bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Exploring the links between SOS response, mutagenesis, and resistance during the recovery period
Authors: Ghosh Sreyashi , Orman Mehmet A.
Published: March 2024

Although the mechanistic connections between SOS-induced mutagenesis and antibiotic resistance are well established, our current understanding of the impact of SOS response levels, recovery durations, and transcription/translation activities on mutagenesis remains relatively limited. In this study, when bacterial cells were exposed to mutagens like ultraviolet light for defined time intervals, a compelling connection between the rate of mutagenesis and the RecA-mediated SOS response levels became evident. Our observations also indicate that mutagenesis primarily occurs during the subsequent recovery phase following the removal of the mutagenic agent. When transcription/translation was inhibited or energy molecules were depleted at the onset of treatment or during the early recovery phase, there was a noticeable decrease in SOS response activation and mutagenesis. However, targeting these processes later in the recovery phase does not have the same effect in reducing mutagenesis, suggesting that the timing of inhibiting transcription/translation or depleting energy molecules is crucial for their efficacy in reducing mutagenesis. Active transcription, translation, and energy availability within the framework of SOS response and DNA repair mechanisms appear to be conserved attributes, supported by their consistent manifestation across diverse conditions, including the use of distinct mutagens such as fluoroquinolones and various bacterial strains.
In vitro
activity of omadacycline against clinical isolates of
Nocardia
Authors: Pham Jonathan , Benefield Russell J. , Baker Natali , Lindblom Shane , Canfield Nicholas , Gomez Carlos A. , Fisher Mark
Published: March 2024

Nocardiosis typically requires a prolonged treatment duration of ≥6 months and initial combination therapy with 2–3 antibiotics. First-line regimens for nocardiosis are associated with considerable toxicity; therefore, alternative therapies are needed. Omadacycline is an aminomethylcycline with broad antimicrobial activity whose
in vitro
activity against
Nocardia
species has not been formally assessed. The
in vitro
potency of omadacycline was evaluated against 300
Nocardia
clinical isolates by broth microdilution. The most common
Nocardia
species tested were
N. cyriacigeorgica
(21%),
N. nova
(20%), and
N. farcinica
(12%). The most common specimens were respiratory (178 isolates, 59%) and wound (57 isolates, 19%). Omadacycline minimum inhibitory concentrations (MICs) across all
Nocardia
species ranged from 0.06 µg/mL to 8 µg/mL, with an MIC
50
of 2 µg/mL and MIC
90
of 4 µg/mL. The lowest MICs were found among
N. paucivorans
(MIC
50
= 0.25 µg/mL, MIC
90
= 0.25 µg/mL),
N. asiatica
(MIC
50
= 0.25 µg/mL, MIC
90
= 1 µg/mL),
N. abscessus
complex (MIC
50
= 0.5 µg/mL, MIC
90
= 1 µg/mL),
N. beijingensis
(MIC
50
= 0.5 µg/mL, MIC
90
= 2 µg/mL), and
N. otitidiscaviarum
(MIC
50
= 1 µg/mL, MIC
90
= 2 µg/mL). The highest MICs were found among
N. farcinica
(MIC
50
= 4 µg/mL, MIC
90
= 8 µg/mL).
In vitro
potency differed by species among
Nocardia
clinical isolates. Further studies are warranted to evaluate the potential clinical utility of omadacycline for nocardiosis.
Transposable elements impact the population divergence of rice blast fungus
Magnaporthe oryzae
Authors: Lin Lianyu , Sun Ting , Guo Jiayuan , Lin Lili , Chen Meilian , Wang Zhe , Bao Jiandong , Norvienyeku Justice , Zhang Dongmei , Han Yijuan , Lu Guodong , Rensing Christopher , Zheng Huakun , Zhong Zhenhui , Wang Zonghua
Published: March 2024

Dynamic transposition of transposable elements (TEs) in fungal pathogens has significant impact on genome stability, gene expression, and virulence to the host. In
Magnaporthe oryzae
, genome plasticity resulting from TE insertion is a major driving force leading to the rapid evolution and diversification of this fungus. Despite their importance in
M. oryzae
population evolution and divergence, our understanding of TEs in this context remains limited. Here, we conducted a genome-wide analysis of TE transposition dynamics in the 11 most abundant TE families in
M. oryzae
populations. Our results show that these TEs have specifically expanded in recently isolated
M. oryzae
rice populations, with the presence/absence polymorphism of TE insertions highly concordant with population divergence on Geng/
Japonica
and Xian/
Indica
rice cultivars. Notably, the genes targeted by clade-specific TEs showed clade-specific expression patterns and are involved in the pathogenic process, suggesting a transcriptional regulation of TEs on targeted genes. Our study provides a comprehensive analysis of TEs in
M. oryzae
populations and demonstrates a crucial role of recent TE bursts in adaptive evolution and diversification of the
M. oryzae
rice-infecting lineage.

