bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Lattice plainification advances highly effective SnSe crystalline thermoelectrics
Authors: Liu Dongrui , Wang Dongyang , Hong Tao , Wang Ziyuan , Wang Yuping , Qin Yongxin , Su Lizhong , Yang Tianyu , Gao Xiang , Ge Zhenhua , Qin Bingchao , Zhao Li-Dong
Published: May 2023

Thermoelectric technology has been widely used for key areas, including waste-heat recovery and solid-state cooling. We discovered tin selenide (SnSe) crystals with potential power generation and Peltier cooling performance. The extensive off-stoichiometric defects have a larger impact on the transport properties of SnSe, which motivated us to develop a lattice plainification strategy for defects engineering. We demonstrated that Cu can fill Sn vacancies to weaken defects scattering and boost carrier mobility, facilitating a power factor exceeding ~100 microwatts per centimeter per square kelvin and a dimensionless figure of merit (
ZT
) of ~1.5 at 300 kelvin, with an average
ZT
of ~2.2 at 300 to 773 kelvin. We further realized a single-leg efficiency of ~12.2% under a temperature difference (Δ
T
) of ~300 kelvin and a seven-pair Peltier cooling Δ
T
max
of ~61.2 kelvin at ambient temperature. Our observations are important for practical applications of SnSe crystals in power generation as well as electronic cooling.
Ode to aluminum
Soil to Foil: Aluminum and the Quest for Industrial Sustainability
Saleem H. Ali
Columbia University Press, 2023. 320 pp.
Authors: Daehn Katrin
Published: May 2023

An expansive history offers insights into the abundant metal’s many facets
A
Mesorhizobium japonicum
quorum sensing circuit that involves three linked genes and an unusual acyl-homoserine lactone signal
Authors: Suo Zehui , Cummings Dale A. , Puri Aaron W. , Schaefer Amy L. , Greenberg E. Peter
Published: May 2023

Members of the genus
Mesorhizobium,
which are core components of the rhizosphere and specific symbionts of legume plants, possess genes for acyl-homoserine lactone (AHL) quorum sensing (QS). Here we show
Mesorhizobium japonicum
MAFF 303099 (formerly
M. loti
) synthesizes and responds to
N
-[(2
E
, 4
E
)-2,4-dodecadienoyl] homoserine lactone (2
E,
4
E-
C
12:2
-HSL). We show that the 2
E,
4
E-
C
12:2
-HSL QS circuit involves one of four
luxR-luxI
-type genes found in the sequenced genome of MAFF 303099. We refer to this circuit, which appears to be conserved among
Mesorhizobium
species, as R1-I1. We show that two other
Mesorhizobium
strains also produce 2
E,
4
E-
C
12:2
-HSL. The 2
E,
4
E-
C
12:2
-HSL is unique among known AHLs in its arrangement of two
trans
double bonds. The R1 response to 2
E,
4
E-
C
12:2
-HSL is extremely selective in comparison with other LuxR homologs, and the
trans
double bonds appear critical for R1 signal recognition. Most well-studied LuxI-like proteins use
S
-adenosylmethionine and an acyl-acyl carrier protein as substrates for synthesis of AHLs. Others that form a subgroup of LuxI-type proteins use acyl-coenzyme A substrates rather than acyl-acyl carrier proteins. I1 clusters with the acyl-coenzyme A-type AHL synthases. We show that a gene linked to the
I1
AHL synthase is involved in the production of the QS signal. The discovery of the unique I1 product enforces the view that further study of acyl-coenzyme A-dependent LuxI homologs will expand our knowledge of AHL diversity. The involvement of an additional enzyme in AHL generation leads us to consider this system a three-component QS circuit.

IMPORTANCE

We report a
Mesorhizobium japonicum
quorum sensing (QS) system involving a novel acyl-homoserine lactone (AHL) signal. This system is known to be involved in root nodule symbiosis with host plants. The chemistry of the newly described QS signal indicated that there may be a dedicated cellular enzyme involved in its synthesis in addition to the types known for production of other AHLs. Indeed, we report that an additional gene is required for synthesis of the unique signal, and we propose that this is a three-component QS circuit as opposed to the canonical two-component AHL QS circuits. The signaling system is exquisitely selective. The selectivity may be important when this species resides in the complex microbial communities around host plants and may make this system useful in various synthetic biology applications of QS circuits.
A Shifted Urinary Microbiota Associated with Disease Activity and Immune Responses in Rheumatoid Arthritis
Authors: Jin Jiayang , Li Jing , Hou Meiling , Ding Xu , Zhong Yan , He Jing , Sun Xiaolin , Ye Hua , Li Ru , Wu Lijun , Wang Jun , Guo Jianping , Li Zhanguo
Published: May 2023

We revealed that the profile of the urinary tract microbiota in RA featured with increased microbial richness and shifted taxa, associated with immunological and metabolic changes of the disease, underlining the interplay between urinary microbiota and host autoimmunity.
NH125 Sensitizes Staphylococcus aureus to Cell Wall-Targeting Antibiotics through the Inhibition of the VraS Sensor Histidine Kinase
Authors: Bhattarai Shrijan , Marsh Lane , Knight Kelsey , Ali Liaqat , Gomez Antonio , Sunderhaus Allison , Abdel Aziz May H.
Published: May 2023

