bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Ohmic contact structures on β-Ga2O3 with n+ β-Ga2O3 pulsed laser deposition layers
Authors: Favela Elizabeth V. , Jeon Hyung Min , Leedy Kevin D. , Zhang Kun , Tung Szu-Wei , Escobar Francelia Sanchez , Ramana C. V. , Porter Lisa M.
Published: May 2023

Thin (40–150 nm), highly doped n+ (1019–1020 cm−3) Ga2O3 layers deposited using pulsed laser deposition (PLD) were incorporated into Ti/Au ohmic contacts on (001) and (010) β-Ga2O3 substrates with carrier concentrations between 2.5 and 5.1 × 1018 cm−3. Specific contact resistivity values were calculated for contact structures both without and with a PLD layer having different thicknesses up to 150 nm. With the exception of a 40 nm PLD layer on the (001) substrate, the specific contact resistivity values decreased with increasing PLD layer thickness: up to 8× on (001) Ga2O3 and up to 16× on (010) Ga2O3 compared with samples without a PLD layer. The lowest average specific contact resistivities were achieved with 150 nm PLD layers: 3.48 × 10−5 Ω cm2 on (001) Ga2O3 and 4.79 × 10−5 Ω cm2 on (010) Ga2O3. Cross-sectional transmission electron microscopy images revealed differences in the microstructure and morphology of the PLD layers on the different substrate orientations. This study describes a low-temperature process that could be used to reduce the contact resistance in Ga2O3 devices.
Big Data and Innovative Research Methods
Authors: Mamo Yoseph Z.
Published: May 2023

Big data and innovative research methods are two rapidly evolving trends that are transforming how we conduct research in sport management. Considering the natural relationship between social media, which is widely recognized as a major big-data source, and sport, this commentary centers on contemporary research method applied to social media data. In doing so, it discusses contemporary innovative techniques for social media data, focusing on exploring ways to access social media data, the natural language-processing techniques used, the challenges they address, the strengths and limitations of different techniques, and the ethical and privacy considerations associated with their use. Furthermore, the commentary demonstrates that using sentiment-analysis tools (e.g., Syuzhet, Bing, and AFFIN) is appropriate and efficient in analyzing sport’s social media data. Thus, a rigorous application of contemporary innovative techniques can significantly shape the future of sport management research. However, researchers must exercise caution when considering the source and preprocessing of the data prior to applying advanced analytical techniques.
Mitigation of influenza-mediated inflammation by immunomodulatory matrix-bound nanovesicles
Authors: Crum Raphael J. , Huckestien Brydie R. , Dwyer Gaelen , Mathews Lisa , Nascari David G. , Hussey George S. , Turnquist Heth R. , Alcorn John F. , Badylak Stephen F.
Published: May 2023

Cytokine storm describes a life-threatening, systemic inflammatory syndrome characterized by elevated levels of proinflammatory cytokines and immune cell hyperactivation associated with multi-organ dysfunction. Matrix-bound nanovesicles (MBV) are a subclass of extracellular vesicle shown to down-regulate proinflammatory immune responses. The objective of this study was to assess the efficacy of MBV in mediating influenza-induced acute respiratory distress syndrome and cytokine storm in a murine model. Intravenous administration of MBV decreased influenza-mediated total lung inflammatory cell density, proinflammatory macrophage frequencies, and proinflammatory cytokines at 7 and 21 days following viral inoculation. MBV decreased long-lasting alveolitis and the proportion of lung undergoing inflammatory tissue repair at day 21. MBV increased the proportion of activated anti-viral CD4
+
and CD8
+
T cells at day 7 and memory-like CD62L
+
CD44
+
, CD4
+
, and CD8
+
T cells at day 21. These results show immunomodulatory properties of MBV that may benefit the treatment of viral-mediated pulmonary inflammation with applicability to other viral diseases such as SARS-CoV-2.
Supplemental Material: Ibex Hollow Tuff from ca. 12 Ma supereruption, southern Idaho, identified across North America, eastern Pacific Ocean, and Gulf of Mexico
Authors: Sarna-Wojcicki Andrei M. , al. et
Published: May 2023

Item S1 (MS Word document): Detailed methods for major, minor, and trace-element analysis; electron-microprobe analysis (EMA); instrumental neutron activation analysis (INAA); laser ablation–inductively coupled–mass spectrometry (LA-ICP-MS); isothermal-plateau fission-track method of age determination; correlation methods; references cited for methods section. Item S2: Table of major– and minor–EMA analyses of individual glass shards of tephra beds correlated to Ibex Hollow Tuff; contains plots of Fe2O3 versus CaO for samples. Item S3: Table of major– and minor–EMA analyses of individual glass shards of tephra beds of the Ibex Hollow Tuff, performed at the U.S. Geological Survey, Menlo Park, California. Initial compositions and totals on analysis are presented, with plots of Fe2O3 versus CaO. Item S4: Table of major– and minor–EMA analyses of individual glass shards of tephra beds that correlate with the Ibex Hollow Tuff. Initial compositions and totals on analysis are presented, with plots of Fe2O3 versus CaO. Item S5: Binary graphic plots of major oxides and elements of the Ibex Hollow Tuff and overlying and underlying tephra layers at Trapper Creek, Idaho, USA.  
A Route to Synthesize Ionizable Lipid ALC-0315, a Key Component of the mRNA Vaccine Lipid Matrix
Authors: Boldyrev I. A. , Shendrikov V. P. , Vostrova A. G. , Vodovozova E. L.
Published: May 2023

