bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Robust fusion steady‐state filtering for multisensor networked systems with one‐step random delay, missing measurements, and uncertain‐variance multiplicative and additive white noises
Authors: Liu Wen‐Qiang , Tao Gui‐Li , Fan Ya‐Jing , Zhang Gui‐Qiang
Published: July 2019

The robust fusion steady‐state filtering problem is investigated for a class of multisensor networked systems with mixed uncertainties including multiplicative noises, one‐step random delay, missing measurements, and uncertain noise variances, the phenomena of one‐step random delay and missing measurements occur in a random way, and are described by two Bernoulli distributed random variables with known conditional probabilities. Using a model transformation approach, which consists of augmented approach, derandomization approach, and fictitious noise approach, the original multisensor system under study is converted into a multimodel multisensor system with only uncertain noise variances. According to the minimax robust estimation principle, based on the worst‐case subsystems with conservative upper bounds of uncertain noise variances, the robust local steady‐state Kalman estimators (predictor, filter, and smoother) are presented in a unified framework. Applying the optimal fusion algorithm weighted by matrices, the robust distributed weighted state fusion steady‐state Kalman estimators are derived for the considered system. In addition, by using the proposed model transformation approach, the centralized fusion system is obtained, furthermore the robust centralized fusion steady‐state Kalman estimators are proposed. The robustness of the proposed estimators is proved by using a combination method consisting of augmented noise approach, decomposition approach of nonnegative definite matrix, matrix representation approach of quadratic form, and Lyapunov equation approach, such that for all admissible uncertainties, the actual steady‐state estimation error variances of the estimators are guaranteed to have the corresponding minimal upper bounds. The accuracy relations among the robust local and fused steady‐state Kalman estimators are proved. An example with application to autoregressive signal processing is proposed, which shows that the robust local and fusion signal estimation problems can be solved by the state estimation problems. Simulation example verifies the effectiveness and correctness of the proposed results.
Corrosion properties of nickel coatings obtained from aqueous and nonaqueous electrolytes
Authors: Cruz M. Judith , Makarova Irina V. , Kharitonov Dmitry S. , Dobryden Illia , Chernik Alexander A. , Grageda Mario , Ushak Svetlana
Published: July 2019

Nickel was deposited on a copper substrate from aqueous and nonaqueous ethanol electrolytes. X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy, electrochemical impedance spectroscopy and chronovoltametry, scanning electron microscopy, and atomic force microscopy were used to study the effect of the solvent on the surface and corrosion properties of the Ni coatings formed. Unifom and relatively smooth Ni films were obtained as measured with microscopy techniques. The formation of a passive film in acidic, alkaline, and neutral chloride‐containing media was confirmed with X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy. The water‐based nickel‐plating electrolyte makes it possible to deposit coatings with higher corrosion resistance as compared with coatings deposited from ethanol electrolyte in NaOH and NaCl media. The proposed mechanism of corrosion in a 0.5 M H2SO4 solution involves cycles of active‐passive surface behavior due to its passivation by corrosion products.
Design, Synthesis and Docking Calculations of Prenylated Chalcones as Selective Monoamine Oxidase B Inhibitors with Antioxidant Activity
Authors: Mellado Marco , Salas Cristian O. , Uriarte Eugenio , Viña Dolores , Jara‐Gutiérrez Carlos , Matos Maria J. , Cuellar Mauricio
Published: July 2019

Different natural and synthetic chalcones have exhibited selective inhibition on monoamine oxidase B (MAO−B) activity, demonstrating potential interest for the treatment of neurodegenerative diseases. Herein we report the synthesis of seven new prenylated chalcones (7a‐g) obtained from the natural compound 5 (4‐hydroxy‐3‐(3‐methylbut‐2‐en‐1‐yl)phenylethanone), previously isolated fromS. graveolens. Five of these compounds exhibit high inhibition and selectivity against MAO−B, with IC50values in the low micromolar range. In addition, the antioxidant activity of this series was measured, being three compounds better than the reference, butylated hydroxytoluene (BHT). Compound 7 f [(2E)‐3‐(4‐(dimethylamino)phenyl)‐1‐(4‐hydroxy‐3‐(3‐methylbut‐2‐en‐1‐yl)phenyl)prop‐2‐en‐1‐one] proved to be the best compound within the studied series (IC50MAO‐B=8.19 μM andkDPPH=3.73). Finally, molecular docking was performed to better understand the binding properties of these derivatives. Important features for MAO−B inhibitory activity were observed: hydrogen‐bonding interaction between Tyr435 and nearness with Tyr398 and FAD co‐factor. Therefore, these molecules are good candidates for the design of a lead compound for Parkinson's disease.
Improved Hydrogen Absorption/Desorption Properties of MgH2 by Co–Catalyzing of YH2 and Co@C
Authors: Xu Cheng , Lin Huai‐Jun , Liu Jiangchuan , Zhang Peng , Meng Yuying , Liu Yana , Zhang Jiguang , Li Liquan , Zhu Yunfeng
Published: July 2019