This work characterizes the activity and inhibition of VraS, which is a key histidine kinase in a bacterial two-component system that is involved in
Staphylococcus aureus
antibiotic resistance. The results show the effect of temperature, divalent ions, and VraR on the activity and the kinetic parameters of ATP binding.
High-Quality Infrared Metalenses Based on Germanium Dimers
Authors: Pustynnikova V. M. , Musorin A. I. , Fedyanin A. A.
Published: May 2023

Modern methods of nanophotonics allow creating miniature devices that change the direction of light propagation, modulate the phase front, and control the outcoming state of the polarization. One of the promising areas of research is the development of flat optics elements based on planar analogues of metamaterials—dielectric metasurfaces, which are two-dimensional arrays of subwavelength nanoparticles with a high refractive index and low absorption coefficient. However, the resonances of such nanoscatterers have usually a low quality factor. Symmetry breaking of particle can lead to the excitation of a high-Q quasi-bound states in the continuum. In this work, we numerically study infrared metasurfaces that support such resonances and are formed by dimers of germanium nanocuboids. The possibility of focusing radiation to a point and line by 300‑nm-thick spherical and cylindrical metalenses is shown.
Acute eosinophilic pneumonia-like syndrome post-initiation of vortioxetine
Authors: O'Brien Tanya Marie
Published: May 2023

A man in his mid-30s presented to the emergency department with a 1-week history of fatigue, loss of appetite, fever and productive (yellow) cough. This progressed to requiring admission to intensive care needing a oxygen therapy via high-flow nasal cannula for acute hypoxaemic respiratory failure. He had recently started vortioxetine for major depressive disorder, and his acute symptoms correlated with an increase in the dose of vortioxetine. For more than 20 years, rare but consistent reports of serotonergic medications have been implicated in eosinophilic pulmonary conditions. During this same period, serotonergic medications have become a mainstay solution for a wide range of depressive symptoms and disorders. This is the first report of an eosinophilic pneumonia-like syndrome occurring while consuming the novel serotonergic medication vortioxetine.
Growth, allometry, and characteristics of a sexually selected structure in wolverine (Gulo gulo (Linnaeus, 1758)), northern river otter (Lontra canadensis (Linnaeus, 1758)), and sea otter (Enhydra lutris (Linnaeus, 1758))
Authors: Miller Edward H. , Jung Thomas S. , Kukka Piia M. , Reynolds John J. , Grove Robert A. , Stenson Garry B. , Rogers Robert P.W.
Published: May 2023

Allometric analyses of sexually selected structures have revealed many patterns of evolutionary and behavioural significance, for example, in weapons, ornaments, and genitalia. We investigated allometry of the baculum (penis bone) relative to body size in post-growth adults of three large mustelids: wolverine ( Gulo gulo (Linnaeus, 1758)), northern river otter ( Lontra canadensis (Linnaeus, 1758)), and sea otter ( Enhydra lutris (Linnaeus, 1758)). The baculum grew over a longer period than did body size. Correlations among bacular variables were positive in post-growth adults. No regression slopes expressed positive allometry (i.e., slope > 1 for linear variables). These trends point to the possibility that bacular size is adapted to the average size of the reproductive tract of sexually mature female northern river otters and possibly sea otters, and that pre-ejaculatory (“pre-copulatory”) selection is highest in those species. Bacular size varied more than skull or limb-bone size, and bacular shape also varied greatly. Species differed in size and complexity of the urethral groove and bacular apex, suggesting functional differences in intromission. Substantial variation in bacular shape resulted from healed fractures, especially in sea otter. Knowledge of copulatory behaviour, age of breeding, female reproductive anatomy, and genitalic interactions during intromission is needed for comprehensive understanding of bacular anatomy, allometry, and variation for these species.
Climate change, species thermal emergence, and conservation design: a case study in the Canadian Northwest Atlantic
Authors: Lewis Shaylyn A. , Stortini Christine H. , Boyce Daniel G. , Stanley Ryan R.E.
Published: May 2023

Marine Protected Areas (MPAs) are conservation tools that promote biodiversity by regulating human impacts. However, because MPAs are fixed in space and, by design, difficult to change, climate change may challenge their long-term effectiveness. It is therefore imperative to consider anticipated ecological changes in their design. We predict the time of emergence (ToE: year when temperatures will exceed a species’ tolerance) of 30 fish and invertebrate species in the Scotian Shelf-Bay of Fundy draft network of conservation areas based on climate projections under two contrasting emission scenarios (RCP 2.6 and RCP 8.5). We demonstrate a strong Southwest-to-Northeast gradient of change under both scenarios. Cold water-associated species had earlier ToEs, particularly in southwesterly areas. Under low emissions, 20.0% of habitat and 12.6% of species emerged from the network as a whole by 2100. Under high emissions, 51% of habitat and 42% of species emerged. These impacts are expected within the next 30–50 years in some southwestern areas. The magnitude and velocity of change will be tempered by reduced emissions. Our identification of high- and low-risk areas for species of direct and indirect conservation interest can support decisions regarding site and network design (and designation scheduling), promoting climate resilience.
A model of dark matter and energy
Authors: Frampton Paul H.
Published: May 2023

We discuss a model of the universe where dark energy is replaced by electrically-charged extremely-massive dark matter. The cosmological constant has a value of the same order as the mean matter density, consistent with observations, and is obtained classically without fine-tuning.
Genesis of Noise-Induced Multimodal Chaotic Oscillations in Enzyme Kinetics: Stochastic Bifurcations and Sensitivity Analysis
Authors: Bashkirtseva Irina
Published: May 2023

