bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Study on fundamental properties of the spraying Ultra High Strength Fiber Reinforced Concrete cured at normal temperature
Authors: Yoshikawa Kotaro , Fujiwara Hiromi , Maruoka Masanori , Yamada Katsuhiko , Yoshikawa Junon
Published: September 2022

In this study, the hardened properties and spraying characteristics of ultra high strength fiber-reinforced mortar mixed with copper fibers along with nylon fibers and polypropylene fibers are examined. The chemical fibers are added in the expectation that they will prevent cracking during initial curing. It is confirmed that, even with the addition of chemical fibers, the fresh properties of the mortar are similar to those of formulations containing only copper fibers. It is also found spray-application of this formulation achieves sufficient application thickness and that on-site application would be possible.
Zystische Halsläsionen im Schnittbild
Authors: Vogl Thomas J. , Helal Rania
Published: September 2022

Zystische Läsionen sind in der Halsbildgebung relativ häufig. Es kommen verschiedene angeborene oder erworbene Veränderungen als Ursache infrage, die primär mit Ultraschall, aber auch mit
CT und MRT und ggf. auch bioptisch analysiert werden sollten, um die adäquate Therapie einleiten zu können. In diesem Beitrag werden die bildgebenden Kriterien dieser zystischen Läsionen
dargestellt.
Homoeopathy in Obstinate Non-Segmental Vitiligo: An Evidence-Based Report of Two Cases
Authors: Purkait Rajib , Debnath Dhiraj , Bhattacharjee Baidurjya , Choubey Gurudev
Published: September 2022

Background Vitiligo is an acquired de-pigmented dermatological disorder of great cosmetic importance, which negatively affects the quality of life (QoL). Available treatment options are mostly invasive, requiring maintenance therapy to prevent relapses and having many side effects.

Cases Here we present two similar cases of obstinate non-segmental vitiligo, reported with non-itchy de-pigmented macules around both eyes. The subjective assessment of the patient as well as the QoL was evaluated by using the outcome related to impact on daily living (ORIDL) and vitiligo-specific quality of life (VitiQoL) respectively. Photographs were taken as objective evidence. Finally, Modified Naranjo Criteria for Homeopathy (MONARCH) was used to evaluate the possible causal relationship between the homoeopathic intervention and clinical improvement.

Conclusions The cases were markedly improved on the ORIDL scale (+3) as per the patient's perspective. QoL was also improved as revealed on the VitiQoL score. Photographs were evident with the improvement. MONARCH score (‘ + 9’ in both cases) established the likelihood of improvement was attributable to homoeopathy. In both cases, indicated similimum has produced significant evidence in the treatment of vitiligo.
How the Kremlin circumvented EU sanctions on Russian state media in the first weeks of the illegal invasion of Ukraine
Authors: Pamment James
Published: September 2022

This forum article is about the EU’s sanctions levelled at Russian state media, and the steps the Kremlin took to ensure its war propaganda continued to reach Europe. The article examines Kremlin efforts to coordinate cross-platform influence operations on Telegram, as well as the role of digital diplomacy accounts in partially replacing state media reach. This leads to a discussion on the role of digital diplomacy in war propaganda and some of the consequences for the future of this research field.
Novel biochemical, structural, and systems insights into inflammatory signaling revealed by contextual interaction proteomics
Authors: Ciuffa Rodolfo , Uliana Federico , Mannion Jonathan , Mehnert Martin , Tenev Tencho , Marulli Cathy , Satanowski Ari , Keller Lena Maria Leone , Rodilla Ramírez Pilar Natalia , Ori Alessandro , Gstaiger Matthias , Meier Pascal , Aebersold Ruedi
Published: September 2022

Protein–protein interactions (PPIs) represent the main mode of the proteome organization in the cell. In the last decade, several large-scale representations of PPI networks have captured generic aspects of the functional organization of network components but mostly lack the context of cellular states. However, the generation of context-dependent PPI networks is essential for structural and systems-level modeling of biological processes—a goal that remains an unsolved challenge. Here we describe an experimental/computational strategy to achieve a modeling of PPIs that considers contextual information. This strategy defines the composition, stoichiometry, temporal organization, and cellular requirements for the formation of target assemblies. We used this approach to generate an integrated model of the formation principles and architecture of a large signalosome, the TNF–receptor signaling complex (TNF-RSC). Overall, we show that the integration of systems- and structure-level information provides a generic, largely unexplored link between the modular proteome and cellular function.
Functionalized silica nanoparticles coupled with nanoporous membrane for efficient ionic current rectification
Authors: Mitchell Juan , Pintro Chris , Nolan Katie , Davenport-Munoz Maurice , Spitzer Kyle , Yu Rachel , Wu Ji
Published: September 2022

