bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Optimization of the All‐Optical Switching Constructed from Photonic Bandgap Network
Authors: Tang Xiaopeng , Yang Xiangbo , Tang Yan , Wu Huizhou , Deng Dongmei , Liu Hongzhan , Wei Zhongchao
Published: December 2019

Herein, the optimization of the all‐optical switching constructed from photonic bandgap (PBG) network is studied and numerically calculate the switching performance indices using network equation and generalized eigenfunction methods. The optimization of the all‐optical switching is discussed in depth from three aspects: the length ratio of waveguide segments, the number of nonlinear material defects, and the difference between the refractive index of the linear and that of the nonlinear material. After optimization, the ultralow threshold control energy/power decreases to , which is eight orders of magnitude smaller than the best reported result. Also, the ultrahigh switching efficiency exceeds , which is 15 orders of magnitude larger than that reported in the previous works. The switching time and feature size can also reach the level of the best reported results. It may provide a new way for the optimization of all‐optical switching structure and accelerates the realization of practical all‐optical switching.
Amelioration of insulin resistance using the additive effect of ferulic acid and resveratrol on vesicle trafficking for skeletal muscle glucose metabolism
Authors: Kang Bean‐Bu , Chiang Been‐Huang
Published: December 2019

Dysregulation of vesicle trafficking in muscle is one of the factors responsible for the pathogenesis of insulin resistance (IR). Ferulic acid (FER) and resveratrol (RSV) are known to have hypoglycemic property. In this study, differentiated L6 myotubes were induced with palmitate as a model of IR. Chemical ablation of muscle vesicles was used to investigate how FER and RSV influence glucose utilization. Results showed that both FER and RSV elicit glucose uptake and promote glycogen synthesis in insulin‐resistant muscle cells. Mechanistic studies further showed that FER markedly enhances the transferrin receptor‐containing endosomal compartment activities via phosphoinositide 3‐kinase (PI3K)/atypical protein kinase C‐dependent pathway, while RSV facilitates glucose transporter storage vesicles (GSV) trafficking via an exercise‐like effect of conventional protein kinase C/5′‐adenosine monophosphate‐activated protein kinase (AMPK) modulation. Therefore, these two phenolic compounds promoted glucose transport through two separate routes, and they had an additive effect on the increase of glucose uptake in insulin‐resistant muscle cells. These findings provide a basis for the understanding of the antidiabetic potential of RSV and FER combination.
Flow and spawning habitat relationships for Dolly Varden: Understanding habitat–population dynamics in the Canadian Western Arctic
Authors: Mochnacz Neil J. , Ghamry Haitham K. , Enders Eva C. , Watkinson Douglas A. , Gallagher Colin P. , Reist James D.
Published: December 2019

Northern form Dolly Varden (Salvelinus malma malma) have been designated as a species of Special Concern in Canada due to declines in population abundance and potential threats. Concern over detrimental effects of low flows on population abundance prompted research on how variability in discharge regimes influence habitat availability. Habitat suitability indices for prespawning and spawning adult anadromous Dolly Varden from two streams were integrated into a two‐dimensional hydrodynamic habitat model to assess the effect of flow variability on usable habitat. Regional hydrographs were used to identify an ecologically relevant range of flows that provided optimal spawning habitat for these populations and examine the relationship between abundance and discharge. Adults spawned in the tail end of pools at moderate water depths and water velocities, and used pebble‐ to cobble‐sized substrate for building redds; whereas, prespawning adults occupied deeper pools with moderate velocities and used cobble for cover. Model outputs showed that spawning habitat availability was optimized at flow rates between 1.6 and 3.0 m3/s and between 1.0 and 6.0 m3/s in Fish Hole Creek (FHC) and Little Fish Creek, respectively. A positive relationship between flows during the fall spawning period and abundance of the FHC population suggests that higher flows coinciding with optimal habitat availability may have contributed to positive recruitment. To strengthen and refine this habitat–population relationship for Dolly Varden in this area requires investigation of a broader suite of variables associated with environmental regimes and physical habitat in reaches used for spawning.
Adsorption and dissociation of the methanethiol (CH3SH) molecule on the Fe(100) surface
Authors: Saraireh Sherin A. , Altarawneh Mohammednoor , Tarawneh Mouad A.
Published: December 2019

These contributions explore interaction modes between the methanethoil (CH3SH) molecule and the Fe(100) surface via implementing accurate density functional theory (DFT) calculations with the inclusion of van der Waals corrections. We consider three adsorption sites over the Fe(100) surface, namely, top(T), bridge (B), and hollow (H) sites as potential catalytic active sites for the molecular and dissociative adsorption of the CH3SH molecule. The molecular adsorption structures are found to occupy either B or T sites with former sites holding higher stability by 0.17 eV. The inclusion of van der Waals corrections refound to slightly alter adsorption energies. For instance, adsorption energies increased by ~0.18 and ~0.21 eV for B and T structure, respectively, in reference to values obtained by the plain generalized gradient approximation (GGA) functional. A stability ordering of the dissociation products was found to follow the sequence (CH4, S) > (CH3, S, H) > (─SCH3, H) > (─CH3, SH). The differential charge density distributions were examined to underpin prominent electronic contributing factors. Direct fission of C─S bond in the CH3SH molecule attains exothermic values in the range 2.0 to 2.1 eV. The most energetically favorable sites for the surface‐mediated fission of the thiol's S─H bond correspond to the structure where the ─SCH3 and H are both situated on hollow sites with an adsorption energy of −2.43 eV. Overall, we found that inclusion of van der Waals functional to change the binding energies more noticeably in case of dissociative adsorption structures. The results presented herein should be instrumental in efforts that aim to design stand‐alone Fe desulfurization catalysts.
Tuning Thin Film Properties by Structural Modulations in Red Fluorescent Protein Chromophore Analogues
Authors: Singh Ashish , Gupta Raghav , Siddiqui Nazia , Kumar Iyer S. Sundar , Ramanathan Gurunath
Published: December 2019

