bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Strong and sustainable primary healthcare is associated with a lower risk of hospitalization in high risk patients
Authors: Sawicki Olga A. , Mueller Angelina , Klaaßen-Mielke Renate , Glushan Anastasiya , Gerlach Ferdinand M. , Beyer Martin , Wensing Michel , Karimova Kateryna
Published: February 2021

In 2004, Germany introduced a program based on voluntary contracting to strengthen the role of general practice care in the healthcare system. Key components include structured management of chronic diseases, coordinated access to secondary care, data-driven quality improvement, computerized clinical decision-support, and capitation-based reimbursement. Our aim was to determine the long-term effects of this program on the risk of hospitalization of specific categories of high-risk patients. Based on insurance claims data, we conducted a longitudinal observational study from 2011 to 2018 in Baden-Wuerttemberg, Germany. Patients were assigned to one or more of four open cohorts (in 2011, elderly, n = 575,363; diabetes mellitus, n = 163,709; chronic heart failure, n = 82,513; coronary heart disease, n = 125,758). Adjusted for key patient characteristics, logistic regression models were used to compare the hospitalization risk of the enrolled patients (intervention group) with patients receiving usual primary care (control group). At the start of the study and throughout long-term follow-up, enrolled patients in the four cohorts had a lower risk of all-cause hospitalization and ambulatory, care-sensitive hospitalization. Among patients with chronic heart failure and coronary heart disease, the program was associated with significantly reduced risk of cardiovascular-related hospitalizations across the eight observed years. The effect of the program also increased over time. Over the longer term, the results indicate that strengthening primary care could be associated with a substantial reduction in hospital utilization among high-risk patients.
Jaw shape and mechanical advantage are indicative of diet in Mesozoic mammals
Authors: Morales-García Nuria Melisa , Gill Pamela G. , Janis Christine M. , Rayfield Emily J.
Published: February 2021

Jaw morphology is closely linked to both diet and biomechanical performance, and jaws are one of the most common Mesozoic mammal fossil elements. Knowledge of the dietary and functional diversity of early mammals informs on the ecological structure of palaeocommunities throughout the longest era of mammalian evolution: the Mesozoic. Here, we analyse how jaw shape and mechanical advantage of the masseter (MAM) and temporalis (MAT) muscles relate to diet in 70 extant and 45 extinct mammals spanning the Late Triassic-Late Cretaceous. In extant mammals, jaw shape discriminates well between dietary groups: insectivores have long jaws, carnivores intermediate to short jaws, and herbivores have short jaws. Insectivores have low MAM and MAT, carnivores have low MAM and high MAT, and herbivores have high MAM and MAT. These traits are also informative of diet among Mesozoic mammals (based on previous independent determinations of diet) and set the basis for future ecomorphological studies.
Learning from Hanoi to imagine the future of water distribution
Authors: Derrible Sybil , Truong Thanh T. M. , Pham Hung T. , Nguyen Quan H.
Published: February 2021

In many countries, water distribution systems consist of large, highly pressurized pipe networks that require an excessive amount of energy and that are vulnerable to large-scale contamination. To imagine the future of water distribution, we can learn from Hanoi, Vietnam, where water is distributed at low pressures and most buildings are equipped with a basement tank, a rooftop tank, and separate water treatment processes, resulting in a system that consumes less energy and that is more resilient.
Accelerating climate research and action in cities through advanced science-policy-practice partnerships
Authors: Solecki William , Delgado Ramos Gian Carlo , Roberts Debra , Rosenzweig Cynthia , Walsh Brenna
Published: February 2021

Cities have become increasingly recognized as key sites for climate research and action. Recently, these efforts have been significantly advanced through science-policy-practice partnerships. The objective of this paper is to assess how these partnerships are structured, the research and action agenda that underpins them, and how this agenda is being articulated and implemented. The assessment also helps to define some of the conceptual and operational gaps faced by the science-policy-practice community and how they can be addressed. The work evaluates the critical conditions for promoting these advances including the definition and fulfillment of knowledge needs, the integration of different perspectives and approaches, establishment of pathways to finance the urban climate research and action community, and creation and promotion of new partnerships. The paper concludes with a series of strategies and recommendations for how targeted policy adjustments can accelerate and support the production of actionable knowledge and this integrated researcher-policymaker-practitioner community.
Infrastructure resilience to navigate increasingly uncertain and complex conditions in the Anthropocene
Authors: Chester Mikhail , Underwood B. Shane , Allenby Braden , Garcia Margaret , Samaras Constantine , Markolf Samuel , Sanders Kelly , Preston Benjamin , Miller Thaddeus R.
Published: February 2021

Infrastructure are at the center of three trends: accelerating human activities, increasing uncertainty in social, technological, and climatological factors, and increasing complexity of the systems themselves and environments in which they operate. Resilience theory can help infrastructure managers navigate increasing complexity. Engineering framings of resilience will need to evolve beyond robustness to consider adaptation and transformation, and the ability to handle surprise. Agility and flexibility in both physical assets and governance will need to be emphasized, and sensemaking capabilities will need to be reoriented. Transforming infrastructure is necessary to ensuring that core systems keep pace with a changing world.
22.8%-Efficient single-crystal mixed-cation inverted perovskite solar cells with a near-optimal bandgap
Authors: Alsalloum Abdullah Y. , Turedi Bekir , Almasabi Khulud , Zheng Xiaopeng , Naphade Rounak , Stranks Samuel D. , Mohammed Omar F. , Bakr Osman M.
Published: February 2021

