bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Action coordination during a real-world task: Evidence from children with and without autism spectrum disorder
Authors: Trevisan Dominic A. , Enns James T. , Birmingham Elina , Iarocci Grace
Published: January 2020

“Joint action”—the ability to coordinate actions with others—is critical for achieving individual and interpersonal goals and for our collective success as a species. Joint actions require accurate and rapid inferences about others’ goals, intentions, and focus of attention, skills that are thought to be impaired in individuals with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Research to date has not investigated joint action abilities in individuals with ASD during real-world social interactions. We conducted an experimental study that required children with ASD and typically developing children to move tables by themselves or collaboratively through a maze. This involved developing innovative methodologies for measuringaction coordination—a critical component of the joint action process. We found that children with ASD are less likely to benefit from the collaboration of a peer than are typically developing children, and they are less likely to synchronize their steps when moving the table. However, these differences were masked when scaffolded by an adult. There was no evidence that ASD differences were due to gross motor delays in the participants with ASD. We argue that action coordination is a highly adaptive social process that is intrinsic to successful human functioning that manifests as atypical synchronization of mind and body in children with ASD.
Luxified Troglodytism? Mapping the subterranean geographies of plutocratic London
Authors: Baldwin Sophie , Holroyd Elizabeth , Burrows Roger
Published: January 2020

The history of London has long been entwined with expansions of financial capital and the machinations of global plutocrats and their more proximate counterparts.1 However, what has happened in the decade since the global financial crisis is without precedent. London has been transformed into a city for global capital rather than one designed to meet the needs and aspirations of the majority of its denizens.2
Investigation of Raindrops Fall Velocity During Different Monsoon Seasons Over the Western Ghats, India
Authors: Das Subrata Kumar , Simon Sibin , Kolte Yogesh K. , Krishna U. V. Murali , Deshpande Sachin M. , Hazra Anupam
Published: January 2020

Using the Two‐Dimensional Video Disdrometer measurements, we investigated the fall velocity of raindrops at Mahabaleshwar (17.92°N, 73.6°E, ~1.4 km above mean sea level, AMSL), a tropical site on the Western Ghats of India. The analysis is for different seasons during 2012–2015. To increase the reliability and accuracy of analysis, the raindrops with diameters in the range 0.5–2 mm and horizontal wind speed < 2 m s−1 are considered. The observed raindrop fall velocities have been corrected for the effect of air density. The ratio between the observed velocity and calculated terminal velocity is considered for estimating superterminal (positively skewed; higher than terminal velocity) and subterminal (negatively skewed; lower than terminal velocity) raindrops. The distribution of these skewed raindrops and its relationship with rain rate, drop diameter, and axis ratio for different seasons has been examined. Results indicate the presence of superterminal and subterminal raindrops in definite proportion in all the season with a majority of the drops have a diameter less than 1 mm. It is found that most of the superterminal raindrops occur at rain rates below 5 mm hr−1, while subterminal raindrops are relatively higher above this rain rate. It is observed that the superterminal raindrops are usually small in size and prolate in shape, while the subterminal raindrops are relatively large and oblate in shape. The diurnal variation of these raindrops during different seasons is also studied.
Nonlinear Wave Growth Analysis of Whistler‐Mode Chorus Generation Regions Based on Coupled MHD and Advection Simulation of the Inner Magnetosphere
Authors: Ebihara Yusuke , Ikeda Takuya , Omura Yoshiharu , Tanaka Takashi , Fok Mei‐Ching
Published: January 2020

We show the regions where nonlinear growth of whistler‐mode chorus waves is preferred to occur in the inner magnetosphere. A global magnetohydrodynamics (MHD) simulation was used to obtain large‐scale electric and magnetic fields under the southward interplanetary magnetic field condition. With the electric and magnetic fields obtained by the MHD simulation, we ran a comprehensive inner magnetosphere‐ionosphere model to solve the evolution of phase space density of electrons. Hot electrons originating from the tail region drift sunward and penetrate deep into the inner region due to a combination of convection and substorm‐associated electric fields. Cold electrons also drift sunward, resulting in a contraction of the plasmasphere. We obtained the following results. (1) The whistler waves can first grow due to the linear mechanism (pitch angle anisotropy) in the premidnight‐prenoon region outside the plasmapause, followed by rapid, nonlinear mechanism accompanied with rising‐tone chorus elements. (2) When the solar wind speed is high, the whistler waves grow more efficiently due to linear and nonlinear mechanisms over a wider area because of deep penetration of hot electrons and the large contraction of the plasmasphere. This is consistent with the observation that the outer belt electrons increase for the fast solar wind. (3) For slow solar wind, the linear growth is mostly suppressed, but the nonlinear growth can still take place when external seed waves are present. This may explain the persistence of dawn chorus and large‐amplitude chorus waves that are often observed in the premidnight‐postdawn region in relatively weak geomagnetic activities.
Dependence of the Interplanetary Magnetic Field on Heliocentric Distance at 0.3–1.7 AU: A Six‐Spacecraft Study
Authors: Hanneson Cedar , Johnson Catherine L. , Mittelholz Anna , Al Asad Manar M. , Goldblatt Colin
Published: January 2020

