bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A reinvestigation of debris disc halos
Authors: Thebault P. , Olofsson J. , Kral Q.
Published: April 2023

Context. Scattered-light images reveal that a significant fraction of debris discs consist of a bright ring beyond which extends a wide halo. This halo is expected and should be made of small grains collisionally produced in the ring of parent bodies (PBs) and pushed on high-eccentricity orbits by radiation pressure. It has been shown that, under several simplifying assumptions, the surface brightness (SB) of this halo should radially decrease as r−3.5 in scattered light

Aims. We aim to revisit the halo phenomenon and focus on two unexplored issues: (1) how the unavoidable presence of small unbound grains, non-isotropic scattering phase functions (SPFs), and finite instrument resolution affect scattered-light SB profiles, and (2) how the halo phenomenon manifests itself at longer wavelengths in thermal emission, both on resolved images and on system-integrated spectral energy distributions (SEDs).

Methods. We use a collisional evolution code to estimate the size-dependent spatial distribution of grains in a belt+halo system at steady state. We use the GRaTeR radiative-transfer code to derive synthetic images in scattered light and thermal emission, as well as SEDs.

Results. We find that unbound grains account for a significant fraction of the halo’s luminosity in scattered light, and can significantly flatten the SB radial profile for the densest and brightest discs. Because halos are strongly size-segregated with radial distance, realistic size-dependent SPFs also have an effect, resulting here again in shallower SB profiles. For edge-on discs, non-resolving the vertical profile can also significantly flatten the projected SB profile. We show that roughly half of the observationally derived halo profiles found in the literature are compatible with our new results, and that roughly half of the remaining systems are probably shaped by additional processes (planets, stellar companions, etc.). We also propose that, in future observational studies, the characteristics of the PB belts and the halos should be fitted separately. In thermal emission, we find that wide halos should remain detectable up to the far-infrared (far-IR) and that, with the exception of the ~8–15 µm domain, the halo accounts for more than half of the system’s total flux up to λ ~ 80–90 µm. The contribution from the halo strongly decreases in the submm to mm but still represents a few percent of the system’s luminosity at λ ~ 1 mm. For unresolved systems, the presence of a halo can also affect the determination of the radius of the disc from its SED.
The adsorption of methylene blue from wastewater by Moringaoleifera pods and kernels wastes using the response surface methodology
Authors: Ahmadou Fadimatou , Bencheikh Imane , Bensemlali Meryem , Azoulay Karima , Mabrouki Jamal , Nasrellah Hamid , Laasri Said , Slimani Rachid , El Hajjaji Souad
Published: April 2023

In recent decades, researchers have focused more on the use of many types of biomaterials from various organisms and agricultural by-products for wastewater treatment. In this study, we are using Moringaoleifera pods powder (MOPP) and Moringaoleifera kernels powder (MOPK) for the removal of industrial Methylene blue (MB) dye from aqueous solutions. The adsorption process of MB onto MOPP and MOKP follows the pseudo-second-order model. First of all, the adsorbents were characterized using Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR), X-ray diffraction (XRD), and scanning electron microscope (SEM). The second objective was the optimization process of Moringaoleifera wastes seeds (MOPP and MOKP) for the removal of methylene blue dye (MB), using Box-Behnken under the Response Surface methodology. The optimal conditions wereX1 = 2.5 g/L of adsorbent,X2 = 40 ppm of concentration of MB andX3 = 10.03 of pH with removal efficiency which reaches 98.12% for MOPP andX1 = 2.5 g/L of adsorbent,X2 = 30 mg/L of concentration of MB andX3 = 7.43 of pH with removal efficiency which reaches 96.94% for MOKP. The model envisaged for the optimal design has been well verified by the experimental data, withR2/R2adjequal to 0.99 and 0.74, respectively for MOPP, then for MOKP 0.90 and 0.73. Finally, the analysis of variance (ANOVA), confirmed that MOPP and MOKP had a high-efficiency adsorbent capacity with the MOPP as the best biosorbent than MOKP and that the chosen model is valid. The two materials could be adopted as efficient and cost-effective adsorbents.
Effects of Zn, Nd, and Ca addition on the microstructure, mechanical and corrosion properties of biodegradable Mg-Ag alloys
Authors: Turen Yunus , Elen Levent
Published: April 2023

In this study, casting, extrusion, biocorrosion and corrosive wear properties of 0.5 wt.% (Zn, Ca, and Nd) element added Mg-3%Ag alloys were investigated. As a result of the experimental studies, it was observed that the grains in the Zn and Ca added as-cast alloys became thinner, and thus the mechanical properties of the investigated alloys such as yield strength and hardness were improved. At the same time, the applied extrusion process provided an increase in the mechanical properties by refining the grain structure of the investigated alloys. As a result ofin vitrotests, larger pitting was observed in as-cast alloys, while smaller and shallower corrosion pits were observed in extruded alloys. In the corrosive wear tests, the wear rate of extruded alloys generally showed a decreasing trend. However, the composition of both as-cast and extruded Mg-3% Ag-0.5%Zn-0.5% Ca was the alloy that exhibited the lowest value in terms of the wear rate.
Revue narrative : l’effet de la fatigue mentale sur les performances psychomotrices dans les sports collectifs
Authors: Vitry Florian , Campo Mickaël , Lepers Romuald
Published: April 2023

