Who Cares for Infants and Toddlers? A Mixed Methods Study of Child Care for Low-Income Families

Abstract: Despite trends indicating that low-income, Latino families underuse licensed child care (Chaudry et al., 2011; Howes et al., 2007), questions remain about why these mothers do not use infant and toddler child care programs. Therefore, this mixed methods case study of a Los Angeles community illustrates the interplay of licensed child care availability with maternal preferences regarding infant and toddler care arrangements. Community demographic data as well as availability and quality of licensed child care data provided the descriptive community context. Family survey data depicted trends in child care use of a predominantly low-income sample of 556 mothers living in the community. Lastly, semi-structured interviews were conducted with a subsample of 28 family survey mothers to shed light on mothers’ beliefs about infant and toddler child care. Taken together, these sources of data indicated that limited infant and toddler licensed care was available, and few programs served specifically low-income families. Within this ii community child care context, mothers had a limited awareness of the available licensed care. Additionally, these mothers expressed negative impressions of licensed care, which seemed warranted based on the observational data on programs serving low-income families. From this study, policymakers should strive to improve the quality of care for all infant and toddler programs while also better designing and marketing child care assistance programs to meet the needs of low-income families. Practitioners can utilize these findings by learning about the concerns of low-income mothers, addressing any shortcomings their programs face, and better communicating with new mothers to allay fears about group care.


Roadmap Consensus on Carotid Artery Plaque Imaging and Impact on Therapy Strategies and Guidelines: An International, Multispecialty, Expert Review and Position Statement

L. Saba, W. Brinjikji, J.D. Spence, M. Wintermark, M. Castillo, G.J. de Borst, Q. Yang, C. Yuan, A. Buckler, M. Edjlali, T. Saam, D. Saloner, B.K. Lal, D. Capodanno, J. Sun, N. Balu, R. Naylor, A.v.d. Lugt, B.A. Wasserman, Kooi, J. Wardlaw, J. Gillard, G. Lanzino, U. Hedin, D. M.E. Mikulis, A. Gupta, J.K. DeMarco, C. Hess, J.V. Goethem, T. Hatsukami, P. Rothwell, M.M. Brown and A.R. Moody

Abstract: Current guidelines for primary and secondary prevention of stroke in patients with carotid atherosclerosis are based on the quantification of the degree of stenosis and symptom status. Recent publications have demonstrated that plaque morphol ogy and composition, independent of the degree of stenosis, are important in the risk stratification of carotid atherosclerotic dis ease. This finding raises the question as to whether current guidelines are adequate or if they should be updated with new evidence, including imaging for plaque phenotyping, risk stratification, and clinical decision-making in addition to the degree of ste nosis. To further this discussion, this roadmap consensus article defines the limits of luminal imaging and highlights the current evi dence supporting the role of plaque imaging. Furthermore, we identify gaps in current knowledge and suggest steps to generate high-quality evidence, to add relevant information to guidelines currently based on the quantification of stenosis


White Matter Abnormalities in Multiple Sclerosis Evaluated by Quantitative Synthetic MRI, Diffusion Tensor Imaging, and Neurite Orientation Dispersion and Density Imaging

A. Hagiwara, K. Kamagata, K. Shimoji, K. Yokoyama, C. Andica, M. Hori, S. Fujita, T. Maekawa, R. Irie, T. Akashi, A. Wada, M. Suzuki, O. Abe, N. Hattori, S. Aoki

Abstract: BACKGROUNDANDPURPOSE:AnumberofMR-derivedquantitativemetricshavebeensuggestedtoassess thepathophysiol ogyofMS, but thereportsaboutcombinedanalysesof thesemetricsarescarce.Our aimwas toassess thespatial distribu tionofparameters forwhitemattermyelinandaxon integrity inpatientswithrelapsing-remittingMSbymultiparametricMR imaging. MATERIALSANDMETHODS:Twenty-four patientswith relapsing-remittingMSand24age- andsex-matchedcontrolswerepro spectively scannedbyquantitativesyntheticand2-shell diffusionMR imaging. SyntheticMR imagingdatawereusedtoretrieve relaxometryparameters (R1 andR2relaxationratesandprotondensity) andmyelinvolumefraction.Diffusiontensormetrics (frac tional anisotropyandmean, axial, andradial diffusivity) andneuriteorientationanddispersion indexmetrics (intracellular volume fraction, isotropicvolume fraction, andorientationdispersion index)were retrievedfromdiffusionMR imagingdata. Thesedata wereanalyzedusingTract-BasedSpatialStatistics. RESULTS:PatientswithMSshowedsignificantlylower fractionalanisotropyandmyelinvolumefractionandhigher isotropicvolume fraction inwidespreadwhitematter areas.Areaswithdifferent isotropicvolumefractionswere includedwithinareaswith lower fractional anisotropy.Myelinvolumefractionshowednosignificantdifference insomeareaswithsignificantlydecreasedfractional anisotropy inMS, including inthegenuof thecorpuscallosumandbilateral anteriorcoronaradiata,whereasmyelinvolumefrac tionwas significantlydecreasedinsomeareaswherefractional anisotropyshowednosignificantdifference, includingthebilateral posterior limboftheinternalcapsule,externalcapsule, sagittal striatum, fornix, anduncinatefasciculus. CONCLUSIONS:Wefounddifferences inspatialdistributionofabnormality infractional anisotropy, isotropicvolumefraction, and myelinvolumefractiondistributioninMS,whichmightbeuseful forcharacterizingwhitematter inpatientswithMS.


PET/MRI in Pediatric Neuroimaging: Primer for Clinical Practice

C. Pedersen, M. Aboian, J.E. McConathy, H. Daldrup-Link, and A.M. Franceschi

Abstract: SUMMARY: Modern pediatric imaging seeks to provide not only exceptional anatomic detail but also physiologic and metabolic information of the pathology in question with as little radiation penalty as possible. Hybrid PET/MR imaging combines exquisite softtissue information obtained by MR imaging with functional information provided by PET, including metabolic markers, receptor binding, perfusion, and neurotransmitter release data. In pediatric neuro-oncology, PET/MR imaging is, in many ways, ideal for follow-up compared with PET/CT, given the superiority of MR imaging in neuroimaging compared with CT and the lower radiation dose, which is relevant in serial imaging and long-term follow-up of pediatric patients. In addition, although MR imaging is the main imaging technique for the evaluation of spinal pathology, PET/MR imaging may provide useful information in several clinical scenarios, including tumor staging and follow-up, treatment response assessment of spinal malignancies, and vertebral osteomyelitis. This review article covers neuropediatric applications of PET/MR imaging in addition to considerations regarding radiopharmaceuticals, imaging protocols, and current challenges to clinical implementation.


Deep Learning Enables 60% Accelerated Volumetric Brain MRI While Preserving Quantitative Performance: A Prospective, Multicenter, Multireader Trial

S. Bash, L. Wang, C. Airriess, G. Zaharchuk, E. Gong, A. Shankaranarayanan, L.N. Tanenbaum

Abstract:
BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE: In this prospective, multicenter, multireader study, we evaluated the impact on both image quality and quantitative image-analysis consistency of 60% accelerated volumetric MR imaging sequences processed with a commercially available, vendor-agnostic, DICOM-based, deep learning tool (SubtleMR) compared with that of standard of care.
MATERIALS AND METHODS: Forty subjects underwent brain MR imaging examinations on 6 scanners from 5 institutions. Standard of care and accelerated datasets were acquired for each subject, and the accelerated scans were enhanced with deep learning processing. Standard of care, accelerated scans, and accelerated–deep learning were subjected to NeuroQuant quantitative analysis and classified by a neuroradiologist into clinical disease categories. Concordance of standard of care and accelerated–deep learning biomarker measurements were assessed. Randomized, side-by-side, multiplanar datasets (360 series) were presented blinded to 2 neuroradiologists and rated for apparent SNR, image sharpness, artifacts, anatomic/lesion conspicuity, image contrast, and gray-white differentiation to evaluate image quality.
RESULTS: Accelerated–deep learning was statistically superior to standard of care for perceived quality across imaging features despite a 60% sequence scan-time reduction. Both accelerated–deep learning and standard of care were superior to accelerated scans for all features. There was no difference in quantitative volumetric biomarkers or clinical classification for standard of care and accelerated–deep learning datasets.
CONCLUSIONS: Deep learning reconstruction allows 60% sequence scan-time reduction while maintaining high volumetric quantification accuracy, consistent clinical classification, and what radiologists perceive as superior image quality compared with standard of care. This trial supports the reliability, efficiency, and utility of deep learning–based enhancement for quantitative imaging. Shorter scan times may heighten the use of volumetric quantitative MR imaging in routine clinical settings.


Whither the Hippocampus? FDG-PET Hippocampal Hypometabolism in Alzheimer Disease Revisited

Abstract: BACKGROUNDANDPURPOSE: ThehippocampusisawidelyrecognizedareaofearlychangeinAD,yet voxelwiseanalysesofFDG-PETactivitydifferencesbetweenADandCNcontrolshaveconsistently failedto identifyhippocampal hypometabolism. Inthisarticle,weproposeahigh-dimensionalPET specificanalysisframeworktodeterminewhetherimportanthippocampalmetabolicFDG-PETactivity differencesbetweenpatientswithADandCNsubjectsareembedded intheJacobian information generatedduringspatialnormalization. MATERIALSANDMETHODS: RestingFDG-PETdatawereobtainedfrom102CNand92participantswith ADfromtheADNIdatabase.APET-study-specifictemplatewasconstructedusingsymmetricdiffeomor phicregistration.SpatiallynormalizedrawFDGmaps,Jacobiandeterminantmaps,andmodulatedmaps weregenerated for all subjects. Statistical parametricmappingand tensor-basedmorphometrywere performed,comparingpatientswithADwithCNsubjects. RESULTS:Whole-brainspatiallynormalizedrawFDGmapsdemonstratedrobusthypometabolismin cingulategyrusandbilateral parietal areas.Nohippocampal differenceswerepresent, except on ROI-basedanalyseswithahippocampalmask.Whole-brainmodulatedmapsdemonstratedrobust bilateralhippocampalhypometabolism,andsomehypometabolismintheposteriorcingulate.Tensor basedmorphometrydemonstratedrobusthippocampaldifferencesonly. CONCLUSIONS: Theseresultsdemonstratethathippocampalmetabolicdifferencesareembeddedin theJacobian informationfromthespatial normalizationprocedure.We introduceavoxelwisePET specificanalysisframeworkbasedontheuseofaPET-population-specifictemplate,high-dimensional symmetricdiffeomorphicnormalization, and theuseof Jacobian information,whichcanprovide substantiallyincreasedstatisticalpowerandanorderofmagnitudedecreaseinimagingcosts.


Magic Angle Effect: A Relevant Artifact in MR Neurography at 3T?