In the last few decades, tremendous effort has been dedicated to mimicking the efficient ionic current rectification (ICR) of biological nanopores. Nanoporous membranes and singular nanopores with ICR functionality have been fabricated using advanced, yet costly technologies. We herein demonstrate that a simple, novel, and robust ICR platform can be constructed using 80 nm silica nanoparticles and a piece of 15 nm track-etched polycarbonate membrane. Efficient ICR can be obtained when voltages of different polarities are applied across the membrane, due to the asymmetric electrophoretic migration of silica nanoparticles whose surfaces are modified with different functional groups. The effect of pore size, ionic strength, pH, voltage magnitude, and density of silica nanoparticles on the efficiency of the ICR system has been systematically investigated in this report. Our results clearly show that smaller pore, lower ionic strength, appropriate pH value, higher electrical field strength, lower density of silica nanoparticles can generally enhance the efficiency of the ICR system. The principles of this new ICR system may find many potential applications in controllable drug delivery, energy storage and water purification.
Fabrication of triangular Au/Ag nanoparticle arrays with sub-10 nm nanogap controlled by flexible substrate for surface-enhanced Raman scattering
Authors: Zhang Peipei , Wu Jing , Wang Su , Fang Jinghuai
Published: September 2022

Large-area ordered nanoparticle arrays have shown great potential as surface-enhanced Raman scattering (SERS) substrates. The preparation methods of metal nanogap with width greater than 10 nm are relatively mature. In contrast, nanomanufacturing methods for sub-10 nm still face challenges in realizing controllable and reproducible features. Herein, a series of triangular Au/Ag nanoparticle arrays (noted as Au/Ag NPAs) with sub-10 nm gap were prepared by utilizing stress-induced local cracking and high expansion coefficient of flexible polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS). The triangular tip-connected Au/Ag NPAs were firstly prepared by depositing Au and Ag films on home-made polystyrene (PS) templates, then gaps with precise size (3 nm, 5 nm, 7 nm, 9 nm and 11 nm) were achieved by controlling the temperature of flexible PDMS, and finally transferred to the silicon wafers using as SERS substrates. The results showed that when the prepared triangular Au/Ag NPAs with 3 nm nanogap were used as reliable SERS substrates, the relative standard deviation of Raman intensity at 621 cm−1 mode of Rhodamine 6G (R6G) with concentration of 10–6 M was 2.3%, indicating excellent uniformity. The approach showed good controllability and repeatability for SERS analysis, exhibiting good application prospect in surface trace detection.
Particle momentum variation under interaction with wavepackets of finite spatial width
Authors: Bournelis Theodoros , Kominis Yannis
Published: September 2022

The single and collective particle interaction with spatially localized wavepackets is analytically and numerically studied. The role of the finite spatial width of the wavepacket on the momentum and energy variation of particles passing through the wavepacket is investigated. The range of validity of analytical results, based on a perturbative approach, is investigated and clearly defined. Strongly nonlinear effects are shown to qualitatively differentiate the collective particle dynamics, for larger interaction strengths. These effects are manifested through the complex dependency of averaged momentum variations on the initial particle momentum, as shown by dissecting a particle distribution in terms of partitioning the ensemble of particles with respect to their initial momentum. The results provide understanding on the relation between single and collective particle dynamics and the emerging of complexity for weak and strong particle interactions with localized wavepackets.
The treatment of cementitious surface by selected silicate sealers
Authors: Iliushchenko V , Kalina L , Hruby P , Jr V Bilek , Fladr J , Bily P , Bojanovsky J
Published: September 2022

Over the past decades, the efficiency of the silicate-based surface treatment agents, in other words, sealers, in concrete systems has been widely investigated. The surface treatment technology protects the cementitious systems against the penetration of undesirable substances. Nevertheless, understanding of the several aspects concerning silicate-based sealers is not entirely clear. This paper studies the action mechanism of selected silicates such as potassium, sodium, lithium water glasses, and colloidal silica. The effectiveness of used sealers in terms of water absorption reduction, the ability of silicates to heal pores, and the influence on the microstructure of the cement substrate were studied. Instrumental methods such as rheology, mercury intrusion porosimetry, or scanning electron microscopy were used to achieve satisfactory results. Nuances between the unique film-forming sealers were found. Colloidal silica showed a low sealing effect compared to alkali silicates.
Influence of activator type and slag volume fraction on properties of alkali-activated slag pastes
Authors: Hajzler J , Jr V Bilek , Kotrla J , Kucharczykova B
Published: September 2022

Alkali-activated systems belong to the group of alternative inorganic binders in which the binder properties are dictated by both the aluminosilicate precursor and alkaline activator. In this work, blast furnace slag and three different alkaline activators, namely sodium hydroxide, sodium water glass, and sodium carbonate, were selected. An innovative mixture design based on the same concentration of alkali (Na+) of 4 mol/dm3 for all activators and different volume fractions of slag in pastes, ranging from 0.44 to 0.54, was investigated by the flow table test, compressive and flexural strength test, and by a shrinkage test under autogenous conditions. Great differences for various activators for all investigated parameters were obtained. The highest fluidity, regardless of volume fraction of the slag, was observed for the water glass, originating from a greatly decreased yield stress compared to the two other activators. The type of activator and the volume fraction of the slag also played a crucial role in the development of shrinkage and strength.
Life cycle study of superinsulating materials for use in construction and other industrial areas
Authors: Zach J , Novak V , Peterkova J , Bubenik J , Kosir M , Bozicek D
Published: September 2022

