bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Winding number of a Brownian particle on a ring under stochastic resetting
Authors: Grange Pascal
Published: February 2022

We consider a random walker on a ring, subjected to resetting at Poisson-distributed times to the initial position (the walker takes the shortest path along the ring to the initial position at resetting times). In the case of a Brownian random walker the mean first-completion time of a turn is expressed in closed form as a function of the resetting rate. The value is shorter than in the ordinary process if the resetting rate is low enough. Moreover, the mean first-completion time of a turn can be minimised in the resetting rate. At large time the distribution of winding numbers does not reach a steady state, which is in contrast with the non-compact case of a Brownian particle under resetting on the real line. The mean total number of turns and the variance of the net number of turns grow linearly with time, with a proportionality constant equal to the inverse of the mean first-completion time of a turn.
Improving the productivity of upland rice through the implementation of Largo Super technology in dry land of Aceh Province
Authors: Idawanni  , Ferayanti F , Ismail M , Bakar B A
Published: February 2022

Largo Super is a technology component that was assembled into a technology package for integrated dryland rice cultivation based on jajar legowo 2:1 planting. The purpose of this study was to determine the increase in upland rice productivity with the application of Largo Super technology. This research was conducted in 1 Ha dry land at Sarah Panyang Village, Pidie Jaya Regency from September to December 2019. This study used a factorial randomized completely block design (RCBD) with 3 replications. The first factor was variety (V), namely V1 = Inpago 8; V2 = Inpago 9 while the second factor is the technology package (T) which consisteds of 2 (two) factors, namely T1 = Farmer technology and T2 = Largo Super Technology. harvest (GKP) / hectare. The results showed that the Inpago 8 (V1) variety had a significant effect on plant height growth, number of tillers, number of productive panicles, number of total grains, number of empty grain and yield of tons/ha. Meanwhile, the number of tillers, panicle length and number of filled grains of Inpago 8 (V1) and Inpago 9 (V2) varieties were not significantly different. The Largo Super technology package gave the highest yield (5.09 tons ha-1) followed by the farmer technology package (3.57 tons ha-1) and there was an increase in productivity of 42.57%.
Diversity and Composition of Arthropods Natural Enemies in Integrated Rice Fish Farming System (Minna padi) and Its Functions in Agroecosystems
Authors: Trisnawati D W , Fadilah M , Nurkomar I
Published: February 2022

Minna Padi is an integrated rice fish farming system that implements environmentally friendly cultivation and creates a sustainable ecosystem. However, the effects of minna padi farming systems on the diversity of natural enemies have not been reported previously. This research was conducted to compare the diversity and abundance of natural enemies [parasitoids and predators] in minna padi and conventional rice fields. Three pairs of minna padi and conventional paddy fields were selected for fields research. Natural enemies were collected in the field research using sweeping nets, yellow sticky traps and pitfall trap every two weeks during the cultivation. The results showed that the abundance of parasitoids was higher in minna padi than that in conventional farming systems. However, the abundance of predators was higher in conventional farming systems. Parasitoid and predator species richness also showed no difference between the two rice farming systems. However, the composition between the two farming systems was different, minna padi was dominated by parasitoids such asAphonagmussp. andEurythoma dentata,while conventional dominated by a predator such asPardosa pseudoannulataandPlexippussp.
Laboratory stands for hydraulic fracturing simulation in a nonuniform stress field
Authors: Patutin AV , Serdyukov SV
Published: February 2022

The paper considers the capabilities of well-known laboratory facilities for hydraulic fracturing modeling under the true triaxial loading conditions. Of greatest interest are the stands that allow you to create a crack in large cubic samples with an edge length of 200 mm or more. In this case, it is possible to reduce the influence of edge effects from the boundaries of the sample on the propagation path of the discontinuity. The review includes research results obtained using 10 different facilities located in major scientific centers.
Study on the bonding mechanism of multilayer copper with nickel sheet in ultrasonic welding process
Authors: Ye Fuxing , Wang Yonghui , Lu Hewan , Guo Yongming
Published: February 2022

The metal-plastic flow and bonding strength of three-layer copper (Cu) with single-layer nickel (Ni) joints via ultrasonic welding were investigated in this study. With the increase of welding time from 0.3 to 0.5 s, the weld bonding density between different layers’ interface increased gradually and approached about 95 ± 1.5%. Electron backscatter diffraction (EBSD) analysis of different regions of the welded joint revealed that the metal grains in the 1st layer became relatively small and elongated, while the 2nd and 3rd layers tended to be equiaxed grains. The joint bonding strength of T-peel tests changed with welding time and had two kinds of fracture models (nugget pullout and interfacial fracture). Compared with the bonding strength of the 1st-2nd and 3rd-4th interface, the 2nd-3rd interface of joints had the highest bonding strength of 400.6 N with nugget pullout fracture model at welding time of 0.4 s. In addition, the much higher hardness of the 1st layer is attributed to the strong plastic deformation of the 1st layer, while the dynamic recovery and dynamic recrystallization of the metal of the 2nd layer resulted in the decrease of hardness.
Improvement of plasma uniformity and mechanical properties of Cr films deposited on the inner surface of a tube by an auxiliary anode near the tube tail
Authors: WU Houpu , TIAN Xiubo , ZHENG Linlin , GONG Chunzhi , LUO Peng
Published: February 2022