The study of the role of substituents present in molecules is extremely important for designing new functional materials. In the present study, we have designed and synthesized four analogues (AR1‐AR4) of the red fluorescence protein (rfp) chromophore by varying the substituents and have studied their thin film properties by fabricating opto‐electronic devices with them. Molecules AR1 and AR2 were designed with improved donor‐acceptor (D−A) properties. Molecule AR3 was synthesized with an increased vinyl conjugation and molecule AR4 had an extra fluorescent moiety in the conjugation. The orbital levels and optical energy gap were estimated theoretically by density function theory. The optical absorption in solution/thin films, quality of film formation and the electrical charge transport mobility in films were studied. Photovoltaic parameters of bulk heterojunction solar cell devices formed with the four molecules were then determined. Interestingly, molecule AR3 with the extra vinyl conjugation was found to be the best of the four molecules reported here for application in organic electronics. The extra vinyl conjugation improved the π‐π stacking and helps to form smoother films with increased optical absorption and a desirable hole mobility.
Computational Characterization of Perezone, Isoperezone and their Sulfur‐Derivatives: Anti‐inflammatory Activity.
Authors: Martínez Joel , Rodríguez Maricarmen Hernández , Escobedo‐González René , Nicolás‐Vázquez María Inés , Saavedra‐Leos Zenaida , Ruvalcaba René Miranda
Published: December 2019

Using DFT and in silico methods a theoretical study, to verify the spectroscopically characterization, this in addition to determine the anti‐inflammatory activity of a set of eight sulfur derivatives of perezone and isoperezone was performed. In this sense, conformational studies for the target sulfurs were carried out, in order to obtain the corresponding minimum energy structures. Also, the vibrational frequencies analysis, the magnitude of 1H NMR and 13C NMR spectra for perezone, isoperezone, and its sulfur‐derivatives, obtained by the DFT/B3LYP/6‐311++G(d,p) method correlated satisfactorily with the experimental data. Moreover, the calculation of physicochemical properties, and the prediction of the anti‐inflammatory activity, employing both PASS predictor and docking studies towards COX‐2 for the target compounds, showed that Benzy perezone is a good candidate as a therapeutic agent; finally, the anti‐inflammatory activity of Benzy perezone was evaluated in vivo, showing a similar naproxen activity.
New Isoindole‐1,3‐dione Substituted Sulfonamides as Potent Inhibitors of Carbonic Anhydrase and Acetylcholinesterase: Design, Synthesis, and Biological Evaluation
Authors: Gündoğdu Saliha , Türkeş Cüneyt , Arslan Mustafa , Demir Yeliz , Beydemir Şükrü
Published: December 2019

Herein, a series of isoindole‐1,3‐dione substituted sulfonamide derivatives (3, 4 a–k) were designed, synthesized, and biologically evaluated, as inhibitors of carbonic anhydrase (CA) and acetylcholinesterase (AChE). CA and AChE inhibitory activities of newly synthesized isoindole‐1,3‐dione substituted sulfonamides compounds (3, 4 a–k) towards the hCA I, II, and AChE were evaluated utilizing the Verpoorte's and Ellman's assays and checked against that of standard inhibitors, acetazolamide (AAZ) and tacrine (TAC). The developed compounds (3, 4 a–k) showed the potent hCA isoenzyme inhibitory effect with Ki constants ranging from 7.96 to 48.34 nM, compared to AAZ (Kis; 436.20 nM for hCA I and 93.53 nM for hCA II). Among these derivatives; 1,3‐dioxo‐1,3‐dihydroisobenzofuran‐5‐carbocyclic acid (3) and benzyl‐1,3‐dioxo‐2‐(4‐sulfomophenyl)isoindoline‐5‐carboxylate (4 i) determined to be effective AChE inhibitors (Kis, 103.51 and 108.92 nM, respectively); these compounds were almost as potent to TAC (Ki, 109.75 nM). Furthermore, molecular docking studies of derivatives 3 and 4 i were carried out utilizing the crystal structures of hCA I (PDB Code: 4WR7), II (PDB Code: 4HT0) isozymes and AChE (PDB Code: 4EY7) receptors to study their binding interactions.
Formation, Stability and Self‐Assembly Behaviour of the Collagen‐Like Triple Helix Confirmation: The Role of Ser, Ala and Arg/Glu
Authors: Shu Feiyi , Dai Chun , Wang Haibo , Xu Chengzhi , Wie Benmei , Zhang Juntao , Xu Yuling , He Lang , Li Sheng
Published: December 2019

