bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
“Pool of Toys”: Multimodal Visual Music Rendering of Sequenced and Real-time Control Events
Authors: Kawahara Satsuki , Cohen Michael
Published: May 2020

The goal of this study is to display music visually to aid recognizing each component, enjoying music not just aurally but visually as well. Elements of western music comprise multiple aspects (e.g., rhythm, melody, harmony, and orchestration). To express them, we introduce a “live song” called “Pool of Toys.” A pool filled with toys is used as a motif in a game engine (Unity). A multitimbral song including musical elements was created using DAWs (GarageBand and then Ableton Live). Each part is imported as a MIDI track into Unity, controlling the attributes of visual elements (floating toys) at runtime. A surface grid controller (Launchpad Pro) is used at runtime along with the precomposed music so that performers can synchronously play the MIDI terminal with output displayed in realtime.
Assistive Technology for Patient with Congenital Foot Deformity
Authors: Muñoz Garza Eugenia , Carvajal Cortés Héctor Gerardo , Domínguez Godoy Braulio , Cantú Campos Hiram Alejandro
Published: May 2020

An assistive technology (AT) is any item, equipment or product used to increase, maintain or improve the functional capabilities of people with disabilities. The aim of this study was to design and develop two ATs in order to assist the needs of a male student from Universidad de Monterrey experiencing gait dysfunction and pain due to a congenital foot deformity preventing him from normal performance. These ATs included personalized orthopedic insoles to improve the participant’s posture and stability as well as two ankle-foot orthosis (AFO) to reduce the pain he presented. In order to design the orthopedic insoles, it was necessary to scan the participant’s feet; this was achieved using the photogrammetry technique. For the design of the AFOs, anthropometric measurements of the lower limbs were taken in order to modify a predefined 3D human model and obtain a digital model of the lower limbs. Both devices were manufactured using 3D printing technology. In order to analyze the participant’s progress and validate the effectiveness of the ATs, we developed a methodology for movement analysis based on the marker-less motion capture system Kinect 2. Data obtained was imported into Matlab in order to calculate lower limb joint angles and compare gait before and after using the ATs. Significant improvement was seen in the participant’s gait after two weeks of using the ATs. Moreover, we were able to demonstrate that the use of orthopedic insoles improved participant’s posture based on the correct alignment (180°) of the heel with the ankle. We believe these posture improvements could further impact on participant’s gait performance. Therefore, we expect a significant improvement on participant’s gait after constant use of both ATs developed.
Schimmel im Outdoor-Bereich – klinisch bedeutsam?
Authors: Rabe Uta
Published: May 2020

Alternaria alternata ist ein bedeutsames Inhalationsallergen. Bei ca. 6 % der in unserer Einrichtung betreuten Patienten mit einer Beschwerdesymptomatik an den oberen und unteren Atemwegen in den Sommermonaten fanden wir eine Sensibilisierung gegenüber diesem Allergen. Sehr häufig sind bei Kindern und Jugendlichen die Sporen für die Entwicklung oder Persistenz einer unspezifischen bronchialen Hyperreaktivität und zum Teil für therapierefraktären Reizhusten bzw. therapierefraktäres Asthma im Sommer verantwortlich. Wenn bei Graspollenallergikern die Beschwerden über Ende Juni hinaus persistieren, kann eine Allergie gegenüber Beifuß-Pollen, aber auch eine Allergie gegenüber Alternaria-Sporen ursächlich sein. Häufig bestehen Graspollen- und Alternaria-Allergie gleichzeitig. In den Sommermonaten treten des Öfteren gleichzeitig hohe Sporen- und hohe Pollenkonzentrationen auf. Um zu differenzieren, welches Allergen z. B. für schwerere allergische Reaktionen, vor allen Dingen für asthmatische Beschwerden, verantwortlich ist, weisen wir auf die Notwendigkeit des Führens eines Symptomkalenders durch die Patienten hin. Insbesondere bei Doppel- oder 3-Fachsensibilisierungen werden Therapieentscheidungen und -empfehlungen erleichtert. Informationen zu regionalen Pollen- und Alternaria-Sporenbelastungen sollten zur Verfügung stehen (Stiftung Deutscher Polleninformationsdienst, Deutscher Wetterdienst). Wie hoch auch in Deutschland die Alternaria-Sporenbelastung sein kann, zeigen die Auswertungen der regionalen Pollenfalle Treuenbrietzen. Bedeutsam sind Sporenfragmente von Alternaria alternata. Diese treten z. B. nach Gewittern auf und haben für die Auslösung von Asthma-Exazerbationen eine hohe Relevanz. Vor dem Beginn einer SIT mit Alternaria alternata sollte die klinische Bedeutsamkeit der Sensibilisierung durch Schleimhautprovokationstests bewiesen werden.

