bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
High dose vitamin D3 empowers effects of subcutaneous immunotherapy in a grass pollen-driven mouse model of asthma
Authors: Hesse Laura , van Ieperen N. , Petersen Arjen H. , Elberink J. N. G. Oude , van Oosterhout Antoon J. M. , Nawijn Martijn C.
Published: November 2020

Allergen-specific immunotherapy (AIT) has the potential to provide long-term protection against allergic diseases. However, efficacy of AIT is suboptimal, while application of high doses allergen has safety concerns. The use of adjuvants, like 1,25(OH)2VitD3 (VitD3), can improve efficacy of AIT. We have previously shown that low dose VitD3 can enhance suppression of airway inflammation, but not airway hyperresponsiveness in a grass pollen (GP)-subcutaneous immunotherapy (SCIT) mouse model of allergic asthma. We here aim to determine the optimal dose and formulation of VitD3 for the GP SCIT. GP-sensitized BALBc/ByJ mice received three SCIT injections of VitD3-GP (30, 100, and 300 ng or placebo). Separately, synthetic lipids, SAINT, was added to the VitD3-GP-SCIT formulation (300 nmol) and control groups. Subsequently, mice were challenged with intranasal GP, and airway hyperresponsiveness, GP-specific IgE, -IgG1, and -IgG2a, ear-swelling responses (ESR), eosinophils in broncho-alveolar lavage fluid and lung were measured. VitD3 supplementation of GP-SCIT dose-dependently induced significantly enhanced suppression of spIgE, inflammation and hyperresponsiveness, while neutralizing capacity was improved and ESR were reduced. Addition of VitD3 further decreased Th2 cytokine responses and innate cytokines to allergens in lung tissue by GP-SCIT. However, addition of synthetic lipids to the allergen/VitD3 mixes had no additional effect on VitD3-GP-SCIT. We find a clear, dose dependent effect of VitD3 on GP-SCIT-mediated suppression of allergic inflammation and airway hyperresponsiveness. In contrast, addition of synthetic lipids to the allergen/VitD3 mix had no therapeutic effect. These studies underscore the relevance of VitD3 as an adjuvant to improve clinical efficacy of SCIT treatment regimens.
Comparison of hourly aerosol retrievals from JAXA Himawari/AHI in version 3.0 and a simple customized method
Authors: Xu Weiwei , Wang Wei , Chen Biyan
Published: November 2020

Advanced Himawari imager (AHI) carried on the new-generation geostationary meteorological Himawari-8 satellite of Japan has been generating aerosol observations with a high temporal resolution since 7 July 2015. However, the previous studies lack a comprehensive quality assessment and spatial coverage analysis of AHI hourly aerosol products (level 3 version 3.0) across the full disk scan. The monitoring accuracy of different AHI aerosol products (AODpure and AODmerged) and a simple customized product (AODmean) was evaluated against Aerosol Robotic Network (AERONET) and Maritime Aerosol Network (MAN) observations from May 2016 to February 2019 in this study. Results showed that AHI AODmean demonstrates a better agreement to AERONET AOD measurements than AODpure and AODmerged over land (R = 0.81, bias =  − 0.011) and all the AHI land retrievals present a significant regional performance differences, while the relatively better performance is observed in AODmerged over the coastal regions (R = 0.89, bias = 0.053). Over ocean, AHI exhibited overall overestimation in retrieving AOD against MAN observations and the relatively lower uncertainties were found in AODpure retrievals (R = 0.96, bias = 0.057). The hourly comparisons in different AHI products demonstrated a robust performance in the late afternoon (16:00–17:00 LT) over land and around the noon (10:00–13:00 LT) over coast. AHI AOD products indicated an obvious underestimation when compared to MODIS AOD retrievals over both land and ocean. Furthermore, the performance differences of AHI AOD products have also affected by the vegetation cover, pollution levels and relative humidity. For spatiotemporal coverage, the results of different AHI products demonstrated that AODmean can achieve relatively higher coverage than AODpure and AODmerged, and AHI retrievals present significant regional differences in coverage capability.
SOFA score and short-term mortality in acute decompensated heart failure
Authors: Elias Adi , Agbarieh Reham , Saliba Walid , Khoury Johad , Bahouth Fadel , Nashashibi Jeries , Azzam Zaher S.
Published: November 2020

Acute decompensated heart failure (ADHF) is one of the leading causes for hospitalization and mortality. Identifying high risk patients is essential to ensure proper management. Sequential Organ Function Assessment Score (SOFA) is considered an excellent score to predict short-term mortality in sepsis and other life-threatening conditions. To assess the capability of SOFA score in predicting short-term mortality in ADHF. We retrospectively identified patients with first hospitalization with primary diagnosis of ADHF between the years (2008–2018). The SOFA score was calculated for all patients. A total 3232 patients were included in the study. The SOFA score was significantly associated with in-hospital mortality and 30-day mortality. The odds ratios for 1-point increase in the SOFA score were 1.86 (95% CI 1.68–1.96) and 1.627 (95% CI 1.523–1.737) respectively. The SOFA Score demonstrated a good predictive accuracy. The areas under the curve of receiver operating characteristic curves for in-hospital mortality and 30-day mortality were 0.765 (95% CI 0.733–0.798) and 0.706 (95% CI 0.676–0.736) respectively. SOFA score is associated with increased risk of short-term mortality in ADHF. SOFA can be used as a complementary risk score to screen high risk patients who need strict monitoring.
Fluctuation in radioresponse of HeLa cells during the cell cycle evaluated based on micronucleus frequency
Authors: Shimono Hiroaki , Kaida Atsushi , Homma Hisao , Nojima Hitomi , Onozato Yusuke , Harada Hiroyuki , Miura Masahiko
Published: November 2020

