bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Local initial heteroepitaxial growth of diamond (111) on Ru (0001)/c-sapphire by antenna-edge-type microwave plasma chemical vapor deposition
Authors: Fei Wenxi , Wei Kongting , Morishita Aoi , Wang Hongxing , Kawarada Hiroshi
Published: September 2020

Heteroepitaxial growth is critical for large-scale synthesis of diamond (111) substrates. In this study, the local initial epitaxial growth of diamond (111) on Ru/c-sapphire was investigated. As the economic viability of ruthenium (Ru) is more than that of iridium (Ir), a 150-nm Ru (0001) thin film was sputter-deposited on an Al2O3 (0001) substrate using a RF/DC magnetron sputtering system. X-ray diffraction analyses of the Ru film revealed the (0001) phase orientation with high crystalline quality. Both bias-enhanced nucleation and initial heteroepitaxial growth of diamond were realized via antenna-edge-type microwave plasma chemical vapor deposition. After 30 min of heteroepitaxial growth, the crystallite (diameter ∼500 nm) with a smooth surface was observed through scanning electron microscopy. Electron backscattering diffraction (EBSD) orientation mapping indicated the presence of the highly oriented diamond (111) crystallite. The epitaxial orientations between diamond (111) and Ru were determined as [111]diamond//[0001]Ru and [112¯]diamond//[101¯0]Ru. The EBSD pole-figure pattern represented the formation of a double positioning defect. This study demonstrated the feasibility of heteroepitaxial growth of diamond (111) on Ru, which provides a more economically viable approach to fabricating large-size diamond substrates.
A new method for measuring total electron emission yield of insulators
Authors: Cai Yahui , Wang Dan , Ye Ming , He Yongning
Published: September 2020

For insulators, the deposited charge on the surface after electron bombardment interferes with the total electron emission yield (TEEY) measurement. The key to measuring the TEEY of insulators is to eliminate the surface deposited charge. Being different from traditional measurement methods, we develop and demonstrate a new method for measuring the TEEY of insulators in a scanning electron microscope by preparing the micro-patterned metal on the surface of the insulators as a conducting channel. The TEEY of the insulators is measured based on the TEEY of the metal part and the metal–insulator periodic structure. By theoretical analysis, we get a criterion for judging whether the deposited charge is eliminated. The result shows that this method is reliable by measuring the TEEY of Si. Then, we obtained the TEEY of SiO2 by this method with an energy of up to 3000 eV. The measured TEEY characteristics of SiO2 are consistent with the data from the references. Moreover, the surface charge diffusion distance of the insulators can also be estimated under this measuring condition. We get that the maximum value of the TEEY of SiO2 is ∼4.2, and the surface charge diffusion distance of SiO2 is ∼1 µm. In this work, the criterion for judging whether the deposited charge is eliminated is obtained, which has not been proposed in traditional measurement methods.
Reversible thermally controlled spontaneous magnetization switching in perovskite-type manganite
Authors: Yamamoto Hajime , Sekikawa Satoru , Taniguchi Haruka , Matsukawa Michiaki , Shigematsu Kei , Honda Takashi , Yamauchi Kunihiko , Ikeda Kazutaka , Otomo Toshiya , Sakakura Terutoshi , Azuma Masaki , Nimori Shigeki , Noda Yukio , Kimura Hiroyuki
Published: September 2020

Reversible, thermally controlled, spontaneous magnetization switching (reversible TCSMS) is demonstrated in the absence and presence of an external magnetic field in polycrystalline perovskite-type CaMn0.95Sb0.05O3. The spontaneous magnetization value is retained throughout a cyclic process even in bias magnetic fields. Neutron diffraction and theoretical studies indicate that two weak ferromagnetic phases, namely, spin-canted G- and A-type antiferromagnetic phases, coexist and that their ratio changes during magnetization switching. This spin structure transition is attributable to growth of eg orbital ordering clusters. The coexistence of two weak ferromagnetic phases plays a key role in exhibiting reversible TCSMS.
Multi-carrier processes in halogenated Si nanocrystals
Authors: Derbenyova N. V. , Burdov V. A.
Published: September 2020

We study theoretically an effect of passivation with Cl and Br on Auger recombination and multiple exciton generation in silicon nanocrystal Si317X172, with X being the passivating element. The nanocrystal electronic structure and rates of these processes are calculated using time-dependent density functional theory. Comparison with the H-passivated Si nanocrystal shows that the bromine coating, despite having less electronegativity, affects the electronic structure and transition rates more than the chlorine one due to the stronger structural perturbations caused by the greater surface atoms. Certain electron–hole asymmetry in both of the considered multi-carrier processes is revealed for the Br-coated silicon nanocrystal: the processes become faster if initiated by holes and slower (or invariable on the whole) if initiated by electrons. On the contrary, the chlorine coating weakly influences the multi-carrier processes.
Investigation of carrier compensation traps in n−-GaN drift layer by high-temperature deep-level transient spectroscopy
Authors: Huang Huayang , Yang Xuelin , Wu Shan , Shen Jianfei , He Xiaoguang , Wei Lai , Liu Danshuo , Xu Fujun , Tang Ning , Wang Xinqiang , Ge Weikun , Shen Bo
Published: September 2020

