bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Solid-state electrolyte considerations for electric vehicle batteries
Authors: Shen Hao , Yi Eongyu , Cheng Lei , Amores Marco , Chen Guoying , Sofie Stephen W. , Doeff Marca M.
Published: April 2019

This paper is an overview of materials and cell fabrication considerations for all solid-state batteries meant for large format applications.
Acid induced conversion towards a robust and lithiophilic interface for Li–Li7La3Zr2O12 solid-state batteries
Authors: Ruan Yadong , Lu Yang , Huang Xiao , Su Jianmeng , Sun Changzhi , Jin Jun , Wen Zhaoyin
Published: April 2019

Solid-state lithium batteries (SSBs) promise high energy and power densities, as well as enhanced safety, owing to the use of Li metal and nonflammable solid-state electrolytes.
The chemical diversity of RNA modifications
Authors: Ontiveros R. Jordan , Stoute Julian , Liu Kathy Fange
Published: April 2019

Nucleic acid modifications in DNA and RNA ubiquitously exist among all the three kingdoms of life. This trait significantly broadens the genome diversity and works as an important means of gene transcription regulation. Although mammalian systems have limited types of DNA modifications, over 150 different RNA modification types have been identified, with a wide variety of chemical diversities. Most modifications occur on transfer RNA and ribosomal RNA, however many of the modifications also occur on other types of RNA species including mammalian mRNA and small nuclear RNA, where they are essential for many biological roles, including developmental processes and stem cell differentiation. These post-transcriptional modifications are enzymatically installed and removed in a site-specific manner by writer and eraser proteins respectively, while reader proteins can interpret modifications and transduce the signal for downstream functions. Dysregulation of mRNA modifications manifests as disease states, including multiple types of human cancer. In this review, we will introduce the chemical features and biological functions of these modifications in the coding and non-coding RNA species.
MicroRNA-550a is associated with muscle system conferring poorer survival for esophageal cancer
Authors: Hong Housong , Liu Taisheng , Wu Huazhen , Zhang Jinye , Shi Xiaoshun , Le Xiaobing , Chen Allen M. , Mo Haiyun , Huang Qianqian , Zhou Huaping , Rao Xuguang
Published: April 2019

Background Esophageal cancer (ESCA) is one of the most common cancers in the digestive tract. Approximately 300000 people on an average die of ESCA per year worldwide. The determination of key microRNAs for the prognosis of ESCA is of indispensable significance in the clinical treatment. Methods The differentially expressed microRNAs were screened by analyzing The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) database. By using the survival data of the database, we analyzed correlation between patients’ survival time and miR-550a expression levels. Differential expression analysis and gene set enrichment analysis were performed using the targeted data. Results It was found that patients with high miR-550a expression levels had shorter survival time. Data mining and signal pathway enrichment analysis of TCGA database showed that abnormal miR-550a expressions affected the recurrence of tumors by the muscle system regulation. Conclusions Through the proposed investigation, miR-550a is found to be a potential biomarker as well as non-coding therapeutic target for esophagus cancer. These results suggest that miR-550a may serve as a therapeutic target and predictor for ESCA survival.
Balanced quaternary sequences of even period with optimal autocorrelation
Authors: Luo Lianfei , Ma Wenping
Published: April 2019

In many communication systems, sequences with low correlation can reduce interference and noise. Tang and Lindner presented a construction of low autocorrelation quaternary sequences of period p based on cyclotomy, where is a prime (f, y are integers and ). In this study, a class of quaternary sequences of period 2p are proposed via interleaving two Tang‐Lindner sequences of period p. New quaternary sequences of period 2p are balanced and have optimal autocorrelation when .
Highly luminous supernovae associated with gamma-ray bursts
Authors: Kann D. A. , Schady P. , Olivares E. F. , Klose S. , Rossi A. , Perley D. A. , Krühler T. , Greiner J. , Nicuesa Guelbenzu A. , Elliott J. , Knust F. , Filgas R. , Pian E. , Mazzali P. , Fynbo J. P. U. , Leloudas G. , Afonso P. M. J. , Delvaux C. , Graham J. F. , Rau A. , Schmidl S. , Schulze S. , Tanga M. , Updike A. C. , Varela K.
Published: April 2019

Context. GRB 111209A, one of the longest gamma-ray bursts (GRBs) ever observed, is linked to SN 2011kl, which is the most luminous GRB supernova (SN) detected so far. Several lines of evidence indicate that this GRB-SN is powered by a magnetar central engine.

Aims. We place SN 2011kl into the context of large samples of SNe, addressing in more detail the question of whether this GRB-SN could be radioactively powered, and whether it represents an extreme version of a GRB-SN or an underluminous superluminous SN (SLSN).

Methods. We modelled SN 2011kl using SN 1998bw as a template and derived a bolometric light curve including near-infrared data. We compared the properties of SN 2011kl to literature results on stripped-envelope and SLSNe.

Results. A comparison in the k, s context, i.e. comparing SN 2011kl to SN 1998bw templates in terms of luminosity and light-curve stretch, clearly shows SN 2011kl is the most luminous GRB-SN to date and is spectrally very dissimilar to other events because it is significantly bluer/hotter. Although SN 2011kl does not reach the classical luminosity threshold of SLSNe and evolves faster than any of these objects, it resembles SLSNe more than the classical GRB-associated broad-lined Type Ic SNe in several aspects.

