bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Temporomandibular Joint Disorders: A Pictorial Review
Authors: Salamon Nicolas M. , Casselman Jan W.
Published: October 2020

Temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders are commonly encountered in the general population but often ignored or unrecognized. The detection and characterization of lesions has drastically improved over the years due to technological advances in cone beam computed tomography (CBCT) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). However, adequate knowledge of the normal imaging appearance on different imaging modalities as well as the broad variety of pathology is required to provide a proper radiologic assessment. This pictorial review focuses on TMJ pathology and its appearance on CBCT and MRI. A short overview of the technical aspects and normal anatomy are provided to round out this complete summary on the subject.
Teeth Impaction and Structural Teeth Anomalies
Authors: Haba Danisia , Decolli Yllka , Marciuc Emilia , Sîrghe Ana Elena
Published: October 2020

Dentists and oral and maxillofacial radiologists have used periapical, occlusal, panoramic, and cephalometric radiographs for many years for diagnosing dental anomalies, especially before orthodontic or surgical treatment. Cone beam computed tomography was developed in recent years especially for the dental and maxillofacial region. Thus it has become the imaging modality of choice for many clinical situations, such as the assessment of dental impaction and structural teeth anomalies or other associated diseases and disorders (e.g., Gardner's syndrome, cleidocranial dysplasia). This article reviews different aspects of dental impaction and its possible effects on adjacent structures such as external root resorption, marginal bone loss, as well as describing structural dental anomalies. It provides a systematic analysis of their characteristic features and imaging findings for general radiologists to achieve a precise diagnosis and an optimal interpretation.
Dentomaxillofacial CBCT: Clinical Challenges for Indication-oriented Imaging
Authors: Wanderley Victor Aquino , Vasconcelos Karla de Faria , Leite André Ferreira , Oliveira Matheus L. , Jacobs Reinhilde
Published: October 2020

This critical review discusses the clinical challenges for patient-specific and indication-oriented dentomaxillofacial cone beam computed tomography (CBCT). Large variations among units and protocols may lead to variable degrees of diagnostic and three-dimensional model accuracy, impacting both specific diagnostic tasks and treatment planning. Particular indications, whether diagnostic or therapeutic, may give rise to very specific challenges with regard to CBCT unit and parameter setup, considering the required image quality, segmentation accuracy, and artifact level. Considering that dental materials are in the field of view needed for diagnosis or treatment planning, artifact expression is a dominant factor in proper CBCT selection. The heterogeneity of dental CBCT units and performances may highly impact the scientific results. Thus research findings cannot be simply generalized as published evidence, and a demonstrated clinical applicability for a specific indication should not be simply extrapolated from one CBCT unit to another.
A Novel Compound Heterozygous Mutation in ABCB4 Gene Leading to Cholelithiasis, Progressive Familial Intrahepatic Cholestasis (Type 3), and Cirrhosis in a Child
Authors: Mirza Nida , Malhotra Smita , Sibal Anupam
Published: October 2020

Progressive familial intrahepatic cholestasis (PFIC) is a heterogeneous group of autosomal recessive disorders of childhood which presents with intermittent or progressive episodes of cholestasis, with jaundice and pruritus as most common presenting symptoms. PFIC type 3 occurs due to mutations in the ABCB4 gene, mutation in this gene has wide spectrum of features which include intrahepatic stones, cholelithiasis, PFIC type 3, and intrahepatic cholestasis of pregnancy. Here, we are reporting a peculiar case of young male adolescent with novel variant compound heterozygote missense mutation in ABCB4 gene who had gall stone as initial symptom, followed by symptoms of PFIC and eventually decompensated chronic liver disease.
Movement Disorder as Unusual Manifestation of Chiari Malformation Type II in a Newborn
Authors: Mastino Lara , Mai Roberto , Cenzato Marco , D'Aliberti Giuseppe , Talamonti Giuseppe
Published: October 2020

Chiari malformation type II (CM-II) is a hindbrain developmental malformation. Movement disorders are rarely described as associated with this condition. We describe the case of a newborn affected by CM-II presenting with head and neck tremors a few days after myelomeningocele repair surgery. Later, self-resolving episodes of expiratory apneas arose. Cranial ultrasounds showed progressive ventricular dilatation. She underwent ventriculoperitoneal shunt followed by craniocervical bony decompression. After surgery, both apnea and tremors disappeared. This particular presentation of CM-II is very rare and potentially difficult to diagnose.
Piketty, Thunberg, or Marx? Shifting ideologies in the COVID-19 bailout conditionality debate
Authors: Giuliani Elisa
Published: October 2020

Are crises an opportunity to push for fundamental changes? Can the COVID-19 crisis help to promote an ideological shift towards a different type of capitalism? By conducting a quantitative content analysis of the international press on the COVID-19 bailout conditionality debate, this article documents the existence of three dominant narratives: the distributive justice, environmental justice, and Marxist-type anti-capitalistic narratives. Yet, only the distributive justice assumed greater prominence during the period of observation, signaling a small step towards an ideological shift in which the general public may become more open to scrutiny of companies’ dividend and bonus policies and more averse to acceptance of tax avoidance and the accumulation of excessive wealth by members of the corporate elite. The article concludes by recommending MNEs and their CEOs to be prepared for more distributive justice challenges in the future.
Quantum sets
Authors: Kornell Andre
Published: October 2020

