bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Numerical and Experimental Methodology to Characterize the Gaseous Cavitation in Spool Valves With U-Notches
Authors: Frosina Emma , Marinaro Gianluca , Amoresano Amedeo , Senatore Adolfo
Published: April 2021

The performance of spool valves can deteriorate and noise can occur due to cavitation. The noise sound levels caused by cavitation are influenced by many parameters, among which the most important is not-optimal geometry of components. In this article, a two ways—two positions directional control valve was studied using experimental and numerical approaches. Tests were performed on a plexiglass body and steel spool analyzing the cavitating area that develops in U-notches. A dedicated test rig was equipped with a high-speed camera placed directly in front of the area of interest where cavitation occurs. Different working conditions were tested by varying the upstream pressure to encourage the development of cavitation. Images were acquired and postprocessed, focusing the contour extraction between the liquid and gaseous phases. The images were compared with results from three-dimensional computational fluid dynamic numerical simulations performed using commercial software. The numerical estimation of flow characteristics corroborated the results from investigations carried out using a fast camera, including periodic cavitation structures. This study demonstrates the importance and usefulness of using a three-dimensional computational fluid dynamic approach during the prototyping phase to create quieter component designs
Construction of the Signal Profile for Use in Blade Tip-Timing Analysis
Authors: Maturkanič Dušan , Procházka Pavel , Hodboď Robert , Tchawou Tchuisseu Eder Batista , Brabec Marek , Russhard Peter
Published: April 2021

This paper illustrates a fundamentally different approach applied to blade tip-timing (BTT) analysis in the background of works performed through the long history of this method. New innovative approach is based on the precise separation of measured data that was published in previous works. In this respect, the construction of the signal profile is intended for fast and accurate definition of the regulation function served to expression of the complete speed fluctuation and its instabilities. Following, the presented signal profile is demonstrated on four variants of data processing in two significantly different operations, where it allows the application of a one-step approach. Finally, these results are also compared with a two-step method used in previous cases without the signal profile. The benefit of the suggested procedure of the signal profile calculation is evident in the possibility of processing more complex functions in deterministic methods without limiting the characteristic advantages of these methods.
Construction of an Escherichia coli Strain Lacking Fimbriae by Deleting 64 Genes and Its Application for Efficient Production of Poly(3-Hydroxybutyrate) and
l
-Threonine
Authors: Qiao Jun , Tan Xin , Ren Hongyu , Wu Zheng , Hu Xiaoqing , Wang Xiaoyuan
Published: April 2021

In this study, we investigated the interaction between the biosynthesis and assembly of fimbriae and intracellular metabolic networks in
E. coli
. We found that eliminating fimbriae could effectively improve the production of polyhydroxyalkanoate and
l
-threonine in
E. coli
MG1655.
Aim2 and Nlrp3 Are Dispensable for Vaccine-Induced Immunity against Francisella tularensis Live Vaccine Strain
Authors: Alqahtani Maha , Ma Zhuo , Fantone Kayla , Malik Meenakshi , Bakshi Chandra Shekhar
Published: April 2021

Francisella tularensisis a facultative, intracellular, Gram-negative bacterium that causes a fatal disease known as tularemia. Due to its extremely high virulence, ease of spread by aerosolization, and potential to be used as a bioterror agent,F. tularensisis classified by the CDC as a tier 1 category A select agent.
Comparison of the Quantitative DiaSorin Liaison Antigen Test to Reverse Transcription-PCR for the Diagnosis of COVID-19 in Symptomatic and Asymptomatic Outpatients
Authors: Lefever Stefanie , Indevuyst Christophe , Cuypers Lize , Dewaele Klaas , Yin Nicolas , Cotton Frédéric , Padalko Elizaveta , Oyaert Matthijs , Descy Julie , Cavalier Etienne , Van Ranst Marc , André Emmanuel , Lagrou Katrien , Vermeersch Pieter
Published: April 2021

We evaluated the quantitative DiaSorin Liaison severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) antigen test in symptomatic and asymptomatic individuals consulting their general practitioners (GPs) during a period of stable intense virus circulation (213/100,000 habitants per day). Leftover reverse transcription-PCR (RT-PCR) positive (
n
 = 204) and negative (
n
 = 210) nasopharyngeal samples were randomly selected among fresh routine samples collected from patients consulting their GPs.
Complete Genome Sequences of 10 Lactococcal
Skunavirus
Phages Isolated from Cheddar Cheese Whey Samples in Canada
Authors: Doré Laurie , Pageau Gabrielle , Bourque-Leblanc Françoise , Dupuis Marie-Ève , Lessard-Hurtubise Roxanne , Lacasse Geneviève , Plante Pier-Luc , Labrie Simon , P. Jolicoeur Alice , Rousseau Geneviève M. , Tremblay Denise M. , Moineau Sylvain
Published: April 2021

We report the complete genome sequences of 10 virulent phages of the
Skunavirus
genus (
Siphoviridae
) that infect
Lactococcus lactis
strains used for cheddar cheese production in Canada. Their linear genomes range from 28,969 bp to 31,042 bp with GC contents of 34.1 to 35.1% and 55 to 60 predicted open reading frames (ORFs).
Sequencing and Analysis of the Entire Genome of the Mycoparasitic Fungus Trichoderma afroharzianum
Authors: Landeis Anastasia , Schmidt-Heydt Markus
Published: April 2021

