bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Museum Landscape Design based on the Combination of Art and Technology
Authors: Lu Chunchen , Zhang Xinyue
Published: July 2020

With the view of solving the problems of development and innovation in museum landscape design, this paper, starting from the function of landscape, puts forward a strategy of combining art with science and technology. It takes static landscape and dynamic landscape as the starting point of design, and uses the design method of functional zoning optimization. It treats the fire museum as the theme, and makes landscape art modeling by using foam, cement, brick, steel wire and other materials. It combines intelligent fire control system and virtual technology to carry out fire escape experiment in art environment. The experimental result goes to show that artistic means are conducive to enhancing immersive experience, and scientific and technological means are conducive to improving the depth and dimension of experience. The museum landscape design based on the combination of art and science can help the value promotion of exhibition knowledge, landscape knowledge, exhibition hall education, science, art and interest. The combination of art and science and technology, which is the new trend of landscape design, provides a better comprehensive solution for the innovation in museum landscape design.
Aktuelles von der EDTNA/ERCA
Authors: Nipshagen Sabine
Published: July 2020

In diesem Artikel möchten wir Sie auf diverse Neuigkeiten aus der EDNTA/ERCA aufmerksam machen.
SGLT-2-Inhibitoren
Authors: Wolf Gunter
Published: July 2020

Inhibitoren des Natrium-Glukose-Kotransporters Typ 2 (SGLT-2) sind orale Antidiabetika mit einem neuen Wirkmechanismus an der Niere. Sie hemmen die Glukose- und Natrium-Rückresorption. Hierdurch kommt es zu einer therapeutischen Glukosurie und einer milden Natriurese. Gleichzeitig wird die renale Harnsäureausscheidung gesteigert. Der Mechanismus führt zu einer Senkung der Serum-Glukose sowie zusätzlich zu einer Gewichtsreduktion und zu einer Senkung des Blutdruckes (durch die gesteigerte Natrium-Ausscheidung).
EEG als Steuersignal: Gehirnaktivität entschlüsseln
und effizient als Kommunikationsmittel für Patienten mit motorischen
Defiziten nutzen
Authors: Reichert Christoph , Dürschmid Stefan , Hinrichs Hermann
Published: July 2020

Ziel der Studie Ereignis-korrelierte Potenziale werden in der Regel in
einzelnen EEG-Kanälen ermittelt. Mit einem einzelnen Kanal wird jedoch
nur ein Teil des gesamten Hirnprozesses erfasst. Für eine
Gehirn-Computer Schnittstelle, die in kurzer Zeit eine Entscheidung treffen
muss, ist diese singuläre Gehirnantwort häufig unzureichend
wogegen die Information aus mehreren Kanälen häufig redundant
ist. Beide Vorgehensweisen sind nicht optimal. Daher ist es unser Ziel, die
Kanäle zu wenigen Komponenten zu kombinieren, die die relevantesten
Modulationen eines Hirnprozesses erfassen.

Methodik Wir nutzen die kanonische Korrelationsanalyse, um datengetrieben
räumliche Filter aus dem EEG zu bestimmen. Mit der Produkt-Moment
Korrelation ermitteln wir, auf welche von 12 verschiedenen Stimulussequenzen die
Studienteilnehmer geachtet haben.

Ergebnisse Die verdeckte Aufmerksamkeit der Studienteilnehmer konnte mit
hoher Genauigkeit (89,3±9,2%) aus dem räumlich
gefilterten EEG und signifikant besser als aus einzelnen Kanälen
dekodiert werden.

Schlussfolgerung Die aus dem EEG erlernten räumlichen Filter
ermöglichen die Extraktion von Komponenten, die einen event-korrelierten
Gehirnprozess charakterisieren und eine Gehirn-Computer Schnittstelle effektiv
steuern können, was von hoher Relevanz für Patienten ist, die
nicht mehr anderweitig kommunizieren können.
Neuigkeiten aus dem fnb e. V.
Authors: Hünninghaus Sarah , Wiegard-Szramek Ina
Published: July 2020

Im Folgenden möchten wir euch zu aktuellen Änderungen im Vorstand und zu Veranstaltungen sowie zur Zukunft des fnb e. V. informieren.
Impact of Long-term, High-fat, and High-calorie Diet on Murine Vertebrae Bones
Authors: Schildberg Frank Alexander , Kabir Koroush , Bojko Jessica , Khoury Mona , Masson Werner , Weber Anna , Hilgers Cäcilia , Bourauel Christoph , Steinmetz Martin , Welle Kristian
Published: July 2020

