bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Electronic Task Management System: A Pediatric Institution's Experience
Authors: Cheng Daryl R. , South Mike
Published: December 2020

Background Electronic medical task management systems (ETMs) have been adopted in health care institutions to improve health care provider communication. ETMs allow for the requesting and resolution of nonurgent tasks between clinicians of all craft groups. Visibility, ability to provide close-loop feedback, and a digital trail of all decisions and responsible clinicians are key features of ETMs. An embedded ETM within an integrated electronic health record (EHR) was introduced to the Royal Children's Hospital Melbourne on April 30, 2016. The ETM is used hospital-wide for nonurgent tasks 24 hours a day. It facilitates communication of nonurgent tasks between clinical staff, with an associated designated timeframe in which the task needs to be completed (2, 4, and 8 hours).

Objective This study aims to examine the usage of the ETM at our institution since its inception.

Methods ETM usage data from the first 3 years of use (April 2016 to April 2019) were extracted from the EHR. Data collected included age of patient, date and time of task request, ward, unit, type of task, urgency of task, requestor role, and time to completion.

Results A total of 136,481 tasks were placed via the ETM in the study period. There were approximately 125 tasks placed each day (24-hour period). The most common time of task placement was around 6:00 p.m. Task placement peaked at approximately 8 a.m., 2 p.m., and 9 p.m.—consistent with nursing shift change times. In total, 63.16% of tasks were placed outside business hours, indicating predominant usage for after-hours task communication. The ETM was most highly utilized by surgical units. The majority of tasks were ordered by nurses for medical staff to complete (97.01%). A significant proportion (98.79%) of tasks was marked as complete on the ETM, indicating closed-loop feedback after tasks were requested.

Conclusion An ETM function embedded in our EHR has been highly utilized in our institution since its introduction. It has multiple benefits for the clinician in the form of efficiencies in workflow and improvement in communication and also workflow management. By allowing collection, tracking, audit, and prioritization of tasks, it also provides a stream of actionable data for quality-improvement activities.
Modulation of ion pitch angle in the presence of large-amplitude, electromagnetic ion cyclotron (EMIC) waves: 1D hybrid simulation
Authors: Ti Shuo , Chen Tao , Yao Jiansheng
Published: December 2020

Large-amplitude electromagnetic ion cyclotron (EMIC) waves induce unique dynamics of charged particle movement in the magnetosphere. In a recent study, modulation of the ion pitch angle in the presence of large-amplitude EMIC waves is observed, and a good explanation for this phenomenon is lacking. In this paper, we investigate this modulation primarily via a one-dimensional hybrid simulation model. We find that the modulation is caused by the bulk velocity triggered by large-amplitude EMIC waves. Affected by the bulk velocity, the number density of ions will enhance around a pitch angle of ∼90°. Beyond that, the ion pitch angle is also modulated by the EMIC waves, and the modulation period is half of the EMIC waves' period. In addition, parameters that affect ion pitch angle modulation, including the wave amplitude, ion energy, ion species, and wave normal angle, are studied in this paper.
Dynamics of multilayer networks with amplification
Authors: Njougouo Thierry , Camargo Victor , Louodop Patrick , Fagundes Ferreira Fernando , Talla Pierre K. , Cerdeira Hilda A.
Published: December 2020

We study the dynamics of a multilayer network of chaotic oscillators subject to amplification. Previous studies have proven that multilayer networks present phenomena such as synchronization, cluster, and chimera states. Here, we consider a network with two layers of Rössler chaotic oscillators as well as applications to multilayer networks of the chaotic jerk and Liénard oscillators. Intra-layer coupling is considered to be all to all in the case of Rössler oscillators, a ring for jerk oscillators and global mean field coupling in the case of Liénard, inter-layer coupling is unidirectional in all these three cases. The second layer has an amplification coefficient. An in-depth study on the case of a network of Rössler oscillators using a master stability function and order parameter leads to several phenomena such as complete synchronization, generalized, cluster, and phase synchronization with amplification. For the case of Rössler oscillators, we note that there are also certain values of coupling parameters and amplification where the synchronization does not exist or the synchronization can exist but without amplification. Using other systems with different topologies, we obtain some interesting results such as chimera state with amplification, cluster state with amplification, and complete synchronization with amplification.
Oscillation behavior driven by processing delay in diffusively coupled inactive systems: Cluster synchronization and multistability
Authors: Yao Chenggui , He Zhiwei , Zou Wei
Published: December 2020

Couplings involving time delay play a relevant role in the dynamical behavior of complex systems. In this work, we address the effect of processing delay, which is a specific kind of coupling delay, on the steady state of general nonlinear systems and prove that it may drive the system to Hopf bifurcation and, in turn, to a rich oscillatory behavior. Additionally, one may observe multistable states and size-dependent cluster synchronization. We derive the analytic conditions to obtain an oscillatory regime and confirm the result by numerically simulated experiments on different oscillator networks. Our results demonstrate the importance of processing delay for complex systems and pave the way for a better understanding of dynamical control and synchronization in oscillatory networks.
A predictive model for high-frequency operation of two-dimensional transistors from first-principles
Authors: Das Biswapriyo , Mahapatra Santanu
Published: December 2020

