bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Scoping Review for a Global Hearing Care Framework: Matching Theory with Practice
Authors: Brice Sophie , Saunders Elaine , Edwards Brent
Published: June 2023

The hearing healthcare industry is evolving rapidly. A framework addressing provision options in contemporary hearing care could assist clinician and client navigate their options to find the most appropriate solution for each individual. A PRISMA approach was used followed by mapping, validation, and thematic analysis to produce a framework to better describe and discuss service and product delivery options in contemporary hearing care. No frameworks were identified to advise matching needs with current provision options in audiological care. Charting, mapping, and thematic analysis of the validation criteria and hearing care literature produced three core domains: Service, Channel, and Technology/Device. The framework developed in this review allows for an understanding of where innovation is occurring in hearing healthcare and differentiates between changes to technology, channel, and service. New questions open up such as whether one model is more effective than another or which model of hearing help is best for which type of person. This framework allows for the disambiguation of hearing health services, hearing loss technology, and the channel in which services and technology are delivered. It has potential to be a versatile and valuable addition to the industry of hearing healthcare.
Comparison of Genes Associated with Thoracic and Abdominal Aortic Aneurysms
Authors: Gyftopoulos Argyrios , Ziganshin Bulat A. , Elefteriades John A. , Ochoa Chaar Cassius I.
Published: June 2023

Aneurysms impacting the ascending thoracic aorta and the abdominal aorta affect patient populations with distinct clinical characteristics. Through a literature review, this paper compares the genetic associations of ascending thoracic aortic aneurysm (ATAA) with abdominal aortic aneurysms (AAA). Genes related to atherosclerosis, lipid metabolism, and tumor development are associated specifically with sporadic AAA, while genes controlling extracellular matrix (ECM) structure, ECM remodeling, and tumor growth factor β function are associated with both AAA and ATAA. Contractile element genes uniquely predispose to ATAA. Aside from known syndromic connective tissue disease and poly-aneurysmal syndromes (Marfan disease, Loeys–Dietz syndrome, and Ehlers–Danlos syndrome), there is only limited genetic overlap between AAA and ATAA. The rapid advances in genotyping and bioinformatics will elucidate further the various pathways associated with the development of aneurysms affecting various parts of the aorta.
Managers’ aspirations and quality of CSR reports: evidence from China
Authors: Hu Yuanyuan , Chen Shouming , Liu Runshi , Dai Yi
Published: June 2023

This study aims to investigate the potential impact of peer firms on the quality of CSR reports produced by the focal firm. By combining insights from the behavioral theory of the firm and existing literature on aspirations, this paper proposes that the aspiration levels of managers regarding CSR reporting play a crucial role in determining the quality of CSR reports. Specifically, it is suggested that the quality of CSR reports is likely to improved when the current level falls short of managers’ aspirations for CSR reporting. Conversely, when the current quality of CSR reports surpasses managers’ aspirations, it is expected to decline. Additionally, this paper proposes that this effect will be stronger when the owner of the firm is government or the firm’s visibility is high. Using a comprehensive panel dataset covering Chinese listed firms with A‐shares from 2012 to 2018, the empirical findings strongly support these arguments.
Toward a new understanding of environmental and financial performance through corporate social responsibility, green innovation, and sustainable development
Authors: Sarfraz Muddassar , Ozturk Ilhan , Yoo Sunghoon , Raza Muhammad Ali , Han Heesup
Published: June 2023

The study’s primary objective is to advance the environmental management research field by examining the relationship between corporate social responsibility (CSR), environmental and financial performance while considering the mediating effect of sustainable development and green innovation. In addition, the study also analyzes the moderating effect of green innovation actions and green innovation strategies. Employees in the manufacturing sector in Pakistan completed a self-administered survey. Data gathered from 497 employees was analyzed using the structural analysis. The study results show that corporate social responsibility to the environment (CSREM), corporate social responsibility to employees (CSREM), to the community (CSRCO), and to the consumers (CSRCO) positively influences environmental performance (EVP) and financial performance (FP). Environmental sustainable development (ESD) and green innovation (GI) mediate the relationship between CSR, environmental, and firm financial performance. Green innovation strategies (GINS) and green innovation actions (GINAs) moderate the relationship between a firm’s environmental and financial aspects. The study deepens the understanding of CSR through an integrated model of mediator and moderator variables. It attempts to boost the firms’ performance (i.e., environmental, and financial) by applying the concept of green innovation and sustainable development. This study brings significant results for manufacturing firms, managers, entrepreneurs, policymakers, practitioners, employees, and other stakeholders. The study’s outcomes make the stakeholders adopt CSR consideration to achieve ecological and financial harmony in developing economies.
Concentration-dependent effect of Nickel ions on amyloid fibril formation kinetics of hen egg white lysozyme: A Raman spectroscopy study
Authors: Li Xinfei , Chen Xiaodong , Chen Ning , Liu Liming , Zhou Xiaoguo , Liu Shilin
Published: June 2023

