bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Learning semantic categories of L2 verbs: The case of cutting and breaking verbs
Authors: Saji Noburo , Hong Chunzi , Wang Chong
Published: January 2024

To attain native-like proficiency in second-language word usage, learners have to discover intricate semantic categories in the target language. We investigated the factors influencing the development of two aspects of second-language learners’ semantic categories: the category center and category boundary of word meanings. In the experiment, second-language learners of Japanese, whose first language is Mandarin, were asked to produce the best verb for 28 videos depicting various cutting and breaking events. Descriptive analyses were conducted to compare the verb patterns used by second-language learners with those of native speakers. The second-language learners’ verb use pattern suggested their struggle in delineating the semantic ranges of breaking verbs in a native-like manner. Model analyses further revealed that different factors contribute to learning two different aspects of word meanings. The learning category center of word meaning depended on the similarity between the lexical domains in the first and second languages. On the contrary, the success of learning the semantic boundaries of verbs required a large input frequency and smaller semantic coverage, and smaller category ambiguity. The results suggest that constructing a semantic domain in the second language should be evaluated from at least two different aspects of semantic representation.
Multiple timescales of temporal context in risky choice: Behavioral identification and relationships to physiological arousal
Authors: Brooks Hayley R. , Sokol-Hessner Peter
Published: January 2024

Context-dependence is fundamental to risky monetary decision-making. A growing body of evidence suggests that temporal context, or recent events, alters risk-taking at a minimum of three timescales: immediate (e.g. trial-by-trial), neighborhood (e.g. a group of consecutive trials), and global (e.g. task-level). To examine context effects, we created a novel monetary choice set with intentional temporal structure in which option values shifted between multiple levels of value magnitude (“contexts”) several times over the course of the task. This structure allowed us to examine whether effects of each timescale were simultaneously present in risky choice behavior and the potential mechanistic role of arousal, an established correlate of risk-taking, in context-dependency. We found that risk-taking was sensitive to immediate, neighborhood, and global timescales: risk-taking decreased following large (vs. small) outcome amounts, increased following large positive (but not negative) shifts in context, and increased when cumulative earnings exceeded expectations. We quantified arousal with skin conductance responses, which were related to the global timescale, increasing with cumulative earnings, suggesting that physiological arousal captures a task-level assessment of performance. Our results both replicate and extend prior research by demonstrating that risky decision-making is consistently dynamic at multiple timescales and that the role of arousal in risk-taking extends to some, but not all timescales of context-dependence.
Research on industrial structure adjustment and spillover effect in resource-based regions in the post-pandemic era
Authors: He Ziqiong , Zhang Rongguang , Qiu Qiwen , Chen Zhe
Published: January 2024

Resource-based regions support national economic development and are essential sources of basic energy and raw materials. In the post-pandemic era, however, there are practical situations to deal with, such as a fractured industrial chain, a weaker industrial structure, and a sharp reduction in economic benefits. Based on data collected from 68 cities in China, from 2010 to 2021, with 816 observations, this paper explores the industrial development process of resource-based regions in China and the change in the toughness of the industrial structure under the impact of COVID-19. The paper studies and analyzes industrial development trends, industrial structure toughness, and spatial spillover effects. The methods used are the Markov chain model and the Industrial Structure Advancement Index. By building the spatial Dubin model, the paper analyzes the spatial spillover effect of regional industrial development. It decomposes the spillover effect using the partial differential model based on regression. The results show that, during the study period, the comprehensive development level of industries in resource-based regions in China was slowly improving and tended to stabilize after entering the post-pandemic era. The evolution of an advanced industrial structure is significantly heterogeneous among regions, and each region has different toughness. The impact of COVID-19 has reduced the toughness of China’s resource-based regions’ industrial structure. The spatial spillover effect of regional industrial development is significant. Labor force, technology input, and industrial-structure optimization have different impacts on the industrial development of neighboring regions. In the post-pandemic era, China has used new management methods for more innovation. In order to achieve low-carbon, environmental protection, and sustainable development of resources, realize the rapid recovery of the toughness of industrial structure in China’s resource-based cities, and reduce the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, China proposes to expand the supply of resources, improve the allocation of resources, optimize the direction, promote the rational flow and efficient aggregation of various factors, and enhance the impetus for innovation and development.
Experiences of adolescents and youth with HIV testing and linkage to care through the Red Carpet Program (RCP) in Kenya
Authors: Kose Judith , Howard Tyriesa , Lenz Cosima , Masaba Rose , Akuno Job , Woelk Godfrey , Fraaij Pieter Leendert , Rakhmanina Natella
Published: January 2024

Adolescents and youth living with HIV (AYLHIV) experience worse health outcomes compared to adults. We aimed to understand the experiences of AYLHIV in care in the youth-focused Red-Carpet program in Kenya to assess the quality of service provision and identify programmatic areas for optimization. We conducted focus group discussions among 39 AYLHIV (15–24 years) and structured analysis into four thematic areas. Within the HIV testing theme, participants cited fear of positive results, confidentiality and stigma concerns, and suggested engaging the community and youth in HIV testing opportunities. Within the HIV treatment adherence theme, participants cited forgetfulness, stigma, adverse side effects, lack of family support, and treatment illiteracy as barriers to adherence. Most participants reported positive experiences with healthcare providers and peer support. In terms of the HIV status disclosure theme, AYLHIV cited concerns about their future capacity to conceive children and start families and discussed challenges with understanding HIV health implications and sharing their status with friends and partners. Youth voices informing service implementation are essential in strengthening our capacity to optimize the support for AYLHIV within the community, at schools and healthcare facilities.
Psychometric properties and measurement invariance of the short form of grit scale in Korean adolescents
Authors: Bae Sung-Woo , Kim Ji Geun , Park Byung-Sun , Lee Keungeun , Park Jungkyu
Published: January 2024

