bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A novel optical probe based on d‐penicillamine‐functionalized graphene quantum dots: Preparation and application as signal amplification element to minoring of ions in human biofluid
Authors: Pashazadeh‐Panahi Paria , Hasanzadeh Mohammad , Eivazzadeh‐Keihan Reza
Published: February 2020

In this study, d‐penicillamine‐functionalized graphene quantum dots (DPA‐GQD) has been synthesized, which significantly increases the fluorescence intensity of GQD. We used this simple fluorescent probe for metal ions detection in human plasma samples. Designed DPA‐GQD respond to Hg2+, Cu2+, Au2+, Ag+, Co2+, Zn2+, and Pb2+ with high sensitivity. The fluorescence intensity of this probe decreased significantly in the presence of metal ions such as, Hg2+, Cu2+, Au2+, Ag+, Co2+, Zn2+, and Pb2+. In this work, a promising probe for ions monitoring was introduced. Moreover, DPA‐GQD probe has been tested in plasma samples. The functionalized DPA‐GQDs exhibits great promise as an alternative to previous fluorescent probes for bio‐labeling, sensing, and other biomedical applications in aqueous solution.
Composition and divergence of coronavirus spike proteins and host ACE2 receptors predict potential intermediate hosts of SARS‐CoV‐2
Authors: Liu Zhixin , Xiao Xiao , Wei Xiuli , Li Jian , Yang Jing , Tan Huabing , Zhu Jianyong , Zhang Qiwei , Wu Jianguo , Liu Long
Published: February 2020

From the beginning of 2002 and 2012, severe respiratory syndrome coronavirus (SARS‐CoV) and Middle East respiratory syndrome coronavirus (MERS‐CoV) crossed the species barriers to infect humans, causing thousands of infections and hundreds of deaths, respectively. Currently, a novel coronavirus (SARS‐CoV‐2), which has become the cause of the outbreak of Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID‐19), was discovered. Until 18 February 2020, there were 72 533 confirmed COVID‐19 cases (including 10 644 severe cases) and 1872 deaths in China. SARS‐CoV‐2 is spreading among the public and causing substantial burden due to its human‐to‐human transmission. However, the intermediate host of SARS‐CoV‐2 is still unclear. Finding the possible intermediate host of SARS‐CoV‐2 is imperative to prevent further spread of the epidemic. In this study, we used systematic comparison and analysis to predict the interaction between the receptor‐binding domain (RBD) of coronavirus spike protein and the host receptor, angiotensin‐converting enzyme 2 (ACE2). The interaction between the key amino acids of S protein RBD and ACE2 indicated that, other than pangolins and snakes, as previously suggested, turtles (Chrysemys picta bellii, Chelonia mydas, and Pelodiscus sinensis) may act as the potential intermediate hosts transmitting SARS‐CoV‐2 to humans.
Salivary biomarkers in the context of gingival inflammation in children with cystic fibrosis
Authors: Yucel Zeynep Pinar Keles , Silbereisen Angelika , Emingil Gulnur , Tokgoz Yavuz , Kose Timur , Sorsa Timo , Tsilingaridis Georgios , Bostanci Nagihan
Published: February 2020

Background

Cystic fibrosis (CF) is a life‐threatening chronic inflammatory disease in children due to respiratory complications. Saliva could serve as a reservoir of bacterial colonization and potentially reflect systemic inflammation. This study investigated whether salivary triggering receptor expressed on myeloid cells 1 (TREM‐1), peptidoglycan recognition protein 1 (PGLYRP1), interleukin (IL)‐1β, and calprotectin are associated with CF or reflect concomitant gingival inflammation.

Methods

Ten CF (aged 3 to 12 years) and 10 systemically healthy (SH) age‐ and sex‐matched children (C) were enrolled in the study. Individuals with CF underwent routine laboratory determinations. Probing depth, gingival index (GI), plaque index (PI), and bleeding on probing (BOP) were recorded on fully erupted teeth and saliva samples collected. Salivary TREM‐1, PGLYRP1, IL‐1β, and calprotectin were analyzed by enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay.

Results

Children with CF had significantly higher BOP scores (P = 0.001) and calprotectin levels (P = 0.017) compared with the C group. TREM‐1, PGLYRP1, and IL‐1β could not distinguish between CF and SH but showed positive correlation with GI, PI, and BOP in both groups. Calprotectin levels positively correlated with procalcitonin (P = 0.014), thrombocyte counts (P = 0.001), mean platelet volume (P = 0.030), and with PGLYRP1 (P = 0.019) and IL‐1β (P = 0.013) in CF children. Receiver operating characteristic curve analysis for calprotectin (CFvsC) showed an area under the curve of 0.79 (95% CI 0.58 to 0.99, P = 0.034).

