bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Type 2 diabetes is more predictable in women than men by multiple anthropometric and biochemical measures
Authors: Li Tangying , Quan Huibiao , Zhang Huachuan , Lin Leweihua , Lin Lu , Ou Qianying , Chen Kaining
Published: March 2021

Men and women are sexually dimorphic but whether common anthropometric and biochemical parameters predict type 2 diabetes (T2D) in different ways has not been well studied. Here we recruit 1579 participants in Hainan Province, China, and group them by sex. We compared the prediction power of common parameters of T2D in two sexes by association, regression, and Receiver Operating Characteristic (ROC) analysis. HbA1c is associated with FPG stronger in women than in men and the regression coefficient is higher, consistent with higher prediction power for T2D. Age, waist circumference, BMI, systolic and diastolic blood pressure, triglyceride levels, total cholesterol, LDL, HDL, fasting insulin, and proinsulin levels all predict T2D better in women. Except for diastolic blood pressure, all parameters associate or tend to associate with FPG stronger in women than in men. Except for diastolic blood pressure and fasting proinsulin, all parameters associate or tend to associate with HbA1c stronger in women than in men. Except for fasting proinsulin and HDL, the regression coefficients of all parameters with FPG and HbA1c were higher in women than in men. Together, by the above anthropometric and biochemical measures, T2D is more readily predicted in women than men, suggesting the importance of sex-based subgroup analysis in T2D research.
Laser ablation of microdroplets for copper isotopic analysis via MC-ICP-MS. Analysis of serum microsamples for the diagnosis and follow-up treatment of Wilson's disease
Authors: García-Poyo M. Carmen , Bérail Sylvain , Ronzani Anne Laure , Rello Luis , García-González Elena , Lelièvre Bénédicte , Cales Paul , Nakadi Flavio V. , Aramendía Maite , Resano Martín , Pécheyran Christophe
Published: March 2021

The deposition of microdroplets onto silicon wafers followed by drying and fsLA is evaluated by MC-ICP-MS Cu isotopic analysis.
Chromene–triazole-pyrimidine based chemosensor therapeutics for the in vivo and in vitro detection of Fe3+ ions
Authors: Shamsiya Aranhikkal , Bahulayan Damodaran
Published: March 2021

MCR and click synthesis of selective and sensitive Fe3+ sensors that can interact with CDK2 proteins and cytotoxicity against the human cervical cancer cell line HeLa is developed.
Simultaneous metabolomics and proteomics analysis of plasma-derived extracellular vesicles
Authors: Guan Fulin , Xiang Xiaochao , Xie Yuping , Li Hang , Zhang Wanjun , Shu Yang , Wang Jianhua , Qin Weijie
Published: March 2021

A tandem extraction strategy was established to obtain metabolites and proteins from the same batch of extracellular vesicles (EVs) simultaneously, enabling the multi-omics differential analysis of exosomes and microvesicles from human plasma.
Complementary atomic flame/molecular colorimetry dual-mode assay for sensitive and wide-range detection of cancer cells
Authors: Fang Xueting , Zhang Xiaoting , Zhang Zhihua , Hu Shengqiang , Ye Fanggui , Zhao Shulin
Published: March 2021

A Sr2+-related complementary atomic flame/molecular colorimetry dual-mode and dual-ratiometric sensing platform for sensitive and wide-range point-of-care cancer cells testing.
Molecular dynamics simulation of phonon thermal transport in nanotwinned diamond with a new optimized Tersoff potential
Authors: Shi Liping , Ma Xiaoliang , Li Mingwei , Zhong Yesheng , Yang Lin , Yin Weilong , He Xiaodong
Published: March 2021

Our optimized Tersoff-sp3 potential better represents the phonon thermal transport characteristics of diamond than the most widely used potentials.
Effect of substituting non-polar chains with polar chains on the structural dynamics of small organic molecule and polymer semiconductors
Authors: Guilbert Anne A. Y. , Parr Zachary S. , Kreouzis Theo , Woods Duncan J. , Sprick Reiner Sebastian , Abrahams Isaac , Nielsen Christian B. , Zbiri Mohamed
Published: March 2021

Probing chain-dependent structure and dynamics on the microscopic scale using neutron spectroscopy provides insights into structural disorder of organic semiconductors.
Identification of vanadium dopant sites in the metal–organic framework DUT-5(Al)
Authors: Maes Kwinten , Martin Lisa I. D. J. , Khelifi Samira , Hoffman Alexander , Leus Karen , Van Der Voort Pascal , Goovaerts Etienne , Smet Philippe F. , Van Speybroeck Veronique , Callens Freddy , Vrielinck Henk
Published: March 2021