T. Kästel, S. Heiland, P. Bäumer, A.J. Bartsch, M. Bendszus, M. Pham

Abstract: BACKGROUNDANDPURPOSE:MRNisanemergingdiagnosticmethod for disordersof peripheral nerves.However, it isunclearwhether the influenceof theMAon intraneural T2signal issevere enoughtoprovokefalse-positivefindings. MATERIALSANDMETHODS: Twenty-fivehealthysubjectsunderwentMRNofthesciaticnerveofthe proximalthighat3T.TheT2appwascalculatedfromaDE-TSEsequence(TR 3000ms,TE1 12ms, TE2 69ms)at7anglesof thesciaticnerverelativetoB0 0°,30°,35°,40°,45°,50°,and55°. Precise angle adjustmentswereperformedwith a dedicated in-borepositioning aid. Qualitative evaluationofintraneuralT2-weightedcontrastbetweenthisgroupofhealthysubjectsand14patients withneuropathic lesionswasperformedbycomparingCNRsofaTIRMsequence(TR 5000ms, TE 76ms,TI 180ms). RESULTS: Inhealthysubjects, theprolongationofT2app from0° to55°was from74.5 13.4to 104.0 16.9ms(P .001).TheincreaseinT2apprelativetobaseline(0°)was9.6%(30°),18.4%(35°), 25%(40°),27.6%(45°),and37%(55°). IntraneuralCNRincreasedby1.98 0.69at40°and2.93 0.46at55°.Nevertheless, themeanCNRofhealthysubjectswassubstantially lower thanthat in patientsat40°(P .0001)andevenatthepositionofmaximumMA(55°:20.6 5.11versus52.6 7.12,P .0001). CONCLUSIONS: Neuropathiclesionsareclearlydistinguishablefromanartificial increaseofintraneural T2bytheMA.EvenatamaximumMA(55°),thefalse-positivedeterminationofaneuropathiclesion isunlikely


Evolution of Flow-Diverter Endothelialization and Thrombus Organization in Giant Fusiform Aneurysms after Flow Diversion: A Histopathologic Study

Abstract:
BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE: Treatment of giant fusiform aneurysms with flow diverters has been associated with a relatively high rate of complications. Our goal was to study the evolution of flow-diverter endothelialization and thrombus organization at different time points after flow-diverter treatment in giant fusiform aneurysms to better understand reasons for flow-diverter thrombosis and delayed aneurysm ruptures.
MATERIALS AND METHODS: Two giant anterior and 2 posterior circulation aneurysms, all of which had partially thrombosed before treatment, were studied. An unruptured, untreated posterior circulation aneurysm was used as a control. Each specimen was removed at 7 days or at 6, 9, or 13 months after flow-diverter treatment. The 3 patients who survived longer than 7 days were followed up by angiography and MR imaging. Formaldehyde-fixed paraffin-embedded sections were stained by using H&E, Van Gieson elastic, CD34, h-Caldesmon, and Picrosirius stains and studied by light microscopy. RESULTS: According to angiography, aneurysms were found to be obliterated partially at 6 and 9 months and completely at 13 months. MR imaging revealed that mass effect remained unchanged in each case. Sections of the flow diverter within the normal parent artery were covered by an endothelialized fibrous layer as early as 6 months, but there was no tissue coverage or endothelialization seen even at 13 months inside the aneurysm itself. Each treated aneurysm had a thin wall with complete lack of smooth muscle cells. No signs of thrombus organization were found at any of the time points studied.
CONCLUSIONS: Endothelialization of the flow diverter in giant fusiform aneurysms may not occur and thrombus organization may not be initiated inside these aneurysms for as long as 1 year, which explains delayed flow-diverter thrombosis and the possibility of delayed ruptures.


Hemodynamic Changes Caused by Multiple Stenting in Vertebral Artery Fusiform Aneurysms: A Patient-Specific Computational Fluid Dynamics Study

N. Lv, W. Cao, I. Larrabide, C. Karmonik, D. Zhu, J. Liu, Q. Huang, Y. Fang

Abstract: BACKGROUNDANDPURPOSE: Themultiplestentplacementtechniquehaslargelyimprovedthelong-termoutcomesofintracranial fusiformaneurysms,butthehemodynamicmechanismsremainunclear. Inthisstudy,weanalyzedthehemodynamicchangescausedby differentstent-placementstrategies inpatient-specificmodelsusingthecomputationalfluiddynamicstechnique, aimingtoprovide evidenceforclinicaldecision-making. MATERIALSANDMETHODS: Tenvertebral arteryfusiformaneurysmswereincluded, andtheirpatient-specificcomputationalfluid dynamicsmodelswerereconstructed.Afastvirtualstentplacementtechniquewasusedtosimulatesequentialmultiplestentplacements (fromasinglestenttotriplestents) inthevertebralarteryfusiformaneurysmmodels.Hemodynamicparameters, includingwallshear stress,pressure,oscillatoryshear index, relativeresidencetime,andflowpattern,werecalculatedandcomparedamonggroupswith differentnumbersofstents. RESULTS: Virtualstentsweredeployedinall10casessuccessfully,consistentwiththerealstentconfiguration.Wallshearstressdecreased progressivelyby7.2%,20.6%,and25.8%asthenumberofstentsincreased.Meanwhile,relativeresidencetimeandpressureincreasedon averageby11.3%, 15.4%, and45.0%andby15.7%,21.5%, and28.2%.Theoscillatoryshear indexshowednostablevariationtrend. Flow patternsimprovedbyweakeningtheintensityofthevorticesanddisplacingthevortexcenterfromtheaneurysmalwall. CONCLUSIONS: Stentplacementmodifieshemodynamicpatterns invertebralarteryfusiformaneurysms,whichmightfavorthrombosis formationintheaneurysmalsac.Thiseffectisamplifiedwiththenumberofstentsdeployed.However,apotentialriskofruptureorrecanaliza tionexistsandshouldbeconsideredwhenplanningtousethemultiplestentplacementtechniqueinvertebralarteryfusiformaneurysms.


Intracranial Meningeal Hemangiopericytomas in Children and Adolescents: CT and MR Imaging Findings

Q. Chen, X.-Z. Chen, J.-M. Wang, S.-W. Li, T. Jiang, J.-P. Dai

Abstract: SUMMARY: Intracranialmeningeal hemangiopericytomas inchildrenandadolescentsareprone to bleedingduringsurgery.CTandMRimagingmayservearoleinpreoperativediagnosis.Thepurpose of thisreportwastodescribetheradiologicfindings in9pathologicallyprovedcasesof intracranial meningealhemangiopericytomasinchildrenandadolescents.Theaveragedurationofsymptomswas short (mean,4.0months;median,1.5months).Theintraoperativebloodlosswaslarge(mean,3561 mL;median,1000mL).Tumorswereextra-axial, irregularlymultilobular,andhypervascular.Radiolog ically, theyshowedmixedattenuationonprecontrastCTimages,heterogeneoussignal intensityon precontrastMRimaging,andmarkedandheterogeneousenhancementonpostcontrastMRimaging. Boneerosionwassometimespresent,buthyperostosiswasnotpresent.OnMRimaging,multiple signal intensityvoidsofvesselswereobservedin100%(8/8)oftumorswithAVM-likesignal intensity flowvoidsin25%(2/8)of tumors.Theseresultssuggest thatCTandMRimagingfindingsmaybe helpful forpreoperativediagnosis


Relationship between Ischemic Injury and Patient Outcomes after Surgical or Endovascular Treatment of Ruptured Anterior Communicating Artery Aneurysms


Tandem Carotid Lesions in Acute Ischemic Stroke: Mechanisms, Therapeutic Challenges, and Future Directions

A.Y. Poppe, G. Jacquin, D. Roy, C. Stapf, L. Derex

Abstract: SUMMARY: Approximately 15% of patients undergoing endovascular thrombectomy for anterior circulation acute ischemic stroke have a tandem lesion, defined as a severe stenosis or occlusion of the cervical internal carotid artery ipsilateral to its intracranial occlusion. Patients with tandem lesions have worse outcomes than patients with isolated intracranial occlusions, but the optimal management of their carotid lesions during endovascular thrombectomy remains controversial. The main options commonly used in current practice include acute stent placement in the carotid lesion versus thrombectomy alone without definitive revasculariza tion of the carotid artery. While treatment decisions for these patients are often complex and strategies vary according to clinical, anatomic, and technical considerations, only results from randomized trials comparing these approaches are likely to strengthen current recommendations and optimize patient care


对《招标投标法》的误解和滥用是落实供应链战略的障碍


基于同伴支持的延续护理模式对直肠癌永久性结肠造口术患者的效果

同伴支持, 延续护理, 直肠癌, 永久性结肠造口术

Abstract: 目的 探讨基于同伴支持的延续护理模式对直肠癌永久性结肠造口术患者的效果。方法选取2019年7月至2021年6月烟台市烟台山医院收治的直肠癌永久性肠造口术患者120例为研究对象，根据随机数字表法将其分为传统组和研究组各60例。传统组实施常规护理，研究组实施基于同伴支持的延续护理模式，观察并比较两组患者自我管理能力、自我护理能力及造口并发症发生情况。结果研究组自我管理能力评分、自我护理能力评分均显著优于传统组，研究组并发症发生率显著低于传统组（P<0.05）。结论基于同伴支持的延续护理可有效改善患者自我管理行为，显著提升患者自我护理能力，降低并发症发生风险，该护理可为永久性肠造口术患者居家康复质量提供持续性保障。


以高质量发展为主题的时代特征与价值


环境信息披露研究主题及其动态演变 ——基于 CiteSpace 的知识图谱分析

Abstract: ：基于WOS和CSSCI核心数据库历年文献，采用CiteSpace软件绘制国内外环境信息披露研究领 域知识图谱，探讨发现，环境信息披露研究主题热点及其动态演变，随着时间的推移，环境信息披露研究越 来越受重视：国外研究更注重商业合法性和企业可持续发展主题，国内则主要把重污染行业上市公司作为研 究对象，并注重市场化进程的影响。近期的研究前沿表明，国外不断探索环境信息披露与财务绩效的关联性， 国内研究则偏向于政治因素和绿色金融方向。


运动恐惧在急性心肌梗死经皮冠状动脉介入治疗术后患者自我效能与运动依从性间的中介效应

任鹏娜, 张月, 丁琳, 汤爱玲, 董里, 葛颜, 袁红艳, 许方蕾, 朱张逸

急性心肌梗死, 经皮冠状动脉介入治疗, 自我效能, 运动恐惧, 运动依从性, 中介效应

Abstract: 目的　探讨运动恐惧在急性心肌梗死经皮冠状动脉介入治疗(percutaneouscoronaryintervention,PCI)术后患者自我效 能与运动依从性间的中介效应.方法　采用便利抽样法,于２０２１年５－８月选取上海２所医院心内科急性心肌梗死行PCI术的 ４３５例患者,采用心脏病患者运动恐惧量表、运动自我效能量表、运动依从性量表对其进行调查.结果　急性心肌梗死PCI术后 患者运动依从性总分为(１．９８±１．１０)分,处于中等水平;自我效能与运动依从性呈正相关(r＝０．５１１,P＜０．０１),运动恐惧与自我效 能、运动依从性呈负相关(r＝－０．２７、－０．５０１;均P＜０．０１).中介模型显示,自我效能对运动依从性存在直接正向预测作用,运动 恐惧在自我效能与运动依从性间起部分中介效应,贡献率为２５．０５％.结论　自我效能可通过运动恐惧间接影响急性心肌梗死 PCI术后患者运动依从性,医护人员应采取系统化措施降低患者的运动恐惧程度,增强其自我效能,进而提高运动依从性. 【关键词】　急性心肌梗死;经皮冠状动脉介入治疗;自我效能;运动恐惧;运动依从性;中介效应