First-principles-based device models are in demand in the semiconductor industry to assess the impact of new materials at very early phases of the technology development. Existing models for the 2D metal–oxide–semiconductor field-effect transistor work under quasi-static limit and can only be used for designing circuits operating under half of the transistor's intrinsic cut-off frequency. Here, we develop a compact device model for phosphorene-based transistor that takes into account its band structure anisotropy as well as the carrier inertia, which is crucial for high-frequency operation. In a multi-scale approach, density functional theory based calculation is first carried out to obtain the material specific parameters, which are then used to develop a continuity equation based non-quasi-static model to gain insight into the high-frequency behaviors. We find that channel orientation has a strong impact on both the low and high frequency conductances; however, it affects only the high-frequency component of capacitances. The model is then implemented in an industry-standard circuit simulator using relaxation-time-approximation technique and simulations are conducted to demonstrate its applicability for near cut-off frequency circuit operation. The proposed modeling methodology, which connects material to circuit, thus helps us to expand the design space, where technology downscaling could be very challenging and expensive.
Longitudinal-optical phonon absorption and dephasing in three-level terahertz quantum cascade structures with different injector anticrossings
Authors: Freeman Will
Published: December 2020

The effects of longitudinal-optical phonon scattering and dephasing in quantum cascade structures are studied. Three-level longitudinal-optical phonon depopulated terahertz structures are investigated using a density matrix Monte Carlo method. Ideally, these structures do not contain energy states above the upper lasing state, which in principle, can reduce parasitic leakage. The light output and current density as a function of lattice temperature are calculated and shown to be consistent with experiment for a recently reported structure that is confirmed to be a good approximation to a three-level structure. The pure dephasing time is self-consistently found to be relatively constant over the temperature range, which differs from the previous analysis of other structures. At higher lattice temperatures, particularly at elevated temperatures beyond the lasing point, the reduction in current density is rather due largely to rapid longitudinal-optical phonon absorption, which reduces the lifetime of the ground state. It is shown that the operating temperature limit may further be improved by adequately increasing the injector anticrossing.
Electromechanical coupling and motion transduction in
β
-Ga2O3 vibrating channel transistors
Authors: Zheng Xu-Qian , Kaisar Tahmid , Feng Philip X.-L.
Published: December 2020

We report on device physics modeling, assisted by experimental measurement results, for all-electronic transduction of resonant electromechanical motion of nanoscale β-Ga2O3 vibrating channel transistors (VCTs), including both direct readout of high frequency transmission current (without frequency down-conversion) and frequency modulation (FM) down-conversion techniques. The β-Ga2O3 VCTs under consideration have fundamental mode resonance frequencies at ∼25 MHz–1 GHz, with quality factors (Qs) of ∼100–5000 and transconductance gm at ∼0.2 nS–5 μS. In analysis of signal transduction with varying device parameters, the transistor's gate trench depth z0 and transconductance gm play key roles in improving the electromechanical coupling and device performance. Reduction of trench depth z0 can engender a major enhancement in readout current. Reducing channel thickness h and increasing channel length L can improve the readout current while downshifting the resonance frequency at the same time. We design β-Ga2O3 VCT with a suspended modulation doped field effect transistor structure for efficient operation in the GHz range. This study paves the way for future engineering of all-electronic transduction and integration of high frequency β-Ga2O3 resonators on chip with β-Ga2O3 electronics and optoelectronics.
Electroosmotic thrusters in soft nanochannels for space propulsion
Authors: Zheng Jiaxuan , Jian Yongjun
Published: December 2020

Space propulsion of electroosmotic thrusters (EOTs) with a soft charged nanochannel is investigated considering the Navier slip boundary and constant surface charge density on the walls of slit channels. The soft nanochannel is characterized by a wall-grafted ion-penetrable charged polyelectrolyte layer (PEL). The Poisson–Boltzmann equation is solved to give the electric potential distribution based on the assumption of the Debye–Hückel linearization for the low electric potential. An analytical solution of the electroosmotic velocity through the soft channel is obtained. The thrust, specific impulse, and total input power of EOTs produced by the electroosmotic flow are presented, and then, two significant physical quantities, thruster efficiency and thrust-to-power ratio, are described. It is found that these performance curves strongly depend on the slip length, surface charge density on the walls, drag coefficient, equivalent electric double layer thickness, PEL thickness, and density ratio of the PEL to the electrolyte solution layer. By analyzing and optimizing these design parameters, the simulated EOTs can deliver the thrust from 0 μN to 10 µN as well as the specific impulse from 40 s to 100 s, and the thruster efficiency up to 87.22% is realized. If more thrust control and kinetic energy are needed for different space missions, an array composed of thousands of single EOT emitters is constructed and maintains high thruster efficiency. Moreover, during mission operation, the total potential can be simply varied to optimize the performances of thrusters at any moment.
Effect of heating on spin-motive force induced by magnetic resonance
Authors: Tanabe Kenji
Published: December 2020