Abstract—

The ionizable lipid ALC-0315, ((4-hydroxybutyl)azanediyl)bis(hexane-6,1-diyl)bis(2-hexyldecanoate), is a component of the lipid matrix of the prophylactic SARS-CoV-2 mRNA vaccine produced by Pfizer/BioNTech. This lipid ensures efficient vaccine assembly, protects the mRNA from premature degradation, and promotes the release of the nucleic acid into the cytoplasm for its further processing after endocytosis. The present work describes a simple and economical method for the synthesis of the ALC-0315 lipid, which can be taken advantage of in mRNA vaccine production.
Follow-up of Kangaroo Mother Care programmes in the last 28 years: results from a cohort of 57 154 low-birth-weight infants in Colombia
Authors: Charpak Nathalie , Montealegre-Pomar Adriana
Published: May 2023

Background

Kangaroo Mother Care (KMC) is an evidence-based intervention focused on premature and low-birth-weight (LBW) infants. In different healthcare systems, outpatient KMC programmes (KMCPs) have been pioneers in the follow-up of these high-risk newborns.

Here, we describe an overview analysis performed in an unprecedented data set comprising Colombian infants and spanning 28 years.

Methods

Cohort study of 57 154 infants discharged home in kangaroo position (KP) for follow-up in four KMCPs between 1993 and 2021.

Results

At birth and at hospital discharge to a KMCP, median gestational age and weight were 34.5 and 36 weeks, 2000 g and 2200 g, respectively. Chronological age at admission was 8 days. Over time, anthropometric measures at birth and somatic growth during follow-up improved; on the other hand, percentages of mechanical ventilation, intraventricular haemorrhage and need for intensive care decreased as neuropsychomotor, sensory disorders and bronchopulmonary dysplasia incidence at 40 weeks. Risk of cerebral palsy and teenage mothers’ frequency was higher in the poorest population. Early home discharge in KP in less than 72 hours was possible in 19% of the cohort. During the COVID-19 pandemic, we observed a more than twofold increase in exclusive breast feeding at 6 months and a reduction in readmission rates.

Conclusion

This study provides a general overview of KMCPs follow-up during the last 28 years within the Colombian healthcare system. These descriptive analyses have allowed us to structure KMC as an evidence-based method. KMCPs allow close monitoring with regular feedback about preterm or LBW infants’ perinatal care, quality of care over time and health status during their first year of life. Monitoring these outcomes is challenging but guarantees access to high-risk infants’ care with equity.
Conversion between B-type natriuretic peptide and N-terminal pro B-type natriuretic peptide in perioperative risk assessment: protocol for a prospective cohort study
Authors: Davidson Taryn , Parlow Joel , King Ben , DuMerton Deborah , Roshanov Pavel S , Devereaux P J , Leitch Jordan
Published: May 2023

Introduction

Both B-type natriuretic peptide (BNP) and N-terminal pro-BNP (NT-pro-BNP) are used to identify patients at risk of perioperative vascular events, but prognostic thresholds have been established in a large prospective cohort for NT-pro-BNP only. We designed this study to inform perioperative risk interpretation of BNP values. Our primary objective is to validate a formula to convert BNP to NT-pro-BNP concentrations before non-cardiac surgery. The secondary objective is to determine the association between BNP categories (established based on conversion from NT-pro-BNP categories) and a composite outcome of myocardial injury after non-cardiac surgery (MINS) and vascular death.

Methods and analysis

This is a single-centre, prospective cohort study in patients undergoing non-cardiac surgery who are >65 years old, Revised Cardiac Risk Index ≥1 or >45 years old with significant cardiovascular disease. BNP and NT-pro-BNP will be measured preoperatively, and troponin measurements will be analysed on postoperative days 1, 2 and 3. MINS and vascular death will be ascertained up to 30 days after surgery. The primary analyses will compare measured NT-pro-BNP values to those predicted by an existing formula (from a non-surgical population) based on BNP concentrations and patient characteristics, and recalibrate and update the formula with additional variables. Secondary analyses will estimate the relationship between categories of measured BNP (corresponding to established NT-pro-BNP thresholds) and the composite of MINS and vascular death. The target sample size of 431 patients is based on our primary analysis (assessing the conversion formula).

Ethics and dissemination

Ethics approval has been obtained by the Queen’s University Health Sciences Research Ethics Board, and all participants will provide informed consent for participation in the study. The results will be submitted for publication in conferences and in a peer-reviewed journal, and will inform perioperative vascular risk interpretation of preoperative BNP.

Trial registration number

NCT05352698.
Effectiveness of a projection-based augmented reality exposure system in treating cockroach phobia: study protocol of a randomised controlled trial
Authors: Grimaldos Jorge , Bretón-López Juana , Palau-Batet María , Díaz-Sanahuja Laura , Quero Soledad
Published: May 2023

Background

Despite being the treatment of choice for phobic disorders, in vivo exposure treatment (IVET) presents some important limitations related mainly to low acceptance and high drop-out rates. Augmented reality (AR) technologies can help to overcome these limitations. Evidence supports the use of AR in exposure treatment for small animal phobia. A new projection-based AR exposure treatment system (P-ARET) that offers the possibility of projecting the animals in a natural and non-intrusive environment has been developed. There are no randomised controlled trials (RCTs) available that have tested the efficacy of this system in cockroach phobia. This paper aims to present the protocol of an RCT that evaluates the efficacy of the P-ARET, versus an IVET group and a waiting list control group (WL), in carrying out exposure treatment for cockroach phobia.