In order to improve the length of plasma in a whole tube and mechanical properties of Cr films deposited on the inner surface of the tube, a high-power impulse magnetron sputtering coating method with a planar cathode target and auxiliary anode was proposed. The auxiliary anode was placed near the tube tail to attract plasma into the inner part of the tube. Cr films were deposited on the inner wall of a 20# carbon steel tube with a diameter of 40 mm and length of 120 mm. The influence of auxiliary anode voltage on the discharge characteristics of the Cr target, and the structure and mechanical properties of Cr films deposited on the inner surface of the tube were explored. With higher auxiliary anode voltage, an increase in substrate current was observed, especially in the tube tail. The thickness uniformity, compactness, hardness and H/E ratios of the Cr films deposited on the inner surface of the tube increased with the increase in auxiliary anode voltage. The Cr films deposited with auxiliary anode voltage of 60 V exhibited the highest hardness of 9.6 GPa and the lowest friction coefficient of 0.68.
Wind load characteristics of photovoltaic panel arrays mounted on flat roof
Authors: Li Shouke , Dan Mao  , Li Shouying , Wang Qi , Yang Qingshan , Chen Yuankun , Zhou Shuai
Published: February 2022

To quantify design wind load of photovoltaic panel array mounted on flat roof, wind tunnel tests were conducted in this study. Results show that the first and the last two rows on the roof are the most unfavorable ones regarding to the wind load. Influences of array spacing, panels’ tilt angle and parapet height on wind load of the panels are studied. Most unfavorable lift force of panels decreases with increase of array spacing for middle located panels. The aerodynamics are similar to flow over repeated hills. Middle located unit got greater turbulence, which leading to unfavorable C

fp_min. While the changing amplitude of most unfavorable wind pressure is small increase with array spacing. C

fp_max and C

fp_min of panel units shows quite strong dependence on tilt angle. There is significant pressure equalization for small tilt angle cases. The local flow separation is responsible for C

fp_min of larger tilt angle cases. Parapet height of 2 h (h is the panel height projected on the vertical plane) is the critical height for C
fp_max and C
fp_min. Increasing parapet height can significantly reduce the wind load of panel units. Design pressure coefficient of the basic working condition with different area sizes at different location are proposed.
Intersection forms of spin 4-manifolds and the pin(2)-equivariant Mahowald invariant
Authors: Hopkins Michael , Lin Jianfeng , Shi XiaoLin Danny , Xu Zhouli
Published: February 2022

In studying the “11/8-Conjecture” on the Geography Problem in 4-dimensional topology, Furuta proposed a question on the existence ofPin⁡(2)\operatorname {Pin}(2)-equivariant stable maps between certain representation spheres. A precise answer of Furuta’s problem was later conjectured by Jones. In this paper, we completely resolve Jones conjecture by analyzing thePin⁡(2)\operatorname {Pin}(2)-equivariant Mahowald invariants. As a geometric application of our result, we prove a “10/8+4”-Theorem.

We prove our theorem by analyzing maps between certain finite spectra arising fromBPin⁡(2)B\operatorname {Pin}(2)and various Thom spectra associated with it. To analyze these maps, we use the technique of cell diagrams, known results on the stable homotopy groups of spheres, and thejj-based Atiyah–Hirzebruch spectral sequence.
On Frobenius-Perron dimension
Authors: Li Changzheng , Shifler Ryan , Yang Mingzhi , Zhang Chi
Published: February 2022

We propose a notion of Frobenius-Perron dimension for certain free

Z

\mathbb {Z}

-modules of infinite rank and compute it for the

Z

\mathbb {Z}

-modules of finite dimensional complex representations of unitary groups with nonnegative dominant weights. The definition of Frobenius-Perron dimension that we are introducing naturally generalizes the well-known Frobenius-Perron dimension on the category of finite dimensional complex representations of a finite group.
Global Weierstrass equations of hyperelliptic curves
Authors: Liu Qing
Published: February 2022

Given a hyperelliptic curve

C
C

of genus

g
g

over a number field

K
K

and a Weierstrass model

C

\mathscr {C}

of

C
C

over the ring of integers

O

K

\mathcal {O}_K

(i.e. the hyperelliptic involution of

C
C

extends to

C

\mathscr {C}

and the quotient is a smooth model of

P

K
1

\mathbb {P}^1_K

over

O

K

\mathcal {O}_K

), we give necessary and sometimes sufficient conditions for

C

\mathscr {C}

to be defined by a global Weierstrass equation. In particular, if

C
C

has everywhere good reduction, we prove that it is defined by a global integral Weierstrass equation with invertible discriminant if the class number

h
K

h_K

is prime to

2
(
2
g
+
1
)

2(2g+1)

, confirming a conjecture of M. Sadek.
The methyltransferase enzymes KMT2D, SETD1B, and ASH1L are key mediators of both metabolic and epigenetic changes during cellular senescence
Authors: Nacarelli Timothy , Azar Ashley , Potnis Manali , Johannes Gregg , Mell Joshua , Johnson F. Brad , Brown-Borg Holly , Noguchi Eishi , Sell Christian
Published: February 2022