In this study, we examined the fluctuation in radioresponse of HeLa cells during the cell cycle. For this purpose, we used HeLa cells expressing two types of fluorescent ubiquitination-based cell cycle indicators (Fucci), HeLa-Fucci (CA)2 and HeLa-Fucci (SA), and combined this approach with the micronucleus (MN) assay to assess radioresponse. The Fucci system distinguishes cell cycle phases based on the colour of fluorescence and cell morphology under live conditions. Time-lapse imaging allowed us to further identify sub-positions within the G1 and S phases at the time of irradiation by two independent means, and to quantitate the number of MNs by following each cell through M phase until the next G1 phase. Notably, we found that radioresponse was low in late G1 phase, but rapidly increased in early S phase. It then decreased until late S phase and increased in G2 phase. For the first time, we demonstrated the unique fluctuation of radioresponse by the MN assay during the cell cycle in HeLa cells. We discuss the difference between previous clonogenic experiments using M phase-synchronised cell populations and ours, as well as the clinical implications of the present findings.
Uniform-thickness electrospun nanofiber mat production system based on real-time thickness measurement
Authors: Ryu Hyun Il , Koo Min Seok , Kim Seokjun , Kim Songkil , Park Young-Ah , Park Sang Min
Published: November 2020

Electrospinning is a simple versatile process used to produce nanofibers and collect them as a nanofiber mat. However, due to bending instability, electrospinning often produces a nanofiber mat with non-uniform mat thickness. In this study, we developed a uniform-thickness electrospun nanofiber mat (UTEN) production system with a movable collector based on real-time thickness measurement and thickness feedback control. This system is compatible with a collector with void regions such as a mesh-type collector, two-parallel-metal-plate collector, and ring-type collector, which facilitates the measurement of light transmittance across the produced nanofiber mat during electrospinning. A real-time measurement system was developed to measure light transmittance and convert it to the thickness of the nanofiber mat in real time using the Beer–Lambert law. Thickness feedback control was achieved by repeating the following sequences: (1) finding an optimal position of the movable collector based on the measured thickness of the nanofiber mat, (2) shifting the collector to an optimal position, and (3) performing electrospinning for a given time step. We found that the suggested thickness feedback control algorithm could significantly decrease the non-uniformity of the nanofiber mat by reducing the standard deviation by more than 8 and 3 times for the numerical simulation and experiments, respectively, when compared with the conventional electrospinning. As a pioneering research, this study will contribute to the development of an electrospinning system to produce robust and reliable nanofiber mats in many research and industrial fields such as biomedicine, environment, and energy.
Printing special surface components for THz 2D and 3D imaging
Authors: Yan Bo , Wang Zhigang , Zhao Xing , Lin Lie , Wang Xiaolei , Gong Cheng , Liu Weiwei
Published: November 2020

The paper reports an off-axis large focal depth THz imaging system which consists of three 3D printed special surface components (two aspherical mirrors and an axicon). Firstly, the optical design software is used to design and optimize the aspherical parabolic mirror. Secondly, the optimized mirror is prepared by a 3D printing and metal cladding method. Thirdly, a THz axicon is designed for generation of quasi-Bessel Beam and a new geometric theoretical model of oblique incident light for axicon is established. Finally, the imaging system based on the special surface components is constructed. Its maximum diffraction-free distance is about 60 mm, which is 6 times higher than the traditional system. To verify the effectiveness, THz two-dimensional imaging experiments and three-dimensional computed tomography experiment are carried out. The results are consistent with the design and calculations.
Comparisons of conventional and novel anthropometric obesity indices to predict metabolic syndrome among vegetarians in Malaysia
Authors: Ching Yuan Kei , Chin Yit Siew , Appukutty Mahenderan , Gan Wan Ying , Chan Yoke Mun
Published: November 2020

Our study aimed to compare the ability of anthropometric obesity indices to predict MetS and to determine the sex-specific optimal cut-off values for MetS among Malaysian vegetarians. Body weight, height, waist circumference (WC), blood pressure (BP), fasting venous blood sample were collected from 273 vegetarians in Selangor and Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. The abilities of body mass index (BMI), body fat percentage (BF%), waist to height ratio (WHtR), lipid accumulation product (LAP), visceral adiposity index (VAI), a body shape index (ABSI), and body roundness index (BRI) to identify MetS were tested using receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve analyses. MetS was defined according to the Joint Interim Statement 2009. The ROC curve analyses show that BMI, BF%, WHtR, LAP and VAI were able to discriminate MetS in both sexes. LAP was a better predictor to predict MetS, followed by WHtR for male and female vegetarians. The suggested WHtR’s optimal cut-offs and LAP’s optimal cut-offs for MetS for male and female vegetarians were 0.541, 0.532, 41.435 and 21.743, respectively. In conclusion, LAP was a better predictor to predict MetS than other anthropometric obesity indices. However, WHtR could be an alternative obesity index in large epidemiology survey due to its convenient and cost-effective characteristics.
Characteristics of secondary epiretinal membrane due to peripheral break
Authors: Lee Geun Woo , Lee Sang Eun , Han Sun Hyup , Kim Sang Jin , Kang Se Woong
Published: November 2020