Methods/design

Participants will be randomly allocated to one of three conditions: (1) P-ARET, (2) IVET and (3) WL. Both treatment conditions will follow the ‘one-session treatment’ guidelines. As a diagnostic measure, the Anxiety Disorders Interview Schedule for Diagnostic and Statistical Manual for Mental Health Disorders-Version 5 will be used. The Behavioral Avoidance Test will be used as the primary outcome measure. Secondary outcome measures will include an attentional biases task (measured using eye-tracking technology), the Fear of Cockroaches Questionnaire, Cockroach Phobia Beliefs Questionnaire, Fear and Avoidance Scales, Beck Depression Inventory second edition, Disgust Propensity and Sensitivity Scale-Revised-12, State-Trait Anxiety Inventory, Clinician Severity Scale, and Expectation and Satisfaction with the Treatment Scale. The evaluation protocol will include pretreatment and post-treatment evaluations and 1, 6 and 12 months of follow-ups. Intention-to-treat and per-protocol analyses will be performed.

Ethics and dissemination

This study has been approved by the Ethics Committee of Universitat Jaume I (Castellón, Spain; 13 December 2019). The results of the presented RCT will be disseminated in presentations at international scientific meetings and peer-reviewed scientific journals.

Trial registration number

NCT04563390.
Improving the efficacy of exposure therapy using projection-based augmented reality for the treatment of cockroach phobia: a randomised clinical trial protocol
Authors: Palau-Batet María , Bretón-López Juana , Grimaldos Jorge , Díaz-Sanahuja Laura , Quero Soledad
Published: May 2023

Introduction

In vivo exposure is the treatment of choice for specific phobia (SP), but this technique presents limitations related to access and acceptability. Augmented reality (AR) offers advantages like maximising strategies such as ‘variability’ (varying stimuli, durations, levels of intensity or the order of the items), control by the therapist, or ‘exposure to multiple contexts’, which can produce positive effects in terms of fear renewal and generalisation of the results. The aim of this study is to test the efficacy of varying the phobic stimuli during treatment with AR: using multiple stimuli (MS) versus a single stimulus (SS) in participants with SP.

Methods and analysis

Participants (N=80) with a diagnosis of an SP of cockroaches will be randomised into two conditions: (1) projection-based AR exposure therapy with MS (P-ARET MS); (2) P-ARET with an SS (P-ARET SS). The measures are related to the efficacy results (fear, avoidance and negative thoughts, performance on the behavioural avoidance test (BAT) and preferences). The primary outcome measure is the BAT, and the secondary outcome measures are the BAT through AR, Fear of Cockroaches Questionnaire, Cockroach Phobia Beliefs Questionnaire, Fear and Avoidance Scales Patient’s Improvement Scale, and Beck Depression Inventory Second Edition. Five evaluation moments will be included: preintervention, postintervention, and 1-month, 6-month, and 12-month follow-ups. The treatment will follow the guidelines of the ‘one-session treatment’. Student’s t-tests to compare the two groups on the post-test will be applied. In addition, two-way analysis of variances with repeated measures in one of the two factors (pretest, post-test and follow-ups) will be carried out to compare intragroup differences.

Ethics and dissemination

The Universitat Jaume I Ethics Committee (Castellón, Spain) granted approval for the study (CD/64/2019). Dissemination will include publications and presentations at national and international conferences.

Trial registration number

NCT04563403.
Realist synthesis of factors affecting retention of staff in UK adult mental health services
Authors: Long Jaqui , Ohlsen Sally , Senek Michaela , Booth Andrew , Weich Scott , Wood Emily
Published: May 2023

Objectives

The shortage of healthcare staff is a global problem. UK mental health services have, on average, a higher turnover of staff than the NHS. Factors affecting retention of this staff group need to be explored in more depth to understand what is working for whom, for what reasons and in what circumstances. This review aims to conduct a realist synthesis to explore evidence from published studies, together with stakeholder involvement to develop programme theories that hypothesise how and why retention occurs in the mental health workforce and identify additional evidence to explore and test these theories thereby highlighting any persistent gaps in understanding. This paper develops programme theories that hypothesise why retention occurs and in what context and tests these theories thereby highlighting any persistent gaps in understanding.

Methods

Realist synthesis was used to develop programme theories for factors affecting retention of UK mental health staff. This involved: (1) stakeholder consultation and literature scoping to develop initial programme theories; (2) structured searches across six databases to identify 85 included relevant literature relating to the programme theories; and (3) analysis and synthesis to build and refine a final programme theory and logic model.

Results

Phase I combined findings from 32 stakeholders and 24 publications to develop six initial programme theories. Phases II and III identified and synthesised evidence from 88 publications into three overarching programme theories stemming from organisational culture: interconnectedness of workload and quality of care, investment in staff support and development and involvement of staff and service users in policies and practice.