Nickel, an important transition metal element, is one of the trace elements for human body and has a crucial impact on life and health. Some evidences show the excess exposure to metal ions might be associated with neurological diseases. Herein, we applied Raman spectroscopy to study the Ni(II) ion effect on kinetics of amyloid fibrillation of hen egg white lysozyme (HEWL) in thermal and acidic conditions. Using the well-known Raman indicators for protein tertiary and secondary structures, we monitored and analyzed the concentration effect of Ni(II) ions on the unfolding of tertiary structures and the transformation of secondary structures. The experimental evidence validates the accelerator role of the metal ion in the kinetics. Notably, the additional analysis of the amide I band profile, combined with thioflavin-T fluorescence assays, clearly indicates the inhibitory effect of Ni(II) ions on the formation of amyloid fibrils with organized β-sheets structures. Instead, a more significant promotion influence is affirmed on the assembly into other aggregates with disordered structures. The present results provide rich information about the specific metal-mediated protein fibrillation.
Normalized ground states for fractional Kirchhoff equations with Sobolev critical exponent and mixed nonlinearities
Authors: Kong Lingzheng , Chen Haibo
Published: June 2023

In this paper, we study the existence of normalized ground states for nonlinear fractional Kirchhoff equations with Sobolev critical exponent and mixed nonlinearities in R3. To overcome the special difficulties created by the nonlocal term and fractional Sobolev critical term, we develop a perturbed Pohožaev method based on the Brézis–Lieb lemma and monotonicity trick. Using the Pohožaev manifold decomposition and fibering map, we prove the existence of a positive normalized ground state. Moreover, the asymptotic behavior of the obtained normalized solutions is also explored. These conclusions extend some known ones in previous papers.
Atomic scale defect formation and phase transformation in Si implanted β-Ga2O3
Authors: Huang Hsien-Lien , Chae Christopher , Johnson Jared M. , Senckowski Alexander , Sharma Shivam , Singisetti Uttam , Wong Man Hoi , Hwang Jinwoo
Published: June 2023

Atomic scale details of the formation of point defects and their evolution to phase transformation in silicon (Si) implanted β-Ga2O3 were studied using high resolution scanning transmission electron microscopy (STEM). The effect of Si implantation and the formation of defects was studied as a function of the dose of implanted atoms, and the detailed mechanism of lattice recovery was observed using both in situ and ex situ annealing of the implanted β-Ga2O3. The implantation created nanoscale dark spots in STEM images, which we identified as local γ-Ga2O3 inclusions generated by the relaxation of lattice due to ⟨010⟩ screw dislocations created by the implantation. The number and size of γ-Ga2O3 regions increased as the Si dose increased, and eventually the γ-Ga2O3 crystal phase (with stacking defects) took over the entire implanted volume when the peak Si concentration was over ∼1020 cm−3. Annealing above 1100 °C disintegrates the local γ-Ga2O3 phase and returns the structure to defect-free, single crystal β phase, likely indicating that point defects (such as Si interstitials and cation vacancies) are spatially redistributed by the annealing. However, when the structure is completely transformed to γ-Ga2O3 by the implantation, post-annealing leaves a high concentration of dislocations within the β phase, which relates to the inhomogeneous distribution of Si atoms detected by secondary ion mass spectrometry.
Effect of orbital angular momentum on dust-ion-acoustic waves in a superthermal plasma
Authors: Alyousef Haifa A. , Khan Aamir , Ata-ur-Rahman  , El-Tantawy S. A.
Published: June 2023

Laser or electromagnetic radiation, in general, interacts with plasma in very interesting ways. In most cases, they induce orbital angular momentum (OAM) in such plasmas due to their polarization effects. Dust-ion-acoustic waves (DIAWs) with immovable dust particles are studied with the effect of rotation produced due to laser or electromagnetic interaction. The electrons are considered in the non-Maxwellian limit, with inertial ions and static dust grains possessing negative charges. Fluid theory is employed for obtaining the linear paraxial equation with regard to ion density perturbations. The fundamental Gaussian and Laguerre Gaussian (LG) beam solutions are talked over with the later being proved to be the source for OAM. By calculating the electrostatic potential for such linear waves, the components of the electric field with respect to the LG potential are shown. Finally, the energy density equation is used to calculate the OAM associated with DIAWs. The Laguerre Gauss mode is numerically shown to have greatly changed by varying the values of relevant plasma parameters, such as the electron superthermality parameter, radial and angular mode numbers, beam waist, and azimuthal angle. The present results may be useful in apprehending dust-ion-acoustic wave excitation due to Brillouin backscattering phenomenon of laser light interacting with plasma.
Adaptive long wave-infrared camouflage using an all-dielectric metasurface
Authors: Akin Buket , Ahmadivand Arash
Published: June 2023