We use magnetometer data taken simultaneously by MESSENGER, VEX, STEREO and ACE to characterize the variation of the interplanetary magnetic field (IMF) with heliocentric distance, , for 1 AU. Power law fits () to the individual IMF components and magnitude indicate that, on average, the IMF is more tightly wound and its strength decreases less rapidly with than the Parker spiral prediction. During Solar Cycle 24, temporal changes in were insignificant, but changes in amplitude, , were correlated with sunspot number, up to sunspot number 84. MAVEN data taken at 1.4–1.7 AU since late 2014 broadly confirm and extend these results in space and time. Our study demonstrates the importance of simultaneous observations from multiple spacecraft to separate heliocentric distance and temporal variations in the IMF and provides a modern benchmark for comparison with data from the Parker Solar Probe Mission.
Impact of Aerosols From Urban and Shipping Emission Sources on Terrestrial Carbon Uptake and Evapotranspiration: A Case Study in East Asia
Authors: Huang Min , Crawford James H. , Carmichael Gregory R. , Santanello Joseph A. , Kumar Sujay V. , Stauffer Ryan M. , Thompson Anne M. , Weinheimer Andrew J. , Park Jun Dong
Published: January 2020

This study quantifies the immediate influences of aerosols from urban anthropogenic and shipping emission sources on carbon and water fluxes in East Asia on a cloudy day in spring 2016 when strong regional pollution transport occurred and intensive field campaign measurements are available. Within National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA)'s Land Information System (LIS), a long‐term offline Noah‐multiparameterization (MP) simulation with dynamic vegetation is performed. Modeled soil moisture and leaf area index are evaluated with satellite observations to ensure that land surface conditions are moderately well reproduced. The LIS output is then used to initialize several coupled NASA‐Unified Weather Research and Forecasting model simulations with online chemistry in which urban anthropogenic and shipping emissions are (1) largely based on the Hemispheric Transport of Air Pollution Phase 2 inventory for 2010, (2) reduced by 20% and 50% for all chemical species, and (3) adjusted only for nitrogen oxides (NOx) using satellite observations. Overall, modeled gross primary productivity and evapotranspiration almost linearly increase with the all‐species emission reductions, but their responses to emission‐induced aerosol optical depth (AOD) changes show strong spatial variability resulting from combined radiation and temperature impacts. Using satellite‐observation‐constrained NOx emissions, modeled nitrogen species and AOD better match various measurements at some locations/times. All‐species and NOx‐only emission adjustments lead to different gross primary productivity and evapotranspiration changes with AOD, especially over South Korea. This study demonstrates the importance of accurately quantifying emission impacts on atmosphere‐biosphere interactions. Improving more species' emission inputs for Earth system models, including applying effective chemical data assimilation methods, is strongly encouraged.
Low Earth Orbit Object Observations Using the Buckland Park VHF Radar
Authors: Holdsworth David A. , Spargo Andrew J. , Reid Iain M. , Adami Christian
Published: January 2020

There is increasing interest in space situational awareness worldwide, motivating investigation of the use of nontraditional sensors for space surveillance. This paper presents preliminary results investigating the use of a VHF wind profiling radar for observing objects in low Earth orbit. This radar class is low cost relative to other radars typically applied to this task. The results reveal that 2,410 objects were detected over 15 days, with 1,392 unique objects detected. The daily detection count rates ranged from 150 to 200, and the maximum detection height observed was 2,491 km. The radar's utility for object catalog maintenance is demonstrated by its ability to determine propagation state vector errors, and through observations of the Chinese space station Tiangong‐1 in the last months of its return to Earth. The results suggest the measurements may be able to provide useful ionospheric parameters such as total electron content (TEC) measurements, provided high precision ephemeris data are available for the detected objects.
Recommendations by a UK expert panel on an aflibercept treat-and-extend pathway for the treatment of neovascular age-related macular degeneration
Authors: Ross Adam H. , Downey Louise , Devonport Helen , Gale Richard P. , Kotagiri Ajay , Mahmood Sajjad , Mehta Hemal , Narendran Niro , Patel Praveen J. , Parmar Nina , Jain Nitin
Published: January 2020

Objectives

This report aims to provide clear recommendations and practical guidance from a panel of UK retinal experts on an aflibercept treat-and-extend (T&E) pathway that can be implemented in clinical practice. These recommendations may help service providers across the NHS intending to implement a T&E approach, with the aim of effectively addressing the capacity and resource issues putting strain on UK neovascular age-related macular degeneration (nAMD) services while promoting patients’ best interests throughout.

Methods

Two structured roundtable meetings of retinal specialists were held in London, UK on 7 December 2018 and 1 March 2019. These meetings were organised and funded by Bayer.

Results

The panel provided recommendations for an aflibercept T&E pathway and developed specific criteria based on visual acuity, retinal morphology and optical coherence tomography imaging to guide reduction, maintenance and extension of injection intervals. They also discussed the extension of treatment intervals by 2- or 4-week adjustments to a maximum treatment interval of 16 weeks, the management of retinal fluid and the stopping of treatment.