Conclusions

Organisational culture was found to have a key underpinning effect on retention of mental health staff. This can be modified but staff need to be well supported and feel involved to derive satisfaction from their roles. Manageable workloads and being able to deliver good quality care were also key.
Study protocol of the InterVitaminK trial: a Danish population-based randomised double-blinded placebo-controlled trial of the effects of vitamin K (menaquinone-7) supplementation on cardiovascular, metabolic and bone health
Authors: Kampmann Freja Bach , Thysen Sanne Marie , Nielsen Camilla Friis Bryde , Kofoed Klaus Fuglsang , Køber Lars , Pham Michael Huy Cuong , Vaag Allan , Jørgensen Niklas Rye , Petersen Janne , Jacobsen Rikke Kart , Kårhus Line Lund , Diederichsen Axel , Frimodt-Møller Marie , Linneberg Allan
Published: May 2023

Introduction

Vitamin K has been suggested to have protective effects against progression of vascular calcification and development of cardiovascular disease (CVD). However, few well-powered randomised controlled trials have examined whether vitamin K prevents progression of vascular calcification in individuals from the general population. The aim of the InterVitaminK trial is to investigate the effects of vitamin K supplementation (menaquinone-7, MK-7) on cardiovascular, metabolic, respiratory and bone health in a general ageing population with detectable vascular calcification.

Methods and analysis

The InterVitaminK trial is a randomised, double-blinded, placebo-controlled, trial. A total of 450 men and women aged 52–82 years with detectable coronary artery calcification (CAC), but without manifest CVD, will be randomised (1:1) to receive daily MK-7 (333 µg/day) or placebo tablets for 3 years. Health examinations are scheduled at baseline, and after 1, 2 and 3 years of intervention. Health examinations include cardiac CT scans, measurements of arterial stiffness, blood pressure, lung function, physical function, muscle strength, anthropometric measures, questionnaires on general health and dietary intake, and blood and urine sampling. The primary outcome is progression of CAC from baseline to 3-year follow-up. The trial has 89% power to detect a between-group difference of at least 15%. Secondary outcomes are bone mineral density, pulmonary function and biomarkers of insulin resistance.

Ethics and dissemination

Oral MK-7 supplementation is considered safe and has not been found to cause severe adverse events. The Ethical Committee of the Capital Region (H-21033114) approved the protocol. Written informed consent is obtained from all participants and the trial is conducted in accordance with the Declaration of Helsinki II. Both negative and positive findings will be reported.

Trial registration number

NCT05259046.
Modelling growing season carbon fluxes at a low-center polygon ecosystem in the Mackenzie River Delta
Authors: Skeeter June , Christen Andreas , Henry Greg
Published: May 2023

A temporal upscaling study was conducted to estimate net ecosystem exchange (NEE) of carbon dioxide and net methane exchange (NME) for a low-center polygon (LCP) ecosystem in the Mackenzie River Delta, for each of the 11 growing seasons (2009–2019). We used regression models to create a time series of flux drivers from in situ weather observations (2009–2019) combined with ERA5 reanalysis and satellite data. We then used neural networks that were trained and validated on a single growing season (2017) of eddy covariance data to model NEE and NME over each growing season. The study indicates growing season NEE was negative (net uptake) and NME was positive (net emission) in this LCP ecosystem. Cumulative carbon (C) uptake was estimated to be −46.7 g C m−2 (CI95% ± 45.3) per growing season, with methane emissions offsetting an average 5.6% of carbon dioxide uptake (in g C m−2) per growing season. High air temperatures (>15 °C) reduced daily CO2 uptake and cumulative NEE was positively correlated with mean air growing season temperatures. Cumulative NME was positively correlated with the length of the growing season. Our analysis suggests warmer climate conditions may reduce carbon uptake in this LCP ecosystem.
A propagation technique for native tundra bryophytes for Arctic ecosystem restoration
Authors: Lamarre Jasmine J.M. , Dhar Amalesh , Naeth M. Anne
Published: May 2023

Extreme environmental conditions and limited understanding of ecosystem processes and community dynamics pose significant challenges for Arctic ecosystem restoration activities. As pioneer species, bryophytes are critical to the function and structure of northern ecosystems and play an important role in facilitating soil and microhabitat development. A total of 11 bryophytes species were collected from a mixed community near Lac de Gras in the Northwest Territories, Canada, and a 12 week laboratory study was conducted. Three propagule types (large = 2.1–40 mm, medium = 1.0–2 mm, and small = <1 mm phyllids) and three slurries (distilled water, beer, and buttermilk) were used to determine effective bryophyte propagation techniques and slurries for species introduction in Arctic restoration sites. Medium-size fragments were more effective than large or small for propagating bryophytes as they led to greater bryophyte plant count and cover. Water and beer were more effective than buttermilk, although their effects decreased after 12 weeks. Bryum pseudotriquetrum Hedw. was the most abundant species propagated, followed by Aulacomnium turgidum (Wahlenb.) Schwägr. and Ceratodon purpureus (Hedw.) Brid. This study suggests that propagation with medium-size fragments and distilled water would be most efficient for field application in Arctic ecosystem restoration if bryophyte revegetation is a focus.
An experimental investigation into soil–structure interactions of integral bridge abutments due to cyclic translations
Authors: Sigdel Lila Dhar , Lu Minghao , Leo Chin Jian , Liyanapathirana Samanthika , Hu Pan , Doan Van , Al-qarawi Ahmed
Published: May 2023

