bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Role of Intra‐Band Relaxation of Holes and Tunneling of Electrons in Carrier Relaxation in AlGaAs/GaAs Quantum Well
Authors: Khan Saleem , Khan Salahuddin , Jayabalan Jesumani , Khamari Shailesh Kumar , Sharma Tarun Kumar
Published: February 2022

The role of intra‐band hole relaxation and tunneling of electrons in the carrier relaxation in Al0.7Ga0.3As/GaAs quantum well (QW) is studied by performing pump‐probe transient reflectivity measurements with a femtosecond laser at room temperature. The ultrafast optical response of the QW sample is measured with an aim of understanding various ultrafast processes occurring on the time scale of ∼100 fs to 10 ps. Carriers are injected into the QW layer via a resonant photoexcitation of electron–hole pairs enabling a sharp rise of the signal. Carrier relaxation inside QW is dominated by non‐radiative processes like phonon‐mediated intra‐band relaxation of holes and tunneling of electrons out of the QW plane and their subsequent capture by the midgap states in the AlGaAs barrier. Subsequent to the initial thermalization within 100 fs, carrier relaxation is mainly driven by the tunneling of electrons and trapping by the midgap states over a time scale of 3–8 ps. In between, photoexcited holes are seen to relax from light to heavy hole states of QW within 1–2 ps, leading to a delayed rise of transient reflectivity signal. Systematic efforts are made to isolate various contributions which showed phonon re‐absorption leading to saturation effect in intraband relaxation.
Pressure‐Driven Magneto‐Topological Phase Transition in a Magnetic Weyl Semimetal
Authors: Zeng Qingqi , Sun Hongyi , Shen Jianlei , Yao Qiushi , Zhang Qian , Li Nana , Jiao Lin , Wei Hongxiang , Felser Claudia , Wang Yonggang , Liu Qihang , Liu Enke
Published: February 2022

The co‐occurrence of phase transitions with local and global order parameters, such as entangled magnetization and topological invariants, is attractive but seldom realized experimentally. In this study, a magneto‐topological phase transition (magneto‐TPT), that is, the phenomenon of magnetic materials undergoing different magnetic and topological phases during pressure loading, is investigated. By considering both out‐of‐plane ferromagnetic and in‐plane antiferromagnetic components, it is discovered that the calculated results fit well with the experimental data. The calculation results further reveal a pristine Weyl phase with four additional pairs of Weyl nodes under low pressure, and a generally defined Z2 topological insulator phase after the restoration of time‐reversal symmetry at 40.4 GPa. The transport measurements performed at 5 K reveal that the magnetic order almost vanishes at 40.3 GPa, which is consistent with the theoretical prediction. Moreover, the present magneto‐TPT involves the degeneration of a pair of crossing bands of two spin channels. Hence, all the chiral Weyl nodes annihilate with their counterparts from another spin channel, in contrast to the typical intraband annihilation of Weyl pairs in inversion‐asymmetric systems. The study reveals a method for realizing diverse topological states by modulating exchange splitting by external physical knobs such as pressure in topological magnets.
Management of large dilute plumes of chloroethenes and 1,4‐dioxane via monitored natural attenuation (MNA) and MNA augmentation
Authors: Rhea Lee K. , Clark Catherine
Published: February 2022

Management of large, dilute groundwater plumes of comingled chlorinated volatile organic compounds (CVOCs) and 1,4‐dioxane (dioxane) is problematic due to chemical, hydrogeologic and economic concerns. The US Environmental Protection Agency (US EPA) has conducted research on the management of CVOC plumes for many years, and more recently dioxane. US EPA research on monitored natural attenuation (MNA) of CVOC plumes was reviewed by a science advisory board in 2001. Specific additional research was recommended and has been addressed in a series of US EPA reports produced over almost two decades. These reports are summarized in this document along with supporting information including evidence of biological degradation of dioxane. Based on the summarized reports, US EPA work documented elsewhere, and the work of others, under appropriate conditions MNA or augmented MNA remain viable management options for these plumes. Unlike MNA of plumes containing only CVOCs, however, MNA of large dilute comingled plumes should be expected to occur by cometabolic oxidation rather than direct metabolic processes.
Mesoporous Gamma‐Alumina‐Supported Mo Catalysts: Effect of Calcination Temperature
Authors: Yue Shengnan , Yin Zequn , Zou Xingli , Zou Xiujing , Lu Xionggang , Wang Xueguang
Published: February 2022

Mesoporous γ‐Al2O3‐supported Mo oxides precursors were prepared by one‐step hydrolysis method without organic template at different calcination temperatures (MoOx/γ‐MA‐T) from 400 to 700 °C. Then MoS2 catalysts (MoS2/γ‐MA‐T) were obtained from the precursors through in‐situ sulfurization and applied for hydrodesulfurization (HDS) of dibenzothiophene (DBT). Effects of precursors calcination temperature on physicochemical properties and catalytic performances of catalysts were systematically investigated. With the increase of calcination temperature, the strength of metal‐support interactions and slab lengths of MoS2 increased. The slab stacks were inhibited by the strengthened strong interaction, leading to the reduction of edge/rim sites ratio that are favour for the HDS reaction. Appropriate calcination temperature (500 °C) could make the MoS2/γ‐MA‐500 possess favourable pore structure, particle dispersion, and edge/rim sites ratio, which were conducive to the mass transfer process of reactants and products, and lowered the carbon deposition rate, thus improving its catalytic activity, stability and direct hydrogenolysis desulfurization selectivity.
Plasticizing Effect of Ionic Liquid on Poly (vinyl alcohol) with Different Degrees of Polymerization
Authors: Wang Chao , Zou Liming , Wang Huajun , Wang Yanli , Chen Deqiang
Published: February 2022

