bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Dorsal Wrist Ganglia: Influence of Arthroscopic Dorsal Capsulodesis – A Pilot Study
Authors: Ribau Melanie , Ribeiro Elisabete Fernanda Magalhães , Barros Cecília Alexandra Sá , Ribeiro Juvenália Martins , Varanda Pedro Miguel Sousa , Rodrigues Luis Filipe Pacheco
Published: June 2022

Background Dorsal wrist ganglia are the commonest soft tissue tumor in the upper extremity. Management with arthroscopic excision yields good results and few complications, but recurrence is still a matter of concern.

Purpose To address the influence of dorsal capsulodesis in postoperative results.

Patients and Methods Two groups with eight patients each were evaluated: group A – simple arthroscopic resection (SAR), and group B – arthroscopic resection combined with dorsal capsulodesis (ARDC).

Results The mean age of group A was of 36.10 ±  7.96 (range: 28–53) years, and that of group B was of 34.17 ±  29.60 (range 18–44) years. The duration of the follow-up was of 30.67 ±  13.90 (range: 13.45–53.55) months and 29.60 ±  16.80 (range 12.68–62.13) months, respectively. Both groups achieved a a significant decrease in the postoperative score on the Visual Analog Scale (VAS) (of around 2/10), and the scores on the Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand (DASH) questionnaire were below 5/100. All the functional parameters (range of motion and strength) were above 80% on the contralateral side, with no differences between groups. More than 75% of the patients were completely satisfied. Group A (37.5%) had a significantly higher recurrence rate than that of group B (12.5%).

Conclusions In conclusion, SAR and ARDC provided good clinical results, with no significant differences. Dorsal capsulodesis resulted in an important decrease in the recurrence rate.

Level of Evidence Level III (Retrospective Comparative Study).
Composite Free Tissue Transfer for Reconstruction of Lower Extremity Tendon Injuries: A Systematic Review
Authors: Sayyed Adaah A. , Bekeny Jenna C. , Day Jonathan , Attinger Christopher E. , Fan Kenneth L. , Evans Karen K.
Published: June 2022

Background Tendon rupture with extensive soft tissue loss has few reconstructive options. Composite free tissue transfers including skin and tendon offer an attractive reconstructive approach. Unfortunately, most studies discussing them come from sparse case reports. We systematically assess evidence supporting composite flap use in single-stage reconstruction of lower extremity tendon and soft tissue defects.

Methods A systematic review was performed in accordance with Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines. OvidMEDLINEqueried for records pertaining to the study question using Medical Subject Heading (MeSH) terms such as “lower extremity,” “tendon,” and “composite flap.” No limitations were placed on the year of publication, country of origin, or study size. Study characteristics and patient demographics were collected. Primary outcomes included:(1) defect location, composite flap characteristics;(2) return to ambulation;(3) joint range of motion;(4) patient satisfaction, and (5) complications.

Results In total, 29 articles examining 173 patients with lower extremity tendon defects and soft tissue loss were identified. Average age was 44.3 years (SD 17.5); most patients were male (n = 110, 66.3%). Achilles defect was mostly reported (n = 151, 86.8%), followed by patellar (n = 17, 9.8%) and other tendon defects (n = 6, 3.4%). Average tendon defect size was 8.4 cm (SD 4.0), average soft tissue loss was 80.2 cm2 (SD 40.0). Most employed composite flap was anterolateral thigh and fascia lata (ALT + FL) (n = 101, 58.0%). Most patients (n = 134, 99.3%) returned to ambulation in an average 123.1 days (SD 78.3). Average reconstructive joint degree of motion was 62.1 degrees compared with normal degree of motion 62.3 degrees. Patient-reported outcomes demonstrated increased satisfaction after reconstruction.

Conclusion Composite flaps effectively reconstruct a variety of tendon and soft tissue defects; the most reported flap is ALT + FL, which provides large flap territories and rapid healing in Achilles, patellar, and other tendon defects. In this review, patients with composite flaps demonstrated return to ambulation, minimal impairment in range of motion, and notable postoperative satisfaction.
Platelet Activation and Thrombosis in COVID-19
Authors: Iba Toshiaki , Wada Hideo , Levy Jerrold H.
Published: June 2022

Although thrombosis frequently occurs in infectious diseases, the coagulopathy associated with COVID-19 has unique characteristics. Compared with bacterial sepsis, COVID-19-associated coagulopathy presents with minimal changes in platelet counts, normal prothrombin times, and increased D-dimer and fibrinogen levels. These differences can be explained by the distinct pathophysiology of the thromboinflammatory responses. In sepsis-induced coagulopathy, leukocytes are primarily responsible for the coagulopathy by expressing tissue factor, releasing neutrophil extracellular traps, multiple procoagulant substances, and systemic endothelial injury that is often associated with vasoplegia and shock. In COVID-19-associated coagulopathy, platelet activation is a major driver of inflammation/thrombogenesis and von Willebrand factor and platelet factor 4 are deeply involved in the pathogenesis. Although the initial responses are localized to the lung, they can spread systemically if the disease is severe. Since the platelets play major roles, arterial thrombosis is not uncommon in COVID-19. Despite platelet activation, platelet count is usually normal at presentation, but sensitive biomarkers including von Willebrand factor activity, soluble P-selectin, and soluble C-type lectin-like receptor-2 are elevated, and they increase as the disease progresses. Although the role of antiplatelet therapy is still unproven, current studies are ongoing to determine its potential effects.
Mother to Newborn Transmission of SARS-CoV-2 Infection: Evolution of Evidence in 1.5 Years of COVID-19 Pandemic
Authors: Gupta Arpit , Kamity Ranjith , Sharma Rishika , Caprio Martha , Mally Pradeep , Verma Sourabh
Published: June 2022

Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic caused significant mortality and morbidity in people of all age groups worldwide. Given the uncertainty regarding the mode of transmission and potential effects of COVID-19 on pregnant mothers and their newborns, guidelines for taking care of maternal–newborn dyads have evolved tremendously since the pandemic began. There has been an enormous influx of published materials regarding the outcomes of mothers and newborns. Still, multiple knowledge gaps regarding comprehensive information about risk to the mothers and newborns exist, which need to be addressed. Current evidence suggests that mothers with symptomatic COVID-19 infection are at increased risk of severe illness during pregnancy, with a higher need for respiratory support and premature deliveries. Neonates born to mothers with COVID-19 are at increased risk of needing intensive care; however, most newborns do well after birth. As new mutant variants arise, we need to be cautious while proactively understanding any new evolving patterns. All leading health authorities strongly recommend COVID-19 vaccination before or during pregnancy to reduce the risk of maternal morbidities and benefit from passing antibodies to newborns prenatally and via breastmilk. Additionally, there are racial, ethnic, and socioeconomic disparities in outcomes and vaccination coverage for pregnant women. This article summarizes the rapidly evolving evidence for the last 1.5 years and aims to help health care professionals care for mothers with COVID-19 and their newborns.

Key Points
Logistik im Architekturwettbewerb: Logistik im Architekturwettbewerb – Bewertung von Entwürfen für den Krankenhausneubau
Authors: Raida Andrea , Wibbeling Sebastian
Published: June 2022

Für die Bewertung von Architektenentwürfen für einen Krankenhausneubau sollte neben der Schaffung geeigneter medizinischer Strukturen, der Verwendung nachhaltiger Materialien oder einem ansprechenden Design ebenfalls die Logistik berücksichtigt werden. Auf diese Weise können bereits im Architekturwettbewerb die Weichen für effiziente Supportprozesse, einen zukunftsorientierten Transporttechnikeinsatz und kurze, kreuzungsfreie Wege gestellt werden.
The role of Nb2O5 deposition process on perovskite solar cells
Authors: Fernandes Silvia L. , Garcia Larissa de O. , Júnior Roberto de A. Ramos , Affonço Lucas J. , Bagnis Diego , Vilaça Rodrigo , Pontes Fenelon M. , da Silva José H. D. , Graeff Carlos F. O.
Published: June 2022

Two different methods are used to deposit Nb2O5 as compact electron transport layers in n-i-p double cation mixed-halide perovskite Cs0.17FA0.83Pb(I0.83Br0.17)3 solar cells: reactive sputtering and spin coating. These different Nb2O5 films influenced perovskite growth and the charge transport in the cells. Photovoltaic parameters were obtained with an average power conversion efficiency of 17.0% and 15.7% for the devices based on sputtered and spin-coated Nb2O5, respectively. The mobility and the extracted charges were higher in sputtered Nb2O5-based devices than in the spin-coated ones. This effect is attributed to the larger grain sizes observed in the perovskite films when deposited onto the sputtered Nb2O5 layers. The higher densities of grain boundaries in the spin-coated Nb2O5-based devices increase ion diffusion and are expected to decrease efficiency.
Design and research on tuning fork piezoelectric actuator based on stick-slip effect
Authors: Ji Hua-wei , Lv Bo , Li Yu-hui , Yang Fan , Qi An-qi , Wu Xin , Ni Jing
Published: June 2022

Aiming at the problems of low output speed, large size, and difficult miniaturization of stacked and sandwich piezoelectric actuators, a patch-type tuning fork piezoelectric actuator model based on the stick-slip effect was designed, in which the dynamic theoretical analysis, the simulation optimization to determine the stator structure parameters, and the experimental research were carried out to obtain the stator structure parameters. The externally applied conditions (the influence model of excitation voltage, excitation frequency, and pre-pressure) on the performance output of piezoelectric actuators will promote the miniaturization and industrialization of tuning fork piezoelectric actuators in the next step. The simulation results show that the integrated output performance of the piezoelectric actuator is best when the angle of the tuning fork is 15°. After optimizing the stator chamfer to 2.5 and 4.5 mm, the tangential amplitude difference of the 15° tuning fork angle actuator is the smallest. The experimental results show that the output speed of the actuator is positively linearly related to the excitation voltage, the maximum output thrust is 8 N when the excitation voltage is 100 V, the excitation frequency is 20.1 kHz, the pre-pressure is 7.5 N, the phase difference of the excitation signal is π/2, and the output speed of the actuator can reach 116 mm/s.
Observation of photoluminescence from a natural van der Waals heterostructure
Authors: Z. Costa Viviane , Baker Bryce , Sinn Hon-Loen , Miller Addison , Watanabe K. , Taniguchi T. , Newaz Akm
Published: June 2022

