bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Performance Analysis of Central Processing Unit Heat Sinks Fitted With Perforation Technique and Splitter Inserts
Authors: Bencherif Brahim , Sahel Djamel , Benzeguir Redouane , Ameur Houari
Published: September 2022

The increase in the heat dissipation rate in heat sinks (HSs), the reduction of the occupied volume and mass, and the elimination of the lower heat transfer areas (LHTAs) behind the pins are the main parameters to be controlled in HSs design. For this purpose, this study is devoted to numerically investigating the effect of the combination between perforation technique and splitters inserts on the heat dissipation and turbulent fluid flow characteristics of pin fins heat sinks (PFHSs). The splitter is located in the back of the pin, and the cylindrical pin fins heat sinks (CPFHSs) are perforated with different pairs of hole numbers. These configurations are named PFHS-0 (without perforation) to PFHS-5. The results obtained for the PFHS-5 show an increase in Nusselt number by 34.91% and a reduction in the thermal resistance by 24.22%, compared with CPFHSs. For the same conditions, the occupied volume and mass of this case are also reduced by 70% and 47.5%, respectively. In addition, the PFHS-5 case ensures the highest hydrothermal performance factor (HTPF) of 1.42 at Re = 8,740.
Climate change drives rapid decadal acidification in the Arctic Ocean from 1994 to 2020
Authors: Qi Di , Ouyang Zhangxian , Chen Liqi , Wu Yingxu , Lei Ruibo , Chen Baoshan , Feely Richard A. , Anderson Leif G. , Zhong Wenli , Lin Hongmei , Polukhin Alexander , Zhang Yixing , Zhang Yongli , Bi Haibo , Lin Xinyu , Luo Yiming , Zhuang Yanpei , He Jianfeng , Chen Jianfang , Cai Wei-Jun
Published: September 2022

The Arctic Ocean has experienced rapid warming and sea ice loss in recent decades, becoming the first open-ocean basin to experience widespread aragonite undersaturation [saturation state of aragonite (Ω
arag
) < 1]. However, its trend toward long-term ocean acidification and the underlying mechanisms remain undocumented. Here, we report rapid acidification there, with rates three to four times higher than in other ocean basins, and attribute it to changing sea ice coverage on a decadal time scale. Sea ice melt exposes seawater to the atmosphere and promotes rapid uptake of atmospheric carbon dioxide, lowering its alkalinity and buffer capacity and thus leading to sharp declines in pH and Ω
arag
. We predict a further decrease in pH, particularly at higher latitudes where sea ice retreat is active, whereas Arctic warming may counteract decreases in Ω
arag
in the future.
Actin maturation requires the ACTMAP/C19orf54 protease
Authors: Haahr Peter , Galli Ricardo A. , van den Hengel Lisa G. , Bleijerveld Onno B. , Kazokaitė-Adomaitienė Justina , Song Ji-Ying , Kroese Lona J. , Krimpenfort Paul , Baltissen Marijke P. , Vermeulen Michiel , Ottenheijm Coen A. C. , Brummelkamp Thijn R.
Published: September 2022

Protein synthesis generally starts with a methionine that is removed during translation. However, cytoplasmic actin defies this rule because its synthesis involves noncanonical excision of the acetylated methionine by an unidentified enzyme after translation. Here, we identified C19orf54, named ACTMAP (actin maturation protease), as this enzyme. Its ablation resulted in viable mice in which the cytoskeleton was composed of immature actin molecules across all tissues. However, in skeletal muscle, the lengths of sarcomeric actin filaments were shorter, muscle function was decreased, and centralized nuclei, a common hallmark of myopathies, progressively accumulated. Thus, ACTMAP encodes the missing factor required for the synthesis of mature actin and regulates specific actin-dependent traits in vivo.
Revisiting the first dinosaur park
The Art and Science of the Crystal Palace Dinosaurs
Mark P. Witton and Ellinor Michel
The Crowood Press, 2022. 192 pp.
Authors: Nieuwland Ilja
Published: September 2022

A once-ridiculed sculpture display is worth a second look
Spatial thinkers receive their due
Visual Thinking: The Hidden Gifts of People Who Think in Pictures, Patterns, and Abstractions
Temple Grandin
Riverhead, 2022. 352 pp.
Authors: Wai Jonathan
Published: September 2022

An insider’s guide to visual reasoning celebrates those who think in pictures and patterns
In Science Journals
Authors: Smith H. Jesse , Stajic Jelena , Lavine Marc S. , Hurtley Stella M. , Yeston Jake , Grocholski Brent , Ray L. Bryan , Malo Courtney S. , Gan Li , Scanlon Seth Thomas , Nusinovich Yevgeniya , Hines Pamela J. , Vinson Valda , Smith Keith T. , Ferrarelli Leslie K. , Williams Ifor
Published: September 2022

Highlights from the
Science
family of journals
Room-temperature superconductor claim retracted
Authors: Hand Eric
Published: September 2022

After doubts grew, blockbuster
Nature
paper is withdrawn over objections of study team
University pandemic policies raise equity worries
Authors: Langin Katie
Published: September 2022

Tenure delays and pandemic impact statements could backfire, some fear
New Omicron strains may portend big COVID-19 waves
Authors: Vogel Gretchen
Published: September 2022

