bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Mechanical Metamaterials Fabricated From Self-Assembly: A Perspective
Authors: Jin Hanxun , Espinosa Horacio D.
Published: November 2023

Mechanical metamaterials, whose unique mechanical properties stem from their structural design rather than material constituents, are gaining popularity in engineering applications. In particular, recent advances in self-assembly techniques offer the potential to fabricate load-bearing mechanical metamaterials with unparalleled feature size control and scalability compared to those produced by additive manufacturing (AM). Yet, the field is still in its early stages. In this perspective, we first provide an overview of the state-of-the-art self-assembly techniques, with a focus on the copolymer and colloid crystal self-assembly processes. We then discuss current challenges and future opportunities in this research area, focusing on novel fabrication approaches, the need for high-throughput characterization methods, and the integration of Machine Learning (ML) and lab automation for inverse design. Given recent progress in all these areas, we foresee mechanical metamaterials fabricated from self-assembly techniques impacting a variety of applications relying on lightweight, strong, and tough materials.
A Data-Centric Approach to Loss Mechanisms
Authors: Senior Alistair C. , Miller Robert J.
Published: November 2023

Breaking down the total loss in a turbomachine into a number of low-order, physical models is a powerful way of developing loss models for informing design decisions. Better loss models lead to better design decisions. A problem, however, is that in complex flows, it is often not clear how to break a flow down physically without making assumptions. An additional problem is that the designer often does not know what assumptions should be made to derive the most accurate and general physical models. In practice, this problem often leads to loss models of low accuracy, which only work in a limited part of the overall design space. This paper shows that machine learning can be used to augment a designer in the process of developing loss models for complex flows. It is shown that it is able to help a designer discover new, more accurate and general, physical models, highlighting to a designer what assumptions should be made to retain the physics important to the problem. The paper illustrates the new method using the problem of compressor and turbine profile loss. This problem was chosen because it is well understood and therefore is a good way of validating the new method. However, surprisingly the new method is shown to be able to develop a new profile loss model which is more accurate and general than previous models. This is shown to have been achieved by the machine learning finding a new, more general, underlying model for trailing edge mixing loss.
Two new species of Davisella Amrine, Stasny et Flechtmann (Eriophyoidea: Diptilomiopidae) from Meliaceae trees from Bahia, Brazil
Authors: Aleluia Bianca , Navia Denise , Oliveira Anibal R.
Published: November 2023

Two new diptilomiopid mite species of the genus Davisella Amrine, Stasny et Flechtmann are described from arboreal Meliaceae of economic potential from Bahia state, Northeastern Brazil—Davisella toonae sp. nov. from the exotic tree Toona ciliata M. Roem., and Davisella cedrelae sp. nov. from the native tree Cedrela odorata L. The two new species are vagrants on lower leaflets surfaces, and no apparent damage to the host plant was observed. Most of the nine species of the genus previously described were collected from the Americas and/or associated with dicotyledons. The two new species represent the first record of the genus in Meliaceae. An expanded diagnosis of Davisella and a key to the eleven species described is provided.
Communication in Cook Inlet beluga whales: Describing the vocal repertoire and masking of calls by commercial ship noise
Authors: Brewer Arial M. , Castellote Manuel , Van Cise Amy M. , Gage Tom , Berdahl Andrew M.
Published: November 2023

Many species rely on acoustic communication to coordinate activities and communicate to conspecifics. Cataloging vocal behavior is a first step towards understanding how individuals communicate information and how communication may be degraded by anthropogenic noise. The Cook Inlet beluga population is endangered with an estimated 331 individuals. Anthropogenic noise is considered a threat for this population and can negatively impact communication. To characterize this population's vocal behavior, vocalizations were measured and classified into three categories: whistles (n = 1264, 77%), pulsed calls (n = 354, 22%), and combined calls (n = 15, 1%), resulting in 41 call types. Two quantitative analyses were conducted to compare with the manual classification. A classification and regression tree and Random Forest had a 95% and 85% agreement with the manual classification, respectively. The most common call types per category were then used to investigate masking by commercial ship noise. Results indicate that these call types were partially masked by distant ship noise and completely masked by close ship noise in the frequency range of 0–12 kHz. Understanding vocal behavior and the effects of masking in Cook Inlet belugas provides important information supporting the management of this endangered population.
Female Physiology–Endocrinology: Education Is Lacking and Innovation Is Needed!
Authors: Hackney Anthony C. , Elliott-Sale Kirsty J.
Published: November 2023