The spin-motive force (SMF), which is induced by the dynamics of non-uniform magnetic states having spin chirality, corresponds to the spin version of the electromotive force in Faraday's law of induction. Because magnetic dynamics produce heat through the damping effect, the detected SMF may include the thermoelectromotive force (TEMF) induced by heat, which is disadvantageous. In this study, we investigate the electrode-material dependence of the SMF induced by magnetic resonance and reveal that the heating is lower than 1 K at the most and that the SMF barely includes the TEMF. Moreover, we extract the SMF to remove the slight contribution of the TEMF.
New method enables multifunctional measurement of elastic moduli and internal frictions
Authors: Xie Mingyu , Li Faxin
Published: December 2020

Elastic moduli and internal frictions are fundamental properties of solid materials, and they are usually fairly sensitive to temperature, microstructure, deformation, and external fields. Measurement of elastic moduli and internal frictions is very important and useful in both academics and engineering. In this work, we first briefly reviewed the measurement methods of elastic moduli and internal frictions over the past 100 years and the related applications. Next, a promising measurement method called modified piezoelectric ultrasonic composite oscillator technique (M-PUCOT) was presented which can measure Young's modulus, shear modulus, and the related internal frictions accurately and quickly. Then, some typical measurement results using M-PUCOT on metals and phase transition materials were presented from room temperature up to 500 °C. The M-PUCOT measurement on rocks after different levels of compression was also conducted to predict the damage before fracture. The perspective and challenge of the M-PUCOT method as the indicator of heat treatment, mechanical fatigue, and early damage of metals and ceramics were further presented and discussed. It is expected that, in the near future, the measurement of elastic moduli and internal friction will be as convenient as that of electric conductivity, permittivity, etc. and can turn to be a multi-functional tool for many advanced applications.
The Repertoire of Social Behaviours of Agile Wallabies, Macropus agilis.
Authors: Stirrat S.C. , Fuller M.
Published: December 2020

The repertoire of social behaviours of the Agile Wallaby, Macropus agilis, was compiled from observations of free-ranging and captive animals in the vicinity of Darwin, Northern Territory. Behaviours were divided into general, maternal, agonistic and sexual contexts. A larger repertoire of behaviours was recorded from captive wallabies but most of these behaviours, except subtle acts like Flehmen and sexual vocalisations, were also seen in free-ranging individuals. The social behaviours of M. agilis are similar to those of other species in the subgenus Prionotemnus. Macropus agilis performed tail-lashing (in sexual, agonistic and general contexts) and males did not use sustained tail support during fights, features which distinguish Prionotemnus from the other subgenera of Macropus. Macropus agilis gave a foot-thump flight signal but also tapped their feet when aware of a potential threat. More complex sexual and agonistic acts which occur in Whiptail Wallabies (Macropus parryi), Euros (Macropus robustus) and Grey Kangaroos (Macropus giganteus) were not observed in M. agilis.
Obituary: William Peter Crowcroft.
Authors: Lidicker Jr W.Z.
Published: December 2020

The death of Peter Crowcroft, a native Australian and one of the founders of the Australian Mammal Society, on 10 August 1996 marks the end of a remarkable career. Peter was a mammologist, ecologist, ethologist, and above all a scholar. His unorthodox professional life spanned three continents, and encompassed full doses of research, administration, public service, and education. To all of these endeavours he brought competence, ingenuity, selflessness, vigour, and humor. His was a life about which there can be few regrets, except that it ended too soon. Bone marrow cancer caused an unexpected and precipitous decline in his health only a few months before his death.
A Review of Recent Developments in The Study of Electroreception in The Platypus.
Authors: Proske U. , Gregory J.E. , Iggo A.
Published: December 2020

This is a review of the current state of knowledge of the electrosensory system in the platypus. The structures in the platypus bill which generate the electroreceptor activity are the mucous sensory glands. The receptors respond to both DC and AC signals, negativity at the mouth of the gland exciting the receptor, positivity silencing it. Maximal sensitivity to AC signals is in the 50Hz - 100Hz range. The function of the serous sensory gland, also found in skin of the bill, remains unknown. The afferent nerve fibres are part of the trigeminal system and project to the cerebral cortex on the contralateral side. Cortical cells responsive to mechanical stimuli are found adjacent to cells responsive to both mechanical and electrical stimuli. Behavioural experiments show that the sensitivity to electrical stimuli is greatest for voltage sources at right angles to the bill's long axis. It is proposed that the platypus' ability to detect DC fields is important for the detection of steady bioelectric potentials generated by prey items and for the orientation around obstacles which generate contact potentials. The AC sensitivity is more likely to be concerned with detection of electromyogenic signals generated by moving prey.
An Evaluation of The Habitat Characteristics of Pools Used by Platypuses (Ornithorhynchus Anatinus) in the Upper Macquarie River System, New South Wales.
Authors: Bryant A. , Goldney D. , Bauer J.
Published: December 2020