This study aimed to identify the factor structure of the Korean version of the Short Grit Scale (Grit-S) and examine its cross-sectional and longitudinal measurement invariance (MI). Data from the Korean Children and Youth Panel Survey 2018 were analyzed, which included two cohorts, comprising 2,327 and 2,325 fourth-year elementary and first-year middle school students, respectively. It was found that the two-factor model fit the data well for the elementary and middle school samples. The results of the cross-sectional MI tests across genders indicated that the full threshold and loading invariance were also supported for the elementary school sample, and the partial threshold and loading invariance were supported for the middle school sample. The analyses of the longitudinal MI revealed that the partial threshold and loading invariance were supported for both samples. The reliability analysis revealed satisfactory McDonald’s Omega values for both samples at each time point and moderate stability coefficients over time. Based on these findings, it was concluded that the Korean version of the Grit-S demonstrated satisfactory psychometric properties and exhibited MI across gender and time in Korean adolescents.
Distinctive genes and signaling pathways associated with type 2 diabetes-related periodontitis: Preliminary study
Authors: Duarte Poliana Mendes , Gurgel Bruno César de Vasconcelos , Miranda Tamires Szeremeske , Sardenberg Juliana , Gu Tongjun , Aukhil Ikramuddin
Published: January 2024

The biological mechanisms underlying the pathogenesis of type 2 diabetes (T2DM)-related periodontitis remain unclear. This cross-sectional study evaluated the distinctive transcriptomic changes between tissues with periodontal health and with periodontitis in patients with T2DM. In this cross-sectional study, whole transcriptome sequencing was performed on gingival biopsies from non-periodontitis and periodontitis tissues from non-diabetic and diabetic patients. A differentially expressed gene (DEG) analysis and Ingenuity Pathway Analysis (IPA) assessed the genes and signaling pathways associated with T2DM-related periodontitis. Immunohistochemistry was performed to validate selected DEGs possibly involved in T2DM-related periodontitis. Four hundred and twenty and one thousand five hundred and sixty-three DEGs (fold change ≥ 2) were uniquely identified in the diseased tissues of non-diabetic and diabetic patients, respectively. The IPA predicted the activation of Phagosome Formation, Cardiac β-adrenergic, tRNA Splicing, and PI3K/AKT pathways. The IPA also predicted the inhibition of Cholesterol Biosynthesis, Adrenomedullin, and Inositol Phosphate Compounds pathways in T2DM-related periodontitis. Validation of DEGs confirmed changes in protein expression of PTPN2, PTPN13, DHCR24, PIK3R2, CALCRL, IL1RN, IL-6R and ITGA4 in diseased tissues in diabetic subjects. Thus, these preliminary findings indicate that there are specific genes and functional pathways that may be involved in the pathogenesis of T2DM-related periodontitis.
Palmitoleic acid protects microglia from palmitate-induced neurotoxicity in vitro
Authors: Yu Qingting , Yang Yanzhuo , Xu Ting , Cai Yinsheng , Yang Zuisu , Yuan Falei
Published: January 2024

Although palmitoleic acid (POA) is a lipokine with beneficial effects on obesity and is produced as a byproduct from the manufacture of prescription omega-3 fatty acids, its role in nervous system inflammation is still unknown. This study aims to examine the mechanisms and protective effects of POA against palmitic acid (PA)-induced microglial death. PA-induced microglial death was used as a model for POA intervention. Various inhibitors were employed to suppress potential routes of PA entry into the cell. Immunofluorescence staining and Western blotting were conducted to elucidate the protective pathways involved. The results suggest POA has the potential to eliminate PA-induced lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) release, which decreases the overall number of propidium iodide (PI)-positive cells compared with control. Moreover, POA has the potential to significantly increase lipid droplets (LDs) in the cytoplasm, without causing any lysosomal damage. POA inhibited both canonical and non-canonical gasdermin D (GSDMD)-mediated pyroptosis and gasdermin E (GSDME)-mediated pyroptosis, which PA typically induces. Additionally, POA inhibited the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress and apoptosis-related proteins induced by PA. Based on the findings, POA can exert a protective effect on microglial death induced by PA via pathways related to pyroptosis, apoptosis, ER stress, and LDs.
Habitat partitioning among sympatric tinamous in semiarid woodlands of central Argentina
Authors: Mezquida Eduardo T. , Zanón-Martínez Juan I.
Published: January 2024