感染预防护理对牙髓炎椅旁护理感染及满意度的影响

石志岩, 李申, 付素伟

感染预防, 护理, 牙髓炎, 椅旁护理

Abstract: 探讨感染预防护理对牙髓炎椅旁护理感染情况及满意度的影响。方法 选择河南省人 民医院2018年6月至2020年10月符合纳入标准且自愿参加该项研究的需行牙髓炎根管治疗的患者为研究对 象，共98例。随机数字法均分为两组，对照组49例，观察组49例，对照组采用常规椅旁护理，观察组在对照组基 础上采用感染预防护理。综合观察患者护理期间的治疗依从性、院内感染的发生情况、焦虑、抑郁情况、护理满意 度。结果 观察组患者治疗总依从率87.76%（43/49），优于对照组的71.43%（35/49），差异有统计学意义（Z= 4.021,P=0.045）。观察组患者院内感染的总发生率4.18%（2/49），低于对照组的16.33%（8/49），差异有统计 学意义(X²=4.009,P=0.045）。两组焦虑、抑郁、心率干预前比较差异无统计学意义（P>0.05）；干预后，观察组 焦虑（43.24±4.21)分显著低于对照组（54.53±4.63）分，差异有统计学意义（t=12.629、P<0.001）；观察组抑郁 （44.64±3.63）分显著低于对照组（53.52±4.04）分，差异有统计学意义（t=11.445、P<0.001）；观察组心率 （100.24±9.53）次显著低于对照组（110.53±12.46）次，差异有统计学意义（t=4.598、P<0.001）。观察组护理满 意度93.88%（46/49），高于对照组的79.59%（39/49），差异有统计学意义（x²=4.346,P0.037）。结论仑感染预 防护理能显著降低牙髓炎椅旁护理的院内感染发生情况，一定程度上提高患者根管治疗的效率，缩短手术时间和 术后疼痛，有利于建立良好的护患关系，提高患者的满意度，值得推广。


Twinned-domain-induced magnonic modes in epitaxial LSMO/STO films

Erik Wahlström, Ferran Macià, Jos E Boschker, Åsmund Monsen, Per Nordblad, Roland Mathieu, Andrew D Kent, Thomas Tybell

magnonics, epitaxial LSMO/STO films, FMR, twin domains

Abstract: The use of periodic magnetic structures to control the magneto-dynamic properties of materials— magnonics—is a rapidly developing field. In the last decade, a number of studies have shown that metallic films can be patterned or combined in patterns that give rise to well-defined magnetization modes, which are formed due to band folding or band gap effects. To explore and utilize these effects in a wide frequency range, it is necessary to pattern samples at the sub-micrometer scale. However, it is still a major challenge to produce low-loss magnonic structures with periodicities at such length scales. Here, we show that for a prototypical perovskite, La0.7 Sr0.3 MnO3, the twinned structural order can be used to induce a magnetic modulation with a period smaller than 100 nm, demonstrating a bottom-up approach for magnonic crystal growth


Review—Brief Review of the Solid-State Graphenothermal Reduction for Processing Metal Oxide-Reduced Graphene Oxide Nanocomposites for Energy Applications

Harita Pant, Shaikshavali Petnikota, Venkata Satya Siva Srikanth Vadali

Abstract: In the recent past, metal oxide (MO)-reduced graphene oxide (rGO) nanocomposites have attracted great attention in energy applications, especially as active electrode materials in Li-ion batteries and supercapacitors. These nanocomposites are specifically designed to simultaneously tap the properties of metal oxide and graphene, making them advantageous for energy applications. The processing methods of MO-rGO nanocomposites can be broadly classified into i) rudimentary combustion, ii) post-immobilization, and ii) in situ bonding methods. Herein, the only solid-state in situ bonding method named Graphenothermal Reduction (GTR) in preparing various MO-rGO nanocomposites is reviewed. In the GTR method, the catalytic ability of carbon is used in processing the MO-rGO nanocomposites. The carbon in the starting graphenaceous material (typically GO) lowers the activation energy of the reduction reaction (which also lowers the reduction temperature) to in situ form metal oxide while the starting GO reduces to rGO in the nanocomposite. Immediate future perspectives pertaining to the GTR method are also discussed.


Relativistic X-Ray Reflection Models for Accreting Neutron Stars

Javier A. García, Thomas Dauser, Renee Ludlam, Michael Parker, Andrew Fabian, Fiona A. Harrison, Jörn Wilms

Abstract: We present new reflection models specifically tailored to model the X-ray radiation reprocessed in accretion disks around neutron stars, in which the primary continuum is characterized by a single-temperature blackbody spectrum, emitted either at the surface of the star or at the boundary layer. These models differ significantly from those with a standard power-law continuum, typically observed in most accreting black holes. We show comparisons with earlier reflection models and test their performance in the NuSTAR observation of the neutron star 4U 1705−44. Simulations of upcoming missions such as XRISM-Resolve and Athena X-IFU are shown to highlight the diagnostic potential of these models for high-resolution X-ray reflection spectroscopy. These new reflection models xillverNS, and their relativistic counterpart relxillNS, are made publicly available to the community as an additional flavor in the RELXILL suite of reflection models.


Experimental investigation on multi-layered filament wound basalt/ E-glass hybrid fiber composite tubes

Multi layered hybrid fiber composite, Filament winding technique, Mechanical properties, Basalt fiber composite, Microstructure analysis

Abstract: In this study, the mechanical damage of Basalt/E-glass hybrid fiber-reinforced polymer composite tubes was evaluated experimentally using Micro hardness on transverse direction, uni-directional static tensile loading, and Quasi-static compressive loading. The Burn-off test method has been studied for the volumetric fraction of hybrid composite tubes. The multi-layer hybrid composite tubes composed of eight layers of plies at constant fiber tension of 20N, a constant mandrel rotation speed of 45 RPM and constant winding angle of ±55° for basalt fiber and ±90° for E-glass fiber were fabricated through a 3-axis filament winding machine with a seamless amalgamation of the stage by stage curing in the furnace. Eleven tube arrangements with fiber content proportion of {100%, 25:75%, 50:50% and 75:25%} with various stacking sequence were studied. The test results provide that these mechanical property’s behavior was moderately affected by the proportion of fiber content and most of the time affected by the variation of layer stacking sequence. Adding 50% of basalt and 50% E-glass fiber sharing of BGH7 hybrid combination of basalt laminate placed in the outer side increases the mechanical characterization compared to the 25% and 75% sharing of basalt and E-glass fiber. The fractured fibrous matrix of the tensile specimens and compressive specimens was assessed using a scanning electron microscope (SEM).


Convolutional neural network analysis of x-ray diffraction data: strain profile retrieval in ion beam modified materials

x-ray diffraction, strain, convolutional neural networks, machine learning, ion irradiation, ion implantation

Abstract: This work describes a proof of concept demonstrating that convolutional neural networks (CNNs) can be used to invert x-ray diffraction (XRD) data, so as to, for instance, retrieve depth-resolved strain profiles. The determination of strain distributions in disordered materials is critical in several technological domains, such as the semiconductor industry for instance. Using numerically generated data, a dedicated CNN has been developed, optimized, and trained, with the ultimate objective of inferring spatial strain profiles on the sole basis of XRD data, without the need of a priori knowledge or human intervention. With the example ZrO2 single crystals, in which atomic disorder and strain are introduced by means of ion irradiation, we investigate the physical parameters of the disordered material that condition the performances of the CNN. Simple descriptors of the strain distribution, such as the maximum strain and the strained depth, are predicted with accuracies of 94% and 91%, respectively. The exact shape of the strain distribution is predicted with a 82% accuracy, and 76% for strain levels <2% where the amount of meaningful information in the XRD data is significantly decreased. The robustness of the CNN against the number of predicted parameters and the size of the training dataset, as well as the uniqueness of the solution in some challenging cases, are critically discussed. Finally, the potential of the CNN has been tested on real, experimental, data. Interestingly, while the CNN has not been trained to operate on experimental data, it still shows promising performances with predictions achieved in a few seconds and corresponding root-mean-square errors in the 0.12–0.17 range for a fully automated approach, vs. a 0.06–0.12 range for a classical, human-based, approach that, in turn, requires several tens of minutes to optimize the solution. While the overall accuracy of the CNN has to be improved, these results pave the way for a fully automated XRD data analysis.


Dual-band Fourier-transform Millimeter-wave Spectrometry for In Situ Gas Sensing

Brian J. Drouin, Deacon J. Nemchick, Ananda Nole, Adrian Tang, Chung-Tse Michael Wu, Neda Khiabani

Millimeter-wave spectroscopy, Molecular spectroscopy, High resolution spectroscopy, Comet surfaces, Space vehicle instruments

Abstract: The exploration of icy body composition in the solar system has often involved spectroscopic measurements of volatiles detected with remote sensing, such measurements portray materials naturally expelled from the surface that enter the exosphere and potentially escape into space. Variations in the ratio of deuterium and hydrogen in these measurements have led to inconclusive hypotheses regarding potential cometary origins of Earth’s ocean water and/or organics. Observational biases regarding unknown previous processing of the observable ejected materials necessitates studies of more dormant, less-processed bodies. Landed missions on comets have brought focus onto the development of small, sensitive instrumentation capable of similar composition measurements of the nascent surface and near-surface materials. We present an evolution of our compact Fourier-transform millimeter wave cavity spectrometer that is tuned for sensitivity at 80.6 and 183 GHz where HDO and H2O exhibit resonance features. We discuss both a low-SWaP (size–weight and power) architecture that uses custom microchip transceiver elements as well as a modular configuration using traditional GaAs-based millimeter-wave hardware. Newdesign features for these systems including quartz-based coupling elements, system thermal management, and a separable clocking board are discussed in addition to sensitivity studies and applications in potential mission scenarios.


Sun-as-a-star Spectroscopic Observations of the Line-of-sight Velocity of a Solar Eruption on 2021 October 28

Yu Xu, Hui Tian, Zhenyong Hou, Zihao Yang, Yuhang Gao, Xianyong Bai

Abstract: The propagation direction and true velocity of a solar coronal mass ejection, which are among the most decisive factors for its geo-effectiveness, are difficult to determine through single-perspective imaging observations. Here we show that Sun-as-a-star spectroscopic observations, together with imaging observations, could allow us to solve this problem. Using observations of the Extreme Ultraviolet Variability Experiment onboard the Solar Dynamics Observatory, we found clear blueshifted secondary emission components in extreme-ultraviolet spectral lines during a solar eruption on 2021 October 28. From simultaneous imaging observations, we found that the secondary components are caused by a mass ejection from the flare site. We estimated the line-of-sight (LOS) velocity of the ejecta from both the double Gaussian fitting method and the red-blue asymmetry analysis. The results of both methods agree well with each other, giving an average LOS velocity of the plasma of ∼423kms−1. From the 304 Å image series taken by the Extreme ultraviolet Imager onboard the Solar Terrestrial Relation Observatory-A (STEREO-A) spacecraft, we estimated the plane-of-sky velocity from the STEREO-A viewpoint to be around 587 kms−1. The full velocity of the bulk motion of the ejecta was then computed by combining the imaging and spectroscopic observations, which turns out to be around 596 km s−1 with an angle of 42°.4 to the west of the Sun Earth line and 16°.0 south to the ecliptic plane.


New constraints on axion-gauge field dynamics during inflation from Planck and BICEP/Keck data sets

Paolo Campeti, Ogan Özsoy, Ippei Obata, Maresuke Shiraishi

axions, CMBR experiments, gravitational waves and CMBR polarization, inflation

Abstract: We present new constraints on spectator axion-U(1) gauge field interactions during inflation using the latest Planck (PR4) and BICEP/Keck 2018 data releases. This model can source tensor perturbations from amplified gauge field fluctuations, driven by an axion rolling for a few e-folds during inflation. The gravitational waves sourced in this way have a strongly scale-dependent (and chiral) spectrum, with potentially visible contributions to large/intermediate scale B-modes of the CMB. We first derive theoretical bounds on the model imposing validity of the perturbative regime and negligible backreaction of the gauge field on the background dynamics. Then, we determine bounds from current CMB observations, adopting a frequentist profile likelihood approach. We study the behaviour of constraints for typical choices of the model’s parameters, analyzing the impact of different dataset combinations. We find that observational bounds are competitive with theoretical ones and together they exclude a significant portion of the model’s parameter space. We argue that the parameter space still remains large and interesting for future CMB experiments targeting large/intermediate scales B-modes.


