bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Historical natural kinds and mineralogy: Systematizing contingency in the context of necessity
Authors: Cleland Carol E. , Hazen Robert M. , Morrison Shaunna M.
Published: December 2020

The advancement of science depends upon developing classification protocols that systematize natural objects and phenomena into “natural kinds”—categorizations that are conjectured to represent genuine divisions in nature by virtue of playing central roles in the articulation of successful scientific theories. In the physical sciences, theoretically powerful classification systems, such as the periodic table, are typically time independent. Similarly, the standard classification of mineral species by the International Mineralogical Association’s Commission on New Minerals, Nomenclature, and Classification relies on idealized chemical composition and crystal structure, which are time-independent attributes selected on the basis of theoretical considerations from chemical theory and solid-state physics. However, when considering mineral kinds in the historical context of planetary evolution, a different, time-dependent classification scheme is warranted. We propose an “evolutionary” system of mineral classification based on recognition of the role played by minerals in the origin and development of planetary systems. Lacking a comprehensive theory of chemical evolution capable of explaining the time-dependent pattern of chemical complexification exhibited by our universe, we recommend a bootstrapping approach to mineral classification based on observations of geological field studies, astronomical observations, laboratory experiments, and analyses of natural samples and their environments. This approach holds the potential to elucidate underlying universal principles of cosmic chemical complexification.
Cigarette smoke induces
miR-132
in Th17 cells that enhance osteoclastogenesis in inflammatory arthritis
Authors: Donate Paula B. , Alves de Lima Kalil , Peres Raphael S. , Almeida Fausto , Fukada Sandra Y. , Silva Tarcilia A. , Nascimento Daniele C. , Cecilio Nerry T. , Talbot Jhimmy , Oliveira Rene D. , Passos Geraldo A. , Alves-Filho José Carlos , Cunha Thiago M. , Louzada-Junior Paulo , Liew Foo Y. , Cunha Fernando Q.
Published: December 2020

Significance

This report reveals a mechanism by which cigarette smoke (CS) could exacerbate local inflammatory disease. CS is a key environmental pollutant affecting millions of people globally and continues to be of considerable interest to the biomedical communities. We found that CS activates the AhR on Th17 cells, leading to the up-regulation of
miR-132
, which is then packaged into extracellular vesicles that induce osteoclastogenesis via the suppression of Cox2 that catalyzes prostaglandins. Clinically, rheumatoid arthritis (RA) patients who smoke express a higher level of
miRNA-132
compared to nonsmoking RA patients. This finding not only reveals a mechanism of CS signaling but also may provide a potential target for therapeutic intervention for inflammatory disease in general and RA in particular.
Endoplasmic reticulum membrane receptors of the GET pathway are conserved throughout eukaryotes
Authors: Asseck Lisa Yasmin , Mehlhorn Dietmar Gerald , Monroy Jhon Rivera , Ricardi Martiniano Maria , Breuninger Holger , Wallmeroth Niklas , Berendzen Kenneth Wayne , Nowrousian Minou , Xing Shuping , Schwappach Blanche , Bayer Martin , Grefen Christopher
Published: December 2020

Significance

The GET pathway is required for the insertion of tail-anchored (TA) membrane proteins in the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) of yeast and mammals. Some orthologous genes had also been identified in higher plants with the exception of one of the two ER membrane receptors required for membrane insertion. Get2/CAML is required for the pathway’s cytosolic chaperone to dock and release its TA protein cargo. Here we report the identification of the elusive plant GET pathway receptor through an interaction screen inArabidopsis. The candidate allows detection of further Get2/CAML orthologs in higher plants, revealing conservation and function of structural features across kingdoms. Additionally, our results demonstrate that these features, rather than sequence conservation, determine functionality of the candidate within the pathway.
Evaluating sustainable development policies in rural coastal economies
Authors: Lindsay Amanda R. , Sanchirico James N. , Gilliland Ted E. , Ambo-Rappe Rohani , Taylor J. Edward , Krueck Nils C. , Mumby Peter J.
Published: December 2020

Significance

Support for marine-based “blue growth” policies derives from their potential to simultaneously address United Nations Sustainable Development (SD) Goals on poverty alleviation and marine conservation. Modeling the linkages between a rural coastal economy and local fish resources, this work provides a rigorous ex ante assessment of common strategies to achieve SD objectives. We find that most of the considered policies increase target household incomes, negatively impact some nontarget households, and further deplete nearshore fish stocks. The results underscore the importance of considering characteristics of local economies and household linkages to marine and land resources when designing SD policies to avoid unintended consequences.
Social isolation uncovers a circuit underlying context-dependent territory-covering micturition
Authors: Hyun Minsuk , Taranda Julian , Radeljic Gianna , Miner Lauren , Wang Wengang , Ochandarena Nicole , Huang Kee Wui , Osten Pavel , Sabatini Bernardo L.
Published: December 2020