Trichoderma
sp. is a globally occurring fungal ascomycete. The genus
Trichoderma
belongs to the order of Hypocreales in the class of Sordariomycetes. Due to its importance as a mycoparasite and biocontrol fungus that antagonizes phytopathogenic and mycotoxin-producing fungi, the genome of the
Trichoderma afroharzianum
isolate BFE349 from the fungal strain collection of the Max Rubner-Institut was sequenced and analyzed.
Complete Genome Sequence of the Red-Pigmented Strain Serratia marcescens SCQ1 and Its Four Spontaneous Pigment Mutants
Authors: Xiang Tingting , Liu Rui , Xu Jing , Xu Cailing , Wang Nuo , Zhou Wei , Zhao Yu , Luo Minhui , Wan Yongji
Published: April 2021

Serratia marcescens
SCQ1 is a red-pigmented bacterium isolated from silkworm larva with septicemia. Pigment-deficient spontaneous mutants arise when
S. marcescens
SCQ1 is incubated under relatively stable laboratory conditions for a long time. Here, we present the complete genome sequence of SCQ1 and the resequenced genomes of four spontaneous pigment mutants.
Supplemental Material: Immediate temperature response in northern Iberia to last deglacial changes in the North Atlantic
Authors: Bernal Wormull Juan Luis , al. et
Published: April 2021

Supplemental information, methods, results, Figures S1–S4, and Tables S1 and S2.
Supplemental Material: A hidden Rodinian lithospheric keel beneath Zealandia, Earth’s newly recognized continent
Authors: Turnbull Rose , al. et
Published: April 2021

Detailed outline of analytical methods, raw data for all O-isotope and Lu-Hf-U-Pb isotope analyses for unknowns and standards, and sample location information.
Supplemental Material: Clay minerals modulate early carbonate diagenesis
Authors: Mills Nicholas Tanner , al. et
Published: April 2021

Biogeochemical model description and Python code, material characterization methods and results, and supplemental figures.
Supplemental Material: Pityusa Patera, Mars: Structural analyses suggest a mega-caldera above a magma chamber at the crust-mantle interface
Authors: Bernhardt Hannes , Williams David
Published: April 2021

Figure S1 (full-size version of Figure 2A), and Table S1 (all 58 measured bedding attitudes, including various error parameters as well as median and average dip values).
Application of the Molecular Invariom Model for the Study of Interactions Involving Fluorine Atoms in the {$${\text{Yb}}_{{\text{2}}}^{{{\text{II}}}}$$(μ2-OCH(CF3)2)3(μ3-OCH(CF3)2)2YbIII(OCH(CF3)2)2(THF)(Et2O)} Complex
Authors: Rumyantsev R. V. , Fukin G. K. , Baranov E. V. , Cherkasov A. V. , Kozlova E. A.
Published: April 2021

The electron density distributions obtained by the quantum-chemical (density functional theory) calculations and molecular invariom model in the trimeric ytterbium complex with the hexafluoroisopropoxide ligands {$${\text{Yb}}_{{\text{2}}}^{{{\text{II}}}}$$(μ2-OR)3(μ3-OR)2YbIII(OR)2(THF)(Et2O)} (I) (where R is CH(CF3)2, and THF is tetrahydrofuran) are compared. The main topological characteristics of the electron density at the critical points (3, –1) corresponding to the interactions of the ytterbium atoms in the coordination sphere obtained using two studied approaches demonstrate excellent agreement. The maximum divergence between the density functional calculations and molecular invariom model is observed for the intramolecular interactions involving the fluorine atoms (F···F, F···H, and F···O) in the structure of complexI. Geometry optimization leads to a higher number of these interactions in the complex. The energy corresponding to these interactions also increases. However, the main topological characteristics for the F···X interactions (X = F, H, O), which can be localized in the framework of both methods, remain within the transferability index range. An analysis of the deformation electron density shows that the Fδ–···Fδ–interactions are determined by the correspondence of the region of electron density concentration on one of the fluorine atoms to the region of electron density depletion on the second fluorine atom regardless of the method of measuring the electron density distribution.
Intrathecal baclofen pumps in the management of hypertonia in childhood: a UK and Ireland wide survey
Authors: Lodh Rajib , Amin Sam , Ammar Amr , Bellis Lucy , Brink Phillip , Calisto Amedeo , Crimmins Darach , Eunson Paul , Forsyth Rob J , Goodden John , Kaminska Margaret , Kehoe Joanne , Kirkpatrick Martin , Kumar Ram , Leonard Jane , Lording Alice , Martin Katherine , Miller Russell , Mordekar Santosh R , Pettorini Benedetta , Smith Martin , Smith Rachel , Sneade Christine , Whitney Andrea , Vloeberghs Michael , Zaki Hesham , Lumsden Daniel E
Published: April 2021

Background

Intrathecal baclofen (ITB) is a useful treatment for hypertonia where non-invasive treatments have been ineffective or poorly tolerated. There is an absence of national guidance on selection criteria and a lack of literature regarding patient characteristics and treatment details for children and young people (CYP) receiving ITB therapy in the UK and Ireland. We aimed to gather patient and treatment characteristics for CYP receiving ITB in the UK and Ireland.