A mixed-cation single-crystal lead-halide perovskite absorber layer was utilized to construct 22.8%-efficient solar cells with an expanded near infrared response that approaches the ideal bandgap range (1.1–1.4 eV) for single-junction solar cells.
Optimization of reverse osmosis operational conditions to maximize ammonia removal from the effluent of an anaerobic membrane bioreactor
Authors: Shin Chungheon , Szczuka Aleksandra , Jiang Renjing , Mitch William A. , Criddle Craig S.
Published: February 2021

RO enables the recovery of clean water and ammonium in anaerobic membrane bioreactor effluent. pH governs the ammonia speciation and membrane surface charge and is the key operational factor that affects the total ammonia rejection efficiency of RO.
The biological fate and bioefficacy of citrus flavonoids: bioavailability, biotransformation, and delivery systems
Authors: Zhang Man , Zhu Siyue , Yang Wenjian , Huang Qingrong , Ho Chi-Tang
Published: February 2021

This article discusses the biological fate and bioefficacy of citrus flavonoids by emphasizing on their bioavailability, biotransformation and delivery systems.
Readily useable bulk phenoxazine-based covalent organic framework cathode materials with superior kinetics and high redox potentials
Authors: Meng Zhiying , Zhang Ying , Dong Mengqing , Zhang Yue , Cui Fengmin , Loh Teck-Peng , Jin Yinghua , Zhang Wei , Yang Haishen , Du Ya
Published: February 2021

Two p-type phenoxazine-based COFs with high discharge potentials (up to 3.6 V vs. Li/Li+) were achieved as directly usable cathode materials with superior active-site accessibility, ultrafast redox kinetics, and remarkable cycling stability.
Thermal-facilitated interfacial polymerization toward high-performance polyester desalination membrane
Authors: Shen Jianliang , Wang Guangzhe , You Xinda , Shi Benbing , Xue Jing , Yuan Jingqiu , Li Yafei , Guan Jingyuan , Ma Yu , Su Yanlei , Zhang Runnan , Jiang Zhongyi
Published: February 2021

Thermal-facilitated interfacial polymerization approach was explored to fabricate polyester membranes with superior desalination and chlorine-resistant performance.
Hybridized local and charge-transfer excited state fluorophores enabling organic light-emitting diodes with record high efficiencies close to 20%
Authors: Liu Tiantian , Chen Xiaojie , Zhao Juan , Wei Weichun , Mao Zhu , Wu William , Jiao Shibo , Liu Yang , Yang Zhiyong , Chi Zhenguo
Published: February 2021

Three purely organic fluorophores with a hybridized local and charge-transfer excited state feature are presented and enabled organic light-emitting diodes with record high external quantum efficiencies close to 20%.
CsPbBr3/Cs4PbBr6 perovskite@COF nanocomposites for visible-light-driven photocatalytic applications in water
Authors: Kour Prachi , Mukherjee Shatabdi Porel
Published: February 2021

The unique as synthesized all-inorganic CsPbBr3/Cs4PbBr6@EB-COF:Br nanocomposite shows efficient visible-light-driven photocatalytic activity to degrade Methyl orange (100 ppm) in aqueous media with photodegradation rates, about 0.245 min−1.
Adaptive prescribed‐time disturbance observer using nonsingular terminal sliding mode control: Extended Kalman filter and particle swarm optimization
Authors: Vahidi‐Moghaddam Amin , Rajaei Arman , Ayati Moosa , Vatankhah Ramin , Hairi‐Yazdi Mohammad Reza
Published: February 2021

In this study, adaptive prescribed finite‐time stabilisation of uncertain single‐input and single‐output non‐linear systems is considered in the presence of unknown states, unknown parameters, external load disturbance, and non‐symmetric input saturation. A prescribed finite time disturbance observer is designed to approximate the unmeasured external disturbance. Also, a non‐singular prescribed finite time terminal sliding mode control is proposed for the closed‐loop control of the system with the non‐symmetric input saturation. Extended Kalman filter algorithm is employed for the real‐time estimations of the states and unknown parameters of the system. Moreover, a particle swarm optimisation algorithm is used to obtain the design parameters of the proposed disturbance observer and controller. To show the performance of designed control scheme, the proposed approach is employed to guarantee prescribed finite time stabilisation of non‐linear vibration of a non‐local strain gradient nanobeam. The Galerkin projection method is used to reduce the non‐dimensional form of the governing non‐linear partial differential equation of Euler–Bernoulli nanobeam to the ordinary differential equation. Finally, numerical simulations are performed to illustrate the effectiveness and performance of the developed adaptive control scheme for the vibration control of nanobeam in comparison with the conventional sliding mode control.
Development of a compact very low frequency cosine‐rectangular and damped alternating current voltage generator for insulation testing of medium‐voltage power cables
Authors: Wang Li , Yang Saike , Guo Xiaokai , Sun Tingxi , Li Hongjie , Wu Hongxiao , Nan Baofeng
Published: February 2021

