bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Service equilibrium of urban transportation energy supply station based on cooperative game
Authors: Ge Xian-long , Xu MuShun , Wang Bo , Yin Zuo-fa
Published: February 2024

Purpose

As of December 2022, there were 119,000 gas stations, 10,800 gas stations and 4,488,000 charging piles nationwide, while the number of vehicles reached 312 million, including 11.49 million new energy vehicles. The imbalance between transportation energy supply and energy replenishment demand leads to crowded queues of vehicles at some stations and idle resources in others. How to reduce the phenomenon of large queues and improve the utilization rate of idle resources is the key to alleviating the imbalance between supply and demand.

Design/methodology/approach

Therefore, from the perspective of spatio-temporal equilibrium of urban transportation energy supply stations, multi-energy supply station cooperation is established in view of the phenomenon of large spatio-temporal differences among different energy supply stations, and corresponding inducing strategies are adopted for energy supplement vehicles in the road network, so that part of queued users go to energy supply stations with fewer vehicles, so as to balance the supply and demand of transportation energy in the region. On this basis, the income distribution of urban transportation energy supply station is discussed.

Findings

The total revenue after the cooperation was 13,095, an increase of 22.9%. Secondly, in terms of distribution rationality, three impact factors are selected and Shapley correction value is used to distribute the total income. Compared with independent operation, both sites have a certain degree of increase.

Originality/value

Traffic congestion at energy supply stations is closely related to the number, location and number of vehicles at energy supply stations. Therefore, using a cooperative approach of energy trading cannot solve the queuing problem. In addition, there are a few research results on the equalization of energy supply station services considering time-of-use pricing. However, these studies do not consider the vehicular grooming at congested stations. As far as the authors know, there are no relevant research results in the research on the service equilibrium of energy supply stations based on cooperative games.
Towards a more balanced treatment of culture in international business using an ethnographic design: a multinational family business case study
Authors: Zipper-Weber Viktoriya , Mandik Andrea
Published: February 2024

Purpose

The negative cultural bias vis-à-vis international business and cross-cultural management has been duly acknowledged, necessitating recommendations towards investigating its positive effects. Methodologically, quantitative research clearly predominates, and there have been calls for alternative approaches. Thus, this conceptual paper addresses the research gap (methodological and thematic) by investigating if multicultural teams can be an essential part of the global workforce and whether positive effects exist regarding dynamic capabilities, learning and knowledge transfer.

Design/methodology/approach

The underlying ethnographic research design enabled exploring within the embedded single case study from an emic perspective, including qualitative observation and semi-structured expert interviews, and provided detailed insights into the company’s multicultural work environment.

Findings

The results reveal that applying a qualitative design allowed the needed exploration and show that multicultural, geographically dispersed teams are positively experienced and considered necessary in today’s globalised world. They are likely to increase in the future. Moreover, dynamic capabilities (multicultural competencies) are indispensable for multicultural teamwork. Regarding learning opportunities, different viewpoints for discussion and the ability to reflect on these offer valuable insights. In line with theory, multiculturality is considered a “two-edged sword”, providing simultaneous benefits and challenges. Contrary to the theory, even highly important information transfers can occur virtually, although occasional physical contact is essential for trust building.

Originality/value

The multinational family business offers a unique example of a positive relationship between multiculturalism and organisational excellence and demonstrates how the application of a qualitative methodology can support theory building by delivering a revised model of dynamic capabilities in multicultural environments with geographical dispersion.
Richard, bishop of Syracuse and archbishop of Messina (d. 1195), and the History of the Tyrants of Sicily
Authors: HAGGER MARK
Published: February 2024

This article reconsiders the agenda and authorship of the Liber de regno Sicilie or History of the Tyrants of Sicily by way of a detailed study of its content. The History comprises one of the very few detailed sources for the kingdom of Sicily under Kings William I (1154–66) and William II (1166–89), and while it only covers part of the period in question (1154–69), it is of fundamental importance for what it tells us about the politics, characters, and society of the day, and particularly for its insights into the treacherous world of Sicilian court politics. It was clearly the work of an insider, or a well‐connected observer. But none of the suggestions as to the author's identity so far advanced have achieved a scholarly consensus. This article highlights the unexpectedly prominent position given to Richard, bishop‐elect of Syracuse, throughout the narrative, and uses the outline of Richard's career, the positive construction of his actions, and the explanation and apology that lies beneath the report of his deeds, to argue that either Richard himself or someone who was part of his retinue and shared his experiences was the author. That identification also permits some suggestions to be made as to the purpose of the History and the possible contemporary audiences to whom it made its case.
Detection of US and Kobe‐type Babesia microti in ticks collected from small mammals of the Republic of Korea
Authors: Kim Tae Yun , Kim Seong Yoon , Seo Jiye , Lee Hee IL , Lee Wook‐Gyo , Kim Hyunwoo
Published: February 2024