Emerging subvariants are more immune evasive than ever
Unique Evolution of Antiviral Tetherin in Bats
Authors: Hayward Joshua A. , Tachedjian Mary , Johnson Adam , Irving Aaron T. , Gordon Tamsin B. , Cui Jie , Nicolas Alexis , Smith Ina , Boyd Victoria , Marsh Glenn A. , Baker Michelle L. , Wang Lin-Fa , Tachedjian Gilda
Published: September 2022

Bats are an important host of various viruses which are deadly to humans and other mammals but do not cause outward signs of illness in bats. Furthering our understanding of the unique features of the immune system of bats will shed light on how they tolerate viral infections, potentially informing novel antiviral strategies in humans and other animals.
Complete Genome Sequence of the Uropathogenic Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus aureus Strain MRSA-1369
Authors: Tükenmez Hasan , Nye Taylor M. , Bonde Mari , Caparon Michael G. , Almqvist Fredrik , Hultgren Scott J. , Johansson Jörgen
Published: September 2022

MRSA-1369 is a uropathogenic methicillin-resistant
Staphylococcus aureus
(MRSA) strain. Here, we present the complete genome sequence of MRSA-1369, which consists of one chromosome (2.87 Mb) and two plasmids (16.68 kb and 3.13 kb). This will serve as a reference genome for future
Staphylococcus aureus
pathogenesis and multiomic studies.
The Intratumoral Bacterial Metataxonomic Signature of Hepatocellular Carcinoma
Authors: Huang Jian-Hang , Wang Jie , Chai Xiao-Qiang , Li Zhong-Chen , Jiang Ying-Hua , Li Jun , Liu Xing , Fan Jia , Cai Jia-Bin , Liu Feng
Published: September 2022

Gut microbiome is an important regulator of hepatic inflammation, detoxification, and immunity, and contributes to the carcinogenesis of liver cancer. Intratumoral bacteria are supposed to be closer to the tumor cells, forming a microenvironment that may be relevant to the pathological process of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC).
Guide for interpreting and reporting luminescence dating results
Authors: Mahan Shannon A. , Rittenour Tammy M. , Nelson Michelle S. , Ataee Nina , Brown Nathan , DeWitt Regina , Durcan Julie , Evans Mary , Feathers James , Frouin Marine , Guérin Guillaume , Heydari Maryam , Huot Sebastien , Jain Mayank , Keen-Zebert Amanda , Li Bo , López Gloria I. , Neudorf Christina , Porat Naomi , Rodrigues Kathleen , Sawakuchi Andre Oliveira , Spencer Joel Q.G. , Thomsen Kristina
Published: September 2022

The development and application of luminescence dating and dosimetry techniques have grown exponentially in the last several decades. Luminescence methods provide age control for a broad range of geological and archaeological contexts and can characterize mineral and glass properties linked to geologic origin, Earth-surface processes, and past exposure to light, heat, and ionizing radiation. The applicable age range for luminescence methods spans the last 500,000 years or more, which covers the period of modern human evolution, and provides context for rates and magnitudes of geological processes, hazards, and climate change. Given the growth in applications and publications of luminescence data, there is a need for unified, community-driven guidance regarding the publication and interpretation of luminescence results.

This paper presents a guide to the essential information necessary for publishing and archiving luminescence ages as well as supporting data that is transportable and expandable for different research objectives and publication outlets. We outline the information needed for the interpretation of luminescence data sets, including data associated with equivalent dose, dose rate, age models, and stratigraphic context. A brief review of the fundamentals of luminescence techniques and applications, including guidance on sample collection and insight into laboratory processing and analysis steps, is presented to provide context for publishing and data archiving.
Mid−late Neoproterozoic tectonic evolution of the northern margin of the Yangtze Block, South China, as constrained from the detrital zircon record
Authors: Wang Ruirui , Xu Zhiqin , Santosh M.
Published: September 2022

The northern margin of the Yangtze Block (NYB) experienced distinct tectono-magmatic evolution during the mid- and late-Neoproterozoic, as compared with the northwestern margins of the Yangtze Block (NWYB), although the geodynamic mechanism remains controversial. The South Qinling Belt (SQB), which forms the northernmost NYB, is a significant target for studying the Neoproterozoic tectonic evolution of the NYB. Here we present U-Pb geochronology and Lu-Hf isotopes of detrital zircons from clastic rocks belonging to the Yaolinghe and Wudangshan Groups in the SQB. The U-Pb ages reveal that the maximum depositional ages are respectively ca. 630 Ma and ca. 680 Ma for the Yaolinghe and Wudangshan Groups in the Ankang and Wudang Uplifts. Based on the compilation of U-Pb ages and Hf−Nd−O isotopic data as well as multidimensional scaling (MDS) analysis, clastic rocks of the Yaolinghe Group are suggested to be sourced mainly from the NWYB, whereas those of the Wudangshan Group were derived mostly from the NWYB and the NYB. The data compiled also indicate ca. 800−680 Ma northeastward migration of magmatism in response to slab rollback and ca. 680−600 Ma eastward migration of magmatism resulting from slab tearing. A tectonic model is proposed that envisages an arcuate subduction system around the Yangtze Block during the mid−late Neoproterozoic. The continuous slab rollback and slab tearing underneath the NYB resulted in an extensional environment at that time. The rocks in the NWYB underwent uplift and erosion, and the detritus was transported to the NYB. The new model can well account for the two distinct groups of volcanic rocks in the Yaolinghe Group.
Posthumanism vs. Transhumanism: From the “End of Exceptionalism” to “Technological Humanism”
Authors: Merzlyakov S. S.
Published: September 2022

