bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Glecaprevir and Maraviroc are high-affinity inhibitors of SARS-CoV-2 main protease: possible implication in COVID-19 therapy
Authors: Shamsi Anas , Mohammad Taj , Anwar Saleha , AlAjmi Mohamed F. , Hussain Afzal , Rehman Md. Tabish , Islam Asimul , Hassan Md. Imtaiyaz
Published: May 2020

Due to the lack of efficient therapeutic options and clinical trial limitations, the FDA-approved drugs can be a good choice to handle Coronavirus disease (COVID-19). Many reports have enough evidence for the use of FDA-approved drugs which have inhibitory potential against target proteins of Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2). Here, we utilized a structure-based drug design approach to find possible drug candidates from the existing pool of FDA-approved drugs and checked their effectiveness against the SARS-CoV-2. We performed virtual screening of the FDA-approved drugs against the main protease (Mpro) of SARS-CoV-2, an essential enzyme, and a potential drug target. Using well-defined computational methods, we identified Glecaprevir and Maraviroc (MVC) as the best inhibitors of SARS-CoV-2 Mpro. Both drugs bind to the substrate-binding pocket of SARS-CoV-2 Mpro and form a significant number of non-covalent interactions. Glecaprevir and MVC bind to the conserved residues of substrate-binding pocket of SARS-CoV-2 Mpro. This work provides sufficient evidence for the use of Glecaprevir and MVC for the therapeutic management of COVID-19 after experimental validation and clinical manifestations.
Survey on cognitive anti‐jamming communications
Authors: Aref Mohamed A. , Jayaweera Sudharman K. , Yepez Esteban
Published: May 2020

In this study, the authors review various jamming and anti‐jamming strategies in the context of cognitive radios (CRs). The study explores different jamming models and classifies them according to their functionality. Furthermore, a study of jamming detection techniques is provided to enable a CR to identify different jamming signals. Finally, anti‐jamming communications are discussed in detail to encounter different types of jamming attacks. The focus of the study is on advanced anti‐jamming approaches that are based on learning strategies including, for example, game theoretic learning, reinforcement learning and deep learning. They show differences and similarities between these approaches and the conditions under which each of the algorithms can be useful.
HMM‐based filtering for slow‐sampling singularly perturbed jumping systems
Authors: Yang Chengyu , Xia Jianwei , Huang Xia , Song Xiaona , Shen Hao , Wang Jian
Published: May 2020

This study concentrates on the filtering for the slow‐sampling jumping singularly perturbed systems, in which the situation that the filter mode is inconsistent with the system mode is taken into consideration. Based on the hidden‐Markov model (HMM), such an asynchronous phenomenon between the system mode and the filter mode is depicted. Additionally, the unreliable communication channel resulting in packet loss is described through the assistance of a random variable. The authors' purpose is to design a filter that ensures the error system is extended stochastically dissipative. Moreover, with the aid of the Lyapunov stability theory and linear matrix inequality approach, a set of ‐independent conditions are derived to obtain the filter gains. Eventually, the effectiveness of the proposed method is demonstrated by a numerical example and a modified tunnel diode circuit model.
Characteristic analysis and direct measurement for air gap magnetic field of external rotor permanent magnet synchronous motors in electric vehicles
Authors: Ma Conggan , Zhou Shengsen , Yang Na , Degano Michele , Gerada Christopher , Fang Jianguang , Liu Qinghe
Published: May 2020

In this study, the air gap magnetic field characteristics of external rotor permanent magnet synchronous motors (PMSMs) under both the stator and rotor coordinate systems considering low‐order current harmonics and high‐order sideband current harmonics are analysed. A direct measurement technique (DMT) for air‐gap magnetic field is proposed. First, an analytical model of air gap magnetic field of external rotor PMSMs is established. The spatial order and frequency characteristics of stator/rotor air gap magnetic field are revealed. Then, a 24‐pole 27‐slot external rotor PMSM is taken as an example. The analytical and finite element (FE) results are compared and analysed. The difference of the spatial order and frequency characteristics between the stator and rotor air gap magnetic field are verified. Next, a new DMT is proposed, which can detect the precise distribution and local microscopic characteristics on the order of 10−1 mm with high resolution. The accuracy of analytical and FE model are verified by the DMT and an indirect experimental test of no‐load back electromotive force. Finally, the mechanical challenges of in‐wheel motors and the practicablility of DMT for eccentricity detection are further discussed.
Temperature effect on structural, mechanical properties and corrosion behaviour of CrN thin films deposited by magnetron sputtering
Authors: Abdallah Bassam , Kakhia Mahmoud , Alssadat Walied , Zetoun Walaa
Published: May 2020

Chromium nitride (CrN) thin films have been synthesised on Si(100) and stainless steel (SS304) substrates by direct current (DC) magnetron sputtering at different temperatures (25–100–200°C). The effects of temperature on structural and mechanical properties of the prepared films have been investigated. The CrN thin films have been described by X‐ray diffraction to reveal their crystalline quality and texture. Results indicate that the grain size decreases with the temperature. The thickness of CrN films have been determined by scanning electron microscopy and their stoichiometry was measured by energy dispersive X‐ray spectroscopy. Atomic force microscopy was employed to characterise the morphology of the surface for thin films and to calculate the roughness value. The results show that the hardness of films depends strongly on the grain size of the film. The micro‐hardness of these films decreased with the increase in temperature. The corrosion of the CrN coating deposited was studied with corrosion potential, polarisation resistance, as well as electrochemical impedance spectroscopy techniques.
Synthesis and evaluation of microwave absorption properties of Fe3O4/Halloysite/polypyrrole nanocomposites
Authors: Maleki Sajjad Tabar , Babamoradi Mohsen , Hajizadeh Zoleikha , Maleki Ali , Rouhi Mojtaba
Published: May 2020