Integral bridges are built without expansion joints to avoid many of the persistent issues with joint degradation and maintenance problems regularly experienced by traditional bridges. In the absence of expansion joints, the cyclic thermal displacements of the integral bridge would be transferred unmitigated by the joints to the abutment resulting in accentuated soil–structure interactions. Previous studies have mainly focussed on the rotational mode of integral abutment movement while the translational mode of movement and backfill deformations have received much less attention. This paper presents the results of laboratory tests conducted on a semiscale (1:2) physical model, which was designed using dimensional analysis to achieve field stress and strain similarity with a full-scale 1.92 m high-prototype integral abutment. The comparative effects from five tests covering low to high cyclic translation amplitude on backfill surface settlement and heave, and lateral earth pressures behind the abutment were investigated over assumed 120 seasonal cycles. Asymptotic settlement depth of the backfill was obtained in each test. Full passive failure surface was observed when the cyclic translation amplitude of the test exceeded the threshold amplitude. The findings also suggest that the settlement depth seemed to be linked to the development of passive failure surface in the following sense—the asymptotic settlement depth in those tests which developed full passive failure surface would attain the same (ultimate) asymptotic depth; conversely, when the passive failure surface had not or only partially developed in that test, the asymptotic settlement depth was dependent on the cyclic translation amplitude, but it was less than the ultimate observed for full passive failure surface. Lateral earth pressure only stabilized to an asymptotic state for the test with the lowest cyclic translation amplitude during the 120 cycles. Shakedown limit state was observed for this case. At larger cyclic translation amplitudes, the lateral earth pressure did not stabilize but continued to evolve with the elapsed cycles, and shakedown limit state was not observed for these cases.
Discussion: The Terreneuvian MacCodrum Brook section, Mira terrane, Cape Breton Island, Nova Scotia, Canada: age constraints from ash layers, organic-walled microfossils, and trace fossils
Authors: Landing Ed , Geyer Gerd
Published: May 2023

Exhaustive similarities in terminal Ediacaran–Ordovician cover sequences between tectonic inliers in the Appalachian–Caledonian (A–C) orogen define the Avalonian terrane from coastal northeast North America through southern Britain to Belgium. However, Barr et al. effectively block inclusion of the Mira belt (Mb) in Avalonia by masking a long-documented trans-Avalonian succession under locally defined lithostratigraphic names that prove to be confusing homonyms of themselves. Earlier revisions of Mira belt stratigraphy allow assignment of the Mira belt to a precise location in the Avalonian strike-slip regime—on the marginal–inner platform transition just as the northern Antigonish Highlands and southeast Burin Peninsula. The Mira belt is a tectonic inlier not a “terrane” in the A–C orogen.
Porphyromonas gingivalis induces cardiovascular dysfunction
Authors: Stanisic Dragana , Jeremic Nevena , Singh Mahavir , Pushpakumar Sathnur , Mokshagundam Sri Prakash L. , Tyagi Suresh C.
Published: May 2023

Porphyromonas gingivalis ( P. gingivalis) is one of the most responsible periodontopathogenic bacteria in the development of periodontal disease (PD); however, its role in the development of other diseases still needs to be understood, specially its implications in the causation of cardiovascular pathogenesis. The aim of this study is to determine whether there is a direct association between P. gingivalis-induced PD with that of the development of cardiovascular disease, and whether a long-term administration of probiotic(s) could help improve the cardiovascular disease outcome. To test this hypothesis, we employed four different experimental groups of mice, designated as: Group I: Wild-type (WT) mice (C57BL/6J); Group II: Lactobacillus rhamnosus GG (LGG) (WT mice treated with a probiotic; LGG), Group III: PD (WT mice treated with P. gingivalis), and Group IV: PD + LGG (WT mice treated with P. gingivalis and LGG). PD was created by injecting 2 µL (i.e., 20 µg) of P. gingivalis lipopolysaccharide (LPS) intragingivally between the 1st and 2nd mandibular molars, two times a week for a total period of 6 weeks. The PD (LGG) intervention was done orally employing 2.5 × 105 CFU/day for a continuous period of 12 weeks. Immediately before the mice were sacrificed, echocardiography of the heart was performed, and after sacrifice, we collected serum samples, hearts, and the periodontal tissue. Histological assessment, cytokine analysis, and zymography of the cardiac tissue were performed. Results revealed inflammation of the heart muscle in the PD group that was marked by infiltration of neutrophils and monocytes, followed by fibrosis. Cytokine analysis of the mice sera revealed significantly elevated levels of tumor necrosis factor-α, IL-1β, IL-6, and IL-17A in the PD group along with LPS-binding protein, and CD14. Most importantly, we observed elevated levels of P. gingivalis mRNAs in the heart tissues of PD mice. Zymographic analysis demonstrated matrix remodeling as revealed by increasing content of MMP-9 in the heart tissues of PD mice. Interestingly, LGG treatment was able to mitigate most of the pathological effects. The findings suggest that P. gingivalis could lead to cardiovascular system disorder and that probiotic intervention could alleviate, and most likely prevent bacteremia and its harmful effect(s) on the cardiovascular function.
Observational constraints and preheating in cuscuton inflation
Authors: Channuie Phongpichit , Karwan Khamphee , Sangtawee Jakkrit
Published: May 2023

