bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Surface-dominant micro/nanofluidics for efficient green energy conversion
Authors: Wang Cong , Seo Eunseok , Park Jungyul
Published: February 2024

Green energy conversion in aqueous systems has attracted considerable interest owing to the sustainable clean energy demand resulting from population and economic growth and urbanization, as well as the significant potential energy from water resources and other regenerative sources coupled with fluids. In particular, molecular motion based on intrinsic micro/nanofluidic phenomena at the liquid–solid interface (LSI) is crucial for efficient and sustainable green energy conversion. The electrical double layer is the main factor affecting transport, interaction between molecules and surfaces, non-uniform ion distribution, synthesis, stimulated reactions, and motion by external renewable resources in both closed nanoconfinement and open surfaces. In this review, we summarize the state-of-the-art progress in physical and chemical reaction-based green energy conversion in LSI, including nanoscale fabrication, key mechanisms, applications, and limitations for practical implementation. The prospects for resolving critical challenges in this field and inspiring other promising research areas in the infancy stage (studying chemical and biological dynamics at the single-molecule level and nanofluidic neuromorphic computing) are also discussed.
Two-dimensional monolayer CrGaS3: A ferromagnetic semiconductor with high Curie temperature and tunable magnetic anisotropy
Authors: Jia Minghao , Gao Zhirui , Zhang Yunfei , Zhang Shuo , Tao Junguang , Guan Lixiu
Published: February 2024

Two-dimensional (2D) intrinsic ferromagnetic (FM) materials are promising candidates for fabricating next generation high-performance spintronic devices. However, all experimentally verified 2D FM semiconductors have Curie temperature (Tc) far below room temperature, which hinders their practical applications. Based on first-principles calculations, a stable and previously undiscovered 2D CrGaS3 structure is predicted, which is a semiconductor with an indirect bandgap of 1.99 eV and displays out-of-plane magnetic anisotropy. More importantly, it exhibits high-temperature ferromagnetism, with Tc ranging between 520 and 814 K. The high Tc is attributed to the presence of both direct-exchange and super-exchange interactions that are ferromagnetic, along with the eg-px/py-eg super exchange having a zero virtual exchange gap. Furthermore, it has been observed that the magnetic anisotropy can be tuned by external strain. These findings indicate its potential as a promising candidate for the rapid development of 2D spintronic applications.
Inflow turbulence generation for compressible turbulent boundary layers
Authors: Li Rui-Xin , Huang Wei-Xi , Xu Chun-Xiao
Published: February 2024

It is still challenging to generate high-quality inflow turbulence for the direct numerical and large-eddy simulations of compressible turbulent boundary layers (CTBL). Recently, Wang et al. [“Inflow turbulence generation using an equivalent boundary layer model,” Phys. Fluids 35, 075110 (2023)] proposed a new inflow turbulence generation method based on an equivalent boundary layer model for incompressible turbulent boundary layers. In the present study, the compressible equivalent boundary layer (CEBL) model is proposed and applied to the direct numerical simulation of supersonic turbulent boundary layers. The streamwise equilibrious CEBL approximates the streamwise developing CTBL by adding source terms to the governing equations to recover the mean mass, momentum, and energy balances at a given Reynolds number. Direct numerical simulation is performed to CEBL at free-stream Mach number 5.86 and friction Reynolds number 380. Comparison with the CTBL statistics at the same parameters validates the fidelity and reliability of the CEBL model. Turbulence generated by CEBL as well as the digital filtering and recycling-rescaling methods is used, respectively, to construct the inflow conditions for the direct numerical simulation of supersonic turbulent boundary layers. Results show that the CEBL method has great superiority in reducing the adjustment length compared with the other two methods. In addition, a correction method designed for the high inflow Reynolds number is also introduced.
Theoretical prediction of B5C8 monolayer as a high-performance anode material for lithium-ion batteries
Authors: Cao Hong-Bao , Wang Xiao-Han , Xiong Xin , Liu Chun-Sheng , Ye Xiao-Juan
Published: February 2024

The demand for high-performance energy storage systems has stimulated intensive research on high-performance electrode materials for lithium-ion batteries (LIBs). Two-dimensional (2D) materials have emerged as promising candidates for anode materials due to their unique structural and physicochemical properties. Based on first-principles calculations, we propose a 2D material, B5C8 monolayer, as an excellent anode material for LIBs. B5C8 monolayer exhibits inherent metallicity and outstanding dynamic, mechanical, and thermal stability. Furthermore, B5C8 monolayer shows not only remarkably high storage capacity (2856 mA h g−1) but also low barrier energy (0.25 eV) and small volume change (2.1%). More importantly, B5C8 possesses strong wettability toward commonly used electrolytes in LIBs, namely, solvent molecules and metal salts, indicating prime compatibility. Based on the above distinguished findings, we hope B5C8 monolayer can act as a well-balanced performance anode material for LIBs.
Applications of chemical bird repellents for crop and resource protection: a review and synthesis
Authors: DeLiberto Shelagh T. , Werner Scott J.
Published: February 2024