van der Waals heterostructures comprised of two-dimensional (2D) materials offer a platform to obtain materials by design with unique electronic properties. Franckeite (Fr) is a naturally occurring van der Waals heterostructure comprised of two distinct alternately stacked semiconducting layers: (i) SnS2 layer and (ii) Pb3SbS4. Though both layers in the heterostructure are semiconductors, the photoluminescence from Franckeite remains elusive. Here, we report the observation of photoluminescence (PL) from Franckeite. We observed two PL peaks at ∼1.97 and ∼2.12 eV at 1.5 K. By varying the temperature from 1.5 to 280 K, we found that the PL peak position blueshifts and the integrated intensity decreases slowly as we increase the temperature. We observed linear dependence of photoluminescence integrated intensity on excitation laser power, indicating that the photoluminescence is originating from free excitons in the SnS2 layer of Fr. By comparing the PL from Fr with the PL from a monolayer MoS2, we determined that the PL quantum efficiency from Fr is an order of magnitude lower than that of a monolayer MoS2. Our study provides a fundamental understanding of the optical behavior in a complex naturally occurring van der Waals heterostructure and may pave an avenue toward developing nanoscale optical and optoelectronic devices with tailored properties.
Dilute Bose gas with three-body interaction: Recent results and open questions
Authors: Nam Phan Thành , Ricaud Julien , Triay Arnaud
Published: June 2022

We review our recent study on the ground state energy of dilute Bose gases with three-body interactions. The main feature of our results is the emergence of the 3D energy-critical Schrödinger equation to describe the ground state energy of a Bose–Einstein condensate, where the nonlinearity strength is determined by a zero-scattering problem. Several open questions are also discussed.
Development of an experimental platform for the investigation of laser–plasma interaction in conditions relevant to shock ignition regime
Authors: Tamagawa T. , Hironaka Y. , Kawasaki K. , Tanaka D. , Idesaka T. , Ozaki N. , Kodama R. , Takizawa R. , Fujioka S. , Yogo A. , Batani D. , Nicolai Ph. , Cristoforetti G. , Koester P. , Gizzi L. A. , Shigemori K.
Published: June 2022

The shock ignition (SI) approach to inertial confinement fusion is a promising scheme for achieving energy production by nuclear fusion. SI relies on using a high intensity laser pulse (≈1016 W/cm2, with a duration of several hundred ps) at the end of the fuel compression stage. However, during laser–plasma interaction (LPI), several parametric instabilities, such as stimulated Raman scattering and two plasmon decay, nonlinearly generate hot electrons (HEs). The whole behavior of HE under SI conditions, including their generation, transport, and final absorption, is still unclear and needs further experimental investigation. This paper focuses on the development of an experimental platform for SI-related experiments, which simultaneously makes use of multiple diagnostics to characterize LPI and HE generation, transport, and energy deposition. Such diagnostics include optical spectrometers, streaked optical shadowgraph, an x-ray pinhole camera, a two-dimensional x-ray imager, a Cu Kα line spectrometer, two hot-electron spectrometers, a hard x-ray (bremsstrahlung) detector, and a streaked optical pyrometer. Diagnostics successfully operated simultaneously in single-shot mode, revealing the features of HEs under SI-relevant conditions.
Field-free switching of magnetization induced by spin–orbit torque in Pt/CoGd/Pt thin film
Authors: Ren Xue , Liu Liang , Cheng Bin , Liu Weikang , Chu Ruiyue , Miao Tingting , An Taiyu , Zhou Guangjun , Cui Bin , Hu Jifan
Published: June 2022

All-electric control of magnetism is essential for the future ultralow-power memory and logic spintronic applications. Here, we report a highly efficient way to realize field-free current-induced switching of magnetization in ferrimagnetic CoGd, which is deposited with composite target. The critical switching current density is as low as ∼1 × 107 A/cm2. Without any gradient designs, our CoGd film intrinsically exhibits extraordinary titled magnetic anisotropy and bias-fields. The field-free switching of magnetizations can be achieved by applying current pulses in x or y directions. We further establish a coupled ferrimagnetic macrospin model subjected to the Landau–Lifshitz–Gilbert–Slonczewski equation, and the theoretical results agree with experiments well. All these results suggest that deposition with composite target is the optimal route to fabricate a high performance spin–orbit torque device, which provides multiple routes to achieve field-free, deterministic, and low-consumption magnetization switching.
Topological descriptor of thermal conductivity in amorphous Si
Authors: Minamitani Emi , Shiga Takuma , Kashiwagi Makoto , Obayashi Ippei
Published: June 2022

Quantifying the correlation between the complex structures of amorphous materials and their physical properties has been a longstanding problem in materials science. In amorphous Si, a representative covalent amorphous solid, the presence of a medium-range order (MRO) has been intensively discussed. However, the specific atomic arrangement corresponding to the MRO and its relationship with physical properties, such as thermal conductivity, remains elusive. We solved this problem by combining topological data analysis, machine learning, and molecular dynamics simulations. Using persistent homology, we constructed a topological descriptor that can predict thermal conductivity. Moreover, from the inverse analysis of the descriptor, we determined the typical ring features correlated with both the thermal conductivity and MRO. The results could provide an avenue for controlling material characteristics through the topology of the nanostructures.
Orthogonal grid physics-informed neural networks: A neural network-based simulation tool for advection–diffusion–reaction problems
Authors: Hou Qingzhi , Sun Zewei , He Li , Karemat Alireza
Published: June 2022