Posthumanism and transhumanism are often identified. However, modern researchers indicate the fundamental difference between these intellectual schools. The fundamental idea of posthumanism is the rejection of biological, ethical, and ontological anthropocentrism. Transhumanism focuses on changing and improving natural human characteristics through biological, technological, and cognitive modifications. While posthumanism draws attention to the crisis of humanism, transhumanism is the latter’s heir. Scientific and ethical consequences of posthumanism, as well as the sociocultural potential of transhumanism, are considered in this article. Posthumanism carries risks of shifting the value focus from man to other objects, which in the long term can lead to a critical decrease in the value status of man. Transhumanism has the potential to preserve man as an effective economic and cognizing agent. It is suggested that Russian society has a sociocultural potential for moving towards “technological humanism.”
The Official Development Assistance Policy of the European Union in the Post-Soviet Space: Geopolitical Factors
Authors: Sutyrin V. V.
Published: September 2022

The structure, priorities, conceptual framework, methods, and resources of EU policies in the Official Development Assistance (ODA) program are considered. Research shows that the EU funding of ODA programs for the post-Soviet space hiked fourfold between 2010 and 2020. The share of funding for Central Asian states decreased substantially compared to the Western part of the post-Soviet space against the background of confrontation with Russia, as well as due to presidential elections in Belarus. This paper argues that this redistribution is caused by geopolitical factors of EU policy. A conclusion is drawn that the recent declarations by the EU leadership about strengthening the “hard” power and the “geopolitical” agenda are not new and reflect long-term trends in EU foreign policy. Thus, a significant share of ODA funds is traditionally allocated to “social infrastructure,” strengthening Brussels’ control over the sociopolitical sphere in target countries of the periphery, aiming to bring them under EU influence in the economy, governance, goal setting, and ideology. This policy serves the interests of the EU, entrenching asymmetrical “metropole–periphery” relations between the EU and target counties.
Digitization of Society: Alternative Projections of the Future
Authors: Travkina N. M.
Published: September 2022

The impact of digitization on four spheres of society, i.e., economic, political, social, and spiritual, is analyzed. Digitization is defined as the diffusion of information and communication technologies (ICT) that can bring about both positive (legitimate) and negative (wrongful) effects. At the same time, today the digitization of public spheres directly involves the component of ensuring the digital security of society, which is becoming increasingly global in character. Cyber wars and cyber attacks cause economic damage on a global scale, amounting to six trillion dollars US annually, which is commensurate with the economic losses of wartime. Large-scale digitization of public spheres for the first time in human history creates an objective opportunity for constructing and designing future social states, which makes a fundamental difference between the course of future socio-economic and political processes and the historical evolution of the previous eras. This gave rise to a dichotomy of virtual utopias and dystopias of Future projects. Dystopias are inspired by visions of the coming “digital slavery,” while utopias focus on visions of a “digital paradise.” Polarized views on the digital Future are based on the processes of the “digital divide,” the meaning of which is that digitization contributes to a significant increase in inequality in access to digital goods, which in turn results in a growing inequality in the distribution of income and wealth. The coronavirus pandemic promoted a powerful acceleration of digitization processes, which acted as a form of society’s adaptation to its stresses and harmful consequences. Digitization has made social distancing possible and cost-effective. At the same time, the pandemic was conducive to a colossal increase in the economic power and political influence of digital corporations, which objectively requires a sharp increase in the regulatory role of the state, which should put digitization under effective public control.
Fifteen-minute consultation: When to consider extracorporeal membrane oxygenation
Authors: Fine-Goulden Miriam R , Lillie Jon
Published: September 2022

Extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) is a form of organ support which is used for severe, potentially reversible respiratory, cardiac or cardiorespiratory failure. While it is associated with significant risk of intracerebral injury in neonates and children, outcomes can be excellent, and timely referral is associated with improved survival and reduced morbidity. This article provides a concise summary of the technical aspects of ECMO support, indications for referral, complications, outcomes and important considerations for follow-up.
Catatonic conundrum
Authors: Paterson-Brown Lucy , Scally Niamh , Imeson Dorrie , Jones Alexandra , Shivamurthy Vinay
Published: September 2022

Differentiating between physical and psychological causes of confusion and psychosis poses a significant challenge to clinicians across all disciplines of medicine. This case report explores the clinical presentation and diagnostic journey of an adolescent girl. She presented to the emergency department with acutely altered behaviour and went on to re-present on multiple occasions over the following months with symptoms suggestive of psychosis. The team faced diagnostic difficulty differentiating between organic and non-organic causes of altered behaviour and mental state. This article explores the challenge faced by the team during the assessment and diagnosis of this patient.
Urinary tract obstruction in the second trimester: a report of an incarcerated gravid uterus
Authors: Morais Mariana , Moura Mário , Correia Ana , Fan Yida
Published: September 2022

Incarceration of the gravid uterus (IGU) is a rare obstetric disorder that may lead to pregnancy-related complications. Acute urinary retention (AUR) is one of the associated symptoms in IGU and it is mostly observed in the first semester and early second trimester. A case of a woman, in her 30s, is described, who presented AUR and lower abdominal pain in the early second trimester. The diagnosis was confirmed upon pelvic examination, and abdominal and transvaginal ultrasound. Management included long-term bladder catheterisation, manual reduction manoeuvres and passive positioning manoeuvres at home. At 24 weeks of gestation, the uterus returned in its correct polarity, the Foley catheter was removed and the patient was able to void spontaneously. A healthy infant was delivered vaginally at term.