In this paper, by the example of 3D model of enzyme reaction, we study mechanisms of noise-induced generation of complex multimodal chaotic oscillations in the monostability zone where only simple deterministic cycles are observed. In such a generation, a constructive role of deterministic toroidal transients is revealed. We perform a statistical analysis of these phenomena and localize the intensity range of the noise that causes stochastic [Formula: see text]- and [Formula: see text]-bifurcations connected with transitions to chaos and qualitative changes in the probability density. Constructive possibilities of the stochastic sensitivity function technique in the analytical study of these phenomena are demonstrated.
Irreversibility of 2D Linear CA and Garden of Eden
Authors: Jumaniyozov Doston , Omirov Bakhrom , Redjepov Shovkat , Uguz Selman
Published: May 2023

In this paper, we consider a pentagonal lattice and we investigate the rule matrix with null boundary condition for two-dimensional cellular automata with the field [Formula: see text] (the set of integers modulo [Formula: see text]) and analyze their characteristics. Moreover, an algorithm of computing the rank of rule matrix with null boundary condition for von Neumann neighborhood is developed. Finally, necessary and sufficient conditions for the existence of Garden of Eden configurations for two-dimensional cellular automata are obtained.
Piecewise Smooth Perturbations to a Class of Planar Cubic Centers
Authors: Peng Linping , Li Yue , Sun Dan
Published: May 2023

This paper studies the limit cycle bifurcations of a class of planar cubic isochronous centers. For different values of two key parameters, we give an estimate of the maximum number of limit cycles bifurcating from the period annulus of the unperturbed systems under arbitrarily small piecewise smooth polynomial perturbation. The main method and technique are based on the first order averaging theory for discontinuous systems and the Argument Principle in complex analysis.
Spin Chaos Dynamics in Classical Random Dipolar Interactions
Authors: Momeni M.
Published: May 2023

The stochastic nature of magnetization dynamics of dipole–dipole interactions described by the Landau–Lifshitz–Gilbert equation without considering the Gilbert damping parameter is investigated. It is shown that the occurrence of the complex dynamic states depends on the spatial anisotropy of interactions on one hand and the lattice geometry on the other. It is observed from the higher-order moments of the magnetization fluctuations that two significant dynamical regimes, regular and chaos, may be obtained depending on the perturbation strength. Relying on the Hurst exponent obtained by the standard deviation principle, the correlation and persistence of the magnetization fluctuations are analyzed. The results also exhibit a transition from an anti-correlated to a positively correlated system as the relevant parameters of the system vary.
DEVELOPING A PROGRAMME FOR EDUCATING MANAGERS IN SYSTEMATIC INNOVATION PRACTICES: A CASE STUDY
Authors: JOHNSSON MIKAEL , KLINTBERG MIKAEL , OLDEBRING JAN , SUNDSTRÖM ANGELINA
Published: May 2023

In this paper, we explore how an educational programme can be designed to support managers in learning systematic innovation practices, contributing to the Innovation Management community. Using the community of practice (CoP) concept, we developed a programme to educate managers in systematic innovation practices, including systematic innovation work, innovation climate, and the creation of innovation teams. Our contribution builds on prior studies on the CoP construct. Using a case study with a mixed-methods design, we have explored the educational experiences of ten managers and the practical outcome of their organisations’ participation in the programme. Based on mixed data, we conclude that the educational programme “Management Education on Systematic Innovation Practices” (MEoSIP) supports managers’ understanding of systematic innovation practices in theory and in practice. It also contributes to practitioners who can support clients in improving innovation-related abilities. Agencies can develop training programmes using CoP for other educational purposes. Further research is proposed.
Global and Local Structure of Lithium Battery Electrolytes: Origin and Onset of Highly Concentrated Electrolyte Behavior
Authors: Årén Fabian , Andersson Rasmus , Franco Alejandro A. , Johansson Patrik
Published: May 2023

Highly concentrated electrolytes (HCEs), created simply by increasing the lithium salt concentration from the conventional 1 M to 3–5 M, have been suggested as a path towards safer and more stable lithium batteries. Their higher thermal and electrochemical stabilities and lower volatilities are usually attributed to the unique solvation structure of HCEs with not enough solvent available to fully solvate the Li+ ions—but much remains to be understood. Here the structural features that characterize the behavior of electrolytes in general and HCEs in particular, and especially the transition from conventional to highly concentrated behavior, are reported for lithium bis(trifluoromethanesulfonyl)imide (LiTFSI) in acetonitrile (ACN), a common HCE system. We analyze four different salt concentrations using ab initio molecular dynamics (AIMD) and the CHAMPION software, to obtain trends in global and local structure, as well as configurational entropy, to elucidate what truly sets apart the highly concentrated regime.
Machine Learning Benchmarks for the Classification of Equivalent Circuit Models from Electrochemical Impedance Spectra
Authors: Schaeffer Joachim , Gasper Paul , Garcia-Tamayo Esteban , Gasper Raymond , Adachi Masaki , Pablo Gaviria-Cardona Juan , Montoya-Bedoya Simon , Bhutani Anoushka , Schiek Andrew , Goodall Rhys , Findeisen Rolf , Braatz Richard D. , Engelke Simon
Published: May 2023