Sympatric, phylogenetically related and morphologically similar species that overlap in their distributions at a regional scale display different patterns of co-occurrence at local assemblages. Occurrence of each species at local scales might be the result of interspecific competition for limiting resources. However, these patterns could also arise from species-specific habitat preferences along the abiotic or land use gradients. To assess the role of these mechanisms, we investigated niche partitioning among sympatric tinamou species occurring in semiarid woodlands of central Argentina. We used occupancy models incorporating habitat characteristics and interspecific interactions, while accounting for detectability, to examine the spatial overlap among elegant crested tinamous (Eudromia elegans), brushland tinamous (Nothoprocta cinerascens), and nothura tinamous (Nothura darwinii and N. maculosa) across a wide regional scale. In addition, we investigated time partitioning among these species by estimating the degree of overlap in their daily activity patterns. The regional distribution of the three species was influenced by the gradient in plant productivity and vegetation structure, in agreement with their broad habitat requirements. We also found that the occurrence of each species was presumably affected by the presence of one or two predator species. Models including interactions among tinamou species found weak negative and positive interactions among species pairs, suggesting that co-occurrence patterns were mainly driven by species-specific habitat use rather than interspecific competition. The three species were diurnal, showing two main peaks of activity, and overlapped widely in their overall diel activity, although subordinate species tended to shift their activity patterns to reduce encounters with the dominant tinamou species, suggesting some segregation in this niche dimension. Projected changes in rainfall seasonality and warmer conditions in this region could benefit elegant crested tinamous over the other two species, although climate and land use changes will likely have a negative impact on all tinamou species.
A remote-controlled automatic chest compression device capable of moving compression position during CPR: A pilot study in a mannequin and a swine model of cardiac arrest
Authors: Suh Gil Joon , Kim Taegyun , Kim Kyung Su , Kwon Woon Yong , Kim Hayoung , Park Heesu , Wang Gaonsorae , Park Jaeheung , Hur Sungmoon , Sim Jaehoon , Kim Kyunghwan , Lee Jung Chan , Shin Dong Ah , Cho Woo Sang , Kim Byung Jun , Kwon Soyoon , Lee Ye Ji
Published: January 2024

Background

Recently, we developed a chest compression device that can move the chest compression position without interruption during CPR and be remotely controlled to minimize rescuer exposure to infectious diseases. The purpose of this study was to compare its performance with conventional mechanical CPR device in a mannequin and a swine model of cardiac arrest.

Materials and methods

A prototype of a remote-controlled automatic chest compression device (ROSCER) that can change the chest compression position without interruption during CPR was developed, and its performance was compared with LUCAS 3 in a mannequin and a swine model of cardiac arrest. In a swine model of cardiac arrest, 16 male pigs were randomly assigned into the two groups, ROSCER CPR (n = 8) and LUCAS 3 CPR (n = 8), respectively. During 5 minutes of CPR, hemodynamic parameters including aortic pressure, right atrial pressure, coronary perfusion pressure, common carotid blood flow, and end-tidal carbon dioxide partial pressure were measured.

Results

In the compression performance test using a mannequin, compression depth, compression time, decompression time, and plateau time were almost equal between ROSCER and LUCAS 3. In a swine model of cardiac arrest, coronary perfusion pressure showed no difference between the two groups (p = 0.409). Systolic aortic pressure and carotid blood flow were higher in the LUCAS 3 group than in the ROSCER group during 5 minutes of CPR (p < 0.001, p = 0.008, respectively). End-tidal CO2 level of the ROSCER group was initially lower than that of the LUCAS 3 group, but was higher over time (p = 0.022). A Kaplan-Meier survival analysis for ROSC also showed no difference between the two groups (p = 0.46).

Conclusion

The prototype of a remote-controlled automated chest compression device can move the chest compression position without interruption during CPR. In a mannequin and a swine model of cardiac arrest, the device showed no inferior performance to a conventional mechanical CPR device.
Predicting potential distribution of the Rhinoncus sibiricus under climatic in China using MaxEnt
Authors: Liu Wanyou , Meng Huanwen , Dong Baozhu , Fan Jinyu , Zhu Xiaoqing , Zhou Hongyou
Published: January 2024

In recent years, buckwheat (Fagopyrum spp.) is being increasingly damaged by the Siberian tortoise beetle (Rhinoncus sibiricus Faust). Adults and nymphs feed on leaf tissues and caulicles, thus damaging its stems and leaves. In this study, we investigated the habits, distribution, and environmental impact of R. sibiricus using MaxEnt, an ecological niche model. Geographic information about the infestation site from previous field surveys and climatic data from 2013 to 2018 were organized and optimized using R. The impact factors were calculated using MaxEnt software. The results indicate that population fluctuations in R. sibiricus are related to changes in temperature, humidity, and their spatial distribution. Under current climatic conditions, R. sibiricus is mainly distributed in northern China, with sporadic distribution in south–western China. The values for a survival probability threshold > 0.3 were: precipitation during the wettest month (bio13), 70.31–137.56 mm; mean temperature of the coldest quarter (bio11), -15.00–0.85°C; mean temperature of the warmest quarter (bio10), 11.88–23.16°C; precipitation during the coldest quarter (biol9), 0–24.39 mm. The main factors contributing > 70% to the models were precipitation during the wettest month and coldest quarter, and mean temperature during the warmest and coldest quarters. Under both future climate models, the center of the fitness zone moves northward. Our results will be useful in guiding administrative decisions and support farmers interested in establishing control and management strategies for R. sibiricus. This study could also serve as a reference for future research on other invasive pests.
Enhanced catalytic performance of penicillin G acylase by covalent immobilization onto functionally-modified magnetic Ni0.4Cu0.5Zn0.1Fe2O4 nanoparticles
Authors: Lv Zhixiang , Wang Zhou , Wu Shaobo , Yu Xiang
Published: January 2024