Throughout their lifespans, women undergo unique endocrinological changes relative to their reproductive hormones. The influence of how the female sex steroid hormones have nonreproductive actions is a trending topic of great interest in the exercise–sports sciences, especially among women of reproductive age. Herein, we present several key points on our perspective for moving the study of this topic forward in the future. These are (a) encouraging researchers to pursue high-quality research on female physiology–endocrinology in the exercise–sports science setting, (b) the need for exercise–sports science educational curriculums at the university level to embrace the study of female physiology–endocrinology area, and (c) the need for innovation in the study of this topic. As such, we propose using research design models involving supraphysiological hormonal states in vivo, that is, pregnancy and in vitro fertilization treatment, to gain new insights on sex steroid hormonal actions in women. Herein, we provide the rationale for our recommendations as well as a brief physiological overview of these clinical states. We acknowledge, exercise sports sciences need more studies on women! But there is a need to “think outside the box” on this topic, and we encourage researchers to be unconventional, be bold, think creatively, and contemplate whether these supraphysiological hormonal states might give them insightful information on female physiology and ovarian sex steroid hormones actions.
Ribosomal stalk-captured CARF-RelE ribonuclease inhibits translation following CRISPR signaling
Authors: Mogila Irmantas , Tamulaitiene Giedre , Keda Konstanty , Timinskas Albertas , Ruksenaite Audrone , Sasnauskas Giedrius , Venclovas Česlovas , Siksnys Virginijus , Tamulaitis Gintautas
Published: November 2023

Prokaryotic type III CRISPR-Cas antiviral systems employ cyclic oligoadenylate (cA
n
) signaling to activate a diverse range of auxiliary proteins that reinforce the CRISPR-Cas defense. Here we characterize a class of cA
n
-dependent effector proteins named CRISPR-Cas-associated messenger RNA (mRNA) interferase 1 (Cami1) consisting of a CRISPR-associated Rossmann fold sensor domain fused to winged helix-turn-helix and a RelE-family mRNA interferase domain. Upon activation by cyclic tetra-adenylate (cA
4
), Cami1 cleaves mRNA exposed at the ribosomal A-site thereby depleting mRNA and leading to cell growth arrest. The structures of apo-Cami1 and the ribosome-bound Cami1-cA
4
complex delineate the conformational changes that lead to Cami1 activation and the mechanism of Cami1 binding to a bacterial ribosome, revealing unexpected parallels with eukaryotic ribosome-inactivating proteins.
Indigenous data sovereignty—A new take on an old theme
Authors: Kukutai Tahu
Published: November 2023

A new kind of data revolution is unfolding around the world, one that is unlikely to be on the radar of tech giants and the power brokers of Silicon Valley. Indigenous Data Sovereignty (IDSov) is a rallying cry for Indigenous communities seeking to regain control over their information while pushing back against
data colonialism
and its myriad harms. Led by Indigenous academics, innovators, and knowledge-holders, IDSov networks now exist in the
United States
,
Canada
,
Aotearoa
(New Zealand),
Australia
, the
Pacific
, and
Scandinavia
, along with an international umbrella group,
the
Global Indigenous Data Alliance
(GIDA)
. Together, these networks advocate for the rights of Indigenous Peoples over data that derive from them and that pertain to Nation membership, knowledge systems, customs, or territories. This lens on data sovereignty not only exceeds narrow notions of sovereignty as data localization and jurisdictional rights but also upends the assumption that the nation state is the legitimate locus of power. IDSov has thus become an important catalyst for broader conversations about what Indigenous sovereignty means in a digital world and how some measure of self-determination can be achieved under the weight of Big Tech dominance.
Build capacity for climate action
Authors: Klinsky Sonja , Sagar Ambuj
Published: November 2023

It is clear that climate action is not on course either to achieve agreed-upon temperature goals or to protect people from increasingly severe climate impacts. The United Nations climate meeting (COP28) now underway is being called upon to provide a “course correction,” and the Global Stocktake (GST) to assess progress under the Paris Agreement has identified the need for “systems transformations.” As in previous years, COP28 will undoubtedly focus on finance and technology development and transfer, but these alone will not enable adequate, effective, and equitable climate action. It is time to expand focus to the third means of implementation: capacity building, without which a course correction involving multiple systems transformations is not going to occur.
HIV-1 infection of genetically engineered iPSC-derived central nervous system-engrafted microglia in a humanized mouse model
Authors: Min Alice K. , Javidfar Behnam , Missall Roy , Doanman Donald , Durens Madel , Graziani Mara , Mordelt Annika , Marro Samuele G. , de Witte Lotje , Chen Benjamin K. , Swartz Talia H. , Akbarian Schahram
Published: November 2023

The central nervous system (CNS) is a major human immunodeficiency virus type-1 (HIV-1) reservoir. Microglia are the primary target cell of HIV-1 infection in the CNS. Current models have not allowed the precise molecular pathways of acute and chronic CNS microglial infection to be tested with
in vivo
genetic methods. Here, we describe a novel-humanized mouse model utilizing human induced pluripotent stem cell (iPSC)-derived microglia to xenograft into murine hosts. These mice are additionally engrafted with human peripheral blood mononuclear cells that serve as a medium to establish a peripheral infection that then spreads to the CNS microglia xenograft, modeling a trans-blood-brain barrier route of acute CNS HIV-1 infection with human target cells. The approach is compatible with iPSC genetic engineering, including inserting targeted transgenic reporter cassettes to track the xenografted human cells, enabling the testing of novel treatment and viral tracking strategies in a comparatively simple and cost-effective
in vivo
model for neuroHIV.

