bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Non-Axisymmetric Flows and Rotordynamic Forces in an Eccentric Shrouded Centrifugal Compressor—Part 1: Measurement
Authors: Song Jieun , Kim Suyong , Park Tae Choon , Cha Bong-Jun , Lim Dong Hun , Hong Joo Sung , Lee Tae Wook , Song Seung Jin
Published: September 2019

Centrifugal compressors can suffer from rotordynamic instability. While individual components (e.g., seals, shrouds) have been previously investigated, an integrated experimental or analytical study at the compressor system level is scarce. For the first time, non-axisymmetric pressure distributions in a statically eccentric shrouded centrifugal compressor with eye-labyrinth seals have been measured for various eccentricities. From the pressure measurements, direct and cross-coupled stiffness coefficients have been determined. Thus, the contributions of the pressure perturbations in the shroud cavity and labyrinth seals have been simultaneously investigated. The cross-coupled stiffness coefficients in the shroud and labyrinth seals are both positive and one order of magnitude larger than the direct stiffness coefficients. Furthermore, in the tested compressor, contrary to the common assumption, the cross-coupled stiffness in the shroud is 2.5 times larger than that in the labyrinth seals. Thus, not only eye-labyrinth seals but also shrouds need to be considered in rotordynamic analysis.
Balancing ion parameters and fluorocarbon chemical reactants for SiO2 pattern transfer control using fluorocarbon-based atomic layer etching
Authors: Dallorto Stefano , Lorenzon Monica , Szornel Julia , Schwartzberg Adam , Goodyear Andy , Cooke Mike , Hofmann Martin , Rangelow Ivo W. , Cabrini Stefano
Published: September 2019

In manufacturing, etch profiles play a significant role in device patterning. Here, the authors present a study of the evolution of etch profiles of nanopatterned silicon oxide using a chromium hard mask and a CHF3/Ar atomic layer etching in a conventional inductively coupled plasma tool. The authors show the effect of substrate electrode temperature, chamber pressure, and electrode forward power on the etch profile evolution of nanopatterned silicon oxide. Chamber pressure has an especially significant role, with lower pressure leading to lower etch rates and higher pattern fidelity. The authors also find that at higher electrode forward power, the physical component of etching increases and more anisotropic etching is achieved. By carefully tuning the process parameters, the authors are able to find the best conditions to achieve aspect-ratio independent etching and high fidelity patterning, with an average sidewall angle of 87° ± 1.5° and undercut values as low as 3.7 ± 0.5% for five trench sizes ranging from 150 to 30 nm. Furthermore, they provide some guidelines to understand the impact of plasma parameters on plasma ion distribution and thus on the atomic layer etching process.
Rapid reflectance difference microscopy based on liquid crystal variable retarder
Authors: Hu Chunguang , Wang Hao , Huo Shuchun , Shen Wanfu , Hu Xiaotang
Published: September 2019

The liquid crystal variable retarder (LCVR), as a controllable phase modulator, works in a setting voltage or modulated mode and has been applied in the field of microscopic polarimetry. However, the modulation period of an LCVR is normally limited to dozens to hundreds of milliseconds, which is not suitable for a rapid measurement. Based on this feature, in this work, one rapid measuring strategy was reported. Only two frames were needed for a normalized-intensity-difference microscopic anisotropy measurement. The working principle and instrumentation were presented. For demonstration, a flake of graphene was measured by this method and compared by the reported way. An approximately 30× speed improvement was realized with the clear signal measurement. This proposed method will help a fast in situ characterization of ultrathin films and 2D materials.
Distinguishing Two Types of Variability in a Sit-to-Stand Task
Authors: Gibbons Cameron T. , Amazeen Polemnia G. , Likens Aaron D.
Published: September 2019

Variability is commonly observed in complex behavior, such as the maintenance of upright posture. The current study examines the value added by using nonlinear measures of variability to identify dynamic stability instead of linear measures that reflect average fluctuations about a mean state. The largest Lyapunov exponent (λ1) and SD were calculated on mediolateral movement as participants performed a sit-to-stand task on a stable and unstable platform. Both measures identified changes in movement across postures, but results diverged when participants stood on the unstable platform. Large SD indicated an increase in movement variability, but small λ1 identified those movements as stable and controlled. The results suggest that a combination of linear and nonlinear analyses is useful in identifying the proportion of observed variability that may be attributed to structured, controlled sources. Nonlinear measures of variability, like λ1, can further be used to make predictions about transitions between stable postures and to identify a system’s resistance to disruption from external perturbations. Those features make nonlinear analyses highly applicable to both human movement research and clinical practice.
Pharmacokinetics and Dialytic Clearance of Isavuconazole during
In Vitro
and
In Vivo
Continuous Renal Replacement Therapy
Authors: Biagi M. , Butler D. , Tan X. , Qasmieh S. , Tejani K. , Patel S. , Rivosecchi R. M. , Nguyen M. H. , Clancy C. J. , Shields R. K. , Wenzler E.
Published: September 2019