No specific guidelines have been published for IGU treatment. However, prompt diagnosis and tight follow-up of these patients are essential to define strategies, reduce complications and prevent recurrences.
Ethical problems with kindness in healthcare
Authors: Jesudason Edwin
Published: September 2022

Kindness and its kindred concepts, compassion and empathy, are strongly valued in healthcare. But at the same time, health systems all too often treat people unfairly and cause harm. Is it possible that kindness actually contributes to these unkind outcomes? Here, I argue that, despite its attractive qualities, kindness can pose and perpetuate systemic problems in healthcare. By being discretionary, it can interfere with justice and non-maleficence. It can be problematic for autonomy too. Using the principalist lens allows us to visualise kindness more clearly and to dissect out its key qualities. Ideally, kindness should be not just beneficent but also respectful of the person, fair and non-maleficent. I use examples to illustrate the adverse impacts when kindness runs short on each. Finally, I propose that we can improve on this, by diversifying our approach to inclusion. Outgroups should be more included, as a way to mitigate discrimination wrought by discretionary kindness. But we can do better. Ingroup health professionals too often sit ‘above the fray’. They should also be more included, but now as research subjects, so we can understand together how they benefit from discretionary kindness and deftly make it work for them and theirs.
Externalist argument against medical assistance in dying for psychiatric illness
Authors: Maung Hane Htut
Published: September 2022

Medical assistance in dying, which includes voluntary euthanasia and assisted suicide, is legally permissible in a number of jurisdictions, including the Netherlands, Belgium, Switzerland and Canada. Although medical assistance in dying is most commonly provided for suffering associated with terminal somatic illness, some jurisdictions have also offered it for severe and irremediable psychiatric illness. Meanwhile, recent work in the philosophy of psychiatry has led to a renewed understanding of psychiatric illness that emphasises the role of the relation between the person and the external environment in the constitution of mental disorder. In this paper, I argue that this externalist approach to mental disorder highlights an ethical challenge to the practice of medical assistance in dying for psychiatric illness. At the level of the clinical assessment, externalism draws attention to potential social and environmental interventions that might have otherwise been overlooked by the standard approach to mental disorder, which may confound the judgement that there is no further reasonable alternative that could alleviate the person’s suffering. At the level of the wider society, externalism underscores how social prejudices and structural barriers that contribute to psychiatric illness constrain the affordances available to people and result in them seeking medical assistance in dying when they otherwise might not have had under better social conditions.
Enhancing the BOADICEA cancer risk prediction model to incorporate new data onRAD51C,RAD51D,BARD1updates to tumour pathology and cancer incidence
Authors: Lee Andrew , Mavaddat Nasim , Cunningham Alex , Carver Tim , Ficorella Lorenzo , Archer Stephanie , Walter Fiona M , Tischkowitz Marc , Roberts Jonathan , Usher-Smith Juliet , Simard Jacques , Schmidt Marjanka K , Devilee Peter , Zadnik Vesna , Jürgens Hannes , Mouret-Fourme Emmanuelle , De Pauw Antoine , Rookus Matti , Mooij Thea M , Pharoah Paul PD , Easton Douglas F , Antoniou Antonis C
Published: September 2022

Background

BOADICEA (Breast and Ovarian Analysis of Disease Incidence and Carrier Estimation Algorithm) for breast cancer and the epithelial tubo-ovarian cancer (EOC) models included in the CanRisk tool (www.canrisk.org) provide future cancer risks based on pathogenic variants in cancer-susceptibility genes, polygenic risk scores, breast density, questionnaire-based risk factors and family history. Here, we extend the models to include the effects of pathogenic variants in recently established breast cancer and EOC susceptibility genes, up-to-date age-specific pathology distributions and continuous risk factors.

Methods

BOADICEA was extended to further incorporate the associations of pathogenic variants inBARD1,RAD51CandRAD51Dwith breast cancer risk. The EOC model was extended to include the association ofPALB2pathogenic variants with EOC risk. Age-specific distributions of oestrogen-receptor-negative and triple-negative breast cancer status for pathogenic variant carriers in these genes andCHEK2andATMwere also incorporated. A novel method to include continuous risk factors was developed, exemplified by including adult height as continuous.

Results

BARD1,RAD51CandRAD51Dexplain 0.31% of the breast cancer polygenic variance. When incorporated into the multifactorial model, 34%–44% of these carriers would be reclassified to the near-population and 15%–22% to the high-risk categories based on the UK National Institute for Health and Care Excellence guidelines. Under the EOC multifactorial model, 62%, 35% and 3% ofPALB2carriers have lifetime EOC risks of <5%, 5%–10% and >10%, respectively. Including height as continuous, increased the breast cancer relative risk variance from 0.002 to 0.010.