This study describes the research and design of a novel and compact very low frequency cosine‐rectangular (VLF‐CR) and damped alternating current (DAC) voltage generator that can be used to test the insulation condition of the medium‐voltage power cables. Further, a complete system based on a voltage multiplier (VM), which can be cascaded to increase the output voltage, is proposed to simultaneously realise VLF‐CR and DAC voltages for the withstand voltage and offline partial discharge (PD) tests, enabling the test system to be lightweight and efficient. The system principle and operating characteristics associated with the generation of two different voltages are analysed in detail according to the new circuit topology of the proposed generator. Furthermore, oscillation suppression and multiple output units are considered to improve the voltage waveform and provide power supply to the VM module, respectively. A laboratory prototype is also developed and tested. Finally, the integrated generator is used for the PD testing on cables with artificial defects, verifying the practicability of the proposed system.
Water-filled technique for therapeutic pancreato-biliary EUS in patients with surgically altered anatomy
Authors: Mangiavillano Benedetto , Carrara Silvia , Eusebi Leonardo H. , Auriemma Franceasco , Bianchetti Mario , Repici Alessandro
Published: February 2021

One of the main challenges encountered by endosonographers is performing diagnostic and interventional pancreato-biliary endoscopic ultrasound (EUS) procedures in the presence of surgically altered upper gastrointestinal anatomy. We describe the water-filled technique (WFT) for EUS examination and treatment of the pancreato-biliary region in patients with surgically altered upper gastrointestinal anatomy. Using the WFT, the scope is advanced up to the gastro-jejunal anastomosis and, after placing the tip of the scope 2 cm beyond it, enlargement of the jejunal lumen is obtained by water instillation of the jejunal loop. An enlargement of more than 1.5 cm allows advancement of the tip of the scope under EUSguidance up to the duodenum, in a retrograde way. The WFT is useful for reaching the ampullary area and performing diagnostic and therapeutic EUS in patients with surgically altered anatomy. The technique is also reproducible and can be easily used by endoscopists who regularly perform EUS.
Wie sollten EEG-Elektroden aufbewahrt werden?
Authors: Raß Eva-Maria
Published: February 2021

Im folgenden Artikel befassen wir uns mit der korrekten EEG-Elektrodenaufbewahrung und geben einen Einblick in die Elektrodenarten, deren Aufbau und Reinigung.
Direct endoscopic necrosectomy in infected pancreatic necrosis using lumen-apposing metal stents: Early intervention does not compromise outcome
Authors: Albers David , Meining Alexander , Hann Alexander , Ayoub Younan Kabara , Schumacher Brigitte
Published: February 2021

Background and study aims Infection of pancreatic necrosis is a dreaded complication requiring an intervention. Nevertheless, the optimal timing of the first intervention is unclear, and consensus data are sparse. This retrospective two-center study evaluated direct endoscopic necrosectomy using lumen apposing metal stents in case of proven or suspected infected pancreatic necrosis in an early stage of the disease.

Patients and methods Forty-nine patients with infected pancreatic necrosis were included. Sequent direct endoscopic necrosectomies after lumen apposing metal stent insertion (LAMS) were performed until the resolution of necrosis. In all patients, the first endoscopic intervention was performed within the first 30 days after first proof of pancreatic necrosis. Primary outcome parameters were inflammatory activity, days spent in the Intensive Care Unit (ICU), and mortality.

Results The patient cohort received median 4 necrosectomies (3–5) after a median of 7 days (3–11) after first proof of pancreatic necrosis. Technical and clinical success were achieved in 98.3 % and 87.8 %, respectively; the mortality rate was 8.2 %. The median C-reactive protein level decreased from 241 mg/L (182.9–288.9) before the intervention to a median of 23.3 mg/L (18–60) after therapy. The median time period in the ICU was 5 days (3–9).

Conclusions Early endoscopic therapy in the form of direct endoscopic necrosectomy after LAMS placement within the first 30 days after proof of pancreatic necrosis is effective and does not result in poor outcome. Our retrospective data suggest that early intervention before walled-off necrosis is formed is tenable when it is essential due to the patient's clinical deterioration.
Severe Acute Thromboinflammation: Case Report of Individualized Homeopathic Treatment
Authors: Waisse Silvia
Published: February 2021

Thromboinflammation is a still not well-understood phenomenon, which has recently come to the foreground as a function of its relevance in the pathophysiology of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). The patient described in the present case report exhibited acute fever, giant urticaria, elevated acute phase reactants, and very high d-dimer levels, thus characterizing thromboinflammation. She was diagnosed as a COVID-19 suspect case, which was not confirmed; urticarial vasculitis was ruled out. Homeopathic treatment was started with the earliest clinical manifestations, resulting in rapid and drastic reduction of inflammation and hypercoagulability within the first 12 hours, and full recovery on 10-day follow-up assessment. This case demonstrates the effectiveness of homeopathy in a severe acute disorder, and points to the need to include laboratory testing in homeopathic clinical assessment to achieve an accurate picture of disease, and to avoid the risk of passing over life-threatening disorders.
fMRI Resting-State Connectivity between Language and Nonlanguage Areas as Defined by Intraoperative Electrocortical Stimulation in Low-Grade Glioma Patients
Authors: van Lieshout Jasper , Debaene Wouter , Rapp Marion , Noordmans Herke Jan , Rutten Geert-Jan
Published: February 2021

Background and Objectives It remains to be determined whether noninvasive functional imaging techniques can rival the clinical potential of direct electrocortical stimulation (DES). In this study, we compared the results of resting-state functional magnetic resonance imaging (rs-fMRI) to those of DES for language mapping. Our goals were twofold: (1) to replicate a previous study that demonstrated that resting-state connectivity (RSC) was significantly larger between positive DES language sites than between negative DES language sites and (2) to compare the spatial resolution of rs-fMRI to that of DES.

