll Michelle M. , Richards Jeffrey J.
Published: November 2022

Predictive constitutive equations that connect easy-to-measure transport properties (e.g., viscosity and conductivity) with system performance variables (e.g., power consumption and efficiency) are needed to design advanced thermal and electrical systems. In this work, we explore the use of fluorescent particle-streak analysis to directly measure the local velocity field of a pressure-driven flow, introducing a new Python package (FSVPy) to perform the analysis. Fluorescent streak velocimetry combines high-speed imaging with highly fluorescent particles to produce images that contain fluorescent streaks, whose length and intensity can be related to the local flow velocity. By capturing images throughout the sample volume, the three-dimensional velocity field can be quantified and reconstructed. We demonstrate this technique by characterizing the channel flow profiles of several non-Newtonian fluids: micellar Cetylpyridinium Chloride solution, Carbopol 940, and Polyethylene Glycol. We then explore more complex flows, where significant acceleration is created due to microscale features encountered within the flow. We demonstrate the ability of FSVPy to process streaks of various shapes and use the variable intensity along the streak to extract position-specific velocity measurements from individual images. Thus, we demonstrate that FSVPy is a flexible tool that can be used to extract local velocimetry measurements from a wide variety of fluids and flow conditions.
H3K9 dimethylation safeguards cancer cells against activation of the interferon pathway
Authors: Hansen Anne Meldgaard , Ge Ying , Schuster Mikkel Bruhn , Pundhir Sachin , Jakobsen Janus Schou , Kalvisa Adrija , Tapia Marta Cecylia , Gordon Sandra , Ambri Francesca , Bagger Frederik Otzen , Pandey Deo , Helin Kristian , Porse Bo Torben
Published: November 2022

Activation of interferon genes constitutes an important anticancer pathway able to restrict proliferation of cancer cells. Here, we demonstrate that the H3K9me3 histone methyltransferase (HMT) suppressor of variegation 3–9 homolog 1 (SUV39H1) is required for the proliferation of acute myeloid leukemia (AML) and find that its loss leads to activation of the interferon pathway. Mechanistically, we show that this occurs via destabilization of a complex composed of SUV39H1 and the two H3K9me2 HMTs, G9A and GLP. Indeed, loss of H3K9me2 correlated with the activation of key interferon pathway genes, and interference with the activities of G9A/GLP largely phenocopied loss of SUV39H1. Last, we demonstrate that inhibition of G9A/GLP synergized with DNA demethylating agents and that SUV39H1 constitutes a potential biomarker for the response to hypomethylation treatment. Collectively, we uncovered a clinically relevant role for H3K9me2 in safeguarding cancer cells against activation of the interferon pathway.
Local symmetry predictors of mechanical stability in glasses
Authors: Liu Amelia C. Y. , Bøjesen Espen D. , Tabor Rico F. , Mudie Stephen T. , Zaccone Alessio , Harrowell Peter , Petersen Timothy C.
Published: November 2022

The mechanical properties of crystals are controlled by the translational symmetry of their structures. But for glasses with a disordered structure, the link between the symmetry of local particle arrangements and stability is not well established. In this contribution, we provide experimental verification that the centrosymmetry of nearest-neighbor polyhedra in a glass strongly correlates with the local mechanical stability. We examine the distribution of local stability and local centrosymmetry in a glass during aging and deformation using microbeam x-ray scattering. These measurements reveal the underlying relationship between particle-level structure and larger-scale behavior and demonstrate that spatially connected, coordinated local transformations to lower symmetry structures are fundamental to these phenomena. While glassy structures lack obvious global symmetry breaking, local structural symmetry is a critical factor in predicting stability.
Unique thermal expansion properties of water key to the formation of sea ice on Earth
Authors: Roquet Fabien , Ferreira David , Caneill Romain , Schlesinger Daniel , Madec Gurvan
Published: November 2022