Conclusions

These extensions will allow for better personalised risks forBARD1,RAD51C,RAD51DandPALB2pathogenic variant carriers and more informed choices on screening, prevention, risk factor modification or other risk-reducing options.
SWMM stormwater quality model developed to assess the performance of best management practices: a case study of the town of Jasper in Canada
Authors: Sofijanic Ana , Hulley Michael , Filion Yves
Published: September 2022

Stormwater quality management is essential for the protection of aquatic life of receiving waterbodies. This study presents a unique case study, whereby a stormwater management model (SWMM) was developed to assess the performances of street sweeping and infiltration trenches to reduce total suspended solids (TSS) loads in the Town of Jasper located in Jasper National Park, AB, Canada. Two catchment models were developed for the Town using long-term meteorological data, as well as watershed and drainage system data provided by the Municipality of Jasper. The quality parameters were calibrated so that TSS loads at the outfalls were within a 20% error of monitoring data. The performance of proposed best management practices was assessed using single-event and continuous data simulations. The results indicated that a combined sweeping/trench control scenario would generate the highest TSS removal efficiency of up to 51%.
Synergy of a virulent phage (φAB182) with antibiotics leading to successful elimination of biofilms formed by MDR Acinetobacter baumannii
Authors: Vashisth Medhavi , Yashveer Shikha , Jaglan Anu Bala , Virmani Nitin , Bera Bidhan Chand , Vaid Rajesh Kumar , Anand Taruna
Published: September 2022

Emergence of multiple drug resistant (MDR) strains of Acinetobacter baumannii and a withering drug discovery pipeline necessitates the search for effective alternatives to replace or synergize with currently used antibiotics. In this report, we have described the synergy assessment of a virulent Acinetobacter baumannii phage φAB182 with a wide range of antibiotics. Myophage φAB182 was isolated from sewage against MDR A. baumannii and exhibited maximum stability at 25 °C and pH 7. It also had a short latent period of 9 min with a large burst size of 287. The phylogenetic analysis of its major capsid protein gene indicated an 84.15% similarity to the lytic  A. baumannii phage Acj9. In the presence of antibiotics, phage φAB182 showed the highest synergy ( p < 0.0001) with colistin, followed by polymixin B, ceftazidime and cefotaxime and this synergistic effect was further validated by time kill kinetics. The combined action of phage φAB182 with colistin, polymixin B, ceftazidime and cefotaxime was also synergistic for the eradication of biofilms formed by A. baumannii as measured by MBECcombination/MBECantibiotic values (<0.25). We thus propose bacteriophage φAB182 as a potential antibacterial candidate in combination therapy. The findings from this study strongly support the use of phage antibiotic synergy for the successful treatment of biofilm forming MDR A. baumannii infections.
Quantum black holes, partition of integers and self-similarity
Authors: Castorina P. , Iorio A. , Smaldone L.
Published: September 2022

In this paper, we take the view that the area of a black hole’s event horizon is quantized, [Formula: see text], and the associated degrees of freedom are finite in number and of fermionic nature. We then investigate general aspects of the entropy, [Formula: see text], our main focus being black hole self-similarity. We first find a two-to-one map between the black hole’s configurations and the ordered partitions of the integer [Formula: see text]. Hence, we construct from there a composition law between the subparts making the whole configuration space. This gives meaning to black hole self-similarity, entirely within a single description, as a phenomenon stemming from the well-known self-similarity of the ordered partitions of [Formula: see text]. Finally, we compare the above to the well-known results on the subleading (quantum) corrections, which necessarily require different (quantum) statistical weights for the various configurations.
Rare radiative Ξb−→ Ξ−γ decay in the relativistic quark model
Authors: Davydov A. O. , Faustov R. N. , Galkin V. O.
Published: September 2022

Recently, the LHCb collaboration put the upper limit on the [Formula: see text] decay branching ratio [Formula: see text]. The measured value is below the light-cone sum rule prediction. In this paper, the rare radiative decay of the [Formula: see text] baryon is studied in the framework of the relativistic quark model based on the quasipotential approach and QCD. The decay form factors are calculated with the comprehensive account of the relativistic effects. The obtained result for the branching ratio is found to be below the upper limit set by LHCb and is consistent with theoretical predictions based on the SU(3) flavor-symmetry, light-front quark model and light-cone QCD sum rules in full theory within theoretical uncertainties.
Constructing Strong S-Box by 2D Chaotic Map with Application to Irreversible Parallel Key Expansion
Authors: Liu Hongjun , Wang Xingyuan , Zhao Mengdi , Niu Yujun
Published: September 2022

Cryptanalysis of key expansion algorithms in AES and SM4 revealed that (1) there exists weaknesses in their S-Boxes, and (2) the round key expansion algorithm is reversible, i.e. the initial key can be recovered from any round key, which may be explored by the attacker. To solve these problems, first we constructed a nondegenerate 2D exponential hyper chaotic map (2D-EQCM), derived a recursion formula to calculate the number of S-Boxes, and designed a strong S-Box construction algorithm without such weakness. Then based on 2D-EQCM and S-Box, we designed an irreversible parallel key expansion algorithm, which could transform the initial key to any number of relatively independent round keys. Security and statistical analysis demonstrated the flexibility and effectiveness of the proposed irreversible parallel key expansion algorithm.
Bifurcation Analysis and Spatio-Temporal Patterns of a Prey–Predator Model with Hunting Cooperation
Authors: Dey Subrata , Banerjee Malay , Ghorai S.
Published: September 2022