Hydrogen absorption and desorption kinetics properties of MgH2 were improved by co‐doping of commercial YH2 and a synthesized Carbon supported nano‐Co (Co@C) catalyst, which was prepared by calcination of Zeolitic Imidazolate Framework‐67 (ZIF‐67) precursor. YH2 addition shows great enhancement on the hydrogen absorption kinetics. The ball‐milled MgH2‐YH2 absorbs 6.5 wt.% of hydrogen within 100 s at 300 °C. The Co@C catalyst greatly enhances the absorption and desorption kinetics, while the absorption kinetics is slightly slower than that of MgH2‐YH2 at 250 °C and 275 °C. MgH2‐YH2‐Co@C exhibited prominent absorption and desorption kinetics, reaching full hydrogenation within 150 s at 250 °C and releasing 6 wt.% hydrogen within 1700 s at 300 °C. After hydrogenation and dehydrogenation, particle size of YH3 remains ∼500 nm, and the fine Co@C particles distributed homogeneously in the MgH2 matrix.
Development of Practical Electrochemical System for Phenytoin Detection
Authors: Doğan Tansu , Anik Ülkü , Dursun Zekerya
Published: July 2019

In this work a practical electrochemical approach has been developed by using gold (Au)‐film electrode for phenytoin detection. The formation of Au‐film was monitored by using scanning electron microscopy, energy dispersive X‐ray spectroscopy and X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy techniques. After the electrochemical characterization, the experimental conditions were optimized and then the analytical characterizations were examined. As a result, two linear ranges were found between 5x10−7 M and 2x10−4 M with the limit of detection and limit of quantification values as 0.302 μM and 1.013 μM respectively. The developed system was applied for phenytoin detection in synthetically prepared plasma solution and as a result recovery value of 99.5% ± 0.056 was obtained.
On the Electro‐Optics of Carbon Stack Perovskite Solar Cells
Authors: Kerremans Robin , Sandberg Oskar J. , Meroni Simone , Watson Trystan , Armin Ardalan , Meredith Paul
Published: July 2019

Mesoporous carbon stack architecture is attracting considerable interest as a candidate for scalable, low‐cost perovskite solar cells amenable to high‐throughput manufacturing. These cells are characterized by microns‐thick mesoporous titania and zirconia layers capped by a nonselective carbon electrode with the whole stack being infused with a perovskite semiconductor. Although the architecture does not deliver the >20% power conversion efficiencies characteristic of perovskite planar and mesoporous geometries, it does produce cells with respectable efficiencies >16%, which is unexpected due to the carbon electrode being a nonideal anode and the active layers being so thick. Optimization of these cells requires an understanding of the coupled efficiencies of light absorption, charge generation, and extraction which is currently unavailable. Herein, a combined experimental‐simulation study that elucidates photogeneration and extraction is reported. By determining the optical constants of the individual components and using effective‐medium approximations, the internal quantum efficiencies (IQE) in both the titania and zirconia layers are determined to be ≈85%. Numerical drift‐diffusion simulations indicate that this high IQE is a consequence of the thick junctions reducing minority carrier concentrations at the electrodes, thereby decreasing surface recombination. This insight can now be used to tune the carbon stack for efficiency and simplicity.
Proteomic Analysis of Starch Biosynthesis in Maize Seeds
Authors: Niu Liangjie , Ding Huiying , Zhang Jinghua , Wang Wei
Published: July 2019

Maize starch is an important agricultural commodity that serves as food, feed, and a raw material for industrial purposes. Starch biosynthesis in maize endosperm is an essential process for maize productivity under changing environmental conditions. However, the molecular mechanism underlying starch synthesis during maize endosperm development remains largely unknown. Recently, proteomic analyses of starch synthesis in maize seeds have produced large amounts of data, which significantly add to our understanding of maize starch biosynthesis and facilitate knowledge‐based maize improvements. In this review, the current knowledge on starch biosynthesis in maize endosperm is introduced, key aspects of protein extraction for proteomic analysis of maize starch biosynthesis are discussed, and the recent proteomic findings are summarized. A model outlining the roles of specific enzymes is then proposed. The important role of proteomics in identifying the key proteins involved in starch biosynthesis is highlighted in order to further the understanding of the complex mechanisms underlying maize starch biosynthesis.
Pulp and paper mill effluent management
Authors: Elnakar Haitham , Buchanan Ian D.
Published: July 2019

This is a review of the literature published in 2018 related to the prevention of water pollution by or recovery of beneficial materials from wastewater produced in the pulp and paper industry. This review includes the following main sections: cleaner production, biological treatment, and physico‐chemical treatment.

Practitioner points

Converting pulp and paper treatment sludges to value‐added materials can be efficient cleaner production technique.

Modeling and dynamic simulation techniques of biological treatment along with optimization methods can improve the effluent quality out of a paper mill.

Hybrid treatment systems can have a synergistic effect on the treatment of pulp and paper effluents.
Factors Controlling Natural Radionuclides Migration in Sedimentary Rock Samples, Gabal Um‐Hamd, Southwestern Sinai, Egypt
Authors: Harpy Nareman , Ragab Fatma , Morsy Zeinab , Abdel‐Rahman Mohamed A. E.
Published: July 2019

The activity concentrations of some radionuclides (238U, 234U, 230Th, 226Ra, 232Th, 40K and 235U) were measured by γ‐ray spectrometry in order to study their behavior and the relation between them in Carboniferous rock samples collected from Gabal (mountain) Um‐Hamd, southwestern Sinai, Egypt. The whole samples are located in the two limbs and trough of a synclinal form structure to identify the radionuclides migration processes which have occurred in these rock samples. The average activity concentrations of 238U, 232Th, 226Ra, and 40K measured in the all samples except sandy dolostone sample are higher than the worldwide average values as reported by UNSCEAR 2008. The activity ratios (234U/238U) for half of the samples are in equilibrium, while the other half samples are below unity indicates migration‐out of uranium. The hazard indices were also calculated. The variations in lithologic types and the configuration of the structural synform played its roles beside the physical and chemical properties of different radionuclides in their fractionations.
Search for the t → ch decay at hadron colliders
Authors: Arroyo-Ureña M. A. , Gaitán R. , Herrera-Chacón E. A. , Montes de Oca Y. J. H. , Valencia-Pérez T. A.
Published: July 2019

