bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Strong-bonding hole-transport layers reduce ultraviolet degradation of perovskite solar cells
Authors: Fei Chengbin , Kuvayskaya Anastasia , Shi Xiaoqiang , Wang Mengru , Shi Zhifang , Jiao Haoyang , Silverman Timothy J. , Owen-Bellini Michael , Dong Yifan , Xian Yeming , Scheidt Rebecca , Wang Xiaoming , Yang Guang , Gu Hangyu , Li Nengxu , Dolan Connor J. , Deng Zhewen J. D. , Cakan Deniz N. , Fenning David P. , Yan Yanfa , Beard Matthew C. , Schelhas Laura T. , Sellinger Alan , Huang Jinsong
Published: June 2024

The light-emitting diodes (LEDs) used in indoor testing of perovskite solar cells do not expose them to the levels of ultraviolet (UV) radiation that they would receive in actual outdoor use. We report degradation mechanisms of p-i-n–structured perovskite solar cells under unfiltered sunlight and with LEDs. Weak chemical bonding between perovskites and polymer hole-transporting materials (HTMs) and transparent conducting oxides (TCOs) dominate the accelerated A-site cation migration, rather than direct degradation of HTMs. An aromatic phosphonic acid, [2-(9-ethyl-9H-carbazol-3-yl)ethyl]phosphonic acid (EtCz3EPA), enhanced bonding at the perovskite/HTM/TCO region with a phosphonic acid group bonded to TCOs and a nitrogen group interacting with lead in perovskites. A hybrid HTM of EtCz3EPA with strong hole-extraction polymers retained high efficiency and improved the UV stability of perovskite devices, and a champion perovskite minimodule—independently measured by the Perovskite PV Accelerator for Commercializing Technologies (PACT) center—retained operational efficiency of >16% after 29 weeks of outdoor testing.
Electric nuclear quadrupole coupling reveals dissociation of HCl with a few water molecules
Authors: Xie Fan , Tikhonov Denis S. , Schnell Melanie
Published: June 2024

Investigating the dissociation of acids in the presence of a limited number of water molecules is crucial for understanding various elementary chemical processes. In our study, focusing on HCl(H
2
O)

n

clusters (where HCl is hydrogen chloride and H
2
O is water) formed in a cold and isolated jet expansion, we used the nuclear quadrupole coupling tensor obtained through rotational spectroscopy to decipher the nature of the hydrogen-chlorine (H-Cl) chemical bond in a microaqueous environment. For
n
= 1 to 4, the H-Cl bond is covalent. At
n
= 5 and 7, the contact ion pair of H
3
O
+
Cl
−
is spontaneously formed within the hydrogen bond networks of book and cube acid-water clusters, respectively.
Axis formation in annual killifish: Nodal and β-catenin regulate morphogenesis without Huluwa prepatterning
Authors: Abitua Philip B. , Stump Laura M. , Aksel Deniz C. , Schier Alexander F.
Published: June 2024

Axis formation in fish and amphibians typically begins with a prepattern of maternal gene products. Annual killifish embryogenesis, however, challenges prepatterning models as blastomeres disperse and then aggregate to form the germ layers and body axes. We show that
huluwa
, a prepatterning factor thought to break symmetry by stabilizing β-catenin, is truncated and inactive in
Nothobranchius furzeri
. Nuclear β-catenin is not selectively stabilized on one side of the blastula but accumulates in cells forming the aggregate. Blocking β-catenin activity or Nodal signaling disrupts aggregate formation and germ layer specification. Nodal signaling coordinates cell migration, establishing an early role for this signaling pathway. These results reveal a surprising departure from established mechanisms of axis formation: Huluwa-mediated prepatterning is dispensable, and β-catenin and Nodal regulate morphogenesis.
Global pandemic treaty stalls, again, over equity concerns
Authors: Cohen Jon
Published: June 2024

But negotiators approve new “pandemic emergency” alarm
How much should we still worry about QTc prolongation in rifampicin-resistant tuberculosis? ECG findings from TB-PRACTECAL clinical trial
Authors: Motta Ilaria , Cusinato Martina , Ludman Andrew J. , Lachenal Nathalie , Dodd Matthew , Soe Moe , Abdrasuliev Tleubergen , Usmanova Ruzilya , Butabekov Ilhomjon , Nikolaevna Tigay Zinaida , Liverko Irina , Parpieva Nargiza , Moodliar Ronelle , Solodovnikova Varvara , Kazounis Emil , Nyang'wa Bern-Thomas , Fielding Katherine L. , Berry Catherine
Published: June 2024

Regimens for the treatment of rifampicin-resistant tuberculosis currently rely on the use of QT-prolonging agents. Using data from the randomized controlled trial, TB-PRACTECAL, we investigated differences in QTcF among participants in the three interventional arms: BPaL (bedaquiline, pretomanid, and linezolid), BPaLC (BPaL with clofazimine), and BPaLM (BPaL with moxifloxacin). Additionally, we assessed whether age, body mass index, and country were causally associated with QTcF prolongation. The trial included participants from South Africa, Uzbekistan, and Belarus. A
post hoc
analysis of electrocardiogram data was undertaken. Random effects regression was used to model QTcF longitudinally over 24 weeks and causal frameworks guided the analysis of non-randomized independent variables. 328 participants were included in BPaL-based arms. The longitudinal analysis of investigational arms showed an initial QTcF steep increase in the first week. QTcF trajectories between weeks 2 and 24 differed slightly by regimen, with highest mean peak for BPaLC (QTcF 446.5 ms). Overall, there were 397 QTcF >450 ms (of 3,744) and only one QTcF >500 ms. The odds of QTcF >450 ms among participants in any investigational arm, was 8.33 times higher in Uzbekistan compared to Belarus (95% confidence interval: 3.25–21.33). No effect on QTcF prolongation was found for baseline age or body mass index (BMI). Clinically significant QTc prolongation was rare in this cohort of closely monitored participants. Across BPaL-based regimens, BPaLC showed a slightly longer and sustained effect on QTcF prolongation, but the differences (both in magnitude of change and trajectory over time) were clinically unimportant. The disparity in the risk of QTc prolongation across countries would be an important factor to further investigate when evaluating monitoring strategies.

