bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
MPPT mechanism based on novel hybrid particle swarm optimization and salp swarm optimization algorithm for battery charging through simulink
Authors: Dagal Idriss , Akın Burak , Akboy Erdem
Published: February 2022

In this paper, a battery charging model is developed for solar PV system applications. As a means of photovoltaic power controlling system, buck-boost converter with a Maximum Power Point Tracking (MPPT) mechanism is developed in this paper for maximum efficiency. This paper proposed a novel combined technique of hybrid Particle Swarm Optimisation (PSO) and Salp Swarm Optimization (SSO) models to perform Maximum Power Point Tracking mechanisms and obtain a higher efficiency for battery charging. In order to retrieve the maximum power from the PV array, the Maximum Power Point Tracking mechanism is observed which reaches the maximum efficiency and the maximum power is fed through the buck-boost converter into the load. The buck-boost converter steps up the voltage to essential magnitude. The energy drawn from the PV array is used for the battery charging by means of an isolated buck converter since the buck-boost converter is not directly connected to the battery. The Fractional Order Proportional Integral Derivative (FOPID) controller handles the isolated buck converter and battery to enhance the efficiency obtained through the Maximum Power Point Tracking mechanism. The simulation results show higher steady efficiency by using the hybrid PSOSSO algorithm in all stages. The battery is charged without losing the efficiency obtained from the hybrid PSOSSO algorithm-based Maximum Power Point Tracking mechanism. The higher efficiency was obtained as 99.99% at Standard Test Conditions (STC) and 99.52% at PV partial shading conditions (PSCs) by using the new hybrid algorithm.
Décollement geometry controls on shallow very low frequency earthquakes
Authors: Hashimoto Yoshitaka , Sato Shigeyuki , Kimura Gaku , Kinoshita Masataka , Miyakawa Ayumu , Moore Gregory F. , Nakano Masaru , Shiraishi Kazuya , Yamada Yasuhiro
Published: February 2022

Recent studies have documented the occurrence of shallow very low frequency earthquakes (VLFE) in subduction zones. The heterogeneity of the materials or stresses that act on the plate interface results in the variable slip rate. Stress on the décollement can be controlled by the décollement geometry and the regional stress, which is also able to control the material properties. We determined the distribution of stress along the shallow portion of the décollement in the Nankai Trough using a three-dimensional (3D) seismic survey and regional stress analysis to construct maps of normalized slip tendency (Ts′) and dilation tendency (Td). Alignments of VLFEs trend parallel to the trends of$${T}_{s}^{^{\prime}}$$Ts′and$${T}_{d}$$Td. On the other hand, very low$${T}_{s}^{^{\prime}}$$Ts′and$${T}_{d}$$Tdareas probably act as barriers that limit the number of VLFEs that can migrate towards the trench. Because the$${T}_{s}^{^{\prime}}$$Ts′and$${T}_{d}$$Tddistributions are derived only from the décollement geometry and the regional stress without incorporating any data on sediment properties, the consistency between the trends suggests that the décollement geometry is the primary control on VLFE activity.
Revealing the surface structural cause of scratch formation on soda-lime-silica glass
Authors: Roy Barsheek , Rosin Andreas , Gerdes Thorsten , Schafföner Stefan
Published: February 2022

Scratch formation on glass surfaces is a ubiquitous phenomenon induced by plastic deformation, often accompanied by radial, lateral or median cracks with consequent chipping and brittle fracture caused during and after the event of dynamic abrasion instigated by shear stress by a harder material. This paper addresses the fundamental aspect of scratch formation on soda-lime-silica (SLS) glass surfaces. A constructive combination of surface-sensitive characterization tools, including field emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM), laser scanning microscopy (LSM), X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), Raman spectroscopy and instrumented indentation technique (IIT), helped to investigate the structural cause of generation of visible scratches on SLS glass surfaces. The experimental results indicate that a silicate network possessing a mechanically weakening structural characteristic in terms of network connectivity confined to the region between 5 and 100 nm below the glass surface is likely to cause a destructive surface scratch eminently visible to the naked eye.
Sugariness prediction of Syzygium samarangense using convolutional learning of hyperspectral images
Authors: Chen Chih-Jung , Yan Yung-Jhe , Huang Chi-Cho , Chien Jen-Tzung , Chu Chang-Ting , Jang Je-Wei , Chen Tzung-Cheng , Lin Shiou-Gwo , Shih Ruei-Siang , Ou-Yang Mang
Published: February 2022