IMPORTANCE

Magnaporthe oryzae
is the causal agent of the destructive blast disease, which caused massive loss of yield annually worldwide. The fungus diverged into distinct clades during adaptation toward the two rice subspecies, Xian/
Indica
and Geng/
Japonica
. Although the role of TEs in the adaptive evolution was well established, mechanisms underlying how TEs promote the population divergence of
M. oryzae
remain largely unknown. In this study, we reported that TEs shape the population divergence of
M. oryzae
by differentially regulating gene expression between Xian/
Indica
-infecting and Geng/
Japonica
-infecting populations. Our results revealed a TE insertion-mediated gene expression adaption that led to the divergence of
M. oryzae
population infecting different rice subspecies.
Draft genome sequence of multidrug-resistant
Klebsiella pneumoniae
Hakim-RU strain isolated from a patient with urinary tract infections in Bangladesh
Authors: Romance M. , khan Muhib Ullah , Islam Md. Shamsul , Islam Md. Faridul , Haque Md. Hakimul
Published: March 2024

We unveil the genomic sequence of the
Klebsiella pneumoniae
Hakim-RU strain isolated from a patient with urinary tract infections. Our assembled genome spans 4.3 Mb with 73.0× coverage, an average GC content of 57.41%, 4 plasmids, 2 CRISPR arrays, 10 prophages, 41 antibiotic resistance genes, and 6 virulence factor genes.
Microbial genome collection of aerobic granular sludge cultivated in sequencing batch reactors using different carbon source mixtures
Authors: Saini Jaspreet S. , Adler Aline , Cardona Laëtitia , Rodilla Ramírez Pilar Natalia , Pei Ruizhe , Holliger Christof
Published: March 2024

Aerobic granular sludge (AGS) consists of a microbial consortium that has an important role in wastewater treatment. This study investigates AGS microorganisms cultivated in a laboratory-scale sequencing batch reactor. Metagenomic sequencing was conducted using PacBio and Illumina, resulting in 759 metagenome-assembled genomes, 331 of which remained after dereplication.
De Sitter Local Thermodynamics in f(R) Gravity
Authors: Volovik G. E.
Published: March 2024

We consider the local thermodynamics of the de Sitter state in the $$f(\mathcal{R})$$ gravity. The local temperature, which is the same for all points of the de Sitter space, is $$T = H{\text{/}}\pi $$, where H is the Hubble parameter. It is twice larger than the Gibbons–Hawking temperature of the cosmological horizon, $${{T}_{{{\text{GH}}}}} = H{\text{/}}2\pi $$. The local temperature is not related to the cosmological horizon. It determines the rate of the activation processes, which are possible in the de Sitter environment. The typical example is the process of the ionization of the atom in the de Sitter environment, which rate is determined by temperature $$T = H{\text{/}}\pi $$. The local temperature determines the local entropy of the de Sitter vacuum state, and this allows to calculate the total entropy inside the cosmological horizon. The result reproduces the Gibbons–Hawking area law, which corresponds to the Wald entropy, $${{S}_{{{\text{hor}}}}} = 4\pi KA$$. Here, K is the effective gravitational coupling, $$K = df{\text{/}}d\mathcal{R}$$. In the local thermodynamic approach, K is the thermodynamic variable, which is conjugate to the Ricci scalar curvature $$\mathcal{R}$$. The holographic connection between the bulk entropy of the Hubble volume and the surface entropy of the cosmological horizon supports the suggestion that the de Sitter quantum vacuum is characterized by the local thermodynamics with the local temperature $$T = H{\text{/}}\pi $$. The local temperature $$T = H{\text{/}}\pi $$ of the de Sitter vacuum suggests that the de Sitter vacuum is locally unstable towards the creation of matter and its further heating. The decay of the de Sitter vacuum due to such processes determines the quantum breaking time of the space-times with positive cosmological constant.
No sign of weakness: a systematic review and meta-analysis of hip and calf muscle strength after anterior cruciate ligament injury
Authors: Girdwood Michael , Culvenor Adam G , Patterson Brooke , Haberfield Melissa , Rio Ebonie Kendra , Hedger Michael , Crossley Kay M
Published: March 2024

Objective

We aimed to determine hip and lower-leg muscle strength in people after ACL injury compared with an uninjured control group (between people) and the uninjured contralateral limb (between limbs).

Design

Systematic review with meta-analysis.

Data sources

MEDLINE, EMBASE, CINAHL, Scopus, Cochrane CENTRAL and SportDiscus to 28 February 2023.

Eligibility criteria

Primary ACL injury with mean age 18–40 years at time of injury. Studies had to measure hip and/or lower-leg muscle strength quantitatively (eg, dynamometer) and report muscle strength for the ACL-injured limb compared with: (i) an uninjured control group and/or (ii) the uninjured contralateral limb. Risk of bias was assessed according to Cochrane Collaboration domains.

Results

Twenty-eight studies were included (n=23 measured strength ≤12 months post-ACL reconstruction). Most examined hip abduction (16 studies), hip extension (12 studies) and hip external rotation (7 studies) strength. We found no meaningful difference in muscle strength between people or between limbs for hip abduction, extension, internal rotation, flexion or ankle plantarflexion, dorsiflexion (estimates ranged from −9% to +9% of comparator). The only non-zero differences identified were in hip adduction (24% stronger on ACL limb (95% CI 8% to 42%)) and hip external rotation strength (12% deficit on ACL limb (95% CI 6% to 18%)) compared with uninjured controls at follow-ups >12 months, however both results stemmed from only two studies. Certainty of evidence was very low for all outcomes and comparisons, and drawn primarily from the first year post-ACL reconstruction.

Conclusion

Our results do not show widespread or substantial muscle weakness of the hip and lower-leg muscles after ACL injury, contrasting deficits of 10%–20% commonly reported for knee extensors and flexors. As it is unclear if deficits in hip and lower-leg muscle strength resolve with appropriate rehabilitation or no postinjury or postoperative weakness occurs, individualised assessment should guide training of hip and lower-leg strength following ACL injury.