CLINICAL TRIALS

This study is registered with

ClinicalTrials.gov
as
NCT02589782

.
Host and fungal factors both contribute to cryptococcosis-associated hyperammonemia (cryptammonia)
Authors: Baker Rosanna P. , Schachter Maria , Phillips Steven , Kandiah Sheetal , Farrque Mirza , Casadevall Arturo , Kandiah Prem A.
Published: June 2024

Cryptococcus neoformans
and
Cryptococcus gattii
are both known urease producers and have the potential to cause hyperammonemia. We hypothesized that the risk of hyperammonemia is increased by renal failure, burden of cryptococcal infection, and fungal strain characteristics. We performed a retrospective review of plasma ammonia levels in patients with cryptococcal infections. Risk factors for hyperammonemia were statistically compared between patients with and without hyperammonemia (>53 µmol/L). Cryptococcal cells from three patients included in the study were recovered from our biorepository. Strain characteristics including urease activity, ammonia production, growth curves, microscopy, melanin production, and M13 molecular typing were analyzed and compared with a wild-type (WT)
C. neoformans
strain. We included 29 patients, of whom 37.9% had hyperammonemia, 59% had disseminated cryptococcal infection (DCI), and 41% had isolated central nervous system infection. Thirty-eight percent of patients had renal failure and 28% had liver disease. Renal failure was associated with 4.4 times (95% confidence interval [CI] 1.5, 13.0) higher risk of hyperammonemia. This risk was higher in DCIs (RR 6.2, 95% CI 1.0, 40.2) versus isolated cryptococcal meningitis (RR 2.5, 95% CI, 0.40, 16.0). Liver disease and cryptococcal titers were not associated with hyperammonemia.
C. neoformans
from one patient with extreme hyperammonemia demonstrated a 4- to 5-fold increase in extracellular urease activity, slow growth, enlarged cell size phenotypes, and diminished virulence factors. Hyperammonemia was strongly associated with renal failure in individuals with DCI, surpassing associations with liver failure or cryptococcal titers. However, profound hyperammonemia in one patient was attributable to high levels of urease secretion unique to that cryptococcal strain. Prospective studies are crucial to exploring the significance of this association.

IMPORTANCE

Cryptococcus
produces and secretes the urease enzyme to facilitate its colonization of the host. Urease breaks down urea into ammonia, overwhelming the liver’s detoxification process and leading to hyperammonemia in some hosts. This underrecognized complication exacerbates organ dysfunction alongside the infection. Our study investigated this intricate relationship, uncovering a strong association between the development of hyperammonemia and renal failure in patients with cryptococcal infections, particularly those with disseminated infections. We also explore mechanisms underlying increased urease activity, specifically in strains associated with extreme hyperammonemia. Our discoveries provide a foundation for advancing research into cryptococcal metabolism and identifying therapeutic targets to enhance patient outcomes.
ANCA-associated vasculitis with muscle involvement mimicking polymyalgia rheumatica
Authors: Shimizu Hayato , Nishioka Hiroaki
Published: June 2024

We report a case of a woman in her early 80s with antineutrophil cytoplasmic antibody (ANCA)-associated vasculitis presented as myalgia mimicking polymyalgia rheumatica (PMR). She had positive results for the Neer and Hawkins-Kennedy impingement tests, and a normal serum creatine kinase (CK) concentration. At first, we suspected PMR; however, the patient did not strictly meet the classification criteria. Electromyography revealed an abnormal myogenic pattern, and muscle MRI revealed intramuscular and fascial hyperintensity. Moreover, chest CT revealed interstitial lung disease, and test results for ANCAs were positive. We diagnosed the patient with ANCA-associated vasculitis based on the criteria and treated her with corticosteroids and rituximab. Thus, ANCA-associated vasculitis can cause muscle involvement without elevation of the CK concentration and mimic PMR.
Positive outcome in a patient with severe hypoxic-ischaemic encephalopathy
Authors: Simpson Samantha , Steinmeyer Shelby , Nguyen Timothy , Nienaber Thomas
Published: June 2024

A male infant was born at 40 and 4/7 weeks of gestation via caesarean section for non-reassuring foetal heart tracing. The infant was non-responsive in the delivery room. with no heart rate detected until 40 min of life. The infant’s physical examination and laboratory findings were consistent with severe hypoxic-ischaemic encephalopathy. Given the presumption of a very poor neurological prognosis, redirection to comfort care was recommended to the family. However, the family opted for intensive care. The infant underwent therapeutic hypothermia and management of multiorgan dysfunction. The infant survived with no findings of ischaemic injury on MRI and was discharged with no respiratory support and taking all feeds by mouth, with normal development at a year and a half of age. This case report demonstrates the imperative to understand family goals and to acknowledge the need for ongoing humility in providing prognostication for families.
Acute deep vein thrombosis with concurrent new diagnosis of AL-amyloid-induced factor X deficiency
Authors: Paton Emily Lauren , Barisic Stefan , Sabile Jean Michael , Medvedova Eva
Published: June 2024