IMPORTANCE

Our mouse model is a powerful tool for investigating the genetic mechanisms governing central nervous system (CNS) human immunodeficiency virus type-1 (HIV-1) infection and latency in the CNS at a single-cell level. A major advantage of our model is that it uses induced pluripotent stem cell-derived microglia, which enables human genetics, including gene function and therapeutic gene manipulation, to be explored
in vivo
, which is more challenging to study with current hematopoietic stem cell-based models for neuroHIV. Our transgenic tracing of xenografted human cells will provide a quantitative medium to develop new molecular and epigenetic strategies for reducing the HIV-1 latent reservoir and to test the impact of therapeutic inflammation-targeting drug interventions on CNS HIV-1 latency.
Synthetic lethality of
Mycobacterium tuberculosis
NADH dehydrogenases is due to impaired NADH oxidation
Authors: Xu Yuanyuan , Ehrt Sabine , Schnappinger Dirk , Beites Tiago
Published: November 2023

Type 2 NADH dehydrogenase (Ndh-2) is an oxidative phosphorylation enzyme discussed as a promising drug target in different pathogens, including
Plasmodium falciparum
and
Mycobacterium tuberculosis
(
Mtb
). To kill
Mtb
, Ndh-2 needs to be inactivated together with the alternative enzyme type 1 NADH dehydrogenase (Ndh-1), but the mechanism of this synthetic lethality remained unknown. Here, we provide insights into the biology of NADH dehydrogenases and a mechanistic explanation for Ndh-1 and Ndh-2 synthetic lethality in
Mtb
. NADH dehydrogenases have two main functions: maintaining an appropriate NADH/NAD+ ratio by converting NADH into NAD+ and providing electrons to the respiratory chain. Heterologous expression of a water-forming NADH oxidase (Nox), which catalyzes the oxidation of NADH, allows us to distinguish between these two functions and shows that Nox rescues
Mtb
from Ndh-1/Ndh-2 synthetic lethality, indicating that NADH oxidation is the essential function of NADH dehydrogenases for
Mtb
viability. Quantification of intracellular levels of NADH, NAD, ATP, and oxygen consumption revealed that preventing NADH oxidation by Ndh-1/Ndh-2 depletes NAD(H) and inhibits respiration. Finally, we show that Ndh-1/Ndh-2 synthetic lethality can be achieved through chemical inhibition.

IMPORTANCE

In 2022, it was estimated that 10.6 million people fell ill, and 1.6 million people died from tuberculosis (TB). Available treatment is lengthy and requires a multi-drug regimen, which calls for new strategies to cure
Mycobacterium tuberculosis
(
Mtb
) infections more efficiently. We have previously shown that simultaneous inactivation of type 1 (Ndh-1) and type 2 (Ndh-2) NADH dehydrogenases kills
Mtb
. NADH dehydrogenases play two main physiological roles: NADH oxidation and electron entry into the respiratory chain. Here, we show that this bactericidal effect is a consequence of impaired NADH oxidation. Importantly, we demonstrate that Ndh-1/Ndh-2 synthetic lethality can be achieved through simultaneous chemical inhibition, which could be exploited by TB drug development programs.
The missing ridge Enigma: A new model for the Tuamotu Plateau conjugate and Peruvian flat slab
Authors: Fletcher Michael , Wyman Derek
Published: November 2023

We present a new tectonic plate reconstruction that suggests substantial revisions to events associated with development of the Peruvian flat slab and resolves several long-standing issues regarding the subduction of bathymetric highs in the region. The Tuamotu Plateau is widely considered to be the product of Easter Plume magmatism, and plate reconstructions suggest it formed following initial plume ascent at ca. 55 Ma. The Nazca Ridge is also linked to the Easter Plume and is an obvious candidate to be the spreading ridge conjugate to the Tuamotu Plateau. Models for the paired evolution of the two ridges, however, generally stop at ca. 33 Ma because of the inability of plate reconstructions to associate the two ridges across a spreading center prior to this time. In addition, seafloor magnetic data demonstrate that the Tuamotu Plateau developed at a complexly shaped and evolving mid-oceanic ridge that precluded development of a simple mirror image conjugate of the type commonly employed in Nazca Ridge reconstructions. Seafloor isochrons also suggest that a ridge jump separated the Tuamotu Plateau from its conjugate at ca. 42 Ma. Global plate models offer an alternative approach to assessing conjugate development, by showing how a hypothetical conjugate to the Tuamotu Plateau is built up over time. Using such a model, we found that the conjugate that developed during the main stage of Tuamotu growth (55 Ma to 42 Ma) cannot be the Nazca Ridge, which appears to have initiated at ca. 42 Ma, when the Easter Plume diverted volcanism southward. We named the newly recognized conjugate the Enigma Ridge. Importantly, subduction of this ridge starting from ca. 17 Ma on the north Peruvian trench can account for the missing slab buoyancy previously attributed to the hypothesized, but controversial, Inca Plateau. The Enigma Ridge must still be providing far more buoyancy over a much greater area than the Nazca Ridge, which only began to subduct rather recently.
Integrated geologic and geophysical modeling across the Bartlett Springs fault zone, northern California (USA): Implications for fault creep and regional structure
Authors: Langenheim V.E. , McLaughlin R.J. , Melosh B.L.
Published: November 2023