Human babesiosis is an emerging tick‐borne zoonotic disease prevalent in large parts of the world. This study aimed to examine the status of Babesia microti infection in ticks collected from small mammals captured during the nationwide survey of the Republic of Korea (ROK), 2017. Ixodid ticks from small mammals of three species, Apodemus agrarius, Crocidura lasiura, and Tscherskia triton, were used for the molecular detection of B. microti. PCR analyses amplifying 18S ribosomal RNA (rRNA) of the genus Babesia showed 8.4% of the ticks to be positive. Nucleotide sequencing of the PCR products revealed two different genotypes of B. microti, the US and Kobe‐type. The US‐types of B. microti were detected in ticks from small mammals of almost all study sites, whereas detections of Kobe‐types were restricted to ticks from southern part of ROK. Phylogenetic analysis also indicated that each of the two types of B. microti clustered into two distinct clades. This is the first report on the presence of the US and Kobe‐type B. microti in ticks collected from small mammals trapped on a national scale in ROK.
Seasonal remodeling of visceral organs in the invasive desert gecko Tarentola annularis
Authors: DUBINER Shahar , MEIRI Shai , LEVIN Eran
Published: February 2024

In winter, many reptiles have a period of inactivity (“brumation”). During brumation there is no energetic intake, therefore there would be an advantage to reducing energetic expenditure. The size of energetically costly organs, a major determinant of metabolic rate, is known to be flexible in many tetrapods. Seasonal plasticity of organ size could serve as both an energy‐saving mechanism and a source of nutrients for brumating reptiles. We studied a population of an invasive gecko, Tarentola annularis, to test for seasonal changes in activity, metabolic rate, and mass of various organs. The observed period of inactivity was December–February. Standard metabolic rates during the activity season were 1.85 times higher than in brumating individuals. This may be attributed to decreased organ mass during winter: heart mass decreased by 37%, stomach mass by 25%, and liver mass by 69%. Interestingly, testes mass increased by 100% during winter, likely in preparation for the breeding season, suggesting that males prioritize breeding over other functions upon return to activity. The size of the kidneys and lungs remained constant. Organ atrophy occurred only after geckos reduced their activity, so we hypothesize that organ mass changes in response to (rather than in anticipation of) cold winter temperatures and the associated fasting. Degradation of visceral organs can maintain energy demands in times of low supply, and catabolism of the protein from these organs can serve as a source of both energy and water during brumation. These findings bring us closer to a mechanistic understanding of reptiles’ physiological adaptations to environmental changes.
Molecular analysis of endobronchial ultrasound needle aspirates in patients with non‐small cell lung cancer: Results from the SCOPE database
Authors: Vakil Erik , Dumoulin Elaine , Stollery Daniel , Gillson Ashley‐Mae , MacEachern Paul , Dhaliwal Inderdeep , Mitchell Michael , Li Pen , Schieman Colin , Romatowski Nicholas , Chee Alex C. , Tyan Chung Chun , Fortin Marc , Hergott Christopher A. , Tremblay Alain
Published: February 2024

Objective

Molecular subtyping of non‐small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) is critical in the diagnostic evaluation of patients with advanced disease. This study aimed to examine whether samples from endobronchial ultrasound transbronchial needle aspiration (EBUS‐TBNA) of intrathoracic lymph nodes and/or lung lesions are adequate for molecular analysis across various institutions.

Methods

We retrospectively reviewed all cases of linear EBUS‐TBNA with a final bronchoscopic diagnosis of NSCLC entered in the Stather Canadian Outcomes registry for chest ProcEdures database. The primary outcome was specimen inadequacy rate for each molecular target, as defined by the local laboratory or pathologist.

Results

A total of 866 EBUS‐TBNA procedures for NSCLC were identified. Specimen inadequacy rates were 3.8% for EGFR, 2.5% for ALK‐1 and 3.5% for PD‐L1. Largest target size was not different between adequate and inadequate specimens, and rapid onsite evaluation did not increase specimen adequacy rates. One centre using next‐generation sequencing for EGFR had lower adequacy rates than 2 others using matrix‐assisted laser desorption/ionization time‐of‐flight mass spectrophotometry.

Conclusion

EBUS‐TBNA specimens have a very low‐specimen inadequacy rate for molecular subtyping of non‐small cell lung cancer.
Physical and biological characteristics of eco‐friendly films added with Cinnamomum zeylanicum extract for packaging materials
Authors: Gürler Nedim , Ertekin Özlem
Published: February 2024

The effects of Cinnamomum zeylanicum extract (CZE) at different rations (0%, 1%, 3% and 5%) on gelatin (GL)–polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) blend films were evaluated in relation to the structural, tensile strength, physical, antimicrobial and antioxidant properties of the films in this study. The results showed that water barriers of the film samples decreased, but the UV‐blocking property increased and became opaque at the highest GLPVA5 film. The tensile strengths of GLPVA, GLPVA1, GLPVA3 and GLPVA5 films were 1.21, 1.78, 1.62 and 1.95 MPa, respectively. The antimicrobial effect of these films was determined against Escherichia coli, Enterococcus faecalis, Salmonella typhimurium and Bacillus cereus according to the parallel stick method. Antioxidant properties of cinnamon extract were investigated using 2,2‐diphenyl‐1‐picryl‐hydrazil (DPPH) methods. The % inhibition of DPPH was found to be 82.00. No antibacterial effect was detected for B.cereus and E. faecalis at 0%, 1%, 3% and 5%. While no activity was observed in 0%, 1% and 3% cinnamon, 7.5 and 3.0 mm zones were detected in S. typhimirium and E. coli, respectively, in 5% cinnamon. The results suggest that the film samples could be used in a potential packaging with antioxidant and antibacterial properties.
Gelatin/calcium‐caseinate films loaded with petitgrain essential oil for sustainable food packaging
Authors: Bhatia Saurabh , Shah Yasir Abbas , Al‐Harrasi Ahmed , Jawad Muhammad , Dıblan Sevgin , Khan Talha Shireen , Koca Esra , Aydemir Levent Yurdaer
Published: February 2024