With the emergence of penicillin resistance, the development of novel antibiotics has become an urgent necessity. Semi-synthetic penicillin has emerged as a promising alternative to traditional penicillin. The demand for the crucial intermediate, 6-aminopicillanic acid (6-APA), is on the rise. Enzyme catalysis is the primary method employed for its production. However, due to certain limitations, the strategy of enzyme immobilization has also gained prominence. The magnetic Ni0.4Cu0.5Zn0.1Fe2O4 nanoparticles were successfully prepared by a rapid-combustion method. Sodium silicate was used to modify the surface of the Ni0.4Cu0.5Zn0.1Fe2O4 nanoparticles to obtain silica-coated nanoparticles (Ni0.4Cu0.5Zn0.1Fe2O4-SiO2). Subsequently, in order to better crosslink PGA, the nanoparticles were modified again with glutaraldehyde to obtain glutaraldehyde crosslinked Ni0.4Cu0.5Zn0.1Fe2O4-SiO2-GA nanoparticles which could immobilize the PGA. The structure of the PGA protein was analyzed by the PyMol program and the immobilization strategy was determined. The conditions of PGA immobilization were investigated, including immobilization time and PGA concentration. Finally, the enzymological properties of the immobilized and free PGA were compared. The optimum catalytic pH of immobilized and free PGA was 8.0, and the optimum catalytic temperature of immobilized PGA was 50°C, 5°C higher than that of free PGA. Immobilized PGA in a certain pH and temperature range showed better catalytic stability. Vmax and Km of immobilized PGA were 0.3727 μmol·min-1 and 0.0436 mol·L-1, and the corresponding free PGA were 0.7325 μmol·min-1 and 0.0227 mol·L-1. After five cycles, the immobilized enzyme activity was still higher than 25%.
Exploring knowledge, perceptions, and practices of antimicrobials, and their resistance among medicine dispensers and community members in Kavrepalanchok District of Nepal
Authors: Marasini Sabina , Sharma Sudim , Joshi Anjali , Kunwar Surakshya , Mahato Roshan Kumar , Shrestha Archana , Karmacharya Biraj
Published: January 2024

Background

Inappropriate use of antimicrobials is a global public health issue, particularly in developing countries, including Nepal, where over-the-counter sales and self-medication of antimicrobials are common.

Objectives

To explore knowledge, perceptions, and practices of antimicrobials and their resistance among medicine dispensers and community members in Nepal.

Methods

The study was conducted in three rural and five urban municipalities of the Kavrepalanchok district from May 2021 to August 2021. Data were collected using two qualitative approaches: In-Depth Interviews (IDIs) and Focus Group Discussions (FGDs). Data were analyzed using thematic analysis that combined deductive and inductive approaches to identify codes under pre-specified themes.

Results

A total of 16 In-depth interviews with medicine dispensers and 3 focus group discussions with community members were conducted. Knowledge regarding antimicrobial resistance varied among dispensers. Those with a prior educational background in pharmacy often had good knowledge about the causes and consequences of antimicrobial resistance. Meanwhile, consumers were less aware of antimicrobial resistance. Community members perceived antimicrobials as effective medicines but not long-term solution for treating diseases. They reported that dispensing without a prescription was common and that both consumers and dispensers were responsible for the inappropriate use of antimicrobials. On the contrary, several dispensers said that self-medication was common among the consumers, especially among more educated groups. The medicine dispensers and consumers expressed concerns about the weak enforcement of policies regarding pharmacy drug use and dispensing practices.

Conclusion

Promoting and strengthening the appropriate use of antimicrobials among medicine dispensers and community members is crucial. Bold policies and collective implementation of regulations could help combat antimicrobial resistance.
Trained immunity in recurrent Staphylococcus aureus infection promotes bacterial persistence
Authors: Lin Xiao-Qi , Liu Zhen-Zhen , Zhou Cheng-Kai , Zhang Liang , Gao Yu , Luo Xue-Yue , Zhang Jian-Gang , Chen Wei , Yang Yong-Jun
Published: January 2024

Bacterial persister cells, a sub-population of dormant phenotypic variants highly tolerant to antibiotics, present a significant challenge for infection control. Investigating the mechanisms of antibiotic persistence is crucial for developing effective treatment strategies. Here, we found a significant association between tolerance frequency and previous infection history in bovine mastitis. Previous S. aureus infection led to S. aureus tolerance to killing by rifampicin in subsequent infection in vivo and in vitro. Actually, the activation of trained immunity contributed to rifampicin persistence of S. aureus in secondary infection, where it reduced the effectiveness of antibiotic treatment and increased disease severity. Mechanically, we found that S. aureus persistence was mediated by the accumulation of fumarate provoked by trained immunity. Combination therapy with metformin and rifampicin promoted eradication of persisters and improved the severity of recurrent S. aureus infection. These findings provide mechanistic insight into the relationship between trained immunity and S. aureus persistence, while providing proof of concept that trained immunity is a therapeutic target in recurrent bacterial infections involving persistent pathogens.
Unmutated but T cell dependent IgM antibodies targeting Streptococcus suis play an essential role in bacterial clearance
Authors: Dolbec Dominic , Lehoux Mélanie , de Beauville Alexis Asselin , Zahn Astrid , Di Noia Javier Marcelo , Segura Mariela
Published: January 2024