A quantum set is defined to be simply a set of nonzero finite-dimensional Hilbert spaces. Together with binary relations, essentially the quantum relations of Weaver, quantum sets form a dagger compact category. Functions between quantum sets are certain binary relations that can be characterized in terms of this dagger compact structure, and the resulting category of quantum sets and functions generalizes the category of ordinary sets and functions in the manner of noncommutative mathematics. In particular, this category is dual to a subcategory of von Neumann algebras. The basic properties of quantum sets are presented thoroughly, with the noncommutative dictionary in mind, and with an eye to convenient application. As a motivating example, a notion of quantum graph coloring is derived within this framework, and it is shown to be equivalent to the notion that appears in the quantum information theory literature.
Device for mapping ion beam diagnostics helps optimize electric propulsion systems
Authors: Mandel Savannah
Published: October 2020

Ion beam diagnostic system two-dimensionally maps beam generation by small electric propulsion devices.
Compiling the cold hard facts about imperfections in ice
Authors: Patrick Chris
Published: October 2020

Review summarizes the different types of crystal defects and how each affects the properties of hexagonal ice, but it’s only the tip of the iceberg.
Accounting for lipids in protein allostery
Authors: Patrick Chris
Published: October 2020

Extended residue interaction networks demonstrate the importance of lipids in regulating membrane proteins, which are often targets for pharmaceutical drugs.
New family of symmetric orthogonal polynomials and a solvable model of a kinetic spin chain
Authors: Kalvoda Tomáš , Štampach František
Published: October 2020

We study an infinite one-dimensional Ising spin chain where each particle interacts only with its nearest neighbors and is in contact with a heat bath with temperature decaying hyperbolically along the chain. The time evolution of the magnetization (spin expectation value) is governed by a semi-infinite Jacobi matrix. The matrix belongs to a three-parameter family of Jacobi matrices whose spectral problem turns out to be solvable in terms of the basic hypergeometric series. As a consequence, we deduce the essential properties of the corresponding orthogonal polynomials, which seem to be new. Finally, we return to the Ising model and study the time evolution of magnetization and two-spin correlations.
Chaotic oscillations of wave equations due to nonlinear boundary condition
Authors: Wang Fei , Wang Jun-Min , Li Liang-Liang
Published: October 2020

In this paper, we consider the chaotic behavior of a one-dimensional wave equation with the nonlinear boundary at x = 1, which causes the energy of the system to fall, while the other boundary is linear, which causes the energy of the system to rise. We study the dynamical behavior of the Riemann invariants of the wave equation and prove the onset of chaos in the sense of exponential growth of total variation in the gradient of the displacement of the wave equation. We also prove that when the parameters satisfy certain conditions, the system has no complex oscillations. Finally, numerical simulations are presented to verify the theoretical outcomes.
Field-accelerated Monte Carlo simulations in the canonical and isothermal–isobaric ensembles
Authors: Zong Jing , Meng Dong
Published: October 2020

We propose and develop a mesoscale particle-in-field simulation scheme, the Field-Accelerated Monte Carlo (FAMC) method, for speeding up particle-based continuum Monte Carlo (CMC) simulations based on soft interacting models. A key difference from the previously reported single-chain-in-mean-field method [K. C. Daoulas and M. Müller, J. Chem. Phys. 125, 184904 (2006)] is that the auxiliary fields in FAMC are constructed based on lattice-independent interacting potentials. As a result, FMAC simulations asymptotically approach CMC simulations with an increase in the lattice resolution of the auxiliary fields and are able to reproduce structural properties at morphology, conformation, and segment levels. A suite of schemes for computing and updating the auxiliary fields in FAMC simulations are developed in tandem to further enhance the computational efficiency of the method. The capacity of the FAMC method is demonstrated and tested against CMC simulations in simulating polymer solutions with explicit solvent under the canonical (nVT) ensemble and stress-free mircophase formation under the isothermal–isobaric (nPT) ensemble. In both cases, FAMC simulations reproduce structure properties with quantitative accuracy at a fraction of the computational cost.
Silicon nitride chirped spiral Bragg grating with large group delay
Authors: Du Zhenmin , Xiang Chao , Fu Tingzhao , Chen Minghua , Yang Sigang , Bowers John E. , Chen Hongwei
Published: October 2020

As one of the most important optical filtering devices, Bragg gratings have been extensively used in various systems. A long Bragg grating is desired for many applications including frequency selection in semiconductor lasers and dispersion control for ultra-short pulses. As a prominent example, integrated spiral Bragg grating waveguides (SBGWs) have drawn much attention in the years. However, until now, the length of an integrated grating is still limited to a few milli-meters due to total waveguide loss. In this work, we propose and demonstrate a novel long chirped SBGW with waveguide loss as low as 0.05 dB/cm on a silicon nitride (Si3N4) platform. A 13.8 cm SBGW is fabricated, which is the longest on-chip waveguide grating reported so far. The SBGW’s reflection bandwidth is 9.2 nm from 1556.3 nm to 1565.5 nm, and it provides a total of 1440 ps group delay, that is, −156.5 ps/nm of dispersion. The group delay response shows great linearity and temperature stability. This integrated device holds great potential for various applications including in-line dispersion compensation, optical true delay phase array, and microwave photonics.
Interfacial solitons propagating through a background shear current
Authors: la Forgia Giovanni , Sciortino Giampiero
Published: October 2020