Significance

Vertebrates control the release of urine to mediate physiological functions as well as for social communication. The release of urine, or micturition, is controlled by the brain and is influenced by many internal and external factors. In mice, these include social standing, sensory context, and past experience as well as the state of the bladder. We study the brain circuits that control micturition in mice and uncover pathways by which the patterns of urine release are altered in response to changes in social experience and olfactory stimuli.
A genome-wide microRNA screen identifies the microRNA-183/96/182 cluster as a modulator of circadian rhythms
Authors: Zhou Lili , Miller Caitlyn , Miraglia Loren J. , Romero Angelica , Xu Shunbin , Mure Ludovic S. , Panda Satchidananda , Kay Steve A.
Published: December 2020

The regulatory mechanisms of circadian rhythms have been studied primarily at the level of the transcription–translation feedback loops of protein-coding genes. Regulatory modules involving noncoding RNAs are less thoroughly understood. In particular, emerging evidence has revealed the important role of microRNAs (miRNAs) in maintaining the robustness of the circadian system. To identify miRNAs that have the potential to modulate circadian rhythms, we conducted a genome-wide miRNA screen using U2OS luciferase reporter cells. Among 989 miRNAs in the library, 120 changed the period length in a dose-dependent manner. We further validated the circadian regulatory function of an miRNA cluster, miR-183/96/182, both in vitro and in vivo. We found that all three members of this miRNA cluster can modulate circadian rhythms. Particularly, miR-96 directly targeted a core circadian clock gene, PER2. The knockout of the miR-183/96/182 cluster in mice showed tissue-specific effects on circadian parameters and altered circadian rhythms at the behavioral level. This study identified a large number of miRNAs, including the miR-183/96/182 cluster, as circadian modulators. We provide a resource for further understanding the role of miRNAs in the circadian network and highlight the importance of miRNAs as a genome-wide layer of circadian clock regulation.
Astrocyte-secreted IL-33 mediates homeostatic synaptic plasticity in the adult hippocampus
Authors: Wang Ye , Fu Wing-Yu , Cheung Kit , Hung Kwok-Wang , Chen Congping , Geng Hongyan , Yung Wing-Ho , Qu Jianan Y. , Fu Amy K. Y. , Ip Nancy Y.
Published: December 2020

Significance

Synaptic plasticity in the hippocampus is important for learning and memory formation. In particular, homeostatic synaptic plasticity enables neurons to restore their activity levels in response to chronic neuronal activity changes. While astrocytes modulate synaptic functions via the secretion of factors, the underlying molecular mechanisms remain unclear. Here, we show that suppression of hippocampal neuronal activity increases cytokine IL-33 release from astrocytes in the CA1 region. Activation of IL-33 and its neuronal ST2 receptor complex promotes functional excitatory synapse formation. Moreover, IL-33/ST2 signaling is important for the neuronal activity blockade-induced increase of CA1 excitatory synapses in vivo and spatial memory formation. This study suggests that astrocyte-secreted IL-33 acts as a negative feedback control signal to regulate hippocampal homeostatic synaptic plasticity.
Adipose tissue is a critical regulator of osteoarthritis
Authors: Collins Kelsey H. , Lenz Kristin L. , Pollitt Eleanor N. , Ferguson Daniel , Hutson Irina , Springer Luke E. , Oestreich Arin K. , Tang Ruhang , Choi Yun-Rak , Meyer Gretchen A. , Teitelbaum Steven L. , Pham Christine T. N. , Harris Charles A. , Guilak Farshid
Published: December 2020

Significance

Obesity is a primary risk factor for osteoarthritis, involving complex interactions among the metabolic, biomechanical, and inflammatory factors caused by increased adiposity. Using a mouse model of lipodystrophy, we demonstrate that fat-free mice on either a chow or high-fat diet are protected from cartilage damage, despite demonstrating many factors previously associated with osteoarthritis. Furthermore, implantation of a small fat pad reverses cartilage protection in lipodystrophic mice, indicating a direct relationship between adipose tissue and cartilage damage, independent of body weight. This study provides evidence of adipose–cartilage signaling, indicating that tissues outside the joint can influence cartilage health. These findings support the notion that osteoarthritis involves a systemic component, providing insight into the development of new therapeutic targets for osteoarthritis.
Molecular mechanism of the repressive phase of the mammalian circadian clock
Authors: Cao Xuemei , Yang Yanyan , Selby Christopher P. , Liu Zhenxing , Sancar Aziz
Published: December 2020

Significance

The circadian clock mechanism is a daily rhythmic activation of circadian gene transcription by the CLOCK–BMAL1 heterodimer and repression by CRYs (CRY1 and CRY2) and PERs (PER1 and PER2). CRYs and PERs are highly expressed around predawn, when they begin repressing transcription of
cry
and
per
and other clock genes, leading to a nadir of CRYs and PERs in the afternoon. CRY represses by simply binding to the CLOCK–BMAL1 heterodimer on DNA, and PER represses by removing CLOCK–BMAL1 from DNA in a CRY-dependent manner. This work shows that removal of CLOCK–BMAL1 involves phosphorylation of CLOCK, which is accomplished by CK1δ when CRY and PER deliver CK1δ to the CLOCK–BMAL1 complex in the nucleus.
Discovering multiscale and self-similar structure with data-driven wavelets
Authors: Floryan Daniel , Graham Michael D.
Published: December 2020