Abstract

We study the observability for the flavor-changing decay of a top quark t → ch at the Large Hadron Collider (LHC) and future hadron colliders, namely, High-Luminosity LHC (HL-LHC), High-Energy LHC (HE-LHC) and Future Circular hadron-hadron Collider (FCC-hh). Two scenarios in which the Higgs boson could decay: into a quark bottom pair (bb-channel) and two photons (γγ-channel) are analyzed. A Monte Carlo analysis of the signal and the Standard Model (SM) background is computed. Center-of-mass energies of

$$ \sqrt{s}=14,27 $$

s

=
14
,
27

and 100 TeV and integrated luminosities from 0.3 to 30 ab−1 are explored. The theoretical framework adopted in this work is the Type-III Two-Higgs Doublet Model (THDM-III) for which, constraints on the parameter space from the Higgs boson coupling modifiers κ

i
are presented and used in order to evaluate the branching ratio of the t → ch decay and the

$$ \left( pp\to t\overline{t},\ t\to ch\right) $$

pp
→
t

t
¯

,

t
→
c
h

production cross section. We find that with the integrated luminosity achieved at the LHC, the t → ch decay is out of the reach of detection. More promising results emerge for the HL-LHC, HE-LHC and FCC-hh in which potential discoveries could be claimed.
Expanding Knowledge About Implementation of Pre-exposure Prophylaxis (PrEP): A Methodological Review
Authors: Pinto Rogério M. , Lacombe-Duncan Ashley , Kay Emma Sophia , Berringer Kathryn R.
Published: July 2019

Methodological limitations in PrEP implementation studies may explain why PrEP implementation is lagging. This methodological review provides a description and critique of the methods used to identify barriers to PrEP implementation in the United States (2007–18). For each selected article, we provide: (1) research questions; (2) measures; (3) design; (4) sample (size and type); and (5) theoretical orientation. Among 79 articles which identified knowledge, attitudes, and behavioral and social/structural barriers to PrEP implementation, 51 (65%) were quantitative; 25 (32%) qualitative; and 3 (4%) were mixed-methods; overall, just one-half described a conceptual approach. About two-thirds of articles were conducted with patients and one-third with healthcare providers. Our review reveals a paucity of longitudinal, mixed-methods, and ethnographic/observational research and guiding theoretical frameworks; thus, the applicability of results are limited. We recommend that interventions aimed at PrEP implementation address barriers situated at multiple ecological domains, and thus improve PrEP access, uptake, and adherence.
Who's your daddy? Behavioral and epigenetic consequences of paternal drug exposure
Authors: Nieto Steven J. , Kosten Therese A.
Published: July 2019

Substance use disorders (SUDs) reflect genetic and environmental factors. While identifying reliable genetic variants that predispose individuals to developing SUDs has been challenging, epigenetic factors may also contribute to the heritability of SUDs. Familial drug use associates with a wide range of problems in children, including an increased risk for developing a SUD. The implications of maternal drug use on offspring development are a well‐studied area; however, paternal drug use prior to conception has received relatively little attention. Paternal exposure to several environmental stimuli (i.e. stress or diet manipulations) results in behavioral and epigenetic changes in offspring. The purpose of this review is to determine the state of the preclinical literature on the behavioral and epigenetic consequences of paternal drug exposure. Drug‐sired offspring show several developmental and physiological abnormalities. These offspring also show deficits in cognitive and emotional domains. Examining sensitivity to drugs in offspring is a growing area of research. Drug‐sired offspring are resistant to the rewarding and reinforcing properties of drugs. However, greater paternal motivation for the drug, combined with high drug intake, can result in addiction‐like behaviors in offspring. Drug‐sired offspring also show altered histone modifications and DNA methylation levels of imprinted genes and microRNAs; epigenetic‐mediated changes were also noted in genes related to glutamatergic and neurotrophic factor signaling. In some instances, drug use resulted in aberrant epigenetic modifications in sire sperm, and these changes were maintained in the brains of offspring. Thus, paternal drug exposure has long‐lasting consequences that include altered drug sensitivity in subsequent generations. We discuss factors (i.e. maternal behaviors) that may moderate these paternal drug‐induced effects as well as ideas for future directions.
Technology-dependent children
Authors: Gulla Krishna Mohan , Sahoo Tanushree , Sachdev Anil
Published: July 2019

In recent past, revolution in medical technology resulted in improved survival rates and outcomes of critically ill children. Unfortunately, its impact relating to morbidity is not well documented. Although survival rates of these critically ill children who are medically fragile and technology-dependent have improved, we as health professionals are still in the learning curve to improve the quality of life of these children at home. Factors such as support from society, infrastructure, and funding play an important role in technology-dependent child care at home. In this review, commonly prescribed home-based medical technologies such as home ventilation, enteral nutrition, renal replacement therapy, and peripherally inserted central catheter, which are useful for quick revision, are described.
Enhancing the Helpfulness of Online Consumer Reviews: The Role of Latent (Content) Factors
Authors: Srivastava Vartika , Kalro Arti D.
Published: July 2019