Die Indikationsstellung für die Durchführung einer spezifischen Immuntherapie mit Alternaria alternata entspricht dem Vorgehen auch bei anderen Inhalationsallergien, insbesondere Pollenallergien. Entsprechende Empfehlungen sind in der aktuellen Leitlinie nachzulesen 1. Die Allergenextrakte von Alternaria alternata sind in der Anwendung und Verträglichkeit ebenso sicher wie die anderer Inhalationsallergene.
Endoskopische Vollwandresektion während der Koloskopie mit dem FTRD-System
Authors: Hansen Anika
Published: May 2020

Die endoskopische Vollwandresektion während der Koloskopie stellt ein ausgesprochen schonendes Verfahren im Vergleich zur operativen Resektion dar. Während der endoskopischen Vollwandresektion können alle Wandschichten ohne Eröffnung der Bauchhöhle entfernt werden. Durch das minimalinvasive Vorgehen während der interventionellen Koloskopie wird der Heilungsprozess wesentlich verkürzt und u. a. Patienten im höheren Lebensalter eine schnellere Rehabilitationszeit geboten.

Anhand des Verfahrens der eFTR, kann wieder einmal die Bedeutsamkeit der Kommunikation in der Endoskopie während einer Intervention dargestellt werden. Anhand des gesamten Prozesses wird sichtbar wie umfangreich und vielseitig die Endoskopie, in Bezug auf die minimalinvasiven Eingriffe, geworden ist.
Optimale Knochenbelastung zur Prävention und Therapie von Stressfrakturen
Authors: Warden Stuart J.
Published: May 2020

Vor allem Läufer kennen das Problem: völlig unvermittelt bekommen sie Beschwerden, die so stark sind, dass sie nicht mehr weitermachen können. Im schlimmsten Fall leiden sie an den schmerzhaften Folgen einer Stressfraktur. Wer im Training die richtigen Reize setzt, kann das Risiko für derartige Verletzungen deutlich verringern.
“Don't We Take Care of Our Veterans?” The Critical Need for Veteran's Health Services Infertility Services for Veterans: Policies, Challenges, and Opportunities
Authors: Woodruff Lee , Mottla Gilbert L.
Published: May 2020

Since October 2001, more than 2.7 million men and women of the armed forces have been deployed to Iraq, Afghanistan, or in support of the “Global War on Terrorism.” Like previous wars, our nation will feel the after-effects of those deployments for a generation to come, as the wounds of war do not just affect the veteran, but impact their family and friends once they return to the home front. But unlike previous wars, less than 1% of our population serves their country in an all-volunteer military. This small percentage of Americans who volunteer to serve us and protect our freedoms (no matter what you might think about the politics surrounding wars) is increasingly removed from the rest of the population who choose other careers and options. Therefore, most of us are uneducated and unconnected to the often isolating experiences and frustrations of our veterans when they return to the home front and try to retake the stage of their former lives. In this discussion, we share the compelling stories of military members and veterans who struggle with infertility. We describe the need for policy and expansion of services for infertility care in the Department of Defense and Veterans Health Administration, and the challenges and opportunities that exist.
Restorative Therapies after Stroke: Drugs, Devices and Robotics
Authors: Srivastava MV Padma
Published: May 2020

Restorative therapies aim to improve outcome and function by promoting plasticity within a therapeutic time window between days to weeks to years. In this article, the mechanisms by which cell-based, pharmacological and robotic treatments stimulate endogenous brain remodelling after stroke, particularly neurogenesis, axonal plasticity and white-matter integrity are described with a brief outline of the potential of neuroimaging (fMRI) techniques. Stem cells aid stroke recovery via mechanisms depending on the type of cells used. Transplanted embryonic stem cells (ESCs), induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs), and neural stem cells (NSCs) can replace the missing brain cells in the Infarcted area, while adult stem cells, such as mesenchymal stem cells or multipotent stromal cells (MSCs) and MNCs, provide trophic support to enhance self-repair systems such as endogenous neurogenesis. Most preclinical studies of stem cell therapy for stroke have emphasized the need to enhance self-repair systems rather than to replace lost cells, regardless of the type of cells used. Noninvasive brain stimulation (NIBS) provides a valuable tool for interventional neurophysiology by modulating brain activity in a specific distributed, cortico-subcortical network. The two most commonly used techniques for noninvasive brain stimulation are transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) and transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS). The article also discusses the potential role and current evidence for the use of pharmacological therapy, robotics and specific forms of physiotherapy regimes in optimizing stroke recovery. Neurorestoration is a concept that has been proven emphatically in several experimental models and clinical studies of stroke. Elucidating the underlying mechanisms of cell-based, pharmacological and rehabilitative therapies is of primary interest and crucial for translation of treatments to clinical use. The knowledge must provide an impetus for the development of superior, advanced and cost effective neuro restorative interventions that will enhance stroke recovery.
Clinical and Experimental Studies in Japanese Encephalitis: Lessons Learnt
Authors: Misra UK
Published: May 2020

Introduction:

Managing encephalitis for last 3 decades and conducting experimental studies have provided a number of important findings some which are presented.

Method:

Summary of important clinical, radiological, neurophysiological and biochemical studies are presented. The results of experimental studies in a rat model have been used to investigate the basis of behavioral changes, histology, and molecular alterations in Japanese encephalitis (JE) and finally an approach to acute encephalitis syndrome (AES) is presented.