This research focuses on the development and assessment of films composed of gelatin (GE) and calcium caseinate (CC), loaded with varying concentrations of petitgrain essential oil (PEO). A comprehensive assessment of the resulting films was conducted with a focus on the antioxidant, antibacterial, and physicochemical attributes. GCMS analysis identified the primary constituents of PEO, including linalyl acetate, linalool, α‐pinene, α‐terpineol, limonene, β‐myrcene, geranyl acetate, and neryl acetate. The antioxidant capacity of GE‐CC films increased significantly with increasing PEO concentration, as evidenced by DPPH and ABTS assays. Simultaneously, increased PEO concentration led to increased thickness, water vapour permeability (WVP), elongation at break (EAB), and water solubility (WS) in the active films while reducing moisture content (MC) and tensile strength (TS). In terms of optical characteristics, the transparency of the films decreased, while the b* (yellowness) and ΔE (total colour variation) values increased upon oil incorporation. The presence of intermolecular interactions between the polymers and the oil was confirmed through FTIR and morphological characteristics studied by SEM. The addition of PEO to the films resulted in improved thermal resistance against degradation, as observed in the thermo‐gravimetric analysis (TGA). Moreover, these active films showed potent antimicrobial activity against C. albicans and P. aeruginosa. In summary, this study underscores the suitability of GE‐CC films containing PEO for food packaging purposes, highlighting their functional characteristics and environmentally friendly nature.
WHO's Investigations and Studies, Unity Studies: A global initiative creating equitable opportunities for enhanced surveillance, operational research, capacity building, and global knowledge sharing
Authors: Bergeri Isabel , Boddington Nicki L. , Lewis Hannah C. , Subissi Lorenzo , von Dobschuetz Sophie , Rodriguez Angel , Jara Jorge , El Naja Hala Abou , Barakat Amal , Rashidian Arash , Aly Eman Abdelkreem , Al Ariqi Lubna , Wijesinghe Pushpa , Inbanathan Francis , Nguyen Phuong Nam , Phengxay Manilay , Le Linh‐Vi , Enebish Temuulen , Okeibunor Joseph , Herring Belinda , Farley Elise , Jorgensen Pernille , Vaughan Aisling Marie , Mott Joshua , Zhang Wenqing , Pebody Richard , Van Kerkhove Maria D.
Published: February 2024

The World Health Organization's Unity Studies global initiative provides a generic preparedness and readiness framework for conducting detailed investigations and epidemiological studies critical for the early and ongoing assessment of emerging respiratory pathogens of pandemic potential. During the COVID‐19 pandemic, the initiative produced standardized investigation protocols and supported Member States to generate robust and comparable data to inform public health decision making. The subsequent iteration of the initiative is being implemented to develop revised and new investigation protocols, implementation toolkits and work to build a sustainable global network of sites, enabling the global community to be better prepared for the next emerging respiratory pathogen with epidemic or pandemic potential.
Isolation, identification, and characterization of Pectobacterium actinidiae isolated from infected sugar beet leaves
Authors: Öztürk Murat
Published: February 2024

During the sugar beet growing seasons of 2019 and 2020, symptomatic leaf samples displaying necrotic spots were collected for the isolation of pectinolytic bacteria. Seven bacterial isolates were obtained from these infected leaves on crystal violet pectate (CVP) medium. Two of these isolates exhibited the ability to macerate potato tuber slices and induced disease symptoms on petioles of sugar beet plants. Initially, their identity was determined to be Pectobacterium spp. through a polymerase chain reaction (PCR) that produced a 434 bp amplicon using Y1/Y2 primers. Subsequently, they generated a 550 bp PCR product with the EXPCCF/EXPCCR primers, classifying them as P. carotovorum. Further analysis of both strains involved the examination of the dnaX and mdh genes to confirm their taxonomic status. BLASTn analysis revealed the highest sequence similarity with P. actinidiae strains in GenBank for dnaX (99.39%–100%) and mdh (100%) genes. Phylogenetic analysis, based on sequences from dnaX, mdh, and a concatenation of both genes, conducted alongside 21 species of Pectobacterium spp., unequivocally confirmed that strains Pact1 and Pact2 belong to P. actinidiae. This study marks the first‐ever report of the presence of P. actinidiae in sugar beet worldwide.
Pantoea vagans causing soft rot disease in Agave angustifolia, in Mexico
Authors: Rodríguez Velázquez Nadia Denisse , Pérez Pérez Guadalupe Osiris , Vergara Arellano Gustavo , Estrada de los Santos Paulina , Mendoza Figueroa Jose Silvestre , Chávez‐Ramírez Belén
Published: February 2024