Understanding the effects of cooperative hunting among the predators is an important topic in ecology. We explore a prey–predator model with cooperative hunting among predators modeled by a Holling type-II functional response having saturated encounter rate. Bifurcation analysis is carried out on the temporal model to detect local bifurcations such as transcritical, saddle-node, Hopf bifurcation and global homoclinic bifurcation. A comprehensive numerical bifurcation analysis is performed on the Turing solutions of the corresponding diffusive model. Stable and unstable branches of mode specific Turing solutions and their dependence on parameters are identified. For suitable values of parameters, spatio-temporal chaos via period doubling cascade is observed when a given parameter traverses the Turing–Hopf region.
On the isomorphism problem for split extensions
Authors: Snanou Noureddine , Charkani Mohammed E.
Published: September 2022

In this paper, we study an important well-known structure operation, namely, the semidirect product (or split extensions) which is a very useful tool to structure certain kinds of groups. More precisely, we study the isomorphism problem for semidirect products and then we determine how isomorphism of semidirect products and conjugacy of the images of the corresponding actions are related. As an application, for two positive integers [Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text], we compute the number of upper isomorphism classes of split extensions of an elementary abelian [Formula: see text]-group of order [Formula: see text] by an elementary abelian [Formula: see text]-group of order [Formula: see text]. Furthermore, we deal with split extensions where the kernel is a non-abelian [Formula: see text]-group of nilpotency class two and the quotient is an elementary abelian [Formula: see text]-group.
About this title - Visages of Geodiversity and Geoheritage
Authors: Kubalíková L. , Coratza P. , Pál M. , Zwoliński Z. , Irapta P. N. , van Wyk de Vries B.
Published: September 2022

The book presents both thematic and geographical variety of approaches to geodiversity and geoheritage research. Besides the conceptual chapters focused on geodiversity and geoheritage's links to biodiversity, culture or sustainable tourism and development, the volume includes case studies that reflect an integrated view on heritage, conservation or management aspects.
Facile Electrodeposition and Aging to Generate 3-Dimensional α-MnO2 Battery Cathodes
Authors: Campos Armando Rodriguez , Vila Mallory N. , Haddad Milan , Housel Lisa M. , Takeuchi Esther , Marschilok Amy , Takeuchi Kenneth , Poyraz Altug S.
Published: September 2022

Conventional tape casting forms 2-dimensional (2D) electrodes containing active material, conductive additive, and binder with restricted ion access as electrodes increase in thickness. To improve the transport properties, 3D architectures were developed using electrodeposition to ensure contact between the active material with the substrate, and provide enhanced electrolyte access. This paper investigates electrodeposition of cryptomelane (α-MnO2) as a model cathode material to efficiently accommodate (de)lithation and increase areal capacity vs conventional 2D coatings. Electodeposited samples on titantium (Ti) foil substrates were characterized using X-ray diffraction (XRD), X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and show a linear increase of the average oxidation of Mn (3.5–3.8) and active mass loading (1.27–9.9 mg) with deposition and aging times (0–120 min). The initial deposition is amorphous and forms the crystalline material during the elevated temperature aging step. The active material, α-MnO2, was also deposited on C-cloth and these cathodes at deposition times of 3, 6, and 9 min deliver 9, 36, and 69% higher areal capacities, respectively, at 0.2 mA cm−2 compared to conventional 2D electrodes with a mass loading equal to the 3 min sample. These results demonstrate the benefit of α-MnO2 within a porous architecture providing enhanced transport properties.
Surface Characterization and Optimization of Porous Zinc Anodes to Improve Cycle Stability by Mitigating Dendritic Growth
Authors: Powell Matthew , Wei Shuya
Published: September 2022

Zinc-based batteries are a scalable and safe alternative to Lithium-ion batteries due to the nature of abundance, low cost and easy to process. In this work, we have successfully synthesized porous zinc electrodes (PZEs) via a gel-binder method that can stably charge and discharge for over 700 h at 1 mA cm−2 before showing signs of failure. We compared PZEs synthesized from small (60 nm), intermediate (10 μm), and large (150 μm) zinc particles to determine which surface features are best suited to mitigate dendritic growth and to improve electrolyte stability. The zinc deposits on the large PZE shows a stable and flat morphology, which does not form the hexagonal close-packed (HCP) crystal structure that is typically seen on planar zinc anodes. The intermediate PZE has an increased affinity to deposit onto the glass microfiber separator leading to a decrease of active material on the anode that causes instability during galvanostatic cycling. Both planar zinc and small PZE show HCP deposits that are normal to the surface, which result in very poor electrochemical performance. As the particle size increases, the deposits transition from HCP crystals to flat amorphous metal deposits, increasing cyclic stability.
A Secondary-Doped Polybenzimidazole Membrane with High Proton Conductivity and Ion Selectivity for Vanadium Redox Flow Batteries
Authors: Wang Zhenyu , Ren Jiayou , Wan Yuhan , Fan Xinzhuang , Zhao Tianshou
Published: September 2022