As the percentage of overweight individuals in the population rises, diseases associated with excess weight resulting from poor nutrition are becoming more and more widespread. So
far, the influence of weight or nutrition on bone health has shown conflicting results. In the literature, the existing studies disagree about the effect of diet on bones.
Therefore, this study investigated the impact of a long-term, high-fat, and high-calorie diet on the spine in a mouse model. Wild-type mice were randomly separated into two groups;
one group received a high-fat and high-calorie diet, and a control group was fed with a regular diet for a duration of 24 weeks. The first to fifth thoracic vertebrae were
extracted and investigated using histology and micro-CT. Samples were analyzed regarding different parameters: percentage of bone structure compared to the whole vertebra and the
amount and thickness of the trabeculae. Both methods of the analysis showed similar results. Diet did not have a significant impact on the bone density of the vertebrae. The
micro-CT examination showed that the average bone percentage of the examined vertebra was 6% (p = 0.2330) higher in the control group compared to the diet group. The same tendency
was demonstrated in histology even though with a smaller difference of only 5%. The results of both methods were comparable and showed trends for the influence of different diets
but not significant impacts. In summary, this study showed that a high-fat and high-calorie diet has a slightly negative impact on bone density. In order to further analyze the
effects of different diets on bone composition, structure, and density, additional long-term studies should be carried out, and more parameters such as movement and genetic factors
should be analyzed. Furthermore, other parameters such as exercise and genetic factors that could have a secondary influence on obesity should be investigated.
Sozialbedingte Ungleichheiten von Gesundheit und Gesundheitsverhalten
bei Studierenden
Authors: Diehl Katharina , Hilger-Kolb Jennifer , Herr Raphael M.
Published: July 2020

Ziel der Studie Studierende sind in den letzten Jahren immer mehr in den
Fokus von Prävention und gesundheitswissenschaftlicher Forschung
gerückt. Allerdings werden sie meist als homogene Gruppe wahrgenommen.
Ziel des vorliegenden Beitrags war es, zu prüfen, ob in der Gruppe
Studierender gesundheitliche Ungleichheit existiert.

Methodik Zur Beantwortung der Frage wurde ein bundesweiter
Studierendensurvey, die sogenannte NuPhA-Studie, herangezogen (n=689,
69,5% weiblich, Altersdurchschnitt: 22,69 Jahre).

Ergebnisse und Schlussfolgerung Tatsächlich zeigten sich
Zusammenhänge zwischen sozioökonomischen Indikatoren und
Gesundheit sowie Gesundheitsverhalten. Beispielsweise war die
Studienfinanzierung über ein Stipendium mit einer besseren allgemeinen,
psychischen und physischen Gesundheit verbunden. Insbesondere der subjektive
Sozialstatus war positiv mit einer besseren allgemeinen, psychischen und
körperlichen Gesundheit sowie einer höheren
Sportaktivität verknüpft. Die Ergebnisse sprechen für
ein Vorliegen von gesundheitlicher Ungleichheit in der zunächst homogen
erscheinenden Gruppe Studierender. Dies unterstreicht die Notwendigkeit einer
differenzierten Betrachtung der Gruppe Studierender und die Wichtigkeit,
gesundheitliche Ungleichheit unter Studierenden tiefergehend zu untersuchen, zu
erklären und schließlich zu reduzieren.
Iron-Catalyzed Diastereoselective Synthesis of Disubstituted Morpholines via C–O or C–N Bond Formation
Authors: Cossy Janine , Aubineau Thomas , Dupas Alexandre , Zeng Tian
Published: July 2020

The diastereoselective synthesis of 2,6- and 3,5-disubstituted morpholines was achieved from 1,2-amino ethers and 1,2-hydroxy amines substituted by an allylic alcohol using an iron(III) catalyst. The morpholines were obtained either by C–O or C–N bond formation. A plausible mechanism is suggested, involving a thermodynamic equilibrium to explain the formation of the cis diastereoisomer as the major product.
Review of Clinical Trials in COVID-19: Trying to Solve the Clinicians’ Conundrum
Authors: Athavale Amita , Khatri Vijay , Athavale Tanya , Deshmukh Hemant , Nataraj Gita , Bahot Rahul
Published: July 2020

SARS-CoV-2 and the resulting “COVID-19” has escalated into a pandemic and has resulted in significant morbidity and mortality. Currently, there is no approved antiviral treatment available. Few antiviral agents are undergoing clinical trials for their safety and efficacy against COVID-19. With various repurposed drugs under evaluation, treatment approaches range from search for an effective antiviral, immunomodulation and anticoagulation, use of point-of-care ultrasound to novel ventilatory strategies. Newer agents targeting the inflammatory pathway are also under investigation. There are more than 1955 ongoing clinical trials of repurposed and novel agents. Here we review some of the ongoing trials that have published, at least, interim results of treating patients with COVID-19.
The Compliance of Prescribed Activity Restriction in Women at High Risk for Preterm Birth
Authors: Bitar Ghamar , Sciscione Anthony
Published: July 2020

Objective Despite lack of evidence to support efficacy, activity restriction is one of the most commonly prescribed interventions used for the prevention of preterm birth. We have a departmental policy against the use of activity restriction but many practitioners still prescribe it in an effort to prevent preterm birth. We sought to evaluate the rate and compliance of women who are prescribed activity restriction during pregnancy to prevent preterm birth.

Study Design This was a single-site retrospective questionnaire study at a tertiary care, academic affiliated medical center. Women with a history of preterm delivery or short cervix were included. Once patients were identified, each patient was contacted and administered a questionnaire. We assessed the rates of activity restriction prescription and compliance. Secondary outcomes included details regarding activity restriction and treatment in pregnancy. Continuous variables were compared with t-test and categorical variables with Chi-square test. The value p < 0.05 was considered significant.

Results Among the 52 women who responded to the questionnaire, 18 reported being placed on activity restriction by a physician, with 1 self-prescribing activity restriction, giving a rate of our primary outcome of 19 of 52 (36.5%). All women reported compliance with prescribed activity restriction (100%). Gestational age at delivery was not different in women placed on activity restriction.