Conclusions. GRB 111209A was a very energetic event, both at early (prompt emission) and at very late (SN) times. We show in a companion publication that with the exception of the extreme duration, the GRB and afterglow parameters are in agreement with the known distributions for these parameters. SN 2011kl, on the other hand, is exceptional both in luminosity and spectral characteristics, indicating that GRB 111209A was likely not powered by a standard-model collapsar central engine, further supporting our earlier conclusions. Instead, it reveals the possibility of a direct link between GRBs and SLSNe.
Inner and outer rings are not strongly coupled with stellar bars
Authors: Díaz-García S. , Díaz-Suárez S. , Knapen J. H. , Salo H.
Published: April 2019

Rings are distinctive features of many disc galaxies and their location and properties are closely related to the disc dynamics. In particular, rings are often associated to stellar bars, but the details of this connection are far from clear. We have studied the frequency and dimensions of inner and outer rings in the local Universe as a function of disc parameters and the amplitude of non-axisymmetries. We used the 1320 not highly inclined disc galaxies (i <  65°) from the S4G survey. The ring fraction increases with bar Fourier density amplitude: this can be interpreted as evidence for the role of bars in ring formation. The sizes of inner rings are positively correlated with bar strength: this can be linked to the radial displacement of the 1/4 ultraharmonic resonance while the bar grows and the pattern speed decreases. The ring’s intrinsic ellipticity is weakly controlled by the non-axisymmetric perturbation strength: this relation is not as strong as expected from simulations, especially when we include the dark matter halo in the force calculation. The ratio of outer-to-inner ring semi-major axes is uncorrelated with bar strength: this questions the manifold origin of rings. In addition, we confirm that (i) ∼1/3 (∼1/4) of the galaxies hosting inner (outer) rings are not barred; (ii) on average, the sizes and shapes of rings are roughly the same for barred and non-barred galaxies; and (iii) the fraction of inner (outer) rings is a factor of 1.2−1.4 (1.65−1.9) larger in barred galaxies than in their non-barred counterparts. Finally, we apply unsupervised machine learning (self-organising maps, SOMs) to show that, among early-type galaxies, ringed or barred galaxies cannot be univocally distinguished based on 20 internal and external fundamental parameters. We confirm, with the aid of SOMs, that rings are mainly hosted by red, massive, gas-deficient, dark-matter poor, and centrally concentrated galaxies. We conclude that the present-day coupling between rings and bars is not as robust as predicted by numerical models, and diverse physical mechanisms and timescales determine ring formation and evolution.
Some aspects of mass-energy equivalence which appears in left-handed metamaterials
Authors: Gasimov Naghi , Karaaslan Muharrem , Sabah Cumali , Karadag Faruk
Published: April 2019

In this work, the concept of mass-energy equivalence in left-handed metamaterials is discussed by following Einstein's box thought experiment. Left-handed metamaterials are artificial composite structures that exhibit unusual properties, especially negative refractive index, in which phase and group velocities are directed oppositely. Equation E = mc2 assumes that, in vacuum, the propagation of an electromagnetic radiation from emitter to receiver is accompanied by the transfer of mass. It was hypothesized previously that if the space between emitter and receiver is medium with a negative refractive index, then radiation transfers the mass not from the emitter to receiver as expected, but rather from the receiver to the emitter due to the opposite directions of phase and group velocities. In this paper, it is shown that even though one radiating atom is taken, the negative mass transferring must be in force. In particular, it means that, if the atom radiates a photon in a medium with negative refractive index, photon transfers the mass not from the atom, but to the atom.
Electro-optic properties of singly and doubly doped lithium niobate crystal by rare earth elements for optoelectronic and laser applications
Authors: Mkhitaryan Nune , Zaraket Jean , Kokanyan Ninel , Kokanyan Edvard , Aillerie Michel
Published: April 2019

Congruent lithium niobate (LN) doped with rare-earth elements is a promising host for integrated optic combining the properties straightforwardly associated to the dopant with the good electro-optic (EO) properties. By direct technique based on interferometric optical arrangement at a wavelength of 633 nm and at room temperature, we have experimentally determined the figure of merit F = n3reff, (n is the refractive index and reff, the effective EO coefficient) and finally calculated the EO coefficients reff of the third-column of the unclamped EO tensor of three series of singly doped LN with Yb3+, Ho3+, Tm3+ and two series of doubly doped Er3+–Yb3+. It is found that in all the studied opto-geometric configurations, the unclamped figure of merit and consequently the corresponding EO coefficients are relatively constant in the considered dopant concentration range. As the figure of merit, F qualifies crystals for EO modulation and laser applications, all reported results confirm that the LN singly or doubly doped with rare-earth elements are very promising versatile candidates for several multifunctional nonlinear devices in optoelectronic and laser applications.
On the length of uncompletable words in unambiguous automata
Authors: Boccuto Antonio , Carpi Arturo
Published: April 2019

