bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
SPECC1L: a cytoskeletal protein that regulates embryonic tissue dynamics
Authors: Saadi Irfan , Goering Jeremy P. , Hufft-Martinez Brittany M. , Tran Pamela V.
Published: June 2023

Many structural birth defects occur due to failure of tissue movement and fusion events during embryogenesis. Examples of such birth defects include failure of closure of the neural tube, palate, and ventral body wall. Actomyosin forces play a pivotal role in these closure processes, making proteins that regulate actomyosin dynamics a priority when studying the etiology of structural birth defects. SPECC1L (sperm antigen with calponin homology and coiled-coil domains 1 like) cytoskeletal protein associates with microtubules, filamentous actin, non-muscle myosin II (NMII), as well as membrane-associated components of adherens junctions. Patients with SPECC1L mutations show a range of structural birth defects affecting craniofacial development (hypertelorism, cleft palate), ventral body wall (omphalocele), and internal organs (diaphragmatic hernia, bicornuate uterus). Characterization of mouse models indicates that these syndromic mutations utilize a gain-of-function mechanism to affect intra- and supra-cellular actin organization. Interestingly, SPECC1L deficiency appears to affect the efficiency of tissue dynamics, making it an important cytoskeletal regulator to study tissue movement and fusion events during embryonic development. Here we summarize the SPECC1L-related syndrome mutations, phenotypes of Specc1l mouse models, and cellular functions of SPECC1L that highlight how it may regulate embryonic tissue dynamics.
IDEFIX: A versatile performance-portable Godunov code for astrophysical flows
Authors: Lesur G. R. J. , Baghdadi S. , Wafflard-Fernandez G. , Mauxion J. , Robert C. M. T. , Van den Bossche M.
Published: June 2023

Context. The exascale super-computers becoming available rely on hybrid energy-efficient architectures that involve an accelerator such as a graphics processing unit (GPU). Leveraging the computational power of these machines often means a significant rewrite of the numerical tools each time a new architecture becomes available.

Aims. We present IDEFIX, a new code for astrophysical flows that relies on the KOKKOS meta-programming library to guarantee performance portability on a wide variety of architectures while keeping the code as simple as possible to the user.

Methods. IDEFIX is based on a Godunov finite-volume method that solves the nonrelativistic hydrodynamical (HD) and magnetohy-drodynamical (MHD) equations on various grid geometries. IDEFIX includes a large choice of solvers and several additional modules (constrained transport, orbital advection, nonideal MHD), allowing users to address complex astrophysical problems.

Results. IDEFIX has been successfully tested on Intel and AMD CPUs (up to 131 072 CPU cores on Irene-Rome at TGCC) as well as NVidia and AMD GPUs (up to 1024 GPUs on Adastra at CINES). IDEFIX achieves more than 108 cell s−1 in MHD on a single NVidia V100 GPU and 3 × 1011 cell s−1 on 256 Adastra nodes (1024 GPUs) with 95% parallelization efficiency (compared to single node). For the same problem, IDEFIX is up to six times more energy efficient on GPUs compared to Intel Cascade Lake CPUs.

Conclusions. IDEFIX is now a mature exascale-ready open-source code that can be used on a large variety of astrophysical and fluid dynamics applications.
Delving deep: A population of extremely dusty dwarfs observed by JWST
Authors: Bisigello L. , Gandolfi G. , Grazian A. , Rodighiero G. , Costantin L. , Cooray A. R. , Feltre A. , Gruppioni C. , Hathi N. P. , Holwerda B. W. , Koekemoer A. M. , Lucas R. A. , Newman J. A. , Pérez-González P. G. , Yung L. Y. A. , de la Vega A. , Arrabal Haro P. , Bagley M. B. , Dickinson M. , Finkelstein S. L. , Kartaltepe J. S. , Papovich C. , Pirzkal N. , Wilkins S.
Published: June 2023

Aims. We take advantage of the NIRCam photometric observations available as part of the Cosmic Evolution Early Release Science survey (CEERS) to identify and analyse very red sources in an effort to discover very dusty star forming galaxies.

Methods. We select red galaxies as objects with a S/N > 3 at 4.4 μm and a S/N < 2 in all JWST and HST filters at λ ≤ 2 μm, which corresponds to [F200W]−[F444W]> 1.2 considering CEERS depths. This selection is ideal to identify very dusty (AV > 1 mag) galaxies with stellar masses between 106 and 1010 M⊙ at z < 5, more massive dusty galaxies at z = 5 − 18 and galaxies at z > 18 due to the Lyman absorption, independently of their dust extinction.

Results. Our sample of F200W-dropouts contains no strong candidates at z > 6.5, instead it consists almost completely (∼81%) of z < 2 low-mass galaxies, with a median stellar mass of 107.3 M⊙. These galaxies show an exceptional dust extinction with median value of AV = 4.9 mag, completely unexpected given their low stellar mass. The remaining galaxies, which are at z < 6.5, show similar large dust extinction (AV > 1), but they are generally more massive > 107.5 M⊙.
2021 occultations and transits of Linus orbiting (22) Kalliope
Authors: Brož M. , Ďurech J. , Ferrais M. , Lee H.-J. , Kim M.-J. , Roh D.-G. , Yim H.-S. , Jehin E. , Burdanov A. , de Wit J. , Fatka P. , Hanuš J. , Carry B.
Published: June 2023

Aims.The satellite Linus orbiting the main-belt asteroid (22) Kalliope exhibited mutual occultation and transit events in late 2021. A photometric campaign was organised and observations were undertaken by the TRAPPIST-South, SPECULOOS-Artemis, OWL-Net, and BOAO telescopes, with the goal to further constrain dynamical and photometric models of this sizeable asteroid-satellite system.