This study aimed to investigate morphological differences between idiopathic epiretinal membrane (ERM) and secondary ERM due to peripheral break (SEPB) and to identify clinical characteristics in eyes with SEPB to facilitate peripheral retinal examination. The retrospective cross-sectional study involved 93 consecutive eyes in 91 patients who underwent ERM removal surgery. Eyes were divided into two groups: the macular pucker group and the idiopathic ERM group. En-face Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT) images, fundus photographs, severity of metamorphopsia (M-score) and clinical characteristics of each group were compared. ERM extent and eccentricity (ratio of the shortest and longest distances from the foveal center to the boundary) were obtained through en-face OCT imaging. Fundus photographs were used to judge whether the membrane was turbid or not. Patients with SEPB were younger than patients with idiopathic ERM (61.3 ± 7.5 vs. 66.6 ± 8.3 years; p < 0.05). Preoperative M-score and myopic refractive error, axial length were also significantly higher in the macular pucker group than in the idiopathic ERM group (all p < 0.05). There was no difference in ERM extent between the two groups. The incidence of ERM eccentricity was 23 of the 34 eyes (67.6%) in the SEPB group and 26 of the 59 eyes (44.1%) in the idiopathic ERM group (p < 0.05). The incidence of turbid ERM was 18 of the 34 eyes (52.9%) in the SEPB group and 10 of the 59 eyes (16.9%) in the idiopathic ERM group (p < 0.01). The SEPB group, compared with the idiopathic ERM group, tended to have eccentric, turbid ERM at a younger age and with more severe metamorphopsia and myopic refractive error.
A rapid paper-based blood typing method from droplet wicking
Authors: Hertaeg Michael J. , Tabor Rico F. , McLiesh Heather , Garnier Gil
Published: November 2020

Paper-based diagnostics are leading the field of low-cost, point of care analytical techniques.
Cascade CRISPR/cas enables amplification-free microRNA sensing with fM-sensitivity and single-base-specificity
Authors: Sha Yong , Huang Ru , Huang Mengqi , Yue Huahua , Shan Yuanyue , Hu Jiaming , Xing Da
Published: November 2020

A cascade CRISPR/cas nucleic acid diagnostic system, which can achieve high-sensitive and single-base specificity without target amplification, was developed for miRNA detection.
Functionalized M2TiC2Tx MXenes (M = Cr and Mo; T = F, O, and OH) as high performance electrode materials for sodium ion batteries
Authors: Chen Q. D. , Yuan S. F. , Dai J. H. , Song Y.
Published: November 2020

Cr2TiC2O2 and Mo2TiC2O2 are expected to be promising anode materials for SIBs.
Electric field modulated ion-sieving effects of graphene oxide membranes
Authors: Leong Zhi Yi , Han Zhaojun , Wang Guangzhao , Li Dong-Sheng , Yang Shengyuan A. , Yang Hui Ying
Published: November 2020

Precise and selective separation of ions using two-dimensional (2D) laminar membranes is a budding research field with potential applications in water treatment, desalination, sensing, biomimicry and energy storage.
Low serum calcium: a new, important indicator of COVID-19 patients from mild/moderate to severe/critical
Authors: Zhou Xi , Chen Dong , Wang Lan , Zhao Yuanyuan , Wei Lai , Chen Zhishui , Yang Bo
Published: November 2020

Background: Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) virus is still spreading, finding out the initial hits of viral infection is important to minimize the mild/moderate population, prevent disease aggravation and organs dysfunction.

Objective: We investigated COVID-19 patients with different serum calcium levels.

Design: We checked the serum calcium level of the patients based on days after symptom onset as well as the severity of COVID-19. We also checked multiorgan injuries and immune cytokines level in their blood.

Results: Both mild/moderate and severe critical cases we observed showed low calcium level in the early stage of viral infection, while the severe/critical cases showed significant lower calcium level than mild/moderate cases in the early stage. We also found that low calcium level related to severe/critical multiorgan injuries especially in the mild/moderate population. Proinflammatory cytokine IL-6 also correlated to calcium change in both mild/moderate and severe/critical cases.

Conclusions: Our finding indicates that calcium balance is a primal hit of COVID-19 and a biomarker of clinical severity at the beginning of symptom onset. Calcium is closely associated with virus-associated multiple organ injuries and the increase in inflammatory cytokines. Our results provide a new, important indicator of COVID-19 patients from mild/moderate to severe/critical: serum calcium.
Leishmaniasis and phlebotomine sand flies in Oman Sultanate
Authors: Rioux Jean-Antoine , Gramiccia Marina , Léger Nicole , Desjeux Philippe , Depaquit Jérôme
Published: November 2020