All-dielectric metamaterials consisting of high-index, sub-wavelength, and periodically decorated arrays allow for efficient manipulation of electromagnetic permittivity and permeability with lower losses at the optical frequencies. In this study, we propose a planar multilayer structure composed of dielectric interlayers (Al2O3/Ge/ITO/Soda Lime Glass) to achieve perfect and broadband absorption of mid- and long-infrared (IR) wavelengths. Analyzing the spectral properties of the designed structure proved that it possesses exquisite importance in thermal application when considering the IR signature reduction in the long wavelength range, as well as the reduced radiated energy dissipation along with the undetected band and the requirements for IR camouflage. This intrinsic merit of dielectric metamaterials stems from their inherent selective absorption/emission. In that respect, Kirchhoff's law states that the emissive and absorptive powers of all bodies are similar for radiation of the same wavelength at the same temperature. The temperature difference may occur not only from the properties of the surfaces but also from the optical properties of materials and environmental conditions. Studying the thermal camouflage at different background temperatures found that the camouflage material substantially reduces the contrast between the target and the background. Beyond that, extensive assessments validated that the contrast in the resulting short tips is due to the differences in the reflective properties of the material and the background. Our simulations and experiments lay the groundwork for structuring cost-effective all-dielectric thermal camouflage metaplatforms with high performance and the strong potential to be employed in practical military and defense applications.
Noncommutative geometry on central extension of U(u(2))
Authors: Gurevich Dimitry , Saponov Pavel
Published: June 2023

In our previous publications, we have introduced analogs of partial derivatives on the reflection equation algebras, associated with Hecke symmetries. As a consequence, we get quantum partial derivatives on the enveloping algebras U(gl(N)). In the current paper, we consider the particular case N = 2 in detail and discuss the problem of a prolongation of these derivatives onto some central extension of the compact form U(u(2)) of the algebra U(gl(2)). Possible applications of this noncommutative geometry are discussed.
Combining femtosecond laser annealing and shallow ion implantation for local color center creation in diamond
Authors: Engel Johannes , Jhuria Kaushalya , Polley Debanjan , Lühmann Tobias , Kuhrke Manuel , Liu Wei , Bokor Jeffrey , Schenkel Thomas , Wunderlich Ralf
Published: June 2023

A common technique for color center creation in wideband gap semiconductors employs ion implantation and a subsequent thermal annealing. In general, this annealing process is conducted in an vacuum oven. Here, we exploit the annealing based on femtosecond laser pulses. For that purpose, we implant fluorine ions at 54 keV and chlorine ions at 74 keV in diamond and perform micrometer precise annealing using focused femtosecond laser pulses at 800 ± (30) nm with different pulse numbers and repetition rates. In this way, we were able to create shallow spots with color centers of varying brightness.
Over-8-dB squeezed light generation by a broadband waveguide optical parametric amplifier toward fault-tolerant ultra-fast quantum computers
Authors: Kashiwazaki Takahiro , Yamashima Taichi , Enbutsu Koji , Kazama Takushi , Inoue Asuka , Fukui Kosuke , Endo Mamoru , Umeki Takeshi , Furusawa Akira
Published: June 2023

We achieved continuous-wave 8.3-dB squeezed light generation using a terahertz-order-broadband waveguide optical parametric amplifier by improving a measurement setup from our previous work [T. Kashiwazaki et al., Appl. Phys. Lett. 119, 251104 (2021)], where a low-loss periodically poled lithium niobate (PPLN) waveguide had shown 6.3-dB squeezing at a 6 THz frequency. First, to improve efficiency of the squeezed light detection, we reduced effective optical loss to about 12% by removing extra optics and changing the detection method into a low-loss balanced homodyne measurement. Second, to minimize phase-locking fluctuation, we constructed a frequency-optimized phase-locking system by comprehending its frequency responses. Finally, we found optimal experimental parameters of a measurement frequency and a pump power from their dependences for the squeezing levels. The measurement frequency was decided as 11 MHz to maximize a clearance between shot and circuit noises. Furthermore, pump power was optimized as 660 mW to get higher squeezing level while suppressing anti-squeezed-noise contamination due to an imperfection of phase locking. Note that this over-8-dB squeezing is achieved without any loss-correction and circuit-noise correction. Moreover, it is shown that the squeezing level soon after our PPLN waveguide is estimated at over 10 dB, which is thought to be mainly restricted by the waveguide loss. This broadband highly squeezed light opens the possibility to realize fault-tolerant ultra-fast optical quantum computers.
Pressure-induced physical properties of alkali metal chlorides Rb2NbCl6: A density functional theory study
Authors: Ali Md. Lokman , Billah Md. Marof , Khan Mithun , Nobin Md. Nadim Mahamud , Rahaman Md. Zahidur
Published: June 2023

Using density functional theory-based first-principles simulations, detailed physical properties of the tetragonal phase alkali metal halide Rb2NbCl6 under pressure were explored for the first time. The structural, mechanical, and thermodynamic stability were confirmed by the Born stability requirements and the negative values for the formation energy. The analysis of Pugh’s and Poisson’s ratios and Cauchy’s pressure reveals that Rb2NbCl6 is ductile under the pressures in consideration. As the applied pressure rises, the elastic moduli show a rising trend, which indicates that Rb2NbCl6 stiffens up. According to several anisotropy indices, the compound is noticeably anisotropic both in ambient and under pressure. The machinability index suggests that the material under study is highly machinable. Several mechanical features of Rb2NbCl6 are analyzed according to the results of elastic constants and adequately explained. Since the melting temperature rises with applied pressure, Rb2NbCl6 is more suitable for high-temperature applications. The computed total density of states (TDOS) at 0 GPa pressure at EF is ∼5.07 states/eV/f.u., and applied pressure has a negligible effect on the value of DOS. The study of electronic properties provides significant support for interpreting the optical function. As the applied pressure rises, the reflectivity and absorption spectra shift to higher energy regions. High-reflectivity spectra suggest that the material would be an excellent choice for coatings that lower solar heating. The authors of this study expect that the fascinating findings of this investigation will give researchers and engineers a helpful foundation.
The plasma–sheath transition and Bohm criterion in a high recycling divertor
Authors: Li Yuzhi , Srinivasan Bhuvana , Zhang Yanzeng , Tang Xian-Zhu
Published: June 2023