Streptococcus suis serotype 2 is an important encapsulated bacterial swine pathogen and zoonotic agent for which no effective vaccine exists. The interaction with B cells and the humoral response against S. suis are poorly understood despite their likely relevance for a potential vaccine. We evaluated germinal center (GC) B cell kinetics, as well as the production and role of S. suis-specific antibodies following infections in a mouse model. We found that mice infected with S. suis developed GC that peaked 13–21 days post-infection. GC further increased and persisted upon periodic reinfection that mimics real life conditions in swine farms. Anti-S. suis IgM and several IgG subclasses were produced, but antibodies against the S. suis capsular polysaccharide (CPS) were largely IgM. Interestingly, depletion of total IgG from the wild-type mice sera had no effect on bacterial killing by opsonophagocytosis in vitro. Somatic hypermutation and isotype switching were dispensable for controlling the infection or anti-CPS IgM production. However, T cell-deficient (Tcrb-/-) mice were unable to control bacteremia, produce optimal anti-CPS IgM titers, or elicit antibodies with opsonophagocytic activity. SAP deficiency, which prevents GC formation but not extrafollicular B cell responses, ablated anti S. suis-IgG production but maintained IgM production and eliminated the infection. In contrast, B cell deficient mice were unable to control bacteremia. Collectively, our results indicate that the antibody response plays a large role in immunity against S. suis, with GC-independent but T cell-dependent germline IgM being the major effective antibody specificities. Our results further highlight the importance IgM, and potentially anti-CPS antibodies, in clearing S. suis infections and provide insight for future development of S. suis vaccines.
Construction of New Hadamard Matrix Forms to Generate 4X4 and 8X8 Involutory MDS Matrices over GF (2m) for Lightweight Cryptography
Authors: Kumar Yogesh , Mishra P.R. , Gaur Atul , Mittal Gaurav
Published: January 2024

In this paper, we present the construction of two Hadamard matrix forms over GF(2m) to generate 4×4 and 8×8 involutory MDS (IMDS) matrices. The first form provides a straightforward way to generate 4×4 IMDS matrices, while the second is an efficient way to generate 8×8 IMDS matrices using a hybrid (combination of search-based methods and direct construction) approach. In addition, we propose an algorithm for computing the branch number of any non-singular matrix over GF(2m) and improve its computational complexity for Hadamard matrices. Using this algorithm and the proposed Hadamard matrix form, we obtain 2k ×2k lightweight involutory and non-involutory Hadamard MDS matrices with low XOR counts for k=2,3. Finally, we carry out a comparative study based on the XOR count to demonstrate that MDS matrices created using our Hadamard matrix forms have lower XOR counts than MDS matrices available in the literature as of today.
Opponent choice in tournaments: winning and shirking
Authors: Hall Nicholas G. , Liu Zhixin
Published: January 2024

We propose an alternative design for tournaments that use a preliminary stage, followed by several rounds of single elimination play. The conventional “bracket” design of these tournaments suffers from several deficiencies. Specifically, various reasonable performance criteria for the tournament are not satisfied, there is an unnecessary element of luck in the matchups of players, and there are situations where players have an incentive to shirk. To address all these issues, we allow higher ranked players at the single elimination stage to choose their next opponent sequentially at each round. We allow each player’s ranking either to remain static, or to improve by beating a higher ranked player (Guyon, J. 2022. “Choose your opponent”: a new knockout design for hybrid tournaments. J. Sports Anal. 8: 9–29). Using data from 2215 men’s professional tennis tournaments from 1991 to 2017, we demonstrate the reasonableness of the results obtained. We also perform sensitivity analysis for the effect of increasing irregularity in the pairwise win probability matrix on three traditional performance measures. Finally, we consider strategic shirking behavior at both the individual and group levels, and show how our opponent choice design can mitigate such behavior. Overall, the opponent choice design provides higher probabilities that the best player wins and also that the two best players meet, and reduces shirking, compared to the conventional bracket design.
Overview of amorphous carbon memristor device, modeling, and applications for neuromorphic computing
Authors: Wu Jie , Yang Xuqi , Chen Jing , Li Shiyu , Zhou Tianchen , Cai Zhikuang , Lian Xiaojuan , Wang Lei
Published: January 2024

Carbon-based materials strongly pertain to citizens’ daily life due to their versatile derivatives such as diamond, graphite, fullerenes, carbon nanotube, single-layer graphene, and amorphous carbon (a-C). Compared to other families, a-C exhibits reconfigurable electrical properties by triggering its sp2–sp3 transition and vice versa, which can be readily fabricated by conventional film deposition technologies. For above reasons, a-C has been adopted as a promising memristive material and has given birth to several physical and theoretical prototypes. To further help researchers comprehend the physics behind a-C-based memristors and push forward their development, here we first reviewed the classification of a-C-based materials associated with their respective electrical and thermal properties. Subsequently, several a-C -based memristors with different architectures were presented, followed by their respective memristive principles. We also elucidated the state-of-the-art modeling strategies of a-C memristors, and their practical applications on neuromorphic fields were also described. The possible scenarios to further mitigate the physical performances of a-C memristors were eventually discussed, and their future prospect to rival with other memristors was also envisioned.
Variable heterotridentate ligands in Pt(ƞ3-X1C1X2)(PL) (X1,2 = N or S), Pt(ƞ3-X1N1Y1)(PL) (X, Y = O, C; C, S; or O, S) and Pt(ƞ3-S1B1S2)(PL), derivatives – structural aspects
Authors: Melník Milan , Žigrayová Dominika , Mikušová Veronika , Mikuš Peter
Published: January 2024