EPR spectra of V-doped DUT-5(Al) reveal four types of paramagnetic dopant species. Spin-Hamiltonian analysis and spectrum decomposition as function of V-content are supplemented with structural information from other spectroscopic techniques.
Nanoengineered iron oxide-based sorbents for separation of various water pollutants: current status, opportunities and future outlook
Authors: Sharma Rakesh K. , Solanki Kanika , Dixit Ranjana , Sharma Shivani , Dutta Sriparna
Published: March 2021

Iron oxide based magnetic nanosorbents have emerged as a material of choice for treating a wide range of water pollutants owing to their higher removal efficiencies, faster kinetics, economic viability, better reusability and ease of separation.
Mass spectrometry as a powerful analytical tool for the characterization of indoor airborne microplastics and nanoplastics
Authors: Velimirovic Milica , Tirez Kristof , Verstraelen Sandra , Frijns Evelien , Remy Sylvie , Koppen Gudrun , Rotander Anna , Bolea-Fernandez Eduardo , Vanhaecke Frank
Published: March 2021

In this review we discuss the novel developments in mass spectrometry-based analytical methods for size determination, chemical identification, and quantification of the microplastic and nanoplastic in indoor air and dust.
Isolation and recovery of extracellular vesicles using optically-induced dielectrophoresis on an integrated microfluidic platform
Authors: Chen Yi-Sin , Lai Charles Pin-Kuang , Chen Chihchen , Lee Gwo-Bin
Published: March 2021

A novel method for automating label-free, contact-free isolation and recovery of EVs by using ODEP on a microfluidic platform was developed and achieved effective EV enrichment (272-fold locally increase), releasing (99.8%) and recovery (52.2%).
Rapid and sensitive colorimetric detection of dopamine based on the enhanced-oxidase mimicking activity of cerium(iv)
Authors: Liang Ling , Zhao Zhenghong , Ye Fanggui , Zhao Shulin
Published: March 2021

A fast and sensitive approach for colorimetric determination of DA based on the enhanced oxidase-like catalytic activity of Ce4+ by DA was developed.
Design and tailoring of two-dimensional Schottky, PN and tunnelling junctions for electronics and optoelectronics
Authors: Lv Liang , Yu Jun , Hu Man , Yin Shuming , Zhuge Fuwei , Ma Ying , Zhai Tianyou
Published: March 2021

The construction of 2D Schottky, PN and tunnelling junctions, which play key roles in developing their function for electronics and optoelectronics.
Prediction of chemically ordered dual transition metal carbides (MXenes) as high-capacity anode materials for Na-ion batteries
Authors: Li Na , Li Yiran , Fan Jun
Published: March 2021

TiZrCO2, Ti2ZrC2O2, and TiZr2C2O2 are proposed as promising anode materials for Na-ion batteries. They deliver obviously higher capacities than their corresponding mono-titanium- and zirconium-based MXenes.
Hollow Pd/Te nanorods for the effective electrooxidation of methanol
Authors: Qiao Wei , Yang Xudong , Li Meng , Feng Ligang
Published: March 2021

Hollow Pd/Te nanorods are effective in the electrooxidation of methanol in alkaline electrolyte because of the strong electronic effects and facile oxophilic properties of the system.
Homogeneous doping of entire perovskite solar cells via alkali cation diffusion from the hole transport layer
Authors: Chen Mengjiong , Qiao Hong Wei , Zhou Ziren , Ge Bing , He Jingjing , Yang Shuang , Hou Yu , Yang Hua Gui
Published: March 2021

Alkali metal ions spontaneously diffuse from the hole transport layer into perovskite layer and electron transport layer, which could enhance the conductivity of NiOx films and modulate perovskite layer electronic states, simultaneously.
Robust PI protective tracking control of decentralized‐power trains with model uncertainties against over‐speed and signal passed at danger
Authors: Yan Lu , Gao Ying , Yuan Zhiming , Zhao Hongtao , Gao Shigen
Published: March 2021