There are few data on leishmaniases and sandflies in Oman Sultanate. We carried out an eco-epidemiological study in 1998 in the two main mountains of the country, the Sharqiyah and the Dhofar. This study allowed us to isolate and identify threeLeishmaniastrains from patients exhibiting cutaneous leishmaniasis. The typing carried out by isoenzymatic study and by molecular biology were congruent: two strains ofLeishmania donovanizymodeme (Z) MON-31 isolated in the Sharqiyah and oneL. tropicaZROM102 (ZMON-39 variant for 4 isoenzymes) from the Dhofar. No strain was isolated from canids. The study of sandflies identified 14 species distributed in the generaPhlebotomus,SergentomyiaandGrassomyia:Ph. papatasi,Ph.bergeroti,Ph.duboscqi,Ph.alexandri,Ph.saevus,Ph.sergenti,Se. fallax,Se.baghdadis,Se.cincta,Se.christophersi,Se.clydei,Se.tiberiadis,Se.africana, andGr. dreyfussi. In Sharqiyah, the only candidate for the transmission ofL. donovaniwasPh. alexandri, but the low densities observed of this species do not argue in favor of any role. In Dhofar,Ph. sergentiis the most important proven vector ofL. tropica, butPh. saevus, a locally much more abundant species, constitutes a good candidate for transmission.
An imperfect production inventory model with advance payment and credit period in a two-echelon supply chain management
Authors: Khara Barun , Mondal Shyamal Kumar , Dey Jayanta Kumar
Published: November 2020

This paper presents an integrated imperfect production inventory model under two layer supply chain management. To ensure the orders, manufacturer convinces the retailer to pay a percentage of the purchasing cost prior to replenish the products and offers the facilities such as (i) delay in payment on the remaining part of the purchasing cost and (ii) free transportation on the basis of advance payment amount. Time dependent development cost is incurred to maintain the reliability of the production system and as a result it reduces the imperfectness of the product during production. Under such circumstances, an integrated profit function has been developed to find the optimum number of production cycle, optimum number of replenishment cycle and hence reliability parameter of the manufacturing system, replenishment quantity for the retailer which maximize the integrated profit. Branch and Bound technique is used to obtain the integer solutions. Furthermore, we derived some useful lemmas and algorithms to obtain the optimum solution. Finally, the model has been illustrated with some numerical examples exploring the sensitivity analysis with respect to some parameters and obtains some managerial insights.
Modeling cross-flow ultrafiltration of permeable particle dispersions
Authors: Park Gun Woo , Nägele Gerhard
Published: November 2020

Cross-flow ultrafiltration is a pressure-driven separation and enrichment process of small colloidal particles where a colloidal feed dispersion is continuously pumped through a membrane pipe permeable to the solvent only. We present a semi-analytic modified boundary layer approximation (mBLA) method for calculating the inhomogeneous concentration-polarization (CP) layer of particles near the membrane and the dispersion flow in a cross-flow filtration setup with a hollow fiber membrane. Conditions are established for which unwarranted axial flow and permeate flow reversal are excluded, and non-monotonic CP profiles are observed. The permeate flux is linked to the particle concentration on the membrane wall using the Darcy–Starling expression invoking axially varying osmotic and trans-membrane pressures. Results are discussed for dispersions of hard spheres serving as a reference system and for solvent-permeable particles mimicking non-ionic microgels. Accurate analytic expressions are employed for the concentration and solvent permeability dependent dispersion viscosity and gradient diffusion coefficient entering into the effective Stokes flow and advection–diffusion equations. We show that the mBLA concentration and flow profiles are in quantitative agreement with results by a finite element method. The mBLA results are compared with predictions by an earlier CP layer similarity solution, showing the higher precision of the former method.
High-level studies of the ionic states of norbornadiene and quadricyclane, including analysis of new experimental photoelectron spectra by configuration interaction and coupled cluster calculations
Authors: Palmer Michael H. , Coreno Marcello , de Simone Monica , Grazioli Cesare , Aitken R. Alan , Hoffmann Søren Vrønning , Jones Nykola C. , Peureux Coralyse
Published: November 2020

Synchrotron-based photoelectron spectra (PES) of norbornadiene (NBD) and quadricyclane (QC) differ significantly from those in previous studies. The adiabatic ionization energy (AIE1) for NBD, assigned to the 2B1 state at 8.279 eV, shows a progression of 18 members with decreasing vibration frequency from 390 cm−1 to 340 cm−1; our calculated frequency is 381 cm−1. Similarly, the AIE1 for QC at 7.671 eV, assigned to the 2B2 state, discloses a vibrational progression of nine or more members with vibration frequency decreasing from 703 cm−1 to 660 cm−1; our calculated vibration frequency is 663 cm−1. These AIEs, determined by coupled cluster and fourth order Møller–Plesset perturbation theory, were very similar to the corresponding second order perturbation theory results. The calculated AIE symmetry sequences are 2B1 < 2A1 < 2A2 < 2B2 for NBD and 2B2 < 2A2 < 2B1 < 2A1 for QC. The overall PES vertical ionization energy profiles for both compounds were closely reproduced by Tamm–Dancoff approximation energies and intensities. The vibrational structure of the ionic states, determined using Franck–Condon methods, gave a good account of the observed spectra, but the observed envelopes for both IE1 are complex sets of vibrations, rather than single progressions. The NMR spectra for QC showed residual second order properties at 300 MHz; both QC and NBD have been theoretically analyzed in greater detail using AA/BB/CC/XX/ spectra, where all H are coupled; the magnetic shielding and spin–spin coupling constants obtained are similar to experimental values.
Transition from trap-mediated to band-like transport in polycrystalline monolayer molybdenum disulfide memtransistors
Authors: Zhang Panpan , Wang Lin , Ang Kah-Wee , Fong Xuanyao
Published: November 2020