A combination of methionine restriction and mTOR inhibition induced a unique metabolic state in human fibroblasts which prevents senescence. Transcriptome-wide analysis revealed a novel link between the first committed steps in carnitine synthesis and histone methylation. Regulation of these enzymes connects metabolism with cell fate decisions.
Health Behavior Profiles Among Midlife Women: Identifying At-Risk Subgroups for Metabolic Syndrome Using Latent Class Analysis
Authors: Min Se Hee , Docherty Sharron L , Im Eun-Ok , Yang Qing
Published: February 2022

Background

Metabolic syndrome is known as a lifestyle disease that results from poor health behaviors. Yet, little is known about the subgroups of midlife women with distinct health behavior profiles who are at risk for developing metabolic syndrome.

Purpose

This study aims to identify latent subgroups of midlife women with distinct health behavior profiles (physical activity, alcohol, diet, and smoking), to describe the characteristics of latent subgroups, and to examine the association between latent class membership and future development of metabolic syndrome.

Method

This is a secondary data analysis using baseline and follow-up data from years 1, 3, 5, and 7 (N = 3,100) from the Study of Women’s Health Across the Nation (SWAN). Latent class analysis was used to identify latent subgroups of midlife women based on their distinct health behavior profiles. Bivariate and multiple logistic regression was conducted to examine the individual characteristics of each latent subgroup and its association with the future development of metabolic syndrome.

Result

A 4-class model was selected: Class 1 (Healthy), Class 2 (Healthy except alcohol), Class 3 (Healthy except diet), and Class 4 (Unhealthy). Significant differences in individual characteristics were found among the four latent classes (p < .001). The regression analysis found that Class 2 had lower odds of developing metabolic syndrome at all future visits with statistical significance reached at visit 3 (p < .05) while Class 4 had higher odds of developing metabolic syndrome at all visits except visit 3 when both compared to Class 1.

Conclusion

Clinicians should use the study findings to offer personalized approach to promote healthy behaviors and to guide future development of health promotion programs for midlife women.
The Maji-Maji War, 1905–1907
Authors: Sunseri Thaddeus
Published: February 2022

The Maji-Maji War was a widespread rebellion in southern German East Africa (colonial Tanzania) directed against German officials, Arab administrators, loyalist chiefs, Christian missionaries, Indian, Arab, and Swahili traders, and German settlers. It encompassed a region roughly south of the central railway route from Dar es Salaam to Lake Nyasa. The rebellion stems from a water medicine (Swahili: maji dawa) that some rebels believed would make them invulnerable to bullets, although there is no evidence that rebels themselves called the rebellion Maji-Maji. The rebellion broke out in the Matumbi hills south of the Rufiji River in July 1905 and spread quickly through Ngindo-speaking networks south to Lindi District, north into Dar es Salaam District, and westward to the southern highlands. Germans prosecuted the war with extreme brutality, using scorched-earth tactics to starve localities into submission. During the war, a new governor was appointed who viewed abuses as the cause of African discontent, leading to some reforms, particularly with respect to forced labor and cash crop production. Early Africanist and nationalist historians viewed Maji-Maji as foundational to Tanzanian national identity, while subsequent generations have looked at local circumstances that sparked participation in the war or the decision not to rebel. Debates about Maji-Maji have focused on long-term causes, the nature of maji medicine, rebel leadership, environmental factors, and consequences of the war.
Immigrant Communities in the United States and Macro Practice
Authors: Folkwein Laura
Published: February 2022

Macro social work practice with immigrant organizations and communities in the United States requires a basic understanding of the underlying values and history of U.S. immigration laws and policy. U.S. immigration policy frequently reflects multiple and conflicting interests and values in labor needs, global politics, family unification, and national security, and policies often shift in response to political leadership, ideology, and public opinion. Some areas of the history of U.S. immigration laws and various macro social work approaches to U.S. immigration policy include (a) advocacy at local, state, and federal levels; (b) anti-immigrant legislation proposed at the state level; and (c) collaboration between grassroots organizations and local leaders to build policies and practices that support immigrants.
Reducing "Extreme Economic Inequality": A Social Work Grand Challenge
Authors: Lein Laura , Romich Jennifer , Shanks Trina R. Williams , Crump Dominique
Published: February 2022

The Social Work Grand Challenge to reduce economic inequality is one of 13 Grand Challenges guiding future practice, research, and education. This article on the Grand Challenge to reduce extreme economic inequality documents the problem, probes the mechanisms by which inequality continues and deepens, and proposes approaches for addressing this problem so interwoven into our economy and society. This article describes economic inequality in the U.S. context as well as social work–oriented responses. It briefly compares the inequality level of the U.S. with that of other countries. It explores the distinctions between poverty and economic inequality and the particular ways in which economic inequality is maintained and grows in the U.S. It also explores the kinds of policy and program initiatives addressing this grand challenge, the barriers to and potential benefits of such ideas, and the roles for social workers and the social work profession in reducing extreme economic inequality in our society.
University-Community Partnerships
Authors: Soska Tracy M.
Published: February 2022