This review covers 17 Pt(II) complexes of the compositions: Pt(ƞ3-N1C1N2)(PL), Pt(ƞ3-S1C1S2)(PL), Pt(ƞ3-S1B1S2)(PL), Pt(ƞ3-S1S2O1)(PL), Pt(ƞ3-O1N1C1)(PL), Pt(ƞ3-O1N1S1)(PL) and Pt(ƞ3-C1N1S1)(PL). These complexes crystallized in three crystal classes: monoclinic (8 examples), triclinic (8 examples) and orthorhombic (1 example). The heterotridentate ligands creates 5 + 5-membered metallocyclic rings (most common) and 5 + 6-membered. The heterotridentate ligands with monodentate P ligands build up a distorted square-planar geometry about Pt(II) atoms. The Pt–L and L–Pt–L were analyzed. The τ
4 parameter which indicate a degree of distortion growing in the sentence: 0.057 Pt(ƞ3-O1N1S1)(PL) < 0.066 Pt(ƞ3-S1C1S2)(PL) < 0.149 Pt(ƞ3-S1S2O1)(PL) < 0.158 Pt(ƞ3-O1N1C1)(PL) < 0.160 Pt(ƞ3-C1N1S1)(PL) < 0.162 Pt(ƞ3-S1B1S2)(PL) < 0.165 Pt(ƞ3-N1C1N2)(PL).
Intralingual translation in didactic practice: five case studies
Authors: Hill-Madsen Aage
Published: January 2024

This article is a qualitative study charting the dimensional range of a particular type of translative phenomenon, namely, intralingual translation within educational practice. Theoretically, the article is based on a broadened concept of translation that encompasses any kind of sign translation, including the transcending of a language-internal comprehension barrier, such as the one between scientific and lay linguistic registers. Further, the article assumes that such intralingual translation is conceptually identical with the interpretive procedures found in didactic practice, given that the central aim of (much) pedagogy is to make sense of new and unfamiliar knowledge – typically embedded in abstract, scientific concepts – to learners. The article also draws on the Bakhtinian concept of “dialogized heteroglossia,” i.e., the view that different language varieties may be fused into, and brought into dialogue with each other within, one and the same text. Empirically, the article investigates intralingual translation in didactic practice through analyses of textbooks and one classroom lecture in five different academic disciplines, spanning both the natural and social sciences and the humanities. The analyses identify a handful of different translational strategies, some of which are shared across several disciplines, and others of which are unique to a single discipline only.
Effect of Pre-exercise Sodium Citrate Ingestion on Repeated Sprint Performance in Soccer Players
Authors: Kuru Dilara , Aktitiz Selin , Atakan Muhammed M. , Köse Mehmet G. , Turnagöl Hüseyin H. , Koşar Şükran N.
Published: January 2024

Kuru, D, Aktitiz, S, Atakan, MM, Köse, MG, Turnagöl, HH, and Koşar, ŞN. Effect of pre-exercise sodium citrate ingestion on repeated sprint performance in soccer players. J Strength Cond Res XX(X): 000–000, 2023—This study aimed to test the hypothesis that sodium citrate (CIT) administered 180 minutes before exercise improves repeated sprint performance in athletes within a field-based setting. Twenty male soccer players (mean ± SD: age = 20.9 ± 2.3 years; body mass [BM] = 73.8 ± 5.9 kg) performed a running-based anaerobic sprint test (RAST) with 0.5 g·kg−1 BM of CIT or with placebo (PLC; NaCl) ingestion 180 minutes before exercise in a randomized, crossover, and double-blind design, with at least 6 days between the trials. Blood samples were collected before exercise and at first, third, fifth, and seventh minutes after exercise to analyze blood pH, bicarbonate, and lactate levels. Gastrointestinal symptoms were also monitored at 30-minute intervals for 180 minutes after CIT and PLC ingestion. Pre-exercise blood pH (CIT = 7.49 ± 0.03 vs. PLC = 7.41 ± 0.02) and bicarbonate (CIT = 30.57 ± 1.33 vs. PLC = 25.25 ± 1.52) increased with CIT compared with PLC (p < 0.001). Blood pH, bicarbonate, and lactate at the first, third, fifth, and seventh minutes after RAST with CIT were higher than PLC (p < 0.05), except for lactate at first minute (p > 0.05). Compared with PLC, CIT ingestion significantly improved minimum power output (p = 0.024) and percentage decrement score (p = 0.023). Gastrointestinal symptoms were significantly higher after CIT ingestion vs. PLC at 30th (p = 0.003) and 60th minutes (p = 0.010). However, there were no significant differences at 90th, 120th, 150th, or 180th minutes (p > 0.05). The ingestion of 0.5 g·kg−1 BM of CIT 180 minutes before exercise is an effective ergogenic aid for improving repeated sprint ability as evidenced by improvements in minimum power output and percentage decrement score.
Measurements of Arterial Occlusion Pressure Using Hand-Held Devices
Authors: Vehrs Pat R. , Richards Shay , Allen Josh , Barrett Rachel , Blazzard Chase , Burbank Tyler , Hart Hannah , Kasper Nicole , Lacey Ryan , Lopez Daniela , Fellingham Gilbert W.
Published: January 2024