We study cuscuton inflation for the models where the potential of the cuscuton takes quadratic and exponential forms. We find that for the quadratic potential, a scalar spectral index $$n_s$$

n
s

is not affected by cuscuton at the leading order in the slow-roll inflation models. However, a tensor-to-scalar ratio r can be suppressed. For the exponential potential of cuscuton, we find the condition for which the inflation has a graceful exit. Under this condition, the observational predictions in this model differ by a few percent from those found in standard inflation. We also examine the particle production due to parametric resonances in both models. We find that in Minkowski space the stage of parametric resonances can be described by the Mathieu equation. For the case where the cuscuton has quadratic potential, the amplitude of the driving force in the Mathieu equation has a similar form as that in standard inflation. Nevertheless, in the case of exponential potential, the amplitude of the driving force decreases faster than that in the standard case. However, parametric resonances in our models can be sufficiently broad possible for the exponential growth of the number of particles. We briefly discuss the case in which the expansion of space is taken into account.
Revealing new physics in $${\varvec{B}}^{0}_{s}\rightarrow D_s^{\mp } K^{\pm }$$ decays
Authors: Fleischer Robert , Malami Eleftheria
Published: May 2023

The $$B^0_s\rightarrow D_s^{\mp } K^{\pm }$$

B
s
0

→

D
s
∓

K
±

system offers a determination of the Unitarity Triangle angle $$\gamma $$
γ
. Intrigued by an LHCb analysis showing a surprisingly large result in tension with information on the Unitarity Triangle and other $$\gamma $$
γ
measurements, we make a transparent study of the measured observables, confirming the LHCb picture. The corresponding $$\gamma $$
γ
puzzle at the $$3\sigma $$

3
σ

level would require CP-violating contributions of New Physics, which should also manifest themselves in the corresponding decay branching ratios. Indeed, we find that the rates of the individual $$B^0_s\rightarrow D_s^{\mp } K^{\pm }$$

B
s
0

→

D
s
∓

K
±

channels show puzzling patterns, in accordance with similar decays, with tensions up to $$4.8\sigma $$

4.8
σ

, thereby making the situation much more exciting. We present a formalism to include New-Physics effects in a model-independent way and apply it to the data to constrain the corresponding parameters. Interestingly, new contributions of moderate size could accommodate the data. Utilising this formalism in the future high-precision B physics era may allow us to finally establish new sources of CP violation.
Darcy–Brinkman porous medium for dusty fluid flow with steady boundary layer flow in the presence of slip effect
Authors: Rahman Muhammad , Waheed H. , Turkyilmazoglu M. , Siddiqui M. Salman
Published: May 2023

This study looks at the Darcy–Brinkman flow across a stretched sheet of porous dissipation and frictional heating. The geometry of a steady flow of dust particles fluid through a porous material in the existence of slip effect and porous dissipation is the subject of this study. The equations that govern the system are shown and summarized as boundary layer assumptions, and then modified into framework of first-order DEs using the similarity approach. By using similarity transformation, a two-dimensional nonlinear partial differential equation is decreased to a sequence of nonlinear ordinary differential equations (ODEs). Then, by employing numerical techniques such as Maple packages, the solution of system of nonlinear equations is represented using the RK4 method. The numerical findings are derived under specific unique situations. The Nusselt number and coefficient of skin-friction are also given numerically. The increase in Brinkman number [Formula: see text] raises the temperature profile for both the dusty and the fluid phases. The results also demonstrate that rise in the suction number S falls the temperature distribution within the boundary layer for the dusty phase and fluid phase. For a variety of flow quantities of attention, the variation of parameters is studied, and the outcomes are reported in the shape of graphs and tables. Several industrial processes make advantage of boundary layer flow and heat transfer over such a stretched surface in porous materials.
Steady-state thermal distribution and thermal stress analysis in a moving annular fin with internal heat generation: An analytical approach using LSM
Authors: Sarwe Deepak Umrao , Kulkarni Vinayak S.
Published: May 2023

The thermal variation and conductive–convective heat transfer aspects of the moving annular fin have been analyzed in the existence of internal heat generation. In addition, the behavior of radial and tangential stress of an annular moving fin is probed in this study. Appropriate dimensionless terms are used to convert the governing nonlinear temperature equation to a nonlinear ordinary differential equation (ODE), and then a series solution is obtained using the least square method (LSM). Furthermore, the impact of thermal dimensionless parameters including Peclet number and heat generation number on temperature, radial and tangential distributions is investigated comprehensively. The outcomes of assessing the effects of these parameter variations on temperature and stress profiles are expressed graphically and in tabular format. The analysis of thermal stress and dispersal in the fin reveals an improvement as the Peclet number and heat generation accumulate. Meanwhile, elevated convective parameter values result in reduced thermal distribution.
Optical visco microfluidic optimistic hybrid optical electromotive microscale
Authors: Körpinar Talat , Körpinar Zeliha
Published: May 2023