Social work is among the most engaged fields in both education and practice, but it is important to recognize university-community engagement through the historical development of higher education and the university as a reflection of society and community development. Universities have been shaped by and, reciprocally, have helped shape society and community. Social work as an engaged and applied profession reflects this vital connectivity from its earliest roots in the settlement house and charitable organization movements to its current posture of community engagement in education and practice. Higher education in the community context has evolved from a relationship of co-location and codependence to one of increasing intentionality toward engagement and partnership for interdependence and mutual benefit, including addressing racial and socioeconomic tensions. It is useful to explore this evolution from “university in the community” to “university of the community” as well as the implications this holds for social work, especially macro social work.
Grand Challenges for Social Work
Authors: Flynn Marilyn Louise , Barth Richard P. , Uehara Edwina , Sherraden Michael
Published: February 2022

The Grand Challenges for Social Work (GCSW) derived from a commitment to strengthening society through science and has identified 13 grand challenges through an iterative process. The GCSW has, in turn, developed 13 grand challenge networks that bring together researchers and practitioners and focus their capacities around achieving innovative solutions to these challenges. These networks develop and disseminate interventions at all levels (including university-based interdisciplinary grand challenge entities), giving productive focus to the work of social work and our allies. The Grand Challenges for Social Work are helping to galvanize policy developments that draw on expertise from across the profession and exemplify social work’s scientific and pragmatic traditions and its capacity for broader societal impact.
Holman, Robert “Bob”
Authors: Payne Malcolm
Published: February 2022

Robert (Bob) Holman (1936–2016) was a U.K. social worker who became a professor of social policy. When he resigned to lead community projects working with children and their families from his own home, his life and humanity became an inspiration for social workers and others, sustaining faith in practical and political work for social justice. He wrote biographies and social policy texts and on community action for children and families.
Global Health and Global Health Education
Authors: Eggers-Barison Michele , Khandare Lalit
Published: February 2022

Global health has been gradually gaining more traction in social work education. Global health addresses prevalent health vulnerabilities and collective responsibilities that transcend national borders. Global health is a multidimensional issue, which elicits an interdisciplinary multidimensional response. Various disciplines are in search of definitions, theoretical frameworks, and practice methodologies, including the development of competencies to meet global health needs. The need for social workers to critically engage in health inequities within social, cultural, economic, and political contexts globally is essential to bring effective change in the lives of those most marginalized and impacted by global health inequities. Social work is well positioned to address these needs through international social work practice and professional global standards to advocate for just policies and practice and to enhance equity and inclusiveness to promote social justice and human rights.
1. An uneventful life
Authors: Claeys Gregory
Published: February 2022

‘This uneventful life’ begins with the birth of John Stuart Mill in London on 20 May 1806. He was raised by his Scottish father, who failed as a preacher. In 1812, philosopher Jeremy Bentham became Mill’s guardian and inculcated him with utilitarianism. At age 15, Mill stayed in France with Bentham’s brother, where he received all kinds of instructions, including in dancing, fencing, and riding. Politician John Arthur Roebuck met Mill in the 1820s and described him as the mere exponent of other men’s ideas. In 1822, Mill founded a ‘Utilitarian Society’ and then, a year after, followed his father to India House for lifelong employment.
3. Political economy and social philosophy, 1845–59
Authors: Claeys Gregory
Published: February 2022

‘Political economy and social philosophy, 1845–59’ details the third phase of John Stuart Mill’s intellectual growth, which commenced in the late 1830s. He and his wife Harriet declared that they turned back from excessive reactions against Benthamism. Then, in the mid-1840s, Mill abandoned his Ethology project for political economy and began engaging with an approach to socialism through the co-operative movement. This allowed him to project ideals of equality and economic justice as a practical means of overcoming capitalism’s tendency to undermine both. Leslie Stephen explained that, according to Mill, co-operation meant the joint effort of independent individuals, while competition is assumed to remain in full force.
1. What are science–religion debates really about?
Authors: Dixon Thomas , Shapiro Adam R.
Published: February 2022

‘What are science–religion debates really about?’ explores how people began to think about religion and science as two distinct kinds of thinking and how the perception of conflict or harmony between the two has been used to shape cultural and political debates in the past and present. Looking at both Galileo’s conflicts with the Catholic Church in the 17th century and how the Galileo legend was reinterpreted and retold in later eras, shows that science and religion ‘debates’ are never simply philosophical disagreements over the compatibility of different ideas. Science and religion have a political dimension and emerge in historical contexts that shape how those ideas are used and talked about. Social conflicts about the power and authority of religious institutions and pressing issues of race, ethnicity, and identity helped shape the conflict-thesis interpretation of science and religion in the late 19th century, one that saw science’s progress impeded by theological dogmatism. By the mid-20th century, scholars began to embrace a more complex picture of how sciences and religions relate to each other, giving rise to the study of ‘science and religion’ as an academic field, which has grown into a major multi-disciplinary area of study today.
Unheeded SARS-CoV-2 proteins? A deep look into negative-sense RNA
Authors: Bartas Martin , Volná Adriana , Beaudoin Christopher A , Poulsen Ebbe Toftgaard , Červeň Jiří , Brázda Václav , Špunda Vladimír , Blundell Tom L , Pečinka Petr
Published: February 2022