Vehrs, PR, Reynolds, S, Allen, J, Barrett, R, Blazzard, C, Burbank, T, Hart, H, Kasper, N, Lacey, R, Lopez, D, and Fellingham, GW. Measurements of arterial occlusion pressure using hand-held devices. J Strength Cond Res 38(5): 873–880, 2024—Arterial occlusion pressure (AOP) of the brachial artery was measured simultaneously using Doppler ultrasound (US), a hand-held Doppler (HHDOP), and a pulse oximeter (PO) in the dominant (DOM) and nondominant (NDOM) arms of males (n = 21) and females (n = 23) using continuous (CONT) and incremental (INCR) cuff inflation protocols. A mixed-model analysis of variance revealed significant (p < 0.05) overall main effects between AOP measured using a CONT (115.7 ± 10.9) or INCR (115.0 ± 11.5) cuff inflation protocol; between AOP measured using US (116.3 ± 11.2), HHDOP (115.4 ± 11.2), and PO (114.4 ± 11.2); and between males (120.7 ± 10.6) and females (110.5 ± 9.4). The small overall difference (1.81 ± 3.3) between US and PO measures of AOP was significant (p < 0.05), but the differences between US and HHDOP and between HHDOP and PO measures of AOP were not significant. There were no overall differences in AOP between the DOM and NDOM arms. Trial-to-trial variance in US measurements of AOP was not significant when using either cuff inflation protocol but was significant when using HHDOP and PO and a CONT cuff inflation protocol. Bland-Altman plots revealed reasonable limits of agreement for both HHDOP and PO measures of AOP. The small differences in US, HHDOP, and PO measurements of AOP when using CONT or INCR cuff inflation protocols are of minimal practical importance. The choice of cuff inflation protocol is one of personal preference. Hand-held Doppler of PO can be used to assess AOP before using blood flow restriction during exercise.
Bonded Interface Shear Performance of a Double-Layer Asphalt Mixture Based on DIC Technology
Authors: Wei Weiwei , Cui Yanan , Zhang Shuyan , Zhou Jun , Zhang Qiang
Published: January 2024

To study the effect of water and salt erosion on the bonded interface shear performance of a double-layer asphalt mixture (DLAM), an inclined shear test was conducted on a DLAM using a tack coat as the bonded interface between simulated old asphalt pavement (AC-16) and overlay (SMA-13). First, the inclined shear test of the DLAM before and after freeze–thaw (F–T) cycles was conducted. Second, the digital image correlation (DIC) technique was used to calculate the deformation field to divide the failure of the specimen into meso- and macrocracks and analyze them. According to the results of this study, the shear failure of DLAM under F–T cycles consisted of two stages. In the first stage (three cycles), the interface shear properties decreased due to ice expansion load. In the second stage (after three cycles), the interface shear performance deteriorated, and chlorine salts accelerated the interlayer failure due to the interface debonding of asphalt and aggregate under the combined action of water/salt and vehicle load. The damage factor defined on the basis of the statistical analysis of the strain field by DIC could reflect the deformation of the bonded interface in real time. The damage factor evolution curve was used to compare the interface damage degree caused by water and salt erosion. A method for judging the crack initiation area of mesocracks was proposed by DIC technology, and the correctness of the appearance position of the interface crack was verified by calculation.
Study on the Influence of Matrix on Mechanical and Failure Characteristics of Miscellaneous Fill
Authors: Chen Yu , Qu Xiao , Zhang Fuhai , Liu Zhengrong
Published: January 2024

The matrix has a great influence on the mechanical and failure characteristics of the miscellaneous fill. Based on the laboratory medium-sized triaxial test, the confining pressure tests of 100, 200, and 400 kPa were carried out on the miscellaneous fill under three kinds of matrix with block stone content of 30 %, and the influence of the matrix on the mechanical properties of miscellaneous fill was analyzed. A biaxial test with a confining pressure of 200 kPa was carried out on three kinds of matrix miscellaneous fill samples using the particle flow method, and the influence of miscellaneous fill on the failure characteristics was studied. The test results show that the relation curve of the miscellaneous fill (σ1–σ3)∼εa can be considered as a hyperbola. The miscellaneous fill whose matrix is clay and silty soil always shows shear shrinkage. When the confining pressure is 100 kPa, the miscellaneous fill in the sandy soil matrix shows the property of shrinkage first and then dilatancy. When the confining pressure is 200 kPa and 400 kPa, it shows shear shrinkage. Through numerical simulation, it is found that when the matrix is clay, the shear zone is obvious and the shear failure surface is stable. When the matrix is silty soil, the contact cracks become thinner and the shear bands increase. When the matrix is sandy soil, compared with clay matrix, the overall crack is finer and the shear fracture surface is irregularly distributed.
Cortical Zinc Signaling Is Necessary for Changes in Mouse Pupil Diameter That Are Evoked by Background Sounds with Different Contrasts
Authors: Cody Patrick , Kumar Manoj , Tzounopoulos Thanos
Published: January 2024

