bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Accelerometer techniques for capturing human movement validated against direct observation: a scoping review
Authors: Letts Elyse , Jakubowski Josephine S , King-Dowling Sara , Clevenger Kimberly , Kobsar Dylan , Obeid Joyce
Published: April 2024

Objective. Accelerometers are devices commonly used to measure human physical activity and sedentary time. Accelerometer capabilities and analytical techniques have evolved rapidly, making it difficult for researchers to keep track of advances and best practices for data processing and analysis. The objective of this scoping review is to determine the existing methods for analyzing accelerometer data for capturing human movement which have been validated against the criterion measure of direct observation. Approach. This scoping review searched 14 academic and 5 grey databases. Two independent raters screened by title and abstract, then full text. Data were extracted using Microsoft Excel and checked by an independent reviewer. Main
results. The search yielded 1039 papers and the final analysis included 115 papers. A total of 71 unique accelerometer models were used across a total of 4217 participants. While all studies underwent validation from direct observation, most direct observation occurred live (55%) or using recordings (42%). Analysis techniques included machine learning (ML) approaches (22%), the use of existing cut-points (18%), receiver operating characteristic curves to determine cut-points (14%), and other strategies including regressions and non-ML algorithms (8%). Significance. ML techniques are becoming more prevalent and are often used for activity identification. Cut-point methods are still frequently used. Activity intensity is the most assessed activity outcome; however, both the analyses and outcomes assessed vary by wear location. This scoping review provides a comprehensive overview of accelerometer analysis and validation techniques using direct observation and is a useful tool for researchers using accelerometers.
Excited Dirac stars with higher azimuthal harmonic index
Authors: Huang Long-Xing , Sun Shi-Xian , Zhang Rong , Liang Chen , Wang Yong-Qiang
Published: April 2024

In this paper, we investigate the properties of the first excited state Dirac stars (DSs) with higher azimuthal harmonic index (specifically, the azimuthal harmonic indexes mD
= 3/2, 5/2, 7/2), as well as the relationship between the ADM mass and angular momentum of Dirac stars with respect to frequency. Moreover, we find that the ergospheres of DSs appear at lower spinor field frequencies, and both the ergospheres and the distribution of the spinor field functions are asymmetric about the equatorial plane. Furthermore, we introduce the ground state scalar field and examine its impact on this system, which is known as the multi-state Dirac-boson stars (DBSs) model. We show various types of solution families for DBSs under both synchronized frequency ω and nonsynchronized frequencies and find that similar to DSs, the spinor field and the ergospheres of DBSs are also asymmetric about the equatorial plane, but the ergospheres appear at higher spinor field frequencies.
Interplay between magnetic gap and quasi-particle lifetime in topological insulator ferromagnet/f-wave superconductor junctions
Authors: Li Hong , Yang Xinjian
Published: April 2024

Using the modified Blonder–Tinkham–Klapwijk (BTK) theory, the interplay between the lifetime of quasi particles and the magnetic gap in a topological insulator-based ferromagnet/f-wave superconductor (TI-based FM/f–wave SC) tunnel structure is theoretically studied. Two symmetries of f
1 and f
2 waves are considered for superconducting pairing states. The results indicate that reducing the finite quasi-particle lifetime will induce a transformation of energy-gap peaks into a zero-bias peak in tunneling conductance spectrum, as well as a transformation of energy-gap dips into a zero-bias dip in shot noise spectrum, ultimately resulting in the smoothing of the zero-bias conductance peak and the zero-bias shot noise dip. An increase in magnetic gap will suppress the tunnel conductance and shot noise when the conventional Andreev retro-reflection dominates, but will enhance them when the specular Andreev reflection is dominant. Both specular Andreev reflection and conventional Andreev retro-reflection will be enhanced as the quasi-particle lifetime increases. When Fermi energy equals the magnetic gap, shot noise and tunneling conductance vanish across all energy ranges. These findings not only contribute to a better understanding of specular Andreev reflection in the FM/f–wave SC junction based on TIs but also provide insights for experimentally determining the f-wave pairing symmetry.
Quasi-three-dimensional hydrodynamics of the corona region of laser irradiation of a slab
Authors: Dong 董 Xiao-Mei 晓梅 , Guan 关 Ben-Jin 本金 , Li 李 Ying-Jun 英骏
Published: April 2024

This paper introduces and establishes a quasi-three-dimensional physical model of the interaction between a laser and a slab target. In contrast to previous one-dimensional analytical models, this paper innovatively fits the real laser conditions based on an isothermal, homogeneous expansion similarity solution of the ideal hydrodynamic equations. Using this simple model, the evolution law and analytical formulae for key parameters (e.g., temperature, density and scale length) in the corona region under certain conditions are given. The analytical solutions agree well with the relevant results of computational hydrodynamics simulation. For constant laser irradiation, the analytical solutions provide a meaningful power-law scaling relationship. The model provides a set of mathematical and physical tools that give theoretical support for adjusting parameters in experiments.
Feedback of Efficient Shock Acceleration on Magnetic-field Structure Inside Young Type Ia Supernova Remnants
Authors: Shen Jun-Yu , Bao Bi-Wen , Zhang Li
Published: April 2024