The Fe3O4 nanoparticles and Fe3O4/Halloysite nanotubes (HNTs) were synthesised by the co‐precipitation method and Fe3O4/HNTs/polypyrrole (PPy) nanocomposites were synthesised by in situ polymerisation of pyrrole monomers on the surface of the Fe3O4/HNTs. The scanning electron microscopy images showed the uniform structure of nanocomposites. The Fourier transform infrared spectra revealed the characteristic peaks of Halloysite and PPy. The Fe3O4/HNTs/PPy nanocomposite exhibits a saturated magnetisation of 6.7 emu/g. The microwave absorption properties of Fe3O4/HNTs/PPy nanocomposites were investigated in the 8–12 GHz (X‐band) range. The value of the minimum reflection loss was obtained − 26.2 dB at 11 GHz for the 3 mm thickness nanocomposite. The results showed the absorbing bandwidth below − 10 dB was broadened to 2.3 GHz.
Bactericidal effect of gentamicin conjugated gold nanoparticles
Authors: Mohanta Bidhan , Chakraborty Anindita , Selvaraj Subburaj , Roy Alok
Published: May 2020

The authors explored the antibacterial activity of gentamicin conjugated gold nanoparticles against Escherichia coli bacteria by using the disk diffusion method. Gold nanoparticles were prepared by the reduction of tetrachloroauric acid with sodium citrate. Experiments were performed with relatively lower and higher doses of gentamicin, gold nanoparticles, and gentamicin conjugated gold nanoparticles. Atomic force microscopy (AFM) images of the bacterial colonies with and without treatment were taken. Results show that gentamicin used alone in a lower range of doses did not cause any growth inhibition, but when used in conjugation with gold nanoparticles, clear inhibition zones were visible. The ratios of inhibition areas of gold nanoparticles with gentamicin to only gentamicin were more in case of bigger sized gold nanoparticles. AFM images of the bacterial colonies also showed that gentamicin conjugated gold nanoparticles were more effective than other groups in inhibiting bacterial growth.
Multiple‐criteria decision analysis process by using prospect decision theory in interval‐valued neutrosophic environment
Authors: Veerappan Chinnadurai , Albert Bobin
Published: May 2020

This study intends to present an innovative study for ranking the alternatives in multiple‐criteria decision analysis (MCDA) problems under the interval‐valued neutrosophic soft set (IVNSS) environment. In this study, to illustrate the notion of objective and subjective weight, the prospect decision theory (PDT) performs an imperative role in determining decision‐making problems. PDT predicts human behaviour in terms of gains and losses and considers the expected utility relation to a reference point rather than complete outcomes. In the analysis of merged criteria weight and the prospect decision‐making matrix, the authors get a new dimension level for ranking the array of alternatives. This manuscript provides an improved score function (SF) to convert the interval‐valued membership grades of truth, indeterminacy and falsity into a mathematical and computational value. The advantage of this method is that it merges the objective and subjective weight during the proposed method. They propose an algorithm based on the SF to determine MCDA problems with IVNSSs. They illustrate a case study and provide various comparative analyses to show its significance over existing studies.
Use of Organs for Heart Transplantation after Rescue Allocation: Comparison of Outcome with Regular Allocated High Urgent Recipients
Authors: Immohr Moritz , Boeken Udo , Mehdiani Arash , Boettger Charlotte , Aubin Hug , Dalyanoglu Hannan , Erbel Sophia , Scheiber Daniel , Westenfeld Ralf , Akhyari Payam , Lichtenberg Artur
Published: May 2020

Background The number of patients waiting for heart transplantation (HTx) is exceeding the number of actual transplants. Subsequently, waiting times are increasing. One possible solution may be an increased acceptance of organs after rescue allocation. These organs had been rejected by at least three consecutive transplant centers due to medical reasons.

Methods Between October 2010 and July 2019, a total of 139 patients underwent HTx in our department. Seventy (50.4%) of the 139 patients were transplanted with high urgency (HU) status and regular allocation (HU group); the remaining received organs without HU listing after rescue allocation (elective group, n = 69).

Results Donor parameters were comparable between the groups. Thirty-day mortality was comparable between HU patients (11.4%) and rescue allocation (12.1%). Primary graft dysfunction with extracorporeal life support occurred in 26.9% of the elective group with rescue allocated organs, which was not inferior to the regular allocated organs (HU group: 35.7%). No significant differences were observed regarding the incidence of common perioperative complications as well as morbidity and mortality during 1-year follow-up.