Introduction :  La fatigue mentale (FM) est un état psychobiologique causé par une tâche cognitive prolongée pouvant altérer les performances physiques. Récemment, plusieurs études ont indiqué que la FM pouvait également affecter les performances psychomotrices en sport collectif. L’objectif de cette revue narrative est de synthétiser les principales connaissances issues de la littérature afin d’examiner l’effet de la FM sur les performances psychomotrices dans les sports collectifs. Méthodes : Les études retenues dans cette revue narrative impliquaient : i) les recherches sur les performances psychomotrices dans un contexte spécifique aux sports collectifs, ii) des interventions induisant une FM et iii) une population comprenant des individus en bonne santé. Résultats : Quatorze articles ont été retenus. Les résultats montrent que la FM a eu un impact négatif sur les paramètres tels que la prise de décision, le temps de réaction et la précision. Aucun changement des paramètres physiologiques ne pouvait expliquer l’effet négatif de la FM sur les performances. Conclusion : Les articles sélectionnés ont indiqué que la FM affecte négativement les performances psychomotrices dans les sports collectifs. Les futures recherches doivent utiliser des tâches cognitives fatigantes plus écologiques et investiguer les mécanismes neurophysiologiques, afin de permettre une meilleure compréhension des interactions entre la FM et les performances psychomotrices dans les sports collectifs.
Incarceration of the Gravid Uterus – a Rare Condition not to be Missed
Authors: Grosse Nadja , Liem Sandy , Miller Elvira , Möller Gunnar , Weidemann Jürgen , Morfeld Christine A , Schild Ralf , Oehler-Rahman Katrin
Published: April 2023

Background Incarceration of a gravid uterus (IGU) is a rare manifestation
in obstetrics that may be associated with serious complications.

Case We report on a 29-year-old patient at 34+2 weeks’
gestation who presented with HELLP syndrome. IGU had been initially diagnosed in
our department at 23+6 weeks’ gestation. Urgent cesarean section
was performed taking into account the specific characteristics of IGU. A healthy
premature child was born. With the prior knowledge of IGU no complications
during delivery occurred and mother and child had favorable outcomes.

Conclusion IGU is a rare condition in pregnancy that should not be
overlooked. Early diagnosis and treatment of IGU can prevent serious
complications to the mother and child during pregnancy and delivery. In this
report, we discuss the specific peculiarities of an incarcerated uterus that
need to be considered in this regard.
Angioinvasive gastrointestinal mucormycosis with duodenal necrosis and perforation in a patient with visceral myopathy
Authors: Hunter Nicole , Kusnik Alexander , Hatem Layla , Chodos Ari , Baratta Anthony , Penmetsa Prasad , Levin Yana
Published: April 2023

A 55-year-old woman with a past medical history of visceral myopathy with multiple resultant abdominal surgeries, colectomy caused by severe pseudo-obstruction, and end-stage renal disease on hemodialysis presented with complaints of nausea, abdominal distention, vomiting, and diarrhea for five days. Small-bowel obstruction was identified on CT. She subsequently developed acute gastrointestinal bleeding, anemia, and hemodynamic instability. Extensive gastric ulceration with frank hemorrhage prompted urgent subtotal gastrectomy with multiple intraoperative findings, including a necrotic distal duodenum. Surgical pathology showed invasive fungal infection of the duodenum with perforation, morphologically compatible with invasive mucormycosis. The patient was started on intravenous liposomal amphotericin B, but despite best efforts, the patient ultimately succumbed to this invasive fungal infection in addition to sepsis and multi-organ failure.
Spontaneous detachment of the spiral overtube from the endoscope in the upper esophagus: a case report and literature review of a rare complication during motorized spiral enteroscopy
Authors: Wiedbrauck Damian , Wiedbrauck Felix , Freund Ulrich , Rodenberg Frauke , Prenzel Jens , Hollerbach Stephan
Published: April 2023

Background Motorized spiral enteroscopy (MSE) is a recent modality for diagnostic and therapeutic examination of the small bowel using a spiral-shaped overtube with an integrated electric motor attached to an endoscope. With growing evidence of its efficacy, MSE is increasingly being used by endoscopic facilities. We herein present an uncommon case of the detachment of the spiral overtube from the endoscope during MSE.

Case Report We performed antegrade MSE in a 75-year-old female under general anesthesia for coagulation of multiple small-bowel arteriovenous malformations and resection of a polyp detected on a previous capsule endoscopy. The management was successful, and we had no passage difficulties. However, during the withdrawal phase of the enteroscope, the entire spiral overtube disconnected from the endoscopic shaft and became stuck in the esophagus and pharynx. Attempts to remove the lodged spiral using various endoscopic forceps, graspers, snares, or a dilatation balloon failed. Also, the laryngoscopic use of Magill forceps did not allow grabbing the spiral properly. Eventually, the spiral could be retrieved laryngoscopically with arthroscopic grasping forceps. This incident caused laryngeal swelling and bleeding lacerations of the upper esophagus, which were clipped on a subsequent gastroscopy. No further long-lasting complications occurred in the patient.