SARS-CoV-2 is a novel positive-sense single-stranded RNA virus from the Coronaviridae family (genus Betacoronavirus), which has been established as causing the COVID-19 pandemic. The genome of SARS-CoV-2 is one of the largest among known RNA viruses, comprising of at least 26 known protein-coding loci. Studies thus far have outlined the coding capacity of the positive-sense strand of the SARS-CoV-2 genome, which can be used directly for protein translation. However, it has been recently shown that transcribed negative-sense viral RNA intermediates that arise during viral genome replication from positive-sense viruses can also code for proteins. No studies have yet explored the potential for negative-sense SARS-CoV-2 RNA intermediates to contain protein-coding loci. Thus, using sequence and structure-based bioinformatics methodologies, we have investigated the presence and validity of putative negative-sense ORFs (nsORFs) in the SARS-CoV-2 genome. Nine nsORFs were discovered to contain strong eukaryotic translation initiation signals and high codon adaptability scores, and several of the nsORFs were predicted to interact with RNA-binding proteins. Evolutionary conservation analyses indicated that some of the nsORFs are deeply conserved among related coronaviruses. Three-dimensional protein modeling revealed the presence of higher order folding among all putative SARS-CoV-2 nsORFs, and subsequent structural mimicry analyses suggest similarity of the nsORFs to DNA/RNA-binding proteins and proteins involved in immune signaling pathways. Altogether, these results suggest the potential existence of still undescribed SARS-CoV-2 proteins, which may play an important role in the viral lifecycle and COVID-19 pathogenesis.
Total versus partial posterior fundoplication in the surgical repair of para-oesophageal hernias: randomized clinical trial
Authors: Analatos Apostolos , Lindblad Mats , Ansorge Christoph , Lundell Lars , Thorell Anders , Håkanson Bengt S.
Published: February 2022

Background

Fundoplication is an essential step in para-oesophageal hernia (POH) repair, but which type minimizes postoperative mechanical complications is controversial.

Methods

This was a randomized, double-blind clinical trial conducted between May 2009 and October 2018. Patients with symptomatic POH were allocated to either a total (Nissen) or a posterior partial (Toupet) fundoplication after hernia reduction and crural repair. The primary outcome was dysphagia (Ogilvie dysphagia scores) at 6 months postoperatively. Secondary outcomes were peri- and postoperative complications, swallowing difficulties assessed by the Dakkak dysphagia score, gastro-oesophageal reflux, quality of life (QoL), and radiologically confirmed hernia recurrence.

Results

A total of 70 patients were randomized to a Nissen (n = 32) or a Toupet (n = 38) fundoplication. Compared with baseline, Ogilvie dysphagia scores were stable at the 3- and 6-month follow-up in the Nissen group (P = 0.075 and 0.084 respectively) but significantly improved in the Toupet group (from baseline mean (s.d.): 1.4 (1.1) to 0.5 ( 0.8) at 3 months, and 0.5 (0.6) at 6 months; P = 0.003 and P = 0.001 respectively). At 6 months, Dakkak dysphagia scores were significantly higher in the Nissen group than in the Toupet group (mean (s.d.): 10.4 (7.9) versus 5.1 (7.2); P = 0.003). QoL scores improved throughout the follow-up. However, at 3 and 6 months postoperatively, the absolute median improvement (⍙) from preoperative values in the mental component scores of the Short Form-36 QoL questionnaire was significantly higher in the Toupet group (median (i.q.r.): 7.1 (−0.6 to 15.2) versus 1.0 (−5.4 to 3.3) at 3 months, and 11.2 (1.4 to 18.3) versus 0.4 (−9.4 to 7.5) at 6 months; (P = 0.010 and 0.003 respectively)). At 6 months, radiologically confirmed POH recurrence occurred in 11 of 24 patients (46 per cent) of the Nissen group and in 15 of 32 patients (47 per cent) of the Toupet group (P = 1.001).

Conclusions

A partial posterior wrap (Toupet fundoplication) showed reduced obstructive complications and improved QoL compared with a total (Nissen) fundoplication following POH repair.

Registration number: NCT04436159 (http://www.clinicaltrials.gov)
Techno-economic analysis to develop the first wind farm in the Egyptian western desert at Elkharga Oasis
Authors: Abdelrahman Mohamed A , Abdel-Hamid Radwan H , Abo Adma Maged Ahmed , Daowd Mohamed
Published: February 2022

During the past few years, Egypt has increased the share of electricity generation from renewable energy sources to achieve the renewable-energy strategy. The Egyptian Ministry of Electricity and Renewable Energy has set an ambitious target to increase the share of renewable energy among the total energy mix to be 20% by 2022 and 42% by 2035. This target will be achieved using several approved policies such as feed-in tariffs, build–own–operate and independent power producers under a merchant scheme. This paper presents a full analysis of wind-potential characteristics at Elkharga Oasis in Egypt based on an actual wind-measurement campaign taken by a met mast at two height levels of 10 and 25 m, respectively. The measurements show an average annual wind speed of 5.72 m/s at 10-m height and 6.53 m/s at >25-m height. The estimated wind speed, however, is 8.38 m/s at 120 m, which is technically convenient to generate electricity from wind energy. In this paper, the wind potential in the area is assessed using the statistical method of the Weibull probability density function. The different methods to estimate the Weibull distribution parameters are presented and the relevant accuracy is verified based on the root mean square error. A techno-economic assessment and selection of the optimal wind-turbine size with ideal micro-sitings are performed using the software package windPRO. Different cases of study for three typical wind-turbine models with various rotor diameters, power capacity, layout configuration and annual yield are assessed at the site. The selection of the most convenient wind turbine is determined based on the IEC 61400 standard criteria and the turbine that produces the lowest levelized cost of electricity.
Liver cirrhosis: Still an elusive risk factor in the current EuroSCORE system
Authors: Ostovar Roya , Schroeter Filip , Erb Michael , Hartrumpf Martin , Chopsonidou Sofia , Albes Johannes Maximilian
Published: February 2022