The formation of sea ice in polar regions is possible because a salinity gradient or halocline keeps the water column stable despite intense cooling. Here, we demonstrate that a unique water property is central to the maintenance of the polar halocline, namely, that the thermal expansion coefficient (TEC) of seawater increases by one order of magnitude between polar and tropical regions. Using a fully coupled climate model, it is shown that, even with excess precipitations, sea ice would not form at all if the near-freezing temperature TEC was not well below its ocean average value. The leading order dependence of the TEC on temperature is essential to the coexistence of the mid/low-latitude thermally stratified and the high-latitude sea ice–covered oceans that characterize our planet. A key implication is that nonlinearities of water properties have a first-order impact on the global climate of Earth and possibly exoplanets.
Chaperone-mediated autophagy regulates adipocyte differentiation
Authors: Kaushik Susmita , Juste Yves R. , Lindenau Kristen , Dong Shuxian , Macho-González Adrián , Santiago-Fernández Olaya , McCabe Mericka , Singh Rajat , Gavathiotis Evripidis , Cuervo Ana Maria
Published: November 2022

Adipogenesis is a tightly orchestrated multistep process wherein preadipocytes differentiate into adipocytes. The most studied aspect of adipogenesis is its transcriptional regulation through timely expression and silencing of a vast number of genes. However, whether turnover of key regulatory proteins per se controls adipogenesis remains largely understudied. Chaperone-mediated autophagy (CMA) is a selective form of lysosomal protein degradation that, in response to diverse cues, remodels the proteome for regulatory purposes. We report here the activation of CMA during adipocyte differentiation and show that CMA regulates adipogenesis at different steps through timely degradation of key regulatory signaling proteins and transcription factors that dictate proliferation, energetic adaptation, and signaling changes required for adipogenesis.
Discovery of DRP-104, a tumor-targeted metabolic inhibitor prodrug
Authors: Rais Rana , Lemberg Kathryn M. , Tenora Lukáš , Arwood Matthew L. , Pal Arindom , Alt Jesse , Wu Ying , Lam Jenny , Aguilar Joanna Marie H. , Zhao Liang , Peters Diane E. , Tallon Carolyn , Pandey Rajeev , Thomas Ajit G. , Dash Ranjeet P. , Seiwert Tanguy , Majer Pavel , Leone Robert D. , Powell Jonathan D. , Slusher Barbara S.
Published: November 2022

6-Diazo-5-oxo-
l
-norleucine (DON) is a glutamine antagonist that suppresses cancer cell metabolism but concurrently enhances the metabolic fitness of tumor CD8
+
T cells. DON showed promising efficacy in clinical trials; however, its development was halted by dose-limiting gastrointestinal (GI) toxicities. Given its clinical potential, we designed DON peptide prodrugs and found DRP-104 [isopropyl(
S
)-2-((
S
)-2-acetamido-3-(1
H
-indol-3-yl)-propanamido)-6-diazo-5-oxo-hexanoate] that was preferentially bioactivated to DON in tumor while bioinactivated to an inert metabolite in GI tissues. In drug distribution studies, DRP-104 delivered a prodigious 11-fold greater exposure of DON to tumor versus GI tissues. DRP-104 affected multiple metabolic pathways in tumor, including decreased glutamine flux into the TCA cycle. In efficacy studies, both DRP-104 and DON caused complete tumor regression; however, DRP-104 had a markedly improved tolerability profile. DRP-104’s effect was CD8
+
T cell dependent and resulted in robust immunologic memory. DRP-104 represents a first-in-class prodrug with differential metabolism in target versus toxicity tissue. DRP-104 is now in clinical trials under the FDA Fast Track designation.
Discovery of integrons in Archaea: Platforms for cross-domain gene transfer
Authors: Ghaly Timothy M. , Tetu Sasha G. , Penesyan Anahit , Qi Qin , Rajabal Vaheesan , Gillings Michael R.
Published: November 2022