Methods We conducted a retrospective study of nine low-grade glioma patients. Language sites were identified by intraoperative DES. We compared RSC values between and within groups of DES-positive and DES-negative regions of interest (ROIs). Both close-negative sites (i.e., DES-negative sites <1 cm apart from and on the same gyrus as DES-positive sites) and far-negative sites (i.e., purely randomly chosen sites not in the vicinity of the tumor or of the DES-positive sites but on the same lobe) were included. Receiver operating characteristics were used to quantify comparisons.

Results Functional connectivity between all positive language sites was on average significantly higher than between all close-negative sites and between all far-negative sites. The functional connectivity between the positive language ROIs and their respective close-negative control sites was not smaller than between all positive language sites.

Conclusion rs-fMRI likely reflects similar neural information as detected with DES, but in its current form does not reach the spatial resolution of DES.
Imaging Review of the Posterior Cruciate Ligament
Authors: Cook Cristi Reeves , Wissman Robert D.
Published: February 2021

Posterior cruciate ligament (PCL) injuries can often be missed on physical examination, especially in multiligament knee injuries. Therefore, a comprehensive approach to imaging the PCL should be implemented whenever history and examination findings indicate relative risk. Radiography, including a posterior-stress view, and magnetic resonance imaging, when available, provide consistently accurate diagnosis of PCL pathology and common knee comorbidities. Computed tomography and ultrasonography can be useful modalities with potential advantages with respect to availability and access, specific comorbidities, and/or cost-effectiveness.
Clinico-Radiological Correlation in 26 Egyptian Children with Glutaric Acidemia Type 1
Authors: Sadek Abdelrahim A. , Aladawy Mohammed A. , Magdy Rofaida M. , Mansour Tarek M. M. , Othman Amr A. , Hawary Bahaa , Ibrahim Mohamed F. , Hassan Mohammed H. , Abdelkreem Elsayed
Published: February 2021

Background Glutaric acidemia type 1 (GA1) is an inherited neurometabolic disease with significant morbidity. However, neuro-radiological correlation is not completely understood.

Objective The study aimed to characterize the neuroimaging findings and their association with neurological phenotype in GA1 children.

Methods Twenty-six Egyptian children (median age = 12 months) diagnosed with GA1 underwent clinical evaluation and brain magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). We objectively assessed the severity of neurological phenotype at the time of MRI using movement disorder (MD) and morbidity scores. Evaluation of brain MRI abnormalities followed a systematic and region-specific scoring approach. Brain MRI findings and scores were correlated with MD and morbidity scores, disease onset, and presence of seizures.

Results Fifteen (57.7%) cases had insidious onset, eight (30.8%) manifested acute onset, whereas three (11.5%) were asymptomatic. Ten (38.5%) cases had seizures, five of which had no acute encephalopathic crisis. Putamen and caudate abnormalities (found in all acute onset, 93.3 and 73.3% of insidious onset, and one of three asymptomatic cases) were significantly related to MD (p = 0.007 and 0.013) and morbidity (p = 0.005 and 0.003) scores. Globus pallidus abnormalities (50% of acute onset, 46.7% of insidious onset, and one of three of asymptomatic cases) were significantly associated with morbidity score (p = 0.023). Other MRI brain abnormalities as well as gray and white matter score showed no significant association with neurological phenotype. Younger age at onset, acute onset, and seizures were significantly associated with worse neurological manifestations.

Conclusion Patients with GA1 manifest characteristic and region-specific brain MRI abnormalities, but only striatal affection appears to correlate with neurological phenotype.
Estimating Risk of Pituitary Apoplexy after Resection of Giant Pituitary Adenomas
Authors: Butterfield John T. , Araki Takako , Guillaume Daniel , Tummala Ramachandra , Caicedo-Granados Emiro , Tyler Matthew A. , Venteicher Andrew S.
Published: February 2021

Background Pituitary apoplexy after resection of giant pituitary adenomas is a rare but often cited morbidity associated with devastating outcomes. It presents as hemorrhage and/or infarction of residual tumor in the postoperative period. Because of its rarity, its incidence and consequences remain ill defined.

Objective The aim of this study is to estimate the rate of postoperative pituitary apoplexy after resection of giant pituitary adenomas and assess the morbidity and mortality associated with apoplexy.

Methods A systematic review of literature was performed to examine extent of resection in giant pituitary adenomas based on surgical approach, rate of postoperative apoplexy, morbidities, and mortality. Advantages and disadvantages of each approach were compared.

