bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Heteroepitaxial growth of Ga2O3 on 4H-SiC by liquid-injection MOCVD for improved thermal management of Ga2O3 power devices
Authors: Hrubišák Fedor , Hušeková Kristína , Zheng Xiang , Rosová Alica , Dobročka Edmund , Ťapajna Milan , Mičušík Matej , Nádaždy Peter , Egyenes Fridrich , Keshtkar Javad , Kováčová Eva , Pomeroy James W. , Kuball Martin , Gucmann Filip
Published: June 2023

We report on the growth of monoclinic β- and orthorhombic κ-phase Ga2O3 thin films using liquid-injection metal-organic chemical vapor deposition on highly thermally conductive 4H-SiC substrates using gallium (III) acetylacetonate or tris(2,2,6,6-tetramethyl-3,5-heptanedionato) gallium (III). Both gallium precursors produced the β phase, while only the use of the latter led to growth of κ-Ga2O3. Regardless of the used precursor, best results for β-Ga2O3 were achieved at a growth temperature of 700 °C and O2 flows in the range of 600–800 SCCM. A relatively narrow growth window was found for κ-Ga2O3, and best results were achieved for growth temperatures of 600 °C and the O2 flow of 800 SCCM. While phase-pure β-Ga2O3 was prepared, κ-Ga2O3 showed various degrees of parasitic β phase inclusions. X-ray diffraction and transmission electron microscopy confirmed a highly textured structure of β- and κ-Ga2O3 layers resulting from the presence of multiple in-plane domain orientations. Thermal conductivities of 53 nm-thick β-Ga2O3 (2.13 + 0.29/−0.51 W/m K) and 45 nm-thick κ-Ga2O3 (1.23 + 0.22/−0.26 W/m K) were determined by transient thermoreflectance and implications for device applications were assessed. Presented results suggest great potential of heterointegration of Ga2O3 and SiC for improved thermal management and reliability of future Ga2O3-based high power devices.
Passive depth estimation for a narrowband source using a single vector sensor in deep water
Authors: Li He , Wang Tong , Su Lin , Guo Xinyi , Wang Che , Ma Li
Published: June 2023

For a narrowband signal, an oscillating interference pattern is formed with a target's moving when receiving at the bottom of the sea. In this Letter, the interference pattern of a narrowband source is observed using a single vector sensor (SVS). A passive depth estimation method employing a SVS is proposed. This approach processes the signals after the adaptive line enhancing and extracts the vector intensity, which oscillates periodically with the vertical azimuth. The passive estimation is achieved based on the Fourier-transform relationship between the depth and interference period. The simulation and sea experiment verify this method.
Particle-size dependent stability of co-continuous polymer blends
Authors: Shah Rajas Sudhir , Bryant Steven , Trifkovic Milana
Published: June 2023

The properties of polymer blend nanocomposites are typically associated with spatiotemporal distribution of nanoparticles within a polymer blend system. Here, we present in situ high-temperature confocal rheology studies to assess the effect of particle size on the extent of particle agglomeration, particle migration, and subsequently their influence on the coarsening dynamics of polymer blends filled with pristine silica particles. We investigate co-continuous polypropylene-poly(ethylene-co-vinyl acetate) blends filled with five different silica particles with a diameter ranging from 5 to 490 nm. While particle size does not play a role when particles are thermodynamically driven to their preferred polymer phase, a striking effect is achieved when particles are kinetically trapped at the interface. We find that the interparticle interaction largely driven by size dependent long-range repulsive forces governs their extent of agglomeration, severely affecting their ability to stabilize co-continuous morphology. Strikingly, the largest (490 nm) particles are more effective in suppressing coarsening than 5 nm particles, while 140 and 250 nm particles are found to be the most effective. We demonstrate that kinetic trapping of primary particles of either size is influenced by the interplay of interfacial folding during melt blending and Laplacian pressure exerted at the interface. These results extend our fundamental understanding of the stabilization of co-continuous morphology in polymer blends by particles.
Applicability of the Load–Velocity Relationship to Predict 1-Repetition Maximum in the Half-Squat in High-Level Sprinters
Authors: Kjær Rasmus B. , Herskind Jon H. , Kristiansen Mathias V. , Hvid Lars G.
Published: June 2023

Purpose: To investigate the indirect measurement of 1-repetition-maximum (1RM) free-weight half-squat in high-level sprinters using the load–velocity relationship. Methods: Half-squat load and velocity data from 11 elite sprinters were collected in 2 separate testing sessions. Approximately 24 hours prior to the first testing session, sprinters completed a fatiguing high-intensity training session consisting of running intervals, staircase exercises, and body-weight exercises. Prior to the second testing session, sprinters had rested at least 48 hours. Two different prediction models (multiple-point method, 2-point method) were used to estimate 1RM based on the load and either mean or peak concentric velocity data of submaximal lifts (40%–90% 1RM). The criterion validity of all methods was examined through intraclass correlation coefficients, coefficient of variation (CV%), Bland–Altman plots, and the SEM. Results: None of the estimations were significantly different from the actual 1RM. The multiple-point method showed higher intraclass correlation coefficients (.91 to .97), with CVs from 3.6% to 11.7% and SEMs from 5.4% to 10.6%. The 2-point method showed slightly lower intraclass correlation coefficients (.76 to .95), with CVs 1.4% to 17.5% and SEMs from 9.8% to 26.1%. Bland–Altman plots revealed a mean random bias in estimation of 1RM for both methods (mean and peak velocity) ranging from 1.06 to 13.79 kg. Conclusion: Velocity-based methods can be used to roughly estimate 1RM in elite sprinters in the rested and fatigued conditions. However, all methods showed variations that limit their applicability for accurate load prescription for individual athletes.
Park Area and Physical Activity Among Children and Adolescents: Findings From the Healthy Communities Study
Authors: Stewart Matthew T. , Verma Manish , Rajbhandari Alisha , Antonakos Cathy L. , Colabianchi Natalie
Published: June 2023