Acquired factor X (FX) deficiency is a rare but well-documented clinical feature of AL amyloidosis. Patients with FX deficiency can present with clinically significant bleeding diathesis due to the adsorption of circulating FX to amyloid fibrils. Here, we report an unusual case of a man in his 60s who presented with 6 months of intermittent bruising, labs demonstrating new FX deficiency, elevated free lambda light chains for underlying AL amyloidosis and concurrent new peroneal vein thrombosis. This is the first report of concurrent thrombotic complications in the setting of AL-amyloid-induced FX deficiency. We discuss the diagnostic and therapeutic conundrum of diagnosing AL amyloidosis with bruising as the leading clinical symptom and the management of acute deep vein thrombosis in the setting of FX deficiency.
Temporal relationships between blood glucose, lipids and BMI, and their impacts on atherosclerosis: a prospective cohort study
Authors: Jin Shanshan , Liu Junyi , Jia Yubing , Sun Changhao , Na Lixin
Published: June 2024

Objectives

This study aimed to explore the temporal relationship between blood glucose, lipids and body mass index (BMI), and their impacts on atherosclerosis (AS).

Design

A prospective cohort study was designed.

Setting and participants

A total of 2659 subjects from Harbin Cohort Study on Diet, Nutrition and Chronic Non-communicable Diseases, and aged from 20 to 74 years were included.

Primary and secondary outcome measures

Body weight, height, fasting blood glucose (FBG) and 2-hour postprandial glucose (2-h PG), blood lipids including total cholesterol (TC), triglyceride (TG), low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-c) and high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-c) were measured at baseline and follow-up. Brachial ankle pulse wave velocity (baPWV) was examined at follow-up as a marker of AS risk. Logistic regression analysis, cross-lagged path analysis and mediation analysis were performed to explore the temporal relationships between blood glucose, lipids and BMI, and their impacts on AS risk.

Results

Logistic regression analysis indicated that increased FBG, 2-h PG, TC, TG, LDL-c and BMI were positively associated with AS risk, while increased HDL-c was negatively associated with AS risk. The path coefficients from baseline blood parameters to the follow-up BMI were significantly greater than those from baseline BMI to the follow-up blood parameters. Mediation analysis suggested that increased FBG, 2-h PG, TC, TG and LDL-c could increase AS risk via increasing BMI, the effect intensity from strong to weak was LDL-c>TC>TG>FBG>2 h PG, while increased HDL-c could decrease AS risk via decreasing BMI.

Conclusions

Changes in blood glucose and lipids could cause change in BMI, which mediated the impacts of blood glucose and lipids on AS risk. These results highlight the importance and provide support for the early and comprehensive strategies of AS prevention and control.
What are the experiences and psychosocial needs of female survivors of domestic violence in Afghanistan? A qualitative interview study in three Afghan provinces
Authors: Kaul Anjuli , Saboor Lamba , Ahmad Ayesha , Mannell Jenevieve , Paphitis Sharli Anne , Devakumar Delan
Published: June 2024

Objectives

This study aimed to qualitatively explore (1) the experiences of female survivors of domestic abuse and mental health problems in Afghanistan; (2) how female survivors of violence and abuse, male members of the community and service providers perceive and respond to mental health and domestic violence in Afghanistan and (3) the provision of mental health services for female survivors of violence and abuse in Afghanistan, including the barriers and challenges faced around accessing mental health services.

Design

Qualitative interviews and framework thematic analysis.

Setting

Kabul, Bamyan and Nangarhar in Afghanistan.

Participants

60 female survivors of domestic abuse, 60 male community members and 30 service providers who work with female survivors of domestic abuse.

Results

Experiences of multiple and compounding traumatic experiences of violence, armed conflict, and complex and competing psychosocial concerns were common among the female survivor participants. All female survivor participants reported experiencing negative mental health outcomes in relation to their experiences of violence and abuse, which were further precipitated by widespread social stigma and gender norms. Support and service provision for female survivors was deemed by participants to be insufficient in comparison to the amount of people who need to access them.

Conclusions

There are many risks and barriers women face to disclosing their experiences of violence and mental health problems which restrict women’s access to psychological support. Culturally relevant services and trauma-informed interventions are necessary to respond to these issues. Service providers should be trained to effectively recognise and respond to survivors’ mental health needs.
Prognostic and clinicopathological value of Ki-67 in patients with oesophageal squamous cell carcinoma: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Wang Yanyan , Dai Menglu , Chen Xu
Published: June 2024

Objectives

The relationship between Ki-67 expression and the prognosis of patients with oesophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC) has been extensively studied. However, their findings were inconsistent. Consequently, the present meta-analysis was performed to identify the precise value of Ki-67 in predicting the prognosis of ESCC.

Design

The current meta-analysis was carried out in accordance with the guidelines of the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses.

Data sources

Electronic databases of PubMed, Embase, Web of Science and Cochrane Library were systematically searched until 26 September 2023.

Statistical methods

Pooled HRs and corresponding 95% CIs were calculated to estimate the role of Ki-67 in predicting overall survival (OS) and disease-free survival (DFS) in ESCC. Between-study heterogeneity was evaluated using Cochrane’s Q test and I2statistics. Specifically, significant heterogeneities were identified based on p<0.10 on the Q statistic test or I2>50% so the random-effects model should be used; otherwise, the fixed-effects model should be used. The relationship between Ki-67 and clinicopathological characteristics of ESCC was evaluated by combining ORs with their corresponding 95% CIs.