Polybenzimidazole (PBI)-based membranes are one of the most promising proton exchange membranes for vanadium redox flow batteries (VRFBs) due to their excellent ion selectivity. However, the relatively lower proton conductivity limits their application. Herein, a PBI membrane with both high proton conductivity and ion selectivity is prepared through a secondary phosphoric acid-doping method. The secondary-doped PBI membrane has a lower doping level in the surface layer while a higher doping level at the inner layer, forming a significant gradient-doped structure. In this structure, the former ensures an excellent ion selectivity while the latter enables a preferable proton conductivity. As a result, the VRFB with the secondary-doped PBI membrane exhibits an ultrahigh coulombic efficiency (CE) of 99.2% at the operating current density of 200 mA cm−2, which is significantly higher than that of the Nafion 212 membrane (97.7%), signifying an excellent ion selectivity. Meanwhile, the corresponding voltage efficiency (VE) is high up to 87.1%, which is also better than that of the Nafion 212 membrane (84.8%), indicating a high proton conductivity. Therefore, the secondary-doped PBI membrane might be a promising candidate for the highly efficient membrane for VRFB, and the secondary-doping method is simple and facile to realize engineering applications.
Research Progress of Carbon Materials Derived from the Zn-Based Metal-Organic Frameworks in Capacitive Deionization
Authors: San Shuo , Feng Bingqi , Xu Zhouchao , Yu Jian , Cao Zheng , Fan Yang , Zhang Shupeng
Published: September 2022

The scarcity of fresh water resource has become one of the top concerns of modern society. Various water treatment technologies have been developed for the reuse of seawater and capacitive deionization (CDI) holds superior advantages as a promising electrosorption desalination technology. Since electrode material is the key factor in controlling the performance of CDI, recent years have witnessed considerable research progress in the rational design and fabrication of Zn-based MOF-derived carbon materials applied as electrode materials for CDI. In this review, Zn-based MOF-derived carbon materials, including MOF-5 derived carbons, ZIF-8 derived carbons and innovation Zn-based MOF derived carbons, are systematically overviewed based on their MOF template precursors. Among them, ZIF-8 derived carbon electrode materials are summarized in detail and different approaches for the improvement of their CDI performance are particularly discussed. We believe this review could function as a guidance of innovative development of Zn-based MOF-derived carbon materials and provide future directions for further improving their CDI performance.
Interleukin-6 blockade reduces salt-induced cardiac inflammation and fibrosis in subtotal nephrectomized mice
Authors: Tanaka Hiroya , Sun Ting , Kinashi Hiroshi , Kamiya Keisuke , Yamaguchi Makoto , Nobata Hironobu , Sakata Fumiko , Kim Hangsoo , Mizuno Masashi , Kunoki Shunnosuke , Sakai Yukinao , Hirayama Akiyoshi , Soga Tomoyoshi , Yoshikawa Kazuhiro , Ishimoto Takuji , Ito Yasuhiko
Published: September 2022

In the present study, IL-6 blockade exerted anti-inflammatory, antifibrotic, and partial antioxidative effects on the hearts of mice with CKD on a high-salt diet. Therefore, IL-6 potentially mediates cardiac fibrosis induced by high salt intake in patients with CKD, a finding with therapeutic implications. Of note, the next therapeutic implication may simply be the reinforcement of low-salt diets or diuretics and further research on the anti-inflammatory effects of these measures rather than IL-6 blockade with high-salt diet.
The choroid plexus: a missing link in our understanding of brain development and function
Authors: Saunders Norman R. , Dziegielewska Katarzyna M. , Fame Ryann M. , Lehtinen Maria K. , Liddelow Shane A.
Published: September 2022

Studies of the choroid plexus lag behind those of the more widely known blood-brain barrier, despite a much longer history. This review has two overall aims. The first is to outline long-standing areas of research where there are unanswered questions, such as control of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) secretion and blood flow. The second aim is to review research over the past 10 years where the focus has shifted to the idea that there are choroid plexuses located in each of the brain’s ventricles that make specific contributions to brain development and function through molecules they generate for delivery via the CSF. These factors appear to be particularly important for aspects of normal brain growth. Most research carried out during the twentieth century dealt with the choroid plexus, a brain barrier interface making critical contributions to the composition and stability of the brain’s internal environment throughout life. More recent research in the twenty-first century has shown the importance of choroid plexus-generated CSF in neurogenesis, influence of sex and other hormones on choroid plexus function, and choroid plexus involvement in circadian rhythms and sleep. The advancement of technologies to facilitate delivery of brain-specific therapies via the CSF to treat neurological disorders is a rapidly growing area of research. Conversely, understanding the basic mechanisms and implications of how maternal drug exposure during pregnancy impacts the developing brain represents another key area of research.
Carbon-Based Materials as Effective Adsorbents for the Removal of Pharmaceutical Compounds from Aqueous Solution
Authors: Teo Chian Ying , Jong Jim Sii Jack , Chan Yee Qian
Published: September 2022

Antibiotics are emerging water pollutants that have attracted significant attention from the scientific community. Antibiotics are generally released via hospital effluents, industrial production waste, animal manure, and irrigated agricultural land. Antibiotic residues can harm all living organisms, with the most detrimental consequence being the generation of antibiotic-resistant microorganisms, commonly known as “superbugs.” Antimicrobial resistance is a concern to the healthcare community as it complicates the treatment of infections. Thus, the development of effective and economical technologies to remove antibiotics from the environment is necessary. Adsorption is a promising technology owing to its effectiveness and high operational feasibility, and carbon-based adsorbents are primitive materials that are particularly suited for antibiotic adsorption. Herein, an overview of the current state of antibiotic pollution will be summarised, including the adverse effects of different antibiotics and challenges associated with antibiotic removal. The adsorption behaviours of tetracycline (TC), quinolone, penicillin, and macrolides on carbon-based adsorbents (i.e., activated carbon, carbon nanotubes, and graphene-based materials) are reviewed. The interactions between antibiotics and carbon-based adsorbents, adsorption mechanism, and adsorption behaviour under different conditions are emphasised. In addition, the limitations of adsorption technology are highlighted to direct future research.
Neural Fuzzy Hybrid Rule-Based Inference System with Test Cases for Prediction of Heart Attack Probability
Authors: Jha Rahul Kumar , Henge Santosh Kumar , Mandal Sanjeev Kumar , Sharma Amit , Sharma Supriya , Sharma Ashok , Berhanu Afework Aemro
Published: September 2022