Conclusions Our data support the use of hearts after rescue allocation for elective transplantation of patients without HU status. We could show that patients with rescue allocated organs showed no significant disadvantages in the early perioperative morbidity and mortality as well at 1-year follow-up.
Outcomes after Contralateral Anatomic Surgical Resection in Multiple Lung Cancer
Authors: Fourdrain Alex , Bagan Patrick , Georges Olivier , Lafitte Sophie , De Dominicis Florence , Meynier Jonathan , Berna Pascal
Published: May 2020

Background Patients treated surgically for lung cancer may present synchronous or metachronous lung cancers. The aim of this study was to evaluate outcomes after a second contralateral anatomic surgical resection for lung cancer.

Methods We performed a retrospective two-center study, based on a prospective indexed database. Included patients were treated surgically by bilateral anatomic surgical resection for a second primary lung cancer. We excluded nonanatomic resections, benign lesions, and ipsilateral second surgical resections.

Results Between January 2011 and September 2018, 55 patients underwent contralateral anatomic surgical resections for lung cancer, mostly for metachronous cancers. The first surgical resection was a lobectomy in most cases (45 lobectomies: 81.8%, 9 segmentectomies: 16.4%, and 1 bilobectomy: 1.8%), and a video-assisted thoracic surgery (VATS) procedure was used in 23 cases (41.8%). The mean interval between the operations was 38 months, and lobectomy was less frequent for the second surgical resection (35 lobectomies: 63.6% and 20 segmentectomies: 36.4%), with VATS procedures performed in 41 cases (74.5%). Ninety-day mortality was 10.9% (n = 6), and 3-year survival was 77%. Risk factor analysis identified the number of resected segments during the second intervention or the total number of resected segments, extent of resection (lobectomy vs. segmentectomy), surgical approach (thoracotomy vs. VATS), tumor stage, and nodal involvement as potential prognostic factors for long-term survival.

Conclusion A second contralateral anatomic surgical resection for multiple primary lung cancer is possible, with a higher early mortality rate, but acceptable long-term survival, and should be indicated for carefully selected patients.
Feasibility and 3D Planning of a Novel Patient-Specific Instrumentation Technique in Medial Opening-Wedge High Tibial Osteotomy
Authors: Van Genechten Wouter , Van Tilborg Wouter , Van den Bempt Maxim , Van Haver Annemieke , Verdonk Peter
Published: May 2020

A novel approach for opening-wedge high tibial osteotomy (OWHTO) with patient-specific instrumentation (PSI) was evaluated for its safety, feasibility, and accuracy. Next, the mechanical medial proximal tibial angle (mMPTA) was assessed as a potential planning angle by investigating the relation with the mechanical femorotibial angle (mFTA). Ten OWHTO cases were 3D planned using the mMPTA and operated with a customized 3D-printed wedge and cast which resembled the intended osteotomy opening. Patients were closely monitored for intraoperative and postoperative complications up to 1 year after surgery. Radiological assessment was conducted on full leg standing radiographs and supine lower limb computed tomography-scans preoperatively and 3 months after surgery. No intraoperative complications or logistical issues during PSI processing were observed. Absolute accuracy outcomes showed a correction error of 1.3° ± 1.1 mMPTA and 0.9° ± 0.6 mFTA with all osteotomies falling in (−2°; + 2°) mFTA around the target. The mMPTA and mFTA were found to have a strong correlation in both 3D (r = 0.842, p = 0.002) and 2D (r = 0.766, p = 0.01) imaging for effective correction. The study confirmed the development of a safe and feasible PSI technique in OWHTO with excellent accuracy outcomes. The strong correlation between the mMPTA and mFTA indicated that soft tissue changes after OWHTO are of minor significance to the final alignment in ligament-stable patients. Finally, the mMPTA was found to be a reliable planning angle in 3D software for obtaining the intended lower limb realignment and its use can therefore be recommended in modern OWHTO planning.
The Rise of Obesity among Total Knee Arthroplasty Patients
Authors: Mohamed Nequesha S. , Wilkie Wayne A. , Remily Ethan A. , Dávila Castrodad Iciar M. , Jean-Pierre Mirlande , Jean-Pierre Nancy , Gbadamosi Wahab A. , Halik Abraham K. , Delanois Ronald E.
Published: May 2020

In the United States, one-third of adults are considered obese, and demand for total knee arthroplasty (TKA) is expected to rise in these patients. Surgeons are reluctant to operate on obese patients, but it is important to understand how obesity has affected TKA utilization. This study utilizes a national database to evaluate incidence, demographics, outcomes, charges, and cost in nonobese, overweight, nonmorbidly obese, and morbidly obese TKA patients. We queried the National Inpatient Sample from 2009 to 2016 for primary TKA patients identifying 4,053,037 nonobese patients, 40,077 overweight patients, 809,649 nonmorbidly obese patients, and 428,647 morbidly obese patients. Chi-square was used to analyze categorical variables, and one-way analysis of variance was used to analyze continuous variables. Nonmorbidly obese and morbidly obese patients represented 23.2% of all TKAs. TKA utilization increased 4.1% for nonobese patients, 121.6% for overweight patients, 73.6% for nonmorbidly obese patients, and 83.9% for morbidly obese patients. Morbidly obese patients were younger (p < 0.001), female (p < 0.001), Black (p < 0.001), poor (p < 0.001), and utilized private insurance (p < 0.001). They also had the longest length of stay (p < 0.001) and the highest mortality rate (p < 0.001). More morbidly obese patients were discharged to other facilities (p < 0.001), and they had the highest rate of complications (p < 0.001). Patients with morbid obesity had the highest charges (p < 0.001), but overweight patients had the highest costs (p < 0.001). The results of this study demonstrate the rise in obese and morbidly obese patients seeking TKAs, which may be reflection of the obesity epidemic in America. Although TKA utilization has increased for morbidly obese patients, this body mass index (BMI) category also has the highest rates of charges and complications, suggesting morbid obesity to be a modifiable risk factor leading to worse surgical and economic outcomes. Obese patients undergoing TKA may benefit from preoperative optimization of their weight, in an effort to reduce the risk of adverse outcomes.
The Ameliorative Effects of Ascorbic Acid on Critical Illness Polyneuropathy in Rodent Sepsis Model
Authors: Sunnetci Silistre Eda , Erbas Oytun
Published: May 2020