Superinsulating materials have seen very strong development in recent years and have become standard materials in a number of industrial applications (especially in refrigeration). In the last decade, they have also started to develop significantly in the construction sector, so it is very important to optimise their entire life cycle and to consider the possibility of recycling or reuse (depending on the type of insulator). The paper summarizes the current state of the art in this area and presents possible directions and procedures in the field of complex life cycle solutions for superinsulating materials (especially vacuum insulation), especially with an orientation to the construction industry.
Development of a compact and cost-effective PET detector module for a small-animal PET system with FESA ASIC
Authors: Wang M. , Wang Y. , Zhang X. , Song Z. , Zhou X. , Hu Y. , Zhou Y. , Wu B.
Published: September 2022

Due to the high cost and large channel number in positron
emission tomography (PET) systems, the integration level and cost
performance must be considered in the construction of commercial PET
systems. In this paper, a highly integrated readout electronic
system was designed and implemented based on a self-developed FESA
(Front End for SiPM Arrays) readout ASIC; a compact cost-effective
detector module with four lined up detector heads was built, and its
performance was evaluated. Each detector head consisted of a
24× 24 LYSO crystal array (each crystal element had
dimensions of 0.99 × 0.99 × 15 mm3), one end
coupling to an 8 × 8 silicon photomultiplier array (SiPM array
with dimensions of 3.2 × 3.2 mm2 each), and the other
end covered with a 1 mm thick light guide layer. Since the
front-end FESA readout chip employed a row-column summing circuit to
reduce the readout channels from 64 to 16, we tried a new depth
encoding method based on a single-end readout with the
structure. The test results showed that the average coincidence time
resolution (CTR), energy resolution, and depth of interaction (DOI)
resolution of the detector are 413 ps, 15.7%, and 5.2 mm,
respectively, while the crystal array in the detector head with
9-to-1 coupling can be clearly separated in the flood
image. Compared with the detector head without the depth encoding
ability, the clearness of the flood image was slightly decreased,
but the energy resolution and time performance remained the same. We
also implemented a central control board that connected all detector
modules via fiber connections. The data from the detector modules
could be collected over the connections, and the system central
clock could be precisely distributed; therefore, the compactness of
the electronics system was further enhanced.
Digital light processing (DLP) in tissue engineering: from promise to reality, and perspectives
Authors: Gong Jiaxing , Qian Ying , Lu Kejie , Zhu Ziyu , Siow Lixuen , Zhang Chaoying , Zhou Siyi , Gu Tianyi , Yin Jun , Yu Mengfei , Wang Huiming , Yang Huayong
Published: September 2022

Tissue engineering technology provides a revolutionary strategy to completely restore the structure and function of damaged tissues or organs. Digital light processing (DLP), as a kind of three-dimensional (3D) printing technology, has great advantages in printing resolution and efficiency, with low requirements for bioinks. This review introduces DLP-based printing and its development, as well as the manufacturing processes and printable materials. We also focus on tissue engineering products such as bone, tooth, cartilage, nerve, blood vessel, and so on. This review expounds on the difficulties and shortcomings of DLP printing technology in tissue engineering today. Perspectives are given on the current outlook on DLP-based 3D printing tissue engineering.
Entropic quantifier of spin–boson nonclassicality
Authors: Zhang Yue , Jing Boxuan , He Qiongyi , Luo Shunlong
Published: September 2022

Spin systems interacting with boson environments are ubiquitous in nature. To what extent quantum states in such systems depart from classicality is becoming an increasingly important issue. Here, we study nonclassicality in systems involving the interaction between a spin and a boson mode. We introduce a simple and effective method for quantifying spin–boson nonclassicality in terms of the entropy excess between the classical and the quantum Tsallis entropy. The method can be naturally extended to more general systems. Fundamental properties of the nonclassicality quantifier are revealed, which render it reasonable for spin–boson states. Basic features are illustrated by a variety of typical spin–boson states. As applications, we further investigate spin–boson nonclassicality in the Dicke model, which sheds light on the normal-superradiant phase transition and quantum metrology.
Contact Lagrangian systems subject to impulsive constraints
Authors: Colombo Leonardo , de León Manuel , López-Gordón Asier
Published: September 2022

We describe geometrically contact Lagrangian systems under impulsive forces and constraints, as well as instantaneous nonholonomic constraints which are not uniform along the configuration space. In both situations, the vector field describing the dynamics of a contact Lagrangian system is determined by defining projectors to evaluate the constraints by using a Riemannian metric. In particular, we introduce the Herglotz equations for contact Lagrangian systems subject to instantaneous nonholonomic constraints. Moreover, we provide a Carnot-type theorem for contact Lagrangian systems subject to impulsive forces and constraints, which characterizes the changes of energy due to contact-type dissipation and impulsive forces. We illustrate the applicability of the method with practical examples, in particular, a rolling cylinder on a springily plane and a rolling sphere on a non-uniform plane, both with dissipation.
Removal of cyanide from wastewater using iron electrodes
Authors: Abdulla Aliaa Kareem , Jawad Sabrean Farhan , Thyab Rafah Mohammed , Najm Zainab Mohsen , Abood Emad Salaam , Kareem Mohanad Mousa , Mubarak Hayfaa A.
Published: September 2022