Methods.Our dynamical model is sufficiently complex, featuring multipoles (up to the order ofℓ= 2), internal tides, and external tides. The model was constrained by astrometry (spanning 2001–2021), occultations, adaptive-optics imaging, and calibrated photometry, as well as relative photometry. Our photometric model was substantially improved. A new precise (<0.1 mmag) light curve algorithm was implemented, based on polygon intersections, which are computed exactly by including partial eclipses and partial visibility of polygons. Moreover, we implemented a ‘cliptracing’ algorithm, again based on polygon intersections, in which partial contributions to individual pixels are computed exactly. Both synthetic light curves and synthetic images then become very smooth.

Results.Based on our combined solution, we confirmed the size of Linus, namely, (28 ± 1)km. However, this solution exhibits some tension among the light curves and the PISCO speckle-interferometry dataset, acquired simultaneously with the 2021 events. This indicates that improvements of the shape are still possible. In most solutions, Linus is darker than Kalliope, with the single-scattering albedosAw= 0.40 vs. 0.44. This is confirmed on deconvolved images. A detailed revision of astrometric data has allowed us to revise also theJ2≡ −C20value of Kalliope. Most importantly, a homogeneous body is excluded. For a differentiated body, two solutions exist: low-oblateness (C20≃ −0.12), with a spherical iron core, and, alternatively, high-oblateness (C20≃ −0.22) with an elongated iron core. These values correspond, respectively, to the low- and high-energy collisions we studied via SPH simulations in our previous work.
Criteria-Based Approach to Solving the Problem of Technological Regulation Rotary Combine
Authors: Dimitrov V.P. , Nurutdinova I.N. , Borisova L.V.
Published: June 2023

The task of technological adjustment of the working bodies of a rotary combine harvester is not trivial. The complexity of the task is due to the need to take into account a large number of signs (environmental factors and parameters of the technical condition of the machine), and the level of uncertainty of the values of these signs is quite high. Therefore, when searching for optimal values of the regulated parameters of the combine harvester, ensuring that the values of the work quality indicators do not exceed the permissible ones, it is advisable to use an intelligent information system. The use of this system will allow using various methods and algorithms for finding the desired solutions. In the conditions of uncertainty characteristic of the problem under consideration of adjusting the adjustable parameters of the machine, it is advisable to use a game-theoretic approach when creating an intelligent system for setting up a combine harvester. This approach will provide variability of methods for choosing the optimal strategy for finding a rational solution.Based on the analysis of the subject area, the concepts of performance indicator matrices and the risk of making an ineffective decision are introduced. The choice of a strategy for finding the reason for the deviation of the harvester’s performance indicator is considered based on three criteria: Laplace, mathematical expectation and Savage, widely used in decision-making tasks in the so-called “games with nature”. An example of choosing a strategy for finding the cause of a violation of the technological process of grain harvesting and an adequate response to eliminate it is given. The analysis of the calculation results is carried out, the conditions and scope of the proposed approach are presented.
Application of assisted extraction technologies to optimize the extraction of biologically active substances from plant materials
Authors: Petrov Nikita , Ermakova Ekaterina , Perova Irina , Sokolov Ilya , Zorin Sergey
Published: June 2023

There is an increased interest in obtaining amaranth grain extracts enriched with biologically active substances by deep processing of raw materials with a further prospect of their use as part of specialized multi-purpose food products. The aim of this work was to evaluate the effectiveness of membrane filtration for the extraction of biologically active substances from amaranth grains. Amaranth grain extract was obtained by enzymatic hydrolysis using a proteolytic enzyme followed by membrane treatment. the developed approach made it possible to obtain an extract from amaranth grains - a source of biologically active peptides, 20-hydroxyecdysone and polyphenols (including saponins). In total, triterpene saponins were concentrated in the extract by 8 times, and the phytoecdysteroid 20-hydroxyecdysone was more than 30 times concentrated. The high content of low molecular weight peptide fractions (more than 80%) in the composition of the extract makes it promising to evaluate its antihypertensive and antidiabetic properties in vivo. The presence of 20-hydroxyecdysone in the extract, an adaptogen with a proven effect, opens up the possibility of its use as a functional food ingredient in specialized food products, including for athletes.
Study of the chemical composition of quinoa during vegetation in the conditions of southern Russia
Authors: Leushkina Elena , Donchenko Lyudmila , Lukyanenko Maria , Sokol Natalia , Sobol Irina , Podpletennaya Ekaterina
Published: June 2023

The results of studies of the fractional composition and antioxidant activity of quinoa leaves are presented. It has been established that quinoa leaves of Russian selection can be used as natural sources of antioxidant substances in the production of functional products, in particular, herbal teas and beverages.
Ultrasonic Preparation of Coating Surfaces
Authors: Nigmetzyanov Ravil I. , Sundukov Sergey K. , Fatyukhin Dmitry S. , Sukhov Aleksandr V. , Simonov Dmitry S.
Published: June 2023