Methods

An electronic survey was sent to all paediatric ITB centres in the UK and Ireland. Anonymised data were returned between December 2019 and April 2020. CYP >16 years and those awaiting ITB pump removal were excluded from the dataset.

Results

176 CYP were identified as receiving ITB therapy across the UK and Ireland. The majority of CYP with ITB pumps were non-ambulant (93%) with a diagnosis of cerebral palsy (79%). Median age of ITB insertion was 9 years; median current age was 14 years. 79% of CYP had significant spasticity, 55% had significant dystonia. The most commonly used ITB dosing modes were continuous (73%) and flexible (23%).

Conclusions

ITB pumps were most frequently used for non-ambulant CYP with cerebral palsy and existence of spasticity and/or dystonia in the UK and Ireland. Most CYP were receiving a continuous dose of ITB. There is significant variation in the number of paediatric ITB pumps across UK and Ireland. There is a need for development of nationally accepted paediatric referral criteria and clinical standards for ITB use.
Dysosmia and drug tolerance with use of venlafaxine
Authors: Rousseau Celeste , Malaty John
Published: April 2021

A 57-year-old woman presented with a 1-year history of major depressive disorder. She was started on venlafaxine XR 75 mg orally daily and a few days later developed severe dysosmia to foods she used to enjoy. She never had previous problems with smell or taste. At her 1-month follow-up, her depressive symptoms had improved, but she reported persistent dysosmia and was found to have associated weight loss due to decreased oral intake. She was advised to switch medications, but due to financial constraints she continued taking the same dose. At follow-up 48 days later, she reported complete resolution of her dysosmia and was eating normally again, but she had persistence of some depressive symptoms so her dose was gradually increased to venlafaxine XR 225 mg orally daily until her depressive symptoms and postmenopausal hot flashes were well controlled. There were no changes with continued use over the following 8 years.
A 4-year study of hamstring injury outcomes in elite track and field using the British Athletics rehabilitation approach
Authors: Pollock Noel , Kelly Shane , Lee Justin , Stone Ben , Giakoumis Michael , Polglass George , Brown James , MacDonald Ben
Published: April 2021

Objectives

The British Athletics Muscle Injury Classification (BAMIC) correlates with return to play in muscle injury. The aim of this study was to examine hamstring injury diagnoses and outcomes within elite track and field athletes following implementation of the British Athletics hamstring rehabilitation approach.

Methods

All hamstring injuries sustained by elite track and field athletes on the British Athletics World Class Programme between December 2015 and November 2019 that underwent an MRI and had British Athletics medical team prescribed rehabilitation were included. Athlete demographics and specific injury details, including mechanism of injury, self-reported gait phase, MRI characteristics and time to return to full training (TRFT) were contemporaneously recorded.

Results

70 hamstring injuries in 46 athletes (24 women and 22 men, 24.6±3.7 years) were included. BAMIC grade and the intratendon c classification correlated with increased TRFT. Mean TRFT was 18.6 days for the entire cohort. Mean TRFT for intratendon classifications was 34±7 days (2c) and 48±17 days (3c). The overall reinjury rate was 2.9% and no reinjuries were sustained in the intratendon classifications. MRI variables of length and cross-sectional (CSA) area of muscle oedema, CSA of tendon injury and loss of tendon tension were associated with TRFT. Longitudinal length of tendon injury, in the intratendon classes, was not associated with TRFT.

Conclusion

The application of BAMIC to inform hamstring rehabilitation in British Athletics results in low reinjury rates and favourable TRFT following hamstring injury. The key MRI variables associated with longer recovery are length and CSA of muscle oedema, CSA of tendon injury and loss of tendon tension.
COVID-19 pathophysiology and pharmacology: what do we know and how did Canadians respond? A review of Health Canada authorized clinical vaccine and drug trials
Authors: Diab Antonios M. , Carleton Bruce C. , Goralski Kerry B.
Published: April 2021

Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) has resulted in the death of over 18 000 Canadians and has impacted the lives of all Canadians. Many Canadian research groups have expanded their research programs to include COVID-19. Over the past year, our knowledge of this novel disease has grown and has led to the initiation of a number of clinical vaccine and drug trials for the prevention and treatment of COVID-19. Here, we review SARS-CoV-2 (the coronavirus that causes COVID-19) and the natural history of COVID-19, including a timeline of disease progression after SARS-CoV-2 exposure. We also review the pathophysiological effects of COVID-19 on the organ systems that have been implicated in the disease, including the lungs, upper respiratory tract, immune system, central nervous system, cardiovascular system, gastrointestinal organs, the liver, and the kidneys. Then we review general therapeutics strategies that are being applied and investigated for the prevention or treatment of COVID-19, including vaccines, antivirals, immune system enhancers, pulmonary supportive agents, immunosuppressants and (or) anti-inflammatories, and cardiovascular system regulators. Finally, we provide an overview of all current Health Canada authorized clinical drug and vaccine trials for the prevention or treatment of COVID-19.
Ontogenetic shifts in natural diet, chelae, and mandibles of the omnivorous freshwater crab Aegla uruguayana: linking morphology and function
Authors: Viozzi M. Florencia , Cabrera Juan M. , Giri Federico , de Azevedo Carvalho Débora , Williner Verónica
Published: April 2021