This paper deals with uncomplete unambiguous automata. In this setting, we investigate the minimal length of uncompletable words. This problem is connected with a well-known conjecture formulated by A. Restivo. We introduce the notion of relatively maximal row for a suitable monoid of matrices. We show that, if M is a monoid of {0, 1}-matrices of dimension n generated by a set S, then there is a matrix of M containing a relatively maximal row which can be expressed as a product of O(n3) matrices of S. As an application, we derive some upper bound to the minimal length of an uncompletable word of an uncomplete unambiguous automaton, in the case that its transformation monoid contains a relatively maximal row which is not maximal. Finally we introduce the maximal row automaton associated with an unambiguous automaton A. It is a deterministic automaton, which is complete if and only if A is. We prove that the minimal length of the uncompletable words of A is polynomially bounded by the number of states of A and the minimal length of the uncompletable words of the associated maximal row automaton.
Convergence of exponential Lawson-multistep methods for the MCTDHF equations
Authors: Koch Othmar
Published: April 2019

We consider exponential Lawson multistep methods for the time integration of the equations of motion associated with the multi-configuration time-dependent Hartree–Fock (MCTDHF) approximation for high-dimensional quantum dynamics. These provide high-order approximations at a minimum of evaluations of the computationally expensive nonlocal potential terms, and have been found to enable stable long-time integration. In this work, we prove convergence of the numerical approximation on finite time intervals under minimal regularity assumptions on the exact solution. A numerical illustration shows adaptive time propagation based on our methods.
Interfacial characterization with wettability, microstructure and interfacial thermodynamics for Ti–Al/VN system
Authors: Liu Xuyang , Lv Xuewei , Hu Ning , Liu Jingqi
Published: April 2019

Interfacial characterization, which includes wettability, interfacial microstructure and interfacial thermodynamics between VN substrate and Ti–Al molten alloy with different Al concentrations, was studied by the sessile drop method at 1758 K. The wettability between molten Ti–Al alloy and VN depends on alloy composition. The initial apparent contact angle increases from 95 to 120° with increasing Al content from 40 to 80 wt.% in the Ti–Al alloys. The Ti–Al/VN system is a typical dissolution system. The effect of dissolution on the apparent contact angle is reflected in the initial stage and progresses synchronously with movement of the triple-phase line. The wettability of Ti–Al/VN system shows no remarkable improvement with the dissolution of V. AlN and TiN should be formed as the interfacial reaction products during dissolution reaction of VN substrate.
Nationale Empfehlungen für Bewegung und Bewegungsförderung: ältere Erwachsene und Erwachsene mit einer chronischen Erkrankung
Authors: Geidl Wolfgang , Abu-Omar Karim , Messing Sven , Hartung Verena , Rütten Alfred , Pfeifer Klaus
Published: April 2019

Hintergrund 2016 wurden erstmals „Nationale Empfehlungen für Bewegung und Bewegungsförderung“ für Deutschland veröffentlicht. Der folgende Beitrag stellt das assoziierte Forschungsprojekt kurz vor und fasst die Empfehlungen für ältere Erwachsene sowie für Erwachsene mit einer chronischen Erkrankung zusammen.

Methodisches Vorgehen Für die Empfehlungen für Bewegung wurden systematische Literaturrecherchen, kriteriengeleitete Qualitätsbewertungen sowie Inhaltsanalysen und -synthesen von international vorhandenen Bewegungsempfehlungen angewandt. Für die Empfehlungen für Bewegungsförderung wurden 3 systematische Literaturrecherchen zu den Themenfeldern Wirksamkeit, Kostenwirksamkeit und Qualitätssicherung von Intervention zur Bewegungsförderung durchgeführt.

Ergebnisse Ältere Erwachsene und Erwachsene mit einer chronischen Erkrankung erzielen durch regelmäßige körperliche Aktivität bedeutsame Gesundheitswirkungen. Eine zentrale Bewegungsempfehlung für beide Zielgruppen ist es, möglichst 150 Minuten moderate oder 75 Minuten intensive Ausdaueraktivitäten, bzw. eine entsprechende Kombination, verteilt über die Woche zu erzielen. Weiterhin sollten muskelkräftigende Aktivitäten an mindestens 2 Tagen pro Woche durchgeführt werden. Bewegungsförderung gelingt für beide Zielgruppen dann, wenn sie in den Lebenswelten dieser Zielgruppen stattfindet und ihnen passgenaue Maßnahmen zur Bewegungsförderung anbietet. Dies können z. B. Bewegungsberatungen sein.

Schlussfolgerungen Mit der Entwicklung evidenzbasierter „Nationaler Empfehlungen für Bewegung und Bewegungsförderung“ liegt ein wichtiger Baustein für die Initiierung und Umsetzung von Maßnahmen der bewegungsbezogenen Gesundheitsförderung in Deutschland vor. Die spezielle Formulierung dieser Empfehlungen für die Zielgruppen älterer Erwachsener und Erwachsener mit einer chronischen Erkrankung ist international einmalig.
Moderne Behandlungsverfahren der Varikose der unteren Extremität
Authors: Bayer Andreas , Kahle Birgit , Horn Marco , Recke Anna , Keck Tobias , Kleemann Markus
Published: April 2019

Varicosis of the lower limb is a common disease that can lead to edema, trophic disturbances and skin ulcerations. In addition to the classic surgical procedure of crossectomy with stripping of the saphenous vein, a growing number of minimally invasive endoluminal treatment methods has been established over the past 15 years, offering a colorful array of procedures to the modern phlebologist. It is important to choose the optimal treatment option for each individual patient.
Messung von Mobilität und Funktion der unteren Extremität in einem ambulanten neurorehabilitativen Setting
Authors: Klotz Susanne G. R. , Ketels Gesche , Pichler Johannes , Scherer Martin , Barzel Anne
Published: April 2019

Hintergrund Erworbene neurologische Erkrankungen mit zerebraler Beteiligung führen häufig zu Einschränkungen der Mobilität und damit auch zu einer erschwerten Teilhabe am gesellschaftlichen Leben. Daher ist die Ermöglichung und Verbesserung von Teilhabe eines der wichtigsten Ziele individuell abgestimmter Rehabilitationsmaßnahmen. Die Wiederherstellung der motorischen Funktionen hängt im Rehabilitationsverlauf nicht zuletzt von der vergangenen Zeit seit dem neurologischen Ereignis ab.