Conclusions

The long-term benefits of implementing a T&E pathway may include superior visual outcomes compared with a pro re nata (PRN; as needed) protocol, and a lower treatment burden compared with a fixed protocol, which is likely to improve service capacity. Furthermore, the predictable nature of a T&E approach compared with a PRN service may aid capacity planning for the future nAMD treatment demand.
Identification of antigens presented by MHC for vaccines against tuberculosis
Authors: Bettencourt Paulo , Müller Julius , Nicastri Annalisa , Cantillon Daire , Madhavan Meera , Charles Philip D. , Fotso Carine B. , Wittenberg Rachel , Bull Naomi , Pinpathomrat Nawamin , Waddell Simon J. , Stylianou Elena , Hill Adrian V. S. , Ternette Nicola , McShane Helen
Published: January 2020

Mycobacterium tuberculosis(M.tb) is responsible for more deaths globally than any other pathogen. The only available vaccine, bacillus Calmette-Guérin (BCG), has variable efficacy throughout the world. A more effective vaccine is urgently needed. The immune response against tuberculosis relies, at least in part, on CD4+T cells. Protective vaccines require the induction of antigen-specific CD4+T cells via mycobacterial peptides presented by MHC class-II in infected macrophages. In order to identify mycobacterial antigens bound to MHC, we have immunoprecipitated MHC class-I and class-II complexes from THP-1 macrophages infected with BCG, purified MHC class-I and MHC class-II peptides and analysed them by liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry. We have successfully identified 94 mycobacterial peptides presented by MHC-II and 43 presented by MHC-I, from 76 and 41 antigens, respectively. These antigens were found to be highly expressed in infected macrophages. Gene ontology analysis suggests most of these antigens are associated with membranes and involved in lipid biosynthesis and transport. The sequences of selected peptides were confirmed by spectral match validation and immunogenicity evaluated by IFN-gamma ELISpot against peripheral blood mononuclear cell from volunteers vaccinated with BCG,M.tblatently infected subjects or patients with tuberculosis disease. Three antigens were expressed in viral vectors, and evaluated as vaccine candidates alone or in combination in a murine aerosolM.tbchallenge model. When delivered in combination, the three candidate vaccines conferred significant protection in the lungs and spleen compared with BCG alone, demonstrating proof-of-concept for this unbiased approach to identifying new candidate antigens.
Glutathione facilitates enterovirus assembly by binding at a druggable pocket
Authors: Duyvesteyn Helen M. E. , Ren Jingshan , Walter Thomas S. , Fry Elizabeth E. , Stuart David I.
Published: January 2020

Enteroviruses cause a range of human and animal diseases, some life-threatening, but there remain no licenced anti-enterovirus drugs. However, a benzene-sulfonamide derivative and related compounds have been shown recently to block infection of a range of enteroviruses by binding the capsid at a positively-charged surface depression conserved across many enteroviruses. It has also been established that glutathione is essential for the assembly of many enteroviruses, interacting with the capsid proteins to facilitate the formation of the pentameric assembly intermediate, although the mechanism is unknown. Here we show, by high resolution structure analyses of enterovirus F3, that reduced glutathione binds to the same interprotomer pocket as the benzene-sulfonamide derivative. Bound glutathione makes strong interactions with adjacent protomers, thereby explaining the underlying biological role of this druggable binding pocket and delineating the pharmacophore for potential antivirals.
A dual fluorescent Plasmodium cynomolgi reporter line reveals in vitro malaria hypnozoite reactivation
Authors: Voorberg-van der Wel Annemarie M. , Zeeman Anne-Marie , Nieuwenhuis Ivonne G. , van der Werff Nicole M. , Klooster Els J. , Klop Onny , Vermaat Lars C. , Kumar Gupta Devendra , Dembele Laurent , Diagana Thierry T. , Kocken Clemens H. M.
Published: January 2020

Plasmodium vivax malaria is characterized by repeated episodes of blood stage infection (relapses) resulting from activation of dormant stages in the liver, so-called hypnozoites. Transition of hypnozoites into developing schizonts has never been observed. A barrier for studying this has been the lack of a system in which to monitor growth of liver stages. Here, exploiting the unique strengths of the simian hypnozoite model P. cynomolgi, we have developed green-fluorescent (GFP) hypnozoites that turn on red-fluorescent (mCherry) upon activation. The transgenic parasites show full liver stage development, including merozoite release and red blood cell infection. We demonstrate that individual hypnozoites actually can activate and resume development after prolonged culture, providing the last missing evidence of the hypnozoite theory of relapse. The few events identified indicate that hypnozoite activation in vitro is infrequent. This system will further our understanding of the mechanisms of hypnozoite activation and may facilitate drug discovery approaches.
Introducing coherent time control to cavity magnon-polariton modes
Authors: Wolz Tim , Stehli Alexander , Schneider Andre , Boventer Isabella , Macêdo Rair , Ustinov Alexey V. , Kläui Mathias , Weides Martin
Published: January 2020

By connecting light to magnetism, cavity magnon-polaritons (CMPs) can link quantum computation to spintronics. Consequently, CMP-based information processing devices have  emerged over the last years, but have almost exclusively been investigated with single-tone spectroscopy. However, universal computing applications will require a dynamic and on-demand control of the CMP within nanoseconds. Here, we perform fast manipulations of the different CMP modes with independent but coherent pulses to the cavity and magnon system. We change the state of the CMP from the energy exchanging beat mode to its normal modes and further demonstrate two fundamental examples of coherent manipulation. We first evidence dynamic control over the appearance of magnon-Rabi oscillations, i.e., energy exchange, and second, energy extraction by applying an anti-phase drive to the magnon. Our results show a promising approach to control building blocks valuable for a quantum internet and pave the way for future magnon-based quantum computing research.
A bio-inspired highly selective enzymatic glucose sensor using a red blood cell membrane
Authors: Kim Insu , Kim Chaeyeon , Lee Dongtak , Lee Sang Won , Lee Gyudo , Yoon Dae Sung
Published: January 2020

