bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Cl‐Anion Engineering for Halide Perovskite Solar Cells and Modules with Enhanced Photostability
Authors: Gostishchev Pavel , Saranin Danila , Luchnikov Lev , Muratov Dmitry , Ishteev Artur , Voronova Marina , Gets Dmitry , Argunov Efim , Le Thai Son , Didenko Sergey , Di Carlo Aldo
Published: December 2022

This article shows the new insights for stabilizing the p‐i‐n perovskite solar cells (PSCs) and modules based on double cation CsFAPbI3 absorber using CsCl additives. The presence of chlorine in the perovskite crystal structure results in the decrease of the lattice parameters by 0.6 ± 0.06%, in the increase of the bandgap value (+0.018 eV), and charge carrier lifetimes with respect to the undoped one. The champion PSCs based on the CsFAPbI3−xClx absorber show an increase in power conversation efficiency from 18.06% up to 20.13% after Cl doping. The light‐soaking stability of PSCs measured at maximum power point demonstrates impressive increase of the T80 from 1128 h for CsFAPbI3‐based devices to more than 3479 h for CsFAPbI3−xClx ones. It is found that the Cl doping suppresses the formation of lead iodide and pure CsPbI3 induced by decomposition and phase segregation processes only when the perovskite is covered with the C60/BCP electron‐transporting layer (ETL), while in the structure without ETL Cl additive is not effective. Finally, the high potential of Cl‐anion engineering for the perovskite modules (5 × 5 cm2) is demonstrated, which shows promising 17.08% of power conversation efficiency and light‐soaking stability for 1396 h.
Influence of parameter uncertainty on the low‐carbon design optimization of reinforced concrete continuous beams
Authors: Zhang Xiaocun , Wang Fenglai
Published: December 2022

Sustainable structural design can benefit the low‐carbon building industry. This study developed a hybrid optimization approach to analyze the influence of parameter uncertainty on the low‐carbon design optimization of reinforced concrete components. The proposed approach combined Monte Carlo simulations with a genetic algorithm for stochastic design optimization considering uncertainty in carbon emission factors. Based on a “cradle to site” system boundary that considers the production, transportation, and construction of reinforcement, concrete, and formwork, a case study of a continuous beam was conducted. The results revealed the significance of carbon emission factor choices on the optimal solutions. Further parametric analyses indicated the rational ranges of sectional dimensions and material strengths from a probabilistic perspective, and suggestions were accordingly proposed for low‐carbon design alternatives. Overall, the choices of emission factors can change the values of objective functions in the optimization, and therefore, affect the optimized design parameters of reinforced concrete beams.
Residual bond‐slip behavior in reinforced concrete members exposed to elevated temperatures
Authors: Asghari Ghajari Farjam , Yousefpour Hossein
Published: December 2022

Many reinforced concrete (RC) structures survive fire events, after which investigation of their residual performance becomes essential. The elevated temperatures experienced by structural members during a fire negatively impact the mechanical properties of concrete and steel, as well as their mutual bond. This paper investigates the bond behavior in RC members exposed to elevated temperatures to help designers check the safety of RC structures after a fire. Thirteen modified beam‐end specimens were designed and fabricated with two diameters of longitudinal bar (14 and 22 mm), two concrete strengths (30 and 50 MPa) and two confinement levels (0.8% and 1.6%). After being exposed to a variety of heating regimes and naturally cooling down to room temperature, the specimens were tested by applying a monotonic pull‐out force to their eccentric longitudinal bar. The results showed that after short‐term exposure to 400, 600, and 700°C, the residual bond strength may decrease by 23%, 58%, and 65%, respectively. The equations for the pull‐out failure proposed in the fib Model Code 2010 were found to yield realistic results in terms of upper and lower bounds for the bond behavior under monotonic loading, and the dependency of the residual bond strength on the square root of the residual compressive strength of the concrete was confirmed. Results were used to develop recommendations for the evaluation of the residual bond strength and of the development length in RC members exposed to elevated temperatures.
Culturally responsive and high‐leverage practices: Facilitating effective instruction for English learners with learning disabilities
Authors: Wei Yan , Hovey Katrina A. , Gerzel‐Short Lydia , Hsiao Yun‐Ju , Miller Rhonda D. , Kelly Jerae H.
Published: December 2022

Research suggests that English learners (ELs) with learning disabilities (LD) may benefit from culturally responsive evidence‐based instructional approaches. ELs with LD often present with learning challenges that influence language acquisition and literacy development. One way to address the distinctive proclivities of these students is to consider the importance of culturally responsive evidence‐based instruction that can elevate student understanding and academic achievement. This article explores the integration of two theoretical frameworks: culturally responsive practices and high‐leverage practices. It then outlines the importance of teacher introspection as an instructional foundation and identifies several strategies for ELs with LD by centering instruction around linguistic assets and cultural values in combination with effective instructional practices. The article concludes with a call to action for teachers to tailor instruction based on students' cultural and language assets, in combination with effective instructional practices to enhance student learning.
Subclinical bowel inflammation increases healthcare resources utilization and steroid use before diagnosis of inflammatory bowel disease
Authors: Rodríguez‐Lago Iago , Aguirre Urko , Ramírez de la Piscina Patricia , Muñagorri Ana , Zapata Eva , Higuera Rebeca , Montalvo Isabel , Iriarte Ainara , Fernández‐Calderón María , Arreba Paz , Carrascosa Juan , Cabriada José Luis , Barreiro‐de Acosta Manuel
Published: December 2022

Background

Previous data support that the inflammatory process underlying ulcerative colitis (UC) and Crohn's disease (CD) can start years before the diagnosis. The aim of this study was to determine if patients with an incidental diagnosis of UC or CD demonstrate an increase in healthcare utilization in the years preceding the symptomatic onset of the disease.