Ziel Die vorliegende Untersuchung ging der Frage nach, ob die zu Beginn und am Ende einer komplexen interdisziplinären ambulanten neurologischen Rehabilitation routinemäßig eingesetzten Messinstrumente Veränderungen im Verlauf erfassen können und sich diese bei Personen mit akuten/subakuten und chronischen Geschehen unterscheiden.

Methode Retrospektiv wurden die Daten im Zeitraum Januar 2004 bis Dezember 2014 aus dem Neuro Reha Team Pasing, München, ausgewertet. Neben demografischen Daten und der Diagnose wurden die Messergebnisse der Instrumente zur Einschätzung der Funktion der unteren Extremität erhoben. Die Berechnung der intra- und intergruppalen Mittelwertunterschiede in den Messergebnissen erfolgten mittels t-Tests für unabhängige Stichproben und Chi2-Tests.

Ergebnisse Die Personen mit neurologischen Geschehen wurden im Mittel 82 ± 36 Tage behandelt. Bei allen eingesetzten Messinstrumenten zeigte sich eine signifikante Veränderung von Ausgangs- zu Endbefund. Bis auf den 10-Meter-Gehtest ergaben sich bei allen Messinstrumenten zwischen der akuten/subakuten und der chronischen Gruppe signifikante Unterschiede im Endbefund zugunsten der akuten/subakuten Gruppe.

Schlussfolgerung Der routinemäßige Einsatz von Messinstrumenten in einem neurorehabilitativen Setting erlaubt zuverlässig das schnelle Erfassen von Veränderungen im Therapieverlauf sowohl bei Personen mit akutem/subakutem als auch chronischem neurologischen Geschehen.
Ruthenium(II)-Catalyzed Migratory C–H Allylation/Hydroamination Cascade for the Synthesis of Rutaecarpine Analogues
Authors: Bairy Gurupada , Nandi Arijit , Manna Kartic , Jana Ranjan
Published: April 2019

An unprecedented allyl migration from a remote position of a quinazoline moiety through a ruthenium(II) shuttle is reported. This present cascade reaction is initiated through the formation of an η3-ruthenium–allyl complex followed by C–H allylation at the ortho position of the 2-aryl moiety. Finally, hydroamination with the quinazolinone -NH group, which is formed through tautomerization of the quinazoline, furnishes the annulation product. This exceedingly fast cascade reaction is complete within 10 minutes to provide rutaecarpine analogues in a single operation.
The Impact of Pharmaceutical Side Effects on Audiological and Vestibular Measurements
Authors: DiSogra Robert
Published: April 2019

There are over 2,000 drugs with a combined total of over 400 side effects that could result in obtaining inaccurate case history information or inaccurate test results that may lead to misdiagnosing the patient's hearing or vestibular problem. The recommendations that are made could be inappropriate and thus can lead to management errors. A review of the auditory, vestibular, and cognitive side effects of many of the drugs patients take regularly (including drugs that can cause tinnitus) is provided. This article offers suggestions to obtain a more accurate case history. A review of preferred Web sites to obtain drug side effect information is included. Suggestions for improved communication strategies between the audiologist, the physician, the patient, and the pharmacist are highlighted.
Common Aminoglycosides and Platinum-Based Ototoxic Drugs: Cochlear/Vestibular Side Effects and Incidence
Authors: DiSogra Robert
Published: April 2019

This is a reference chart that identifies 16 aminoglycoside antibiotics and platinum based drugs that could be cochleotoxic, vestibulotoxic or both. Using the most currently available data from published research from the National Library of Medicine's PubMed data base, incidence figures and risk factors are included in the chart along with the potential of permanence of reversibility of the impairment.
Monitoring Protocols for Cochlear Toxicity
Authors: Lord Sherman
Published: April 2019

The need for monitoring hearing and auditory function during drug therapy and other treatments that have the potential to cause hearing loss is well documented. Besides the main purpose of ototoxic monitoring, which is to provide feedback to the attending physician about the effects the treatment is having on the auditory system, it is also helpful in setting expectations for the patient and his/her family about the communication issues that may result from the drug therapy. This article will review tests available to an audiologist, both subjective and objective, that can be used to effectively monitor hearing levels and auditory function during treatment. Published guidelines and various ototoxic monitoring protocols are reviewed regarding tests administered, what constitutes a significant change in test results and how these findings are reported, and the impact significant changes may have on the course of treatment. Test protocols from different institutions are compared for both similarities and contrasts. Effective scheduling and test location are key to a successful monitoring program. Finally, the need to streamline ototoxic monitoring of hearing and auditory function to reduce test time and make it less stressful and tiresome on the patient will be considered.
Vestibular Toxicity: Causes, Evaluation Protocols, Intervention, and Management
Authors: Gans Richard , Rauterkus Grant ,   Research Associate
Published: April 2019