Red blood cell membrane (RBCM) was coated onto the enzymatic glucose sensor. The permeability of RBCM was optimized by controlling the thickness. Intriguingly, the sensor was highly accurate, despite the existence of various interfering molecules.
Simultaneous determination of sertraline, imipramine and alprazolam in human plasma samples using headspace solid phase microextraction based on a nanostructured polypyrrole fiber coupled to ion mobility spectrometry
Authors: Barati Erfan , Alizadeh Naader
Published: January 2020

PPy-DBS was synthesized by an electrochemical process and used as a HS-SPME fiber for determination of antidepressants in plasma without derivatization steps.
Research progress on the preparation methods for VO2nanoparticles and their application in smart windows
Authors: Zeng Wen , Chen Nan , Xie Weiguang
Published: January 2020

Accompanied with drastic changes in photoelectric properties, vanadium dioxide (VO2) exhibits a first order metal–insulator phase transition (MIT) at the temperature of about 68 °C.
Exact quantum dynamics background of dispersion interactions: case study for CH4·Ar in full (12) dimensions
Authors: Avila Gustavo , Papp Dóra , Czakó Gábor , Mátyus Edit
Published: January 2020

A full-dimensional ab initio potential energy surface is developed and utilized in full-dimensional variational vibrational computations for the CH4·Ar van-der-Waals complex.
Validation of a field deployable reactor for in situ formation of NOM-engineered nanoparticle corona
Authors: Tayyebi Sabet Khomami Narjes , Philippe Allan , Abu Quba Abd Alaziz , Lechtenfeld Oliver J. , Guigner Jean-Michel , Heissler Stefan , Schaumann Gabriele E.
Published: January 2020

A realistic exposure of n-TiO2 nanoparticles to river water by using a dialysis bag as a passive reactor: DOM of the river water diffuses inside while n-TiO2 nanoparticles remain inside.
Graphene oxide membranes on a hierarchical elemental carbon-based support
Authors: Amadei Carlo Alberto , Arribas Paula , Cruzado Luis , Vecitis Chad D.
Published: January 2020

Carbon-based materials have been used in water engineering to provide more effective and efficient methods to deliver clean water.
Hydrothermal fabrication of triazine-functionalized covalent organic polymer enfolded alginate biocomposite beads for Cr(vi) removal from water
Authors: Periyasamy Soodamani , Naushad Mu. , Viswanathan Natrayasamy
Published: January 2020

Covalent organic polymers (COPs) possesses high surface area and porosity. The synthesised triazine COP blended alginate (TCOP@Alg) biocomposite beads used for Cr(vi) removal. TCOP@Alg beads reduces field chromium water to below tolerance limit.
Design of a dual-band terahertz metamaterial absorber using two identical square patches for sensing application
Authors: Wang Ben-Xin , He Yuanhao , Lou Pengcheng , Xing Wenhui
Published: January 2020

Dual-band terahertz metamaterial absorber with very sensitive sensing ability in terms of the surrounding index is demonstrated.
A near-infrared fluorescent phthalocyanine liquid developed through controlling intermolecular interactions
Authors: Chino Yoshiaki , Nakanishi Takashi , Kimura Mutsumi
Published: January 2020

A near-infrared fluorescent phthalocyanine (Pc) liquid was developed through introducing bulky yet flexible units onto the Pc skeleton.
Magnetic field controlled C60-TEMPO catalyst for the oxidation of alcohols
Authors: Piotrowski Piotr , Żukrowski Jan , Kaim Andrzej
Published: January 2020

TEMPO functionalized C60 fullerene phosphonic acid was grafted onto the surface of magnetic IONPs. The resulting catalyst was employed in oxidation of various primary and secondary alcohols to their corresponding aldehyde or ketone analogues.
Visible-light-promoted acridine red catalyzed aerobic oxidative decarboxylative acylation of α-oxo-carboxylic acids with quinoxalin-2(1H)-ones
Authors: Bao Pengli , Liu Fei , Lv Yufen , Yue Huilan , Li Jiang-Sheng , Wei Wei
Published: January 2020

Visible-light-mediated procedure has been developed for the synthesis of 3-acyl quinoxalin-2(1H)-ones through acridine red catalyzed decarboxylative acylation of α-oxo-carboxylic acids with quinoxalin-2(1H)-ones.
Unraveling how the Gly526Ser mutation arrests prostaglandin formation from arachidonic acid catalyzed by cyclooxygenase-2: a combined molecular dynamics and QM/MM study
Authors: Suñer-Rubio Adrián , Cebrián-Prats Anna , González-Lafont Àngels , Lluch José M.
Published: January 2020

Gly526Ser COX-2 does not produce prostaglandins but 8,9-11,12-diepoxy derivatives of arachidonic acid.
In vivo neutron capture therapy of cancer using ultrasmall gadolinium oxide nanoparticles with cancer-targeting ability
Authors: Ho Son Long , Choi Garam , Yue Huan , Kim Hee-Kyung , Jung Ki-Hye , Park Ji Ae , Kim Mi Hyun , Lee Yong Jin , Kim Jung Young , Miao Xu , Ahmad Mohammad Yaseen , Marasini Shanti , Ghazanfari Adibehalsadat , Liu Shuwen , Chae Kwon-Seok , Chang Yongmin , Lee Gang Ho
Published: January 2020

A cancer growth suppression was observed due to the GdNCT effects of the RGD-PAA-UGNPs.
Exploration of a novel biorefinery based on sequential hydropyrolysis and anaerobic digestion of algal biofilm: a comprehensive characterization of products for energy and chemical production
Authors: Choudhary Poonam , Malik Anushree , Pant Kamal K.
Published: January 2020