Results

11 articles with 1124 patients were included in the present meta-analysis. Based on our analysis, increased Ki-67 expression was markedly associated with poor OS (HR 1.62, 95% CI 1.15 to 2.28, p=0.006) and DFS (HR 1.72, 95% CI 1.22 to 2.43, p=0.002) in ESCC. Moreover, subgroup analysis revealed that Ki-67 upregulation significantly predicted OS and DFS when a Ki-67 threshold of >30% was used. Nonetheless, Ki-67 was not significantly associated with sex, T stage, N stage, TNM stage, tumour differentiation or tumour location.

Conclusions

In the present meta-analysis, high Ki-67 expression significantly predicted OS and DFS in patients with ESCC, especially when Ki-67>30% was used as the threshold. These results suggest that Ki-67 could serve as an effective and reliable prognostic indicator for ESCC.
Rapid response systems, antibiotic stewardship and medication reconciliation: a scoping review on implementation factors, activities and outcomes
Authors: Ohlsen Jonas Torp , Søfteland Eirik , Akselsen Per Espen , Assmus Jörg , Harthug Stig , Lein Regina Küfner , Sevdalis Nick , Wæhle Hilde Valen , Øvretveit John , Hartveit Miriam
Published: June 2024

Introduction

Many patient safety practices are only partly established in routine clinical care, despite extensive quality improvement efforts. Implementation science can offer insights into how patient safety practices can be successfully adopted.

Objective

The objective was to examine the literature on implementation of three internationally used safety practices: medication reconciliation, antibiotic stewardship programmes and rapid response systems. We sought to identify the implementation activities, factors and outcomes reported; the combinations of factors and activities supporting successful implementation; and the implications of the current evidence base for future implementation and research.

Methods

We searched Medline, Embase, Web of Science, Cumulative Index to Nursing and Allied Health Literature, PsycINFO and Education Resources Information Center from January 2011 to March 2023. We included original peer-reviewed research studies or quality improvement reports. We used an iterative, inductive approach to thematically categorise data. Descriptive statistics and hierarchical cluster analyses were performed.

Results

From the 159 included studies, eight categories of implementation activities were identified:education; planning and preparation; method-based approach; audit and feedback; motivate and remind; resource allocation; simulation and training;andpatient involvement. Most studies reported activities from multiple categories. Implementation factors included: clinical competence and collaboration; resources; readiness and engagement; external influence; organisational involvement; QI competence;andfeasibility of innovation. Factors were often suggested post hoc and seldom used to guide the selection of implementation strategies. Implementation outcomes were reported as:fidelity or compliance; proxy indicator for fidelity; sustainability; acceptability;andspread. Most studies reported implementation improvement, hindering discrimination between more or less important factors and activities.

Conclusions

The multiple activities employed to implement patient safety practices reflect mainly method-based improvement science, and to a lesser degree determinant frameworks from implementation science. There seems to be an unexploited potential for continuous adaptation of implementation activities to address changing contexts. Research-informed guidance on how to make such adaptations could advance implementation in practice.
Quantifying relational change in community organisations participating in a Veteran suicide prevention learning collaborative: a social network analysis
Authors: DeBeer Bryann B , Russell Patricia D , Mignogna Joseph , Mohatt Nathaniel , Borah Elisa , Bryan Craig J , Monteith Lindsey , Peterson Alan , Zheng Andy , Sprong Sara , Bongiovanni Kathryn , Villareal Edgar , Hoffmire Claire A , Heise Jenna , Baack Sylvia , Weinberg Kimberly , Polk Marcy , Alverio Tabitha , Mealer Meredith , Scheihing Juliana , Benzer Justin , Varda Danielle
Published: June 2024

Background

Veteran suicide remains a significant issue, as 17.5 Veterans die by suicide each day. The US Department of Veteran Affairs (VA) has implemented a robust suicide prevention program within its integrated behavioural health system. Further, the VA has increasingly contributed to suicide prevention in community settings, where a large proportion of Veterans receive health care and social services. One component integral to preventing suicide among Veterans receiving community services is ensuring that organisations are equipped with the latest evidence-based Veteran-specific suicide prevention strategies.

Methods

The Patient Safety Center of Inquiry-Suicide Prevention Collaborative piloted a Veteran suicide prevention learning collaborative in the Denver/Colorado Springs, CO region, spanning 16 months as a multimodal initiative to integrate community organisations and assist them in implementing Veteran suicide prevention strategies used within VA. Agencies completed social network analysis surveys at baseline (T1), year 1 (T2) and 16 months (T3) to examine social networks, partnerships and collaborations among community organisations and the VA over time.

Results

The quantity of learning collaborative relationships increased from 30 at T1 to 41 at T3 while the quality of relationships deepened over time from awareness and cooperative to more coordinated and integrated.