Results Seventeen studies were included in quantitative analysis describing 1,031 cases of resection of giant pituitary adenomas. The overall rate of subtotal resection (<90%) for all surgical approaches combined was 35.6% (95% confidence interval: 28.0–43.1). Postoperative pituitary apoplexy developed in 5.65% (n = 19) of subtotal resections, often within 24 hours and with a mortality of 42.1% (n = 8). Resulting morbidities included visual deficits, altered consciousness, cranial nerve palsies, and convulsions.

Conclusion Postoperative pituitary apoplexy is uncommon but is associated with high rates of morbidity and mortality in subtotal resection cases. These findings highlight the importance in achieving a maximal resection in a time sensitive fashion to mitigate the severe consequences of postoperative apoplexy.
Lumbar Spine Sagittal Mismatch Deformity Negatively Affects Total Knee Arthroplasty Outcomes
Authors: Sheppard William L. , Upfill-Brown Alexander , McKay Kevin M. , Park Howard Y. , Shah Akash , Park Don Y. , Sassoon Adam A.
Published: February 2021

There is currently a paucity of data regarding the potential relationships between preexisting spinal deformity and clinical outcomes following total knee arthroplasty (TKA). We sought to expand upon this deficit. We hypothesize that lumbar sagittal mismatch deformity (MD) will correlate with a decrease in functional outcomes after TKA. This retrospective cohort comparison of 933 TKAs was performed between January 2017 and 2020. TKAs were excluded if they were not performed for primary osteoarthritis (OA) or if preoperative lumbar radiographs were unavailable/inadequate to measure sagittal parameters of interest: pelvic incidence, sacral slope, pelvic tilt, lumbar lordosis, and deformity mismatch. Ninety-four TKAs were subsequently available for inclusion and divided into two groups: those with MD as defined by |PI-LL| > 10 degrees and those without MD. The following clinical outcomes were compared between the groups: total postoperative arc of motion (AOM), incidence of flexion contracture, and need for manipulation under anesthesia (MUA). In total, 53 TKAs met the MD criteria, while 41 did not have MD. There were no significant differences in demographics, body mass index, preoperative knee range of motion (ROM), preoperative AOM, or opiate use between the groups. TKAs with MD were more likely to have MUA (p = 0.026), ROM <0 to 120 (p < 0.001), a decreased AOM by 16 degrees (p < 0.001), and a flexion contracture postoperatively (p = 0.01). Preexisting MD may adversely affect clinical results following TKA. Statistically and clinically significant decreases in postoperative ROM/AOM, increased likelihood of flexion contracture, and increased need for MUA were all noted in those with MD. This is a Level 3 study.
Superwetting interfaces for oil/water separation
Authors: Deng Bin , Li Wanrong , Du Bin , Luo Rubai , Zhou Shisheng
Published: February 2021

Superhydrophobic coatings have been applied in various fields. The materials used in the preparation of superhydrophobic coatings have attracted the attention of scholars. Due to the harm of fluorine-containing substances with low surface energy to the environment, fluorine-free superhydrophobic coatings have become a hotspot in the research field. Herein, a fluorine-free superhydrophobic coating with oil/water separation was made by a solution immersion way. The fluorine-free copolymer and polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS)/SiO2 nanoparticles (NPs) were mixed to prepare a composite solution, and the superhydrophobic surface was obtained on the paper by a dipping method. The scanning electron microscope, x-ray photoelectron spectrometer, 1H nuclear magnetic resonance, and Fourier transform infrared were used to study the surface characteristics and structural composition of the superhydrophobic material. The research proved that the copolymer and PDMS/SiO2 NPs were successfully coated on the paper surface, and the rough structure of the superhydrophobic surface was also attributed to the introduction of the copolymer and PDMS/SiO2 NPs. The evaluation of the coating has proved its excellent hydrophobicity, oil/water separation performance, and self-cleaning performance. The coating is a sustainable and environmentally friendly superhydrophobic material that can be used in packaging, construction, petrochemical, and other industries.
Injection locking and noise reduction of resonant tunneling diode terahertz oscillator
Authors: Hiraoka Tomoki , Arikawa Takashi , Yasuda Hiroaki , Inose Yuta , Sekine Norihiko , Hosako Iwao , Ito Hiroshi , Tanaka Koichiro
Published: February 2021

We studied the injection-locking properties of a resonant-tunneling-diode terahertz oscillator in the small-signal injection regime with a frequency-stabilized continuous THz wave. The linewidth of the emission spectrum dramatically decreased to less than 120 mHz (half width at half maximum) from 4.4 MHz in the free running state as a result of the injection locking. We experimentally determined the amplitude of injection voltage at the antenna caused by the injected THz wave. The locking range was proportional to the injection amplitude and consistent with Adler’s model. While increasing the injection amplitude, we observed a decrease in the noise component of the power spectrum, which manifests the free-running state, and an alternative increase in the injection-locked component. The noise component and the injection-locked component had the same power at the threshold injection amplitude as small as 5 × 10−4 of the oscillation amplitude. This threshold behavior can be qualitatively explained by Maffezzoni’s model of noise reduction in general limit-cycle oscillators.
Primitive selection of the fittest emerging through functional synergy in nucleopeptide networks
Authors: Bandela Anil Kumar , Wagner Nathaniel , Sadihov Hava , Morales-Reina Sara , Chotera-Ouda Agata , Basu Kingshuk , Cohen-Luria Rivka , de la Escosura Andrés , Ashkenasy Gonen
Published: February 2021