Background: There is currently a nationwide effort to bring parks and green spaces within a 10-minute walk of the home. We examined the association between park area within 1 km of a child’s residence and self-reported park-specific physical activity (PA) along with accelerometer-derived moderate to vigorous physical activity (MVPA). Methods: A subsample of K through eighth-grade youth (n = 493) from the Healthy Communities Study reported whether they engaged in park-specific PA during the last 24 hours and wore an accelerometer for up to 7 days. Park area was defined as the percentage of park land in a 1 km Euclidean buffer around the participant’s residence, categorized into quintiles. Analysis consisted of logistic and linear regression modeling with interaction effects that controlled for clustering within communities. Results: Regression models estimated greater park-specific PA for participants in the fourth and fifth quintiles of park land. Age, sex, race ethnicity, and family income were unrelated to park-specific PA. Accelerometer analysis indicated that total MVPA was unrelated to park area. Older children (β = −8.73, P < .001) and girls (β = −13.44, P < .001) engaged in less MVPA. Seasonality significantly predicted both park-specific PA and total MVPA. Conclusion: Increasing park area is likely to improve youth PA patterns, lending support for the 10-minute walk initiative.
Recycling and Resistance to Change in Physical Education: The Informal Recruitment of Physical Education Teachers in Schools
Authors: Flemons Michelle Elizabeth , Hill Joanne , O’Donovan Toni , Chater Angel
Published: June 2023

Purpose: Physical education (PE) teachers’ interactions with students were explored to examine self-selection for PE teaching as a career option during school. Method: Semistructured life story interviews were conducted with 29 PE teachers at different career stages. Complementing occupational socialization, Bourdieu’s habitus, capital, field, and practice were adopted as thinking tools to inform thematic analysis. Results: Three key themes were identified: (a) acceptance into the inner sanctum based on physical competence, effort, and enthusiasm for the traditional curriculum; (b) opportunities provided to students accepted into the inner sanctum, and (c) outside the inner sanctum: mismatched habitus and self-selection for PE teaching. Conclusion: Students exchanged competence, effort, and enthusiasm in the traditional curriculum for acceptance and opportunities to encourage self-selection for teaching PE. Without acceptance, individuals experienced challenges gaining career support. Dominated by a homogenous group resistant to change, PE needs independent careers information to promote change through heterogeneity.
Taurine linked with healthy aging
Authors: McGaunn Joseph , Baur Joseph A.
Published: June 2023

Reversing age-associated taurine loss improves mouse longevity and monkey health
Air pollution sensors can double as biodiversity monitors
Authors: Pennisi Elizabeth
Published: June 2023

Study points to cheap way to sniff out past and present species from DNA snagged in air filters
The Transcription Factor CcRlm1 Regulates Cell Wall Maintenance and Poplar Defense Response by Directly Targeting
CcChs6
and
CcGna1
in Cytospora chrysosperma
Authors: Xie Dadi , Tang Chen , Wang Yuanyuan , Jin Haojie , Wang Yonglin
Published: June 2023

Cytospora chrysosperma
causes canker diseases on woody plants, and the molecular basis of its infection is not well understood. This study shows that CcRlm1 is the major regulator of chitin synthesis and virulence of the poplar canker fungus. Our research contributes to further understanding the molecular basis of the interaction between
C. chrysosperma
and poplar.
The Cytomegalovirus M35 Protein Directly Binds to the Interferon-β Enhancer and Modulates Transcription of
Ifnb1
and Other IRF3-Driven Genes
Authors: Schwanke Hella , Gonçalves Magalhães Vladimir , Schmelz Stefan , Wyler Emanuel , Hennig Thomas , Günther Thomas , Grundhoff Adam , Dölken Lars , Landthaler Markus , van Ham Marco , Jänsch Lothar , Büssow Konrad , van den Heuvel Joop , Blankenfeldt Wulf , Friedel Caroline C. , Erhard Florian , Brinkmann Melanie M.
Published: June 2023

Replication of the ubiquitous human cytomegalovirus (HCMV) in healthy individuals mostly goes unnoticed but can impair fetal development or cause life-threatening symptoms in immunosuppressed or -deficient patients. Like other herpesviruses, CMV extensively manipulates its hosts and establishes lifelong latent infections.
Interaction of Teleost Fish TRPV4 with DEAD Box RNA Helicase 1 Regulates Iridovirus Replication
Authors: Luo Zhiyong , Zhan Zhipeng , Qin Xiaowei , Pan Weiqiang , Liang Mincong , Li Chuanrui , Weng Shaoping , He Jianguo , Guo Changjun
Published: June 2023

In 2020, global aquaculture production reached a record of 122.6 million tons, with a total value of $281.5 billion. Meanwhile, frequent outbreaks of viral diseases have occurred in aquaculture, and about 10% of farmed aquatic animal production has been lost to infectious diseases, resulting in more than $10 billion in economic losses every year.
Porcine Deltacoronavirus Infection Disrupts the Intestinal Mucosal Barrier and Inhibits Intestinal Stem Cell Differentiation to Goblet Cells via the Notch Signaling Pathway
Authors: Zhang Shuai , Zhang Shuoshuo , Hou Yuchen , Huang Yanjie , Cai Jiajia , Wang Guangzheng , Cao Yanan , Chen Zhenhai , Fang Xiaomin , Bao Wenbin
Published: June 2023