In Mexico, agave (Agave angustifolia Haw.) crops stand out regionally due to their socioeconomic, agroecological and cultural importance. It is the most important raw material in the elaboration of two relevant alcoholic beverages: tequila and mezcal. Nevertheless, this crop is susceptible to phytopathological threats mainly fungi and bacteria, both having a massive impact in yearly production. In this paper, we describe an agave disease consisting in reddish chlorotic lesions along the leaf bases resulting in tissue degradation and producing soft rot (softening tissue and firmness loss). Fast‐growing yellow and mucoid bacteria colonies were isolated from the lesions in BK agar. Microscopic analysis resulted in a Gram‐negative bacilli. Pathogenic tests resulted showed identical symptoms to the initial ones in natural maguey host plants as well as in the selected model Aloe vera L. showing more aggressive soft rot symptoms. It is important to highlight that in the selected plant model (Aloe vera), the symptoms arose faster and more aggressively. Biochemical and molecular analysis of the bacterial isolate identifies it as Pantoea vagans, a species not previously documented in this crop. Although all bacterial infections in plants are treated in similar ways, accurate identification could translate into targeted prevention. The detection of Pantoea vagans is considered a relevant problem given the symptoms it causes. We conclusively reported a 37% infection incidence rate, which can mean significant economic losses. However, the role of the genus Pantoea in agave rot has been poorly studied. Therefore, this report shows the identification of a new Pantoea species bounded to agave cultivars in Malinalco municipality, state of Mexico.
Guanosine‐specific single‐stranded ribonuclease effectors of a phytopathogenic fungus potentiate host immune responses
Authors: Kumakura Naoyoshi , Singkaravanit‐Ogawa Suthitar , Gan Pamela , Tsushima Ayako , Ishihama Nobuaki , Watanabe Shunsuke , Seo Mitsunori , Iwasaki Shintaro , Narusaka Mari , Narusaka Yoshihiro , Takano Yoshitaka , Shirasu Ken
Published: February 2024

Plants activate immunity upon recognition of pathogen‐associated molecular patterns. Although phytopathogens have evolved a set of effector proteins to counteract plant immunity, some effectors are perceived by hosts and induce immune responses.

Here, we show that two secreted ribonuclease effectors, SRN1 and SRN2, encoded in a phytopathogenic fungus, Colletotrichum orbiculare, induce cell death in a signal peptide‐ and catalytic residue‐dependent manner, when transiently expressed in Nicotiana benthamiana. The pervasive presence of SRN genes across Colletotrichum species suggested the conserved roles.

Using a transient gene expression system in cucumber (Cucumis sativus), an original host of C. orbiculare, we show that SRN1 and SRN2 potentiate host pattern‐triggered immunity responses. Consistent with this, C. orbiculare SRN1 and SRN2 deletion mutants exhibited increased virulence on the host. In vitro analysis revealed that SRN1 specifically cleaves single‐stranded RNAs at guanosine, leaving a 3′‐end phosphate. Importantly, the potentiation of C. sativus responses by SRN1 and SRN2, present in the apoplast, depends on ribonuclease catalytic residues.

We propose that the pathogen‐derived apoplastic guanosine‐specific single‐stranded endoribonucleases lead to immunity potentiation in plants.
Representation of adults with class III obesity in studies assessing validity of self‐reported energy intake using doubly labeled water: A systematic review
Authors: Howes Erica M. , Laskaridou Eleni , Davy Kevin P. , Hedrick Valisa E.
Published: February 2024

The measurement of habitual energy intake remains a challenge in nutrition research. High levels of misreporting, particularly among adults with obesity, have been observed when comparing self‐reported energy intake to energy expenditure assessed via the doubly labeled water technique. Little is known about misreporting in adults with class III obesity (body mass index ≥40 kg/m2). This systematic review assessed the representation of adults with class III obesity in dietary validation studies and the validity of self‐reported dietary energy intake for this group. Studies were included in this review if they: compared self‐reported energy intake assessment method(s) to doubly labeled water, had participants ≥18 years old, and included participants with class III obesity. Fifteen studies met these criteria. Of those, eight included information about the number of participants with class III obesity. Out of 1784 participants across eight studies, 63 (3.5%) participants had class III obesity, compared to 9.2% of US adults with class III obesity. Six studies provided data on validity of energy intake assessment for class III obesity, with five of these showing underreporting. Participants with class III obesity are underrepresented in dietary validation studies. Future research should explore the role of weight status on dietary reporting accuracy.
Aveir retrievable, 38‐mm length, leadless pacemaker implantation in a 23‐kg pediatric patient with congenital heart disease
Authors: Rodriguez Jacob , Cortez Daniel
Published: February 2024

Introduction

Complications are more prevalent in pediatric patients receiving pacemaker implants.

Methods

We performed a retrospective review of a retrievable, 38 mm leadless pacemaker implantation in a 23‐kg pediatric patient.