Methods

We performed a multicenter, retrospective, hospital‐based, case‐control study. Patients with an incidental diagnosis of UC or CD during the colorectal cancer screening program at 9 hospitals were included. Cases were matched 1:3 and compared separately with two control populations: one including healthy non‐IBD subjects adjusted by gender, age, and date, excluding those with visits to Gastroenterology; and a second control cohort of UC/CD patients with symptomatic onset.

Results

A total of 124 patients with preclinical inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) were included (87 UC, 30 CD, 7 IBD unclassified; median age 56 years). Patients with preclinical IBD showed an increase in the number of visits to Primary Care up to 3 and 5 years before diagnosis (aIRR 1.59, 95% CI [1.37–1.86], p = 0.001; aIRR 1.43, 95% CI [1.24–1.67], p = 0.01) and more frequent use of steroids (aOR 2.84, 95% CI [1.21–6.69], p = 0.03; aOR 2.25, 95% CI [1.06–4.79], p = 0.04) compared to matched non‐IBD healthy controls, respectively. In contrast, patients with a symptomatic onset visited Primary Care less frequently, but they had an increase in the number of visits to Emergency Department, specialist care, sick‐leaves, CT/ultrasound examinations, and use of antibiotics or systemic steroids.

Conclusions

There is an increased need for medical assistance and use of systemic steroids during the presymptomatic phase of IBD. These results will help in establishing new tools for early identification of IBD in the future.
Sow mortality in a pig production system in the midwestern USA: Reasons for removal and factors associated with increased mortality
Authors: Kikuti Mariana , Preis Guilherme Milanez , Deen John , Pinilla Juan Carlos , Corzo Cesar A.
Published: December 2022

Background

Sow mortality has become a growing concern in the pig production industry over the past decade. Therefore, we aimed to describe sow mortality and associated factors in a production system in the midwestern USA.

Methods

Mortality records from 2009 to 2018 for four farrow‐to‐wean farms were described. Environmental, farm‐ and individual‐level factors associated with weekly mortality and individual risk of dying throughout a sow's lifetime were assessed.

Results

Deaths occurred at a median of 116 days from last service, or 26 days postpartum. The median parity upon death was two. Overall, the main reasons for death were locomotion (27%) and reproduction (24%). A higher weekly number of deaths was associated with spring (incidence rate ratio [IRR] 1.27, compared to winter). Sows had a higher mortality when they were exposed to at least one porcine reproductive and respiratory syndrome (PRRS) outbreak during their lifetime (IRR 1.55) and when housed in groups (pens) during gestation (IRR 1.32). Conversely, they had  a lower mortality when housed in filtered farms (IRR 0.76), accounting for an interaction term between parity at removal and PRRS outbreak exposure.

Limitations

Issues with data completion and information accuracy were present, and prospective data collection throughout sows’ lifetimes is still needed.

Conclusion

Efforts to reduce infectious diseases within the herd and manage environmental stressors should help reduce mortality.
Properties of infinite product amplitudes: Veneziano, Virasoro, and Coon
Authors: Geiser Nicholas , Lindwasser Lukas W.
Published: December 2022

Abstract

We detail the properties of the Veneziano, Virasoro, and Coon amplitudes. These tree-level four-point scattering amplitudes may be written as infinite products with an infinite sequence of simple poles. Our approach for the Coon amplitude uses the mathematical theory of q-analysis. We interpret the Coon amplitude as a q-deformation of the Veneziano amplitude for all q ≥ 0 and discover a new transcendental structure in its low-energy expansion. We show that there is no analogous q-deformation of the Virasoro amplitude.
Pion dynamics in a soft-wall AdS-QCD model
Authors: Cao Xuanmin , Baggioli Matteo , Liu Hui , Li Danning
Published: December 2022

Abstract

Pseudo-Goldstone modes appear in many physical systems and display robust universal features. First, their mass m obeys the so-called Gell-Mann-Oakes-Renner (GMOR) relation f2m2 = $$ H\overline{\sigma} $$
H

σ
¯

, with f the Goldstone stiffness, H the explicit breaking scale and $$ \overline{\sigma} $$