For various methods of obtaining coatings, the general stage of technology is the preparation of the surface for the application of the coating material. The properties of the resulting coating directly depend on the quality of preparation. In the process of obtaining coatings, the most common application of ultrasonic treatment to clean the surface from all kinds of contaminants. However, with a sufficient intensity of processing, ultrasound has a significant effect on the geometric properties of the surfaces of products. Prolonged cavitation action leads to changes in the roughness and sub-roughness of the metal surface. The article discusses the effectiveness of the use of ultrasonic liquid treatment in the preparation of surfaces for coating. The results of studies on the effect of cavitation on the change in roughness, sub-roughness and oil absorption are presented. Revealed an improvement in the adhesion properties of surfaces after ultrasonic liquid treatment.
Acoustic Birefringence Changes in the Base Metal and Heat Affected Zone of ASTM 1020 Steel under Plastic Deformation and Fatigue
Authors: Gonchar Alexander , Klyushnikov Vyacheslav , Mishakin Vasily
Published: June 2023

This paper deals with metallographic studies and ultrasonic investigations of acoustic birefringence in the base metal and heat affected zone of welded specimens of ASTM 1020 steel under uniaxial tension and low-cycle fatigue. We examined microstructural changes on the surface using optical microscope. It was found that development of slip bands differs in the base metal and heat affected zone. The ultrasonic pulse echo method was used for the determination of acoustic birefringence and velocities of ultrasonic shear waves. The differences in the change in velocities in the base metal and in heat affected zone were revealed. Acoustic birefringence was found to change monotonously in the base metal under fatigue as well as in the base metal and heat affected zone under uniaxial tension. For heat affected zone, during fatigue, acoustic birefringence was found to change non-monotonously up to cycle ratio of 0.3 and decrease monotonously after cycle ratio of 0.3. Based on the relationship between relative number of loading cycles, or plasticity resource, and acoustic birefringence, ultrasonic techniques were proposed for assessing damage.
Cluster size determination using shadowgraphy measurements
Authors: Eick Hanna , Brand Philipp , Mannweiler Christian , Vestrick Sophia , Khoukaz Alfons
Published: June 2023

Cluster-jet beams offer a wide variety of possible applications. The advantages of an internal and windowless cluster-jet target make it suitable for many experiments. It is important to know all the properties of the cluster-jet to prepare it for the desired conditions of the respective experiments. An essential property is the size of the clusters and their size distribution. To investigate the size of the clusters shadowgraphy measurements are performed. This article provides an overview of the shadowgraphy method and presents first results of these analyses using hydrogen clusters. These show an average cluster size of a few micrometers, which will also be of high interest, besides the here shown laser cluster interaction, for other installations using cluster beams.
Application of multiple source preparation procedures on environmental samples for determination of Uranium in Alpha Spectrometry
Authors: Abubakar Maruf , Rozmaric Martina , Benedik Ljudmila
Published: June 2023

Different source preparation procedures for determination of uranium radioisotopes in environmental samples by alpha spectrometry are presented. Addition of 232U tracer was followed by the preconcentration of radionuclides of interest from the samples by co-precipitation on Fe(OH)3 at pH 9 using ammonia solution. The uranium extracts were obtained by column separation using UTEVA resin after which the uranium sources from the samples were prepared using either electrodeposition or microcoprecipitation with LaF3 before counting. The procedures were tested on spinach, soil, tap water and waste water from the Libanon Gold mine and the results obtained were compared.
Method for releasing carbon foils from substrates
Authors: Hasebe Hiroo , Okuno Hiroki , Imao Hiroshi , Fukunishi Nobuhisa , Kase Masayuki , Kamigaito Osamu
Published: June 2023

The performance of a carbon foil (C-foil) as a charge stripper in an accelerator is directly affected by its condition and quality. C-foils are fabricated by evaporating carbon onto a substrate. Therefore, a suitable technique must be established for depositing and removing C-foils from substrates. The selection of appropriate releasing agents is crucial for the removal process. C-foils with thicknesses less than 0.1 mg/cm2 were produced using the arc discharge method, wherein chloride materials were used as releasing agents. The magnetron sputtering method is suitable for manufacturing C-foils thicker than 0.1 mg/cm2 using appropriate releasing agents, such as fluorine-based or silicon-based agents. The contact angle analysis demonstrates a negative relationship between the C-foil thickness and the wettability of the substrate treated with an appropriate releasing agent. The possibility of using ionic liquids as novel releasing agents is also investigated.
A spallation target at TRIUMF for fundamental neutron physics
Authors: Vanbergen Sean , Schreyer Wolfgang , Ahmed Shomi , Andalib Taraneh , Barnes Mike , Bell Beryl , Chak Jason , Cudmore Elspeth , Franke Beatrice , Giampa Pietro , Gnyp Patricia , Hahn Moritz , Hansen-Romu Sean , Hatanaka Kichiji , Jones David , Katsika Katerina , Kawasaki Shinsuke , Korkmaz Elie , Madison Kirk , Mammei Juliette , Mammei Russell , Marshall Cameron , Martin Jeffery , Matsumiya Ryohei , Mishima Kenji , Okamura Takahiro , Picker Ruediger , Pierre Edgard , Ramsay Des , Remon Gelo , Sidhu Steve , Thorsteinson Brendan , van Oers Willem
Published: June 2023