The plasticized poly(vinyl alcohol) (TPVA) was successfully prepared using poly(vinyl alcohol) (PVA) and 1‐butyl‐3‐methylimidazolium bromide (BMIMBr). Plasticizing effect of the degree of polymerization (DP) on PVA was investigated by differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), thermo gravimetric analysis (TGA), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT‐IR), X‐ray diffraction (XRD), and melt flow indexer (MI). It was found that new hydrogen bonds between PVA and BMIMBr were formed, which was confirmed by the‐OH shift of PVA in FT‐IR analysis. XRD analysis showed that the original lattice and more irregular molecular chain structures in the amorphous region of PVA were destroyed effectively, which was conducive to the decrease of degree of crystallinity. Moreover, the plasticizing effect decreased with the increase of DP duo to more molecular entanglements in PVA. TPVA‐1799 possessed the largest thermal processing window and best melt flowability, which was significant for melt spinning in the future.
Introduction of 3‐Hydroxypropionate Moieties to Polystyrene by “Graft Through” Strategy
Authors: Savaş Bedrettin , Çatıker Efkan , Öztürk Temel , Meyvacı Ergül
Published: February 2022

3‐hydroxypropionate moieties grafted polystyrene [poly(S‐g‐3HP)] was prepared by sequentially applying the hydrogen‐transfer polymerization (HTP) and the free‐radical polymerization (FRP) via “grafting through” strategy. For this purpose, oligomeric poly(3‐hydroxypropionate) with vinyl end‐group (P3HP) was prepared via HTP of acrylic acid in the presence of tNaBuO as an alkaline catalyst. Then, the oligomeric P3HP was used as a comonomer in the FRP of styrene yielding the poly(S‐g‐3HP) copolymer, namely chemically modified polystyrene. 1H‐NMR, FTIR, DSC, TGA, GPC, and MALDI MS techniques were applied to confirm the structures of both the oligomer and modified polystyrene. Glass transition temperatures of the modified polystyrene samples were found to be decreased from 103 to 84 °C depending upon the amount of 3‐hydroxypropionate (3HP) moieties. Solution‐cast films were prepared by the polystyrene homopolymer and modified polystyrenes. The contact angle values were determined to decrease gradually from 87.5 to 53.7° with increasing the amount of the 3HP moiety grafted polystyrene.
Narrowing of the Particle Size Distribution of InP Quantum Dots for Green Light Emission by Synthesis in Micro‐Flow Reactor
Authors: Okamoto Akihito , Toda Shintaro , Hirakawa Masaaki , Bai Haruki , Tanaka Michiyo , Seino Satoshi , Nakagawa Takashi , Murakami Hirohiko
Published: February 2022

Quantum dots (QDs), with their superior efficiency, color purity, and color controllability, are expected to be applied in next generation displays and other devices. The development of methods to synthesize QDs still provide equivalent or better performance without restricted substances such as cadmium (Cd) and lead (Pb) is a meaningful challenge. In this study, InP QDs were synthesized using the micro‐flow reactor (MFR) with an extremely high rate of temperature change to shorten the nucleation time and avoid Ostwald ripening during QD synthesis. As a result, the particle size distribution was narrowed and the emission full‐width at half maximum (FWHM) was reduced to less than 40 nm. While other related studies have tried complex methods, in our efforts, it was achieved by using the simple MFR. These results can accelerate the application of InP QDs as a promising option for commercially viable QDs.
To Be or Not to Be – Review of Electrical Bistability Mechanisms in Polymer Memory Devices
Authors: Paul Febin , Paul Shashi
Published: February 2022

Organic memory devices are a rapidly evolving field with much improvement in device performance, fabrication, and application. But the reports have been disparate in terms of the material behavior and the switching mechanisms in the devices. And, despite the advantages, the lack of agreement in regards to the switching behavior of the memory devices is the biggest challenge that the field must overcome to mature as a commercial competitor. This lack of consensus has been the motivation of this work wherein various works are compiled together to understand influencing factors in the memory devices. Different works are compared together to discover some clues about the nature of the switching occurring in the devices, along with some missing links that would require further investigation. The charge storage mechanism is critically analyzed alongside the various resistive switching mechanisms such as filamentary conduction, redox‐based switching, metal oxide switching, and other proposed mechanisms. The factors that affect the switching process are also analyzed including the effect of nanoparticles, the effect of the choice of polymer, or even the effect of electrodes on the switching behavior and the performance parameters of the memory device.
Investigations on the Electrochemical and Mechanical Properties of Sb2O3 Nanobelts by In Situ Transmission Electron Microscopy
Authors: Zheng Yifan , Zhang Zhi , Liu Weifeng , Wu Yonghui , Fu Xiutao , Li Luying , Su Jun , Gao Yihua
Published: February 2022