Controlling the movements of trains to desired target speed and distance without breaking through safety regions is of primary importance in practical applications for safety reasons. In the classical train control and protection framework, automatic train operation regulates the speed and distance with respect to tracking desired ones under the supervision of automatic train protection, an independently operating subsystem, to prevent the phenomenon of over‐speed and signal passed at danger. This motivates to develop an integrated control scheme combining functions of control and protection, achieving protective tracking control against over‐speed and signal passed at danger doubtlessly. Meanwhile, computationally inexpensive control structure is desired for practical applications due to limited computing resource provided by on‐board computer on trains. In this paper, a robust control with PI structure and protective tracking is proposed for decentralized‐power trains regardless of model uncertainties. Specifically, the circumvent problem of over‐speed and signal passed at danger is formulated as prescribed performance control. It is proved rigorously that the proposed approach results in stable closed‐loop system, and finally, comparative simulation results are given to demonstrate the effectiveness and advantages.
Study of the influence of group fitness training on the physical health of women aged 35-40
Authors: Lazunina I. V. , Kosheleva M. V.
Published: March 2021

The main goal of the work was to study the influence of group fitness training on the physical health of women aged 35-40 years. In the experimental method, functional training, additional equipment, as well as step platforms, exercise bikes and training devices were used. In the course of our work, we studied the dynamics of women’s physical health, determined changes in the main stereotypes of lifestyle, nutrition and motor mode. The experimental technique is an effective tool for correcting body weight, contributing to changes in the indicators of total body weight and girth values, influenced the change in the skin and fat folds in the anatomical areas of women. The desire of a person to strengthen his health is his natural need, as a result of physical exercises, there is an increase in the efficiency of the cardiorespiratory system, blood pressure is normalized, the functional state of the musculoskeletal and bone systems improves, efficiency increases, the digestive system improves, and resistance to stress increases. The results of the study allow us to recommend this theoretical and practical material for instructors of group fitness training in clubs of various physical culture and sports orientation.
Resources of Tourism Demand in Tartous Governorate, Syrian Arab Republic
Authors: Makhlouf Hanadi M. , Guzikova Liudmila A. , Radwan Younan
Published: March 2021

Availability of tourism resources is the main condition to meet the needs of the tourism. When tourism resources are properly managed and invested enough they become the base of physical and cognitive activity for the humans and contribute to the economic prosperity of the territory. This applies in particular to the Syrian Arab Republic and the Tartous governorate located in the eastern Mediterranean. In the article the factors determining tourism demand in the Tartous governorate are studied. The results of the investigation allowed formulating recommendations for the development of tourism in Tartous governorate.
Kinematic analysis as the basis for training strategy in gymnastics
Authors: Semenov Denis , Shlyakhtov Vyacheslav , Rumyantsev Alexandr
Published: March 2021

The kinematic analysis of gymnastic skills performance is a widely used research method in sports science. This study presents the experience of applying the method of kinematic analysis in the managing the training process of junior gymnasts on the example of mastering three basic gymnastic skills. The test group included 10 junior male gymnasts of the age 9 to 12. The subject of kinematic analysis was based on comparing gymnasts’ joint angles, angular velocity and angular acceleration parameters. The kinematics parameters of gymnastic skills performance by a highly qualified gymnast became the target model for junior gymnasts. As a result of these targets application in the training of junior gymnasts, changes in the basic skills kinematic parameters were detected. At the end of the study, the kinematics parameters of junior gymnasts became much closer to the model parameters. Thus, the effectiveness of the kinematics analysis method in the training of junior gymnasts was demonstrated.
Development of voluntary behaviour of senior preschool children using gamification in physical education lessons
Authors: Lutkovskaya Olga , Rusak Tatiana , Pilimon Olga , Strunina Natalia , Yurchenko Valentina , Dovzhik Irina
Published: March 2021

The article examines the issue of voluntary behaviour as a process aimed at personality development that contributes to the formation of skills necessary for learning at school. Voluntary behaviour manifests itself in various aspects of a child’s life, including play activity. Playing children learn to regulate their behaviour. Games with rules acquire a special role, using game rules children have to act purposefully and overcome difficulties in solving a game task. The study of the level of voluntary behaviour development in senior preschool children was carried out using diagnostic techniques. The results of the study showed that at the beginning of the research the pre-schoolers had low indicators of voluntary behaviour. Therefore, a complex of outdoor games with rules was selected for voluntary behaviour development in senior pre-schoolers since they contain a number accompanying conditions that increase voluntary behaviour.
The steel plate curvature analytic modeling for the snake rolling with the same roll diameters
Authors: Jiang Lian-Yun , Huang Jin-Bo , Zhen Tao , Wei Yao-Yu , Li Zhen-Lei
Published: March 2021