Carrier compensation traps in n−-GaN drift layers grown on Si substrates were investigated using high-temperature deep-level transient spectroscopy (DLTS). The upper limit of the temperature range (700 K) allows for the study of deeper levels in the bandgap than those previously reported by conventional DLTS. Three trap states were revealed to be responsible for carrier compensation. Besides the residual carbon (C) acceptor, two deep electron traps detected in the DLTS high-temperature range, labeled E2 and E3 with energies EC of 0.98 and 1.38 eV, respectively, were also found to have contributions to the carrier compensation. A comprehensive investigation combining with positron annihilation spectroscopy measurements revealed that E2 and E3 are related to the (–/2–) and (0/–) acceptor levels of the VGa–ON complex, respectively. The relatively high concentrations of E2 and E3 imply that the VGa–ON complex is an essential carrier compensation source in the drift layer and plays a crucial role in developing kV-class vertical GaN power devices.
Using GEOS-5 forecast products to represent aerosol optical depth in operational day-ahead solar irradiance forecasts for the southwest United States
Authors: Bunn Patrick T. W. , Holmgren William F. , Leuthold Michael , Castro Christopher L.
Published: September 2020

This study aims to improve operational day-ahead direct normal irradiance (DNI) forecasts in clear-sky conditions using the Weather and Research Forecasting model. To create three different forecasting methods targeting the direct effect of aerosols on radiation, we use three different types of aerosol optical depth (AOD) data: (1) the Tegen aerosol climatology, (2) the persistence of measured AERONET AOD, and (3) the Goddard Earth Observing System model version 5 (GEOS-5) gridded forecasts of AOD. We evaluate each method at the Solana Generating Station, a concentrating solar power plant near Gila Bend, Arizona, and the University of Arizona, Tucson. We perform a retrospective DNI forecast analysis and find that including GEOS-5 forecast AOD improved the DNI forecast compared to using an aerosol climatology at both locations. At Tucson, where AOD is measured, we find that the persistence of measured AOD gives the best DNI forecast. However, the accuracy of that measured AOD reduces when translating it 225 km to Solana to forecast DNI 48 hours later. We then include the GEOS-5 AOD forecasts in one member of an operational forecast system and evaluate it against the other ensemble members that use the aerosol climatology. In clear-sky conditions, including GEOS-5 forecast AOD instead of the Tegen aerosol climatology, reduces the DNI forecast root mean square error by 27% at Solana. We found no significant differences during all-sky conditions because the relatively poor performance during cloudy conditions outweighs the improvements made in clear-sky conditions.
Near-wall effect on flow around an elliptic cylinder translating above a plane wall
Authors: Zhu Jianxun , Holmedal Lars Erik , Myrhaug Dag , Wang Hong
Published: September 2020

In this work, the flow over an elliptic cylinder near a moving wall is investigated for Reynolds numbers less than 150. Here, the ratio between the gap (i.e., the distance between the cylinder and the wall) and the length of the semi-major axis of the elliptic cylinder varies from 0.1 to 5. This ratio is hereafter denoted as the gap ratio. The resulting Kármán vortex street, the two-layered wake, and the secondary vortex street have been investigated and visualized. Numerical simulations show that for the steady flow, the wake is composed of two asymmetric recirculation vortices, while a decrease in the gap ratio suppresses the vortex shed from the lower part of the cylinder. For the unsteady flow, the wake can be classified into four different patterns based on the wake structures (the Kármán vortex street, the two-layered wake, and the secondary vortex street). The regions of these wake patterns are given in the gap ratio and Reynolds number space, showing that the critical Reynolds number for the transition between different patterns increases as the gap ratio decreases. An overall increase in the mean drag coefficient with increasing gap ratios is observed, except for a sudden drop that occurs within a small gap ratio range. Moreover, as the gap ratio increases, the onset location of the two-layered wake first decreases due to a decrease in flow velocity in the gap and then increases due to the weakening of the wall suppression effect.
Radiation detection using fully depleted 50 μm thick Ni/n-4H-SiC epitaxial layer Schottky diodes with ultra-low concentration of Z1/2 and EH6/7 deep defects
Authors: Chaudhuri Sandeep K. , Kleppinger Joshua W. , Mandal Krishna C.
Published: September 2020

Recent advances in the development of thick 4H-SiC epitaxial layers for the fabrication of surface barrier radiation detectors have been paving the way for their use in highly penetrating radiation detection. Challenges still exist to achieve full depletion all the way to the epilayer width, while maintaining a low leakage current at high reverse bias conditions. We report the fabrication of high-resolution and low leakage current Schottky barrier alpha particle detectors with a large active area of 11 mm2 on 50 μm thick n-type 4H-SiC epitaxial layers, which can be fully depleted. The detectors were cut out of large substrates of 100 mm diameter with a micropipe density <1 cm−2 in the epilayers. Mott–Schottky plots obtained from the capacitance–voltage measurements revealed an effective doping concentration of 1.9×1014cm−3. A parallel plate capacitor model implied that a reverse bias of ∼440 V was needed to achieve a full-depletion width (50 μm). The current–voltage characteristics demonstrated a very low leakage current of 0.45 nA at a reverse bias of −450 V, which is low enough for the detector to be operated at full-depletion bias. In fact, pulse height spectroscopy using a 241Am alpha source, with the detector biased at −120 V, exhibited a well-resolved alpha spectrum with an energy resolution of 0.8% for the alpha peak corresponding to 5486 keV. This energy resolution was maintained consistently up to a full-depletion bias of −440 V. The ultra-stable performance of the detector has been attributed to the remarkably low concentration of carrier lifetime affecting deep-level defects like Z1/2 and EH6/7, which were found to be of the order of 1012cm−3 or less using capacitance mode deep-level transient spectroscopy measurements.
Combined measurement of electronic and ionic work functions, w(e−) and w(Li+), for lithium phosphate
Authors: Schepp Johanna , Plamper Dominik , Both Jon Henrik , Weitzel Karl-Michael
Published: September 2020