Sb2O3 shows great promise as a high‐capacity anode material for sodium‐ion batteries (SIBs) due to the combined mechanisms of intercalation, conversion, and alloying. In this work, the electrochemical performance and mechanical property of Sb2O3 nanobelts during sodiation/desodiation are revealed by constructing nanoscale solid‐state SIBs in a high‐resolution transmission electron microscopy. It is found that the Sb2O3 nanobelt exhibits an ultrahigh sodiation speed of ≈13.5 nm s−1 and experiences a three‐step sodiation reaction including the intercalation reaction to form NaxSb2O3, the conversion reaction to form Sb, and the alloying reaction to form NaSb. The alloying reaction is found to be reversible, while the conversion reaction is partially reversible. The Sb2O3 nanobelt shows anisotropic expansion and the orientation of the Sb2O3 nanobelt has great influence on the expansion ratio. It is found that the existence of a {010} plane with large d‐spacing in the nanobelt leads to a surprisingly small expansion ratio (≈5%). The morphology of the Sb2O3 nanobelt is well maintained during multiple electrochemical cycles. In situ bending experiments suggest that the sodiated Sb2O3 nanobelts show improved toughness and flexibility compared to pristine Sb2O3 nanobelts. These fundamental studies provide insight into the rational design of anode materials with improved electrochemical and mechanical performance in SIBs.
Roles of Long‐Chain Alkylamine Ligands in Triple‐Halide Perovskites for Efficient NiOx‐Based Inverted Perovskite Solar Cells
Authors: Ju Hui , Ma Yajie , Cao Ye , Wang Zixuan , Liu Liming , Wan Meixiu , Mahmoudi Tahmineh , Hahn Yoon-Bong , Wang Yousheng , Mai Yaohua
Published: February 2022

The passivation of perovskite bulk and heterointerface defects is one of the most significant ways to enhance the efficiency and operational stability of perovskite solar cells (PSCs). So far, ammonium‐based alkylamine halides have been considered as effective passivation materials to reduce defects of the perovskite absorber layer. Herein, roles of long‐chain alkylamine ligands (LALs) in triple‐halide perovskites are systematically studied for achieving efficient NiOx‐based inverted PSCs. Two kinds of LALs oleylammonium (OAm) and phenethylammonium (PEA), as perovskite bulk and interface passivation agents, respectively, are introduced. It is found that both OAm and PEA ligands cannot only assist their crystal growth with vertical orientation, but also suppress triple‐halide perovskite bulk and interface defects. As precursor additives, OAm ligands can be used as organic spacers to assist the generation of the 2D@3D perovskite bulk crystals. 2D@3D/2D perovskite heterostructures are further formed when the 2D@3D perovskite bulk film is post‐treated by PEA ligands. As a result, such strategies enable hysteresis‐free and highly efficient NiOx‐based triple‐halide inverted PSCs.
Effect of Temperature on Reduction Behaviors and Microstructural Changes of Magnetite with H2 Under Fluidized Bed Conditions
Authors: Li Yanjun , Li Peiyu , Yu Jianwen , Han Yuexin , Gao Peng
Published: February 2022

Here in this paper, the effect of temperature on reduction behaviors and microstructural changes of magnetite by hydrogen is studied in a laboratory micro‐fluidized bed reactor. The phase compositions and microstructures of reduced samples are investigated by X‐ray diffraction, scanning electron microscope, and Brunauer–Emmett–Teller method. The results show that a metallization degree of 90.85% is obtained under the optimal conditions of reduction temperature of 570 °C, H2 concentration of 80%, and reduction time of 40 min. The metallization degree gradually increases with the temperature, and the magnetite (Fe3O4) is directly reduced to porous metallic iron (Fe) in the temperature range of 470–570 °C. While, the magnetite is first reduced to wüstite (FeO) and then further reduced to metallic iron with a dense structure in the temperature range of 570–670 °C. The dense metallic iron layer forms on the raw magnetite particle surface, which prevents the contact and reaction of the reducing gas with the iron oxide, resulting in a sharp decrease in the metallization degree.
A Translanguaging Read‐Aloud
Authors: Kelly Laura Beth
Published: February 2022

This teaching tip describes a translanguaging read‐aloud protocol. In a translanguaging read‐aloud, teachers and students interact with a text (either a bilingual text or a monolingual one) in multiple languages. Teachers plan explanations, questions, and other interactions in multiple languages to amplify and clarify the text. Teachers can adapt these read‐alouds to different purposes such as blending languages in a read‐aloud to accommodate a mix of linguistic backgrounds in the same class or using a more familiar language to make a text written in a less familiar language comprehensible to students.
5 key strategies lessen regulatory hurdles for international students
Authors: Sanford Amy Aldridge , Raj Rishi
Published: February 2022

A little more than 1 million students with international student or scholar visas are currently enrolled in institutions of higher education in the United States, making up nearly 6% of all postsecondary enrollment within the country. NAFSA, the world's largest professional association dedicated to international education, reported that in 2019–2020 alone, international students contributed $38.7 billion to the U.S. economy (read more at https://bit.ly/3AfNCla).
Unusual case of pleural effusion caused by amlodipine in a dog with systemic hypertension
Authors: Jang Hee‐Won , Park Su‐Min , Hwang Seo‐young , Kang Kyuyong , Choi Mincheol , An Ju‐Hyun , Chae Hyung‐Kyu , Oh Ye‐In , Youn Hwa‐Young
Published: February 2022

Objective

The aim of this report is to document the case of a dog that developed pleural effusion as a potential side‐effect to the administration of a high‐dose of amlodipine.