The high recycling regime of a divertor is characterized by high plasma particle fluxes and low temperature at the target, where a strong hydrogen recirculation loop exists. Atomic processes in the high recycling regime, such as ion–neutral friction and radiation, can affect the plasma momentum and energy transport in the sheath transition region. Here, the plasma–sheath transition near a high recycling wall is investigated. The Bohm speed, which constraints the ion exit flow speed, is evaluated from a transport model that accounts for the effect of the anisotropic transport and atomic collisions in the transition layer. A first principles kinetic code vector particle-in-cell with the atomic collision package is used to investigate a 1D self-consistent slab plasma with a high recycling boundary for the tungsten and carbon divertors. The results demonstrate the accuracy of the Bohm speed model in predicting the ion exit flow speed in the transition region, as well as the reduction of the Bohm speed due to the ion–neutral friction. The effect of different wall materials, tungsten, and carbon, on the Bohm speed and near-wall plasma profile is shown.
Numerical study of the cavitating flow over backward facing step with a polydisperse two-phase flow model
Authors: Carrica Pablo M.
Published: June 2023

We study the cavitating flow over a backward facing step with an incompressible polydisperse cavitation model. The model can predict experimental observations for this flow reasonably well, including the shedding cloud characterized by the condensation front, cavity length, void fraction, and shedding frequency. All model variations produced shedding cavities, but the turbulence model and grid resolution are essential for better predictions, with delayed detached eddy simulation (DDES) performing better than Reynolds-averaged Navier–Stokes. Quantities, such as pressures at key points, maximum void fraction location, and shedding frequency, are mildly sensitive to those factors. Finer DDES grid resolution, crucial to resolve small vortices where cavitation occurs in their low pressure cores, improves predictions. Since a fully incompressible model produces a condensation front that follows well the experimental trends, it is concluded that compressibility is not a necessary condition for the formation of a condensation front. Consequently, the speed of sound in the mixture does not appear to play an important role in the front formation and evolution. The polydisperse nature of the model allows prediction of the bubble size distribution. Small bubbles concentrate on the downstream section of the cavity, where cavity collapse is strongest and bubble fission is most intense, while larger bubbles reside near the step where the flow is milder. The condensation front is a moving source of vorticity for the liquid phase where the “compressibility,” in the sense of mixture density changes due to void fraction changes, and baroclinic effects are significant, but the buoyancy effect is negligible.
Experimental study of the nonlinear distortion of non-reciprocal transmission in nonlinear parity-time symmetric LC resonators
Authors: Zhou Yi , Wang Hao-Yan , Wang Li-Feng , Dong Lei , Huang Qing-An
Published: June 2023

At the broken phase of a parity-time (PT)-symmetric dimer where the coupling is weak, the eigenfrequencies are complex conjugate pairs with non-vanishing real parts, leading to oscillation magnitudes with an exponentially growing mode and an exponentially decaying mode. If the large oscillation magnitudes are clamped due to the nonlinear gain of the PT-symmetric dimer, the exponentially growing mode eventually enters the stable oscillations. It was recently demonstrated that such a phenomenon can be utilized for non-reciprocal transmission. The distortion induced by nonlinearity is critical for the non-reciprocal transmission. Here, we experimentally explore the nonlinear distortion in PT-symmetric inductor–capacitor resonators by utilizing discrete components on a printed circuit board. It demonstrates that the IIP3 (the output-referred third-order intercept point) can achieve as high as 38.7 dBm at the frequency of 14.5 MHz corresponding to the maximum forward transmission. The noise figure of the system is measured to be about 11.25 dB.
Highly coherent phase-lock of an 8.1 μm quantum cascade laser to a turn-key mid-IR frequency comb
Authors: Chomet B. , Gacemi D. , Lopez O. , Del Balzo L. , Vasanelli A. , Todorov Y. , Darquié B. , Sirtori C.
Published: June 2023

A continuous-wave Fabry–Pérot quantum cascade laser (QCL) emitting at 8.1 μm operating in the single mode regime has been coherently phase locked to a turn-key low-noise commercial mid-Infrared (mid-IR) optical frequency comb. The stability of the comb used as a reference is transferred to the QCL resulting in an integrated residual phase error of 0.4 rad. The laser linewidth is narrowed by more than two orders of magnitude reaching sub-kHz level at 1 ms observation time, limited by the spectral purity of the mid-IR comb. Our experiment is an important step toward the development of both powerful and metrology-grade QCLs and fully stabilized QCL frequency comb and opens perspectives for precision measurements and frequency metrology in the mid-IR.
Estimation of wavenumber–frequency spectra of wall pressure due to turbulent flow over a flat plate using large-eddy simulation
Authors: Francis Roni , Ebenezer D. D. , Bhattacharyya S. K. , Sharma Rajiv
Published: June 2023