The rate and location at depth of fault creep are important, but difficult to characterize, parameters needed to assess seismic hazard. Here we take advantage of the magnetic properties of serpentinite, a rock type commonly associated with fault creep, to model its depth extent along the Bartlett Springs fault zone, an important part of the San Andreas fault system north of the San Francisco Bay, California (western United States). We model aeromagnetic and gravity anomalies using geologic constraints along 14 cross sections over a distance of 120 km along the fault zone. Our results predict that the fault zone has more serpentinite at depth than inferred by geologic relationships at the surface. Existing geodetic models are inconsistent and predict different patterns of creep along the fault. Our results favor models with more extensive creep at depth. The source of the serpentinite appears to be ophiolite thrust westward and beneath the Franciscan Complex, an interpretation supported by the presence of antigorite, a high-temperature serpent ine mineral stable at depth, in fault gouge near Lake Pillsbury.
Anaplasmosis encephalitis and infection of non-myeloid bone marrow precursors
Authors: Sohani Zahra , Zhao Nan , Weiss Karl , Knecht Hans
Published: November 2023

Due to climate change, infections from tickborne pathogens are becoming more prevalent in the Northern Hemisphere. Human granulocytic anaplasmosis, caused by the obligate intracellular gram-negative bacteriaAnaplasma phagocytophilumand carried byIxodesticks, can lead to morbidity and mortality in select populations. Anaplasmosis is commonly accompanied by significant cytopaenia, the pathophysiology of which remains unknown. Our case report describes an uncommon meningoencephalitic presentation of anaplasmosis with substantial anaemia and thrombocytopaenia. Additionally, we propose a mechanism of bone marrow infection and suppression byA. phagocytophilumwhich may be responsible for the cytopaenia in anaplasmosis and provide pictographic evidence of anaplasma in peripheral blood, cerebrospinal fluid and bone marrow.
Recruitment of participants with pancreatic cancer to a mixed media study for optimal recruitment in an Australasian survey of pancreatic enzyme replacement
Authors: Landers Amanda , Cahill Charlotte , McCall Poppy , Kaw Anu , Brown Helen , McKenzie Clare , Agar Meera , Yenson Vanessa , Clarke Kate , Windsor John
Published: November 2023

Background

Pancreatic cancer is relatively rare and aggressive, with digestion and malabsorption issues often leading to significant weight loss. Recruitment of people with this malignancy into studies can be challenging, and innovative methods need to be explored to improve recruitment rates.

Aim

To describe a mixed media methodology and the outcomes used to recruit patients to participate in a binational survey.

Methods

The details of the mixed media method used to identify and recruit people with pancreatic cancer are described. This method was used to investigate pancreatic enzyme replacement therapy use in people with pancreatic cancer across Australia and Aotearoa New Zealand.

Results

The mixed media approach was successful in reaching 334 participants from a range of ethnicities and regions. Results showed that social media platforms were notably more efficient and cost-effective than radio and newspaper but required additional expertise, including graphic design and media strategy knowledge.

Conclusions

Social media is an effective and efficient method of recruiting people with pancreatic cancer to a national survey. Studies using media to recruit patients may need to include team members with a range of skills.
Quality and reporting of large-scale improvement programmes: a review of maternity initiatives in the English NHS, 2010–2023
Authors: McGowan James , Attal Bothaina , Kuhn Isla , Hinton Lisa , Draycott Tim , Martin Graham P , Dixon-Woods Mary
Published: November 2023

Background

Large-scale improvement programmes are a frequent response to quality and safety problems in health systems globally, but have mixed impact. The extent to which they meet criteria for programme quality, particularly in relation to transparency of reporting and evaluation, is unclear.

Aim

To identify large-scale improvement programmes focused on intrapartum care implemented in English National Health Service maternity services in the period 2010–2023, and to conduct a structured quality assessment.

Methods

We drew on the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses extension for Scoping Reviews guidance to inform the design and reporting of our study. We identified relevant programmes using multiple search strategies of grey literature, research databases and other sources. Programmes that met a prespecified definition of improvement programme, that focused on intrapartum care and that had a retrievable evaluation report were subject to structured assessment using selected features of programme quality.

Results

We identified 1434 records via databases and other sources. 14 major initiatives in English maternity services could not be quality assessed due to lack of a retrievable evaluation report. Quality assessment of the 15 improvement programmes meeting our criteria for assessment found highly variable quality and reporting. Programme specification was variable and mostly low quality. Only eight reported the evidence base for their interventions. Description of implementation support was poor and none reported customisation for challenged services. None reported reduction of inequalities as an explicit goal. Only seven made use of explicit patient and public involvement practices, and only six explicitly used published theories/models/frameworks to guide implementation. Programmes varied in their reporting of the planning, scope and design of evaluation, with weak designs evident.

Conclusions

Poor transparency of reporting and weak or absent evaluation undermine large-scale improvement programmes by limiting learning and accountability. This review indicates important targets for improving quality in large-scale programmes.
Should I take aspirin? A qualitative study on the implementation of a decision aid on taking aspirin for bowel cancer prevention
Authors: Onwuka Shakira , McIntosh Jennifer , Boyd Lucy , Karnchanachari Napin , Macrae Finlay , Fishman George , Emery Jon
Published: November 2023

Objectives

Australian guidelines recommend 50–70 years consider taking aspirin to reduce their bowel cancer risk. We trialled a decision aid in general practice to facilitate the implementation of these guidelines into clinical practice. This publication reports on the qualitative results from the process evaluation of the trial. We aimed to explore general practitioners’ (GPs) and their patients’ approach to shared decision-making (SDM) about taking aspirin to prevent bowel cancer and how the decision aids were used in practice.