Conclusion

Improvement in relationship quantity and quality facilitates community organisation engagement in collaborating to strengthen their Veteran suicide prevention programming. Learning collaboratives work with the individual organisation for intraorganisational facilitation of implementing suicide prevention strategies and engage and enhance interorganisational partnerships. This multimodal intervention can engage community organisations and provide a stronger safety net for Veterans at risk for suicide.
Single-fraction radiation retreatment for bone metastases: role of a rapid access clinic
Authors: Kim Minsoo , Maldonado Jose Alberto , Pandey Prasamsa , El Alam Molly B , Kouzy Ramez , Christopherson Kaitlin , Minsky Bruce D , Nugyen Quynh-Nhu , Grosshans David , Lin Lilie L , Mitchell Melissa P , Klopp Ann H , Lee Percy P , Bird Justin , Satcher Robert , Lewis Valerae O , Lin Patrick P , Tang Chad , Koong Albert C , Moon Bryan , Colbert Lauren E
Published: June 2024

Objectives

This study investigates retreatment rates in single-fraction radiation therapy (SFRT) for painful bone metastasis in patients with limited life expectancy. We compared retreatment-free survival (RFS) in patients from a rapid access bone metastases clinic (RABC) and non-RABC patients, identifying factors associated with retreatment.

Methods

In this observational study, we analysed RABC patients who received SFRT between April 2018 and November 2019, using non-RABC SFRT patients as a comparison group. Patients with prior or perioperative radiation therapy (RT) were excluded. The primary endpoint was same-site and any-site retreatment with RT or surgery. Patient characteristics were compared using χ2and Student’s t-tests, with RFS estimates based on a multistate model considering death as a competing risk using Aalen-Johansen estimates.

Results

We identified 151 patients (79 RABC, 72 non-RABC) with 225 treatments (102 RABC, 123 non-RABC) meeting eligibility criteria. Of the 22 (10.8%) same-site retreatments, 5 (22.7%) received surgery, 14 (63.6%) received RT and 3 (13.6%) received both RT and surgery. We found no significant differences in any-site RFS (p=0.97) or same-site RFS (p=0.11).

Conclusions

RFS is high and similar comparable in the RABC and non-RABC cohorts. Retreatment rates are low, even in patients with low Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group scores.
Influence of tundra fire severity on vegetation recovery in the Northwest Territories
Authors: Chen Angel , Lantz Trevor C.
Published: June 2024

Anthropogenic climate change has driven an increase in the frequency, size, and severity of fires at high latitudes. Recent research shows that increasing fire severity in the subarctic is altering the trajectories of forest succession, but to date, research on the effect of fire severity on tundra succession has been limited. In this study, we investigated short-term recovery of shrub tundra communities following fire in the Tuktoyaktuk Coastal Plain and Anderson River Plain ecoregions of the Northwest Territories. To understand the effects of fire severity, we documented vegetation and permafrost recovery within moderately burned, severely burned, and unburned portions of six tundra fires that burned in 2012. We found that vegetation structure at moderately and severely burnt sites recovered rapidly toward pre-fire levels, but that differences in community composition, characterized by a decrease in shrub and lichen cover as well as an increase in abundance of ruderals and graminoids, persisted at severely burned sites. The persistence of thermal changes and increased thaw depth indicate that while biotic recovery can occur promptly, severe fire may have long-term impacts on belowground conditions.
CAVITATION EROSION BEHAVIOR OF WC–Co COATINGS ON TURBINE STEEL DEPOSITED BY COLD SPRAY
Authors: SINGH HARVINDER , KUMAR MANOJ , SINGH RAJDEEP
Published: June 2024

A renowned hard coating material (WC–Co) has the potential to overcome cavitation erosion (CE) in hydromachinery components. Hydro turbines that employ silt-filled water for electricity generation create a lot of metal waste due to erosion and cavitation caused by the particles. There is an urgent need for repair of hydropower components that have undergone damage due to cavitation. In this investigation, tungsten carbide composite coatings were produced on 13Cr4Ni (CA6NM) stainless steel substrates using the cold spray method. In order to create high-quality coatings, nitrogen was used as the propellant gas. The coating microstructures were characterized by EDS, SEM XRD, and microhardness tests. Cold-sprayed WC–Co-based coatings were exposed to enhance the cavitation erosion resistance of CA6NM steel. Cold spray coating prepared with WC-12/17Co powder has shown excellent wear-resistant properties due to higher hardness and lower porosity.
A COMPARATIVE MODELING AND OPTIMIZATION OF SURFACE ROUGHNESS IN THE END MILLING OF Al 3003 SUBJECTED TO NON-EQUAL CHANNEL ANGULAR PRESSING (NECAP)
Authors: GHOLAMI MOHAMMAD HADI , HONRPISHEH MOHAMMAD , AMINI SAEED
Published: June 2024

This paper highlights the surface roughness optimization of a specific material, Al 3003, which has been subjected to the non-equal channel angular pressing (NECAP) process. Considering spindle speed, feed rate, and depth of cut as input variables and surface roughness as an output variable, experiments have been conducted based on the L27 orthogonal array of the Taguchi method. Four prediction models, namely exponential and response surface methodology (RSM) as mathematical models, and artificial neural networks (ANNs) prediction models with different training algorithms (Bayesian Regularization (BR) and Levenberg–Marquardt (LM)), are proposed. Applying effectiveness and performance criteria, the prediction accuracy of the exponential model (90.35%), RSM (93.07%), BR (97.83%), and LM (97.54%) shows that all proposed prediction models are efficient enough. The ANN model trained with BR is found to be the best fit for predicting surface roughness. In order to optimize surface roughness, a newly introduced optimization method called the Intelligible-in-time Logics Algorithm (ILA) is employed. High spindle speed (1000[Formula: see text]rev/min), low feed rate (100[Formula: see text]mm/min) and depth of cut (0.5[Formula: see text]mm) have been the optimum cutting parameter combinations to obtain minimum surface roughness (0.4956[Formula: see text][Formula: see text]m). The results have been verified by confirmation tests and Particle Swarm Optimization (PSO) method. ILA and PSO predict the same optimum parameter combinations and minimum surface roughness, while ILA performs optimization in less time (114.4[Formula: see text]s), about 3.5 times faster than PSO. The paper’s findings strongly advocate the application of ILA in machining data optimization.
CHARACTERIZATION OF SURFACE, SUBSURFACE DAMAGE AND THEIR EFFECT ON FATIGUE LIFE AFTER MACHINING OF AEROSPACE-GRADE ALUMINUM ALLOY (Al 6082-T6)
Authors: ZIA MUHAMMAD JAHANZEB , MUGHAL MUHAMMAD UMER KHAN , ALI FARHAN , MURTAZA SAAD , KHAN UMAIR , MOLLA ALTAF HOSSAIN , MOGHTADERI SAEED H. , SHERIF EL-SAYED M. , POP IOAN
Published: June 2024