Sugariness is one of the most important indicators to measure the quality of Syzygium samarangense, which is also known as the wax apple. In general, farmers used to measure sugariness by testing the extracted juice of the wax apple products. Such a destructive way to measure sugariness is not only labor-consuming but also wasting products. Therefore, non-destructive and quick techniques for measuring sugariness would be significant for wax apple supply chains. Traditionally, the non-destructive method to predict the sugariness or the other indicators of the fruits was based on the reflectance spectra or Hyperspectral Images (HSIs) using linear regression such as Multi-Linear Regression (MLR), Principal Component Regression (PCR), and Partial Least Square Regression (PLSR), etc. However, these regression methods are usually too simple to precisely estimate the complicated mapping between the reflectance spectra or HSIs and the sugariness. This study presents the deep learning methods for sugariness prediction using the reflectance spectra or HSIs from the bottom of the wax apple. A non-destructive imaging system fabricated with two spectrum sensors and light sources is implemented to acquire the visible and infrared lights with a range of wavelengths. In particular, a specialized Convolutional Neural Network (CNN) with hyperspectral imaging is proposed by investigating the effect of different wavelength bands for sugariness prediction. Rather than extracting spatial features, the proposed CNN model was designed to extract spectral features of HSIs. In the experiments, the ground-truth value of sugariness is obtained from a commercial refractometer. The experimental results show that using the whole band range between 400 and 1700 nm achieves the best performance in terms of °Brix error. CNN models attain the °Brix error of ± 0.552, smaller than ± 0.597 using Feedforward Neural Network (FNN). Significantly, the CNN’s test results show that the minor error in the interval 0 to 10°Brix and 10 to 11°Brix are ± 0.551 and ± 0.408, these results indicate that the model would have the capability to predict if sugariness is below 10°Brix or not, which would be similar to the human tongue. These results are much better than ± 1.441 and ± 1.379 by using PCR and PLSR, respectively. Moreover, this study provides the test error in each °Brix interval within one Brix, and the results show that the test error is varied considerably within different °Brix intervals, especially on PCR and PLSR. On the other hand, FNN and CNN obtain robust results in terms of test error.
A laboratory evaluation of nozzle tip damage in four generations of intraocular lens injector systems using a self-developed damage scale
Authors: Fang Hui , Zhang Lu , Schickhardt Sonja , Merz Patrick R. , Yan Weijia , Leroux Mélanie , Auffarth Gerd U.
Published: February 2022

During intraocular lens (IOL) implantation it is not uncommon for the injector’s nozzle-tip to get damaged. However, the damage has not been systematically described or evaluated using an objective scale. In this study we developed our own system—the Heidelberg Score for IOL Injector Damage (“HeiScore”), which was used to grade 60 injectors from four generations of injector models (Monarch III D, AcrySert C, UltraSert, AutonoMe) made by the same manufacturer. (Alcon Laboratories Inc.) HeiScore has six grades of nozzle-tip damage: no damage (which was graded 0); slight scratches (1), deep scratches (2), extensions (3), cracks (4) and bursts (graded number 5). The score for each injector model was the sum of all grades (total number), and we could compare the four injector models. The injectors showed varying damage profiles, from “no damage” to “crack”. A tendency of a lower damage score in the newer generations of IOL injectors was noted. However, a statistically significant difference was observed only between Monarch III D and AutonoMe. The “Heidelberg Score for IOL Injector Damage” could efficiently and effectively evaluate the damage to IOL injector systems, which might help manufacturers optimize the positioning of the IOL in the injector during pre-loading.
A pilot study of a novel method to visualize three-dimensional dose distribution on skin surface images to evaluate radiation dermatitis
Authors: Park Ye-In , Choi Seo Hee , Hong Chae-Seon , Cho Min-Seok , Son Junyoung , Jang Ji Won , Kim Jihun , Kim Hojin , Kim Dong Wook , Kim Jin Sung
Published: February 2022

Predicting the radiation dose‒toxicity relationship is important for local tumor control and patients’ quality of life. We developed a first intuitive evaluation system that directly matches the three-dimensional (3D) dose distribution with the skin surface image of patients with radiation dermatitis (RD) to predict RD in patients undergoing radiotherapy. Using an RGB-D camera, 82 3D skin surface images (3DSSIs) were acquired from 19 patients who underwent radiotherapy. 3DSSI data acquired included 3D skin surface shape and optical imaging of the area where RD occurs. Surface registration between 3D skin dose (3DSD) and 3DSSI is performed using the iterative closest point algorithm, then reconstructed as a two-dimensional color image. The developed system successfully matched 3DSSI and 3DSD, and visualized the planned dose distribution onto the patient's RD image. The dose distribution pattern was consistent with the occurrence pattern of RD. This new approach facilitated the evaluation of the direct correlation between skin-dose distribution and RD and, therefore, provides a potential to predict the probability of RD and thereby decrease RD severity by enabling informed treatment decision making by physicians. However, the results need to be interpreted with caution due to the small sample size.
Photosynthetic performance of symbiont-bearing foraminifera Heterostegina depressa affected by sunscreens
Authors: Lintner Michael , Schagerl Michael , Lintner Bianca , Nagy Matthias , Heinz Petra
Published: February 2022

Foraminifera are abundant unicellular organisms that play an important role in marine element cycles. A large benthic foraminifer obligatory bearing photosymbionts is Heterostegina depressa. We studied potential impacts of sunscreens available on the market on the activity of photosymbionts on H. depressa by means of pulse-amplitude modulated (PAM) fluorescence microscopy. We included four different sunscreens, with two of them sold as “conventional” and two more stated as “eco-friendly”. Further, the impact of pure Ensulizole (phenylbenzimidazole sulfonic acid) was tested, which is a common agent of sunscreens. Foraminifera were incubated at varying concentrations (10, 50 and 200 mgL−1) of different sunscreens and the pure Ensulizole for 14 days. The photosynthetic performance was measured after 1,3, 7 and 14 days. Pure Ensulizole had a strong negative impact on the photobionts, which was reflected by a significant reduction of the areal fluorescence signal. “Eco-friendly” sunscreens affected the health of foraminifera more severely compared to “conventional” ones. We assume that metal nanoparticles like titanium dioxide or zinc oxide of “eco-friendly” sunscreens are causing this impact, because these substances were already classified as toxic for several microorganisms.
The association between prolonged sedentary time and coronary artery calcification in young healthy men in Korea: a cohort study
Authors: Nam Min-Woo , Lee Yesung , Lee Woncheol
Published: February 2022