Past empirical studies have analysed the influence of manifest online review content factors and the reviewer-related factors on online review helpfulness. However, the influence of latent content factors, which are implied from the text and that result in the differential helpfulness perceptions of review receivers, have been ignored. Hence, using the lens of the Elaboration Likelihood Model (ELM), we develop a comprehensive model to study the influence of content- and reviewer-related factors on review helpfulness. This study not only includes the manifest content-related and reviewer-related factors, but also the latent content factors consisting of argument quality (comprehensiveness, clarity, readability and relevance) and message valence. The study initially employs a manual content analysis to analyse the argument quality of ∼500 TripAdvisor reviews (Study 1). Subsequently, model testing techniques are used to study the holistic and relative influence of these different factors on review helpfulness. In the validation study (Study 2), Machine Learning and Natural Language Processing techniques are used to extract latent content information and test the above model with 50,000 reviews from Yelp.com . The results show that latent review content variables like argument quality and valence influence the helpfulness of the reviews better and beyond the previously studied, manifest review content- and reviewer-related factors.
ON SOME SUBCLASSES OF HARMONIC MAPPINGS
Authors: GHOSH NIRUPAM , ALLU VASUDEVARAO
Published: July 2019

Let ${\mathcal{P}}_{{\mathcal{H}}}^{0}(M)$ denote the class of normalised harmonic mappings $f=h+\overline{g}$ in the unit disk $\mathbb{D}$ satisfying $\text{Re}\,(zh^{\prime \prime }(z))>-M+|zg^{\prime \prime }(z)|$, where $h^{\prime }(0)-1=0=g^{\prime }(0)$ and $M>0$. Let ${\mathcal{B}}_{{\mathcal{H}}}^{0}(M)$ denote the class of sense-preserving harmonic mappings $f=h+\overline{g}$ in the unit disk $\mathbb{D}$ satisfying $|zh^{\prime \prime }(z)|\leq M-|zg^{\prime \prime }(z)|$, where $M>0$. We discuss the coefficient bound problem, the growth theorem for functions in the class ${\mathcal{P}}_{{\mathcal{H}}}^{0}(M)$ and a two-point distortion property for functions in the class ${\mathcal{B}}_{{\mathcal{H}}}^{0}(M)$.
Association between the GHR, GHRHR and IGF1 gene polymorphisms and milk coagulation properties in Sarda sheep
Authors: Dettori Maria L. , Pazzola Michele , Pira Emanuela , Stocco Giorgia , Vacca Giuseppe M.
Published: July 2019

We investigated whether variation of the sheep Growth Hormone Receptor (GHR), Growth Hormone Releasing Hormone Receptor (GHRHR) and Insulin-Like Growth Factor 1 (IGF1) genes were associated with milk coagulation properties (MCP) in sheep. The GHR, GHRHR and IGF1 genes are part of the GH system, which is known to modulate metabolism, growth and reproduction as well as mammogenesis and galactopoiesis in dairy species. A total of 380 dairy Sarda sheep were genotyped for 36 SNPs mapping to these three genes. Traditional MCP were measured as rennet coagulation time (RCT), curd-firming time (k20) and curd firmness at 30 m (a30). Modeling of curd firming over time (CFt) was based on a 60 m lactodynamographic test, generating a total of 240 records of curd firmness (mm) for each milk sample. The model parameters obtained included: the rennet coagulation time as a result of modeling all data available (RCTeq, min); the asymptotic potential value of curd firmness (CFP, mm) at an infinite time; the CF instant rate constant (kCF, %/min); the syneresis instant rate constant (kSR, %/min); the maximum value of CF (CFmax, mm) and the time at achievement of CFmax (tmax, min). Statistical analysis revealed that variation of the GHR gene was significantly associated with RCT, kSR and CFP (P < 0.05). No other significant associations were detected. These findings may be useful for the dairy industry, as well as for selection programs.
The use of fluorescence lifetime technology in benign and malignant thyroid tissues
Authors: Nakache G , Yahav G , Siloni G H , Barshack I , Alon E , Wolf M , Fixler D
Published: July 2019

Objective

To explore the use of fluorescence lifetime imaging microscopy in thyroid tissues, and to investigate how different thyroid lesions affect fluorescence lifetime.

Method

Fluorescence lifetime measurements were taken of fresh frozen thyroid surgical specimens stained with fluorescein isothiocyanate tagged anti-thyroglobulin monoclonal antibodies.

Results

The mean fluorescence lifetime measurements in 12 patients – 3 with multinodular goitre, 4 with follicular adenoma, 4 with papillary thyroid carcinoma and 1 with follicular carcinoma – were 3.16 ns (range, 2.66–3.52 ns), 3.75 ns (range, 2.99–4.57 ns), 2.97 ns (range, 2.57–3.21 ns) and 3.61 ns, respectively. The fluorescence lifetime of follicular adenoma patients was higher than that of papillary thyroid carcinoma patients by 26 per cent (p = 0.058). The fluorescence lifetime in the follicular carcinoma patient was similar to the follicular adenoma group, but higher than in the papillary thyroid carcinoma group by 22 per cent (p = 0.01).