Aluminum alloys are widely used in the automotive and aerospace industries due to their lower mass-to-strength ratio than other metallic alloys. Apart from their inherent properties, aluminum alloys like other metallic alloys show a significant change in their mechanical properties according to the machining parameters. The research literature on obtaining optimum mechanical properties of aluminum alloys that undergo machining is very limited. Moreover, the combined effect of several parameters on the machinability of aluminum alloys has not yet been explored. In this paper, the effect of three machining parameters (Depth of Cut (DoC)), feed rate (FR), and cutting speed (CS) on the subsurface damage and fatigue life of aerospace-grade aluminum alloy (Al-6082-T6) is observed. Samples are prepared using a full fractional approach to effectively capture the effect of all input parameters. Thereafter, samples were subjected to surface roughness, micro-hardness, and fatigue life tests. Results of surface roughness and micro-hardness tests are compared with fatigue life. The general linear model was employed to capture the percentage effect of each input parameter on the output parameters. The results showed that DoC was the main contributing factor that caused subsurface damage, while surface roughness and fatigue life were mainly affected by FR and CS. Optical microscope images showed a white layer formation that had higher hardness than the base metal. Overall, this research work proposes the input parameters that can be used to achieve minimum surface damage and fatigue life.
Dual-spectral narrow bandwidth surface lattice resonance sensors
Authors: Huang Xiaodan , Zhang Bo , Shao Guojian , Liu Mengxian , Zhang Ruipeng
Published: June 2024

Dual-spectral narrow bandwidth surface lattice resonance (SLR) sensors consisting of semiconductor/SiO2 nanoparticle dimer arrays are proposed to achieve two high figures of merit (FOM). We demonstrate that FOM can be optimized by the change of semiconductor nanoparticles’ shape. The best shape of Si nanoparticles with high FOM is pillar because of the narrowest FWHM of SLR. The FOM of Si/SiO2 nanopillar dimer array can reach a value of 180 due to the high sensitivity and narrow bandwidth. Besides, the influences of different structural parameters (such as the gap of the Si nanopillars in each dimer, Si nanopillars’ diameter and height) on FOM of Si/SiO2 nanopillar dimer arrays are investigated. In the trade-off between the strong SLR and the high FOM, the gap of 50[Formula: see text]nm, the Si nanopillars’ diameter of 80[Formula: see text]nm, and the Si nanopillars’ height of 100[Formula: see text]nm, are chosen as suitable values. Furthermore, a comparison of FOM between Si, Ge, GaAs nanopillars with fixed sizes is implemented to select the appropriate materials. The best semiconductor material to obtain a high FOM is Si because of a narrower FWHM and higher sensitivity. This work is of great significance for the design of multi-spectral SLR sensors.
On the emergence of gravity in a framework of emergent quantum mechanics
Authors: Torromé Ricardo Gallego
Published: June 2024

In this work, we consider the emergent origin of gravity in the framework of Hamilton–Randers theory, a theoretical framework for emergent quantum mechanics. After presenting the essential ingredients of the theory, a derivation of the weak equivalence principle from the first principles of the theory follows. Then it is shown that the Newtonian model of gravity and certain modified gravity models are consistent with Hamilton–Randers theory. One of these models has strong formal resemblance with MOND, providing further ground to think that Hamilton–Randers theory could be a natural theoretical frame for realistic modified gravity models.
Constraints on the parameters of modified Chaplygin–Jacobi and modified Chaplygin–Abel gases in f(T) gravity
Authors: Chaudhary Himanshu , Debnath Ujjal , Roy Tanusree , Maity Sayani , Mustafa G. , Arora Monika
Published: June 2024