The wavenumber–frequency spectra (WFS) of turbulent wall pressure fluctuations are used to design underwater acoustic systems, and a method is presented to determine them for flat plate flow using large-eddy simulations (LES). First, the Reynolds averaged Navier–Stokes (RANS) analysis is carried out for flow over the plate using k–ω shear-stress transport model. Flow parameters are extracted from the output of this analysis and used to impose boundary conditions for large-eddy simulations using a smaller domain with finer mesh. Mesh convergence studies are done to establish the adequacy of the proposed meshing scheme for estimating the turbulent boundary layer wall pressures. The stream-wise velocity profiles, turbulence intensities, and power spectra obtained using LES are compared with other computational and experimental results. The time history of fluctuating pressure on the wall at various stream-wise locations is used to estimate the WFS. Estimations are made of the convective ridge as well as sub-convective and low wavenumber portions of the spectrum. The computations are performed at momentum thickness-based Reynolds numbers (Rθ) of 5761, 7988, and 7709. The effect of downstream distance on the WFS is studied by computing it at three downstream locations and shown that the downstream distance has little effect on the WFS once the flow has become fully turbulent. The use of a desktop workstation for the estimation of WFS has not been reported earlier. The results show that the WFS of turbulent pressure due to flow over more complex geometries can be estimated using a similar method.
Reference-free self-calibrating tip-based scattering-type THz near-field microscopy
Authors: Moon Y. , Lee H. , Lim J. , Lee G. , Kim J. , Han H.
Published: June 2023

In this work, we present a quantitative analysis model based on reference-free self-calibration to analyze scattered fields and approach curves on a dielectric substrate for terahertz scattering-type scanning near-field optical microscopy. The results of our model are compared with experimentally measured data and a fully numerical analysis based on a line dipole image method and a quasi-electrostatic approximation. The model is used to extract the effective radius of the tip and the relative permittivity of the silicon substrate to the near-field scattering signal. The measured approach curves on Au and silicon substrates show good agreement with the calculated approach curves, and the refractive index for silicon is precisely determined to be 3.42. For a tip-based THz scattering-type scanning near-field optical microscope, the proposed analysis model allows for the extraction of the effective probe radius and dielectric functions, thereby enabling conclusive measurements of geometric parameters and optical constants.
Impingement of unlike-doublet liquid jets with different surface tensions
Authors: Hammad Farid A.
Published: June 2023

The effect of surface tension asymmetry on the atomization of unlike-doublet impinging jets was experimentally studied. Three typical features were identified, including wrinkled sheet edge, inner-sheet patch, and serrated bottom rim. The wrinkled sheet edge represents the propagation front of the Marangoni flow subsequent to rim encapsulation. The inner-sheet patch is caused by the through-plane mixing across the liquid sheet with uneven thickness and results in the occurrence of the serrated bottom rim. In the presence of these Marangoni-driven flow structures, the liquid sheet tends to be more unstable, and atomization is improved for unlike-doublet impinging jets, as the breakup length is reduced and smaller droplets are generated compared to like-doublet impinging jets.
Generative discovery of de novo chemical designs using diffusion modeling and transformer deep neural networks with application to deep eutectic solvents
Authors: Luu Rachel K. , Wysokowski Marcin , Buehler Markus J.
Published: June 2023

We report a series of deep learning models to solve complex forward and inverse design problems in molecular modeling and design. Using both diffusion models inspired by nonequilibrium thermodynamics and attention-based transformer architectures, we demonstrate a flexible framework to capture complex chemical structures. First trained on the Quantum Machines 9 (QM9) dataset and a series of quantum mechanical properties (e.g., homo, lumo, free energy, and heat capacity), we then generalize the model to study and design key properties of deep eutectic solvents (DESs). In addition to separate forward and inverse models, we also report an integrated fully prompt-based multi-task generative pretrained transformer model that solves multiple forward, inverse design, and prediction tasks, flexibly and within one model. We show that the multi-task generative model has the overall best performance and allows for flexible integration of multiple objectives, within one model, and for distinct chemistries, suggesting that synergies emerge during training of this large language model. Trained jointly in tasks related to the QM9 dataset and DESs, the model can predict various quantum mechanical properties and critical properties to achieve deep eutectic solvent behavior. Several combinations of DESs are proposed based on this framework.
Metastability and fragmentation of the OCS3+ states produced by S 2p double Auger decay
Authors: Hikosaka Yasumasa
Published: June 2023

The metastability and the dissociation processes of the OCS3+ states produced by the S 2p double Auger decay of OCS are investigated by multi-electron-ion coincidence spectroscopy using a magnetic bottle electron spectrometer. The spectra of the OCS3+ states filtered for the production of individual ions are derived by four-fold (or five-fold) coincidence among three electrons and a product ion (or two ions). The ground OCS3+ state is confirmed to be metastable in the 10 µs regime. The OCS3+ states relevant to the individual channels of two- and three-body dissociations are clarified.
Comparing narratives on carnivore management in a dryland ecosystem: a case study of state-backed lethal control
Authors: Taylor Joshua , Núñez Paula , Gáspero Pablo , Pooley Simon , Fernandez-Arhex Valeria
Published: June 2023