Coronary artery calcium score (CACS) is a useful method for predicting coronary artery disease in asymptomatic adults. In this study, we investigated the association between prolonged sedentary time and CACS. A cohort study was conducted in 14949 men with negative CACS (CACS = 0) at baseline who were followed up at least once. Sedentary time was categorized into < 7, 7–8, and ≥ 9 h/day. CACS was calculated by cardiac tomography. During 60,112.1 person-years of follow-up, 569 participants developed positive CACS. The multivariable adjusted hazard ratios (95% confidence intervals) for incident positive CACS comparing sedentary times of 7–8 h/day and ≥ 9 h/day to sedentary time of < 7 h/day were 1.25 (0.97–1.62) and 1.28 (1.03–1.59), respectively. This association was more strongly observed in the non-obese group (BMI < 25 kg/m2). In contrast, in the obese group (BMI ≥ 25 kg/m2), there was no significant association between sedentary time and incidence of positive CACS. Prolonged sedentary time was significantly associated with incidence of positive CACS in the study. CACS is also an effective screening tool for predicting future cardiovascular events in asymptomatic patients. Therefore, CACS can be an effective screening method for predicting coronary artery diseases in people with prolonged sedentary time, especially in metabolically healthy people.
Electrochemotherapy treatment safety under parallel needle deflection
Authors: Andrade Daniella L. L. S. , Guedert Raul , Pintarelli Guilherme B. , Rangel Marcelo M. M. , Oliveira Krishna D. , Quadros Priscila G. , Suzuki Daniela O. H.
Published: February 2022

Electrochemotherapy is a selective electrical-based cancer treatment. A thriving treatment depends on the local electric field generated by pairs of electrodes. Electrode damage as deflection can directly affect this treatment pillar, the distribution of the electric field. Mechanical deformations such as tip misshaping and needle deflection are reported with needle electrode reusing in veterinary electrochemotherapy. We performed in vitro and in silico experiments to evaluate potential problems with ESOPE type II electrode deflection and potential treatment pitfalls. We also investigated the extent to which the electric currents of the electroporation model can describe deflection failure by comparing in vitro with the in silico model of potato tuber (Solanum tuberosum). The in silico model was also performed with the tumor electroporation model, which is more conductive than the vegetal model. We do not recommend using deflected electrodes. We have found that a deflection of ± 2 mm is unsafe for treatment. Inward deflection can cause dangerous electrical current levels when treating a tumor and cannot be described with the in silico vegetal model. Outward deflection can cause blind spots in the electric field.
ACC-BLA functional connectivity disruption in allergic inflammation is associated with anxiety
Authors: Gholami-Mahtaj Leila , Mooziri Morteza , Dehdar Kolsoum , Abdolsamadi Maryam , Salimi Morteza , Raoufy Mohammad Reza
Published: February 2022

Allergic asthma is a chronic inflammatory respiratory disease. Psychiatric disorders, including anxiety are associated with poorer treatment response and disease control in asthmatic patients. To date, there is no experimental evidence describing the role of peripheral inflammation on the oscillatory activities in the anterior cingulate cortex (ACC) and basolateral amygdala (BLA), two major brain structures modulating anxiety. In the present work we evaluated lung and brain inflammatory responses, anxiety-like behavior, in association with oscillatory features of the ACC-BLA circuit in an animal model of allergic inflammation. Our data showed that allergic inflammation induced anxiety-like behavior and reactivation of microglia and astrocytes in ACC and BLA. Allergic inflammation also enhanced neuronal activities and functional connectivity of the ACC-BLA circuit which were correlated with the level of anxiety. Together, we suggest that disruption in the dynamic oscillatory activities of the ACC-BLA circuit, maybe due to regional inflammation, is an underlying mechanism of allergic asthma-induced anxiety-like behavior. Our findings could pave the way for better understanding the neuro-pathophysiology of the psychiatric disorders observed in asthmatic patients, possibly leading to develop novel treatment strategies.
Development and validation of a model for soil wetting geometry under Moistube Irrigation
Authors: Dirwai T. L. , Senzanje A. , Mabhaudhi T.
Published: February 2022

We developed an empirical soil wetting geometry model for silty clay loam and coarse sand soils under a semi-permeable porous wall line source Moistube Irrigation (MTI) lateral irrigation. The model was developed to simulate vertical and lateral soil water movement using the Buckingham pi (π) theorem. This study was premised on a hypothesis that soil hydraulic properties influence soil water movement under MTI. Two independent, but similar experiments, were conducted to calibrate and validate the model using MTI lateral placed at a depth of 0.2 m below the soil surface in a soil bin with a continuous water supply (150 kPa). Soil water content was measured every 5 min for 100 h using MPS-2 sensors. Model calibration showed that soil texture influenced water movement ($$p$$
p
 < 0.05) and showed a good fit for wetted widths and depths for both soils ($$nRMSE$$

nRMSE

 = 0.5–10%; $$NSE \ge$$

N
S
E
≥

0.50; and d-index $$\ge$$
≥
0.50. The percentage bias $$\left( {PBIAS} \right)$$

PBIAS

statistic revealed that the models’ under-estimated wetted depth after 24 h by 21.9% and 3.9% for silty clay loam and sandy soil, respectively. Sensitivity analysis revealed agreeable models’ performance values. This implies the model's applicability for estimating wetted distances for an MTI lateral placed at 0.2 m and MTI operating pressure of 150 kPa. We concluded that the models are prescriptive and should be used to estimate wetting geometries for conditions under which they were developed. Further experimentation under varying scenarios for which MTI would be used, including field conditions, is needed to further validate the model and establish robustness. MTI wetting geometry informs placement depth for optimal irrigation water usage.
Tumor stromal nicotinamide N-methyltransferase overexpression as a prognostic biomarker for poor clinical outcome in early-stage colorectal cancer
Authors: Ogawa Makiko , Tanaka Atsushi , Namba Kei , Shia Jinru , Wang Julia Y. , Roehrl Michael H. A.
Published: February 2022