σ
¯

the spontaneous condensate. More recently, it has been shown that their damping Ω is constrained to follow the relation Ω = m2Dφ, where Dφ is the Goldstone diffusivity in the purely spontaneous phase. Pions are the most paradigmatic example of pseudo-Goldstone modes and they are related to chiral symmetry breaking in QCD. In this work, we consider a bottom-up soft-wall AdS-QCD model with broken SU(2)L × SU(2)R symmetry and we study the nature of the associated pseudo-Goldstone modes — the pions. In particular, we perform a detailed investigation of their dispersion relation in presence of dissipation, of the role of the explicit breaking induced by the quark masses and of the dynamics near the critical point. Taking advantage of the microscopic information provided by the holographic model, we give quantitative predictions for all the coefficients appearing in the effective description. In particular, we estimate the finite temperature behavior of the kinetic parameter $$ \mathfrak{r} $$
r
2 defined as the ratio between the Goldstone diffusivity Dφ and the pion attenuation constant DA. Interestingly, we observe important deviations from the value $$ \mathfrak{r} $$
r
2 = 3/4 computed in chiral perturbation theory in the limit of zero temperature.
Sharpening the Distance Conjecture in diverse dimensions
Authors: Etheredge Muldrow , Heidenreich Ben , Kaya Sami , Qiu Yue , Rudelius Tom
Published: December 2022

Abstract

The Distance Conjecture holds that any infinite-distance limit in the scalar field moduli space of a consistent theory of quantum gravity must be accompanied by a tower of light particles whose masses scale exponentially with proper field distance ‖ϕ‖ as m ~ exp(−λ‖ϕ‖), where λ is order-one in Planck units. While the evidence for this conjecture is formidable, there is at present no consensus on which values of λ are allowed. In this paper, we propose a sharp lower bound for the lightest tower in a given infinite-distance limit in d dimensions: λ ≥ $$ 1/\sqrt{d-2} $$
1
/

d
−
2

. In support of this proposal, we show that (1) it is exactly preserved under dimensional reduction, (2) it is saturated in many examples of string/M-theory compactifications, including maximal supergravity in d = 4 – 10 dimensions, and (3) it is saturated in many examples of minimal supergravity in d = 4 – 10 dimensions, assuming appropriate versions of the Weak Gravity Conjecture. We argue that towers with λ <$$ 1/\sqrt{d-2} $$
1
/

d
−
2

discussed previously in the literature are always accompanied by even lighter towers with λ ≥ $$ 1/\sqrt{d-2} $$
1
/

d
−
2

, thereby satisfying our proposed bound. We discuss connections with and implications for the Emergent String Conjecture, the Scalar Weak Gravity Conjecture, the Repulsive Force Conjecture, large-field inflation, and scalar field potentials in quantum gravity. In particular, we argue that if our proposed bound applies beyond massless moduli spaces to scalar fields with potentials, then accelerated cosmological expansion cannot occur in asymptotic regimes of scalar field space in quantum gravity.
Holographic measurement and bulk teleportation
Authors: Antonini Stefano , Bentsen Gregory , Cao ChunJun , Harper Jonathan , Jian Shao-Kai , Swingle Brian
Published: December 2022

Abstract

Holography has taught us that spacetime is emergent and its properties depend on the entanglement structure of the dual theory. In this paper, we describe how changes in the entanglement due to a local projective measurement (LPM) on a subregion A of the boundary theory modify the bulk dual spacetime. We find that LPMs destroy portions of the bulk geometry, yielding post-measurement bulk spacetimes dual to the complementary unmeasured region Ac that are cut off by end-of-the-world branes. Using a bulk calculation in AdS3 and tensor network models of holography (in particular, the HaPPY code and random tensor networks), we show that the portions of the bulk geometry that are preserved after the measurement depend on the size of A and the state we project onto. The post-measurement bulk dual to Ac includes regions that were originally part of the entanglement wedge of A prior to measurement. This suggests that LPMs performed on a boundary subregion A teleport part of the bulk information originally encoded in A into the complementary region Ac. In semiclassical holography an arbitrary amount of bulk information can be teleported in this way, while in tensor network models the teleported information is upper-bounded by the amount of entanglement shared between A and Ac due to finite-N effects. When A is the union of two disjoint subregions, the measurement triggers an entangled/disentangled phase transition between the remaining two unmeasured subregions, corresponding to a connected/disconnected phase transition in the bulk description. Our results shed new light on the effects of measurement on the entanglement structure of holographic theories and give insight on how bulk information can be manipulated from the boundary theory. They could also represent a first step towards a holographic description of measurement-induced phase transitions.
Annexin A1 (Ac2-26)-dependent Fpr2 receptor alleviates sepsis-induced acute kidney injury by inhibiting inflammation and apoptosis in vivo and in vitro
Authors: Zheng Yanlei , Li Yan , Li Shi , Hu Ronghua , Zhang Li
Published: December 2022

Objectives

Excessive inflammatory responses and apoptosis are critical pathologies that contribute to sepsis-induced acute kidney injury (SI-AKI). Annexin A1 (ANXA1), a member of the calcium-dependent phospholipid-binding protein family, protects against SI-AKI through its anti-inflammatory and antiapoptotic effects, but the underlying mechanisms are still largely unknown.

Methods

In vivo, SI-AKI mouse models were established via caecal ligation and puncture (CLP) and were then treated with the Ac2-26 peptide of ANXA1 (ANXA1 (Ac2-26)), WRW4 (Fpr2 antagonist) or both. In vitro, HK-2 cells were induced by lipopolysaccharide (LPS) and then treated with ANXA1 (Ac2-26), Fpr2–siRNA or both.