The intestinal mucosal barrier, mainly secreted by the intestinal goblet cells, is a crucial first line of defense against pathogenic microorganisms. PDCoV regulates the function and differentiation of goblet cells, thereby disrupting the mucosal barrier; however, the mechanism by which PDCoV disrupts the barrier is not known.
Dynamic genome-based metabolic modeling of the predominant cellulolytic rumen bacterium
Fibrobacter succinogenes
S85
Authors: Fakih Ibrahim , Got Jeanne , Robles-Rodriguez Carlos Eduardo , Siegel Anne , Forano Evelyne , Muñoz-Tamayo Rafael
Published: June 2023

Fibrobacter succinogenes
is a cellulolytic bacterium that plays an essential role in the degradation of plant fibers in the rumen ecosystem. It converts cellulose polymers into intracellular glycogen and the fermentation metabolites succinate, acetate, and formate. We developed dynamic models of
F. succinogenes
S85 metabolism on glucose, cellobiose, and cellulose on the basis of a network reconstruction done with the automatic reconstruction of metabolic model workspace. The reconstruction was based on genome annotation, five template-based orthology methods, gap filling, and manual curation. The metabolic network of
F. succinogenes
S85 comprises 1,565 reactions with 77% linked to 1,317 genes, 1,586 unique metabolites, and 931 pathways. The network was reduced using the NetRed algorithm and analyzed for the computation of elementary flux modes. A yield analysis was further performed to select a minimal set of macroscopic reactions for each substrate. The accuracy of the models was acceptable in simulating
F. succinogenes
carbohydrate metabolism with an average coefficient of variation of the root mean squared error of 19%. The resulting models are useful resources for investigating the metabolic capabilities of
F. succinogenes
S85, including the dynamics of metabolite production. Such an approach is a key step toward the integration of omics microbial information into predictive models of rumen metabolism.

IMPORTANCE

F. succinogenes
S85 is a cellulose-degrading and succinate-producing bacterium. Such functions are central for the rumen ecosystem and are of special interest for several industrial applications. This work illustrates how information of the genome of
F. succinogenes
can be translated to develop predictive dynamic models of rumen fermentation processes. We expect this approach can be applied to other rumen microbes for producing a model of rumen microbiome that can be used for studying microbial manipulation strategies aimed at enhancing feed utilization and mitigating enteric emissions.
CarRS Two-Component System Essential for Polymyxin B Resistance of Vibrio vulnificus Responds to Multiple Host Environmental Signals
Authors: Ko Duhyun , Sung Dayoung , Kim Tae Young , Choi Garam , Bang Ye-Ji , Choi Sang Ho
Published: June 2023

Enteropathogenic bacteria have evolved multiple TCSs to recognize and appropriately respond to host environments. CAMP is one of the inherent host barriers that the pathogens encounter during the course of infection.
Diminished Neutralization Capacity of SARS-CoV-2 Omicron BA.1 in Donor Plasma Collected from January to March 2021
Authors: Lin Yi-Chan J. , Evans David H. , Robbins Ninette F. , Orjuela Guillermo , Abe Kento T. , Rathod Bhavisha , Colwill Karen , Gingras Anne-Claude , Tuite Ashleigh , Yi Qi-Long , O’Brien Sheila F. , Drews Steven J.
Published: June 2023

SARS-CoV-2 Omicron emergence occurred in Canada during the period from November 2021 to January 2022. This study assessed the ability of donor plasma collected earlier (January to March 2021) to generate any neutralizing capacity against Omicron BA.1 SARS-CoV-2.
Boninitic melt percolation makes depleted mantle wedges rich in silica
Authors: Chen Ming , Zheng Jianping , Dai Hong-Kun , Xiong Qing , Sun Min , Buslov Mikhail M. , Zhou Xiang , Liu Jingao
Published: June 2023

Global fore- and sub-arc peridotites show paradoxically highly melt-depleted yet silica-enriched (as excess orthopyroxene) compositions, which have been attributed to either silica-enriched mantle sources or metasomatic overprints by silica-rich fluids/melts. Here, we present robust mineralogical evidence from an ophiolitic peridotite suite and thermodynamic modeling suggesting that boninitic melt percolation is a viable manner to induce silica enrichment and keep the ultra-depleted signature in a nascent lithospheric mantle wedge. The co-occurrence of resorbed olivines and euhedral high-Cr# spinels with a boninitic origin enclosed by porphyroblastic orthopyroxenes in these peridotites documents that the primary olivines were partially melted or dissolved along with precipitation of the euhedral spinels and growth of the orthopyroxene through reactions between the depleted peridotites and boninitic melts. Such metasomatism modulates the geochemistry of mantle wedges and can explain the compositional variations observed in the majority of global fore- and sub-arc peridotites and supra–subduction zone ophiolitic counterparts. Lateral assembly of these mantle domains by accretionary orogenesis may contribute to the growth of continental lithosphere and accounts for the existence of melt-depleted yet silica-enriched mantle domains beneath orogens.
External second opinions: building trust between health professionals and families
Authors: Fraser James , Goold Imogen , Akindolie Omowunmi , Linney Mike
Published: June 2023