Significance

Multiscale structure is all around us: in biological tissues, active matter, oceans, networks, and images. Identifying the multiscale features of these systems is crucial to our understanding and control of them. We introduce a method that rationally extracts localized multiscale features from data, which may be thought of as the building blocks of the underlying phenomena.
A phosphorylation-dependent switch in the disordered p53 transactivation domain regulates DNA binding
Authors: Sun Xun , Dyson H. Jane , Wright Peter E.
Published: December 2020

Significance

The transcription factor p53 is a master tumor suppressor that controls the cellular response to genotoxic stress. Following DNA damage, p53 is activated by phosphorylation at multiple sites in the intrinsically disordered N-terminal transactivation domain. In particular, the phosphorylation status of Thr55 controls both activation and termination of p53-mediated transcriptional programs during different stages of the cellular DNA damage response. Here we show that Thr55 functions as a phosphorylation-dependent regulatory switch that modulates synergistic intramolecular interactions between the disordered transactivation domain and the structured DNA-binding domain. The strength of these interactions is fine-tuned by the intervening proline-rich domain and is enhanced by Thr55 phosphorylation, resulting in autoinhibition of p53 binding to promoters that regulate cell cycle arrest and apoptosis.
Modulating the quantity of HIV Env-specific CD4 T cell help promotes rare B cell responses in germinal centers
Authors: Lee Jeong Hyun , Hu Joyce K. , Georgeson Erik , Nakao Catherine , Groschel Bettina , Dileepan Thamotharampillai , Jenkins Marc K. , Seumois Gregory , Vijayanand Pandurangan , Schief William R. , Crotty Shane
Published: December 2020

Immunodominance to nonneutralizing epitopes is a roadblock in designing vaccines against several diseases of high interest. One hypothetical possibility is that limited CD4 T cell help to B cells in a normal germinal center (GC) response results in selective recruitment of abundant, immunodominant B cells. This is a central issue in HIV envelope glycoprotein (Env) vaccine designs, because precursors to broadly neutralizing epitopes are rare. Here, we sought to elucidate whether modulating the quantity of T cell help can influence recruitment and competition of broadly neutralizing antibody precursor B cells at a physiological precursor frequency in response to Env trimer immunization. To do so, two new Env-specific CD4 transgenic (Tg) T cell receptor (TCR) mouse lines were generated, carrying TCR pairs derived from Env-protein immunization. Our results suggest that CD4 T cell help quantitatively regulates early recruitment of rare B cells to GCs.
Long-Range Interaction Enhanced Adiabatic Quantum Computers
Authors: Shi Anqi , Guan Haoyu , Zhang Jun , Zhang Wenxian
Published: December 2020

A quantum computer is not necessarily alone, e.g., thousands and millions of quantum computers are simultaneously working together for adiabatic quantum computers based on nuclear spins. Long-range interaction is inevitable between these nuclear spin qubits. Here we investigate the effect of long-range dipolar interaction between different adiabatic quantum computers. Our analytical and numerical results show that the dipolar interaction can enhance the final fidelity in adiabatic quantum computation for solving the factorization problem, when the overall interaction is negative. The enhancement will become more prominent if a single quantum computer encounters an extremely small energy gap which occurs more likely for larger-size systems.
Generation and Tunable Focal Shift of the Hybridly Polarized Vector Optical Fields with Parabolic Symmetry
Authors: Gao Xu-Zhen , Wang Meng-Shuai , Zhao Jia-Hao , Zhao Peng-Cheng , Zhang Xia , Pan Yue , Li Yongnan , Tu Chenghou , Wang Hui-Tian
Published: December 2020

Based on a parabolic coordinate system, we theoretically design and experimentally generate hybridly polarized vector optical fields with parabolic symmetry of the first and second kinds, which can further enrich the family of vector optical fields. The wavefront of this new-kind vector optical field contains circular, elliptic and linear polarizations, and the polarizations can keep the same or change along the parabolic curves. Then we present the realization of tunable focal shift with the hybridly polarized vector optical field, and show a specific law of the focal shift of the focused hybridly polarized vector optical field with the parabolic symmetry. We hope these results can provide a new way to flexibly modulate focal fields, which can be applied in realms such as optical machining, optical trapping and information transmission.
Low Voltage Reversible Manipulation of Ferromagnetic Resonance Response in CoFeB/HfO2 Heterostructures
Authors: Wang Yangping , Zhou Hongyan , Zhao Yibing , Liu Fufu , Jiang Changjun
Published: December 2020

We report that the ferromagnetic resonance (FMR) response of the CoFeB/HfO2 heterostructures is stabilized and reversibly manipulated by ionic gel. Ionic gel with excellent flexibility is used as a medium to form an electric field. When a 4 V gate voltage is applied, the resonance field H
r and peak-to-peak linewidth ΔH
pp at different angles are regulated. When θ = 20°, the H
r is regulated up to 82 Oe. When θ = 70°, ΔH
pp is tuned up to 75 Oe. When the gate voltage is repeatedly applied, the FMR spectra can be freely switched between the initial state and the gated state. Our study provides an effective method to manipulate the damping of the magnetic film stably and reversibly.
Quantum stability of generalized Proca theories
Authors: Heisenberg Lavinia , Zosso Jann
Published: December 2020