Analysis of Electrochemical Impedance Spectroscopy (EIS) data for electrochemical systems often consists of defining an Equivalent Circuit Model (ECM) using expert knowledge and then optimizing the model parameters to deconvolute various resistance, capacitive, inductive, or diffusion responses. For small data sets, this procedure can be conducted manually; however, it is not feasible to manually define a proper ECM for extensive data sets with a wide range of EIS responses. Automatic identification of an ECM would substantially accelerate the analysis of large sets of EIS data. We showcase machine learning methods to classify the ECMs of 9,300 impedance spectra provided by QuantumScape for the BatteryDEV hackathon. The best-performing approach is a gradient-boosted tree model utilizing a library to automatically generate features, followed by a random forest model using the raw spectral data. A convolutional neural network using boolean images of Nyquist representations is presented as an alternative, although it achieves a lower accuracy. We publish the data and open source the associated code. The approaches described in this article can serve as benchmarks for further studies. A key remaining challenge is the identifiability of the labels, underlined by the model performances and the comparison of misclassified spectra.
A Bipolar Separator for Autonomous Suppression of Dendrite Penetration in Zinc Metal Batteries
Authors: Lee Youngju , Bai Peng
Published: May 2023

Zinc metal anodes are attracting much attention to enable more economical and sustainable energy storage devices. However, like other metal anodes, dendritic growths and penetrations of porous separators are still challenging to eliminate. Introducing negative surface charges on the pore walls of separators have been exploited to enforce a uniform incoming Zn-ion flux toward more uniform electrodeposition, but penetrations induced by localized high current densities still remain in available systems. In this work, we report, for the first time, a bipolar separator that exploits the distinct electroosmotic effects of the negative and the positive surface charges. The surface charge effects on Zn dendrite growths were first verified in transparent capillary cells via operando video microscopy. By stacking the positively charged separator over the negatively charged separator as our proof-of-concept, the system offers preemptively a uniform Zn-ion flux through the negative layer yet starve-stops local metal growths that already penetrated the negative layer autonomously. Chronopotentiometry experiments with the symmetric cells reveal extended short-circuit time compared to control cells. Galvanostatic cycle-life experiments of full cells with the bipolar separator showed excellent cycle life of 5,000 cycles at the rate of 10 C, without signs of metal penetration.
Intrinsic Brain Functional Activity Abnormalities in Episodic Tension-Type Headache
Authors: Yang Xiu , Guo DianXuan , Huang Wei , Chen Bing
Published: May 2023

Objective. The neurobiological basis of episodic tension-type headache (ETTH) remains largely unclear. The aim of the present study was to explore intrinsic brain functional activity alterations in ETTH. Methods. Resting-state functional magnetic resonance imaging (rs-fMRI) data were collected from 32 patients with ETTH and 32 age- and gender-matched healthy controls (HCs). Differences in intrinsic brain functional activity between patients with ETTH and HCs were analyzed utilizing the fractional amplitude of low-frequency fluctuation (fALFF) approach. Correlation analyses were performed to examine the relationship between fALFF alterations and clinical characteristics. Results. Compared to HCs, patients with ETTH exhibited increased fALFF in the right posterior insula and anterior insula and decreased fALFF in the posterior cingulate cortex. Moreover, the fALFF in the right anterior insula was negatively correlated with attack frequency in ETTH. Conclusions. This study highlights alterations in the intrinsic brain functional activity in the insula and posterior cingulate cortex in ETTH that can help us understand its neurobiological underpinnings.
Effect of Pore Characteristics on Sound Absorption Ability of Permeable Pavement Materials
Authors: Song Weimin , Zhang Miaomiao , Wu Hao , Zhu Peng , Liu Zhuo , Yin Jian
Published: May 2023

Permeable pavement materials are attracting great attention due to the superior benefits in fast drainage, driving safety, and noise reduction effectiveness. This study investigated the sound absorption behaviors of permeable pavement materials, including permeable cement concrete (PCC) and open-graded friction course asphalt mixture (OGFC). The sound absorption coefficients (SACs) of dense-graded cement concrete and dense-graded asphalt mixture were also measured for comparison. The sound absorption test was conducted by the impedance tube method according to ASTM E1050-19. Computed tomography (CT) scanning tests were conducted to obtain the pore characteristics of PCC and OGFC, including porosity distribution, pore size, and coordination number (CN). The porosity distribution, pore size distribution, and CN distribution presented a symmetrical trend of decreasing, then increasing, and then decreasing with the increase of specimen height. When OGFC and PCC showed similar porosities, the pore number of PCC was significantly larger than that of OGFC. Comparisons of the peak SAC and the average SAC were made between PCC and OGFC. Correlations were made between the SAC and the pore characteristics. Results indicated that with increasing porosity, the peak SAC and the average SAC both increased significantly for PCC and OGFC. The characteristic pore size, pore number, and CN distribution together affected the SAC. At the same porosity, OGFC mixtures presented larger average SAC compared to PCC, which was ascribed to the fact that more pores with larger size and a better pore connectivity existed in OGFC mixtures.
De Gonçalo Gonçalves a General Câmara, topônimos soterrados: Pedro Nava e a memória que descansa sob asfalto de larguíssima avenida
Authors: Silva Antonio Rafael Marçal da , Jayo Martin
Published: May 2023