Lethal control of native carnivores as a principal management strategy can have unforseen ecological consequences and is often of questionable efficacy. Using as a case study a region where the lethal control of native puma and culpeo foxes has been incentivised via legislation for over 50 years, we examined how this policy has affected institutional narratives in the region. We conducted four key informant interviews with members of relevant institutions to establish their perspectives on carnivore management. We also examined the informational basis for the current legislative approach to predation, and identified topics for discussion surrounding legislation and its formation for decision-makers in the province. We identified a duality where two branches of gove rnment have contradictory policies regarding livestock production and carnivore management. All institutions involved in predation management in rural landscapes produced narratives supporting sustainable development, and suggested, in varying degrees, that alternatives to lethal control would be positive. Interviewees stated that modification of the existing laws require livestock producers to demand a change from policy-makers, who generally view carnivores poorly. Furthermore, there is evidence that discussions surrounding management strategies suffer from cultural bias, with rural inhabitants finding themselves marginalised from the decision-making process. We identified a need for empathy regarding the adverse situation of rural inhabitants facing the impacts of predation, and an appreciation of the role that carnivores play within their environments, so as to change the negative discourse surrounding human–carnivore interactions.
‘It’s like I have this weird superpower’: experiences of detectable and undetectable viral load among a cohort of recently diagnosed people living with HIV
Authors: Wells Nathanael , Philpot Steven , Murphy Dean , Ellard Jeanne , Howard Chris , Prestage Garrett
Published: June 2023

Background By reducing HIV viral load to undetectable levels, HIV treatment slows disease progression and eliminates the possibility of sexual transmission. The promotion of undetectable viral load has also been accompanied by expectations of reducing HIV-related stigma, including self-stigma. Drawing on accounts of people recently diagnosed with HIV, we explored experiences of both detectable and undetectable viral load. Methods Between January 2019 and November 2021, semi-structured interviews were conducted with 35 people living with HIV (PLHIV) who had received an HIV diagnosis in Australia from 2016 onward. Of these participants, 24 completed follow-up interviews approximately 12 months later. Interviews were transcribed verbatim, entered into NVivo (software v12), and thematically analysed. Results Reflecting on the period in which their viral load was detectable, some participants described feeling ‘dirty,’ ‘viral,’ and ‘a risk’ to sexual partners. During this period, some participants minimised or ceased having sex, sometimes despite being in ongoing romantic relationships. Reaching undetectable viral load was commonly characterised as an important goal in HIV care and signalled a marker of good health and enabled a return to sexual relationships. However, the psychosocial benefits of undetectable viral load were not universally experienced, with some participants highlighting ongoing challenges of living with HIV long term. Conclusions Increasing awareness of the benefits of undetectable viral load is an important and powerful tool for improving the health and wellbeing of PLHIV; however, the period in which one’s HIV viral load is detectable can be challenging, particularly as feelings of being ‘unclean’ and ‘a risk’ may be internalised. Ensuring PLHIV are appropriately supported during periods of viral detectability is necessary.
Regionally distinct progenitor cells in the lower airway give rise to neuroendocrine and multiciliated cells in the developing human lung
Authors: Conchola Ansley S. , Frum Tristan , Xiao Zhiwei , Hsu Peggy P. , Kaur Kamika , Downey Michael S. , Hein Renee F. C. , Miller Alyssa J. , Tsai Yu-Hwai , Wu Angeline , Holloway Emily M. , Anand Abhinav , Murthy Preetish Kadur Lakshminarasimha , Glass Ian , Tata Purushothama R. , Spence Jason R.
Published: June 2023

Using scRNA-seq and microscopy, we describe a cell that is enriched in the lower airways of the developing human lung and identified by the unique coexpression of
SCGB3A2/SFTPB/CFTR
. To functionally interrogate these cells, we apply a single-cell barcode-based lineage tracing method, called CellTagging, to track the fate of
SCGB3A2/SFTPB/CFTR
cells during airway organoid differentiation in vitro. Lineage tracing reveals that these cells have a distinct differentiation potential from basal cells, giving rise predominantly to pulmonary neuroendocrine cells and a subset of multiciliated cells distinguished by high
C6
and low
MUC16
expression. Lineage tracing results are supported by studies using organoids and isolated cells from the lower noncartilaginous airway. We conclude that
SCGB3A2/SFTPB/CFTR
cells are enriched in the lower airways of the developing human lung and contribute to the epithelial diversity and heterogeneity in this region.
Chondroitin 4-
O
-sulfation regulates hippocampal perineuronal nets and social memory
Authors: Huang Huiqian , Joffrin Amélie M. , Zhao Yuan , Miller Gregory M. , Zhang Grace C. , Oka Yuki , Hsieh-Wilson Linda C.
Published: June 2023