Case summary

A Yorkshire terrier dog (13‐year‐old, castrated male, 4.5 kg) presented with severe systemic hypertension (>200 mmHg), hyperkalaemia, and acute pancreatitis. The dog had hyperadrenocorticism, chronic valvular heart disease, chronic kidney disease, and cerebellar infarction as underlying diseases. Additionally, the dog had laboured breathing and tachypnoea during hospitalization. Screening examinations revealed a pleural effusion (pure transudate) for which hypoalbuminemia and thromboembolism were ruled out as the causes. Therefore, the adverse drug event of an anti‐hypertensive drug (amlodipine) was tentatively diagnosed.

Conclusions

Pleural effusion resolved within 24 h of reducing the dosage of amlodipine. Hence, the dog was diagnosed with amlodipine‐induced pleural effusion. Rarely, amlodipine can cause pleural effusion after high‐dose administrations in humans, but only two cases of peripheral edema have been reported in animals. If pleural effusion occurs in hypertensive patients administered amlodipine, it should be considered as the potential cause.
The effects of methionine administration during the beginning postnatal days on the ovarian structures in adult rats
Authors: Nazem Mohamad Naser , Aghamiri Seyed Morteza , Kheirandish Reza , Hakimy Zeinab
Published: February 2022

Objectives

Methionine is known as an essential amino acid in mammals. Consuming excessive amounts of methionine has toxic effects. This study aimed at evaluating the histomorphometric and histopathologic changes of ovaries after methionine administration during follicle formation.

Material and methods

A total of 60 newborn female rats born under similar conditions were selected and randomly assigned into three groups including control, recipients of 50 and 200 mg/kg body weight of methionine for 5 days. On day 120, all 60 female rats were euthanized and the whole left ovary of each animal was taken in order to count the number of primordial, primary, secondary, antral, atretic follicles, as well as corpora lutea and also to conduct histopathologic study.

Results

According to the results, the 50 mg/kg methionine did not significantly change the number of primordial follicles compared to the control group but the 200 mg/kg dose significantly decreased the number of primordial follicles. There were no significant differences between the groups in the number of other types of follicles and also in the number of corpora lutea. There was no histopathological lesion in the groups.

Conclusions

It seems that the high dose of methionine could exacerbate apoptosis of the primordial ovarian follicle during the follicle assembly process. However, the remaining were enough to form later stages of follicles after puberty.
Reviewing toxicokinetics with a focus on metabolism of new psychoactive substances in the zebrafish (larvae) model
Authors: Wagmann Lea , Meyer Markus R.
Published: February 2022

Zebrafish (Danio rerio) share around 70% of their genome with humans and many important enzymes for drug metabolism such as some cytochrome p450s have direct orthologs in zebrafish. To date, several studies showed a similar metabolism to humans in general. Furthermore, although using adult fish as model organism requires approval by an Ethics Committee, using larvae until 120 h postfertilization does not necessarily need any approval at least in the European Union. All these aspects seem to be beneficial for using zebrafish (larvae) in toxicokinetic studies for the so‐called new psychoactive substances. These compounds are expected to have similar effects as traditional drugs of abuse but are often not listed as controlled drugs when they first appear on the market. However, no information about their toxicokinetics is available when they appear, which is particularly critical concerning their biotransformation. This knowledge is important for example, for developing urine‐based screening procedures or for predicting drug–drug interactions. This focus article aims to briefly introduce into the topic of using zebrafish (larvae) in the context of toxicokinetic studies, particularly metabolism studies, and will highlight some aspects such as the route of administration, which are important to consider when using this model.

This article is categorized under:

Toxicology > New Psychoactive Substances

Toxicology > Analytical
Assessment of essential micronutrient levels in common beans (Phaseolus vulgaris) in Kenya by total reflection X‐ray fluorescence
Authors: Nguli Magdalene , Gatari Michael J. , Shepherd Keith , Njenga Lydia , Boman Johan
Published: February 2022

In Kenya, where malnutrition and hidden hunger still pose a significant challenge to growth and development, beans are an essential source of food for most of the population. However, data on micronutrient in beans are limited, and although they are required in very small amounts, they are essential for growth and development of plants as well as human beings. The aim of this study was to determine the concentrations of Mn, Fe, Cu, and Zn, in common beans in Kenya. Samples of both fresh bean leaves and dry grains of the most common bean varieties were collected from small‐scale farmers in Muguga and Kyevaluki in Kiambu and Machakos Counties, respectively. They were analyzed using total reflection x‐ray fluorescence (TXRF), a technique of increasing interest for food analysis since it is fast, easy, and reliable. Standard methods of sample preparation were used, and average elemental concentrations were compared with established sufficiency ranges. Bean leaves and dry bean grains from both sampling areas had sufficient concentrations of the four analyzed elements. Except for the Fe concentrations, the concentrations of the others elements were in the lower end of the sufficiency range for all bean species. The results obtained from this study are essential information for both farmers and policy makers and can be incorporated in programs to guide policy aimed at improving the nutritional quality of beans and thus food security in Kenya.
Organic‐Inorganic Hybrid Low‐dimensional Lead Iodides with Broadband Yellow to Red Light Emissions
Authors: Feng Li‐Juan , Zhao Yan‐Yu , Song Ru‐Yang , Yue Cheng‐Yang
Published: February 2022