Multi-terminal memtransistors using polycrystalline monolayer molybdenum disulfide (MoS2) have recently emerged as novel synaptic devices. Due to the coexistence of disorder and strong Coulomb carrier-carrier interactions in MoS2, localization and delocalization of carriers can come into play successively upon the relative strength of disorder and interactions, which can be tuned by the Fermi level (EF). In this work, we show that the transition from trap-mediated to band-like transport leads to the resistive switching behavior in MoS2 memtransistors, which is driven by the EF shift arising from defect profile redistribution that is facilitated by grain boundaries. In the high resistance state, field-driven hopping conduction can be clearly observed in the high-field region (E>0.05 MV/cm), whereas the linear dependence of ln(I/E) on the square root of the electric field, E1/2, suggests Poole–Frenkel emission in the low-field region (E≤0.05 MV/cm). In the low resistance state, strong interactions prevailed and a substantial amount of thermally activated electrons are excited into the conduction band, leading to band-like transport.
Amplitude-modulated binary acoustic metasurface for perfect anomalous refraction
Authors: Su Guangyuan , Liu Yongquan
Published: November 2020

Metasurfaces have shown tremendous steering functionalities over acoustic waves. However, anomalous refractions of metasurfaces based on generalized Snell's law (GSL) are hindered in efficiency due to impedance mismatch, especially at steep refraction angles. In this work, we design amplitude-modulated binary metasurfaces that can perfectly redirect incident waves. The present metasurface consists of two unit cells with properly modulated transmission amplitudes, which satisfies the requirement of power distribution to totally suppress parasitic diffractions. As demonstrations, we redirect incident waves into steep refraction angles of −70° and −80° with efficiencies up to 0.97 and 0.99, which are much higher than theoretical limits of GSL 0.77 and 0.52, respectively. Present metasurfaces have advantages in simplified designs and fabrications and offer versatility for efficient manipulations of sound.
Wide range voltage-impulse-controlled nonvolatile magnetic memory in magnetoelectric heterostructure
Authors: Du Wei , Liu Mengli , Su Hua , Zhang Huaiwu , Liu Bo , Meng Hao , Xu Guisheng , Peng Rui , Tang Xiaoli
Published: November 2020

The voltage impulse-induced large, nonvolatile, and tunable magnetization switching in a Ni80Co20/Pb(Mg, Nb)O3-PbTiO3 (PMN-PT) structure was investigated at room temperature. Ni80Co20 was deposited onto a specified PMN-PT substrate with defect dipoles. By exploiting defect dipoles, a distinct and stable strain memory state was achieved at zero electric field. It induces and sustains two distinct magnetization states when removing an electric field via the magnetoelectric coupling effect. Via the detailed x-ray diffraction and piezoresponse force microscopy analyses, the polarization switching pathway and the lattice strain in response to the in situ electric field were investigated to understand the microscopic mechanisms behind the nonvolatile magnetic memory. Furthermore, the impulse electric field can be selected in the range between the coercive field and the saturation field of the PMN-PT, leading to a wide range controlling technique. This work provides a promising way to produce a large and nonvolatile magnetic memory in magnetoelectric heterostructure and is significant for ultra-low-power information storage devices.
Learning on-top: Regressing the on-top pair density for real-space visualization of electron correlation
Authors: Fabrizio Alberto , Briling Ksenia R. , Girardier David D. , Corminboeuf Clemence
Published: November 2020

The on-top pair density [Πr] is a local quantum-chemical property that reflects the probability of two electrons of any spin to occupy the same position in space. Being the simplest quantity related to the two-particle density matrix, the on-top pair density is a powerful indicator of electron correlation effects, and as such, it has been extensively used to combine density functional theory and multireference wavefunction theory. The widespread application of Π(r) is currently hindered by the need for post-Hartree–Fock or multireference computations for its accurate evaluation. In this work, we propose the construction of a machine learning model capable of predicting the complete active space self-consistent field (CASSCF)-quality on-top pair density of a molecule only from its structure and composition. Our model, trained on the GDB11-AD-3165 database, is able to predict with minimal error the on-top pair density of organic molecules, bypassing completely the need for ab initio computations. The accuracy of the regression is demonstrated using the on-top ratio as a visual metric of electron correlation effects and bond-breaking in real-space. In addition, we report the construction of a specialized basis set, built to fit the on-top pair density in a single atom-centered expansion. This basis, cornerstone of the regression, could be potentially used also in the same spirit of the resolution-of-the-identity approximation for the electron density.
Sociocognitive approach to behaviour change for reducing low-value care
Authors: Scott Ian A. , McPhail Steven M.
Published: November 2020

Social and cognitive factors that predispose to low-value care (LVC), and strategies for countering them, may be underarticulated in campaigns aimed at reducing LVC. A sociocognitive approach, in addition to traditional knowledge translation strategies, may augment understanding and changing clinician behaviour underpinning LVC.
Meta-analysis of the effect of probiotic-yeast (
Authors: Ogbuewu I. P. , Mbajiorgu C. A.
Published: November 2020