Cyanide is a toxic compound that is found in industrial wastewater, and it causes death for humans. Therefore, cyanide removal is essential to protect humans and the environment. The electrocoagulation method (ECM) was adopted in this study to remove cyanide from artificial wastewater samples. The ECM was adopted in this study because it is a cost-effective method with minimum use of chemicals, making it eco-friendly. The experiments were done in batch flow using iron electrodes (anode-cathode). The results show an increase in the current density from 2 to 10 mA.cm-2 increased the removal of cyanide by 48.8%. Similarly, the increase of the treatment time from 10 to 90 minutes increased the removal of cyanide by 71% at a current of 10 mA/cm-2. The summary of the results of this study showed that ECM is a good alternative for cyanide removal from wastewater.
Application of CCME Index to Assess the Water Quality of Tigris River within Baghdad City, Iraq
Authors: Al-Obaidy Abdul Hameed M.J , Khalaf S M , Hassan Fikrat M
Published: September 2022

Monitoring the river’s water quality is important to predict the environmental risk. The Tigris River is Baghdad’s main source for living organisms, drinking water, and agro-industrial purposes. Three selected sites were carried out using different water quality parameters from July 2017 to April 2018 in the Tigris River in Baghdad. Fourteen water quality parameters: water temperatures, turbidity, electrical conductivity, pH, calcium, magnesium, chloride, sulfate, phosphate, dissolved oxygen (DO), alkalinity, total hardness, total dissolved substances TDS, and biological oxygen demand (BOD5). According to CCME WQI analysis, the water quality of Tigris River water was Fair for aquatic life and Poor for drinking water
Non-Diatomic Diversity and Community Structure in Hoor-Al- Azime Marshes, Iran
Authors: Dehghan Simin , Dezhman Mehdi , Albueajee Alaa I , Hassan Fikrat M , Douabul Ali A Z
Published: September 2022

This study was conducted to delineate diversity and species composition of non-diatoms planktonic algae in Hoor- Al- Azime marshes, Iran. The samples were collected from four sites at monthly basis from April 2011 to March 2012. A total 88 taxa were identified, out of which (40 taxa, 45.45%) belonging to Cyanophyta followed by Chlorophyta (29 taxa, 32.96%), Euglenophyta (18 taxa, 20.45%) and (1 taxa, 1.14%) of Dinophyta recorded. Comparing species richness (65 taxa, 34.76%) at Shat- Ali (St4) was the highest and the lowest (34 taxa, 18.18%) was observed at Rafi (St2). Species occurrence was associated with temperature where in summer (66 taxa) and (25 taxa) encountered winter. The phytoplankton density ranged from 51.04 ×103 cells/Liter in summer to 2.17 ×103 cells/Liter in winter for Cyanophyta and from 20.58 ×103 cells/Liter in summer to 2.92 ×103 cells/Liter in winter for Chlorophyta. St4 is characterized by the highest density 36.33×103 cells/Liter (43.96 %), while St2 recorded the lowest phytoplankton density 7.33×103 cells/Liter (8.93%). Euglenophyta and Dinophyta did not record a noticeable density during study period. This study document updated knowledge of non-diatom plankton diversity and seasonal oscillation an important wetland ecosystem.
Investigation the ability of pure and Al-doped graphene nano materials to detect toxic gases using first principle study
Authors: Al-Aaraji Noor Al-Huda , Yaseen Mohammed Ali , Madlol Hussien A. , Abbood Hamid I. , Abduljalil Hayder M. , Al-Seady Mohammed A. , Ahmed Eman
Published: September 2022

In the present study, the density function theory (DFT) method was used to compute structural, electronic and spectroscopic properties for pure and aluminum (Al) doped graphene materials, 6-13G basis set and hybrid function B3LYP were used in the present study. The structural properties show that pure and Al-doped graphene materials have a plane surface, also all bond lengths are in agreement with experimental results. Energy gap calculation shows that pure and Al-doped graphene materials have having semiconductor nature. When hydro cyanide gas molecule will have interacted on the surface of pure and Al-doped graphene materials, properties belonging to the systems under study will change. The result shows that interaction of HCN gas molecule with Al-doped graphene material the surface will rise up, but in the pure system, the surface remains plane. Adsorption calculation shows that HCN gas molecule can interact with the surface of a system under study. high chemical adsorption appears at a distance 1 Å between the gas molecule and pure and Al-doped graphene materials. Increasing adsorption distance interaction strength will be decreased until reached 0.002 eV. Positive adsorption energy refers to the repulsion force between the gas molecule and the surface. Fourier transformation infrared radiation (FT-IR) spectroscopy has been used to point-free radicals for interacted systems. It is pointed to carbon groups such as C-C, C-H, C-N and C-Al, also results show that all wave numbers results are in agreement with previous reports. Appear cyanide radical is a sign of chemical adsorption between gas molecules and the surface of pure and Al-doped graphene materials.
Monitoring the Water Quality of Tigris River by Applied Overall Index of Pollution
Authors: Jabar Shaimaa Satar , Hassan Fikrat M.
Published: September 2022