The unique sequence of the α‐chain is the structural cornerstone of the collagen triple helix that dictates its conformation and molecular behavior. In this study, collagen‐like peptides of varying sequence characteristics were designed to elucidate the role of Ser (polar residues), Ala (non‐polar residues), and Arg/Glu (ionizable residues) in the formation, kinetics, and stability of the triple helix, and its self‐assembly behavior. We found that the introduction of other common amino acids in (Gly‐Hyp‐Pro)n results in varying degrees of decrease in the rate of formation and stability of the triple helix conformation and the self‐assembly into higher order structures. The introduction of Ser showed a maximal detrimental effect on these processes, followed by the Arg/Glu and Ala. Collagen‐like peptides with Ser could not form thermodynamically stable triple helix conformations and lost their ability to further self‐assemble. Arg/Glu promoted the self‐assembly of collagen‐like peptides, and electrostatic interactions and hydrogen bonding were key to the self‐assembly of periodic ordered structures similar to natural collagen. The hydrophobic interactions of Ala also accelerated self‐assembly to some extent, however, due to the lack of directionality of hydrophobic interactions, the formation of the long‐range ordered structure was affected negatively.
Decontamination of the Mustard Gas (HD) Simulant CEES by Using a Molybdate‐Based ILs/H2O2 System
Authors: Li Daxue , Xi Hailing , Wang Zhicheng , Wang Dayong , Li Zhanguo , Zhao Sanping
Published: December 2019

Due to the wide liquid range, good solubility, nonvolatility and designability, ionic liquids (ILs) have been considered as solvent in decontamination field and exhibited enormous potential. In this work, a series of 1‐alkyl‐3‐methylimidazolium molybdate ([CnMIm]2MoO4, n=4, 8, 12, 16) ILs are synthesized and characterized, which could improve the decontamination efficacy of mustard gas simulant 2‐chloroethylethylsulfide (CEES) in H2O2 through solubilization and catalysis. The practicability of functional ILs surfactant aqueous solution in decontamination field are analyzed by considering the influence factors about the critical micelle concentration (CMC), oxidant/CEES mole ratio, types and concentration of ILs, reaction kinetics and reaction activation energy. The results indicate that the decontamination efficacy of CEES is affected by both the concentration of MoO42− and the CMC of ILs. The decontamination efficacy against CEES in the [CnMIm]2MoO4/H2O2 system is accelerated by lengthening ILs cationic alkyl chain.
From workplace mistreatment to job insecurity: The moderating effect of work centrality
Authors: Li Victoria , Jiang Lixin , Xu Xiaohong (Violet)
Published: December 2019

Although outcomes of job insecurity have been extensively examined, researchers have paid significantly less attention to antecedents of job insecurity. However, in order to lessen and eliminate job insecurity, a deeper understanding of the sources of job insecurity is required. Among triggers of job insecurity, very few studies have examined workplace interpersonal relationships as predictors of job insecurity. To fill this research gap, we examine the relation between workplace mistreatment (i.e., workplace incivility, bullying, and abusive supervision) and job insecurity. Examining multiple forms of mistreatment also allows us to compare and contrast the relative impact of each workplace mistreatment on job insecurity. Furthermore, we identify a group of individuals who are particularly vulnerable to the negative impact of workplace mistreatment—those who are high in work centrality. Across two lagged survey studies, we largely found that work centrality exacerbates the relations of workplace incivility, bullying, and abusive supervision with job insecurity. Thus, this research contributes to the occupational health literature by demonstrating the relative predictive power of multiple forms of workplace mistreatment on job insecurity and identifying a vulnerable group who might suffer more from workplace mistreatment (i.e., those high in work centrality).
Cellulose‐Based Microparticles for Magnetically Controlled Optical Modulation and Sensing
Authors: Hausmann Michael K. , Hauser Alina , Siqueira Gilberto , Libanori Rafael , Vehusheia Signe Lin , Schuerle Simone , Zimmermann Tanja , Studart André R.
Published: December 2019

Responsive materials with birefringent optical properties have been exploited for the manipulation of light in several modern electronic devices. While electrical fields are often utilized to achieve optical modulation, magnetic stimuli may offer an enticing complementary approach for controlling and manipulating light remotely. Here, the synthesis and characterization of magnetically responsive birefringent microparticles with unusual magneto‐optical properties are reported. These functional microparticles are prepared via a microfluidic emulsification process, in which water‐based droplets are generated in a flow‐focusing device and stretched into anisotropic shapes before conversion into particles via photopolymerization. Birefringence properties are achieved by aligning cellulose nanocrystals within the microparticles during droplet stretching, whereas magnetic responsiveness results from the addition of superparamagnetic nanoparticles to the initial droplet template. When suspended in a fluid, the microparticles can be controllably manipulated via an external magnetic field to result in unique magneto‐optical coupling effects. Using a remotely actuated magnetic field coupled to a polarized optical microscope, these microparticles can be employed to convert magnetic into optical signals or to estimate the viscosity of the suspending fluid through magnetically driven microrheology.
3D‐Printed Scanning‐Probe Microscopes with Integrated Optical Actuation and Read‐Out
Authors: Dietrich Philipp‐Immanuel , Göring Gerald , Trappen Mareike , Blaicher Matthias , Freude Wolfgang , Schimmel Thomas , Hölscher Hendrik , Koos Christian
Published: December 2019