In a quest for prognostic biomarkers in early-stage colorectal cancer, we investigated NNMT (nicotinamide N-methyltransferase) in large cohorts of patients. Immunohistochemical examination of 679 patients illustrates that NNMT protein is predominantly expressed in the cancer stroma at varying levels, and about 20% of cancer tissues overexpress NNMT when compared to levels observed in normal colorectal mucosa. Clinical correlation analyses of 572 patients with early-stage cancers reveal that NNMT protein overexpression is significantly associated with shorter overall and disease-free survival, but no such correlation is found in late-stage colorectal cancer. Analyses of TCGA and CPTAC colorectal cancer cohorts show that NNMT mRNA expression is positively correlated with protein levels, is significantly higher in CIMP-high or MSI subtypes than in CIMP-low or MSS subtypes, and is positively correlated with its paralog INMT but not with its interaction partners such as PNMT, ADK, APP, ATF6, BMF, BRD4, CDC37, or CRYZ. In early-stage cancers, NNMT expression is higher in BRAF-mutated than in BRAF wild type tumors but is not affected by KRAS or PIK3CA mutation status. As a cancer stromal protein with important roles in metabolism and cancer epigenetics, NNMT is emerging as a promising biomarker for risk stratification of early-stage cancers.
Water quality change and pollution source accounting of Licun River under long-term governance
Authors: Zhang Minghui , Wang Lin , Mu Chunxia , Huang Xuda
Published: February 2022

Urbanization and human activities have exerted a tremendous adverse influence on the water quality of the Licun River, Qingdao, China. In order to restore the water quality, a succession of measures have been carried out since 1996, mainly encompassing flood controlling, sewage intercepting and watercourse greening (before 2007), watercourse and point source control based on administrative region (2008–2017), as well as the comprehensive governance based on river basin (after 2018). In 2019, the amount of discharged industrial wastewater, chemical oxygen demand, and ammonia nitrogen decreased by 53.91%, 87.75% and 89.88%, respectively, compared with 2000. Such results indicate that continuous governance has achieved a quantitative effect, and that industrial discharge is not the main pollution source. In the present work, the Spearman rank correlation coefficient and river comprehensive pollution index methods were used to analyze the change trend of main pollutants. The water quality was improved continuously, and the reduction of total phosphorus and ammonia nitrogen was the key to upgrading water quality. Afterward, the emission of pollution sources was accounted for from viewpoints of the point source, non-point source and sludge. Finally, suggestions were put forward to improve the water quality of the Licun River and provide some reference for the urban river management in northern China.
Local adaptation to climate anomalies relates to species phylogeny
Authors: Melero Yolanda , Evans Luke C. , Kuussaari Mikko , Schmucki Reto , Stefanescu Constantí , Roy David B. , Oliver Tom H.
Published: February 2022

Climatic anomalies are increasing in intensity and frequency due to rapid rates of global change, leading to increased extinction risk for many species. The impacts of anomalies are likely to vary between species due to different degrees of sensitivity and extents of local adaptation. Here, we used long-term butterfly monitoring data of 143 species across six European bioclimatic regions to show how species’ population dynamics have responded to local or globally-calculated climatic anomalies, and how species attributes mediate these responses. Contrary to expectations, degree of apparent local adaptation, estimated from the relative population sensitivity to local versus global anomalies, showed no associations with species mobility or reproductive rate but did contain a strong phylogenetic signal. The existence of phylogenetically-patterned local adaptation to climate has important implications for forecasting species responses to current and future climatic conditions and for developing appropriate conservation practices.
The season for large fires in Southern California is projected to lengthen in a changing climate
Authors: Dong Chunyu , Williams A. Park , Abatzoglou John T. , Lin Kairong , Okin Gregory S. , Gillespie Thomas W. , Long Di , Lin Yen-Heng , Hall Alex , MacDonald Glen M.
Published: February 2022

Southern California is a biodiversity hotspot and home to over 23 million people. Over recent decades the annual wildfire area in the coastal southern California region has not significantly changed. Yet how fire regime will respond to future anthropogenic climate change remains an important question. Here, we estimate wildfire probability in southern California at station scale and daily resolution using random forest algorithms and downscaled earth system model simulations. We project that large fire days will increase from 36 days/year during 1970–1999 to 58 days/year under moderate greenhouse gas emission scenario (RCP4.5) and 71 days/year by 2070–2099 under a high emission scenario (RCP8.5). The large fire season will be more intense and have an earlier onset and delayed end. Our findings suggest that despite the lack of a contemporary trend in fire regime, projected greenhouse gas emissions will substantially increase the fire danger in southern California by 2099.
RpoN-Based stapled peptides with improved DNA binding suppress Pseudomonas aeruginosa virulence
Authors: Paquette André R. , Payne Sterling R. , McKay Geoffrey A. , Brazeau-Henrie Jordan T. , Darnowski Micheal G. , Kammili Anitha , Bernal Federico , Mah Thien-Fah , Gruenheid Samantha , Nguyen Dao , Boddy Christopher N.
Published: February 2022