Methods

Semistructured interviews were conducted with 17 participants who received the decision aid and 12 GPs who participated in the trial between June and November 2021. The interviews were coded inductively, and emerging themes were mapped onto the Revised Programme Theory for SDM.

Results

The study highlighted the dynamics of SDM for taking aspirin to prevent bowel cancer. Some participants discussed the decision aid with their GPs as advised prior to taking aspirin, others either took aspirin or dismissed it outright without discussing it with their GPs. Notably, participants’ trust in their GPs, and participants’ diverse worldviews played pivotal roles in their decisions. Although the decision aid supported SDM for some, it was not always prioritised in a consultation. This was likely impacted during the trial period as the COVID-19 pandemic was the focus for general practice.

Conclusion

In summary, this study illustrated the complexities of SDM through using a decision aid in general practice to implement the guidelines for low-dose aspirin to prevent bowel cancer. While the decision aid prompted some participants to speak to their GPs, they were also heavily influenced by their unwavering trust in the GPs and their different worldviews. In the face of the COVID-19 pandemic, SDM was not highly prioritised. This study provides insights into the implementation of guidelines into clinical practice and highlights the need for ongoing support and prioritisation of cancer prevention in general practice consultations.

Trial registration number

ACTRN12620001003965.
Social and economic factors associated with child unintentional injury mortality in high-income countries
Authors: Shimony-Kanat Sarit , Orr Daniela , Falk Amir
Published: November 2023

Introduction

Recognising the connection between country-level social determinants of health, and child unintentional injury mortality can contribute to better resource allocation for child safety. This cross-sectional country-level study aims to investigate such a link where the role of income inequality (Gini Index) is examined alongside education expenditure, current health expenditure and gross national income (GNI) per capita.

Methods

A total of 49 high-income countries were studied, using the WHO Global Health Estimates 2016, the World Bank’s World Development Indicators for education and GNI per capita, and the standardised world income inequality database to compile estimates of child unintentional injury mortality rates and selected socioeconomic characteristics.

Results

A wide range of childhood mortality rates from unintentional injury was observed (1.3–10.0 deaths per 100 000 children). Such risk is strongly associated with income inequality (0.50), GNI per capita (–0.35) and education expenditure (–0.01) (mediated by income inequality). No association was found to current health expenditure. The results explain 52% of the variance in child unintentional injury mortality.

Conclusions

In countries with higher overall economic activity and lower-income inequality, child mortality from unintentional injuries is lower. Allocation of education expenditure is one contributor to reducing income inequality; other factors need further exploration.
Metabolomic profiles, polygenic risk scores and risk of rheumatoid arthritis: a population-based cohort study in the UK Biobank
Authors: Fang Xin-Yu , Zhang Jie , Qian Ting-Ting , Gao Peng , Wu Qing , Fang Quan , Ke Su-Su , Huang Rong-Gui , Zhang Heng-Chuan , Qiao Ni-Ni , Fan Yin-Guang , Ye Dong-Qing
Published: November 2023

Objective

To investigate the relationship between metabolomic profiles, genome-wide polygenic risk scores (PRSs) and risk of rheumatoid arthritis (RA).

Methods

143 nuclear magnetic resonance-based plasma metabolic biomarkers were measured among 93 800 participants in the UK Biobank. The Cox regression model was used to assess the associations between these metabolic biomarkers and RA risk, and genetic correlation and Mendelian randomisation analyses were performed to reveal their causal relationships. Subsequently, a metabolic risk score (MRS) comprised of the weighted sum of 17 clinically validated metabolic markers was constructed. A PRS was derived by assigning weights to genetic variants that exhibited significant associations with RA at a genome-wide level.

Results

A total of 620 incident RA cases were recorded during a median follow-up time of 8.2 years. We determined that 30 metabolic biomarkers were potentially associated with RA, while no further significant causal associations were found. Individuals in the top decile of MRS had an increased risk of RA (HR 3.52, 95% CI: 2.80 to 4.43) compared with those below the median of MRS. Further, significant gradient associations between MRS and RA risk were observed across genetic risk strata. Specifically, compared with the low genetic risk and favourable MRS group, the risk of incident RA in the high genetic risk and unfavourable MRS group has almost elevated by fivefold (HR 6.10, 95% CI: 4.06 to 9.14).