The study conducted during 1993 assessed the habitat characteristics of 36 pools along the upper Macquarie River system. A range of biophysical parameters were assessed at each site, including: pool morphology; riparian floristics and habitat structure; benthic substrate composition; and physicochemical properties. The results of a complementary observation program indicated that 19 of the pools were being used by platypuses. Statistical analyses were carried out to identify significant platypus-habitat relationships. Platypuses were most often associated with long pools with consolidated, angled banks; slow flowing waters; mean depths of one to two metres; low level sand accumulation; abundant native vegetation with overhanging foliage; many instream logs; and, abundant aquatic vegetation. Of these characteristics pool length, pool depth and overhanging foliage were most strongly associated with pool use. Platypuses were sighted using pools ranging from apparently ideal to seemingly unsuitable, based on the habitat analysis, but were most often associated with high integrity areas of the river system. The results illustrate that while habitat usage appears to reflect remarkable adaptiveness, there is a clear preference for pools that have been less disturbed by human activities.
A C-Type Natriuretic Peptide from The Venom of The Platypus (Ornithorhynchus anatinus) - Structure and Pharmacology.
Authors: De Plater G.M. , Martin R.L. , Milburn P.J.
Published: December 2020

A peptide which relaxes rat uterine smooth muscle and exhibits homology with the mammalian C-type natriuretic peptide (CNP) has previously been identified in platypus venom. In this study we describe detailed structural and pharmacological characteristics of this peptide, which has been labelled ONP-39 (Ornithorhynchus Natriuretic Peptide). Elucidation of its 39-residue primary sequence confirms the substantial homology it shares with mammalian CNPs. These peptides exhibit natriuretic, diuretic and hypotensive activities in vivo and relax smooth muscle in vitro but are poorly characterised in terms of physiological function. ONP-39 is equipotent with CNP in causing cGMP elevation in cultured vascular smooth muscle cells, suggesting that, like CNP, it acts through ANPB receptors. The direct elevation of cGMP in vascular smooth muscle by ONP-39 may underlie vasodilatory effects of platypus venom.
The Natriuretic Peptide (Onp-39) From Platypus (Ornithorhynchus anatinus) Venom Promotes Mast Cell Histamine Release.
Authors: De Plater G.M. , Martin R.L. , Milburn P.J.
Published: December 2020

In this study we investigated the possibility that the C-type natriuretic peptide from platypus venom (ONP-39) contributes to the acute effects of envenomation, which include oedema, pain and erythema. These effects may result from the release of auto pharmacological mediators from mast cells. Using an in vitro assay we have demonstrated that both ONP-39 and the endogenous C-type natriuretic peptide (CNP-22) release histamine from rat peritoneal mast cells, an effect similar to the structurally homologous atrial natriuretic peptide (ANP) (Opgenorth et al., 1990, Peptides 11(5):1003-7). Two synthetic peptides, ONP-39(1-17) and ONP-39(18-39), corresponding to the N- and C- termini respectively, are equipotent, suggesting that ONP-39 and other natriuretic peptides do not act through conventional ANP receptors on mast cells. The ability of ONP-39 to promote histamine release suggests that it may contribute to the acute symptoms of envenomation.
The Effect of Environmental Variables on Capture Success of The Platypus Using Gill and Fyke Nets.
Authors: Goldney D.
Published: December 2020

Capture success of platypuses using gill and fyke nets over the period 1986-1993 has been assessed against a range of environmental variables using the Spearman's Rank Correlation Coefficient and in some cases simple linear regression models. Approximately 90% of all animals captured during this study have been netted between 1730 hours and 0I00 hours regardless of age or sex. The peak capture period during which approximately 60% of animals were captured is between 1730 and 2230 hours. Variables examined included; number of platypuses captured, giII and fyke net hours, number of nets used, time nets set up and taken down, maximum and minimum day temperatures, time of sunrise and sunset, moon phase, time of moon rise and set, cloud cover, wind and rain conditions during trapping, 24 hour rainfall history prior to netting and some flow data. The number of nets, netting time, rainfall within 24 hours and temperature conditions all effect the chance of platypus capture in fyke nets (p<0.05). The number of gill nets and the time they are utilised are both positively correlated with platypus captures (p<0.05). However, there are differences between sexes and age groups. Using gill nets, platypuses are more likely to be captured during clear nights and less likely to be captured during summer months. The probability of trapping males, females, adults and juveniles varies with the seasons.
A Comparison of Plasma Testosterone and Progesterone Levels in The Thredbo and Duckmaloi River Platypuses Over a Twelve Month Cycle.
Authors: Hinds L. , Goldney D.
Published: December 2020