The loss of vestibular function, typically bilateral, due to chemical solvents and pharmacological agents is not rare and has been investigated and reported for many years. The successful treatment of bacterial infections and sepsis with IV antibiotics and cancer-fighting drugs like cisplatin makes the decision to use these life-saving drugs less of a debate, despite their potential deleterious effect on balance and equilibrium. The purpose of this article is to provide the reader with an overview of the more common substances found in industry and medicine which may decrease or permanently destroy peripheral and/or central vestibular function. A review of bedside and clinical evaluation protocols will be discussed as well as best practice intervention with balance retraining therapy. Finally, the role of the audiologist and opportunities for participation in an interdisciplinary approach to evaluation and management will be presented.
Complications and Treatment of Delayed or Inadequately Treated Nasoorbitoethmoid Fractures
Authors: Han Peter , Kim Yohanan , Herford Alan , Inman Jared
Published: April 2019

Delayed or improper repair of nasoorbitoethmoid (NOE) fractures can lead to debilitating outcomes including diplopia, epiphora, nasal obstruction, facial asymmetry, and poor cosmesis. As such, NOE fractures should be repaired promptly and properly to prevent these unwanted sequelae. Treating patients with delayed, untreated, or inadequately reduced NOE fractures is challenging due to scarring and contracture. Saddle nose deformity, telecanthus, enophthalmos, nasolacrimal duct obstruction, and soft-tissue scarring are often encountered in the secondary management of NOE fractures and should be addressed in the overall context of reestablishing facial symmetry and function.
Regional Reconstruction of Orbital Exenteration Defects
Authors: Jategaonkar Ameya , Vernon Dominic , Byrne Patrick
Published: April 2019

Aggressive disease such as invasive fungal infections or malignancies may necessitate orbital exenteration. The defects of orbital exenteration are often complex involving adjacent structures. Rehabilitation of the orbital exenteration defect poses unique challenges to the reconstructive surgeon. Various options have been described ranging from secondary intention to microvascular free tissue reconstruction. Here the authors review local/regional options for reconstruction of orbital exenteration defects.
Orbital Trauma
Authors: Lozada Kirkland , Cleveland Patrick , Smith Jesse
Published: April 2019

The orbit is contained within a complex bony architecture with overlying soft tissue that involves many important anatomical structures. Orbital trauma is a frequent cause of damage to these structures. The authors review the literature on reconstructive techniques focusing on fractures of the orbital rim, orbital roof, orbital floor, medial orbital wall, and naso-orbito-ethmoid complex. A thorough literature review was conducted using PubMed analyzing articles relevant to the subject matter. Various search terms were used to identify articles regarding orbital trauma presentation, diagnosis, management, as well as postoperative complications. Articles were examined by all authors and pertinent information was gleaned for the purpose of generating this review. Orbital trauma can result in a wide variety of complications in form and function. Not all orbital fractures require operative repair. However, bony disruption can cause enophthalmos, hypophthalmos, telecanthus, epiphora, cerebrospinal fluid leaks, orbital hematoma, and even blindness to name a few. Timing of operative repair as well as reconstructive method is dictated by the patient's individual presentation. Successful fracture management requires a detailed understanding of the anatomy and pathophysiology to ensure restoration of the patients' preoperative state. Orbital trauma encompasses a wide variety of mechanisms of injury and resulting fracture patterns. A variety of surgical approaches to the orbit exist as has been discussed allowing the surgeon access to all area of interest. Regardless of the fracture complexity, the principles of atraumatic technique, anatomic reduction, and stable fixation apply in all cases.
A virtual-source emission-diffusion I-V model for ultra-thin black phosphorus field-effect transistors
Authors: Yarmoghaddam Elahe , Haratipour Nazila , Koester Steven J. , Rakheja Shaloo
Published: April 2019

In this paper, we develop an analytic model based on the theory of virtual-source emission-diffusion (VS-ED) to describe ambipolar current conduction in ultrathin black phosphorus (BP) field-effect transistors (FETs). Unlike the VS model which is strictly applicable to quasiballistic devices, the VS-ED model can be applied to long-channel devices with drift-diffusive transport. The model comprehends the in-plane band structure anisotropy in BP, as well as the asymmetry in electron and hole current conduction characteristics. The model also includes the effect of Schottky-type source/drain contact resistances, which are voltage-dependent and can significantly limit current conduction in the on-state in BP FETs. Model parameters are extracted using measured data of back-gated BP transistors with gate lengths of 1000 nm and 300 nm with BP thicknesses of 7.3 nm and 8.1 nm, and for the temperature range 180–298 K. Compared to previous BP models that are validated only for room temperature and near-equilibrium bias conditions (low drain-source voltage), we demonstrate an excellent agreement between the model and data over a broad range of bias and temperature values. The model is also validated against numerical technology computer-aided design data of back- and top-gated BP transistors with a channel length of 300 nm and a thickness of 8.1 nm. The model is implemented in Verilog-A, and the capability of the model to handle both dc and transient circuit simulations is demonstrated using SPECTRE. The model not only provides physical insight into technology-device interaction in BP transistors but can also be used to design and optimize BP-based circuits using a standard hierarchical circuit simulator.
Interacting relativistic quantum dynamics of two particles on spacetimes with a Big Bang singularity
Authors: Lienert Matthias , Tumulka Roderich
Published: April 2019