Ultracold neutrons (UCNs) are a powerful tool for probing the Standard Model at high precision. The TRIUMF Ultracold Advanced Neutron (TUCAN) collaboration is building a new UCN source to provide unprecedented densities of UCNs for experiments. This source will use a tantalum-clad tungsten spallation target, receiving up to 40 µA of 480-MeV protons from TRIUMF’s main cyclotron. The beamline and target were constructed from 2014 to 2016 and operated at beam currents up to 10 µA from 2017 to 2019 as part of a prototype UCN source. We describe the design choices for the target and target-handling system, as well as our benchmarking of the target performance using UCN production measurements.
Ni target development for the TULIP project
Authors: Jardin Pascal , Bosquet Vincent , Damoy Samuel , Frémont Georges , Perocheau Franck , MacCormick Marion
Published: June 2023

The TULIP project (https://anr.fr/Projet-ANR-18-CE31-0023) aims to produce radioactive ion beams of short-lived neutron-deficient isotopes using fusion-evaporation nuclear reactions in an Isotope Separator On Line (ISOL) system. A Ni target was chosen to produce Rb and Sn isotopes, and was bombarded, respectively, by Ne and Cr primary beams at energies close to the Coulomb barrier. Owing to the Target Ion Source System (TISS) configuration, the operational TISS temperature had to be close to 1300°C. Several tests were performed to determine a configuration able to cope with the constraints related to the TISS, target and beam. This article presents a brief description of the TULIP principles and objectives, and the development of the Ni target.
Targetry for the in-beam activation of tracer particles for positron emission particle tracking
Authors: Leadbeater Thomas , van Heerden Michael , Buffler Andy , Camroodien Ameerah , Steyn Gideon
Published: June 2023

Positron emission particle tracking measures the trajectory of a single radioactively labelled tracer particle by coincident detection of emitted annihilation photons. The technique enables the non-invasive study of dense opaque flows, with the tracer acting as a small neutrally buoyant flow-follower. The University of Cape Town has established a PEPT facility at iThemba LABS, utilising tracer particles produced through radiochemical methods, and measured using adapted positron tomographs. An activation approach producing the positron emitter 18F inside glass target spheres of diameter between 5.0 and 10 mm using accelerated beams of alpha-particles has been explored. The reaction 16O(O, x)18F is used, exploiting the high concentration of natural oxygen and the correspondingly high cross-sections for 18F formation. A standard target holder for the batch production of radionuclides at iThemba LABS was modified, reducing the entrance window thickness, allowing ingress of circulating cooling water, and adapted for a primary tparticle beam of 100 MeV energy delivered by the separated sector cyclotron (SSC) of iThemba LABS. Two-hour bombardment at nominal beam current 0.8 eµA produced activities up to ~ 110 MBq (3 mCi), with over 95% of the activity being 18F.
The preparation of isotopic boron targets – searching for a more consistent approach
Authors: Greene John , Gott Matthew
Published: June 2023

The reliable availability of isotopic boron targets has gained in importance concerning light ion reactions withing the realm of nuclear astrophysics research and remain somewhat elusive. An exhaustive approach was undertaken via electron beam evaporation to produce self-supporting and backed targets spanning quite a few isotopic samples across several suppliers, resulting only in limited success. Details of the extensive sample preparation procedures undertaken, and the experimental deposition techniques explored will be presented.
Innovationen im Gesundheitswesen
Authors: Rychlik Reinhard , Greiner Wolfgang
Published: June 2023

Brauchen wir Innovationen im deutschen Gesundheitswesen?

„Ja, warum nicht?“ oder „Selbstverständlich“
könnten die Antworten sein.

Wobei der Bezug der Innovationen oft zur Krankheit und deren Heilung besteht. Aber es
kann auch Innovationen in der Behandlungsstruktur, der Kommunikationen
(elektronische Patientenakte) oder der Dokumentationen (Digitalisierung) u. v. m.
geben.

Dabei sollte man sich immer zuerst um den Begriff „Innovationen“
bekümmern und ihn mit Leben füllen.

Dennoch, vielleicht auch erst nach einem Piloten, könnte man über
Vertiefung oder Institutionalisierung nachdenken.

Aber in politischen Entscheidungen kommt es häufig erstens anders und
zweitens als man denkt.
Innovationen für die gesetzliche Krankenversicherung:
Rückblick auf sieben Jahre Förderpraxis
Authors: Hecken Josef
Published: June 2023

Der Beitrag blickt auf die ersten sieben Jahre Förderpraxis durch den
Innovationsausschuss beim Gemeinsamen Bundesauschuss zurück. Die
Änderungen durch das Digitale-Versorgung-Gesetz (DVG) stellen hierbei
eine Zäsur dar. Denn durch das DVG wurde der Innovationsfonds nicht nur
ein zweites Mal verlängert, sondern es gingen damit auch eine Reihe von
inhaltlichen, strukturellen und prozessualen Änderungen einher.
Iatrogene Keratektasie nach refraktiver Chirurgie – Ursachen, Prophylaxe, Therapie
Authors: Wagner Felix Mathias , Sekundo Walter
Published: June 2023