We analyze whether ontogenetic diet change in Aegla uruguayana Schmitt, 1942 is related to the morphological changes in chelae and mandibles. We use a combination of scanning electron microscope (SEM) observation, dietary composition analysis (stomach observation, trophic niche amplitude, trophic overlap, and feeding strategy), and geometric morphometric tools (discriminant analysis and two-block partial least squares analysis). The two structures analyzed by SEM show differences between juvenile and adult specimens, both in their cuticle and morphology specializations. In juveniles, the absence of the lobular tooth is the notable feature. However, in adult sizes, it is marked development. Both groups have simple setae with infracuticular articulation and denticles with different arrangements between groups. In the incisive mandible process, the teeth and spines present sharper points in juveniles and considerable wear in adults. Aegla uruguayana presented two trophic strategies: a profile of more predatory traits when younger and mostly detritivorous when adults. The analysis of geometric morphometry substantiates the patterns observed in SEM and stomach contents analysis. The morphology of smaller specimens is associated with the consumption of animal items (ephemeropteran larvae and cladocerans), while the morphology of larger specimens is related to the consumption of plant remains.
Effects of Rastall parameter on perturbation of dark sectors of the Universe
Authors: Ziaie A. H. , Shabani H. , Ghaffari S.
Published: April 2021

In recent years, Rastall gravity is undergoing a considerable surge in popularity. This theory purports to be a modified gravity theory with a non-conserved energy–momentum tensor (EMT) and an unusual non-minimal coupling between matter and geometry. This work looks for the evolution of homogeneous spherical perturbations within the Universe in the context of Rastall gravity. Using the spherical Top-Hat collapse model, we seek for exact solutions in linear regime for density contrast of dark matter (DM) and dark energy (DE). We find that the Rastall parameter affects crucially the dynamics of density contrasts for DM and DE and the fate of spherical collapse is different in comparison to the case of general relativity (GR). Numerical solutions for perturbation equations in nonlinear regime reveal that DE perturbations could amplify the rate of growth of DM perturbations depending on the values of Rastall parameter.
Reward Space Noise for Exploration in Deep Reinforcement Learning
Authors: Sun Chuxiong , Wang Rui , Li Qian , Hu Xiaohui
Published: April 2021

A fundamental challenge for reinforcement learning (RL) is how to achieve efficient exploration in initially unknown environments. Most state-of-the-art RL algorithms leverage action space noise to drive exploration. The classical strategies are computationally efficient and straightforward to implement. However, these methods may fail to perform effectively in complex environments. To address this issue, we propose a novel strategy named reward space noise (RSN) for farsighted and consistent exploration in RL. By introducing the stochasticity from reward space, we are able to change agent’s understanding about environment and perturb its behaviors. We find that the simple RSN can achieve consistent exploration and scale to complex domains without intensive computational cost. To demonstrate the effectiveness and scalability of the proposed method, we implement a deep Q-learning agent with reward noise and evaluate its exploratory performance on a set of Atari games which are challenging for the naive [Formula: see text]-greedy strategy. The results show that reward noise outperforms action noise in most games and performs comparably in others. Concretely, we found that in the early training, the best exploratory performance of reward noise is obviously better than action noise, which demonstrates that the reward noise can quickly explore the valuable states and aid in finding the optimal policy. Moreover, the average scores and learning efficiency of reward noise are also higher than action noise through the whole training, which indicates that the reward noise can generate more stable and consistent performance.
True Bit Generation by Using Two Different Noise Sources
Authors: Kaya Turgay , Tuncer Taner , Avaroğlu Erdinç
Published: April 2021

Chaos-based random bit generators (RBGs) are used in encryption and in chaotic communication systems applications, such as synchronization and secure communication. Chaotic maps and circuits that display chaotic behavior as entropy sources are used to implement the random number generators (RNGs). In this study, a hybrid true random bit generator is proposed using Chua and memristor structures that display chaotic behavior as entropy sources. Continuous Chua and memristor outputs were sampled from the proposed hybrid structure. The samples obtained were converted into bit sequences by using modular arithmetic. Finally, both bit sequences were given as input to a summation generator. The output of the summation generator produces the desired bit sequences. The NIST Test Suite and the Scale Index tests were used on the resulting bit sequences to indicate their randomness. Also, correlation, complexity and key sensitivity analyses were performed for analyzing the security of the generated numbers.
Water Quality Prediction Method Based on Transfer Learning and Echo State Network
Authors: Zhou Jian , Chen Yang , Xiao Fu , Yan Xiaoyong , Sun Lijuan
Published: April 2021