Conclusion

Fluorescence lifetime measurements varied in different thyroid pathologies, possibly because of tissue-scale structural influences.
Time of year, age class and body condition predict Hendra virus infection in Australian black flying foxes (Pteropus alecto)
Authors: Edson D. , Peel A. J. , Huth L. , Mayer D. G. , Vidgen M. E. , McMichael L. , Broos A. , Melville D. , Kristoffersen J. , de Jong C. , McLaughlin A. , Field H. E.
Published: July 2019

Hendra virus (HeV) continues to cause fatal infection in horses and threaten infection in close-contact humans in eastern Australia. Species of Pteropus bats (flying-foxes) are the natural reservoir of the virus. We caught and sampled flying-foxes from a multispecies roost in southeast Queensland, Australia on eight occasions between June 2013 and June 2014. The effects of sample date, species, sex, age class, body condition score (BCS), pregnancy and lactation on HeV antibody prevalence, log-transformed median fluorescent intensity (lnMFI) values and HeV RNA status were assessed using unbalanced generalised linear models. A total of 1968 flying-foxes were sampled, comprising 1012 Pteropus alecto, 742 P. poliocephalus and 214 P. scapulatus. Sample date, species and age class were each statistically associated with HeV RNA status, antibody status and lnMFI values; BCS was statistically associated with HeV RNA status and antibody status. The findings support immunologically naïve sub-adult P. alecto playing an important role in maintaining HeV infection at a population level. The biological significance of the association between BCS and HeV RNA status, and BCS and HeV antibody status, is less clear and warrants further investigation. Contrary to previous studies, we found no direct association between HeV infection and pregnancy or lactation. The findings in P. poliocephalus suggest that HeV exposure in this species may not result in systemic infection and virus excretion, or alternatively, may reflect assay cross-reactivity with another (unidentified) henipavirus.
You Research Like a Girl: Gendered Research Agendas and Their Implications
Authors: Key Ellen M. , Sumner Jane Lawrence
Published: July 2019

Political science, like many disciplines, has a “leaky-pipeline” problem. Women are more likely to leave the profession than men. Those who stay are promoted at lower rates. Recent work has pointed toward a likely culprit: women are less likely to submit work to journals. Why? One answer is that women do not believe their work will be published. This article asks whether women systematically study different topics than men and whether these topics may be less likely to appear in top political science journals. To answer this question, we analyzed the content of dissertation abstracts. We found evidence that some topics are indeed gendered. We also found differences in the representation of “women’s” and “men’s” topics in the pages of the top journals. This suggests that research agendas may indeed be gendered and that variation in research topic might be to blame for the submission gap.
Wisdom Ecclesiology: Renegotiating Church in the World
Authors: Lord Andy
Published: July 2019

This article seeks to articulate the ecclesiology of David Ford as one shaped by wisdom. Although central to Ford’s concerns, the nature of his ecclesiology has not yet been explored. The task is approached first by outlining Ford’s approach to theology found in his book Christian Wisdom and then detailing how his ecclesiology fits within his thinking in regard to wider concerns. I argue that key to understanding Ford’s ecclesiology is to see it within a movement from extensity to intensity and back to extensity. I argue that Ford’s ecclesiology represents a way of renegotiating the place of the church in the wider world. It is a significant contribution for the Anglican Church in Western settings which have seen widespread cultural changes. At the same time, Ford’s ecclesiology is limited by its particular intensive contextual engagements which neglect wider contextual and ecclesiological concerns.
CME: Hormone und Mobilität CME-Fragen
Authors: Henzen Christoph
Published: July 2019

Zusammenfassung. Endokrine Erkrankungen beeinflussen die Mobilität in vielfältiger und zum Teil typischer Weise: Beispielsweise wirken endokrine Erkrankungen, wie das Cushing-Syndrom oder der Hyperparathyreoidismus, über direkte, hormonvermittelte Effekte auf Skelett und Muskulatur und verändern die Mobilität. Andererseits ist das endokrine System ein wichtiger Faktor bei der Entstehung der (Osteo-)Sarkopenie, deren Wichtigkeit in der Prognose verschiedenster Krankheitsbilder zunehmend erkannt wird. Umgekehrt ist die (fehlende) körperliche Aktivität entscheidend in der Genese der metabolischen Erkrankungen, die mit schwerwiegenden individuellen und sozioökonomischen Folgen verknüpft sind.
Precipitation Characteristics in the Community Atmosphere Model and Their Dependence on Model Physics and Resolution
Authors: Chen Di , Dai Aiguo
Published: July 2019

Precipitation amount (A), frequency (F), intensity (I), and duration (D) are important properties of precipitation, but their estimates are sensitive to data resolution. This study investigates this resolution dependence, and the influences of different model physics, by analyzing simulations by the Community Atmospheric Model (CAM) version 4 (CAM4) and version 5 (CAM5) with varying grid sizes from ~0.25 to 2.0°. Results show that both CAM4 and CAM5 greatly overestimate F and D but underestimate I at all resolutions, despite realistic A. These biases partly result from too much parameterized (convective) precipitation with high F and D but low I. Different cloud microphysics schemes contribute to the precipitation differences between CAM4 and CAM5. The A, F, I, and D of convective and nonconvective precipitation react differently to grid‐size decreases, leading to the large decreases in F and D but increases in the I for total precipitation as model resolution increases. This resolution dependence results from the increased probability of precipitation over a larger area (area aggregation effect, which is smaller than in observations) and the varying performance of model physics under changing resolution (model adjustment effect), which roughly enhances the aggregation‐induced dependence. Finer grid sizes not only increase resolved precipitation, which has higher intensity and thus improves overall precipitation intensity in CAM, but also reduce the area aggregation effect. Thus, the long‐standing drizzling problem in climate models may be mitigated by increasing model resolution and modifying model physics to suppress parameterized convective precipitation and enhance resolved nonconvective precipitation.
Integrating Qualitative Flow Observations in a Lumped Hydrologic Routing Model
Authors: Mazzoleni M. , Amaranto A. , Solomatine D.P.
Published: July 2019