PROSPERO registration number

CRD42020216793.
Child Health and Infection with Low Density (CHILD) malaria: a protocol for a randomised controlled trial to assess the long-term health and socioeconomic impacts of testing and treating low-density malaria infection among children in Tanzania
Authors: Jebiwott Sylvia , Gutapaka Nicolaus , Sumari Deborah , Loss Georg , Athuman Thabit , Nyandele Jane Paula , Cummins Hannah , Chemba Mwajuma , Benjamin-Chung Jade , Gangar Pamela , Wu Xue , Smith Jennifer , Chen Ingrid , Dorsey Grant , Fink Günther , Olotu Ally , Hsiang Michelle
Published: March 2024

Introduction

As malaria declines, low-density malaria infections (LMIs) represent an increasing proportion of infections and may have negative impacts on child health and cognition, necessitating development of targeted and effective solutions. This trial assesses the health, cognitive and socioeconomic impact of two strategies for detecting and treating LMI in a low transmission setting.

Methods and analysis

The study is a 3-arm open-label individually randomised controlled trial enrolling 600 children aged 6 months to 10 years in Bagamoyo district, Tanzania. Children are randomised to one of three arms: active case detection with molecular (ACDm) testing by high volume quantitative PCR (qPCR), passive case detection also with molecular testing (PCDm) and a control of standard PCD using rapid diagnostics tests (RDTs). Over the 2-year trial, ACDm participants receive malaria testing using RDT and qPCR three times annually, and malaria testing by RDT only when presenting with fever. PCDm and PCD participants receive malaria testing by RDT and qPCR or RDT only, respectively, when presenting with fever. RDT or qPCR positive participants with uncomplicated malaria are treated with artemether lumefantrine. The primary outcome is cumulative incidence of all-cause sick visits. Secondary outcomes include fever episodes, clinical failure after fever episodes, adverse events, malaria, non-malarial infection, antibiotic use, anaemia, growth faltering, cognition and attention, school outcomes, immune responses, and socioeconomic effects. Outcomes are assessed through monthly clinical assessments and testing, and baseline and endline neurodevelopmental testing. The trial is expected to provide key evidence and inform policy on health, cognitive and socioeconomic impact of interventions targeting LMI in children.

Ethics and dissemination

Study is approved by Tanzania NatHREC and institutional review boards at University of California San Francisco and Ifakara Health Institute. Findings will be reported on ClinicalTrials.gov, in peer-reviewed journals and through stakeholder meetings.

Trial registration number

NCT05567016.
Development of capability lists for neonatal critical care at three levels in China: a modified Delphi study
Authors: Li Xing , Li Lei , Li Qiuping , Zhuang Lu , Zhang Yanping , Li Pengpeng , Zhang Qian , Zhang Shan , Li Ting , Kong Xiangyong , Feng Zhichun
Published: March 2024

Background

The standardised management of neonatal critical care centres can help improve health outcomes of vulnerable newborns. Guidance is required to update evidence related to construction and management of neonatal critical care centres in China.

Objective

To establish expert consensus on the essential capability lists for neonatal critical care at three levels in China.

Design and setting

According to China’s administrative divisions, the Chinese guidelines stratifies neonatal critical care into three levels: county level (basic and special care), city level (intensive care) and province level (comprehensive care including neonatal surgery and more subspecialty interventions). A modified Delphi study was conducted. A group of 20 neonatologists from the Chinese Association of Neonatologists rated the importance of capability items on a 5-point Likert scale.

Results

At county level, the list consisted of 29 items related to basic and special care, and 3 items were unanimously rated very important by all experts: neonatal resuscitation, endotracheal intubation and continuous positive airway pressure ≥72 hours. At city level, group consensus defined 38 items as essential. Besides the essential items of county level, more items for intensive care were included in city level. At province level, 64 items reached consensus, including neonatal surgery and more advanced subspecialty interventions. The Kendall’s W values showed good agreement among experts in both rounds, and an increase from round 1 to round 2.

Conclusions

We developed the capability lists for neonatal critical care at three levels in China. Neonatal resuscitation should be provided by all levels. Interventions for preterm newborns are stratified according to gestational age and birth weight. Congenital abnormalities requiring surgical services need to be managed in high-level centres.
C3 concentrations can be normal in patients with C3 glomerulopathy secondary to C3 nephritic factor
Authors: Anderson Hamish , Van Voorthuizen Mark , O'Donnell John , Beck Sarah
Published: March 2024

C3 glomerulopathy (C3G) is a rare kidney disease caused by the glomerular deposition of C3 fragments secondary to alternative pathway complement dysregulation. C3 nephritic factors (C3Nef) are the most common acquired cause, and their detection has treatment and prognostic implications. Although C3 concentration can be normal in the presence of C3Nef, many laboratories will only perform C3Nef testing when C3 is low. We performed a retrospective study of all positive C3Nef results from the authors’ laboratory since 2015 and found that two of the four patients with positive C3Nef and biopsy-confirmed C3G had normal C3 concentrations. This may be in part due to limitations in commercial C3 testing methods which use anti-C3c antisera directed against both C3 breakdown products and native C3. A normal C3 concentration should not preclude C3Nef testing in the appropriate clinical context.
New quality outcome indicators for bone metastases: expert consensus analysis of patients, their families and specialist healthcare professionals
Authors: Downie Samantha , Chohan Hasnain , Ross Lauren , McCann Conor , Hall Peter , Stillie Alison , Moran Matthew , Sudlow Cathie , Simpson A Hamish RW
Published: March 2024

Objectives

As workload increases, surgical care for patients with bone metastases is increasingly decentralised, with a shift in management away from primary bone tumour units to local centres. We must ensure that patients have similar outcomes regardless of where they receive their treatment. The aim was to develop and validate a set of quality outcome indicators (QOIs) to evaluate treatment success for patients undergoing surgery for bone metastases.