The electronic work function, w(e−), and the ionic work function, w(Li+), of a lithium ultraphosphate, Li0.67PO2.8, have been measured by thermionic emission in the Richardson–Dushman regime. The values derived are w(Li+) = 1.99 ± 0.18 eV and w(e−) = 2.64 ± 0.38 eV. The measurements have been made possible by the implementation of a micro-channel plate detector, allowing the counting of single charge carrier particles, equivalent to a detection limit on the order of 1 aA. The ionic work function is demonstrated to increase with increasing lithium content in a series of lithium phosphates.
Correction of second-order slip condition for higher Knudsen numbers by approximation of free-molecular diffusion
Authors: Groll R. , Kunze S. , Besser B.
Published: September 2020

The computational predictions of channel and pipe flows with classical models and no-slip condition at the wall reach excellent results for lower Knudsen numbers (Kn) only. Linear slip models reach a very good approximation of measurement results over the region of 10−3 < Kn < 10−1. The numerical results of higher-order slip models match experimental data up to Kn ≈ 1. The present work derives an analytical model for the transition from the slip regime to the free-molecular flows by the superposition of diffuse molecular boundary reflection and the molecular diffusion inside the bulk flow. The methodology of the present publication models the mass flow resulting from the molecular diffusion for the approximation of the mass flow in microchannels and micropipes for the regime of molecular mass flows (1 < Kn < 100) in an excellent way. The present model shows good agreement with the former models, measurement data, and direct simulation Monte Carlo results for the complete region from the transitional regime up to free-molecular flow (10−2 < Kn < 102).
Pore-scale modeling of wettability effects on infiltration behavior in liquid composite molding
Authors: Guo Xiaokang , Liu Runcong , Wang Jiang , Shuai Sansan , Xiong Degan , Bai Shuxin , Zhang Nianmei , Gong Xiufang , Wang Xiaodong
Published: September 2020

The effect of wettability on the infiltration behavior in the liquid composite molding process has not been fully studied, and the available evidence appears to be conflicting. Based on the three-dimensional microcomputed tomography images of porous media, a series of immiscible displacement simulations under a wide range of wettability conditions was established by the phase field method. Interestingly, we found that increasing the affinity of the porous matrix for the invading fluid can increase the displacement efficiency and reduce the void content until the critical wetting transition is reached, beyond which the displacement efficiency decreases sharply. The nonmonotonic behavior of the wettability effect can be explained by the competition among complex and intriguing pore-scale displacement events, mainly involving the Haines jump, cooperative pore filling, and corner flow. These novel findings provide a theoretical basis for extracting the optimal wettability range, thus minimizing the void content formed during the liquid infiltration process.
Miniaturization of a-Si guided mode resonance filter arrays for near-IR multi-spectral filtering
Authors: Ng Ryan C. , Garcia Juan C. , Greer Julia R. , Fountaine Katherine T.
Published: September 2020

Sub-wavelength periodic arrays exhibit narrow near-unity reflection bands that arise from guided mode resonances. These resonances have extremely high quality factor (i.e., narrow band features) and are ideal for filtering applications. A high quality factor requires many periods, causing large lateral footprints that limit an imaging system's spatial resolution. We present a 1D ultra-thin (<100 nm) compact finite design of seven periods of amorphous Si slabs with subwavelength periodicity surrounded by Al mirrors, which allow the finite array to approximate an infinite array and enabling a small footprint (∼5 μm), for near-infrared applications (λ = 800–2000 nm). We demonstrate spectral tunability (amplitude, bandwidth, and peak location) via geometric parameter variation and demonstrate the performance of these filters both in experiment and in simulation. This work miniaturizes guided-mode resonance filters, previously limited by extremely large footprints, while being relatively cheap and simple to fabricate compared to many existing designs.
Introducing a clinically effective allied health rapid discharge team within a complex aged subacute in-patient cohort on a cost recovery basis: the Supported Patient centred Early Discharge (SPeED) initiative
Authors: Hough Peter , Gleeson Stephanie , Shkuratova Nataliya , Coker Freya , Williams Cylie
Published: September 2020