Conclusions

CF children presented with higher gingival inflammation scores and salivary calprotectin levels, that correlated with systemic inflammatory markers. Salivary calprotectin levels were not associated with periodontal parameters. Hence, preliminary data demonstrate that salivary calprotectin might have a chairside diagnostic potential for CF in children.
Effects of Wild Pig Disturbance on Forest Vegetation and Soils
Authors: Gray Steven M. , Roloff Gary J. , Kramer Daniel B. , Etter Dwayne R. , Vercauteren Kurt C. , Montgomery Robert A.
Published: February 2020

In North America, wild pigs (Sus scrofa; feral pigs, feral swine, wild boars) are a widespread exotic species capable of creating large‐scale biotic and abiotic landscape perturbations. Quantification of wild pig environmental effects has been particularly problematic in northern climates, where they occur only recently as localized populations at low densities. Between 2016 and 2017, we assessed short‐term (within ~2 yrs of disturbance) effects of a low‐density wild pig population on forest features in the central Lower Peninsula of Michigan, USA. We identified 16 8‐ha sites using global positioning system locations from 7 radio‐collared wild pigs for sampling. Within each site, we conducted fine‐scale assessments at 81 plots and quantified potential disturbance by wild pigs. We defined disturbance as exposure of overturned soil, often resulting from rooting behavior by wild pigs. We quantified ground cover of plants within paired 1‐m2 frames at each plot, determined effects to tree regeneration using point‐centered quarter sampling, and collected soil cores from each plot. We observed less percent ground cover of native herbaceous plants and lower species diversity, particularly for plants with a coefficient of conservatism ≥5, in plots disturbed by wild pigs. We did not observe an increase in colonization of exotic plants following disturbance, though the observed prevalence of exotic plants was low. Wild pigs did not select for tree species when rooting, and we did not detect any differences in regeneration of light‐ and heavy‐seeded tree species between disturbed or undisturbed plots. Magnesium and ammonium content in soils were lower in disturbed plots, suggesting soil disturbance accelerated leaching of macronutrients, potentially altering nitrogen transformation. Our study suggested that disturbances by wild pigs, even at low densities, alters short‐term native herbaceous plant diversity and soil chemistry. Thus, small‐scale exclusion of wild pigs from vulnerable and rare plant communities may be warranted. © 2020 The Wildlife Society.
Process mining and industrial applications: A systematic literature review
Authors: Corallo Angelo , Lazoi Mariangela , Striani Fabrizio
Published: February 2020

Currently, the process mining aims at an automatic extraction of process knowledge from the event logs recorded by information systems, and, therefore, by using these techniques, it becomes possible to grasp the complex nature of industrial processes. In fact, most of the industrial processes change over time, and through the process mining techniques, it is possible to analyse these processes as if they were in a steady state. Starting to this concept, in this paper, we provide a systematic literature review that analyses the applications of process mining techniques in relation to the industrial context in order to highlight the importance of these new techniques in this scenario. To do the systematic literature review, we use the Tranfield approach (2003), and we identify the most interesting papers in the sector under analysis. After that, an in‐depth analysis of the selected papers was carried out.
Implementation of a “real‐world” learning health system: Results from the evaluation of the Connected Health Cities programme
Authors: Steels Stephanie , Ainsworth John , van Staa Tjeerd P.
Published: February 2020

Background

The “learning health system” has been proposed to deliver better outcomes for patients and communities by analyzing routinely captured health information and feeding back results to clinical staff. This approach has been piloted in the Connected Health Cities (CHC) programme in four regions in the North of England. This paper presents the results of the evaluation of this program conducted between February and December 2018.

Methods

Fifty nine semistructured interviews were completed with a mix of CHC programme staff and external partners who had contributed to the delivery of the CHC programme. Interviews were audio recorded and transcribed verbatim. This also included the review of project documentation including project reports and minutes of project group meetings, in addition to a short online survey that was completed by 31 members of CHC programme staff. Data were analyzed thematically.

Results

Two overarching themes emerged through the thematic analysis of participant interview: (a) challenges in the implementation of learning health system pathways, and (b) benefits to the CHC approach for both staff and patients. In particular, time constraints in delivering an ambitious program of work, data quality, and accessibility, as well as the long‐term sustainability of the CHC programme were noted as key challenges in implementing a LHS at scale.

Conclusions

The findings from this evaluation provide valuable insight into creating learning health system at scale, including the potential benefits and likely challenges.
The relaxin family peptide receptor 1 (RXFP1): An emerging player in human health and disease
Authors: Chen Ting‐Yun , Li Xiaoyun , Hung Ching‐Hsia , Bahudhanapati Harinath , Tan Jiangning , Kass Daniel J. , Zhang Yingze
Published: February 2020

Background

Relaxin/relaxin family peptide receptor 1 (RXFP1) signaling is important for both normal physiology and disease. Strong preclinical evidence supports relaxin as a potent antifibrotic molecule. However, relaxin‐based therapy failed in clinical trial in patients with systemic sclerosis. We and others have discovered that aberrant expression of RXFP1 may contribute to the abnormal relaxin/RXFP1 signaling in different diseases. Reduced RXFP1 expression and alternative splicing transcripts with potential functional consequences have been observed in fibrotic tissues. A relative decrease in RXFP1 expression in fibrotic tissues—specifically lung and skin—may explain a potential insensitivity to relaxin. In addition, receptor dimerization also plays important roles in relaxin/RXFP1 signaling.

Methods

This review describes the tissue specific expression, characteristics of the splicing variants, and homo/heterodimerization of RXFP1 in both normal physiological function and human diseases. We discuss the potential implications of these molecular features for developing therapeutics to restore relaxin/RXFP1 signaling and to harness relaxin's potential antifibrotic effects.