Case/discussion

An active 9‐year‐old, 23 kg male patient with tetralogy of Fallot with intermittent pacing need presented with a fractured lead and pacing need. He underwent implant of a retrievable leadless pacemaker (Abbott Aveir) via internal jugular vein access, without complication, and with echocardiographic guidance. His threshold was stable at 1.25 V @0.4 ms, with stable impedance and sensing at 5‐month follow‐up.

Conclusion

Aveir retrievable leadless pacemakers can be implanted safely in a child with tetralogy of Fallot, as small as 23 kilograms.
False‐positive alarms in patients with implantable loop recorder followed by remote monitoring: A systematic review
Authors: Covino Simona , Russo Vincenzo
Published: February 2024

Remote Monitoring (RM) has been shown to provide useful information about arrhythmic events in patients with implantable loop recorders (ILRs), however there is few and conflicting data about the false positive (FP) alarms burden and characteristics among ILR recipients. The aim of the present systematic review was to evaluate incidence and characteristics of FP alarms among ILR patients followed by RM. We developed a systematic research in Embase, MEDLINE and PubMed databases and selected all papers focused on false positive ILR transmissions published from June 1, 2013 to June 1, 2023. Case reports, meeting summaries, posters and simple reviews were excluded. Twelve reports were finally selected, including five prospective and seven retrospective studies. Information about population characteristics, device type and setting, overall transmissions and FP alarms and any adopted strategies to reduce them were extracted from an overall population of 3.305 patients. FP alarms were 59.7% of the overall remote transmissions and were found in 1/5 of the analyzed population. FP alarms for atrial fibrillation were the most common cause of false transmissions and were mainly due to premature atrial and ventricular complexes. No clinical predictors of FP alarms were identified, except for nonparasternal ILR implantation site. Since the overload work due to FP alarms might reduce the benefit of remote monitoring of ILR patients, the device optimization is an important step until an help from machine‐learning algorithms is available.
The evolutionary history of Coleoptera (Insecta) in the late Palaeozoic and the Mesozoic
Authors: Beutel Rolf G. , Xu Chunpeng , Jarzembowski Edmund , Kundrata Robin , Boudinot Brendon E. , McKenna Duane D. , Goczał Jakub
Published: February 2024

Recent progress in beetle palaeontology has incited us to re‐address the evolutionary history of the group. The Permian †Tshekardocoleidae had elytra that covered the posterior body in a loose tent‐like manner. The formation of elytral epipleura and a tight fit of elytra and abdomen were important evolutionary transformations in the Middle Permian, resulting in a tightly enclosed subelytral space. Permian families were likely associated with dead wood of gymnospermous trees. The end‐Permian extinction event resulted in a turnover in the composition of beetle faunas, especially a decline of large‐bodied wood‐associated forms. Adephaga and Myxophaga underwent a first wave of diversification in the Triassic. Polyphaga are very rare in this period. The first wave of diversification of this suborder occurs in the Jurassic, with fossils of Elateriformia, Staphyliniformia and Cucujiformia. The Cretaceous fossil record has been tremendously enriched by the discovery of amber inclusions. Numerous fossils represent all major polyphagan lineages and also the remaining suborders. Improved analytical methods for documenting and placing extinct taxa are discussed. Different factors have played a role in the diversification of beetles. The enormous number of species associated with flowering plants, and timing and patterns of diversification in phytophagous lineages indicate that the angiosperm radiation played a major role in beetle macroevolution. Moreover, the evolution of intimate partnerships with symbionts and the acquisition of novel genes—obtained from fungi and bacteria via horizontal gene transfers—facilitated the use of plant material as a food source and were key innovations in the diversification of plant‐feeding beetles.
A multicenter prospective study to define the natural history of BK viral infections in kidney transplantation
Authors: Seifert Michael E. , Mannon Roslyn B. , Nellore Anoma , Young JoAnne , Wiseman Alexander C. , Cohen David J. , Peddi V. Ram , Brennan Daniel C. , Morgan Charity J. , Peri Kalyani , Aban Inmaculada , Whitley Richard J. , Gnann John W.
Published: February 2024

Background

BK polyomavirus (BKV) can cause permanent loss of allograft function due to BKV‐associated nephropathy (BKVN) in kidney transplant recipients. Besides immunosuppression reduction, there are no consistently effective interventions for BKV infection. Study purpose was to define natural history of BKV infection, identify risk factors for BKV reactivation and BKVN in kidney transplant recipients, and inform the design/conduct of future clinical trials of BKV‐targeted therapeutics.

Methods

We conducted a multicenter prospective observational study of incident kidney transplant recipients at six U.S. transplant centers. Participants were monitored every 4 weeks for BKV reactivation and followed for up to 24 months post‐transplant. We used regression models (logistic, survival, mixed models) to study relationships between BK viremia/BKVN, clinical characteristics, and allograft function.

Results

We enrolled 335 participants. Fifty‐eight (17%) developed BK viremia, 6 (2%) developed biopsy‐proven BKVN, and 29 (9%) developed suspected/presumed BKVN (defined as BKV viral load > 10,000 copies/mL without biopsy). Male donor sex was associated with lower odds for BK viremia, whereas recipient Black race was associated with two‐fold increased odds for BK viremia. Recipient female sex was associated with more rapid clearance of BK viremia. Persistent BK viremia/BKVN was associated with poorer allograft function by 24 months post‐transplant.