Magnetic heating characteristics of La₀.₇SrₓCa₀.₃₋ₓMnO₃ nanoparticles fabricated by a high energy mechanical milling method

Hung Manh Do, Hong Nam Pham, Van Chien Nguyen, Thi Bich Hoa Phan, Dai Lam Tran, Anh Tuan Nguyen, Quoc Thong Phan, Van Hong Le, Xuan Phuc Nguyen

magnetic inductive heating, hyperthermia, manganite, reactive milling method

Abstract: Magnetic inductive heating (MIH) of nanoparticles (NPs) attracts considerable research attention, first because of its application to hyperthermia in biological tissues. Most reports so far have dealt with magnetite NPs with a Curie temperature, TC, of as high as above 500 °C. In this paper, we present results of a MIH study in an ac field of frequency 219 and 236 kHz and strength of 40–100 Oe for several samples of La₀.₇SrₓCa₀.₃₋ₓMnO₃ NPs of TC in the region of hyperthermia, that is some tens of degrees above human body temperature. The particle materials were fabricated by a high energy mechanical milling method combined with calcining at various temperatures in the range of 600–900 °C. The heating temperatures of the samples were observed to saturate at a field irradiating time of less than 10 min and at temperatures ranging from 40 to 75 °C depending on the strontium content, the NP concentration, c, and the field parameters. A sudden change in heating rate was clearly revealed in several heating curves for the case of low applied field and low c, which was considered to be related to the onset of a strong decrease in zero-field cooling (ZFC) magnetization of NPs. The initial temperature increase slope, dT/dr, and the saturation temperature, Ts will be analyzed as dependent on the NP concentration. Field dependences of the specific loss power will be analyzed and discussed for various concentrations, c. Evidence of fluid viscosity influence will also be noted.


Entanglement and analytical continuation: an intimate relation told by the Riemann zeta function

Abstract: We propose measurements on a quantum system to realize the Riemann zeta function ζ. A single system, that is classical interference, suffices to create the Dirichlet representation of ζ. In contrast, we need measurements performed on two entangled quantum systems to extend ζ into the critical strip of complex space where the non-trivial zeros of ζ are located. As a consequence, we can view these zeros as a result of a Schr¨ odinger cat which is by its very construction similar to, but in its details very different from, the superposition formed by two coherent states of identical amplitudes but opposite phases. This interpretation suggests that entanglement in quantum mechanics is the analogue of analytic continuation of complex analysis


超高速大容量光传输系统关键技术与产业发展研究

刘宇旸, 闫飞, 冯立鹏, 吕凯, 冯振华, 陈欢

超高速大容量光传输, 光纤通信系统;单波速率, 扩展波段, 新型光纤

Abstract: 随着互联网新兴业务的兴起,数据流量迎来了爆炸式增长。 围绕超高速大容量光传输系统中的超高速单波技术、扩展波段技术与新型光纤技术,详细介绍了其关键技术、发展现状以及相关产业发展情况,并对超高速大容量光传输系统关键技术与产业的未来发展方向进行了展望。


面向自智光网络的数字孪生技术研究及示范应用

匡立伟, 曾至诚, 韵湘, 邹菲

光传送网络;智慧光网络;数字孪生;仿真建模

Abstract: :信息通信技术处于加速融合、系统创新和智能引领的重大变革期,基于数字孪生技术构建具备自 配置、自优化、自修复能力的自智光网络,实现光网络规划、建设、维护、优化、运营全生命周期智能化、自 动化已经成为研究热点。 全面分析数字孪生技术国内外研究现状,提出新型自智光通信网络体系架构, 设计基于高维空间的光网数据量化表示模型,构建完备的数字孪生仿真建模运算集合,并针对当前光网 络运维挑战梳理出三类数字孪生应用场景;利用光网传输质量评估和自动优化案例阐述数字孪生技术 的应用效果,并对数字孪生技术进行总结与展望。


基于微服务架构的数字孪生仿真平台设计方法

高月红, 张吉, 严靖炜, 刘奕彤, 郑青碧

微服务, 数字孪生, 仿真

Abstract: 提出了一种基于微服务架构的数字孪生仿真平台的设计方法,以多维度资源精准调配的网络节能优化场景为例,通过拆分平台中松耦合的仿真单元,设计通信接口,并基于 Docker 及 Kubernetes 平台实现微服务仿真组件的部署,完成数字孪生仿真平台的架构升级。 通过融合微服务架构的优势,可以为平台未来的升级改造、功能扩展、部署实施等提供便捷。 测试结果表明,该方法可以以容器的形式实现并行计算,在计算量较大的场景下,显著缩短平台运行时间。


一种面向标识公共递归解析节点的数据安全加固策略

工业互联网, 标识解析, 安全加固, 二级节点

Abstract: 为解决工业互联网标识解析体系公共递归解析节点信息透明、缺乏隐私数据保护和身份权限管理等问题,提出了一种面向标识公共递归解析节点的数据安全加固策略。 通过设计加密机制及细粒度权限查验机制,实现了标识解析二级节点的编码注册和解析服务的安全加固,提高了标识解析数据共享的安全性,验证了该方案的有效性。


超宽光通信技术及产业趋势

超宽光通信；超高速大容量光传输系统；光纤到房间；超高速 PON；光网络开放解耦；WDM PON；自由空间光通信技术


REASONING WITH IMPERATIVES USING CLASSICAL LOGIC

Imperatives; Classical logic; Declaratives; Sanction; Translation scheme; Argument validity

Abstract: Traditionally, imperatives have been handled with deontic logics, not the logic of propositions which bear truth values. Yet, an imperative is issued by the speaker to cause (stay) actions which change the state of affairs, which is, in turn, described by propositions that bear truth values. Thus, ultimately, imperatives affect truth values. In this paper, we put forward an idea that allows us to reason with imperatives using classical logic by constructing a one-to-one correspondence between imperatives and a particular class of declaratives.


Different Views of Laws of Nature

Laws of Nature, regularity theory, nomic necessitation, dispositional essentialism

Abstract: There are roughly two main understanding in philosophy of science: Epistemology of Science and Metaphysics of Science. It is ex amined that some concept such as Laws of Nature, Causation, Time and Space into the metaphysics of Science. In this paper, it has been studied laws of nature which is one the most important subjects in metaphysics of science. Let’s think outside the box, there are three significant views about laws of nature; Regularity Theory, Necessita tion Theory and Dispositional Essential views. It has been worked the views of David Lewis in regularity theory. In the section of nomic ne cessitation we have been scrutinised the arguments put forward by David Armstrong and finally the last section; it has been discussed Al exander Bird’s views of dispositional essentialism comparing with the other two aspects.


Feminist Trouble: Intersectional Politics in Post-Secular Times


The Rights of the Guilty : Punishment and Political Legitimacy

punishment, legitimacy, contractualism, criminal justice, rights

Abstract: In this essay I develop and defend a theory of state punishment within a wider conception of political legitimacy. While many moral theories of punishment focus on what is deserved by criminals, I theorize punishment within the specific context of the state’s relationship to its citizens. Central to my account is Rawls’s “liberal principle of legitimacy,” which requires that all state coercion be justifiable to all citizens. I extend this idea to the justification of political coercion to criminals qua citizens. I argue that the liberal principle of legitimacy implicitly requires states to respect the basic political rights of those who are guilty of committing crimes, thus prohibiting capital punishment.


Drug legalization；Drug prohibition；Decriminalization；Harm reduction；Paternalism；Consequentialism；Contractualism；Victim-less crimes


Extension of the picture-superiority effect over multiple lists

Abstract: In general, pictures are freely recalled better than words, but results of a pilot experiment in dicated that this picture-superiority effect diminished with successive lists. We report here an experiment in which we investigated how the diminution over lists would respond to manipula tion of rate of presentation and list length. Although the diminution over lists did not replicate, the experiment serves to extend the generality of the picture-superiority effect.


Bond ordering in amorphous Si₁₋ₓNₓ

Abstract: We describe the application of a standard thermodynamic model, the quasi-chemical approximation, to the problem of bond arrangement in amorphous Si₁₋ₓNₓ and use it to interpret X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy data to obtain the distribution of nitrogen atoms in this material. We find that, although amorphous Si₁₋ₓNₓ is chemically ordered in the sense that nitrogen atoms are coordinated only by silicon atoms, the nitrogen atoms are distributed essentially randomly throughout the sample.


Professionalism in the match process: the rules and ethics of recruitment

Abstract: The portal through which most allopathic medical students enter graduate surgical education programs in the United States is the National Resident matching Program (NRMP) process, known as ‘‘the match.’’ Recently, the match has come under intense scrutiny, as the NRMP defends itself against a class action, antitrust lawsuit. In this article, I review the structure of the match, discuss available data about match participant behaviors, examine the ethical linkages inherent in the match, and make suggestions to strengthen the professional and ethical framework of the match.


A SCIENCE CLUB THAT HAD A FUTURE


Survival, growth, sexual maturity and tissue histamine accumulation of the mysis, Neomysis awatschensis and N. japonica Nakazawa, fed histamine supplemented diets

Xiaozhen Yang, Jinfeng Wang, Peng Fan, Liulan Zhao, Yongxu Cheng, Xugan Wu, Chaoshu Zeng

Dietary histamine concentration, Neomysis awatschensis, Neomysis japonica Nakazawa, Survival, Sexual maturity, Tissue histamine level

Abstract: Estuaries are often subjected to intensive aquaculture activities. Finfish and crustacean culture frequently involve the use of trash fish, which can contain high amounts of histamine. This has the potential to be a major ecological concern since this trash fish often becomes a feed source for naturally occurring small aquatic animals, such as mysis. The present study evaluated the effects of dietary histamine supplementation on survival, growth, sexual maturity and tissue accumulation of two estuarine mysis, Neomysis awatschensis and N. japonica Nakazawa. Both N. awatschensis and N. japonica Nakazawa were fed specially formulated diets containing 0 (control), 1, 2 and4g/kg supplemented histamine (5 replicates per treatment; 110 neonates per replicate) from the time they became capable of effectively feeding on formulated diets (10 and 17 day-post-hatch for N. awatschensis and N. japonica Nakazawa, respectively). The feeding experiment continued until the mysis reached sexual maturity. Our current findings indicate that dietary histamine had negative effects on both mysis species although their sensitivity to histamine appeared to be species-specific. Results showed that survival was significantly lower for N. awatschensis fed diet containing 4 g/kg supplemented histamine (56.8%) when compared to that of the control (78.3%), while for N. japonica Nakazawa, survival was significantly lower in both 2 (52.1%) and 4g/kg (51.5%) histamine treatments than in the control group (74.3%) (pb0.05). Histamine containing diets also significantly impacted body length of sexual matured N. japonica Nakazawa, however,nosignificantdifferencesoneitherbodyweightorlengthweredetectedforN.awatschensis(pN0.05).It generally took longer for both males and females of the two mysis species to reach sexual maturity when they were fed diets containing higher levels of histamine and the differences were often significant (pb0.05). Compared to the control, the whole tissue histamine concentration increased significantly for N. japonica Nakazawa fed diets containing 2 and 4g/kg supplemented histamine (pb0.05), however, no significant differences in tissue histamine levels were found among all treatments for N. awatschensis. These results suggest that the consumption of stale aquaculture feeds containing histamine could significantly impact naturally existing aquatic animals that play an important role in the marine food web and ecosystem.