Optimized RpoN-based stapled peptides selectively bind promoter DNA sequence and inhibit virulence of Pseudomonas aeruginosa in an in vivo model.
Synthesis of crystalline WS3 with a layered structure and desert-rose-like morphology
Authors: Zhang Zeyao , Qiu Yi , Yan Wenqing , Zhou Zhengyang , Yao Yixi , Liu Xiyan , Sun Junliang , Li Yan
Published: February 2022

Crystalline WS3, which had a layered structure and desert-rose-like microsphere morphology, is synthesized via solvothermal sulphurization of WO3·0.33H2O.
Controlling disorder in self-assembled colloidal monolayers via evaporative processes
Authors: Roach Lucien , Hereu Adrian , Lalanne Philippe , Duguet Etienne , Tréguer-Delapierre Mona , Vynck Kevin , Drisko Glenna L.
Published: February 2022

Monolayers of assembled nano-objects with a controlled degree of disorder hold interest in many optical applications, including photovoltaics, light emission, sensing, and structural coloration.
An in situ generated 3D porous nanostructure on 2D nanosheets to boost the oxygen evolution reaction for water-splitting
Authors: Yu Wenli , Chen Zhi , Zhao Ying , Gao Yuxiao , Xiao Weiping , Dong Bin , Wu Zexing , Wang Lei
Published: February 2022

Superhydrophilic 2D nanosheets decorated with a 3D porous nanostructure exhibit outstanding electrocatalytic activity and stability toward OER and overall water-splitting.
Thermoresponsive chiral plasmonic nanoparticles
Authors: Liu Yiyi , Perera Tharaka , Shi Qianqian , Yong Zijun , Mallawaarachchi Sudaraka , Fan Bo , Walker Julia Ann-Therese , Lupton Christopher J. , Thang San H. , Premaratne Malin , Cheng Wenlong
Published: February 2022

Poly(N-isopropylacrylamide) (PNIPAM) has been used to modify chiral plasmonic nanoparticles. The thermoresponsive studies reveal the impact of achiral dielectric nanoenvironment on chiral plasmonic responses.
Synthesis and characterization of new bio-based poly(acylhydrazone) vanillin vitrimers
Authors: Roig Adrià , Petrauskaité Aina , Ramis Xavier , De la Flor Silvia , Serra Àngels
Published: February 2022

New poly(acylhydrazone) vitrimeric-type materials derived from vanillin have been studied.
A multi pathway coupled domino strategy: I2/TBHP-promoted synthesis of imidazopyridines and thiazoles via sp3, sp2 and sp C–H functionalization
Authors: Wang Yishou , Li Shichen , Wang Xinfeng , Yao Yiming , Feng Lei , Ma Chen
Published: February 2022

One-pot, multi-pathway, and atom economic synthesis of imidazoles and thiazoles has been achieved. In the catalytic system, I2/TBHP as an initiator and oxidant is used to realize sp3, sp2 and sp C–H functionalization.
Catalysis with cycloruthenated complexes
Authors: Findlay Michael T. , Domingo-Legarda Pablo , McArthur Gillian , Yen Andy , Larrosa Igor
Published: February 2022

We discuss recent advances in the applications of cycloruthenated complexes in organic synthesis, comprising C–H activation, chiral-at-metal catalysis,Z-selective olefin metathesis, transfer hydrogenation, enantioselective cyclopropanations and cycloadditions.
Bifunctional catalysts of Ni nanoparticle coupled MoO2nanorods for overall water splitting
Authors: Yao Zhiqiang , Wang Chenfeng , Wang Zengyao , Liu Guanglei , Bowers Crystal , Dong Pei , Ye Mingxin , Shen Jianfeng
Published: February 2022

We report a novel strategy to synthesize Ni–MoO2composite catalysts with high activity towards both the HER and OER.
Correction: Facile synthesis of cyclo-(P4tBu3)-containing oligo- and pnictaphosphanes
Authors: Eilrich Volker Jens , Grell Toni , Lönnecke Peter , Hey-Hawkins Evamarie
Published: February 2022

Correction for ‘Facile synthesis of cyclo-(P4tBu3)-containing oligo- and pnictaphosphanes’ by Volker Jens Eilrich et al., Dalton Trans., 2021, 50, 14144–14155, DOI: 10.1039/D1DT02639A.
Correction: Non-target mass spectrometry analysis of NDMA precursors in advanced treatment for potable reuse
Authors: Roback Shannon L. , Ferrer Imma , Thurman E. Michael , Ishida Kenneth P. , Plumlee Megan H. , Poustie Andrew , Westerhoff Paul , Hanigan David
Published: February 2022

Correction for ‘Non-target mass spectrometry analysis of NDMA precursors in advanced treatment for potable reuse’ by Shannon L. Roback et al., Environ. Sci.: Water Res. Technol., 2018, 4, 1944–1955, DOI: 10.1039/C8EW00401C.
Alleviating the transit timing variation bias in transit surveys
Authors: Leleu A. , Delisle J.-B. , Mardling R. , Udry S. , Chatel G. , Alibert Y. , Eggenberger P.
Published: February 2022