A 1-2 ml blood sample was removed from the bill sinus of 208 captured platypuses from the Duckmaloi and Thredbo Rivers over the period January 1991-March 1993. Platypuses from the Duckmaloi were sampled monthly during 1992 and in February, August and December from the Thredbo River in the same year. The numbers and sex of platypuses sampled are recorded in the following Table. Samples were stored on ice and plasma separated from blood cells within 24 hours of sampling by centrifugation for I0 minutes and the supernatant stored at -20°C. The changes in plasma testosterone and progesterone for platypuses from both rivers were compared over a 12 month cycle. The levels of these two hormones were considerably less in the breeding season in the Thredbo River platypuses than in those from the Duckmaloi River. Peak plasma progesterone levels of the order of 90 ng/ml were measured in the Duckmaloi River females compared to levels of <5 ng/ml in Thredbo River females. Male plasma testosterone levels in animals from the Duckmaloi River peaked around 15 ng/ml, whereas Thredbo River males had levels of around 6 ng/mI. These data suggest that over the period of the two year study, platypus breeding potential in the Thredbo River was significantly impaired.
An Overview of Captive Husbandry of The Platypus, Ornithorhynchus anatinus, At Healesville sanctuary.
Authors: McDonald D.L. , Fisk L.
Published: December 2020

The captive management of platypuses is a specialised field due to the stressful nature of the species and its cryptic habits. Husbandry practices vary from one institution to another with some properties adopting a 'hands-off' approach and others, such as Healesville Sanctuary, conditioning their animals to being regularly handled. This paper discusses the husbandry practices at Healesville Sanctuary in the management of captive platypuses and highlights the advantages and disadvantages of various routines.
Seasonal Studies of Body Condition in Platypuses, Ornithorhynchus anatinus, Managed in Captivity at Healesville Sanctuary.
Authors: McDonald D.L. , Fisk L. , Krueger B.
Published: December 2020

Platypuses at Healesville Sanctuary are managed so that the animals are physically examined on a daily basis before being allowed access to the display areas. This enables staff to monitor the health status of each animal by recording its weight and checking for any other physical abnormalities. Weights have been monitored for over ten years and the data presented here depicts seasonal changes and those associated with adaptation to a captive environment. Platypuses are extremely sensitive to changes in their environment and many wild platypuses do not adapt well to a captive environment. When platypuses are brought into the Sanctuary (whether for display purposes or due to injury) they are monitored on a daily basis for any weight changes and other obvious abnormalities. Monitoring of weight changes is continued on a daily basis throughout the captive life of the platypus to assess seasonal changes and any changes associated with reproductive status.
Ontogeny of the Electroreceptive System of The Platypus.
Authors: Manger P.R. , Collins R. , Pettigrew J.D.
Published: December 2020

A series of developmental stages of the platypus were examined in order to obtain an anatomical description of the development of the periphery of the electroreceptive system. Putative electroreceptors, composed of modified mucous glands, were observed to appear at I0 days post hatching (p.h.). The typical striped arrangement of peripheral electroreceptors in the platypus was seen at 12 days p.h. The arrangement of the stripes was modified during development with a range of additions and divisions of stripes occurring until the adult pattern is obtained, approximately 6 months p.h. After appearing at 10 days p.h. the number of electroreceptors increases rapidly until sometime between 24 and 28 days p.h. when there is massive death of electroreceptors, the number present at 28 days p.h. being 60% of the number present at 24 days p.h. This massive death of receptors is coincident with the appearance of other sensory structures in the epidermis of the bill skin, the push-rod mechanoreceptors and the sensory serous glands. Histological examination of a range of developmental stages demonstrated poorly differentiated innervation at 28 days p.h. which became differentiated and reached the adult configuration between 11 weeks p.h. and 6 months p.h. Lamination of the cells lining the duct of the electroreceptors showed a similar developmental profile. This study indicates that the electroreceptive system of the developing platypus is not functional, in a similar manner to the adult, until around the time the platypus leaves the nesting burrow. However, the system may be functional in the developing platypus, and speculatively may be used in the location o f the mammary region for suckling.
An Overview of Mortality and Survivorship of Platypuses at Healesville Sanctuary Since 1978.
Authors: McDonald D.L
Published: December 2020

There appears to be a high degree of uncertainty associated with the mortality of platypuses housed in captive environments. While the husbandry and veterinary records indicate a high number of platypus deaths at Healesville Sanctuary, they do not clearly differentiate between those which have been housed for display purposes and those animals which were donated by members of the public or the Department of Natural Resources and Environment, after being found in an ill or distressed state in the wild. This report attempts to dispel the myth associated with the captive husbandry of platypuses by reviewing the histories of all platypuses on record at Healesville Sanctuary from 1978 - 1996. Out of 28 platypuses, 2 have died while being maintained as part of the collection, 15 died after being admitted in a weak or traumatised state, 5 were released back to the wild and 6 still remain in captivity as display or breeding/research stock. Mortalities of platypuses are discussed and the survivorship of platypuses housed in captivity, as well as those released back to the wild, is highlighted.
Potential Competition for Nest Sites Between Feral European Honeybees (Apis mellifera) and Common Brushtail Possums (Trichosurus vulpecula).
Authors: Wood M.S. , Wallis R.L.
Published: December 2020