Result:

The patients with encephalitis can be produced by a number of noninfectious, infectious. The local prevalence and time of the year are crucial for clinical decision making. The affinity of JEV for thalamus, corpus striatum, substantia nigra, cerebellum and anterior horn cell was documented by imaging studies, which was further confirmed on immune histopathological and real time PCR studies highlighting the tropism of JEV. The lower motor neuron involvement on EMG studies was attributed to anterior horn cell involvement. JE results in frequent and severe movement disorders. The basis of movement disorders was revealed in MRI and SPECT studies showing thalamic and cortical hyperperfusion suggesting the involvement of thalamo-cortical projections. Hyperkinetic or hypokinetic movement disorders were due to differential involvement of excitatory or inhibitory circuits in the brain. Reduction in catecholamine and its metabolites in CSF of patients was supported by reduction of catecholamine and dopamine receptors in the JE tropic areas in thalamus, corpus striatum and brainstem resulting in dopamine deficiency. The learning and memory deficits in JE were attributed to cholinergic dysfunction reveled by expression of CHAT, HQNB CHR M2 mscarinic receptors in the JE affected areas of brain.

A syndromic approach to AES categorizing the patients into neurologic or systemic group and using rational investigations; imaging and Acyclovir therapy in pure neurologic group and avoiding these in systemic group is recommended. In systemic group, treatment with doxycycline for scrub typhus, artesunate for malaria, ceftriaxone for leptospira and fluid management for dengue are recommended.

Conclusion:

A combined clinical and experimental approach provides valuable information to understand the basis of clinical alterations in JE.
Effect of grain size distribution on the acoustic nonlinearity parameter
Authors: Abraham Saju T. , Shivaprasad S. , Das C. R. , Albert S. K. , Venkatraman B. , Balasubramaniam Krishnan
Published: May 2020

The effect of grain size distribution on the measured acoustic nonlinearity of polycrystalline engineering materials is investigated. Results are provided for two austenitic stainless steel materials with comparable mean grain sizes and distinct distribution widths assuming equiaxed grains and random crystallographic orientation. The distribution width is shown to influence the nonlinearity parameter considerably. On the material with a wider distribution, a reduced nonlinearity was noted, and comparable trends were also noted for different frequencies investigated. The results predict that the existing models that account for only the mean grain size when characterizing material degradations need to be modified more comprehensively to include the role of grain size distribution.
On the second order differential equation involving two ordinary and one para-Grassmann variable
Authors: Mansour Toufik , Schork Matthias
Published: May 2020

In this paper, previous considerations concerning differential equations involving a para-Grassmann variable are extended by allowing two independent ordinary variables. For the differential equation of second order, the structure of its solutions is determined and several examples representing analogs of well-known second order differential equations are considered in detail. As a warm-up, the differential equation of first order is treated.
Symmetry breaking dynamics induced by mean-field density and low-pass filter
Authors: Ponrasu K. , Singh Uday , Sathiyadevi K. , Senthilkumar D. V. , Chandrasekar V. K.
Published: May 2020

The phenomenon of spontaneous symmetry breaking facilitates the onset of a plethora of nontrivial dynamical states/patterns in a wide variety of dynamical systems. Spontaneous symmetry breaking results in amplitude and phase variations in a coupled identical oscillator due to the breaking of the prevailing permutational/translational symmetry of the coupled system. Nevertheless, the role and the competing interaction of the low-pass filter and the mean-field density parameter on the symmetry breaking dynamical states are unclear and yet to be explored explicitly. The effect of low pass filtering along with the mean-field parameter is explored in conjugately coupled Stuart–Landau oscillators. The dynamical transitions are examined via bifurcation analysis. We show the emergence of a spontaneous symmetry breaking (asymmetric) oscillatory state, which coexists with a nontrivial amplitude death state. Through the basin of attraction, the multi-stable nature of the spontaneous symmetry breaking state is examined, which reveals that the asymmetric distribution of the initial state favors the spontaneous symmetry breaking dynamics, while the symmetric distribution of initial states gives rise to the nontrivial amplitude death state. In addition, the trade-off between the cut-off frequency of the low-pass filter along with the mean-field density induces and enhances the symmetry breaking dynamical states. Global dynamical transitions are discussed as a function of various system parameters. Analytical stability curves corresponding to the nontrivial amplitude death and oscillation death states are deduced.
A solid-state pulse generator based on multilayer ceramic capacitors and insulated gate bipolar transistors
Authors: Wang Li-min , Zhang Zheng-quan , Liu Qing-xiang , Zhang Tong-xin
Published: May 2020

A solid-state pulse-forming network (PFN) module was designed using multilayer ceramic capacitors (MLCCs). In addition, an all-solid-state pulse generator was fabricated with a Blumlein line that consisted of two PFN single lines and an insulated gate bipolar transistor (IGBT) switch array. This generator was integrated on printed circuit boards (PCBs). The stage capacitors of the PFN were composed of MLCCs connected in series and parallel. To obtain a compact structure, folded, copper-clad wires were used as interstage inductors. The copper-clad wires were structurally optimized to reduce coupling between adjacent interstage inductors. A relatively fast rising waveform edge was obtained using an IGBT gate-boosting circuit and magnetic switch technology. A square-wave pulse with a rise time of 27 ns, a voltage of 5 kV, a width of 120 ns, a maximum repetition rate of 100 Hz, and an evaluated lifetime of 109 pulses was obtained on a load of 6.6 Ω. With its compact size, fast rise time, and long lifetime, the fabricated pulse generator can be used as a component in linear transformer drivers or Marx generators.
Normalized solutions for the fractional Schrödinger equation with a focusing nonlocal L2-critical or L2-supercritical perturbation
Authors: Yang Tao
Published: May 2020