Transit timing variations (TTVs) can provide useful information for systems observed in this way, putting constraints on the masses and eccentricities of the observed planets, and in some cases even revealing the existence of non-transiting companions. However, TTVs can also prevent the detection of small planets in transit surveys, or bias the recovered planetary and transit parameters. Here we show that Kepler-1972 c, initially the ‘not transit-like’ false positive KOI-3184.02, is an Earth-sized planet whose orbit is perturbed by Kepler-1972 b (initially KOI-3184.01). The pair is locked in a 3:2 mean-motion resonance, each planet displaying TTVs of more than 6h of amplitude over the duration of the Kepler mission. The two planets have similar masses mb/mc = 0.956−0.051+0.056 and radii Rb = 0.802−0.041+0.042REarth, Rc = 0.868−0.050+0.051REarth, and the whole system, including the inner candidate KOI-3184.03, appears to be coplanar. Despite the faintness of the signals (signal-to-noise ratio (S/N) of 1.35 for each transit of Kepler-1972 b and 1.10 for Kepler-1972 c), we recovered the transits of the planets using the RIVERS method, which is based on recognition of the tracks of planets in river diagrams using machine learning, and a photo-dynamic fit of the light curve. Recovering the correct ephemerides of the planets is essential to obtaining a complete picture of the observed planetary systems. In particular, we show that in Kepler-1972, not taking into account planet-planet interactions yields an error of ~30% on the radii of planets b and c, in addition to generating in-transit scatter, which is why KOI3184.02 was mistaken for a false positive. Alleviating this bias is essential for an unbiased view of Kepler systems, some of the TESS stars, and the upcoming PLATO mission.
Health in All Policies in der kommunalen Gesundheitsberichterstattung
im Öffentlichen Gesundheitsdienst
Authors: Kellermann Lisa , Szagun Bertram
Published: February 2022

Ziel der Arbeit Der Öffentliche Gesundheitsdienst kann als
administrativer politiknaher Akteur essenziell für die Umsetzung von
Health in All Policies auf kommunaler Ebene sein. Die landesgesetzlich
verankerte kommunale Gesundheitsberichterstattung als Grundlage für
Planungsprozesse kann hierfür eine potenziell zentrale Rolle spielen.
Untersucht werden soll, inwieweit kommunale Gesundheitsberichte durch
Integration weiterer Themenfelder und administrative Intersektoralität
einer solchen übergreifenden Rolle gerecht werden.

Methoden Auf Basis einer bundesweiten nonreaktiven Datenerhebung zur
kommunalen Gesundheitsberichterstattung wird eine quantitative Dokumentenanalyse
veröffentlichter Berichte durchgeführt (Zufallsstichprobe;
n=53). Der Integrationsgrad wird hinsichtlich methodisch-inhaltlicher
und intersektoraler Aspekte eingeordnet. Eine stratifizierte Analyse erfolgt
nach Gebietskörperschaftstyp, administrativer Ansiedlung des
Öffentlichen Gesundheitsdienstes sowie Berichtstyp.

Ergebnisse Integration in Form von Daten mindestens zweier weiterer
Themenfelder findet sich in 29 Berichten (55%).
Intersektoralität ist in neun Berichten (17%) explizit erkennbar
und dabei überdurchschnittlich häufig in kreisfreien
Städten und Kinder-/Jugendberichten. Berichte zum
Infektionsschutz/Impfen sind unterdurchschnittlich integriert. Die
organisationale Ansiedlung mit den Handlungsfeldern Soziales und/oder
Jugend ist positiv mit dem Integrationsgrad assoziiert.

Schlussfolgerung Integrationsgrad und Intersektoralität der
kommunalen Gesundheitsberichterstattung sind aus der Perspektive von Health in
All Policies bisher als zu gering einzuschätzen. Entwicklungspotentiale
ergeben sich durch eine günstige organisationale Ansiedlung sowie die
Themenwahl, speziell im Feld Kinder- und Jugendgesundheit.
Self-Reported Tinnitus Severity Prior to and During the COVID-19 Lockdown in the United Kingdom
Authors: Aazh Hashir , Danesh Ali A. , Moore Brian C. J.
Published: February 2022

Abstract Background and Purpose The aim of this study was to assess whether the severity of tinnitus, as measured using ratings of tinnitus loudness, annoyance, and effect on life, was influenced by the lockdown related to the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19)
pandemic. Research Design This was a retrospective study. Study Sample The data for 105 consecutive patients who were seen at a tinnitus clinic in an audiology department in the United Kingdom during the COVID-19 lockdown between April and June 2020 and 123
patients seen in the same period of the previous year, prior to the COVID-19 pandemic were included. Data Collection Demographic data for the patients, results of their pure-tone audiometry, and their score on visual analog scale (VAS) of tinnitus loudness, annoyance, and effect
on life were imported from their records held at the audiology department. This was a retrospective survey comparing ratings on the VAS of tinnitus loudness, annoyance, and effect on life for consecutive patients seen during the COVID-19 lockdown and consecutive patients seen in the same period
of the previous year, prior to the COVID-19 pandemic. Patients seen prior to lockdown used a pen and paper version of the VAS, while the patients who were assessed during the COVID-19 lockdown used an adapted version of the VAS, via telephone. All patients were seeking help for their tinnitus
for the first time. Results The mean scores for tinnitus loudness, annoyance, and effect on life did not differ significantly for the groups seen prior to and during lockdown. Conclusion Any changes in psychological well-being or stress produced by the lockdown
did not significantly affect ratings of the severity of tinnitus.
Electrocochleography and Auditory Brainstem Responses in Persons with Non-Optimal Blood Pressure
Authors: Baiduc Rachael R. , Berry Caitlin M. , Lemons Katherine , Vance Eric A.
Published: February 2022