Heart disease has reached to the number one position in last decade in terms of mortality rate, and more wretchedly, heart attack has affected life in 80% of the cases. Cardiac arrest is an incurable incongruity that requires special treatment and cure. It has been a key research area for many years, and the number of researchers across the globe is devoted toward finding the optimal solution to avoid the ill-effect of this disease. Along with predicting heart disease, if focus moves towards prevention of heart attack as well, then this could result in major life saver area for masses. This research work is fully devoted toward finding out the probability of heart attack so that people can take preventive measure before it hit the wall. This research proposed the neural fuzzy inference system (NFIS) to represent the training data formed from the n-dimensions of functions. The NFIS consists of error computing module to improve the learning instructions when the errors have been measured, initially the membership functions are defined, and the parameters of membership functions are activated and learnt through when needed for an operation. The proposed methodology has experimented with sample test cases on Cleveland heart disease dataset from University of California Irvine (UCI) repository with the integration of supporting dependable and nondependable parameters, causing-factors, and data-matrices. This research has integration more than 13000 fuzzification rules to generate best decision-making, normalization process, planting techniques to create the feasibility to compute the heart attack probability and achieved 94 percentage of accuracy. This research can be extendable to build auto-altering and advise system with integration hardware peripheral circuit devices.
miR-328-5p Induces Human Intervertebral Disc Degeneration by Targeting WWP2
Authors: Yan Jing , Wu Lun-Gang , Zhang Ming , Fang Tao , Pan Wei , Zhao Jia-Li , Zhou Quan
Published: September 2022

Intervertebral disc degeneration (IDD) development is regulated by miRNA, including inflammatory reactions, cell apoptosis, and degradation of extracellular matrix. Nucleus pulposus cells apoptosis has a absolute influence in the development of IDD. This experiment explores the mechanism of miR-328-5p regulating IDD. Through the analysis of miRNA and mRNA microarray database, we screened the target genes miR-328-5p and WWP2. We verified the expression of miR-328-5p, WWP2, and related apoptotic genes in normal and degenerative nucleus pulposus tissues by qRT-PCR. The expressions of WWP2, Bcl-2, and Bax were detected by qRT-PCR and western blot after transfection to nucleus pulposus cell. The nucleus pulposus cell proliferation and apoptosis after transfection were confirmed by CCK8 and flow cytometry. Luciferase reporter assay and bioinformatics analyzed the targeting relationship between miR-328-5p and WWP2. Firstly, the qRT-PCR experiments confirmed the significant increase of miR-328-5p expression, while significant reduction of WWP2 in a degenerative tissues compared to the normal tissues. Surprisingly, miR-328-5p expression was positively, while that of WWP2 negatively correlated with the degeneration grade of IDD. And we also identified the high expression of Bax and Caspase3, while low expression of Bcl-2 in a degenerative tissues. After miR-328-5p mimic transfected into nucleus pulposus cell, qRT-PCR and western blot confirmed that WWP2 and Bcl-2 expressions were downregulated, while Bax and Caspase3 expressions were upregulated, and the same results were obtained by knocking down WWP2. CCK8 and flow cytometry confirmed that miR-328-5p inhibited the proliferation and induced apoptosis of nucleus pulposus cells. WWP2 is a target gene of miR-328-5p by bioinformatics and luciferase reporter assay. In summary, miR-328-5p targets WWP2 to regulate nucleus pulposus cells apoptosis and then participates in the development of IDD. Furthermore, this study may provide new references and ideas for IDD treatment.
Effect of Steaming as Postprocessing Method on Rice Flour and Jaggery 3D Printed Construct
Authors: Thangalakshmi S. , Arora Vinkel Kumar , Kaur Barjinder Pal , Singh Rakhi , Malakar Santanu , Rathi Shweta , Tarafdar Ayon
Published: September 2022

In this study, the 3D printing of a traditional South Indian snack, “sweet pidikollukattai” has been attempted. The mixing properties of the rice flour used and thermal characteristics of the paste (rice flour, jaggery, and water) have been reported. The traditional form of the product (control) was compared with the 3D printed product, which has been postprocessed by steaming at different time durations (S1-5, S2-10, S3-15 min). A comparative evaluation of the proximate analysis, colour, weight, dimensional measurement, texture profile analysis, and sensory characteristics was done for all samples. No significant difference was observed in colour, proximate composition, weight, and dimensional variation between the 3D printed samples and the control sample. Texture profile analysis revealed that the S2 score is comparable to the control sample. S2 also scored higher on the sensory scale compared to other samples. It was concluded that the 3D printed sample of the recipe, steamed for 10 min, has better acceptability compared to other samples.