bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Appropriate N addition improves soil aggregate stability throughAMFand glomalin‐related soil proteins in a semiarid agroecosystem
Authors: Zhang Yu , Dong Lingbo , Shangguan Zhouping
Published: October 2022

Soil aggregation and structural stability play a crucial role in soil organic carbon (SOC) sequestration. However, the underlying mechanisms of arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF) and glomalin‐related soil protein (GRSP) responses to N addition and their impacts on soil aggregation and organic carbon stability remain unclear. Hence, a 16‐year field N addition experiment on winter wheat (Triticum aestivumL.) was conducted to investigate the effects on the stability of soil structure and SOC fractions via AMF and GRSP. Overall, N addition increased the soil aggregate mean weight diameter (MWD), which exhibited an increase in the proportion of large macroaggregates and a decrease in the proportion of silt‐clay fractions. Appropriate N (180 kg N ha−1) input increased SOC stability and total SOC stock, while excessive N (360 kg N ha−1) input increased labile organic carbon fractions, and active C index and decreased the C stock. The concentrations of SOC, total GRSP (T‐GRSP), and easily extractable GRSP (EE‐GRSP) showed the largest increases in small macroaggregates, and GRSP was significantly correlated with SOC, recalcitrant organic carbon, and MWD (p < 0.05). These results indicated that appropriate N addition promoted AMF to secrete GRSP, which in turn favoured large macroaggregation and enhanced the physical protection of SOC. Meanwhile, the increased GRSP stimulated the accumulation of recalcitrant C, thus improving soil organic carbon stability and carbon sequestration capacity. The study suggested that appropriate N addition (180 kg N ha−1) should be used to improve the carbon sequestration potential of farmland on the Loess Plateau.
A Novel Polyvinyl Alcohol‐Based Hydrogel with Ultra‐Fast Self‐Healing Ability and Excellent Stretchability Based on Multi Dynamic Covalent Bond Cross‐Linking
Authors: Ji Nan , Luo Jin , Zhang Weiwei , Sun Jun , Wang Jianjun , Qin Chuanxiang , Zhuo Qiqi , Dai Lixing
Published: October 2022

A novel self‐healing poly(vinyl alcohol) (PVA)‐based hydrogel is developed by cross‐linking PVA chains through multi dynamic covalent bonds by use of a small cross‐linker composed by 4‐formylphenylboric acid (FPBA) and lysine (Lys). The dynamic borate‐imine‐imine‐borate bond structure between PVA chains endows the hydrogel excellent stretchability and ultra‐fast self‐healing ability without external stimulation. The self‐healing efficiency can attain 94% and the elongation at break can reach up to near 1000% after only 3 min healing. Moreover, the self‐healing of the hydrogel through the contact of two faces from both the same cut position and different cut positions has similar excellent efficiency. The hydrogel with the unusual self‐healing performance and stretchability is used as an ideal material in strain sensors monitoring human movement and tiny vibrations caused by human voice. Interestingly, the sensor can continue to function normally after self‐healing for only ≈3 s. It is expected that this simple strategy of fabricating self‐healing hydrogels with multi dynamic bonds will provide new opportunities in the design and preparation of PVA‐based hydrogels to expand their potential applications in sensors and other various fields.
Explaining vaccine hesitancy: A COVID‐19 study of the United States
Authors: Goel Rajeev K. , Jones James R. , Saunoris James W.
Published: October 2022

Using recent data on the unvaccinated population across US states, this paper focuses on the determinants of vaccine hesitancy related to the COVID‐19 pandemic. Findings show that more prosperous states and states with more elderly residents and more physicians have lower vaccine hesitancy. There was some evidence of the significance of race, but internet access and history of other contagious diseases failed to make a difference. States with centralized health systems and those with mask mandates generally had a lower percentage of unvaccinated populations. Finally, the presence of Democrats in state legislatures tended to lower vaccination hesitancies, ceteris paribus.
Kearns‐Sayre syndrome case. Novel 5,9 kb mtDNA deletion
Authors: Grigalionienė Kristina , Burnytė Birutė , Balkelienė Danutė , Ambrozaitytė Laima , Utkus Algirdas
Published: October 2022

Background

Kearns‐Sayre syndrome (KSS) is a rare multisystem mitochondrial disorder characterized by onset before 20 years of age and a typical clinical triad: progressive external ophthalmoplegia, pigmentary retinopathy and cardiac conduction anomalies. In most cases KSS is caused by spontaneous heteroplasmic single large‐scale mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) deletions. Long‐range polymerase chain reaction (LR‐PCR), next generation sequencing (NGS) and multiplex ligation‐dependent probe amplification (MLPA) are the most widely applied methods for the identification of mtDNA deletions. Here, we report the case of 20‐year‐old male who presented with classic Kearns‐Sayre syndrome, confirmed by novel 5,9 kb mtDNA deletion.

Methods and results

LR‐PCR and MLPA methods were applied to identify the mitochondrial DNA deletion for the patient, but the results were conflicting. Molecular analysis using primer walking and Sanger sequencing identified a novel 5888 base pairs mtDNA deletion (NC_012920.1:m.6069_11956del) with CAAC nucleotides repeat sequence at the breakpoints.