In this paper, we give optical method for hybrid microfluidic normal electromagnetic microscales with optical applications. We construct Belavin–Polyakov model of electromagnetic optimistic density. Also, we demonstrate hybrid microfluidic normal electric electromotive microscales with optical applications. Finally, optical normal visco electrical electromotive microscales with Belavin–Polyakov model are demonstrated by optical normal visco electroosmotic field for diverse angular velocities.
Comparative study of the dielectric properties of the bulk and film of perovskite Ba0.6Sr0.4TiO3
Authors: Gatea Hamed A. , Khalil Sarah M.
Published: May 2023

This effort aimed to investigate the differences between raw materials and thin films to enhance the film performance and get encouraging results. Barium strontium titanate (BST) is a solid solution consisting of titanate barium (BT) and titanate strontium (ST). BST powder was synthesized using the sol–gel process, and BST film was deposited using pulsed laser deposition (PLD). Barium, strontium acetate, and Ti-isopropoxide were utilized as raw material sources. XRD was used to characterize the BST perovskite crystal structure. The SEM and LCR meters revealed morphology surface and dielectric properties. XRD pattern shows a cubic structure phase. The particle size of the bulk exhibited 122.88[Formula: see text]nm while the film particle size was 84[Formula: see text]nm. The dielectric constant of the bulk shape exhibited was greater than the form of the films, which was attributed to different thicknesses, densities, defects, and porosity.
Tuning the stability and optoelectronic properties of SnTe/Sb van der Waals heterostructure by biaxial strain effect
Authors: Allaoui Isam , Benyoussef Abdelilah , El Kenz Abdallah , Khuili Mohamed
Published: May 2023

Using density functional theory (DFT), we have investigated the structural, stability, and electronic properties of the isolated antimonene, SnTe monolayers, and the structural, stability, and optoelectronic properties of the SnTe/Sb vdW heterostructure. The results show that the atoms in these monolayers have strong cohesion and that the SnTe/Sb vdW heterostructure is stable. The indirect bandgap energies are calculated to be 1.17[Formula: see text]eV (PBE) (2.28[Formula: see text]eV (HSE)), 1.89[Formula: see text]eV (PBE) (2.93[Formula: see text]eV (HSE)), and 0.32[Formula: see text]eV (PBE) (0.89[Formula: see text]eV (HSE)), respectively. However, these physical properties can be modulated by applying biaxial strain, when the compressive and tensile biaxial strain reached more than 4%, the heterostructure turned into metal, and the electronic bandgap decreased as the tensile and compressive biaxial strain increased from 0 to 8%. The phonon dispersion exhibits imaginary modes, notably above the 6% compressive strain, exhibiting its dynamic instability. The formation energy is negative under all biaxial strain, indicating that the heterostructure is still relatively stable during biaxial strain. An enhancement of optical absorption is observed, especially near the UV-visible regions, when the biaxial strain is incorporated, especially for compressive strains of 4% and 2%, which increases the absorption capacity. Therefore, the application of the biaxial strain can improve the stability, optical, and electronic properties of the SnTe/Sb vdW heterostructure, suggesting its potential for photovoltaic and optoelectronic applications.
Modeling of the pressure drop effect using membrane distillation in the desalination process
Authors: Moushi S. , Hader A. , Lahcen J. Ait , Tarras I. , Touizi R. Et , Ezaier Y. , Tanasehte M. , Krimech F. Z.
Published: May 2023

The desalination process using membrane distillation (MD) has recently attracted wide attention in the last few years around the world. Especially, membranes that have an asymmetric geometry, for their performance to filtrate the salt water and the high salt rejection. In this paper, the Langevin dynamics model was adopted as a simulation method to investigate the transport of salt water through the sloping membrane under a pressure drop. The surface of the used membrane is considered as a hydrophilic sloping surface. Thus, the pressure drop effect on the fluid flux was observed, which leads to attracting the salt water into pores that are randomly distributed. The influence of deposition and accumulation of the ions into pores, the incline angle of the membrane surface, and the thickness of the formed layer on the surface were investigated. In addition, the impact of biofouling is caused by the accumulation and the variation of the fluid velocity as a function of pressure drop values. The obtained results show that the relationship between the fluid velocity and the pressing force is a power law. Moreover, the increase in fluid flow velocity in the porous medium is severe in the earlier time regime, but it becomes almost constant in the second regime. However, the time desalination process increases linearly with the pressure drop. Moreover, the accumulation and deposition of ions into the pores cause a decrease in the water flow through the pores resulting in a higher pressure drop in the less inclined direction. Finally, the influence of deposition and accumulation of the salt phase into the pores on the membrane performance was remarked, resulting in a high desalination rate. The obtained results explain the salt water behavior through a porous membrane, which provides ideas for making a high membrane performance.
Increasing Women's Participation in CS at Large Public Universities: Issues and Insights
Authors: Rezwana Jeba , Maher Mary Lou
Published: May 2023