Scanning‐probe microscopy (SPM) is the method of choice for high‐resolution imaging of surfaces in science and industry. However, SPM systems are still considered as rather complex and costly scientific instruments, realized by delicate combinations of microscopic cantilevers, nanoscopic tips, and macroscopic read‐out units that require high‐precision alignment prior to use. This study introduces a concept of ultra‐compact SPM engines that combine cantilevers, tips, and a wide variety of actuator and read‐out elements into one single monolithic structure. The devices are fabricated by multiphoton laser lithography as it is a particularly flexible and accurate additive nanofabrication technique. The resulting SPM engines are operated by optical actuation and read‐out without manual alignment of individual components. The viability of the concept is demonstrated in a series of experiments that range from atomic‐force microscopy engines offering atomic step height resolution, their operation in fluids, and to 3D printed scanning near‐field optical microscopy. The presented approach is amenable to wafer‐scale mass fabrication of SPM arrays and capable to unlock a wide range of novel applications that are inaccessible by current approaches to build SPMs.
Burdock (Arctium lappa L.) root attenuates preneoplastic lesion development in a diet and thioacetamide‐induced model of steatohepatitis‐associated hepatocarcinogenesis
Authors: Romualdo Guilherme R. , Silva Elizangela dos Anjos , Da Silva Tereza C. , Aloia Thiago P. A. , Nogueira Marina S. , De Castro Inar A. , Vinken Mathieu , Barbisan Luís F. , Cogliati Bruno
Published: December 2019

Nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) is considered growing risk factor for hepatocellular carcinoma development in high‐income countries. Diet‐ and chemically induced rodent models have been applied for the translational study of NASH‐associated hepatocarcinogenesis due to their morphological and molecular similarities to the corresponding human disease. Arctium lappa L. (burdock) root tea has been extensively consumed in Traditional Chinese Medicine due to its potential therapeutic properties. Indeed, the bioactive compounds of A. lappa root, as the polyphenols, have already showed antioxidant and anti‐inflammatory properties in different in vivo and in vitro bioassays. In this study, we investigated whether burdock root ethanolic extract (BRE) administration attenuates NASH‐associated hepatocarcinogenesis. Eight‐week‐old male Wistar rats received choline‐deficient high‐fat diet for 8 weeks and multiple thioacetamide doses for 4 weeks in order to induce NASH and preneoplastic glutathione‐S‐transferase pi (GST‐P)+ preneoplastic foci. Subsequently, rats were treated with BRE (100 or 200 mg/kg body weight) or vehicle by oral gavage for 2 weeks. BRE displayed high levels of chlorogenic and caffeic acids and BRE administration reduced total fatty acid and lipid hydroperoxide levels, while increasing the activities of antioxidant superoxide dismutase and catalase enzymes in the liver. Furthermore, burdock intervention diminished the size of GST‐P+ remodeling preneoplastic lesions (PNLs) and displayed a trend on reducing hepatocyte proliferation (Ki‐67) inside them. These findings suggest that short‐term exposure to BRE alleviated remodeling PNL development in NASH‐associated hepatocarcinogenesis.
Management of water resources over time in semiarid regions: The case of Gerasa/Jerash in Jordan
Authors: Lichtenberger Achim , Raja Rubina
Published: December 2019

This article tackles ways in which archeological research can give perspectives on the development of water management and the strategies behind such management systems in ancient societies of historical periods. It focuses on the city Gerasa/Jerash in northern Jordan, which was one of the middle‐sized Decapolis cities that flourished from the Roman period (first century CE) until the end of the Umayyad period, when a devastating earthquake hit the city in 749 CE bringing urban life to an almost complete halt. Only in the middle Islamic period (13th century CE) the site was resettled. The article focuses on how scattered archeological evidence–which is usually not published by archeological projects due to its feeble nature—can bring new knowledge to light about the ways in which water was managed in urban contexts, in particular in semiarid regions, such as the region in which Gerasa was located. Pushing borders for how we can frame and interpret archeological evidence in wider diachronic perspectives is a necessity in archeology—not least in regions where archeology is under threat due to modern urban development and the general lack of resources to develop cultural heritage management plans.

This article is categorized under:

Human Water > Methods

Human Water > Water Governance
Implementation of property‐level flood risk adaptation (PLFRA) measures: Choices and decisions
Authors: Attems Marie‐Sophie , Thaler Thomas , Genovese Elisabetta , Fuchs Sven
Published: December 2019

Hydrometeorological events are highly costly and have strong impacts on the human‐environment system. Effective response requires effective risk management concepts and strategies at individual and watershed level to increase community resilience. Focusing on flood risk and the information associated with it, individual risk behavior in the shape of implementing property‐level flood risk adaptation (PLFRA) measures is often overlooked. For this research, a comprehensive overview of possible PLFRA measures for homeowners in flood risk areas was made, as well as the possible costs and technical feasibility for new and existing buildings. To complement this, insights into risk mitigation behavior are essential due to the ongoing shift to risk‐based and individualized flood risk management, which require a contribution from flood‐prone households to risk reduction. Results show that PLFRA measures differentiate in their effectiveness, cost‐efficiency and technical feasibility, and full protection can never be guaranteed. Considering risk mitigation behavior, literature generally distinguishes between situational factors (such as communication and economic subsidies) and personal factors (such as personal and psychological components influencing individual behavior).