Using an effective adiabatic index γ
eff to mimic the feedback of efficient shock acceleration, we simulate the temporal evolution of a young type Ia supernova remnant (SNR) with two different background magnetic field (BMF) topologies: a uniform and a turbulent BMF. The density distribution and magnetic-field characteristics of our benchmark SNR are studied with two-dimensional cylindrical magnetohydrodynamic simulations. When γ
eff is considered, we find that: (1) the two-shock structure shrinks and the downstream magnetic-field orientation is dominated by the Rayleigh–Taylor instability structures; (2) there exists more quasi-radial magnetic fields inside the shocked region; and (3) inside the intershock region, both the quasi-radial magnetic energy density and the total magnetic energy density are enhanced: in the radial direction, with γ
eff = 1.1, they are amplified about 10–26 times more than those with γ
eff = 5/3. While in the angular direction, the total magnetic energy densities could be amplified about 350 times more than those with γ
eff = 5/3, and there are more grid cells within the intershock region where the magnetic energy density is amplified by a factor greater than 100.
Semantic image sorting method for RSVP presentation
Authors: Wu Hao , Li Fu , Chu Wenlong , Li Yang , Niu Yi , Shi Guangming , Zhang Lijian , Chen Yuanfang
Published: April 2024

Objective. The rapid serial visual presentation (RSVP) paradigm, which is based on the electroencephalogram (EEG) technology, is an effective approach for object detection. It aims to detect the event-related potentials (ERP) components evoked by target images for rapid identification. However, the object detection performance within this paradigm is affected by the visual disparity between adjacent images in a sequence. Currently, there is no objective metric to quantify this visual difference. Consequently, a reliable image sorting method is required to ensure the generation of a smooth sequence for effective presentation. Approach. In this paper, we propose a novel semantic image sorting method for sorting RSVP sequences, which aims at generating sequences that are perceptually smoother in terms of the human visual experience. Main results. We conducted a comparative analysis between our method and two existing methods for generating RSVP sequences using both qualitative and quantitative assessments. A qualitative evaluation revealed that the sequences generated by our method were smoother in subjective vision and were more effective in evoking stronger ERP components than those generated by the other two methods. Quantitatively, our method generated semantically smoother sequences than the other two methods. Furthermore, we employed four advanced approaches to classify single-trial EEG signals evoked by each of the three methods. The classification results of the EEG signals evoked by our method were superior to those of the other two methods. Significance. In summary, the results indicate that the proposed method can significantly enhance the object detection performance in RSVP-based sequences.
Pseudomagnetic fields in fully relaxed twisted bilayer and trilayer graphene
Authors: Ceferino A , Guinea F
Published: April 2024

We present simple models to describe the in-plane and the out-of-plane lattice relaxation in twisted bilayer and symmetrically twisted trilayer graphene. Analytical results and series expansions show that for twist angles

θ
>

1.4

∘

, the in-plane atomic displacements lead to pseudomagnetic fields weakly dependent on θ. In symmetrically twisted trilayer graphene, the central layer in-plane relaxation is greatly enhanced. The joint effect of the relaxation-induced pseudoscalar potentials and the associated energy difference between interlayer dimer and non-dimer pairs resulted in a significant electron–hole asymmetry both in twisted bilayer and trilayer graphene.
A comprehensive simulation study of multi-junction solar cell
Authors: Hu Yi , Chen Benyuan , Xu Peng
Published: April 2024

This study conducts comprehensive simulation analysis of typical triple-junction solar cells using Silvaco ATLAS. Initially, modeling and simulation of the typical triple-junction solar cells under the AM1.5 solar spectrum at 300 K are performed to characterize various performance parameters of the cells under one sun illumination. Subsequently, the impact of the thickness of the top and middle cell layers on the efficiency of the cells is analyzed. Additionally, the influence of doping concentration errors in individual sub-cells on the overall power deviation of the cells is investigated. Moreover, Al0.9Ga0.1As is employed to replace AlInP as the top FSF (Front Surface Field). Furthermore, the study analyzes the variation of internal radiation efficiency of the top and middle sub-cells of the solar cells with concentration factor and bias voltage. Finally, an assessment is made on the effects of different positions and densities of interface defects, as well as the introduction of class-acceptor Gaussian distribution state levels induced by defects, on the performance of the solar cells. The results indicate that this study provides valuable insights for optimizing multi-junction solar cells and analyzing internal physical phenomena.
Microstructures and properties of 7075 aluminum alloy and CP780 steel resistance spot welded joint assisted by magnetic field
Authors: Zhu Xiaoou , Li Yu , Liu Zhanqi , Chen Xueting , Yin Guili
Published: April 2024