This study aims at proposing novel approaches for integrating qualitative flow observations in a lumped hydrologic routing model and assessing their usefulness for improving flood estimation. Routing is based on a three‐parameter Muskingum model used to propagate streamflow in five different rivers in the United States. Qualitative flow observations, synthetically generated from observed flow, are converted into fuzzy observations using flow characteristic for defining fuzzy classes. A model states updating method and a model output correction technique are implemented. An innovative application of Interacting Multiple Models, which use was previously demonstrated on tracking in ballistic missile applications, is proposed as state updating method, together with the traditional Kalman filter. The output corrector approach is based on the fuzzy error corrector, which was previously used for robots navigation. This study demonstrates the usefulness of integrating qualitative flow observations for improving flood estimation. In particular, state updating methods outperform the output correction approach in terms of average improvement of model performances, while the latter is found to be less sensitive to biased observations and to the definition of fuzzy sets used to represent qualitative observations.
Mmm, Salt—Europa’s Hidden Ocean May Contain the Table Variety
Authors: Kornei Katherine
Published: July 2019

Hubble Space Telescope observations suggest that sodium chloride exists in young, geologically active regions on Europa, likely fed by upwelling from the moon’s subsurface ocean.
Fault Stability Perturbation by Thermal Pressurization and Stress Transfer Around a Deep Geological Repository in a Clay Formation
Authors: Urpi L. , Rinaldi A. P. , Rutqvist J. , Wiemer S.
Published: July 2019

The increase of temperature of a low‐permeability, fluid‐saturated media may trigger significant thermal pressurization, where the expansion of pore fluid cannot be accommodated by the thermal expansion of the pore space. With the aid of a coupled thermohydromechanical numerical simulator, we investigate the possible impact of thermal pressurization during the life of a deep geological repository (DGR) for high‐level radioactive waste, characterized by the emplacement of radioactive material‐filled canisters in a series of parallel tunnels, excavated in a low‐permeability clay formation. We represent the fault as a planar structure embedded in a thermoporoelastic material and shear activation evaluated by a strain‐softening Mohr‐Coulomb failure criterion. The results show that stress changes caused by temperature and thermal pressurization of a rock mass around the emplacement tunnels may trigger a slip event on a fault plane in proximity of the geological disposal site: Rupture nucleates at depth, hundreds of meters below the DGR. Stress transfer plays a key role, while a direct hydraulic connection between the repository and the nucleation zone is not necessary in order to trigger rupture. A low stress ratio may favor the occurrence of slip up to a distance of 600 m of the fault from the outermost tunnel. These results highlight the need of investigating hydromechanical properties and local stress conditions at depth to characterize the geomechanical response of weak planes located in the surroundings of a high‐level radioactive waste repository and to provide sufficient knowledge for the safe development of the DGR site.
Limits of topological protection under local periodic driving
Authors: Fedorova Z. , Jörg C. , Dauer C. , Letscher F. , Fleischhauer M. , Eggert S. , Linden S. , von Freymann G.
Published: July 2019

The bulk-edge correspondence guarantees that the interface between two topologically distinct insulators supports at least one topological edge state that is robust against static perturbations. Here, we address the question of how dynamic perturbations of the interface affect the robustness of edge states. We illuminate the limits of topological protection for Floquet systems in the special case of a static bulk. We use two independent dynamic quantum simulators based on coupled plasmonic and dielectric photonic waveguides to implement the topological Su-Schriefer-Heeger model with convenient control of the full space- and time-dependence of the Hamiltonian. Local time-periodic driving of the interface does not change the topological character of the system but nonetheless leads to dramatic changes of the edge state, which becomes rapidly depopulated in a certain frequency window. A theoretical Floquet analysis shows that the coupling of Floquet replicas to the bulk bands is responsible for this effect. Additionally, we determine the depopulation rate of the edge state and compare it to numerical simulations.
Breaking the spatial reciprocity with Janus metamaterials
Authors: Huang Lingling
Published: July 2019

Switching of the observation direction as well as the polarization channels of chiral Janus metamaterials may result in different reconstructed images.
Vibrational enhancement of quadrature squeezing and phase sensitivity in resonance fluorescence
Authors: Iles-Smith Jake , Nazir Ahsan , McCutcheon Dara P. S.
Published: July 2019

Vibrational environments are commonly considered to be detrimental to the optical emission properties of solid-state and molecular systems, limiting their performance within quantum information protocols. Given that such environments arise naturally it is important to ask whether they can instead be turned to our advantage. Here we show that vibrational interactions can be harnessed within resonance fluorescence to generate optical states with a higher degree of quadrature squeezing than in isolated atomic systems. Considering the example of a driven quantum dot coupled to phonons, we demonstrate that it is feasible to surpass the maximum level of squeezing theoretically obtainable in an isolated atomic system and indeed come close to saturating the fundamental upper bound on squeezing from a two-level emitter. We analyse the performance of these vibrationally-enhanced squeezed states in a phase estimation protocol, finding that for the same photon flux, they can outperform the single mode squeezed vacuum state.
Probing the Unruh effect with an accelerated extended system
Authors: Lima Cesar A. Uliana , Brito Frederico , Hoyos José A. , Vanzella Daniel A. Turolla
Published: July 2019

It has been proved in the context of quantum fields in Minkowski spacetime that the vacuum state is a thermal state according to uniformly accelerated observers—a seminal result known as the Unruh effect. Recent claims, however, have challenged the validity of this result for extended systems, thus casting doubts on its physical reality. Here, we study the dynamics of an extended system, uniformly accelerated in the vacuum. We show that its reduced density matrix evolves to a Gibbs thermal state with local temperature given by the Unruh temperature $$T_{\mathrm{U}} = \hbar a/(2\pi ck_{\mathrm{B}})$$