OBJECTIVES

Liver cirrhosis increases the risk of death in patients having cardiac surgery, and the risk is markedly dependent on the actual stage. The EuroSCORE II, however, does not specifically address the risk of death of patients with liver cirrhosis. We investigated the predictive power of EuroSCORE II in patients with liver cirrhosis.

METHODS

Between 2000 and 2020, a total of 218 patients with liver cirrhosis underwent cardiac surgery. To improve the predictive value of the EuroSCORE II, we calculated additional β-coefficients to include liver cirrhosis in the EuroSCORE IIb. The control group included 5,764 patients without liver cirrhosis from the same period.

RESULTS

Of the 5,764 patients without cirrhosis, 8.9% died early. Of those with cirrhosis, 8.9% of 146 patients with Child A stage, 52.9% of 51 patients with Child B stage and 100% of 21 patients with Child C stage died. Moreover, the EuroSCORE II showed a poor predictive value for patients in Child B and C stages. The resulting values of calculated β using the area under the curve of the receiver operating characteristic and bootstrapping for Child stages as predictors of mortality were as follows: βA = 0.1640205, βB= 2.9911625 and βC= 6.2501248. By calculating the updated EuroSCORE IIb and regenerating the receiver operating characteristic curves, we were able to demonstrate an improvement in area under the curve values. Postoperative complications, need for extracorporeal membrane oxygenation or intra-aortic balloon pump implants, intensive care unit stays and hospital stays were significantly higher in cirrhotic patients with cirrhosis compared with patients without cirrhosis. The most common cause of liver cirrhosis was alcohol abuse (55.5%).

CONCLUSIONS

Although patients with liver cirrhosis represent only a small proportion of cardiac surgical cases, the poor outcomes are particularly relevant in patients with advanced stages of the disease. Our study results show that Child class A patients show outcomes similar to those of patients without liver disease whereas Child class C patients appear to be nearly inoperable, i.e. can only be operated on with exceptional risks. Including these patients in the EuroSCORE II calculation would thus represent an improvement in preoperative mortality risk assessment.
Two types of C-terminal regions of RNA-binding proteins play distinct roles in stress tolerance of Synechocystis sp. PCC 6803
Authors: Zhang Yueming , Wu Dongqing , Wang Yali , Xu Xudong
Published: February 2022

In the phylogenetic tree of RRM-type Rbps (RNA-binding proteins) in cyanobacteria, Rbp1 of Synechocystis 6803, with a single RRM (RNA recognition motif) region and a C-terminal glycine-rich region, and Rbp2, without the C-terminal region, both belong to the cluster I, whereas Rbp3 with a different type of C-terminal region is in the cluster II. Rbp1 is required for the cold adaptability of the cyanobacterium, and Rbp3 is for salt tolerance. Here, we report that the C-terminal region of Rbp1 is not required for the cold adaptability function but the C-terminal region of Rbp3 can direct the RRM of Rbp1 to the salt tolerance function. Bioinformatic and experimental analyses indicate that Rbps in cyanobacteria should be classified as two types. It is the first report for the distinct roles of C-terminal regions of Rbps in stress tolerance of cyanobacteria.
A decade of controversy: sources on the demarcation of Calcutta, 1784–94
Authors: Ehrlich Joshua
Published: February 2022

Historians have tended to assume that the boundaries of Calcutta were generally agreed upon before 1794, and that their formalization in that year marked a natural stage in the evolution of the town. The documents published here tell a different story. They show that the southeastern boundary was the subject of heated disputes among British and Indian officials and landholders. They reveal how these disputes gave rise to the demarcation of Calcutta. Finally, they contribute to a larger argument that the ‘second city’ of Britain’s empire took shape from contests over the meaning, use, and ownership of space.
Little Sharks in a Big World: Mitochondrial DNA Reveals Small-scale Population Structure in the California Horn Shark (Heterodontus francisci)
Authors: Canfield Sean J , Galván-Magaña Felipe , Bowen Brian W
Published: February 2022