Results

Relaxin/RXFP1 signaling is important in both normal physiology and in human diseases. Reduced expression of RXFP1 in fibrotic lung and skin tissues surrenders both relaxin/RXFP1 signaling and their responsiveness to exogenous relaxin treatments. Alternative splicing and receptor dimerization are also important in regulating relaxin/RXFP1 signaling.

Conclusions

Understanding the molecular mechanisms that drive aberrant expression of RXFP1 in disease and the functional roles of alternative splicing and receptor dimerization will provide insight into therapeutic targets that may restore the relaxin responsiveness of fibrotic tissues.
Improved boundary treatment for the smoothed particle hydrodynamics method using implicit surfaces
Authors: Bui Thanh T. , Nakata Susumu
Published: February 2020

The boundary treatment for modeling complex geometries in smoothed particle hydrodynamics (SPH) methods is always challenging, especially for objects with sharp corners. In this paper, we propose an improved boundary treatment technique to handle boundary conditions in the SPH method where objects are represented as implicit surfaces. The improved boundary treatment technique provides a full treatment for complicated geometries and can handle sharp edges without any special treatment. The boundary particles are uniformly distributed in compliance with the curvature of the objects, therefore taking into consideration the effect of the boundary. Several simulations are presented to validate and demonstrate the applicability and versatility of the proposed technique.
Dual‐failure restorability analysis of span‐restorable meta‐mesh networks
Authors: Castillo Andres , Nakashima‐Paniagua Tetsuhei , Doucette John
Published: February 2020

The span‐restorable meta‐mesh model was previously designed as a cutting‐edge technique that enhanced the spare capacity efficiency in low average nodal degree networks. In this technique, lightpaths that fully traverse chains of degree‐2 nodes are provided with a logical express bypass span allowing a distinction between the internal and external working flow capacity that transit the chain. In the event of span failure, lightpaths which would normally traverse the chain in its entirety are allowed to fail back to its anchor nodes such that only the intrachain flow requires allocation of spare capacity. Previous work on the meta‐mesh design considered only single failure restorability. The work herein analyzes dual span failure situations by developing two new integer linear programming models. The first model provides the minimum total cost of designing a meta‐mesh network capable of withstanding dual span failure scenarios. The second model offers a maximization of the dual failure restorability by minimizing the number of nonrestored working capacities with a given limit of total spare capacity investment. Experiments are performed on six master test‐case networks of various topologies and scales.
Oral care quality—Do humanity aspects matter? Nursing staff's and older people's perceptions
Authors: Andersson Maria , Wilde‐Larsson Bodil , Persenius Mona
Published: February 2020

Aim

(a) To describe and compare perceptions of humanity aspects of oral care quality in relation to nursing staff in short‐term care units and intensive care units and older people in short‐term care units and their person‐related conditions; and (b) to compare humanity aspects of oral care quality perceptions between nursing staff and older people in short‐term care units.

Design

Cross‐sectional study. Self‐reported questionnaire and clinical assessments.

Methods

Nursing staff (N = 417) and older people (N = 74) completed the modified Quality of Care from a Patient Perspective instrument and person‐related items. Older people's oral health status was clinically assessed using the Revised Oral Assessment Guide. Data were analysed using descriptive and analytic statistics. The data were collected from 2013–2016.

Results

Nursing staff's perceptions of humanity aspects of oral care quality were related to gender, work role and care environment. Older people's perceptions of humanity aspects of oral care quality were related to self‐reported physical health. Nursing staff in short‐term care units perceived the subjective importance of humanity aspects of oral care quality higher compared with older people in short‐term care units.
High‐Resolution Three‐Dimensional Photonic Scan‐Derived Equations Improve Body Surface Area Prediction in Diverse Populations
Authors: Ashby‐Thompson Maxine , Ji Ying , Wang Jack , Yu Wen , Thornton John C. , Wolper Carla , Weil Richard , Chambers Earle C. , Laferrère Blandine , Pi‐Sunyer F. Xavier , Gallagher Dympna
Published: February 2020

Objective

Equations for predicting body surface area (BSA) produce flawed estimates, especially for individuals with obesity. This study aimed to compare BSA measured by a three‐dimensional photonic scanner (3DPS) with BSA predicted by six commonly cited prediction equations and to develop new prediction equations if warranted.

Methods

The 3DPS was validated against manual measurements by breadth caliper for body thicknesses measured at three anatomical sites on a mannequin. BSA was derived from 3DPS whole‐body scans of 67 males and 201 females, aged 18 to 83 years, with BMI between 17.8 and 77.8 kg/m2 and varied races/ethnicities.

Results

Width and depth measurements by 3DPS and caliper were within 1%, except for hip, with an error of 1.8%. BSA3DPS differed from BSA predicted by each equation (P < 0.05), except for males by DuBois and DuBois (P = 0.60), Tikuisis (P = 0.27), and Yu (P = 0.45) and for females by Tikuisis (P = 0.70). The combined and sex‐specific equations obtained by regressing ln(BSA) on ln(weight in kilograms [W]) and ln(height in meters [H]) are as follows (R2 and SEE correspond to ln[BSA]): combined, BSA3DPS = 0.03216 × W0.4904 × H0.3769, R2 = 0.982, SEE = 0.021; males, BSA3DPS = 0.01624 × W0.4725 × H0.5231; and females, BSA3DPS = 0.01522 × W0.4921 × H0.5231, R2 = 0.986, SEE = 0.019.