Relativistic quantum theories are usually thought of as being quantum field theories, but this is not the only possibility. Here, we consider relativistic quantum theories with a fixed number of particles that interact neither through potentials nor through exchange of bosons. Instead, the interaction can occur directly along light cones, in a way similar to the Wheeler-Feynman formulation of classical electrodynamics. For two particles, the wave function is here of the form ψ(x1, x2), where x1 and x2 are spacetime points. Specifically, we consider a natural class of covariant equations governing the time evolution of ψ involving integration over light cones or even more general spacetime regions. It is not obvious, however, whether these equations possess a unique solution for every initial datum. We prove for Friedmann-Lemaître-Robertson-Walker spacetimes that in the case of purely retarded interactions, there does, in fact, exist a unique solution for every datum on the initial hypersurface. The proof is based on carrying over similar results for a Minkowski half-space (i.e., the future of a spacelike hyperplane) to curved spacetime. Furthermore, we show that also in the case of time-symmetric interactions and for spacetimes with both a Big Bang and a Big Crunch, solutions do exist. However, initial data are then not appropriate anymore; the solution space gets parametrized in a different way.
A gas flow meter with linear sensitivity based on freely-suspended nanofilms of smectic liquid crystal
Authors: Green Adam A. S. , Dutch Evan , Qi Zhiyuan , Briggs Corrina , Park Cheol S. , Glaser Matthew A. , Maclennan Joseph E. , Clark Noel A.
Published: April 2019

A technique of mechanical airflow sensing based on coupling to a film of fluid smectic liquid crystals is presented. A gas jet confined to a narrow channel induces flow in a continuous, freely suspended film with racetrack geometry, whose velocity field is then mapped using video microscopy and particle tracking techniques. Because the nanofilm has so little mass compared to the air, its velocity provides a direct readout of the velocity profile of the gas in the channel. This method of flow measurement offers several advantages over conventional mechanical flow meters: It has linear sensitivity, and so, it can operate at low flows, and the energy lost due to the measurement is negligible.
High electron mobility with significant spin-orbit coupling in rock-salt YbO epitaxial thin film
Authors: Yamamoto Taku , Kaminaga Kenichi , Saito Daichi , Oka Daichi , Fukumura Tomoteru
Published: April 2019

We studied the optical and electrical properties of ytterbium monoxide (YbO) epitaxial thin films with unusual Yb2+ (4f145d0) valence grown by the pulsed laser deposition method. The narrow bandgap of 0.25 eV and the large crystal field splitting of 5d orbitals in YbO determined from absorption spectra were consistent with the chemical trends of ytterbium monochalcogenides (YbChs). Electrical resistivity was tunable upon electron doping via introduction of oxygen vacancies. Electron mobility at room temperature increased up to ∼13 cm2 V−1 s−1 with increasing electron carrier density. The heavily electron-doped YbO showed weak antilocalization at low temperature, suggesting significant spin-orbit coupling owing to the heavy Yb nucleus.
Magnetic properties of FeNi alloys for high-temperature thermomagnetic power generation
Authors: Liu Junqiang , Long Yi , Bai Dongliang , Sun Hao , Zhang Hu , Long Kewen , Yan Tianbao
Published: April 2019

In this paper, the magnetic properties and heat transfer performance of Fe99.3-xNixMn0.4Si0.3 (x=33, 35, 37, 39, 41, 43) alloys near the Curie temperature (TC) were investigated. The results show that Curie temperature TC for the Fe99.3-xNixMn0.4Si0.3 alloys increases almost linearly from 450 K to 647 K with the Ni content increasing from x = 33 to x = 43. The maximum change rate of the magnetic induction (ΔB/ΔT) near the Curie temperature first increases and then decreases with the increasing Ni content. The maximum ΔB/ΔT value for Fe99.3-xNixMn0.4Si0.3 (x≥37) alloys is higher than that of the second-order phase transition materials (0.0202 T/K). Therefore, the Fe100-xNixMn0.4Si0.3 alloys are suitable for thermomagnetic power generation above 473 K. The energy conversion process of a platy sample (0.2×0.2×0.001 m3) for the alloy with x=37 in the static thermomagnetic power generation was simulated, and the maximum electromotive force of 1.47 V was generated in the simulation.
Thermal-gradient-driven elemental segregation in Ge2Sb2Te5 phase change memory cells
Authors: Yeoh Phoebe , Ma Yuanzhi , Cullen David A. , Bain James A. , Skowronski Marek
Published: April 2019

Thermal gradients have been predicted to play a large role in compositional segregation leading to failure in phase change memories. We have developed a methodology for isolating thermal-gradient driven segregation effects without interference from the electric field. In Ge2Sb2Te5 functional layers, Sb and Te move along the temperature gradient, while Ge segregates in the opposite direction. The direction of segregation is consistent for devices that were repeatedly melted, as well as for devices that were never melted and remained in the polycrystalline state. The results have implications for the reliability of phase change memories.
Simulating surface tension in a non-equilibrium system
Authors: Kish Stacy W.
Published: April 2019

New computer simulations provide insight for developing materials that can respond to the surrounding environment.
Ytterbium monoxide epitaxial thin films exhibit high electron mobility
Authors: Johnson-Groh Mara
Published: April 2019