A sustainable biorefinery based on algal biofilm cultivation and multipathway conversion of whole biomass (hydropyrolysis + anaerobic digestion) to produce multiple high volume low value (HVLV) and low volume high value (LVHV) products.
Highly efficient and durable III–V semiconductor-catalyst photocathodesviaa transparent protection layer
Authors: Hwang Shinjae , Young James L. , Mow Rachel , Laursen Anders B. , Li Mengjun , Yang Hongbin , Batson Philip E. , Greenblatt Martha , Steiner Myles A. , Friedman Daniel , Deutsch Todd G. , Garfunkel Eric , Dismukes G. Charles
Published: January 2020

Integration of crystalline Ni5P4–TiN catalyst-protection layer on buried junction n+p-GaInP2.
Bacteria driving droplets
Authors: Ramos Gabriel , Cordero María Luisa , Soto Rodrigo
Published: January 2020

We confine a dense suspension of motile Escherichia coli inside a spherical droplet in a water-in-oil emulsion, creating a “bacterially” propelled droplet.
Depletion of CD11c+ cell attenuates progression of abdominal aortic aneurysm
Authors: Okuno Keisuke , Cicalese Stephanie , Eguchi Satoru
Published: January 2020

Chronic inflammation of the arterial wall has been implicated in the development of abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA). However, the detailed molecular mechanism(s) by which inflammatory cells contributes to AAA pathogenesis remains largely unclear. In their article in Clinical Science, Krishna et al. have reported that depletion of CD11c+ dendritic cells inhibited experimental AAA formation in mice. The authors also demonstrated a decrease in CD4 and CD8 positive T cells in the circulation, lower plasma neutrophil elastase activity, and aortic matrix remodeling. These novel findings will help clarify the underlying mechanisms of AAA progression and may provide a new target for future therapeutic research in AAA formation.
Investigation of three‐level NPC‐qZS inverter‐based grid‐connected renewable energy system
Authors: Singh Nagendra , Jain Sanjay K.
Published: January 2020

The neutral point clamped quasi‐Z‐source (NPC‐qZS) inverter is poised to become a potential candidate for renewable energy applications because it yields a continuous input current and voltage boost. In this study, the closed‐loop control of grid‐tied three‐phase (3‐) NPC‐qZS inverter, fed with renewable energy sources, is proposed for the first time. A dynamic model has been developed to accurately design the control strategy. The proposed strategy includes the control of grid‐tied current and the peak dc‐link voltage (PDV). The control of grid‐tied current is achieved through a damped‐second‐order‐generalised integrator. The PDV is estimated indirectly from the voltages of qZS network capacitors and is regulated by an integral‐double‐lead controller. Two modified modulation techniques based on phase‐opposite disposition and in‐phase disposition are proposed to yield shoot through by injecting 3rd harmonics for maximum constant boost control. A comparison is drawn between the performance of the proposed controller and sliding‐mode controller on the dc side. The controller design and system performance are validated through real‐time simulation and experimentation on a practical setup in the laboratory.
Improved bidirectional DC/DC converter configuration with ZVS for energy storage system: analysis and implementation
Authors: Subrahmanya Kumar Bhajana Veera Venkata , Drabek Pavel , Thumma Rajesh , Makireddi Ramana
Published: January 2020

This study proposes a novel design of soft‐switching based bidirectional converter for the applications in energy storage systems. By implementing an additional auxiliary circuit to the conventional non‐isolated converter, the proposed converter inherits better efficiency with minimised turn‐on losses. Moreover, auxiliary switching devices are also soft‐switched. This converter can be operated at high power outputs through ZVS turn‐on operation. The operation principle, design analysis and experimental results are reported to validate its main features in the study. Furthermore, the performance of this converter is analysed on a 1 kW laboratory prototype for both boost and buck modes.
LLAMA: TheMBH–σ⋆relation of the most luminous local AGNs
Authors: Caglar Turgay , Burtscher Leonard , Brandl Bernhard , Brinchmann Jarle , Davies Richard I. , Hicks Erin K. S. , Koss Michael , Lin Ming-Yi , Maciejewski Witold , Müller-Sánchez Francisco , Riffel Rogemar A. , Riffel Rogério , Rosario David J. , Schartmann Marc , Schnorr-Müller Allan , Taro Shimizu T. , Storchi-Bergmann Thaisa , Veilleux Sylvain , de Xivry Gilles Orban , Bennert Vardha N.
Published: January 2020

Context.TheMBH–σ⋆relation is considered a result of coevolution between the host galaxies and their supermassive black holes. For elliptical bulge hosting inactive galaxies, this relation is well established, but there is still discussion concerning whether active galaxies follow the same relation.

Aims.In this paper, we estimate black hole masses for a sample of 19 local luminous active galactic nuclei (AGNs; LLAMA) to test their location on theMBH–σ⋆relation. In addition, we test how robustly we can determine the stellar velocity dispersion in the presence of an AGN continuum and AGN emission lines, and as a function of signal-to-noise ratio.

Methods.Supermassive black hole masses (MBH) were derived from the broad-line-based relations for Hα, Hβ, and Paβemission line profiles for Type 1 AGNs. We compared the bulge stellar velocity dispersion (σ⋆) as determined from the Ca II triplet (CaT) with the dispersion measured from the near-infrared CO (2-0) absorption features for each AGN and find them to be consistent with each other. We applied an extinction correction to the observed broad-line fluxes and we corrected the stellar velocity dispersion by an average rotation contribution as determined from spatially resolved stellar kinematic maps.