Bei der iatrogenen Keratektasie kommt es bei initial gutem Visus nach refraktivchirurgischen Lasereingriffen zu einer progressiven Myopisierung mit irregulärem Astigmatismus infolge einer
zunehmenden Vorwölbung der Hornhaut. Bekannte Risikofaktoren sind u. a. ein zu dünnes postoperativ verbleibendes Stromabett, ein dickerer Flap oder präoperativ unerkannte Anzeichen für einen
bereits bestehenden subklinischen Keratokonus. Die Rate postrefraktiver Ektasien bei Augen ohne erkennbare präoperative Risikofaktoren beträgt 20 pro 100 000 Augen bei PRK, 90 pro 100 000
Augen bei LASIK und 11 pro 100 000 Augen bei SMILE. Die klassischen Screening-Tools auf präoperative Risiken beinhalten das „Ectasia Risk Score System“ (ERSS) und „Percentage of Tissue
Alteration“ (PTA). Modernere Methoden umfassen neben KI-Methoden für die Datenanalyse auch Einzelschichttomografie mit Epithelkartierung. Die Therapie erfolgt mit Kontaktlinsen,
Crosslinking, der Implantation intrakornealer Ringsegmente, perforierenden oder lamellären Keratoplastiken und in ersten Studien durch die Implantation von Hornhautlentikeln.
A Novel De novo Heterozygous Mutation in the SON Gene Associated with Septo-optic Dysplasia: A New Phenotype
Authors: Pasca Ludovica , Politano Davide , Cavallini Anna , Panzeri Elena , Vigone Maria Cristina , Baldoli Cristina , Abbate Marco , Kullmann Gaia , Marelli Susan , Pozzobon Gabriella , Vincenzi Gaia , Nacinovich Renata , Bassi Maria Teresa , Romaniello Romina
Published: June 2023

Septo-optic dysplasia (SOD) syndrome is a rare congenital disorder characterized by a classic triad of optic nerve/chiasm hypoplasia, agenesis of septum pellucidum and corpus callosum, and hypoplasia of the hypothalamic-pituitary axis.

Herein, we report the clinical case of 2-year-old boy presenting with psychomotor delay, nystagmus, congenital hypothyroidism, and a clinically relevant growth delay. The neuroradiological examination showed partial segmental agenesis of the corpus callosum, agenesis of the septum pellucidum, optic nerve hypoplasia, and a small pituitary gland with a small median pituitary stalk. A whole-exome sequencing analysis detected a novel heterozygous de novo variant c.1069_1070delAG in SON, predicted as likely pathogenic.

To date, SON pathogenic variants have been described as responsible for Zhu-Tokita-Takenouchi-Kim (ZTTK) syndrome, a multisystemic neurodevelopmental disorder mainly characterized by intellectual disability, facial dysmorphisms, visual abnormalities, brain malformations, feeding difficulties, and growth delay. The herein described case is the first recognized clinic-radiological occurrence of SOD syndrome with hypothalamic-pituitary dysfunction in a patient carrying a SON gene variant, considered responsible of ZTTK syndrome, suggesting a possible relationship between SOD and SON gene alterations, never described so far, making the search for SON gene mutations advisable in patients with SOD.
Endoscopic Reconstruction of the Sellar Floor by Extended Inferior Turbinate Flap in Recurrent Pituitary Tumors
Authors: Elsamouly Hatem M. , Zaghloul Ahmed , Younis Ahmed , Hadeya Abdelgawad , Ayad Ahmed Adel , Hendawy Mansor Ali , Alaghory Islam M. , Barania Mohamed , Ellabbad Mohamed , Attia Mohamed
Published: June 2023

Objective This aim of this study was to address the outcome of endoscopic reconstruction of the sellar floor by extended inferior turbinate flap.

Patients and Methods This is a retrospective study of 34 patients with a recurrent pituitary tumor. They were treated between March 2018 and December 2021 by endoscopic extended endonasal approach with the reconstruction of the sellar floor by an extended posterior pedicle inferior turbinate flap. The clinical and radiological follow-up was performed immediately postoperation and regularly every 3 months up to 1 year, and the available data from the last follow-up visit were included in the analysis.

Results The patients' age ranged between 40 and 65 years, with a slight female predominance (55.9%). Headache was the main presentation (47.1%), and functional tumors were found in 50.0% patients. Visual disturbances were field defects among 61.8% and papilledema among 52.9% patients. Preoperative endoscopy revealed postseptectomy as the significant finding (73.5%), followed by postseptectomy and adhesion (14.7%) and finally postseptectomy and hypertrophied inferior turbinate (11.8%). Total tumor resection was achieved in 76.5%, visual improvement was recorded in 52.9%, and no complications were reported in 82.4% patients. Cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) leak was not reported in any of the studied patients. Finally, total resection was significantly associated with younger age, non-functioning tumor and improvement of headache.

Conclusion The extended inferior turbinate flap is an effective and safe approach for sellar floor reconstruction in endoscopic endonasal surgery for recurrent pituitary tumors. The extension overcomes the relatively small inferior flap and its limited arc of rotation.
Sustainable Ru(II)-Catalyzed ortho-C(sp2)–H Hydroxyalkylation of Phthalazinones Using Ethyl Glyoxalate: Access to α,α′-Arylcarboxy sec-Alcohols
Authors: Gandhi Thirumanavelan , Ramkumar Alagumalai
Published: June 2023

An operationally simple and expeditious protocol for Ru(II)-catalyzed ortho-C(sp2)–H hydroxyalkylation of phthalazinones using commercially available ethyl glyoxalate in 2-Me-THF is reported. This greener approach involves the imine nitrogen on the phthalazinones as a directing group to effect the regioselective hydroxyalkylation. Ample examples of biologically relevant hydroxyalkylated phthalazinones were prepared, and relevant controlled studies were performed to decipher the reaction mechanism.
Transition-Metal-Free and Selective Deconstructive Carbonyl Olefination of α-Hydroxy Ketones: A Complementary Approach to Knoevenagel Reaction
Authors: Kumar Anil , Sandeep Sandeep , Saini Vaneet , Chayawan Chayawan , Chaudhary Ganga R. , Venugopalan Paloth
Published: June 2023