A Smart Online Over-Voltage Monitoring and Identification System

Jing Wang, Qing Yang, Wenxia Sima, Tao Yuan, Markus Zahn

smart grid, over-voltage, identification, S-transform, fuzzy expert system

Abstract: This paper proposes a complete and effective smart over-voltage monitoring and identification system. In recent years, smart grids are of the greatest interest in power system research. One of the main features of smart grid is their self-healing, which can continuously carry out online self-evaluation, discover existing faults, and correct them immediately. The over-voltage smart monitoring-identification-suppression systems play a key role in the construction of self-healing grids. In this paper, eight kinds of common over-voltage are discussed and analyzed. The S-transform algorithm is used to extract features of over-voltage. Aiming at the main features of each kind of over-voltage, six different characteristic quantities are proposed. A well designed fuzzy expert system and a support vector machine are employed as the classifiers to build a two-step identification model. The accuracy of the identification system is verified by field records. Results show that this system is feasible and promising for real applications.


Интервью с Сергеем Грибачевым, генеральным директором «Скани-Рус»

«Скани-Рус»；Texas Instruments (TI)；цифровые сигнальные процессоры (ЦСП)；продвижение продукции；дистрибьюторский договор；радиочастотная идентификация；автомобильная электроника


Rules for dissipationless topotronics

Qing Yan, Hailong Li, Hua Jiang, Qing-Feng Sun, X. C. Xie

Abstract: Topological systems hosting gapless boundary states have attracted huge attention as promising components for next-generation information processing, attributed to their capacity for dissipationless electronics. Nevertheless, recent theoretical and experimental inquiries have revealed the emergence of energy dissipation in precisely quantized electrical transport. Here, we present a criterion for the realization of truly no-dissipation design, characterized as $ N_{\text{in}} = N_{\text{tunl}} + N_{\text{bs}} $, where $ N_{\text{in}} $, $ N_{\text{tunl}} $, and $ N_{\text{bs}} $ represent the number of modes participating in injecting, tunneling, and backscattering processes, respectively. The key lies in matching the number of injecting, tunneling, and backscattering modes, ensuring the equilibrium among all engaged modes inside the device. Among all the topological materials, we advocate for the indispensability of Chern insulators exhibiting higher Chern numbers to achieve functional devices and uphold the no-dissipation rule simultaneously. Furthermore, we design the topological current divider and collector, evading dissipation upon fulfilling the established criterion. Our work paves the path for developing the prospective topotronics.


EFFECTIVE SUPPORT, DIRAC COMBS, AND SIGNAL RECOVERY

G. GARZA, K. GUREVICH, A. IOSEVICH, A. MAYELI, K. NGUYEN, N. SHAFFER

Abstract: Let f : Zd N → C be asignal with the Fourier transform f : Zd N → C. A classical result due to Matolcsi and Szucs ([10]), and, independently, to Donoho and Stark ([3]) states if a subset of frequencies {f(m)}m∈S of f are unobserved due to noise or other interference, then f can be recovered exactly and uniquely provided that |E| · |S| < Nd 2 , where E is the support of f, i.e., E = {x ∈ Zd N : f(x)= 0}. In this paper, we consider signals that are Dirac combs of complexity γ, meaning they have the form f(x) = γ i=1ai1Ai (x), where the sets Ai ⊂ Zd N are disjoint, ai are complex numbers, and γ ≤ Nd. We will define the concept of effective support of these signals and show that if γ is not too large, a good recovery condition can be obtained by pigeonholing under additional reasonable assumptions on the distribution of values. Our approach produces a non-trivial uncertainty principle and a signal recovery condition in many situations when the support of the function is too large to apply the classical theory


VesselSAM: Leveraging SAM for Aortic Vessel Segmentation with LoRA and Atrous Attention

Adnan Iltaf, Rayan Merghani Ahmed, Zhenxi Zhang, Bin Li, Shoujun Zhou

SAM, Parameter efficient fine-tuning, LoRA, Atrous attention, Aortic vessel segmentation

Abstract: Medical image segmentation is crucial for clinical diagnosis and treatment planning, especially when dealing with complex anatomical structures such as vessels. However, accurately segmenting vessels remains challenging due to their small size, intricate edge structures, and susceptibility to artifacts and imaging noise. In this work, we propose VesselSAM, an enhanced version of the Segment Anything Model (SAM), specifically tailored for aortic vessel segmentation. VesselSAM incorporates AtrousLoRA, a novel module integrating Atrous Attention and Low-Rank Adaptation (LoRA), to enhance segmentation performance. Atrous Attention enables the model to capture multi-scale contextual information, preserving both fine-grained local details and broader global context. Additionally, LoRA facilitates efficient fine-tuning of the frozen SAM image encoder, reducing the number of trainable parameters and thereby enhancing computational efficiency. We evaluate VesselSAM using two challenging datasets: the Aortic Vessel Tree (AVT) dataset and the Type-B Aortic Dissection (TBAD) dataset. VesselSAM achieves state-of-the-art performance, attaining DSC scores of 93.50%, 93.25%, 93.02%, and 93.26% across multi-center datasets. Our results demonstrate that VesselSAM delivers high segmentation accuracy while significantly reducing computational overhead compared to existing large-scale models. This development paves the way for enhanced AI-based aortic vessel segmentation in clinical environments. The code and models will be released at https://github.com/Adnan-CAS/AtrousLora


Distributed Computing for Huge-Scale Linear Programming

Abstract: This study develops an algorithm for distributed computing of linear programming problems of huge-scales. Global consensus with single common variable, multiblocks, and augmented Lagrangian are adopted. The consensus is used to partition the constraints of equality and inequality into multi-consensus blocks, and the subblocks of each consensus block are employed to partition the primal variables into M sets of disjoint subvectors. The block-coordinate Gauss-Seidel method, the proximal point method, and ADMM are used to update the primal variables, and descent models used to update the dual. Convergence of the algorithm to optimal solution is shown and the rate of convergence of the augmented Lagrangian sequence, of O(1/k) is obtained, under the dual sequences supposedly bounded. This boundedness of the dual sequences needs to be ensured through adequate choice of the control parameter values and initialization of the primal and dual sequences; further to help resolve the issue, it is to be explored that explicit bounds are imposed for the dual variables associated with the global consensus equality constraints.


MedVAE: Efficient Automated Interpretation of Medical Images with Large-Scale Generalizable Autoencoders

Maya Varma, Ashwin Kumar, Rogier van der Sluijs, Sophie Ostmeier, Louis Blankemeier, Pierre Chambon, Christian Bluethgen, Jip Prince, Curtis Langlotz, Akshay Chaudhari

Abstract: Medical images are acquired at high resolutions with large fields of view in order to capture fine-grained features necessary for clinical decision-making. Consequently, training deep learning models on medical images can incur large computational costs. In this work, we address the challenge of downsizing medical images in order to improve downstream computational efficiency while preserving clinically relevant features. We introduce MedVAE, a family of six large-scale 2D and 3D autoencoders capable of encoding medical images as downsized latent representations and decoding latent representations back to high-resolution images. We train MedVAE autoencoders using a novel two-stage training approach with 1,052,730 medical images. Across diverse tasks obtained from 20 medical image datasets, we demonstrate that (1) utilizing MedVAE latent representations in place of high-resolution images when training downstream models can lead to efficiency benefits (up to 70x improvement in throughput) while simultaneously preserving clinically-relevant features and (2) MedVAE can decode latent representations back to high-resolution images with high fidelity. Our work demonstrates that large-scale, generalizable autoencoders can help address critical efficiency challenges in the medical domain. Our code is available at https://github.com/StanfordMIMI/MedVAE


Visual Design as the Impetus for Access and Utilization of Information in Digital Resource Platforms in University Libraries

Anne Nakhumicha Tenya, Jane Cherono Maina, Fredrick Mzee Awuor

Visual Design, Access, Digital Resource Platforms, Utilization, University Libraries

Abstract: The study sought to examine the visual design in digital resource platforms in selected public universities in Kenya. The study adopted a descriptive survey research design. Data was collected from a targeted population comprising of 86 academic staff, 23 library staff in charge of e-content and 4 university li brarians from four selected universities namely: University of Nairobi, Ke nyatta University, Moi University and Egerton University. Questionnaires were administered to academic staff and library staff in charge of e-content while an interview guide was used to gather data from university librarians. Data was analyzed using descriptive statistics, and presented in form of tables, charts and graphs and verbatim reports. Findings showed that the layout of content was unappealing, no clear paths for navigation, use of images and color for attraction was lacking while search features were complicated to understand. The visual design in the digital platforms lacked user considera tion and did not adequately facilitate effective access and utilization of infor mation. The study concludes that visual design is an important component in digital resource platforms for attracting users to access and utilize digital in formation hence the need to develop user-centered platforms.


A Study of “Profession + Foreign Language” Based Curriculum Design of College English

Profession + Foreign Language, College English, ESP, Curriculum Design

Abstract: Internationalization and globalization require students to have a certain level of foreign language communication ability, so for non-English majors, to have the dual ability of both comparatively high level of foreign languages and knowledge and skills in majors is of significance. The familiarity and mastery of professional related content by students in the general English stage of universities can help them better carry out their subsequent bilingual courses, making them versatile professionals in line with market demand, and thereby enhancing their employment competitiveness. The present study has designed a “profession + foreign language” curriculum which aims for culti vating students’ language proficiency by creating the dynamic system of Eng lish learning.


Electrocoagulation as a Pretreatment of Electrooxidation for Killing Escherichia coli

Djamel Ghernaout, Noureddine Elboughdiri

Pathogens, Chemical Coagulation (CC), Electrocoagulation (EC), Electrophoretic Mobility, Natural Organic Matter (NOM)

Abstract: Although the literature mainly reports on the inactivation of bacteria by var ious electrochemical disinfectants, the impact of process variables and reactor design on bactericidal performance is not fully understood. This review con centrates on recent achievements of electrocoagulation (EC) and electrooxi dation (EO) in killing pathogens such as Escherichia coli. Lynn et al. [1] [2] showed that in addition to EC alone, EC-EO enhanced E. coli reduction only after pH adjustment. They proposed that additional process optimization may lead to further improvements, such as adjusting the iron dosage for nat ural organic matter (NOM) removal, which would limit the effectiveness of oxidant scavengers. Additionally, more efficient filtration techniques (e.g., granular filtration) will reduce NOM and total iron content in the EO feed water, decreasing the need for oxidants. Furthermore, continuous EC-EO treatment requires more elevated EO current densities to improve E. coli re moval. Investigating the pathways of demobilizing E. coli in drinking water at high iron concentrations in the EO range will also provide deep insights into ongoing setup design. This review provides crucial, reliable, safe, and versatile alternatives to the widespread trouble of human drinking water pollution. Using and propagating the EC-EO technique will diminish health risks re lated to water quality, economic burden, lost labor time, import washout to the national economy, and natural resource management. Commercial-scale deployment of EC-EO technology will undoubtedly increase the socioeco nomic burden on local communities via secured water supply and result in a reduction in government health expenditures.


A Comparative Analysis of Indonesia and China on Managing Cultural Diversity in Multinational Corporations

Cultural Diversity, Multinational Corporations, Multinational Firm

Abstract: This study aims to undertake a thorough comparison analysis, diving into the complexities and consequences of cultural diversity management in Indonesian and Chinese multinational firms. This study aims to provide an in-depth exploration of the diverse strategies employed, challenges encountered, and viable solutions implemented by multinational corporations in both countries as they grapple with the complexities of cultural diversity. By examining the various approaches and outcomes, this research aims to provide significant insights for global multinational corporations, serving as a substantive reference based on a sophisticated comparative analysis. The primary goals include gaining a thorough grasp of cultural diversity management strategies, identifying common issues, and developing practical solutions applicable in a variety of global contexts. The technique includes a thorough assessment of the literature in addition to an in-depth investigation into the business practices of multinational corporations in China and Indonesia. The research’s conclusions have the potential to make a significant contribution to the scholarly conversation about cultural diversity management as well as offer practical advice for multinational firms attempting to negotiate the complexities of many cultural contexts.