In this work, we explore the parameter constraints of two dark energy models, namely the Modified Chaplygin–Jacobi gas (MCJG) and Modified Chaplygin–Abel gas (MCAG), within the context of [Formula: see text] gravity model in a non-flat Friedmann–Lemaître–Robertson–Walker (FLRW) universe. Our investigation involves comparing the equation of state for the MCJG and MCAG dark energy models with the equation of state derived from the [Formula: see text] gravity model. To derive constraints for the dark energy and [Formula: see text] gravity models, we use recent astronomical datasets, including [Formula: see text] data, type Ia supernovae observations, Gamma Ray Bursts data, quasar data, and Baryon Acoustic Oscillation (BAO) measurements. We present the reduced Hubble parameter in terms of observable parameters such as [Formula: see text] (density parameter of radiation), [Formula: see text] (density parameter of dark matter), [Formula: see text] (density parameter associated with spatial curvature), [Formula: see text] (density parameter of Modified Chaplygin–Jacobi gas), [Formula: see text] (density parameter of Modified Chaplygin–Abel gas), and [Formula: see text] (present value of the Hubble parameter). We explore the cosmological evolution through various cosmic diagnostic parameters, including the deceleration parameter, [Formula: see text] diagnostic, and statefinder diagnostic pair [Formula: see text]. These diagnostic parameters offer valuable insights into the expansion dynamics and the nature of dark energy in the universe. We have also assessed the viability of the models using the information criteria. Our aim is to shed light on the nature of dark energy and its connection to the [Formula: see text] gravity model, and ultimately gain a deeper understanding of the underlying mechanisms driving the accelerated expansion of our universe.
Matter–curvature effects upon the dissipative viscous collapse of massive stellar object
Authors: Manzoor Rubab , saleem Sana , Shahid Wasee , Mardan S. A , Ahmad Imran
Published: June 2024

This paper investigates the evolutionary phases of a collapsing dissipative star cluster in the presence of dark matter. For this purpose, the minimal coupling model of [Formula: see text] gravity is used as a candidate for exotic matter in star cluster. The collapse equation is derived from generalized dynamical equations which show the total conservation of energy within the cluster. In this context, the approach of Misner and Sharp is applied to study the phenomenon and differentiate between homologous as well as non-homologous gravitational collapse. The generalized dynamical equations are also connected to modified heat transport equations related to heat flux, viscosity and shear, which deals with Israel–Stewart theory (without removing the thermodynamics heat/viscous coupling coefficients). It is found that shear-free and non-dissipative fluid give homologous collapse. The dissipation of collapsing star cluster provides a relation between tidal forces and density inhomogeneity. It is theoretically predicted that the presence of exotic matter controlled the collapsing mechanism.
Palaeoenvironment and bio-events of the Cretaceous sediments of the Cauvery Basin, India
Authors: Venkatachalapthy R. , Harini L. , Hart M. B. , Watkinson M. P.
Published: June 2024

The Cauvery Basin is an important rift margin basin on the east coast of India. Its long research history began in the mid-nineteenth century with the pioneering work of H. F. Blanford. While much of the Cretaceous succession in the basin is fault-controlled, some of the recorded events represent global sea level changes, especially in the mid-Cretaceous. Macrofossils (ammonites, bivalves, etc.) and foraminifera are abundant throughout, and there is an important occurrence of fossil wood and ‘log-grounds’ in the Turonian–Coniacian. The basin is subdivided into a series of sub-basins (known as depressions in earlier literature), which, in places, have their own distinctive depositional history.

The results of our collective fieldwork have provided a re-assessment of the lithostratigraphy, biostratigraphy and the tectono-stratigraphical history of the Ariyalur outcrop. Three sedimentary units have been identified: the syn-rift Gondwana Group (of early Cretaceous age), the syn-rift Uttatur Group (of Albian to Coniacian age) and the post-rift Ariyalur Group (of Santonian to Maastrichtian age). Both microfossil and macrofaunal information have been integrated in order to construct a biostratigraphical framework for the basin and develop a tectono-stratigraphical model. Structures exposed onshore, which have occasionally been interpreted as Albian reefs, are thought to be irregularly shaped limestone olistoliths and olistostromes produced by significant intra-Cretaceous faulting and slumping within the basin.
From Open Access to Guarded Trust
Authors: Wang Yifei
Published: June 2024

Experimenting responsibly in the age of data privacy.
HFOSS Education
Authors: Hislop Gregory W. , Ellis Heidi J. C.
Published: June 2024

Open source software has become part of the mainstream of software development, with the adoption of open source by a large majority of business and governmental organizations. Results of recent surveys [1] indicate that 95% of responding organizations use open source in mission critical software applications and plan to increase spending on open source activities in the coming years.
Developing Online and Hybrid Courses with the Learning Ecology Matrix
Authors: Bhargava Malini , Samuel Anita
Published: June 2024

Educational technologies are now an integral part of the educational milieu. All educators are expected to be able to use technologies and design courses using these technologies. One framework that can guide the course design process using various technologies is the Learning Ecology Matrix (LEM). The LEM, focusing on learner autonomy and instructor guidance, aids in tailoring courses to be learner-centered or teacher-centered. This article reviews the LEM and explores how the LEM can be used in practice to design courses.
Joint EASPS-AAPS conference in Tanzania 2023: a beginning of the pragmatic efforts to promote physiology education, research, and practice in East Africa
Authors: Alagbonsi Abdullateef Isiaka , Essop Faadiel , Njelekela Marina , Leminie Abebaye Aragaw , Ojiambo Robert , Malindisa Evangelista Kenan , Alkizim Faraj Omar , Ninsiima Herbert Izo , Kediso Teketel Eristu , Mashili Fredirick L. , Chillo Omary , Ebrahim Ashabilan A. , Dionis Ikunda , Ruhighira Jacktan Josephat , Obonyo Nchafatso Gikenyi
Published: June 2024

The joint East African Society of Physiological Sciences (EASPS)-African Association of Physiological Sciences (AAPS) conference in Tanzania was a successful event where we launched the Physiology Curriculum for African Universities (PhysioCAFUN) and the International Union of Physiological Sciences (IUPS) Physiology Mentoring Program in Africa. We also organized educational workshops on physiology functional tests that equipped participants with practical skills. Authors presented their peer-reviewed abstracts, which have now been published in the Journal of African Association of Physiological Sciences. Participants attended from 24 countries across Africa, Europe, Asia, and United States.
Heavy-intensity priming exercise extends the V̇o2max plateau and increases peak-power output during ramp-incremental exercise
Authors: Marinari Gabriele , Iannetta Danilo , Holash Robert John , Zagatto Alessandro M. , Keir Daniel A. , Murias Juan M.
Published: June 2024