Non-lethal repellents are needed to protect newly planted and ripening crops, to prevent valuable resources from being damaged by some wild birds worldwide. We systematically searched all scientific publications, patents and product registrations to develop a current review and synthesis regarding chemical bird repellents for wildlife researchers, ecologists, managers and conservationists. We then developed a database regarding the testing procedures and repellency results associated with the published and unpublished literature. For this comprehensive database, we developed an ‘index of success’, or relative efficacy level (e.g. effective in most experiments), associated with each tested bird repellent. We found 345 papers published in 1948–2022, including 2994 tests of 1478 repellent chemicals. From 224 publications regarding seed repellents, chemicals that were effective in most experiments and tested in three or more experiments include fungicides (cycloheximide, thiuram), insecticides (carbamates, imidacloprid), starlicide (3-chloro-p-toluidine hydrochloride), human pharmaceuticals (aminopyridine, quinine sulfate), petroleum distillate (paranapthalene), alkaloids (caffeine, quinine sulfate), monoterpenes (d-pulegone) and naturally occurring or synthetic polyphenolic compounds (anthraquinone). Among 114 publications regarding repellents used for foliar/fruit applications, chemicals that were effective in most experiments include activated charcoal, anthraquinone and carbamate. Among other bird repellents that were reportedly effective in most experiments, chemicals used for water applications and tested in three or more experiments include benzaldehyde, ortho-aminoacetophenone and sodium chloride; chemicals used as bait repellents include anthraquinone, methyl anthranilate and 2-carbamoyloxyethyl(trimethyl)azanium chloride; and the single chemical regarded as an area repellent was methyl anthranilate. There are currently 17 registered bird repellent products in the USA for five active ingredients, including anthraquinone, capsaicin, methiocarb, methyl anthranilate and polybutene. Future research and development of chemical bird repellents should include biopesticides (i.e. pesticides derived from natural materials) and pesticides that are already registered for human food use. The future discovery of repellent active ingredients and repellent products can be facilitated by an understanding of the scientific literature, patents and product registrations regarding bird repellent applications summarised in this review.
Measuring translators’ quality of working life and their career motivation
Authors: Sakamoto Akiko , van Laar Darren , Moorkens Joss , Carmo Félix do
Published: February 2024

This article discusses the conceptual and methodological aspects of the Translator WRQoL (Work-related Quality of
Life) survey and provides some preliminary results and observations based on the first pilot study. The survey is being developed
to measure translators’ work satisfaction and motivation in the context of job digitalisation and automation. Literature suggests
that translators’ work satisfaction and their career motivation have been adversely affected. The survey being developed in this
study intends to quantitatively measure the causes of the adverse effects using psychometric-strong scales. The ultimate goal is
to administer the Translator WRQoL survey on a large scale, and using SEM (Structural Equation Modelling), to identify the causal
relationships between the constructs measured by the scale and to determine what kind of translators (regarding worker profiles
and attitudes to technology and other factors) have high/low levels of work-related quality of life and are more/less willing to
stay in the profession.
A TNF-IL-1 circuit controls Yersinia within intestinal pyogranulomas
Authors: Matsuda Rina , Sorobetea Daniel , Zhang Jenna , Peterson Stefan T. , Grayczyk James P. , Yost Winslow , Apenes Nicolai , Kovalik Maria E. , Herrmann Beatrice , O’Neill Rosemary J. , Bohrer Andrea C. , Lanza Matthew , Assenmacher Charles-Antoine , Mayer-Barber Katrin D. , Shin Sunny , Brodsky Igor E.
Published: February 2024

Tumor necrosis factor (TNF) is a pleiotropic inflammatory cytokine that mediates antimicrobial defense and granuloma formation in response to infection by numerous pathogens. We previously reported that Yersinia pseudotuberculosis colonizes the intestinal mucosa and induces the recruitment of neutrophils and inflammatory monocytes into organized immune structures termed pyogranulomas (PG) that control Yersinia infection. Inflammatory monocytes are essential for the control and clearance of Yersinia within intestinal PG, but how monocytes mediate Yersinia restriction is poorly understood. Here, we demonstrate that TNF signaling in monocytes is required for bacterial containment following enteric Yersinia infection. We further show that monocyte-intrinsic TNFR1 signaling drives the production of monocyte-derived interleukin-1 (IL-1), which signals through IL-1 receptors on non-hematopoietic cells to enable PG-mediated control of intestinal Yersinia infection. Altogether, our work reveals a monocyte-intrinsic TNF-IL-1 collaborative inflammatory circuit that restricts intestinal Yersinia infection.
Regenerating murine CD8+ lung tissue resident memory T cells after targeted radiation exposure
Authors: Hassert Mariah , Pewe Lecia L. , He Rui , Heidarian Mohammad , Phruttiwanichakun Pornpoj , van de Wall Stephanie , Mix Madison R. , Salem Aliasger K. , Badovinac Vladimir P. , Harty John T.
Published: February 2024