By using the same saturated organic cations as structural templates, we synthesized and characterized a series of organic‐inorganic hybrid lead iodides with different structural types, namely as, 1D [(Me)4‐Pipz]Pb2I6 (1), 1D [(Me)4‐Pipz]PbI4 (2) and 2D [(Me)4‐Pipz]2Pb5I14 (3), in different organic solutions. Remarkably, these hybrid lead iodides display tunable broadband light emissions from yellow (578 nm) to red (680 nm) spectral range, which can be ascribed to self‐trapped excitons based on systematic spectroscopy characterizations. This work affords one structural design strategy to realize tunable structural skeletons and broadband low‐energy photoluminescence emissions in hybrid lead iodides.
Generalized Classical Weighted Means, the Invariance, Complementarity and Convergence of Iterates of the Mean-Type Mappings
Authors: Głazowska Dorota , Matkowski Janusz
Published: February 2022

Under some simple conditions on real functionfdefined on an intervalI, the bivariable functions given by the following formulas$$\begin{aligned} A_{f}\left( x,y\right):= & {} f\left( x\right) +y-f\left( y\right) , \\ G_{f}\left( x,y\right):= & {} \frac{f\left( x\right) }{f\left( y\right) }\,y, \\ \text{ and } \quad H_{f}\left( x,y\right):= & {} \frac{xy}{f\left( x\right) +y-f\left( y\right) }, \end{aligned}$$Afx,y:=fx+y-fy,Gfx,y:=fxfyy,andHfx,y:=xyfx+y-fy,for all$$x,y\in I$$x,y∈I, generalize, respectively, the classical weighted arithmetic, geometric and harmonic means. The invariance equations$$\begin{aligned} A_{f}\circ \left( G_{g},H_{h}\right) =A_{f}, \quad G_{g}\circ \left( A_{f},H_{h}\right) =G_{g} \quad \text{ and } \quad H_{h}\circ \left( A_{f},G_{g}\right) =H_{h}, \end{aligned}$$Af∘Gg,Hh=Af,Gg∘Af,Hh=GgandHh∘Af,Gg=Hh,wheref,g, hare the unknown functions are, in some special cases, solved. The convergence of iterates of the relevant mean-type mappings is considered. As an application the solutions of some functional equations are determined.
Secure Computation for Threshold Functions with Physical Cards: Power of Private Permutations
Authors: Nakai Takeshi , Shirouchi Satoshi , Tokushige Yuuki , Iwamoto Mitsugu , Ohta Kazuo
Published: February 2022

Card-based cryptography is a variant of multi-party computation using physical cards like playing cards. There are two models on card-based cryptography, called public and private models. The public model assumes that all operations are executed publicly, while the private model allows the players private operations called private permutations (PP, for short). Much of the existing card-based protocols were developed under the public model. Under the public model, 2ncards are necessary for every protocol withn-bit input since at least two cards are required to express a bit. In this paper, we proposen-bit input protocols with fewer than 2ncards by utilizing PP, which shows the power of PP. In particular, we show that a protocol for (n-bit input) threshold function can be realized with only$$n+1$$n+1cards by reducing the threshold function to the majority voting. Toward this end, we first offer that two-bit input protocols for logic gates can be realized with fewer than four cards. Furthermore, we construct a new protocol for three-input majority voting with only four cards by observing the relationship between AND/OR operations. This protocol can be easily extended to more participants, and to the protocol for threshold functions.
Generalized absence seizures: Where do we stand today?
Authors: Stefan Hermann , Trinka Eugen
Published: February 2022

Generalized absence seizures are discussed here with respect to changing scientific concepts and newer findings, challenging the strict dichotomy of “generalized” vs. “focal” which may be counterproductive to the development of new ideas and treatments. Data from semiology, structural, and functional studies using quantitative electroencephalography (EEG), video-EEG monitoring, magnetoencephalography, magnetic resonance imaging, and positron emission tomography as well as neuropathology suggest a nosological spectrum from focal to generalized seizure-generating mechanisms. The terms “focal” and “generalized” as used to describe seizures represent abstractions and idealizations rather than ontological entities. The new terminology and classification of the ILAE (2017), despite its enormous merits, unfortunately also facilitates and fosters reductionist thinking, which may be pragmatic from a utilitarian perspective, but risks hindering scientific developments for the future. For instance, the seizure semiology of absences as a paradigmatic generalized seizure type is now classified as “non-motor seizure.” A detailed phenomenological analysis reveals that motor activity is an integral part of this seizure type. Many motor and so-called automatic absence symptoms can be understood as correlated elements of a general organization plan of the cortex. Corresponding functional and structural changes seen in imaging and high-resolution electrophysiology studies indicate focal contributions to seizure generation and a combination of focal and generalized features. Functional findings indicate that the frontal lobe with its projections to other brain areas may play an important role in generalized absence seizures. In this critical review we assess the evolution of pathophysiological concepts through the ages and present new research approaches for diagnosis and treatment.
Reproductive interference and Satyrisation: mechanisms, outcomes and potential use for insect control
Authors: Mitchell Christina , Leigh Stewart , Alphey Luke , Haerty Wilfried , Chapman Tracey
Published: February 2022