In medicine, external second opinions are frequently sought to inform decisions around a patient’s proposed course of treatment. However, they are also sought in more challenging circumstances such as when disagreement arises between the healthcare team and the family, or during complex end-of-life discussions in critically ill children. When done well, external second opinions can help build trust and reduce conflict. However, when done poorly they may antagonise relationships and thwart attempts to bring about consensus. While principles of good medical practice should always be followed, the actual second opinion process itself remains essentially unregulated in all its forms. In this review, we set out what a standardised and transparent second opinion process should look like and recommend key recommendations for healthcare Trusts, Commissioners and professional bodies to support good practice.
Effect of a new graphically modified Nutri-Score on the objective understanding of foods’ nutrient profile and ultraprocessing: a randomised controlled trial
Authors: Srour Bernard , Hercberg Serge , Galan Pilar , Monteiro Carlos Augusto , Szabo de Edelenyi Fabien , Bourhis Laurent , Fialon Morgane , Sarda Barthélémy , Druesne-Pecollo Nathalie , Esseddik Younes , Deschasaux-Tanguy Mélanie , Julia Chantal , Touvier Mathilde
Published: June 2023

Introduction

When considering health-related impacts of foods, nutrient profile and (ultra)processing are two complementary dimensions. The Nutri-Score informs on the nutrient profile dimension. Recently, mounting evidence linked ultraprocessed food consumption to various adverse health outcomes, independently of their nutrient profile. To inform consumers about each of these health-related dimensions of food, we tested, in a randomised controlled trial, if a graphically modified version ‘Nutri-Score V.2.0’, including a black ‘ultraprocessed’ banner, would improve the capacity of consumers to rank products according to their nutrient profile and to detect those ultra-processed, compared with a no-label situation.

Methods

21 159 participants included in the NutriNet-Santé web-cohort were randomly assigned to a control arm (no front-of-pack label) or an experimental arm (Nutri-Score 2.0) and were presented an online questionnaire with three sets of food products (cookies, breakfast cereals and ready-to-eat meals) to rank according to nutrient profile and to identify ultraprocessed foods. The primary outcome was objective understanding of nutrient profile and ultraprocessing, represented by a score of correct answers. Secondary outcomes were purchasing intentions and the healthiest-perceived product. Multinomial logistic regressions were performed.

Results

The Nutri-Score V.2.0 increased the objective understanding of both the nutrient profile dimension (ORhighest vs lowest score category=29.0 (23.4–35.9), p<0.001) and the ultraprocessing dimension (OR=174.3 (151.4–200.5), p<0.001). Trends were similar for cookies, breakfast cereals and ready-to-eat meals. The Nutri-Score V.2.0 had a positive effect on purchasing intentions and on the products perceived as the healthiest.

Conclusion

This randomised controlled trial demonstrates the interest of a front-of-pack label combining the Nutri-Score (informing on the nutrient profile dimension) with an additional graphic mention, indicating when the food is ultraprocessed, compared with a no-label situation. Our results show that a combined label enabled participants to independently understand these two complementary dimensions of foods.

Trial registration number

NCT05610930.
Risk factors for misdiagnosis in children with developmental dysplasia of the hip: a retrospective single centre study
Authors: Fan Zong-Zhi , Yan Ya-Bo , Sha Jia , Xu Hui-Fa , Li Chao , Liu Zhi-Chen , Liu Jing , Huang Lu-Yu
Published: June 2023

Objective

To investigate risk factors of misdiagnosis at the first visit of children with developmental dysplasia of the hip (DDH) who did not participate in hip ultrasound screening.

Methods

A retrospective review was conducted on children with DDH admitted to a tertiary hospital in northwestern China between January 2010 and June 2021. We divided the patients into the diagnosis and misdiagnosis groups according to whether they were diagnosed at the first visit. The basic information, treatment process and medical information of the children were investigated. We made a line chart of the annual misdiagnosis rate to observe the trend in the annual misdiagnosis rate. Univariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses were used to identify significant risk factors for missed diagnosis.

Results

A total of 351 patients met the inclusion criteria, including 256 (72.9%) patients in the diagnosis group and 95 (27.1%) patients in the misdiagnosis group. The line chart of the annual rate of misdiagnoses among children with DDH from 2010 to 2020 showed no significant change trend. Multiple logistic regression analysis showed that the paediatrics department (vthe paediatric orthopaedics department: OR 0.21, p<0.001), the general orthopaedics department (vthe paediatric orthopaedics department: OR 0.39, p=0.006) and the senior physician (vthe junior physician: OR 2.47, p=0.006) on the misdiagnosis at the first visit of children were statistically significant.

Conclusion

Children with DDH without hip ultrasound screening are prone to be misdiagnosed at their first visit. The annual misdiagnosis rate has not been significantly reduced in recent years. The department and title of the physician are independent risk factors for misdiagnosis.
Clinical outcomes after aortic valve replacement with severe stenosis of trileaflet aortic valve and low valve calcium score
Authors: Choi Yeonwoo , Ahn Jung-Min , Yang Dong Hyun , Koo Hyun Jung , Lee Seung-Ah , Kang Do-Yoon , Kim Joon Bum , Park Duk–Woo , Kim Dae-Hee , Choo Suk Jung , Park Seung-Jung
Published: June 2023

Background

Some patients have severe aortic valve stenosis (AS) despite a lower degree of aortic valve calcification (AVC). This study compared the clinical features and prognosis of patients undergoing aortic valve replacement (AVR) for severe AS with a low AVC score compared with those with higher AVC scores.