In this paper, we study the existence and asymptotic properties of solutions to the fractional Schrödinger equation (−Δ)σu=λu+|u|q−2u+μIα*|u|p|u|p−2u under the normalized constraint ∫RNu2=a2, where N ≥ 2, σ ∈ (0, 1), α ∈ (0, N), q∈(2+4σN,2NN−2σ], p∈[1+2σ+αN,N+αN−2σ), a, μ > 0, Iα(x) = |x|α−N, and λ∈R appears as a Lagrange multiplier. By using a refined version of the min-max principle, we show that the above problem admits a mountain pass type solution ûμ for some λ̂<0 under suitable assumptions on the related parameters. In particular, we can prove that ûμ is a ground state if p≤q2+αN. Furthermore, we give some asymptotic properties of the solutions. We mainly extend the results in the work of Bhattarai [J. Differ. Equations 263, 3197–3229 (2017)] and Feng et al. [J. Math. Phys. 60, 1–12(2019)] concerning the above problem from the L2-subcritical setting to L2-critical and L2-supercritical settings with respect to p, involving the Sobolev critical case q=2NN−2σ especially.
A class of elliptic equations involving nonlocal integrodifferential operators with sign-changing weight functions
Authors: Bonaldo L. M. M. , Hurtado E. J. , Miyagaki O. H.
Published: May 2020

In this paper, we investigate the existence of nontrivial weak solutions to a class of elliptic equations involving a general nonlocal integrodifferential operator LAK, two real parameters, and two weight functions, which can be sign-changing. Considering different situations concerning the growth of the nonlinearities involved in the problem (P), we prove the existence of two nontrivial distinct solutions and the existence of a continuous family of eigenvalues. The proofs of the main results are based on ground state solutions using the Nehari method, Ekeland’s variational principle, and the direct method of the calculus of variations. The difficulties arise from the fact that the operator LAK is nonhomogeneous and the nonlinear term is undefined.
Magnetically controlled multifunctional membrane acoustic metasurface
Authors: Liu Peng , Chen Xing , Xu Wangdong , Pei Yongmao
Published: May 2020

Acoustic artificial structures have attracted great interest due to their unique capacity in manipulating acoustic waves. Among them, acoustic metasurfaces are highlighted for tuning acoustic waves in the subwavelength scale, which is expected for realizing acoustic device miniaturization. However, traditional acoustic metasurfaces are passive and non-multifunctional, which limits their further practical applications. In this paper, a magnetically controlled approach is investigated for achieving a multifunctional acoustic metasurface. The properties of the proposed acoustic metasurface, consisting of elastic films and additional mass, could be continuously modulated by magnetic force. Through switching the magnetic forces, the transmitted acoustic wave is easily tailored and different functions such as focusing, beam-splitting-like, and other near-field acoustic displays are switched. This work extends the research of multifunctional metasurfaces and has excellent potential in a wide range of applications including acoustic imaging, communications, and particle manipulation (such as suspension and acoustic tweezers).
Extreme learning machine and support vector regression wear loss predictions for magnesium alloys coated using various spray coating methods
Authors: Gurgenc Turan , Altay Osman , Ulas Mustafa , Ozel Cihan
Published: May 2020

Magnesium alloys are popular in the aerospace and automotive industries due to their light weights and high specific strengths. The major disadvantages of magnesium alloys are their weak wear and corrosion resistances. Surface coating is one of the most efficient methods of making material surfaces resistant to wear. Experimental determination of wear loss is expensive and time-consuming. These disadvantages can be eliminated by using machine learning algorithms to predict wear loss. This study used experimentally obtained wear loss data for AZ91D magnesium alloy samples coated via two different spray coating methods (plasma and high velocity oxy-fuel spraying) using various parameters. Support vector regression (SVR) and extreme learning machine (ELM) methods were used to predict wear loss quantities. In models tested using 10-k cross-validation, R2 was calculated as 0.9601 and 0.9901 when the SVR and ELM methods were applied, respectively. The ELM method was more successful than SVR. Thus, the ELM method has excellent potential to support the production of wear-resistant parts for various applications via spray coating.
On the theory of deuteron NMR free induction decay of reptating polymer chains: Effect of end segment dynamics
Authors: Ostrovskaya I. K. , Fatkullin N. F. , Körber T. , Rössler E. A. , Lozovoi A. , Mattea C. , Stapf S.
Published: May 2020

A self-consistent approximation beyond the Redfield limit and without using the Anderson–Weiss approximation for the Free Induction Decay (FID) of deuteron spins belonging to polymer chains undergoing reptation is formulated. The dynamical heterogeneity of the polymer segments created by the end segments is taken into account. Within an accuracy of slow-changing logarithmic factors, FID can be qualitatively described by a transition from an initial pseudo-Gaussian to a stretched-exponential decay at long times. With an increase in observation time, the contribution from end effects to the FID increases. In the regime of incoherent reptation, contributions to the FID from central segments yield an exponent of 1/4 for the stretched decay and contributions from end segments yield an exponent of 3/16. In the regime of coherent reptation, the central segments generate a stretching exponent of 1/2, whereas the end segments contribute with an exponent of 1/4. These predictions are shown to be in qualitative agreement with the experimental FIDs of perdeuterated poly(ethylene oxide) with molecular masses of 132 kg/mol and 862 kg/mol.
Semi-analytical models of mineral dissolution in rough fractures with permeable walls
Authors: Rasoulzadeh Mojdeh , Yekta Alireza , Deng Hang , B. Ghahfarokhi Reza
Published: May 2020