As ruas que cortam uma cidade guardam diferentes histórias. O topônimo fixado ali torna-se uma pista para que seja(m) desenterrada(s) a(s) memória(s) do lugar. Ao escrever em sua obra memorialística Baú de Ossos sobre a rua hoje extinta cujo derradeiro nome foi General Câmara, o escritor Pedro Nava nos conta histórias da cidade velha do Rio de Janeiro que não estão mais ancoradas na paisagem local. Guiado pelo livro de Nava, este trabalho percorre essa rua buscando a relação entre os diferentes topônimos mencionados pelo autor e o passado da via e da cidade, além de precisar o que foi destruído para a construção de uma avenida – e o que se mantém até hoje.
Uma descrição inicial dos Topônimos do Setor Autônomo de Bissau
Authors: Mané Baticã Braima Ença , Balduino Amanda Macedo
Published: May 2023

Este artigo tem como objetivo apresentar o perfil toponímico do Setor Autônomo de Bissau (SAB), Guiné-Bissau, de modo a elencarmos alguns fatores socioculturais e linguísticos relevantes para a sua compreensão. Para tanto, avaliamos os topônimos do SAB tendo em vista: (i) o contato linguístico, refletido em topônimos de matriz africana ou de estrutura híbrida e (ii) a estrutura do sintagma toponímico em língua portuguesa e/ou em outras línguas. O corpus manifesta 53,5% de topônimos portugueses e 46,5% entre autóctones (22,8%), híbridos (14,8%) e desconhecidos (8,9%). Esses resultados sugerem que, mesmo havendo influência do português na toponímia do SAB, essa apresenta itens autóctones que revelam especificidades linguísticas, históricas e culturais locais.
Toponímia, léxico e cultura: a atividade de nomeação em narrativas sobre a festa de Nossa Senhora da Abadia (Jataí/ Estado de Goiás)
Authors: Cardoso Rennika Lázara Dourado , Guimarães Lidiane Silva Araújo , Xavier Vanessa Regina Duarte
Published: May 2023

O léxico reflete características de uma comunidade, pois dá acesso à estrutura sociocultural de um povo. Deste modo, o presente trabalho teve como locus de pesquisa a área rural que fica no norte do município de Jataí (GO), onde se celebra a Festa de Nossa Senhora da Abadia, e como objeto de estudo os topônimos registrados no percurso dessa festa. Destarte, com vistas à obtenção dos dados léxicos representativos da Festa referida, foram realizadas entrevistas com pessoas do local que participam da execução da festa. As narrativas revelam memórias referentes aos rituais desta manifestação cultural rural local, assim como a atividade de nomeação dos lugares percorridos pela folia. O objetivo principal deste trabalho é a análise dos topônimos identificados no itinerário da Festa. Os resultados deste trabalho apontam para uma tendência de motivação de natureza física para a nomeação dos lugares identificados.
Contribuições do estudo hidronímico tocantinense: dos documentos oficiais à sala de aula
Authors: Nunes Verônica Ramalho , Andrade Karylleila dos Santos
Published: May 2023

Este artigo tem como proposta apresentar as contribuições do estudo hidronímico tocantinense, rios Araguaia e Tocantins, partindo de documentos oficiais para o contexto da sala de aula. Como percurso metodológico, apresentamos uma investigação documental e um levantamento bibliográfico, norteados pelo plano onomasiológico de investigação, consoante ao método das pesquisas onomásticas. Deste modo, as hipóteses de pesquisa levantadas viabilizaram conhecer as especificidades das denominações toponímicas analisadas neste estudo. Os resultados obtidos apontam que o estudo dos rios do Tocantins, pela ótica da toponímia, possibilita conhecer, de forma interdisciplinar, os aspectos relacionados à cultura, identidade, memória e economia da região.
Inflammasomes and Atherosclerosis: a Mixed Picture
Authors: Tall Alan R. , Bornfeldt Karin E.
Published: May 2023

The CANTOS (Canakinumab Anti-inflammatory Thrombosis Outcome Study) and colchicine trials suggest an important role of inflammasomes and their major product IL-1β (interleukin 1β) in human atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease. Moreover, studies in mouse models indicate a causal role of inflammasomes and IL-1β in atherosclerosis. However, recent studies have led to a more granular view of the role of inflammasomes in atherosclerosis. Studies in hyperlipidemic mouse models suggest that prominent activation of the NLRP3 inflammasome requires a second hit such as defective cholesterol efflux, defective DNA repair, clonal hematopoiesis or diabetes. Similarly in humans some mutations promoting clonal hematopoiesis increase coronary artery disease risk in part by promoting inflammasome activation. Recent studies in mice and humans point to a wider role of the AIM2 (absent in melanoma 2) inflammasome in promoting cardiovascular disease including in some forms of clonal hematopoiesis and diabetes. These developments suggest a precision medicine approach in which treatments targeting inflammasomes or IL-1β might be best employed in clinical settings involving increased inflammasome activation.
Outcomes of a modified, low-cost, veno-arterial extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (V-A ECMO) for elective, periprocedural support of high-risk percutaneous cardiac interventions: An experience from a latinamerican center
Authors: Bulnes Juan F , Martínez Alejandro , Sepúlveda Pablo , Fuensalida Alberto , Besa Santiago , Garrido Luis , Martínez Gonzalo
Published: May 2023

Introduction

High-risk procedures in interventional cardiology include a wide spectrum of clinical and anatomical scenarios related to a higher periprocedural morbidity and mortality. The prophylactic use of short-term mechanical circulatory support (ST-MCS) may improve both the safety and efficacy of the intervention by leading to more stable procedural hemodynamics. However, the significant costs may limit its use in resource constrained settings. To overcome this limitation, we ideated a modified, low-cost, veno-arterial extracorporeal membrane oxygenator (V-A ECMO) setup.