We establish radiative stability of generalized Proca effective field theories. While standard power-counting arguments would conclude otherwise, we find non-trivial cancellations of leading order corrections by explicit computation of divergent one-loop diagrams up to four-point. These results are crosschecked against an effective action based generalized Schwinger–DeWitt method. Further, the cancellations are understood as coming from the specific structure of the theory through a decoupling limit analysis which at the same time allows for an extension of the results to higher orders.
Real-time HCl gas detection at parts-per-billion level concentrations utilising a diode laser and a bismuth-doped fibre amplifier
Authors: Panu Hildén , Timo Rajamäki , Thomas Fordell , Makkonen Jarkko , Alyshev Sergei , Kharakhordin Alexandr , Firstov Sergei
Published: December 2020

HCl measurements in a cleanroom environment are carried out using a cavity ring-down analyser in order to get an estimate of the HCl concentrations that can be expected to be present in semiconductor manufacturing. HCl is a reactive gas and the materials used for gas sampling and transportation have a significant effect on the measurement response time; hence, data on HCl adsorption to different materials is also provided. Finally, a light source operating at 1742 nm that can be used for HCl detection in a multi-gas analyser based on multipass photo-acoustic spectroscopy is presented. Preliminary results indicate that sub-ppb detection levels are achievable using this approach even for HCl.
Engineering SnO2 nanorods/ethylenediamine-modified graphene heterojunctions with selective adsorption and electronic structure modulation for ultrasensitive room-temperature NO2 detection
Authors: Zheng Shengliang , Sun Jianyong , Hao Juanyuan , Sun Quan , Wan Peng , Li Yue , Zhou Xin , Yuan Ye , Zhang Xu , Wang You
Published: December 2020

Ever-increasing concerns over air quality and the newly emerged internet of things (IoT) for future environmental monitoring are stimulating the development of ultrasensitive room-temperature gas sensors, especially for nitrogen dioxide (NO2), one of the most harmful air pollution species released round-the-clock from power plants and vehicle exhausts. Herein, tin dioxide nanorods/ethylenediamine-modified reduced graphene oxide (SnO2/EDA-rGO) heterojunctions with selective adsorption and electronic structure modulation were engineered for highly sensitive and selective detection of NO2 at room temperature. The modified EDA groups not only enable selective adsorption to significantly enrich NO2 molecules around the interface but also realize a favorable modulation of SnO2/EDA-rGO electronic structure by increasing the Fermi level of rGO, through which the sensing performance of NO2 is synergistically enhanced. The response of the SnO2/EDA-rGO sensor toward 1 ppm NO2 reaches 282%, which exceeds the corresponding SnO2/rGO sensor by a factor of 2.8. It also exhibits a low detection limit down to 100 ppb, enhanced selectivity, and rapid response/recovery kinetics. This approach to designing a novel heterojunction with significantly enhanced chemical and electric effects may shed light on the future engineering of gas-sensing materials.
Deep learning-augmented radiotherapy visualization with a cylindrical radioluminescence system
Authors: Jia Mengyu , Li Xiaomeng , Wu Yan , Yang Yong , Kasimbeg Priya , Skinner Lawrie , Wang Lei , Xing Lei
Published: December 2020

This study aims to demonstrate a low-cost camera-based radioluminescence imaging system (CRIS) for high-quality beam visualization that encourages accurate pre-treatment verifications on radiation delivery in external beam radiotherapy. To ameliorate the optical image that suffers from mirror glare and edge blurring caused by photon scattering, a deep learning model is proposed and trained to learn from an on-board electronic portal imaging device (EPID). Beyond the typical purposes of an on-board EPID, the developed system maintains independent measurement with co-planar detection ability by involving a cylindrical receptor. Three task-aware modules are integrated into the network design to enhance its robustness against the artifacts that exist in an EPID running at the cine mode for efficient image acquisition. The training data consists of various designed beam fields that were modulated via the multi-leaf collimator (MLC). Validation experiments are performed for five regular fields ranging from 2 × 2 cm2 to 10 × 10 cm2 and three clinical IMRT cases. The captured CRIS images are compared to the high-quality images collected from an EPID running at the integration-mode, in terms of gamma index and other typical similarity metrics. The mean 2%/2 mm gamma pass rate is 99.14% (range between 98.6% and 100%) and 97.1% (ranging between 96.3% and 97.9%), for the regular fields and IMRT cases, respectively. The CRIS is further applied as a tool for MLC leaf-end position verification. A rectangular field with introduced leaf displacement is designed, and the measurements using CRIS and EPID agree within 0.100 mm ± 0.072 mm with maximum of 0.292 mm. Coupled with its simple system design and low-cost nature, the technique promises to provide viable choice for routine quality assurance in radiation oncology practice.
Positive end-expiratory pressure titration with electrical impedance tomography and pressure–volume curve: a randomized trial in moderate to severe ARDS
Authors: Hsu Hui-Ju , Chang Hou-Tai , Zhao Zhanqi , Wang Ping-Huai , Zhang Jia-Hao , Chen Yun-Sung , Frerichs Inéz , Möller Knut , Fu Feng , Hsu Han-Shui , Chuang Shin-Ping , Hsia Hai-Yen , Yen David Hung-Tsang
Published: December 2020