Mineral dissolution in fractures is largely affected by the flow field within the fracture opening. The flow field maintains transport of the dissolved solutes and influences the concentration gradient and thermodynamic driving force for the mineral dissolution. In this study, we focus on investigating two factors that influence mineral dissolution in fractures: fracture wall roughness and interporosity fluid exchange or the flux through the fracture walls. The classical cubic law for the flow in parallel-plate channels cannot describe the flow in a fracture with rough permeable walls. The wavy, irregular shape of the rough boundaries can result in local flow features and might cause a shift of the overall flow and dissolution regime. At low Reynolds numbers, roughness simply increases the surface area available for mineral dissolution. Moreover, at higher Reynolds numbers, the inertial effects become important and the non-linear flow, flow instabilities, and reverse flow will form. With the creation of eddies and vorticities in the area adjacent to the walls, a flow dead zone forms that reduces the reactive surface area. In the presence of interporosity fluid exchange between the fracture and its surrounding rock, the non-zero fluid velocity on the fracture walls influences the local concentration gradient. In addition, the newly introduced fluid may facilitate or suppress the fracture wall mineral dissolution depending on its composition. This work highlights the compound effect of roughness and fluid flux through the walls on fracture mineral dissolution. For this purpose, the asymptotic solutions of the steady-state Navier–Stokes equations with non-zero velocity on the borders are used to determine the velocity field within the fracture opening. The quadratic and cubic corrections to Darcy’s law are expected as a result of the wall roughness and the flow through the walls. The flow field is coupled with a transport module and a geochemical model (PHREEQC). As a test case, we investigate calcite dissolution in a single fracture at a different influx rate. For each flow rate, a flat fracture and two sets of rough profiles with and without the permeable walls were compared. The simulation results showed that compared to impermeable walls, the pervious walls result in a non-uniform non-periodic mineral dissolution along the fracture, which is more focused at the inlet. At low Reynolds numbers, the hotspots of dissolution are slightly shifted from the smaller cross sectional area to the larger cross sectional area. The effective reaction rate for mineral dissolution of fracture walls increases with an increase in fracture surface roughness. It is shown that at low Reynolds numbers, the permeable fracture walls can improve the effective reaction rate significantly. At relatively larger Reynolds numbers, the impact of flux through the walls on the effective reaction rate is less important, but for some roughness profiles, still not negligible.
Novel compact high-speed passive gamma-ray assay equipment for uranium enrichment measurement of fuel rods
Authors: Liu Yantao , Liu Shuangquan , Wei Cunfeng , Yu Dongbao , Wang Peiling , Wang Xiaoming , Wang Yingjie , Yang Mingjie , Guo Jing , Zhang Zhiming , Zhu Yongli , Cao Wei , Li Chunmiao , Chen Chunqi , Wei Long
Published: May 2020

Uranium enrichment measurement is an essential quality inspection for fuel rods before delivery to users. Generally, compared with active neutron assay (ANA) equipment, passive gamma-ray assay (PGA) equipment is more economical and safer. However, the current PGA equipment based on photomultipliers is too slow (1 m/min) to meet the growing needs in China. Recently, we have developed a set of compact high-speed PGA equipment including four detection modules (128 units in total), a 128-channel data acquisition system (DAS), a power supply, special software, and an automatic loading and unloading mechanism. The detection unit is based on silicon photomultipliers in virtue of its compact size and good performance. The DAS processes signals of all units in parallel into a sequence of data packets carrying the energy information and the corresponding unit ID. The software integrates the data packets into a fluctuating count curve in a time-delay superposition method and identifies possible abnormal pellets. After calibrations, our equipment can locate abnormal pellets accurately at a speed of 6 m/min. In addition, it can directly measure the enrichment of fresh pellets not in secular equilibrium without waiting for two months. So far, the equipment has been successfully run for one year on the assembly line of China North Nuclear Fuel Co. and shows good potential to replace the traditional ANA equipment.
Simple model for the electric field and spatial distribution of ions in a microdroplet
Authors: Chamberlayne Christian F. , Zare Richard N.
Published: May 2020

It is well established that the chemistry in microdroplets has been found to be radically different from reactions in bulk, particularly in the case of water. It has also been established that there is a threshold size for microdroplets to behave differently than droplets near the 10 µm diameter range. We present a three-dimensional electrostatic treatment in the spirit of the Gouy–Chapman model for double layers at interfaces. Our treatment predicts a strong concentration of charged molecules toward the surface of the droplet. As the droplet size deceases, the majority of the volume of the liquid experiences a large DC electric field. Such electric fields are highly unusual in a conducting fluid such as water. We believe that this unique environment helps to explain the reaction rate acceleration and new chemistry that have been observed in microdroplets compared to bulk phase.
Tuning the stability of electrochemical interfaces by electron transfer reactions
Authors: Fraggedakis Dimitrios , Bazant Martin Z.
Published: May 2020