The alteration in the hydrological regime in Iraq and the anthropogenic increasing effect on water quality of a lotic ecosystems needs to continuous monitoring. This work is done to assess the water quality of Tigris River within Baghdad City. Five sites were selected along the river and ten physicochemical parameters and Overall Index of Pollution (OIP) were applied to assess the water quality for the period between November 2020 and May 2021, the studied period were divided into dry and wet seasons. These parameters were water temperature, pH, dissolved oxygen (DO), biological oxygen demand (BOD), total hardness, alkalinity, turbidity, total phosphorus, total nitrogen, electrical conductivity (EC). Results showed that the values of parameter indicated slightly polluted in terms of values of DO, BOD and EC in both wet and dry seasons. The findings of the present study showed the OIP values in wet season less than recoded in dry season at all sites. The OIP values ranged between class 2 and class 3 (Acceptable – Slightly polluted ). While sites 2 and 3 were recorded OIP values less the 2 in wet season. However, the variation in OIP- WQI value in five different areas are attributed to impact of different pollutants.
Comprehensive study of heavy metal pollution in surface water of Guntur region of Andra Pradesh
Authors: Mahdi Abdulwahhab Jasim , Ewadh Hind Mufeed , Satee Shamaa , Salman Jasim M. , Brahmaji Rao P
Published: September 2022

The Water pollution is known of as the apperence of undesirable elements that are introduced into a natural water supply by human activity, changing its physical, chemical, or biological properties. The present study was conducted in the Guntur region of Andra Pradesh. The surface water samples were assembled from ten sample stations and analyzed for their heavy metal content by atomic absorption spectrometer (AAS). The acquired values were also compared to permissible limits. Magnesium and lead were detected in the surface water collected from all 10 sample stations. However, June 2019 surface water collection showed significantly (p<0.001) amount of magnesium as compared to other seasons collections. Sample stations 2, 6, 7 and 8 showed maximum concentration (>0.2ppm) of lead during December 17, June 18, June 19 and June 18, respectively. Selenium was detected in the surface water collected during four intervals from all sample stations except sample station 7. Arsenic was detected in the surface water collected from sample stations 1, 2, 3, 5, 6, 8 and 9. However, maximum concentration of both the elements was detected in the surface water collected from sample station 3 as compared to remaining sample stations. The Bandarupalle sample station showed presence of copper, nickel, chromium, iron, manganese, cadmium, mercury and molybdenum. The Tadikonda sample station showed copper, nickel, chromium, zinc, iron, and mercury. Mangalagiri and Mutluru sample station showed copper, cobalt, nickel, chromium, zinc, iron, manganese, cadmium, mercury and molybdenum in surface water which were found to be maximum polluted stations. The Chebrolu showed presence of all above elements except manganese. The Rompicherla and Guntur sample station surface water showed presence of all the above mentioned elements except copper and cadmium. Pedda Vadlapudi surface water detected nickel, chromium, zinc, iron, manganese, cadmium, and mercury. The Macherla showed presence of nickel, chromium, iron, cadmium, mercury and molybdenum. Acharya Nagarjuna University showed cobalt, nickel, chromium, iron, manganese, cadmium, and molybdenum in the surface water. Lead, arsenic, selenium, chromium and mercury were found to be above permissible limits in the surface water.
Some ecological impacts of eastern Euphrates drainage water on basil (Ocimum basilicum)
Authors: Subhi Imad Amer , Al-Adily Batool M. H.
Published: September 2022

Iraq is one of counters that effected with climate change which meagre its effects is reduce water resource. Study the ability of using eastern Euphrates drainage water as a alternative water resource in the irrigation. Basil was used as an example to sensitive plants. it given a good growth under using drainage water by several biochemical adaptations including increased each of MDA, TAA, proline, GSH and ROS levels. The drainage water was not polluted with Zn, Cd, Fe, Cu and Pb which their concentrations were 0.001, 0.1837, 0.001, 0.1112 and, 0.0035 ppm respectively, and these concentrations are within Iraqi limits of irrigation, but with elevated concentrations of total hardness about 880 Mg/L. The current study explained that eastern Euphrates drainage water is not saline and can used in the irrigation of crops and it was not polluted with heavy metals.
Control of the light extraction from a photonic crystal nanocavity by coupling with a nanoparticle
Authors: Alabiad Abdullah F , Guichardaz Blandine E , Baida Fadi I
Published: September 2022

In this paper, we present a numerical study (using Finite Difference Times Domain (FDTD) method) of the coupling between two resonant structures with different quality factors of their resonances. The first is a Photonic Crystal Cavity (PCC) while the second is a dielectric Nano-Particle (NP). Both structures exhibit optical responses at the same wavelength, which allows a critical coupling between them. The objective of the study is to exploit this coupling to control the light extraction properties of the more resonant structure (the PCC). The challenge is then: first, to model such a near-field coupling through numerical method that can handle the entire structure (PCC+NA) and second, to get physical insight about the interaction allowing a good control of the light extraction. We numerically demonstrate that this coupling strongly depends on the spatial position of the NP relative to the PCC. We also show that the direction of the emission (into the substrate or superstrate) and its intensity can be adjusted by the NP position relative to the PCC. Quantitatively, the critical coupling corresponds to an NP-PCC distance of 120 nm leading to an increase by factor of 3 of the light radiated towards the far field. This is accompanied by a red shift of 0.53 nm of the cavity resonance. This study opens the way to the development of a new kind of sources with both ‘controllable’ wavelength resonance and radiation pattern.
Atomic-scale study of type-II Dirac semimetal PtTe2 surface
Authors: Casado Aguilar Pablo , Calleja Fabian , Kuo Chia-Nung , Lue Chin Shan , Ghosh Barun , Agarwal Amit , Politano Antonio , Vázquez de Parga Amadeo L , Miranda Rodolfo , Silva-Guillén Jose Angel , Garnica Manuela
Published: September 2022