Conclusion

Our study enriched the mtDNA variation spectrum associated with KSS and demonstrated the importance of choosing relevant molecular genetic methods.
Synthesis of sparse square arrays with high beam collection efficiency under minimum element spacing constraints
Authors: Li Jianxiong , Han Ziyu
Published: October 2022

This letter presents a large spacing nonuniform distribution, uniform excitation sparse square array model to maximize beam collection efficiency (BCE) and minimize sidelobe level outside the collection area (CSL) of the transmitting antenna in microwave wireless power transmission (MWPT) systems. We improve the position update parameters in the dynamic weight particle swarm optimization (DWPSO) algorithm by adding multiobjective learning features (MODWPSO). We use MODWPSO to optimize the elements' positions to maximize BCE and minimize CSL and discuss the effect of the minimum element spacing value on BCE and CSL. By comparing the array performance with a typical array model, it can be concluded that the proposed large spacing sparse nonuniform distribution, uniform excitation square array model has higher BCE, lower CSL, and fewer costs.
A broadband and low‐profile magnetoelectric dipole antenna with low radar cross section
Authors: Du Yubiao , Sun Yurong , Guo Weidong , Xu Juan
Published: October 2022

In this study, a novel broadband and low profile magnetoelectric dipole (MED) antenna with a low radar cross section (RCS) is proposed. The 10 dB RCS reduction is achieved by shifting the reflected energy to six directions, which is an efficient optimization method based on convolutional operations. Specifically, the polarization conversion metasurface (PCM) unit with high polarization conversion rate is constructed and employed in the MED antenna for RCS reduction. The proposed antenna is fabricated and measured. Measured results depict that the low RCS antenna offers good impedance matching in 12–15.6 GHz (relative bandwidth 26%). Compared with the reference antenna, the RCS of the proposed antenna is reduced by more than 10 dB from 9.9 to 16 GHz. It is proved that the proposed antenna has broadband and stable radiation performance and outstanding specular reflecting suppression capabilities.
Overlooked by nurses: A scoping review on health stressors, problems and coping of migrant domestic workers
Authors: Ho Ken Hok Man , Wilson Ingrid M. , Wong Janet Yuen‐Ha , McKenna Lisa , Reisenhofer Sonia , Efendi Ferry , Smith Graeme D.
Published: October 2022

Aim

The first scoping review is to map and synthesize the stressors, problems and coping strategies surrounding the health issues of migrant domestic workers.

Design

Scoping review using Arksey and O'Malley's five‐stage framework.

Methods

Ten electronic databases were systematically searched by keywords for literature published between January 1995 and December 2019. Data were extracted into tables and collated and summarized into themes for presentation.

Results

Twenty‐seven reports were included in the final review. Analysis revealed that stressors to health included abuse, poor health service accessibility, ongoing financial hardship despite demanding working conditions and social isolation. Physical and mental health problems were identified for which migrant domestic workers largely depended on social networks and religion to cope with stressors and health problems. Training para‐professional peer leaders of migrant domestic workers by community nurses and including them in interprofessional teams is a possible way for nurses to promote their health and well‐being.
Teacher stress and burnout: The role of psychological work resources and implications for practitioners
Authors: Brady Lisa L. , McDaniel Sara C. , Choi Youn‐Jeng
Published: October 2022

When we think about the issues currently confronted by those who work in schools, stress and burnout among teachers and other practitioners is recognized as a widespread concern due to the adverse effects on students, schools, and communities. The purpose of this study was to investigate the effects of job stress on the experienced burnout of teachers, and to examine the variability in burnout attributable to a specific psychological resource, namely, an individual's work‐related sense of coherence (Work‐SoC). A descriptive, cross‐sectional analysis was conducted using data collected through an online survey from 231 primary and secondary school teachers in the United States. Results from correlational and regression analyses demonstrate that two forms of work stress—perceived quantity and perceived quality—are important predictors of burnout. Further, Work‐SoC contributes to variability in teacher burnout even after accounting for perceived work and life stress, suggesting its important role in buffering teachers from the experience of burnout. Implications for practitioners for reducing teacher stress and burnout are discussed.
Biological activity of some thiazolyl‐thiadiazines as BACE‐1 inhibitors for Alzheimer's disease in the light of density functional theory based quantum descriptors
Authors: Mondal Roy Sutapa , Mehta Bijal R. , Trivedi Sarthak , Sharma Bhumika K. , Roy Debesh R.
Published: October 2022

This paper presents first report on a systematic investigation on developing quantum chemical descriptors on understanding biological activity (pIC50) of a series of 10 thiazolyl‐thiadiazines (ID‐01 to ID‐10) as Beta site amyloid precursor protein cleaving enzyme 1 (BACE‐1) protein inhibitors for Alzheimer diseases, under density functional theory. The interactions between inhibitors and model biomolecule are studied in terms of charge and energy transfer, where the target biomolecule at the host BACE‐1 protein is identified from the family of 20 amino acids, which are universal to all living organisms. The present study identifies electron affinity (EA), total electronic energy (E), and the electron transfer with amino acid (∆E) of thiazolyl‐thiadiazines as promising descriptors, which can explain about 90% of observed biological activity. The developed regression model for training set is also validated for unknown test set of homologous compounds. The developed quantum chemical descriptors for prediction of the biological activity of thiazolyl‐thiadiazines will certainly be an excellent addition in the QSAR parlance of drug development.
Evidence of ground ice melting detected by InSAR and in situ monitoring over permafrost terrain on the Qinghai‐Xizang (Tibet) Plateau
Authors: Wang Lingxiao , Zhao Lin , Zhou Huayun , Liu Shibo , Hu Guojie , Li Zhibin , Wang Chong , Zhao Jianting
Published: October 2022