Nonlinear internal solitary waves (ISWs) propagating through a two-layer stratified system, in the presence of a shear background current, are theoretically investigated. We implement a new version of the Miyata–Choi–Camassa model with mobile layers (MCC-ML), by considering an asymptotic, uniform velocity distribution for each layer. To investigate the typical geophysical flow conditions observed in the coastal oceans, we focused on theoretical predictions for a density ratio between the two layers set to 0.99. A rigid-lid at the top of the theoretical domain is considered since it represents a good approximation under the Boussinesq condition. By varying the ratio of the undisturbed layer thickness from 0.1 to 10, we considered ISWs with both positive and negative polarities, when the background fluid is at rest. For increasing velocity differences between the two layers, ISWs tend to broaden (steepen) when the background velocities assume the same (opposite) direction of those induced by the wave. We show that the polarity conversion can be easily predicted since it directly depends on both stratification features and ambient velocities. The shear current affects also the wave celerity: for increasing background shear, upstream-propagating solitons reach a critical condition for which the wave celerity is equal to zero. We found that this occurrence is associated with a well-defined value of the wave amplitude. For even larger background shears, the waves are observed to change their direction of propagation. By linear analysis, we finally obtained the limiting background shear current for which the MCC-ML model does not provide any solution.
On the self-constraint mechanism of the cross-stream secondary flow in a streamwise-rotating channel
Authors: Yang Z. , Deng B.-Q. , Wang B.-C. , Shen L.
Published: October 2020

The mechanism underlying the magnitude-reverse phenomenon of the mean spanwise velocity with respect to an increasing rotation number in a streamwise-rotating channel flow is investigated through a budget balance analysis of Reynolds shear stress ⟨u2′u3′⟩. It is found that ⟨u2′u3′⟩ imposes a negative feedback to itself through the production term, which prevents its magnitude from increasing monotonically with an increasing rotation number. This behavior of ⟨u2′u3′⟩ further leads to the magnitude reverse in the spanwise wall shear stress and mean spanwise velocity in the near-wall region.
Inverted metamorphic AlGaInAs/GaInAs tandem thermophotovoltaic cell designed for thermal energy grid storage application
Authors: Schulte Kevin L. , France Ryan M. , Friedman Daniel J. , LaPotin Alina D. , Henry Asegun , Steiner Myles A.
Published: October 2020

We demonstrate an inverted metamorphic multijunction (IMM) photovoltaic cell comprising lattice-mismatched 1.2 eV AlGaInAs and 1.0 eV GaInAs junctions optimized for high-temperature thermophotovoltaic (TPV) applications. This device differs from traditional IMM solar cells because the mismatched junctions are grown at a single lattice constant. This architecture enables removal of the compositionally graded buffer that otherwise filters light from the junctions below and absorbs sub-bandgap light via free-carrier absorption. Sub-bandgap absorption dramatically reduces the efficiency of TPV systems using high reflectivity cells to enable band edge spectrum filtering. Three components required development to enable this device: (1) a lattice-mismatched 1.2 eV AlGaInAs junction, (2) a metamorphic contact layer grown after the graded buffer, and (3) a transparent tunnel junction that sits in front of the 1.0 eV GaInAs junction. Growth conditions that minimize oxygen defect incorporation maximize AlGaInAs cell quality, enabling a 0.41 V bandgap open circuit voltage offset at 22 mA/cm2 under AM1.5D. A mismatched GaInAs:Se layer is developed as a low resistance contact. Lastly, we develop a GaAsSb:C/GaInP:Se tunnel junction suitable for high-power densities with more transparency than the GaAsSb:C/GaInAs:Se structure used in past IMM cells. We characterize the tandem device under a high-intensity spectrum that approximates the emission from a 2150 °C blackbody radiator and deduce a projected ideal TPV efficiency of 39.9% at ∼30% of the blackbody irradiance and 36% ideal TPV efficiency under the full 118 W/cm2 irradiance. Improvements to the back-surface reflectivity and series resistance are expected to increase the ideal TPV efficiency well above 40%.
Transient magnetohydrodynamic flow and heat transfer of fractional Oldroyd-B fluids in a microchannel with slip boundary condition
Authors: Wang Xiaoping , Xu Huanying , Qi Haitao
Published: October 2020

The unsteady magnetohydrodynamic flow of viscoelastic fluids through a parallel plate microchannel under the combined influence of magnetic, electro-osmotic, and pressure gradient forcings is investigated. The fractional Oldroyd-B fluid is used for the constitutive equation to simulate the viscoelastic behavior of fluid in the microchannel. Considering the important role of slip boundary condition in microfluidics, the Navier slip model at wall is adopted. The Laplace and Fourier cosine transforms are performed to derive the analytical expression of velocity distribution. Then, by employing the finite difference method, the numerical solution of the velocity distribution is given. In order to verify the validity of our numerical approach, numerical solutions and analytical solutions of the velocity distribution are contrasted with the exact solutions of the Newtonian fluid in previous work, and the agreements are excellent. Furthermore, based on the values of the velocity distribution for the fully developed flow, the energy equation including volumetric Joule heating, electromagnetic couple effect, and energy dissipation is solved to give the temperature distribution in the microchannel by using the finite difference method. Finally, the influence of fractional parameters and pertinent system parameters on the fluid flow and heat transfer performance and the dependence of the dimensionless Nusselt number Nu on the Hartmann number Ha and Brinkman number Br are discussed graphically.
Investigation of charge carrier trapping in H-terminated diamond devices
Authors: Lew C. T.-K. , Dontschuk N. , Broadway D. A. , Tetienne J.-P. , McCallum J. C. , Hollenberg L. C. L. , Johnson B. C.
Published: October 2020