Radiation exposure occurs during medical procedures, nuclear accidents, or spaceflight, making effective medical countermeasures a public health priority. Naïve T cells are highly sensitive to radiation-induced depletion, although their numbers recover with time. Circulating memory CD8+ T cells are also depleted by radiation; however, their numbers do not recover. Critically, the impact of radiation exposure on tissue-resident memory T cells (TRM) remains unknown. Here, we found that sublethal thorax-targeted radiation resulted in the rapid and prolonged numerical decline of influenza A virus (IAV)–specific lung TRM in mice, but no decline in antigen-matched circulating memory T cells. Prolonged loss of lung TRM was associated with decreased heterosubtypic immunity. Importantly, boosting with IAV-epitope expressing pathogens that replicate in the lungs or peripheral tissues or with a peripherally administered mRNA vaccine regenerated lung TRM that was derived largely from circulating memory CD8+ T cells. Designing effective vaccination strategies to regenerate TRM will be important in combating the immunological effects of radiation exposure.
Scalar-multi-tensor approach to
fT,B,∇μT,∇μB
teleparallel gravity
Authors: Assencio E M B , Pompeia P J
Published: February 2024

In this work we analyze, in the context of modified teleparallel gravity, the equivalence between scalar-vector-tensor theories and geometrical theories of the type

f

T
,
B
,

∇

μ

T
,

∇

μ

B

, where T and B are respectively the scalar torsion and the boundary scalar. This analysis is performed in the Jordan and Einstein frames. In particular, in the latter frame, two distinct cases are analyzed, where the role of surface terms is discussed. The equivalence between the geometrical and the scalar-vector-tensor approaches is verified for regular systems, i.e. for systems that present a regular Hessian matrix. An example is presented and the analysis of the Cauchy problem is made for the different approaches. An extension for systems that include higher-order derivatives of T and B is briefly presented, showing the equivalence between the geometrical and scalar-multi tensor theories.
Realization of 1.54 μm electroluminescence via silicon-based erbium-doped SnO2 film devices
Authors: Wu Yunfeng , Pang Houwei , Wang Yuan , Fan Yuxuan , Yang Deren , Li Dongsheng
Published: February 2024

1.54 μm telecom-wavelength electroluminescence (EL) is achieved by erbium-doped SnO2 film devices fabricated on silicon wafers. Employing fluorine as a co-dopant, the EL intensity is increased due to enhanced electrical injection of the device and improved optical activity of the erbium ions. The realization of EL can be ascribed to the inelastic impact with erbium ions through the hot electrons originating from different electrical conduction mechanisms, by controlling the SiO
x
interlayer thickness. Herein, the device based on the co-doped film presents a low turn-on voltage of 4.4 V. Via further regulating the annealing condition, the co-doped device obtains a maximum optical power density of 92.2 μW cm−2 at 1.55 μm, with an operating lifetime of more than 190 h in the atmosphere. This work clarifies the broad application prospects for SnO2 devices in silicon photonics technology.
How to produce spin-splitting in antiferromagnetic materials
Authors: Guo San-Dong , Tao Yu-Ling , Wang Guangzhao , Ang Yee Sin
Published: February 2024

Antiferromagnetic (AFM) materials have potential advantages for spintronics due to their robustness, ultrafast dynamics, and magnetotransport effects. However, the missing spontaneous polarization and magnetization hinders the efficient utilization of electronic spin in these AFM materials. Here, we propose a simple way to produce spin-splitting in AFM materials by making the magnetic atoms with opposite spin polarization locating in the different environment (surrounding atomic arrangement), which does not necessarily require the presence of spin-orbital coupling. We confirm our proposal by four different types of two-dimensional AFM materials within the first-principles calculations. Our works provide an intuitional design principle to find or produce spin-splitting in AFM materials.
Investigation on the dynamic characteristics of anchor rods considering size effect and pull-out loads based on IIR-FDM
Authors: Sun Bing , Zhu Cong , Song Liangling , Zou Junhui , Zeng Sheng
Published: February 2024

When the surrounding rock of tunnel anchor bars has boundaries, the signals obtained from non-destructive testing (NDT) of anchor rods will be simultaneously affected by size effects and pull-out loads, leading to potential misinterpretation of the test results. In order to accurately assess the anchorage quality of anchor rods under this interference, NDT and numerical simulations of anchor rods subjected to different anchorage quality were conducted under the influence of size effects and pull-out loads. A signal filtering method, which combines the infinite impulse response-finite difference method, was proposed for identify the impact of size effects. The study analyzed the variations in wave velocity and fundamental frequency of anchor rods with anchorage defects and intact anchor rods under the influence of size effects and pull-out loads. The results indicate that the IIR-FDM method, in comparison to the traditional wavelet method, provides better agreement between the calculated wave velocities and existing findings. With the increase of size effect, the wave velocity and amplitude ratio of the anchor rods decrease, and the fundamental frequency increases first and then decreases. As the working load on the anchor rods increases, the wave velocity initially decreases, then rises, while the fundamental frequency initially increases and then experiences a slight decrease. The presence of anchorage defect results in an increase in the wave velocity and amplitude ratio of the anchor rods, while causing a decrease in the fundamental frequency. This effect of defects on wave velocity and fundamental frequency is more pronounced at lower loads. The wave velocity after IIR-FDM processing has a small error with the simulated wave velocity, indicating the reliability of the processing method.
Real-time continuous gesture recognition system based on PSO-PNN
Authors: Ren Bing , Gao Zhiqiang , Li Yuhan , You Changxin , Chang Lulu , Han Jing , Li Jie
Published: February 2024