Methods

This study included 1002 Korean patients with symptomatic severe degenerative AS who underwent AVR. We measured AVC score before AVR and defined low AVC as AVC score of <2000 units for male patients and <1300 units for female patients. Patients with bicuspid or rheumatic aortic valve disease were excluded.

Results

The mean age was 75.6±7.9 years and 487 patients (48.6%) were female. Mean left ventricular ejection fraction was 59.4%±10.4%, and concomitant coronary revascularisation was performed in 96 patients (9.6%). The median aortic valve calcium score was 3122 units (IQR 2249–4289 units) among male patients and 1756 units (IQR 1192–2572) among female patients. A total of 242 patients (24.2%) had low AVC; they were significantly younger (73.5±8.7 years vs 76.3±7.5 years, p<0.001) and were more likely to be female (59.5% vs 45.1%, p<0.001) and on haemodialysis (5.4% vs 1.8%, p=0.006) than those with high AVC. During a follow-up (median: 3.8 years), the patients with low AVC had significantly higher risk of death from any cause (adjusted HR 1.60, 95% CI 1.02 to 2.52, p=0.04), mostly non-cardiac cause.

Conclusions

Patients with low AVC exhibit distinct clinical characteristics and a higher risk of long-term mortality compared with those with high AVC.
Developing a definition of immune exclusion in cancer: results of a modified Delphi workshop
Authors: Clifton Guy Travis , Rothenberg Mace , Ascierto Paolo Antonio , Begley Glenn , Cecchini Michael , Eder Joseph Paul , Ghiringhelli Francois , Italiano Antoine , Kochetkova Marina , Li Rong , Mechta-Grigoriou Fatima , Pai Sara I , Provenzano Paolo , Puré Ellen , Ribas Antoni , Schalper Kurt A , Fridman Wolf Herve
Published: June 2023

Checkpoint inhibitors represent an effective treatment approach for a variety of cancers through their inhibition of immune regulatory pathways within the tumor microenvironment (TME). Unfortunately only a minority of patients with cancer achieve clinical benefit from immunotherapy, with the TME emerging as an important predictor of outcomes and sensitivity to therapy. The extent and pattern of T-cell infiltration can vary prominently within/across tumors and represents a biological continuum. Three immune profiles have been identified along this continuum: ‘immune-desert’ or ‘T-cell cold’ phenotype, ‘immune-active’, ‘inflamed’, or ‘T-cell hot’ phenotype, and ‘immune excluded’ phenotype. Of the three profiles, immune excluded remains the most ill-defined with no clear, universally accepted definition even though it is commonly associated with lack of response to immune checkpoint inhibitors and poor clinical outcomes. To address this, 16 multidisciplinary cancer experts from around the world were invited to participate in a symposium using a three-round modified Delphi approach. The first round was an open-ended questionnaire distributed via email and the second was an in-person discussion of the first round results that allowed for statements to be revised as necessary to achieve a maximum consensus (75% agreement) among the rating committee (RC). The final round questionnaire was distributed to the RC via email and had a 100% completion rate. The Delphi process resulted in moving us closer to a consensus definition for immune exclusion that is practical, clinically pertinent, and applicable across a wide range of cancer histologies. A general consensus of the role of immune exclusion in resistance to checkpoint therapy and five research priorities emerged from this process. Together, these tools could help efforts designed to address the underlying mechanisms of immune exclusion that span cancer types and, ultimately, aid in the development of treatments to target these mechanisms to improve patient outcomes.
Encephalopathy with Guillain-Barré syndrome: seek a different cause
Authors: Kon Fu Chuen , Hoggard Nigel , Gillett Godfrey , Hadjivassiliou M
Published: June 2023

A 30-year-old woman developed symptoms, signs and neurophysiology consistent with Guillain-Barré syndrome and was admitted to the neurosciences intensive care unit owing to respiratory compromise. Here, she received a clonidine infusion for agitation, complicated by a minor hypotensive episode, following which she became unconscious. MR scan of the brain showed changes compatible with hypoxic brain injury. Urinary amino acids showed increased urinary α-ketoglutarate. Genetic testing using whole-exome sequencing identified pathogenic variants in theSLC13A3gene known to be associated with an acute reversible leukoencephalopathy with increased urinary α-ketoglutarate. The case highlights the importance of considering inborn errors of metabolism in cases of unexplained encephalopathy.
Centrifuge modeling of the run-out behavior of fly ash deposits subjected to a loss of confinement
Authors: Madabhushi S.S.C. , Follett S.B. , O’Hara K.B. , Wilson D.W. , Kutter B.L. , Martinez A.
Published: June 2023

Numerous industries are concerned by the humanitarian, environmental, and economic consequences of debris flows, landslides, and material run-outs. However, the run-out behavior following a loss of confinement, e.g., dam failure, is not well understood. The material’s complex constitutive behavior means multiple mechanisms contribute to the deformation, e.g., slope instability, seepage forces, erosion, or static liquefaction. In this study, centrifuge models of fly ash deposits, with varying initial deposit density and water table height, were subjected to a rapid loss of lateral confinement. Deformation, pore pressure, and water content measurements were used to investigate and separate the mechanisms governing the run-out. Static liquefaction was observed in deposits initially looser than the critical state and led to a rapid material outflow. Slope instability was the initial failure mechanism for denser deposits or those with reduced water tables, with transient stability due to dilation-induced negative excess pore pressures followed by progressive failures caused by seepage pressures from drainage and pore pressure dissipation. Cone penetration tests, performed before the loss of confinement at different penetration rates, were used to characterize the material run-out and volume change tendencies and demonstrate a practical tool for assessing the run-out risk of deposits in the field.
Seismic reflection stratigraphy of Lac Simard, Quebec, Canada: mass flow sedimentation in glacial Lake Barlow-Ojibway
Authors: Yu Alan J. , Eyles Nick , Doughty Mike , Bukhari Syed
Published: June 2023