Objective. The aim of the study was to compare titration of positive end-expiratory pressure (PEEP) with electrical impedance tomography (EIT) and with ventilator-embedded pressure–volume (PV) loop in moderate to severe acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS). Approach. Eighty-seven moderate to severe ARDS patients (arterial oxygen partial pressure to fractional inspired oxygen ratio, PaO2/FiO2 ≤ 200 mmHg) were randomized to either EIT group (n = 42) or PV group (n = 45). All patients received identical medical care using the same general support guidelines and protective mechanical ventilation. In the EIT group, the selected PEEP equaled the airway pressure at the intercept between cumulated collapse and overdistension percentages curves and in the PV group, at the pressure where maximal hysteresis was reached. Main results. Baseline characteristics and settings were comparable between the groups. After optimization, PEEP was significantly higher in the PV group (17.4 ± 1.7 versus 16.2 ± 2.6 cmH2O, PV versus EIT groups, p = 0.02). After 48 h, driving pressure was significantly higher in the PV group (12.4 ± 3.6 versus 10.9 ± 2.5 cmH2O, p = 0.04). Lung mechanics and oxygenation were better in the EIT group but did not statistically differ between the groups. The survival rate was lower in the PV group (44.4% versus 69.0%, p = 0.02; hazard ratio 2.1, confidence interval 1·1–3.9). None of the other pre-specified exploratory clinical endpoints were significantly different. Significance. In moderate to severe ARDS, PEEP titration guided with EIT, compared with PV curve, might be associated with improved driving pressure and survival rate.

Trial registration: NCT03112512, 13 April, 2017.
Imaging slow brain activity during neocortical and hippocampal epileptiform events with electrical impedance tomography
Authors: Hannan Sana , Aristovich Kirill , Faulkner Mayo , Avery James , Walker Matthew C , Holder David S
Published: December 2020

Objective. Electrical impedance tomography (EIT) is an imaging technique that produces tomographic images of internal impedance changes within an object using surface electrodes. It can be used to image the slow increase in cerebral tissue impedance that occurs over seconds during epileptic seizures, which is attributed to cell swelling due to disturbances in ion homeostasis following hypersynchronous neuronal firing and its associated metabolic demands. In this study, we characterised and imaged this slow impedance response during neocortical and hippocampal epileptiform events in the rat brain and evaluated its relationship to the underlying neural activity. Approach. Neocortical or hippocampal seizures, comprising repeatable series of high-amplitude ictal spikes, were induced by electrically stimulating the sensorimotor cortex or perforant path of rats anaesthetised with fentanyl-isoflurane. Transfer impedances were measured during ≥30 consecutive seizures, by applying a sinusoidal current through independent electrode pairs on an epicortical array, and combined to generate an EIT image of slow activity. Main results. The slow impedance responses were consistently time-matched to the end of seizures and EIT images of this activity were reconstructed reproducibly in all animals (p < 0.03125, N = 5). These displayed foci of activity that were spatially confined to the facial somatosensory cortex and dentate gyrus for neocortical and hippocampal seizures, respectively, and encompassed a larger volume as the seizure progressed. Centre-of-mass analysis of reconstructions revealed that this activity corresponded to the true location of the epileptogenic zone, as determined by EEG recordings and fast neural EIT measurements which were obtained simultaneously. Significance. These findings suggest that the slow impedance response presents a reliable marker of hypersynchronous neuronal activity during epileptic seizures and can thus be utilised for investigating the mechanisms of epileptogenesis in vivo and for aiding localisation of the epileptogenic zone during presurgical evaluation of patients with refractory epilepsies.
Rheological features of non-Newtonian nanofluids flows induced by stretchable rotating disk
Authors: Shehzad S A , Mabood F , Rauf A , Izadi Mohsen , Abbasi F M
Published: December 2020

An incompressible flow of Casson-Maxwell fluids over stretchable disk rotating with constant angular speed is demonstrated in this research. Buongiorno theory of nanomaterials is utilized in the flow model to reveals the impacts of Brownian movement and thermophoresis. Cattaneo-Christov heat diffusion theory along with variable thermal conductivity is elaborated in the energy equation. The convective boundary condition for thermal analysis is imposed at the disk surface. The governing equations are normalized by means of similarity functions. Numerical approach is adopted to solve the complex non-linear system by Runge–Kutta-Fehlberg (RKF) procedure. The influence of dimensionless variables on velocity, thermal and concentration fields is illustrated through graphs, while the numerical values of thermal and concentration rates are explained in tabular way.
Ceramic packaging in neural implants
Authors: Shen Konlin , Maharbiz Michel M
Published: December 2020