Joining steel and aluminum is vital for lightweight automobile but still challenging due to their different physical properties. Herein, resistance spot welding tests were performed on CP780 high-strength steel (thickness 1 mm) and 7075 aluminum alloy (thickness 1.5 mm) dissimilar metals under steady-state magnetic field. The influences of magnetic field (B = 40 mT) on the structure of welded joints, the phase composition/content of intermetallic compounds, and tensile properties of welded joints were analyzed under different welding current conditions (I = 9 kA,10 kA, 11 kA, and 12 kA). At the same welding current, the Lorentz force generated by the additional magnetic field promoted the outward circumferential movement of the molten metal in the weld along the horizontal surface , as well as increased the diameter of the Fe/Al contact interface in the weld nugget along the horizontal direction, conducive to the effective utilization of heat of the resistance spot welding. Except under (11 kA-0 mT) and (11 kA-40 mT), welded joints under other welding parameters displayed a few welding defects, such as incomplete fusion and shrinkage cavity formed at the cross-section of the welded joints. Therefore, the synergism between the magnetic field and appropriate welding current held important roles in the formation of welded joints without obvious welding defects. The intermetallic compounds of all the welds were mainly composed of (Fe, Si)Al2 and (Fe, Si)Al5. Meanwhile, the thickness and content of the intermetallic compounds layer reduced under a magnetic field at the same welding current, significantly improving the tensile properties of the welded joints. The comprehensive properties of welded joints were the best under 11 kA-40 mT, with an average shear force increase from 3.02 kN to 3.49 kN (15.56%) and an average displacement increase from 1.01 mm to 1.22 mm (20.79%). Overall, the proposed dissimilar aluminum/steel resistance spot welded joint assisted by magnetic field looks promising for lightweight automobile use.
Impact of the tool shoulder diameter to pin diameter ratio and welding speed on the performance of friction sir-welded AA7075-T651 Al alloy butt joints
Authors: Hammad Ali S , Lu Hong , Seleman Mohamed M El-Sayed , Ahmed Mohamed M Z , Alamry Ali , Zhang Jun , Huang He , Alzahrani Bandar , Yang Guangao , Abd El-Aty Ali , EL-Deeb Ibrahim S
Published: April 2024

This study investigates the friction stir welding (FSW) of aluminum alloy 7075-T651, mainly focusing on managing heat generation during the process. The critical parameters influencing heat amount and the material flow including FSW tool shoulder diameter (SD) and travel speed (TS) were investigated. Two far different SD of 10 mm and 20 mm with constant pin diameter (PD) of 5.70 mm that resulted in PD: SD ratios of 1:1.75 and 1: 3.50, respectively, were employed. Furthermore, three different travel speeds of 25, 50, and 75 mm min−1 at a constant rotation rate of 600 rpm were used in combination with the two PD: SD ratios. The macrographic and radiographic results indicated that the smallest PD: SD ratio has successfully achieved sound friction stir welded (FSWed) joints for the same travel speeds. Results also indicated that a significant amount of material deformed under a high PD: SD ratioat a high TS of 75 mm min−1, while flash increased with reducing PD: SD ratio.Mechanical properties were compared, revealing that hardness in the nugget zone (NZ) decreased with a lower TS of 25 mm min−1. A small PD: SD ratioallowed for more symmetrical heat distribution, supported by the hardness map. The ultimate tensile strength decreased with increasing TS, and the highest ultimate strength, reaching 319 MPa, was observed with a 1:1.75 ratio and TS of 25 mm min−1. X-ray diffraction analysis (XRD) found an increase in peaks with increasing shoulder diameter and the number of peaks increased with decreasing travel speeds.
Beyond the aggregated paradigm: phenology and structure in mutualistic networks
Authors: Payrató-Borràs Clàudia , Gracia-Lázaro Carlos , Hernández Laura , Moreno Yamir
Published: April 2024

Mutualistic relationships, where species interact to obtain mutual benefits, constitute an essential component of natural ecosystems. The use of ecological networks to represent the species and their ecological interactions allows the study of structural and dynamic patterns common to different ecosystems. However, by neglecting the temporal dimension of mutualistic communities, relevant insights into the organization and functioning of natural ecosystems can be lost. Therefore, it is crucial to incorporate empirical phenology -the cycles of species’ activity within a season- to fully understand the impact of temporal variability on network architecture. In this paper, by using empirical datasets together with a set of synthetic models, we propose a framework to characterize the phenology of plant-pollinator communities and assess how it reshapes their portrayal as a network. Analyses of three empirical cases reveal that non-trivial information is missed when representing the network of interactions as static, which leads to overestimating the value of fundamental structural features. We discuss the implications of our findings for mutualistic relationships and intra-guild competition for common resources. We show that recorded interactions and species’ activity duration are pivotal factors in accurately replicating observed patterns within mutualistic communities. Furthermore, our exploration of synthetic models underscores the system-specific character of the mechanisms driving phenology, increasing our understanding of the complexities of natural ecosystems.
Limited Pancomputationalism
Authors: Anderson Neal G , Piccinini Gualtiero
Published: April 2024