Context Probiotics are attracting wide attention today as a non-antibiotic feed additive in layer feed, and the number of studies in this field is on the increase. However, the results of the effects of probiotic-yeast supplementation on egg-production indices in laying hens are contradictory. Aim Therefore, the aim of the present study was to use meta-analytical methods to ascertain whether yeast-based diets improve feed intake (FI), feed conversion ratio (FCR), hen-day egg production (HDEP), egg mass (EM), egg weight (EW), Haugh unit (HU) and eggshell thickness (EST) in laying hens. Methods A search of four electronic databases for studies on the impact of yeast supplementation on egg-production indices published in English using a combination of search terms yielded 164 studies. Sixteen research publications with 20 771 laying hens met the criteria for inclusion in the meta-analysis. Data were pooled via random-effects model and are presented as standardised mean differences (SMD) with 95% confidence intervals (CI) for each effect size. Key results HDEP and EM showed a significant increase in the SMD of 11.3% (95% CI: 0.037–0.118, P = 0.003) and 22.5 g egg/hen.day (95% CI: 0.095–0.356, P < 0.001) respectively. Subgroup analysis showed that EST, EM, HDEP and FCR were improved in laying hens that received a yeast-based diet at <5 g/kg feed, compared with the group that received a yeast-based diet at >5 g/kg feed. The results indicated that trial country was a predictor of FI, FCR, EM, HDEP and EST in layers fed yeast-based rations. Conclusion These results suggest that feeding probiotic-yeast at <5 g/kg feed improved FCR, HDEP and EM in laying hens. Implications The results of the present meta-analysis will help poultry nutritionists develop the guidelines for standardising the experimental designs of future experiments on the use of probiotic yeast to enhance the productivity of laying hens.
Discipline and methodological paradigm
Authors: Shchemeleva Irina
Published: November 2020

In contemporary academia, multilingual scholars using English as an additional language (EAL) are actively engaged in knowledge construction producing more research texts in English than native speakers (Hyland, 2016). Having a more general purpose to gain insights into the factors that influence multilingual scholars’ research writing practices in English, this case study seeks to explore how EAL users perceive disciplinary norms of epistemic stance expression in political science. It is based on interviews with 5 Russian political scientists and on the analysis of their research texts. The findings suggest that the participants do not seem to have a shared understanding of disciplinary norms regarding epistemic stance expression; however, their narratives highlight the importance of the methodological paradigm the texts belong to for their writing practices. The study is a contribution to the discussion of the role of the discipline in EAL scholars’ research writing practices and linguistic and rhetorical variability of research texts within one discipline. The results of this study have pedagogical implications for ERPP course designers and practitioners.
Linguistic expressions of Goal, Source and Place in Polynesian languages
Authors: Moyse-Faurie Claire
Published: November 2020

In Polynesian languages, as in many other Oceanic languages, the linguistic expression of Source and Goal is mainly express by (i) demonstratives and directional modifiers, which combine deictic and spatial information (toward speaker, addressee or third person, upwards, downwards, transverse axe), (ii) locative static and dynamic prepositions which may combine with body-part terms to introduce local and landmark nouns, or place names, and (iii) posture and motion verbs. We examine the occurrences of the Source and Goal prepositions on the one hand, and the directional modifiers on the other, taking into account their compatibilities, the spatial coding they convey, the position of the participants, and the verb meaning. In Polynesian languages, Goal and Source are of similar complexity, though in different ways, and a variety of resources can express fine-grained distinctions for Source vs. Goal depending on the position of the figure.
Asymmetries in Path expression in Ye’kwana
Authors: Cáceres Arandia Natalia
Published: November 2020

Ye’kwana is an Amazonian language of the Cariban family spoken by a group of about 8,700 people in Venezuela and Brazil.
This paper explores the expression of Path in spontaneous motion events based on spoken data collected for the documentation and description
of the language including data collected with the Trajectoire elicitation material (Ishibashi et al. 2006).

In Ye’kwana, Path is mainly expressed by postpositional and adverbial stems: there is a rich inventory of 80 postpositions
all compatible with locative and either allative or perlative uses and 29 spatial adverbs, most of deictic nature. Source is expressed with
a dedicated suffix (-nno) which combines with almost all the spatial postpositions and adverbs. The data show that the
asymmetries in the expression of Path are not only found between Source and Goal but also need to include the expression of Medium for which
the language has dedicated forms.
Source-Goal (a)symmetry in Romanian
Authors: Papahagi Cristiana
Published: November 2020

According to Talmy (2000), a motion event has four conceptual components: Figure, Motion, Path and one or more Grounds. Path can be further decomposed into Source, Medium and Goal (or: departure, passing and arrival). In many languages, intuitive pairs of motion events such as come/go seem to indicate that Source and Goal are equally able to build the image of the Path. However, numerous studies have pointed to an asymmetry in favor of Goal in motion descriptions. Using the corpus elicited during the Trajectoire project, this paper explores Source-Goal asymmetries in Romanian; this concerns adposition inventories (which are symmetrical for Source and Goal), adposition-verb combinations, and the attention payed by speakers to Source viz. Goal-oriented motion. The paper postulates possible semantic causes of Source-Goal asymmetry not identified in previous literature, such as the bounded nature of the Ground, and motion being associated with a particular human activity.
Multi-branch convolutional neural networks with integrated cross-entropy for fault diagnosis in diesel engines
Authors: Zhao Haipeng , Mao Zhiwei , Zhang Jinjie , Zhang Xudong , Zhao Nanyang , Jiang Zhinong
Published: November 2020