The potential for feral Honeybees (Apis mellifera) to competitively exclude Common Brushtail Possums (Trichosurus vulpecula) from tree hollows was examined in the You Yangs Regional Park, Victoria. The characteristics and occupancy of 77 hollow-bearing trees and 250 hollows were recorded in six 2 ha sites and used to compare the extent of overlap in nest site selection between bees and posssums. Colonies of feral A. mellifera occupied 25 % of all hollow-bearing trees and 8 % of useable hollows, yielding a density of 1.66 colonies per ha, the highest recorded so far in Australia. Trichosurus vulpecula utilised 74 % of hollow-bearing trees and 48 % of useable hollows. Nest site characteristics of bees and possums overlapped in several dimensions, especially in the size of tree and height of nest. Relatively few vacant hollows were suitable for T. vulpecula, whereas many were available to Honeybees. Only 35% of bee nests were in hollows unsuitable for possums, indicating a relatively high potential for competition.
Mortality in Wild and Captive Rock-Wallabies and Nailtail Wallabies Due to Hydatid Disease Caused by Echinococcus granulosus.
Authors: Johnson P.M. , Speare R. , Beveridge I.
Published: December 2020

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On the Origins Of The Australian Mammal Society
Authors: Tyndale-Biscoe H.
Published: December 2020

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Synaptic plasticity rules with physiological calcium levels
Authors: Inglebert Yanis , Aljadeff Johnatan , Brunel Nicolas , Debanne Dominique
Published: December 2020

Significance

Spike-timing–dependent plasticity (STDP) is a form of synaptic modification thought to be a primary mechanism underlying formation of new memories. Despite triggering tremendous interest since its discovery, it is still unclear whether plasticity rules inferred from in vitro experiments are correct in physiological conditions. While STDP induction depends on intracellular calcium influx, all previous studies used an abnormally high concentration of extracellular calcium. Here, we study the influence of extracellular calcium on synaptic plasticity. We show that pairing single pre- and postsynaptic action potentials at hippocampal synapses does not induce plasticity in the physiological range of extracellular calcium. Rather, synaptic plasticity is induced only when bursts of postsynaptic spikes are used or when neurons fire at sufficiently high frequency.
Impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic on rural America
Authors: Mueller J. Tom , McConnell Kathryn , Burow Paul Berne , Pofahl Katie , Merdjanoff Alexis A. , Farrell Justin
Published: December 2020

Significance

Rural people have been left out of the vast majority of research on the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic. As such, our evidence-based understanding of the pandemic in the United States is incomplete, and rural recovery policies risk being informed by anecdotal or urban-centric information. We begin to complete this picture by measuring and assessing the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on rural well-being in the North American West. Findings show there have been significant impacts on health-related and economic dimensions of well-being, and that these impacts are shared across sex, age, ethnicity, and education.
The status of coral reefs in central Vietnam’s coastal water under climate change
Authors: Dung Le Doan
Published: December 2020

The coral reef ecosystem plays an important role in scientific research and economy. An assessment research on status of the coral reefs was carried out at 6 sites of coastal water from Nghi Son (Thanh Hoa province) to Vung Ro (Khanh Hoa province), Viet Nam between October and December 2015. The research was done using the manta tow method for rapid reef assessment and reef area determination, using reef check for detailed assessment of reef substrate types, etc. 288 species of hard corals under 57 genera and 14 families were identified from the study sites. These species mainly belonged to 4 families, namely Acroporidae, Faviidae, Poritidae and Fungiidae. The research showed the bad condition of the reef at all study sites through such indicators as a low live hard coral cover (average cover of 19.8%), high dead coral cover, recently killed coral, fleshy seaweed, etc. Most of surveyed transects had poor level of hard coral cover, the number of transects having good coral cover was unsignificant. The total reef area of 6 surveyed sites was 809.5 hectares, mainly occupied in Son Tra and Vung Ro. This was the first time coral disease and bleaching widely ranged had been observed and described. However, the reason of this phenomenon has not been mentioned yet and there is a need for more detailed researches on these problems in the coming time to have a basis for protection and management of coral reef ecosystem in Vietnam’s coastal water.
Diet and bathymetric distribution of juvenile Lake Trout Salvelinus namaycush in Lake Huron
Authors: Roseman Edward F. , Riley Stephen C. , Tucker Taaja R. , Farha Steven A. , Jackson Scott A. , Bowser Dustin A.
Published: December 2020

Rehabilitation efforts for Lake Trout Salvelinus namaycush in Lake Huron have resulted in increased capture of young wild Lake Trout in annual bottom trawl surveys conducted by the U.S. Geological Survey. To better understand the ecology of juvenile (<400 mm) Lake Trout, we summarized the spatial distribution of their capture in bottom trawls at six ports in Lake Huron during October/November 2008–2017 and analyzed diets of wild (n = 306 of 337 total) and hatchery-origin (n = 18 of 30 total) fish captured. Lake Trout ranged in size from 27 to 399 mm, representing at least three age-classes, and 92% were wild origin. Most wild juvenile Lake Trout (83%) were captured at 46–64 m depths at the two northernmost ports, typically below the thermocline. Mysis diluviana was the most prevalent prey type, found in 75% of wild fish with non-empty stomachs, followed by two non-native species: Spiny Water Flea Bythotrephes longimanus (31%) and Round Goby Neogobius melanostomus (12%). Small Lake Trout (<185 mm) consumed invertebrates but transitioned to mostly fish-based diets by >185 mm (∼age 2). The variety of taxa consumed by young Lake Trout increased with length. Further declines in Mysis populations due to increased predation pressure after the loss of Diporeia from the system may hinder the recovery of wild Lake Trout, and although they have been able to utilize invasive species as prey, impacts to Lake Trout growth remain unknown. Additional research on the habitat use and diets of wild juvenile Lake Trout may provide insight into the reasons behind the recent successful natural reproduction and recruitment of Lake Trout in Lake Huron.
An approach to the magnetic field of a finite solenoid with a circular cross-section
Authors: Lin Qiong-Gui
Published: December 2020