This chapter considers limited pancomputationalism, according to which every physical system objectively performs at least one computation. We identify three forms of limited pancomputationalism—causal, informational, and universal—and analyze each in detail. Causal limited pancomputationalism holds that because every physical system has causal structure, every physical system performs the computation that has that same causal structure. Informational limited pancomputationalism presumes that every physical state carries information and that all information processing is computation, so every evolving physical system computes because its natural evolution transforms its information-carrying states. Universal limited pancomputationalism combines the notion that all physical systems compute with the fact that the universe is a physical system to conclude that the universe is a computing system. We conclude that all three forms fail because of weaknesses in the computational descriptions on which their claims are based, because of what their arguments presume, or both.
The Moral Universe
Authors: Bengson John , Cuneo Terence , Shafer-Landau Russ
Published: April 2024

The Moral Universe develops a metaethical theory that is both realist and nonnaturalist. Employing a distinctive methodology, the book constructs a view designed to capture the idea that moral standards regarding what to do and how to be are not only objectively authoritative, but essentially so. Rather than arising from personal schemes or collective ideals, morality flows from the nature of things. One of the principal aims of the book is to show how this view accommodates and explains a wide range of data concerning the metaphysical and normative dimensions of morality. The discussion is wide-ranging: the authors assemble a set of theses about the character of moral reasons, requirements, values, and fittingness, maintaining that all are constrained by a set of fixed points governing our interpersonal relations. The book falls into four Parts. The first, Foundations, lays out its methodology and offers detailed characterizations of moral realism and nonnaturalism. The second, Metaphysics, investigates ontological questions about moral reality, contending that there is such a thing and that it is objective. The third Part, Normativity, explores the authority of moral considerations, developing a view according to which there are strong moral reasons. Finally, the fourth Part, Moral Essence, builds to a sustained defense of nonnaturalism, by extending and deepening the treatment of the objective authority of morality offered in the previous two Parts.
Strong Moral Reasons
Authors: Bengson John , Cuneo Terence , Shafer-Landau Russ
Published: April 2024

Why are there moral reasons that are both categorical and excellent? This chapter seeks to answer this question. It lays the groundwork by elucidating the notions of worth and fittingness. Combining these notions, the chapter introduces the notion of a befitting action, defined as one in which an agent fittingly treats what has substantial morally relevant worth in a way such that, were she to fail to perform it, she would thereby treat what has substantial morally relevant worth as having less such worth than it has. A corresponding definition of unbefitting action is offered. These definitions enable the following explanation: There is categorical, excellent moral reason to φ if and because φing is befitting; there is categorical, excellent moral reason to refrain from φing if and because φing is unbefitting. The remainder of the chapter defends this explanation.
Africa–Asia: a tale of worldmaking between alterity and contestation
Authors: Benabdallah Lina
Published: April 2024

Is South-South Cooperation providing a path of alterity for Global South states or is it indelibly caught in extractive and exploitative competition over resources and markets? Do Chinese engagements in the Global South increase African agency? Do they compete with or undermine Western-led Liberal International Order norms and standards? There is now a robust scholarship examining the failures and trepidations of the Liberal International Order especially from the vantage point of Global South perspectives. This scholarship sheds light, among other things, on the threat posed to the existing order by emerging powers engaging in South-South cooperation. Yet, despite the anxiety (or excitement) around South-South cooperation as an alternative to the liberal order, the question remains one of substance and concrete outcomes on whether the global order as we know it is being challenged or reinforced by emerging powers. This article argues for the need to look beyond the state as the main focus of analysis and interrogate the mechanisms, processes, and strategies undertaken by a wide array of actors engaging in South-South Cooperation. The article surveys African Affairs scholarship which takes a granular analysis of these dynamics on the ground from the perspectives of enterprises, agents, private business ventures and so on from China, India, and Brazil and how they navigate their engagements with African counterparts.
Palms of the past: can morphometric phytolith analysis inform deep time evolution and palaeoecology of Arecaceae?
Authors: Brightly W H , Crifò C , Gallaher T J , Hermans R , Lavin S , Lowe A J , Smythies C A , Stiles E , Wilson Deibel P , Strömberg C A E
Published: April 2024

Background and aims

Palm fossils are often used as evidence for warm and wet palaeoenvironments, reflecting the affinities of most modern palms. However, several extant palm lineages tolerate cool and/or arid climates, making a clear understanding of the taxonomic composition of ancient palm communities important for reliable palaeoenvironmental inference. However, taxonomically identifiable palm fossils are rare and often confined to specific facies. Although the resolution of taxonomic information they provide remains unclear, phytoliths (microscopic silica bodies) provide a possible solution because of their high preservation potential under conditions where other plant fossils are scarce. We thus evaluate the taxonomic and palaeoenvironmental utility of palm phytoliths.

Methods

We quantified phytolith morphology of 97 modern palm and other monocot species. Using this dataset, we tested the ability of five common discriminant methods to identify nine major palm clades. We then compiled a dataset of species’ climate preferences and tested if they were correlated with phytolith morphology using a phylogenetic comparative approach. Finally, we reconstructed palm communities and palaeoenvironmental conditions at six fossil sites.

Key results

Best-performing models correctly identified phytoliths to their clade of origin only 59 % of the time. Although palms were generally distinguished from non-palms, few palm clades were highly distinct, and phytolith morphology was weakly correlated with species’ environmental preferences. Reconstructions at all fossil sites suggested that palm communities were dominated by Trachycarpeae and Areceae, with warm, equable climates and high, potentially seasonal rainfall. However, fossil site reconstructions had high uncertainty and often conflicted with other climate proxies.