Conclusion This questionnaire suggests that approximately one in three high-risk women were placed on activity restriction during their pregnancy despite a departmental policy against its use. The 100% compliance rate in patients placed on activity restriction is a strong reminder of the impact prescribing patterns of physicians can have on patients.

Key Points
Asymptotic behavior for non-autonomous fractional stochastic Ginzburg–Landau equations on unbounded domains
Authors: Shu Ji , Huang Xin , Zhang Jian
Published: July 2020

In this paper, we first prove the existence and uniqueness of tempered pullback random attractors for a non-autonomous stochastic fractional Ginzburg–Landau equation driven by multiplicative noise with α ∈ (0, 1) in L2R3. Then, we obtain the upper semicontinuity of random attractors when the intensity of noise approaches zero. Due to the lack of the compactness of Sobolev embeddings on unbounded domains, we establish the pullback asymptotic compactness of solutions in L2(R3) by the tail-estimates of solutions.
Data quantifies water’s ionization behavior in near- and supercritical conditions
Authors: Bandari Anashe
Published: July 2020

The self-ionization of water is difficult to study – especially in extreme conditions – but many industrial and geochemical processes depend on it.
Illusion thermotics with topology optimization
Authors: Sha Wei , Zhao Yiting , Gao Liang , Xiao Mi , Hu Run
Published: July 2020

Illusion thermotics, which aims at creating temperature fields to mislead a thermal detector, encompasses many thermal functionalities. It has attracted significant attention due to the increasing number of promising applications. Transformation thermotics and scattering cancellation methods are frequently adopted for illusion devices, though they have inherent defects such as anisotropic thermal properties and complicated fabrication methods. Here, we present a general framework for topology optimization, which can be used to design the structure of an illusion device automatically. The optimized configuration can camouflage the thermal exterior of an illusion device so that it is identical to a reference. The original heat source can drive the virtual heat source despite the structure being simply composed of natural materials. To establish an effective topology optimization model, a volume constraint was imposed on the total volume of iron and a prescribed objective function was used to evaluate the difference between the reference temperature and the temperature field during the topology optimization. The flexibility of the method presented was successfully validated by changing the total volume of iron, the number and locations of the thermal illusions, the types of composite materials, and the original heat sources. Topology optimization is a new and flexible approach for designing thermal metamaterials and metadevices for diverse thermal functionalities and beyond.
Quantum transport with electronic relaxation in electrodes: Landauer-type formulas derived from the driven Liouville–von Neumann approach
Authors: Chiang Tse-Min , Hsu Liang-Yan
Published: July 2020

We derive the exact steady-state solutions for the simplest model systems of resonant tunneling and tunneling with destructive quantum interference from the driven Liouville–von Neumann (DLvN) approach. Under the finite-state lead condition (the two electrodes have finite states), we analyze the asymptotic behavior of the steady-state current in the two limits of electronic relaxation. Under the infinite-state lead condition, the steady-state solutions of the two model systems can be cast as Landauer-type current formulas. According to the formulas, we show that the transmission functions near the resonant peak and the antiresonant dip can be significantly influenced by electronic relaxation in the electrodes. Moreover, under intermediate and strong electronic relaxation conditions, we analytically show that the steady-state current of the DLvN approach dramatically deviates from the Landauer current when destructive quantum interference occurs. In the regime of zero electronic relaxation, our results are reduced to the Landauer formula, indicating that the DLvN approach is equivalent to the Landauer approach when the leads have infinite states without any electronic relaxation.
More accurate parameterization of positron implantation depth profiles for the sensitivity range of positron-based characterization techniques
Authors: Logan J. V. , Short M. P. , Webster P. T. , Morath C. P.
Published: July 2020

Techniques that employ positron annihilation spectroscopy are powerful tools to investigate defect structures and concentrations in materials. A hindrance to experimental design and the interpretation of results lies in the lack of agreement in the literature concerning the proper form of the positron implantation profile, a function that determines the sensitivity range for all non-slow positron annihilation spectroscopy techniques. Employing the dominant 22Na isotopic source, a positron implantation profile database of 270 common materials is published. The parameters for a novel implantation profile functional form providing superior agreement with simulation are derived. Finally, and most critically, an algorithm is presented and validated, which permits utilization of the published elemental implantation profile parameters to produce the positron implantation profile for any material of interest. This tool provides rapid calculation of the sensitivity range for all positron annihilation techniques, enabling more informed experimental design and more accurate knowledge of the spatial distribution of defects in materials.
A pharmacokinetic–pharmacodynamic model based on multi-organ-on-a-chip for drug–drug interaction studies
Authors: Shinha Kenta , Nihei Wataru , Ono Tatsuto , Nakazato Ryota , Kimura Hiroshi
Published: July 2020