The thawing of ice‐rich permafrost has attracted considerable attention in recent years. In this study, we analyzed both the ground surface deformation time series spanning 6 years, derived through the SBAS‐InSAR technique on the Qinghai‐Xizang (Tibet) Plateau (QTP), and the long‐term active layer soil temperature and moisture in situ observations and their relationships. The results showed that long‐term subsidence velocity directly represents the melting of ground ice instead of the thickening rate of the active layer by a quantitative analysis of both terrain subsidence velocity and active layer thickening rate and the increase in liquid water at the bottom of the active layer. Ice‐poor permafrost thawing does not result in distinct subsidence, although the active layer deepening rate can be very high. The spatial analysis reveals that long‐term deformation velocities are large in the foothills and on gentle slopes (1–5 degrees) and are closely related to geomorphological conditions, which could regulate the soil properties and ground ice content. These findings improve the understanding of the thawing degradation of icy permafrost and promote method developments for the automated mapping of ground ice melting in permafrost environments.
A New Method to Correct Interior Ballistic Characteristics of Multi‐Projectile System Based on Rarefaction Wave Theory
Authors: Huang Xi , Cheng Cheng , Wang Chong , Zhang Xiaobing
Published: October 2022

One of the most significant challenges in designing a hyper‐firing‐rate weapon is to balance the interior ballistics behaviors of a multi‐projectile system. This paper proposes a multi‐projectile system with a front nozzle to correct interior ballistic characteristics based on rarefaction wave theory. Firstly, a two‐dimensional two‐phase flow model for the hyper‐firing‐rate weapon is established. Then the application to a standard virtual gun as a benchmark for interior ballistic codes is used to validate the accuracy. In addition, the interior ballistics behaviors of the three‐projectile system without and with the front nozzle are investigated. Finally, the interior ballistics behaviors of the three‐projectile system are corrected by changing the open time of the front nozzle. The results show that the new correction method for the multi‐projectile system reduces the recoil and the pressure while balancing the muzzle velocity. The finding guides future ballistic research on the multi‐projectile system.
A perspective on the current use of the phase distribution model for predicting milk‐to‐plasma drug concentration ratio
Authors: Zhang Mian , Sychterz Caroline , Chang Ming , Huang Lu , Schmidt Brian J. , Gaohua Lu
Published: October 2022

The phase distribution model, proposed by Atkinson and Begg in 1990, has been widely used for predicting breastmilk‐to‐plasma drug concentration ratio. However, misrepresentations of the equations have been noted in recent publications. In this perspective, we revisit the derivation of the equations and provide an R/Shiny interface for the model with a view to helping scientists in this field acquire in‐depth understanding of the theoretical background and implementation of the model.
Visible and Infrared Photoresponse in (V0.99Cr0.01)2O3 Epitaxial Films
Authors: Fan Zihao , Zhao Guocheng , Zhao Zhuan , Ge Jun , Pan Shusheng
Published: October 2022

Herein, an infrared (IR) photodetector has been demonstrated by depositing the (V0.99Cr0.01)2O3 films on top of a sapphire (Al2O3) wafer. The photoresponse properties, including photocurrent, voltage, responsivity, and response speed, at different temperatures and wavelengths are explored. The results showed that the deposited samples produce a significant photoresponse in the near‐IR (NIR) light. In particular, as temperature increases from 298 K (25 °C) to 453 K (180 °C), the responsivity of (V0.99Cr0.01)2O3 films improves from 7.4 to 49.4 mA W−1 under 5 V biased 940 nm laser irradiation, and it holds the quick response for about 5 s. The findings indicate that (V0.99Cr0.01)2O3 film is a promising candidate material for IR photodetector and temperature‐dependent optical delay triggers.
A Statistical Study of Resistive Switching Parameters in Au/Ta/ZrO2(Y)/Ta2O5/TiN/Ti Memristive Devices
Authors: Maldonado David , Belov Alexey I. , Koryazhkina Maria N. , Jiménez-Molinos Francisco , Mikhaylov Alexey N. , Roldán Juan B.
Published: October 2022

Variability is an inherent property of memristive devices based on the switching of resistance in a simple metal–oxide–metal structure compatible with the standard complementary metal–oxide–semiconductor fabrication process. For each specific structure, the variability should be measured and assessed as both the negative and positive factors for different applications of memristive devices. In this report, it is shown how this variability can be extracted and analyzed for such main parameters of resistive switching as the set and reset voltages/currents and how it depends on the methodology used and experimental conditions. The obtained results should be taken into account in the design and predictive simulation of memristive devices and circuits.
Granular Effect on Electron Conduction in Discontinuous Metal Films
Authors: Lin Juhn-Jong , Li Zhi-Qing , Wu Chih-Yuan , Yeh Sheng-Shiuan
Published: October 2022

The seminal work by Dolan and Osheroff [Phys. Rev. Lett. 43, 721 (1979)], which reported anomalous low‐temperature conduction of high‐resistivity thin‐film metal strips is reanalyzed. It is argued that the observed logarithmic increase of resistance with decreasing temperature in their 3 nm thick Au–Pd strips can be ascribed to the granularity effect on electron conduction in discontinuous metal films. This reanalysis is further supported by the measurements on conducting Pb
x
(SiO2)1−x
nanogranular films, where x is the volume fraction of Pb.
Apparent Negative Stiffness Induced by Constriction
Authors: Pasternak Elena , Dyskin Arcady
Published: October 2022