We present a simple approach, different from approaches in the literature, for calculating the magnetic field of a finite solenoid with a circular cross section, carrying an ideal surface current with an ordinary azimuthal component and a small axial component due to nonideal winding. The results are given as an infinite series whose terms are elementary functions or simple polynomials rather than other infinite series. It is easy to deal with the results because the polynomials involved are partial binomial expansions. These series converge rapidly everywhere, except near the edges of the solenoid. From these results, it is very easy to derive some general properties of the magnetic field, to reduce the field to greatly simplified forms in various special regions, and to address the special cases of infinite and semi-infinite solenoids. The azimuthal field due to nonideal winding is shown to be small everywhere. A solenoid with a small but finite thickness in the radial direction is investigated in detail, and we present simple analytic approximate results for its magnetic field. A comparison with an exact numerical evaluation shows that these are very good approximations.
Progression of group-III sesquioxides: epitaxy, solubility and desorption
Authors: Hassa Anna , Grundmann Marius , von Wenckstern Holger
Published: December 2020

In recent years, ultra-wide bandgap semiconductors have increasingly moved into scientific focus due to their outstanding material properties, making them promising candidates for future applications within high-power electronics or solar-blind photo detectors. The group-III-sesquioxides can appear in various polymorphs, which influences, for instance, the energy of the optical bandgap. In gallium oxide, the optical bandgap ranges between 4.6 and 5.3 eV depending on the polymorph. For each polymorph it can be increased or decreased by alloying with aluminum oxide (8.8 eV) or indium oxide (2.7–3.75 eV), respectively, enabling bandgap engineering and thus leading to an extended application field. For this purpose, an overview of miscibility limits, the variation of bandgap and lattice constants as a function of the alloy composition are reviewed for the rhombohedral, monoclinic, orthorhombic and cubic polymorph. Further, the effect of formation and desorption of volatile suboxides on growth rates is described with respect to chemical trends of the discussed ternary materials.
Millimeter-wave spoof surface plasmon polariton waveguide with uniform-depth transition for liquid material detection
Authors: Zhang Qing Le , Chan Ka Fai , Zhang Qingfeng
Published: December 2020

In this paper, we propose a spoof surface plasmon polariton (SPP) waveguide with uniform-depth transition at 500–730 GHz. It is excited by a standard waveguide with simple offsets in the vertical and longitudinal directions, eliminating the need for the conventional tapering-depth transition. Since the SPP waveguide with strong field confinement is sensitive to the surround environment, this SPP waveguide can be applied for the detection of liquid materials. The liquid material injected into the SPP grooves behaves as a resonator, leading to a stopband. The frequency resolution can reach 15 GHz for a variation of 0.1 in the dielectric constant of the liquid materials. To further verify the concept of the proposed SPP waveguide with uniform-depth transition, a scaled structure at 50–66 GHz frequency band is designed and fabricated. The sample was fabricated by 3D printing technique with surface metallization. The measured reflection coefficient is below −10 dB and the measured insertion loss is about −4 dB within 50–66 GHz.
Iterative micro-tomography of biopsy samples from truncated projections with quantitative gray values
Authors: Robisch A-L , Frohn J , Salditt T
Published: December 2020

Three-dimensional reconstruction from truncated two-dimensional projections cannot be solved analytically without prior knowledge of the sample or access to the non-truncated projections. To suppress reconstruction artifacts in region of interest (ROI) or local tomography, an iterative algorithm has been devised based on back-projection and re-projection, assuming an approximately cylindrical shape of the entire sample of general homogeneity, which is especially applicable for micro-tomography of biopsy samples from biological tissue. Tomographic reconstruction is iteratively refined by minimizing the mismatch between an empty ROI and the reconstruction from the difference between measured sinogram and forward projected ROI reconstruction. By numerical simulation and experimental demonstration, it is shown that the algorithm is not only able to reconstruct quantitative gray values, but also to reduce artifacts of peripheral glow, and may lead to increased image sharpness. The method is particularly suitable for examination of biopsy/autopsy-samples of soft tissue by micro/nano-computed tomography.
Development of phantom materials with independently adjustable CT- and MR-contrast at 0.35, 1.5 and 3 T
Authors: Elter A , Hellwich E , Dorsch S , Schäfer M , Runz A , Klüter S , Ackermann B , Brons S , Karger C P , Mann P
Published: December 2020