Fault diagnosis based on deep learning has become a hot research topic because of the successful application of deep learning in other fields. Due to variable operating conditions and a harsh operating environment, it is extremely difficult to effectively diagnose some typical faults of diesel engines. When operating conditions and environmental factors change, the performance of deep learning models also become extremely unstable. In order to solve these problems, this paper proposes a novel deep learning model, called multi-branch convolutional neural networks (MBCNNs) with an integrated cross-entropy. MBCNN can be embedded in the proposed model and simultaneously equipped with four auxiliary classifiers. The proposed model is trained on two different datasets separately, which consist of six diesel engine faults. The trained network model was compared with other methods to prove the superiority of this network model. Meanwhile, by adding Gaussian white noise, the performance of the MBCNN in different noise environments is investigated. The final results show that the MBCNN with integrated cross-entropy can effectively diagnose different diesel engine faults under variable operating conditions.
A four-layer Ag-ZnO-LPFG structure for improving temperature sensitivity and coupled-wavelength transmittance stability
Authors: Wang Jin , Wang Li , Su Xueqiong , Pan Yong , Gao Dongwen , Cheng Peng , Yan Huanhuan
Published: November 2020

A novel long-period fiber grating (LPFG) with a four-layer structure is proposed, made by coating double layers of both ZnO and Ag onto a bare LPFG. Pulsed laser deposition (PLD) technology can effectively control the flatness and nanoscale thickness of ZnO film, which is conducive to achieving full energy coupling with the Ag layer and the grating. Compared with SiO2, ZnO has a higher thermal expansion coefficient and refractive index, which ensures that coated LPFG has a higher temperature sensitivity. As the fourth layer of the structure, colloidal silver is coated onto the surface of the ZnO film at an optimal thickness by a spin-coating method. The higher thermal expansion coefficient of the Ag film and a plasma resonance effect on its surface cause the temperature sensitivity to increase again. The sensitivity of the coated Ag-ZnO-LPFG structure is 1.4 times higher than that of the bare fiber. The temperature sensitivity is increased from 0.063 nm °C−1 to 0.088 nm °C−1, while retaining good linearity. We also solve the problem whereby the coating disturbs the coupled-wavelength transmittance, and by doing so, we increase the stability of the coupled-wavelength transmittance and enhance measurement accuracy.
Adaptive latent state modeling of brain network dynamics with real-time learning rate optimization
Authors: Yang Yuxiao , Ahmadipour Parima , Shanechi Maryam M
Published: November 2020

Objective. Dynamic latent state models are widely used to characterize the dynamics of brain network activity for various neural signal types. To date, dynamic latent state models have largely been developed for stationary brain network dynamics. However, brain network dynamics can be non-stationary for example due to learning, plasticity or recording instability. To enable modeling these non-stationarities, two problems need to be resolved. First, novel methods should be developed that can adaptively update the parameters of latent state models, which is difficult due to the state being latent. Second, new methods are needed to optimize the adaptation learning rate, which specifies how fast new neural observations update the model parameters and can significantly influence adaptation accuracy.Approach. We develop a Rate Optimized-adaptive Linear State-Space Modeling (RO-adaptive LSSM) algorithm that solves these two problems. First, to enable adaptation, we derive a computation- and memory-efficient adaptive LSSM fitting algorithm that updates the LSSM parameters recursively and in real time in the presence of the latent state. Second, we develop a real-time learning rate optimization algorithm. We use comprehensive simulations of a broad range of non-stationary brain network dynamics to validate both algorithms, which together constitute the RO-adaptive LSSM.Main results. We show that the adaptive LSSM fitting algorithm can accurately track the broad simulated non-stationary brain network dynamics. We also find that the learning rate significantly affects the LSSM fitting accuracy. Finally, we show that the real-time learning rate optimization algorithm can run in parallel with the adaptive LSSM fitting algorithm. Doing so, the combined RO-adaptive LSSM algorithm rapidly converges to the optimal learning rate and accurately tracks non-stationarities.Significance. These algorithms can be used to study time-varying neural dynamics underlying various brain functions and enhance future neurotechnologies such as brain-machine interfaces and closed-loop brain stimulation systems.
Decoding working memory task condition using magnetoencephalography source level long-range phase coupling patterns
Authors: Syrjälä Jaakko , Basti Alessio , Guidotti Roberto , Marzetti Laura , Pizzella Vittorio
Published: November 2020