The pharmacokinetics (PK) and dialytic clearance of isavuconazole
in vitro
and in 7 solid-organ transplant patients undergoing continuous renal replacement therapy (CRRT) were evaluated.
Promethazine Exhibits Antiparasitic Properties
In Vitro
and Reduces Worm Burden, Egg Production, Hepatomegaly, and Splenomegaly in a Schistosomiasis Animal Model
Authors: Roquini Daniel B. , Cogo Ramon M. , Mengarda Ana C. , Mazloum Susana F. , Morais Cristiane S. , Xavier Rogério P. , Salvadori Maria C. , Teixeira Fernanda S. , Ferreira Luiz E. , Pinto Pedro L. , Morais Thiago R. , de Moraes Josué
Published: September 2019

The treatment and control of schistosomiasis, a neglected disease that affects more than 200 million people worldwide, rely on the use of a single drug, praziquantel. A vaccine has yet to be developed, and since new drug design and development is a lengthy and costly process, drug repurposing is a promising strategy. In this study, the efficacy of promethazine, a first-generation antihistamine, was evaluated against
Schistosoma mansoni
ex vivo
and in a murine model of schistosomiasis.
Conjugative Delivery of CRISPR-Cas9 for the Selective Depletion of Antibiotic-Resistant Enterococci
Authors: Rodrigues Marinelle , McBride Sara W. , Hullahalli Karthik , Palmer Kelli L. , Duerkop Breck A.
Published: September 2019

The innovation of new therapies to combat multidrug-resistant (MDR) bacteria is being outpaced by the continued rise of MDR bacterial infections. Of particular concern are hospital-acquired infections (HAIs) that are recalcitrant to antibiotic therapies. The Gram-positive intestinal pathobiont
Enterococcus faecalis
is associated with HAIs, and some strains are MDR. Therefore, novel strategies to control
E. faecalis
populations are needed.
Ascorbate-Dependent Peroxidase (APX) from Leishmania amazonensis Is a Reactive Oxygen Species-Induced Essential Enzyme That Regulates Virulence
Authors: Xiang Lucia , Laranjeira-Silva Maria Fernanda , Maeda Fernando Y. , Hauzel Jason , Andrews Norma W. , Mittra Bidyottam
Published: September 2019

The molecular mechanisms underlying biological differences between two
Leishmania
species that cause cutaneous disease,
L. major
and
L. amazonensis
, are poorly understood. In
L. amazonensis
, reactive oxygen species (ROS) signaling drives differentiation of nonvirulent promastigotes into forms capable of infecting host macrophages.
Pseudomonas aeruginosa Ethanol Oxidation by AdhA in Low-Oxygen Environments
Authors: Crocker Alex W. , Harty Colleen E. , Hammond John H. , Willger Sven D. , Salazar Pedro , Botelho Nico J. , Jacobs Nicholas J. , Hogan Deborah A.
Published: September 2019

Ethanol is a common product of microbial fermentation, and the
Pseudomonas aeruginosa
response to and utilization of ethanol are relevant to our understanding of its role in microbial communities. Here, we report that the putative alcohol dehydrogenase AdhA is responsible for ethanol catabolism and acetate accumulation under low-oxygen conditions and that it is regulated by Anr.
Atlastin Endoplasmic Reticulum-Shaping Proteins Facilitate Zika Virus Replication
Authors: Monel Blandine , Rajah Maaran Michael , Hafirassou Mohamed Lamine , Sid Ahmed Samy , Burlaud-Gaillard Julien , Zhu Peng-Peng , Nevers Quentin , Buchrieser Julian , Porrot Françoise , Meunier Cécile , Amraoui Sonia , Chazal Maxime , Salles Audrey , Jouvenet Nolwenn , Roingeard Philippe , Blackstone Craig , Amara Ali , Schwartz Olivier
Published: September 2019

Zika virus (ZIKV) is an emerging virus associated with Guillain-Barré syndrome, and fetal microcephaly as well as other neurological complications. There is no vaccine or specific antiviral treatment against ZIKV. We found that endoplasmic reticulum (ER)-shaping atlastin proteins (ATL1, -2, and -3), which induce ER membrane fusion, facilitate ZIKV replication. We show that ATL3 is recruited to the viral replication site and colocalize with the viral proteins NS2A and NS2B3. The results provide insights into host factors used by ZIKV to enhance its replication.
Role of Zika Virus Envelope Protein Domain III as a Target of Human Neutralizing Antibodies
Authors: Gallichotte Emily N. , Young Ellen F. , Baric Thomas J. , Yount Boyd L. , Metz Stefan W. , Begley Matthew C. , de Silva Aravinda M. , Baric Ralph S.
Published: September 2019

Zika virus is a flavivirus that was recently introduced to Latin America, where it caused a massive epidemic. Individuals infected with ZIKV generate an immune response composed of antibodies which bind to the envelope (E) protein. These anti-E antibodies are critical in protecting individuals from subsequent infection. Multiple groups have found that many ZIKV antibodies bind to domain III of E (EDIII), suggesting that this region is an important target of neutralizing antibodies. Here, we generated a chimeric virus containing ZIKV EDIII in a dengue virus backbone to measure ZIKV EDIII-specific antibody responses. We found that while polyclonal ZIKV immune serum contains antibodies targeting EDIII, they constitute only a small fraction of the total population of antibodies that neutralize ZIKV. Further studies are needed to define the main targets on the viral envelope recognized by human neutralizing antibodies, which is critical for guiding the development of ZIKV vaccines.
Stochastic Variation in Expression of the Tricarboxylic Acid Cycle Produces Persister Cells
Authors: Zalis Eliza A. , Nuxoll Austin S. , Manuse Sylvie , Clair Geremy , Radlinski Lauren C. , Conlon Brian P. , Adkins Joshua , Lewis Kim
Published: September 2019