This case study reports the outcomes of an early supported discharge program. This model of care was trialled after Victoria introduced subacute weighted inlier equivalent separations funding to subacute in-patients in 2016. An allied health team (Supported Patient centred Early Discharge (SPeED)) managed patients suitable for assessment, intervention and early supported discharge (ESD). The SPeED cohort was compared to a matched historical control. Data included no advantage financially (NAF) days, length of stay (LOS), functional independence measure (FIM) scores and 30-day readmission rates. Staff and patient experiences were collected through surveys and call-back data. Regression analysis compared quantitative data, whereas a broad thematic approach compared qualitative data. There were no differences between the study cohort and historical control in age or sex (P>0.05). The SPeED cohort had lower median NAF days (F=−21.38; 95% confidence interval (CI) −37.70, −15.00; P<0.001), shorter LOS (F)=4.65; 95% CI −0.41, −0.02; P=0.034), fewer readmissions within 30 days (odds ratio 0.14; 95% CI −0.03, 0.68; P=0.014) and greater change in FIM scores during admission (F=4.20; 95% CI 0.16, 10.74; P=0.044). Staff morale was high in recognition of improved patient care. Patient satisfaction remained positive across the SPeED cohort and historical control group. The introduction of a dedicated allied health ESD team within a geriatric evaluation and management population is effective and enhances patient outcomes.
What is known about the topic?Changing public subacute in-patient funding models places increased demand on providers to attain shorter patient LOS with finite staffing resources. Current published literature confirms the efficacy of rapid discharge programs in complex older adult cohorts only in the areas of stroke and respiratory conditions.
What does this paper add?For clinicians and health service executives, this paper explores the potential to extend rapid discharge programs for complex older adult patients across a broad cohort of conditions through the introduction of a dedicated allied health rapid discharge team. It presents an intervention that seeks to balance patient-centred care with optimal funding and organisational outcomes.
What are the implications for practitioners?The study findings highlight a promising opportunity for dedicated allied health rapid discharge teams within complex older adult in-patient populations to both optimise early patient preferred discharge and improve organisational financial performance.
Watching the Tide Roll Away – reply to Tibby et al. (2020)
Authors: Gell Peter A.
Published: September 2020

The published findings on the diatom-inferred condition of a terminal lake in the Murray–Darling Basin were overlooked in favour of a revised unpublished interpretation, without the provision of new evidence or argument, posted on the website of the managing state government. Coauthors of the posted report have responded (Tibby et al. 2020) to the publication (Gell 2020) that outlined the changes made to this interpretation. This reply reaffirms that subtle changes were made to published interpretations and that these were critical in the development of a watering plan for the system. It also illustrates that anecdotal evidence was used selectively but would be a valuable contribution if aligned to known climatic variability. Further, this response corrects the widespread misunderstanding that signatory nations to the Ramsar Convention are obliged to retain listed wetlands in the condition observed at the time of listing. Finally, this response contests the favouring of certain evidence and seeks an approach that reconciles all available evidence, incorporates variability into planning and prepares for future management challenges.
Learning probabilistic neural representations with randomly connected circuits
Authors: Maoz Ori , Tkačik Gašper , Esteki Mohamad Saleh , Kiani Roozbeh , Schneidman Elad
Published: September 2020

Significance

We present a theory of neural circuits’ design and function, inspired by the random connectivity of real neural circuits and the mathematical power of random projections. Specifically, we introduce a family of statistical models for large neural population codes, a straightforward neural circuit architecture that would implement these models, and a biologically plausible learning rule for such circuits. The resulting neural architecture suggests a design principle for neural circuit—namely, that they learn to compute the mathematical surprise of their inputs, given past inputs, without an explicit teaching signal. We applied these models to recordings from large neural populations in monkeys’ visual and prefrontal cortices and show them to be highly accurate, efficient, and scalable.
Non-dipole effect in vortex high-order harmonic generation
Authors: Wang Bincheng , Li Liang , Zhang Yinfu , Zhai Chunyang , Zhu Xiaosong , Lan Pengfei , Lu Peixiang
Published: September 2020

We discuss the non-dipole effect in high-order harmonic generation from atoms driving by a linearly polarized vortex beam. Different from the selection rule under the dipole approximation, where only odd high harmonics are allowed, both even and odd harmonics are generated in the vortex beam. Moreover, the polarization states of the harmonics are modulated. Elliptically polarized high harmonics can be directly generated with a linearly polarized vortex beam. We show that these non-dipole effects arise from the orbital angular momentum and spin angular momentum of the vortex beam.
Quantizing viscous transport in bilayer graphene
Authors: Imran Muhammad
Published: September 2020

The momentum transport in ultraclean bilayer graphene is characterized by the viscous transport. In quantizing magnetic field the momentum current passes through the guiding center of the cyclotron orbit. In this study we derive the formula of the quantized Hall viscosity for bilayer graphene. This can be detected in the non-local magnetoresistivity measurements that varies with the quantized step. For weak magnetic field the Landau levels start overlapping and lead to the Shubnikov–de-Haas oscillations, superimposed on the classical formulae, reference Steinberg (1958 Phys. Rev.
109 1486). These oscillations are present in the longitudinal and Hall viscosities.
Correlation of elastic and optoelectronic properties near structural phase transition in organic–inorganic lead iodide perovskite single crystals
Authors: Zhevstovskikh Irina V , Averkiev Nikita S , Sarychev Maksim N , Semenova Olga I , Golyashov Vladimir A , Tereshchenko Oleg E
Published: September 2020