The lifetime of neural implants is strongly dependent on packaging due to the aqueous and biochemically aggressive nature of the body. Over the last decade, there has been a drive towards neuromodulatory implants which are wireless and approaching millimeter-scales with increasing electrode count. A so-far unrealized goal for these new types of devices is an in-vivo lifetime comparable to a sizable fraction of a healthy patient’s lifetime (>10–20 years). Existing, approved medical implants commonly encapsulate components in metal enclosures (e.g. titanium) with brazed ceramic inserts for electrode feedthrough. It is unclear how amenable the traditional approach is to the simultaneous goals of miniaturization, increased channel count, and wireless communication. Ceramic materials have also played a significant role in traditional medical implants due to their dielectric properties, corrosion resistance, biocompatibility, and high strength, but are not as commonly used for housing materials due to their brittleness and the difficulty they present in creating complex housing geometries. However, thin-film technology has opened new opportunities for ceramics processing. Thin films derived largely from the semiconductor industry can be deposited and patterned in new ways, have conductivities which can be altered during manufacturing to provide conductors as well as insulators, and can be used to fabricate flexible substrates. In this review, we give an overview of packaging for neural implants, with an emphasis on how ceramic materials have been utilized in medical device packaging, as well as how ceramic thin-film micromachining and processing may be further developed to create truly reliable, miniaturized, neural implants.
Impact of shape on pedestal characteristics in the wide pedestal quiescent H-mode in the DIII-D tokamak
Authors: Wilks T.M. , Morton L.A. , Kriete D.M. , Knolker M. , Snyder P.B. , Barada K. , Paz-Soldan C. , Rhodes T. , Burrell K.H. , Chen X. , Hughes J.W.
Published: December 2020

Experiments on the DIII-D tokamak have advanced the operational limits of wide pedestal quiescent H-mode plasmas towards increased ITER relevance by simultaneously demonstrating well-matched plasma shape and net zero injected torque. Wide pedestal QH-modes are a compelling candidate regime for a future power producing device because they maintain a stationary pedestal without ELMs via additional edge transport. The pedestal is wider than what would be predicted from kinetic ballooning mode physics due to enhanced edge transport generated by broadband turbulence, a limit cycle oscillation, or some combination thereof. Compared to the double null shape, the lower single null shape is observed to have a lower density, narrower pedestal width, larger density fluctuations over a broad range of wavenumber, and operates closer to the peeling-ballooning instability boundary calculated from the simple pedestal scaling,

Δ

ψ

N

, which is still observed to be wider than the EPED prediction.
Modeling the vapor shielding of a liquid lithium divertor target using SOLPS 4.3 code
Authors: Marenkov E.D. , Kukushkin A.S. , Pshenov A.A.
Published: December 2020

In this letter, we report the very first results of SOLPS4.3 simulations of a liquid lithium (Li) divertor, including vapor shielding effects. A peculiarity of Li as a target coating material is the strong dependence of the erosion rate on the target temperature. We have implemented a new erosion model in SOLPS, taking this dependence into account. Simulations of the T15-MD tokamak divertor with Li-coated divertor targets have been performed. Li erosion is determined by physical sputtering, evaporation, and thermal sputtering. The results of the simulations show that a shielding effect occurs, providing a reduction of the target heat flux to values below 8 MW m−2. At the same time, the upstream plasma dilution in the high-power regimes, where shielding is most efficient, is very strong, meaning that in practical terms, it may be difficult to rely on the shielding effect for heat flux control in the configuration considered.
Statistics of the first passage area functional for an Ornstein–Uhlenbeck process
Authors: Kearney Michael J , Martin Richard J
Published: December 2020

We consider the area functional defined by the integral of an Ornstein–Uhlenbeck process which starts from a given value and ends at the time it first reaches zero (its equilibrium level). Exact results are presented for the mean, variance, skewness and kurtosis of the underlying area probability distribution, together with the covariance and correlation between the area and the first passage time. Among other things, the analysis demonstrates that the area distribution is asymptotically normal in the weak noise limit, which stands in contrast to the first passage time distribution. Various applications are indicated.
The state and direction of development of forage production in the Novgorod region of the North-West of Russia
Authors: Bevz S Y , Toshkina E A
Published: December 2020

The data on the study of the condition of the forage reserve for the farms of the Novgorod region are given. The directions of improving meadow and field forage production, ways to increase the productivity of the forage hectare are proposed. It has been experimentally proved that in the soil and climatic conditions of the Novgorod region, through the use of field and meadow legume-grass agrocenosises, highly nutritious forages can be obtained: green mass – more than 22 tons, silage – more than 11 tons, haylage – more than 7 tons per 1 ha. An analysis of the energy parameters of the technologies for cultivation and use of field and meadow agrocenosises showed that the energy costs and their structure vary significantly and depend on the composition of cenosises, types and doses of fertilizers, type and amount of seeds of annual crops, their energy consumption. In order to save resources in forage production, it is advisable to cultivate legume-grass agrocenosises. The introduction of the legume component in field and meadow agrocenosises will lead not only to an increase in the nutritional value of the forage, but also to an increase in the agro-energy coefficient. The calculation of the energy efficiency coefficient confirmed the high energy saving in the cultivation of field and meadow legume-grass agrocenosises. The least costly is the use of meadow agrocenosises for green forage. The yield of exchange energy is 8.7 times higher than the energy expended for cultivating legume-grass meadow grass stands and preparing forage from them. Due to the low feed value of natural forage land, summer feeding of animals with more nutritious green forage prepared from legume-grass agrocenosises is recommended.
Environmental aspects of the use of sewage sludge as fertilizer materials
Authors: Elshaeva I V , Voropaeva E V , Pinaeva A S
Published: December 2020