Persister cells are rare phenotypic variants that are able to survive antibiotic treatment. Unlike resistant bacteria, which have specific mechanisms to prevent antibiotics from binding to their targets, persisters evade antibiotic killing by entering a tolerant nongrowing state. Persisters have been implicated in chronic infections in multiple species, and growing evidence suggests that persister cells are responsible for many cases of antibiotic treatment failure. New antibiotic treatment strategies aim to kill tolerant persister cells more effectively, but the mechanism of tolerance has remained unclear until now.
Altered Fecal Small RNA Profiles in Colorectal Cancer Reflect Gut Microbiome Composition in Stool Samples
Authors: Tarallo Sonia , Ferrero Giulio , Gallo Gaetano , Francavilla Antonio , Clerico Giuseppe , Realis Luc Alberto , Manghi Paolo , Thomas Andrew Maltez , Vineis Paolo , Segata Nicola , Pardini Barbara , Naccarati Alessio , Cordero Francesca
Published: September 2019

The characteristics of microbial small RNA transcription are largely unknown, while it is of primary importance for a better identification of molecules with functional activities in the gut niche under both healthy and disease conditions. By performing combined analyses of metagenomic and small RNA sequencing (sRNA-Seq) data, we characterized both the human and microbial small RNA contents of stool samples from healthy individuals and from patients with colorectal carcinoma or adenoma. With the integrative analyses of metagenomic and sRNA-Seq data, we identified a human and microbial small RNA signature which can be used to improve diagnosis of the disease. Our analysis of human and gut microbiome small RNA expression is relevant to generation of the first hypotheses about the potential molecular interactions occurring in the gut of CRC patients, and it can be the basis for further mechanistic studies and clinical tests.
Medication-related harm in older adults following hospital discharge: development and validation of a prediction tool
Authors: Parekh Nikesh , Ali Khalid , Davies John Graham , Stevenson Jennifer M , Banya Winston , Nyangoma Stephen , Schiff Rebekah , van der Cammen Tischa , Harchowal Jatinder , Rajkumar Chakravarthi
Published: September 2019

Objectives

To develop and validate a tool to predict the risk of an older adult experiencing medication-related harm (MRH) requiring healthcare use following hospital discharge.

Design, setting, participants

Multicentre, prospective cohort study recruiting older adults (≥65 years) discharged from five UK teaching hospitals between 2013 and 2015.

Primary outcome measure

Participants were followed up for 8 weeks in the community by senior pharmacists to identify MRH (adverse drug reactions, harm from non-adherence, harm from medication error). Three data sources provided MRH and healthcare use information: hospital readmissions, primary care use, participant telephone interview. Candidate variables for prognostic modelling were selected using two systematic reviews, the views of patients with MRH and an expert panel of clinicians. Multivariable logistic regression with backward elimination, based on the Akaike Information Criterion, was used to develop the PRIME tool. The tool was internally validated.

Results

1116 out of 1280 recruited participants completed follow-up (87%). Uncertain MRH cases (‘possible’ and ‘probable’) were excluded, leaving a tool derivation cohort of 818. 119 (15%) participants experienced ‘definite’ MRH requiring healthcare use and 699 participants did not. Modelling resulted in a prediction tool with eight variables measured at hospital discharge: age, gender, antiplatelet drug, sodium level, antidiabetic drug, past adverse drug reaction, number of medicines, living alone. The tool’s discrimination C-statistic was 0.69 (0.66 after validation) and showed good calibration. Decision curve analysis demonstrated the potential value of the tool to guide clinical decision making compared with alternative approaches.

Conclusions

The PRIME tool could be used to identify older patients at high risk of MRH requiring healthcare use following hospital discharge. Prior to clinical use we recommend the tool’s evaluation in other settings.
Radiotherapy mucositis in head and neck cancer: prevention by low-energy surface laser
Authors: Bourbonne Vincent , Otz Joelle , Bensadoun René-Jean , Dissaux Gurvan , Lucia Francois , Leclere Jean-Christophe , Pradier Olivier , Schick Ulrike
Published: September 2019

Background

Modern radiotherapy (RT) planning techniques and the use of oral supportive care have reduced the occurrence of acute radiation-induced toxicities. Oral mucositis remains a major concern in patients with head and neck cancer as it can compromise treatment compliance and outcome.

Objective

To report the rate of mucositis with the preventive use of surface low-level laser therapy in patients with head and neck cancer.

Methods

Forty patients treated with definitive (n=27) or adjuvant (n=13) RT using volumetric arc therapy between August 2014 and October 2015 for squamous cell carcinoma of the head and neck were included. All patients were treated using photobiomodulation using surface low-level laser therapy (Heltschl kind FL 3500, 350 mW), 3 times a week during the whole treatment course. The grade of mucositis was obtained from week 1 to week 7 and at 1 month.