The California horn shark (Heterodontus francisci) is a small demersal species distributed from southern California and the Channel Islands to Baja California and the Gulf of California. These nocturnal reef predators maintain small home-ranges as adults and lay auger-shaped egg cases that become wedged into the substrate. While population trends are not well documented, this species is subject to fishing pressure through portions of its range and has been identified as vulnerable to overexploitation. Here, we present a survey of 318 specimens from across the range, using mtDNA control region sequences to provide the first genetic assessment of H. francisci. Overall population structure (ΦST = 0.266, P < 0.001) is consistent with limited dispersal as indicated by life history, with two distinct features. Population structure along the continuous coastline is low, with no discernable breaks from Santa Barbara, CA to Bahia Tortugas (Baja California Sur, Mexico); however, there is a notable partition at Punta Eugenia (BCS), a well-known biogeographic break between tropical and subtropical marine faunas. In contrast, population structure is much higher (max ΦST = 0.601, P < 0.05) between the coast and adjacent Channel Islands, a minimum distance of 19 km, indicating that horn sharks rarely disperse across deep habitat and open water. Population structure in most elasmobranchs is measured on a scale of hundreds to thousands of kilometers, but the California Horn Shark has population partitions on an unprecedented small scale, indicating a need for localized management strategies which ensure adequate protection of distinct stocks.
Mechanisms facilitating the uptake of carboxyl–polythene glycol-functionalized gold nanoparticles into multicellular spheroids
Authors: Fobian Seth-Frerich , Petzer Melissa , Vetten Melissa , Steenkamp Vanessa , Gulumian Mary , Cordier Werner
Published: February 2022

Objectives

Nanomedicines represent theragnostic alternatives to traditional candidate drugs, with increased targeting and delivery potential due to their size and functional tailorability. Biological activity typically relies on nanomaterials permeating into the intracellular environment, necessitating characterization of uptake and intracellular trafficking pathways. Spheroids’ three-dimensional architecture and heterogenous cellular distribution offer an in-vivo-representative platform to assess the biological activity of nanoparticles (NPs). This study aimed to develop an A549 alveolar carcinoma spheroid model as a NP uptake assessment platform for carboxyl–polythene glycol-functionalized gold NPs affording further biological characterization opportunities in nanomedicine.

Methods

A549 spheroids were generated via the liquid overlay method, and their morphology and viability were assessed for 21 days. Cytotoxicity was assessed via lactate dehydrogenase release. NP uptake was elucidated using uptake pathway inhibition, combined with CytoViva hyperspectral imaging of sectioned spheroids to count internalized NPs.

Key findings

Cytotoxicity was absent for all exposure groups. Clathrin-mediated endocytosis was the primary endocytic mechanism (33.5–54.8% of uptake), which may precede lysosomal degradation. Lysosomal membrane permeabilization appears to be a potential downstream application. Low penetration into spheroids (4.5 μm) suggests the failure of NPs to traverse cellular layers in the spheroid.

Conclusions

Although poor uptake was observed, a multicellular spheroid model of A549 alveolar carcinoma cells was established, allowing for similar future uptake assessment of various NPs.
Treating Later-Life Depression
Authors: Steffen Ann M. , Dick-Siskin Leah P. , Choryan Bilbrey Ann , Thompson Larry W. , Gallagher-Thompson Dolores
Published: February 2022

This culturally responsive workbook uses the evidence-based methods of cognitive behavioral therapy to help middle-aged and older adults build on existing strengths and reduce symptoms of depression, whether they are feeling “a little blue” or are very depressed. The culmination of more than four decades of research, this empirically supported and effective treatment program helps clients learn how to develop and use healthy habits to improve mood and quality of life. This workbook is intended to be used as an adjunct to clinician-provided CBT and is not a self-help book to be used on its own. The personalized approach used in this workbook means that, together with their clinician, individuals decide which of the modules are a good fit for their specific life circumstances. Each module includes easy to read, large-print Learn pages that therapists can use to help clients learn specific depression management skills, along with Practice forms to use between sessions to practice, remember, and use these skills. Complete with information and practical strategies for improving depression and related concerns (e.g., anxiety, sleep, chronic pain, brain health, caregiving, grief and personal relationships), this thoroughly revised second edition of Treating Later-Life Depression: A Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy Approach provides indispensable resources to help culturally diverse aging individuals thrive in a daily life that is true to their values and personal strengths.
Skills for Wrapping Up
Authors: Steffen Ann M. , Dick-Siskin Leah P. , Bilbrey Ann Choryan , Thompson Larry W. , Gallagher-Thompson Dolores
Published: February 2022

Psychotherapy termination is anticipated and discussed from the beginning of CBT, but this can be a difficult phase of treatment for some middle-aged and older adults. This personalized workbook module of Treating Later-Life Depression: A Cognitive Behavioral Therapy Approach provides flexible clinical tools for the psychotherapy termination process with aging clients. Easy-to-read, large-print Learn pages are selected by behavioral health clinicians to help clients discuss termination issues including the therapy relationship, review skills learned, plan for future stressful situations and recognize signs of relapse. Practice forms are provided for use between termination planning sessions to develop a maintenance guide that supports daily living consistent with personal values and life goals after therapy has ended. Psychotherapy relationships and termination processes are embedded within social contexts and environments. Practitioners are encouraged to apply strategies that are responsive to the needs of culturally diverse aging clients.
Treating Later-Life Depression
Authors: Steffen Ann M. , Thompson Larry W. , Gallagher-Thompson Dolores
Published: February 2022