In the field of natural human–machine interaction, wearable gesture interaction technologies have received considerable attention, particularly continuous gesture (CG) recognition. However, CG faces several challenges, including the impact of motion characteristics on gesture recognition and performance that is not sufficiently robust. Traditional algorithms are highly dependent on samples, thus meeting the requirements of low sample volume and high accuracy simultaneously is challenging. To address these challenges, we propose a real-time CG recognition system based on particle swarm optimization (PSO) and probabilistic neural network (PNN). This system employs principal component analysis for signal dimensionality reduction to alleviate computational burden and uses K-means clustering and Pearson correlation coefficient to extract optimal features for gesture classification. In offline gesture recognition experiments involving six CGs, the algorithm achieved an accuracy rate of 97% with a training set of 300 samples and a runtime of just 31.25 ms. Compared to other five algorithms, the proposed algorithm improved accuracy by at least 9% and reduced the runtime by 40.475 ms. Moreover, gesture recognition experiments were conducted using different datasets, with the PSO-PNN algorithm achieving an average recognition rate of 90.17%, at least 9.84% higher than other algorithms. Finally, in experiments on online CG control for robots in complex environments, the PSO-PNN demonstrated real-time performance of 28.56 ms and a task completion rate of 90.67%, validating the feasibility of PSO-PNN. This research provides a substantial theoretical and technical foundation for the ongoing enhancement and application of CG recognition technology.
Paper based flexible MoS2-CNT hybrid memristors
Authors: Naik B Raju , Arya Nitika , Balakrishnan Viswanath
Published: February 2024

We report for the first time MoS2/CNT hybrid nanostructures for memristor applications on flexible and bio-degradable cellulose paper. In our approach, we varied two different weight percentages (10% and 20%) of CNT’s in MoS2 to improve the MoS2 conductivity and investigate the memristor device characteristics. The device with 10% CNT shows a low V
SET voltage of 2.5 V, which is comparatively small for planar devices geometries. The device exhibits a long data retention time and cyclic current–voltage stability of ∼104 s and 102 cycles, making it a potential candidate in flexible painted electronics. Along with good electrical performance, it also demonstrates a high mechanical stability for 1000 bending cycles. The conduction mechanism in the MoS2-CNT hybrid structure is corroborated by percolation and defect-induced filament formation. Additionally, the device displays synaptic plasticity performance, simulating potentiation and depression processes. Furthermore, such flexible and biodegradable cellulose-based paper electronics may pave the way to address the environmental pollution caused by electronic waste in the near future.
CMS HGCAL electronics vertical integration system tests
Authors: Vojinović M. ,   the CMS collaboration
Published: February 2024

In preparation for the High-Luminosity phase of the CERN Large Hadron Collider, the
Compact Muon Solenoid collaboration will replace the existing endcap calorimeters with the High
Granularity Calorimeter. Considering both endcaps, this novel sub-detector will
have around six million readout channels, pushing approximately 108 Tbit s-1
of usable data between the detector front-end (on-detector) electronics and the back-end
(off-detector) electronics. Given the scale and complexity of the endcap calorimeter upgrade
project, the electronics testing must be carefully planned. The strategy has been to split the
efforts between vertical (start-to-end) and horizontal (parallelisation) test systems wherever
possible. An important milestone was the development and operation of a test system that
prototypes a complete vertical slice of the future endcap electronics system. For the first time,
a version of a test system consisting of the full vertical electronics readout chain was
successfully operated in a beam test, where it was used to acquire real physics data.
An integrated tool for ion linac design
Authors: Cakir Orhan , Celebi Emre , Cetinkaya Hakan , Kolenoglu Hilal , Turemen Gorkem , Uysal Zekeriya , Unel Gokhan
Published: February 2024

The initial design phase of an ion linac's front end often
requires the use of several software programs, each dedicated to a
specific component. These components typically include the ion
source, a low-energy beam transmission line (LEBT) equipped with
electromagnets, a measurement station, and finally the Radio
Frequency Quadrupole (RFQ). Unfortunately, many of the legacy and
proven software tools in this field lack user-friendly GUIs and have
significant learning curves. In this paper, we present a novel
approach: a unified software solution that offers a cohesive GUI and
integrates with existing legacy software. This single-software
approach not only simplifies the design process but also
significantly reduces the time required for design and optimization.
Our method has been successfully applied to various design
configurations, demonstrating its efficiency in both the learning
and design phases, compared to the traditional multi-software
approach. In addition, we present DemirciPRO as an illustrative
implementation of our unified software approach. This software tool
showcases real-world scenarios and comparisons drawn from an ongoing
proton linac project. DemirciPRO offers a cohesive user interface
for designing an ion source, a Low-Energy Beam Transport (LEBT)
line, and, ultimately, a Radio-Frequency Quadrupole (RFQ). Each
module is capable of utilizing the output from the preceding one
along the beamline. Furthermore, it possesses the capability to
trace the trajectories of beam particles through the LEBT line using
relevant transport matrices and through the RFQ using the leap-frog
method.
Facile cost-effective green synthesis of carbon dots: selective detection of biologically relevant metal ions and synergetic efficiency for treatment of cancer
Authors: Maity Somedutta , Modak Monami Das , Tomar Munendra Singh , Wasnik Kirti , Gupta Prem Shankar , Patra Sukanya , Pareek Divya , Singh Monika , Pandey Monica , Paik Pradip
Published: February 2024