The possibilities of using sewage sludge as fertilizer materials are determined by their chemical composition, sanitary-toxicological and physical condition. In each case, the use of these wastes must be preceded by studies proving not only their nutritional value, but also safety, and be accompanied by the development of an environmentally friendly technology for their disposal. The paper provides data on the analysis of industrial soil based on sewage sludge with the aim of using it for the restoration of disturbed and contaminated lands. In an experiment with the cultivation of cereal grasses, the limiting doses of introducing waste were determined. An increase in the amount of sewage sludge led to an increase in the gross content of heavy metals in the industrial soil, and the cadmium content exceeded the permissible standards for close to neutral and neutral soils. A clear correlation between the content of toxicants in the soil and their accumulation in plants was not observed.
Production vacuum-evaporation unit for increasing humic suspension concentration
Authors: Fominykh A V , Sergeew N S , Ezdin D P , Khaibrakhmanov R R , Artyukhova S I , Khlusov V N
Published: December 2020

Humic preparations belong to natural growth regulators. Humic preparations eliminate the negative effects of factors unfavorable for the development of plants, normalize the processes of intracellular metabolism. Humic substances are adsorbed on the cell wall of the animal organism, increasing the elasticity of its membrane and increasing the surface of the cell, this leads to an increase in the amount of oxygen and metabolism entering it. With the introduction of humic substances in the diet of cattle, the average daily increase in live weight increases by 14.4%. When used as an additive in chickens feed, the average daily increase increases by 11.85%, the weight of the heart, liver, spleen, and gall bladder up to 20.7%. The average daily gain in sucking piglets is increased by 8.3%. A line with a vacuum evaporator was developed to increase the concentration of humic suspension. The installation consists of a heating chamber, a steam pipeline, a steam condenser, a condensate tank, a water-air ejector, a cooler, a water tank, a centrifugal pump, a hot water supply pipe to the heating jacket, a water drain pipe from the shirt, a working water pipe, a pressure gauge, vacuum gauges, a thermometer.
Ultrasonic treatment of the coffee extract
Authors: Gerasimov D V , Suchkova E P , Hussaineh R
Published: December 2020

Coffee is one of the most popular beverages in the world. Coffee gives strength, stimulates brain activity and increases concentration. There are many biologically active substances in its composition. Instant coffee is an important coffee product that would benefit on an extended shelf life. The introduction of modern methods of treatment, as the ultrasonic treatment, may be used to increase the shelf life of this kind of products. Ultrasound is a modern method of treatment biological systems. It can help to intensify the extraction process of biologically active substances. Ultrasound can also be used as a method of sterilization. The object of this study was to investigate the improvement the production technology of natural instant coffee using ultrasonic treatment. The affect of ultrasound on the coffee extract was determined by measuring the water activity, caffeine and 5-(hydroxymethyl)-furfural (HMF) content. Ground coffee dissolved in water was subjected to sonication from 1 to 3 minutes and with power varying from 2 to 8 W. Water activity was shown to be reduced with increasing duration and power of sonication. The caffeine content varied with time and processing power. When processing for 1 or 2 minutes, an increase in caffeine content was observed with increasing power. When processing for 3 minutes, there was an increase in caffeine content at a power of 2 to 4 W and a decrease in power from 4 to 8 W. According to this research the possibility of using sonication in coffee extract to improve its quality was concluded due to the achievement of lower water activities and higher caffeine content.
Development of the production technology for semi-finished meat products with addition of mushrooms
Authors: Gizatova N V , Chernyshenko Yu N , Zaitseva T N , Rybchenko T V , Kulikov D A , Mikolaychik I N
Published: December 2020

The study aims to provide an analytical substantiation of a promising direction – development of specialized meat products enriched with macro- and micronutrients, dietary fiber and organic acids. To create conditions for a balanced diet and to improve the health of the population, we propose to use a technique that employs non-traditional resources of plant origin. Meat occupies one of the first places in nutrition, since it contains almost all nutrients needed for the human body. A product has been developed with addition of oyster mushrooms to increase its nutritive value. The formulation for pork cutlets was taken as a basis. The main raw materials used were pork and mushrooms, and auxiliary raw materials were bread, crackers, onions, melange, salt, pepper, and water. All raw materials were pre-processed, mixed and molded before use. As a result, an improved production technology of semi-finished meat products with mushrooms was proposed. The expediency of using mushrooms in production of semi-finished meat products was substantiated, studies of the effect of mushroom addition on properties of cutlets were conducted, and sensory assessment was performed. Introduction of mushrooms into the formulation improved the sensory properties of the finished product, improved the color and texture. In addition, the product exhibited tender texture, enhanced chewiness, and decreased stiffness. Calculation of the energy value of the control and experimental samples of the product showed that the use of the filler reduced the calorie content of the new product by 28.34 kcal. Thus, semi-finished products with inclusion of mushrooms can be recommended for both mass meals and diet food.
Effect of triticale grain in feeding of dairy cows on their milk production and physiological state
Authors: Gorelik O V , Gafner V D , Nesterenko A A , Dolmatova I A , Safronov S L , Aksel Ioan Odah Gi
Published: December 2020