The morphology of interfaces is known to play a fundamental role in the efficiency of energy-related applications, such as light harvesting or ion intercalation. Altering the morphology on demand, however, is a very difficult task. Here, we show ways the morphology of interfaces can be tuned by driven electron transfer reactions. By using non-equilibrium thermodynamic stability theory, we uncover the operating conditions that alter the interfacial morphology. We apply the theory to ion intercalation and surface growth where electrochemical reactions are described using Butler–Volmer or coupled ion–electron transfer kinetics. The latter connects microscopic/quantum mechanical concepts with the morphology of electrochemical interfaces. Finally, we construct non-equilibrium phase diagrams in terms of the applied driving force (current/voltage) and discuss the importance of engineering the density of states of the electron donor in applications related to energy harvesting and storage, electrocatalysis, and photocatalysis.
A cryogenic-helium pipe flow facility with unique double-line molecular tagging velocimetry capability
Authors: Sanavandi Hamid , Bao Shiran , Zhang Yang , Keijzer Ruben , Guo Wei , Cattafesta Louis N.
Published: May 2020

Cryogenic helium-4 has extremely small kinetic viscosity, which makes it a promising material for high Reynolds (Re) number turbulence research in compact laboratory apparatus. In its superfluid phase (He II), helium has an extraordinary heat transfer capability and has been utilized in various scientific and engineering applications. In order to unlock the full potential of helium in turbulence research and to improve our understanding of the heat transfer mechanism in He II, a flow facility that allows quantitative study of helium heat-and-mass transfer processes is needed. Here, we report our work in assembling and testing a unique helium pipe-flow facility that incorporates a novel double-line molecular tagging velocimetry (DL-MTV) system. This flow facility allows us to generate turbulent pipe flows with Re above 107, and it can also be adapted to produce heat-induced counterflow in He II. The DL-MTV system, which is based on the generation and tracking of two parallel thin He2* molecular tracer lines with an adjustable separation distance, allows us to measure not only the velocity profile but also both the transverse and longitudinal spatial velocity structure functions. We have also installed a differential pressure sensor on the flow pipe for pressure drop measurements. The testing results of the flow facility and the measuring instruments are presented. We discuss how this facility will allow us to solve some outstanding problems in the helium heat-and-mass transfer topic area.
Conflict and congruence between morphological and molecular data: revision of the Merodon constans group (Diptera : Syrphidae)
Authors: Vujić Ante , Radenković Snežana , Likov Laura , Andrić Andrijana , Janković Marina , Ačanski Jelena , Popov Grigory , de Courcy Williams Michael , Šašić Zorić Ljiljana , Djan Mihajla
Published: May 2020

We revise the Merodon constans species group of the genus Merodon Meigen, 1803 (Diptera: Syrphidae), provide morphological diagnosesand descriptions, as well as an illustrated key and a discussion on the different taxonomic characters used. In total, 15 species were studied, their geographic distributions are presented on maps, and nine new species are described. Two species are redefined and neotypes are designated, lectotypes are designated for five species, and onespeciesis reinstated as valid. Following a detailed study of type material in different entomological collections, the status of several species is revised and three new synonymies are proposed. The M. constans species group was resolved as being monophyletic within the M. albifrons lineage based on molecular analyses using COI and 28S rRNA gene sequences. Three species morphologically similar to M. constans (Rossi, 1794) but occurring outside its distributional rangewere supported as being valid and distinct species on the basis of molecular data, but they were not distinguishable based on morphological characters. By contrast, continental populations of M. analis Meigen, 1822 could not be separated from Mediterranean M. constans based on differences in COI or 28S rRNA genes. The same molecular markers could not discriminate between two other species pairs. We conclude that these molecular markers only partially resolve species within the M. constans group. Geometric morphometry of wing shape successfully separated M. analis and M. constans, as well as M. spineus Vujić, Šašić Zorić & Likov, sp. nov. in both species and population analyses.
Probiotics for corals
Authors: Blackall Linda L , Dungan Ashley M , Hartman Leon M , van Oppen Madeleine JH
Published: May 2020

Coral reefs are found in warm, oligotrophic, euphotic marine waters and occupy <0.1% of the sea floor, yet support ~25% of earth’s marine species. They provide critical ecosystem services to human populations including coastal protection, food (e.g. fish) and personal income by way of fishing and tourism. However, recent pan-tropical coral ‘bleaching’ (the paling of corals due to the separation of corals and their algal endosymbionts following exposure to environmental stress) has led to coral mortality, thus jeopardising the persistence of reef ecosystems. Consequently, it has been recognised that direct interventions may be needed for coral survival, and ‘manipulation of the community composition of microbial organisms associated with the coral holobiont’ has been proposed as one solution. Such probiotic strategies would allow corals to adapt rapidly (days to weeks) to changing environmental conditions, relative to mutation and selection taking many years. This review describes corals, and research that has demonstrated the potential of probiotic approaches to protect them from environmental stressors.
A neuronal signature for monogamous reunion
Authors: Scribner Jennifer L. , Vance Eric A. , Protter David S. W. , Sheeran William M. , Saslow Elliott , Cameron Ryan T. , Klein Eric M. , Jimenez Jessica C. , Kheirbek Mazen A. , Donaldson Zoe R.
Published: May 2020