A facile cost-effective green synthesis approach has been used to synthesize carbon-dot (CDs) from the Kernel part of the Azadirachta Indica seeds and investigated their fluorescent and metal ions sensing capability and also used for the delivery of drugs. Metallic ions such as Ca2+, K+, Na+, Fe3+, and Zn2+ which are biologically important for many reactions and are selectively detected through the novel CDs. The resultant dot size of CDs (∼4 nm) is useful to eliminate the ‘Achilles heel’ problems, which is associated with the Zn2+ in the body and its detection is a very challenging task. It is found that the sensitivity of CDs for the detection of Zn2+ can be regulated by using different solvents. These CDs can also be used as a sensing probe for the selective detection of Fe3+ at a very low concentration of solution (∼5 μM). The synthesis method of CDs reported here is cost-effective, very fast and it is highly selective towards Fe3+ and Zn2+. Due to the fast response capability of these CDs, logic gate operation is achieved and it provides a new understanding to construct potential next-generation molecular devices for the detection of different biomolecules with high selectivity. Additionally, these CDs are biocompatible against normal healthy cells, capable of loading small biomolecules and drugs due to their porous nature, and exhibited potential impact for breast cancer therapy. It is observed that a significant synergic therapeutic effect of CDs loaded with doxorubicin against breast cancer cells is very promising. Thus, the CDs reported herein in this work have been synthesized through a green synthesis approach and can be used as a molecular probe for the detection of metal ions as well as for drug delivery applications.
Ecotourism: Another Benefit of Agro-Silvo-Fishery and Trigona Apiculture in Peatland Ecosystem of Baru Village, Banyuasin, South Sumatra
Authors: Hutasuhut Junaidi , Adzani Thifali , Oktariansyah Pratama Ade , Yulita Novia Cecilia , Susanto David , Nungki Ismawan Iskak , Ary Fambayun Rizki , Hartiyadi Romadhona , Rahayu Subekti , Suyanto
Published: February 2024

Agro-silvo-fishery and Trigona apiculture are two business models developed in the peatland ecosystem in Baru Village, Banyuasin District, South Sumatra. Since the beginning of 2022, two demo plots have been built in the same village landscape as part of the business model implementation. The system‘s agro-silvo-fishery was established by constructing a pond around a paddy field and planting betelnut, vegetables, and fruit trees. Local fish that had acclimated to the acidic peatland habitat were captured during the flooding and raised in the ponds. In the constrained biophysical and chemical conditions of swampy terrain, this method is thought to be the greatest way to provide a variety of revenue. Individual farmers cannot afford the costs associated with setting up this system, especially when it comes to constructing the pond and dykes. Individual farmers cannot afford the costs associated with establishing this system, especially when it comes to constructing the pond and dykes. Hence, support from the district and village government and program partners is valuable. The farmer group harvested corn and vegetables from the dykes and rice from the paddy fields in the first year, and fish were not ready for harvest. However, the local BUMDes saved the day by creating weekly regular fishing activities and competition events, generating revenue from tickets. Moreover, the Trigona apiculture became a popular place for those outside the village to learn free of charge. Based on profitability analysis, the NPV of establishing agro-silvo-fishery is Rp103.036.769 per 0.8 ha for 30 years, with additional income from ecotourism is estimated to reach Rp21.600.000 per year. The established demonstration plot has the potential to become an ecotourism destination, and the key is to maintain the surrounding flowers and plants as the source of food for bees and the water condition for the fish.
Exploring the Impact of Various Manual Brewing Techniques on the Physicochemical and Sensory Characteristics of Brewed Coffee
Authors: Raihanur Azizah Dea , Bekti Sunarharum Wenny , Mahatmanto Tunjung , Aurora Kartika Annisa , Hakim Luchman
Published: February 2024

Coffee cultivation in Indonesia primarily revolves around Arabica and Robusta. Liberica, a less-cultivated variety, often thrives in agroforestry systems, contributing to ecosystem preservation and biodiversity support. Exploration of coffee holds the potential to benefit farmers, coffee-related industries, and conservation initiatives. As a beverage product, coffee can have unique physical, chemical, and sensory characteristics influenced by various factors from farm to cup. Among these factors, brewing plays a crucial role. This study aims to determine the effects of popular manual brewing techniques (V60, French Press, and Vietnam Drip) on the physicochemical and sensory characteristics of Arabica and Liberica coffee. The study was conducted using a nested design. The analyses included pH, total dissolved solids, color parameters L* (brightness), IC50 and sensory evaluation by trained panelists. The results highlight that the different manual brewing techniques significantly affected the physicochemical and sensory characteristics of the brewed coffee. Interestingly, the effect of the brewing techniques was more pronounced in Arabica compared to Liberica coffee.
Ultra-compact and low-insertion-loss silicon modal bandpass filter using a pixelated region
Authors: Chen Yun , Liu Yuxiao , Wang Pengjun , Fu Qiang , Chen Weiwei , Dai Shixun , Lin Jian , Chen Haoqi , Li Jun , Dai Tingge , Yang Jianyi
Published: February 2024