T

U

=
ℏ
a
∕

(

2
π
c

k

B

)

, where a is the system’s spatial-dependent proper acceleration—c is the speed of light and kB and $$\hbar$$
ℏ
are the Boltzmann’s and the reduced Planck’s constants, respectively. This proves that the vacuum state does induce thermalization of an accelerated extended system—which is all one can expect of a legitimate thermal reservoir.
Screen printing of silver nanowires: balancing conductivity with transparency while maintaining flexibility and stretchability
Authors: Li Weiwei , Yang Shuai , Shamim Atif
Published: July 2019

Printing metal nanowires are particularly attractive as compared to conventional coating methods due to the ease of processing, direct patterning, and large-scale fabrication capability. However, it is still challenging to print metal nanowire patterns that simultaneously have high conductivity, high transparency, flexibility, and stretchability. Three steps have been taken in this work to balance the transparency and conductivity of the screen-printed flexible and stretchable silver nanowire films, (1) selection of the ink formulation, (2) optimization of the printing parameters, and (3) posttreatment with a laser. The as-obtained silver nanowire patterns are large-area and demonstrate an ultralow sheet resistance of 1.9 ohm/sq, high transmittance (73%) at the wavelength of 550 nm, and an ultrahigh figure of merit (~136) as compared to the printed silver nanowire electrodes in the literature. The screen-printed transparent patterns exhibit excellent electrical stability and mechanical repeatability when subjected to 1000 bending cycles with a bending radius of 28 mm and 1000 stretch-release cycles with 10% strain, which makes the transparent patterns suitable for the fabrication of flexible, transparent microwave absorbers. The absorption performance of the prepared frequency selective surface absorbers indicates no obvious degradation after various manipulating configurations and multiple bending and stretching cycles. The results are promising enough to make this ink and screen-printing process suitable for many applications of flexible, stretchable, and transparent electronics.
Hepatic triglyceride content does not affect circulating CETP: lessons from a liraglutide intervention trial and a population-based cohort
Authors: van Eyk Huub J. , Blauw Lisanne L. , Bizino Maurice B. , Wang Yanan , van Dijk Ko Willems , de Mutsert Renée , Smit Johannes W. A. , Lamb Hildo J. , Jazet Ingrid M. , Rensen Patrick C. N.
Published: July 2019

Cholesteryl ester transfer protein (CETP) is mainly expressed by Kupffer cells in the liver. A reduction of hepatic triglyceride content (HTGC) by pioglitazone or caloric restriction is accompanied by a decrease in circulating CETP. Since GLP-1 analogues also reduce HTGC, we assessed whether liraglutide decreases CETP. Furthermore, we investigated the association between HTGC and CETP in a population-based cohort. In a placebo-controlled trial, 50 patients with type 2 diabetes were randomly assigned to treatment with liraglutide or placebo added to standard care. In this trial and in 1,611 participants of the Netherlands Epidemiology of Obesity (NEO) study, we measured HTGC and circulating CETP by proton magnetic resonance spectroscopy and ELISA, respectively. The HTGC was decreased in the liraglutide group (−6.3%; 95%CI of difference [−9.5, −3.0]) but also in the placebo group (−4.0%; 95%CI[−6.0, −2.0]), without between-group differences. CETP was not decreased by liraglutide (−0.05 µg/mL; 95%CI[−0.13, 0.04]) or placebo (−0.04 µg/mL; 95%CI[−0.12, 0.04]). No association was present between HTGC and CETP at baseline (β: 0.002 µg/mL per %TG, 95%CI[−0.005, 0.009]) and between the changes after treatment with liraglutide (β: 0.003 µg/mL per %TG, 95%CI[−0.010, 0.017]) or placebo (β: 0.006 µg/mL per %TG, 95%CI[−0.012,0.024]). Also, in the cohort n o association between HTGC and CETP was present (β: −0.001 µg/mL per SD TG, 95%CI[−0.005, 0.003]). A reduction of HTGC after treatment with liraglutide or placebo does not decrease circulating CETP. Also, no association between HTGC and CETP was present in a large cohort. These findings indicate that circulating CETP is not determined by HTGC.

Clinical Trial Registration: Clinicaltrials.gov (NCT01761318).
The Metabolic Cost of Walking in healthy young and older adults – A Systematic Review and Meta Analysis
Authors: Das Gupta Sauvik , Bobbert Maarten F. , Kistemaker Dinant A.
Published: July 2019