Objective. The objective of the study is to identify phase coupling patterns that are shared across subjects via a machine learning approach that utilises source space magnetoencephalography (MEG) phase coupling data from a working memory (WM) task. Indeed, phase coupling of neural oscillations is putatively a key factor for communication between distant brain areas and is therefore crucial in performing cognitive tasks, including WM. Previous studies investigating phase coupling during cognitive tasks have often focused on a few a priori selected brain areas or a specific frequency band, and the need for data-driven approaches has been recognised. Machine learning techniques have emerged as valuable tools for the analysis of neuroimaging data since they catch fine-grained differences in the multivariate signal distribution. Here, we expect that these techniques applied to MEG phase couplings can reveal WM-related processes that are shared across individuals. Approach. We analysed WM data collected as part of the Human Connectome Project. The MEG data were collected while subjects (n = 83) performed N-back WM tasks in two different conditions, namely 2-back (WM condition) and 0-back (control condition). We estimated phase coupling patterns (multivariate phase slope index) for both conditions and for theta, alpha, beta, and gamma bands. The obtained phase coupling data were then used to train a linear support vector machine in order to classify which task condition the subject was performing with an across-subject cross-validation approach. The classification was performed separately based on the data from individual frequency bands and with all bands combined (multiband). Finally, we evaluated the relative importance of the different features (phase couplings) for classification by the means of feature selection probability. Main results. The WM condition and control condition were successfully classified based on the phase coupling patterns in the theta (62% accuracy) and alpha bands (60% accuracy) separately. Importantly, the multiband classification showed that phase coupling patterns not only in the theta and alpha but also in the gamma bands are related to WM processing, as testified by improvement in classification performance (71%). Significance. Our study successfully decoded WM tasks using MEG source space functional connectivity. Our approach, combining across-subject classification and a multidimensional metric recently developed by our group, is able to detect patterns of connectivity that are shared across individuals. In other words, the results are generalisable to new individuals and allow meaningful interpretation of task-relevant phase coupling patterns.
Biofabrication of 3D printed hydroxyapatite composite scaffolds for bone regeneration
Authors: Kim Yoontae , Lee Eun-Jin , Davydov Albert V , Frukhtbeyen Stanislav , Seppala Jonathan E , Takagi Shozo , Chow Laurence , Alimperti Stella
Published: November 2020

Biofabrication has been adapted in engineering patient-specific biosynthetic grafts for bone regeneration. Herein, we developed a three-dimensional (3D) high-resolution, room-temperature printing approach to fabricate osteoconductive scaffolds using calcium phosphate cement (CPC). The non-aqueous CPC bioinks were composed of tetracalcium phosphate, dicalcium phosphate anhydrous, and Polyvinyl butyral (PVB) dissolved in either ethanol (EtOH) or tetrahydrofuran (THF). They were printed in an aqueous sodium phosphate bath, which performs as a hardening accelerator for hydroxyapatite formation and as a retainer for 3D microstructure. The PVB solvents, EtOH or THF, affected differently the slurry rheological properties, scaffold microstructure, mechanical properties, and osteoconductivity. Our proposed approach overcomes limitations of conventional fabrication methods, which require high-temperature (>50 °C), low-resolution (>400 μm) printing with an inadequate amount of large ceramic particles (>35 μm). This proof-of-concept study opens venues in engineering high-resolution, implantable, and osteoconductive scaffolds with predetermined properties for bone regeneration.
Reversing the cytotoxicity of uric acid by supramolecular encapsulation with acyclic cucurbit[n]uril
Authors: Kong Lingguang , Liang Jing , Yang Lei , An Shu , Gao Chuanzhu , Liao Xiali , Zhao Yulin , Yang Bo
Published: November 2020

Supramolecular encapsulation, which removes harmful substances from organisms, has evolved into a new strategy. In this paper, three supramolecular complexes of acyclic cucurbit[n]urils (ACBs) with uric acid (UA) were prepared, and the inclusion behavior of ACBs and UA was studied by fluorescence spectroscopy, UV–vis spectroscopy and nuclear magnetic resonance. Furthermore, the effect of the complexes of UA with ACBs on the expression of inflammatory biomarkers in human hepatoma HepG2 cell lines was characterized through C-reactive protein (CRP) western blot. The results showed UA molecules can be recognized by three ACBs with different binding constants, and ACBs successfully blocked the inflammatory stimulation of UA on HepG2 cell lines and inhibited the expression of the major inflammatory factor CRP by the formation of complexes between UA and ACBs. This article proves that ACBs can efficiently reverse the cytotoxicity of UA, which provides a new method for treating hyperuricemia disease.
Is working less really good for the environment? A systematic review of the empirical evidence for resource use, greenhouse gas emissions and the ecological footprint
Authors: Antal Miklós , Plank Barbara , Mokos Judit , Wiedenhofer Dominik
Published: November 2020

Is reducing paid working time (WT) a potential win-win climate change mitigation strategy, which may simultaneously serve environmental sustainability and human well-being? While some researchers and commentators frequently refer to such ‘double-dividends’, most climate and environmental discussions ignore this topic. The societal relevance of paid WT and the potential role of its reduction as a demand-side measure for mitigating the climate- and ecological crisis calls for a critical review of the evidence. Here we systematically review the empirical, quantitative literature on the relationships between paid WT and a number of environmental indicators: resource use (incl. energy), greenhouse gas emissions and the ecological footprint. We applied two comprehensive search queries in two scientific databases; screened ∼2500 articles published until December 2019, and used citation snowballing to identify relevant research. However, we only found 15 fully relevant studies, as well as a number of partially relevant ones. This literature employs substantially different scopes, indicators and statistical methods, each with important caveats, which inhibits a formal quantitative evidence synthesis but usefully informs a critical discussion of the research frontier. Most studies conclude that reductions in paid WT reduce environmental pressures, primarily by decreasing incomes and consumption expenditures. However, existing research does not provide reliable guidance beyond the established link between expenditures and environmental impacts. Quantifying the effects of time use changes and macro-economic feedbacks through productivity, employment, and the complementarity or substitution between human labour and natural resources in production processes has proven to be difficult. To better understand the environmental impacts of specific types of WT reductions, new forms of data collection as well as studies at different scales and scopes are required. The critical discussion of the existing literature helps to conceptually map the pathways investigated so far and to identify crucial next steps towards more robust insights.