Horizontal gene transfer between different domains of life is increasingly being recognized as an important evolutionary driver, with the potential to increase the pace of biochemical innovation and environmental adaptation. However, the mechanisms underlying the recruitment of exogenous genes from foreign domains are mostly unknown. Integrons are a family of genetic elements that facilitate this process within Bacteria. However, they have not been reported outside Bacteria, and thus their potential role in cross-domain gene transfer has not been investigated. Here, we discover that integrons are also present in 75 archaeal metagenome-assembled genomes from nine phyla, and are particularly enriched among Asgard archaea. Furthermore, we provide experimental evidence that integrons can facilitate the recruitment of archaeal genes by bacteria. Our findings establish a previously unknown mechanism of cross-domain gene transfer whereby bacteria can incorporate archaeal genes from their surrounding environment via integron activity. These findings have important implications for prokaryotic ecology and evolution.
Ryugu’s nucleosynthetic heritage from the outskirts of the Solar System
Authors: Hopp Timo , Dauphas Nicolas , Abe Yoshinari , Aléon Jérôme , O’D. Alexander Conel M. , Amari Sachiko , Amelin Yuri , Bajo Ken-ichi , Bizzarro Martin , Bouvier Audrey , Carlson Richard W. , Chaussidon Marc , Choi Byeon-Gak , Davis Andrew M. , Di Rocco Tommaso , Fujiya Wataru , Fukai Ryota , Gautam Ikshu , Haba Makiko K. , Hibiya Yuki , Hidaka Hiroshi , Homma Hisashi , Hoppe Peter , Huss Gary R. , Ichida Kiyohiro , Iizuka Tsuyoshi , Ireland Trevor R. , Ishikawa Akira , Ito Motoo , Itoh Shoichi , Kawasaki Noriyuki , Kita Noriko T. , Kitajima Kouki , Kleine Thorsten , Komatani Shintaro , Krot Alexander N. , Liu Ming-Chang , Masuda Yuki , McKeegan Kevin D. , Morita Mayu , Motomura Kazuko , Moynier Frédéric , Nakai Izumi , Nagashima Kazuhide , Nesvorný David , Nguyen Ann , Nittler Larry , Onose Morihiko , Pack Andreas , Park Changkun , Piani Laurette , Qin Liping , Russell Sara S. , Sakamoto Naoya , Schönbächler Maria , Tafla Lauren , Tang Haolan , Terada Kentaro , Terada Yasuko , Usui Tomohiro , Wada Sohei , Wadhwa Meenakshi , Walker Richard J. , Yamashita Katsuyuki , Yin Qing-Zhu , Yokoyama Tetsuya , Yoneda Shigekazu , Young Edward D. , Yui Hiroharu , Zhang Ai-Cheng , Nakamura Tomoki , Naraoka Hiroshi , Noguchi Takaaki , Okazaki Ryuji , Sakamoto Kanako , Yabuta Hikaru , Abe Masanao , Miyazaki Akiko , Nakato Aiko , Nishimura Masahiro , Okada Tatsuaki , Yada Toru , Yogata Kasumi , Nakazawa Satoru , Saiki Takanao , Tanaka Satoshi , Terui Fuyuto , Tsuda Yuichi , Watanabe Sei-ichiro , Yoshikawa Makoto , Tachibana Shogo , Yurimoto Hisayoshi
Published: November 2022

Little is known about the origin of the spectral diversity of asteroids and what it says about conditions in the protoplanetary disk. Here, we show that samples returned from Cb-type asteroid Ryugu have Fe isotopic anomalies indistinguishable from Ivuna-type (CI) chondrites, which are distinct from all other carbonaceous chondrites. Iron isotopes, therefore, demonstrate that Ryugu and CI chondrites formed in a reservoir that was different from the source regions of other carbonaceous asteroids. Growth and migration of the giant planets destabilized nearby planetesimals and ejected some inward to be implanted into the Main Belt. In this framework, most carbonaceous chondrites may have originated from regions around the birthplaces of Jupiter and Saturn, while the distinct isotopic composition of CI chondrites and Ryugu may reflect their formation further away in the disk, owing their presence in the inner Solar System to excitation by Uranus and Neptune.
The RTS,S malaria vaccine: Current impact and foundation for the future
Authors: Beeson James G. , Kurtovic Liriye , Valim Clarissa , Asante Kwaku Poku , Boyle Michelle J. , Mathanga Don , Dobano Carlota , Moncunill Gemma
Published: November 2022

The RTS,S vaccine has recently been recommended for implementation as a childhood vaccine in regions with moderate-to-high malaria transmission. We discuss mechanisms of vaccine protection and longevity, implementation considerations, and future research needed to increase the vaccine’s health impact, including vaccine modifications for higher efficacy and longevity of protection.