Conclusion Detachment of the spiral from the enteroscope is a potentially life-threatening and challenging complication of MSE. Artificial ventilation under observation by an anesthesiologist allowed for calm management of this dangerous situation and increased the overall safety of the procedure. Hence, we believe that in the context of antegrade MSE, general anesthesia with endotracheal intubation should be mandatory.
Dispersion in Crystal Structures of 1-Chloro-3-aryl-5-trihalomethyl-1λ4,2,4,6-thiatriazines: Towards an Understanding of the Supramolecular Organization of Covalent Thiazyl Chlorides
Authors: Boeré René T. , Kondage Savini Suduweli , Roemmele Tracey L.
Published: April 2023

The syntheses of five new 1-chloro-3-aryl-5-trichloromethyl-1λ4,2,4,6-thiatriazines, aryl = 4-R-C6H4- (R = CH3O, CH3, H, Cl and CF3), are reported with full characterization. Single-crystal X-ray diffraction structure determinations on all, as well as the 5-CF3 analogue which also has R = CF3, with models produced by Hirshfeld atom refinement, produced high-accuracy structures. All six exemplars form lateral dimers with short contacts that define a centrosymmetric {δ+S···Nδ−}2 motif, with interaction distances from 3.0473(9) to 3.422(3) Å, which do not vary in an expected manner with R. Normal population analysis charges computed by B3LYP-D3/6-311++G(d,p) DFT methods show small variations, and entirely as expected from the inductive effects of R. Gas-phase minimization of the dimers with M06-2X/aug-cc-pVDZ or B3LYP-D3/6-311++G(d,p) methods, with full counterpoise correction, replicate the experimental geometries for the 5-CF3, the 5-CCl3/CH3OC6H4 and the 5-CCl3/CH3C6H4 experimental structures, but diverge for other CCl3 exemplars. Interaction energies are more than double those computed for [(HC)2N2S]2. Using a geometry-optimized model with H in place of CX3, the interaction energy reduces to a very realistic –22 to –24 kJ/mol for just the {δ+S···Nδ−}2 motif, suggesting that CX3 interactions contribute 21% (CF3) to 37% (CCl3) of the total.
Giant Ruptured Azygos Vein Aneurysm in a 33-Year-Old Woman
Authors: Uzdenov Murat , Kroll Johannes , Ballazhi Fatos , Czerny Martin
Published: April 2023

The rupture of an azygos vein aneurysm is a very rare but catastrophic complication. Careful differential diagnosis of acute dyspnea and thoracic pain in young patients is essential for effective and early management. We present the case of a young woman with a huge, spontaneously ruptured vena azygos saccular aneurysm, successfully repaired via median sternotomy under cardiopulmonary bypass.
Phytochemical Analysis of Nothapodytes tomentosa and Distribution and Content of Camptothecin and its Analogues in Four Plants
Authors: Li Junheng , Chen Yin , Wu Lei , Tuo Xiaotao , Wang Li , Zhou Guanglian , Huang Sheng-Xiong , Xiong Wei , Huang Jian-Ping
Published: April 2023

Camptothecin (CPT) and its derivatives have attracted worldwide attention because of their notable anticancer activity. However, the growing demand for CPT in the global pharmaceutical
industry has caused a severe shortage of CPT-producing plant resources. In this study, phytochemical analysis of Nothapodytes tomentosa results in the isolation and identification of
CPT (13) and 16 analogues (1 – 12, 14 – 17), including a new (1) and five known (9, 10, 12, 15, and 17) CPT analogues with an open E-ring. In
view of the potential anticancer activity of CPT analogues with an open E-ring, the fragmentation pathways and mass spectra profiles of these six CPT analogues (1, 9, 10, 12, 15, and
17) are investigated, providing a reference for the rapid detection of these compounds in other plants. Furthermore, based on the fragmentation patterns of CPT (13) and known
analogues (2 – 8, 11, 14, 16, 18 – 26), the distribution and content of these compounds in different tissues of N. tomentosa, N. nimmoniana, Camptotheca
acuminata, and Ophiorrhiza japonica are further studied. Our findings not only provide an alternative plant resource for further expanding the development and utilization of CPT
and its analogues, but also lay a foundation for improving the utilization of known CPT-producing plant resources.
Accelerated Electrosynthesis Development Enabled by High-Throughput Experimentation
Authors: Mo Yiming , Chen Huijie
Published: April 2023

Electrochemical synthesis has recently emerged as an environmentally benign method for synthesizing value-added fine chemicals. Its unique reactivity has attracted significant interests of synthetic chemists to develop new redox chemistries. However, compared to conventional chemistry, the increased complexity caused by electrode materials, supporting electrolytes, and setup configurations create obstacles for efficient reaction discovery and optimization. The recent increasing adoption of high-throughput experimentation (HTE) in synthetic chemistry significantly expedites the synthesis development. Considering the potential of implementing HTE in electrosynthesis to tackle the challenges of increased parameter space, this short review aims at providing recent advances in the HTE technology for electrosynthesis, including electrocatalysts screening, device miniaturization, electroanalytical methods, artificial intelligence, and system integration. The discussed contents also cover some topics in HTE electrochemistry for areas other than synthetic chemistry, hoping to spark some inspirations for readers to use interdisciplinary techniques to solve challenges in synthetic electrochemistry.