Due to the adjacency effect of space, the water quality information of adjacent monitoring points in the same water area is relevant. However, traditional prediction methods use the historical water quality information of only one monitoring point rather than other nearby monitoring points. It is important to note that the sample quantity has a great influence on the prediction accuracy of the prediction methods which require lots of training samples. In addition, the water quality information is time series. Whether the time sequence of water quality information can be effectively used has direct impact on the prediction accuracy. Therefore, this paper proposes a water quality prediction method based on transfer learning and echo state network (ESN). First, we transfer the features of water quality samples of the nearby monitoring point to the prediction monitoring point based on transfer component analysis, and further select the high-quality samples based on similarity and time sequence. In this way the sample quantity of the prediction monitoring point is increased on the premise of ensuring the sample quality. Second, we construct a water quality prediction model based on ESN which takes the advantage of the time sequence of water quality information, improving the prediction accuracy on the premise of ensuring the training time. Finally, the proposed method is applied in the actual water quality dataset of Hong Kong. The experiment results demonstrate that the proposed method can expand the quantity of training samples and further improve the accuracy of water quality prediction by making full use of the space-time characteristics of water quality information.
Backward shower particle production in high energy nucleus–nucleus collisions — an outlook to centrality dependence
Authors: Bhattacharyya Swarnapratim
Published: April 2021

A detailed study on the centrality dependence of the different aspects multiplicity distribution of the shower particles produced in the backward direction ([Formula: see text] in nuclear emulsion track detector has been carried out for [Formula: see text]Ne-emulsion interactions at 4.1 AGeV/c. Depending on the values of the total charges or sum of the charges of noninteracting projectile fragments, event samples were classified into four centrality classes. From the analysis presented in this paper, qualitative information about the assembly of shower particles in the backward direction has been extracted.
On mixed Hodge–Riemann relations for translation-invariant valuations and Aleksandrov–Fenchel inequalities
Authors: Kotrbatý Jan , Wannerer Thomas
Published: April 2021

A version of the Hodge–Riemann relations for valuations was recently conjectured and proved in several special cases by [J. Kotrbatý, On Hodge–Riemann relations for translation-invariant valuations, preprint (2020), arXiv:2009.00310]. The Lefschetz operator considered there arises as either the product or the convolution with the mixed volume of several Euclidean balls. Here we prove that in (co-)degree one, the Hodge–Riemann relations persist if the balls are replaced by several different (centrally symmetric) convex bodies with smooth boundary with positive Gauss curvature. While these mixed Hodge–Riemann relations for the convolution directly imply the Aleksandrov–Fenchel inequality, they yield for the dual operation of the product a new inequality. This new inequality strengthens classical consequences of the Aleksandrov–Fenchel inequality for lower-dimensional convex bodies and generalizes some of the geometric inequalities recently discovered by [S. Alesker, Kotrbatý’s theorem on valuations and geometric inequalities for convex bodies, preprint (2020), arXiv:2010.01859].
Existence of embedded minimal disks
Authors: Coskunuzer Baris
Published: April 2021

We give a generalization of Meeks–Yau’s celebrated embeddedness result for the solutions of the Plateau problem for extreme curves.
Boundary singularities of semilinear elliptic equations with Leray-Hardy potential
Authors: Chen Huyuan , Véron Laurent
Published: April 2021

We study existence and uniqueness of solutions of ([Formula: see text]) [Formula: see text] in [Formula: see text], [Formula: see text] on [Formula: see text], where [Formula: see text] is a bounded smooth domain such that [Formula: see text], [Formula: see text] is a constant, [Formula: see text] a continuous nondecreasing function satisfying some integral growth condition and [Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text] two Radon measures, respectively, in [Formula: see text] and on [Formula: see text]. We show that the situation differs considerably according the measure is concentrated at [Formula: see text] or not. When [Formula: see text] is a power we introduce a capacity framework which provides necessary and sufficient conditions for the solvability of problem ([Formula: see text]).
Small codimension components of the Hodge locus containing the Fermat variety
Authors: Villaflor Loyola R.
Published: April 2021

We characterize the smallest codimension components of the Hodge locus of smooth degree [Formula: see text] hypersurfaces of the projective space [Formula: see text] of even dimension [Formula: see text], passing through the Fermat variety (with [Formula: see text]). They correspond to the locus of hypersurfaces containing a linear algebraic cycle of dimension [Formula: see text]. Furthermore, we prove that among all the local Hodge loci associated to a nonlinear cycle passing through Fermat, the ones associated to a complete intersection cycle of type [Formula: see text] attain the minimal possible codimension of their Zariski tangent spaces. This answers a conjecture of Movasati, and generalizes a result of Voisin about the first gap between the codimension of the components of the Noether–Lefschetz locus to arbitrary dimension, provided that they contain the Fermat variety.
Interaction Dynamic Response of a High-Speed Train Moving Over Curved Bridges with Deficient or Surplus Superelevation
Authors: Shi Jin , Ma Dengke , Gao Ya
Published: April 2021

This paper proposes a three-dimensional dynamic model for high-speed railway trains moving over curved bridges considering the transition curves, circular curves, and superelevation. Key features of this study are to consider the nonlinear geometrical relationships and creep relationships between the wheels and rail, for which the interactive iterative numerical algorithms are developed based on the equations of vertical displacement and rolling of wheelset, and the torsional resonance conditions of the vehicle–bridge system are verified. The results show that the torsional vibration will cause amplification on vertical dynamic response of the beam on the outside edge of the curve. The deficient/surplus superelevation plays an important role in the lateral and torsional angular displacements of the bridge, and the peak of the torsional resonance response can be reduced by adjusting the practical superelevation of the curve. The variations of wheel–load reduction rate and derailment coefficient in the curve section are positively correlated to the deficient/surplus superelevation. The curve radius is the key factor affecting the wear and fatigue of wheel–rail, and when the curve radius is greater than 7000 m, the wear and fatigue can be significantly reduced. Running at a deficient superelevation level can also reduce the wear and fatigue.
Constant-Delay Enumeration for Nondeterministic Document Spanners
Authors: Amarilli Antoine , Bourhis Pierre , Mengel Stefan , Niewerth Matthias
Published: April 2021