Conclusions

New height and weight BSA equations improve BSA estimation in individuals with BMI ≥ 40 and in African Americans, Hispanic Americans, and Asian Americans.
Simulation and Visual Tester Verification of Solid Propellant Slurry Vacuum Plate Casting
Authors: Yue Wu , Zhuo Li , Rong Lu
Published: February 2020

Using an improved Carreau constitutive model, a numerical simulation of the casting process of a type of solid propellant slurry vacuum plate casting was carried out using the Flow3D software. Through the flow process in the orifice flow channel and the combustion chamber, the flow velocity of the slurry passing through the plate flow channel was quantitatively analyzed, and the viscosity, shear rate, and leveling characteristics of the slurry in the combustion chamber were qualitatively analyzed and predicted. The pouring time, pouring quality, and flow state predicted by the numerical simulation were verified using a visual tester consisting of a vacuum plate casting system in which a pouring experiment was carried out. Studies have shown that HTPB three‐component propellant slurry is a typical yielding pseudoplastic fluid. When the slurry flows through the flower plate and the airfoil, the fluid shear rate reaches its maximum value and the viscosity of the slurry decreases. The visual pouring platform was built and the experiment was controlled according to the numerically‐calculated parameters, ensuring the same casting speed. The comparison between the predicted casting quality and the one obtained in the verification test resulted in an error less than 10 %. Moreover, the error between the simulated casting completion time and the process verification test result was also no more than 10 %. Last, the flow state of the slurry during the simulation was consistent with the one during the experimental test. The overall leveling of the slurry in the combustion chamber was adequate and no relatively large holes and flaws developed during the pouring process.
Pharmacological characterization of a novel, potent, selective, and orally active fatty acid amide hydrolase inhibitor, PKM‐833 [(R)‐N‐(pyridazin‐3‐yl)‐4‐(7‐(trifluoromethyl)chroman‐4‐yl)piperazine‐1‐carboxamide] in rats: Potential for the treatment of inflammatory pain
Authors: Endo Toshiya , Takeuchi Takashi , Maehara Shunsuke
Published: February 2020

Recently, we identified a novel fatty acid amide hydrolase (FAAH) inhibitor, PKM‐833 [(R)‐N‐(pyridazin‐3‐yl)‐4‐(7‐(trifluoromethyl)chroman‐4‐yl)piperazine‐1‐carboxamide]. The aim of the present study is to characterize the pharmacological profile of PKM‐833 in vitro and in vivo. PKM‐833 showed potent inhibitory activities against human and rat FAAH with IC50 values of 8.8 and 10 nmol/L, respectively, 200‐fold more selectivity against other 137 molecular targets, and irreversible mode of action. In pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic studies, PKM‐833 showed excellent brain penetration and good oral bioavailability, and elevated anandamide (AEA) concentrations in the rat brain. These data indicate that PKM‐833 is a potent, selective, orally active, and brain‐penetrable FAAH inhibitor. In behavioral studies using rat models, PKM‐833 significantly attenuated formalin‐induced pain responses (3 mg/kg) and improved mechanical allodynia in complete freund's adjuvant (CFA)‐induced inflammatory pain (0.3‐3 mg/kg). On the other hand, PKM‐833 did not show the analgesic effects against mechanical allodynia in chronic constriction injury (CCI)‐induced neuropathic pain up to 30 mg/kg. Regarding side effects, PKM‐833 had no significant effects on catalepsy and motor coordination up to 30 mg/kg. These results indicate that PKM‐833 is a useful pharmacological agent that can be used to investigate the role of FAAH and may have therapeutic potential for the treatment of inflammatory pain without undesirable side effects.
Doxorubicin‐induced normal breast epithelial cellular aging and its related breast cancer growth through mitochondrial autophagy and oxidative stress mitigated by ginsenoside Rh2
Authors: Hou Jingang , Yun Yeejin , Xue Jianjie , Jeon Byeongmin , Kim Sunchang
Published: February 2020