1 Introduction

2 Parallelized Reaction Screening

3 High-Throughput Screening for Electrocatalysts

4 Miniaturization of Screening Devices

5 Analytical Methods for Electrosynthesis Screening

6 Artificial Intelligence for High-Throughput Screening

7 Integrated Screening Systems

8 Conclusion and Outlook
Crystal Engineering, Electron Conduction, Molecular Recognition and Reactivity by Chalcogen Bonds in Tetracyanoquinodimethanes Fused with [1,2,5]Chalcogenadiazoles
Authors: Suzuki Takanori , Shimajiri Takuya , Jacquot de Rouville Henri-Pierre , Heitz Valérie , Akutagawa Tomoyuki , Fukushima Takanori , Ishigaki Yusuke
Published: April 2023

Studies on a series of tetracyanoquinodimethanes (TCNQs) fused with [1,2,5]chalcogenadiazole rings reveals that chalcogen bonds (ChBs), through E•••N≡C (E = S or Se) contacts, are a decisive factor in determining their crystal structures, with the formation of one- or two-dimensional networks in a lateral direction. For anion-radical salts generated by one-electron reduction, electron conduction occurs in the direction of the network due to intermolecular electronic interactions involving ChBs. Based on the reliable synthon E•••N≡C for crystal engineering, molecular recognition occurs so that solid-state molecular complexes are selectively formed with certain donors, such as xylenes, among their isomers by charge-transfer-type clathrate formation. The inclusion cavity of the clathrate might provide a reaction environment for photoinduced electron transfer in the solid state. The accommodation of multiple conformers of overcrowded ethylene exhibiting thermo/mechanochromism is another example of a novel function that can be realized by ChBs through E•••N≡C contacts. Therefore, these chalcogenadiazolo-TCNQs endowed with the ability to form ChBs are promising materials for the development of novel solid-state functions.

1 Introduction

2 Bis[1,2,5]thiadiazolo-TCNQ (BTDA)

2.1 Chalcogen Bonds in Crystal Structures of BTDA and its Se Analogues

2.2 Electronic Effects of Chalcogen Bonds in Organic Conductors Consisting of BTDA

2.3 Molecular Recognition by Chalcogen Bonds in Molecular Complexes of BTDA

2.4 Single-Crystalline-State Photoreactions of Molecular Complexes of BTDA

2.5 Overcrowded Ethylene Composed of a BTDA Substructure

3 TCNQ Analogues Fused with a [1,2,5]Chalcogenadiazole

3.1 Crystal Structures of Chalcogenadiazolo-TCNQs

3.2 Crystal Structures of Chalcogenadiazolo-TCNNQs: An E•••N≡C Chalcogen Bond versus a Weak C–H•••N≡C Hydrogen Bond

3.3 Molecular Recognition by Chalcogen Bonds in TCNNQ Derivatives

4 Outlook
Five-Year Survival of Patients Treated with Minimally Invasive Direct Coronary Artery Bypass (MIDCAB) Compared with the General Swiss Population
Authors: Reuthebuch Oliver , Stein Alina , Koechlin Luca , Gahl Brigitta , Berdajs Denis , Santer David , Eckstein Friedrich
Published: April 2023

Background To evaluate the midterm follow-up and 5-year survival outcome of the minimally invasive direct coronary artery bypass (MIDCAB) procedure compared with the survival of the general Swiss population.

Methods Retrospective study on preoperative data, intraoperative data, and postoperative outcome of patients who underwent MIDCAB surgery between June 2010 and February 2019. To assess validity of this surgical therapy, outcomes were compared with survival data of a gender- and age-matched cohort of the general Swiss population taken from the database of the Swiss Federal Statistical Office.

Results A total of 88 patients were included. Median (interquartile range [IQR[) age was 66 (56–75) years, and 27% (n = 24) were female. The median (IQR) length of the in-hospital stay was 7 (6–8) days. No postoperative stroke occurred. The 30-day mortality was 1.1% (n = 1). Reintervention for failed left internal mammary artery was needed in 1.1% (n = 1). The median (IQR) ejection fraction was 58% (47–60) preoperatively and remained stable during follow-up. The median (IQR) follow-up period was 3 (1.1–5.2) years. Five years postoperatively, 83% (confidence interval, 69–91) of the patients were alive, showing an overlap with the range of survival of the matched subcohort of the general Swiss population (range, 84–100%).

Conclusion Though suffering from coronary heart disease, patients after MIDCAB show almost equal survival rates as an equivalent subcohort corresponding to the general Swiss population matched on age and gender. Thus, our data show this treatment to be safe and beneficial.
47.1.5.5 Synthesis of Alkenes via Metal-Catalyzed Hydrofunctionalizations
Authors: Cheng Z. , Zheng Y. , Lu Z.
Published: April 2023

Alkenes bearing a functional group directly connected to the alkenyl moiety and functionalized allylic alkenes are important compounds. This review covers the synthesis of certain such alkenes via metal-catalyzed hydrofunctionalizations of alkynes and allenes. This update mainly summarizes protocols, reported in the period 2010–2020, that allow efficient access to various functional-group-tethered alkenes with high chemo-, regio-, and stereoselectivities.
Why banks insure structured commodity trade finance risk: evidence from a worldwide survey
Authors: Braun Alexander , Fischer Marius , Schreiber-Orosz Csilla
Published: April 2023

We identify major drivers of the demand for credit insurance, using a worldwide survey among banking executives in the structured commodity trade finance business. Our results show that a bank’s propensity to purchase insurance increases in its experience and expertise with the product, the impact of insurance coverage on its balance sheet, the risk of the underlying transaction, as well as the intensity of broker relationships. Other factors, such as the size of the commodity trade finance portfolio, the competitiveness of the insurance price, and the risks arising from commodity price volatility, seem to be of lesser relevance.
Formation of plasma density cavities caused by nonuniform stochastic electric fields
Authors: Azarenkov N. A. , Chibisov D. V.
Published: April 2023