The experimental evidence of the influence of the structural phase transition on the elastic and optoelectronic properties of CH3NH3PbI3 single crystals has been reported. A peak in the attenuation for longitudinal and shear ultrasonic waves and a step-like anomaly in their velocity have been found near the structural the orthorhombic-to-tetragonal phase transition (160 K). The narrow hysteresis observed in the temperature dependences of the elastic properties confirms that this is the first-order phase transition. A redshift of the absorption threshold (of about 110 meV) has been revealed both in the photocurrent (PC) and in the photoluminescence (PL) spectra with increasing temperature from 140 to 160 K. In the orthorhombic phase of CH3NH3PbI3 single crystals, the fine exciton structure in the PC spectrum has been found with an exciton binding energy of 19–25 meV. The peculiarities of the PC and PL spectra near the phase transition temperature (160 K) have been observed within a wider temperature range in contrast to the elastic anomalies that can be explained by the complex structure of the near-surface region. It may be essential for the further development of optoelectronic devices based on hybrid halide perovskites.
Seismic noise monitoring of a small rock block collapse test
Authors: Taruselli Marco , Arosio Diego , Longoni Laura , Papini Monica , Zanzi Luigi
Published: September 2020

We tested the capability of seismic noise to monitor the stability conditions of a small rock block that we forced to fail in four following stages. Ambient vibrations were recorded with a broad-band 3C seismometer placed on top of the block and were processed to analyse their spectral and polarization characteristics with diverse algorithms. To analyse the spectral content of the records, we applied the multitaper method while seismic noise polarization features were investigated by means of the singular value decomposition of the Hermitian spectral density matrix. Numerical modelling was found to add limited value because of the uncertainty in estimating correctly spatial and mechanical features of the rock bridges between the block and the rock mass. Nevertheless, a modelling exercise we performed is in agreement with previous post-failure observations according to which unstable rocks may be coupled to the stable rock mass by rock bridges covering only a few per cent of the total surface of the fractures. Our analyses confirm that, when approaching final collapse, there is a trend of the block eigenmodes towards lower frequencies and show that polarized bands become narrower.
Effect of Vitamin A Deficiency in Dysregulating Immune Responses to Influenza Virus and Increasing Mortality Rates After Bacterial Coinfections
Authors: Penkert Rhiannon R , Smith Amanda P , Hrincius Eike R , McCullers Jonathan A , Vogel Peter , Smith Amber M , Hurwitz Julia L
Published: September 2020

Background

Secondary bacterial coinfections are ranked as a leading cause of hospitalization and morbid conditions associated with influenza. Because vitamin A deficiency (VAD) and insufficiency are frequent in both developed and developing countries, we asked how VAD influences coinfection severity.

Methods

VAD and control mice were infected with influenza virus for evaluation of inflammatory cytokines, cellular immune responses, and viral clearance. Influenza-infected mice were coinfected with Streptococcus pneumoniae to study weight loss and survival.

Results

Naive VAD mouse lungs exhibited dysregulated immune function. Neutrophils were enhanced in frequency and there was a significant reduction in RANTES (regulated on activation of normal T cells expressed and secreted), a chemokine instrumental in T-cell homing and recruitment. After influenza virus infection, VAD mice experienced failures in CD4+ T-cell recruitment and B-cell organization into lymphoid structures in the lung. VAD mice exhibited higher viral titers than controls and slow viral clearance. There were elevated levels of inflammatory cytokines and innate cell subsets in the lungs. However, arginase, a marker of alternatively activated M2 macrophages, was rare. When influenza-infected VAD animals were exposed to bacteria, they experienced a 100% mortality rate.

Conclusion

Data showed that VAD dysregulated the immune response. Consequently, secondary bacterial infections were 100% lethal in influenza-infected VAD mice.
An Immunodominant Epitope-Specific Monoclonal Antibody Cocktail Improves Survival in a Mouse Model ofStaphylococcus aureusBacteremia
Authors: Zeng Hao , Zhang Jinyong , Song Xu , Zeng Jiangmin , Yuan Yue , Chen Zhifu , Xu Limin , Gou Qiang , Yang Feng , Zeng Ni , Zhang Yi , Peng Liusheng , Zhao Liqun , Zhu Jiang , Liu Yuanyuan , Luo Ping , Zou Quanming , Zhao Zhuo
Published: September 2020

To date, no vaccine or monoclonal antibody (mAb) against Staphylococcus aureus has been approved for use in humans. Our laboratory has developed a 5-antigen S. aureus vaccine (rFSAV), which is now under efficacy evaluation in a phase 2 clinical trial. In the current study, using overlapping peptides and antiserum from rFSAV-immunized volunteers, we identified 7 B-cell immunodominant epitopes on 4 antigens in rFSAV, including 5 novel epitopes (Hla48-65, IsdB402-419, IsdB432-449, SEB78-95, and MntC7-24). Ten immunodominant epitope mAbs were generated against these epitopes, and all of them exhibited partial protection in a mouse sepsis model. Four robust mAbs were used together as an mAb cocktail to prevent methicillin-resistant S. aureus strain 252 infection. The results showed that the mAb cocktail was efficient in combating S. aureus infection and that its protective efficacy correlated with a reduced bacterial burden and decreased infection pathology, which demonstrates that the mAb cocktail is a promising S. aureus vaccine candidate.
Once-daily etravirine/raltegravir (400/800 mg q24h) dual therapy maintains viral suppression over 48 weeks in HIV-infected patients switching from a twice-daily etravirine/raltegravir (200/400 mg q12h) regimen
Authors: Palich Romain , Allavena Clotilde , Peytavin Gilles , Soulie Cathia , Tubiana Roland , Weiss Laurence , Montoya Ferrer Ana , Duvivier Claudine , Bouchaud Olivier , Bottero Julie , Durand Aurore , Lê Minh-Patrick , Marcelin Anne-Geneviève , Dudoit Yasmine , Assoumou Lambert , Katlama Christine ,   the ETRAL QD study group, Allavena C , Raffi F , Cavellec M , Soria A , Manyari E Paredes , Reynes J , Ferrer A Montoya , Tramoni C , Fernandez C , Duvivier C , Lourenço J , Louisin C , Touam F , Bouchaud O , Traore L , Bottero J , Kaykay F Mfutila , Benmammar A , Weiss L , Effa J , Ptak M , Valantin M A , Tubiana R , Schneider L , Blanc C , Lenclume L
Published: September 2020