We consider the information extraction framework known as
document spanners
and study the problem of efficiently computing the results of the extraction from an input document, where the extraction task is described as a sequential
variable-set automaton
(VA). We pose this problem in the setting of enumeration algorithms, where we can first run a preprocessing phase and must then produce the results with a small delay between any two consecutive results. Our goal is to have an algorithm that is tractable in combined complexity, i.e., in the sizes of the input document and the VA, while ensuring the best possible data complexity bounds in the input document size, i.e., constant delay in the document size. Several recent works at PODS’18 proposed such algorithms but with linear delay in the document size or with an exponential dependency in size of the (generally nondeterministic) input VA. In particular, Florenzano et al. suggest that our desired runtime guarantees cannot be met for general sequential VAs. We refute this and show that, given a nondeterministic sequential VA and an input document, we can enumerate the mappings of the VA on the document with the following bounds: the preprocessing is linear in the document size and polynomial in the size of the VA, and the delay is independent of the document and polynomial in the size of the VA. The resulting algorithm thus achieves tractability in combined complexity and the best possible data complexity bounds. Moreover, it is rather easy to describe, particularly for the restricted case of so-called extended VAs. Finally, we evaluate our algorithm empirically using a prototype implementation.
Applications of Machine and Deep Learning in Adaptive Immunity
Authors: Pertseva Margarita , Gao Beichen , Neumeier Daniel , Yermanos Alexander , Reddy Sai T.
Published: April 2021

Adaptive immunity is mediated by lymphocyte B and T cells, which respectively express a vast and diverse repertoire of B cell and T cell receptors and, in conjunction with peptide antigen presentation through major histocompatibility complexes (MHCs), can recognize and respond to pathogens and diseased cells. In recent years, advances in deep sequencing have led to a massive increase in the amount of adaptive immune receptor repertoire data; additionally, proteomics techniques have led to a wealth of data on peptide–MHC presentation. These large-scale data sets are now making it possible to train machine and deep learning models, which can be used to identify complex and high-dimensional patterns in immune repertoires. This article introduces adaptive immune repertoires and machine and deep learning related to biological sequence data and then summarizes the many applications in this field, which span from predicting the immunological status of a host to the antigen specificity of individual receptors and the engineering of immunotherapeutics.
Solid-Binding Proteins: Bridging Synthesis, Assembly, and Function in Hybrid and Hierarchical Materials Fabrication
Authors: Pushpavanam Karthik , Ma Jinrong , Cai Yifeng , Naser Nada Y. , Baneyx François
Published: April 2021

There is considerable interest in the development of hybrid organic–inorganic materials because of the potential for harvesting the unique capabilities that each system has to offer. Proteins are an especially attractive organic component owing to the high amount of chemical information encoded in their amino acid sequence, their amenability to molecular and computational (re)design, and the many structures and functions they specify. Genetic installation of solid-binding peptides (SBPs) within protein frameworks affords control over the position and orientation of adhesive and morphogenetic segments, and a path toward predictive synthesis and assembly of functional materials and devices, all while harnessing the built-in properties of the host scaffold. Here, we review the current understanding of the mechanisms through which SBPs bind to technologically relevant interfaces, with an emphasis on the variables that influence the process, and highlight the last decade of progress in the use of solid-binding proteins for hybrid and hierarchical materials synthesis.
Recent Developments in Solvent-Based Fluid Separations
Authors: Schuur Boelo , Brouwer Thomas , Sprakel Lisette M.J.
Published: April 2021

The most important developments in solvent-based fluid separations, separations involving at least one fluid phase, are reviewed. After a brief introduction and discussion on general solvent trends observed in all fields of application, several specific fields are discussed. Important solvent trends include replacement of traditional molecular solvents by ionic liquids and deep eutectic solvents and, more recently, increasing discussion around bio-based solvents in some application fields. Furthermore, stimuli-responsive systems are discussed; the most significant developments in this field are seen for CO2-switchable and redox-responsive solvents. Discussed fields of application include hydrocarbons separations, carbon capture, biorefineries, and metals separations. For all but the hydrocarbons separations, newly reported electrochemically mediated separations seem to offer exciting new windows of opportunities.
Mixing and CP Violation in the Charm System
Authors: Lenz Alexander , Wilkinson Guy
Published: April 2021

In recent years charm physics has undergone a renaissance, which has been catalyzed by an unexpected and impressive set of experimental results from the B factories, the Tevatron, and LHCb. The existence of [Formula: see text] oscillations is now well established, and the recent discovery of CP violation in D0 decays has further renewed interest in the charm sector. In this article, we review the current status of charm-mixing and CP-violation measurements and assess their agreement with theoretical predictions within the Standard Model and beyond. We look forward to the great improvements in experimental precision that can be expected over the coming two decades and to the prospects for corresponding advances in theoretical understanding.
Degradation of Indigo Carmine in Alkaline Dye-Mediated Direct Carbohydrate Fuel Cell
Authors: Wotton Alexander , Yeung Tracey , Huang Fiona , Conibeer Gavin , Zhao Chuan , Stride John , Patterson Robert
Published: April 2021