Abstract Background Numerous cardiometabolic factors may underlie risk of hearing loss. Modifiable risk factors such as non-optimal blood pressure (BP) are of interest. Purpose To investigate early auditory evoked potentials (AEPs) in persons
with nonoptimal BP. Research Design A cross-sectional nonexperimental study was performed. Study Sample Fifty-two adults (18‐55 years) served as subjects. Individuals were classified as having optimal (systolic [S] BP < 120 and diastolic
[D] BP < 80 mm Hg, n = 25) or non-optimal BP (SBP ≥=120 or DBP ≥=80 mm Hg or antihypertensive use, n = 27). Thirteen subjects had hypertension (HTN) (SBP ≥130 or DBP ≥80 mm Hg or use of antihypertensives).
Data Collection and Analysis Behavioral thresholds from 0.25 to 16 kHz were collected. Threshold auditory brain stem responses (ABRs) were recorded using rarefaction clicks (17.7/second) from 80 dB nHL to wave V threshold. Electrocochleograms were obtained with 90 dB
nHL 7.1/second alternating clicks and assessed for summating and compound action potentials (APs). Outcomes were compared via independent samples t tests. Linear mixed effects models for behavioral thresholds and ABR wave latencies were constructed to account for potential confounders.
Results Wave I and III latencies were comparable between optimal and non-optimal BP groups. Wave I was prolonged in hypertensive versus optimal BP subjects at stimulus level 70 dB nHL (p = 0.016). ABR wave V latencies were prolonged in non-optimal BP
at stimulus level 80 dB nHL (p = 0.048) and in HTN at levels of 80, 50, and 30 dB nHL (all p < 0.050). DBP was significantly correlated with wave V latency (r = 0.295; p = 0.039). No differences
in ABR amplitudes were observed between optimal and non-optimal BP subjects. Electrocochleographic study showed statistically comparable action and summating potential amplitudes between optimal and non-optimal BP subjects. AP latencies were also similar between the groups. Analysis using
a set baseline amplitude of 0 μV showed that hypertensive subjects had higher summating (p = 0.038) and AP (p = 0.047) amplitudes versus optimal BP subjects; AP latencies were comparable. Conclusion Elevated BP and more specifically,
HTN was associated with subtle AEP abnormalities. This study provides preliminary evidence that nonoptimal BP, and more specifically HTN, may be related to auditory neural dysfunction; larger confirmatory studies are warranted.
Audiovestibular Dysfunction in Siblings with Charcot‐Marie‐Tooth Disease 4F: A Case Series
Authors: Poovaiah Prashasti , Rajasekaran Aravind Kumar , Yuvraj Pradeep , Belur Yamini K. , Atchayaram Nalini
Published: February 2022

Abstract Background Charcot‐Marie‐Tooth disease type 4F (CMT4F) is an autosomal recessive disorder with symptoms presenting in early adulthood. This clinical case series demonstrates atypical findings in cervical and ocular vestibular evoked myogenic
potentials (VEMP) in siblings with CMT4F. Purpose The aim of this study was to highlight the audiovestibular test findings in CMT4F. Research Design Case series study sample: 4 siblings, 3 of whom diagnosed with CMT4F. Data Collection and Analysis Audiological
test battery and electrophysiological tests comprising auditory brainstem response (ABR) and VEMP (both cervical and ocular) were performed in our patient population. Results Older siblings, in whom the hearing loss was present, manifested prolonged peak V latencies in ABR.
Three out of four siblings with CMT4F showed prolongation of latencies on cervical and ocular VEMP. Conclusions In many neurodegenerative conditions, prolongation of ABR peak latencies has often been reported in the literature. There have also been a few reports of prolonged
VEMP peak latencies. This article reports prolongation of only VEMP peak latencies (in both cervical and ocular recordings). The youngest sibling had prolongation of VEMP latencies, with ABR peak latencies being normal. The assumption we put forth that CMT4F may affect the vestibular pathway
first requires to be tested on a larger sample and by longitudinally studying the individuals with disease condition.
Cyber risk and cybersecurity: a systematic review of data availability
Authors: Cremer Frank , Sheehan Barry , Fortmann Michael , Kia Arash N. , Mullins Martin , Murphy Finbarr , Materne Stefan
Published: February 2022

Cybercrime is estimated to have cost the global economy just under USD 1 trillion in 2020, indicating an increase of more than 50% since 2018. With the average cyber insurance claim rising from USD 145,000 in 2019 to USD 359,000 in 2020, there is a growing necessity for better cyber information sources, standardised databases, mandatory reporting and public awareness. This research analyses the extant academic and industry literature on cybersecurity and cyber risk management with a particular focus on data availability. From a preliminary search resulting in 5219 cyber peer-reviewed studies, the application of the systematic methodology resulted in 79 unique datasets. We posit that the lack of available data on cyber risk poses a serious problem for stakeholders seeking to tackle this issue. In particular, we identify a lacuna in open databases that undermine collective endeavours to better manage this set of risks. The resulting data evaluation and categorisation will support cybersecurity researchers and the insurance industry in their efforts to comprehend, metricise and manage cyber risks.
Three-dimensional magnetohydrodynamic flow around a 180° sharp bend under transverse magnetic field
Authors: Wang He , Ni Ming-Jiu , Zhang Nian-Mei
Published: February 2022