Dirac semimetals (DSM) host linear bulk bands and topologically protected surface states, giving rise to exotic and robust properties. Platinum ditelluride (PtTe2) belongs to this interesting group of topological materials. Here, we employ scanning tunneling microscopy (STM) in combination with first-principles calculations to visualize and identify the native defects at the surface of a freshly cleaved PtTe2 crystal. Around these defects, short-wavelength electron density oscillations are observed. Fourier transform analysis of the energy-dependent quasiparticle interference patterns is in good agreement with our calculated joint density of states, demonstrating the singular properties of the surface of this type-II DSM. Our results evidence the power of STM in understanding the surface of topological materials.
A new approach for alkali incorporation in Cu2ZnSnS4 solar cells
Authors: Valdés M , Hernández A , Sánchez Y , Fonoll R , Placidi M , Izquierdo V , Cabas-Vidani A , Valentini M , Mittiga A , Pistor P , Malerba C , Saucedo E
Published: September 2022

The addition of alkali elements has become mandatory for boosting solar cell performance in chalcogenide thin films based on kesterites (Cu2ZnSnS4, CZTS). A novel doping process is presented here, that consists in the incorporation of sodium or lithium during the deposition of the CdS buffer layer, followed by a post-deposition annealing (PDA). As the doping route leads to more efficient devices in comparison with the undoped reference sample, the influence of PDA temperature was also investigated. Compositional profiling techniques, time-of-flight secondary ion mass spectrometry (TOF-SIMS) and glow discharge optical mission spectroscopy (GDOES), revealed a dependence of the alkaline distribution in kesterites with the PDA temperature. Although the doping process is effective in that it increases the alkaline concentration compared to the undoped sample, the compositional profiles indicate that a significant proportion of Li and Na remains ‘trapped’ within the CdS layer. In the 200 °C–300 °C range the alkali profiles registered the higher concentration inside the kesterite. Despite this, an additional alkali accumulation close to the molybdenum/fluorine doped tin oxide substrate was found for all the samples, which is frequently related to alkali segregation at interfaces. The addition of both, lithium and sodium, improves the photovoltaic response compared to the undoped reference device. This is mainly explained by a substantial improvement in the open-circuit potential (V
oc) of the cells, with best devices achieving efficiencies of 4.5% and 3% for lithium and sodium, respectively. Scanning-electron microscopy images depicted a ‘bilayer structure’ with larger grains at the top and small grains at the bottom in all samples. Moreover, the calculated bandgap energies of the CZTS films account for changes in the crystallographic order-disorder of the kesterites, more related to the PDA treatment rather than alkali incorporation. Even if further optimization of the absorber synthesis and doping process will be required, this investigation allowed the evaluation of a novel strategy for alkali incorporation in kesterite based solar cells.
Climate fluctuation impacts in Astronium urundeuva (M. Allemão) Engl. silvicultural characters in the Brazilian Cerrado
Authors: Corrêa Aparecida Juliana Martins , Alves Patrícia Ferreira , Cambuim José , Moraes Mario Luiz Teixeira de , Freitas Miguel Luiz Menezes
Published: September 2022

Currently, mankind is responsible for changing our planet’s conditions. These changes are usually catastrophic, and yet, mankind does not develop preventative strategies to reduce their impacts. However, a species present in the Brazilian Cerrado, Astronium urundeuva, can be very economically logged and has a known landscape distribution, but lacks information regarding the impacts of climate change on its silviculture. This research aimed to verify A. urundeuva’s silvicultural behavior under current environmental conditions. Progenies from three populations (Cerrado and Atlantic Forest/Cerrado transition) were measured for silvicultural characters: height (HT) and diameter at breast height (DBH), in 2019. Climatic data (temperature, precipitation, evapotranspiration and soil available water, averages and accumulated) were also measured between 1996 and 2018. Descriptive and sequential water balance analysis, descriptive statistics, collinearity tests and a multiple linear regression were performed. There was water deficit in all years (−12.7 mm) researched, which showed an irregular rainfall distribution in Selvíria-MS, concentrated mostly in summer. Average HT ranged from 8.02 m to 10.69 m, while average DBH ranged from 0.10 m to 0.12 m, with high variability (CVs between 21.99% and 34.77%). There was significant correlation between HT, DBH,

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Community Science Reveals High Diversity of Nectaring Plants Visited by Painted Lady Butterflies (Lepidoptera: Nymphalidae) in California Sage Scrub
Authors: Saldivar Jo’lene A , Romero Andrea N , Wilson Rankin Erin E
Published: September 2022