Indigo-carmine-mediated direct alkaline fuel cells have demonstrated superior power outputs over their non-mediated counterparts. Currently, the mechanism of mediation and stability of mediators are poorly understood. Upon exposure to highly alkaline solutions, we observed that the redox action of indigo carmine diminished, and significant currents were produced, indicating substantial degradation of the dye. The decomposition of indigo carmine at high pH and a poor thermal stability suggest that alternative mediators with low toxicity may be required to enable the widespread application of this device type.
A Comparative Study of Structural Changes during Long-Term Cycling of NCM-811 at Ambient and Elevated Temperatures
Authors: Strehle Benjamin , Friedrich Franziska , Gasteiger Hubert A.
Published: April 2021

Lithium-ion batteries operate predominantly at room temperature, but some applications such as electric vehicles also demand operation at higher temperature. This is especially challenging for cathode active materials (CAMs), which undergo an accelerated failure at elevated temperature. Here, we systematically compare the capacity fading of the Ni-rich NCM-811 at two different temperatures. The first dataset over 1000 cycles at 22 °C stems from a former study, while the NCM-811/graphite full-cells are investigated now under similar conditions at 45 °C for 700 cycles. We focus on the CAM by using pre-lithiated graphite anodes. The capacity loss due to NCM-811 degradation at 45 °C is more than doubled compared to 22 °C. The underlying mechanisms related to the bulk and the surface of the CAM are quantified by several ex situ techniques such as X-ray powder diffraction, half-cell cycling with impedance spectroscopy, and Kr-BET. The aging happens mainly at the surface of the primary particles, forming a resistive, disordered surface layer, whose thickness is estimated to reach ≈6 nm at 22 °C and ≈12–14 nm at 45 °C by the end-of-test. Furthermore, the Li-Ni mixing in the bulk increases by ≈1%–2% at elevated temperature, but its contribution to the capacity loss remains elusive.
Relation between Water Status on Micro/Nano Gap between Galvanic Arrays and Flowing Current Around 100% in Relative Humidity
Authors: Terada Eiji , Mekawy Moataz , Sakamoto Yukihiro , Kawakita Jin
Published: April 2021

Behavior of water droplets at around 100%RH (relative humidity) was examined using developed galvanic arrays with micro/nano gap. Experimental results showed that the response current detected while observing arrays and gap surfaces depended on the variation of RH according to the adsorption behavior of water droplets. At 100%RH, response current showed a steady value determined by the equilibrium between the condensation of liquid phase and the evaporation of vapor phase. These results indicated that, once the liquid water was formed on the sensor surface above 100%RH, the response current that depended on the water droplet’s size could be estimated kinetically.
Inkjet Printed ZnO Sensors for Early Prostate Cancer Detection by Means of Urine Odor Analysis
Authors: Bax C. , Bernasconi R. , Massironi F. , Magagnin L. , Grizzi F. , Capelli L. , Taverna G.
Published: April 2021

In the second half of the 20th century, inkjet printing has rapidly evolved from a mere digital image reproduction technique into a highly versatile materials deposition technology. Recently, inkjet production of metal oxide-based gas sensors (MOS) has emerged, and inkjet sensors have been proposed for different applications. In this context, this paper proposes the adoption of inkjet MOS sensors for urine analysis for the purpose of developing an innovative tool for the early prostate cancer (KP) diagnosis. Based on the results reported in the scientific literature, proving the correlation between urine color and odor alterations and cancer, the study focuses on the analysis by means of MOS sensor array of odors emanated from urine samples from prostate cancer patients versus healthy donors. The results achieved in terms of diagnostic accuracy, sensitivity, and specificity (i.e., about 80%) proved the potentialities of inkjet MOS sensor for the challenging purpose of detection of prostate cancer in its early stages. Resulting significantly more powerful than current KP diagnostic protocol, the approach here presented might become, after validation, a rapid, non-invasive and low-cost screening tool, capable to provide a solution to the problems of patients’ overtreatment and high health spending associated to procedures currently adopted.
Synthesis of Co-Free Ni-Rich Single Crystal Positive Electrode Materials for Lithium Ion Batteries: Part I. Two-Step Lithiation Method for Al- or Mg-Doped LiNiO2
Authors: Liu Aaron , Zhang Ning , Stark Jamie E. , Arab Phillip , Li Hongyang , Dahn J. R.
Published: April 2021