Results

The median RT dose was 70 Gy (64–70). Concomitant chemotherapy was administered in 29 patients. According to the Common Terminology Criteria for Adverse Events (CTCAE) v. 3, grade 0, 1, 2 and 3 mucositis was observed in 9 (22.5%), 9 (22.5%), 16 (40%) and 6 (15%) patients at week 7, and 32 (80%), 2 (5%), 3 (7.5%) and 3 (7.5%) patients at 1 month following treatment. No grade 4 occurred. Median average and maximum dose to the oral mucosa was 42 Gy (12.9–66.3) and 66.6 Gy (39–76), respectively.

Conclusion

Despite a substantial dose to the oral mucosa, the rate of acute radiation-induced mucositis of grade ≥3 remains low in patients receiving extraoral low-energy laser during RT.
The end of religious exemptions from immunisation requirements?
Authors: Bock Gregory L
Published: September 2019

The purpose of this paper is to propose a middle ground in the debate over religious exemptions from measles vaccination requirements. It attempts to strike a balance between public health concerns on the one hand and religious objections on the other that avoids two equally serious errors: (1) making religious liberty an absolute and (2) disregarding religious beliefs altogether. Some think that the issue is straightforward: science has spoken and the benefits to public health outweigh any other concerns. The safety of the community, they say, demands that everybody be vaccinated so that measles outbreaks can be prevented, but such voices often ignore the freedom of religion, which is a mistake. Using Martha Nussbaum’s work on religious liberty, this paper claims that the exemptions should be preserved if a certain level of vaccination rates can be maintained.
Understanding choice, pressure and markets in kidneys
Authors: Semrau Luke
Published: September 2019

Here, I briefly respond to a recent paper by Julian Koplin, in which he criticises my earlier work in this journal. I show that Koplin has misunderstood the distinction I have made between pressure to vend and pressure with the option to vend. I also show that his pessimism about the market regulations I favour is unwarranted.
Systematic literature review informing the 2018 update of the EULAR recommendation for the management of large vessel vasculitis: focus on giant cell arteritis
Authors: Monti Sara , Águeda Ana F , Luqmani Raashid Ahmed , Buttgereit Frank , Cid Maria , Dejaco Christian , Mahr Alfred , Ponte Cristina , Salvarani Carlo , Schmidt Wolfgang , Hellmich Bernhard
Published: September 2019

Objectives

To analyse the current evidence for the management of large vessel vasculitis (LVV) to inform the 2018 update of the EULAR recommendations.

Methods

Two systematic literature reviews (SLRs) dealing with diagnosis/monitoring and treatment strategies for LVV, respectively, were performed. Medline, Embase and Cochrane databases were searched from inception to 31 December 2017. Evidence on imaging was excluded as recently published in dedicated EULAR recommendations. This paper focuses on the data relevant to giant cell arteritis (GCA).

Results

We identified 287 eligible articles (122 studies focused on diagnosis/monitoring, 165 on treatment). The implementation of a fast-track approach to diagnosis significantly lowers the risk of permanent visual loss compared with historical cohorts (level of evidence, LoE 2b). Reliable diagnostic or prognostic biomarkers for GCA are still not available (LoE 3b).

The SLR confirms the efficacy of prompt initiation of glucocorticoids (GC). There is no high-quality evidence on the most appropriate starting dose, route of administration, tapering and duration of GC (LoE 4). Patients with GCA are at increased risk of dose-dependent GC-related adverse events (LoE 3b). The addition of methotrexate or tocilizumab reduces relapse rates and GC requirements (LoE 1b). There is no consistent evidence that initiating antiplatelet agents at diagnosis would prevent future ischaemic events (LoE 2a). There is little evidence to guide monitoring of patients with GCA.

Conclusions

Results from two SLRs identified novel evidence on the management of GCA to guide the 2018 update of the EULAR recommendations on the management of LVV.
First report of papillomatosis due to papillomavirus in a Eurasian badger (Meles meles)
Authors: Everest David James , Dastjerdi Akbar , Inglese Nadia , Barlow Alex , Couper David
Published: September 2019

A live Eurasian badger (Meles meles) was admitted to the Royal Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Wildlife Rehabilitation Centre, West Hatch, Somerset, on August 10, 2018. It had been found in a local garden entangled in electric fencing. Examination of the badger under anaesthesia revealed a small number of papillomatous lesions on the right cheek and samples of the lesions were submitted to Animal and Plant Health Agency. Transmission electron microscopy analysis of the lesion material confirmed the presence of a papillomavirus and further histological examination of tissue samples from the lesion revealed features consistent with a finding of papillomatosis. Here we report the first diagnosis of papillomatosis due to a papillomavirus in Eurasian badgers, another infectious agent detected in this species.
Nitric oxide is involved in the regulation of melatonin-induced antioxidant responses in Catharanthus roseus roots under cadmium stress
Authors: Nabaei Masoomeh , Amooaghaie Rayhaneh
Published: September 2019