In drug discovery, the emergence of unexpected toxicity is often a problem resulting from a poor understanding of the pharmacokinetics of drug–drug interactions (DDI). Organ-on-a-chip (OoC) has been proposed as an in vitro model to evaluate drug efficacy and toxicity in pharmacology, but it has not been applied to DDI studies yet. In this study, we aim to evaluate whether organ-on-a-chip technologies can be applied to DDI studies. To assess the usefulness of OoC for DDI studies, we proposed a multi-organ-on-a-chip (MOoC) with a liver part as the metabolic model and a cancer part as the drug target model, and a pharmacokinetic–pharmacodynamic (PK–PD) model describing the MOoC. An anticancer prodrug, CPT-11, was used to evaluate the drug efficacy of the metabolite in the liver part of the MOoC. To evaluate DDI using the MOoC, the inhibitory effect of simvastatin and ritonavir on the metabolism of CPT-11 was tested. The DDI estimation method was evaluated by comparing the results of the concomitant administration experiment using the MOoC and the results of simulation using the proposed PK–PD model with the estimated parameters. The results were similar, suggesting that the combination of the PK–PD model and the MOoC is a useful way to predict DDI. We conclude that OoC technologies could facilitate a better understanding of pharmacokinetic mechanisms with DDI.
Charge-pumping with finger capacitance in a custom electrostatic energy harvesting ASIC
Authors: Zhou A. Y. , Maharbiz M. M.
Published: July 2020

We present an integrated circuit capable of scavenging energy from repetitive changes in finger touch capacitance. A finger tapping on this application-specific integrated circuit generates a capacitive change of approximately 770 pF. This change feeds into a charge-pump circuit that stores 320 pJ of energy on a 1 nF storage capacitor. We present measurement results and simulations that demonstrate operation. As a proof-of-concept, we also demonstrate that the harvested energy can power a ring oscillator that outputs a series of chirps with frequencies ranging from 80 Hz to 30 kHz as the storage capacitor voltage charges and discharges.
Analysis of the electrical field in viscosity sensors with torsionally vibrating quartz cylinders
Authors: Junker Clemens , Meier Karsten
Published: July 2020

The potential and electric fields in viscosity sensors with torsionally vibrating quartz cylinders are calculated for various sensor geometries by means of analytical solution techniques and a numerical integration method for the Laplace equation. Sensor geometries with electrodes on the surface of the cylinder and offset at a distance from the cylinder are investigated for different angular extensions of the electrodes and dielectric constants of the fluid. It is found that the electric field is more favorable for the excitation of the torsional vibration when the electrodes are located at a distance from the cylinder surface rather than on the cylinder. When the electrodes are on the surface of the cylinder, the direction of the piezoelectrically active component of the electric field is reversed in certain regions near the edges of the cylinder, which hinders the excitation of the torsional vibration. As a result of this analysis, a novel viscosity sensor with line conductor electrodes was developed and validated in our laboratory. Furthermore, this article provides a brief review of the available literature on torsionally vibrating quartz cylinder viscometers.
Defects in epitaxial Ru(0001) on Al2O3(0001): Dislocations, stacking faults, and deformation twins
Authors: Barmak Katayun , Sentosun Kadir , Zangiabadi Amirali , Milosevic Erik , Gall Daniel , Zecevic Miroslav , Lebensohn Ricardo A. , Floro Jerrold A.
Published: July 2020

Defects in epitaxial Ru(0001) films on c-plane sapphire, with nominal thicknesses of 10–80 nm, deposited at 350 °C and step-annealed to 950 °C, were characterized using transmission electron microscopy. The variation of Ru and sapphire lattice parameters with temperature is such that the misfit strain for the observed 30° rotated-honeycomb epitaxial relationship is essentially constant with temperature at 1.5%, resulting in a biaxial stress of 10.0 GPa and an energy density of 150 MJ m−3 in unrelaxed films. Stress relaxation occurs by the formation of defects. For the 20–80 nm thick films, the defects are a- and c-type dislocations and stacking faults, argued to be of I2 type. In addition, the films show the surprising presence of {112¯1}1/3⟨112¯6¯⟩ deformation twins. The 10 nm-thick films were found to be defect free. The critical thickness for misfit strain relaxation via the formation of threading and misfit dislocations is computed as 7±2nm, depending on the choice of the dislocation core radius. Energetic analysis of twin formation, using both the infinite-matrix and the finite-matrix (Mori–Tanaka) approaches, provides values of the twin aspect ratios, assumed to be ellipsoidal, and shows that the latter but not the former approach can qualitatively explain the formation of the observed twins. In addition to providing the maximum strain relief compared to other potential twin types, {112¯1}1/3⟨112¯6¯⟩ twins do not require lattice shuffles and have a boundary that is a special boundary, namely, a 35° tilt boundary with a-type dislocations every other {0002} plane, that may also favor their formation.
MERGE: modelling erosion resistance for gully erosion – a process-based model of erosion from an idealised linear gully
Authors: Roberts M. E.
Published: July 2020