Conclusions

While phytolith morphology provides some distinction among palm clades, caution is warranted. Unlike prior spatially restricted studies, our geographically and phylogenetically broad study indicates phytolith morphology may not reliably differentiate most palm taxa in deep time. Nevertheless, it reveals distinct clades, including some likely to be palaeoenvironmentally informative.
Cellulite and the Aesthetic Management of the Buttocks and Thighs: 6 Cases Illustrating Targeted Verifiable Subcision as Part of a Multimodal Approach to Lower Body Rejuvenation
Authors: Casas Laurie A , Calobrace M Bradley , Franco Johnny , Harrington Jennifer , Hustak Kristi , Shridharani Sachin M
Published: April 2024

Background

In the buttocks and thighs, skin quality, focal adiposity, volume deficiency, skin laxity, and/or textural issues each contribute to overall appearance. For patients undergoing rejuvenation/beautification procedures, global improvement is desired, making multimodal treatment the standard of care to address these mechanistically distinct concerns. Resolution of cellulite depressions is central to patient satisfaction and aesthetic outcomes: without management, the overall aesthetic suffers, and patients are left partially unsatisfied with treatment results. With minimally invasive Targeted Verifiable Subcision (TVS; Avéli [Revelle Aesthetics, Inc., Mountain View, CA]), septa with a confirmed role in dimple formation can be released through mechanically verified subcision, permitting consistent outcomes.

Objectives

Discuss the application of TVS as part of a multimodal approach to buttock and thigh rejuvenation and share best practices for obtaining optimal improvement.

Methods

A group of 6 experts in aesthetic plastic surgery and dermatology convened for a 2 h roundtable discussion of select case studies, best practices, and their approaches for obtaining optimal outcomes in clinical practice.

Results

Clinical cases from 6 patients who presented for buttock and/or thigh rejuvenation/beautification are presented where TVS was applied as part of a multimodal approach. Before and after images, details of patient cases, and a discussion of best practices for patient education and evaluation, treatment planning, technique, safety, postprocedure care, and open research questions are included.

Conclusions

TVS is emerging as a valuable tool for the treatment of cellulite in the buttocks and thighs that may potentially be used alongside surgical and nonsurgical approaches, often on the same day.

Level of Evidence: 4
The long non-coding RPPH1 is decreased in leukocytes and increased in plasma from women developing pre-eclampsia
Authors: Myhrer Dina-Marie Munkelien , Frøystad Monica , Paasche Roland Marie Cecilie , Ueland Thor , Lekva Tove
Published: April 2024

Previous studies show differentially expressed long non-coding RNA present in the placenta from women with pre-eclampsia, potentially playing a vital role in the pathogenesis of the complication. In a published microarray study, Ribonuclease P RNA component H1 was decreased in leukocytes from women that later developed pre-eclampsia. We hypothesized that Ribonuclease P RNA component H1 decreased during pregnancy in women developing pre-eclampsia and important for the development of the complication. We isolated RNA from extracellular vesicles, leukocytes and plasma using blood samples taken at weeks 22–24 and 36–38 in women who subsequently developed pre-eclampsia and from healthy pregnancy. The expression of Ribonuclease P RNA component H1 was quantified using qPCR. Expression of Ribonuclease P RNA component H1 at 22–24 weeks was further examined to investigate its discriminatory potential of subsequent pre-eclampsia and association with clinical markers. We found lower expression of Ribonuclease P RNA component H1 in leukocytes at 22–24 and 36–38 weeks amongst women who subsequent developed pre-eclampsia compared with those who did not, while increased Ribonuclease P RNA component H1 expression was found in plasma at 36–38 weeks. Pre-eclampsia risk factors could not account for this difference in the Ribonuclease P RNA component H1 expression. Prediction of pre-eclampsia at 22–24 weeks using Ribonuclease P RNA component H1 expression in leukocytes in addition to the screening algorithm used today had a significantly better performance. In conclusion, Ribonuclease P RNA component H1 expression in leukocytes was significantly decreased in women with pre-eclampsia, and the expression at 22–24 weeks associated with the subsequent development of pre-eclampsia. Ribonuclease P RNA component H1 in leukocytes may be a useful biomarker for prediction and/or early detection of pre-eclampsia and an unknown regulator of the signaling affecting immune cells.
Multimodal surface wave inversion with automatic differentiation
Authors: Liu Feng , Li Junlun , Fu Lei , Lu Laiyu
Published: April 2024