Methods

Outcome recommendations were adapted from the literature and field tested in a retrospective patient cohort to determine feasibility. The provisional outcome indicators were assessed during a modified RAND/Delphi consensus process by a group of patients, relatives and healthcare professionals with validated targets added.

Results

1534 articles were reviewed. 38 quality objectives were extracted and assessed for feasibility using clinical records for 117 patients. 28 provisional outcome indicators proceeded to expert consensus and were reviewed by a group of 22 panellists including 10 patients and 4 relatives/carers. After two rounds, 15 QOIs were generated, with validated targets based on expert consensus. These included specific statements such as ‘surgery improves pain and reduces the need for morphine, target: at follow-up, pain is documented in 80% of individuals and 50% of these have reduced need for morphine’.

Conclusions

The published evidence and guidelines were adapted into a set of outcome indicators validated by patients, their family/carers and healthcare professionals. These can be used to compare care between centres and identify units of excellence in maximising good outcome after surgery for bone metastases.
Assessing the incorporation of the soil health concept in postsecondary education in Canada
Authors: Krzic Maja , Yates Tom , Diochon Amanda , Van Eerd Laura , MacKenzie M. Derek
Published: March 2024

Incorporation of soil health concept into professional practice, supported by integration into postsecondary programs, may lead to the successful maintenance and improvement of Canadian soils. The Canadian Society of Soil Science (CSSS) has identified the need to promote the teaching of the soil health concept to instructors of soil science and related courses across Canada. In summer 2023, a 37-question survey was emailed to CSSS members with the objectives of (1) gauging the understanding and interest among instructors of soil science (and related) courses across Canada in soil health, (2) describing the current status of the soil health concept in Canadian postsecondary soil science (and related) courses, and (3) assessing the need for an open access repository of educational resources focused on soil health. Survey results of 46 respondents suggest that inclusion of the concept in courses has been increasing steadily for the last 20 years, with estimated 1400 students being exposed to the concept annually in 30 courses in 6 majors, where 60% had soil in the course title. The main reasons for not including soil health in courses included lack of time and experience. Creation of a Canadian soil health repository of teaching materials would provide resources to 28% respondents (13/46) who do not include the soil health concept into their courses. Respondents indicated that the soil health concept is useful in teaching because it requires integration of a range of basic soil disciplinary concepts, a process that might be best implemented through active learning strategies.
Nonlinear excitation of wakefields in quantum plasma channel
Authors: Kumar Punit , Tewari Chhaya
Published: March 2024

A detailed analytical study for wakefields excitation in a channel of quantum plasma is presented. The recently developed quantum hydrodynamic (QHD) model has been used to develop the interaction picture. Applying the perturbations in the laser fields orders, the magnetic and electric wakefields have been obtained for a Gaussian laser pulse. The electrons trapped by the wakefields are accelerated to extremely high energies. The quantum effects of Fermi statistical pressure and the quantum Bohm potential have been found to make significant changes in the nature of wakefields generated. The plasma channel helps in self-focusing and also contributes to acceleration. Both the longitudinal and transverse forces acting on the accelerating electron have been calculated.
Heat generation effects on the MHD Nimonic 80A-Fe3O4 water hybrid nanofluid flow over a wedge with influence of shape factor of nanoparticles
Authors: Chakraborty Anomitra , Janapatla Pranitha
Published: March 2024

This study reports both MagnetoHydroDynamics (MHD) and heat generation aspects of a water-based hybrid nanofluid flow with various shapes of the nanoparticles involving Nimonic 80A and [Formula: see text], over a moving wedge. Similarity transformations were adapted to obtain non-dimensional equations and solved using MATLAB bvp4c code. All the results and graphs were formulated after a positive outcome of our results with that available in existing literature. Nusselt number, which signifies the heat transfer rate in a flow, increased with an increase in empirical shape factors of the nanoparticle with a contrasting decrease in the drag experienced during the flow, represented by the skin friction coefficient. The velocity profile decreased at a rate of 0.75% for [Formula: see text] to [Formula: see text] due to the augmenting Lorentz forces while it augmented by 18.9% for an augmenting velocity ratio parameter from [Formula: see text] to [Formula: see text] due to the no-slip boundary conditions. Both the Nusselt number and skin friction coefficients decreased with an increase in magnetic parameter. An increase in the nanoparticle concentration resulted in an incrementing streamline value along with increasing temperature profile due to increasing thermal conductivity of the fluid flow system. The physical significance of the study involves in its applications in nuclear, steel industries, MRI scanning for its anti-corrosive and high thermal conductivity properties.
The wake characteristics and hydrodynamic forces of a near-wall circular cylinder with the splitter plate
Authors: Liu Yulu , Li Yubing , Li Jianghua , Zhou Jiankang , Qiu Xiang
Published: March 2024