In this paper, a silicon modal bandpass filter using a pixelated region, in which the TE1 mode passes through while TE0 and TE2 modes are blocked, is proposed, optimized, and experimentally demonstrated. To achieve low insertion loss, ultra-compact footprint, relatively broad bandwidth and large extinction ratio, the direct-binary-search optimization algorithm and finite difference time domain method are employed to optimize the design of the pixelated region. Measurement results reveal that, for the fabricated filter, an extinction ratio of 16.91 dB and an insertion loss of 0.89 dB are realized at 1550 nm. The measured extinction ratio is larger than 16.03 dB and the insertion loss is lower than 1.04 dB from 1538.5 to 1584.5 nm. Additionally, the length of the pixelated region is only 4.8 μm.
Continued fractions in the field of 𝑝-adic numbers
Authors: Romeo Giuliano
Published: February 2024

Continued fractions have a long history in number theory, especially in the area of Diophantine approximation. The aim of this expository paper is to survey the main results on the theory ofpp-adic continued fractions, i.e., continued fractions defined over the field ofpp-adic numbersQp\mathbb {Q}_p, which in the last years has recorded a considerable increase of interest and research activity. We start from the very first definitions up to the most recent developments and open problems.
Double-variable trace maximization for extreme generalized singular quartets of a matrix pair: A geometric method
Authors: Xu Wei-Wei , Bai Zheng-Jian
Published: February 2024

In this paper, we consider the problem of computing an arbitrary generalized singular value of a Grassman or real matrix pair and a triplet of associated generalized singular vectors. Based on the QR factorization, the problem is reformulated as two novel trace maximization problems, each of which has double variables with unitary constraints or orthogonal constraints. Theoretically, we show that the arbitrarily prescribed extreme generalized singular values and associated triplets of generalized singular vectors can be determined by the global solutions of the constrained trace optimization problems. Then we propose a geometric inexact Newton–conjugate gradient (Newton-CG) method for solving their equivalent trace minimization problems over the Riemannian manifold of all fixed-rank partial isometries. The proposed method can extract not only the prescribed extreme generalized singular values but also associated triplets of generalized singular vectors. Under some mild assumptions, we establish the global and quadratic convergence of the proposed method. Finally, numerical experiments on both synthetic and real data sets show the effectiveness and high accuracy of our method.
Development and Validity of Norms for Cognitive Dispersion on the Uniform Data Set 3.0 Neuropsychological Battery
Authors: Kiselica Andrew M , Kaser Alyssa N , Weitzner Daniel S , Mikula Cynthia M , Boone Anna , Woods Steven Paul , Wolf Timothy J , Webber Troy A
Published: February 2024

Objective

Cognitive dispersion indexes intraindividual variability in performance across a battery of neuropsychological tests. Measures of dispersion show promise as markers of cognitive dyscontrol and everyday functioning difficulties; however, they have limited practical applicability due to a lack of normative data. This study aimed to develop and evaluate normed scores for cognitive dispersion among older adults.

Method

We analyzed data from 4,283 cognitively normal participants aged ≥50 years from the Uniform Data Set (UDS) 3.0. We describe methods for calculating intraindividual standard deviation (ISD) and coefficient of variation (CoV), as well as associated unadjusted scaled scores and demographically adjusted z-scores. We also examined the ability of ISD and CoV scores to differentiate between cognitively normal individuals (n = 4,283) and those with cognitive impairment due to Lewy body disease (n = 282).

Results

We generated normative tables to map raw ISD and CoV scores onto a normal distribution of scaled scores. Cognitive dispersion indices were associated with age, education, and race/ethnicity but not sex. Regression equations were used to develop a freely accessible Excel calculator for deriving demographically adjusted normed scores for ISD and CoV. All measures of dispersion demonstrated excellent diagnostic utility when evaluated by the area under the curve produced from receiver operating characteristic curves.

Conclusions

Results of this study provide evidence for the clinical utility of sample-based and demographically adjusted normative standards for cognitive dispersion on the UDS 3.0. These standards can be used to guide interpretation of intraindividual variability among older adults in clinical and research settings.
Proportional rates models for multivariate panel count data
Authors: Xu Yangjianchen , Zeng Donglin , Lin Dan-Yu
Published: February 2024

Multivariate panel count data arise when there are multiple types of recurrent events, and the observation for each study subject consists of the number of recurrent events of each type between two successive examinations. We formulate the effects of potentially time-dependent covariates on multiple types of recurrent events through proportional rates models, while leaving the dependence structures of the related recurrent events completely unspecified. We employ nonparametric maximum pseudo-likelihood estimation under the working assumptions that all types of events are independent and each type of event is a nonhomogeneous Poisson process, and we develop a simple and stable EM-type algorithm. We show that the resulting estimators of the regression parameters are consistent and asymptotically normal, with a covariance matrix that can be estimated consistently by a sandwich estimator. In addition, we develop a class of graphical and numerical methods for checking the adequacy of the fitted model. Finally, we evaluate the performance of the proposed methods through simulation studies and analysis of a skin cancer clinical trial.
Surgery for advanced pancreatic neuroendocrine neoplasms: recommendations based on a consensus meeting of the European Society of Endocrine Surgeons (ESES)
Authors: Van Beek Dirk-Jan , Van Den Heede Klaas , Borel Rinkes Inne , Norlén Olov , Van Slycke Sam , Stålberg Peter , Nordenström Erik
Published: February 2024