Stable and accurate reconstruction of pollutant transport is a crucial and challenging problem, including the inverse problem of identifying pollution sources and physical coefficients and the forward problem of inferring pollutant transport. Governed by advection, diffusion, and reaction processes, this transport phenomenon can be represented by the advection–diffusion–reaction (ADR) equation. In this paper, the physics-informed neural networks (PINNs) are applied to solve the forward and inverse ADR problems. To further enhance the stability and accuracy of the original PINN, two improvements are developed. The first adjusts the orthogonal grid (OG) point selection method and the other suggests adding an additional regulation function, namely, first derivative constraint (FDC). The new method is referred to as OG-PINN with FDC. To verify the effectiveness of the proposed method, five forward and inverse ADR problems are solved, and the results are compared with the analytical and reference solutions. For forward problems, the improved method can solve various ADR problems accurately and stably. For inverse problems, the ability of the OG-PINN for model parameter learning and initial distribution prediction is demonstrated and analyzed. The former gives the missed physical information in the ADR equation from the data, and the latter is used to trace the source of pollutants. The proposed method is quantitatively reliable for investigating various advection–diffusion–reaction processes.
Linear instability of a liquid sheet in a transverse standing acoustic field
Authors: Fang Zi-dan , Wang Tie-han , Jia Bo-qi , Yang Li-jun , Fu Qing-fei , Sun Da-kun , Sun Xiao-feng
Published: June 2022

This work examines the instability of a plane liquid sheet under the action of a transverse acoustic field. The mechanical definition of the acoustic field is introduced first, and the Floquet theory is applied to derive the dispersion equation and dispersion curve. The dominant instability mechanism of each unstable region on the dispersion curve is distinguished by calculating the oscillation frequencies of the disturbance waves. Next, the parameters within the dispersion equation are set as variables to analyze the development of the instability mechanisms of the unstable regions on the dispersion curve and the oscillation modes on the two surfaces of the liquid sheet. The results prove that the distribution of unstable regions can be affected by the amplitude and frequency of the acoustic field, the viscosity and surface tension of the liquid sheet, and the density ratio of the two gas–liquid phases. Variation in the thickness of the liquid sheet causes development and competition within the oscillation modes, which were found to be related to the development of the instability mechanism. Such evolutionary competition between the sinuous and the varicose oscillation modes was also reflected in the experimental study, where it was observed that the disturbance wave has the characteristics of Faraday waves.
A hybrid solid electrolyte for high-energy solid-state sodium metal batteries
Authors: Zhai Yanfang , Hou Wangshu , Chen Zongyuan , Zeng Zhong , Wu Yongmin , Tian Wensheng , Liang Xiao , Paoprasert Peerasak , Wen Zhaoyin , Hu Ning , Song Shufeng
Published: June 2022

Exploring solid electrolytes with promising electrical properties and desirable compatibility toward electrodes for safe and high-energy sodium metal batteries remains a challenge. In this work, these issues are addressed via an in situ hybrid strategy, viz., highly conductive and thermally stable 1-ethyl-3-methylimidazolium bis(fluorosulfonyl)imide is immobilized in nanoscale silica skeletons to form ionogel via a non-hydrolytic sol-gel route, followed by hybridizing with polymeric poly(ethylene oxide) and inorganic conductor Na3Zr2Si2PO12. Such hybrid design yields the required solid electrolyte, which shows not only a stable electrochemical stability window of 5.4 V vs Na/Na+ but also an extremely high ionic conductivity of 1.5 × 10−3 S cm−1 at 25 °C, which is demonstrated with the interacted and monolithic structure of the electrolyte by SEM, XRD, thermogravimetric (TG), and XPS. Moreover, the capabilities of suppressing sodium metal dendrite growth and enabling high-voltage cathode Mg-doped P2-type Na0.67Ni0.33Mn0.67O2 are verified. This work demonstrates the potential to explore the required solid electrolytes by hybridizing an in situ ionogel, a polymer, and an inorganic conductor for safe and high-energy solid-state sodium metal batteries.
Framework for a variational Bayesian convolutional network for velocity field prediction and uncertainty quantification of a pump-jet propulsor
Authors: Qiu Chengcheng , Huang Qiaogao , Pan Guang , He Xing
Published: June 2022