Genetic potential of livestock can be revealed through organization of scientifically based feeding. Energy components of the ration, concentrates, are of special relevance. In recent years, triticale cereal crop has often been used as a concentrate for feeding cows. Triticale grain is virtually not used for feeding dairy cows, but its use in a mixture with other concentrates is of potential interest. The paper presents the results of the impact of triticale grain when it is introduced into a mixture of concentrates for feeding dairy cows in an amount of 2.7–3.7 kg on their milk production and physiological state. It was found that introduction of triticale grain into the diet of dairy cows did not have a significant effect on the physiological state of the experimental farm animals. In all experimental groups, the calcium content decreased, and in groups 1 and 2, the content of phosphorus decreased and that of triglycerides grew, which had a positive effect on fat synthesis increase. In the experimental groups, where triticale grain was used as concentrates, the amount of milk yield per lactation increased, and its quality characteristics improved. The cows from the experimental groups significantly surpassed their peers from the control group in milk yield per lactation by 21.3–37.3% at P≤0.01 and P≤0.001, respectively. The milk quality indicators were found to be better that increased amount of milk fat and milk protein. Despite the difference in milk yield, all cows were dairy animals and showed high milk yield rates ranging from 1,225 to 1,654.
Morphometric indicators of the axial skeleton and their relationship with breeding characters in minks of different genotypes
Authors: Khodusov A A , Ponomareva M E , Lukashik E E , Semenova Yu O , Kozlova M S
Published: December 2020

American mink (Mustela vison / Neovison vison) is the main object of fur farming. Breeding work has a significant impact on animal morphology. Body size is a breeding trait, as it affects the cost of the final product through the area of the resulting skins. The study of the laws governing the formation of this feature is of practical importance in the rule of law. In the study of indicators: the mass of the carcass without skin and subcutaneous fat (CMWS), the total body length of the animal (BL), the length of the skull (SL) and the length of the spinal column: cervical (CL), thoracic (TL), lumbar (LL) and sacral (SL) and their interdependencies in minks of genotypes silver-blue (p/p), sapphire (a/a p/p), pearl (kk pp), palomino (kk), pastel (bb), albino pastel (cc bb), headlund (hh), scanblack (NN, Nn)), it was found that body weight mainly has significant differences. The total body length of the male genotypes is pearl (kk pp), headlund (hh) and scanblack (NN, Nn) significantly less than the animals of the remaining groups, and the longest males of the genotypes are silver-blue (p/p), pastel (bb) and albino pastel (cc bb). In females, the differences are not significant. The dependence of MCWS on BL is at a high level, while some parts of the axial skeleton have a significantly smaller effect on body weight, despite the fact that the thoracic region has a noticeable and high effect on the total length, which is apparently due to the large relative value of this department.
Sustainable development of dairy farming through the use of digital technologies
Authors: Kozina A M , Semkiv L P
Published: December 2020

Scientific research and practice of leading agricultural enterprises show that innovative technologies are the main condition and the key factor for sustainable development of dairy farming. In modern conditions, the use of digital technologies, active implementation and use of smart automated process control systems are a priority. The studies conducted have shown that competitive struggle for markets, and increased consumption of milk and dairy products accelerate advancement of digital technologies in the dairy industry and provide access to the trajectory of sustainable development. At the same time, implementation of these technologies makes actual the issues of increased efficiency of the agribusiness. In modern conditions, digitalization of the dairy industry helps farm managers to efficiently fulfill the current tasks faced by the personnel, and therefore to ensure food security in the country and in the world. Introduction of digital technology suggests high demands to the professional level of the personnel. Sustainable development of dairy farming is challenging, and it depends on a number of factors. It requires active use of digital technologies by agricultural enterprises, appropriate organizational support, and support from federal and regional authorities. The paper highlights that development of dairy farming in Novgorod region should be carried out as part of the priority regional project Development of Dairy Farming, which increases the efficiency of investment mobilization. Flexibility of the investment legislation in the region enables implemention of large-scale investment projects, which can increase milk production in the future. Implementation of digital technologies and system digital agro-solutions on digital farms will make a breakthrough in dairy farming in the region in the coming years.
Study of iron (III) and nickel (II) ions adsorption from aqueous solutions by basalt fiber
Authors: Letenkova I V
Published: December 2020

The regularities of iron (III) and nickel (II) ions sorption kinetics on super-thin basalt fiber (STBF) were studied. The correlation between the adsorption rate constants and the ions diffusion coefficients was established. The adsorption equilibrium for the iron (III) ion is well described by the Freundlich model, and for the nickel (II) ion – by the Langmuir model.
An innovative approach to creating a database of the chemical composition and nutritional value of food
Authors: Marhunova A M , Lovkis Z V , Kondratenko S A , Voblikova T V
Published: December 2020

The article presents the results of methodological justification of using an innovative approach to create a database of the chemical composition and nutritional value of food products, outlines trends in the quality of nutrition of the population in the context of the provisions and objectives of the National Food Security Doctrine of the Republic of Belarus on 2030. An algorithm and a model for building a database, basic methodological approaches and principles have been developed taking into account the relationship between the assessment of the chemical composition of food products and the sustainable development of the agrocomplex. It is proposed to use a methodology for assessing the chemical composition and nutritional value of food products when creating an in-information-analytical system for monitoring the quality and safety of food products on the domestic market, which ensures the prompt exchange of information between market entities, EAEU member states and third countries, as well as preventing the emergence of relevant barriers to trade and risks.