Surfaces and interfaces can dominate charge carrier transport dynamics in electronic devices, impeding realization of a material's full potential. Here, we investigate transport in a two-terminal diamond device comprising a conductive channel defined by a hydrogen-terminated diamond surface, bridging two TiC contacts. The surface charge distribution was imaged by monitoring the photoluminescence of nitrogen vacancy centers incorporated below the active device layer. A strong charge accumulation near the TiC contact/H-terminated channel interface is observed and is discussed in terms of deviation from Ohmic behavior evident in the DC electrical measurements. Small voltage steps applied to the device result in current transients due to carrier trapping at the contact/diamond interface. This gives rise to dynamic negative capacitance at low AC frequencies and is discussed in detail.
Breakthrough instruments and products: Biocompatible epoxies for medical device manufacturing
Authors: Ramnath Rohit , Nandivada Venkat
Published: October 2020

This article discusses the use of biocompatible, two-part epoxies in medical devices. When used as adhesive encapsulants, these products improve the ruggedness of wire-bonded, chip-on-board microelectronic assemblies. Biocompatible products from Master Bond include EP42HT-2MED and the enhanced EP42HT-4AOMed Black product.
Formation of an unusual glutamine tautomer in a blue light using flavin photocycle characterizes the light-adapted state
Authors: Goings Joshua J. , Li Pengfei , Zhu Qiwen , Hammes-Schiffer Sharon
Published: October 2020

Significance

Upon absorption of light, photoreceptor proteins with bound chromophores undergo conformational changes that enable them to transmit signals over long distances. Such proteins are essential for a wide range of light-regulated biological processes and play an important role in protein engineering efforts aimed at controlling cellular processes with light. Our computer simulations elucidate the complete photocycle of a prototypical photoreceptor protein upon photoexcitation with blue light. These simulations indicate the formation of an unusual glutamine tautomer and the rearrangement of hydrogen-bonding interactions that produce the crucial state capable of long-range signaling. The spectroscopic signatures of this state are consistent with previous experimental measurements. The insights provided by these simulations are important for learning how to engineer photoreceptors with specified characteristics.
Multiscale imaging of basal cell dynamics in the functionally mature mammary gland
Authors: Stevenson Alexander J. , Vanwalleghem Gilles , Stewart Teneale A. , Condon Nicholas D. , Lloyd-Lewis Bethan , Marino Natascia , Putney James W. , Scott Ethan K. , Ewing Adam D. , Davis Felicity M.
Published: October 2020

Significance

The mammary gland is functional for only a brief period of a female’s lifetime. During this time, it operates not for the survival of the individual, but for the survival of her species. Here, we visualize the nature of alveolar contractions in the functionally mature mammary gland, revealing how specialized epithelial cells, which possess the ability to behave like smooth muscle cells, undergo Ca
2+
-dependent contractions. We demonstrate that individual oscillators can be electrically coupled to achieve global synchrony, a phenomenon that has not yet been observed in the mammary gland. By imaging activity across scales, we provide a window into the organization, dynamics, and role of epithelial Ca
2+
oscillations in the organ principally responsible for sustaining neonatal life in mammals.
ECM deposition is driven by caveolin-1–dependent regulation of exosomal biogenesis and cargo sorting
Authors: Albacete-Albacete Lucas , Navarro-Lérida Inmaculada , López Juan Antonio , Martín-Padura Inés , Astudillo Alma M. , Ferrarini Alessia , Van-Der-Heyden Michael , Balsinde Jesús , Orend Gertraud , Vázquez Jesús , del Pozo Miguel Ángel
Published: October 2020

The composition and physical properties of the extracellular matrix (ECM) critically influence tumor progression, but the molecular mechanisms underlying ECM layering are poorly understood. Tumor–stroma interaction critically depends on cell communication mediated by exosomes, small vesicles generated within multivesicular bodies (MVBs). We show that caveolin-1 (Cav1) centrally regulates exosome biogenesis and exosomal protein cargo sorting through the control of cholesterol content at the endosomal compartment/MVBs. Quantitative proteomics profiling revealed that Cav1 is required for exosomal sorting of ECM protein cargo subsets, including Tenascin-C (TnC), and for fibroblast-derived exosomes to efficiently deposit ECM and promote tumor invasion. Cav1-driven exosomal ECM deposition not only promotes local stromal remodeling but also the generation of distant ECM-enriched stromal niches in vivo. Cav1 acts as a cholesterol rheostat in MVBs, determining sorting of ECM components into specific exosome pools and thus ECM deposition. This supports a model by which Cav1 is a central regulatory hub for tumor–stroma interactions through a novel exosome-dependent ECM deposition mechanism.
Effect of magnetic properties on performance of electrical machines with ferrite magnets
Authors: Eriksson S , Eklund P
Published: October 2020