The Metabolic Cost of Walking (MCoW) is an important variable of daily life that has been studied extensively. Several studies suggest that MCoW is higher in Older Adults (OA) than in Young Adults (YA). However, it is difficult to compare values across studies due to differences in the way MCoW was expressed, the units in which it was reported and the walking speed at which it was measured. To provide an overview of MCoW in OA and YA and to investigate the quantitative effect of age on MCoW, we have conducted a literature review and performed two meta-analyses. We extracted data on MCoW in healthy YA (18–41 years old) and healthy OA (≥59 years old) and calculated, if not already reported, the Gross (GCoW) and Net MCoW (NCoW) in J/kg/m. If studies reported MCoW measured at multiple speeds, we selected those values for YA and OA at which MCoW was minimal. All studies directly comparing YA and OA were selected for meta-analyses. From all studies reviewed, the average GCoW in YA was 3.4 ± 0.4 J/kg/m and 3.8 ± 0.4 J/kg/m in OA (~12% more in OA), and the average NCoW in YA was 2.4 ± 0.4 J/kg/m and 2.8 ± 0.5 J/kg/m in OA (~17% more in OA). Our meta-analyses indicated a statistically significant elevation of both GCoW and NCoW (p < 0.001) for OA. In terms of GCoW, OA expended about 0.3 J/kg/m more metabolic energy than YA and about 0.4 J/kg/m more metabolic energy than YA in terms of NCoW. Our study showed a statistically significant elevation in MCoW of OA over YA. However, from the literature it is unclear if this elevation is directly caused by age or due to an interaction between age and methodology. We recommend further research comparing MCoW in healthy OA and YA during “natural” over-ground walking and treadmill walking, after sufficient familiarization time.
New therapeutic target for pediatric anaplastic ependymoma control: study of anti-tumor activity by a Kunitz-type molecule, Amblyomin-X
Authors: Pavon Lorena Favaro , Capper David , Sibov Tatiana Tais , de Toledo Silvia Regina Caminada , Thomale Ulrich-W. , de Souza Jean Gabriel , Cabral Francisco Romero , Berra Carolina Maria , Silva da Costa Marcos Devanir , Mendonça Niçacio Jardel , Dastoli Patrícia Alessandra , de Oliveira Daniela Mara , Malheiros Suzana M. F. , da Cruz Edgar Ferreira , Malheiros Jackeline Moraes , de Oliveira Sérgio Mascarenhas , Silva Nasjla Saba , Petrilli Antonio Sérgio , Cappellano Andrea Maria , Brunialti Milena Colò , Salomão Reinaldo , de Paiva Neto Manoel A. , Chudzinski-Tavassi Ana Marisa , Cavalheiro Sérgio
Published: July 2019

EPNs comprise a heterogeneous group of neuroepithelial tumors, accounting for about 10% of all intracranial tumors in children and up to 30% of brain tumors in those younger than 3 years. Actually, the pattern therapy for low-grade EPNs includes complete surgical resection followed by radiation therapy. Total surgical excision is often not possible due to tumor location. The aim of this study was to evaluate, for the first time, the anti-tumor activity of Amblyomin-X in 4 primary cultures derived from pediatric anaplastic posterior fossa EPN, Group A (anaplastic, WHO grade III) and one primary culture of a high grade neuroepithelial tumor with MN1 alteration, which was initially misdiagnosed as EPN: i) by in vitro assays: comparisons of temozolomide and cisplatin; ii) by intracranial xenograft model. Amblyomin-X was able to induce cell death in EPN cells in a more significant percentage compared to cisplatin. The cytotoxic effects of Amblyomin-X were not detected on hFSCs used as control, as opposed to cisplatin-treatment, which promoted a substantial effect in the hAFSCs viability. TEM analysis showed ultrastructural alterations related to the process of cell death: mitochondrial degeneration, autophagosomes and aggregate-like structures. MRI and histopathological analyzes demonstrated significant tumor mass regression. Our results suggest that Amblyomin-X has a selective effect on tumor cells by inducing apoptotic cell death and may be a therapeutic option for Group AEPNs.
Genomic epidemiology of Chikungunya virus in Colombia reveals genetic variability of strains and multiple geographic introductions in outbreak, 2014
Authors: Villero-Wolf Yeneiris , Mattar Salim , Puerta-González Andrés , Arrieta German , Muskus Carlos , Hoyos Richard , Pinzon Hernando , Peláez-Carvajal Dioselina
Published: July 2019

Chikungunya virus (CHIKV) is considered a public health problem due to its rapid spread and high morbidity. This study aimed to determine the genetic diversity and phylogenetic relationships of CHIKVs in Colombia. A descriptive and retrospective study was carried out using sera of patients infected with Chikungunya during the outbreak in Colombia. The whole genomes of CHIKV (n = 16) were sequenced with an Illumina Hi-seq 2500 and were assembled using the Iterative Virus Assembler software. A Bayesian inference phylogenetic analysis was carried out with 157 strains of worldwide origin. The Colombian CHIKV sequences were grouped in the Asian genotype; however, three independent phylogenetic subclades were observed, probably the result of three separate introductions from Panama, Nicaragua, and St. Barts. Each subclade showed several different non-synonymous mutations (nsP2-A153V; nsp2-Y543H; nsp2-G720A; nsP3-L458P; Capside R78Q), that may have functional consequences for CHIKV biology and pathogenesis. These same mutations may affect the efficacy of potential CHIKV vaccines.
A millennium-long reconstruction of damaging hydrological events across Italy
Authors: Diodato Nazzareno , Ljungqvist Fredrik Charpentier , Bellocchi Gianni
Published: July 2019

Damaging hydrological events are extreme phenomena with potentially severe impacts on human societies. Here, we present the hitherto longest reconstruction of damaging hydrological events for Italy, and for the whole Mediterranean region, revealing 674 such events over the period 800–2017. For any given year, we established a severity index based on information in historical documentary records, facilitating the transformation of the data into a continuous time-series. Episodes of hydrological extremes disrupted ecosystems during the more severe events by changing landforms. The frequency and severity of damaging hydrological events across Italy were likely influenced by the mode of the Atlantic Multidecadal Variability (AMV), with relatively few events during the warm Medieval Climate Anomaly dominated by a positive phase of the AMV. More frequent and heavier storms prevailed during the cold Little Ice Age, dominated by a more negative phase of the AMV. Since the mid-19th century, a decreasing occurrence of exceptional hydrological events is evident, especially during the most recent decades, but this decrease is not yet unprecedented in the context of the past twelve centuries.