Gullies are responsible for as much as 40% of the accelerated erosion impacting the Great Barrier Reef lagoon. Consequently, to protect the reef from the impacts of poor water quality associated with eroded sediment, the remediation of gullied landscapes is important. The geographic location and geomorphic characteristics of gullies affects their erosion characteristics and the extent to which eroded sediments may be transported to the reef. Existing models of gully erosion are predominantly empirical in nature, and are poorly suited to represent the potential benefits of different interventions in the data scarce environment that exists. The Queensland Government, through the Queensland Water Modelling Network, identified the development of process-based models of gully erosion as necessary to support efforts to protect the reef. MERGE (modelling erosion resistance for gully erosion) was developed to address this need. MERGE exhibits the expected characteristics for gully erosion including achieving a steady concentration under constant conditions, the development of a depositional layer, as well as first flush effects and hysteresis in the dynamic case. Analytical steady-state solutions are found to be excellent approximations to the full dynamic solutions. The suitability of the model to represent interventions is demonstrated for the example cases of porous check dams and improved ground cover.
A connectomics approach to understanding a retinal disease
Authors: Zucker Charles L. , Bernstein Paul S. , Schalek Richard L. , Lichtman Jeff W. , Dowling John E.
Published: July 2020

Significance

Macular degenerations of the retina are a leading cause of legal blindness (visual acuity less than 20/200) globally, and we know little about what causes them. Here we describe electron microscopic observations from the retina of a woman suffering from a rare form of macular degeneration called macular telangiectasia (MacTel). We observed specific changes in mitochondria, the organelle providing energy-rich molecules to cells. The mitochondrial changes likely link to a degeneration of retinal Müller (glial) cells, which we also observed, and serine, an amino acid the Müller cells synthesize which is required for mitochondrial structure and function in all retinal cell types.
Optimization method of on-machine inspection sampling points based on surface complexity
Authors: Lu Xincheng , Sheng Buyun , Wang Hui , Luo Ruiping , Fu Gaocai
Published: July 2020

On-machine inspection (OMI) technology can improve the machining quality and detection efficiency of mechanical parts. The quantity of inspection points in the process of OMI is related to the inspection efficiency and data processing; it also affects the layout of inspection points. In this paper, the concept of surface complexity is proposed to replace the complex calculation of curvature, and the algorithm of surface complexity suitable for the mesh model is established to simplify the curvature calculation method in accordance with the changing trend of surface curvature. A multi-parameter radial basis function neural network including surface complexity is constructed, the advantage of the neural network in data processing is used to generate surface inspection points, and the changing trends of surface fitting accuracy under different numbers of inspection points are compared to verify the method in this paper. The experimental results show that the surface complexity can be used to quickly approximate the curvature of the surface and accords with the changing trend of the curvature. At the same time, the analysis results of the number of neural network inspection points meet the requirements of fitting accuracy.
Cost-function testing methodology for image-based registration of endoscopy to CT images in the head and neck
Authors: Shi Runjie B , Mirza Souzan , Martinez Diego , Douglas Catriona , Cho John , Irish Jonathon C , Jaffray David A , Weersink Robert A
Published: July 2020

One of the largest geometric uncertainties in designing radiotherapy treatment plans for squamous cell cancers of the head and neck is contouring the gross tumor volume. We have previously described a method of projecting mucosal disease contours, visible on endoscopy, to volumetrically reconstructed planning computed tomography (CT) datasets, using electromagnetic (EM) tracking of a flexible endoscope, enabling rigid registration between endoscopic and CT images.

However, to achieve better accuracy for radiotherapy planning, we propose refining this initial registration with image-based registration methods. In this paper, several types of cost functions are evaluated based on accuracy and robustness. Three phantoms and eight clinical cases are used to test each cost function, with initial registration of endoscopy to CT provided by the pose of the flexible endoscope recovered from EM tracking. Cost function classes include: cross correlation, mutual information and gradient methods. For each test case, a ground truth virtual camera pose was first defined by manual registration of anatomical features visible in both real and virtual endoscope images. A new set of evenly spaced fiducial points and a sample contour were created and projected onto the CT image to be used in assessing image registration quality. A new set of 5000 displaced poses was generated by random sampling displacements along each translational and rotational dimension. At each pose, fiducial and contour points in the real image were again projected on the CT image. The cost function, fiducial registration error and contouring error values were then calculated.

While all cost functions performed well in select cases, only the normalized gradient field function consistently had registration errors less than 2 mm, which is the accuracy needed if this application of registering mucosal disease identified on optical image to CT images is to be used in the clinical practice of radiation treatment planning.

(Registration: ClinicalTrials.gov NCT02704169)
Satellite-based measurement-device-independent quantum key distribution
Authors: Liang Wentao , Jiao Rongzhen
Published: July 2020

A satellite-based measurement-device-independent quantum key distribution model is proposed and its performance is analyzed through numerical simulations. The simulation result shows that the key rate increases almost linearly as transmittance increases and the higher the key rate is, the lower its probability may be. More significantly, as the transmission distance increases, the optimal intensities of the signal states decrease while those of the decoy states increase. The optimal values in the daytime are slightly larger than those at night. This work may provide some important parameters for the relevant experiment on satellite-based quantum communication network.
Anode supported SOFC fabricated with functional anode: role of variation of fuel and oxidants
Authors: Mukhopadhyay Madhumita , Das Sharma Abhijit , Mukhopadhyay Jayanta
Published: July 2020