This article is categorized under:

Engineering Water > Planning Water

Science of Water > Water Extremes
Fast-rolling relaxion
Authors: Ibe Masahiro , Shoji Yutaro , Suzuki Motoo
Published: December 2019

Abstract

We discuss new mechanisms to stop the relaxion field during inflation. They can be realized in a generic model, including the original model but in a quite different parameter region. We consider a fast-rolling relaxion field, which can go over the bumps created by QCD-like dynamics. Then, in one of the mechanisms, we stop it with a parametric resonance of the Higgs field. The mechanisms are free from a super-Planckian field excursion or a gigantic number of e-folds of inflation. The relaxion has a mass around the weak scale and mixes with the Higgs boson, which enhances the testability of our mechanisms.
A species or weak-gravity bound for large N gauge theories coupled to gravity
Authors: Kaplan Jared , Kundu Sandipan
Published: December 2019

Abstract

Causality constrains the gravitational interactions of massive higher spin particles in both AdS and flat spacetime. We explore the extent to which these constraints apply to composite particles, explaining why they do not rule out macroscopic objects or hydrogen atoms. However, we find that they do apply to glueballs and mesons in confining large N gauge theories. Assuming such theories contain massive bound states of general spin, we find parametric bounds in (3 + 1) spacetime dimensions of the form $$ N\lesssim \frac{M_{Pl}}{\Lambda_{\mathrm{QCD}}} $$
N
≲

M
Pl

Λ
QCD

relating N, the QCD scale, and the Planck scale. We also argue that a stronger bound replacing ∧QCD with the UV cut-off scale may be derived from eikonal scattering in flat spacetime.
Scalar dark matter coannihilating with a coloured fermion
Authors: Biondini S. , Vogl S.
Published: December 2019

Abstract

We analyse the phenomenology of a simplified model for a real scalar dark matter candidate interacting with quarks via a coloured fermionic mediator. In the coannihilation regime, the dark matter abundance is controlled by the dynamics of the coloured fermions which can be significantly affected by non-perturbative effects. We employ a non-relativistic effective field theory approach which allows us to systematically treat the Sommerfeld effect and bound-state formation in the early Universe. The parameter space compatible with the dark matter relic abundance is confronted with direct, indirect and collider searches. A substantial part of the parameter space, with dark matter masses up to 18 TeV, is already excluded by XENON1T. Most of the remaining thermal relics can be probed by a future Darwin-like experiment, when taking properly into account the running of the relevant couplings for the direct detection processes.
Real Killing spinors in neutral signature
Authors: Gutowski J. , Sabra W.A.
Published: December 2019

Abstract

Spinorial geometry methods are used to classify solutions admitting Majorana Killing spinors of the minimal 4-dimensional supergravity in neutral signature, with van- ishing cosmological constant and a single Maxwell field strength. Two classes of solutions preserving the minimal amount of supersymmetry are found. The first class admits a null- K¨ahler structure and corresponds to a class of self-dual solutions found by Bryant. The second class admits a null and rotation-free geodesic congruence with respect to which a parallel frame can be chosen. Examples of solutions in the former class are pseudo-hyper- K¨ahler manifolds; and examples in the latter class include self-dual solutions, as well as a neutral-signature IWP-type solution.
The octagon as a determinant
Authors: Kostov Ivan , Petkova Valentina B. , Serban Didina
Published: December 2019

Abstract

The computation of a certain class of four-point functions of heavily charged BPS operators boils down to the computation of a special form factor — the octagon. In this paper, which is an extended version of the short note [1], we derive a non-perturbative formula for the square of the octagon as the determinant of a semi-infinite skew-symmetric matrix. We show that perturbatively in the weak coupling limit the octagon is given by a determinant constructed from the polylogarithms evaluating ladder Feynman graphs. We also give a simple operator representation of the octagon in terms of a vacuum expectation value of massless free bosons or fermions living in the rapidity plane.
Nuclear states and spectra in holographic QCD
Authors: Hashimoto Koji , Matsuo Yoshinori , Morita Takeshi
Published: December 2019

Abstract

A new method to study nuclear physics via holographic QCD is proposed. Multiple baryons in the Sakai-Sugimoto background are described by a matrix model which is a low energy effective theory of D-branes of the baryon vertices. We study the quantum mechanics of the matrix model and calculate the eigenstates of the Hamiltonian. The obtained states are found to coincide with known nuclear and baryonic states, and have appropriate statistics and charges. Calculated spectra of the baryon/nucleus for small baryon numbers show good agreement with experimental data. For hyperons, the Gell-Mann–Okubo formula is approximately derived. Baryon resonances up to spin 5/2 and isospin 5/2 and dibaryon spectra are obtained and compared with experimental data. The model partially explains even the magic numbers of light nuclei, N = 2, 8 and 20.
Experimental probes of traversable wormholes
Authors: Bak Dongsu , Kim Chanju , Yi Sang-Heon
Published: December 2019