Glycan alterations are associated with aging, neuropsychiatric, and neurodegenerative diseases, although the contributions of specific glycan structures to emotion and cognitive functions remain largely unknown. Here, we used a combination of chemistry and neurobiology to show that 4-
O
-sulfated chondroitin sulfate (CS) polysaccharides are critical regulators of perineuronal nets (PNNs) and synapse development in the mouse hippocampus, thereby affecting anxiety and cognitive abilities such as social memory. Brain-specific deletion of CS 4-
O
-sulfation in mice increased PNN densities in the area CA2 (cornu ammonis 2), leading to imbalanced excitatory-to-inhibitory synaptic ratios, reduced CREB activation, elevated anxiety, and social memory dysfunction. The impairments in PNN densities, CREB activity, and social memory were recapitulated by selective ablation of CS 4-
O
-sulfation in the CA2 region during adulthood. Notably, enzymatic pruning of the excess PNNs reduced anxiety levels and restored social memory, while chemical manipulation of CS 4-
O
-sulfation levels reversibly modulated PNN densities surrounding hippocampal neurons and the balance of excitatory and inhibitory synapses. These findings reveal key roles for CS 4-
O
-sulfation in adult brain plasticity, social memory, and anxiety regulation, and they suggest that targeting CS 4-
O
-sulfation may represent a strategy to address neuropsychiatric and neurodegenerative diseases associated with social cognitive dysfunction.
Human scalp hair as a thermoregulatory adaptation
Authors: Lasisi Tina , Smallcombe James W. , Kenney W. Larry , Shriver Mark D. , Zydney Benjamin , Jablonski Nina G. , Havenith George
Published: June 2023

Humans are unique among mammals in having a functionally naked body with a hair-covered scalp. Scalp hair is exceptionally variable across populations within
Homo sapiens
. Neither the function of human scalp hair nor the consequences of variation in its morphology have been studied within an evolutionary framework. A thermoregulatory role for human scalp hair has been previously suggested. Here, we present experimental evidence on the potential evolutionary function of human scalp hair and variation in its morphology. Using a thermal manikin and human hair wigs at different wind speeds in a temperature and humidity-controlled environment, with and without simulated solar radiation, we collected data on the convective, radiative, and evaporative heat fluxes to and from the scalp in relation to properties of a range of hair morphologies, as well as a naked scalp. We find evidence for a significant reduction in solar radiation influx to the scalp in the presence of hair. Maximal evaporative heat loss potential from the scalp is reduced by the presence of hair, but the amount of sweat required on the scalp to balance the incoming solar heat (i.e., zero heat gain) is reduced in the presence of hair. Particularly, we find that hair that is more tightly curled offers increased protection against heat gain from solar radiation.
A specialized integrin-binding motif enables proTGF-β2 activation by integrin αVβ6 but not αVβ8
Authors: Le Viet Q. , Zhao Bo , Ramesh Siddanth , Toohey Cameron , DeCosta Adam , Mintseris Julian , Liu Xinyue , Gygi Steven , Springer Timothy A.
Published: June 2023

Activation of latent transforming growth factor (TGF)-β2 is incompletely understood. Unlike TGF-β1 and β3, the TGF-β2 prodomain lacks a seven-residue RGDLXX (L/I) integrin-recognition motif and is thought not to be activated by integrins. Here, we report the surprising finding that TGF-β2 contains a related but divergent 13-residue integrin-recognition motif (YTSGDQKTIKSTR) that specializes it for activation by integrin αVβ6 but not αVβ8. Both classes of motifs compete for the same binding site in αVβ6. Multiple changes in the longer motif underlie its specificity. ProTGF-β2 structures define interesting differences from proTGF-β1 and the structural context for activation by αVβ6. Some integrin-independent activation is also seen for proTGF-β2 and even more so for proTGF-β3. Our findings have important implications for therapeutics to αVβ6 in clinical trials for fibrosis, in which inhibition of TGF-β2 activation has not been anticipated.
Effects of language background and directionality on raters’ assessments of spoken-language interpreting
Authors: Han Chao , Hu Juan , Deng Yi
Published: June 2023

Bilingual raters play an important role in assessing spoken-language interpreting (between X and Y languages). Presumably, raters with X being the dominant language (DL) and Y the less DL can potentially differ, in terms of rating processes, from other raters with Y being the DL and X the less DL, when assessing either X-to-Y or Y-to-X interpreting. As such, raters’ language background and its interaction with interpreting directionality may influence assessment outcomes. However, this complex interaction and its effects on assessment have not been investigated. We therefore conducted the current experiment to explore how raters’ language background and interpreting directionality would affect assessment of English-Chinese, two-way interpreting. Our analyses of the quantitative data indicate that, when assessing interpreting into raters’ mother tongue or DL, they displayed a greater level of self-confidence and self-consistency, but rated performance more harshly. Such statistically significant group-level disparities led to different assessment outcomes, as pass and fail rates varied, depending on the rater group. These quantitative findings, coupled with the raters’ qualitative comments, may have implications for selection and training of bilingual raters for interpreting assessment.
Text as haunt
Authors: Washbourne Kelly , Cruz-Martes Camelly
Published: June 2023

The spectral in translation may be considered an opportunity for opening, and the textual haunting that results, a
way of conceiving of other-inhabitedness. Texts, translations, authors and translators have long been framed in the discourse of
hauntedness as a way of coming to terms with their complex subjectivities. A hauntological approach to translation allows for an
engagement with the presence-in-absence of a ‘source,’ the translational disjunctures of time and space, the return of the
traumatic and the repressed, and the promise of alterity. We posit three potential components of translational spectrality: (1)
translation and trauma; (2) haunted texts and readings, including acts of translation; and (3) the spectral author and translator.
The figure of the ghost confronts that of the autonomous author, at the same time giving voice to the (dis)embodied translator and
attendant invisibilities of their status.
Statistical ensembles and logarithmic corrections to black hole entropy
Authors: Ghosh Aritra
Published: June 2023