Methods

We conducted an observational prospective study including all patients undergoing a high-risk interventional cardiology procedure at our institution under prophylactic ST-MCS using a modified, low-cost version of V-A ECMO, where some components of the standard V-A ECMO circuit were replaced by supplies used for cardiac surgical cardiopulmonary bypass, achieving a cost reduction of 72%. We assessed in-hospital and mid-term outcomes, including procedural success, post-procedure complications and mortality.

Results

Between March 2016 and December 2021, ten patients underwent high-risk IC procedures with prophylactic use of V-A ECMO. Isolated percutaneous intervention (PCI) was performed in six patients, isolated transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR) in two, and a combined procedure (PCI + TAVR) in two. Mean ejection fraction was 34% (range 20–64%). Mean STS PROM was 16.2% (range 9.5–35.8%) and mean EuroScore was 23.7% (range 1.5–60%). The planned intervention was successfully performed in all cases. There were no reports of V-A ECMO malfunction. In nine patients the VA-ECMO was withdrawn immediately after the procedure but one patient required extended - 24 h - support with no significant issues. One patient experienced a periprocedural myocardial infarction and another developed a femoral pseudoaneurysm. In-hospital and 30-day survival were 100%, and 1-year survival was 80%.

Conclusions

High-risk procedures in interventional cardiology can be successfully performed under prophylactic ST-MCS using a modified, low-cost V-A ECMO, suitable for limited-resource settings.
An improved bounded real lemma for H∞ robust heading control of unmanned surface vehicle
Authors: Huang Yanwei , Huang Peng
Published: May 2023

Aiming at a mass variation of unmanned surface vehicle and the poor or even unmeasurable signal of yaw rate signal, the dynamic output feedback [Formula: see text] control method is proposed for heading regulation based on improved bounded real lemma to reduce the conservativeness and guarantee the robustness. First, a linear-varying-parameter heading error model with external disturbances is established by the consideration of mass as a variable parameter. Second, the dynamic output feedback controller with [Formula: see text] performance is presented for the linear-varying-parameter heading error model, and its nonlinear matrix inequality conditions for the stability of the closed-loop system are deduced from improved bounded real lemma by parameter-dependent Lyapunov to maintain the system robustness. Furthermore, the solution of nonlinear matrix inequality conditions relies on the variable substitution method, and improved bounded real lemma reduces the conservativeness of the controller design by introducing auxiliary relaxation variables to derive the equivalent linear matrix inequality condition. Finally, the heading control simulations for unmanned surface vehicle indicate that the dynamic output feedback [Formula: see text] method based on improved bounded real lemma (IDOF) is robust to system parameter variations and external disturbances, and can effectively reduce the conservativeness of the controller design. Moreover, dynamic output feedback H∞ method based on improved bounded real lemma has faster transient processes and smaller steady-state errors.
Investigation of Relationship Between Selected Criteria of e-Governance Services with Satisfaction of e-Governance Service Users
Authors: Mathur Mayank R. , Vyas Parimal H.
Published: May 2023

The implementation of e-Governance for various government schemes and projects is considered a positive movement for effective and transparent governance around the globe. India as an emerging economy is developing a strong governance network. According to figures from the Statista website, there are approximately 3,870 services of the government of India being included on the e-governance platform as on date 25 January 2022 and this is ever-increasing. The present study was done to evaluate the relationship between various selected criteria of e-governance services, namely benefits, integrity, accessibility, extensibility, problems faced and perceived usefulness with satisfaction of e-governance service users. The study was conducted among 100 users of e-governance applications/websites collected from Google Forms, by selected users of Vadodara city of State of Gujarat. The research study yielded major findings that hover around the dimension of integrity and perceived usefulness of e-governance schemes. It can be inferred that the e-governance schemes display the highest preferences of beneficiaries for integrity and perceived usefulness dimensions.
Beacon Technology the Future of Retail: A Review of the Literature and SWOT Analysis
Authors: Pangriya Ruchita
Published: May 2023

Beacon technology is in the nascent stage and is expected to grow unexceptionally. Despite the enormous scope in this field, limited work is available on this technology. Previous literature on Beacons is scattered and mostly focuses on experimental work and its architecture. This article works on this gap and tries to present a systematic review of the literature and does a SWOT analysis on Beacons. The current study presents the results of 80 academic papers. For the SWOT analysis, a two-phase interview was conducted to collect information. This article is going to enhance the existing literature on Beacons and will help future researchers to understand the concept clearly and concisely.
Journalism unions and digital platform regulation: a critical discourse analysis of submissions to Australia's News Media Bargaining Code
Authors: Neilson Tai , Heylen KB
Published: May 2023