Despite rapidly growing interest in Computer Science (CS), CS has the second lowest participation rate for women of all science and engineering degrees, according to a recent report by the US National Science Board [16]. The reasons for women's underrepresentation and their experiences may differ from university to university. Universities are very different in terms of types of students, student profiles, students' socio-economic status, race, number of students, admission requirements, and resources. For example, some universities can create gender balance in introductory courses through selective admission. However, typically, admission practices in large public universities are not able to achieve gender balance for CS majors. As a result, there are lower percentages of women in the CS major in large public universities than in selective schools. In addition, large public universities tend to have a larger number of CS students when compared to private universities. To understand women students' experiences and struggles in computer science at a large public university in the United States and to find ways to intervene in favor of gender equity in computer science, we conducted in-depth interviews with women students in introductory programming courses. In this article, we present women students' experiences, struggles, expectations and offer potential interventions based on the findings to encourage women to consider CS as their major and stay in the CS major. Our interview data shows there is a persistent effect of lack of prior programming experience and gender bias that leads to a negative experience for women students in introductory CS courses. This article presents the challenges faced by women in CS and provides their recommendations for attracting and retaining women students in CS at large public universities.
The Multifunctional Family of Mammalian Fatty Acid–Binding Proteins
Authors: Storch Judith , Corsico Betina
Published: May 2023

Fatty acid–binding proteins (FABPs) are small lipid-binding proteins abundantly expressed in tissues that are highly active in fatty acid (FA) metabolism. Ten mammalian FABPs have been identified, with tissue-specific expression patterns and highly conserved tertiary structures. FABPs were initially studied as intracellular FA transport proteins. Further investigation has demonstrated their participation in lipid metabolism, both directly and via regulation of gene expression, and in signaling within their cells of expression. There is also evidence that they may be secreted and have functional impact via the circulation. It has also been shown that the FABP ligand binding repertoire extends beyond long-chain FAs and that their functional properties also involve participation in systemic metabolism. This article reviews the present understanding of FABP functions and their apparent roles in disease, particularly metabolic and inflammation-related disorders and cancers.
Measuring Temporal Variation of Concentration of ALD Precursor TEMAZ in Process Chamber Using UV Absorption Method
Authors: Inada Takafumi , Goto Tetsuya , Suwa Tomoyuki , Nagase Masaaki , Ishii Hidekazu , Shiba Yoshinobu , Sakai Yushi , Sutoh Akihito , Morimoto Tatsuo , Shirai Yasuyuki , Kuroda Rihito , Sugawa Shigetoshi
Published: May 2023

The UV light densitometer was developed to measure concentration of gases having absorption in the ultraviolet region using UV absorption method. The developed densitometer was applied to monitor temporal variation of concentration of ALD precursor TEMAZ introduced into a chamber, where TEMAZ was introduced alternately with purge Ar gas to simulate ALD process. We could successfully capture temporal variation of gas concentration such as time delay in arrival of gas in the chamber due to presence of gas flow. Such phenomenon cannot be measured by the pressure gauge.
(Invited) Integration of InP Heterojunction Bipolar Transistors on Silicon Substrates for 6G Networks
Authors: Kunert Bernardette , Mols Yves , Alcotte Reynald , Swekis Peter , Yadav Sachin , Vais Abhitosh , Kumar Annie , Boccardi Guillaume , Langer Robert , Parvais Bertrand , Collaert Nadine
Published: May 2023

The power amplifier (PA) in an RF front-end module operating above 100 GHz required for 6G wireless networks is the most power-hungry device circuit component. In that respect, InP-based heterojunction bipolar transistors (HBT) clearly outperform other PA technologies, but being processed on small size wafers, they lack a cost-effective fabrication for mass production. This paper presents a comprehensive comparison of various integration approaches for InP-based HBTs. A key aspect in achieving high yield device fabrication is the use of large-diameter silicon wafers. This study discusses the advantages and disadvantages of different InP-based HBT integration concepts on Si, emphasizing important factors for upscaling InP technologies. Furthermore, this work introduces nano-ridge engineering (NRE), a novel monolithic III-V integration approach currently being explored at imec, which holds the potential for cost-effective and complementary metal oxide semiconductor (CMOS)-compatible production.
(Invited) III-V Integration on Silicon for Resource-Efficient Sensor-Technology
Authors: Quay Ruediger , Leuther Arnulf , Chartier Sebastien , John Laurenz , Tessmann Axel
Published: May 2023

This work covers integration of advanced III-V semiconductors on silicon substrate for RF-sensor integration up to very high frequencies of 300 GHz and 670 GHz, respectively, including improved active device performance through intelligent engineering of the co-integrated buffer layers. Several Terahertz Monolithically-Integrated Circuits are presented, which demonstrate good gain performance, low-noise, and improve large-signal behavior through the application of the back-gate.
Operational Transconductance Amplifier Designed with Experimental Omega-Gate Nanowire SOI MOSFETs
Authors: de Araujo Gustavo Vinicius , Martino Joao , Agopian Paula
Published: May 2023

Operational Transconductance Amplifier (OTA) designed with Omega-gate Nanowire SOI MOSFETs was evaluated. The transistor model was created using Verilog-A language and a Look-Up Table strategy, which is based on very precise measurements of the fabricated device. For the model, both the current and capacitance responses were considered. The proposed OTA showed a very good results with a voltage gain of 69.5 dB and a gain–bandwidth product (GBW) of 724 MHz. After that, a comparison among OTAs using different technologies was performed, showing that although the OTA designed with omega gate nanowire does not reach the same voltage gain of one designed with nanosheets, the proposed OTA shows a better GBW and smaller compensation capacitor for the same load capacitance. Considering the complexity of the nanosheet manufacture and the cost, the OTA designed with W-gate nanowire appears as a promising solution to replace FinFETs in the future.