This European Society of Endocrine Surgeons (ESES) guideline provides evidence-based recommendations based on the surgical management for locally advanced pancreatic neuroendocrine neoplasms, indications for neoadjuvant therapy, primary tumor resections in the setting of metastatic disease and surgical indications for Grade 3 pancreatic neuroendocrine tumours and pancreatic neuroendocrine carcinoma.
Math on cortex—enhanced delta phase synchrony in math experts during long and complex math demonstrations
Authors: Poikonen Hanna , Tobler Samuel , Trninić Dragan , Formaz Cléa , Gashaj Venera , Kapur Manu
Published: February 2024

Neural oscillations are important for working memory and reasoning and they are modulated during cognitively challenging tasks, like mathematics. Previous work has examined local cortical synchrony on theta (4–8 Hz) and alpha (8–13 Hz) bands over frontal and parietal electrodes during short mathematical tasks when sitting. However, it is unknown whether processing of long and complex math stimuli evokes inter-regional functional connectivity. We recorded cortical activity with EEG while math experts and novices watched long (13–68 seconds) and complex (bachelor-level) math demonstrations when sitting and standing. Fronto-parietal connectivity over the left hemisphere was stronger in math experts than novices reflected by enhanced delta (0.5–4 Hz) phase synchrony in experts. Processing of complex math tasks when standing extended the difference to right hemisphere, suggesting that other cognitive processes, such as maintenance of body balance when standing, may interfere with novice’s internal concentration required during complex math tasks more than in experts. There were no groups differences in phase synchrony over theta or alpha frequencies. These results suggest that low-frequency oscillations modulate inter-regional connectivity during long and complex mathematical cognition and demonstrate one way in which the brain functions of math experts differ from those of novices: through enhanced fronto-parietal functional connectivity.
Metabolic disorder and functional disturbance in the central executive network in minimal hepatic encephalopathy
Authors: Dong Qiu-Yi , Cao Yun-Bin , Huang Hui-Wei , Li Dan , Lin Yanqin , Chen Hua-Jun
Published: February 2024

The aim of this paper is to investigate dynamical functional disturbance in central executive network in minimal hepatic encephalopathy and determine its association with metabolic disorder and cognitive impairment. Data of magnetic resonance spectroscopy and resting-state functional magnetic resonance imaging were obtained from 27 cirrhotic patients without minimal hepatic encephalopathy, 20 minimal hepatic encephalopathy patients, and 24 healthy controls. Central executive network was identified utilizing seed-based correlation approach. Dynamic functional connectivity across central executive network was calculated using sliding-window approach. Functional states were estimated by K-means clustering. Right dorsolateral prefrontal cortex metabolite ratios (i.e. glutamate and glutamine complex/total creatine, myo-inositol / total creatine, and choline / total creatine) were determined. Neurocognitive performance was determined by psychometric hepatic encephalopathy scores. Minimal hepatic encephalopathy patients had decreased myo-inositol / total creatine and choline / total creatine and increased glutamate and glutamine complex / total creatine in right dorsolateral prefrontal cortex (all P ≤ 0.020); decreased static functional connectivity between bilateral dorsolateral prefrontal cortex and between right dorsolateral prefrontal cortex and lateral-inferior temporal cortex (P ≤ 0.001); increased frequency and mean dwell time in state-1 (P ≤ 0.001), which exhibited weakest functional connectivity. Central executive network dynamic functional indices were significantly correlated with right dorsolateral prefrontal cortex metabolic indices and psychometric hepatic encephalopathy scores. Right dorsolateral prefrontal cortex myo-inositol / total creatine and mean dwell time in state-1 yielded best potential for diagnosing minimal hepatic encephalopathy. Dynamic functional disturbance in central executive network may contribute to neurocognitive impairment and could be correlated with metabolic disorder.
Shared governance in the plant holobiont and implications for one health
Authors: Berg Gabriele , Dorador Cristina , Egamberdieva Dilfuza , Kostka Joel E , Ryu Choong-Min , Wassermann Birgit
Published: February 2024

The holobiont Holobiont theory is more than 80 years old, while the importance of microbial communities for plant holobionts was already identified by Lorenz Hiltner more than a century ago. Both concepts are strongly supported by results from the new field of microbiome research. Here, we present ecological and genetic features of the plant holobiont that underpin principles of a shared governance between hosts and microbes and summarize the relevance of plant holobionts in the context of global change. Moreover, we uncover knowledge gaps that arise when integrating plant holobionts in the broader perspective of the holobiome as well as one and planetary health concepts. Action is needed to consider interacting holobionts at the holobiome scale, for prediction and control of microbiome function to improve human and environmental health outcomes.
Genome-guided purification of high amounts of the siderophore ornibactin and detection of potentially novel burkholdine derivatives produced by Burkholderia catarinensis 89T
Authors: Bach Evelise , Chen Julia , Angolini Célio Fernando Figueiredo , Bauer Judith S , Gross Harald , Passaglia Luciane Maria Pereira
Published: February 2024

Aim

The increased availability of genome sequences has enabled the development of valuable tools for the prediction and identification of bacterial natural products. Burkholderia catarinensis 89T produces siderophores and an unknown potent antifungal metabolite. The aim of this work was to identify and purify natural products of B. catarinensis 89T through a genome-guided approach.