Results.The Hα-based black hole masses of our sample of AGNs were estimated in the range 6.34 ≤ logMBH ≤ 7.75M⊙and theσ⋆CaTestimates range between 73 ≤ σ⋆CaT ≤ 227 km s−1. From the so-constructedMBH − σ⋆relation for our Type 1 AGNs, we estimate the black hole masses for the Type 2 AGNs and the inactive galaxies in our sample.

Conclusions.We find that our sample of local luminous AGNs is consistent with theMBH–σ⋆relation of lower luminosity AGNs and inactive galaxies, after correcting for dust extinction and the rotational contribution to the stellar velocity dispersion.
Capabilities of bisector analysis of the Si I 10 827 Å line for estimating line-of-sight velocities in the quiet Sun
Authors: González Manrique S. J. , Quintero Noda C. , Kuckein C. , Ruiz Cobo B. , Carlsson M.
Published: January 2020

We examine the capabilities of a fast and simple method to infer line-of-sight (LOS) velocities from observations of the photospheric Si I 10 827 Å line. This spectral line is routinely observed together with the chromospheric He I 10 830 Å triplet as it helps to constrain the atmospheric parameters. We study the accuracy of bisector analysis and a line core fit of Si I 10 827 Å. We employ synthetic profiles starting from the Bifrost enhanced network simulation. The profiles are computed solving the radiative transfer equation, including non-local thermodynamic equilibrium effects on the determination of the atomic level populations of Si I. We found a good correlation between the inferred velocities from bisectors taken at different line profile intensities and the original simulation velocity at given optical depths. This good correlation means that we can associate bisectors taken at different line-profile percentages with atmospheric layers that linearly increase as we scan lower spectral line intensities. We also determined that a fit to the line-core intensity is robust and reliable, providing information about atmospheric layers that are above those accessible through bisectors. Therefore, by combining both methods on the Si I 10 827 Å line, we can seamlessly trace the quiet-Sun LOS velocity stratification from the deep photosphere to higher layers until around logτ = −3.5 in a fast and straightforward way. This method is ideal for generating quick-look reference images for future missions like the Daniel K. Inoue Solar Telescope and the European Solar Telescope, for example.
Two-dimensional van der Waals spinterfaces and magnetic-interfaces
Authors: Dayen Jean-Francois , Ray Soumya J. , Karis Olof , Vera-Marun Ivan J. , Kamalakar M. Venkata
Published: January 2020

Two-dimensional (2D) materials have brought fresh prospects for spintronics, as evidenced by the rapid scientific progress made in this frontier over the past decade. In particular, for charge perpendicular to plane vertical magnetic tunnel junctions, the 2D crystals present exclusive features such as atomic-level thickness control, near-perfect crystallography without dangling bonds, and novel electronic structure-guided interfaces with tunable hybridization and proximity effects, which lead to an entirely new group of spinterfaces. Such crystals also present new ways of integration of atomically thin barriers in magnetic tunnel junctions and an unprecedented means for developing composite barriers with atomic precision. All these new aspects have sparked interest for theoretical and experimental efforts, revealing intriguing spin-dependent transport and spin inversion effects. Here, we discuss some of the distinctive effects observed in ferromagnetic junctions with prominent 2D crystals such as graphene, hexagonal boron nitride, and transition metal dichalcogenides and how spinterface phenomena at such junctions affect the observed magnetoresistance in devices. Finally, we discuss how the recently emerged 2D ferromagnets bring upon an entirely novel category of van der Waals interfaces for efficient spin transmission and dynamic control through exotic heterostructures.
A multi-scale model for fluid transport through a bio-inspired passive valve
Authors: Gravelle Simon , Dumais Jacques
Published: January 2020

Tillandsia landbeckii is a rootless plant thriving in the hyper-arid Atacama Desert of Chile. These plants use unique cellulose-based microscopic structures called trichomes to collect fresh water from coastal fog. The trichomes rely on a passive mechanism to maintain an asymmetrical transport of water: they allow for the fast absorption of liquid water deposited by sporadic fog events while preventing evaporation during extended drought periods. Inspired by the trichome’s design, we study fluid transport through a micrometric valve. Combining Grand Canonical Monte Carlo with Non-Equilibrium Molecular Dynamics simulations, we first analyze the adsorption and transport of a fluid through a single nanopore at different chemical potentials. We then scale up the atomic results using a lattice approach, and simulate the transport at the micrometric scale. Results obtained for a model Lennard-Jones fluid and TIP4P/2005 water were compared, allowing us to identify the key physical parameters for achieving a passive hydraulic valve. Our results show that the difference in transport properties of water vapor and liquid water within the cellulose layer is the basis for the ability of the Tillandsia trichome to function as a water valve. Finally, we predict a critical pore dimension above which the cellulose layer can form an efficient valve.
Development of a magnetic quadrupole lens for low energy heavy ion beam transport
Authors: Mikage H. , Kitagawa M. , Wada M.
Published: January 2020

A magnetic quadrupole lens system coupled to a 30° bending deflection magnet was designed and constructed to realize a beam focusing of Xe+ ions with the energy less than 200 eV. Compared to a triplet electrostatic quadrupole lens system, the quadrupole doublet magnetic lens system showed a larger beam transmission, indicating the mitigation of the space charge in the beam transport region free of the electrostatic field. The misalignment of the magnetic field axis was observed probably due to a slow change in magnetization of magnetic materials to construct the magnetic circuit of the quadrupole lens. A countermeasure to realign the beam axis by coupling the permanent magnets to trim coil electromagnets is proposed.
Shannon entropy and quantitative time irreversibility for different and even contradictory aspects of complex systems
Authors: Yao Wenpo , Yao Wenli , Yao Dezhong , Guo Daqing , Wang Jun
Published: January 2020