Increasing the Ni content of a Ni-rich layered positive electrode material is one common way to improve energy density of Li-ion cells but normally leads to shorter cell lifetimes. Single crystalline materials have been shown to improve the cell lifetime by reducing the degree of material degradation. This first study in a two part series investigates the synthesis of Co-free single crystalline LiNi0.95Al0.05O2 and LiNi0.975Mg0.025O2 via a two-step lithiation method. This method consists of a first step heating of the precursors at high temperatures but with deficient Li to grow crystalline particles and then a second step at lower temperature to fully lithiate the material. The synthesized materials were characterized by scanning electron microscopy and X-ray diffraction to understand the impact of synthesis conditions. Single crystal materials were successfully synthesized, and Mg-containing single crystal materials achieved micron-sized particles with as low as 2% Ni in the Li layer. Al-containing single crystal materials could not avoid the formation of Li5AlO4 impurity for all conditions tested. The presence of Li or Mg and high temperatures were identified as factors that promote crystallite growth. Selected samples were characterized electrochemically and compared to their polycrystalline counterparts. Mg-containing single crystal materials are not yet competitive with their polycrystalline counterparts yet, and further understanding and development is needed.
Teaching students to explain the pathophysiology of diseases to lay audiences with a scaffold that supports student choice
Authors: Lexis Louise , Weaver Debbi , Grills Brian L. , Julien Brianna L.
Published: April 2021

Expert educators in science argue that science graduates are often lacking skills in effectively communicating scientific information to lay audiences. To address this, we designed a project, Communicating Disease, for final-year undergraduate human pathophysiology students. Students chose a disease, a relevant nonscientific target audience, and a mode of communication and produced a communiqué designed to educate the audience on the pathophysiology of the disease. Separately, students justified their choice of disease and target audience. Upon completion of the project, students completed an anonymous questionnaire, and their submitted work was analyzed. Our study demonstrated that students thought it was important to learn how to effectively communicate science to a lay audience and felt that the project had supported them in developing knowledge and skills that enabled them to do so. Students were adequately challenged, and most students gave their best effort to the project, indicating a high level of engagement. Evaluation of student performance was consistent with the students’ own perceptions and showed that most students communicated the pathophysiology effectively to the target audience and appropriately justified their choice of disease and target audience. Nevertheless, opportunities for improvement with some aspects of communication, production quality, and creativity were evident. This model is suitable for a range of scientific disciplines to engage students in developing their ability to communicate scientific information to lay audiences—a skill that it can be argued is vital for improving the scientific literacy of our community at large.
Impacts of Different Driving Automation Levels on Highway Geometric Design from the Perspective of Trucks
Authors: Wang Shuyi , Yu Bin , Ma Yang , Liu Jinzhou , Zhou Wen
Published: April 2021

Truck automation is emerging as an innovative technology with benefits in traffic safety and the economy to revolutionize freight traffic. Despite these benefits, the potential negative or positive effects of different driving automation levels (from no automation to full automation) on highway geometry remained to be determined. In this study, differences related to sight distance characteristics among varied automation levels were firstly discussed and calibrated. Then, seven analysis scenarios of typical levels were proposed. Based on each level with tailored characteristics, the current models of geometric design elements including the required stopping sight distance, horizontal sight line offset, and lengths of vertical curves were revised. Finally, impacts of each level on computed values of those elements were evaluated. Results show that high or full driving automation could substantially lower the requirements of geometric design. Active safety systems have a similar role but with less significant effects. Differently, the driver assistance and partial or conditional automation systems put a higher demand on the road geometric design in terms of driving safety. Outcomes of this study can be used to design real-world geometry of dedicated lanes and provide a methodological basis for the operation of different driving automation features.
The Choice of Pulmonary Autograft in Aortic Valve Surgery: A State‐of‐the‐Art Primer
Authors: Nappi Francesco , Singh Sanjeet Singh Avtaar , Bellomo Francesca , Nappi Pierluigi , Iervolino Adelaide , Acar Christophe
Published: April 2021

The Ross procedure has long been seen as an optimal operation for a select few. The detractors of it highlight the issue of an additional harvesting of the pulmonary artery, subjecting the native PA to systemic pressures and the need for reintervention as reasons to avoid it. However, the PA is a living tissue and capable of adapting and remodeling to growth. We therefore review the current evidence available to discuss the indications, contraindications, harvesting techniques, and modifications in a state‐of‐the‐art narrative review of the PA as an aortic conduit. Due to the lack of substantial well‐designed randomized controlled trials (RCTs), we also highlight the areas of need to reiterate the importance of the Ross procedure as part of the surgical armamentarium.
Behavior Choice of Game Parties under the Interference of Cognition in the Game between Coal Miners and Supervisors
Authors: Liu Jun , Wang Chen , Wang Xinhua , Li Qingli
Published: April 2021

In the game between coal miners and supervisors, the behavior choices of the game parties will be affected by cognitive factors. The analysis of the behavior choices of coal miners and supervisors under the influence of cognitive factors is helpful for the design of violation behavior control strategies. Firstly, a description method of subjective cognition based on the mathematical method of quantum theory is designed. Secondly, taking the subjective cognition of coal miners and supervisors as a random variable, a behavior evolution model with random variables is constructed. Thirdly, the impact of subjective cognition on the behavior choices of coal miners and supervisors is analyzed. Finally, the violation behavior control strategy is designed. It is found that when the violation probability decreases to a certain extent, the probability of supervision will change from the increase to decrease. When the probability of supervision decreases to a certain extent, the violation probability will change from the decrease to increase. Fluctuations in cognitive state can affect the change process of violation probability and supervision probability. The behavior control strategy designed according to the behavior evolution model can control the violation behavior in the situation of cognitive state fluctuation.