Background

Etravirine/raltegravir dual therapy has been shown to be highly effective as a twice-daily (q12h) regimen in suppressed HIV-infected patients enrolled in the ANRS-163 study.

Objectives

As a once-daily (q24h) regimen is easier for daily life, we aimed to evaluate the capacity of etravirine/raltegravir (400/800 mg) q24h to maintain viral suppression in patients on etravirine/raltegravir q12h.

Methods

Patients on a suppressive etravirine/raltegravir q12h regimen for at least 96 weeks were switched to etravirine/raltegravir q24h in this prospective, multicentre, open-label, single-arm study. Primary outcome was the rate of virological failure (VF: confirmed pVL >50 copies/mL, single pVL >400 copies/mL or single pVL >50 copies/mL with ART change) at Week 48 (W48). Secondary outcomes included treatment strategy success rate (no VF and no treatment discontinuation), regimen tolerability, plasma drug concentrations and resistance profile in the case of VF.

Results

A total of 111 patients were enrolled, with a median (IQR) age of 57 years (52–62), CD4 count of 710 cells/mm3 (501–919) and viral suppression for 7.9 years (5.9–10.7). Two patients experienced viral rebound at W24 and W48, leading to a VF rate of 2.0% (95% CI 0.5–7.8) at W48, associated with INSTI resistance in one case. Both had past NNRTI mutations. Ten patients discontinued treatment for adverse events (n = 2), investigator or patient decisions (n = 3), lost to follow-up (n = 3), death (n = 1) or pregnancy (n = 1). Overall, the strategy success rate was 89% (95% CI 81.5–93.6) at W48. In a subgroup of 64 patients, median (IQR) plasma C24h concentrations were 401 ng/mL (280–603) for etravirine and 62 ng/mL (31–140) for raltegravir.

Conclusions

Switching patients virally suppressed on etravirine/raltegravir q12h to the same regimen but given q24h was highly effective in maintaining virological suppression in HIV-infected patients.
Quantitative Determination of AZD3264, a Selective Ikb-Kinase IKK2 Inhibitor, in Dog Plasma by Solvent-Induced Phase Transition Extraction Coupled with HPLC-MS/MS and its Application to Pharmacokinetic Study in Dogs
Authors: Li Gang , Liang Shuofu , Qiao Kesen , Wang Chao
Published: September 2020

Background

AZD3264 is a small molecule inhibitor of selective IkB-kinase IKK2 currently in preclinical development for the potential treatment of asthma and chronic pulmonary obstructive disorder.

Objective

A method for the quantitative analysis of AZD3264 was established and optimized by using HPLC tandem mass spectrometry in dog plasma.

Method

Plasma samples were pretreated using a solvent-induced phase transition extraction method with a methanol solution of omeprazole as the internal standard. Chromatographic separation was performed using a Thermo Hypersil GOLD-C18 (50 mm × 4.6 mm, 3 μm) column with the temperature maintained at 25°C. Mobile phase consisted of 0.1% formic acid in water and acetonitrile in a gradient mode at a flow rate of 0.6 mL/min. Mass spectrometric detection was carried out in selected reaction monitoring mode with positive electrospray ionization, and the mass transitions of AZD3264 and omeprazole were m/z 442.1 → 425.0 and m/z 346.0 → 198.0, respectively.

Results

The intra-batch accuracy was within 95.11–105.06% and the precision was within 6.50–9.98%. The inter-batch accuracy was within 96.83–102.80% with a precision of 7.62–9.50%. The selectivity, sensitivity, linearity, dilution linearity, extraction recovery and matrix effect, stability, and carry-over met all requirements of the guidelines for bioanalytical method validation. AZD3264 showed linear pharmacokinetic characteristics following intravenous administration to dogs at 0.3–2.7 mg/kg.

Conclusions

The developed and validated method was successfully employed in pharmacokinetic studies in dogs following intravenous administration at the doses of 0.3, 0.9, and 2.7 mg/kg.