The Shannon entropy and quantitative time irreversibility (qTIR) are statistical quantifiers that are widely used for characterizing complex processes. However, the differences and associations between them have not been subjected to detailed investigation. In this Letter, we report a comparative analysis of the Shannon entropy and qTIR using model series and real-world heartbeats. We find that the permutation-based Shannon entropy (PEn) and time irreversibility (PYs) detect nonlinearities in the model series differently according to the surrogate theory. Moreover, PEn and PYs, based on either the original or the equal-value permutation, give contradictory results for congestive heart failure cases and healthy young and elderly heartbeats. PEn quantifies the complexity by calculating the amount of mean information, whereas PYs measures the probabilistic differences among symmetric nonequilibrium distributions, and these yield different or even contradictory outcomes. Our findings demonstrate the statistical associations between the Shannon entropy and qTIR, contribute to more reliable elucidation of the nonlinear dynamics of heartbeats, and improve our understanding of the complexity and nonequilibrium nature of complex systems.
Acoustoelectric charge transport at the LaAlO3/SrTiO3 interface
Authors: Uzun Y. , Smink A. E. M. , de Jong M. P. , Hilgenkamp H. , van der Wiel W. G.
Published: January 2020

The two-dimensional electron system (2DES) formed at the interface of LaAlO3 (LAO) and SrTiO3 (STO), both band insulators in bulk, exhibits properties not easily attainable in conventional electronic materials. The extreme shallowness of the 2DES, only a few nanometers below the surface, opens up unique possibilities such as tunneling spectroscopy, local electronic sensing, and in situ patterning by manipulating the surface properties. It is particularly tempting to manipulate the charge carriers with surface acoustic wave (SAW) phonons, which are confined to the surface. However, the absence of intrinsic piezoelectricity in both LAO and STO complicates the electric generation of SAWs, as well as the induction of an acoustoelectric current. Here, we present robust acoustoelectric coupling between SAWs and the LAO/STO 2DES by using electrostriction in STO, induced by a dc electric field. Electromechanical coupling to the carriers is provided by phonon-induced modulation of the 2DES potential well, leading to SAW-induced carrier transport. The ability to control charge carriers with SAWs brings the versatile LAO/STO 2DES into reach of quantum acoustics, opening possibilities to study the interplay of nanoscale mechanical waves and the rich physics exhibited by nonpiezoelectric complex oxides, including superconductivity, magnetism, and correlated insulator states.
Analysis of laser-induced modification of collagen structure using nonlinear optical microscopy
Authors: Zakharkina O.L. , Sergeeva E.A. , Kirillin M.Yu. , Ignatieva N.Yu.
Published: January 2020

Nonlinear optical microscopy is used to monitor changes in the collagen structure of patellar ligament after IR laser heating up to a temperature of 60 °C. Pre-denaturation modification of the tissue matrix exhibits specific properties and consists in splitting of initially parallel fibre bundles into array of divergent fibres. Image processing employing Fast Fourier transform analysis is used for characterising images of the fibre structure and determining the collagen orientation index. An increase in manifestation of laser-induced disordering with an increase in IR laser radiation power from 0.3 to 2 W is accompanied by a decrease in the collagen orientation index. The specific disorganisation of the collagen tissue structure during laser heating is supposed to be due to fast speed and local action of the laser heating, which leads to mechanical distortions of the structural elements of tissue matrix.
Biophysical principles of choanoflagellate self-organization
Authors: Larson Ben T. , Ruiz-Herrero Teresa , Lee Stacey , Kumar Sanjay , Mahadevan L. , King Nicole
Published: January 2020

Inspired by the patterns of multicellularity in choanoflagellates, the closest living relatives of animals, we quantify the biophysical processes underlying the morphogenesis of rosette colonies in the choanoflagellate
Salpingoeca rosetta
. We find that rosettes reproducibly transition from an early stage of 2-dimensional (2D) growth to a later stage of 3D growth, despite the underlying variability of the cell lineages. Our perturbative experiments demonstrate the fundamental importance of a basally secreted extracellular matrix (ECM) for rosette morphogenesis and show that the interaction of the ECM with cells in the colony physically constrains the packing of proliferating cells and, thus, controls colony shape. Simulations of a biophysically inspired model that accounts for the size and shape of the individual cells, the fraction of ECM, and its stiffness relative to that of the cells suffices to explain our observations and yields a morphospace consistent with observations across a range of multicellular choanoflagellate colonies. Overall, our biophysical perspective on rosette development complements previous genetic perspectives and, thus, helps illuminate the interplay between cell biology and physics in regulating morphogenesis.
Robust hepatitis E virus infection and transcriptional response in human hepatocytes
Authors: Todt Daniel , Friesland Martina , Moeller Nora , Praditya Dimas , Kinast Volker , Brüggemann Yannick , Knegendorf Leonard , Burkard Thomas , Steinmann Joerg , Burm Rani , Verhoye Lieven , Wahid Avista , Meister Toni Luise , Engelmann Michael , Pfankuche Vanessa M. , Puff Christina , Vondran Florian W. R. , Baumgärtner Wolfgang , Meuleman Philip , Behrendt Patrick , Steinmann Eike
Published: January 2020