While the carbonyl olefination has been extensively studied and well documented, use of α-hydroxy ketones as precursors for the carbonyl olefination is not reported, till date. Herein, a transition-metal-free and selective Knoevenagel-type deconstructive carbonyl olefination of α-hydroxy ketones using arylacetonitriles under mild reaction conditions is presented. The reaction affords valuable scaffolds of acrylonitriles with the use of α-hydroxy ketones as precursors for carbonyl olefination.
Semi-Synthesis of (+)-Digitoxigenin from Androstenedione
Authors: Shi Lei , Wei Linlin , Qiao Kaikai
Published: June 2023

An efficient stereoselective semi-synthesis of (+)-digitoxigenin has been achieved by a nine-step sequence with a 20.4% overall yield. The key features of the synthesis include a Saegusa–Ito oxidation reaction, a direct C14β-hydroxylation, and a Stille cross-coupling.
Independent agencies? Political vulnerability and affinity of their leaders
Authors: Klimentová Eliška , Tomanová Petra
Published: June 2023

Are the leaders of independent agencies independent in practice? Are the independence requirements set out in legislation a guarantee of de facto independence? This paper reveals the relationship between de iure independence and de facto independence of independent agencies through two dimensions: political affinity and political vulnerability of their leaders. Our analysis reveals how the de iure independence of an agency affects the probability that agency heads will have connections to political parties and whether their mandates will end prematurely in a period of political transition, i.e., when a new government takes office. It also determines whether the biographical profile of agency heads (PhD degree, bureaucratic background, and political affiliation) can influence their security of tenure when governments change, and hence their independence. This is supported by an empirical evaluation of independent authorities in the Czech Republic between 1993 and 2021.
Predicting and preventing disruptions in tokamak fusion experiments
Authors: Thompson Avery
Published: June 2023

Catastrophic disruptions plague tokamak designs, but an innovative method offers an early warning to avert disaster.
Decoupling control of radial 4 degree of freedom system of magnetic-liquid double suspension bearing based on generalized extended state observer
Authors: Chai Changpeng , Shi Saixin , Chen Jianlin , Dou Tenghao , Cao Junbo , Gao Dianrong , Zhao Jianhua
Published: June 2023

As the novel suspension bearing, Magnetic-Liquid Double Suspension Bearing (MLDSB) is mainly supported by magnetic suspension and supplemented by a liquid hydrostatic bearing. Due to its great bearing capacity and stiffness, rapid response, great active control, and so on, MLDSB is suitable for medium speed heavy loads and has a large carrying capacity and high operating stability. In addition, the radial inertia coupling and gyroscopic coupling between radial 4-DOF control channels can reduce control precision, operation stability, and reliability of MLDSB. Therefore, a mathematical model of radial 4-DOF rotor-dynamics of MLDSB is established in this paper, and the inherent coupling mechanism is explored. Taking inertial coupling, gyroscopic coupling, and external disturbance loads as lumped disturbances, a decoupled controller based on Generalized Extended State Observer (GESO) is established. The influence of the GESO controller on the decoupling and control performance of radial 4-DOF control channels is simulated. The results indicate that the decoupling effect of the GESO controller is great. Under the action of step signal, the steady displacement, maximum displacement, adjustment time, and peak time of the rotor after decoupling are all reduced, among which the steady displacement and maximum displacement are the most obvious. Under the sinusoidal signal, the steady displacement and maximum displacement are reduced by 90%, which can effectively avoid the “gap-impact” fault. Under the pulse signal, the steady displacement, maximum displacement, adjustment time, and peak time are all reduced, among which the maximum displacement is the most obvious. The research in this paper can provide a theoretical reference for the stable support and decoupling control of MLDSB.
Characterization of a half-wave plate for cosmic microwave background circular polarization measurement with POLARBEAR
Authors: Fujino T. , Takakura S. , Chinone Y. , Hasegawa M. , Hazumi M. , Katayama N. , Lee A. T. , Matsumura T. , Minami Y. , Nishino H.
Published: June 2023

A half-wave plate (HWP) is often used as a modulator to suppress systematic error in the measurements of cosmic microwave background (CMB) polarization. A HWP can also be used to measure circular polarization (CP) through its optical leakage from CP to linear polarization. The CP of the CMB is predicted from various sources, such as interactions in the Universe and extension of the standard model. Interaction with supernova remnants of population III stars is one of the brightest CP sources. Thus, the observation of the CP of CMB is a new tool for searching for population III stars. In this paper, we demonstrate the improved measurement of the leakage coefficient using the transmission measurement of an actual HWP in the laboratory. We measured the transmittance of linearly polarized light through the HWP used in Polarbear in the frequency range of 120–160 GHz. We evaluate the properties of the HWP by fitting the data with a physical model using the Markov Chain Monte Carlo method. We then estimate the band-averaged CP leakage coefficient using the physical model. We find that the leakage coefficient strongly depends on the spectra of CP sources. We thus calculate the maximum fractional leakage coefficient from CP to linear polarization as 0.133 ± 0.009 in the Rayleigh–Jeans spectrum. The nonzero value shows that Polarbear has a sensitivity to CP. Additionally, because we use the bandpass of detectors installed in the telescope to calculate the band-averaged values, we also consider systematic effects in the experiment.
Physical modeling of spikes during the volcanic tsunami generation
Authors: Liu Yibin , Fritz Hermann M.
Published: June 2023