Significance

Research on the chemical origin of life comprises one of the most exciting topics in contemporary science. Prebiotic chemistry provided evidence that precursors of both nucleic acids and proteins might be formed in the prebiotic environment. Yet, studies on nonenzymatic replication—a central mechanism driving chemical evolution—focused largely on each class of these molecules separately. This paper reveals a successful attempt to replicate simple nucleopeptide chimeras. Most importantly, different mechanisms control the replication of complementary chimeras, leading to a clear selection of one over the other. We propose that related processes may have led to the emergence of the first functional nucleic-acid–peptide assemblies, which further developed into biological assemblies such as the ribosomes and viruses.
A TRPA1 inhibitor suppresses neurogenic inflammation and airway contraction for asthma treatment
Authors: Balestrini Alessia , Joseph Victory , Dourado Michelle , Reese Rebecca M. , Shields Shannon D. , Rougé Lionel , Bravo Daniel D. , Chernov-Rogan Tania , Austin Cary D. , Chen Huifen , Wang Lan , Villemure Elisia , Shore Daniel G.M. , Verma Vishal A. , Hu Baihua , Chen Yong , Leong Laurie , Bjornson Chris , Hötzel Kathy , Gogineni Alvin , Lee Wyne P. , Suto Eric , Wu Xiumin , Liu John , Zhang Juan , Gandham Vineela , Wang Jianyong , Payandeh Jian , Ciferri Claudio , Estevez Alberto , Arthur Christopher P. , Kortmann Jens , Wong Ryan L. , Heredia Jose E. , Doerr Jonas , Jung Min , Vander Heiden Jason A. , Roose-Girma Merone , Tam Lucinda , Barck Kai H. , Carano Richard A.D. , Ding Han Ting , Brillantes Bobby , Tam Christine , Yang Xiaoying , Gao Simon S. , Ly Justin Q. , Liu Liling , Chen Liuxi , Liederer Bianca M. , Lin Joseph H. , Magnuson Steven , Chen Jun , Hackos David H. , Elstrott Justin , Rohou Alexis , Safina Brian S. , Volgraf Matthew , Bauer Rebecca N. , Riol-Blanco Lorena
Published: February 2021

Despite the development of effective therapies, a substantial proportion of asthmatics continue to have uncontrolled symptoms, airflow limitation, and exacerbations. Transient receptor potential cation channel member A1 (TRPA1) agonists are elevated in human asthmatic airways, and in rodents, TRPA1 is involved in the induction of airway inflammation and hyperreactivity. Here, the discovery and early clinical development of GDC-0334, a highly potent, selective, and orally bioavailable TRPA1 antagonist, is described. GDC-0334 inhibited TRPA1 function on airway smooth muscle and sensory neurons, decreasing edema, dermal blood flow (DBF), cough, and allergic airway inflammation in several preclinical species. In a healthy volunteer Phase 1 study, treatment with GDC-0334 reduced TRPA1 agonist-induced DBF, pain, and itch, demonstrating GDC-0334 target engagement in humans. These data provide therapeutic rationale for evaluating TRPA1 inhibition as a clinical therapy for asthma.
A New Role for Mathematics in Empirical Sciences
Authors: Kasirzadeh Atoosa
Published: February 2021

Mathematics is often taken to play one of two roles in the empirical sciences: either it represents empirical phenomena or it explains these phenomena by imposing constraints on them. This article identifies a third and distinct role that has not been fully appreciated in the literature on applicability of mathematics and may be pervasive in scientific practice. I call this the “bridging” role of mathematics, according to which mathematics acts as a connecting scheme in our explanatory reasoning about why and how two different descriptions of an empirical phenomenon relate to each other. I discuss two bridging roles appearing in biological and physical explanations.
Properties of the P
c(4312) pentaquark and its bottom partner
Authors: Azizi K. , Sarac Y. , Sundu H.
Published: February 2021

We present an analysis of the newly observed pentaquark

to shed light on its quantum numbers. To do that, the QCD sum rules approach is used. The measured mass of this particle is close to the

threshold and has a small width, which supports the possibility of its being a molecular state. We consider an interpolating current in a molecular form and analyze both the positive and negative parity states with spin-

. We also consider the bottom counterpart of the state with similar molecular form. Our mass result for the charm pentaquark state supports that the quantum numbers of the observed state are consistent with

.
To the 60th anniversary of Sergey Gennadievich Volotovsky
Authors: Danilov V A
Published: February 2021

The paper provides a brief description of the scientific and industrial achievements of the research scientist Sergei Gennadievich Volotovsky.
Estimation of dynamically changing navigation parameters of the group of autonomous vehicles
Authors: Korolev L Y
Published: February 2021