One of the greatest challenges for providers treating later-life depression is the wide variability of life circumstances that accompany depressive symptoms for clients across outpatient mental health, integrated primary care, and inpatient psychiatric settings. This thoroughly revised Clinician Guide for Treating Later-Life Depression: A Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy Approach outlines culturally responsive practices that target the contexts and drivers/antecedents of depression in middle-aged and older adults. Clinicians choose research-supported modules from the accompanying workbook that fit the needs of their clients (i.e., changes in brain health, chronic pain, sleep problems, anxiety, experiences of loss, family caregiving issues). This practical guide reflects continuing international scientific and clinical advances in applying cognitive-behavioral therapy to age-related problems using individual and group formats, with clinician-tested recommendations for telehealth practice. Flexible use of these clinical tools enhances the personalized application of change strategies, including behavioral activation, problem solving, relaxation training, attention to personal strengths and positive emotional experiences, self-compassion, cognitive reappraisal, and communication skills training. Case examples are provided to support the efforts of practitioners from a range of disciplines (e.g., clinical psychology, psychiatry, social work, counseling, marriage and family therapy, nursing, occupational therapy, and recreational specialists). The appendices include aging-friendly assessment tools and other resources to support professional development. Because the practical techniques presented have empirical support accumulated over decades, Treating Later-Life Depression is an indispensable resource for behavioral health providers who wish to effectively and efficiently help diverse aging clients thrive in a daily life that is true to their values and personal strengths.
Module 1: Skills for Getting Started: Planning Your Treatment
Authors: Steffen Ann M. , Thompson Larry W. , Gallagher-Thompson Dolores
Published: February 2022

This chapter covers Module 1: Skills for Getting Started: Planning Your Treatment. Strategies that build alliance and prevent premature dropout include explaining the therapy approach, setting expectations for treatment length, linking treatment approach to presenting problems, instilling hope, and soliciting feedback. This chapter guides practitioners to help group and individual clients develop positive expectations for treatment, understand depression, identify their values and strengths, explore their intersecting multicultural identities, personalize the CBT model, develop therapy goals, shape expectations for how change happens, and recognize the value of home practice. The importance of using written materials within and between sessions to enhance learning and retention is emphasized. Practitioners are encouraged to apply recommended strategies that are responsive to the needs of culturally diverse aging clients.
Module 4: Skills for Thinking: Self-Compassion and Helpful Thoughts
Authors: Steffen Ann M. , Thompson Larry W. , Gallagher-Thompson Dolores
Published: February 2022

Harsh self-criticism and habitual unhelpful thinking patterns can create the context for depressive symptoms in middle-aged and older adults. This chapter supports providers as they help aging clients develop self-compassion and cognitive reappraisal skills consistent with their personal values and strengths. The material in this module will help aging clients understand the role of unhelpful thinking habits in depression, replace self-criticism with self-compassionate thoughts and actions, and build cognitive reappraisal skills. This chapter also describes the Practice forms provided for clients’ use between psychotherapy and integrated primary care sessions to remember and use these skills. This chapter directs clinicians to apply recommended strategies that are responsive to the needs of culturally diverse aging clients, including within the context of telehealth.
Module 7: Skills for Healthy Sleep: Resting Better and Longer
Authors: Steffen Ann M. , Thompson Larry W. , Gallagher-Thompson Dolores
Published: February 2022

Clinical depression can disrupt sleep patterns, and chronic insomnia contributes to the development of depressive symptoms in later life. This chapter supports providers as they help middle-aged and older adults to regulate sleep patterns and develop healthy sleep habits. Contents of this module provide psychoeducation about sleep to shape expectations and use circadian rhythms to support healthy sleep, build sleep debt, and reduce nighttime arousal. This chapter also describes the Practice forms provided in the workbook for clients’ use between psychotherapy and integrated primary care sessions to remember and use these skills. This chapter directs clinicians to apply recommended strategies that are responsive to the needs of culturally diverse aging clients, including within the context of telehealth.
Brief Behavioral Therapy for Anxiety and Depression in Youth
Authors: Weersing V. Robin , Gonzalez Araceli , Rozenman Michelle
Published: February 2022

The Brief Behavioral Therapy (BBT) program is designed to help kids and teens with “internalizing problems”—by this we mean feeling stressed, sad, bad, nervous, worried, moody, irritable, or scared. Feelings like these are the most common mental health problems that kids, teens, and even adults experience throughout their lives. Although these issues are quite common, internalizing problems can lead to serious consequences if they are not treated. Without treatment, anxiety and depression tend to become chronic, long-lasting issues. They also make it hard for kids to do the things they need and want to do in life: do well in school, participate in and enjoy out-of-school activities, make and keep friends, and have warm and supportive family relationships. The purpose of the BBT program is to tackle this directly and to help youth and families keep doing, or start doing, the important tasks of life even when bad feelings happen. The program provides provide tools and skills for reducing stress and solving problems and a step-by-step guide for approaching difficult situations while managing negative feelings. This volume is the youth and family workbook, designed to be used in combination with the BBT Therapist Guide. Each chapter in this workbook builds on the prior chapter, and each chapter has a matching lesson in the Therapist Guide. When used together with the support of a mental health provider, the BBT program has been found to significantly reduce symptoms and improve kids’ functioning in daily life.