Abstract

We propose possible probes which could be used to demonstrate experimentally the existence of the bulk and the formation of a traversable wormhole purely in terms of boundary operations only. In the two-dimensional Einstein-dilaton gravity, the traversable wormhole is realized by turning on a double trace interaction which couples the two boundaries of the AdS2 black hole. Signals can propagate in the traversable wormhole through two different channels. The boundary channel is direct and instantaneous, while the bulk channel respects the bulk causality and takes a certain amount of time to complete signaling. In the latter case, we show that the signal frequency detected on the other side is highly modulated in general. The time delay as well as the frequency-modulation pattern could then be clear indications that the signal comes out through the bulk channel. We discuss the characteristics of the observed signal more explicitly for simple transitional configurations of the black hole from/to the eternal traversable wormhole.
Barrier from chaos: operator entanglement dynamics of the reduced density matrix
Authors: Wang Huajia , Zhou Tianci
Published: December 2019

Abstract

It is believed that thermalization drives the reduced density matrix of a sub- system to approach a short-range entangled operator. If the initial state is also short-range entangled, it is possible that the reduced density matrix remains low-entangled throughout thermalization; or there could exist a barrier with high operator entanglement between the initial and thermalized reduced density matrix. In this paper, we study such dynamics in three classes of models: the rational CFTs, the random unitary circuit, and the holographic CFTs, representing systems of increasing quantum chaoticity. We show that in all three classes of models, the operator entanglement (or variant of ) exhibits three phases, a linear growth phase, a plateau phase, and a decay phase. The plateau phase characterized by volume-law operator entanglement corresponds to the barrier in operator entanglement. While it is present in all three models, its persistence and exit show interesting distinc- tions among them. The rational CFTs have the shortest plateau phase, followed by the slowest decay phase; the holographic CFTs mark the opposite end, i.e. having the longest plateau phase followed by a discontinuous drop; and the random unitary circuit shows the intermediate behavior. We discuss the mechanisms underlying these behaviors in opera- tor entanglement barriers, whose persistence might serve as another measure for quantum chaoticity.
Preterm birth and risk of type 1 and type 2 diabetes: a national cohort study
Authors: Crump Casey , Sundquist Jan , Sundquist Kristina
Published: December 2019

Aims/hypothesis

Preterm birth (gestational age <37 weeks) has been associated with insulin resistance early in life. However, no large population-based studies have examined risks of type 1 and type 2 diabetes and potential sex-specific differences from childhood into adulthood. Clinicians will increasingly encounter adults who were born prematurely and will need to understand their long-term risks. We hypothesised that preterm birth is associated with increased risks of type 1 and type 2 diabetes into adulthood.

Methods

A national cohort study was conducted of all 4,193,069 singletons born in Sweden during 1973–2014, who were followed up for type 1 and type 2 diabetes identified from nationwide diagnoses and pharmacy data to the end of 2015 (maximum age 43 years; median age at the end of follow-up 22.5 years). Cox regression was used to adjust for potential confounders, and co-sibling analyses assessed the influence of shared familial (genetic and/or environmental) factors.

Results

In 92.3 million person-years of follow-up, 27,512 (0.7%) and 5525 (0.1%) people were identified with type 1 and type 2 diabetes, respectively. Gestational age at birth was inversely associated with both type 1 and type 2 diabetes risk. Adjusted HRs for type 1 and type 2 diabetes at age <18 years associated with preterm birth were 1.21 (95% CI, 1.14, 1.28) and 1.26 (95% CI, 1.01, 1.58), respectively, and at age 18–43 years were 1.24 (95% CI, 1.13, 1.37) and 1.49 (95% CI, 1.31, 1.68), respectively, compared with full-term birth. The associations between preterm birth and type 2 (but not type 1) diabetes were stronger among females (e.g. at age 18–43 years, females: adjusted HR, 1.75; 95% CI, 1.47, 2.09; males: 1.28; 95% CI, 1.08, 1.53; p < 0.01 for additive and multiplicative interaction). These associations were only partially explained by shared genetic or environmental factors in families.

Conclusions/interpretation

In this large national cohort, preterm birth was associated with increased risk of type 1 and type 2 diabetes from childhood into early to mid-adulthood. Preterm-born children and adults may need early preventive evaluation and long-term monitoring for diabetes.
Personalized neoantigen-pulsed dendritic cell vaccines show superior immunogenicity to neoantigen-adjuvant vaccines in mouse tumor models
Authors: Zhang Rui , Yuan Fengjiao , Shu Yang , Tian Yaomei , Zhou Bailing , Yi Linglu , Zhang Xueyan , Ding Zhenyu , Xu Heng , Yang Li
Published: December 2019

Development of personalized cancer vaccines based on neoantigens has become a new direction in cancer immunotherapy. Two forms of cancer vaccines have been widely studied: tumor-associated antigen (including proteins, peptides, or tumor lysates)-pulsed dendritic cell (DC) vaccines and protein- or peptide-adjuvant vaccines. However, different immune modalities may produce different therapeutic effects and immune responses when the same antigen is used. Therefore, it is necessary to choose a more effective neoantigen vaccination method. In this study, we compared the differences in immune and anti-tumor effects between neoantigen-pulsed DC vaccines and neoantigen-adjuvant vaccines using murine lung carcinoma (LL2) candidate neoantigens. The enzyme-linked immunospot (ELISPOT) assay showed that 4/6 of the neoantigen-adjuvant vaccines and 6/6 of the neoantigen-pulsed DC vaccines induced strong T-cell immune responses. Also, 2/6 of the neoantigen-adjuvant vaccines and 5/6 of the neoantigen-pulsed DC vaccines exhibited potent anti-tumor effects. The results indicated that the neoantigen-pulsed DC vaccines were superior to the neoantigen-adjuvant vaccines in both activating immune responses and inhibiting tumor growth. Our fundings provide an experimental basis for the selection of immune modalities for the use of neoantigens in individualized tumor immunotherapies.
Stellenwert der Testung der Tumormutationslast
Authors: Wild Peter J.
Published: December 2019