This study provides the framework for a variational Bayesian convolutional neural network (VB-CNN) to quickly predict the wake velocity field of a pump-jet propulsor and quantify uncertainty. For engineering application and experiments, the wake velocity field of the propulsor can be obtained by using discrete pressure points when the model is trained. The weight distribution of the neural network is altered from a point distribution to a probability distribution using the variational Bayesian method, which also takes into account the prior knowledge of datasets. VB-CNN produces superior results to the convolutional neural network method in small datasets and can quantify uncertainty. This study investigates the differences between the velocity field of computational fluid dynamics and the predictions for the velocity field obtained by the CNN method and the VB-CNN method. The uncertainty distribution of the predicted velocity fields is analyzed according to the 95% confidence interval. Different geometric models are used to verify the generalization of the VB-CNN and CNN models. The results indicate that the VB-CNN method has higher accuracy than the CNN method. Furthermore, the VB-CNN method has superior prediction performance for the velocity field contour and velocity gradient. The maximum error for the velocity field prediction is within 2.33% at different axial positions. The best linear correlation coefficient reached 0.9911. The VB-CNN and CNN models have lower uncertainty at lower rotation speeds and higher uncertainty at higher rotation speeds.
Multiscale simulation unravels the light-regulated reversible inhibition of dihydrofolate reductase by phototrexate
Authors: Liang Ruibin , Bakhtiiari Amirhossein
Published: June 2022

Molecular photoswitches are widely used in photopharmacology, where the biomolecular functions are photo-controlled reversibly with high spatiotemporal precision. Despite the success of this field, it remains elusive how the protein environment modulates the photochemical properties of photoswitches. Understanding this fundamental question is critical for designing more effective light-regulated drugs with mitigated side effects. In our recent work, we employed first-principles non-adiabatic dynamics simulations to probe the effects of protein on the trans to cis photoisomerization of phototrexate (PTX), a photochromic analog of the anticancer therapeutic methotrexate that inhibits the target enzyme dihydrofolate reductase (DHFR). Building upon this study, in this work, we employ multiscale simulations to unravel the full photocycle underlying the light-regulated reversible inhibition of DHFR by PTX, which remains elusive until now. First-principles non-adiabatic dynamics simulations reveal that the cis to trans photoisomerization quantum yield is hindered in the protein due to backward isomerization on the ground-state following non-adiabatic transition, which arises from the favorable binding of the cis isomer with the protein. However, free energy simulations indicate that cis to trans photoisomerization significantly decreases the binding affinity of the PTX. Thus, the cis to trans photoisomerization most likely precedes the ligand unbinding from the protein. We propose the most probable photocycle of the PTX-DHFR system. Our comprehensive simulations highlight the trade-offs among the binding affinity, photoisomerization quantum yield, and the thermal stability of the ligand's different isomeric forms. As such, our work reveals new design principles of light-regulated drugs in photopharmacology.
Perspectives and recent advances in super-resolution spectroscopy: Stochastic and disordered-based approaches
Authors: Boschetti A. , Pattelli L. , Torre R. , Wiersma D. S.
Published: June 2022

Spectroscopic applications are characterized by the constant effort to combine high spectral resolution with large bandwidth. A trade-off typically exists between these two aspects, but the recent development of super-resolved spectroscopy techniques is bringing new opportunities into this field. This is particularly relevant for all applications where compact and cost-effective instruments are needed such as in sensing, quality control, environmental monitoring, or biometric authentication, to name a few. These unconventional approaches exploit several strategies for spectral investigation, taking advantage of concepts such as sparse sampling, artificial intelligence, or post-processing reconstruction algorithms. In this Perspective, we discuss the main strengths and weaknesses of these methods, tracing promising future directions for their further development and widespread adoption.
Ultraefficient resistance switching between charge ordered phases in 1T-TaS2 with a single picosecond electrical pulse
Authors: Venturini Rok , Mraz Anže , Vaskivskyi Igor , Vaskivskyi Yevhenii , Svetin Damjan , Mertelj Tomaž , Pavlovič Leon , Cheng Jing , Chen Genyu , Amarasinghe Priyanthi , Qadri Syed B. , Trivedi Sudhir B. , Sobolewski Roman , Mihailovic Dragan
Published: June 2022

Progress in high-performance computing demands significant advances in memory technology. Among novel memory technologies that promise efficient device operation on a sub-ns timescale, resistance switching between charge ordered phases of 1T-TaS2 has shown to be potentially useful for development of high-speed, energy efficient nonvolatile memory devices. Measurement of the electrical operation of such devices in the picosecond regime is technically challenging and hitherto still largely unexplored. Here, we use an optoelectronic “laboratory-on-a-chip” experiment for measurement of ultrafast memory switching, enabling accurate measurement of electrical switching parameters with 100 fs temporal resolution. Photoexcitation and electro-optic sampling on a (Cd,Mn)Te substrate are used to generate and, subsequently, measure electrical pulse propagation with intra-band excitation and sub-gap probing, respectively. We demonstrate high contrast nonvolatile resistance switching from high to low resistance states of a 1T-TaS2 device using single sub-2 ps electrical pulses. Using detailed modeling, we find that the switching energy density per unit area is exceptionally small, EA= 9.4 fJ/μm2. The speed and energy efficiency of an electronic “write” process place the 1T-TaS2 devices into a category of their own among new generation nonvolatile memory devices.
From predicting to learning dissipation from pair correlations of active liquids
Authors: Rassolov Gregory , Tociu Laura , Fodor Étienne , Vaikuntanathan Suriyanarayanan
Published: June 2022