The effect of depletion of the density of ions and electrons and the formation of a spatial cavity in a plasma-like medium due to inhomogeneous stochastic electric fields is considered. This effect is caused by collisions of charged plasma particles with random fluctuations of inhomogeneous electrostatic turbulence, as a result of which the particles are pushed out of the region with an increased level of fluctuations. To determine the final stationary distribution of the plasma density, the Fokker–Planck equation is used, the coefficients of which are determined from the equation of motion of particles in a stochastic electric field.
Thermodynamic features of the synthesis of high-density ceramic-metal materials “chromium oxide–chromium” from mixtures “chromium oxide–carbon” in the process of hot pressing
Authors: Gevorkyan E. S. , Nerubatskyi V. P. , Vovk R. V. , Szumiata T. , Hordiienko D. A. , Gzik-Szumiata M.
Published: April 2023

Obtaining ceramic-metal materials Cr2O3–Cr by reduction of chromium with carbon in the process of hot pressing makes it possible to get high-density materials for various functional applications. The thermodynamical study of the interaction of chromium oxide with carbon (soot) is of particular interest, since not only reduced chromium is formed during the synthesis, but also chromium carbides with different stoichiometry, which makes it possible to increase the density and, consequently, the strength of the composite as a whole. Using the partial reduction of chromium oxide with carbon, it is possible to synthesize ceramic-metal materials “chromium oxide–chromium” with different chromium content. The degree of occurrence of this reaction depends on the content of carbon monoxide in its products by lowering the concentration of the obtained pure chromium. This method enables obtaining a ceramic-metal material Cr2O3–22 wt% Cr of eutectic composition, which is characterized by special physical and mechanical properties.
Fractal analysis for low temperature physics
Authors: Chernogor Leonid F. , Lazorenko Oleg V. , Onishchenko Andrey A.
Published: April 2023

A short review of existing methods of monofractal analysis proposed for low temperature physics investigations is presented. Based on the nature of the algorithms used, a new classification of modern monofractal analysis methods is proposed. The properties, the advantages and the disadvantages of these methods are considered. An important new concept of second-order fractals is introduced. Using the set of simple deterministic theoretical models of both the second-order fractal signals created especially for this and the traditional fractal signals, the results of their comparison based on the wavelet analysis are shown. The peculiarities of the second-order fractals are discussed.
Inversion of the temperature coefficient of resistance of chromium films as the result of their nanocrystalline structure
Authors: Nevgasimov O. O. , Petrushenko S. I. , Dukarov S. V. , Sukhov V. M.
Published: April 2023

The temperature dependence of the resistance of chromium films obtained by the thermal deposition on a substrate at room temperature was studied. It is shown that the most probable crystallite size in as-deposited films is 9 nm and increases by about 15% after the first annealing. According to the results of resistive studies, the structure formed after the first heating is stable and changes slightly during thermal cycling. It has been found that up to a temperature of approximately 200 °C, the temperature coefficient of resistance of the samples is negative and amounts to approximately −2 · 10−4 K−1. With a further increase in temperature, the temperature coefficient of resistance becomes positive, but remains significantly lower than the value corresponding to chromium in the bulk state. The observed effects are explained by the nanocrystalline structure of the samples.
The yaq project: Standardized software enabling flexible instrumentation
Authors: Sunden Kyle F. , Kohler Daniel D. , Meyer Kent A. , Cruz Parrilla Peter L. , Wright John C. , Thompson Blaise J.
Published: April 2023

Modern instrumentation development often involves the incorporation of many dissimilar hardware peripherals into a single unified instrument. The increasing availability of modular hardware has brought greater instrument complexity to small research groups. This complexity stretches the capability of traditional, monolithic orchestration software. In many cases, a lack of software flexibility leads creative researchers to feel frustrated, unable to perform experiments they envision. Herein, we describe Yet Another acQuisition (yaq), a software project defining a new standardized way of communicating with diverse hardware peripherals. yaq encourages a highly modular approach to experimental software development that is well suited to address the experimental flexibility needs of complex instruments. yaq is designed to overcome hardware communication barriers that challenge typical experimental software. A large number of hardware peripherals are already supported, with tooling available to expand support. The yaq standard enables collaboration among multiple research groups, increasing code quality while lowering development effort.
Sound velocities of natural goethite across α–ɛ phase transformation under dynamic compression
Authors: Zhou Luyan , Jiang Gang , Gan Bo , Zhuang Yukai , Zhang Hong , Zhang Youjun
Published: April 2023

Goethite (α-FeOOH), a vital water- and hydrogen-bearing natural mineral, is extensively distributed on the Earth's surface and probably in the lower mantle. Laboratory measurements of its phase transition and sound velocities provide crucial data for a more rational understanding of the deep-water transportation and physical properties of the Earth's interior. Herein, the Hugoniot equation of state and sound velocities of natural goethite up to around 15 GPa are measured by dynamic compression. The discontinuities pertinent to the density and sound velocities of goethite are observed at 7.1 (2) GPa, in which a solid–solid phase transition occurs from α- (Pbnm) to ɛ-FeOOH (P21nm). Through this structural phase transition, the longitudinal and shear wave velocities in order, enhance by about 5% and 12%. We suggest that changes in the sound velocity due to the FeOOH phase transition may contribute to the discontinuity in the subduction zones.
Random migration with tie retention promotes cooperation in the prisoner’s dilemma game
Authors: Yang Zhihu , Zhang Liping
Published: April 2023