Although the exact pathophysiology of critical illness polyneuropathy (CIP) is still unknown, there are several hypotheses, some of which are increased inflammation and oxidative stress. We used rodent sepsis model in which we induced sepsis through cecal ligation followed by cecal puncture. We then administered ascorbic acid (AA) and evaluated outcomes. The levels of malondialdehyde (MDA), tumor necrosis factor α (TNF-α), interleukins (IL)-6 in the plasma, and heat shock protein-70 (HSP-70) levels in the sciatic nerve were measured, and also electromyography analyses were performed. While plasma MDA, TNF-α, and IL-6 levels were decreased significantly with AA treatment, sciatic nerve levels of HSP-70 were significantly elevated in the AA group. A significant increase in compound muscle action potential (CMAP) amplitude and a significant decrease in CMAP latency were detected in the AA group. We observed healing effects of AA on a rat model of CIP and these effects seem to be related to its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.
Effect of the COVID-19 Pandemic on the Activity of Physicians Working in the Areas of Head and Neck Surgery and Otorhinolaryngology
Authors: Kowalski Luiz Paulo , Imamura Rui , Castro Junior Gilberto de , Marta Gustavo Nader , Chaves Aline Lauda Freitas , Matos Leandro Luongo , Bento Ricardo Ferreira
Published: May 2020

Introduction Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) is an acute infection caused by the new coronavirus (SARS-CoV-2) and it is highly transmissible, especially through respiratory droplets. To prepare the health system for the care of these patients also led to a restriction in the activity of several medical specialties. Physicians who work with patients affected by diseases of the head and neck region constitute one of the populations most vulnerable to COVID-19 and also most affected by the interruption of their professional activities.

Objective The aim of the present study was to assess the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the practice of head and neck surgeons and otorhinolaryngologists in Brazil.

Methods An anonymous online survey of voluntary participation was applied, containing 30 questions regarding demographic aspects, availability of personal protective equipment (PPE), and impact on the routine of head and neck surgeons and otorhinolaryngologists, as well as clinical oncologists and radiation oncologists who work with head and neck diseases.

Results Seven hundred and twenty-nine answers were received in a period of 4 days, ∼ 40 days after the 1st confirmed case in Brazil. With professionals working in public and private services, there was a high level of concerns with the disease and its consequences, limited availability of PPE and a significant decrease in the volume of specialized medical care.

Conclusion The study demonstrated a direct impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the clinical practice of specialties related to the treatment of patients with diseases of the head and neck region already in the beginning of the illness management in Brazil.
Rise in Cases of Alcohol Withdrawal following Lockdown in Dry District of Wardha
Authors: Behere Prakash B. , Behere Aniruddh P. , Chowdhury Debolina
Published: May 2020

On March 11, 2020, the World Health Organization declared the SARS-CoV-2 outbreak to be a pandemic which has sent all countries in a frenzy. We cannot be callous about treatment of non-COVID-19-related patients. The Wardha district of Maharashtra is a declared “dry area” which makes the sale, purchase, and consumption of alcohol illegal. On March 24, 2020, Indians were informed of a 21-day long lockdown which was subsequently extended for another 3 weeks during which all modes of public transportation, educational institutions, offices, and other nonessential businesses were closed and people expected to remain at home unless necessary. Since then admissions of alcohol-dependent patients showed a spike from14% in the prelockdown period to 27% of patients of alcohol dependence syndrome. It is most likely due to poor availability of liquor, inability to earn money to buy the alcohol, or restricted movement of individuals.
Inevitable high density of oxygen vacancies at the surface of polar–nonpolar perovskite heterostructures LaAlO3/SrTiO3
Authors: Li Yun , Wei Xinyuan , Yu Jaejun
Published: May 2020

The density of polarity-induced oxygen vacancies (VOs) at the LaAlO3 (LAO) surface of LAO/SrTiO3 (STO) (001) heterostructures (HSs) and the density of induced carriers at the interface are quantitatively investigated. Using chemical equilibrium conditions combined with density-functional-theory calculations of total energy, we set up a model for the densities of the VOs and the carriers, which are a function of the thickness of the LAO film, oxygen pressure, and temperature during the LAO/STO HSs growth. For the HSs with over three LAO unit-cell layers, our results show that the presence of a high density (∼1014cm−2) of the VOs is inevitable, even for the HSs grown at high oxygen pressures, and the densities of the VOs and the carriers mainly depend on the LAO thickness and slightly on the oxygen pressure and temperature. Our results also demonstrate that the intrinsic doping cannot occur. The stability of the VOs under high oxygen pressures is attributed to the release of electrostatic energy from the polar electric field in the LAO film.
Controlling dispersion in multifunctional metasurfaces
Authors: Sisler Jared , Chen Wei Ting , Zhu Alexander Y. , Capasso Federico
Published: May 2020