Reproductive Interference occurs when interactions between individuals from different species disrupt reproductive processes, resulting in a fitness cost to one or both parties involved. It is typically observed between individuals of closely related species, often upon secondary contact. In both vertebrates and invertebrates, Reproductive Interference is frequently referred to as ‘Satyrisation’. It can manifest in various ways, ranging from blocking or reducing the efficacy of mating signals, through to negative effects of heterospecific copulations and the production of sterile or infertile hybrid offspring. The negative fitness effects of Satyrisation in reciprocal matings between species are often asymmetric and it is this aspect, which is most relevant to, and can offer utility in, pest management. In this review, we focus on Satyrisation and outline the mechanisms through which it can operate. We illustrate this by using test cases, and we consider the underlying reasons why the reproductive interactions that comprise Satyrisation occur. We synthesise the key factors affecting the expression of Satyrisation and explore how they have potential utility in developing new routes for the management and control of harmful insects. We consider how Satyrisation might interact with other control mechanisms, and conclude by outlining a framework for its use in control, highlighting some of the important next steps.
Cerebrospinal fluid kappa free light chains as biomarker in multiple sclerosis—from diagnosis to prediction of disease activity
Authors: Hegen Harald , Berek Klaus , Deisenhammer Florian
Published: February 2022

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a chronic immune-mediated disorder of the central nervous system that shows a high interindividual heterogeneity, which frequently poses challenges regarding diagnosis and prediction of disease activity. In this context, evidence of intrathecal inflammation provides an important information and might be captured by kappa free light chains (κ-FLC) in the cerebrospinal fluid (CSF). In this review, we provide an overview on what is currently known about κ‑FLC, its historical development, the available assays and current evidence on its diagnostic and prognostic value in MS. Briefly, intrathecal κ‑FLC synthesis reaches similar diagnostic accuracy compared to the well-established CSF-restricted oligoclonal bands (OCB) to identify patients with MS, and recent studies even depict its value for prediction of early MS disease activity. Furthermore, detection of κ‑FLC has significant methodological advantages in comparison to OCB detection.
A survey of inverse reinforcement learning
Authors: Adams Stephen , Cody Tyler , Beling Peter A.
Published: February 2022

Learning from demonstration, or imitation learning, is the process of learning to act in an environment from examples provided by a teacher. Inverse reinforcement learning (IRL) is a specific form of learning from demonstration that attempts to estimate the reward function of a Markov decision process from examples provided by the teacher. The reward function is often considered the most succinct description of a task. In simple applications, the reward function may be known or easily derived from properties of the system and hard coded into the learning process. However, in complex applications, this may not be possible, and it may be easier to learn the reward function by observing the actions of the teacher. This paper provides a comprehensive survey of the literature on IRL. This survey outlines the differences between IRL and two similar methods - apprenticeship learning and inverse optimal control. Further, this survey organizes the IRL literature based on the principal method, describes applications of IRL algorithms, and provides areas of future research.
Development of intellectual and scientific abilities through game-programming in Minecraft
Authors: Bile Alessandro
Published: February 2022

In recent years, the technological revolution has changed the way we see reality and interact with it. Inevitably, education and didactic planning have also had to deal with new technologies. Indeed, the presence of digital tools has radically changed people’s lives since childhood. Many educational realities have exploited this digital transformation to speed up and specialize learning, customizing study plans and type of software according to age groups. The activity of the Digital Education Lab is part of this context. It is a digital education school which uses the game software Minecraft Education Edition to teach its students the fundamental principles of computer science, geometry and mathematics. This article discusses learning key science concepts through game learning. The analysis carried out allows to see that students are facilitated in learning complex scientific concepts when these are shown through the game and can therefore be “experienced”. The learning of 186 students aged between 8 and 10, who are generally at the first approaches to the digital world, has been evaluated. To evaluate the acquisition of knowledge through these innovative methods, at the end of the didactic course we have administered anonymous tests through the Google classroom platform. The results show that learning through a game-software facilitates the learning of basic scientific information as well as fostering the capacity for interconnection and transversality.
Radon groundwater in a radon-prone area: possible uses and problems: an example from SW part of Kłodzko Valley, Sudetes, SW Poland
Authors: Przylibski Tadeusz A. , Staśko Stanisław , Domin Elżbieta
Published: February 2022

The paper describes research aimed at expanding scientific knowledge of radioactive isotope222Rn occurrence in groundwaters flowing in crystalline rocks, including its spatial and temporal changes. The research, conducted in an area characterized by medium radon potential, was intended to determine the values of222Rn activity concentration in groundwater in this type of areas. The222Rn activity concentration in groundwaters discharged from investigated springs oscillated between 35.3 and 272.0 Bq/L. The authors discovered possible prevalence of radon groundwaters in areas with medium radon potential, which is the reason why all groundwaters intended for human consumption or household use in such areas should be subject to obligatory monitoring of222Rn activity concentration. In the event of identifying occurrence of waters with222Rn activity concentration of at least 100 Bq/L, their purification by removing radon is necessary before they are supplied to a water distribution network. At the same time, the research area can be regarded as an area with potentially medicinal radon water occurrence. Therefore, in areas with medium radon potential, groundwaters which are not suitable as a source of drinking water due to very high222Rn activity concentration in them can be used as medicinal radon waters in therapeutic treatments.
Phase-type models for competing risks, with emphasis on identifiability issues
Authors: Lindqvist Bo Henry
Published: February 2022