Migration has the potential to induce outbreaks of cooperation, yet little is known about random migration. Does random migration really inhibit cooperation as often as previously thought? Besides, prior literature has often ignored the stickiness of social ties when designing migration protocols and assumed that players always immediately disconnect from their ex-neighbors once they migrate. However, this is not always true. Here, we propose a model where players can still retain some bonds with their ex-partners after they move from one place to another. The results show that maintaining a certain number of social ties, regardless of prosocial, exploitative, or punitive, can nevertheless facilitate cooperation even if migration occurs in a totally random fashion. Notably, it reflects that tie retention can help random migration, previously thought to be harmful to cooperation, restore the ability to spark bursts of cooperation. The maximum number of retained ex-neighbors plays an important role in facilitating cooperation. We analyze the impact of social diversity in terms of the maximum number of retained ex-neighbors and migration probability, and find that the former enhances cooperation while the latter often engenders an optimal dependence between cooperation and migration. Our results instantiate a scenario in which random migration yields the outbreak of cooperation and highlight the importance of social stickiness.
A bi-directional flow-energy harvester
Authors: Zeng Lingwei , Zhao Fuwang , Wang Hanfeng , Wang Zhaokun , Yeung Waikin , Liu Yang , Tang Hui
Published: April 2023

Due to a rapid decrease in fossil fuel resources and ever-growing carbon emissions, clean energy is urgently needed as a vital solution. In the past two decades, harvesting clean energy from ambient environment has attracted much attention. Flow induced vibration and energy harvesting performance of a cylinder with fins attached were investigated. Four configurations were studied: a plain cylinder, a cylinder with two windward fins, a cylinder with two leeward fins, and a cylinder with four fins. These four cylinders were tested in a water channel with a reduced velocity ranging between 2 and 25 and a Reynolds number ranging between 1500 and 11 400. It was found that the two-windward-fin cylinder underwent galloping, exhibiting much larger vibration amplitudes and a much broader operational velocity range, whereas the two-leeward-fin cylinder only underwent weak vortex-induced vibrations. By attaching both two windward and two leeward fins to the cylinder, a bi-directional flow-energy harvester was implemented, which outperformed the plain cylinder with much larger vibration amplitudes and a much broader velocity range. More importantly, due to the geometric symmetry, it is able to harvest flow energy from two opposite directions. A tuned-mass-damper system was then attached to the four-fin cylinder for the purpose of demonstration. Within the current flow speed range, the maximal voltage and power outputs are about 7.37 V and 1.81 μW, respectively, about 2.7 and 7.2 times the plain cylinder's peak values. The effects of flow incident angle and fin length were also studied. Numerical simulations were also conducted to provide a detailed information of flow and pressure to uncover the underlying physics. This bi-directional flow-energy harvester is a suitable candidate to operate at sites where the flow periodically switches its directions, such as in tidal flows.
Unsteady electrorotation of a viscous drop in a uniform electric field
Authors: Sau Amalendu
Published: April 2023

A dielectric drop suspended in an immiscible dielectric fluid of higher conductivity can spontaneously generate the so-called Quincke rotation (a rotating activity that a weakly conducting drop/solid particle displays in an electric field) subjected to sufficiently strong electric field strength. The steady tilt has been extensively studied and is well elucidated now. However, the unsteady electrorotation of drop remains a largely unclear, complex issue. Motivated by this, we examine the unsteady drop electrorotation in this work with the required integrated convective bulk charge transport effect. First, for the steady rotation, the transient evolution to a steady droplet tilt from the symmetric Taylor state is analyzed in-depth. Here we discover several new phenomena, including the evolving equatorial charge jets. For unsteady rotation, based on a drop's interfacial charge variation, deformation, and tilt angle, the study reports the growth of three distinct rotating patterns in the viscosity ratio range 0.2≤λ=μi/μo≤20.0 and electric field strength E0≤25 kv/cm at a fixed conductivity ratio Q ( =  σi/σo) = 0.026 and permittivity ratio S (= ϵi/ϵo) = 0.566. A low-viscosity drop ( λ≤2.5) exhibits only the periodic rotation. For the viscosity ratio 2.5<λ<7.0, the increased electric intensity creates two new unsteady rotation modes: the pseudo-periodic tumbling and the irregular one. For λ≥7, the periodic mode remains absent; instead, the drop displays the electric intensity-dependent tumbling and irregular rotation patterns. Our study shows that the rotation reduces a drop's transitory interfacial charge. At this stage, the drop rotation behavior is controlled by competing charge convection due to fluid flow and charge supply by conduction. The resulting varying electric Reynolds number ReE (the time ratio of charge relaxation and charge convection) explains the created different rotation mechanisms. For ReE>1, owing to lacking enough interfacial charge to sustain rotation, the drop's transition to a temporary non-rotating Taylor state occurs until the interface recharges. The resultant mechanism supports the periodic batch-type rotation for a low-viscosity drop and the irregular rotation for a high-viscosity drop in a higher electric field. In contrast, for ReE<1, the drop timely acquires sufficient charge to support continuous tumbling electrorotation.
Odd symmetry planar Hall effect: A method of detecting current-induced in-plane magnetization switching
Authors: Posti Raghvendra , Kumar Abhishek , Baghoria Mayank , Prakash Bhanu , Tiwari Dhananjay , Roy Debangsu
Published: April 2023