Nitric oxide (NO) and melatonin are two biostimulant molecules in plants that not only modulate the growth and development of plants but also confer enhanced tolerance to abiotic stresses. Therefore, in this study, the interactive effects of melatonin and nitric oxide (NO) on seedlings of Catharanthus roseus (L.) G. Don was evaluated under both control and conditions of stress due to Cd. Our results show that both melatonin and sodium nitroprusside (SNP, as an NO donor) significantly improved seedling growth, which was associated with the enhanced concentration of photosynthetic pigments in both the control plants and under Cd-stress conditions. Impacts of both melatonin and SNP were more pronounced in the Cd-stressed plants than control seedlings. The Cd stress increased H2O2 and lipid peroxidation levels in roots. Melatonin, as well as SNP, increased endogenous NO concentration in roots. Both melatonin and SNP enhanced the concentration of proline and the activities of antioxidant enzymes (SOD, POD, APX, CAT) and lowered H2O2 and lipid peroxidation levels in roots of C. roseus plants under Cd stress. These melatonin-induced responses in the roots were suppressed by 4-carboxyphenyl-4,4,5,5-tetramethylimidazoline-1-oxyl-3-oxide (cPTIO; a specific scavenger of NO), but inhibition of melatonin biosynthesis by p–chlorophenylalanine, could not reverse the protective effects conferred by NO. These outcomes suggest that NO, as a downstream signaling molecule, is implicated in the melatonin-promoted antioxidant responses in roots of C. roseus plants.
Tool wear morphology and life under various lubrication modes in turning stainless steel 316L
Authors: Barari Nader , Niknam Seyed Ali , Mehmanparast Hedayeh
Published: September 2019

One of the most important industrial demands is to improve the machinability of hard steels. Among hard steels, 316L stainless steel has significant mechanical and thermal properties recommended for many industrial applications and products, including aero-engines and gas turbines. Similar to many other hard-to-cut materials, the machining of 316L stainless steel requires an adequate selection of cutting parameters and lubrication modes. Limited studies have been found in this regard. In the present study, turning tests were conducted on 316L steel and the tool wear magnitude and morphology were assessed under four lubrication modes. Furthermore, to improve machining performance, a minimum quantity lubrication (MQL) system was used and the obtained results under this lubrication mode were compared to three other types of lubrication modes, including dry, wet, and MQCL. The composition of the adhered material on the cutting tools shows that in all lubrication modes, built-up edge (BUE) occurred. Furthermore, the use of high pressure-lubricated machining (MQCL) led to longer tool life as compared to the other three lubrication modes used. In fact, double the tool life was recorded for the cutting tools used under the MQCL mode.
Twist-3 contributions to $$\gamma \gamma \rightarrow \pi ^+\pi ^-,K^+K^-$$ processes in perturbative QCD approach
Authors: Wang Cong , He Jun-Kang , Zhou Ming-Zhen
Published: September 2019

As one of the simplest hadronic processes, $$\gamma \gamma \rightarrow M^{+}M^{-}$$γγ→M+M- ($$M=\pi ,K$$M=π,K) could be a good testing ground for our understanding of the perturbative and nonperturbative structure of QCD, and will be studied with high precision at BELLE-II in the near future. In this paper, we revisit these processes with twist-3 corrections in the perturbative QCD approach based on the $$k_{T}$$kT factorization theorem, in which transverse degrees of freedom as well as resummation effects are taken into account. The influence of the distribution amplitudes on the cross sections are discussed in detail. Our work shows that not only the transverse momentum effects but also the twist-3 corrections play a significant role in the processes $$\gamma \gamma \rightarrow M^{+}M^{-}$$γγ→M+M- in the intermediate energy region. Especially in the few GeV region, the twist-3 contributions become dominant in the cross sections. And it is noteworthy that both the twist-3 result of the $$\pi ^{+}\pi ^{-}$$π+π- cross section and that of the $$K^{+}K^{-}$$K+K- cross section agree well with the BELLE and ALEPH measurements. For the pion and kaon angular distributions, there still exist discrepancies between our results and the experimental measurements. Possible reasons for these discrepancies are discussed briefly.
Heavy neutrino searches at future Z-factories
Authors: Ding Jian-Nan , Qin Qin , Yu Fu-Sheng
Published: September 2019

We analyze the capacity of futureZ-factories to search for heavy neutrinos with their mass from 10 to 85 GeV. The heavy neutrinosNare considered to be produced via the process$$e^+e^-\rightarrow Z\rightarrow \nu N$$e+e-→Z→νNand to decay into an electron or muon and two jets. By means of Monte Carlo simulation of such signal events and the Standard Model background events, we obtain the upper bounds on the cross sections$$\sigma (e^+e^-\rightarrow \nu N\rightarrow \nu \ell jj)$$σ(e+e-→νN→νℓjj)given by theZ-factories with integrated luminosities of 0.1, 1 and 10$$\hbox {ab}^{-1}$$ab-1if no signal events are observed. Under the assumption of a minimal extension of the Standard Model in the neutrino sector, we also present the corresponding constraints on the mixing parameters of the heavy neutrinos with the Standard Model leptons, and find they are improved by at least one order compared to current experimental constraints.
Impact of sintering temperatures on conduction behaviors of ZnO nanoparticles- and MnO-doped SnO2-based thick film varistors obtained by screen printing
Authors: Sendi Rabab
Published: September 2019