Die seit kurzem verfügbare Therapie mit Immun-Checkpoint-Inhibitoren (ICI) für Patienten mit nichtkleinzelligem Lungenkarzinom (NSCLC) bietet zwar einen Überlebensvorteil im Vergleich zur Chemotherapie, die Gesamtansprechrate beträgt aber nur etwa 20 %. Um Patienten zu identifizieren, die von einer ICI-Therapie profitieren, werden Biomarker zunehmend wichtiger. Die PD-L1-Expression war der erste entwickelte prädiktive Biomarker, konnte jedoch die Wirksamkeit von ICI nicht ausreichend vorhersagen. Ein weiterer Biomarker, die Tumormutationslast (TMB), ist definiert als die Anzahl der Mutationen pro Megabase analysierte DNA. Auch die Mikrosatelliteninstabilität (MSI) fungiert als prädiktiver Marker für ein Ansprechen auf ICI-Therapie. Viele Tumorentitäten weisen eine hohe Korrelation von MSI und hoher TMB auf. Studien zeigten für Patienten mit NSCLC und einer TMB von mindestens 10 Mutationen pro Megabase einen Vorteil für das progressionsfreie Überleben.
A techno-economic model-based analysis of the renewable energy transition in the Indian subcontinent region
Authors: Bhat Karthik Subramanya , Bachhiesl Udo , Feichtinger Gerald , Stigler Heinz
Published: December 2019

India, as a ‘developing’ country, is in the middle of a unique situation of handling its energy transition towards carbon-free energy along with its continuous economic development. With respect to the agreed COP 21 and SDG 2030 targets, India has drafted several energy strategies revolving around clean renewable energy. With multiple roadblocks for development of large hydro power capacities within the country, the long-term renewable goals of India focus highly on renewable energy technologies like solar Photo-Voltaic (PV) and wind capacities. However, with a much slower rate of development in transmission infrastructure and the given situations of the regional energy systems in the Indian subcontinent, these significant changes in India could result in severe technical and economic consequences for the complete interconnected region. The presented investigations in this paper have been conducted using ATLANTIS_India, a unique techno-economic simulation model developed at the Institute of Electricity Economics and Energy Innovation/Graz University of Technology, designed for the electricity system in the Indian subcontinent region. The model covers the electricity systems of India, Bangladesh, Bhutan, Nepal, and Sri Lanka, and is used to analyse a scenario where around 118 GW of solar PV and wind capacity expansion is planned in India until the target year 2050. This paper presents the simulation approach as well as the simulated results and conclusions. The simulation results show the positive and negative techno-economic impacts of the discussed strategy on the overall electricity system, while suggesting possible solutions.
High Speed In Situ Synchrotron Observation of Cyclic Deformation and Phase Transformation of Superelastic Nitinol at Ultrasonic Frequency
Authors: Fitzka M. , Rennhofer H. , Catoor D. , Reiterer M. , Lichtenegger H. , Checchia S. , di Michiel M. , Irrasch D. , Gruenewald T. A. , Mayer H.
Published: December 2019

The near equi-atomic intermetallic Ni Ti alloy Nitinol is used for medical implants, notably in self-expanding stent grafts and heart valve frames, which are subjected to several hundred million load cycles in service. Increasing the testing frequency to the ultrasonic range would drastically shorten the testing times and make the very-high cycle regime experimentally accessible. Such tests are, however, only meaningful if the material response at ultrasonic frequency is identical to that observed in conventional fatigue tests. A novel fatigue testing setup where superelastic Nitinol dog bone specimens are loaded at ultrasonic cycling frequency is presented. Loading conditions resemble in vivo loading (i.e., repeated cyclic loading with relatively small strain amplitudes, specimens in a pre-strained multi-phase state). Strains and phase transformations during ultrasonic frequency cycling are quantitatively measured in an X-ray diffraction (XRD) synchrotron experiment and compared to the material response at low frequency. The XRD experiment confirms that forward and reverse stress-induced phase transformation from austenite to martensite via the intermediate R-phase occurs during low frequency (0.1 Hz, strain rate $$ \dot{\varepsilon}\approx $$ε˙≈ 10−3 s−1) and ultrasonic frequency (20 kHz, $$ \dot{\varepsilon}\approx $$ε˙≈ 102 s−1) cycling. Since the same deformation mechanisms are active at low and ultrasonic frequency, these findings imply a general applicability of the ultrasonic fatigue testing technique to Nitinol.
What is Offshoring Management Capability and How Do Organizations Develop It? A Study of Dutch IT Service Providers
Authors: Mihalache Mashiho , Mihalache Oli R.
Published: December 2019