Active systems, which are driven out of equilibrium by local non-conservative forces, can adopt unique behaviors and configurations. An important challenge in the design of novel materials, which utilize such properties, is to precisely connect the static structure of active systems to the dissipation of energy induced by the local driving. Here, we use tools from liquid-state theories and machine learning to take on this challenge. We first analytically demonstrate for an isotropic active matter system that dissipation and pair correlations are closely related when driving forces behave like an active temperature. We then extend a nonequilibrium mean-field framework for predicting these pair correlations, which unlike most existing approaches is applicable even for strongly interacting particles and far from equilibrium, to predicting dissipation in these systems. Based on this theory, we reveal a robust analytic relation between dissipation and structure, which holds even as the system approaches a nonequilibrium phase transition. Finally, we construct a neural network that maps static configurations of particles to their dissipation rate without any prior knowledge of the underlying dynamics. Our results open novel perspectives on the interplay between dissipation and organization out of equilibrium.
Emulating low power nociceptive functionalities with a forming-free SiO2/VOx conductive bridge memory with Pt nanoparticles
Authors: Bousoulas P. , Tsioustas Ch. , Tsoukalas D.
Published: June 2022

The fabrication of low-power and scalable electronic devices that will have the ability to emulate the properties of the biological nociceptors is of great importance for the development of humanoid robots. Along these lines, in this work, an artificial nociceptive element composed of a SiO2/VOx-based bilayer configuration and a dense layer of Pt nanoparticles (NPs) as a bottom electrode is proposed. Interestingly, the device operates only under the threshold switching mode with the switching voltage as low as ∼220 mV and a huge switching ratio of 107. A systematic analysis of the impact of the bilayer configuration and the existence of the Pt NPs on the total memory performance is also provided, while a comprehensive numerical model is introduced to highlight the crucial role of the electrode material on the local temperature distribution and its influence on the memristive effect. On top of that, the proposed structure can imitate the normal, relaxation, and sensitization states of the nociceptors with about 0.3 pJ energy per spike. These enhanced properties are ascribed to the self-rupture of the Ag-based conducting filament, whereas valuable insights into the impact of the local temperature distribution on the switching dynamics are provided.
Highly efficient A-site cation exchange in perovskite quantum dot for solar cells
Authors: Zhao Chenyu , Zhang Xuliang , Huang Hehe , Yuan Jianyu
Published: June 2022

The mixed cation colloidal Cs1−XFAXPbI3 perovskite quantum dots (PQDs) obtained by cation exchange between CsPbI3 and FAPbI3 PQDs have been reported to exhibit enhanced photovoltaic performance. However, the cation exchange mechanism requires further in-depth investigation in terms of both material properties and device application. In this work, the impact of PQD weight ratio, PQD concentration, and host solvent polarity during cation exchange is comprehensively investigated for the first time. In addition, the whole exchange process under varying conditions is monitored by photoluminescence spectroscopy. As a result, we observe extremely fast cation exchange (∼20 min) under a condition at a CsPbI3/FAPbI3 PQD weight ratio of 1:1, a concentration of 70 mg/ml, and a host solvent using toluene. Moreover, we directly fabricate a PQD solar cell device using these obtained mixed cation Cs0.5FA0.5PbI3 PQDs and achieved an enhanced power conversion efficiency of 14.58%. We believe that these results would provide more insights into the cation exchange in emerging PQDs toward efficient photovoltaic fabrication and application.
Understanding reasons for lack of acceptance of HIV programs among indigenous Papuans: a qualitative study in Indonesia
Authors: Sianturi Elfride Irawati , Latifah Elmiawati , Soltief Sitti N. , Sihombing Robert B. , Simaremare Eva S. , Effendy Christiantie , Probandari Ari , Suryawati Sri , Taxis Katja
Published: June 2022

Background Melanesians are indigenous Papuans racially and culturally different from most Indonesians. The Melanesia region is characterised by high poverty and inequalities, even though it has the highest revenue. Furthermore, Papua has the highest HIV prevalence rate, 24-fold higher than that of other regions. Therefore, this study aimed to examine the resistance of indigenous people residing in eastern Indonesia towards HIV programs. Methods This is a qualitative study analysed using grounded theory. Data were collected from July to September 2018 through semi-structured face-to-face interviews involving 23 Papuans. The interviews were conducted in Bahasa Indonesia, audio-recorded, summarised and transcribed for analysis. Results The results showed that being a good Papuan emerges from four interconnected categories, including culture and religion, dealing with modernisation, integrated HIV program and stigma reduction. As a substantive theory underpinning the indigenous people’s experiences with HIV programs, ‘Keep being a good Papuan’ was a way of overcoming problems and dealing with modernism to eliminate HIV. This largely focuses on the local culture, implying any adjustment should keep their tradition and welcome modernism. Conclusions The future of the HIV programs should be agreed upon, funded, implemented, measured and achieved by stakeholders. This could be achieved by elaborating a supportive culture and community-based interventions. Furthermore, the implementation should be prioritised to integrate and improve the programs’ quality to take into account community needs and the available resources.
A community-based organisation-led HIV self-testing program among men who have sex with men in China is cheaper and more effective than facility-based HIV testing: an economic evaluation
Authors: Huang Shanzi , Ong Jason J. , Dai Wencan , He Xi , Zhou Yi , Li Xiaofeng , Huang Liqun , Tang Weiming
Published: June 2022