In this study, ZnO nanoparticles and MnO-doped SnO2-based thick film varistors (TFVs) were fabricated using screen printing technique. The sintering temperature had significant impact on the SZM-based TFVs, especially in terms of grain growth, even at a low sintering temperature of 1100[Formula: see text]C. The strong solid-state reaction during sintering may be attributed to the large surface area of the 20 nm ZnO nanoparticles that promoted strong surface reaction even at low sintering temperatures. Moreover, the X-ray diffraction lattice constant and full wave at half maximum data indicated that the sintering process also improved the grain crystallinity with the decrease in intrinsic compressive stress. The sintering temperatures also significantly influenced the electrical properties of the SZM-based TFVs with a significant decrease in the breakdown field from 360 V/mm (sample at 1100[Formula: see text]C) to 158 V/mm (sample at 1250[Formula: see text]C). The grain boundary resistance ([Formula: see text] also experienced a dramatic drop from 266.4 k[Formula: see text] (sample at 1100[Formula: see text]C) to 89.46 k[Formula: see text] (sample at 1250[Formula: see text]C). The sample sintered at 1200[Formula: see text]C exhibited superior electrical behaviors with a nonlinear exponent of 61 and leakage current of 115 [Formula: see text]A. Furthermore, it achieved high permittivity and low dissipation factor at the low frequency range. The conduction behaviors of [Formula: see text] ions with activation energy of approximately 0.6 eV was dominated by decreasing [Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text] defects (around 0.4 eV) with increasing sintering temperature. Therefore, the sintering process can be applied to control the conduction behaviors of SZM-based TFVs doped with ZnO nanoparticle powder and achieve improved structural and electrical properties with good nonlinear behaviors.
Motion of test particles for Weyl-interaction modified gravity
Authors: Lee Hyung Won , Qadir Asghar
Published: September 2019

Since LHC has still given no signal of Supersymmetry, though the energy at which the signal was expected has been passed, one is left short of any good candidate for dark matter. We had proposed [A. Qadir, H. W. Lee and K. Y. Kim, Int. J. Mod. Phys. D 26 (2017) 1741001, 10 pp.] a modification of the Einstein–Hilbert action to explicitly display a term of matter and gravity interaction, [Formula: see text]. The hope had been that this would also resolve the problem of Quantum Gravity. However, the argument given for the purpose of quantum gravity, would more naturally lead one to expect the contraction, [Formula: see text], of the Weyl tensor with two copies of the stress–energy tensor rather than the product of the Ricci scalar and the trace of the stress–energy tensor. Here, the attempt is made to see if this prescription will provide a satisfactory explanation of the dark matter at all scales. One would then try to see if the problem of quantum gravity is resolved by the same prescription.
Nonminimal inflation in supersymmetric GUTs with U(1)R × Zn symmetry
Authors: Masoud Muhammad Atif , Rehman Mansoor Ur , Abid Mian Muhammad Azeem
Published: September 2019

A supersymmetric hybrid inflation framework is employed to realize a class of nonminimal inflation models with [Formula: see text] global symmetry. This framework naturally incorporates models based on grand unified theories by avoiding the most commonly faced monopole problem. The predictions of inflationary observables, the scalar spectral index [Formula: see text]–0.966 and the tensor to scalar ratio [Formula: see text]–0.0045, are in perfect agreement with the Planck 2018 data. For sub-Planckian values of the field the [Formula: see text] symmetry is only allowed for [Formula: see text].
The structure of galactic halos and the microwave temperature maps
Authors: Amekhyan A.
Published: September 2019

The study of Planck microwave temperature maps toward several nearby spiral edge-on galaxies had revealed frequency-independent temperature asymmetry detection of Doppler origin in their halos. The contribution of the dust component to that effect is studied in this paper, particularly for the case of the M31 galaxy, using the models of dust emission and the phenomenological profiles of the dark matter configurations. The obtained results are in accordance with those inferred from the microwave temperature asymmetry data, thus indicating the possible contribution of dust, among other radiation mechanisms, in revealing the dark halo parameters.
Redistribution and speciation of elements in gold-bearing sulfide mine tailings interbedded with natural organic matter: case study of Novo-Ursk deposit, Kemerovo Region, Siberia
Authors: Saryg-ool Bagai-ool Yu , Myagkaya I. N. , Kirichenko I. S. , Gustaytis M. A. , Shuvaeva O. V. , Zhmodik S. M. , Lazareva E. V.
Published: September 2019

The paper presents data on two cores from the dispersion train of gold-bearing sulfide tailings in the Novo-Ursk deposit (Kemerovo region, Russia), where organic-bearing mud and natural organic matter are interbedded with cyanide tailings and acid mine drainage (AMD). The study focuses on speciation of Au, Ag and potentially toxic elements (PTE), including Fe, Cu, Zn, As, Se and Pb according to selective sequential extractions. Since large contents of elements are found in water solution and bound to Fe(III) compounds, sulfides and/or organic matter in both cores, the organic material behaves as a natural biogeochemical barrier for potentially toxic elements and precious metals released from AMD. The interaction with organic matter results in biogeochemical sorption and immobilization of elements and is favourable for secondary enrichment in gold and silver. It leads to immobilization of elements that further form new mineral phases or become partitioned between existing phases. On the other hand, very high concentrations of water-soluble and oxidizable species of PTE and Au, which are unstable in surface conditions and may become remobilized when the environment changes, make the organic material less workable and even potentially hazardous. Thus, both positive (secondary enrichment) and negative (pollution) effects should be taken into account in the planning and design of systems for purification, disposal of cyanide tailings and recovery of useful components from tailings using natural organic matter as a geochemical barrier.
The Zebrafish Visual System: From Circuits to Behavior
Authors: Bollmann Johann H.
Published: September 2019