Highlights

This was the first investigation of the in vivo pharmacokinetic characteristics of AZD3264 in dogs by LC-MS/MS with SIPTE method for plasma sample preparation.
The GT-Stem in Ugaritic and The Middle Voice Semantic Domain*
Authors: Notarius Tania
Published: September 2020

The traditional definition of the Gt-stem in Ugaritic in terms of detransitive or reflexive functions does not give justice to its actual functional scope. The Gt-stem is a self-benefactive affectedness pat-tern that promotes an animate Agent to the syntactic position of subject; Gt verbs are as a rule dynamic, agentive and transitive. The stem functions differently in the poetic and prosaic registers of the language. The main functions of the stem are autobenefactive, direct reflexive, indirect reflexive, reciprocal and denominative. The auto-benefactive is proportionally distributed in the two principle registers; the direct reflexive, indirect reflexive, reciprocal and denominative are exclusively poetic usages. The anticausative or resultant interpretations (which occurs very rarely and only in sentences with an inanimate subject) are found in prose. Altogether, in spite of its basically conservative character, Ugaritic provides interesting indications of the development by which the Gt-stem enriched its middle voice semantics.
Variability and parsec-scale radio structure of candidate compact symmetric objects
Authors: Orienti M , Dallacasa D
Published: September 2020

We report results on multiepoch Very Large Array (VLA) and pc-scale Very Long Baseline Array (VLBA) observations of candidate compact symmetric objects (CSOs) from the faint sample of high-frequency peakers. New VLBA observations could resolve the radio structure in about 42 per cent of the observed sources, showing double components that may be either mini-lobes or core-jet structures. Almost all the sources monitored by the VLA show some variability on time-scale of a decade, and only one source does not show any significant variation. In 17 sources, the flux density changes randomly as it is expected in blazars, and in four sources the spectrum becomes flat in the last observing epoch, confirming that samples selected in the GHz regime are highly contaminated by beamed objects. In 16 objects, the pc-scale and variability properties are consistent with a young radio source in adiabatic expansion, with a steady decrease of the flux density in the optically thin part of the spectrum, and a flux density increase in the optically thick part. For these sources, we estimate dynamical ages between a few tens to a few hundred years. The corresponding expansion velocity is generally between 0.1c and 0.7c, similar to values found in CSOs with different approaches. The fast evolution that we observe in some CSO candidates suggests that not all the objects would become classical Fanaroff–Riley radio sources.
A model for redistributing heat over the surface of irradiated spider companions
Authors: Voisin Guillaume , Kennedy M R , Breton R P , Clark C J , Mata-Sánchez D
Published: September 2020

Spider pulsars are binary systems containing an energetic millisecond pulsar that intensely irradiates a closely orbiting low-mass companion. Modelling their companion’s optical light curves is essential to the study of the orbital properties of the binary, including the determination of the pulsar mass, characterizing the pulsar wind, and the star itself. We aim to generalize the traditional direct heating model of irradiation, whereby energy deposited by the pulsar wind into the stellar envelope is locally re-emitted, by introducing heat redistribution via diffusion and convection within the outer stellar envelope. We approximate the irradiated stellar envelope as a 2D shell. This allows us to propose an effective equation of energy conservation that can be solved at a reduced computational cost. We then implement this model in the icarus software and use evidence sampling to determine the most likely convection and diffusion laws for the light curve of the redback companion of PSR J2215+5135. Redistribution effects concentrate near the terminator line of pulsar irradiation, and can create apparent hot and cold spots. Among the models tested for PSR J2215+5135, we find that all models with heat redistribution are more likely than symmetric direct heating. The best-fitting redistribution model involves diffusion together with a uniformly rotating envelope. However, we caution that all models still present serious systematic effects, and that prior knowledge from pulsar timing, spectroscopy, and distance are key to determine with certainty the most accurate redistribution law. We propose an extension of the direct heating framework that allows for exploring a variety of heat redistribution effects. Future work is necessary to determine the relevant laws from first principles and empirically using complementary observations.
Probing GLIMPSE Extended Green Objects (EGOs) with hydroxyl masers
Authors: Bayandina O S , Colom P , Kurtz S E , Rudnitskij G M , Shakhvorostova N N , Val’tts I E
Published: September 2020

We present a study of 18 cm OH maser emission toward 20 high-mass young stellar object outflow candidates (Extended Green Objects, EGOs) identified from the Spitzer Galactic Legacy Infrared Mid-Plane Survey Extraordinaire (GLIMPSE). All four OH ground state lines at 1612, 1665, 1667, and 1720 MHz, together with 20-cm continuum emission, were observed with the Karl G. Jansky Very Large Array C-configuration. Follow-up polarimetric single-dish observations with the Nançay radio telescope were performed for the same OH transitions, except 1612 MHz. OH maser emission is found to be an uncommon feature of the sample, with a 50 per cent detection rate for the entire sample and a ∼44 per cent detection rate for the ‘likely’ EGOs. No 20-cm continuum emission is detected toward any of the sources. In most cases, the detected OH maser emission arises in vicinity to compact central sources; OH masers coexist with the 6.7 GHz methanol masers, but are found in more diffuse and extended halo-shaped regions of several thousand astronomical units in size. Comparing EGO samples with OH maser detection and non-detection, EGOs showing OH maser emission tend to have lower dust clump masses, but higher 24 and 4.5 μm flux densities. Thus, OH maser emission might be an indicator of more evolved EGOs, since strong compact mid-infrared emission in the absence of compact radio continuum emission is thought to be associated with the later stage of massive star formation.
Predictions for the angular dependence of gas mass flow rate and metallicity in the circumgalactic medium
Authors: Péroux Céline , Nelson Dylan , van de Voort Freeke , Pillepich Annalisa , Marinacci Federico , Vogelsberger Mark , Hernquist Lars
Published: September 2020