Clinical Audit of Beam Output of Cobalt-60 Teletherapy Unit at AECH-BINOR

Zahid Khan, Muhammad Usman Ghani, Tooba Mujtaba, Saeed Ur Rehman, Kalim Ullah Khan, Muhammad Maaz, Ali Nawaz Muhammad

Clinical Audit, oBeam Output, Cobalt-60 Teletherapy Unit

Abstract: Uncontrolled cell development is a hallmark of cancer, a leading cause of death globally. Optimal cancer treatment necessitates the use of multiple methods, including surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation treatment. High-energy radiation in radiotherapy eliminates cancer cells by causing irreparable damage to their DNA (deoxyribonucleic acid). The radiation dose is delivered via a teletherapy unit. Dosimetric quality assurance tests are conducted to ensure accurate and safe radiation delivery. Guidelines for dosimetry are provided by AAPM TG 51 and IAEA TRS 398. We followed the dosimetry protocol of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) TRS 398. Dosimetry data were collected and evaluated for a period of nine years, beginning in 2014 and ending in 2022. The analysis of dosimetry data from 2014 to 2022 showed that the difference between the measured and calculated dose rate is 1.904 ± 1.41, which is below the IAEA guidelines, i.e., ±2%. The results suggest that dosimetry was in accordance with international protocols. It also reflects that radiation dosimetry is well carried out at BINOR cancer hospital.


The Regulation of Metaverse through Crime of Insult and Libel

Metaverse, Personality Rights and Interests, Insult and Defamation, Criminal Law Regulation

Abstract: With the popularization of decentralized Metaverse communities and the functions within it in future, the stealthiness of information sources and data flow will be greatly enhanced. Besides, in an entertaining and commercial environment, the media will be more diverse and the access to information will be more convenient, fast and comprehensive. Moreover, based on its purpose, the Metaverse is better related to the individual rights and interests of property and personality. Hence, individual’s reputation and portrait would become more important in future life and business communication. Therefore, crime of insult and libel, one of crimes that seriously violate the right of personality, would probably break through the infrequent crime zone in practice and turn into one of popular crimes when the Metaverse becomes widely known like Internet. In our research, premised on the theories about Metaverse and domestic criminal law studies on crime of insult and libel, we analyzed the impact and shock towards legal interest, subject and objective constitutive elements of the considered crime. Finally, we concluded the path of regulation through three aspects: they are explaining existing concept and theory, promulgating Judicial Interpretation includes emerging criminal acts, and formulating and enacting new context in the criminal law conform to the trend of misdemeanor.


A Systematic Review of the Effects of Soil Stabilization on Soil Mechanical Properties: A Comparative Study of Fly Ash, Cement and Lime

Soil Stabilization, Lime, Cement, Fly Ash, Mechanical Properties

Abstract: tematic literature review methodology based on the PRISMA guidelines. The review was limited to articles published between 2013 and 2023. From the outcomes of the systematic review, it was found that soil stabilization using either lime, cement or fly ash has significant positive effects on the mechanical properties of soil. Precisely, the results indicated that cement, lime, and fly ash can significantly improve soil mechanical properties such as strength, permeability, and stability. Overall, fly ash was found to be the most effective soil stabilizing agent compared to lime and cement. However, it was concluded that whilst fly ash alone can be more effective in soil stabilization, a combination of cement, lime and fly ash can be more effective. Overall, the research highlighted the potential of different soil stabilizing agents in enhancing the mechanical properties of soils and hence providing valuable insights for geotechnical and civil engineers and practitioners. However, further experimental or field studies are required to comprehensively compare the short-term and long-term impacts of fly ash, cement and lime on soil mechanical properties


A Comparative Study of the Origins of Phonography and Ideograph

Ideograph, Phonography, Geography, Phonetics, Philosophy

Abstract: Human script has gone through a long process and many developments, eventually evolving into two main branches, namely, the ideograph and the phonography. However, the reasons for the separation of ideograph and phonography, as well as the features of the two, have been the subject of much disagreement in the academic community. Taking Chinese characters as an example for ideograph, English, Sumerian cuneiform, and Phoenician as examples for phonography, this article makes a detailed study of the reasons for differences in the origins of ideograph and phonography from the aspects of geography, national concepts of time and space, and phonetic structure.


A New Description of the Advertisement Call of Terrestrial Nebulous Treefrog, Scinax nebulosus (Spix, 1824) in Brazil: Implications for Interpopulation Variation

José R. de Oliveira-Santos, Geraldo J. B. Moura, Marcelo N. C. Kokubum, Priscila G. Gambale

Anuran, Acoustic Parameters, Advertisement Call, Bioacoustics Diversity, Northeastern Brazil

Abstract: The genus Scinax encompasses 75 recorded species, making it one of the most abundant within the Hylidae group. Scinax nebulosus, a small terrestrial anuran, is distributed throughout northern South America, between Venezuela, Bolívia and northeastern Brazil. This study aimed to characterize the advertisement call of two distinct populations of Scinax nebulosus (Spix, 1824) in the state of Pernambuco, Brazil. Fieldwork was conducted at the Dois Irmãos State Park and the Camocim forest. The advertisement call of this species consists of a single multipulsed note, lasting 0.3 seconds, with an inter-note interval of 0.9 seconds and a dominant frequency of 3.3 kHz. Temporal and spectral parameters of the Northeast Brazilian populations differ from those in the Amazon. The wealth of bioacoustics information from various populations plays a crucial role in propelling comprehensive research in anuran bioacousti


Anxiety, Depression, and Associated Factors among Teachers during the COVID-19 Pandemic: A Multi-Centre Cross-Sectional Study in Zambia

Steward Mudenda, Maisa Kasanga, Scott Kaba Matafwali, Roland Nnaemeka Okoro, Ruth Lindizyani Mfune, Tina Haanyanga, Matildah Nyoni, Annie Mumba, Godfrey Mayoka, Victor Daka, Christabel Nang’andu Hikaambo, Webrod Mufwambi, Shafiq Mohamed, Billy Chabalenge

COVID-19, Mental Health, Anxiety, Depression, Secondary Schools, Teachers, Zambia

Abstract: Background: The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic inflicted unprecedented work-related strain, negatively impacting the mental health of many, including teachers. This study assessed the impact of COVID-19 on the mental health of secondary school teachers in Lusaka, Zambia. Materials and Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted among 388 teachers in selected secondary schools in Lusaka district, Zambia, from July 2022 to September 2022. Data were collected using the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS) and analysed using IBM SPSS version 28.0. Statistical significance was determined at a 95% confidence level. Logistic regression was used to determine the factors that influenced anxiety and depression levels among teachers. Results: Among the 388 teachers, the prevalence of anxiety and depression was 72% and 73%, respectively. Factors associated with anxiety were; being quarantined due to COVID-19 (AOR = 1.96, 95% CI: 1.11 - 3.45), having a chronic condition (AOR = 2.45, 95% CI: 1.19 - 5.05), having a friend or relative with COVID-19 (AOR = 1.8, 95% CI: 1.08 - 2.99) and experiencing death of either a friend or relative (AOR = 2.36, 95% CI: 1.48 - 3.76). Factors associated with depression included; having a friend or relative with COVID-19 (AOR = 2.63, 95% CI: 1.38 - 5.00), experiencing the death of either a friend or relative (AOR = 2.03, 95% CI = 1.16 -3 .54) and suffering income disruptions due to COVID-19 (AOR = 1.65, 95% CI: 1.02 - 2.66). Conclusions: This study found that anxiety and depression were highly prevalent, especially among teachers with predisposing factors. These findings demonstrate the need to develop and implement strategies to tackle mental health challenges among teachers, especially during pandemic periods.


EFFECTS OF GAMIFICATION: ANALYZING STUDENT ACHIEVEMENT, MASTERY, AND MOTIVATION IN SCIENCE CLASSROOMS

Abstract: I wanted to implement a teaching model that requires students to obtain mastery of a concept. Students typically understand the premise of games and how games are played. Gamification requires that students master a specific level or learning objective before continuing on in the course. Although gamification is a relatively new model of instruction, it incorporates elements of standards based grading and mastery learning.The purpose of this study was to determine if gamification increased student achievement, student mastery and student motivation. Learning objectives were separated and all class activities centered on leveled learning objectives. Students were not able to test out of a set of learning goals until they had demonstrated mastery of the content. Student test and quiz scores were recorded over a 27-week period. Students took surveys, participated in interviews and discussions as part of the study as well.Results showed there was a significant increase in scores with implementation of gamification. Particular success was shown in non-honors classes rather than honors courses. Student mastery and achievement increased with implementation because students were not allowed to move forward in content if they did not receive at least an 80% on quiz scores. I will continue to adjust and modify this learning model based on the positive outcomes of the study.


NITROGEN DYNAMICS OF CENTAUREA MACULOSA AND NATIVE SPECIES

Abstract:
Centaurea maculosa has invaded millions of hectares of disturbed and undisturbed semi-arid grasslands. Its success may be due to an ability to conserve nitrogen (N) or use N more efficiently than native species. It may also be able to acquire more N from early spring pulses than native vegetation.
Growth response, N acquisition, allocation, resorption and use efficiency of C. maculosa was compared with Pseudoroegneria spicata, Pascopyrum smithii, and Rudbeckia hirta by growing plants in high and low N supplies, which mimic disturbed and undisturbed sites. 15Nitrogen acquired per unit of root mass was highest in R. hirta. Centaurea maculosa had the lowest C:N ratio. Resorption proficiency was lower in C. maculosa for Harvest 2 and 3, and similar among all species at Harvest 4. Centaurea maculosa had the highest mean residence time (MRT) and lowest N productivity. Centaurea maculosa had the highest nitrogen use efficiency (NUE) for plants receiving the high N supply whereas NUE was similar for all species receiving the low N supply. Centaurea maculosa’s success in disturbed sites may be due to a high NUE, which can be attributed to a high MRT.
Uptake and growth response of C. maculosa receiving an early spring, late spring or steady N treatment were determined in a glasshouse and a field study. Centaurea maculosa’s response was compared with P. spicata, Festuca idahoensis and R. hirta in the glasshouse, and P. spicata, F. idahoensis and Balsamorhiza sagittata in the field. In the glasshouse, with plants receiving the steady N treatment produced the most biomass whereas plants receiving the late N treatment produced the least. Grasses receiving the early N treatment had the highest root mass ratio (RMR), whereas RMRs of C. maculosa were similar among N treatments. Forbs acquired more N than grasses. In the field, biomass was similar among N treatments. Plants took up more N from the early treatments than the late or steady treatments. Centaurea maculosa may be able to acquire more N from pulses than grasses in disturbed sites when plants are small, but as the grasses grow, C. maculosa may lose its advantage in acquiring N.