Flow around a near-wall circular cylinder with the splitter plate is numerically performed at Reynolds number of 500, with the objective of investigating the wake characteristics and hydrodynamic forces. Five gap ratios [Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text] (G is the gap between the lower surface of the cylinder and the wall, D is the diameter of the cylinder) are selected, and the splitter plate length [Formula: see text] ranges from 0 to [Formula: see text]. The flow characteristics of an isolated cylinder with the splitter plate are investigated first for comparison, and four wake flow modes are observed, which include 2S mode ([Formula: see text]), P+S mode ([Formula: see text]), 2S+S mode ([Formula: see text]) and 2P mode ([Formula: see text]). As [Formula: see text] increases from 0 to [Formula: see text], the mean drag coefficient ([Formula: see text]) is decreased, and there is a slight increase of [Formula: see text] for [Formula: see text]. In addition, the cases of [Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text] produce a very significant reduction of drag, and the [Formula: see text] is reduced by as much as [Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text], respectively. The wake characteristics and hydrodynamic forces of a near-wall cylinder with the splitter plate are investigated in detail, and five wake regimes are observed, which include the wake vortex merging regime I, merged vortex attaching regime II, steady flow regime III, wall shear layer elongation regime IV and upper shear layer attaching regime V. For [Formula: see text], the wake vortex shedding is suppressed. For [Formula: see text], the Strouhal number (St) is decreased as [Formula: see text] increases from 0 to 1.0, and there is an increase of St at [Formula: see text]. At [Formula: see text], the St of the near-wall cylinder is larger than that of the isolated cylinder, and the increase in St is affected by the deflected gap flow. What is more, the hydrodynamic characteristics are affected by the wall. For [Formula: see text], the variations of [Formula: see text] with [Formula: see text] are similar to that of the isolated cylinder. It is found that the cases of [Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text] still produce a significant reduction of drag for [Formula: see text], and the [Formula: see text] is increased for all cases of [Formula: see text] as [Formula: see text] increases.
New analytical solutions to the nonlinear Schrödinger equation via an improved Cham method in conformable operator
Authors: Gasmi Boubekeur , Alhakim Lama , Mati Yazid , Moussa Alaaeddin , Baskonus Haci Mehmet
Published: March 2024

This paper presents an improved Cham method as an efficient technique for obtaining analytical exact solutions to nonlinear partial differential equations. We apply this method to solve the nonlinear Schrödinger equation in conformable operator, a challenging equation frequently used in various scientific fields. The method enables us to derive different traveling wave solutions, such as kink, coindal waves, breather waves, periodic singular solutions, and periodic multi-wave solitons. We also provide graphical representations of some of the obtained solutions to help understand their dynamic characteristics. These results highlight the effectiveness and adaptability of the method and demonstrate its potential to solve other partial differential equations.
社會情感視角下兒童社會工作反欺凌能力提升項目的成效評估研究
Authors: 王 婧 , 耿 豔玲
Published: March 2024

欺凌是對兒童身心發展產生負面影響的重要社會問題，亟需有效的實踐干預來應對。本研究採用「計劃—行動—觀察—反思」的行動研究框架，基於社會情感理論將兒童反欺凌能力操作化，構建融入社會工作協作技巧、小組動力發展與社會情感學習模型的社會工作服務模式。研究發現，該模式能夠促使兒童在欺凌情境中習得社會情感五項核心能力，提升參與者的反欺凌能力，並且形成良好的品格與積極的心態，獲得支持自身成長的正向力量。
Cluster-Based Cross Layer-Cross Domain Routing Model with DNN-Based Energy Prediction
Authors: Lahane Shivaji R. , Lahane Priti S.
Published: March 2024

In WSN, extending the network life is still a major problem that needs to be tackled. Cross-layer protocols are used to get around these problems. In this paper, a new cross-layer design routing model is presented using a clustering-based technique. The proposed model is proceeding with the optimal cluster-based routing model via a new algorithm. Initially during the network generation, the node’s energy is predicted by the deep learning model termed as DNN model on the basis of the distance between node and sink as the input. Subsequently, during the clustering process, the cluster head is optimally selected via a new optimisation algorithm named Self-Improved Shuffle Shepherd Optimisation (SISSO) Algorithm. The cluster head selection is done by considering the constraints including Link quality, Distance, Overhead, Energy and Delay. Finally, a Modified Kernel Least Mean Square (MKLMS)-based data aggregation process is to eliminate the redundant data transmission. The performance of the SISSO method is proven superior over other conventional approaches with regard to the alive node and network lifetime. In the alive node analysis of supernode, the proposed SISSO model achieves the maximal number of alive supernodes at 2,000 rounds (i.e. 0.67) than other conventional methods.
Variations of thermal properties with water content and density of residual and basaltic sands from Chile
Authors: Barra Diego D. , Villalobos Felipe A. , Vasco Diego A. , Fumeron Javier
Published: March 2024

Renewable energy has become a relevant alternative to solve energy and environmental problems worldwide. Characterization of geothermal resources is fundamental for an efficient and sustainable extraction of heat. In this study, thermal conductivity,

λ

, volumetric heat capacity,
C
, and thermal diffusivity,

α

, of two soils from Chile, namely Bío Bío sand and Maicillo residual soil, were analysed. Bío Bío sand is a uniform and clean sand that mainly consists of basaltic particles, whereas Maicillo soil is a silty and clayey sand with a high quartz content. Samples were tested with a thermal needle probe at varying water contents and densities. Measurements to obtain

λ

,
C
and

α

were undertaken. These results allowed the patterns and relationships between geotechnical and heat transfer parameters to be analysed. It was found that dry soil conditions led to the lowest values of