Visual stimuli can evoke complex behavioral responses, but the underlying streams of neural activity in mammalian brains are difficult to follow because of their size. Here, I review the visual system of zebrafish larvae, highlighting where recent experimental evidence has localized the functional steps of visuomotor transformations to specific brain areas. The retina of a larva encodes behaviorally relevant visual information in neural activity distributed across feature-selective ganglion cells such that signals representing distinct stimulus properties arrive in different areas or layers of the brain. Motor centers in the hindbrain encode motor variables that are precisely tuned to behavioral needs within a given stimulus setting. Owing to rapid technological progress, larval zebrafish provide unique opportunities for obtaining a comprehensive understanding of the intermediate processing steps occurring between visual and motor centers, revealing how visuomotor transformations are implemented in a vertebrate brain.
The Importance of the Interaction Between Ocular Motor Function and Vision During Human Infancy
Authors: Candy T. Rowan
Published: September 2019

Numerous studies have demonstrated the impact of imposed abnormal visual experience on the postnatal development of the visual system. These studies have provided fundamental insights into the mechanisms underlying neuroplasticity and its role in clinical care. However, the ocular motor responses of postnatal human infants largely define their visual experience in dynamic three-dimensional environments. Thus, the immature visual system needs to control its own visual experience. This review explores the interaction between the developing motor and sensory/perceptual visual systems, together with its importance in both typical development and the development of forms of strabismus and amblyopia.
Image Forensics
Authors: Farid Hany
Published: September 2019

From mainstream media outlets to social media and everything in between, doctored photographs are appearing with growing frequency and sophistication. The resulting lack of trust is impacting law enforcement, national security, the media, e-commerce, and more. While some types of manipulations can be detected with a careful visual examination, our visual system seems unable to reliably detect other types of manipulations. The field of image forensics has emerged to help return some trust in photography. I describe the perceptual limits of detecting manipulated images, as well as representative examples of computational techniques for authenticating images.
Fuchs Endothelial Corneal Dystrophy: Clinical, Genetic, Pathophysiologic, and Therapeutic Aspects
Authors: Matthaei Mario , Hribek Agathe , Clahsen Thomas , Bachmann Björn , Cursiefen Claus , Jun Albert S.
Published: September 2019

Fuchs endothelial corneal dystrophy (FECD) is a bilateral corneal endothelial disorder and the most common cause of corneal transplantation worldwide. Professor Ernst Fuchs described the first 13 cases of FECD more than 100 years ago. Since then, we have seen far-reaching progress in its diagnosis and treatment. In the field of diagnostics, new technologies enable the development of more accurate classification systems and the more detailed breakdown of the genetic basis of FECD. Laboratory studies help in deciphering the molecular pathomechanisms. The development of minimally invasive surgical techniques leads to a continuous improvement of the postoperative result. This review highlights and discusses clinical, genetic, pathophysiologic, and therapeutic aspects of this common and important corneal disorder.
Effect of HongJing I in Treating Erectile Function and Regulating RhoA Pathway in a Rat Model of Bilateral Cavernous Nerve Injury
Authors: Ye Miao-yong , Zhao Fan , Ma Ke , Zhou Kang , Huang Wen-Jie , Ma Yin-feng , Zhao Jian-feng , Fu Hui-ying , Xu Zeng-bao , Lv Bo-dong
Published: September 2019

HongJing I (HJI), a traditional Chinese herbal formula, has been confirmed to be effective for the clinical treatment of erectile dysfunction (ED). However, the mechanism of action of HJI remains unclear. Here, we aimed to investigate the effect and underlying mechanisms of HJI against ED in a rat model of bilateral cavernous nerve injury (BCNI). Rats were divided into five groups: normal control (NC), BCNI-induced ED model (M), M + low-dose HJI (HL), M + medium-dose HJI (HM), and M + high-dose HJI (HH). All groups were treated with normal saline or the relevant drug for 28 consecutive days after inducing BCNI-ED. At the end of the treatment period, the intracavernous pressure (ICP) was recorded, and histological examination was conducted using Masson’s trichrome staining. Immunofluorescence staining and western blotting were applied to detect the changes in fibrosis protein and Ras homolog A (RhoA), Rho-associated protein kinase 1 (ROCK1), and ROCK2 expression. We found that HJI effectively improved the ICP in the treatment groups. In addition, RhoA, ROCK1, and ROCK2 expression levels were increased upon BCNI-ED induction, and HJI successfully inhibited cavernosum fibrosis and the activation of RhoA/ROCK2 signaling. Overall, these results suggest that the effects of HJI in attenuating ED may be caused, at least in part, by the suppression of RhoA/ROCK2 signaling and alleviation of fibrosis. However, the precise mechanism surrounding this requires further investigation in future studies.
Analysis of Overburden Structure and Pressure‐Relief Effect of Hard Roof Blasting and Cutting
Authors: Liu Hao , Dai Jin , Jiang Jinquan , Wang Pu , Yang Jiqiang
Published: September 2019