The estimates of natural and mutual coordinates and speeds of movement of autonomous vehicles moving the structure have been integrated. Cases of application of navigation systems of different accuracy for an arbitrary number of sets in a group are considered. There are given expressions for covariance matrices of integration errors in two ways. The first method is formulated based on a Kalman vector filter. The second algorithm consists of a two-step evaluation procedure involving a static evaluation and a Kalman filter. Results of comparative analysis of efficiency of the considered methods are presented.
Eigenvalues and eigenvectors of Ising model on hypercube
Authors: Kryzhanovsky B , Litinskii L
Published: February 2021

For a multidimensional Ising model, we expressed eigenvalues of the connection matrix in terms of the spin-spin interaction constants and trigonometric polynomials. In such systems, the eigenvectors are the Kronecker products of the well-known eigenvectors for the one-dimensional case. When boundary conditions are periodic, it is possible to obtain rigorous expressions for the eigenvalues when there is an arbitrary long-range interaction in the system.
Mathematical model of the interaction of a torch discharge with film elements
Authors: Novomeysky D N , Piganov M N
Published: February 2021

The process of interaction of a flare discharge with a resistive film is described. The thermal balance equation is considered. Taking into account the exponential dependence of electrical conductivity on temperature a mathematical model of the interaction of a flare discharge with a resistive film is constructed based on this equation. Increasing the mathematical model accuracy for this interaction is considered.
Methods for determining the location parameters of GTE blade profiles based on their measurement results
Authors: Bolotov M A , Pechenin V A , Ruzanov N V , Grachev I A
Published: February 2021

The location parameters of the actual profile of the blades of a gas turbine engine relative to its nominal position are used to assess the quality of these parts manufacture. The complex shape of the aerodynamic surfaces of the blades, as well as the errors in their manufacture make it difficult to unambiguously determine the displacement and rotation of the actual profile. The use of various methods for calculating the parameters under consideration may result in mismatching values, which raises the question of a reasonable choice of the methods used. This paper presents two methods for determining the geometric parameters of the location of the aerodynamic profiles of the blades, taking into account the features of their manufacture and the requirements of the existing industry standard. Also, the work evaluated the effectiveness of the proposed methods in determining the processing parameters of the blades of a gas turbine engine.
Modeling of physical processes of interaction of ultrasonic wave with metal structures for detection of defects
Authors: Mozhayko A A , Manninen S A , Davydov V V , Yu Rud V
Published: February 2021

In the article the features of the physical processes modeling of the ultrasonic wave interaction to the metal structures are considered. The mathematical model for calculating the acoustic field of a single element of a 32-element electromagnetic acoustic phased array of SV-waves is developed. The computer simulation of the process of reflection of the ultrasonic beam from a defect is carried out. The developed model allows to study the influence of the shape, size, location of defects in the plate, as well as the geometric parameters of the plate, on the formation of the reflected signal.
Mathematical modeling of spectra of nuclear magnetic resonance signals for investigation of condensed media in express mode
Authors: Makeev S S , Kuptsov V D , Davydov V V , Dudkin V I , Yu Rud V
Published: February 2021

In article the necessity of developing a mathematical model for converting the recorded NMR signal using a modulation technique into the spectrum for new investigations is substantiated. The comparison of various methods for describing the shape of the registration NMR signals to determine the line structure and various practical tasks solve is performed. A mathematical model for to represent the NMR signal in the form of a spectrum, taking into account the features of its registration from condensed matter is developed. Spectra of calculated and experimental NMR signals are presented. Its comparison is carried out.
Mathematical model of the distribution of electrical and thermal energy in the working element of an information and measurement system designed to study the process of initiating industrial explosives
Authors: Krivchenko E S , Nechaev A S , Moshchenskij Y V , Bogacheva O A
Published: February 2021

The use of sensitive explosives to detonate the main charge during perforation of solid rock layers, demolition of high-rise and strong structures, etc. is an inconvenient and dangerous method of initiation. This makes it urgent to develop and implement alternative methods for detonating explosives. One of these methods is to transmit a thermal pulse of the required power using thermal conductivity from a metal rod to an explosive. The determination of the thermal power of the pulse required for the occurrence of detonation is carried out by indirect measurements. The rating allocated by standard heat rod method is pretty rude, does not account for losses at the points of contact and spatial distribution of heat in the core, depending on the electric pulse parameters. In this paper, mathematical models of the formation of a thermal field in the rod, taking into account these factors, are constructed. Based on the results of the obtained models, numerical calculations are made for rods of different sizes and signals of different shapes and power. The results of the work allow us to determine the necessary initial and boundary conditions for a further description of fast-flowing thermal processes.
Comparison of methods for baseline determining of fluorescent detector signals of genetic analyzer
Authors: Batov Y V , Puzko D A , Petrov A I , Davydov V V , Yu Rud V
Published: February 2021

In article of the methods for baseline determining of signals from a fluorescent detector of a genetic analyzer are discussed. The simulated for signal which has characteristics identical to the characteristics of a real signal is performed. The comparison of the methods to the criterion of mean square error and calculation speed for model signals is done. A qualitative analysis of the effectiveness of methods on real signals is carried out. The theoretical calculations by these methods and research results are presented.
Investigation of 3D ultra-wideband bandpass filter model based on microstrip multimode resonators
Authors: Belyaev B A , Khodenkov S A , Shepeta N A , Popov A M
Published: February 2021