Results

In the present study, we found that the expression levels of ANXA1 were decreased, and the expression levels of TNF-α, IL-1β, IL-6, cleaved caspase-3, cleaved caspase-8 and Bax were significantly increased, accompanied by marked kidney tissue apoptosis in vivo. Moreover, we observed that ANXA1 (Ac2-26) significantly reduced the levels of TNF-α, IL-1β and IL-6 and cleaved caspase-3, cleaved caspase-8, FADD and Bax and inhibited apoptosis in kidney tissue and HK-2 cells, accompanied by pathological damage to kidney tissue. Seven-day survival, kidney function and cell viability were significantly improved in vivo and in vitro, respectively. Furthermore, the administration of ANXA1 (Ac2-26) inhibited the CLP- or LPS-induced phosphorylation of PI3K and AKT and downregulated the level of NF-κB in vivo and in vitro. Moreover, our data demonstrate that blocking the Fpr2 receptor by the administration of WRW4 or Fpr2–siRNA reversed the abovementioned regulatory role of ANXA1, accompanied by enhanced phosphorylation of PI3K and AKT and upregulation of the level of NF-κB in vivo and in vitro.

Conclusions

Taken together, this study provides evidence that the protective effect of ANXA1 (Ac2-26) on SI-AKI largely depends on the negative regulation of inflammation and apoptosis via the Fpr2 receptor.
Cauchy or not Cauchy? New goodness-of-fit tests for the Cauchy distribution
Authors: Ebner Bruno , Eid Lena , Klar Bernhard
Published: December 2022

We introduce a new characterization of the Cauchy distribution and propose a class of goodness-of-fit tests for the Cauchy family. The limit distribution is derived in a Hilbert space framework under the null hypothesis. The new tests are consistent against a large class of alternatives. A comparative Monte Carlo simulation study shows that the test is a good competitor for the state of the art procedures, and we apply the tests to log-returns of cryptocurrencies.
Characterizing functional modules in the human thalamus: coactivation-based parcellation and systems-level functional decoding
Authors: Boeken Ole J. , Cieslik Edna C. , Langner Robert , Markett Sebastian
Published: December 2022

The human thalamus relays sensory signals to the cortex and facilitates brain-wide communication. The thalamus is also more directly involved in sensorimotor and various cognitive functions but a full characterization of its functional repertoire, particularly in regard to its internal anatomical structure, is still outstanding. As a putative hub in the human connectome, the thalamus might reveal its functional profile only in conjunction with interconnected brain areas. We therefore developed a novel systems-level Bayesian reverse inference decoding that complements the traditional neuroinformatics approach towards a network account of thalamic function. The systems-level decoding considers the functional repertoire (i.e., the terms associated with a brain region) of all regions showing co-activations with a predefined seed region in a brain-wide fashion. Here, we used task-constrained meta-analytic connectivity-based parcellation (MACM-CBP) to identify thalamic subregions as seed regions and applied the systems-level decoding to these subregions in conjunction with functionally connected cortical regions. Our results confirm thalamic structure–function relationships known from animal and clinical studies and revealed further associations with language, memory, and locomotion that have not been detailed in the cognitive neuroscience literature before. The systems-level decoding further uncovered large systems engaged in autobiographical memory and nociception. We propose this novel decoding approach as a useful tool to detect previously unknown structure–function relationships at the brain network level, and to build viable starting points for future studies.
Efficacy of functional electrical stimulation in rehabilitating patients with foot drop symptoms after stroke and its correlation with somatosensory evoked potentials—a crossover randomised controlled trial
Authors: Mijic Marko , Schoser Benedikt , Young Peter
Published: December 2022

Objective

The connectivity between somatosensory evoked potentials (SEPs) and cortical plasticity remains elusive due to a lack of supporting data. This study investigates changes in pathological latencies and amplitudes of SEPs caused by an acute stroke after 2 weeks of rehabilitation with functional electrical stimulation (FES). Furthermore, changes in SEPs and the efficacy of FES against foot drop (FD) stroke symptoms were correlated using the 10-m walk test and foot–ankle strength.

Methods

A randomised controlled two-period crossover design plus a control group (group C) was designed. Group A (n = 16) was directly treated with FES, while group B (n = 16) was treated after 2 weeks. The untreated control group of 20 healthy adults underwent repeated SEP measurements for evaluation only.

Results

The repeated-measures ANOVA showed a decrease in tibial nerve (TN) P40 and N50 latencies in group A after the intervention, followed by a decline in non-paretic TN SEP in latency N50 (p < 0.05). Moreover, compared to groups B and C from baseline to 4 weeks, group A showed a decrease in paretic TN latency P40 and N50 (p < 0.05). An increase in FD strength and a reduction in step cadence in group B (p < 0.05) and a positive tendency in FD strength (p = 0.12) and step cadence (p = 0.08) in group A were observed after the treatment time. The data showed a moderate (r = 0.50–0.70) correlation between non-paretic TN latency N50 and step cadence in groups A and B after the intervention time.

Conclusion

The FES intervention modified the pathological gait in association with improved SEP afferent feedback.