Investigating subsurface shear wave velocity (vs) structures using surface wave dispersion data involves minimizing a misfit function that is commonly solved through gradient-based optimization. Sensitivity kernels for model updates are commonly estimated using numerical differentiation, variational methods or implicit functions which however, may involve numerical instability and computational challenges when dealing with complex velocity models and large data sets. In this study, we propose a novel surface wave inversion framework in which error-free gradients are calculated by automatic differentiation (AD) and forward modelling is implemented by convenient computational graphs in the state-of-the-art deep learning framework. The AD-based inversion approach is first validated using two synthetic data sets. Then, the subsurface structures at three distinct locations, namely the Great Plains and the Long Beach in the US and Tong Zhou in China, are also derived using this method with seismic ambient noise data, which show nice consistency with those obtained using traditional methods. With the significantly improved computational efficiency, a great number of initial models can be inverted simultaneously to mitigate the impact of local minima and to estimate the uncertainty in the invert models. We have developed a new surface wave inversion package named ADsurf based on automatic differentiation and computational graphs in the deep learning framework, and its computational efficiency is also compared with the traditional finite-difference-based gradient estimation approach. While a great number of intriguing studies on the geophysical inverse problems have been conducted recently using deep learning for end-to-end mapping, the use of AD provided in the in the deep learning frameworks to assist and expedite the gradient computations are still underexploited in geophysics. Thus, it is expected that various geophysical inverse problems in many different areas beyond the surface wave inversion can also be tackled with this new paradigm in the future.
Internal null controllability for the one-dimensional heat equation with dynamic boundary conditions
Authors: Ait Ben Hassi El Mustapha , Jakhoukh Mariem , Maniar Lahcen , Zouhair Walid
Published: April 2024

The primary focus of this paper is to establish the internal null controllability for the one-dimensional heat equation featuring dynamic boundary conditions. This achievement is realized by introducing a new Carleman estimate and an observability inequality for the corresponding backward system. In conclusion, the paper includes a set of numerical experiments that serve to confirm the validity of the theoretical findings and underscore the effectiveness of the designed control with a minimal $L^{2}$-norm.
Development and evaluation of genomics informed real-time PCR assays for the detection and strain typing of Mycobacterium avium subsp. paratuberculosis
Authors: Hodgeman Rachel , Liu Yuhong , Rochfort Simone , Rodoni Brendan
Published: April 2024

Aims

This study aimed to identify specific genomic targets for the detection and strain typing of Map and analyse their sensitivity and specificity, and detect Map directly from faeces.

Methods and results

A comparative genomics approach was used to identify specific genomic targets for the detection and strain typing of Map. A Map specific qPCR using the primer pair 7132 that targets a DNA segregation ATPase protein was able to detect all strains of Map and is more sensitive than the current Johne’s disease PCR assays with a sensitivity of 0.0002 fg µl−1. A strain specific qPCR using the Atsa primer pair that targets the arylsulfase gene was able to differentiate between Type S and Type C strains of Map and was more sensitive than the IS1311 PCR and REA with a sensitivity of 40 fg µl−1 and was specific for Type S Map. Both assays successfully detected Map directly from faeces.

Conclusion

This study developed and validated two genomics informed qPCR assays, 7132B Map and Atsa Type S and found both assays to be highly specific and sensitive for the detection of Map from culture and directly from faeces. This is the first time that a probe-based qPCR has been designed and developed for Map strain typing, which will greatly improve the response time during outbreak investigations.
Client-centered detached modular housing: natural language processing-enabled design recommender system
Authors: Kim Inhan , Shin Jihye , Shah Syed Haseeb , Rehman Saddiq Ur
Published: April 2024

Designing modular housing is a complex task that necessitates a thorough understanding of the diverse needs of clients in terms of both design aesthetics and floor plan layout. Furthermore, adhering to design for manufacture and assembly (DfMA) principles adds to the complexity, as these are essential modular home requirements. Traditional construction methods frequently fail to meet the specific needs of both clients and DfMA, potentially resulting in suboptimal design solutions. Incorporating client requirements during the design phase necessitates the use of an effective system and framework to reduce changes in subsequent project stages. Existing literature lacks a suitable approach, particularly in the context of modular housing. To address this gap, this paper introduces an artificial intelligence–building information modeling recommender system (RS) for detached modular housing design. The system processes client requirements entered as text utilizing the Word2vec algorithm with the GloVe dataset, refined through transfer learning using surveyed client data of housing needs. The system recommends three distinct modular building design alternatives sourced from a building information modeling models database using cosine and Euclidean similarity functions. A sensitivity analysis ensures that client needs are considered fairly, increasing the robustness of the RS. By incorporating natural language processing, this system transforms the construction industry by making initial designs more client-centric compared with traditional methods. Furthermore, it promotes improved collaboration among clients, design, and construction teams, reducing modifications to design in later stages of construction.
Availability and utilization of molecular testing for primary central nervous system tumors among US hospitals
Authors: Parker Megan , Kazemi Foad , Krishnakumar Asha , Horowitz Melanie A , Myneni Saket , Liu Abby , Schreck Karisa C , Lucas Calixto-Hope G , Mukherjee Debraj
Published: April 2024