The present study focuses on the efficacy of core-shell nickel (Ni) @ stabilized zirconia (SZ) functional anode towards the oxidation of both hydrogen and reformed methane as fuel in presences of steam as one of the important component. The redox reaction is processed by adsorption on anode catalyst followed by decomposition and charge transfer reaction. This is further accelerated by the extension of triple phase boundary (TPB) regions (Ni/SZ/gas) within (intra-) and inter-anode involving electrolyte. Core-shell Ni@SZ cermet enables the extension of TPB regions in contrast to conventional matrix. Authors have reported four configurations for anode support, wherein the layered structure involving conventional Ni-SZ is placed at the fuel side and layers of Ni@SZ on the top. The thin anode layer in vicinity to the electrolyte with optimized Ni content of 28/32 vol % acts as the primary electrocatalytic layer and shows a maximum current density of ∼4 A.cm−2@0.7 V, 800°C with moist hydrogen as fuel. Multifuel capability in the cell with similar functional anode is demonstrated using 20 % reformed methane with optimum steam/carbon ratio (2:1) having current density of ∼ 1.13 A.cm−2 under similar condition. The findings are correlated using impedence spectroscopy and corroborated with morphological findings.
Electromagnetically induced transparency in Y-type atomic system
Authors: Mal Kalan , Islam Khairul , Mondal Suman , Bhattacharyya Dipankar , Bandyopadhyay Amitava
Published: July 2020

Probe field propagation through a four-level Y-type system is studied analytically under steady state condition by using density matrix formulation. The probe field scans the intermediate state from the ground state whereas two other coherent radiation fields, namely the control field and the coupling field, are set to couple two different excited states from the intermediate energy level. Under Doppler free condition, simulated probe absorption shows single or twin EIT windows depending on whether the control and the coupling field are on-resonant or detuned. Under Doppler broadened condition, the residual Doppler averaging due to wavelength mismatch between the probe field and the control field as well as that between the probe field and the coupling field plays significant role in the formation of transparency window.
A theoretical investigation on tetra-quark states in the context of composite fermion model of diquark
Authors: Pal Shukla , Ghosh Rismita , Bhattacharya Aparajita , Chakrabarti Ballari
Published: July 2020

The masses of the tetra-quark states

(
q
q

q
¯

q
¯

)

have been investigated in the framework of diquark [qq] anti-diquark

[

q
¯

q
¯

]

configuration where the diquarks (anti-diquarks) are described by the Composite Fermion Model. The tetra-quark masses of several particles such as f
0(1370), K (1460), D (2632), Y (4143), Zc
(4430) and Tcc
(3797) have been investigated. The higher state masses of these have also been studied using Mass Loaded Flux Tube Model. Their Regge trajectories for different angular momenta have been drawn indicating their masses at L=0. These estimated masses for L=0 compare favorably with their experimental ground state masses. The corresponding string tensions are estimated. The slope of the Regge Trajectories (RT) are extracted and it is observed that RT slope shows a non-linear behavior.
Spin selective transmission through a multi-terminal Rashba ring with AAH modulation
Authors: Mukherjee Abhra , Dey Moumita , Maiti Santanu K
Published: July 2020

For the first time we explore spin selective electron transmission through a multi-terminal nano ring subjected to Rashba spin-orbit coupling and magnetic flux, in presence of cosine modulation. The modulation is taken in the form of well known Aubry-Andre or Harper model which is associated with a phase factor that can be tuned externally with a suitable setup. Describing the quantum systems within a tight-binding framework, we compute the results based on the Green’s function formalism. Our results suggest that a large degree of spin polarization along with a phase reversal can be achieved by regulating the physical parameters associated with the system. The present analysis provides several important features that may be utilized to investigate spin dependent transport in other mutli-terminal geometries with similar kind of cosine modulation.
Correlation between defect and magnetism of low energy 800 keV Ar4+ irradiated ZnO thin films
Authors: Neogi S. K. , Bandyopadhyay S.
Published: July 2020

Present work demonstrates ion beam irradiation induced modification in physical properties of ZnO thin films prepared by sol-gel spin coating technique.Different fluenceviz: 5x1014, 1015, 5x1015 and 1016 ions/cm2 were chosen for irradiation.Measurements of structural, optical and magnetic properties of these films have been performed. XRD patterns of the films exhibits wurzite structure ZnO. Optical transmittances of these films were recorded in the wavelength range of 250-1000 nm, and band gap of the respective films have been estimated. Irradiated films did not show significant degradation in the crystalline structure however a noticeable shift of band edge with fluence has been observed and explained. Pristine ZnO film exhibits diamagnetic behaviour at room temperature. However prominent hysteresis has been observed for lowest fluence (5x1014 ions/cm2) irradiated films. The correlation between defects and ferromagnetism has been established in this work.
An investigation to study the effects of cyclic-AMP to cAMP receptor protein from Mycobacterium tuberculosis by computational approach
Authors: Bhakta Swarnav , Saha Abinit
Published: July 2020