Clinical dose of doxorubicin (100 nM) induced cellular senescence and various secretory phenotypes in breast cancer and normal epithelial cells. Herein, we reported the detailed mechanism underlying ginsenoside Rh2‐mediated NF‐κB inhibition, and mitophagy promotion were evaluated by antibody array assay, western blotting analysis, and immunocytostaining. Ginsenoside Rh2 suppressed the protein levels of TRAF6, p62, phosphorylated IKK, and IκB, which consequently inactivated NF‐κB activity. Rh2‐mediated secretory phenotype was delineated by the suppressed IL‐8 secretion. Senescent epithelial cells showed increased level of reactive oxygen species (ROS), which was significantly abrogated by Rh2, with upregulation on SIRT 3 and SIRT 5 and subsequent increase in SOD1 and SOD2. Rh2 remarkably favored mitophagy by the increased expressions of PINK1 and Parkin and decreased level of PGC‐1α. A decreased secretion of IL‐8 challenged by mitophagy inhibitor Mdivi‐1 with an NF‐κB luciferase system was confirmed. Importantly, secretory senescent epithelial cells promoted the breast cancer (MCF‐7) proliferation while decreased the survival of normal epithelial cells demonstrated by co‐culture system, which was remarkably alleviated by ginsenoside Rh2 treatment. These data included ginsenoside Rh2 regulated ROS and mitochondrial autophagy, which were in large part attributed to secretory phenotype of senescent breast epithelial cells induced by doxorubicin. These findings also suggested that ginsenoside Rh2 is a potential treatment candidate for the attenuation of aging related disease.
A diagnostic study of cloud physics and lightning flash rates in a severe pre‐monsoon thunderstorm over northeast India
Authors: Choudhury B. Abida , Konwar Mahen , Hazra Anupam , Mohan Greeshma M. , Pithani Prakash , Ghude Sachin D. , Deshamukhya Atri , Barth Mary C.
Published: February 2020

Numerical simulations of a thunderstorm event that occurred in the pre‐monsoon season over the North‐Eastern region of India (NEI) and Bangladesh are performed using Weather Research and Forecasting (WRF) Advanced Research Weather Research and Forecasting Model (ARW, version 3.8.1). Doppler weather radar indicates severe convective activity lasted for more than 10 hr. These extremely deep convective clouds with minimum cloud‐top temperature −70 °C at 19 km were triggered by the mixing of a moist air mass transported from the Bay of Bengal in the south and dry air transported from the northwest. A cyclonic circulation observed over the Tibetan plateau is likely to be associated with the strong southerly low‐level wind over NEI, as the plateau acts as a source of heat‐lows during the pre‐monsoon season. The coexistence of ice particles and supercooled water in the storms resulted in a large number of lightning flashes during the storm as observed from the Tropical Rainfall Measuring Mission Lightning Imaging Sensor (TRMM‐LIS). Co‐location of supercooled cloud water droplets helps in forming graupel through riming that plays a vital role in these convective systems. Lightning flashes calculated from WRF simulation using the Morrison microphysical and cloud top height based dynamical lightning parametrization scheme was found comparable with the observed flashes from TRMM‐LIS. Since the WRF model could simulate the thunderstorm, we recommend using this state‐of‐the‐art regional model in thunderstorm and lightning predictions for northeast India which would be useful in preparedness for such extreme events.
Computational modeling of the kinetics and mechanism of tellurium‐based glutathione peroxidase mimic
Authors: Kheirabadi Ramesh , Izadyar Mohammad
Published: February 2020

A new generation of glutathione peroxidase enzyme mimic based on organotellurium was introduced. The catalytic cycles of these mimics, tellura and tellenol, were clarified by density functional theory and solvent‐assisted proton exchange procedure as an indirect proton exchange chain. From the kinetic viewpoint, the oxidation of tellura (ΔG≠ = 23.55 kcal mol−1) was considered as the rate‐determining step using a single‐step process. Various behaviors of tellenol were examined in the reduction of tellurenylsulfide based on methanethiol nucleophilicity. On the basis of the turnover frequency calculations, during the catalytic cycles of tellura and tellenol, the rate of the catalytic cycle of tellura is faster than that of tellenol. A decrease in the electron density and an increase in the Laplacian from the reactant to the transition states are evidence of the bond rupture, whereas an opposite change is evidence of the bond formation. Finally, different analyses of the electron location function and localized orbital locator within the quantum theory of atoms in molecules were applied and discussed. The covalent nature of the intramolecular interactions suggests that the Te⋯N interaction is stronger than that of Te⋯H. Finally, based on different analyses, tellura can be considered the more reactive GPx mimic than tellenol.
Experimental investigation on wetting mechanism for coal dust with different metamorphic degree based on infrared spectrum and 13C‐NMR
Authors: Zhang Qingtao , Zhou Gang , Hu Yingying , Wang Wenjing
Published: February 2020

Respirable coal dust accounts for heart and respiratory diseases of coal miners such as asthma, pneumoconiosis, and black lung disease. What is more, coal dust explosion seriously affects coal mine safety production and coal miners' life safety. Generally, dust suppressants are commonly applied in coal mines. However, current dust suppressants are not working effectively. To develop a better dust suppressant, we attempt to explore the factors affecting the wettability of coal dust under different metamorphic levels from the essence of coal dust wetting mechanism in this paper. Specifically, we use Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy and nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) to reveal the microstructure of coal from two aspects of functional group and carbon skeleton structure and obtain the micro information of the surface functional group types, quantity, and carbon structure of coal with different degrees of metamorphism, as well as the change rule of functional group of coal sample with coal rank and the law of carbon increase and deoxidization of coal metamorphism. After that, we acquired the structural parameters of coal by the NMR experiments and fitted the quantitative mathematical relationship between the microstructure parameters and wettability of coal through SPSS and ORIGIN software. Finally, this paper constructs an evaluation model for the influencing factors of coal dust wettability, explains the influence degree of different coal dust structure on coal dust wettability, improves the coal dust wettability mechanism, and provides more quantitative research ideas and methods for the control of coal dust.
Gelatin Methacryloyl Microneedle Patches for Minimally Invasive Extraction of Skin Interstitial Fluid
Authors: Zhu Jixiang , Zhou Xingwu , Kim Han‐Jun , Qu Moyuan , Jiang Xing , Lee KangJu , Ren Li , Wu Qingzhi , Wang Canran , Zhu Xunmin , Tebon Peyton , Zhang Shiming , Lee Junmin , Ashammakhi Nureddin , Ahadian Samad , Dokmeci Mehmet Remzi , Gu Zhen , Sun Wujin , Khademhosseini Ali
Published: February 2020