Lac Simard is a glaciated Shield basin situated in the Western Quebec Seismic Zone, an area of recurrent intraplate seismicity encompassing several densely populated areas. Previous works nearby have demonstrated that sediments preserved in lake basins hold the potential to serve as valuable archives of paleoseismicity. Correspondingly, a high-resolution chirp seismic reflection survey was conducted in Lac Simard, with results showing four acoustic facies (Af-1 to Af-4) within two stratigraphic successions (SS-1 and SS-2). The lowermost SS-1 is dominated by high-amplitude, laminated Af-2, interpreted as lateglacial varves deposited by suspension from primarily overflows and interflows during glacial lake ponding following deglaciation. Suspension deposition of Af-2 was episodically interrupted by stacked, chaotically bedded, weakly graded to opaque, channelled Af-3 interpreted as either debris flows or high-density turbidity currents. Presence of silt-clast breccias in Af-3 also suggests downslope collapse and reworking of varves from basin sidewalls. The overlying SS-2 is dominated by weakly reflective, laminated, high-frequency varved Af-4, suggesting a continuing seasonal control on postglacial sedimentation but with relative sediment starvation. A basin-wide erosional unconformity separating SS-1 and postglacial SS-2 records the abrupt drainage of glacial Lake Barlow-Ojibway around 8 000 years ago. Considering the history of lake floor disturbance in the region, mass flow facies Af-3 may be seismogenic, and thus, have regional tectonic significance. However, we cannot rule out the possibility of mass flows triggered by abrupt inflows of meltwater and sediment from a highly dynamic retreating Laurentide Ice Sheet prone to surging.
Finite-group gauge theories on lattices as Hamiltonian systems with constraints
Authors: Araujo de Resende M. F.
Published: June 2023

In this work, we present a brief but insightful overview of the gauge theories, which are defined on n-dimensional lattices by using finite gauge groups, in order to show how they can be interpreted as a Hamiltonian system with constraints, analogous to what happens with the classical (continuous) gauge (field) theories. As this interpretation is not usually explored in the literature that discusses/introduces the concept of lattice gauge theory, but some recent works have been exploring Hamiltonian models in order to support some kind of quantum computation, we use this interpretation to, for example, present a brief geometric view of one class of these models: the Kitaev Quantum Double Models.
Steady growth of length function and Malcev algebras
Authors: Guterman Alexander , Kudryavtsev Dmitry
Published: June 2023

We introduce and investigate the algebras of steadily growing length, that is the class of algebras, where the length is bounded by a linear function of the dimension. In particular we show that Malcev algebras belong to this class and establish the exact upper bound for its length.
Observational constraints on a transit cosmological model in f(R,G) gravity
Authors: Shukla Bhupendra Kumar , Tiwari R. K. , Sofuoğlu D.
Published: June 2023

In this article, we examine the universe’s dynamical behaviour in the context of the [Formula: see text] theory of gravity, where [Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text] represent the Ricci scalar and Gauss-Bonnet invariant, respectively. The modified field equations are solved for the selection of [Formula: see text] function as [Formula: see text] and of the deceleration parameter as a linear function of Hubble parameter, i.e., [Formula: see text]. We predict the best fit values of model parameters that would be in agreement with the recent observational datasets. We use the CC, Pantheon and BAO datasets as well as the Bayesian analysis and likelihood function together with the MCMC method. Further, we examine the physical behavior of cosmographic parameters corresponding to the constrained values of the model parameters as well as the energy density and pressure. The model obtained exhibits a transition from decelerating to accelerating expansion phases of the universe. We show that our [Formula: see text] model can explain the late accelerating expansion of the universe without calling any dark energy term in the energy-momentum tensor.
Drone Security for Precision Agriculture by Using One-Dimensional Convolutional Neural Network
Authors: Joshi Apoorv , Lachure Jaykumar , Doriya Rajesh
Published: June 2023

New advancements in agricultural techniques, methods of food production, and delivery have introduced new and relatively unexplored cyber-attack pathways, the security and economic implications of which are not yet fully understood. Precision agriculture is key to overcome predicted food supply shortages to fulfil global demand. A growing number of technologies, such as sensors, transmitters, and data systems, are used in smart farming environments to make decisions based on data. These decisions are then integrated with improved machinery to increase production and decrease input–output inconsistencies. Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs) are independent devices used in smart farming for various purposes. These devices are susceptible to different types of attacks. In this paper, we proposed a deep learning model for detecting attacks on UAVs by using a 1D Convolutional Neural Network. The NSL-KDD dataset is used to measure the performance of the proposed model, and remarkable accuracy of 99.77% and an impressively low false positive rate of 0.0038 is achieved.
Evaluation of Coefficients of Friction for Cylinders, Rolling Down an Inclined Plane, by a Facile Video Analysis Technique
Authors: Hashim Hafiz Arslan , Ali Qazi Syed Nasrullah , Anwar Muhammad Sabieh , Zafar Qayyum
Published: June 2023