PLACE-BASED AND STUDENT-LED CLIMATE CHANGE INSTRUCTION IN THE SCIENCE CLASSROOM

Abstract:
Climate change is a global problem affecting everyone living on Earth. In Florida specifically, intense hurricanes are becoming a familiar event. In response to this phenomenon, I designed hurricane lessons to help students understand the link between climate change and increased hurricane intensity. I used place-based and student-led lessons. During these lessons, 14 students attended in-person and 16 students attended online, which was an option for students during the Covid-19 pandemic.
In the Hurricane Webquest, students learned about the structure of hurricanes, tracked Hurricane Irma and read about the link between rising sea-surface temperatures and hurricane intensity. For the Thermodynamics PhET Labs, students investigated the links between climate and heat, and energy transfer. In the Thermodynamics Mini-Project, students looked at how thermal energy can be converted into kinetic energy in hurricanes. Finally, in the Hurricane Building Codes Assignment, students investigated local buildings and how they met the Florida hurricane building codes.
Both before and after the hurricane lessons, students participated in the Hurricane Likert Survey and took a Hurricane Knowledge Test. Some students also participated in final interview questions once the lessons were concluded. Students indicated in both pre-and post-surveys that they were aware of climate change. After the hurricane lessons, students reported a greater understanding of the relationship between climate change and hurricanes. After students completed the Hurricane Building Codes Assignment, they were better able to articulate their reasons for evacuating or staying during a hurricane. When in-person and online students were compared, their greatest difference was in-class participation. Students attending in-person participated in classroom discussion, and those who attended from home stayed silent.


FOSTERING NURSING STUDENT RESILIENCE

Abstract: The purpose of this quality improvement project was to identify components of resiliency and create a solution to develop senior-level nursing student resilience. Assessment of Location X nursing school highlighted the need to identify components, tools, and measures of senior-level nursing student resiliency. The American Association of Colleges of Nursing (AACN) cites the importance of the development of nursing student wellbeing and resilience in the 2021 Essentials Domain 10 titled Personal, Professional and Leadership Development. The AACN further advocated for resiliency development during a 2020 Call to Action of United States nursing programs to promote and create a culture of wellness and resiliency among nursing students. The “Thriving in Nursing School” workshop was developed as a solution to equip students with the necessary tools, practices, and skills to develop resilience. The workshop consists of five evidence-based components: relaxation strategies, coping techniques, communication skills for problem solving, community and university resources available, and faculty mentorship. Formal focus and education about resilience has the potential to increase resiliency skills and was measured using the Connor-Davidson Resilience Scale (CD-RISC-10). It was hypothesized that resiliency-development quality improvement implementation will contribute to further development of nursing students’ resiliency skills to meet the demands of the nursing profession. Through a focus on student wellbeing and resiliency, this project has the potential to increase student success and improve skills to thrive in a rigorous education program. This quality improvement project was implemented to gather data and analyze workshop efficacy.


BIODIVERSITY POTENTIAL IN THE PACIFIC AND INLAND NORTHWEST: THE RELATIVE IMPORTANCE OF FOREST STRUCTURE AND AVAILABLE ENERGY IN DRIVING SPECIES DIVERSITY

Biodiversity; Forest structure; Available energy; Bird species richness (BSR); Pacific and Inland Northwest (PINW); Productivity gradients; Forest management; Structural complexity; Species-energy relationship; Disturbance

Abstract: Currently, the most common strategy of forest biodiversity managers in the Pacific and Inland Northwest (PINW) is to maintain structural complexity within forest stands and create the full range of seral stages across the landscape. Recent advances in ecological theory reveal that biodiversity at regional to continental scales is strongly influenced by available energy (i.e. factors influencing vegetative growth such as precipitation, temperature, radiation, soil fertility). We hypothesized bird species richness (BSR) exhibits a positive or unimodal relationship with energy across landscapes and the relationship between energy and BSR within a landscape is positive in energy limited landscapes and flat or decreasing in energy rich landscapes. Additionally, we hypothesized that structural complexity explains a lower percentage of the variation in BSR in energy limited environments and higher percentage in energy rich environments and that the slope of the relationship between structural complexity and BSR is greatest in energy rich environments. Ours is the first study to test the relative influence of energy and vegetation structure on BSR at local scales, and to offer predictive theory on how these influences differ across energy gradients. We sampled bird communities and vegetation across a matrix of seral stages and biophysical settings at each of 5 landscapes. We analyzed the response of BSR to structural complexity and energy covariates at each landscape. We found that (1) BSR had a unimodal relationship with available energy across the PINW region, (2) the landscape-scale relationships between energy and BSR were positive or unimodal in energy limited locations and were flat or negative in energy rich locations, (3) forest structural complexity explained more of the variation in bird species richness in energy rich landscapes, and (4) the slope of the relationship between forest structural complexity and BSR was steepest in energy limited locations and negative in energy rich locations. In energy rich locations, forest managers will likely increase landscape-scale diversity by providing all seral-stages and a range of forest structural complexity. In low-energy environments, biodiversity will likely be maximized by managing local high-energy hotspots judiciously and adjusting harvest intensities in other locations to compensate for slower regeneration rates.


MOLECULAR AND FUNCTIONAL CHARACTERIZATION OF NEUTROPHILS FROM CALVES WITH BOVINE LEUKOCYTE ADHESION DEFICIENCY: COMPARISON OF NORMAL, HETEROZYGOUS, AND HOMOZYGOUS ANIMALS

Abstract: Bovine leukocyte adhesion deficiency (BLAD) is an autosomal recessive disease of Holstein dairy cattle that is characterized by recurrent bacterial infections. The molecular basis for BLAD involves a mutation in CDl8 resulting in the absence of β2 integrin expression on leukocytes. The β2 integrins play key roles in neutrophil adhesion, chemotaxis, phagocytosis, and receptor signaling. The absence of these adhesion molecules severely impairs leukocyte adherence-dependent functions and results in compromised immunity. Thus, BLAD calves provide a model for investigating the role of β integrins in these neutrophil functions. In the studies described here, surface molecule expression, microbicidal activity, cell maturation, and molecular signaling were studied in neutrophils isolated from heterozygous and homozygous BLAD calves and compared with clinically normal calves. With the exception of the β integrins, surface molecule expression on leukocytes from the three bovine genotypes was similar when evaluated with a panel of monoclonal antibodies. Using three different measurements, neutrophils isolated from homozygous BLAD calves expressed increased NADPH oxidase activity after stimulation when compared to normal and heterozygous BLAD neutrophils. Visual comparison of whole blood smears revealed that homozygous BLAD calves had higher levels of immature neutrophils. Antibody cross-linking of the β subunit (CD18) of the β integrins on normal and heterozygous BLAD neutrophils produced a transient rise in intracellular free calcium, exocytosis of specific granules, shedding of L-selectin, up-regulation of CD18, and redistribution of the protein kinase p58fgr. These responses were absent in homozygous BLAD neutrophils. Immunoprecipitation of homozygous BLAD neutrophil membrane lysates with antibodies against β integrins revealed three protein bands with molecular weights corresponding to two of the three a subunits and the β subunit of the β2 integrins. Western blots confirmed that the CD11b α subunit was not present in these lysates, but the lack of antibodies that cross-react with the bovine β2 integrins hindered the identification of the three bands which may represent defective β2 integrin subunits in animals homozygous for BLAD. Overall, these studies contribute to our understanding of the role of β integrins in neutrophil function.


FIELD-SCALE SPATIAL DISTRIBUTION, WATER USE, AND HABITAT OF WILD OAT IN THE SEMIARID NORTHERN GREAT PLAINS

Abstract: Wild oat (Avena fatua L.) is widely dispersed throughout the Northern Great Plains (NGP), typically occurring in patchy distributions at the field-scale. If weeds are patchy, the environmental impact of weed control and input costs can be reduced through site-specific weed management (SSWM). However, the mechanisms regulating wild oat spatial distribution and the cost effectiveness of SSWM in the NGP need to be understood. Field experiments were conducted to map wild oat distributions and quantify the. accuracy of continuous weed presence/absence maps produced by crop consultants for use in SSWM. The accuracy of wild oat seedling maps was 70%. SSWM of wild oat could be profitable compared to a traditional broadcast herbicide application, even with the associated technology cost and seedling map inaccuracy. Greater increases in SSWM profitability could be realized if scouting and management efforts were directed to field areas with suitable wild oat habitat. I hypothesized that wild oat habitat may be limited by field-scale heterogeneity in plant available water. The effects of water stress on wild oat growth and fecundity was quantified in a greenhouse experiment. Lower soil matric potentials reduced wild oat relative growth rate and unit leaf rate due to an allometric tradeoff of assimilates from leaf tissue in favor of root tissue, but allowed wild oat to reproduce under adverse climatic conditions. Wild oat was estimated to produce seed above soil matric potentials of-1.66 MPa. In three grower-managed cereal grain fields, wild oat was seeded in areas with and without historic wild oat patches to delineate field-scale habitat quality. Almost all wild oat habitat-defining variables (leaf area growth rate, harvest biomass, seeds per plant, biomass water use efficiency, and competitive ratio) were similar between existing patch and non-patch areas. Wild oat grew and produced seed regardless of existing patch boundaries and field-scale heterogeneity in soil water use. Wild oat habitat may be unlimited in agroecosystems of the NGP. Future research efforts should focus on limiting weed fecundity and dispersal instead of correlating soil properties to predict wild oat distribution.


Part I - Pinacol rearrangement Part II - chemistry of 4,7,8,9-tetrahydrophthalans Part III - a synthesis of frontalin

Abstract: An attempt was made to study the effects of ring size and glycol stereochemistry on the pinacol rearrangement using cis- and trans-perhydrpindan-8, 9-diols. Since only the more stable of the two possible spiroketone products, spiro [4,4 ] nonan-1-one, was obtained, it was concluded that under the conditions used product distribution was determined by product stability, The effect of the oxygen in the tetrahydrophthalans upon the reactivity of the alkene bond was investigated using competitive oxymercuration experiments, A trans-annular stabilization of positive charge by the oxygen non-bonding electrons was proposed to account for the increased reactivity of cis-4, 7,8,9-tetrahydrophthalan, A new synthesis of frontalin, a sex attractant pheromone of the southern pipe beetle, Dendroctonous frontalis, is described utilizing the Diels-Alder reaction of methyl vinyl ketone with methyl methacrylate, lithium aluminum hydride reduction of the adduct to the corresponding alcohol, and cyclization to 1,5-dimethyl-6, 8-dioxabicyclo [3,2,l ] octane, frontalin, by oxymercuration-demercuration.


The effects of baclofen on CaM Kinase following cerebral ischemia

Abstract: One enzyme thought to be important in delayed cell death in the CA1 region of the hippocampus following cerebral ischemia is calcium calmodulin kinase II (CaM kinase), which has been shown to disappear in cells that will later die. This study was conducted to confirm the neuroprotective properties of baclofen and evaluate its effectiveness at preserving CaM kinase in the CA1 region of the hippocampus. In Experiment I, Mongolian gerbils were divided into baclofen and saline groups and were anesthetized. Animals were given baclofen (50 mg/kg, i.p.) or saline five minutes before common carotid artery occlusion (five minutes). Animals were also injected with saline or baclofen 24 and 48 hours after ischemia. Three days after surgery sections of the hippocampus were collected and cresyl violet staining was used to assess presence of cells in the CA1 region of the hippocampus. Baclofen significantly protected the cells from damage due to ischemia. Experiment II was conducted to determine the effect of baclofen on CaM kinase 24 hours after ischemia. Four groups of animals were used: baclofen-ischemia, baclofen-sham, saline-ischemia, and saline-sham. The animals were habituated to a T-maze for one week and then trained to perform a delayed non-matched to sample task. Animals underwent occlusion or sham operations with injections of baclofen or saline five minutes before. They were tested in the T-maze task 23 hours after ischemia and were perfused 24 hours after ischemia. Immunohistochemistry for CaM kinase was performed on the brain sections collected. There was no significant difference between the baclofen treated animals and the saline treated animals on the T-maze task, but there was a significant difference between ischemic and sham groups. We also found a significant difference between the baclofen treated animals and saline treated animals in the immunoreactivity of CaM kinase. These studies suggest that baclofen is neuroprotective and also preserves CaM kinase in the CA1 region of the hippocampus. The behavioral test used as a marker of cell death indicates that although it is sensitive to ischemia, there may be factors influencing its effectiveness in testing with baclofen.