Conclusion

Our findings suggested the metabolic profiles comprising multiple metabolic biomarkers contribute to capturing an elevated risk of RA, and the integration of genome-wide PRSs further improved risk stratification.
Moss regeneration for lithium mine waste rock revegetation in Québec, Canada
Authors: Liu Chao , Pouliot Kathy , Roy Sébastien , Rochefort Line
Published: November 2023

Despite bryophytes being well adapted to various ecological settings, they are rarely considered in reclamation projects. In this study, propagation regenerative capabilities of bryophytes on different substrates (sand, amphibolite, and pegmatite) and conditions (with or without peat amendment, shade and shredding) were tested in greenhouse and field experiments. In the greenhouse trial, after 6 months of reintroduction, Racomitrium species ( Racomitrium canescens (Hedw.) Brid. and Racomitrium elongatum Frisvoll.) had higher regeneration compared to Polytrichum species ( Polytrichum juniperinum Hedw. mixed with Polytrichum piliferum Hedw.; a combination of shade (65% shading) and peat amendment (0.5 cm depth) was found to be particularly effective, resulting in up to 100% of Racomitrium species regeneration; shredding the stems of Polytrichum species into small pieces of 0.5–1.0 cm inhibited its regeneration. In the field trial, peat amendment had no effect on moss regeneration. The addition of fluvioglacial sand or till on waste rocks promoted bryophytes regeneration in both the greenhouse and field. These results provide science-based practical knowledge to support the inclusion of native bryophytes in waste rock restoration plans for mines located in northern boreal forests.
Stefan–Boltzmann law and Casimir effect for dark photons
Authors: Prata V. G. , Santos A. F. , Khanna Faqir C.
Published: November 2023

In this paper, the existence of a massive dark photon, associated with a new gauge group is considered. The dark photon can be kinetically mixed with the photon. To study some applications, the thermo field dynamics formalism is used. Exploring the topological structure of this approach, the influence of dark photons on the Stefan–Boltzmann law and the Casimir effect at zero and finite temperature is calculated.
The influence of screening function on exciton mott transition in an asymmetric double quantum well
Authors: Nithiananthi P. , Vignesh G.
Published: November 2023

The semiconductor-to-metal transition (SMT) due to excitons exciton mott transition (EMT) in GaAs/Al[Formula: see text]Ga[Formula: see text]As asymmetric double quantum well (ADQW) has been studied theoretically by tuning direct (DX) and indirect (IDX) exciton densities using variation technique combined with the Monte Carlo approximation. The interaction of the optically pumped exciton densities is accounted for through the Thomas–Fermi (TF) dielectric screening and compared with Hartree–Fock (HF) screening. The screening effects of IDX at the barrier regime have been accounted for through size-dependent screening. The important characteristics of EMT, such as (i). binding energy and (ii), diamagnetic susceptibility have been studied in both coupled ([Formula: see text]Å) and isolated ([Formula: see text]Å) regimes of ADQW. The effect of asymmetry on the EMT of DX (IDX) is significant only for [Formula: see text] in the case of the coupled regime of ADQW, which may be due to the dynamic tunneling mechanism. The impact of the screening among the exciton densities to bring out the avalanche breakdown of excitons at the critical concentration has been studied for different kinds of excitons.
STATISTICAL ANALYSIS BY WAVELET LEADERS REVEALS DIFFERENCES IN MULTI-FRACTAL CHARACTERISTICS OF STOCK PRICE AND RETURN SERIES IN TURKISH HIGH FREQUENCY DATA
Authors: LAHMIRI SALIM , SENSOY AHMET , AKYILDIRIM ERDINC , BEKIROS STELIOS
Published: November 2023

The price and return time series are two distinct features of any financial asset. Hence, examining the evolution of multiscale characteristics of price and returns sequential data in time domain would be helpful in gaining a better understanding of the dynamical evolution mechanism of the financial asset as a complex system. In fact, this is important to understand their respective dynamics and to design their appropriate predictive models. The main purpose of the current work is to investigate the multiscale fractals of price and return high frequency data in Turkish stock market. In this regard, the wavelet leaders computational method is applied to each high frequency data to reveal its multi-fractal behavior. In particular, the method is applied to a large set of Turkish stocks and statistical results are performed to check for (i) presence of multi-fractals in price and return series and (ii) differences between prices and returns in terms of multi-fractals. Our statistical results show strong evidence that high frequency price and return data exhibit multi-fractal dynamics. In addition, they show evidence of distinct fractal characteristics on different scales between price and return series. Furthermore, our statistical results show evidence of differences in local fluctuation characteristics of price and return time series. Therefore, differences in local characteristics are useful to build specific predictive models for each type of data for better modeling and prediction to generate profits. Besides, we found evidence that both long-range correlations and fat-tail distributions contribute to the multifractality in Turkish stocks. This finding can be attributed to the major role played by international investors in increasing the volatility of Turkish stocks.
NEURAL NETWORK METHOD FOR PARAMETER ESTIMATION OF FRACTIONAL DISCRETE-TIME UNIFIED SYSTEMS
Authors: WU ZHI-QIANG , WU GUO-CHENG , ZHU WEI
Published: November 2023

Data-driven learning of the fractional discrete-time unified system is studied in this paper. A neural network method is suggested in the parameter estimation of fractional discrete-time chaotic systems. An optimization problem is obtained and the famous Adam algorithm is employed to train the neural network’s weights and parameters. The parameter estimation result is compared with that of the stepwise response sensitivity approach (SRSA). This paper provides a high accuracy method for parameter inverse problems. The method also can be applied to data-driven learning of other fractional chaotic systems.
DIAGNOSIS OF STUDENT CONFUSION THROUGH ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE
Authors: ESPÍNDOLA-ULIBARRI LUCIANA , ACEVEDO-MOSQUEDA MARÍA-ELENA , ACEVEDO-MOSQUEDA MARCO-ANTONIO , GÓMEZ-CORONEL SANDRA-LUZ , CARREÑO-AGUILERA RICARDO
Published: November 2023