The extraction of interstitial fluid (ISF) from skin using microneedles (MNs) has attracted growing interest in recent years due to its potential for minimally invasive diagnostics and biosensors. ISF collection by absorption into a hydrogel MN patch is a promising way that requires the materials to have outstanding swelling ability. Here, a gelatin methacryloyl (GelMA) patch is developed with an 11 × 11 array of MNs for minimally invasive sampling of ISF. The properties of the patch can be tuned by altering the concentration of the GelMA prepolymer and the crosslinking time; patches are created with swelling ratios between 293% and 423% and compressive moduli between 3.34 MPa and 7.23 MPa. The optimized GelMA MN patch demonstrates efficient extraction of ISF. Furthermore, it efficiently and quantitatively detects glucose and vancomycin in ISF in an in vivo study. This minimally invasive approach of extracting ISF with a GelMA MN patch has the potential to complement blood sampling for the monitoring of target molecules from patients.
Direct Nano‐Synthesis Methods Notably Benefit Mg‐Battery Cathode Performance
Authors: Blanc Lauren E. , Sun Xiaoqi , Shyamsunder Abhinandan , Duffort Victor , Nazar Linda F.
Published: February 2020

Rechargeable magnesium batteries are promising candidates for next‐generation electrochemical energy storage, but their development is severely hindered by sluggish solid‐state diffusion and significant desolvation penalties of the divalent cation. Studies suggest that nano‐sized electrode materials alleviate these issues by shortening diffusion lengths and increasing electrode/electrolyte interaction. Here, the effect of particle size and synthetic methodology on the electrochemical performance of four sulfide cathode materials in Mg batteries is investigated: layered TiS2, CuS, spinel Ti2S4, and CuCo2S4. In these sulfide hosts, the direct preparation of nano‐dimensional crystallites is critical to activate or improve electrochemistry. Even promising cathode materials can appear electrochemically inert when micron‐sized particles are investigated (e.g., CuCo2S4), and mechanical milling leads to surface degradation of active material which severely limits performance. However, nano‐sized CuCo2S4 prepared directly reaches a capacity nearly double that of ball‐milled material and delivers 350 mAh g−1 at 60 °C. This work provides synthetic considerations which may be crucial in the discovery and design of novel Mg cathode materials, so that promising candidates are not overlooked. By extension, in oxide materials where Mg2+ diffusion is expected to be much more sluggish, this factor is anticipated to be even more important when screening for new hosts.
Flexible data anonymization using ARX—Current status and challenges ahead
Authors: Prasser Fabian , Eicher Johanna , Spengler Helmut , Bild Raffael , Kuhn Klaus A.
Published: February 2020

The race for innovation has turned into a race for data. Rapid developments of new technologies, especially in the field of artificial intelligence, are accompanied by new ways of accessing, integrating, and analyzing sensitive personal data. Examples include financial transactions, social network activities, location traces, and medical records. As a consequence, adequate and careful privacy management has become a significant challenge. New data protection regulations, for example in the EU and China, are direct responses to these developments. Data anonymization is an important building block of data protection concepts, as it allows to reduce privacy risks by altering data. The development of anonymization tools involves significant challenges, however. For instance, the effectiveness of different anonymization techniques depends on context, and thus tools need to support a large set of methods to ensure that the usefulness of data is not overly affected by risk‐reducing transformations. In spite of these requirements, existing solutions typically only support a small set of methods. In this work, we describe how we have extended an open source data anonymization tool to support almost arbitrary combinations of a wide range of techniques in a scalable manner. We then review the spectrum of methods supported and discuss their compatibility within the novel framework. The results of an extensive experimental comparison show that our approach outperforms related solutions in terms of scalability and output data quality—while supporting a much broader range of techniques. Finally, we discuss practical experiences with ARX and present remaining issues and challenges ahead.
Seismic design and application of hybrid coupled walls with replaceable steel coupling beams in high‐rise buildings
Authors: Ji Xiaodong , Molina Hutt Carlos
Published: February 2020

An innovative hybrid coupled wall system consists of reinforced concrete (RC) wall piers connected with replaceable steel coupling beams (RSCBs) throughout their height. The RSCBs are designed with a central “fuse” shear link connected to steel beam segments at both ends, which are capacity designed to remain elastic. During a damaging earthquake, the fuse shear links yield and dissipate seismic energy, and once damaged, they can be easily replaced due to specialized link‐to‐beam connection details. Therefore, this system is expected to provide enhanced seismic performance over a conventional RC coupled wall system, particularly in terms of repair costs and time after damaging earthquakes. This paper presents an overview of seismic design considerations of this new system, which is intended as a guide for design practitioners to adopt the system. Design procedure of this system is first summarized, followed by description of the coupling ratio selection, member sizing, connection detailing, and modeling recommendations of the system. Furthermore, an analytical case study for a high‐rise building is presented to highlight the benefit of using this system for enhancement to overall building performance. In the end, this paper presents a few real‐world applications of RSCBs in super‐tall buildings in China.
Photoantimicrobials—An update
Authors: Maisch Tim
Published: February 2020