Background HIV self-testing (HIVST) is effective in improving the uptake of HIV testing among key populations. Complementary data on the economic evaluation of HIVST is critical for planning and scaling up HIVST. This study aimed to evaluate the cost of a community-based organisation (CBO)-led HIVST model implemented in China. Methods An economic evaluation was conducted by comparing a CBO-led HIVST model with a CBO-led facility-based HIV rapid diagnostics testing (HIV-RDT) model. The full economic cost, including fixed and variable cost, from a health provider perspective using a micro costing approach was estimated. We determined the incremental cost-effectiveness ratios of these two HIV testing models over a 2-year time horizon (i.e. duration of the programs), and reported costs using US dollars (2021). Results From January 2017 to December 2018, a total of 4633 men were tested in the HIVST model, and 1780 men were tested in the HIV-RDT model. The total number of new diagnoses was 155 for HIVST and 126 for the HIV-RDT model; the HIV test positivity was 3.3% (95% confidence interval (CI): 2.8–3.9) for the HIVST model and 7.1% (95% CI: 5.9–8.4) for the HIV-RDT model. The mean cost per person tested was USD10.38 for HIVST and USD41.45 for HIV-RDT. The mean cost per diagnosed person was USD310.12 for HIVST compared with USD585.58 for HIV-RDT. Conclusion Compared to facility-based HIV-RDT, a CBO-led HIVST program is cheaper and more effective among MSM living in China.
Latent space of a small genetic network: Geometry of dynamics and information
Authors: Seyboldt Rabea , Lavoie Juliette , Henry Adrien , Vanaret Jules , Petkova Mariela D. , Gregor Thomas , François Paul
Published: June 2022

The high-dimensional character of most biological systems presents genuine challenges for modeling and prediction. Here we propose a neural network–based approach for dimensionality reduction and analysis of biological gene expression data, using, as a case study, a well-known genetic network in the early
Drosophila
embryo, the gap gene patterning system. We build an autoencoder compressing the dynamics of spatial gap gene expression into a two-dimensional (2D) latent map. The resulting 2D dynamics suggests an almost linear model, with a small bare set of essential interactions. Maternally defined spatial modes control gap genes positioning, without the classically assumed intricate set of repressive gap gene interactions. This, surprisingly, predicts minimal changes of neighboring gap domains when knocking out gap genes, consistent with previous observations. Latent space geometries in maternal mutants are also consistent with the existence of such spatial modes. Finally, we show how positional information is well defined and interpretable as a polar angle in latent space. Our work illustrates how optimization of small neural networks on medium-sized biological datasets is sufficiently informative to capture essential underlying mechanisms of network function.
Interpretable modeling of genotype–phenotype landscapes with state-of-the-art predictive power
Authors: Tonner Peter D. , Pressman Abe , Ross David
Published: June 2022

Large-scale measurements linking genetic background to biological function have driven a need for models that can incorporate these data for reliable predictions and insight into the underlying biophysical system. Recent modeling efforts, however, prioritize predictive accuracy at the expense of model interpretability. Here, we present LANTERN (landscape interpretable nonparametric model,
https://github.com/usnistgov/lantern
), a hierarchical Bayesian model that distills genotype–phenotype landscape (GPL) measurements into a low-dimensional feature space that represents the fundamental biological mechanisms of the system while also enabling straightforward, explainable predictions. Across a benchmark of large-scale datasets, LANTERN equals or outperforms all alternative approaches, including deep neural networks. LANTERN furthermore extracts useful insights of the landscape, including its inherent dimensionality, a latent space of additive mutational effects, and metrics of landscape structure. LANTERN facilitates straightforward discovery of fundamental mechanisms in GPLs, while also reliably extrapolating to unexplored regions of genotypic space.
Unbalanced bidirectional radial stiffness gradients within the organ of Corti promoted by TRIOBP
Authors: Babahosseini Hesam , Belyantseva Inna A. , Yousaf Rizwan , Tona Risa , Hadi Shadan , Inagaki Sayaka , Wilson Elizabeth , Kitajiri Shin-ichiro , Frolenkov Gregory I. , Friedman Thomas B. , Cartagena-Rivera Alexander X.
Published: June 2022

Hearing depends on intricate morphologies and mechanical properties of diverse inner ear cell types. The individual contributions of various inner ear cell types into mechanical properties of the organ of Corti and the mechanisms of their integration are yet largely unknown. Using sub-100-nm spatial resolution atomic force microscopy (AFM), we mapped the Young’s modulus (stiffness) of the apical surface of the different cells of the freshly dissected P5–P6 cochlear epithelium from wild-type and mice lacking either Trio and F-actin binding protein (TRIOBP) isoforms 4 and 5 or isoform 5 only. Variants of
TRIOBP
are associated with deafness in human and in
Triobp
mutant mouse models. Remarkably, nanoscale AFM mapping revealed unrecognized bidirectional radial stiffness gradients of different magnitudes and opposite orientations between rows of wild-type supporting cells and sensory hair cells. Moreover, the observed bidirectional radial stiffness gradients are unbalanced, with sensory cells being stiffer overall compared to neighboring supporting cells. Deafness-associated TRIOBP deficiencies significantly disrupted the magnitude and orientation of these bidirectional radial stiffness gradients. In addition, serial sectioning with focused ion beam and backscatter scanning electron microscopy shows that a TRIOBP deficiency results in ultrastructural changes of supporting cell apical phalangeal microfilaments and bundled cortical F-actin of hair cell cuticular plates, correlating with messenger RNA and protein expression levels and AFM stiffness measurements that exposed a softening of the apical surface of the sensory epithelium in mutant mice. Altogether, this additional complexity in the mechanical properties of the sensory epithelium is hypothesized to be an essential contributor to frequency selectivity and sensitivity of mammalian hearing.
Passage of exogeneous fine particles from the lung into the brain in humans and animals
Authors: Qi Yu , Wei Shuting , Xin Tao , Huang Chuanjiang , Pu Yichen , Ma Jinzhu , Zhang Changbin , Liu Yajun , Lynch Iseult , Liu Sijin
Published: June 2022