California’s sage scrub habitats support a diversity of nectar and host plants for migrating and resident populations of painted lady butterflies (Vanessa cardui) throughout all seasons. North America experiences spring V. cardui migrations involving butterflies totaling in the millions in some years. These irruptive years are thought to be driven by winter weather patterns at breeding grounds near the US–Mexico border and due to their irregularity, it is difficult to study floral resource use along the migration route. Here we used the community science platform iNaturalist to quantify patterns in V. cardui nectar resource use in sage scrub over time and space during irruptive and nonirruptive years. We identified over 329 different nectaring plant species of varying functional types (72% native to California) visited by adult V. cardui, 195 of which had not been previously identified as known nectar plants for V. cardui. Vanessa cardui butterflies were observed in similar locations regardless of whether an irruptive migration occurred, indicating the presence of either sparse migrants or resident populations across California. Moreover, irruptive years were positively correlated with warmer and wetter local conditions at observation locations. Our results provide new insights into patterns of floral resource use by North American V. cardui by harnessing the power of community science data and while highlighting the factors associated with its North American migration.
Influence of Turfgrass Parameters on the Abundance of Arthropods in Sod Farms
Authors: Singh Gurjit , Joseph Shimat Villanassery
Published: September 2022

Sod farms, where turfgrass is commercially produced, have a unique system, in which sod is harvested within 2 yr after planting. Understanding the turfgrass factors that influence the abundance of predators, herbivores, detritivores, and parasitoids that inhabit turfgrass paves the foundation for developing effective pest management programs. However, little is known about those factors in sod farms. The objective of the study was to determine the influence of turfgrass height, density, and thatch thickness on abundance of arthropod taxa in sod farms. The study was conducted at 18 and 10 sod field sites in 2019 and 2020, respectively. Four pitfall traps were deployed at each site. In 2019, each site was sampled in May, June, and July, whereas in 2020, each site was sampled in June and August. In 2019, the numbers of predatory heteropterans were two times greater in bermudagrass (Cynodon dactylon L.) than in zoysiagrass (Zoysia spp.). The numbers of predatory mirids, Spanogonicus albofasciatus (Reuter), and carabids significantly decreased with increases in turfgrass height. In 2020, the abundance of staphylinids increased as the thatch thickness increased. The abundance of Sphenophorus spp. adults were significantly greater in bermudagrass than in zoysiagrass in 2020 and were more abundant in the denser turfgrasses in both years. The predatory arthropods were positively correlated with increased densities of cicadellids, whereas predatory mirids were positively associated with cicadellids, delphacids, and chrysomelids. These results have implications on management of arthropod pests in sod farms as abundance of beneficial arthropods are influenced by turfgrass factors.
Beneficial and Pest Arthropod Responses to Tillage and Cover Crop Residues in Organic Cucurbits
Authors: Appenfeller Logan R , Brainard Daniel C , Hayden Zachary D , Szendrei Zsofia
Published: September 2022

Reduced tillage methods such as strip tillage are often combined with cover crop mixtures to provide agronomic benefits which can support crop and soil health. However, reduced tillage and cover crop species/arrangements effects on arthropods is less understood and results of previous studies have varied. In this study, we examined how agriculturally relevant pest and beneficial arthropod species were impacted by tillage and cover crop methods in USDA-certified organic Cucurbita (L.) (Cucurbitales: Cucurbitaceae). Aphididae were the most observed foliar pests and abundance was highest in full tillage treatment plots while foliar herbivores overall, excluding Aphididae, were more abundant in strip tillage treatment plots regardless of cover crop arrangement. Formicidae was also observed more on foliage, flowers, and in pitfall traps in full tillage, similarly to Aphididae. Parasitica were the most observed foliar natural enemies with increased abundance in strip tillage treatments. Activity densities of several epigeal natural enemies were also higher in strip tillage compared to full tillage. No significant effects of tillage and cover crop treatments were observed on flower visitation rates of Eucera pruinosa (Say) (Hymenoptera: Apidae), an important pollinator of Cucurbita, while the highest visitation rates of Apis mellifera (L.) (Hymenoptera: Apidae) and Bombus spp. (Latreille) (Hymenoptera: Apidae) were in strip tillage treatments. These results suggest that reduced tillage methods can support greater abundances of natural enemies and possibly pollinators. This may lead to enhanced biological control and pollination, but impacts may vary for different arthropod species and crops.
Coronary morphological features in women with non-ST-segment elevation MINOCA and MI-CAD as assessed by optical coherence tomography
Authors: Usui Eisuke , Matsumura Mitsuaki , Smilowitz Nathaniel R , Mintz Gary S , Saw Jacqueline , Kwong Raymond Y , Hada Masahiro , Mahmud Ehtisham , Giesler Caitlin , Shah Binita , Bangalore Sripal , Razzouk Louai , Hoshino Masahiro , Marzo Kevin , Ali Ziad A , Bairey Merz C Noel , Sugiyama Tomoyo , Har Bryan , Kakuta Tsunekazu , Hochman Judith S , Reynolds Harmony R , Maehara Akiko
Published: September 2022

Aims

We aimed to use optical coherence tomography (OCT) to identify differences in atherosclerotic culprit lesion morphology in women with myocardial infarction (MI) with non-obstructive coronary arteries (MINOCA) compared with MI with obstructive coronary artery disease (MI-CAD).