This study attempts to characterize the variation of pressure loss and the evolution of vortex structures in the steady three-dimensional flow around a 180° sharp bend under a transverse magnetic field. This study is conducted with the Reynolds number, 100≤Re≤400, and Hartmann number, 0≤Ha≤2000. This range of Re and Ha captures both complex three-dimensional structures and the inception of quasi-two-dimensional flows. Numerical simulations display how the pressure loss across the bend region (Δp0) and the vortex structures undergo four regimes by increasing Ha for fixed Re. These regimes are referred to as regimes I–IV. N1c, N2c, and N3c, the critical values of interaction number Nc for the first appearance of regimes II–IV, are recognized at values 0.8, 3.2, and 40, respectively. In regime I (N≤0.8), Δp0 increases slightly and the magnetohydrodynamic flow promotes the recirculating bubble. In regime II (0.8<N≤3.2), as Δp0 decreases, the scope of the recirculating bubble reaches its peak. In regime III (3.2<N≤40), Δp0 grows, while the shrinkage of the recirculating bubble is triggered. Simultaneously, the flow tends to be two-dimensional [J. Sommeria and R. Moreau, “Why, how, and when, MHD turbulence becomes two-dimensional,” J. Fluid Mech. 118, 507 (1982)]. In regime IV (40<N), Δp0 is linearly dependent on Ha/Re. The non-monotonic behavior of the recirculating bubble length is caused by the redistribution of momentum at low Ha and by the predominant effect of the Lorentz force at large Ha. The law of how to distinguish the three-dimensional (3D) flow and quasi-two-dimensional (Q2D) flow is discovered by assessing the recirculating bubble length in the center plane.
Maternal oral supplementation with citrulline increases plasma citrulline but not arginine in pregnant Merino ewes and neonatal lambs
Authors: McCarthy Niki , Brougham Billie-Jaye , Swinbourne Alyce M. , Weaver Alice C. , Kelly Jennifer M. , Gatford Kathryn L. , Kleemann David O. , van Wettere William H. E. J.
Published: February 2022

Context Arginine supplementation can counter the negative effects of fetal growth restriction in ewes bearing multiple lambs by increasing birth weight and brown adipose fat stores in lambs; however ruminal degradation limits its bioavailability and necessitates ruminal protection. The arginine precursor citrulline increases circulating arginine after a single oral dose without ruminal protection, and bolus intravenous infusion of citrulline increases maternal and fetal circulating arginine for at least 4 h post infusion. Responses to oral and chronic citrulline have not, however, been evaluated in neonatal lambs. Aims This experiment sought to determine whether orally fed citrulline would increase circulating plasma concentrations of citrulline and arginine in pregnant Merino ewes. Methods Pregnant Merino ewes were fed citrulline (CIT, 8 g/day, n = 9) or no supplement (CON, n = 9) from Day 125 of gestation (DG 125) until parturition. Ewe (DG 125) and neonatal lamb serum (<2 h old) was analysed for circulating plasma citrulline and arginine concentrations. Key results Circulating concentrations of citrulline were higher in CIT than CON ewes 4 h post feeding at DG 125, and in CIT compared to CON neonatal lambs. Despite higher citrulline concentrations, supplementation did not increase maternal or neonatal circulating arginine concentrations. Conclusions Maternal supplementation with this dose of citrulline was not effective in increasing circulating levels of arginine. Implications Further studies may be merited in pregnant sheep to determine whether higher doses of oral citrulline can increase arginine availability during gestation.
A lysosomal biogenesis map reveals the cargo spectrum of yeast vacuolar protein targeting pathways
Authors: Eising Sebastian , Esch Bianca , Wälte Mike , Vargas Duarte Prado , Walter Stefan , Ungermann Christian , Bohnert Maria , Fröhlich Florian
Published: February 2022

The lysosome is the major catabolic organelle in the cell that has been established as a key metabolic signaling center. Mutations in many lysosomal proteins have catastrophic effects and cause neurodegeneration, cancer, and age-related diseases. The vacuole is the lysosomal analog of Saccharomyces cerevisiae that harbors many evolutionary conserved proteins. Proteins reach vacuoles via the Vps10-dependent endosomal vacuolar protein sorting pathway, via the alkaline phosphatase (ALP or AP-3) pathway, and via the cytosol-to-vacuole transport (CVT) pathway. A systematic understanding of the cargo spectrum of each pathway is completely lacking. Here, we use quantitative proteomics of purified vacuoles to generate the yeast lysosomal biogenesis map. This dataset harbors information on the cargo–receptor relationship of almost all vacuolar proteins. We map binding motifs of Vps10 and the AP-3 complex and identify a novel cargo of the CVT pathway under nutrient-rich conditions. Our data show how organelle purification and quantitative proteomics can uncover fundamental insights into organelle biogenesis.
Avery August: The data are the data
Authors: Houston Stephanie
Published: February 2022

Avery August is a Professor of Immunology in the Department of Microbiology and Immunology at Cornell University. His work is focused on T cell receptor signaling and the development of T cell subsets. I chatted with Avery about his journey is science so far.
The increasing added mass of a bouncing ball
Authors: Pantaleone J
Published: February 2022

A sphere moving through a fluid has a larger inertia than one moving through a vacuum. This increase in the inertia from the fluid is known as the added mass. The added mass has a large effect on the acceleration of the sphere if the sphere has a low density, and if the sphere is near a solid boundary. These effects are studied here by measuring the acceleration due to gravity of beach balls, in air, as they bounce vertically on the floor. The measured accelerations are smaller when the ball is closer to the floor because the added mass is larger there. These measurements are used to calculate the added mass of a sphere as a function of distance from the floor. The results collapse to a curve that is independent of ball size, and generally agrees with the predictions for an ideal fluid.