Metasurfaces can be designed to exhibit different functionalities with incident wavelength, polarization, or angles through appropriate choice and design of the constituent nanostructures. As a proof-of-concept, we design and simulate three multifunctional metalenses with vastly different focal lengths at blue and red wavelengths to show that the wavelength dependence of focal length shift can be engineered to exhibit achromatic, refractive, or diffractive behavior. In addition, we design a metalens capable of achromatically focusing an incident plane wave to a spot and a vortex at red and blue wavelengths, respectively. These metalenses are designed with coupled subwavelength-scale dielectric TiO2 nanostructures. Our method illustrates a more general design strategy for multifunctional metasurfaces by considering phase and group delay profiles with applications in imaging, spectroscopy, and wearable optical devices.
Analytical modeling of k33 mode partial electrode configuration for loss characterization
Authors: Park Yoonsang , Majzoubi Maryam , Zhang Yuxuan , Scholehwar Timo , Hennig Eberhard , Uchino Kenji
Published: May 2020

Accurate determination of three types of losses (dielectric, elastic, and piezoelectric) in piezoelectric materials is critical, since they are closely related to the performance of high-power piezoelectric devices. The standard k33 mode has a number of serious deficits that hinder researchers from determining accurate physical parameters and losses. In order to overcome such deficits, “partial electrode” has been devised and proposed. This study provides an analytical derivation process and proposes a parameter determination method by utilizing analytical solutions. Compared to finite element analysis, analytical solutions show a 0.1% difference in resonance frequencies and a 2% difference in mechanical quality factors, proving themselves as valid modeling. The analytical solutions are fitted to experimental data to determine physical parameters and losses. The k33 (electromechanical coupling factor) values were calculated with determined values from curve fitting in two different ways and show good agreement to each other.
High-contrast, highly textured VO2 thin films integrated on silicon substrates using annealed Al2O3 buffer layers
Authors: Lust Mark , Chen Shangyi , Wilson Catrina E. , Argo Joshua , Doan-Nguyen Vicky , Ghalichechian Nima
Published: May 2020

We present vanadium dioxide (VO2) thin films having high resistivity contrast with silicon substrates through use of crystallized alumina (Al2O3) buffer layers, engineered for this purpose. We first optimized the process by depositing VO2 onto C-plane sapphire substrates prior to alumina thin films. The latter of which were grown via atomic layer deposition on silicon substrates. We then applied rapid thermal annealing (RTA) to crystallize the alumina films. Scanning electron microscopy results indicated a thickness of 107 nm for each VO2 film, which yielded hot–cold resistivity contrast ratios of 9.76 × 104, 1.46 × 104, and 3.66 × 103, when deposited on the C-plane sapphire, the annealed buffers, and the as-deposited alumina buffers, respectively. Atomic force microscopy of the film surface roughness of the VO2 films indicated root mean squared roughness (Rq) of 4.56 nm, 6.79 nm, and 3.30 nm, respectively, for the films grown on the C-plane sapphire, annealed buffers, and as-deposited buffers. Finally, x-ray diffraction (XRD) of the VO2 films indicated the desired composition and strong (0h0)/(00h) texturing, when deposited on both the C-plane sapphire and the annealed alumina buffer layers. XRD results indicated a series of peaks corresponding to the α-Al2O3/C-plane sapphire, and an XRD analysis of the buffers alone confirmed crystallization of the buffer layer via RTA. The process defined in this paper produced a series of highly textured VO2 films making them most valuable for the integration of VO2 with silicon-based devices.
Optical multi-stability in a nonlinear high-order microring resonator filter
Authors: Jin Li , Di Lauro Luigi , Pasquazi Alessia , Peccianti Marco , Moss David J. , Morandotti Roberto , Little Brent E. , Chu Sai Tak
Published: May 2020

We theoretically analyze and experimentally demonstrate optical bi-stability and multi-stability in an integrated nonlinear high-order microring resonator filter based on high-index contrast doped silica glass. We use a nonlinear model accounting for both the Kerr and thermal effects to analyze the instability behavior of the coupled-resonator based filter. The model also accurately predicts the multi-stable behavior of the filter when the input frequency is slightly detuned. To understand the role of the intracavity power distribution, we investigate the detuning of the individual rings of the filter from the optical response with a pump–probe experiment. Such a measurement is performed scanning the filter with a low-power probe beam tuned a few free spectral ranges away from the resonance where the pump is coupled. A comprehensive understanding of the relationship between the nonlinear behavior and the intracavity power distribution for the high-order microring resonator filter will help the design and implementation of future all-optical switching systems using this type of filter.
Experimental investigation of dispersive wave generation and evolution in a tellurite microstructured optical fiber
Authors: Cheng Tonglei , Zhang Fan , Yan Xin , Zhang Xuenan , Wang Fang , Li Shuguang , Suzuki Takenobu , Ohishi Yasutake
Published: May 2020