Student confusion is a problem that is experienced daily in school classrooms. Teachers transfer knowledge to students without knowing if they are receiving it correctly. Being aware of whether the student correctly grasps the knowledge would be of great help since different actions could be carried out to correct this problem. The proposal of this work focuses on carrying out the diagnosis of student confusion through Machine Learning algorithms. In particular, the following algorithms were applied: Logistic Regression (LR), [Formula: see text]-Nearest Neighbor (K-NN), Random Forest (RF) and Multi-Layer Perceptron (MLP). The metric was accuracy. The results obtained from the accuracy of each algorithm with the 5-Fold-Cross Validation validation method are 55.03% (LR), 52.98% (7-NN), 58.86% (RF) and 75.40% (MLP). An improvement in accuracy was achieved with respect to already published papers.
POLYNOMIAL UTILITY
Authors: LOLLIKE ALEXANDER S. , STEFFENSEN MOGENS
Published: November 2023

We approximate the utility function by polynomial series and solve the related dynamic portfolio optimization problems. We study the quality of the Taylor and Bernstein series approximation in response to the points and degrees of the expansions and generalize from earlier expansions applied to portfolio optimization. The issue of time inconsistency, arising from a dynamically adapted center of the expansion, is approached by equilibrium theory. We present new ways of constructing polynomial utility functions and study their pitfalls and potentials. In the numerical study, we focus on two specific utility functions: For power utility, access to the optimal portfolio allows for a complete illustration of the approximations; for the S-shaped utility function of prospect theory, the use of equilibrium theory allows for approximating the solution to the (obviously interesting but yet unsolved) case of current wealth as a dynamic reference point.
On f-derivations on polynomial modules
Authors: Fitriani  , Wijayanti Indah Emilia , Faisol Ahmad , Ali Shakir
Published: November 2023

An additive mappings [Formula: see text] on [Formula: see text] is called a derivation if [Formula: see text] for all [Formula: see text]. If [Formula: see text] is a derivation on a ring [Formula: see text], [Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text] are right [Formula: see text]-modules and [Formula: see text] is a right [Formula: see text]-linear mapping from [Formula: see text] to [Formula: see text], then an additive mapping [Formula: see text] is called a [Formula: see text]-derivation if [Formula: see text] for all [Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text]. If [Formula: see text] is determined, then the [Formula: see text]-derivation is written briefly as [Formula: see text]-derivation. The aim of this paper is to initiate the study of [Formula: see text]-derivations on polynomial modules. In fact, we induce the derivations of polynomial rings [Formula: see text] based on the derivations of rings. In addition, we define [Formula: see text]-linear mapping on a polynomial module over a polynomial ring based on [Formula: see text]-linear mapping on modules. Finally, we induce the [Formula: see text]-derivations on polynomial modules over a polynomial ring based on [Formula: see text]-derivations of modules and apply this result to the semigroup rings.
Planning and Warning as Capacity in Island Communities
Authors: Bui Lily
Published: November 2023

Warning systems enable timely communication of risk during disasters. This study examines the relationship between planning and warning, as well as their effect on capacity in island communities. The study establishes planning as a form of warning and uses empirical evidence from a natural experiment, Hurricane Maria in Puerto Rico (2017), to describe how planning functions as a warning process before, during, and after a disaster. Qualitative interview and participant observation data were gathered before and after the storm event. The study finds that planning, like warning, translates knowledge of risks into appropriate courses of protective action to reduce human suffering. Island communities, which tend to be under-resourced before, during, and after disasters, can benefit from operationalizing planning as a form of warning to build capacity and resilience.
Experimental and Model Investigation of a Solid Oxide Fuel Cell Operated Under Low Fuel Flow Rate
Authors: Neri Jacopo , Cammarata Alberto , Donazzi Alessandro
Published: November 2023

A state-of-the-art anode-supported Ni-YSZ/YSZ/GSC/LSC SOFC with 16 cm2 cathode area was tested at low anodic flow rate (6.25 Ncc min−1 cm−2) and large excess of air (93.75 Ncm3 min−1 cm−2). These conditions are typical of stacks, where high H2 utilization is targeted, but are uncommon in single cell testing. H2-based mixtures were supplied between 550 °C and 750 °C, varying the partial pressure of H2 (between 93% and 21% with 7% H2O mol/mol) and H2O (between 10% and 50% H2O with 50% H2). I/V and EIS measurements were collected and analyzed with a 1D+1D model of a SOFC with rectangular duct interconnectors. At 750 °C and 93% H2, 58% fuel utilization was obtained, which raised to 81% at 21% H2, driving the SOFC under internal diffusion control. The model analysis confirmed that nearly-isothermal conditions were retained thanks to efficient heat dissipation, and that air acted as a coolant. During testing, the contact resistance grew to 0.16 Ω cm2 at 750 °C, limiting the SOFC’s performance to a maximum power density of 340 W cm−2 with 7% humidified H2. The kinetic parameters of the anodic reaction were derived by fitting, finding a positive order for H2 (+0.9), and a negative order for H2O (−0.58).
Thermal Stability of Electrodeposited Fe-55wt%Ni Alloy and Effect of Low-Temperature Heat Treatment on Magnetic Properties
Authors: Ren Wei , Lan Xi , Guo Zhancheng
Published: November 2023