The World Health Organization has classified the threat of antimicrobial resistance as one of the major threats to human health worldwide. New strategies and ideas are of interest to prevent spread and to control antibiotic‐resistant bacteria. Currently cold atmospheric plasma and the photodynamic principle using photoantimicrobials can be mentioned as two new innovative state of the art techniques for successful eradication of bacteria. Here in this review an update is given about the current status of the photodynamic principle and new developments of photoantimicrobials.
Values, Beliefs and Environmental Citizenship
Authors: Balundė Audra , Poškus Mykolas Simas , Jovarauskaitė Lina , Sarid Ariel , Farangitakis Georgios , Knippels Marie-Christine , Hadjichambis Andreas Ch. , Paraskeva-Hadjichambi Demetra
Published: February 2020

In this chapter, we will consider the relationships between values, beliefs and Environmental Citizenship. The role of personal values, value orientations and environmental beliefs in explaining pro-environmental actions and behaviour is widely explored. It is already acknowledged that self-enhancement (egoistic and hedonistic) values are less predictive of pro-environmental actions than self-transcendence (biospheric and altruistic) values. Additionally, beliefs are considered to be at the core of human behaviour in cognitive theories explaining pro-environmental behaviour and are an important part of many theories used to predict pro-environmental actions. We regard Environmental Citizenship as a combination of certain pro-environmental actions and civic engagement, both public and private, that lead to the mitigation of environmental problems. It is important to answer the question of whether general values and beliefs can potentially be relevant antecedents of Environmental Citizenship. Understanding how values and beliefs relate to Environmental Citizenship would allow for evidence-based ways of promoting Environmental Citizenship in schools and communities and would empower educators to make effective decisions in promoting Environmental Citizenship.
Colliders and conformal interfaces
Authors: Meineri Marco , Penedones Joao , Rousset Antonin
Published: February 2020

Abstract

We set up a scattering experiment of matter against an impurity which separates two generic one-dimensional critical quantum systems. We compute the flux of reflected and transmitted energy, thus defining a precise measure of the transparency of the interface between the related two-dimensional conformal field theories. If the largest symmetry algebra is Virasoro, we find that the reflection and transmission coefficients are independent of the details of the initial state, and are fixed in terms of the central charges and of the two-point function of the displacement operator. The situation is more elaborate when extended symmetries are present. Positivity of the total energy flux at infinity imposes bounds on the coefficient of the two-point function of the displacement operator, which controls the free-energy cost of a small deformation of the interface. Finally, we study out-of-equilibrium steady states of a critical system connecting two reservoirs at different temperatures. In the absence of extended symmetries, our result implies that the energy flux across an impurity is proportional to the difference of the squared temperatures and controlled by the reflection coefficient.
Notes on the complex Sachdev-Ye-Kitaev model
Authors: Gu Yingfei , Kitaev Alexei , Sachdev Subir , Tarnopolsky Grigory
Published: February 2020

Abstract

We describe numerous properties of the Sachdev-Ye-Kitaev model for complex fermions with N ≫ 1 flavors and a global U(1) charge. We provide a general definition of the charge in the (G, Σ) formalism, and compute its universal relation to the infrared asymmetry of the Green function. The same relation is obtained by a renormalization theory. The conserved charge contributes a compact scalar field to the effective action, from which we derive the many-body density of states and extract the charge compressibility. We compute the latter via three distinct numerical methods and obtain consistent results. Finally, we present a two dimensional bulk picture with free Dirac fermions for the zero temperature entropy.
Thermodynamics of two black holes
Authors: Krtouš Pavel , Zelnikov Andrei
Published: February 2020

Abstract

We study a system of two charged non-rotating black holes separated by a strut. Using the exact solution of the Einstein-Maxwell equations, which describes this system, we construct a consistent form of the first law of thermodynamics. We derive thermodynamic parameters related to the strut in an explicit form. The intensive thermodynamical quantity associated with the strut is its tension. We call the corresponding extensive quantity the thermodynamical length and we provide an explicit expression and interpretation for it.
Generalized blind spots for dark matter direct detection in the 2HDM
Authors: Cabrera M. E. , Casas J. A. , Delgado A. , Robles S.
Published: February 2020

Abstract

In this paper we study the presence of generalized blind spots, i.e. regions of the parameter space where the spin-independent cross section for dark matter direct detection is suppressed, in the context of a generic 2HDM and a minimal fermionic Higgs-portal dark sector. To this end, we derive analytical expressions for the couplings of the dark matter to the light and heavy Higgses, and thus for the blind spot solutions. Unlike the case of a standard Higgs sector, blind spots can occur even without a cancellation between different contributions, while keeping unsuppressed and efficient the annihilation processes in the early Universe involving Higgs states. As a consequence, the allowed parameter space is dramatically enhanced.
Decoherence in Conformal Field Theory
Authors: del Campo Adolfo , Takayanagi Tadashi
Published: February 2020