λ

, while saturated soil conditions led to the highest values. Moreover, Maicillo soil has higher capabilities to transfer heat than Bío Bío sand, and can reach up to 50% greater

λ

for dense soil and saturated conditions. This is due to its quarzitic and clayey mineralogy and non-uniform grain-size distribution. The results from this research represent an important contribution to industrial applications.
Electrodeposition of Tin and Antimony-Based Anode Materials for Sodium-Ion Batteries
Authors: Gallawa Jessica R. , Ma Jeffrey , Prieto Amy L.
Published: March 2024

Tin antimonide (SnSb) is a promising alloying anode for sodium-ion batteries due to its high theoretical capacity and relative stability. The material is popular in the battery field, but, to our knowledge, few studies have been conducted on the influence of altering Sn and Sb stoichiometry on anode capacity retention and efficiency over time. Here, Sn-Sb electrodes were synthesized with compositional control by optimizing electrodeposition parameters and stoichiometry in solution and the alloys were cycled in sodium-ion half-cells to investigate the effects of stoichiometry on both performance and electrochemical phenomena. Higher concentrations of antimony deposited into the films were found to best maintain specific capacity over 270 cycles in the tin-antimony alloys, with each cell showing a slow, gradual decrease in capacity. We identified that a 1:3 ratio of Sn:Sb retained a specific capacity of 486 mAh g−1 after 270 cycles, highlighting a need to explore this material further. These results demonstrate how control over stoichiometry in Sn-Sb electrodes is a viable method for tuning performance.
Leveraging Temperature-Dependent (Electro)Chemical Kinetics for High-Throughput Flow Battery Characterization
Authors: Fell Eric M. , George Thomas Y. , Jing Yan , Gordon Roy G. , Aziz Michael J.
Published: March 2024

The library of redox-active organics that are potential candidates for electrochemical energy storage in flow batteries is exceedingly vast, necessitating high-throughput characterization of molecular lifetimes. Demonstrated extremely stable chemistries require accurate yet rapid cell cycling tests, a demand often frustrated by time-denominated capacity fade mechanisms. We have developed a high-throughput setup for elevated temperature cycling of redox flow batteries, providing a new dimension in characterization parameter space to explore. We utilize it to evaluate capacity fade rates of aqueous redox-active organic molecules, as functions of temperature. We demonstrate Arrhenius-like behavior in the temporal capacity fade rates of multiple flow battery electrolytes, permitting extrapolation to lower operating temperatures. Collectively, these results highlight the importance of accelerated decomposition protocols to expedite the screening process of candidate molecules for long lifetime flow batteries.
Organic Solvent-Based Li–Air Batteries with Cotton and Charcoal Cathode
Authors: Nagy Lajos , Üneri Haymana Serra , Kordován Marcell Árpád , Nagy Tibor , Kuki Ákos , Nyul Dávid , Pál Petra , Erdélyi Zoltán , Zsuga Miklós , Kéki Sándor
Published: March 2024

We report on the construction and investigation of Li–air batteries consisting of a charcoal cathode and cotton texture soaked with different organic solvents containing a lithium triflate (LiOTf) electrolyte. Charcoal was found to be an appropriate cathode for Li–air batteries. Furthermore, cycling tests showed stable operation at over 800 cycles when dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO) and diethylene glycol dimethyl ether (DEGME) were used as solvents, whereas low electrochemical stability was observed when propylene carbonate was used. The charging, discharging, and long-term discharging steps were mathematically modeled. Electrochemical impedance spectroscopy showed Gerischer impedance, suggesting intensive oxygen transport at the surface of the charcoal cathode. Diffusion, charge transfer, and solid electrolyte interphase processes were identified using distribution of relaxation time analysis. In the polypropylene (PP) membrane soaked with LiOTf in DEGME, three different states of Li ions were identified by 7Li-triple-quantum time proportional phase increment nuclear magnetic resonance measurements. On the basis of the latter results, a mechanism was suggested for Li-ion transport inside the PP membrane. The activity of the charcoal cathode was confirmed by Raman and cyclic voltammetry measurements.
Development of Ge Isotropic Wet Etching Solution and its Application to High Quality Ge-on-Insulator Fabrication through the Etchback Method
Authors: Shimizu Noboru , Wang Dong , Nakashima Hiroshi , Yamamoto Keisuke
Published: March 2024

Ge has many unique characteristics, such as high carrier mobility and a narrow bandgap corresponding to near-infrared wavelengths. To take advantage of the attractive characteristics of Ge, Ge-on-Insulator (GOI) structures are necessary. In this study, we focus on a direct wafer bonding and etchback method to fabricate GOI structures and explore appropriate etching solutions for the etchback. An HF + H2O2 + CH3COOH solution can isotropically etch Ge and improve surface uniformity. The resulting surfaces were sufficiently flat to achieve Schottky and MOS diodes showing good electrical characteristics of the same level as devices based on commercial mirror-polished Ge surfaces. We discuss the role of the chemicals in the etching solution in achieving the flat surface. We fabricated GOI structures and a back-gate GOI capacitor through direct wafer bonding of SiO2/Si and Al2O3/Ge with the etchback method using the solution. The resulting electrical characteristics are also explained using theoretical calculations. This approach might offer an alternative route to high-quality GOI fabrication.
Effects of follicle-stimulating hormone on energy balance and tissue metabolic health after loss of ovarian function
Authors: Libby Andrew E. , Solt Claudia M. , Jackman Matthew R. , Sherk Vanessa D. , Foright Rebecca M. , Johnson Ginger C. , Nguyen Thi-Tina , Breit Matthew J. , Hulett Nicholas , Rudolph Michael C. , Roberson Paul A. , Wellberg Elizabeth A. , Jambal Purevsuren , Scalzo Rebecca L. , Higgins Janine , Kumar T. Rajendra , Wierman Margaret E. , Pan Zhaoxing , Shankar Kartik , Klemm Dwight J. , Moreau Kerrie L. , Kohrt Wendy M. , MacLean Paul S.
Published: March 2024