Lateral constriction (transverse elastic constraint) of elastic rod controls its apparent (longitudinal) stiffness and can even make it negative. (The total energy of system rod + constriction device remains positive.) The apparent stiffness depends upon moduli of the rod material and the constriction modulus relating lateral normal stress and strain components. Apparent negative stiffness can arrest wave propagation along the rod. This opens a way to design hybrid materials consisting of a stiff matrix and parallel lubricated elastic rods. The matrix is constricting the rods making them exhibit negative stiffness and thus ensuring elevated sound or vibration isolation of the hybrid. A mechanism of controlling the constriction modulus by lateral compression is proposed.
Reversibility of Out‐of‐Plane Auxetic Response in Needle‐Punched Nonwovens
Authors: Verma Prateek , Wagner Karla B. , Griffin Anselm C. , Shofner Meisha L.
Published: October 2022

The utility of auxetic materials in applications such as foams and composites is contingent upon the performance of these materials under cyclic loading. Recently, several textile materials (knitted, woven, and nonwoven fabrics) have been found to exhibit auxetic properties, either through design and/or the use of a postprocessing treatment. In the wake of these advancements, this research examines the reversibility of the out‐of‐plane auxetic response in previously studied polyester fiber needle‐punched nonwovens. Herein, a heat‐compressed nonwoven is strained cyclically to different levels, and the thickness is measured before and after straining. While axial extension is found to be elastic for up to 3% strain, thickness increases (auxetic responses) are almost completely reversible for 1% axial strain and highly reversible for 2% and 3% axial strain. Irreversible changes can be clearly observed starting at strains of 2% and larger, especially for a higher number of cycles. Combining these results with the previous understanding from microscopic and tomographic imaging, possible reversible (straightening of bent fibers and fiber bundles) and irreversible (slipping or breaking of fibers) structural deformations leading to thickness changes are identified. These processes influence the magnitude of the auxetic response within and beyond the elastic strain regime, respectively.
Ultrathin Al1−xScxN for Low‐Voltage‐Driven Ferroelectric‐Based Devices
Authors: Schönweger Georg , Islam Md Redwanul , Wolff Niklas , Petraru Adrian , Kienle Lorenz , Kohlstedt Hermann , Fichtner Simon
Published: October 2022

Thickness scaling of ferroelectricity in Al1−x
Sc
x
N is a determining factor for its potential application in neuromorphic computing and memory devices. In this letter, ultrathin (10 nm) Al0.72Sc0.28N films that are ferroelectrically switchable at room temperature are reported on. All‐epitaxial Al0.72Sc0.28N/Pt heterostructures are grown by magnetron sputtering onto GaN/sapphire substrates followed by an in situ Pt capping approach to avoid oxidation of the Al0.72Sc0.28N film surface. Structural characterization by X‐Ray diffraction and transmission electron microscopy reveals the established epitaxy. The thus‐obtained high‐quality films in combination with in situ capping facilitate ferroelectric switching of Al1−x
Sc
x
N in the ultrathin regime. The analysis of the relative permittivity and coercive field dependence on Al0.72Sc0.28N film thicknesses in the range from 100 nm down to 10 nm indicates only moderate scaling effects, suggesting that the critical thickness for ferroelectricity is not yet approached. Furthermore, the deposited layer stack demonstrates the possibility of including ultrathin ferroelectric Al1−x
Sc
x
N into all‐epitaxial GaN‐based devices using sputter deposition techniques. Thus, the integration and scaling potential of all‐epitaxial ultrathin Al1−x
Sc
x
N offering high storage density paired with low‐voltage operation desired for state‐of‐the‐art ferroelectric memory devices are highlighted.
Synergistic anticancer effect of flavonoids from Sophora alopecuroides with Sorafenib against hepatocellular carcinoma
Authors: Zhu Xiao‐Feng , Sun Zhong‐Lin , Ma Jing , Hu Bo , Yu Min‐Cheng , Liu Xiu‐Jie , Yang Ping , Xu Yang , Ju Dianwen , Mu Qing
Published: October 2022

Sorafenib (SF), a multi‐kinase inhibitor, is the first FDA‐approved systemic chemotherapy drug for advanced hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). However, its clinical application is limited by severe toxicity and side effects associated with high applied doses. Sophora alopecuroides L. is traditionally used as Chinese herbal medicine for treating gastrointestinal diseases, bacillary dysentery, viral hepatitis, and other diseases, and exerts an important role in anti‐tumor. Hence, we investigated the synergistic actions of seventeen flavonoids from this herb combined with SF against HCC cell lines and their primary mechanism. In the experiment, most compounds were found to prominently enhance the inhibitory effects of SF on HCC cells than their alone treatment. Among them, three compounds leachianone A (1), sophoraflavanone G (3), and trifolirhizin (17) exhibited significantly synergistic anticancer activities against MHCC97H cells at low concentration with IC50 of SF reduced by 5.8‐fold, 3.6‐fold, and 3.5‐fold corresponding their CI values of 0.49, 0.66, and 0.46 respectively. Importantly, compounds 3 or 17 combined with SF could synergistically induce MHCC97H cells apoptosis via the endogenously mitochondrial‐mediated apoptotic pathway, involving higher Bax/Bcl‐2 expressions with the activation of caspase‐9 and ‐3, and arrest the cell cycle in G1 phases. Strikingly, this synergistic effect was also closely related to the co‐suppression of ERK and AKT signaling pathways. Furthermore, compound 3 significantly enhanced the suppression of SF on tumor growth in the HepG2 xenograft model, with a 79.3% inhibition ratio at high concentration, without systemic toxicity, compared to either agent alone. These results demonstrate that the combination treatment of flavonoid 3 and SF at low doses exert synergistic anticancer effects on HCC cells in vitro and in vivo.
The effects of phytosterol and phytostanol supplementation on the lipid profile in postmenopausal women: A systematic review and meta‐analysis of randomized controlled trials
Authors: Xia Wei , Xiang Song , Gaman Mihnea‐Alexandru , Jamilian Parmida , Prabahar Kousalya , Du Guanggang , Gao Dan
Published: October 2022