It remains unclear whether priming exercise extends the maximal oxygen uptake (V̇o2max) plateau and increases peak-power output (POpeak) during ramp-incremental (RI) tests. This study demonstrates that a priming exercise, precisely prescribed within the heavy-intensity domain, extends the plateau at V̇o2max and leads to a greater POpeak. Specifically, the extended V̇o2max plateau was associated with accelerated RI-V̇o2 responses.
Effects of acute simulated altitude on the maximal lactate steady state in humans
Authors: Beever Austin T. , Zhuang Andrea Y. , Murias Juan M. , Aboodarda Saied J. , MacInnis Martin J.
Published: June 2024

This study demonstrates the power output and metabolic rate associated with the maximal lactate steady-state (MLSS) decline in response to simulated altitude; however, common indices of exercise intensity remained unchanged when cycling was performed at the work rate associated with MLSS at each simulated altitude. These results support previous studies that investigated the effects of hypoxia on alternative measures of the critical intensity of exercise and will inform exercise prescription/monitoring across altitudes.
Actigraphy-based sleep and muscle sympathetic nerve activity in humans
Authors: Bigalke Jeremy A. , Greenlund Ian M. , Bigalke Jennifer R. , Carter Jason R.
Published: June 2024

The present study investigated the independent association between actigraphy-based sleep duration, efficiency, and measures of blood pressure, heart rate, and muscle sympathetic nerve activity (MSNA) in adult males and females. Contrary to our hypothesis, the findings do not support an independent association between habitual sleep and cardiovascular or sympathetic neural activity. However, these findings do not preclude a potential association between these parameters in populations with sleep disorders and/or cardiovascular disease.
The Issue of Subway Commuters’ Departure Time Choices under the Influence of Bike‐Sharing
Authors: Yu Jie , Wang Jie , Wen Qiang , Chen Tao
Published: June 2024

Bike‐sharing has a significant impact on commuters’ rational planning of their travel times, which can lead to an advance or delay in the peak passenger flow of the subway system during the morning peak. To explore the impact of bike‐sharing on subway commuters’ choices of departure times, we developed a departure time choice model considering the effect of bike‐sharing. This model considers both constant and linear marginal‐activity utility and compares it with traditional departure time choice models. Research indicates that within the timeframe that ensures on‐time arrival at work, models not accounting for bike‐sharing services underestimate both the departure rate and the total number of commuters compared to actual figures. Specifically, under the constant marginal‐activity utility, about 6.76% of commuters actually choose to depart earlier, while under the linear marginal‐activity utility, this figure is 6.91%. Conversely, during the departure timeframes that lead to late arrival at work, the traditional model overestimates both the departure rate and total number of commuters. Finally, through case analysis, we further revealed the dynamic relationship between commuter departure rates, commuting fatigue, and number of bike‐sharing and calculated the actual commuting costs for different proportions of bike‐sharing. The results indicate that when the number of bike‐sharing reaches 30% of the commuting demand, it can maximally reduce the commuting costs for commuters by approximately 23.32%. These findings offer a crucial basis for optimizing management strategies for morning peak subway commuting.
Effect of Dietary Seaweed (Gracilaria pulvinata and Sargassum ilicifolium) on Serum and Mucosal Immunity, Some Growth and Immune‐Related Genes Expression, Antioxidant Status, and Fatty Acid Profile in Asian Seabass (Lates calcarifer)
Authors: Seyedalhosseini Seyed Hadi , Salati Amir Parviz , Torfi Mozanzadeh Mansour , Parrish Christopher C. , Shahriari Ali , Ahangarzadeh Mina
Published: June 2024

This study was done to appraise the effects of the combination of dietary Gracilaria pulvinata and Sargassum ilicifolium on growth, immunity, and fatty acid profile in Asian seabass (Lates calcarifer). A total of 540 juveniles (36.06 ± 0.05 g) were stocked into eighteen 200 L tanks and divided into six experimental treatments, each in triplicate. Fish were fed diets containing 0 (control), 3% (SW3), 6% (SW6), 9% (SW9), 12% (SW12), and 15% (SW15) mixtures of both seaweeds powder in equal proportions (1 : 1) for 56 days. There was no improvement in weight gain parameters. Serum lysozyme and peroxidase activities in SW9 and SW12 treatments were significantly higher in compare to other treatments. The highest activities of skin mucus lysozyme, alkaline phosphatase, and total protease were observed in the SW12. Liver igf-1, il-1β, il-8, and lysozyme expression showed a rising trend up to SW9 and then decreased. Liver antioxidant enzymes activity and glutathione content showed a similar pattern of changes. Liver total antioxidant capacity was highest in the SW9 treatment, while the lowest value of liver malondialdehyde was observed in the 12% seaweed treatment. The amount of total n‐3 polyunsaturated fatty acids, especially docosahexaenoic acid, was higher in the SW12 and SW15 treatments in compare to others. Our findings suggest that adding 9%–12% of Gracilaria and Sargassum seaweed powder to the diet improves serum and mucosal immunity, antioxidant status, and fatty acid profile in L. calcarifer juveniles.