Registered on 25 February 2021 on ClinicalTrials.gov under identifier number: NCT04767360.
Marginal abatement costs for GHG emissions in Canada: a shadow cost approach
Authors: Gamtessa Samuel , Çule Monika
Published: December 2022

This study approximates the marginal abatement costs (MACs) of reducing GHG emissions in Canada using the shadow cost approach. Utilizing industry level data, we are the first to offer Canadian estimates based on a Hyperbolic Output Distance Function (HODF) and the stochastic frontier estimation. Accounting for GHG emissions caused by energy consumption, we obtain an average shadow MAC of $130/t across 30 industries. In the GHG-intensive industries such as the electric utilities and non-conventional oil extraction, MACs are lower than the CO2levy of $50/t imposed by the federal government. Since these low-MACs sectors account for about 98 per cent of total GHG emissions and 94 per cent of total energy use in industries studied, the envisaged $50/t carbon levy could notionally result in a significant GHG abatement in Canada.

Graphical abstract
The dependency of fetal left ventricular biomechanics function on myocardium helix angle configuration
Authors: Green Laura , Chan Wei Xuan , Ren Meifeng , Mattar Citra Nurfarah Zaini , Lee Lik Chuan , Yap Choon Hwai
Published: December 2022

The helix angle configuration of the myocardium is understood to contribute to the heart function, as finite element (FE) modeling of postnatal hearts showed that altered configurations affected cardiac function and biomechanics. However, similar investigations have not been done on the fetal heart. To address this, we performed image-based FE simulations of fetal left ventricles (LV) over a range of helix angle configurations, assuming a linear variation of helix angles from epicardium to endocardium. Results showed that helix angles have substantial influence on peak myofiber stress, cardiac stroke work, myocardial deformational burden, and spatial variability of myocardial strain. A good match between LV myocardial strains from FE simulations to those measured from 4D fetal echo images could only be obtained if the transmural variation of helix angle was generally between 110 and 130°, suggesting that this was the physiological range. Experimentally discovered helix angle configurations from the literature were found to produce high peak myofiber stress, high cardiac stroke work, and a low myocardial deformational burden, but did not coincide with configurations that would optimize these characteristics. This may suggest that the fetal development of myocyte orientations depends concurrently on several factors rather than a single factor. We further found that the shape, rather than the size of the LV, determined the manner at which helix angles influenced these characteristics, as this influence changed significantly when the LV shape was varied, but not when a heart was scaled from fetal to adult size while retaining the same shape. This may suggest that biomechanical optimality would be affected during diseases that altered the geometric shape of the LV.
Superpotentials and Quiver Algebras for Semisimple Hopf Actions
Authors: Crawford Simon
Published: December 2022

We consider the action of a semisimple Hopf algebra H on an m-Koszul Artin–Schelter regular algebra A. Such an algebra A is a derivation-quotient algebra for some twisted superpotential w, and we show that the homological determinant of the action of H on A can be easily calculated using w. Using this, we show that the smash product A#H is also a derivation-quotient algebra, and use this to explicitly determine a quiver algebra Λ to which A#H is Morita equivalent, generalising a result of Bocklandt–Schedler–Wemyss. We also show how Λ can be used to determine whether the Auslander map is an isomorphism. We compute a number of examples, and show how several results for the quantum Kleinian singularities studied by Chan–Kirkman–Walton–Zhang follow using our techniques.
A Biogeochemical Alkalinity Sink in a Shallow, Semiarid Estuary of the Northwestern Gulf of Mexico
Authors: Dias Larissa M. , Hu Xinping , Yin Hang
Published: December 2022

Estuarine total alkalinity (TA), which buffers against acidification, is temporally and spatially variable and regulated by complex, interacting hydrologic and biogeochemical processes. During periods of net evaporation (drought), the Mission-Aransas Estuary (MAE) of the northwestern Gulf of Mexico experienced TA losses beyond what can be attributed to calcification. The contribution of sedimentary oxidation of reduced sulfur to the TA loss was examined in this study. Water column samples were collected from five stations within MAE and analyzed for salinity, TA, and calcium ion concentrations. Sediment samples from four of these monitoring stations and one additional station within MAE were collected and incubated between 2018 and 2021. TA, calcium, magnesium, and sulfate ion concentrations were analyzed for these incubations. Production of sulfate along with TA consumption (or production) beyond what can be attributed to calcification (or carbonate dissolution) was observed. These results suggest that oxidation of reduced sulfur consumed TA in MAE during droughts. We estimate that the upper limit of TA consumption due to reduced sulfur oxidation can be as much as 4.60 × 108 mol day−1 in MAE. This biogeochemical TA sink may be present in other similar subtropical, freshwater-starved estuaries around the world.
Defect Detection in Aramid Fiber-Reinforced Composites via Terahertz Radiation
Authors: Strąg Martyna , Swiderski Waldemar
Published: December 2022

This paper presents the ability of Terahertz (THz) radiation in the non-destructive testing of composite materials used for military applications in ballistic protections. The terahertz scanner was used to detect the defects in selected elements consisting of aramid fiber-reinforced composites. Two sources of terahertz radiation, operated at frequencies 100 GHz and 300 GHz, were chosen. The results were next compared with the one obtained via X-ray imaging. The preliminary results showed that the THz radiation has high potential as the detection method in these materials. There is a significantly higher resolution of the results obtained at a frequency 300 GHz in comparison to 100 GHz. Moreover, THz waves alloweddetecting defects invisible to X-rays. The use of a high-quality THz scanner led to the efficient inspection of investigated areas and confirmed the presence of defects such as cracks, delamination, lack of material, and shrinkage of the material’s interior proving the high applicability of THz radiation in the monitoring of military designated-composite materials.
Hesperidin protects against aluminum-induced renal injury in rats via modulating MMP-9 and apoptosis: biochemical, histological, and ultrastructural study
Authors: Hassan Nancy Husseiny , Yousef Doaa Mohammed , Alsemeh Amira Ebrahim
Published: December 2022