The increased focus on ferrite magnets makes it interesting to investigate their suitability in electrical machines such as generators for wind power and motors for electric cars. Efforts are currently being made to improve the magnetic properties of ferrites. A simulation method is used to investigate how different magnetic properties such as remanence, coercivity and intrinsic coercivity affect the performance of electrical machines, here quantified as output torque. It is also ensured that the magnet is not partly demagnetized during a short-circuit event. Simulations are performed through a two-dimensional finite-element-based simulation method. Not all combinations of magnetic properties will render a usable design and it is therefore investigated how high the required values are for different magnetic properties as well as how high an output torque can be achieved. It is concluded that increasing the remanence or the coercivity can be quantified as an improved energy product, whereas improvement of the intrinsic coercivity enables the magnet to have a more optimal shape and thereby have a working point where the energy product is maximized. In addition it is found that for a fixed available magnetic energy, the performance does not change significantly with increasing remanence.
Broadband diffraction-free on-chip propagation along hybrid metallic grating metasurfaces in the visible frequency
Authors: Shi Yangyang , Yang Rui , Dai Chenjie , Wan Chengwei , Wan Shuai , Li Zhongyang
Published: October 2020

Metallic patterned metasurfaces can effectively manipulate the propagation of surface plasmonic waves in the near-field regime. Extraordinary optical phenomena such as diffraction-free propagation also have been enabled by periodic uniform metallic grating metasurfaces (UMGM). However, such metallic patterned metasurfaces usually exhibit a relatively narrow-band non-diffractive property and the realization of visible-frequency broadband diffraction-free on-chip propagation has been quite challenging due to intensive structural dispersive and sensitive wavelength selectivity. Here, we proposed a novel design of a hybrid metallic grating metasurface (HMGM) with two different ridge widths, which could display a broadband diffraction-free on-chip propagation in the visible frequency. By optimization and appropriate hybridization of the ridges of different widths, it enables effective modication of the dispersion of surface plasmons, thus forming the broadband diffraction-free characteristics. Compared to the UMGM, our proposed HMGM can facilitate enhanced propagation of the surface plasmon polaritons and strongly confine the surface plasmonic field to the deep-subwavelength scale. With such hybrid implementation, the surface plasmonic waves propagate parallel to the ridges and their wavefronts remain the original shape without diverging at the broadband wavelength of 600 nm–800 nm. Overall, such broadband diffraction-free propagation along the HMGM could find many potential applications in on-chip plasmonic devices including sub-diffraction resolution imaging, hyperlenses, and photon routing, etc.
Refined analysis of C–V and I–V characteristics of Al/dielectric/Si structures containing nanosized Ta2O5/SiOxNy dielectric stack
Authors: Novkovski N
Published: October 2020

In this work we carry out a refined analysis of the
C–V
and I–V characteristics of Al/Ta2O5/SiOxNy/Si structures at limited voltages (from −3.0 V to +1.0 V). The modified Terman method was used to determine the interface state densities over the silicon bandgap, and an extended comprehensive model was utilised to determine the I–V characteristics of metal/high-κ/SiO2/Si structures.

A sharp peak in interface states distribution is observed at around 0.1 eV above the valence band top; its presence is identified as the origin of the double-knee shaped C–V characteristics. The substantial contribution of the Schottky effect was observed in the leakage currents at low voltages.
A miniature potentiometric sensor for dopamine determination in vitro
Authors: He Cheng , Li Guang , Wang You , Zhou Wujie
Published: October 2020

Electrochemical sensors can be used to detect neurotransmitters. A miniature potentiometric all-solid-state coated wire dopamine sensor was investigated in this work. Conducting polymer poly (3,4- ethylenedioxythiophene) doped with poly (styrenesulfonate) as the solid contact was electropolymerized on one end of a gold wire (diameter 0.25 mm). The conducting polymer was covered with a dopamine-selective membrane containing 12-crown-4-tetraphenylborate as a neutral carrier, 2-nitrophenyloctyl ether as a plasticizer and poly (vinyl chloride) as the membrane matrix. The dopamine sensor covered a wide linear range from 10–5 M to 10–1 M with a slope of 53.85 ± 0.93 mV/decade, while the detection limit was 5.80 ± 0.31 µM. The other characteristics of the dopamine sensor were also evaluated. The experimental results showed that the sensor operated properly within the pH range of 5.5–7.5 and displayed good selectivity, fast dynamic response, high reproducibility and long stability. In addition, the dopamine sensor was successfully applied for the detection of dopamine in artificial cerebrospinal fluid by using the standard addition method, indicating that this sensor is promising for applications in dopamine determination in neuroscientific research.
Statistical learning for evaluation of crystal growth in low-melting alloy droplets with application to quasicrystal-forming Ti–Zr–Ni alloys
Authors: Xiao Xiao , Rodriguez Justin E , Kelton Kenneth F , Matson Douglas M
Published: October 2020