Hepatitis E virus (HEV) is the causative agent of hepatitis E in humans and the leading cause for acute viral hepatitis worldwide. The virus is classified as a member of the genus
Orthohepevirus A
within the
Hepeviridae
family. Due to the absence of a robust cell culture model for HEV infection, the analysis of the viral life cycle, the development of effective antivirals and a vaccine is severely limited. In this study, we established a protocol based on the HEV genotype 3 p6 (Kernow C-1) and the human hepatoma cell lines HepG2 and HepG2/C3A with different media conditions to produce intracellular HEV cell culture-derived particles (HEVcc) with viral titers between 10
5
and 10
6
FFU/mL. Viral titers could be further enhanced by an HEV variant harboring a mutation in the RNA-dependent RNA polymerase. These HEVcc particles were characterized in density gradients and allowed the
trans
-complementation of subgenomic reporter HEV replicons. In addition, in vitro produced intracellular-derived particles were infectious in liver-humanized mice with high RNA copy numbers detectable in serum and feces. Efficient infection of primary human and swine hepatocytes using the developed protocol could be observed and was inhibited by ribavirin. Finally, RNA sequencing studies of HEV-infected primary human hepatocytes demonstrated a temporally structured transcriptional defense response. In conclusion, this robust cell culture model of HEV infection provides a powerful tool for studying viral–host interactions that should facilitate the discovery of antiviral drugs for this important zoonotic pathogen.
Transcutaneous innervation zone imaging from high-density surface electromyography recordings
Authors: Liu Yang , Zhang Chuan , Dias Nicholas , Chen Yen-Ting , Li Sheng , Zhou Ping , Zhang Yingchun
Published: January 2020

Objective. It is of great value to accurately localize innervation zones (IZs) to better diagnose and treat neuromuscular diseases, but it is challenging to do so noninvasively from surface electromyography (sEMG) recordings because of the blurring/distorting effect of the low conductive fat tissues. This study aimed to develop an innovative transcutaneous IZ imaging (TIZI) technique to precisely and efficiently localize the IZ distribution directly over the muscle surface in vivo from high-density sEMG recordings (HD-sEMG). Approach. The TIZI technique was implemented by incorporating HD-sEMG recording, signal decomposition, finite element analysis and inverse calculation. The performance of TIZI was evaluated on the flexor digitorum superficialis (FDS) muscle with simulated sEMG signal and experimental signal recorded from both healthy (n  =  3) and stroke participants (n  =  4). The accuracy of imaging was validated by both of the Pearson correlation coefficient (PCC) and localization error (LE) between the TIZI results and the ‘true’ IZ distribution. Main results. In the simulation study, results have shown PCCs of 99.85%  ±  0.11%, 99.79%  ±  0.08%, 99.63%  ±  0.22% and 99.31%  ±  0.54% at the depth of 10, 15, 20 and 25 mm and SNR of 25 dB. PCCs of 98.74%  ±  1.78% and 97.82%  ±  1.20% were respectively obtained for experimental signals acquired from the healthy and spastic FDS muscles. The TIZI provided smaller LEs of 1.4  ±  0.92 mm and 2.02  ±  1.3 mm, compared to LEs of 7.42  ±  2.29 mm and 7.8  ±  1.77 mm from skin observations in healthy and spastic FDS, respectively. Significance. Results have demonstrated the high performance of the proposed TIZI technique by transcutaneous imaging of the IZ distribution of the skeletal muscles. The performance improvement can be attributed to the elimination of the blurring/distorting effect caused by the low conductive fat and high conductive skin tissues. TIZI may provide an advanced neurological tool for the clinical treatment of neuromuscular diseases, such as guiding botulinum neurotoxin injections in spasticity management.
Grasp force estimation from the transient EMG using high-density surface recordings
Authors: Martinez Itzel Jared Rodriguez , Mannini Andrea , Clemente Francesco , Sabatini Angelo Maria , Cipriani Christian
Published: January 2020

Objective. Understanding the neurophysiological signals underlying voluntary motor control and decoding them for prosthesis control are among the major challenges in applied neuroscience and bioengineering. Usually, information from the electrical activity of residual forearm muscles (i.e. the electromyogram, EMG) is used to control different functions of a prosthesis. Noteworthy, forearm EMG patterns at the onset of a contraction (transient phase) have shown to contain predictive information about upcoming grasps. However, decoding this information for the estimation of grasp force (GF) was so far overlooked. Approach. High density-EMG signals (192 channels) were recorded from twelve participants performing a pick-and-lift task. The final GF was estimated offline using linear regressors, with four subsets of channels and ten features obtained using three channels-features selection methods. Two different evaluation metrics (absolute error and R
2), complemented with statistical analysis, were used to select the optimal configuration of the parameters. Different windows of data starting at the GF onset were compared to determine the time at which the GF can be ascertained from the EMG signals. Main results. The prediction accuracy improved by increasing the window length from the moment of the onset and kept improving until the steady state at which a plateau of performances was reached. With our methodology, estimations of the GF through 16 EMG channels reached an absolute error of 2.52% the maximum voluntary force using only transient information and 1.99% with the first 500 ms of data following the onset. Significance. The final GF estimation from transient EMG was comparable to the one obtained using steady state data, confirming our hypothesis that the transient phase contains information about the final GF. This result paves the way to fast online myoelectric controllers capable of decoding grasp strength from the very early portion of the EMG signal.