A four-hole tellurite microstructured optical fiber (MOF) was designed and fabricated based on TeO2–Bi2O3–ZnO–Na2O (TBZN), and the fiber loss was 0.1 dB/m@1550 nm. Based on a 3 m tellurite MOF, dispersive wave (DW) generation and evolution was experimentally investigated at the pump wavelengths of 1778 nm, 1812 nm, and 1878 nm. With the increase of the average pump power, DWs trapped by optical solitons were observed at the blue edge wavelength, but their formation became more and more difficult with the pump wavelength shifting far away from the zero-dispersion wavelength. The variation pattern of center wavelengths and peak powers of the fundamental optical solitons and DWs were investigated: the center wavelength distribution satisfied the group velocity matching; the peak power of the fundamental DW gradually exceeded that of the fundamental optical soliton with the increase of the average pump power. Furthermore, using the generalized nonlinear Schrödinger equation, simulation on the generation of DWs and optical solitons was carried out at 1778 nm, 40 mW, the result of which agreed well with the experimental observation. This investigation is instructive for DW applications in tunable laser sources, wavelength conversion, and time frequency metrology.
Preparation of cobalt sulfide nanoparticles wrapped into reduced graphene oxide with tunable microwave absorption performance
Authors: Wang Xihua , Huang Li , Li Jianjun , Du Yunchen , Wang Qun , He Xiaodong , Yuan Ye
Published: May 2020

Great improvements for wireless techniques and electronic devices require effective electromagnetic (EM) absorbing materials to solve EM radiation and interference problems. Herein, cobalt sulfide/reduced graphene oxide (CoS/rGO) nanocomposites were prepared through a simple one-pot hydrothermal method. The microwave absorption performance of CoS/rGO nanocomposites with different rGO proportions was systematically investigated. The CoS/rGO 1:1 nanocomposite achieves the reflection loss (RL) value of −37.3 dB at 8.6 GHz. The effective RL values (<−10 dB) of the CoS/rGO 1:1 nanocomposite are obtained in the frequency of 3.4–18 GHz while the thickness varies from 2.0 mm to 5.0 mm. Additionally, the simulated radar cross section results indicate that the CoS/rGO nanocomposites can efficiently suppress the strong EM scattering of metal plate in different incident degrees. These achievements demonstrate that the CoS/rGO nanocomposites can be used as high-performance microwave absorbing materials.
Generalization of the hierarchical equations of motion theory for efficient calculations with arbitrary correlation functions
Authors: Ikeda Tatsushi , Scholes Gregory D.
Published: May 2020

The hierarchical equations of motion (HEOM) theory is one of the standard methods to rigorously describe open quantum dynamics coupled to harmonic environments. Such a model is used to capture non-Markovian and non-perturbative effects of environments appearing in ultrafast phenomena. In the regular framework of the HEOM theory, the environment correlation functions are restricted to linear combinations of exponential functions. In this article, we present a new formulation of the HEOM theory including treatment of non-exponential correlation functions, which enables us to describe general environmental effects more efficiently and stably than the original theory and other generalizations. The library and its Python binding we developed to perform simulations based on our approach, named LibHEOM and PyHEOM, respectively, are provided as the supplementary material.
Carbon doping of GaN: Proof of the formation of electrically active tri-carbon defects
Authors: Gamov I. , Richter E. , Weyers M. , Gärtner G. , Irmscher K.
Published: May 2020

Carbon doping is used to obtain semi-insulating GaN crystals. If the carbon doping concentration exceeds 5 × 1017 cm−3, the carbon atoms increasingly form triatomic clusters. The tri-carbon defect structure is unambiguously proven by the isotope effect on the defects' local vibrational modes (LVMs) originally found in samples containing carbon of natural isotopic composition (∼99% 12C, ∼1% 13C) at 1679 cm−1 and 1718 cm−1. Number, spectral positions, and intensities of the LVMs for samples enriched with the 13C isotope (∼99% and ∼50%) are consistently interpreted on the basis of the harmonic oscillator model taking into account the probability of possible isotope combinations. Including the polarization dependence of the LVM absorption, we show that the tri-carbon defects form a triatomic molecule-like structure in two crystallographically different configurations: a basal configuration with the carbon bonds near the basal plane and an axial configuration with one of the carbon bonds along the c axis. Finally, the disappearance of the LVMs under additional below-bandgap illumination is interpreted as defect recharging, i.e., the tri-carbon defects possess at least one charge state transition level within the bandgap and contribute to optical absorption as well as to the electrical charge balance.
Dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA) and chemical composition as measures of body composition of the short-beaked echidna (Tachyglossus aculeatus aculeatus)
Authors: LeeHong P. A. , Li X. , Bryden W. L. , Ward L. C.
Published: May 2020

Dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA) is a non-invasive technology for measurement of body composition that requires validation against reference methods when applied to a new species. The aim of this work was to validate DXA for the assessment of body composition of the echidna. Body composition was determined in the short-beaked echidna (Tachyglossus aculeatus aculeatus) using a Norland XR36 DXA scanner and validated by proximate chemical analysis for dry matter, ash, crude fat (FM) and protein (as 6.25 × N) and bone mineral content (BMC). Echidnas were opportunistically obtained as ‘road kill’. Body composition data were compared between techniques by correlation and limits of agreement (LOA) analyses. Twenty-eight echidnas (11 males, 13 females, 4 not determined), weighing 520–5517 g, underwent analyses. Mean FM was 489.9 ± 439.5 g and 448.5 ± 337.5 g, lean mass was 2276.0 ± 1021.4 g and 2256.0 ± 1026.0 g, fat-free mass was 2356.3 ± 1055.1 g and 2389.5 ± 1081.1 g and BMC was 80.3 ± 39.5 g and 79.9 ± 42.4 g by DXA and chemical analysis, respectively. The two methods were highly correlated (0.84 to 0.99) and not significantly different, although LOA were large. DXA has the potential to be used to assess body composition of echidnas although further work is required to improve accuracy of measurement.
Cytomegalovirus inhibition of extrinsic apoptosis determines fitness and resistance to cytotoxic CD8 T cells
Authors: Chaudhry M. Zeeshan , Casalegno-Garduno Rosaely , Sitnik Katarzyna M. , Kasmapour Bahram , Pulm Ann-Kathrin , Brizic Ilija , Eiz-Vesper Britta , Moosmann Andreas , Jonjic Stipan , Mocarski Edward S. , Cicin-Sain Luka
Published: May 2020

Significance

CD8
+
T lymphocytes protect from intracellular pathogens by recognizing pathogen's antigenic peptides presented on MHC-I molecules. Many viruses evade T cell control by using genes that subvert MHC-I presentation on infected cells. Here we shift this paradigm and show that viral proteins that block the effector branch of T cells are more efficient for T cell evasion than MHC-I downregulation. The block of signaling in infected target cells at the level of caspase-8 as a crucial convergence point of death-receptor and perforine/granzyme pathways in the viral evasion of cytotoxic T cells. We show that these principles apply in the clinically relevant HCMV infection and in the biologically relevant in vivo context, using the MCMV experimental model.
TRMintegrins CD103 and CD49a differentially support adherence and motility after resolution of influenza virus infection
Authors: Reilly Emma C. , Lambert Emo Kris , Buckley Patrick M. , Reilly Nicholas S. , Smith Ian , Chaves Francisco A. , Yang Hongmei , Oakes Patrick W. , Topham David J.
Published: May 2020

Tissue-resident memory CD8 T (TRM) cells are a unique immune memory subset that develops and remains in peripheral tissues at the site of infection, providing future host resistance upon reexposure to that pathogen. In the pulmonary system, TRMare identified through S1P antagonist CD69 and expression of integrins CD103/β7 and CD49a/CD29(β1). Contrary to the established role of CD69 on CD8 T cells, the functions of CD103 and CD49a on this population are not well defined. This study examines the expression patterns and functions of CD103 and CD49a with a specific focus on their impact on T cell motility during influenza virus infection. We show that the TRMcell surface phenotype develops by 2 wk postinfection, with the majority of the population expressing CD49a and a subset that is also positive for CD103. Despite a previously established role in retaining TRMin peripheral tissues, CD49a facilitates locomotion of virus-specific CD8 T cells, both in vitro and in vivo. These results demonstrate that CD49a may contribute to local surveillance mechanisms of the TRMpopulation.
The 6-4 photoproduct is the trigger of UV-induced replication blockage and ATR activation
Authors: Hung Kai-Feng , Sidorova Julia M. , Nghiem Paul , Kawasumi Masaoki
Published: May 2020

Significance

Solar UV generates abundant carcinogenic DNA lesions, and consequently, cells need to cope with these deleterious lesions to survive UV damage. This study used lesion-specific photolyases to isolate the biologically relevant effects of each major type of UV-induced DNA lesions (cyclobutane pyrimidine dimers [CPDs] and 6-4 photoproducts [6-4PPs]) on ATR activation, a crucial DNA damage response. A newly developed, flow cytometric single-cell analysis of UV-induced DNA lesions, thymidine analog incorporation, and DNA damage response enabled unprecedented determination of cellular events following UV irradiation. The striking finding is that only 6-4PPs, the shorter-lived and less abundant lesion type, cause replication blockage and activation of the ATR DNA damage response.
Metformin selectively inhibits metastatic colorectal cancer with the
KRAS
mutation by intracellular accumulation through silencing MATE1
Authors: Xie Jinye , Xia Liangping , Xiang Wei , He Wenzhuo , Yin Haofan , Wang Fang , Gao Tianxiao , Qi Weiwei , Yang Zhonghan , Yang Xia , Zhou Ti , Gao Guoquan
Published: May 2020

Significance

CRC patients with
KRAS
mutations are confronted with limited targeted therapeutic options. In this study, we have shown that the median survival time for
KRAS
-mutation mCRC patients with diabetes on metformin is 37.8 mo longer than those treated with other hypoglycemic drugs in combination with standard systemic therapy. Metformin is preferentially accumulated in
KRAS
-mutation CRC cells in both primary cell cultures and patient-derived xenografts. The promising therapeutic activity of metformin has a negative correlation with MATE1 expression, which is proven to eliminate metformin from CRC cells. These findings indicate that
KRAS
-mutation mCRC patients could benefit from metformin treatment, and somatic
KRAS
status or MATE1 expression should be recommended to predict the therapeutic response of metformin in CRC.
Hydrodynamic and frictional modulation of deformations in switchable colloidal crystallites
Authors: Lee Young Ki , Li Xiaoguai , Perdikaris Paris , Crocker John C. , Reina Celia , Sinno Talid
Published: May 2020