The Cyclic AMP Receptor Protein of Mycobacterium tuberculosis, CRPMt or Rv3676 is a global transcriptional regulator which shares several structural and functional features with the CRP protein of Escherichia coli. CRPMt or Mtb CRP is also a homodimeric protein consists of an N terminal cAMP binding domain and C terminal DNA binding domain. In spite of having such high sequence identity with E. coli CRP, M.tuberculosis CRP differs in several aspects from this prototype. Moreover, it has also been reported that binding of cAMP to Mtb CRP induces a relatively small enhancement in specific DNA-binding by this protein. However, the main differences between CRP and CRPMt become more apparent when comparing their functional dependence on cAMP binding. CRP cannot bind DNA in the absence of cAMP, which causes elaborate conformational changes that position the HTH domains for DNA binding. In contrast, CRPMt shows specific DNA binding at most sites even in the absence of cAMP, although direct binding of cAMP to CRPMt enhances its DNA binding affinity ∼2-fold. So, the significance of the presence of cAMP binding pocket in CRPMt is still somewhat poorly understood. A long-standing question has been whether or not cAMP binding alone can cause CRPMt to activate its cognate promoter. As an attempt to answer this question, we have done several docking experiments of Apo and ligand bound protein from MTb to its cognate promoter and analyze the results accordingly. We have also compared our docking experiment of Mtb CRP with E. coli CRP to have a wholesome idea about the conformational changes occurred by cAMP to Mtb CRP. Preliminary results from these studies are also included in this work.
What chance of a sudden stratospheric warming in the southern hemisphere?
Authors: Wang L , Hardiman S C , Bett P E , Comer R E , Kent C , Scaife A A
Published: July 2020

Sudden stratospheric warmings (SSWs) are amongst the most dramatic events in the Earth’s atmosphere and they drive extreme surface weather conditions. They have been recently linked to the hot and dry weather conditions that favour wildfires over Australia. However, the chance of a southern hemisphere event is unknown because it has only been observed once. Legitimate estimation of the frequency of SSW events requires a large sample of realistic model simulations. Here we show that the chance of an event is close to 4% per year, implying that an event will occur, on average, every 25 yr, using a state-of-the-art model that simulates SSWs accurately. It is thus not surprising that there was a near miss in the September prior to the Australian wildfire of 2019, given the 40 yr of comprehensive satellite records and just one observed Antarctic event. According to this new estimate, it would also not be surprising to see a second SSW event in the coming years in the southern hemisphere. Such a stratospheric warming event might bring further extreme surface weather conditions and natural hazards, as it may raise the risk of increased rainfall in the latitudinal band of 35–50°S. Meanwhile, the associated hot and dry weather conditions over austral subtropical continents might increase the risk of wildfires over these regions.
Irreversibility analysis in Marangoni forced convection flow of second grade fluid
Authors: Khan Sohail A , Hayat T , Alsaedi Ahmed , Zai Q M Zaigham
Published: July 2020

Marangoni forced convective MHD flow of second grade liquid is scrutinized. Heat source/sink, Joule heating and dissipation are addressed in energy equation. Physical aspects of entropy optimization with binary chemical reaction are addressed. Energy and entropy expressions are computed. Marangoni convection influenced on the surface pressure difference is calculated through temperature gradient, magnetic field and concentration gradient. Nonlinear PDE’s are reduced to ordinary one through suitable variables. Nonlinear system is computed for convergent solution by employing of OHAM. Characteristics of different influential parameters on entropy generation, concentration, temperature, Bejan number and velocity are graphically deliberated. Velocity enhances via Marangoni ratio parameter. Velocity and temperature have reverse effects for higher approximation of magnetic variable. For higher second grade fluid parameter the velocity is augmented. An increment occurs in temperature against higher values of Brinkman number and fluid parameter. Concentration decrease versus higher Marangoni ratio parameter. Entropy optimization upsurges for rising values of fluid parameters. Some relevant applications of Marangoni convection effect include atomic reactor, semiconductor processing, thin-film stretching, silicon wafers, soap films, material sciences, nanotechnology and applied physics etc. Entropy supports to progress the importance of numerous engineering and electronic devices development.
Fractional deep neural network via constrained optimization
Authors: Antil Harbir , Khatri Ratna , Löhner Rainald , Verma Deepanshu
Published: July 2020

This paper introduces a novel algorithmic framework for a deep neural network (DNN), which in a mathematically rigorous manner, allows us to incorporate history (or memory) into the network—it ensures all layers are connected to one another. This DNN, called Fractional-DNN, can be viewed as a time-discretization of a fractional in time non-linear ordinary differential equation (ODE). The learning problem then is a minimization problem subject to that fractional ODE as constraints. We emphasize that an analogy between the existing DNN and ODEs, with standard time derivative, is well-known by now. The focus of our work is the Fractional-DNN. Using the Lagrangian approach, we provide a derivation of the backward propagation and the design equations. We test our network on several datasets for classification problems. Fractional-DNN offers various advantages over the existing DNN. The key benefits are a significant improvement to the vanishing gradient issue due to the memory effect, and better handling of nonsmooth data due to the network’s ability to approximate non-smooth functions.
A Dictionary of Ethics
Authors: Cuneo Terence
Published: July 2020

This authoritative dictionary contains clear, concise definitions of key terms from ethical theory and touches upon a variety of relevant subfields including metaethics, normative ethics, and applied ethics.

A Dictionary of Ethics is a valuable reference resource for academics, practitioners, and students of moral philosophy, applied ethics, and public policy. It will also be of interest to readers looking to familiarize themselves with ethical terms and the concepts they express.
A Dictionary of Zoology
Authors: Allaby Michael
Published: July 2020

Over 6,000 entries

This best-selling dictionary covers all aspects of zoology, including terms from ecology, animal behaviour, evolution, earth history, zoogeography, genetics, and physiology. It provides taxonomic coverage of arthropods, other invertebrates, fish, reptiles, amphibians, birds, and mammals, all fully updated to include recent changes.