When studying the pressure‐relief effect of hard roof blasting and cutting, the roof‐cutting position and angle obviously affect the stability of the rock surrounding the gob‐side entry (GSE). In this paper, control of the large deformation of rock surrounding the GSE is evaluated on the basis of the overlying structure and pressure‐relief principle caused by roof cutting. Moreover, a mechanics model of a three‐hinged arch structure (THAS) and a universal distinct element code (UDEC) numerical model with regard to the overlying rock movement were established to study the relationship among the rotation angle of key blocks in the THAS, the width of the roadway and the wall force beside it, and the optimal cutting position and cutting angle to reveal the pressure‐relief effect of roof blasting and cutting and its influence on the support stability of the roadway. The results show that the overlying rock can form a stable THAS after roof blasting and cutting and that the wall stress and the coal‐wall displacement are small, which indicates that roof blasting and cutting results in obvious pressure relief. The wall force increases with an increase in the rotation angle of the key block and decreases with an increase in the roadway width. Moreover, the optimal roof‐cutting position (5 m) and angle (15°) are obtained with the specific mining conditions. Finally, on‐site monitoring of the anchor‐cable force and support force in panel 5312 of the Jining no. 3 coal mine is used to verify the pressure‐relief effect after roof blasting and cutting. The study results can provide a theoretical basis for reasonable technical means and optimization of supporting parameters in field observation and have important application value for roof cutting and pressure relief for GSE retaining (GSER) technology.
Finite Element Stress Model of Direct Band Gap Ge Implementation Method Compatible with Si Process
Authors: Xue Xiaohuan , Song Jianjun , Xuan Rongxi
Published: September 2019

As an indirect band gap semiconductor, germanium (Ge) can be transformed into a direct band gap semiconductor through some specific modified methods, stress, and alloying effect. Direct band gap-modified Ge semiconductors with a high carrier mobility and radiation recombination efficiency can be applied to optoelectronic devices, which can improve the luminous efficiency dramatically, and they also have the potential application advantages in realizing monolithic optoelectronic integration (MOEI) and become a research hotspot in material fields. Among the various implementations of Ge band gap-type conversion, the related methods that are compatible with the Si process are most promising. It is such a method to etch around the Ge epitaxial layer on the Si substrate and introduce the biaxial tensile stress by SiGe selective filling. However, the influence of the width of the epitaxial layer, Ge composition, and Ge mesa region width on strain distribution and intensity is not clear yet. Accordingly, a finite element stress model of the selective epitaxy-induced direct band gap Ge scheme is established to obtain the material physical and geometric parameters of the Si1−xGex growth region. The result of finite element simulation indicates when the Si1−xGex epitaxial layer is 150–250 nm wide and the Ge composition is 0.3∼0.5, Ge mesa with 20–40 nm in width can be transformed into direct band gap semiconductors in the depth of 0–6 nm. The theoretical results can provide an important theoretical basis for the realization of subsequent related processes.
Active Fraction Combination from Liuwei Dihuang Decoction (LW-AFC) Alleviated the LPS-Induced Long-Term Potentiation Impairment and Glial Cells Activation in Hippocampus of Mice by Modulating Immune Responses
Authors: Zeng Ju , Cheng Bin , Huang Yan , Zhang Xiaorui , Wang Chen , Sun Na , Liu Gang , Cheng Xiaorui , Zhang Yongxiang , Zhou Wenxia
Published: September 2019

Neuroinflammation is known as a typical feature associated with many neurodegenerative diseases including Alzheimer’s disease (AD) and impairs the synaptic plasticity of the hippocampus. LW-AFC is an active fraction combination being extracted from Liuwei Dihuang decoction, a classic traditional Chinese medicine prescription. This study aimed to investigate the effects of LW-AFC on synaptic plasticity in mice with lipopolysaccharide (LPS) treatment. The results showed that the administration of LPS caused fever and long-term potentiation (LTP) impairment in mice. The pretreatment with LW-AFC had an antipyretic effect on fever and improved the impaired LTP induced by LPS, alleviated the microglia and astrocytes activation in the hippocampus, regulated the abnormal T-lymphocyte subpopulation in the spleen and blood caused by LPS, and reduced the aberrant secretion of cytokines in the brain and plasma. The compounds paeoniflorin, morroniside, and loganic acid in LW-AFC regulated the TNF-α secretion in non-LPS- and LPS-stimulated BV-2 cells. These data suggest that LW-AFC improves the LPS-induced impairment of LTP and alleviates the activation of glial cells in the hippocampus, which might be associated with modulating immune responses.
Outdoor-to-Indoor Channel Measurement and Coverage Analysis for 5G Typical Spectrums
Authors: Zhong Zhimeng , Zhao Jianyao , Li Chao
Published: September 2019

The fifth-generation (5G) mobile communications system will adopt the millimeter wave (mmWave) band for outdoor-to-indoor (O2I) coverage to achieve ultrahigh data rate. However, it is a challenging task because of the large path loss and almost total blocking by building walls. In this work, we performed extensive measurements on the O2I propagation at 3.5, 4.9, and 28 GHz simultaneously by using a multiband channel sounder. We captured the path loss distribution and angular power arrival profiles. We also measured the penetration loss at 28 GHz through different kinds of glass windows. The widely adopted ordinary glass windows introduce the penetration loss of 3 to 12 dB that is acceptable and makes mmWave O2I coverage feasible. But the low-emissivity (low-E) windows that will be more popular in the future introduce 10 dB higher loss. The measurement results in this work can help analyse and anticipate the O2I coverage by mmWave, which is important for the design and deployment of the 5G network.