We first review some main results for phase-type distributions, including a discussion of Coxian distributions and their canonical representations. We then consider the extension of phase-type modeling to cover competing risks. This extension involves the consideration of finite state Markov chains with more than one absorbing state, letting each absorbing state correspond to a particular risk. The non-uniqueness of Markov chain representations of phase-type distributions is well known. In the paper we study corresponding issues for the competing risks case with the aim of obtaining identifiable parameterizations. Statistical inference for the Coxian competing risks model is briefly discussed and some real data are analyzed for illustration.
A general method for evaluating the overhead when consolidating servers: performance degradation in virtual machines and containers
Authors: Bermejo Belen , Juiz Carlos
Published: February 2022

Server consolidation is one of the most commonly used techniques for reducing energy consumption in datacenters; however, this results in inherent performance degradation due to the coallocation of virtual servers, i.e., virtual machines (VMs) and containers, in physical ones. Given the widespread use of containers and their combination with VMs, it is necessary to quantify the performance degradation in these new consolidation scenarios, as this information will help system administrators make decisions based on server performance management. In this paper, a general method for quantifying performance degradation, that is, server overhead, is proposed for arbitrary consolidation scenarios. To demonstrate the applicability of the method, we develop a set of experiments with varying combinations of VMs, containers, and workload demands. From the results, we can obtain a suitable method for quantifying performance degradation that can be implemented as a recursive algorithm. From the set of experiments addressing the hypothetical consolidation scenarios, we show that the overhead depends not only on the type of hypervisor and the workload distribution but also on the combination of VMs and containers and their nesting, if feasible.
Synthesis of Oil Miscible Novel Silane Functionalised Imidazoline-Based ILs as Lubricant Additives: Characterization and Tribological Evaluations
Authors: Pandey Priya , Somers Anthony E. , Hait Samik K. , Ramakumar S. S. V.
Published: February 2022

The present study investigated the synthesis of novel, oil miscible, multifunctional, silane functionalized imidazoline-based ionic liquids (ILs) with an emphasis towards halogen, sulfur and phosphorous free lubricant additives to replace the conventional additives (ZDDP, MoDTC, etc.), for which there are environmental concerns. These ILs were prepared in different concentrations and proved to be oil miscible for a short time. This stability was improved to over a year using sorbitan trioleate as an emulsifier additive. These additives performed well in reducing friction and wear when investigated on steel-steel contacts at a 5 wt% concentration, with improvements for the TPEIPS BEHP containing blend of up to 39% and 53%, respectively, as compared to the base oil. SEM and EDS analysis shows a phosphorous and oxygen rich tribo-film formation for this combinations. These ILs were further tested to determine their effect on properties such as viscosity, thermal stability, elastomeric and antifoaming compatibility. These new ILs work towards the discovery of environmentally friendly additives for tribological processes.
Estimation of Effect Heterogeneity in Rare Events Meta-Analysis
Authors: Holling Heinz , Jansen Katrin , Böhning Walailuck , Böhning Dankmar , Martin Susan , Sangnawakij Patarawan
Published: February 2022

The paper outlines several approaches for dealing with meta-analyses of count outcome data. These counts are the accumulation of occurred events, and these events might be rare, so a special feature of the meta-analysis is dealing with low counts including zero-count studies. Emphasis is put on approaches which are state of the art for count data modelling including mixed log-linear (Poisson) and mixed logistic (binomial) regression as well as nonparametric mixture models for count data of Poisson and binomial type. A simulation study investigates the performance and capability of discrete mixture models in estimating effect heterogeneity. The approaches are exemplified on a meta-analytic case study investigating the acceptance of bibliotherapy.
On the Information Obtainable from Comparative Judgments
Authors: Bürkner Paul-Christian
Published: February 2022

Personality tests employing comparative judgments have been proposed as an alternative to Likert-type rating scales. One of the main advantages of a comparative format is that it can reduce faking of responses in high-stakes situations. However, previous research has shown that it is highly difficult to obtain trait score estimates that are both faking resistant and sufficiently accurate for individual-level diagnostic decisions. With the goal of contributing to a solution, I study the information obtainable from comparative judgments analyzed by means of Thurstonian IRT models. First, I extend the mathematical theory of ordinal comparative judgments and corresponding models. Second, I provide optimal test designs for Thurstonian IRT models that maximize the accuracy of people’s trait score estimates from both frequentist and Bayesian statistical perspectives. Third, I derive analytic upper bounds for the accuracy of these trait estimates achievable through ordinal Thurstonian IRT models. Fourth, I perform numerical experiments that complement results obtained in earlier simulation studies. The combined analytical and numerical results suggest that it is indeed possible to design personality tests using comparative judgments that yield trait scores estimates sufficiently accurate for individual-level diagnostic decisions, while reducing faking in high-stakes situations. Recommendations for the practical application of comparative judgments for the measurement of personality, specifically in high-stakes situations, are given.
Clinically guided core biopsy and cutaneous punch biopsy in the evaluation of breast lesions: a necessary test or an obsolete skill?
Authors: Alameer Aqeel , Common Matthew , Elwahab Sami Abd , Boland Michael , Allen Michael , Power Colm , Hambly Niamh , Kerr Jennifer , Ni Mhuircheartaigh Neasa , Staunton Marie , Hill Arnold D. K. , Duke Deirdre
Published: February 2022