Here are the results of theoretical studies of microstrip multimode resonators with a short-circuited section of a strip conductor and ultra-wideband filter based on five-mode resonators. Electrical characteristics of microwave devices were obtained by means of numerical electrodynamic analysis of their 3D models. Substrates with dielectric constant of ε = 80 and ε = 9.8 were used in calculations. A synthesized filter with a 100% bandwidth has high frequency-selective properties and can be used in radio equipment of tropospheric and space communication with the advanced information transfer.
Research of optimality of the nanosatellite nominal reorientation trajectory
Authors: Chekashov A S , Kramlikh A V
Published: February 2021

Nanosatellites have serious limitations on the onboard energy. Therefore, it is necessary to find a method of constructing a nominal reorientation trajectory that will optimally use the resources available onboard. In this paper the process of constructing of a nominal reorientation trajectory in the plane of nanosatellite orbit is considered. The problem of constructing a nominal reorientation trajectory was solved using the inverse dynamic problem method and Pontryagin maximum principle. A comparison of the results obtained using these two methods was made. As a result, it was noted that the solution obtained by the inverse dynamic problem method is close to the solution obtained using the Pontryagin maximum principle. This allows us to speak about the optimality of the inverse dynamics problem method.
Investigation of the potential characteristics of a satellite multi-beam hybrid-mirror antenna by modeling the process of adaptation to random deformations of the reflector
Authors: Mochalov V V , Choni Yu I , Romanov A G , Yu Danilov I
Published: February 2021

The stabilization of the beams of large-sized multi-beam hybrid mirror antenna (MBHMA), the reflector profile of which is subject to distortion due to changing operational factors, is a complicated technical task. One of the ways to maintain energy efficiency of the satellite communications system in these circumstances is to adapt the amplitude-phase distribution of the clusters of the antenna array to random deformations of the reflector. By statistical modeling, the potentially achievable characteristics of the system are evaluated. Three variants of adaptation of cluster excitation were modeled: a) for fixed clusters, b) for adaptation of excitation, c) for adaptation of weights and position of clusters, d) for adaptation of weights and cluster configurations. For multivariate calculations, we use the simplified model of MBHMA that we have proposed. Comparison with calculations in Ticra Grasp environment confirmed the correctness of the model. Not only radiation patterns, but also focal spots on the antenna array we calculated to determine the rational composition of cluster elements and the vector of their excitation coefficients. Beams gain within the service area for reflector deformations were the subject of analysis. The studies showed that gain decrease can be reduced to 0.1 … 0.2 dB instead of 1.6 dB taking place without adaptation.
Modelling of machining center vibration stability by the D-partitions method
Authors: Krol O S , Sokolov V I , Tsankov P , Logunov O M
Published: February 2021

The stability of operation, vibration-free processing of products various types at high-speed machining centers suggests the improvement of research in the field of the dynamics of machine tools and their main forming units. The three-dimensional models of the forming spindle node and the corner table of the machining center for the drilling-milling-boring type in the CAD environment KOMPAS-3D have been developed. An algorithm for analyzing the dynamic quality of the machine elastic parts based on the constructed static and frequency formular in the mathematical environment MAPLE is proposed. Programs have been developed and graphs of the main frequency characteristics and the hodograph of the transfer function for the spindle node in the specialized Signal Processing module have been obtained. The method of D-partitions using to estimate the vibration stability of the forming units on an example of 4 coordinate milling machining centers is introduced. Experiments on two variants of technological adjustments with different dimensions of the tool block (the cantilever part of the spindle assembly) were carried out. The analysis of stability in the plane of the cutting process optimized parameter (specific cutting force) was carried out. The region and the boundary of the stable functioning of the machine and, on this basis, the optimum modes of machining by the criterion of vibration stability are revealed.
The use of an algorithm for determining the thrust of an electric propulsion system during a flight into a geostationary orbit
Authors: Salmin V V , Chetverikov A S
Published: February 2021

The article deals with the problem of control during the flight to the geostationary orbit of interorbital transport vehicles with low-thrust electric propulsion systems. The analysis of the influence on the final trajectory parameters of disturbing factors of various kinds, including the presence of a systematic error in the implementation of electric propulsion thrust. An algorithm for narrowing the area of deviation of the final trajectory parameters during the flight to geostationary orbit using low-thrust engines has been developed, which includes an algorithm for forming nominal programs for controlling the thrust vector and an algorithm for refining the amount of thrust created by an electric propulsion system, based on measurements of the actual period of circulation.
Determination initial approximations in solving the problem of numerical optimization of a large-sized space structure using linear extrapolation of optimal solutions
Authors: Salmin V V , Peresypkin K V , Chetverikov A S , Tkachenko I S
Published: February 2021

The parameters of a large-sized space structure are determined using numerical optimization using the gradient method. The complexity of the boundary of the constraints makes the optimal solution poorly conditioned relative to the initial point of the iterative process. The initial point is selected based on the optimal solutions found with an incomplete set of design variables. The initial point is found by linear extrapolation of these optimal solutions. In the problem under consideration, this approach made it possible to obtain a better locally optimal solution than was possible with the help of an intuitive choice of the starting point.