Conclusions

We identified multiple donor and recipient demographic factors associated with risk for BKV infection and poorer allograft function by 24 months post‐transplant. This may help design future clinical trials of therapies to prevent or mitigate the deleterious impact of BKV reactivation on kidney transplant outcomes.

image
Effects of Flow Pulsation and Surface Geometry on Heat Transfer Performance in a Channel With Teardrop-Shaped Dimples Investigated by Large Eddy Simulation
Authors: Inokuma Kento , Yawata Yuki , Murata Akira , Iwamoto Kaoru
Published: February 2024

Large eddy simulation was performed to investigate heat transfer performance of a pulsating flow over teardrop-shaped dimples. A total of six geometries of dimpled surfaces were examined for dimple arrangements of in-line/staggered/original and dimple inclination angle of 0–60 deg. Pulsating flows were generated by sinusoidally varying the volume-averaged velocity. The pulsation frequency and amplitude were changed for the Strouhal number of 0–0.60 and the root-mean-square velocity amplitude normalized by the bulk flow velocity of 0–0.14. The results showed that the surface-averaged Nusselt number and friction factor were larger for the pulsating flow case than for the steady flow case. The surface-averaged Nusselt number ratio and the friction factor increased with the Strouhal number up to the Strouhal number of 0.30. For the Strouhal number larger than 0.30, they decreased with the Strouhal number or stayed almost constant. Consequently, the heat transfer efficiency index increased with the Strouhal number. The increase in the local Nusselt number ratio due to the flow pulsation was observed at the leading-edge region of the dimples. The results of the streamlines near the dimple showed that the swirling separation bubble was located closer to the leading-edge region due to the pulsation, which resulted in the increase of the absolute values of the turbulent heat flux and the local Nusselt number ratio.
Design and Development of Novel Lattice Structures for Optimum Energy Absorption
Authors: Jonnala Uday Kumar , K Lakshmi Rama , Y Ravi Kumar
Published: February 2024

Lattice structures are intricate networks of interconnected struts, surfaces, and plates formed from irregular and non-periodic cells. Among the promising lattices, triply periodic minimal surfaces (TPMS) lattices stand out for their attractive blend of lightweight properties, excellent energy absorption capacity, and thermal insulation capabilities. In this paper, we propose a modeling technique to create innovative lattice structures with complicated shapes and compare their mechanical properties with existing TPMS lattices. The lattice is coded in matlab using mathematical equations. The filament-based material extrusion method was utilized to produce the desired lattice structures. In order to determine the compressive mechanical properties, the 3D-printed lattices underwent compression testing. The energy absorption capacity of the novel lattices was shown to be increased by 135%, 153%, and 162% when compared to gyroid lattice structures and 110%, 125%, and 132% when compared to diamond lattice structures at constant relative density. Furthermore, this technique gives data for creating lattice structures with complicated contours as well as the underlying design principles for the construction of lattice structures with superior mechanical characteristics and numerous applications, particularly in protective devices. The proposed approach could be used in the future to develop lightweight structures for biomedical applications that incorporate various lattice unit cell designs.
Spectroscopic analysis of lead lanthanum zirconate titanate films using UV-VIS and ellipsometry
Authors: Kotru Sushma , Kothapally Sneha , Hilfiker James N.
Published: February 2024

Spectroscopic ellipsometry and ultraviolet-visible (UV-VIS) spectrometry were utilized to study the optical properties of ferroelectric lead lanthanum zirconate titanate (PLZT) films. These films were deposited on platinized silicon [Si(100)/ SiO2/TiO2/Pt(111)] substrates using the chemical solution deposition method. Films were annealed at two different temperatures (650 and 750 °C) using rapid thermal annealing. Shimadzu UV-1800 UV-VIS spectrophotometer with a resolution of 1 nm was used to measure the reflectance data in the spectral range of 300–1000 nm with a step size of 1 nm. The bandgap values were determined from the reflectance spectra using appropriate equations. A J.A. Woollam RC2 small spot spectroscopic ellipsometer was used to obtain the change in amplitude (Ψ) and phase (Δ) of polarized light upon reflection from the film surface. The spectra were recorded in the wavelength range of 210–1500 nm at an incident angle of 65°. Refractive index (n) and extinction coefficient (k) were obtained by fitting the spectra (Ψ, Δ) with the appropriate models. No significant changes were observed in the optical constants of PLZT films annealed at 650 and 750 °C. The optical transparency and the strong absorption in the ultraviolet (UV) region of PLZT films make them an attractive material for optoelectronic and UV sensing applications.
Spinel LiGa5O8 prospects as ultra-wideband-gap semiconductor: Band structure, optical properties, and doping
Authors: Lambrecht Walter R. L.
Published: February 2024