Tsunamis generated by underwater volcanic eruptions are physically modeled in a large three-dimensional wave basin. A unique pneumatic volcanic tsunami generator (VTG) was deployed at the bottom of the wave basin to generate volcanic tsunamis with repeatable source parameters under controlled physical conditions. The volcanic Froude number defined with the VTG eruption velocity and water depth allows to physically model real-world events from slow mud-volcanoes to explosive eruptions. The VTG generates radial N-waves with prescribed vertical stroke motions in the wave basin. Initial three-dimensional water surfaces are reconstructed for the daylighting scenarios. Smooth dome shapes are observed during the submarine volcanic eruption and tsunami wave generation, which is followed by a trough formation at the source. A concentric vertical spike is observed for a specific range of water depths, which is generated by superposition of an inward propagating circular bore on top of the wave generator. The spike can be clustered with different ranges of a dimensionless VTG parameter. With an increasing dimensionless parameter, the spike pattern transitions through three distinct categories: smooth spike, rough spike, and splash spike. The dimensionless spike height and the dimensionless vertical velocity of the spike tip are dependent on the dimensionless VTG parameters. The maximum values of the dimensionless spike height and spike tip velocity are observed in the rough spike regime among all tested experimental scenarios.
Spatiotemporal variability of monthly precipitation concentration in Argentina
Authors: Llano María Paula
Published: June 2023

Studies of the spatial and temporal variability of precipitation concentration are necessary. This variability is a significant climate element and also a critical socioeconomic factor. This study aims to contribute to the knowledge of rainfall in Argentina using records of monthly precipitation for 64 stations (period 1991–2021) to calculate the monthly precipitation concentration index (PCI). Precipitation in Argentina, given its vast territory, presents a great variability with a wide range of rainfall regimes; the range of PCI values is 10.6–27.3. Values of PCI range from uniform distribution (less than 10) to strong irregularity of precipitation distribution (greater than 20). The north-west of the country shows a high concentration and the south has a low concentration. Analysis shows that the majority of the stations have positive trends in PCI (although not significant), and this increase in concentration of precipitation could become a risk depending on the evolution of the associated rain.
Sexually transmissible infections (STI) and HIV testing and diagnosis among Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal adolescents in contact with the Australian justice system: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Taflan Patricia , Simpson Paul L. , Wilson Mandy , Jones Jocelyn , Donovan Basil , Amin Janaki , Nathan Sally , Butler Tony
Published: June 2023

Background It is unclear what factors are associated with sexually transmissible infections (STI) and HIV testing and diagnosis among justice-involved adolescents, and if these differ for Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander peoples. Methods A cross-sectional survey of 465 justice-involved adolescents (aged 14–17 years) from Australia was conducted between 2016 and 2018. Participants were asked about sexual behaviours, STI/HIV knowledge, and prior STI diagnoses and testing. Results Approximately 38% (n = 130) of those sexually active had ever been screened for STI/HIV and 17.8% (n = 23) had been diagnosed with an STI. No participant reported living with HIV. For Aboriginal participants, being male (aOR 3.6, 95% CI 1.3–10.1) and having under three sexual partners in the past 12 months (aOR 3.1, 95% CI 1.2–8.0) was associated with never having had an STI/HIV test. For non-Aboriginal participants, being male (aOR 2.7, 95%CI 1.2–5.7), single (aOR 2.4, 95% CI 1.2–4.9), attending school (aOR 2.4, 95% CI 1.1–5.1), not having sought sexual health information (aOR 2.8, 95% CI 1.4–5.8), and having a lower STI/HIV knowledge score (aOR 2.3, 95% CI 1.1–5.0) were associated with never having had an STI/HIV test. Factors associated with STI diagnosis were non-heterosexual sexual orientation (aOR 5.6, 95% CI 1.1–28.2), transactional sex (aOR 11.2, 95% CI 3.0–41.3), and having sought sexual health information (aOR 3.5, 95% CI 1.0–12.5). Conclusions Males, particularly Aboriginal male adolescents, should be engaged with sexual health promotion and testing services as soon as they come into contact with the justice system. Approaches should consider different cultural, gender and sexual orientations.
‘HIV made me fabulous’: a qualitative analysis of embodied storytelling in film to address stigma, further understandings of U=U and advance gender equity
Authors: Bhanji Azra , Kaida Angela , Roche Juno , Kilpatrick Edmond , Anam Florence , Nicholson Valerie , Muchenje Marvelous , Brotto Lori A. , Carter Allison
Published: June 2023

Background Even with the Undetectable equals Untransmittable campaign (U=U) campaign, women living with HIV continue to experience intersecting forms of stigma. We explored how the somatic experiences of viewing a film about U=U and women could help individuals gain deeper understandings of HIV and alter learned prejudices. Methods HIV Made Me Fabulous is a film that utilises embodied storytelling to tell the story of a trans woman living through social and historical traumas of HIV. Four online film screenings and focus group discussions took place between June 2020 and June 2021, with participants attending from Canada, Australia, South Africa, Kenya, Zimbabwe and India. Two sessions were held with women living with HIV (n = 16) and two with HIV-negative individuals (n = 12). Transcripts were analysed via thematic analysis using Lafrenière and Cox’s framework to assess its impact. Results Participants experienced strong, diverse emotional responses and sometimes physical effects from viewing the film. These somatic experiences furthered engagement with key messages in the film, including U=U, intersectional identities, and impacts of patriarchal systems. Women living with HIV commented on unique gendered risks experienced during disclosure, and the pressures of reaching an undetectable viral load. Women also commented how the film resulted in deeper reflection of their deservingness of pleasure. Regardless of HIV status, participants expressed motivation towards influencing change that included addressing biases and sharing U=U with others. Conclusions Embodied storytelling in film is an effective method to counter both intra- and inter-personal HIV-related stigma by provoking responses that enhance compassion for oneself and others.
The geodesic flow of the BGPP metric is Liouville integrable
Authors: Maciejewski Andrzej J , Przybylska Maria , Valent Galliano
Published: June 2023