Various studies have proven that phytosterols and phytostanols (PS) are lipid‐lowering agents. These compounds play a role in regulating high‐density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL‐C), low‐density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL‐C), total cholesterol (TC), and triglyceride (TG) metabolism. Although various drugs are available and are currently used to treat dyslipidemia, the management of lipid abnormalities during the postmenopausal period remains a challenge. Thus, scientists are trying to develop new strategies to reduce serum lipids concentrations using natural products. However, the impact of PS administration on serum lipids in postmenopausal women remains unclear. Hence, the purpose of this study was to assess the effect of PS supplementation on the lipid profile in postmenopausal women based on a systematic review of the literature and a meta‐analysis of randomized controlled trials. PubMed/Medline, Scopus, Embase, and Web of Science were searched to identify suitable papers published until January 18, 2022. We combined the effect sizes with the DerSimonian and Laird method using a random effects model. PS supplementation resulted in a significant decrease in TC (weighted mean difference [WMD]: −16.73 mg/dl) and LDL‐C (WMD: −10.06 mg/dl) levels. No effect of PS supplementation on TG (WMD: −1.14 mg/dl) or HDL‐C (WMD: −0.29 mg/dl) concentrations was detected. In the stratified analysis, there was a notable reduction in TC and LDL‐C levels when the PS dose was ≥2 g/day (TC: −22.22 mg/dl and LDL‐C: −10.14 mg/dl) and when PS were administered to participants with a body mass index ≥25 kg/m2 (TC: −20.22 mg/dl and LDL‐C: −14.85 mg/dl). PS administration can decrease TC and LDL‐C, particularly if the dose of administration is ≥2 g/day and if the participants are overweight or obese. Further high‐quality studies are needed to firmly establish the clinical efficacy of PS usage in postmenopausal females.
Deep reinforcement learning for resilient microgrid expansion planning with multiple energy resource
Authors: Pang Kexin , Zhou Jian , Tsianikas Stamatis , Ma Yizhong
Published: October 2022

Microgrid has attracted more and more attention to provide backup power for customers in the case of power grid outages. Microgrid expansion planning is significant to handle the increasing customer demand and to enhance power resilience. Current research about long‐term microgrid expansion planning rarely if ever considered the uncertainties associated with energy storage and power generation units, for example, battery cycle degradation. These factors have important influence on the performance of microgrid expansion planning in reality. In this paper, a long‐term microgrid expansion planning model with multiple energy resource is presented. Deep reinforcement learning method is used to obtain the cost‐effective microgrid expansion policies to enhance power resilience. In the case study, optimal microgrid expansion planning is achieved based on the proposed model. The impacts of battery degradation and resilience constraint on microgrid expansion policy optimization are also investigated. The simulation results prove the effectiveness of the proposed method on economic and resilient microgrid expansion planning.
Multi‐event‐triggered adaptive critic control with guaranteed cost for discrete‐time nonlinear nonzero‐sum games
Authors: Wang Ding , Hu Lingzhi , Qiao Junfei
Published: October 2022

In this article, a new event‐based adaptive critic algorithm with multiple triggering conditions is investigated to address multi‐player nonzero‐sum game problems for discrete‐time nonlinear dynamics. In order to improve resource utilization while ensure mutual independence among players, the corresponding novel triggering conditions are designed for each player. The corresponding control input is updated only when the relevant triggering condition is violated. It is emphasized that these triggering conditions are established based on the iteration of the time‐triggered mechanism. Then, according to the setting triggering conditions, we prove that the real cost function possesses a predetermined upper bound, which realizes the cost guarantee of the controlled system. Additionally, the multi‐player closed‐loop system is proved to be asymptotically stable and the multi‐event‐triggered control method is implemented by constructing three kinds of neural networks. Finally, the effectiveness of the developed multi‐event‐triggered control approach is verified through conducting two simulation examples.
Exploring middle school students' interests in computationally intensive science careers: The CISCI instrument validation and intervention
Authors: Rachmatullah Arif , Wiebe Eric N.
Published: October 2022