The evaluation of the crystal growth in undercooled alloy melts is essential for investigations of their solidification behavior. Low-melting alloy systems usually exhibit little self-illumination and cinematography is not often feasible. A time-temperature data based statistical learning approach is presented to evaluate the crystal growth in an undercooled droplet, where a spatial geometry-informed, errors-in-variables probabilistic model is developed based on the prediction of the dendrite growth paths. The preferable growth mechanism and growth velocities can be evaluated from statistical model selection and parameter estimation. Based only on the pyrometry data of two Ti–Zr–Ni alloys, a bulk growth mechanism is justified and the growth velocities in both the stable C14 phase and metastable icosahedral phase are able to be measured and statistically interpreted.
Power loss of hot Dirac fermions in silicene and its near equivalence with graphene
Authors: Kubakaddi S S , Phuc Huynh V
Published: October 2020

The power loss P of hot Dirac fermions through the coupling to the intrinsic intravalley and intervalley acoustic and optical phonons is analytically investigated in silicene as a function of electron temperature T

e
and density n

s
. At very low T

e
, the power dissipation is found to follow the Bloch–Grüneisen power-law

∝

T
e
4

and

n
s

−
0.5

, as in graphene, and for

T
e

≲

20–30 K, the power loss is predominantly due to the intravalley acoustic phonon scattering. On the other hand, dispersionless low energy intervalley acoustic phonons begin to dominate the power transfer at temperatures as low as ∼30 K, and optical phonons dominate at

T
e

≳
200

K, unlike the graphene. The total power loss increases with T

e
with a value of ∼1010 eV s−1 at 300 K, which is the same order of magnitude as in graphene. The power loss due to intravalley acoustic phonons increases with n

s
at higher T

e
, whereas due to the intervalley acoustic and optical phonons is found to be independent of n

s
. Interestingly, the energy relaxation time in silicene is about four times higher than that in graphene. For this reason, silicene may be superior over graphene for its applications in bolometers and calorimeters. Power transfer to the surface optical phonons

P

SO

is also studied as a function of T

e
and n

s
for silicene on Al2O3 substrate and it is found to be greater than the intrinsic phonon contribution at higher T

e
. Substrate engineering is discussed to reduce

P

SO

.
Controllable non-Markovianity in phase relaxation
Authors: Kukita Shingo , Kondo Yasushi , Nakahara Mikio
Published: October 2020

Recently remarkable progress in quantum technology has been witnessed. In view of this it is important to investigate an open quantum system as a model of such quantum devices. Quantum devices often require extreme conditions for the devices to operate: dynamics can be non-Markovian here. This observation necessitates us to investigate a non-Markovian open quantum system, both theoretically and experimentally. In this paper, we report two important results: (1) exact solution of a simple but non-trivial theoretical model and (2) demonstration of this model by NMR experiments, where non-Markovianity is continuously controllable. We observe qualitative agreement between theory and experiment.
Nature of the glass transition in 2D colloidal suspensions of short rods
Authors: Liu Xinzhuo , Wang Huaguang , Zhang Zexin , Kosterlitz J M , Ling Xinsheng Sean
Published: October 2020

The glass transition, a many-body system undergoes an apparent dynamic arrest with no appearance of long-range order, is one of the most challenging problems in condensed matter physics. Recently attention has been focused on the puzzling two-step transition observed in colloidal suspensions of ellipsoids. It was observed that micro nematic domains appearing with increasing packing density suggesting that such micro domains may be the structure origin of the two-step glass transition. Here we report an experimental study of monolayers of colloidal rods which exhibits a two-step glass transition with no appearance of pseudo-nematic domains. Instead, it was found that parallel and perpendicularly packed rods form local free energy minima in configurational space, separated by an activation barrier. This barrier increases significantly when rotational glass transition is approached, thereby the rotational motion is frozen while the translational one remains diffusive. We propose that the activation barrier for rotation is the key to the two-step glass transition in suspensions of rods. Such an activation barrier between well-defined local configurations holds the key to understanding the two-step glass transition in general.
The Surface Brightness of MegaConstellation Satellite Trails on Large Telescopes
Authors: Ragazzoni Roberto
Published: October 2020

On large telescopes, the trails produced by MegaConstellation satellites will be significantly defocused due to their close proximity. As a result, their apparent surface brightness will be, under a range of conditions, almost constant during their apparent sweep across the focal plane. This paper derives a few simple relationships and evaluate the impact of such trails on operations of large optical ground based facilities.
Micro/nano topography with altered nanotube diameter differentially trigger endoplasmic reticulum stress to mediate bone mesenchymal stem cell osteogenic differentiation
Authors: Mengqi Shi , Wen Song , Boxin Zhang , Minni Liu , Yan Zhang , Qun Wu , Yumei Zhang
Published: October 2020

Micro/nano-topography (MNT) can promote osteogenic differentiation of stem cells, but the mechanism of topographical signaling transduction remains unclear. We have confirmed MNT, as a stressor, triggers endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress and activates unfolded protein response in rat bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells, and such topography-induced ER stress promotes osteogenic differentiation. In order to reveal the influence of nanotube dimensions on ER stress, MNTs containing vertically oriented TiO2 nanotubes of diameters ranging from 30 nm to 100 nm were fabricated on pure titanium (Ti) foils, and ER stress and osteogenic differentiation of cells were systematically studied. After 12 h of cultivation, the transmission electron microscopy showed that cells on MNTs presented gross distortions of rough ER morphology containing the electron-dense material, and the expansion of the ER lumen became more pronounced as the dimension of nanotubes increased. Additionally, PCR and western blotting showed that the ER stress-related gene, the ER chaperone 78 kDa glucose-regulated protein, also known as binding-immunoglobulin protein (GRP78/BiP), was up-regulated, which was consistent with the osteogenesis-inducing ability of MNTs. Based on our previous studies, the findings in this article further revealed the mechanism for topographical cues modulating osteogenic differentiation of cells, which may provide an innovative approach for the optimal design of implant surface topography.
Asymptotic normality for random simplices and convex bodies in high dimensions
Authors: Alonso-Gutiérrez D. , Besau F. , Grote J. , Kabluchko Z. , Reitzner M. , Thäle C. , Vritsiou B.-H. , Werner E.
Published: October 2020