Displacive transformations in colloidal crystals may offer a pathway for increasing the diversity of accessible configurations without the need to engineer particle shape or interaction complexity. To date, binary crystals composed of spherically symmetric particles at specific size ratios have been formed that exhibit floppiness and facile routes for transformation into more rigid structures that are otherwise not accessible by direct nucleation and growth. There is evidence that such transformations, at least at the micrometer scale, are kinetically influenced by concomitant solvent motion that effectively induces hydrodynamic correlations between particles. Here, we study quantitatively the impact of such interactions on the transformation of binary bcc-CsCl analog crystals into close-packed configurations. We first employ principal-component analysis to stratify the explorations of a bcc-CsCl crystallite into orthogonal directions according to displacement. We then compute diffusion coefficients along the different directions using several dynamical models and find that hydrodynamic correlations, depending on their range, can either enhance or dampen collective particle motions. These two distinct effects work synergistically to bias crystallite deformations toward a subset of the available outcomes.
The Paks Pact
Authors: Egres Dorottya , Petschner Anna
Published: May 2020

Hungary’s only nuclear power plant in Paks can operate until the 2030s which prompted a discussion about an expansion. The first section of this paper identifies the eight most common topoi of the expansion: economy, finance, energy supply, safety, environment, legality, ethics and relationship with Russia. Topoi are considered subject-matters of argumentation with which participants of a controversy convey their standpoints. In the second section, topos analysis is used to explore the argumentation of two political bodies, an environmental protectionist organization and two scientific institutions. Results show that the argumentation style of the examined actors differ in the openness of their standpoints, in their calls to action and the frequency of the employed topoi.
Particularist understanding of CSR marketing visual arguments
Authors: Csordás Hédi , Ziegler Zsolt
Published: May 2020

We argue that understanding visual arguments is underdetermined. We address the question concerning how controversial understandings of visual arguments can be handled only by particularism. The distinction between the generalist and the particularist stance taken from moral philosophy offers a way to answer this question. On the particularist view visual principles are incapable of that feat because the visual meaning of a particular visual stimulus is always context-dependent. Instead of appealing to visual principles, the particularist would contrast different situations in a way that their relevant features resemble each other. Understanding a visual argument and the involving context requires analogical reasoning that can be accounted only by particularism. Visual arguments’ valid interpretation can be grasped only within a particularist-like framework.
ELEna
Authors: Jiménez Palmero Diego , Pro José Luis , Salguero-Lamillar Francisco José , Quesada José Francisco
Published: May 2020

This paper focuses on the description of the controversies that arise from the interdisciplinary work necessary for the creation of an on-line platform for learning Spanish as a foreign language, which we call ELEna. The platform develops the learning of written expression skills, thus promoting written production and interaction, the most demanded areas for the students of foreign languages nowadays. In this way, it has been necessary to create an interdisciplinary team made up of linguists and computer scientists who are specialized in the fields of Spanish language teaching and in the creation of interactive on-line platforms. This fact has led to a series of challenges that we present below with their respective solutions in pursuit of scientific progress.
What is the meaning of biodiversity?
Authors: Barrotta Pierluigi , Gronda Roberto
Published: May 2020

The preservation of biodiversity is one of the greatest concerns of our age. However, a satisfactory operational definition of biodiversity is still lacking, and it is likely that it won’t be achieved in the near future. In their practice of measurement scientists adopt a pluralistic and multi-dimensional metric – an approach which is widely accepted, but not theoretically justified. The goal of this paper is to account for such pluralistic approach. Our solution is pragmatist: we hold that the pragmatic maxim highlights the fact-value entanglement intrinsic to the concept of biodiversity. On this basis, we argue that the axiological dimension is essential to the meaning of the concept since its extension cannot be fixed independently of it.
Science and democracy
Authors: Pombo Olga
Published: May 2020

The article analyses the relationship between science and democracy on basis of a very specific point of view. Three arguments are put forward to defend that. In its historical origin, in its linguistic roots and in its institutional basis, science is (and continues to be) a democratic endeavor. The article very briefly discusses the decisive changings in the relation between science and political, economic and military power that took place during the XX century and stresses the cognitive relevance of a set of universal institutions which, all along the history of science, provide the conditions of possibility for science to exist and develop. Finally, even if today those universal institutions face big transformations, the possibility for science to remain a free democratic endeavor is questioned and argued.
Data transparency and citation in the journal Gesture
Authors: Gawne Lauren , Krajcik Chelsea , Andreassen Helene N. , Berez-Kroeker Andrea L. , Kelly Barbara F.
Published: May 2020

Data is central to scholarly research, but the nature and location of data used is often under-reported in research
publications. Greater transparency and citation of data have positive effects for the culture of research. This article presents the results
of a survey of data citation in six years of articles published in the journal Gesture (12.1–17.2). Gesture researchers
draw on a broad range of data types, but the source and location of data are often not disclosed in publications. There is also still a
strong research focus on only a small range of the world’s languages and their linguistic diversity. Published papers rarely cite back to
the primary data, unless it is already published. We discuss both the implications of these findings and the ways that scholars in the field
of gesture studies can build a positive culture around open data.