Computationally intensive science (CIS)‐related disciplines and careers are predicted to be among the cutting‐edge fields and high‐demand jobs. Such disciplines and careers demand expertise in both traditional scientific knowledge and computer science (CS)‐related understanding and skills. Preparing educational systems for developing interest and abilities for such career paths require a new set of research tools. In this study, we developed and validated a multidimensional instrument called computationally intensive science career interests (CISCI) to measure middle school students' interests in CIS careers. We also explored several predictors of students' interests in such careers and examined the impact of a 4‐day online synchronous scientific computational modeling activity on students' career interests. A total of 934 Indonesian middle school students (aged 11–14) participated in this study. A combination of the classical test theory and item response theory approaches was used to validate the CISCI instrument. Multiple linear regression tests were run to identify the predictors of students' career interests, and paired‐sample t‐tests were used to examine a scientific computational modeling activity's impact on students' career interests. The results revealed that CISCI was a psychometrically valid and reliable instrument to measure students' career interests. We also found that science and CS attitudes, computational thinking, and prior experience in CS‐related activities were significant predictors of students' career interests. In addition, computational modeling activity significantly influenced the frequency of students discussing such career paths with their parents. This study underscores the importance of engaging students in CS‐integrated science learning activities to help develop their interests in CIS jobs.
Congenital Midline Sinus of the Upper Lip: Evaluating the Use of Ultrasonography
Authors: Akatsuka Taro , Omatsu Jun , Miyagawa Takuya , Omori Issei , Kawashima Haruka , Oshima Noboru , Sato Shinichi
Published: October 2022

Ultrasound is a minimally invasive examination method. Previous examinations have shown that the most common standard methods used to reveal the distal aspect of the congenital labial sinus, fistula probe or methylene blue dye, are highly invasive and ultrasound is less invasive. Of course, there are cases where CT is necessary, but CT carries the risk of radiation exposure.
Batch Nanofabrication of Suspended Single 1D Nanoheaters for Ultralow‐Power Metal Oxide Semiconductor‐Based Gas Sensors
Authors: Kim Taejung , Cho Wootaek , Kim Beomsang , Yeom Junyeong , Kwon Yeong Min , Baik Jeong Min , Kim Jae Joon , Shin Heungjoo
Published: October 2022

The demand for power‐efficient micro‐and nanodevices is increasing rapidly. In this regard, electrothermal nanowire‐based heaters are promising solutions for the ultralow‐power devices required in IoT applications. Herein, a method is demonstrated for producing a 1D nanoheater by selectively coating a suspended pyrolyzed carbon nanowire backbone with a thin Au resistive heater layer and utilizing it in a portable gas sensor system. This sophisticated nanostructure is developed without complex nanofabrication and nanoscale alignment processes, owing to the suspended architecture and built‐in shadow mask. The suspended carbon nanowires, which are batch‐fabricated using carbon‐microelectromechanical systems technology, maintain their structural and functional integrity in subsequent nanopatterning processes because of their excellent mechanical robustness. The developed nanoheater is used in gas sensors via user‐designable localization of the metal oxide semiconductor nanomaterials onto the central region of the nanoheater at the desired temperature. This allows the sensing site to be uniformly heated, enabling reliable and sensitive gas detection. The 1D nanoheater embedded gas sensor can be heated immediately to 250 °C at a remarkably low power of 1.6 mW, surpassing the performance of state‐of‐the‐art microheater‐based gas sensors. The presented technology offers facile 1D nanoheater production and promising pathways for applications in various electrothermal devices.
In‐Operando Lithium‐Ion Transport Tracking in an All‐Solid‐State Battery
Authors: Kobayashi Takane , Ohnishi Tsuyoshi , Osawa Takahiro , Pratt Andrew , Tear Steve , Shimoda Susumu , Baba Hidetada , Laitinen Mikko , Sajavaara Timo
Published: October 2022

An all‐solid‐state battery is a secondary battery that is charged and discharged by the transport of lithium ions between positive and negative electrodes. To fully realize the significant benefits of this battery technology, for example, higher energy densities, faster charging times, and safer operation, it is essential to understand how lithium ions are transported and distributed in the battery during operation. However, as the third lightest element, methods for quantitatively analyzing lithium during operation of an all‐solid‐state device are limited such that real‐time tracking of lithium transport has not yet been demonstrated. Here, the authors report that the transport of lithium ions in an all‐solid‐state battery is quantitatively tracked in near real time by utilizing a high‐intensity thermal neutron source and lithium‐6 as a tracer in a thermal neutron‐induced nuclear reaction. Furthermore, the authors show that the lithium‐ion migration mechanism and pathway through the solid electrolyte can be determined by in‐operando tracking. From these results, the authors suggest that the development of all‐solid‐state batteries has entered a phase where further advances can be carried out while understanding the transport of lithium ions in the batteries.
Cell Membrane‐Anchoring Nano‐Photosensitizer for Light‐Controlled Calcium‐Overload and Tumor‐Specific Synergistic Therapy
Authors: Gao Min , Yang Tianhao , Qin Weiji , Wang Qian , Huang Mingyue , Peng Hui , Shao Meng , Yao Wanqing , Yi Xiaoqing , Sun Gengyun , He Xiaoyan
Published: October 2022