Pair-bond formation depends vitally on neuromodulatory signaling within the nucleus accumbens, but the neuronal dynamics underlying this behavior remain unclear. Using 1-photon in vivo Ca
2+
imaging in monogamous prairie voles, we found that pair bonding does not elicit differences in overall nucleus accumbens Ca
2+
activity. Instead, we identified distinct ensembles of neurons in this region that are recruited during approach to either a partner or a novel vole. The partner-approach neuronal ensemble increased in size following bond formation, and differences in the size of approach ensembles for partner and novel voles predict bond strength. In contrast, neurons comprising departure ensembles do not change over time and are not correlated with bond strength, indicating that ensemble plasticity is specific to partner approach. Furthermore, the neurons comprising partner and novel-approach ensembles are nonoverlapping while departure ensembles are more overlapping than chance, which may reflect another key feature of approach ensembles. We posit that the features of the partner-approach ensemble and its expansion upon bond formation potentially make it a key neuronal substrate associated with bond formation and maturation.
Effects of first language attrition on heritage language input and ultimate attainment
Authors: Karayayla Tuğba
Published: May 2020

This study investigates the spoken performance of UK based adult heritage speakers (HSs) and first generation immigrants (LBs) of Turkish descent regarding the distribution of evidentiality encoded in the past tense system of Turkish. Additionally, we trace the effect of input quality and quantity on the development of the heritage language (HL). The analyses suggest that the ability to differentiate between different evidential structures is unstable in HL grammars. There are no signs of qualitatively modified input available to the HSs through the LBs. This performance is instead linked to the amount of input, which has been found to be insufficient to compensate for the detrimental effects of early bilingualism on the HL. Findings are discussed within the premises of available approaches to heritage language bilingualism.
Survivre et vivre: When iNKT cells met a Hippo
Authors: Van Kaer Luc , Joyce Sebastian
Published: May 2020

Invariant natural killer T (iNKT) cells are innate-like lymphocytes with unique signaling requirements for their development and differentiation. In this issue of JEM, Raynor et al. (https://doi.org/10.1084/jem.20191157) report that the Hippo signaling pathway controls the maturation and effector differentiation of iNKT cells by modulating cellular metabolism.
Going to the Territory
Authors: Dubois Laurent
Published: May 2020

The 2018 publication of Julius S. Scott’s The Common Wind: Afro-American Currents in the Age of the Haitian Revolution inspired a renewed focus on the reverberations of the Haitian Revolution. Here, six scholars of the Atlantic World and the Age of Revolutions consider the historiographical implications of The Common Wind and remind us how the Haitian upheaval belongs at the very center of the ripples of modernity that spread across the globe from the revolutionary Atlantic.
Docking of peptides to GPCRs using a combination of CABS-dock with FlexPepDock refinement
Authors: Badaczewska-Dawid Aleksandra E , Kmiecik Sebastian , Koliński Michał
Published: May 2020

The structural description of peptide ligands bound to G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) is important for the discovery of new drugs and deeper understanding of the molecular mechanisms of life. Here we describe a three-stage protocol for the molecular docking of peptides to GPCRs using a set of different programs: (1) CABS-dock for docking fully flexible peptides; (2) PD2 method for the reconstruction of atomistic structures from C-alpha traces provided by CABS-dock and (3) Rosetta FlexPepDock for the refinement of protein–peptide complex structures and model scoring. We evaluated the proposed protocol on the set of seven different GPCR–peptide complexes (including one containing a cyclic peptide), for which crystallographic structures are available. We show that CABS-dock produces high resolution models in the sets of top-scored models. These sets of models, after reconstruction to all-atom representation, can be further improved by Rosetta high-resolution refinement and/or minimization, leading in most of the cases to sub-Angstrom accuracy in terms of interface root-mean-square-deviation measure.
Effect of Influenza Vaccination in Preventing Laboratory-Confirmed Influenza Hospitalization in Patients With Diabetes Mellitus
Authors: Martínez-Baz Iván , Navascués Ana , Portillo María Eugenia , Casado Itziar , Fresán Ujué , Ezpeleta Carmen , Castilla Jesús
Published: May 2020

Background

People with diabetes are at high risk of severe influenza complications. The influenza vaccination effect among diabetic patients remains inconclusive. We estimated the average effect of influenza vaccination status in the current and prior seasons in preventing laboratory-confirmed influenza hospitalization in diabetic patients.

Methods

Patients attended in hospitals and primary healthcare centers with influenza-like illness were tested for influenza from the 2013–2014 to 2018–2019 seasons in Navarre, Spain. A test-negative case-control design in diabetic inpatients compared the influenza vaccination status in the current and 5 prior seasons between laboratory-confirmed influenza cases and negative controls. Vaccination status of influenza-confirmed cases was compared between diabetic inpatients and outpatients. Influenza vaccination effect was compared between diabetic patients and older (≥ 60 years) or chronic nondiabetic patients.

Results

Of 1670 diabetic inpatients tested, 569 (34%) were confirmed for influenza and 1101 were test-negative controls. The average effect in preventing influenza hospitalization was 46% (95% confidence interval [CI], 28%–59%) for current-season vaccination and 44% (95% CI, 20%–61%) for vaccination in prior seasons only in comparison to unvaccinated patients in the current and prior seasons. Among diabetic patients with confirmed influenza, current-season vaccination reduced the probability of hospitalization (adjusted odds ratio, 0.35; 95% CI, .15–.79). In diabetic patients, vaccination effect against influenza hospitalizations was not inferior to that in older or chronic nondiabetic patients.