Central limit theorems for the log-volume of a class of random convex bodies in

R

n

\mathbb {R}^n

are obtained in the high-dimensional regime, that is, as

n
→
∞

n\to \infty

. In particular, the case of random simplices pinned at the origin and simplices where all vertices are generated at random is investigated. The coordinates of the generating vectors are assumed to be independent and identically distributed with subexponential tails. In addition, asymptotic normality is also established for random convex bodies (including random simplices pinned at the origin) when the spanning vectors are distributed according to a radially symmetric probability measure on the

n
n

-dimensional

ℓ
p

\ell _p

-ball. In particular, this includes the cone and the uniform probability measure.
Does the Union Make Us Strong? Labor-Union Membership, Self-Rated Health, and Mental Illness: A Parametric G-Formula Approach
Authors: Eisenberg-Guyot Jerzy , Mooney Stephen J , Barrington Wendy E , Hajat Anjum
Published: October 2020

Union members enjoy better wages and benefits and greater power than nonmembers, which can improve health. However, the longitudinal union-health relationship remains uncertain, partially because of healthy-worker bias, which cannot be addressed without high-quality data and methods that account for exposure-confounder feedback and structural nonpositivity. Applying one such method, the parametric g-formula, to US-based Panel Study of Income Dynamics data, we analyzed the longitudinal relationships between union membership, poor/fair self-rated health (SRH), and moderate mental illness (Kessler 6-item score of ≥5). The SRH analyses included 16,719 respondents followed from 1985–2017, while the mental-illness analyses included 5,813 respondents followed from 2001–2017. Using the parametric g-formula, we contrasted cumulative incidence of the outcomes under 2 scenarios, one in which we set all employed-person-years to union-member employed-person-years (union scenario), and one in which we set no employed-person-years to union-member employed-person-years (nonunion scenario). We also examined whether the contrast varied by sex, sex and race, and sex and education. Overall, the union scenario was not associated with reduced incidence of poor/fair SRH (relative risk = 1.01, 95% confidence interval (CI): 0.95, 1.09; risk difference = 0.01, 95% CI: −0.03, 0.04) or moderate mental illness (relative risk = 1.02, 95% CI: 0.92, 1.12; risk difference = 0.01, 95% CI: −0.04, 0.06) relative to the nonunion scenario. These associations largely did not vary by subgroup.
RobNorm: model-based robust normalization method for labeled quantitative mass spectrometry proteomics data
Authors: Wang Meng , Jiang Lihua , Jian Ruiqi , Chan Joanne Y , Liu Qing , Snyder Michael P , Tang Hua
Published: October 2020

Motivation

Data normalization is an important step in processing proteomics data generated in mass spectrometry experiments, which aims to reduce sample-level variation and facilitate comparisons of samples. Previously published methods for normalization primarily depend on the assumption that the distribution of protein expression is similar across all samples. However, this assumption fails when the protein expression data is generated from heterogenous samples, such as from various tissue types. This led us to develop a novel data-driven method for improved normalization to correct the systematic bias meanwhile maintaining underlying biological heterogeneity.

Results

To robustly correct the systematic bias, we used the density-power-weight method to down-weigh outliers and extended the one-dimensional robust fitting method described in the previous work to our structured data. We then constructed a robustness criterion and developed a new normalization algorithm, called RobNorm.

In simulation studies and analysis of real data from the genotype-tissue expression project, we compared and evaluated the performance of RobNorm against other normalization methods. We found that the RobNorm approach exhibits the greatest reduction in systematic bias while maintaining across-tissue variation, especially for datasets from highly heterogeneous samples.

Availabilityand implementation

https://github.com/mwgrassgreen/RobNorm.

Supplementary information

Supplementary data are available at Bioinformatics online.
The Clinical Presentation of Culture-positive and Culture-negative, Quantitative Polymerase Chain Reaction (qPCR)-Attributable Shigellosis in the Global Enteric Multicenter Study and Derivation of a Shigella Severity Score: Implications for Pediatric Shigella Vaccine Trials
Authors: Pavlinac Patricia B , Platts-Mills James A , Tickell Kirkby D , Liu Jie , Juma Jane , Kabir Furqan , Nkeze Joseph , Okoi Catherine , Operario Darwin J , Uddin Jashim , Ahmed Shahnawaz , Alonso Pedro L , Antonio Martin , Becker Stephen M , Breiman Robert F , Faruque Abu S G , Fields Barry , Gratz Jean , Haque Rashidul , Hossain Anowar , Hossain M Jahangir , Jarju Sheikh , Qamar Farah , Iqbal Najeeha Talat , Kwambana Brenda , Mandomando Inacio , McMurry Timothy L , Ochieng Caroline , Ochieng John B , Ochieng Melvin , Onyango Clayton , Panchalingam Sandra , Kalam Adil , Aziz Fatima , Qureshi Shahida , Ramamurthy Thandavarayan , Roberts James H , Saha Debasish , Sow Samba O , Stroup Suzanne E , Sur Dipika , Tamboura Boubou , Taniuchi Mami , Tennant Sharon M , Roose Anna , Toema Deanna , Wu Yukun , Zaidi Anita , Nataro James P , Levine Myron M , Houpt Eric R , Kotloff Karen L
Published: October 2020

Background

Shigella is a leading cause of childhood diarrhea and target for vaccine development. Microbiologic and clinical case definitions are needed for pediatric field vaccine efficacy trials.