Objective

The vast majority of breast cancers are diagnosed via image-guided procedures yet despite significant advances, imaging does not identify all breast malignancies. Clinically suspicious breast lesions with normal breast imaging remain a cause for concern. The aim of this study is to determine the diagnostic value of clinical core and cutaneous punch biopsies in the diagnosis of breast malignancy in clinically suspicious lesions with normal breast imaging.

Methods

All patients with suspicious clinical breast findings and normal imaging who underwent a clinical core and/or cutaneous punch biopsy from 2012 to 2019 were reviewed retrospectively. Patients with subsequent breast malignant diagnosis were analysed.

Results

A total of 283 biopsies (166 clinical core, 117 cutaneous punch) performed over the 7-year period were included in the analysis. A total of 263/283 (93%) yielded a benign outcome. A total of 2/283 (0.7%) yielded B3 lesions (probably benign). These lesions were benign on final surgical excision. A total of 18/283 (6.3%) yielded a malignant histopathology. Sixteen out of 18 were cutaneous punch biopsies, and 2/18 were clinical core biopsies. A total of 14/18 patients presented with nipple changes, while 4/18 had a palpable area of concern. Histopathological analysis demonstrated Paget’s disease of the nipple in 8/18, invasive carcinoma in 9/18 out of which two represented a recurrence of breast malignancy. Cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma was diagnosed in 1/18.

Conclusion

Clinical core and cutaneous punch biopsies remain a valuable tool in the diagnosis of breast cancer particularly in the management of clinically suspicious radiographically occult malignancies.
Prevalence of depression and anxiety among general population in Pakistan during COVID-19 lockdown: An online-survey
Authors: Ullah Irfan , Ali Sajjad , Ashraf Farzana , Hakim Yasir , Ali Iftikhar , Ullah Arslan Rahat , Chattu Vijay Kumar , Pakpour Amir H.
Published: February 2022

The present study's aim is to find the prevalence of two of the common indicators of mental health - depression and anxiety – and any correlation with socio-demographic indicators in the Pakistani population during the lockdown from 5 May to 25 July 2020. A cross-sectional survey was conducted using an online questionnaire sent to volunteer participants. A total of 1047 participants over 18 were recruited through convenience sampling. The survey targeted depression and anxiety levels, which were measured using a 14 item self-reporting Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS). Out of the total sample population (N=354), 39.9% suffered from depression and 57.7% from anxiety. Binary logistical regressions indicated significant predictive associations of gender (OR=1.410), education (OR=9.311), residence (OR=0.370), household income (OR=0.579), previous psychiatric problems (OR=1.671), and previous psychiatric medication (OR=2.641). These were the key factors e associated with a significant increase in depression. Increases in anxiety levels were significantly linked to gender (OR=2.427), residence (OR=0.619), previous psychiatric problems (OR=1.166), and previous psychiatric medication (OR=7.330). These results suggest depression and anxiety were prevalent among the Pakistani population during the lockdown. Along with other measures to contain the spread of COVID-19, citizens' mental health needs the Pakistani government's urgent attention as well as that of mental health experts. Further large-scale, such as healthcare practitioners, should be undertaken to identify other mental health indicators that need to be monitored.
Focused Bedside Ultrasound Training Program for Surgical Residents in the Intensive Care Unit of Tertiary hospital
Authors: Im Kyoung Moo , Kim Eun Young
Published: February 2022

Bedside ultrasound has become one of the most important noninvasive and readily available diagnostic tools for critically ill patients. However, the current ultrasound training program for surgical residents is not standardized and is mostly unavailable to all surgical residents equally. Herein, we evaluated the effectiveness of the new training program in bedside ultrasound for surgical residents. Postgraduate residents (years 1 to 4) from the department of general surgery in a tertiary hospital attended the newly designed, 8-week ultrasound training course at the surgical intensive care unit. Didactic and experimental lectures about basic ultrasound physics and machine usage were delivered, followed by daily hands-on training to actual patients. Each participant documented their ultrasound findings and completed a self-assessment survey of ultrasound skills using the Likert scale. A total of 44 residents were enrolled, and only 36.4% of them were previously exposed to bedside ultrasound experience. Following the completion of the training course, the proficiency levels and the objective structured assessment of ultrasound skill scores showed significant improvement in every element (P < 0.001). The mean differences in pre- and post-course scores between post-graduate years and post hoc analysis revealed that the post-graduate year 2 group showed a higher improvement in most elements. Whether or not residents had previous experience with ultrasound, the significant improvement was seen in post-course scores. The knowledge and confidence of surgical residents in bedside ultrasound could be improved after our short training curriculum. Such education should be encouraged for all surgical residents to enhance their competency in performing bedside ultrasounds and use in managing critically ill patients.