We prove that the geodesics equations corresponding to the BGPP metric are integrable in the Liouville sense. The

S
O

(
3
,

R

)

symmetry of the model allows to reduce the system from four to two degrees of freedom. Moreover, solutions of the reduced system and its degenerations can be given explicitly or reduced to a certain quadrature. In degenerated cases BGPP metric coincides with the Eguchi–Hanson metric and for this case the mentioned quadrature can be calculated explicitly in terms of elliptic integrals.
Investigation on anchor and base design for aluminum nitride flexural mode resonators
Authors: Yuan Yi , Yang Qingrui , Li Haolin , Shi Shuai , Niu Pengfei , Sun Chongling , Liu Bohua , Zhang Menglun , Pang Wei
Published: June 2023

This paper investigates the impact of base and anchor on the quality factor (Q) of piezoelectric microelectromechanical system (MEMS) tuning fork resonators vibrating in in-plane flexural mode, and proposes a new strategy to improve Q significantly. Finite element method simulation and measured results reveal that base and anchor geometries have a significant impact on the thermoelastic damping (TED) which dominates the overall resonator quality factor. For the first time, we accurately extract Q value related to TED of piezoelectric tuning fork resonators by cryogenic temperature experiment, which is consistent with FEM simulation results. According to the analysis, a wider anchor or a longer base should promote overall Q by restraining the thermal conduction induced by TED. On the other hand, increase of width or length of anchor will force the out-of-plane flexural modes closer to the target mode, reducing the overall Q by multimode effect. With a wide anchor and a pillar structure under the base to suppress multimode effect, the resonator Q could be improved by 65% to more than 11 000 and impedance at series resonant frequency (f
s) could be reduced by 78% to 6.5 kΩ. To our knowledge, the proposed resonator exhibits the highest f× Q and lowest motional impedance among the reported in-plane mode piezoelectric MEMS tuning fork resonators.
Study on the thermoelectric characteristics of the ternary alkali metal compound XMgSb (X = K, Rb, Cs)
Authors: Wang Yue , Zhao Yinchang , Xu Baolong , Ni Jun , Meng Sheng , Dai Zhenhong
Published: June 2023

We conducted a comprehensive analysis of the mechanical, transport, and thermoelectric (TE) characteristics of XMgSb (X = K, Rb, Cs) alkali metal compounds using first-principles calculations, self-consistent phonon theory, pressive sensing lattice dynamics, and the Boltzmann transport equation. Our results show that the very low lattice thermal conductivity of these materials is mainly attributed to the strong anharmonicity of the alkali metal atoms, and the lattice thermal conductivity is negatively correlated with the mass of X atoms. Furthermore, we consider five scattering mechanisms to accurately calculate transport properties and electron relaxation times. Notably, we observed that the large electronic dispersion band near the valence band maximum leads to the high conductivity of these three compounds, with a flat electronic energy band at the Γ-Z point, which generally implies a larger Seebeck coefficient. The coexistence of good electronic band dispersion and flat electronic bands leads to high conductivity and large Seebeck coefficient, resulting in high TE power. Low lattice thermal conductivity and high TE power factor jointly determine the development potential of alkali metal compound XMgSb (X = K, Rb, Cs) in the field of TE.
Orbital hybridisation effects in B2 phase Cr doped Co2MnAl
Authors: Pathak Swati , Singh Saurabh , Khalid S , Kuga Kentaro , Takeuchi Tsunehiro , Bindu R
Published: June 2023

We investigate here the magnetic, transport, local structural and electronic properties of Co2Mn

1
−
x

Cr
x
Al (x = 0, 0.05, 0.1 and 0.2). Our results show that all the compounds stabilise in B2 phase and are ferromagnets. The results reveal disorder at the structural and magnetic levels. X-ray absorption near edge structure (XANES) analysis reveal signature of antisite disorder between Mn and Al atoms with equal ratio. The electronic structure calculations suggest enhancement in the half metallicity, localisation of electrons at the Fermi level and an increment in density of states with doping. The combined results of electronic structure calculations and XANES studies suggest transfer of electrons to the Co site. The results of high temperature resistivity measurements suggest the conduction electrons are undergoing transition from delocalisation to weak localisation to activated behaviour with Cr doping. The extended x-ray absorption spectroscopic analysis shows that the local structure around Mn atom is different from the global structure as obtained from the x-ray diffraction results. The behaviour of the edge region is in line with the trend as obtained from the compositional analysis. We observe link between the hybridisation of 3d like states at the Mn, Cr sites with that at the Co site and the transport properties. This could help in understanding the unusual decrement in the lattice parameter with doping. These results reveal the role of local structure in understanding the physical properties of such systems.