Methods

We compared characteristics of moderate to severe diarrhea (MSD) cases in the Global Enteric Multicenter Study (GEMS) between children with culture positive Shigella to those with culture-negative, quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qPCR)-attributable Shigella (defined by an ipaH gene cycle threshold <27.9). Among Shigella MSD cases, we determined risk factors for death and derived a clinical severity score.

Results

Compared to culture-positive Shigella MSD cases (n = 745), culture-negative/qPCR-attributable Shigella cases (n = 852) were more likely to be under 12 months, stunted, have a longer duration of diarrhea, and less likely to have high stool frequency or a fever. There was no difference in dehydration, hospitalization, or severe classification from a modified Vesikari score. Twenty-two (1.8%) Shigella MSD cases died within the 14-days after presentation to health facilities, and 59.1% of these deaths were in culture-negative cases. Age <12 months, diarrhea duration prior to presentation, vomiting, stunting, wasting, and hospitalization were associated with mortality. A model-derived score assigned points for dehydration, hospital admission, and longer diarrhea duration but was not significantly better at predicting 14-day mortality than a modified Vesikari score.

Conclusions

A composite severity score consistent with severe disease or dysentery may be a pragmatic clinical endpoint for severe shigellosis in vaccine trials. Reliance on culture for microbiologic confirmation may miss a substantial number of Shigella cases but is currently required to measure serotype specific immunity.
Tolerability of Bowel Preparation and Colonoscopy in IBD Patients: Results From a Prospective, Single-Center, Case–Control Study
Authors: Bezzio Cristina , Schettino Mario , Manes Gianpiero , Andreozzi Paolo , Arena Ilaria , Della Corte Cristina , Costetti Martina , Devani Massimo , Omazzi Barbara Federica , Saibeni Simone
Published: October 2020

Background

Endoscopy plays a fundamental role in the management of patients with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). The aim of this study was to prospectively evaluate the tolerability and efficacy of bowel preparation and colonoscopy in ulcerative colitis (UC) and Crohn’s disease (CD) patients compared to subjects participating in a colorectal cancer population screening program.

Methods

Consecutive enrolment of CD and UC patients and screening subjects (SS) undergoing colonoscopy. Bowel preparation was done by split dose of 2 L PEG-ELS + simethicone. We recorded endoscopic, clinical, and demographic features; cleanliness rating using the Boston Bowel Preparation Scale (BBPS); and sedation doses. Bowel-preparation tolerability, discomfort, and pain during colonoscopy were assessed using a Visual Analogue Scale from 0 to 100 mm.

Results

Sixty-three UC (mean age 49.9 ± 14.9 years), 63 CD (mean age 44.0 ± 14.0 years), and 63 SS (mean age 59.9 ± 6.3 years) patients were enrolled. Bowel preparation was similarly tolerated in UC, CD, and SS (P = 0.397). A complete colonoscopy was similarly performed in UC (59/63, 93.7%), CD (58/63, 92.1%), and SS (60/63, 95.2%) (P = 0.364). The BBPS did not show significant differences between UC (6.2 ± 1.6), CD (6.1 ± 1.3), and SS (6.2 ± 1.4) (P = 0.824). The need to increase sedation doses was significantly higher in CD (24/63, 38.1%) and UC (16/63, 25.4%) than in SS (4/63, 6.3%) (P < 0.0001).

Conclusions

Bowel preparation is equally tolerated and efficacious in IBD patients and in healthy SS. In IBD, higher sedation doses are needed to guarantee an equally tolerated colonoscopy.
Justifying Murder: Performativity in the Letters of Sergeant Mathias Müller, Police Battalion 309, from 1941/42
Authors: Schnell Felix
Published: October 2020

In their private correspondence German soldiers were often silent about the atrocities they committed on the Eastern front during the Second World War. This article demonstrates that a ‘thick description’ of Holocaust perpetrators’ writing practices can reveal strategies of justification and legitimation for mass murder. Mathias Müller of Police Battalion 309 made use of the performative force of his words, using allusions to address topics he was unable or unwilling to address explicitly. These allusions form a strategy over several letters and peak in the construction of a personal ‘Lemberg experience’. Soviet atrocities and the crimes of Soviet functionaries were identified by Müller as ‘Jewish’ crimes. The analysis demonstrates that in form and content the description powerfully alleges revenge was rightful and necessary. This use of performative force is also demonstrated in the case of other soldiers’ correspondence. It is possible that this means of addressing topics without naming them directly was widely deployed by German soldiers in the Second World War.