LiGa5O8 in the spinel type structure is investigated as a potential ultra-wideband-gap semiconductor. The band structure is determined using the quasiparticle self-consistent GW method, and the optical properties are calculated at the Bethe Salpeter Equation level including electron-hole interaction effects. The optical gap including exciton effects and an estimate of the zero-point motion electron phonon coupling renormalizations is estimated to be about 5.2±0.1 eV with an exciton binding energy of about 0.4 eV. Si doping as potential n-type dopant is investigated and found to be a promising shallow donor.
Role of the codeposited C and W element on the tribological performance of WS2 coating
Authors: Niu Weiming , Xu Yizhuo , Li Yuting , Liu Guojuan , Yao Yifan , Li Hao , Xu Xiaojun , Zhou Yan , Zhu Minhao
Published: February 2024

WS2 is a widely used solid lubricating material that exhibits applications in various fields, including automotive components, precision instruments, and key parts that require antiwear properties. However, WS2 is highly susceptible to humidity, which significantly limits its practical utility. In order to investigate and enhance the tribological and mechanical properties of WS2 coatings, a method involving codeposition of carbon (C) and tungsten (W) with WS2 was employed using magnetron sputtering, resulting in the successful preparation of W-diamondlike carbon (DLC)/WS2 composite coatings. Subsequent investigations revealed a synergistic effect of C and W through various methods. The addition of W noticeably improved both the nanohardness and Young’s modulus of the W-DLC coatings, thereby further enhancing the mechanical properties of the W-DLC/WS2 composite coatings and improving their wear resistance. However, it was observed that excessive W tended to oxidize, intensifying the abrasive wear of the composite coatings during friction. Moreover, Raman spectroscopy analysis indicated the presence of carbon in the composite coatings in the form of DLC, which served as a lubrication phase. The presence of DLC facilitated the formation of transfer films composed of graphite. Additionally, it was discovered that the number of graphite layers in the transfer films had an impact on the tribological properties of the coatings.
Effect of additive type and amount on structural and mechanical properties of ZrO2/B4C/Al2O3/SiC added Al 1050 based composite structures produced by vacuum infiltration—Comparative study
Authors: Pul Muharrem
Published: February 2024

With this experimental study, ZrO2/B4C/Al2O3/SiC ceramics in different weight ratios were added to 99.5% pure aluminum and composites were produced by vacuum infiltration, which is very rare in the literature. It is aimed to investigate how different ceramics will affect the technical properties of an aluminum composite. First, scanning electron microscope images were taken to examine their microstructures, and energy-dispersive x-ray spectroscopy analyses were performed. In addition, x-ray diffraction analyses of phase structures were performed. Then, the densities of the composite structures were measured. In the last stage of the experiments, hardness measurement, bending strength, and abrasive wear amount tests were carried out to determine the mechanical properties of the composite structures. According to the data obtained, a relatively homogeneous structure was obtained up to 10% of the ceramic particles in the structure. It was observed that thermal damage did not occur in the composite structures and no significant phase changes occurred. The highest infiltration distance was obtained from B4C-reinforced samples, and the lowest infiltration distances were obtained from ZrO2-reinforced samples. Ceramic reinforcement elements have reduced the density values of composite structures. With the increase in the ratio of ceramic reinforcement particles, the hardness values of the composites increased and the flexural strength values decreased. In the abrasive wear tests, the least wear loss was obtained from SiC-reinforced samples and the highest wear loss was obtained from ZrO2-reinforced samples. When the composites were evaluated according to their microstructure and mechanical strength, the best results were obtained with SiC and then Al2O3, B4C, and ZrO2 reinforcements, respectively. It has been concluded that SiC, Al2O3, B4C, and ZrO2 reinforcement elements in Al 1050-based composites produced by vacuum infiltration have a positive effect on most of the mechanical properties and a negative effect on some of them.
ToF-SIMS analysis of ultrathin films and their fragmentation patterns
Authors: Muramoto Shin , Graham Daniel J. , Castner David G.
Published: February 2024

Organic thin films are of great interest due to their intriguing interfacial and functional properties, especially for device applications such as thin-film transistors and sensors. As their thickness approaches single nanometer thickness, characterization and interpretation of the extracted data become increasingly complex. In this study, plasma polymerization is used to construct ultrathin films that range in thickness from 1 to 20 nm, and time-of-flight secondary ion mass spectrometry coupled with principal component analysis is used to investigate the effects of film thickness on the resulting spectra. We demonstrate that for these cross-linked plasma polymers, at these thicknesses, the observed trends are different from those obtained from thicker films with lower degrees of cross-linking: contributions from ambient carbon contamination start to dominate the mass spectrum; cluster-induced nonlinear enhancement in secondary ion yield is no longer observed; extent of fragmentation is higher due to confinement of the primary ion energy; and the size of the primary ion source also affects fragmentation (e.g., Bi1 versus Bi5). These differences illustrate that care must be taken in choosing the correct primary ion source as well as in interpreting the data.
Excitonic effects in the optical absorption of gapless semiconductor α-tin near the direct bandgap
Authors: Zollner Stefan
Published: February 2024