Poor selectivity and unintended toxicity to normal organs are major challenges in calcium ion (Ca2+) overload tumor therapy. To address this issue, a cell membrane‐anchoring nano‐photosensitizer (CMA‐nPS) is constructed for inducing tumor‐specific Ca2+ overload through multistage endogenous Ca2+ homeostasis disruption under light guidance, i.e., the extracellular Ca2+ influx caused by cell membrane damage, followed by the intracellular Ca2+ imbalance caused by mitochondrial dysfunction. CMA‐nPS is decorated by two types of functionalized cell membranes, the azide‐modified macrophage cell membrane is used to conjugate the dibenzocyclooctyne‐decorated photosensitizer, and the vesicular stomatitis virus glycoprotein (VSV‐G)‐modified NIH3T3 cell membrane is used to guide the anchoring of photosensitizer to the lung cancer cell membrane. The in vitro study shows that CMA‐nPS mainly anchors on the cell membrane, and further causes membrane damage, mitochondrial dysfunction, as well as intracellular Ca2+ overload upon light irradiation. Synergistically enhanced antitumor efficiency is observed in vitro and in vivo. This study provides a new synergistic strategy for Ca2+‐overload‐based cancer therapy, as well as a strategy for anchoring photosensitizer on the cell membrane, offering broad application prospects for the treatment of lung cancer.
Spatial Transcriptomics‐Based Identification of Molecular Markers for Nanomedicine Distribution in Tumor Tissue
Authors: Park Jeongbin , Choi Jinyeong , Lee Jae Eun , Choi Hongyoon , Im Hyung‐Jun
Published: October 2022

The intratumoral accumulation of nanomedicine has been considered a passive process, referred to as the enhanced permeability and retention effect. Recent studies have suggested that the tumor uptake of nanomedicines follows an energy‐dependent pathway rather than being a passive process. Herein, to explore the factor candidates that are associated with nanomedicine tumor uptake, a molecular marker identification platform is developed by integrating microscopic fluorescence images of a nanomedicine distribution with spatial transcriptomics information. When this approach is applied to PEGylated liposomes, molecular markers related to hypoxia, glycolysis, and apoptosis can be identified as being related to the intratumoral distribution of the nanomedicine. It is expected that the method can be applied to explain the distribution of a wide range of nanomedicines and that the data obtained from this analysis can enhance the precise utilization of nanomedicines.
Reproductive tract infection caused by Kocuria kristinae in an entire female sugar glider (Petaurus breviceps)
Authors: Bassan Tiziana , Cobos Alex , Mallol Claudia , Abarca Maria Lourdes , Martorell Jaume
Published: October 2022

The presence of a cloaca in the reproductive tract of marsupials may predispose them to ascending infections. A 7‐year‐old, entire, female sugar glider presented with abdominal swelling. Whole‐body radiographs and abdominal ultrasound revealed a mass in the abdomen. Initial treatment included meloxicam, buprenorphine and subcutaneous fluids. Abdominal exploratory surgery revealed a severe purulent distention of the reproductive tract with multiple adhesions to the intestines, both ureters, urinary bladder and spleen. Because reproductive tissue removal was not feasible, an incision in the mass was performed, the pus aspirated and it was flushed with saline. A biopsy of the affected tissue was indicative of chronic suppurative endometritis. The microbiological culture and biochemical characterisation revealed Kocuria kristinae. The animal was discharged with azithromycin for 1 month and there were no complications over the ensuing 9‐month period. This pathogen should be considered in the differential diagnosis of reproductive tract infections in female sugar gliders.
Study on the catalytic degradation of Acid Orange 7 and the potential mechanism by ferrous–percarbonate
Authors: Huang Fengyun , Wang Huan , Ruan Xinchao
Published: October 2022

Factors affecting the degradation of Acid Orange 7 (AO7) were evaluated and optimized when ferrous was used to catalyze percarbonate in the present study. The optimized conditions included the initial pH values ranging from 3 to 11 for AO7 solution, the initial level of AO7, sodium percarbonate (SPC), and Fe2+. Some ions and natural organic materials, which commonly exist in natural water, were also tested to evaluate their potential impacts on the degradation of AO7. The degradation efficiency of AO7 was up to 95% under the optimized test conditions, where the ferrous/percarbonate/AO7 molar ratio was 15/10/1 in the 0.285 mmol/l AO7 aqueous solution. The presence of Cl−, SO42−, NO3−, Na+, and Mg2+ did not affect the removal of AO7. The addition of HCO3− significantly inhibited its removal, even when the concentration of HCO3− was low to 0.6 mmol/l. A slight inhibition effect was observed when the added concentration of humic acid ranged from 0.5 to 5 mg/l, whereas the residue of AO7 was significantly enhanced when the level of humic acid was continually increased from 50 to 100 mg/l. Hydroxyl radicals (•OH) were the main reactive intermediates controlling the oxidation of AO7 in the present Fe2+/SPC system. The produced intermediates through the degradation of AO7 were identified to include 2‐coumaranone, 2‐naphthol, phthalic acid, phthalimide, N‐methylnaphthylamine, and 2‐methylphenol. The proposed degradation pathways are consistent with the radical formation and the identified intermediates.

Practitioner Points

The ferrous/percarbonate system can remove 95% of AO7 under the optimized conditions.

AO7 removal was inhibited by adding HCO3− and humic acid, but not affected by Cl−, SO42−, NO3−, Na+, and Mg2+.