Recently, the use of video analysis technique has emerged as an effective and facile learning tool, due to the richness of spatial and temporal data useful to investigate the complex physical phenomena related to kinematics. In this study, we have investigated the motion of solid and annular cylinders rolling down an inclined wooden plane at different angles. The linear accelerations of the cylinders for the case of rolling (with and without slipping) have been derived theoretically and have been compared with their experimental counterparts. Specifically, the experimental values have been determined by performing a series of experiments, wherein the motion of the cylinders has been captured via a digital camera (recording at 240 frames s[Formula: see text]) and later analyzed frame by frame utilizing in-house developed GUI-based “Phystrack” video tracking library. We have measured the transition angles corresponding to the transition of motion (a) from rest to rolling, and (b) from pure rolling to a combination of rolling and slipping mode of motion, for the case of two distinct cylinders. This has eventually allowed us to compute the coefficient of static, kinetic and rolling friction for the aforementioned cylinders. In general, the coefficient of kinetic friction is regarded as an intrinsic material-dependent constant and considered as independent of the geometry of the object. However, in the case of rolling motion, the coefficients of friction are strongly dependent upon the geometrical parameters of the rolling object. The study emphasizes on developing the conceptual understanding ability of physics students pertaining to the friction coefficient of rolling objects.
Sortledton: a Universal Graph Data Structure
Authors: Fuchs Per , Margan Domagoj , Giceva Jana
Published: June 2023

Despite the wide adoption of graph processing across many different application domains, there is no underlying data structure that can serve a variety of graph workloads (analytics, traversals, and pattern matching) on dynamic graphs with single edge updates updates.
When is it safe to run a transactional workload under Read Committed?
Authors: Vandevoort Brecht , Ketsman Bas , Koch Christoph , Neven Frank
Published: June 2023

The popular isolation level multiversion Read Committed (RC) exchanges some of the strong guarantees of serializability for increased transaction throughput. Nevertheless, transaction workloads can sometimes be executed under RC while still guaranteeing serializability at a reduced cost. Such workloads are said to be robust against RC. This paper provides a high level overview of deciding robustness against RC. In particular, we discuss how a sound and complete test can be obtained through the formalization of transaction templates. We then increase the modeling power of transaction templates by extending them with functional constraints which are useful for capturing data dependencies like foreign keys. We show that the incorporation of functional constraints can identify more workloads as robust than would otherwise be the case. Even though the robustness problem becomes undecidable in its most general form, we establish that various restrictions on functional constraints lead to decidable and even tractable results that can be used to model and test for robustness against RC for practical scenarios.
Building Write-Optimized Tree Indexes on Disaggregated Memory
Authors: Wang Qing , Lu Youyou , Shu Jiwu
Published: June 2023

Memory disaggregation architecture physically separates CPU and memory into independent components, which are connected via high-speed RDMA networks, greatly improving resource utilization of database systems. However, such an architecture poses unique challenges to data indexing due to limited RDMA semantics and near-zero computation power at memory side. Existing indexes supporting disaggregated memory either suffer from low write performance, or require hardware modification.
Nonconjugated Redox-Active Polymers: Electron Transfer Mechanisms, Energy Storage, and Chemical Versatility
Authors: Ma Ting , Easley Alexandra D. , Thakur Ratul Mitra , Mohanty Khirabdhi T. , Wang Chen , Lutkenhaus Jodie L.
Published: June 2023

The storage of electric energy in a safe and environmentally friendly way is of ever-growing importance for a modern, technology-based society. With future pressures predicted for batteries that contain strategic metals, there is increasing interest in metal-free electrode materials. Among candidate materials, nonconjugated redox-active polymers (NC-RAPs) have advantages in terms of cost-effectiveness, good processability, unique electrochemical properties, and precise tuning for different battery chemistries. Here, we review the current state of the art regarding the mechanisms of redox kinetics, molecular design, synthesis, and application of NC-RAPs in electrochemical energy storage and conversion. Different redox chemistries are compared, including polyquinones, polyimides, polyketones, sulfur-containing polymers, radical-containing polymers, polyphenylamines, polyphenazines, polyphenothiazines, polyphenoxazines, and polyviologens. We close with cell design principles considering electrolyte optimization and cell configuration. Finally, we point to fundamental and applied areas of future promise for designer NC-RAPs.
NiO/Co2P Nanosheets with Heterogeneous Structure as a Multifunctional Catalyst for Overall Water Splitting
Authors: Tong Xianfeng , Liao Wenhao , Zhai Yali , Liu Pengwei , Yang Qinghua , Chen Tianyun
Published: June 2023

Exploring efficient and low-cost multifunctional electrocatalysts is a prerequisite for the development of energy storage and converting technology. In this work, NiO/Co2P nanosheets (NiO/Co2P NSs) with heterogeneous structure were investigated through hydrothermal method, annealing and phosphating processes. Considering the synergistic effect between NiO and Co2P, we demonstrated the excellent electrocatalytic properties of NiO/Co2P NSs for OER and HER. By optimizing the electronic structure of NiO and Co2P, as well as the high specific surface area of the nanosheet structure and the presence of a large number of mesopores, more active sites are exposed and the electrocatalytic efficiency is improved, thus providing excellent electrocatalytic performance. Specifically, NiO/Co2P NSs can reach 108 and 207 mV at the current density of 10 mA cm−2 in alkaline medium for HER and OER. And it requires a voltage of 1.57 V to reach a current density of 10 mA cm−2 for overall water splitting. In conclusion, this study demonstrates the critical contribution of heterogeneous structures to promote electrocatalytic properties and open new perspectives for designing multifunctional catalysts.
Super Ionic Li3–2xMx(OH)1-yNyCl (M=Ca, W, N=F) Halide Hydroxide as an Anti-Perovskite Electrolyte for Solid-State Batteries
Authors: Nangir Mahya , Massoudi Abouzar , Omidvar Hamid
Published: June 2023