Most cubic semiconductors have threefold degenerate p-bonding valence bands and nondegenerate s-antibonding conduction bands. This allows strong interband transitions from the valence to the conduction bands. On the other hand, intervalence band transitions within p-bonding orbitals in conventional p-type semiconductors are forbidden at k=0 and, therefore, weak, but observable. In gapless semiconductors, however, the s-antibonding band moves down between the split-off hole band and the valence band maximum due to the Darwin shift. This band arrangement makes them three-dimensional topological insulators. It also allows strong interband transitions from the s-antibonding valence band to the p-bonding bands, which have been observed in α-tin with Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopic ellipsometry [Carrasco et al., Appl. Phys. Lett. 113, 232104 (2018)]. This manuscript presents a theoretical description of such transitions applicable to many gapless semiconductors. This model is based on k→⋅p→ theory, degenerate carrier statistics, the excitonic Sommerfeld enhancement, and screening of the transitions by many-body effects. The impact of nonparabolic bands is approximated within Kane’s 8×8k→⋅p→-model by adjustments of the effective masses. This achieves agreement with experiments.
Reliable electrical performance of β-Ga2O3 Schottky barrier diode at cryogenic temperatures
Authors: Qu Haolan , Huang Wei , Zhang Yu , Sui Jin , Chen Jiaxiang , Chen Baile , Zhang David Wei , Wang Yuangang , Lv Yuanjie , Feng Zhihong , Zou Xinbo
Published: February 2024

Electrical and trap characteristics of a large-size (2 × 2 mm2) β-Ga2O3 Schottky barrier diode (SBD) from 50 to 350 K have been reported. The ideality factor (n) decreases from 1.34 to nearly unity as temperature rises from 50 to 350 K, demonstrating near-ideal Schottky characteristics. The leakage current at cryogenic temperature (100 K) was significantly suppressed, indicating excellent off-state blocking performance at low temperatures. The weak temperature dependence of the carrier concentration (NS) and Schottky barrier height (ΦB) infers stable electrical characteristics of the β-Ga2O3 SBD. The stressed current density-voltage (J-V) and on-the-fly measurements reveal reliable dynamic performance under harsh low temperature conditions. Via deep-level transient spectroscopy, an electron trap, which is related to the dynamic performance instability and Lorentzian hump in low frequency noise spectra, is revealed for a β-Ga2O3 epilayer. The study reveals enormous potential of the utilization of a large-size β-Ga2O3 SBD for extreme temperature environments.
Development and evaluation of CrAlAgN self-lubricating coatings for high temperature metal forming dies
Authors: Lin Jianliang , Li Chia-Lin , Lee Jyh-Wei , Zhang Xuhai , Xiao Jingcai , Piper Sean C.
Published: February 2024

Conventional lubricants are widely used for die release as well as for cooling assistance on the die surface. However, lubrication is difficult at high temperatures. Oxidation and scaling occur on the work pieces that lead to poor surface finish and a possible warping of the material during cooling. The aim of this research is to develop self-lubricating CrAlAgN nanocomposite coatings for metal forming dies and evaluate their thermal fatigue resistance and wear behavior at elevated temperatures. The CrAlAgN coatings with different Ag contents have been deposited by plasma-enhanced magnetron sputtering. The structure and properties of the coatings were systematically studied to determine the optimal Ag content for achieving a combination of good adhesion, thermal fatigue resistance, and surface lubricity at elevated temperatures. The thermal fatigue resistance of the coatings was evaluated using thermal cyclic testing by cycling the coatings from room temperature to 800 °C up to 1200 cycles. The high temperature wear behavior of the coatings was evaluated using a tribometer up to 900 °C. Good thermal fatigue resistance and low coefficient of friction (COF) were observed in the CrAlAgN coatings with an Ag content in the range of 5–10 at. % at 800 °C. The CrAlAgN coating with 10 at. % Ag exhibited the lowest average COF of 0.05 at 800 °C. The COF of thick CrAlAgN coatings (8 at. % Ag) decreased from 0.5 to 0.2 from 500 to 900 °C, accompanied by an increase in the wear rate under more aggressive wear test conditions. The lubricity of the CrAlAgN coatings at high temperatures was attributed to the lubrication effects from the mixed oxides and encapsulated Ag diffused toward the surface. To further evaluate the coating performance, a hydraulic hot forging punch was coated with a thick CrAlAgN (8 at. % Ag) coating and evaluated in the industrial forging process. The preliminary in-plant trials demonstrated that the coating significantly reduced the dimensional distortion and wear for the forging punch.
Widely tunable single-mode interband cascade lasers based on V-coupled cavities and dependence on design parameters
Authors: Wang Zhanyi , Gong Jingli , He Jian-Jun , Li Lu , Yang Rui Q. , Gupta James A.
Published: February 2024

We report an investigation of V-coupled cavity interband cascade (IC) lasers (ICLs) emitting in the 3-μm wavelength range, employing various waveguide structures and coupler sizes. Type-II ICL devices with double-ridge waveguides exhibited wide tuning ranges exceeding 153 nm. Type-I ICL devices with deep-etched waveguides achieved single-mode emission with wavelength tunable over 100 nm at relatively high temperatures up to 250 K. All devices exhibited a side-mode suppression ratio higher than 30 dB. By comparing the performance of all devices with different sizes and configurations, a good tolerance against the structural parameter variations of the V-coupled cavity laser (VCCL) design is demonstrated, validating the advantages of the VCCL to achieve single-mode emission with wide tunability.