Electrospun gelatin/chitosan nanofi bers containing curcumin for multifunctional food packaging

Mengxia Duan, Jishuai Sun, Yequn Huang, Haixin Jiang, Yaqin Hu, Jie Pang, Chunhua Wu

Electrospun nanofibers, Curcumin, NH3 indicator, Active and intelligent packaging, Antibacterial and antioxidant activities

Abstract: Recently, food grade nanofi ber-based materials have received growing attentions in food packaging. In this work, novel active and intelligent packaging nanofi bers based on gelatin/ chitosan with curcumin (GA/CS/ CUR) were developed via electrospinning technique. Effects of the incorporation of CUR content (0.1% 0.3%, m/m) on the microstructure and functional properties of the electrospun nanofi bers were investigated. Morphological studies using scanning electron microscopy indicated that loading CUR can affect the average diameter of nanofi ber mats, which remained around 160-180 nm. The addition of an appropriate level CUR (0.2%, m/m) led to a stronger intermolecular interaction, and thus enhanced the thermal stability and tensile strength of the obtained nanofi bers. Meanwhile, the incorporation of CUR signifi cantly improved antioxidant activity and the antimicrobial activity of GA/CS/CUR nanofibers. Moreover, the sensitivity of nanofibers to ammonia results indicated that GA/CS nanofibers containing 0.2% CUR (GA/CS/CUR II) presented high sensitivity of colorimetric behavior to ammonia (within 3 min). These results suggest GA/CS/CUR II nanofi bers has great potential as a multifunctional packaging to protect and monitor the freshness of protein rich animal foods, such as meat and seafood.


HrcQ is necessary for Xanthomonas oryzae pv. oryzae HR-induction in non-host tobacco and pathogenicity in host rice

Xiaoping Zhang, Chunlian Wang, Chongke Zheng, Jinying Che, Yanqiang Li, Kaijun Zhao

Xanthomonas oryzae pv. oryzae, Tn5-insertion mutant, Type III secretion system, Pathogenicity

Abstract: Bacterial blight, caused by Xanthomonas oryzae pv. oryzae (Xoo), is one of the most destructive diseases of rice (Oryza sativa L.) worldwide. The type III secretion system (T3SS) of Xoo, encoded by the hrp (hypersensitive response and pathogenicity) genes, plays critical roles in conferring pathogenicity in host rice and triggering a hypersensitive response (HR) in non-host plants. To investigate the major genes conferring the pathogenicity and avirulence of Xoo, we previously constructed a random Tn5-insertion mutant library of Xoo strain PXO99A. We report here the isolation and characterization of a Tn5-insertion mutant PXM69. Tn5-insertion mutants were screened on indica rice JG30, which is highly susceptible to PXO99A, by leaf-cutting inoculation. Four mutants with reduced virulence were obtained after two rounds of screening. Among them, the mutant PXM69 had completely lost virulence to the rice host and ability to elicit HR in non-host tobacco. Southern blotting analysis showed a single copy of a Tn5-insertion in the genome of PXM69. PCR walking and sequencing analysis revealed that the Tn5 transposon was inserted at nucleotide position 70,192–70,201 in the genome of PXO99A, disrupting the type III hrc (hrp-conserved) gene hrcQ, the first gene in the D operon of the hrp cluster inXoo. To confirm the relationship between the Tn5-insertion and the avirulence phenotype of PXM69, we used the marker exchange mutagenesis to create a PXO99A mutant, ΔhrcQ::KAN, in which the hrcQ was disrupted by a kanamycin-encoding gene cassette at the same site as that of the Tn5-insertion. ΔhrcQ::KAN showed the same phenotype as mutant PXM69. Reintroduction of the wild-type hrcQ gene partially complemented the pathogenic function of PXM69. RT-PCR and cellulase secretion assays showed that the Tn5-disruption of hrcQ did not affect transcription of downstream genes in the D operon and function of the type II secretion system. Our results provide new insights into the pathogenic functions of clustered hrp genes in Xoo.


Induced defense responses in rice plants against small brown planthopper infestation

Canxing Duan⁎, Jiaojiao Yu, Jianyu Bai, Zhendong Zhu, Xiaoming Wang

Defense enzyme, Defense gene, Real-time PCR, Rice

Abstract: Thesmallbrownplanthopper(SBPH),LaodelphaxstriatellusFallén(Homoptera:Delphacidae),is a serious pest of rice (Oryza sativa L.) in China. To understand the mechanisms of rice resistance to SBPH, defense response genes and related defense enzymes were examined in resistant and susceptible rice varieties in response to SBPH infestation. The salicylic acid (SA) synthesis-related genes phenylalanine ammonia-lyase (PAL), NPR1, EDS1 and PAD4 were induced rapidly and to a much higher level in the resistant variety Kasalath than in the susceptible cultivar Wuyujing3inresponsetoSBPHinfestation.TheexpressionlevelofPALin the Kasalath rice at 12 h post-infestation (hpi) increased 7.52-fold compared with the un-infested control, and the expression level in Kasalath was 49.63, 87.18, 57.36 and 75.06 times greater than that in Wuyujing 3 at 24, 36, 48 and 72 hpi, respectively. However, the transcriptional levels of the jasmonic acid (JA) synthesis-related genes LOX and AOS2 in resistant Kasalath were significantly lower than in susceptible Wuyujing 3 at 24, 36, 48 and 72 hpi. The activities of the defense enzymes PAL, peroxidase (POD), and polyphenol oxidase (PPO) increased remarkably in Kasalath in response to SBPH infestation, and were closely correlated with the PAL gene transcript level. Our results indicated that the SA signaling pathway was activated in the resistant Kasalath rice variety in response to SBPH infestation and that the gene PAL playeda considerable role in the resistance to SBPH. ©2013 Crop Science Society of China and Institute of Crop Science, CAAS. Production and hosting by Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved


Red fluorescent protein (DsRed2), an ideal reporter for cotton genetic transformation and molecular breeding

Lin Sun, Muna Alariqi, Yi Zhu, Jianying Li, Zelin Li, Qing Wang, Yajun Li, Hangping Rui, Xianlong Zhang, Shuangxia Jin

DsRed2；Reporter gene；Transgenic cotton；Molecular breeding；DNA methylation

Abstract: Genes encoding reporter proteins are used as visual marker-assisted tools in genetic transformation as well as plant breeding. In this study, the red fluorescent protein identified in Discosoma sp. coral (DsRed2) was successfully used as a visual marker for cotton genetic engineering. DsRed2 was successfully expressed in two cotton cultivars, JIN668 and YZ1, driven by the CaMV-35S promoter via the Agrobacterium-mediated transformation. Our results suggest that DsRed2 expression provides an early-stage selection tool for the transgenic calli via visual observation. Red fluorescence can be detected not only in callus and somatic embryos but also in most tissues and organs of mature plants. The transgenic line Yz-2-DsRed2 was crossed with four different cotton cultivars to assess the transgene heritability and stability in different genetic backgrounds. The heritability of the red color was highly stable when Yz-2-DsRed2 was used as a male parent. The DsRed2 gene expressed 100% in the F1 hybrids. To investigate the relationship between DsRed2 transcription and DNA methylation, a methylation-specific PCR approach was applied to the CaMV-35S promoter region. The results showed a negative association between DNA methylation level in the promoter region and the transgene transcription. Taken together, these findings suggest DsRed2 a visual reporter gene for cotton genetic transformation and molecular breeding programs.


Molecular insights into structural and dynamic properties of water molecules in calcium silicate hydrate nanopores: The roles of pore size and temperature

Shaoyan Liu, Hubao A, Shengwen Tang, Ming-feng Kai, Zhibing Yang

Calcium silicate hydrate, water molecule, structural property, dynamic property, pore size, temperature

Abstract: Calcium silicate hydrate is the primary hydration product of Portland cement and plays a crucial role in determining the strength of cement-based materials. The structural and dynamic properties of water molecules within calcium silicate hydrate nanopores have significant implications for the mechanical and durability performance of these materials. However, the influences of pore size and temperature on the properties of water molecules have not been fully explored. In this work, using molecular dynamics simulations and theoretical analysis, the evolution and mechanisms of the structural and dynamic properties of water molecules in different scenarios with various pore sizes and temperatures are systematically investigated. It is shown that the diffusion coefficients of water molecules increase with both pore size and temperature. Moreover, water molecules have a tendency to adsorb onto calcium silicate hydrate substrates, forming a distinct layered structure. As a result, the water molecules near the surfaces of calcium silicate hydrate substrates exhibit limited mobility, leading to smaller diffusion coefficients compared to those in other regions. Additionally, the distinctions in properties between water molecules and Ca2+ ions are elucidated and the underlying mechanisms behind these differences are also unveiled. The results and findings in this work deepen the understanding of structural and dynamic properties of water molecules within calcium silicate hydrate nanopores, providing valuable insights for improving the mechanical and durability performance of cement-based materials.


Silica nanoparticle with a single His-tag for addressable functionalization, reversible assembly, and recycling

Yuye Cao, Yangdong Cui, Yu Yang, Jie Hua, Zheng-Mei Song, Haifang Wang, Yuanfang Liu, Aoneng Cao

His-tagged nanoparticle, solid phase, reversible assembly, addressable functionalization, protein orientation

Abstract: For many biomedical and catalytic applications, such as encapsulation of proteins/enzymes in nanoparticles (NPs), it is preferable to have well-dispersed small NPs that are stable in solution and behave quasi-homogeneously. However, conventional liquid phase methods for small-NP synthesis and functionalization usually face great difficulties in separation/purification and recycling. In addition, controlling the orientation of proteins inside NPs is also a crucial issue to maximize the activity of the encapsulated proteins. Herein, we report a solid phase method to solve these problems. Using His-tagged proteins as cores, well-dispersed core-shell silica NPs are facilely synthesized and functionalized in a column. The core His-tagged proteins are kept bound on the surface of the resin beads in the column during the entire process, making the separation/purification of NPs and their precursors during the multiple-step process as simple as a few-minutes procedure of draining and washing the column. Each obtained silica NP has an adjustable eccentric core-shell structure with only one His-tag sticking out of the particle. This single His-tag on the surface of each NP not only makes it easy for addressable and stoichiometric functionalization of the NP but also provides an easy way to reversibly assemble NPs into dimers or be oriented on the surface of large particles. Notably, this solid phase approach also provides a versatile means to control the orientation of proteins inside NPs, and the His-tag makes it easy to recycle those well-dispersed small NPs.


Natural polymers based triboelectric nanogenerator for harvesting biomechanical energy and monitoring human motion

Hong Chen, Qixin Lu, Xia Cao, Ning Wang, Zhong Lin Wang

triboelectric nanogenerator, natural polymers, biomechanical energies, human motion monitoring

Abstract: Triboelectric nanogenerator (TENG) has been proved as a promising energy harvester in recent years, but the challenges of exploring economically triboelectric materials still exist and have aroused interests of many researchers. In this paper, chitosan silk fibroin-airlaid paper composite film (CSA film) was fabricated and then the CSA film based-triboelectric nanogenerator (CSA TENG) was constructed, which presents an opportunity for natural polymers to be applied in triboelectric materials. Due to the excellent electron donating ability of CSA film, the CSA-TENG can harvest environmental energy with a high efficiency. More importantly, the as-designed CSA film based dual-electrode triboelectric nanogenerator (CSA-D-TENG) is successfully assembled into hand clapper and trampoline to harvest mechanical energies generated by human bodies, it is also capable of monitoring human movement while harvesting biomechanical energies. This work provides a simple and environmental-friendly way to develop TENG for biomechanical energies harvesting and human motion monitoring