Lithium halide hydroxide (Li2OHX) as a new class of low-cost, lightweight solid electrolyte (SSE) shows promising lithium-ion conductivity for advanced solid-state batteries. Here, using solid-state synthesis and extensive materials characterization, the impurity-free Li3–2xMx(OH)1-yNyCl (M=Ca, W, N=F) are reported, having

σ

gb

=
23.7

mS cm−1 and

σ

b

=
9.6

mS cm−1 at 140 °C for

x
=
y
=
0
.

Substituted smaller anionic dopants, such as

F

−

,

facilitate the movement of Li ions within the anti-perovskite framework through rotational disordering in local coordination, resulting in the highest ion conductivity of 0.28 mS cm−1 at 25 °C. Using a strong combination of XRD, FTIR, pH, elemental EDS analysis, and calculated activation energies, it is demonstrated that the presence of H in these SSEs yields significantly higher Li+-ionic conductivity. Rotation of an OH-group in enlarged Cl-O-Cl triangular in the synthesized SSEs and their fully defected/ disordered structures enhance Li-ion conductivity.
Statistical Distribution of Critical Pitting Temperature of Stainless Steels
Authors: Nakhaie Davood , Zakeri Masoud , Naghizadeh Masoumeh , Clifford Amanda M. , Asselin Edouard
Published: June 2023

The range of Critical Pitting Temperature (CPT) for five different stainless steels is measured to determine whether it is wide or narrow. The impact of bulk solution composition and surface passivation on CPT was also measured in order to evaluate the relative importance of pit initiation and pit propagation on CPT. The results of the study revealed that CPT can be measured within a narrow range (±1.3 °C) regardless of the alloy and bulk solution composition. It is also shown that experimental error caused by crevice corrosion can lead to a wider range of CPT values. These results are explained using the Salinas-Bravo and Newman CPT model. It is shown that, for the conditions studied herein, CPT is not dependent on pit initiation, but rather, it is a transition phenomenon, i.e., CPT is determined by the transition from metastable to stable pit growth.
Effects of a school-based sexuality curriculum on sexual and reproductive health in freshmen at Shandong University in China
Authors: Guo Yuji , Diao Jiuzhou , Liu Tingting , Luo Liyan , Zhang Xiaoli , Li Qing , Cui Dongqing , Li Rulong , Zheng Xiaolei , Wang Ping
Published: June 2023

To assess the SRH knowledge, sexual attitudes, and practices in freshmen of Shandong University and assess the effect of SC, an online cross-sectional survey was conducted via a WeChat applet. Our findings indicate that these freshmen demonstrate a high prevalence of being sexually active and exposure to a school-based SC had a beneficial effect on increasing the SRH knowledge of these students as well as mitigating risky sexual attitudes and behaviors.
An educational game for teaching osmolarity and tonicity: opinions of dental and medical students
Authors: Pessoa Pamella Teles , Palanch Adrianne Christine , Casale Karina Reche , Montrezor Luís Henrique , Taxini Camila Linhares , Azevedo Maria Antonia , Marcondes Fernanda Klein
Published: June 2023

This study describes an educational game for teaching osmolarity and tonicity, using classical red blood cell experiment results. The game was used during dialogic teaching, which was interrupted three times so that the student groups could answer questions about the experiments by completing a table describing the effects of different solutions on cell volume. According to the students’ perception, the game contributed to their understanding of osmolarity and tonicity as related to human cells.
Settlement of the Tropical Box Mussel, Septifer bilocularis: Effects of Site, Position, and Substratum
Authors: Ompi Medy , Boneka Farnis B. , Kaligis Erly Y. , Kaunang Stella T.
Published: June 2023

The box tropical mussel Septifer bilocularis lives attached to a hard substratum, forming a dense aggregation or patch. The aggregation occurs at the time of larvae settlement in response to different cues. Larvae may have a positive response whereas larvae may settle and attach to the substratum, while in a negative response, postpone settling occurs. Byssus threads are produced and attached to the substratum, and for some reason, they are affected by many variables. We studied whether the attachment was affected by sites, position in the patch, and substratum. Large and small patches of mussel beds were selected arbitrarily, each in 3 replicates. Substrata of palm, coconut, polypropylene fibres, and mussel shells with byssus threads, each in 4 replicates, were distributed randomly into a PVC plate with 16 holes. The PVC plates with experimental substrata were placed along the edge and in the middle of large and small patches. A three-factorial ANOVA was then performed on samples of sites, position in patches, and substratum as main effects. A significant effect of sites, position within patches, and substratum as well were found. A significantly high number of new settlers in small patches than in other positions within patches occurred. The larger number of new settlers was found on coconut, palm, and polypropylene fibres, while low numbers on the mussel shells with byssus threads were found. The new settlers of S. bilocularis (<1 mm) with transparent shells were observed attached to coconut, palm, and polypropylene fibres. In contrast, the new settlers ranged from >1 mm to 3 mm with dark green shells attached to mussel shells with byssus threads. This study suggests that early settlement occurs when mussels’ larvae first settle and attach to coconut, palm, and polypropylene fibres before reattaching to adult shells with byssus threads.