Materials and methods

The analysis of B. catarinensis 89T genome revealed 16 clusters putatively related to secondary metabolism and antibiotics production. Of particular note was the identification of a nonribosomal peptide synthetase (NRPS) cluster related to the production of the siderophore ornibactin, a hybrid NRPS-polyketide synthase Type 1 cluster for the production of the antifungal glycolipopeptide burkholdine, and a gene cluster encoding homoserine lactones (HSL), probably involved in the regulation of both metabolites. We were able to purify high amounts of the ornibactin derivatives D/C6 and F/C8, while also detecting the derivative B/C4 in mass spectrometry investigations. A group of metabolites with molecular masses ranging from 1188 to 1272 Da could be detected in MS experiments, which we postulate to be new burkholdine analogs produced by B. catarinensis. The comparison of B. catarinensis BGCs with other Bcc members corroborates the hypothesis that this bacterium could produce new derivatives of these metabolites. Moreover, the quorum sensing metabolites C6-HSL, C8-HSL, and 3OH-C8-HSL were observed in LC-MS/MS analysis.

Conclusion

The new species B. catarinensis is a potential source of new bioactive secondary metabolites. Our results highlight the importance of genome-guided purification and identification of metabolites of biotechnological importance.
Functional differences of cultivable leaf-associated microorganisms in the native Andean treeGevuina avellanaMol. (Proteaceae) exposed to atmospheric contamination
Authors: Fuentes-Quiroz Alejandra , Herrera Héctor , Alvarado Roxana , Rabert Claudia , Arriagada Cesar , Valadares Rafael Borges da Silva
Published: February 2024

Aims

This study aimed to evaluate and describe the functional differences of cultivable bacteria and fungi inhabiting the leaves of Gevuina avellana Mol. (Proteaceae) in an urban area with high levels of air pollution and in a native forest in the southern Andes.

Methods and results

Phyllosphere microorganisms were isolated from the leaves of G. avellana, their plant growth-promoting capabilities were estimated along with their biocontrol potential and tolerance to metal(loid)s. Notably, plants from the urban area showed contrasting culturable leaf-associated microorganisms compared to those from the native area. The tolerance to metal(loid)s in bacteria range from 15 to 450 mg l−1 of metal(loid)s, while fungal strains showed tolerance from 15 to 625 mg l−1, being especially higher in the isolates from the urban area. Notably, the bacterial strain Curtobacterium flaccumfaciens and the fungal strain Cladosporium sp. exhibited several plant-growth-promoting properties along with the ability to inhibit the growth of phytopathogenic fungi.

Conclusions

Overall, our study provides evidence that culturable taxa in G. avellana leaves is directly influenced by the sampling area. This change is likely due to the presence of atmospheric pollutants and diverse microbial symbionts that can be horizontally acquired from the environment.
Elucidating the factors and consequences of the severity of rumen acidosis in first-lactation Holstein cows during transition and early lactation
Authors: Hartinger Thomas , Castillo-Lopez Ezequias , Reisinger Nicole , Zebeli Qendrim
Published: February 2024

First-lactation cows are particularly prone to subacute ruminal acidosis (SARA) during transition. Besides common risk factors of SARA, such as feeding of starch-rich diets, an individual severity of SARA in cows has been recently evidenced. Yet, the factors that play a role in SARA severity have not been elucidated. The main goal of this research was to evaluate the factors of SARA severity in first-lactation cows during transition and early lactation, which go beyond high-grain feeding, and to explore their impact on behavior, health, and fermentation in the rumen and hindgut. Twenty-four first-lactation Holstein cows with the same feeding regime were used starting from 3 wk before the expected calving day until 10 wk postpartum. Cows received a close-up diet (32% concentrate) until calving and were then transitioned to a lactation diet (60% concentrate) within 1 week. The SARA severity was assessed by cluster analysis of several rumen pH metrics, which revealed exceptionally longer and more severe SARA in cows denominated as high (n = 9), as compared to moderate (n = 9) and low (n = 6) SARA severity cows (P < 0.01). The logistic analysis showed that the length of close-up feeding, age at parturition, and the level of dry matter intake (DMI) were the main factors that influenced the cows’ odds for high SARA severity (each P ≤ 0.01). Moreover, the ANOVA hinted differences in the metabolic activity of the ruminal microbiome to promote SARA severity, as indicated by highest ruminal propionate proportions (P = 0.05) in high SARA severity cows, also with similar DMI. The distinct SARA severity was marginally reflected in behavior and there were no effects of SARA severity or high-grain feeding on blood inflammation markers, which peaked at parturition regardless of SARA severity (P < 0.01). Still, ongoing high-grain feeding increased liver enzyme concentrations from 6 wk postpartum on, compared to weeks before (P < 0.01), yet irrespectively of SARA severity. In conclusion, first-lactation cows differed in SARA severity under the same feeding regime, which was ascribed to management factors and differences in ruminal fermentation. Further research is warranted to validate these findings and to understand the mechanisms behind differences in the metabolic function of rumen microbiome, in particular in terms of evaluating markers for various SARA severity, as well as to evaluate potential long-term effects on health, performance, fertility, and longevity of dairy cows.