We use cosmological hydrodynamical simulations to examine the physical properties of the gas in the circumgalactic media (CGM) of star-forming galaxies as a function of angular orientation. We utilize TNG50 of the IllustrisTNG project, as well as the EAGLE simulation to show that observable properties of CGM gas correlate with azimuthal angle, defined as the galiocentric angle with respect to the central galaxy. Both simulations are in remarkable agreement in predicting a strong modulation of flow rate direction with azimuthal angle: inflow is more substantial along the galaxy major axis, while outflow is strongest along the minor axis. The absolute rates are noticeably larger for higher ($\log {(M_\star / \rm {M}_\odot)} \sim 10.5$) stellar mass galaxies, up to an order of magnitude compared to $\dot{M} \lesssim 1$ M⊙ yr−1 sr−1 for $\log {(M_\star / \rm {M}_\odot)}\sim 9.5$ objects. Notwithstanding the different numerical and physical models, both TNG50 and EAGLE predict that the average metallicity of the CGM is higher along the minor versus major axes of galaxies. The angular signal is robust across a wide range of galaxy stellar mass $8.5 \lt \log {(M_\star / \rm {M}_\odot)} \lt 10.5$ at z < 1. This azimuthal dependence is particularly clear at larger impact parameters b ≥ 100 kpc. Our results present a global picture, whereby despite the numerous mixing processes, there is a clear angular dependence of the CGM metallicity. We make forecasts for future large survey programmes that will be able to compare against these expectations. Indeed, characterizing the kinematics, spatial distribution and metal content of CGM gas is key to a full understanding of the exchange of mass, metals, and energy between galaxies and their surrounding environments.
TransCirc: an interactive database for translatable circular RNAs based on multi-omics evidence
Authors: Huang Wendi , Ling Yunchao , Zhang Sirui , Xia Qiguang , Cao Ruifang , Fan Xiaojuan , Fang Zhaoyuan , Wang Zefeng , Zhang Guoqing
Published: September 2020

TransCirc (https://www.biosino.org/transcirc/) is a specialized database that provide comprehensive evidences supporting the translation potential of circular RNAs (circRNAs). This database was generated by integrating various direct and indirect evidences to predict coding potential of each human circRNA and the putative translation products. Seven types of evidences for circRNA translation were included: (i) ribosome/polysome binding evidences supporting the occupancy of ribosomes onto circRNAs; (ii) experimentally mapped translation initiation sites on circRNAs; (iii) internal ribosome entry site on circRNAs; (iv) published N-6-methyladenosine modification data in circRNA that promote translation initiation; (v) lengths of the circRNA specific open reading frames; (vi) sequence composition scores from a machine learning prediction of all potential open reading frames; (vii) mass spectrometry data that directly support the circRNA encoded peptides across back-splice junctions. TransCirc provides a user-friendly searching/browsing interface and independent lines of evidences to predicte how likely a circRNA can be translated. In addition, several flexible tools have been developed to aid retrieval and analysis of the data. TransCirc can serve as an important resource for investigating the translation capacity of circRNAs and the potential circRNA-encoded peptides, and can be expanded to include new evidences or additional species in the future.
Cross-Inhibitor: a time-sensitive molecular circuit based on DNA strand displacement
Authors: Liu Chanjuan , Liu Yuan , Zhu Enqiang , Zhang Qiang , Wei Xiaopeng , Wang Bin
Published: September 2020

Designing biochemical systems that can be effectively used in diverse fields, including diagnostics, molecular computing and nanomachines, has long been recognized as an important goal of molecular programming and DNA nanotechnology. A key issue in the development of such practical devices on the nanoscale lies in the development of biochemical components with information-processing capacity. In this article, we propose a molecular device that utilizes DNA strand displacement networks and allows interactive inhibition between two input signals; thus, it is termed a cross-inhibitor. More specifically, the device supplies each input signal with a processor such that the processing of one input signal will interdict the signal of the other. Biochemical experiments are conducted to analyze the interdiction performance with regard to effectiveness, stability and controllability. To illustrate its feasibility, a biochemical framework grounded in this mechanism is presented to determine the winner of a tic-tac-toe game. Our results highlight the potential for DNA strand displacement cascades to act as signal controllers and event triggers to endow molecular systems with the capability of controlling and detecting events and signals.
Coarse-grained modelling of DNA plectoneme pinning in the presence of base-pair mismatches
Authors: Desai Parth Rakesh , Brahmachari Sumitabha , Marko John F , Das Siddhartha , Neuman Keir C
Published: September 2020

Damaged or mismatched DNA bases result in the formation of physical defects in double-stranded DNA. In vivo, defects in DNA must be rapidly and efficiently repaired to maintain cellular function and integrity. Defects can also alter the mechanical response of DNA to bending and twisting constraints, both of which are important in defining the mechanics of DNA supercoiling. Here, we use coarse-grained molecular dynamics (MD) simulation and supporting statistical-mechanical theory to study the effect of mismatched base pairs on DNA supercoiling. Our simulations show that plectoneme pinning at the mismatch site is deterministic under conditions of relatively high force (>2 pN) and high salt concentration (>0.5 M NaCl). Under physiologically relevant conditions of lower force (0.3 pN) and lower salt concentration (0.2 M NaCl), we find that plectoneme pinning becomes probabilistic and the pinning probability increases with the mismatch size. These findings are in line with experimental observations. The simulation framework, validated with experimental results and supported by the theoretical predictions, provides a way to study the effect of defects on DNA supercoiling and the dynamics of supercoiling in molecular detail.