Conclusions

On average, influenza vaccination of diabetic population reduced by around half the risk of influenza hospitalization. Vaccination in prior seasons maintained a notable protective effect. These results reinforce the recommendation of influenza vaccination for diabetic patients.
The antiseptic Miramistin: a review of its comparative in vitro and clinical activity
Authors: Osmanov Ali , Farooq Zara , Richardson Malcolm D , Denning David W
Published: May 2020

Miramistin is a topical antiseptic with broad antimicrobial action, including activity against biofilms and a clinical profile showing good tolerability. Miramistin was developed within a framework of the Soviet Union Cold War Space Program. It is available for clinical use in several prior Soviet bloc countries, but barely known outside of these countries and there is almost no mention of miramistin in the English literature. However, considering emerging antimicrobial resistance, the significant potential of miramistin justifies its re-evaluation for use in other geographical areas and conditions. The review consists of two parts: (i) a review of the existing literature on miramistin in English, Russian and Ukrainian languages; (ii) a summary of most commonly used antiseptics as comparators of miramistin. The oral LD50 was 1200 mg/kg, 1000 mg/kg and 100 g/L in rats, mice and fish, respectively. Based on the results of the review, we suggest possible applications of miramistin and potential benefits over currently used agents. Miramistin offers a novel, low toxicity antiseptic with many potential clinical uses that need better study which could address some of the negative impact of antimicrobial, antiseptic and disinfectant resistance.
Design of Tree-Frog-Inspired Adhesives
Authors: Langowski Julian K A , Dodou Dimitra , van Assenbergh Peter , van Leeuwen Johan L
Published: May 2020

Synopsis

The adhesive toe pads of tree frogs have inspired the design of various so-called ‘smooth’ synthetic adhesives for wet environments. However, these adhesives do not reach the attachment performance of their biological models in terms of contact formation, maintenance of attachment, and detachment. In tree frogs, attachment is facilitated by an interconnected ensemble of superficial and internal morphological components, which together form a functional unit. To help bridging the gap between biological and bioinspired adhesives, in this review, we (1) provide an overview of the functional components of tree frog toe pads, (2) investigate which of these components (and attachment mechanisms implemented therein) have already been transferred into synthetic adhesives, and (3) highlight functional analogies between existing synthetic adhesives and tree frogs regarding the fundamental mechanisms of attachment. We found that most existing tree-frog-inspired adhesives mimic the micropatterned surface of the ventral epidermis of frog pads. Geometrical and material properties differ between these synthetic adhesives and their biological model, which indicates similarity in appearance rather than function. Important internal functional components such as fiber-reinforcement and muscle fibers for attachment control have not been considered in the design of tree-frog-inspired adhesives. Experimental work on tree-frog-inspired adhesives suggests that the micropatterning of adhesives with low-aspect-ratio pillars enables crack arresting and the drainage of interstitial liquids, which both facilitate the generation of van der Waals forces. Our analysis of experimental work on tree-frog-inspired adhesives indicates that interstitial liquids such as the mucus secreted by tree frogs play a role in detachment. Based on these findings, we provide suggestions for the future design of biomimetic adhesives. Specifically, we propose to implement internal fiber-reinforcements inspired by the fibrous structures in frog pads to create mechanically reinforced soft adhesives for high-load applications. Contractile components may stimulate the design of actuated synthetic adhesives with fine-tunable control of attachment strength. An integrative approach is needed for the design of tree-frog-inspired adhesives that are functionally analogous with their biological paradigm.
Swimming With Our Eyes Open
Authors: Lydiate Dan
Published: May 2020

Familiar with the importance of terminology in IT through his role in Defence Digital, Dan Lydiate MBCS CITP, reflects on a commonly misunderstood term: cyber-vulnerabilities.
Aen: Security Or Window Dressing?
Authors: Turton Brian
Published: May 2020

All-encrypted networks seem to offer security for all; but do they? Professor Brian Turton CEng FIET takes a closer look at this approach for IP networks and shows that things are not always as they seem.
Adapt to Survive
Authors: Bryant Paul
Published: May 2020

As Paul Bryant, Security Engineering Manager at Crowdstrike, celebrates 20 years in cyber security, he looks back on a career that started with his first computer ‘miscreant’ and explores why, a generation on, we’re still making the same mistakes.
Treating Stress With VR
Authors: Naylor Matthew
Published: May 2020

The paper ‘Augmented Experiences: Investigating the Feasibility of Virtual Reality as Part of a Workplace Wellbeing Intervention’ by Matthew Naylor et al, published in Interacting with Computers, Volume 31, Issue 5, September 2019, explores the immersive power of VR in psychological wellbeing.
Moral Status and the Architects of Principlism
Authors: Beckwith Francis , Thornton Allison Krile
Published: May 2020

In this article, we discuss Beauchamp and Childress’s treatment of the issue of moral status. In particular, we (1) introduce the five different perspectives on moral status that Beauchamp and Childress consider in Principles of Biomedical Ethics and explain their alternative to those perspectives, (2) raise some critical questions about their approach, and (3) offer a different way to think about one of the five theories of moral status (the theory based on human properties) that is more in line with what we believe some of its leading advocates affirm.