The robustness of spin–orbit torque (SOT) induced magnetization switching and ease of deposition make type-X devices, where the in-plane easy axis lies perpendicular to the spin polarization, attractive in the field of spintronics. However, universally applicable and straightforward detection of type-X magnetization reversal is still elusive, unlike type-Z switching, which employs DC-based anomalous Hall effect measurement. Here, we demonstrated that the odd planar Hall voltage (O-PHV) signal exhibits an odd symmetry with the application of an external magnetic field which motivates us to develop a reading mechanism for detecting magnetization switching of in-plane magnetized type-X devices. We verified our DC-based reading mechanism in the Pt/Co/NiFe/Pt stack where a thin Co layer is inserted to create dissimilar interfaces about the NiFe layer. Remarkably, the current-induced in-plane fields are found to be significantly large in Pt/Co/NiFe/Pt stack. Furthermore, we employed the O-PHV method to detect the current-induced magnetization switching. The pure DC nature of the writing and reading mechanism of our proposed type-X detection technique through O-PHV makes it the easiest in-plane magnetization detection technique. Moreover, the high repeatability and easy detection of our proposed method will open avenues toward in-plane SOT switching based memory devices and sensors.
Parameter and coupling estimation in small networks of Izhikevich’s neurons
Authors: Aristides R. P. , Pons A. J. , Cerdeira H. A. , Masoller C. , Tirabassi G.
Published: April 2023

Nowadays, experimental techniques allow scientists to have access to large amounts of data. In order to obtain reliable information from the complex systems that produce these data, appropriate analysis tools are needed. The Kalman filter is a frequently used technique to infer, assuming a model of the system, the parameters of the model from uncertain observations. A well-known implementation of the Kalman filter, the unscented Kalman filter (UKF), was recently shown to be able to infer the connectivity of a set of coupled chaotic oscillators. In this work, we test whether the UKF can also reconstruct the connectivity of small groups of coupled neurons when their links are either electrical or chemical synapses. In particular, we consider Izhikevich neurons and aim to infer which neurons influence each other, considering simulated spike trains as the experimental observations used by the UKF. First, we verify that the UKF can recover the parameters of a single neuron, even when the parameters vary in time. Second, we analyze small neural ensembles and demonstrate that the UKF allows inferring the connectivity between the neurons, even for heterogeneous, directed, and temporally evolving networks. Our results show that time-dependent parameter and coupling estimation is possible in this nonlinearly coupled system.
Role of dual breakwaters and trenches on efficiency of an oscillating water column
Authors: Naik Nikita , Behera Harekrushna
Published: April 2023

In this paper, the effects of double-submerged breakwaters and trenches on the hydrodynamic performance of an oscillating water column (OWC) are investigated. The multi-domain boundary element method is used to tackle the physical problem of wave scattering and radiation from the device. The role of the height of the breakwaters, depth of the trenches, width of the breakwaters and trenches, spacing between the structures, length of the OWC chamber, and other wave and structural parameters is investigated on the efficiency of OWC. The study reveals that there is an oscillating pattern of the efficiency curve in the presence of single or double breakwater/trenches; this pattern is absent when the bottom is flat. Moreover, compared to single or no breakwaters/trenches, the occurrence of full OWC efficiency is higher in the presence of double breakwaters/trenches. Furthermore, the amplitude of the oscillating pattern in the efficiency curve increases with an increase in the height and depth of the breakwaters and trenches, respectively. For some particular wave and structural parameters, zero OWC efficiency occurs nearly k0h=3.4 within 0<k0h<5 (k0 wave number and h water depth). This zero efficiency moves toward small wave numbers as the spacing between OWC and rigid breakwater/trench increases. The radiation conductance of OWC decreases with an increase in the barrier height. The findings outline the structural criteria that can be employed to build and deploy an effective OWC device.
Determinants of collective failure in excitable networks
Authors: Barać Uroš , Perc Matjaž , Gosak Marko
Published: April 2023

We study collective failures in biologically realistic networks that consist of coupled excitable units. The networks have broad-scale degree distribution, high modularity, and small-world properties, while the excitable dynamics is determined by the paradigmatic FitzHugh–Nagumo model. We consider different coupling strengths, bifurcation distances, and various aging scenarios as potential culprits of collective failure. We find that for intermediate coupling strengths, the network remains globally active the longest if the high-degree nodes are first targets for inactivation. This agrees well with previously published results, which showed that oscillatory networks can be highly fragile to the targeted inactivation of low-degree nodes, especially under weak coupling. However, we also show that the most efficient strategy to enact collective failure does not only non-monotonically depend on the coupling strength, but it also depends on the distance from the bifurcation point to the oscillatory behavior of individual excitable units. Altogether, we provide a comprehensive account of determinants of collective failure in excitable networks, and we hope this will prove useful for better understanding breakdowns in systems that are subject to such dynamics.
Platelet-rich plasma and ovarian quiescence: a bovine in vitro model for regeneration of the ovary
Authors: Lange-Consiglio Anna , Gaspari Giulia , Riccaboni Pietro , Canesi Simone , Bosi Giampaolo , Vigo Daniele , Cremonesi Fausto
Published: April 2023