Hydroxylation, ring opening, and mineralization driven by the generated hydroxyl radicals were derived as the major processes for degrading AO7.
Insights into the sperm chromatin and implications for male infertility from a protein perspective
Authors: de la Iglesia Alberto , Jodar Meritxell , Oliva Rafael , Castillo Judit
Published: October 2022

Male germ cells undergo an extreme but fascinating process of chromatin remodeling that begins in the testis during the last phase of spermatogenesis and continues through epididymal sperm maturation. Most of the histones are replaced by small proteins named protamines, whose high basicity leads to a tight genomic compaction. This process is epigenetically regulated at many levels, not only by posttranslational modifications, but also by readers, writers, and erasers, in a context of a highly coordinated postmeiotic gene expression program. Protamines are key proteins for acquiring this highly specialized chromatin conformation, needed for sperm functionality. Interestingly, and contrary to what could be inferred from its very specific DNA‐packaging function across protamine‐containing species, human sperm chromatin contains a wide spectrum of protamine proteoforms, including truncated and posttranslationally modified proteoforms. The generation of protamine knock‐out models revealed not only chromatin compaction defects, but also collateral sperm alterations contributing to infertile phenotypes, evidencing the importance of sperm chromatin protamination toward the generation of a new individual. The unique features of sperm chromatin have motivated its study, applying from conventional to the most ground‐breaking techniques to disentangle its peculiarities and the cellular mechanisms governing its successful conferment, especially relevant from the protein point of view due to the important epigenetic role of sperm nuclear proteins. Gathering and contextualizing the most striking discoveries will provide a global understanding of the importance and complexity of achieving a proper chromatin compaction and exploring its implications on postfertilization events and beyond.

This article is categorized under:

Reproductive System Diseases > Genetics/Genomics/Epigenetics

Reproductive System Diseases > Molecular and Cellular Physiology
Satellite and hypersatellite structure of Mα1,2 x‐ray transitions in thorium excited by fast oxygen ions
Authors: Czarnota Martyna , Pajek Marek , Banaś Dariusz , Polasik Marek , Słabkowska Katarzyna , Dousse Jean‐Claude , Maillard Yves‐Patrick , Mauron Olivier , Berset Michel , Raboud Pierre‐Alexandre , Hoszowska Joanna , Chmielewska Danuta , Rzadkiewicz Jacek , Sujkowski Ziemowid
Published: October 2022

The high‐resolution spectra of thorium Mα1,2 (M5 → N6,7) and Mβ1 (M4 → N6) x‐ray lines induced by an impact of O ions with energy 376.0 MeV were measured using a von Hamos crystal spectrometer in order to study the x‐ray emission from multiple ionized atoms. The observed x‐rays have been interpreted in terms of the relativistic multiconfiguration Dirac‐Fock (MCDF) calculations performed for dominating vacancy configurations expected to contribute to the measured spectra. Due to the complexity of such calculations for selected multi‐vacancy configurations the simplified average  model, combining the MCDF calculations and binomial distribution of vacancies has been used. The measured spectra clearly exhibit a rich structure of Mα1,2 x‐ray satellites of thorium, including the transitions from the multivacancy initial configurations M−1N−n as well as the hypersatellites corresponding to the transitions in complex multivacancy initial configurations M−mN−n (m,n ≤ 4). The present interpretation of the measured satellite/hypersatellite structure of Mα1,2 (M5 → N6,7) x‐ray transitions allows us to determine the ionization probabilities for the M‐ and N‐shell in central collisions. The measured ionization probabilities are compared with the theoretical predictions of the geometrical model (GM), and the semiclassical approximation (SCA) using both the Dirac hydrogenic and Dirac‐Hartree‐Fock selfconsistent wave functions.
Introduction
Authors: Hamaguchi Nobuaki
Published: October 2022

This chapter motivates discussions about why we study Brazil–Japan cooperation from general points of view. We situate Brazil–Japan relations in international relations of Brazil and Japan respectively. We identify some areas in which Brazil–Japan cooperation has a strategic relevance to both countries. We explain how each chapter of this volume contributes to important issues in Brazil–Japan cooperation.
Global Environmental Governance and ODA from Japan to Brazil
Authors: Masukata Shuichiro , Inoue Cristina Yumie Aoki , Sant’Anna Nanahira de Rabelo e
Published: October 2022

Both Brazil and Japan have been active in global environmental governance, have signed important multilateral environmental agreements, and both have committed to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The two countries have been historical partners in development cooperation/assistance since 1959. Starting with a broad concept of development cooperation (assistance), this study aims at assessing the contributions and impacts of this specific type of cooperative relationship between the two countries. Using a global environmental governance analytical framework, the research assesses the Japanese official development assistance (ODA) and interrogates its contribution to and impacts on environmental protection and sustainable development in Brazil. Through literature review, document analysis, and interviews, we identify development cooperation programs and projects implemented in the period of 1981–2020 and present two cases, one in the Cerrado (PRODECER) and the other in the Amazon (SAF—Tomé-Açu), to analyze how global environmental commitments guide (or not) the provision of ODA. Such analysis is relevant to understanding global trends of environmental governance at the subnational and local levels. We argue that the environmental dimension has been incorporated into ODA projects, according to global commitments. However, more must be achieved to meet global environmental challenges.
Boosting to BMS
Authors: Bagchi Arjun , Banerjee Aritra , Muraki Hisayoshi
Published: October 2022

Abstract

Bondi-Metzner-Sachs (BMS) symmetries, or equivalently Conformal Carroll symmetries, are intrinsically associated to null manifolds and in two dimensions can be obtained as an Inönü-Wigner contraction of the two-dimensional (2d) relativistic conformal algebra. Instead of performing contractions, we demonstrate in this paper how this transmutation of symmetries can be achieved by infinite boosts or degenerate linear transformations on coordinates. Taking explicit cues from the worldsheet theory of null strings, we show boosting the system is equivalent to adding a current-current deformation term to the Hamiltonian. As the strength of this deformation term reaches a critical value, the classical symmetry algebra “flows” from two copies of Virasoro to the BMS algebra. We further explore the situation where the CFT coordinates are asymmetrically transformed, and degenerate limits lead to chiral theories.