This study develops a capability perspective of offshoring. While previous research shows that experience affects future offshoring decisions, we still lack an understanding of what offshoring management capability is and how organizations develop it. Using data on five Dutch IT service providers, we find that offshoring management capability is multidimensional as it comprises four dimensions: coordination competency, relationship development, relationship design, and organizational identification. Furthermore, we uncover the process through which organizations can actively develop an offshoring management capability. We find that there are four elements in this learning loop: an offshoring growth mentality, adaptive monitoring of offshoring performance, offshoring reflexivity, and mechanisms for storing and disseminating offshoring best practice. Therefore, our capability perspective of offshoring provides a comprehensive conceptualization of offshoring management capability as a multidimensional construct and uncovers the process through which organizations develop it.
Is Metaphysics Immune to Moral Refutation?
Authors: Barber Alex
Published: December 2019

When a novel scientific theory conflicts with otherwise plausible moral assumptions, we do not treat that as evidence against the theory. We may scrutinize the empirical data more keenly and take extra care over its interpretation, but science is in some core sense immune to moral refutation. Can the same be said of philosophical theories (or the non-ethical, ‘metaphysical’ ones at least)? If a position in the philosophy of mind, for example, is discovered to have eye-widening moral import, does that count against it at all? Actual responses by philosophers to the question of whether unanticipated moral consequences of metaphysical theories have evidential force are scattered, implicit, divergent, under-argued, and sometimes even self-undermining. The present discussion is, most immediately, an attempt to sort out the confusion. Beyond that, it exploits the new perspective this question gives us on a familiar topic: the relation of philosophy to science.
Study on the influence of voids on high-rise building on the wind environment
Authors: Li Yangluxi , Chen Lei
Published: December 2019

The purpose of this study was to investigate the effects of voids in tall buildings on the surrounding wind environment. With the development of modular technology, there has been a new method of building high-rise buildings. Currently, more and more high-rise buildings often use void spaces to reduce the wind resistance and utilize wind turbines by using wind power to create sky gardens. In this study, CFD (computer fluid dynamic) technology was used to simulate the wind environment around the buildings. The research focuses on the size, distribution and quantity of the concavity, which usually is defined as sky gardens. It is found that when the area of the opening is the same, the more number of opening, the more strengthened and distributed vertical wind velocity behind the building can be. The wind shadow area at the pedestrian height is further reduced. For holes distribution, the optimum ratio of the spacing between concavities to the void size for wind environment of tall buildings ranges from 1 to 3, which can disperse the surrounding heat in more efficiency and weaken the wind velocity in the lowest level. Therefore, in high-rise buildings, the number and distribution of the openings will have different effects on the wind environment around the buildings.
Incipient sympatric speciation via host race formation in Phengaris arion (Lepidoptera: Lycaenidae)
Authors: Bereczki Judit , Póliska Szilárd , Váradi Alex , Tóth János P.
Published: December 2019

The plausibility of sympatric speciation is still debated despite increasing evidence, such as host races in insects. This speciation process may be occurring in the case of the two phenological forms of the obligatorily myrmecophilous Phengaris arion. The main goal of our research was to study the nature and causes of difference between these forms focusing primarily on the incipient speciation via host races. Molecular analyses based on highly variable microsatellites together with Wolbachia screening, male genitalia morphometrics and host ant studies were carried out on four syntopic sample pairs. Our results show that the two phenological forms of P. arion may meet the criteria for host plant races. They coexist in sympatry in certain parts of the species range which is allowed by the adaptation to the distinct phenology of the host plants. Negative selection acts against the intermediate individuals which are on the wing in the inappropriate time frame. Thus, disruptive selection affects and produces bimodal distributions of phenotypes. However, the phenology of food plants is not entirely distinct and fluctuates year by year. Therefore, the two forms can exchange genes occasionally depending on the length of the time slot when they can meet with each other. Consequently, the reproductive isolation could not be completed and the existence of the two arion forms may represent only an incipient stage of sympatric speciation. It is also clear that Wolbachia is likely not a driver of sympatric speciation in this case.
Many Kinds of Poverty: Three Dimensions of Economic Hardship, Their Combinations, and Children’s Behavior Problems
Authors: Schenck-Fontaine Anika , Panico Lidia
Published: December 2019

Income poverty, material deprivation, and subjective financial stress are three distinct dimensions of economic hardship. The majority of the theoretical and empirical literature on the effects of economic hardship on children has treated material deprivation and subjective financial stress as only mediators of the effects of income poverty, not considering the independent effects of each dimension or the effects of their combinations. Using nationally representative, longitudinal data from the Millennium Cohort Study on more than 18,000 families in the United Kingdom, we propose seven distinct experiences of economic hardship, based on the possible combinations of income poverty, material deprivation, and subjective financial stress. We use mixed- and fixed-effects linear regression models to identify whether these different economic hardship combinations are differentially associated with children’s behavior problems between ages 3 and 7. We find that all economic hardship combinations, including those without income poverty, are associated with higher levels of children’s behavior problems. The combination of material deprivation and subjective financial stress and the combination of all three dimensions of economic hardship are associated with the highest levels of behavior problems. Based on these findings, we argue that income poverty is an important but insufficient measure of economic hardship for children and that theory and research on the effects of economic hardship on children should consider the multidimensional nature of economic stressors for families.