Advanced molecular testing has increasingly become an integral component for accurate diagnosis of central nervous system (CNS) tumors. We sought to establish the current state of molecular testing availability and approaches for the diagnosis of CNS tumors in US hospitals that conduct high volumes of CNS tumor resections. We distributed a 16-item survey inquiring about molecular testing approaches for CNS tumors to 115 neuropathologists at US hospitals with neurosurgery residency programs. Thirty-five neuropathologists (30.4%) responded to the survey, all of whom indicated their institutions perform molecular testing on CNS tumor tissue. The most commonly offered tests were MGMT methylation profiling and next-generation sequencing. Fourteen respondents (40%) indicated that their institution is able to test for and report all of the molecular alterations included in our survey. Nine (25.7%) respondents indicated that molecular testing is performed as standard of care for all patients with resected CNS tumors. Our results suggest that even in academic hospitals with a high volume of CNS tumor resections, molecular testing for these tumors is limited. Continued initiatives are necessary to expand the availability of molecular testing for CNS tumors to ensure diagnostic accuracy and guide targeted therapy.
SMARCA4-deficient central nervous system metastases: A case series and systematic review
Authors: Morris Meaghan , Ararat Kerime , Cutshall Hannah , Gokden Murat , Rodriguez Analiz , Rooper Lisa , Lindberg Matthew , Nix James Stephen
Published: April 2024

SMARCA4 alterations can be encountered in a variety of human neoplasms, and metastases to the central nervous system (CNS) are rare, offering a challenge to neuropathologists despite not representing a distinct diagnostic entity. To better understand the clinical and histologic presentation of such neoplasms, we report an observational case series and systematic review of 178 unique articles that yielded 15 published cases and 7 cases from institutional files. In the systematic review, the median age was 58 years, the male-to-female ratio was 2:1, and the most common diagnosis was lung adenocarcinoma; all CNS metastases were discovered within 1 year of presentation. In the case series, the median age was 58 years, the male-to-female ratio was 6:1, and all known metastases originated from the lung. Most patients had a smoking history and died of disease. GATA-3 positivity was seen in most case series examples. Concurrent TP53 mutations (83.3%) and a high tumor mutation rate (60%) were common. To our knowledge, this is the only case series and systematic review in the English literature aimed at assessing SMARCA4-altered metastases in the CNS and vertebral column. We highlight the challenges of neuropathologic evaluation of such tumors and provide observational evidence of early metastases, histologic appearances, and immunohistochemical findings, including previously unreported GATA-3 positivity.
The genus Oxytropis DC: application, phytochemistry, pharmacology, and toxicity
Authors: Wang Bingkang , Tian Zhenhua , Lang Shiyue , Kong Qinghe , Liu Xue , Chen Yueru , Hua Min , Zhou Qian , Yu Xiaofei , Feng Hao , Wang Fulin , Zhou Honglei
Published: April 2024

Objectives

Oxytropis DC is a perennial plant of Fabaceae family, which is widely distributed in the northern temperate zone. It is known as “locoweed” because of its toxic component swainsonine. However, it is widely used in Tibetan medicine and Mongolian medicine, mainly for the treatment of heat-clearing and detoxifying, pain-relieving, anti-inflammatory, hemostasis, and other diseases. To provide a basis for the further development and utilization of Oxytropis DC, the pieces of literature about the application, phytochemistry, pharmacological action, and toxicity of Oxytropis DC were reviewed and analyzed.

Key findings

A total of 373 chemical constituents were found from Oxytropis DC, including flavonoids, alkaloids, steroids, terpenoids, and others. Pharmacological actions mainly include antitumor, antioxidation, anti-inflammatory, analgesic, antibacterial, antifibrosis, and other pharmacological actions, among them, the antitumor effect is particularly prominent.

At present, studies on its pharmacological effects are mainly concentrated on the extracts, some flavonoids, and alkaloids. In the follow-up studies, research on the pharmacological activities of the other chemical constituents in Oxytropis should be strengthened. It has the potential to pave the way for research and development of novel Oxytropis medicines.
Bactericidal effect of bacteria isolated from the marine sponges Hymeniacidon perlevis and Halichondria panicea against carbapenem-resistant Acinetobacter baumannii
Authors: Rodriguez Jimenez Ana , Breine Anke , Whiteway Clemence , Dechamps Etienne , George Isabelle F , Van der Henst Charles
Published: April 2024

In this study, we evaluated the antimicrobial activity of bacteria isolated from the marine sponges Hymeniacidon perlevis and Halichondria panicea against seven Acinetobacter baumannii strains, the majority of which were clinically relevant carbapenem-resistant A. baumannii strains. We observed the inhibitory activity of 18 (out of 114) sponge-isolated bacterial strains against all A. baumannii strains using medium-throughput solid agar overlay assays. These inhibitory strains belonged to the genera Lactococcus, Pseudomonas, and Vagococcus. In addition, this antimicrobial activity was validated through a liquid co-cultivation challenge using an inhibitory strain of each genus and a green fluorescent protein-tagged A. baumannii strain. Fluorescence measurements indicated that the growth of A. baumannii was inhibited by the sponge isolates. In addition, the inability of A. baumannii to grow after spreading the co-cultures on solid medium allowed us to characterize the activity of the sponge isolates as bactericidal. In conclusion, this study demonstrates that marine sponges are a reservoir of bacteria that deserves to be tapped for antibiotic discovery against A. baumannii.
Rising rates of paracoccidioidomycosis-related hospitalizations and in-hospital deaths, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil (2010–2019)
Authors: Falcão Eduardo Mastrangelo Marinho , de Macedo Priscila Marques , Coutinho Ziadir Francisco , Bastos Francisco Inacio , do Valle Antonio Carlos Francesconi
Published: April 2024