Aluminum, one of the most abundant metallic elements, is known to be toxic to multiple organs including the kidneys. This study aimed to investigate the pleiotropic nephroprotective effects of Hesperidin in aluminum chloride (ALCL3)-induced renal injury, highlighting the potential molecular mechanisms underlying. Twenty-four male albino rats were divided into four groups: control, Hesperidin (80 mg/kg BW, orally), ALCL3 (10 mg/kg BW, IP), and ALCL3 + Hesperidin groups. By the end of the study, blood samples were collected, and tissue samples were harvested at sacrifice. ALCL3 rats showed dramatically declined renal function, enhanced intrarenal oxidative stress, inflammation, apoptosis, and extravagant renal histopathological damage with interstitial fibrosis as shown by a higher Endothelial, Glomerular, Tubular, and Interstitial (EGTI) score. Hesperidin significantly reversed all the aforementioned detrimental effects in ALCL3-treated rats. The study verified the nephroprotective effects of Hesperidin on ALCL3-induced renal damage and confirmed the critical role of extracellular matrix (ECM) remodeling and apoptosis inhibition.

Graphical Abstract
Differences in Substance Use Disorders and Other Mental Disorders in Mental Health and Addiction Settings: Sociodemographic, Clinical, Drug Treatment, and Gender Differences
Authors: Fernández-Miranda Juan José , Pascual-Pastor Francisco , Díaz-Fernández Silvia , Navarro Daniela , Manzanares Jorge
Published: December 2022

Different care networks in Spain evaluate the co-occurrence of substance use disorders (SUD) and other mental disorders (OMDs). This study aimed to explore the differences in prevalence, sociodemographic and clinical profile, pharmacological treatment, and gender perspective of the co-occurrence of SUD and OMD between specific addiction treatment networks and mental health networks. This is an observational, cross-multicenter study with a randomized sample of patients under treatment for SUD or OMDs in different autonomous communities of Spain (N = 1783). Sixty-seven health professionals completed an ad hoc online questionnaire, collecting sociodemographic variables with patients diagnosed with SUD and OMDs, and their pharmacological treatments. The findings revealed a high prevalence of OMD in patients treated for SUD (71%) and those for OMD diagnosed with SUD (59%). Specific relationships between the SUDs and OMDs were identified. In networks treating SUDs, the increase in treatment for OMDs was widespread. However, the addition of SUD treatments in mental health networks was less frequent than expected. In addition, an elevated benzodiazepine prescription was detected in both settings. Some possible gender biases in treatments were found. This study provides preliminary information on the coexistence in routine clinical practice of addictive disorders and other mental disorders in Spain. The results revealed that the treatments provided are inefficient for SUDs in patients treated in mental health settings. Furthermore, a high prescription of anxiolytics and differences by sex are shown. These findings may contribute to adapting the treatment response with greater precision and effectiveness.
NARall: a novel tool for reconstruction of the all-atom structure of nucleic acids from heavily coarse-grained model
Authors: Golon Łukasz , Sieradzan Adam K.
Published: December 2022

Nucleic acids are one of the most important cellular components. These molecules have been studied both experimentally and theoretically. As all-atom simulations are still limited to short time scales, coarse-grain modeling allows to study of those molecules on a longer time scale. Nucleic-Acid united RESidue (NARES-2P) is a low-resolution coarse-grained model with two centers of interaction per repeating unit. It has been successfully applied to study DNA self-assembly and telomeric properties. This force field enables the study of nucleic acids Behavior on a long time scale but lacks atomistic details. In this article, we present new software to reconstruct atomistic details from the NARES-2P model. It has been applied to RNA pseudoknot, nucleic acid four-way junction, G-quadruplex and DNA duplex converted to NARES-2P model and back. Moreover, it was applied to DNA structure folded and self-assembled with NARES-2P.
Assessment of the accuracy of low-cost multi-GNSS receivers in monitoring dynamic response of structures
Authors: Xue Chenyu , Psimoulis Panos , Horsfall Alexander , Zhang Qiuzhao , Meng Xiaolin
Published: December 2022