Electrodeposited nanocrystalline soft magnetic materials have emerged as one of the hottest research topics in the field of magnetic materials due to they are easy to implement in miniaturization, lightweight, and energy-saving of electronic devices. The thermal stability and grain growth process of electrodeposited Fe-55wt%Ni alloy were investigated. Results indicated that the grain growth was rapid at a temperature of about 678 K, while the exothermic peak appeared in DSC with an exothermic heat of about 12 ± 1 J g−1. The activation energy for grain growth was obtained through the optimized Kissinger equation and isothermal kinetics calculations, and the growth mechanism was evaluated based on the calculation results. Below 678 K, the activation energy required for grain growth was low, which implied the growth mechanism was the rearrangement of atoms at the grain boundary; Above 678 K, the growth mechanism was grain boundary diffusion. After the low-temperature heat treatment, the coercivity (H
c) decreased and the saturation magnetization (M
s) increased slightly, which was attributed to the reduction of internal stress and the ultra-fine nanocrystalline structure. The optimal heat treatment process was 573 K heat treatment for 5 h, where M
s and H
c of 160 emu g−1 and below 1 Oe, respectively.
Extent and Correlates of Self‐Medication Practice among Community‐Dwelling Adults in Eastern Ethiopia
Authors: Oumer Abdu , Ale Ahmed , Hamza Aragaw , Dagne Imam
Published: November 2023

Background. The use of medications without proper medical consultations poses significant health risks, drug resistance, and undiagnosed disease conditions, becoming a major pharmaceutical challenge in the 21st century. This study assessed the magnitude and associated factors of self‐medication practice among adults in parts of Ethiopia. Methods. A community‐based cross‐sectional study was conducted among 647 randomly selected adults residing in randomly selected households in eastern Ethiopia via a stratified sampling approach. A pretested interviewer‐administered questionnaire was used to collect the data on self‐medication practice. Data were presented using tables, frequencies, percentages, and graphs. A multivariable binary logistic regression was done to identify factors associated with self‐medication practice and presented as an adjusted odds ratio along with its 95% CI. Associations with a p value below 5% were used to declare statistical significance. Results. A total of 647 adults with a mean age of 41.7 (11.4) years were included. Overall, 15.8% (95% CI: 12.5–18.2) of them reported to have practiced self‐medication in the past month, while 67.9% (95% CI: 64.1–74.7) have practiced self‐medication, mainly due to the mild nature of the symptom (11%), intention to get a rapid cure (12.2%), physical accessibility (9.1%), and less confidence in the quality of health facility services (3.7%). The majority of the drugs were in the form of oral tablets in the antibiotic, antipain, and gastrointestinal categories. Female (AOR = 1.66 and 95% CI: 0.76–3.61), larger family size (AOR = 1.34 and 95% CI: 0.73–2.46), illiteracy (AOR = 4.47 and 95% CI: 1.17–17.1), poor socioeconomic class (AOR = 4.6795 and CI: 1.71–12.7), perceived health facility visit stay as long (AOR = 1.55 and 95% CI: 0.80–3.00), khat use (AOR = 2.86 and 95% CI: 1.27–6.47), cigarette smoking (AOR = 2.86 95% CI: 1.27–6.47), and poor knowledge on proper medication use (AOR = 7.98 and 95% CI: 4.61–13.8) were associated with increased odds of self‐medication. Conclusion. The practice of self‐medication is a health concern and is associated with lower socioeconomic class, illiteracy, substance abuse, a perceived long stay at a health facility, and poor knowledge of medication use. Behavioral interventions targeting this segment of the population via various approaches would help.
Analysis of Thermal Runaway in Pouch-Type Lithium-Ion Batteries Using Particle Image Velocimetry
Authors: Kim Donghwan , Sim Inhan , Shin Jisoo , Park Sungwook
Published: November 2023

Despite widespread recognition of the serious risk of battery thermal runaway (BTR) in lithium-ion batteries, the process and associated external ignition mechanism remain poorly understood. In this study, BTR was measured using thermodynamics and visualization techniques in 10 lithium-ion batteries under thermal abuse conditions. The venting speed was measured by particle image velocimetry and boundary detection. The external ignition mechanism was characterized in terms of flame area. The average BTR onset temperature across the 10 test batteries was 215.6°C. The average maximum temperature was 831.1°C, and the variation between experiments was high compared with the BTR onset temperature due to swelling, repairing, and venting. BTR occurred in four stages (ejection of vent gas with flame, extinction of flame, random and simultaneous ignition, and flame propagation and flame jet formation). The initial average venting speed was approximately 123.8 m/s. The structural and venting speeds of vent gas were similar after a stable flame jet formed. The speed of the core of the gas jet peaked at 20 to 40 m/s. The venting speed decreased as the distance from the jet core increased.