Methods and results

Women with an OCT-determined atherosclerotic aetiology of non-ST segment elevation (NSTE)-MINOCA (angiographic diameter stenosis <50%) who were enrolled in the multicentre Women’s Heart Attack Research Program (HARP) study were compared with a consecutive series of women with NSTE-MI-CAD who underwent OCT prior to coronary intervention at a single institution. Atherosclerotic pathologies identified by OCT included plaque rupture, plaque erosion, intraplaque haemorrhage (IPH, a region of low signal intensity with minimum attenuation adjacent to a lipidic plaque without fibrous cap disruption), layered plaque (superficial layer with clear demarcation from the underlying plaque indicating early thrombus healing), or eruptive calcified nodule.

We analysed 58 women with NSTE-MINOCA and 52 women with NSTE-MI-CAD. Optical coherence tomography features of underlying vulnerable plaque (thin-cap fibroatheroma) were less common in MINOCA (3 vs. 35%) than in MI-CAD. Intraplaque haemorrhage (47 vs. 2%) and layered plaque (31 vs. 12%) were more common in MINOCA than MI-CAD, whereas plaque rupture (14 vs. 67%), plaque erosion (8 vs. 14%), and calcified nodule (0 vs. 6%) were less common in MINOCA. The angle of ruptured cavity was smaller and thrombus burden was lower in MINOCA.

Conclusion

The prevalence of atherothrombotic culprit lesion subtype varied substantially between MINOCA and MI-CAD. A majority of culprit lesions in MINOCA had the appearance of IPH or layered plaque.

Clinical Trial Registration Information

Clinical Trial Name: Heart Attack Research Program- Imaging Study (HARP); ClinicalTrial.gov Identifier: NCT02905357; URL: https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT02905357
Ex post analysis of the crop diversification measure of CAP greening in France
Authors: Sauquet Alexandre
Published: September 2022

In this article, we quantify the impact of the crop diversification measure implemented in France as part of the 2013 common agricultural policy greening reform. We exploit a discontinuity in the constraints imposed on farms larger and smaller than 30 ha, respectively, and apply regression differences-in-differences with a regression discontinuity set-up on land use data collected from a representative sample of French farmers. We find that farms greater than 30 ha increased compliance with the measure and the number of crops grown on their lands and that farms larger and smaller than 30 ha responded differently to the reform.
Survey of Professionals of the European Public Health Association (EUPHA) towards Direct-to-Consumer Genetic Testing
Authors: Beccia Flavia , Hoxhaj Ilda , Sassano Michele , Stojanovic Jovana , Acampora Anna , Pastorino Roberta , Boccia Stefania
Published: September 2022

Background

The increasing availability of Direct-to-Consumer Genetic Tests (DTC-GTs) has great implications for public health (PH) and requires literate healthcare professionals to address the challenges they pose. We designed and conducted a survey to assess the state of knowledge, attitudes and behaviours of PH professionals members of the European Public Health Association (EUPHA) towards DTC-GTs.

Methods

EUPHA members were invited to participate and fill in the survey. We performed multivariable logistic regression to evaluate associations between selected covariates and knowledge, attitudes and behaviours of healthcare professionals towards DTC-GT.

Results

Three hundred and two professionals completed the survey, 66.9% of whom were not involved in genetics or genomics within their professional activities. Although 74.5% of respondents were aware that DTC-GTs could be purchased on the web, most of them reported a low level of awareness towards DTC-GTs applications and regulatory aspects. The majority did not approve the provision of DTC-GTs without consultation of a healthcare professional (91.4%), were doubtful about the test utility and validity (61%) and did not feel prepared to address citizens’ questions (65.6%). Predictors of knowledge on DTC-GT were the involvement in genetics/genomics and receiving training during the studies (P < 0.0001 and P = 0.043). Predictors of attitudes were medical degree and knowledge about DTC-GTs (P = 0.006 and P = 0.027).

Conclusions

Our results revealed a high level of awareness of DTC-GT web purchasing and a moderate to low level of awareness towards their applications. Despite the overall positive attitudes, PH professionals reported a high need for strengthening regulatory aspects of DTC-GTs provision process.
Extracellular lactonase-mediated quorum quenching by a novelBacillus velezensis
Authors: Ayyappan Suryalekshmi Vijaya , Bhaskaran Krishnakumar
Published: September 2022

Many Gram-negative bacteria coordinate their gene expression via quorum sensing (QS) mediated by small diffusible autoinducer molecules such as Acyl Homoserine Lactones (AHL). The degradation of AHLs or quorum quenching (QQ) imparts less selection pressure on the target organisms leading to a possible alternative to antimicrobial agents and traditional biofilm control methods. Here, a novel strain of Bacillus velezensis, strain PM7, exhibiting extracellular QQ activity against Gram-negative bacteria has been isolated. Analytical studies of the AHL degradation using LC-MS as well as bioreporters revealed the mechanism of QQ as homoserine lactone ring hydrolysis. Using molecular techniques, the presence of an aiiA homologues gene, specific for acyl homoserine lactonase enzyme, was confirmed in the bacterium. A biofilm inhibitory activity in the range of 36.9%–77.4% was achieved by the PM7 against three different Gram-negative bacteria. Moreover, a significant reduction (P < .05) in the QS-controlled traits such as violacein production in Chromobacterium violaceum (73%), swarming motility and prodigiosin production (67.2%) in Serratia marcescens, and exopolysaccharide production (97.9%) in Pseudomonas aeruginosa, was also observed. The extracellular and broad-spectrum lactonase of this novel strain can be beneficial for its use in QQ applications.