The monitoring of bridges is a crucial operation for their structural health examination and maintenance. GNSS technology is one of the methods which are applied with the main advantage that the direct measurement of the bridge displacement is conducted in an independent global coordinate system. However, the high cost of the GNSS stations, which are consisted of dual-frequency receivers and geodetic GNSS antennas, is the main reason of the limited application of GNSS for bridge monitoring. In this study, we assessed the performance of low-cost multi-GNSS receivers in monitoring dynamic motion, similar to that of bridge response. The performance of the low-cost GNSS receivers was assessed based on controlled experiments of horizontal and vertical motion. For the horizontal motion, controlled experiments of circular motion of various predefined radius between 5 and 50 cm were executed where the low-cost GNSS receivers were assessed against dual-frequency geodetic receivers. For the vertical motion, manually controlled experiments of vertical oscillations of amplitude 8 and 15 mm were executed where the low-cost GNSS receivers were assessed against the Robotic Total Station (RTS). Finally, a low-cost monitoring system formed by two closely spaced low-cost GNSS receivers was applied in dynamic displacement monitoring of the Wilford Suspension Bridge. The analysis of the low-cost GNSS data revealed the beneficial contribution of (i) the multi-constellation on the accuracy and precision of the GNSS solution and (ii) the combination of closely spaced low-cost GNSS receivers, to limit potential cycle slips and the low-cost GNSS noise level and reach accuracy and precision similar to that of geodetic-grade GNSS receivers. This was confirmed in the bridge monitoring application, where the main modal frequency and the response amplitude of the bridge were identified successfully by the low-cost GNSS receivers’ data analysis.
Dose-response relationship of photobiomodulation therapy and oxidative stress markers in healing dynamics of diabetic neuropathic ulcers in Wistar rats
Authors: Karkada Gagana , Maiya G Arun , Arany Praveen , KG Mohandas Rao , Adiga Shalini , Kamath Shobha U
Published: December 2022

Purpose:

Diabetic foot ulcers are reported to be the most expensive complications of diabetes, with high morbidity and mortality rates. If the necessary care is not provided for the wound to heal, the individual may end up amputating the affected feet. Photobiomodulation therapy is a promising non-pharmacological treatment option for wound healing. The objective of the present study is to establish a dose-response relationship between photobiomodulation therapy and oxidative stress markers in the healing dynamics of diabetic neuropathic ulcers in Wistar rats.

Methodology:

Diabetic neuropathy was induced in 126 Albino Wistar rats. An excisional wound of an area of 2cm2 was made on the neuropathy-induced leg. Photobiomodulation therapy of dosages 4, 6, 8, 10, 12, and 15 J/cm2 of wavelengths 655 and 808 nm was irradiated. The control group animals were kept un-irradiated. The outcome measures were assessed during wound healing’s inflammatory, proliferative and remodelling phases.

Results:

In the experimental group, animals treated with photobiomodulation therapy at doses of 4, 6, and 8 J/cm2 showed better wound healing dynamics. Photobiomodulation therapy modulated the reactive oxygen species and antioxidant levels, thereby improving the oxidative status of the wound.

Conclusion:

Photobiomodulation therapy of dosages 4, 6, and 8 J/cm2 is effective and is a promising adjuvant modality in treating diabetic neuropathic ulcers. There was a strong dose-response relationship in the experimental groups treated with 4, 6 and 8 J/ cm2.
Transformation to competency-based curriculum: readiness and self-efficacy among Islamic studies teachers in Kuwait
Authors: Alkandari Kalthoum
Published: December 2022

This study is aimed at exploring Islamic studies teachers’ perceptions about transitioning from objective-based curriculums to competence-based ones, focusing on planning, classroom implementation, and assessment. Also, it aimed to ascertain teachers’ self-efficacy and satisfaction toward the implementation of a competence-based curriculum (CBC). The study utilized a quantitative approach. During the 2018–2019 school year, 180 female middle-school Islamic studies teachers completed a questionnaire that aimed to identify their perspectives regarding various dimensions of transition (planning, classroom implementation, and assessment) created by a CBC implementation. A Kruskal–Wallis’ test was implemented to examine potential differences in self-efficacy among participant responses to the planning, classroom implementation, and assessment dimensions related to age and experience variables. Results showed that participants had higher levels of competence in planning and classroom implementation than assessment when implementing the CBC. The novelty of the CBC and inadequate training were the main impediments regarding its implementation. Participants showed no difference in average scores by either age or experience regarding their sense of self-efficacy in implementing the CBC. The study concluded that teachers are the main cause of failure or success when applying innovative curriculum practices. Islamic studies teachers showed flexibility in embracing the new curriculum and indicated that the application of the CBC was considered a new transition within their educational practices. At the same time, experienced teachers were skeptical of the transition because of their familiarity with the objective curriculum, which they implemented for years, and the insufficient preparations and training before and during the CBC application.
It Is Time to Focus on Prevention: a Scoping Review of Practices Associated with Prevention of Child Sexual Abuse and Australian Policy Implications
Authors: Vosz Meaghan , McPherson Lynne , Tucci Joe , Mitchell Janise , Fernandes Cyra , Macnamara Noel
Published: December 2022

Child sexual abuse (CSA) is a significant public health problem, impacting individuals, families and communities across the lifespan. This systematic scoping review aimed to identify practices associated with the prevention of CSA before it happens using the PRISMA method (Moher et al., 2009). Nine databases were searched for empirical literature, resulting in a sample of 47 articles addressing the prevention of child sexual abuse. A definition of CSA prevention and research questions were developed in consultation with subject matter experts to provide a conceptual guide for analysing available empirical and theoretical literature published between 2012 and 2022. Studies were excluded that reported on CSA education. Included articles were analysed to identify common elements of prevention approaches and the policy conditions enabling and constraining prevention. Three approaches were identified: (i) engaging and stopping those at risk of using sexually harmful behaviour; (ii) situational prevention in child- and youth-serving organisations; (iii) preventing the emergence of CSA by promoting healthy families and communities. The article also discusses policy settings that enable and constrain CSA prevention in Australia and identifies gaps in existing research.
Geospatial assessment of effect of urbanization on natural drainage in a medium-sized town of Akure, Nigeria
Authors: Ibitoye Matthew Olomolatan , Olamiju Oluwadare Isaac , Afolayan Oluwaseyi Ephraim
Published: December 2022