Journalism unions are among the chorus of voices advocating for digital platform regulation. Yet, despite the documented impacts of platformisation on working conditions and labour markets, few of the recent inquiries into platform power have addressed the impacts of platforms on labour. In this article, we ask: what is the role of labour unions in shaping digital platform regulation? As our case study, we analysed how Australia's journalism union (the MEAA) articulated the interests of news workers in submissions to the Digital Platform Inquiry and the resulting News Media Bargaining Code. Through a critical discourse analysis of the union's submissions, we found that the MEAA's lobbying efforts championed the interests of freelancers, advocated for a more inclusive Code, and sought guarantees that the revenue it generated would be used to pay for content creation. The MEAA used a range of discursive strategies, including seizing on ambiguity surrounding the definition of the policy problem and key actors. For the most part, the submissions aligned the union with the regulator, state and media companies in pursuit of platform regulation. However, the competing interests among this advocacy coalition became increasingly clear in the later stages of the policy-making process. Ultimately, the union's strategies were constrained by the hegemony of market-centric discourses that framed the inquiry and shaped the policy outcomes.
A WIC-Based Behavior Change Intervention for Postpartum Women With Overweight and Obesity: A Pilot Feasibility Randomized Trial
Authors: Thompson Darcy A. , Haemer Matthew A. , Krebs Nancy F. , Pereira Rocio I. , Moss Angela , Furniss Anna L. , Bonczynski Jill , Nicklas Jacinda M.
Published: May 2023

Background. Postpartum weight retention is a risk factor for obesity and is particularly important among Hispanic women who have an increased rate of obesity. Given its broad reach, the Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) program provides an ideal setting to implement community-based interventions for low-income postpartum women. Purpose. To examine the feasibility, acceptability, and preliminary efficacy of a multicomponent intervention delivered by staff within the WIC program designed to promote behavior changes in urban, postpartum women with overweight/obesity. Method. This was a 12-week pilot trial randomizing participants to a health behavior change (Intervention) or control (Observation) group. The Intervention included monthly visits with trained WIC staff providing patient-centered behavior change counseling, with multiple touchpoints between visits promoting self-monitoring and offering health behavior change support. Results. Participants (n = 41), who were mainly Hispanic (n = 37, 90%) and Spanish-speaking (n = 33, 81%), were randomized to the Intervention (n = 19) or Observation (n = 22) group. In the Intervention group, 79% (n = 15) of eligible participants were retained for the study duration. All Intervention participants endorsed that they would participate again. Regarding physical activity, participant readiness to change and self-efficacy improved for Intervention participants. About one-quarter of women in the Intervention group (27%, n = 4) had a 5% weight loss compared with one woman (5%) in the Observation group; this difference was not statistically significant (p = .10). Conclusions. This pilot demonstrated the feasibility and acceptability of delivering a low-intensity behavior change intervention within the WIC setting for postpartum women with overweight/obesity. Findings support the role of WIC in addressing postpartum obesity.
Entering the Digital Research Age: Investigating the Effectiveness of Visual Digital Tools in Agricultural Research
Authors: Kawerau Laura , Birkenberg Athena , Daum Thomas , Butele Cosmas Alfred , Birner Regina
Published: May 2023

Agricultural studies mainly rely on quantitative research approaches. Despite growing interest in and uptake of qualitative, participatory, and visual methods due to their perceived advantages in gathering in-depth information and empowering participants, visual–digital research methods have yet to be largely applied. In our study on adaptation strategies to climate change among smallholder farmers in Uganda we compared different data collection methods, including: semi-structured interviews with manual note-taking, participatory impact diagrams, and adapted photovoice and cellphilm methodologies.
Thalidomide upper limb embryopathy – pathogenesis, past and present management and future considerations
Authors: Vargesson Neil , Hooper Geoffrey , Giddins Grey , Hunter Alastair , Stirling Paul , Lam Wee
Published: May 2023

This review article provides a comprehensive overview of thalidomide upper limb embryopathy including updates about its pathogenesis, a historical account of the management of the paediatric thalidomide patient, experience with management of the adult patient, as well as creating awareness about early onset age-related changes associated with limb differences. Despite its withdrawal from the market in November 1961, novel discoveries have meant thalidomide is licensed again and currently still in use to treat a variety of conditions, including inflammatory disorders and some cancers. Yet, if not used safely, thalidomide still has the potential to cause damage to the embryo. Recent work identifying thalidomide analogues that retain clinical benefits yet without the harmful effects are showing great promise. Understanding the problems thalidomide survivors face as they age can allow surgeons to support their unique healthcare issues and translate these principles of care to other congenital upper limb differences.
The Role of Social Media in the Creation of Young People’s Consumer Identities
Authors: Wilska Terhi-Anna , Holkkola Matilda , Tuominen Jesse
Published: May 2023

This article explores how young people construct and express their consumer identities via their consumption styles on social media. The importance of commercial content on social media, such as the postings of social media influencers and advertisers, has been increasing during the past years. Framed by theories on social identity, social comparison and consumer socialization, we analysed focus group discussions with 15 to 19-year-old teenagers in Finland ( N = 35). The results reveal that the participants had a clear understanding of their consumer identities: what kind of consumers they were and what they did not want to be. The consumption styles: luxury brand-oriented, trendy second-hand and sustainable, were heavily affected by social media, particularly by commercial social media influencers. Although our sample of young people was rather small, the results were consistent with other studies, and provided deeper understanding of the important role of commercial social media in young people’s consumption styles. Thereby, the research brings social media more tightly into the process of young consumers’ identity formation. For today’s young people, consumer identity is a major part of social identity which is greatly affected by social media. This is should be acknowledged by commercial actors, educators and consumer policy makers.
Psychological Reactions of Lebanese Nurses to Workplace Violence in Critical Care Units
Authors: Morra Sana , Fawaz Mirna , Rayan Ahmad , Malak Malakeh Z. , Abdalrahim Asem , Al-Amer Rasmieh , Al Omari Omar , Ayed Ahmad , Al-Dwaikat Tariq , Ayasreh Ibrahim , Al-Osoufe Laith , Mohammad Khitam Ibrahem , Alhroub Nisser , Al Dameery Khloud , ALBashtawy Mohammed , Alkhawaldeh Abdullah
Published: May 2023

Introduction

Workplace violence (WPV) is a growing concern that constitutes a major threat to occupational health and safety, thereby comprising a priority issue for policymakers. Given the increasing prevalence of chronic diseases and comorbidities among the Lebanese population, nurses working in critical care settings encounter intense workloads and high-risk interactions, potentially increasing the risk of WPV.