A study of the electrical and optical properties of ytterbium monoxide epitaxial thin films finds them to be promising materials for heteroepitaxial spintronic devices.
Stepwise activation of a class C GPCR begins with millisecond dimer rearrangement
Authors: Grushevskyi Eugene O. , Kukaj Taulant , Schmauder Ralf , Bock Andreas , Zabel Ulrike , Schwabe Tina , Benndorf Klaus , Lohse Martin J.
Published: April 2019

Significance

G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) form a family of signaling molecules in the membrane of cells that plays a key role in transduction of cellular responses. Little is known about how rapidly GPCRs can be activated. While the “light receptor” rhodopsin in the eye activates within 1 ms, other GPCRs are thought to activate much slower. We use two entirely different techniques with advanced time resolution to activate a dimeric metabotropic glutamate GPCR: UV light-triggered uncaging of ligand in intact cells and piezo-driven ligand application in outside-out patches. We demonstrate initial conformational rearrangements within ≈1 ms that are followed by much slower (≈20 ms) activation in the transmembrane domain. Thus, the initial activation of a nonvisual GPCR proceeds with millisecond speed.
Register in variationist linguistics
Authors: Szmrecsanyi Benedikt
Published: April 2019

Benedikt Szmrecsanyi, Professor of Linguistics in the Quantitative Lexicology and Variational Linguistics research group at the Katholieke Universiteit (KU) Leuven, writes this article exploring the connections between register and variationist linguistics. He is involved with various large-scale research projects in areas such as probabilistic grammar, variationist sociolinguistic research, linguistic complexity, and dialectology/dialectometry. Szmrecsanyi’s books includeGrammatical Variation in British English Dialects: A Study in Corpus-based Dialectometry(2013, Cambridge) andAggregating Dialectology, Typology, and Register Analysis: Linguistic Variation in Text and Speech(Szmrecsanyi & Wälchli 2014, Mouton de Gruyter). He is currently a principal investigator on a major grant-funded research project titled ‘The register-specificity of probabilistic grammatical knowledge in English and Dutch’, a project aimed at exploring the question of whether register differences lead to differences in the processes of making linguistic choices. In sharp contrast to the status quo in variationist linguistics, where register is often ignored entirely, much of Szmrecsanyi’s variationist research treats register as a variable of primary importance. The findings from these studies have led Benedikt Szmrecsanyi to state that “we need more empirical/variationist work to explore the differences that register makes” (Szmrecsanyi 2017: 696).
Text-linguistic approaches to register variation
Authors: Biber Douglas
Published: April 2019

Douglas Biber, Regents’ Professor of Applied Linguistics at Northern Arizona University, authors this article exploring the connections between register and a text-linguistic approach to language variation. He has spent the last 30 years pursuing a research program that explores the inherent link between register and language use, including at the phraseological, grammatical, and lexico-grammatical levels. His seminal bookVariation across Speech and Writing(1988, Cambridge University Press) launched multi-dimensional (MD) analysis, a comprehensive framework and methodology for the large-scale study of register variation. This approach was innovative in taking a text-linguistic approach to characterize language use across situations of use through the quantitative and functional analysis of linguistic co-occurrence patterns and underlying dimensions of language use. MD analysis is now used widely to study register variation over time, in general and specialized registers, in learner language, and across a range of languages. In 1999, theLongman Grammar of Spoken and Written English(Biber et al.) became the first comprehensive descriptive reference book to systematically consider register variation in describing the grammatical and lexico-grammatical patterns of use in English. Douglas Biber’s quantitative linguistic research has consistently demonstrated the importance of register as a predictor of language variation. In his own words, “register always matters” (Gray 2013: 360, Interview with Douglas Biber,English Language & Linguistics).
Species distribution models (SDM): applications, benefits and challenges in invasive species management.
Authors: Srivastava V. , Lafond V. , Griess V. C.
Published: April 2019

The use of species distribution models (SDM) is of increasing popularity when studying biological invasions, e.g. to assess the impact of climate change on invasive species, to prioritize conservation measures, or to study invasive evolutionary biology. SDM correlate known occurrences of species with environmental variables and predict a species' potential distribution on other geographies over space and time. Today, SDM are widely used to produce invasion risk maps by delineating probable risk areas based on climatic suitability for a species. These maps can guide early detection and rapid response measures. While recent developments in modelling approaches and wider availability of environment datasets have helped to create better and more accurate SDM, in many cases the used models ignore the associated underlying ecological processes for e.g. dispersal and biotic interactions and thus provide only an incomplete picture of invasion risks. In this paper, we present a review of the most common applications of SDM in invasive species management and provide an overview of possible solutions to various challenges like uncertainty and transferability associated with them. Based on our review we conclude that ways towards more accurate model outputs include fitting models with existing ecological knowledge (hybrid models), address uncertainty and biotic interactions and link species dispersal traits with projections of species distributions. In the future, work is required on developing more hybrid approaches and models that addresses both local diffusion and long distance movement of alien species.
Production of the plant polyketide curcumin in Aspergillus oryzae: strengthening malonyl-CoA supply for yield improvement
Authors: Kan Eiichiro , Katsuyama Yohei , Maruyama Jun-ichi , Tamano Koichi , Koyama Yasuji , Ohnishi Yasuo
Published: April 2019