This study examined the state of some urban streams in a tropical environment of Nigeria. It analysed satellite images which include Landsat 5 TM (1986), Landsat 7 ETM (2002), Landsat 8 (2018) imageries with 30 m resolution using ENVI 5.3. The images were classified using a supervised classification algorithm to obtain land use/land cover themes for spatial analysis in the ArcMap 10.3 environment while drainage systems were extracted from the topographical map of 1966 of the study area. Result showed a total drainage network of about 90, covering a total distance of 307 km in 1986, which decreased to 226.87 km in 2018. Within the study period (32 years), more streams experienced decrease in lengths (231.44 km) than those whose lengths increased (129.85 km). While 136.92 km stream lengths were lost within the study period, about 25.45 km stream length were rejuvenated. Urban landuse correspondingly increased from 18.8% in 1986 to 52.2% in 2018, suggesting that a converse relationship between increase in urban land cover and dearth of streams in the area. The study provides information regarding the current status of the drainage system for effective planning and management of flood hazards in the study area. It also canvasses for adequate provision and maintenance of setbacks to streams and rivers under the supervision of the Development Control Department (DCD) of the Ondo State Ministry of Urban Development and Regional Planning (OSMUD&RP).
Spectroradiometer and thermal imaging as tools from remote sensing used for early detection of spiny bollworm, Earias insulana (Boisd.) infestation
Authors: Hoseny Mona M. El , Dahi Hassan F. , Shafei Akila M. El , Yones M. S.
Published: December 2022

The spiny bollworm (SBW), Earias insulana (Boisd.), is from the most destructive cotton pests in Egypt. Larvae can reduce the yield about 40%. Monitoring and forecasting have become an integral aspect of the crop production system in developed countries to control pests. Recently, remote sensing has gained popularity in agriculture for pest monitoring, yield forecasting and early warning to crop growers for proper time in pest management with the least quantity of ground sampling possible.This work aims to measure the validity of using a new methodology for pest detection in cotton bolls without exposing the plant to any danger., This action could be conducted by making a spectroscopy check using spectroradiometer for every boll in field and compare this reading automatically with the spectral library that was built in earlier by measuring numbers of well-known bolls (healthy and infected measuring of some Vegetation Indices (MCARI, TCARI, NPCI, NDVI, NDWI, WBI) also done from reflectance values that carried out, in order to detect the best indices affected by pest infection. Thermal imaging also was done to differentiate between diseased and non-infected tissue. The results described the reflectance spectra of cotton bolls with known SBW infestations and healthy ones and could identify the certain narrow band that is sensitive to SBW damage, BLUE band has found to be the best for spectrally identifying infested bolls. Normalized Pigment Chlorophyll Index (NPCI) is the best index among vegetation indices used in this research. Complementally, to use remote sensing applications, thermal imaging was used to detect thermal patterns associated with insect infestation. The result of study indicate the validity of using spectral measurement and thermal imaging as a tools of remote sensing in detection of the presence of spiny boll worm without wasting and ruined the bolls in field, this method could be also effective in detection of other pests on other crops.
Simultaneous dissipation of trichloroethene and arsenic from co-contaminated groundwater by coupling biodechlorination and biodetoxification with assistance of biochar
Authors: Chen Hao , Li Deping , Mašek Ondřej , Zhai Ying , Rong Guoqiang , Xu Xiaoyun , Cao Xinde , Zhao Ling
Published: December 2022

Co-contamination of groundwater with trichloroethene (TCE) and arsenic (As) is a widespread problem in industrial sites. The simultaneous biological removal of As and TCE has not yet been developed. This study incorporated biochar into anaerobic dechlorination system to achieve a greatly accelerated dissipation and co-removal of TCE and As. Biochar eliminated microbial lag (6 days) and achieved a 100% TCE removal within 12 days even at a relatively high initial concentration (TCE: 30 mg L−1; As(V): 4 mg L−1), while without biochar, only 75% TCE was removed until day 18. Biochar adsorbed TCE and the intermediate products allowing them to be degraded on its surface gradually, maintaining a high metabolic activity of microbes. Biochar facilitated the preferential colonization of its surfaces by dechlorinating microorganisms (Clostridium and Dehalococcoides) and suppressed hydrogen-competing microorganisms (Desulfovibrio) in water. Biochar itself cannot adsorb As, however, separation of biochar carrying the As-laden microorganisms achieved 50–70% As-removal from groundwater. The biochar-amended incubations were found to be enriched with microbes possessing more crucial As-transforming genes (K00537-arsC and K07755-AS3MT), and upregulated amino acid metabolism, thus enhancing the self-detoxification ability of microorganisms to transform As(V) to As(III) or volatile organic As. This study proposes a strategy of regulating microbes’ metabolic activity by biochar to achieve simultaneous removal of coexisting contaminations, which is an important step prior to examining the feasibility of biochar application for enhanced bioremediation.

Graphical Abstract