Objectives

This study aimed to investigate the traumatic and psychological reactions of Lebanese critical nurses who have been exposed to WPV, and the risk factors for depression and anxiety.

Methods

The study utilized a cross-sectional descriptive correlational design; 112 critical care nurses from diverse departments took part in this study during the period of June to July 2021.

Results

A positive, significant correlation between WPV exposure and self-reported anxiety was observed, p = .03 with high levels of WPV, especially among patients and their families. Although verbal abuse was found to be more prevalent among critical care nurses in Lebanon compared to physical and sexual violence, the severity of the situation and its impact on the nurses’ mental health and well-being cannot be ignored.

Conclusions

WPV for critical care nurses is a serious issue that needs to be considered. Policy-makers should develop the politics of regulating the nursing profession, especially for critical care nurses in Lebanon.
Diarrhea accompanies intestinal inflammation and intestinal mucosal microbiota dysbiosis during fatigue combined with a high-fat diet
Authors: Liu Jing , Qiao Bo , Cai Ying , Tan Zhoujin , Deng Na
Published: May 2023

Objective

It was reported fatigue or a high-fat diet triggers diarrhea, and intestinal microbiota may play central roles in diarrhea. Therefore, we investigated the association between the intestinal mucosal microbiota and the intestinal mucosal barrier from fatigue combined with a high-fat diet.

Method

This study divided the Specific pathogen-free (SPF) male mice into the normal group (MCN) and the standing united lard group (MSLD). The MSLD group stood on water environment platform box for 4 h/day for 14 days, and 0.4 mL lard was gavaged from day 8, twice daily for 7 days.

Result

After 14 days, Mice in the MSLD group showed diarrhea symptoms. The pathological analysis showed structural damage to the small intestine in the MSLD group, with an increasing trend of interleukin-6 (IL-6) and IL-17, and inflammation accompanied by structural damage to the intestine. Fatigue combined with a high-fat diet considerably decreased Limosilactobacillus vaginalis and Limosilactobacillus reuteri, and among them, Limosilactobacillus reuteri positively associated with Muc2 and negatively with IL-6.

Conclusion

The interactions between Limosilactobacillus reuteri and intestinal inflammation might be involved in the process of intestinal mucosal barrier impairment in fatigue combined with high-fat diet-induced diarrhea.
Development and clinical validation of a one-step pentaplex real-time reverse transcription PCR assay for detection of hepatitis virus B, C, E, Treponema pallidum, and a human housekeeping gene
Authors: Li Miaomiao , Lv Yan , Cui Dawei , Xu Yushan , Lin Mengjiao , Zhang Xiaojun , Wang Yongjun , Shen Cuifen , Xie Jue
Published: May 2023

Background

With the safety of blood transfusion being a major public health concern, the development of a rapid, sensitive, specific, and cost-effective multiplex PCR assay for simultaneous detection of hepatitis B virus(HBV), hepatitis C virus (HCV), hepatitis E virus (HEV), and Treponema pallidum(T. pallidum) in blood is crucial.

Methods

Five primer pairs and probes were designed towards conserved regions of target genes and used to establish a one-step pentaplex real-time reverse transcription PCR(qRT-PCR) assay for simultaneous detection of HBV, HCV, HEV, T. pallidum, and RNase P(housekeeping gene), providing sample quality check. The clinical performance of the assay was further determined with 2400 blood samples from blood donors and patients in Zhejiang province, and compared the results with commercial singleplex qPCR and serological assays.

Results

The 95% limit of detection(LOD) of HBV, HCV, HEV, and T. pallidum were 7.11 copies/µL, 7.65 copies/µL, 8.45 copies/µL, and 9.06 copies/µL, respectively. Moreover, the assay has good specificity and precision. Compared to the singleplex qPCR assay, the novel assay for detecting HBV, HCV, HEV, and T. pallidum presented 100% clinical sensitivity, specificity, and consistency. Several discrepant results between serological and pentaplex qRT-PCR assays were found. Of 2400 blood samples, there were 2(0.08%) HBsAg positive samples, 3(0.13%) anti-HCV positive samples, 29(1.21%) IgM anti-HEV positive samples and 6(0.25%) anti-T. pallidum positive samples proven negative in nucleic acid detection. 1(0.04%) HBV DNA positive sample and 1(0.04%) HEV RNA positive sample were detected negative by serological testing.

Conclusions

The developed pentaplex qRT-PCR is the first assay on simultaneous, sensitive, specific, and reproducible detection of HBV, HCV, HEV, T. pallidum, and RNase P in a single tube. It could detect pathogens in blood during the window period of infection and is a good tool for effectively screening blood donors and early clinical diagnosis.