We find no effect of follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) on energy balance using a novel model in which rats are ovariectomized, subjected to gonadotropin-releasing hormone antagonism, and systematically given back FSH by osmotic pump. However, tissue-specific effects of FSH on adipose tissue and liver were observed in this study. These include unique transcriptomic signatures induced by the hormone and a stark reduction in hepatic triglyceride accumulation.
An Iterative Determination Method of an Axial Deployment Force of a Lanyard-Deployed Coilable Mast in Local Coil Mode
Authors: Liu Yu , Sun Liang , Huang Hai , Zhao Xurui , Liu Jiahao , Qiao Yishi
Published: March 2024

The axial deployment force is an indispensable parameter of a lanyard-deployed coilable mast, which reflects its load capacity in practical applications. However, research on the axial deployment force in the literature is very limited, and there are no mature numerical methods to determine this parameter in the design stage of coilable masts. In this paper, a numerical method for determining the axial deployment force of a lanyard-deployed coilable mast in the local coil mode is presented. Through this method, the designer can quickly obtain the estimated value of the axial deployment force in the design stage, which is convenient for the quantitative design of parameters. To verify the correctness of the proposed method, a dynamic simulation of the coilable mast is carried out, and a microgravity test is performed. The comparison results show that the error between the numerical method and the simulation and experimental results is less than 5%, which proves the correctness of the proposed method. In addition, the coilable mast studied in this paper has been verified by an actual microsatellite deployment in orbit.
Effects of Dietary Supplement of Basil Extract on Biochemical and Immunological Parameters and Growth Performance in Oncorhynchus mykiss
Authors: Noorbakhsh Mohammad Foad , Ghaemi Mehran , Gholamhosseini Amin , Heidari Amir Ali
Published: March 2024

Ocimum basilicum has antioxidant, anti‐inflammatory, and antimicrobial effects. The present study was conducted to evaluate the effects of O. basilicum extract on growth yield, safety, and marinating physiologic functions of the rainbow trout. The fish were fed with food rations containing 0%, 1%, 2%, and 3% of basil extract. Basil extract, especially at 1% concentration food ration, significantly increased the growth parameters compared with the control group (p < 0.05). The biochemical parameters of hepatic function, renal function, glucose, triglyceride, and cholesterol level were significantly reduced in the treatment groups compared with the control group (p < 0.05). Feeding with basil extract led to a significant increase in Ig, lysozyme, and respiratory burst assay, with the most prominent elevation at 2% concentration food ration. The mucosal antibacterial activity was improved. The mortality rate after exposure to Yersinia ruckeri was lower in the treatment groups compared with the control group. The results of the present study suggest that adding 2% basil extract to the food rations of the fish may improve their physiologic function and growth yield and reinforce their immune system.
Existence of a Nonzero Worst‐Case ACH for Short‐Term Exposure in Ventilated Indoor Spaces
Authors: Krishnaprasad K. A. , Zgheib N. , Choudhary K. , Ha M. Y. , Choi C. Y. , Bang K. S. , Jang S. , Balachandar S.
Published: March 2024

A well‐ventilated room is essential to reduce the risk of airborne transmission. As such, the scientific community sets minimum limits on ventilation with the idea that increased ventilation reduces pathogen concentration and thus reduces the risk of transmission. In contrast, the upper limit on ventilation is usually determined by human comfort and the need to reduce energy consumption. While average pathogen concentration decreases with increased ventilation, local concentration depends on multiple factors and may not follow the same trend, especially within short exposure times over large separation distances. Here, we show through experiments and high‐fidelity simulations the existence of a worst‐case ventilation where local pathogen concentration increases near the receiving host. This occurs during the type of meetings that were recommended during the pandemic (and in some cases solely authorized) with reduced occupancy adhering to social distancing and short exposure times below 20 minutes. We maintain that for cases of high occupancy and long exposure time, increased ventilation remains necessary.
Pheochromocytoma/Paraganglioma (PPGL): A Misdiagnosed Cause of Hypertension during Pregnancy
Authors: Giorgi Rafael Buck , Aroucha Priscila Teixeira , Favreto Thalissa M. , Montero Micaela F. , Velloni Julia M. F. , Korkes Ilana , Ferreira Elisa Napolitano , Olivati Caroline , Lima Jose Viana , Kater Claudio E. , Costa-Barbosa Flavia A.
Published: March 2024