In this paper, we consider general statistical ensembles and compute logarithmic corrections to the microcanonical entropy resulting due to thermodynamic fluctuations which are controlled by the boundary conditions, i.e. due to choice of ensemble. The framework is applied to the case of non-extremal black holes to give certain logarithmic corrections to the Bekenstein–Hawking entropy. We argue that within the framework of black hole chemistry, where the cosmological constant is identified with bulk pressure, the isoenthalpic-isobaric entropy rather than microcanonical entropy carries a more natural and consistent thermodynamic interpretation as black hole entropy. Logarithmic corrections to both microcanonical and isoenthalpic-isobaric entropies of black holes are computed, and we show that the latter set of corrections in black hole chemistry are of the same form as corrections to the microcanonical entropy in theories where the cosmological constant is not interpreted as a thermodynamic pressure. Finally, we compute logarithmic corrections to entropy in the framework of holographic black hole chemistry. We emphasize upon the choice of statistical ensemble, both in the bulk and on the boundary, in order to have a consistent comparison between them. The corrections studied in this paper are distinct from those obtained from Euclidean quantum gravity.
Resolution guarantees for the reconstruction of inclusions in linear elasticity based on monotonicity methods
Authors: Eberle-Blick Sarah , Harrach Bastian
Published: June 2023

We deal with the reconstruction of inclusions in elastic bodies based on monotonicity methods and construct conditions under which a resolution for a given partition can be achieved. These conditions take into account the background error as well as the measurement noise. We want to highlight that we consider Lamé parameters that are either both smaller or larger than the background Lamé parameters. Both those cases are investigated for standard and linearized monotonicity tests resulting in four different algorithms and the corresponding resolution guarantees.
Understanding the effect of SiC/epoxy coating on surface flashover under DC voltage: from surface charge accumulation
Authors: Han Pu , Pan Zijun , Mao Shiyi , Ye Yuhan , Tang Ju , Pan Cheng
Published: June 2023

Charge accumulation at the insulator surface significantly alters the electric field distribution under DC voltage and can lead to unpredictable flashover. It is realized that the surface flashover voltage is reliant on the charge distribution approaching flashover occurrence (CDAFO). A method of how to judge the moment approaching flashover was proposed in this study to clarify how surface charges induced flashover, whereby the dynamic distributions of surface charges, including the CDAFO, were obtained from the instant of voltage application to the moment approaching flashover. The resulting flashover was analyzed with regards to insulators coated in SiC/epoxy, including an examination of the dominant charging pathway during voltage rising and a discussion of the relationship between the CDAFO and flashover voltage. Despite voltage polarities and SiC content, a reversal of charge polarity from hetero-polar to homo-polar was observed during voltage rising. Furthermore, it was discovered that the CDAFO was homo-charge accumulation, and an increase in SiC content resulted in greater homo-charges. A theory outlining homo-charge’s enhancement of flashover voltage by weakening the electric field near the high voltage electrode was also proposed. Consequently, because of the improved effect of homo-charges on flashover voltage, the addition of SiC led to the boost of flashover voltage.
Topological invariant of multilayer Haldane models with irregular stackings
Authors: Wu Xi
Published: June 2023

We study multilayer Haldane models with irregular type of stacking. Considering the nearest interlayer hopping, we prove that the value of the topological invariant is equal to the number of layers times the value of the topological invariant of monolayer Haldane model for irregular stacking(except AA), and interlayer hoppings do not induce direct gap closing or phase transitions. However, if the next-to-nearest hopping is taken into account, phase transitions can occur.
End block dynamics in unentangled polymers by dielectric spectroscopy
Authors: Wu Mengchun , Bichler Karin J , Jakobi Bruno , Grzesiowski Alyssa , Schneider Gerald J
Published: June 2023

Dielectric spectroscopy measures the dynamics of polymer melts over a broad frequency range. Developing a theory for the spectral shape can extend the analysis of dielectric spectra beyond determining relaxation times from the peak maxima and adds physical meaning to shape parameters determined with empirical fit functions. Toward this goal, we use the experimental results on unentangled poly(isoprene), and unentangled poly(butylene oxide), polymer melts, to test whether the concept of end blocks could be one reason for the Rouse model deviating from experimental data. These end blocks have been suggested by simulations and neutron spin echo spectroscopy and are a consequence of the monomeric friction coefficient depending on the position of the bead in the chain. The concept of an end block is an approximation which partitions the chain in a middle and two end blocks to avoid overparameterization by a continuous position dependent change of the friction parameter. Analysis of dielectric spectra shows that the deviations of the calculated from the experimental normal mode cannot be related to the end block relaxation. However, the results do not contradict an end block hiding below the segmental relaxation peak. It seems that the results are compatible with an end block being the specific part of the sub-Rouse chain interpretation close to the chain ends.