Luminance-independent changes in pupil diameter (PD) during wakefulness influence and are influenced by neuromodulatory, neuronal, and behavioral responses. However, it is unclear whether changes in neuromodulatory activity in a specific brain area are necessary for the associated changes in PD or whether some different mechanisms cause parallel fluctuations in both PD and neuromodulation. To answer this question, we simultaneously recorded PD and cortical neuronal activity in male and female mice. Namely, we measured PD and neuronal activity during adaptation to sound contrast, which is a well-described adaptation conserved in many species and brain areas. In the primary auditory cortex (A1), increases in the variability of sound level (contrast) induce a decrease in the slope of the neuronal input–output relationship, neuronal gain, which depends on cortical neuromodulatory zinc signaling. We found a previously unknown modulation of PD by changes in background sensory context: high stimulus contrast sounds evoke larger increases in evoked PD compared with low-contrast sounds. To explore whether these changes in evoked PD are controlled by cortical neuromodulatory zinc signaling, we imaged single-cell neural activity in A1, manipulated zinc signaling in the cortex, and assessed PD in the same awake mouse. We found that cortical synaptic zinc signaling is necessary for increases in PD during high-contrast background sounds compared with low-contrast sounds. This finding advances our knowledge about how cortical neuromodulatory activity affects PD changes and thus advances our understanding of the brain states, circuits, and neuromodulatory mechanisms that can be inferred from pupil size fluctuations.
Inhuman Music and the Monstrous-Feminine
Authors: Ivănescu Andra
Published: January 2024

In video games, female characters have traditionally been meant to be seen and not heard, mirroring the history of women under patriarchy. Those female characters who reject their secondary and primarily visual role often become monstrous, and like Barbara Creed argues, this monstrosity is itself profoundly gendered. This paper focuses on two such female characters whose monstrosity, and also revolt, are indisputably feminine, as well as musical. Both the 2007 classic Portal and the 2017 cult hit Doki Doki Literature Club! feature central antagonists who are sentient artificial female monsters who both start off as the players’ guides through their respective games, their roles similar to those of gendered digital assistants in everyday life. While GLaDOS is voiced throughout Portal, Monika remains silent until the final credits of DDLC!, but the comparison between the two is never as evident as when they sing. Both games end with songs performed by these antagonists, after they have technically been defeated. This paper draws on feminist literary and film theory, as well as musicology and ludomusicology, to deliver both a comparative analysis of the two songs, and a broader formulation of the sonic representation of the monstrous-feminine in video games.
Revisiting the Ambient Sounds of Tomb Raider
Authors: Wierzbicki James
Published: January 2024

This essay is prompted by a reconsideration of sonic elements in certain computer games that more than two decades ago figured importantly in the author’s life and which recently have been re-visited. It deals in particular with certain of the ambient sounds that permeate Tomb Raider (1996) and Tomb Raider II (1997), contrasting them with the games’ various diegetic noises, describing at least some of these sounds in graphic as well as verbal detail, and speculating about the relationship these sounds might create between the gamer and the game. While avoiding definitive answers, the essay asks several questions: How is it that gamers who fancy themselves to be keen listeners can spend extended amounts of time with these sounds and not find these sounds to be boring? In the context of gameplay, are these sounds ever actually, and actively, attended to? Heard out of context, might these sounds be considered to be, in themselves, a form of music?
“Press Replay”
Authors: Brubaker Blaine , Fernandez Sabino , Wolski Kristin
Published: January 2024

This introduction to the “Press Start!” special series outlines the series’ origins in a symposium that brought together questions of librarianship and curation with scholarly and industrial perspectives. It explains the rationale for the event and this series, and outlines in detail how the first and subsequent events were organized and facilitated.
General Practice Patterns and Workload Distribution, B.C. Optometrists Core Group
Authors: Samek M.J , Schmidt B.T
Published: January 2024

A government-appointed task force in British Columbia investig­ated and made recommendations on the delivery of vision care services in that province. Alternative means of delivery were considered within role definitions of optometrists and ophthalmologists and their respec­tive workloads.
Outcomes of the Application of the Optometrists Role as Primary Health Care Workers
Authors: Woodruff M.E.
Published: January 2024

By education, training, and in many jurisdictions by statutory provi­sion, optometrists play a comprehen­sive role as primary health care providers. The widespread distribu­tion of optometrists in North Amer­ica and other highly developed coun­tries contribute to their ability to apply this role. Experience within service programs of the School of Optometry of the University of Wa­terloo show the role is also applicable to such diverse remote and under­developed regions as the Canadian North and various Caribbean and African countries. The high preva­lence of visual anomalies among those who are healthy and an in­creased prevalence of such anoma­lies as well as impaired visual func­tion among those in ill health result in optometrical practices being primary points of entry to the health system. The optometrist thus has considera­ble opportunity for health education, health surveillance, health mainte­nance, as well as the application of specific optometrical therapies. Documentation of optometrical activities in various service programs of the School of Optometry directed toward general and specific segments of the Canadian population demon­strate the effectiveness of this role in both rural and urban settings. The paper cites the results of the application of the Primary Health Care role with data drawn from gen­eral populations in Canada and such specific underserviced populations as the institutionalized aged, the men­tally retarded, preschool children, Canadian Eskimo, as well as small isolated Northern Ontario Communities.
A Variable Magnification Trial Lens Holder
Authors: Remole Arnulf
Published: January 2024

A variable magnification trial lens holder is described. The unit is de­signed primarily for producing small order overall and meridional magni­fication for diagnosing and measur­ing aniseikonia. However, the unit can be used alternatively as a trial device in low vision.