There are still significant knowledge gaps in understanding the intrusion and retention of exogeneous particles into the central nervous system (CNS). Here, we uncovered various exogeneous fine particles in human cerebrospinal fluids (CSFs) and identified the ambient environmental or occupational exposure sources of these particles, including commonly found particles (e.g., Fe- and Ca-containing ones) and other compositions that have not been reported previously (such as malayaite and anatase TiO
2
), by mapping their chemical and structural fingerprints. Furthermore, using mouse and in vitro models, we unveiled a possible translocation pathway of various inhaled fine particles from the lung to the brain through blood circulation (via dedicated biodistribution and mechanistic studies). Importantly, with the aid of isotope labeling, we obtained the retention kinetics of inhaled fine particles in mice, indicating a much slower clearance rate of localized exogenous particles from the brain than from other main metabolic organs. Collectively, our results provide a piece of evidence on the intrusion of exogeneous particles into the CNS and support the association between the inhalation of exogenous particles and their transport into the brain tissues. This work thus provides additional insights for the continued investigation of the adverse effects of air pollution on the brain.
Leafy and weedy seadragon genomes connect genic and repetitive DNA features to the extravagant biology of syngnathid fishes
Authors: Small Clayton M. , Healey Hope M. , Currey Mark C. , Beck Emily A. , Catchen Julian , Lin Angela S. P. , Cresko William A. , Bassham Susan
Published: June 2022

Seadragons are a remarkable lineage of teleost fishes in the family Syngnathidae, renowned for having evolved male pregnancy. Comprising three known species, seadragons are widely recognized and admired for their fantastical body forms and coloration, and their specific habitat requirements have made them flagship representatives for marine conservation and natural history interests. Until recently, a gap has been the lack of significant genomic resources for seadragons. We have produced gene-annotated, chromosome-scale genome models for the leafy and weedy seadragon to advance investigations of evolutionary innovation and elaboration of morphological traits in seadragons as well as their pipefish and seahorse relatives. We identified several interesting features specific to seadragon genomes, including divergent noncoding regions near a developmental gene important for integumentary outgrowth, a high genome-wide density of repetitive DNA, and recent expansions of transposable elements and a vesicular trafficking gene family. Surprisingly, comparative analyses leveraging the seadragon genomes and additional syngnathid and outgroup genomes revealed striking, syngnathid-specific losses in the family of fibroblast growth factors (FGFs), which likely involve reorganization of highly conserved gene regulatory networks in ways that have not previously been documented in natural populations. The resources presented here serve as important tools for future evolutionary studies of developmental processes in syngnathids and hold value for conservation of the extravagant seadragons and their relatives.
A small molecule redistributes iron in ferroportin-deficient mice and patient-derived primary macrophages
Authors: Ekaputri Stella , Choi Eun-Kyung , Sabelli Manuela , Aring Luisa , Green Kelsie J. , Chang JuOae , Bao Kai , Choi Hak Soo , Iwase Shigeki , Kim Jonghan , Corradini Elena , Pietrangelo Antonello , Burke Martin D. , Seo Young Ah
Published: June 2022

Deficiencies of the transmembrane iron-transporting protein ferroportin (FPN1) cause the iron misdistribution that underlies ferroportin disease, anemia of inflammation, and several other human diseases and conditions. A small molecule natural product, hinokitiol, was recently shown to serve as a surrogate transmembrane iron transporter that can restore hemoglobinization in zebrafish deficient in other iron transporting proteins and can increase gut iron absorption in FPN1-deficient flatiron mice. However, whether hinokitiol can restore normal iron physiology in FPN1-deficient animals or primary cells from patients and the mechanisms underlying such targeted activities remain unknown. Here, we show that hinokitiol redistributes iron from the liver to red blood cells in flatiron mice, thereby increasing hemoglobin and hematocrit. Mechanistic studies confirm that hinokitiol functions as a surrogate transmembrane iron transporter to release iron trapped within liver macrophages, that hinokitiol-Fe complexes transfer iron to transferrin, and that the resulting transferrin-Fe complexes drive red blood cell maturation in a transferrin-receptor–dependent manner. We also show in FPN1-deficient primary macrophages derived from patients with ferroportin disease that hinokitiol moves labile iron from inside to outside cells and decreases intracellular ferritin levels. The mobilization of nonlabile iron is accompanied by reductions in intracellular ferritin, consistent with the activation of regulated ferritin proteolysis. These findings collectively provide foundational support for the translation of small molecule iron transporters into therapies for human diseases caused by iron misdistribution.