Quality assurance in magnetic resonance (MR)-guided radiotherapy lacks anthropomorphic phantoms that represent tissue-equivalent imaging contrast in both computed tomography (CT) and MR imaging. In this study, we developed phantom materials with individually adjustable CT value as well as

T

1

- and

T

2

-relaxation times in MR imaging at three different magnetic field strengths. Additionally, their experimental stopping power ratio (SPR) for carbon ions was compared with predictions based on single- and dual-energy CT. Ni-DTPA doped agarose gels were used for individual adjustment of

T

1

and

T

2

at

0.35
,

1.5

and 3.0 T. The CT value was varied by adding potassium chloride (KCl). By multiple linear regression, equations for the determination of agarose, Ni-DTPA and KCl concentrations for given

T

1

,

T

2

and CT values were derived and employed to produce nine specific soft tissue samples. Experimental

T

1

,

T

2

and CT values of these soft tissue samples were compared with predictions and additionally, carbon ion SPR obtained by range measurements were compared with predictions based on single- and dual-energy CT. The measured CT value,

T

1

and

T

2

of the produced soft tissue samples agreed very well with predictions based on the derived equations with mean deviations of less than

3.5
%
.

While single-energy CT overestimates the measured SPR of the soft tissue samples, the dual-energy CT-based predictions showed a mean SPR deviation of only

0.2
±
0.3

%
.

To conclude, anthropomorphic phantom materials with independently adjustable CT values as well as

T

1

and

T

2

relaxation times at three different magnetic field strengths were developed. The derived equations describe the material specific relaxation times and the CT value in dependence on agarose, Ni-DTPA and KCl concentrations as well as the chemical composition of the materials based on given

T

1

,

T

2

and CT value. Dual-energy CT allows accurate prediction of the carbon ion range in these materials.
A novel hydrogenic spectroscopic technique for inferring the role of plasma–molecule interaction on power and particle balance during detached conditions
Authors: Verhaegh K , Lipschultz B , Bowman C , Duval B P , Fantz U , Fil A , Harrison J R , Moulton D , Myatra O , Wünderlich D , Federici F , Gahle D S , Perek A , Wensing M
Published: December 2020

Detachment, an important mechanism for reducing target heat deposition, is achieved through reductions in power, particle and momentum; which are induced through plasma–atom and plasma–molecule interactions. Experimental research in how those reactions precisely contribute to detachment is limited. Both plasma–atom as well as plasma–molecule interactions can result in excited hydrogen atoms which emit atomic line emission. In this work, we investigate a new Balmer Spectroscopy technique for Plasma–Molecule Interaction—BaSPMI. This first disentangles the Balmer line emission from the various plasma–atom and plasma–molecule interactions and secondly quantifies their contributions to particle (ionisation and recombination) and power balance (radiative power losses). Its performance is verified using synthetic diagnostic techniques of both attached and detached TCV and MAST-U SOLPS-ITER simulations. We find that H
2 plasma chemistry involving

H
2
+

and/or H
− can substantially elevate the Hα emission during detachment, which we show is an important precursor for Molecular Activated Recombination. An example illustration analysis of the full BaSPMI technique shows that the hydrogenic line series, even Lyα as well as the medium-n Balmer lines, can be significantly influenced by plasma–molecule interactions by tens ofpercent. That has important implications for using atomic hydrogen spectroscopy for diagnosing divertor plasmas.
A wide band nonlinear dual piezoelectric cantilever energy harvester coupled by origami
Authors: Qin Yi , Wang Shuo , Wei Tiantian , Chen Ran
Published: December 2020

Since the traditional linear piezoelectric vibration energy harvester has narrow energy conversion frequency band and low energy conversion, a wide band nonlinear dual piezoelectric cantilever energy harvester coupled by origami is proposed. Apart from using two piezoelectric cantilevered beams to broaden the working frequency band of the device, the nonlinear origami component is introduced into the upper and lower beams to realize the dynamic coupling of the two piezoelectric beams. The origami structure can change the stiffness and increase the nonlinearity of the system by dynamic folding, so as to further broaden the frequency band and increase the output power. The structure of the proposed energy harvester is designed. Based on the Euler Bernoulli beam theory, Hamilton principle and the dynamic analysis of origami component, the electromechanical coupling dynamic model of two piezoelectric beam subsystems is established, and the approximate solutions of the output voltage and output power of each subsystem are obtained by harmonic balance method. The numerical simulation of each subsystem is implemented by the Runge–Kutta method, and the influences of excitation frequency and amplitude on the output voltage and power of each subsystem are explored respectively. The results show that this energy harvester that has a nonlinear characteristics of hardening stiffness can significantly broaden the working frequency band of each piezoelectric beam, and the maximum voltage value is about 1.2 V. Via the simulated analysis of motion, it is further proven that the proposed energy harvester has strong nonlinear characteristics. Furthermore, the coupling position of origami component on the voltage output is explored and the optimal coupling position is determined. Finally, the experimental results show that both of two beams can obtain effective voltage output between 0.5 and 0.6 V in the frequency range of 0–50 Hz, which validates the effectiveness and correctness of the simulation model.