Context Ovarian quiescence can be due to hormonal deficiency usually caused by apoptosis of granulosa cells responsible for oestrogen synthesis. Aim This study evaluated the regenerative effect of platelet rich plasma (PRP) on bovine in vitro models to understand its effect on granulosa cells. Methods Quiescent and healthy ovarian sections were cultured in the presence/absence of PRP for 72 h and, at different times (0, 24, 48 and 72 h), hematoxylin-eosin and immunohistochemical detection of Ki-67 were performed. Additionally, granulosa cells collected from healthy bovine ovaries were stressed with 100 ng/mL of lipopolysaccharide (LPS) in presence/absence of PRP and evaluated at 0, 4, 8 and 24 h for apoptosis by acridine orange and propidium iodide staining. Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay tests were performed to evaluate oestrogen (E2) and anti-Müllerian hormone (AMH) concentrations on cultures of ovarian slices and granulosa cells. Key results In slides of quiescent ovaries treated with PRP, a marked and widespread positivity to Ki-67 was expressed by 40–60% of the follicular wall cells at 48 h of culture. Levels of E2 and AMH were significantly higher compared to untreated quiescent samples reaching the levels of healthy control samples. PRP counteracted the LPS effect and apoptosis (at 24 h, there were 93.44 ± 3.51% live cells with LPS + PRP compared to 37 ± 1.32% with LPS) and significantly increased concentrations of E2 and AMH. Conclusions PRP can stimulate granulosa cell proliferation and counteract inflammatory processes in vitro. Implications This treatment could improve the reproductive ability of quiescent females.
Standing genetic variation fuels rapid evolution of herbicide resistance in blackgrass
Authors: Kersten Sonja , Chang Jiyang , Huber Christian D. , Voichek Yoav , Lanz Christa , Hagmaier Timo , Lang Patricia , Lutz Ulrich , Hirschberg Insa , Lerchl Jens , Porri Aimone , Van de Peer Yves , Schmid Karl , Weigel Detlef , Rabanal Fernando A.
Published: April 2023

Repeated herbicide applications in agricultural fields exert strong selection on weeds such as blackgrass (
Alopecurus myosuroides
), which is a major threat for temperate climate cereal crops. This inadvertent selection pressure provides an opportunity for investigating the underlying genetic mechanisms and evolutionary processes of rapid adaptation, which can occur both through mutations in the direct targets of herbicides and through changes in other, often metabolic, pathways, known as non-target-site resistance. How much target-site resistance (TSR) relies on de novo mutations vs. standing variation is important for developing strategies to manage herbicide resistance. We first generated a chromosome-level reference genome for
A. myosuroides
for population genomic studies of herbicide resistance and genome-wide diversity across Europe in this species. Next, through empirical data in the form of highly accurate long-read amplicons of alleles encoding acetyl-CoA carboxylase (ACCase) and acetolactate synthase (ALS) variants, we showed that most populations with resistance due to TSR mutations—23 out of 27 and six out of nine populations for
ACCase
and
ALS
, respectively—contained at least two TSR haplotypes, indicating that soft sweeps are the norm. Finally, through forward-in-time simulations, we inferred that TSR is likely to mainly result from standing genetic variation, with only a minor role for de novo mutations.
Contextual modifiers of healthspan, lifespan, and epigenome in mice under chronic social stress
Authors: Razzoli Maria , Nyuyki-Dufe Kewir , Chen Brian H. , Bartolomucci Alessandro
Published: April 2023

Sustained life stress and low socioeconomic status are among the major causes of aging-related diseases and decreased life expectancy. Experimental rodent models can help to identify the underlying mechanisms, yet very few studies address the long-term consequences of social stress on aging. We conducted a randomized study involving more than 300 male mice of commonly used laboratory strains (C57BL/6J, CD1, and Sv129Ev) chosen for the spontaneous aggression gradient and stress-vulnerability. Mice were exposed to a lifelong chronic psychosocial stress protocol to model social gradients in aging and disease vulnerability. Low social rank, inferred based on a discretized aggression index, was found to negatively impact lifespan in our study population. However, social rank interacted with genetic background in that low-ranking C57BL/6J, high-ranking Sv129Ev, and middle-ranking CD1 mice had lower survival, respectively, implying a cost of maintaining a given social rank that varies across strains. Machine learning linear discriminant analysis identified baseline fat-free mass as the most important predictor of mouse genetic background and social rank in the present dataset. Finally, strain and social rank differences were significantly associated with epigenetic changes, most significantly in Sv129Ev mice and in high-ranking compared to lower ranking subjects. Overall, we identified genetic background and social rank as critical contextual modifiers of aging and lifespan in an ethologically relevant rodent model of social stress, thereby providing a preclinical experimental paradigm to study the impact of social determinants of health disparities and accelerated aging.
Single-shot time-folded fluorescence lifetime imaging
Authors: Kapitany Valentin , Zickus Vytautas , Fatima Areeba , Carles Guillem , Faccio Daniele
Published: April 2023

Fluorescence lifetime imaging is an important tool in bioimaging that allows one to detect subtle changes in cell dynamics and their environment. Most time-domain approaches currently involve scanning a single illumination point across the sample, which can make imaging dynamic scenes challenging, while single-shot “rapid lifetime determination” can suffer from large uncertainties when the lifetime is not appropriately sampled. Here, we propose a time-folded fluorescence lifetime imaging microscopy (TFFLIM) approach, whereby a time-folding cavity provides multiple spatially sheared replicas of the lifetime, each shifted temporally with respect to a fixed time gate. This provides a robust, single-shot FLIM approach that we experimentally validate across a broad lifetime range on fluorescent beads and Convallaria samples.