The filamentous fungus Aspergillus oryzae was recently used as a heterologous host for fungal secondary metabolite production. Here, we aimed to produce the plant polyketide curcumin in A. oryzae. Curcumin is synthesized from feruloyl-coenzyme A (CoA) and malonyl-CoA by curcuminoid synthase (CUS). A. oryzae expressing CUS produced curcumin (64 μg/plate) on an agar medium containing feruloyl-N-acetylcysteamine (a feruloyl-CoA analog). To increase curcumin yield, we attempted to strengthen the supply of malonyl-CoA using two approaches: enhancement of the reaction catalyzed by acetyl-CoA carboxylase (ACC), which produces malonyl-CoA from acetyl-CoA, and inactivation of the acetyl-CoA-consuming sterol biosynthesis pathway. Finally, we succeeded in increasing curcumin yield sixfold by the double disruption of snfA and SCAP; SnfA is a homolog of SNF1, which inhibits ACC activity by phosphorylation in Saccharomyces cerevisiae and SCAP is positively related to sterol biosynthesis in Aspergillus terreus. This study provided useful information for heterologous polyketide production in A. oryzae.
Microbial therapeutics: New opportunities for drug delivery
Authors: Jimenez Miguel , Langer Robert , Traverso Giovanni
Published: April 2019

With >40 clinical trials underway, we are nearing the first FDA-approved live microbial therapeutic. Here, Giovanni Traverso, MIT and Harvard Medical School Assistant Professor, and colleagues Miguel Jimenez and Institute Professor Robert Langer from MIT discuss the significant challenges of administering live microorganisms to patients and the opportunities for drug delivery of these new complex therapeutics.
Engaging problems on trigonometry: why were student hard to think critically?
Authors: Aminudin M , Nusantara T , Parta I N , Rahardjo S , As’ari A R , Subanji
Published: April 2019

This research study aimed to determine the causes of difficulties for students to think critically in solving trigonometric problem. 29 first semester students of the UNISSULA mathematics education program participated in this study. Data collection techniques used mathematic test and unstructured interviews. The math test given is a trigonometric problem. The result of research indicated that there were four factors that caused the students difficult to think critically. Those four factors are lack of skepticism on math problem, learning of school mathematics that did not emphasize critical thinking, student ignorance about critical thinking, and motivation was limited only to solve math problems.
News, Economic Governance, and Anti-Corruption
Authors: Schiffrin Anya
Published: April 2019

In the past 50 years, there has been a burgeoning literature on the role of journalism in promoting governance and supporting anti-corruption efforts. Much of this comes from the work of economists and political scientists, and there is a lot for journalism studies scholars to learn from. The three disciplines grapple with many of the same questions; including the effects of journalism on society and journalists’ role as watchdogs and scarecrows. Economists are the boldest about establishing causality between journalism and governance, arguing that a free and open press can curb corruption and promote accountability. However, this is not always borne out in practice as modern technological and political developments have threatened journalism’s business model, especially in regions without a historically robust free press. Media capture continues to be a growing problem in places where government and business interests are aligned and seek to instrumentalize the media.

Further quantitative research and exploration of the impediments to the functioning of a free media will help our understanding of the contemporary problems facing journalists and how they can be solved in order to improve governance across the world. There is much more to be learned about the impact of journalism on governance and studies on this topic should not only cross disciplines but must also be decolonialized so that the field has more information on how the media contributes, or not, to governance in the Global South and in the different media systems outlined by Hallin and Mancini as well as the updated analysis of Efrat Nechushtai.
Activism of Political Parties in Africa
Authors: Bob-Milliar George M.
Published: April 2019

Since the early 1990s, African states have been democratizing. Political parties now dominate the public spaces in many African democracies. The past 26 years have witnessed the growth and consolidation of “party democracy” in Africa. This is the longest period of uninterrupted growth of electoral politics in many countries on the continent. Recent Afrobarometer surveys show that almost two-thirds (63%) of Africans support pluralistic politics. Party identification in sub-Saharan Africa has also been on the rise. Across 16 states Afrobarometer surveyed, a majority of Africans (65%) claim they “feel close to” a political party in their country. The mass public who identified with a particular political party increased by 7 percentage points between 2002 and 2015.

Political parties are the vehicles for citizens to engage in party activism. The women and men who join a political party become the party activists. Party activists are the lifeblood of the party organization. And political party activism in sub-Saharan Africa is geared toward the election of the party and its candidates into office. Consequently, party activism is a continuum of high-intensity and low-intensity political activities. Party activists vary in their levels of involvement. Thus, it is a mixture of fanfare and aggressive participation. Political party activism is a multifaceted process where party members undertake any of the following political activities: display a poster, donate money, help with fund-raising, deliver election leaflets, help at a party function, attend party meetings, undertake door-to-door campaigning, and run for party office. The involvement of party members usually varies from active engagement to passive attachment to the party. There were several motives for party activists getting involved in “high-intensity participation.” Because of the crucial role party activists play in the intra- and inter-party competition, the parties provide some incentives to get members commitment. At the organizational level, party activists present themselves for election into party offices at the grassroots, regionally or nationally. They devote their time and financial resources in furtherance of the party agenda. In return, party activists expect the party to reward them with selective incentives when power is won. That said, more research is required at the country level to enable us to construct the profile of the African party activists.