The epidemiological dynamics of paracoccidioidomycosis (PCM) has been changing over the years. We analyzed secondary public data from the Hospital Information System of the Brazilian Unified Health System (SIH/SUS), focusing on PCM-related hospitalizations and in-hospital deaths. In the period between 2010 and 2019, 396 hospitalizations and 30 deaths were related to PCM among 7 073 334 hospitalizations registered in Rio de Janeiro. We highlight the rising rates, reflecting the increase in the number of acute forms previously reported. Urgent public health policies are essential to prevent poor outcomes related to this neglected mycosis.
RING 4.0: faster residue interaction networks with novel interaction types across over 35,000 different chemical structures
Authors: Del Conte Alessio , Camagni Giorgia F , Clementel Damiano , Minervini Giovanni , Monzon Alexander Miguel , Ferrari Carlo , Piovesan Damiano , Tosatto Silvio C E
Published: April 2024

Residue interaction networks (RINs) are a valuable approach for representing contacts in protein structures. RINs have been widely used in various research areas, including the analysis of mutation effects, domain-domain communication, catalytic activity, and molecular dynamics simulations. The RING server is a powerful tool to calculate non-covalent molecular interactions based on geometrical parameters, providing high-quality and reliable results. Here, we introduce RING 4.0, which includes significant enhancements for identifying both covalent and non-covalent bonds in protein structures. It now encompasses seven different interaction types, with the addition of π-hydrogen, halogen bonds and metal ion coordination sites. The definitions of all available bond types have also been refined and RING can now process the complete PDB chemical component dictionary (over 35000 different molecules) which provides atom names and covalent connectivity information for all known ligands. Optimization of the software has improved execution time by an order of magnitude. The RING web server has been redesigned to provide a more engaging and interactive user experience, incorporating new visualization tools. Users can now visualize all types of interactions simultaneously in the structure viewer and network component. The web server, including extensive help and tutorials, is available from URL: https://ring.biocomputingup.it/.
From the gut to the brain: the long journey of phenolic compounds with neurocognitive effects
Authors: Domínguez-López Inés , López-Yerena Anallely , Vallverdú-Queralt Anna , Pallàs Mercè , Lamuela-Raventós Rosa M , Pérez Maria
Published: April 2024

The human gut microbiota is a complex community of micro-organisms that play a crucial role in maintaining overall health. Recent research has shown that gut microbes also have a profound impact on brain function and cognition, leading to the concept of the gut–brain axis. One way in which the gut microbiota can influence the brain is through the bioconversion of polyphenols to other bioactive molecules. Phenolic compounds are a group of natural plant metabolites widely available in the human diet, which have anti-inflammatory and other positive effects on health. Recent studies have also suggested that some gut microbiota–derived phenolic metabolites may have neurocognitive effects, such as improving memory and cognitive function. The specific mechanisms involved are still being studied, but it is believed that phenolic metabolites may modulate neurotransmitter signaling, reduce inflammation, and enhance neural plasticity. Therefore, to exert a protective effect on neurocognition, dietary polyphenols or their metabolites must reach the brain, or act indirectly by producing an increase in bioactive molecules such as neurotransmitters. Once ingested, phenolic compounds are subjected to various processes (eg, metabolization by gut microbiota, absorption, distribution) before they cross the blood–brain barrier, perhaps the most challenging stage of their trajectory. Understanding the role of phenolic compounds in the gut–brain axis has important implications for the development of new therapeutic strategies for neurological and psychiatric disorders. By targeting the gut microbiota and its production of phenolic metabolites, it may be possible to improve brain function and prevent cognitive decline. In this article, the current state of knowledge on the endogenous generation of phenolic metabolites by the gut microbiota and how these compounds can reach the brain and exert neurocognitive effects was reviewed.
The Perils of Occupation
Authors: Varon Elizabeth R
Published: April 2024

As McClellan was driven off the Peninsula in Virginia, dramas of deliverance played out in Tennessee, Louisiana, and Maryland. Andrew Johnson and Benjamin Butler, installed as occupiers in Nashville and New Orleans, learned the hard way that white Southerners would not follow their script, and that elite women in particular scorned Federal “protection.” Hoping to press his advantage, Lee for his part set his sights on Maryland, determined to disenthrall it from the Yankee yoke, only to have Marylanders turn their backs on his army. A new standard for battlefield horror was set on September 17, 1862, at Antietam Creek, near Sharpsburg, Maryland, where the two armies inflicted 23,000 casualties in twelve hours of savage combat, making it the bloodiest single day in American history. For Union soldiers and the Northern public, Antietam furnished yet more proof of the power that falsehood and despotism exerted over the Confederates. For Lincoln, Antietam was an “indication of Divine will,” as he told his cabinet—a sign that “it was his duty to move forward in the cause of emancipation.”