Hypertension (HT) during pregnancy is not an infrequent obstetric problem, reaching a prevalence of 5-10%. This condition is highly associated with both maternal and fetal complications if not precisely diagnosed and managed. Even though primary HT, obesity, and preeclampsia are the main causes of HT in this period, other less familiar conditions must be considered during the investigation. Pheochromocytoma and paraganglioma (PPGL) are chromaffin cell tumors that produce, store, and secrete catecholamines, leading to HT and other adrenergic manifestations. Recognition of PPGL is crucial since misdiagnosis and improper management can lead to high morbidity and mortality, particularly during pregnancy. We report on two cases of PPGL diagnosed during pregnancy with different managements. Case 1 is a 25-year-old female at 31 weeks of first pregnancy, whose severe HT and life-threatening symptoms prompted an emergency delivery without previous confirmation or medical treatment of a suspected PPGL. After confirmation, a right adrenal PPGL was surgically resected 4 months later, following 15 days of medical therapy. Case 2 is a 22-year-old female at 18 weeks of pregnancy whose symptomatic PPGL was resected in the second trimester. A next-generation sequencing panel, including 23 PPGL-related genes, found no germline pathogenic variants (GPVs) in case 1 and an exon 1-4 germinative heterozygous deletion of the MAX gene in case 2. Despite the different medical approaches, both cases had satisfactory outcomes. Although uncommon, PPGL should be considered in the differential diagnosis of HT in pregnancy since missing the diagnosis and failing to introduce appropriate and timely treatment may lead to dramatic consequences for the mother and fetus. PPGL diagnosed during reproductive age is likely to result from GPV, prompting genetic investigation and counseling.
Minimally Invasive Approach versus Sternotomy for Bentall Procedure: A Single-Center Experience
Authors: Zou Hong-Peng , Lu Feng , Long Xiang , Zhu Shu-Qiang , Lin Kun , Qiu Bai-Quan , Yang Xin , Xu Jian-Jun , Wu Yong-Bing
Published: March 2024

Background. The need for minimally invasive Bentall surgery for the treatment of aortic lesions with aortic insufficiency is increasing; however, comparative studies on the safety of the minimally invasive Bentall procedure and sternotomy Bentall procedure are lacking. Methods. Clinical data of 56 patients who underwent the Bentall procedure performed by the same surgical team at our center between December 2018 and December 2021 were retrospectively analyzed and followed up for 6 months after discharge. After dividing the patients into a right anterior chest minimally invasive Bentall surgery (RAT-Bentall) group (n = 13) and a conventional sternotomy Bentall surgery (C-Bentall) group (n = 43), intraoperative and early postoperative clinical data and echocardiography at 6 months after discharge were compared. Results. Compared with the C-Bentall group, the RAT-Bentall group had a lower postoperative visual analogue scale (VAS) pain score [(3.00 ± 2.08) VS (5.77 ± 1.84), P<0.001] and a shorter CSICU hospital stay [(1.90 ± 0.52) VS (2.51 ± 1.58) d, P<0.001] and postoperative hospital stay [(7.62 ± 1.81) VS (10.42 ± 2.45) d, P=0.035]. The incidence of postoperative complications and echocardiographic at 6-month follow-up after discharge was not statistically different between the two groups. Conclusion. The RAT-Bentall procedure is safe and effective. Compared with the sternotomy Bentall procedure, it can reduce postoperative pain as well as patients’ CSICU and postoperative hospital stay. Therefore, this technology is worth promoting and applying.
Solitons of the Twin-Core Couplers with Fractional Beta Derivative Evolution in Optical Metamaterials via Two Distinct Methods
Authors: Odabasi Koprulu Meryem , Pinar Izgi Zehra
Published: March 2024

The rapid advancements in metamaterial research have brought forth a new era of possibilities for controlling and manipulating light at the nanoscale. In particular, the design and engineering of optical metamaterials have created advances in the field of photonics, enabling the development of advanced devices with unprecedented functionalities. Among the myriad of intriguing metamaterial structures, the nonlinear directional couplers with beta derivative evolution have emerged as a significant avenue of exploration, offering remarkable potential for light propagation and manipulation. This study obtains the solitary wave solutions for twin-core couplers having spatial-temporal fractional beta derivative evolution by using two different methods, the Bernoulli method and the complete polynomial discriminant system method. By graphing some of the obtained solutions, the effect of the beta derivative has been shown. The findings would be beneficial to understand physical behaviours in nonlinear optics, particularly twin-core couplers with optical metamaterials.
Exploring the Landscape of Eco‐Mapping in Health Services Research: A Comprehensive Review
Authors: Saragosa Marianne , Singh Hardeep , Steele Gray Carolyn , Tang Terence , Orchanian-Cheff Ani , Nelson Michelle L. A.
Published: March 2024

Health services research is important in improving health systems’ and providers’ efficiency and effectiveness. This may require health services to intervene at an individual and community level to address people’s complex social issues. An important issue is social connections, which have been identified as a social determinant of health and can help buffer stressful life events. Social support networks can be visualized using eco‐maps, a tool that originated in child welfare practices and has been adopted widely by clinicians and researchers. This paper aims to understand where and how eco‐maps have been used in health services research. To answer the research questions, this scoping review used the Joanna Briggs Institute guidelines for scoping reviews. In total, 70 studies were included in the scoping review. The authors found that social support denoted in an eco‐map does not guarantee the provision of support; however, the dialogue needed to create an eco‐map could facilitate conversations about care expectations, identification of vulnerable points or risk factors, and actions to improve family and individual functioning. A significant gap remains in the knowledge and use of eco‐maps in identifying population service and resource gaps and how to bridge the knowledge‐to‐action chasm better. Further exploration is needed to examine how to optimize the application of eco‐mapping in the health services context, including generating guidelines, templates, or instructions for implementation. Therefore, addressing this gap is vital for ensuring eco‐mapping informs future service design and policy changes.