Detailed and authoritative, it has been fully updated for the fifth edition with over 700 entries covering taxonomic groups, prefixes, and widely used descriptive terms. All taxonomies have been checked to accommodate recent changes.

Recommended web links point to additional resources and appendices include an index of common names, a taxonomic classification, a classification of endangered animals, and a geologic timescale.
American Business History: A Very Short Introduction
Authors: Friedman Walter A.
Published: July 2020

American Business History: A Very Short Introduction looks at the rise of the American economy from its colonial and frontier beginnings. What made the United States an attractive testing ground for entrepreneurs? How did the United States come to have the largest business enterprises in the world by the early twentieth century? Why did business organizations gain a central place in American society? This VSI answers these questions through examining the formation of new organizational structures; the invention and commercialization of new technologies; the introduction of policymaking and regulatory frameworks; and the stories of entrepreneurs from around the world who embraced democratic capitalism in America.
Dementia: A Very Short Introduction
Authors: Taylor Kathleen
Published: July 2020

Dementia: A Very Short Introduction explains how dementia is diagnosed, its different types and symptoms, and its effects on sufferers and their families. Why is dementia resistant to treatment? Why has the most successful scientific hypothesis not led to a cure? Are there variations between different countries, and given the rise in the ageing population, are there more or fewer cases than we think? This VSI looks at the history of dementia research and examines the genetic, physiological, and environmental risk factors and how individuals might reduce them. It also investigates developments in diagnosis and symptom management, and the economic and political context of dementia care.
Émile Zola: A Very Short Introduction
Authors: Nelson Brian
Published: July 2020

Émile Zola was a 19th-century novelist and social commentator, and the leader of the literary movement known as ‘naturalism’. Émile Zola: A Very Short Introduction explores key themes in his life and work, looking in detail at several major novels from his twenty-volume Rougon-Macquart cycle. His novels examine the changing cultural landscape of the late 19th century, creating an epic sense of social transformation. In so doing, they opened the novel up to a new realm of subjects, and they embodied a new freedom of expression in their depiction. Zola was often accused of sensationalism and vulgarity; his English publisher Henry Vizetelly was jailed on charges of obscenity.
Biogeography: A Very Short Introduction
Authors: Lomolino Mark V.
Published: July 2020

Biogeography: A Very Short Introduction explains how our ability to place life in an explicit geographic context is key to understanding our natural world. The geological evolution of Earth has fundamentally influenced its life forms. Biogeography brings together insights from the fields of genetics, geology, paleontology, geography, anthropology, meteorology, oceanography, and ecology to demonstrate how the geological and evolutionary histories of our planet are interconnected. The tools of biogeography are essential for us to develop effective strategies for conserving life across our planet. Through examining the diversity and locations of life forms, biogeography provides an unparalleled opportunity to explore the “great lessons of the earth.”
Conversion from paper to electronic acute care chemotherapy orders
Authors: Offei-nkansah Gerald , Amerine Lindsey B
Published: July 2020

Purpose

UNC Medical Center converted to an electronic health record (EHR) in 2014. This conversion allowed for the transition of paper chemotherapy orders to be managed electronically. This article describes the process for converting inpatient paper chemotherapy orders into the new EHR in a safe and effective manner.

A collaborative interdisciplinary approach to the EHR transition enabled our organization to move from using paper chemotherapy orders to fully electronic chemotherapy treatment plans in both ambulatory and acute care areas. Active chemotherapy orders for acute care inpatients were reviewed and transcribed by two oncology pharmacists in the cancer hospital prior to being signed by an attending physician. The newly input orders were independently verified by two pharmacists in the cancer hospital inpatient pharmacy. Nurse review of the signed and verified treatment plans, along with reconciliation of the medication administration record ensured a safe transition to the new EHR workflow. Providers benefit from the ability to review treatment plans remotely, track changes, and include supportive medications in one consolidated location. The coordinated team effort allowed for a smooth transition with minimal interruptions to patient care.

Conclusion

The pharmacist-led, multidisciplinary conversion to electronic chemotherapy orders was safe, accurate, and occurred ahead of schedule for the EHR go-live. Advance communication and planning around scheduled inpatient admissions helped to minimize the impact of the transition from paper to electronic treatment plans. Both pharmacist and physician engagement were necessary to ensure a smooth transition for active inpatient treatment plans.
News in Astronomy & Geophysics – August 2020
Authors: Bowler Sue
Published: July 2020

A digest of some of the big stories from the past two months
More on megaconstellations
Authors: Massey Robert
Published: July 2020

Robert Massey reports on how the RAS is getting to grips with the challenge of satellite megaconstellations.
Telescopes united
Authors: Heward Anita , Scherf Manuel , Tautvaišienė Gražina , Hueso Ricardo
Published: July 2020

Manuel Scherf, Gražina Tautvaišienė, Ricardo Hueso and Anita Heward outline the organization and goals of a new global collaboration to enhance planetary research: the Europlanet Telescope Network.
Yvonne Elsworth: RAS Gold Medallist 2020
Authors: Johnson Paul
Published: July 2020

The professor of helioseismology discusses her distinguished career and life during lockdown. Interview by Paul Johnson.