Abstract

Noise sources are ubiquitous in Nature and give rise to a description of quantum systems in terms of stochastic Hamiltonians. Decoherence dominates the noise-averaged dynamics and leads to dephasing and the decay of coherences in the eigenbasis of the fluctuating operator. For energy-diffusion processes stemming from fluctuations of the system Hamiltonian the characteristic decoherence time is shown to be proportional to the heat capacity. We analyze the decoherence dynamics of entangled CFTs and characterize the dynamics of the purity, and logarithmic negativity, that are shown to decay monotonically as a function of time. The converse is true for the quantum Renyi entropies. From the short-time asymptotics of the purity, the decoherence rate is identified and shown to be proportional to the central charge. The fixed point characterizing long times of evolution depends on the presence degeneracies in the energy spectrum. We show how information loss associated with decoherence can be attributed to its leakage to an auxiliary environment and discuss how gravity duals of decoherence dynamics in holographic CFTs looks like in AdS/CFT. We find that the inner horizon region of eternal AdS black hole is highly squeezed due to decoherence.
Safety of tattoos and permanent make-up: a regulatory view
Authors: Giulbudagian Michael , Schreiver Ines , Singh Ajay Vikram , Laux Peter , Luch Andreas
Published: February 2020

The continuous increase in the popularity of tattoos and permanent make-up (PMU) has led to substantial changes in their societal perception. Besides a better understanding of pathological conditions associated with the injection of highly diverse substances into subepidermal layers of the skin, their regulation has occupied regulatory bodies around the globe. In that sense, current regulatory progress in the European Union is an exemplary initiative for improving the safety of tattooing. On one hand, the compilation of market surveillance data has provided knowledge on hazardous substances present in tattoo inks. On the other hand, clinical data gathered from patients enabled correlation of adverse reactions with certain substances. Nevertheless, the assessment of risks remains a challenge due to knowledge gaps on the biokinetics of highly complex inks and their degradation products. This review article examines the strategies for regulating substances in tattoo inks and PMU in light of their potential future restriction in the frame of the REACH regulation. Substance categories are discussed in terms of their risk assessment and proposed concentration limits.
On the establishment of a mutant
Authors: Baker Jeremy , Chigansky Pavel , Jagers Peter , Klebaner Fima C.
Published: February 2020

How long does it take for an initially advantageous mutant to establish itself in a resident population, and what does the population composition look like then? We approach these questions in the framework of the so called Bare Bones evolution model (Klebaner et al. in J Biol Dyn 5(2):147–162, 2011.https://doi.org/10.1080/17513758.2010.506041) that provides a simplified approach to the adaptive population dynamics of binary splitting cells. As the mutant population grows, cell division becomes less probable, and it may in fact turn less likely than that of residents. Our analysis rests on the assumption of the process starting from resident populations, with sizes proportional to a large carrying capacityK. Actually, we assume carrying capacities to be$$a_1K$$a1Kand$$a_2K$$a2Kfor the resident and the mutant populations, respectively, and study the dynamics for$$K\rightarrow \infty $$K→∞. We find conditions for the mutant to be successful in establishing itself alongside the resident. The time it takes turns out to be proportional to$$\log K$$logK. We introduce the time of establishment through the asymptotic behaviour of the stochastic nonlinear dynamics describing the evolution, and show that it is indeed$$\frac{1}{\rho }\log K$$1ρlogK, where$$\rho $$ρis twice the probability of successful division of the mutant at its appearance. Looking at the composition of the population, at times$$\frac{1}{\rho }\log K +n, n \in \mathbb {Z}_+$$1ρlogK+n,n∈Z+, we find that the densities (i.e. sizes relative to carrying capacities) of both populations follow closely the corresponding two dimensional nonlinear deterministic dynamics that starts ata random point. We characterise this random initial condition in terms of the scaling limit of the corresponding dynamics, and the limit of the properly scaled initial binary splitting process of the mutant. The deterministic approximation with random initial condition is in fact valid asymptotically at all times$$\frac{1}{\rho }\log K +n$$1ρlogK+nwith$$n\in \mathbb {Z}$$n∈Z.
Contrast variation of micelles composed of Ca2+ and block copolymers of two negatively charged polyelectrolytes
Authors: Carl Nico , Prévost Sylvain , Schweins Ralf , Huber Klaus
Published: February 2020

Block copolymers were prepared with two anionic polyelectrolyte blocks: sodium polyacrylate (PA) and sodium polystyrene sulfonate (PSS), in order to investigate their phase behavior in aqueous solution in the presence of Ca2+ cations. Depending on the concentration of polymer and Ca2+ and on the ratio of the block lengths in the copolymer, spherical micelles were observed. Micelle formation arises from the specific interaction of Ca2+ with the PA block only. An extensive small-angle scattering study was performed in order to unravel the structure and dimensions of the block copolymer micelles. Deuteration of the PA block enabled us to perform contrast variation experiments using small-angle neutron scattering at variable ratios of light and heavy water which were combined with information from small-angle X-ray scattering and dynamic light scattering.