The snake rolling can keep the plate shape well, and the larger shear strain produced by the snake rolling is conducive to the deformation penetrating into the center of the heavy plate. So it provides a new method for producing the high-performance heavy steel plate. However, there is little research on the plate curvature modeling which is the key to achieve the snake rolling process. The deformation region was divided into four different zones at most which was depended on the positions of the two neutral points, and this number could be dropped to three or two in some other conditions. It was divided into three different cases according to the neutral point position: I, II, III and IV; I, II and IV; II and IV. The unit pressure and the accumulated shear strain deviation between the top and bottom portions of the plate with every case were established, and the plate curvature caused by shear strain was calculated on this basis. The plate curvature caused by the axial strain was also calculated according to the flow criterion. The approximations are corrected by a fitting coefficient E. The homogeneity coefficient E was introduced during the plate curvature modeling process to make the model more accurate. Then the total plate curvature model was established. The simulation of snake rolling process is carried out by using ANSYS LS-DYNA, and the plate curvature results are compared with the theoretical method. The results showed that the maximum and minimum relative error of the model was 11.61% and 0.28% compared to the simulation method, which can be applied for the online plate curvature control application with the effect of some self-learning methods. The plate curvature affecting law with the different process parameters (roll offset, roll speed ratio, rolling reduction, plate thickness and so on) was obtained in this paper. The research about the plate curvature modeling will provide important references for the heavy steel plate snake rolling production.
Optiques freeforms : défis et perspectives
Authors: Geyl Roland , Houbre François , Cornil Yan , Lepine Thierry , Sortais Yvan
Published: March 2021

Les optiques freeforms sont les optiques de demain. Elles inondent déjà notre quotidien dans de nombreux domaines et répondent à une attente profonde du marché. La révolution des optiques freeforms est en marche, une opportunité pour qui saura concevoir ces objets, les fabriquer, les mesurer et les intégrer.
Quantum HF/DFT-embedding algorithms for electronic structure calculations: Scaling up to complex molecular systems
Authors: Rossmannek Max , Barkoutsos Panagiotis Kl. , Ollitrault Pauline J. , Tavernelli Ivano
Published: March 2021

In the near future, material and drug design may be aided by quantum computer assisted simulations. These have the potential to target chemical systems intractable by the most powerful classical computers. However, the resources offered by contemporary quantum computers are still limited, restricting the simulations to very simple molecules. In order to rapidly scale up to more interesting molecular systems, we propose the embedding of the quantum electronic structure calculation into a classically computed environment obtained at the Hartree–Fock (HF) or density functional theory (DFT) level of theory. This result is achieved by constructing an effective Hamiltonian that incorporates a mean field potential describing the action of the inactive electrons on a selected Active Space (AS). The ground state of the AS Hamiltonian is then determined by means of the variational quantum eigensolver algorithm. We show that with the proposed HF and DFT embedding schemes, we can obtain significant energy corrections to the reference HF and DFT calculations for a number of simple molecules in their strongly correlated limit (the dissociation regime) as well as for systems of the size of the oxirane molecule.
Global hyperbolicity and factorization in cosmological models
Authors: Avetisyan Z.
Published: March 2021

The subject of this paper is the geometry and topology of cosmological spacetimes and vector bundles thereon, which are used to model physical fields propagating in the universe. Global hyperbolicity and factorization properties of the spacetime and the vector bundle that are usually independently assumed to hold are now derived from a minimal set of assumptions based on the recent progress in differential geometry and topology.
The fragment molecular orbital method combined with density-functional tight-binding and periodic boundary conditions
Authors: Nishimoto Yoshio , Fedorov Dmitri G.
Published: March 2021

The density-functional tight-binding (DFTB) formulation of the fragment molecular orbital method is combined with periodic boundary conditions. Long-range electrostatics and dispersion are evaluated with the Ewald summation technique. The first analytic derivatives of the energy with respect to atomic coordinates and lattice parameters are formulated. The accuracy of the method is established in comparison to numerical gradients and DFTB without fragmentation. The largest elementary cell in this work has 1631 atoms. The method is applied to elucidate the polarization, charge transfer, and interactions in the solution.
Use of computer vision for analysis of image datasets from high temperature plasma experiments
Authors: Kozlowski P. M. , Kim Y. , Haines B. M. , Robey H. F. , Murphy T. J. , Johns H. M. , Perry T. S.
Published: March 2021

Great strides have been made in improving the quality of x-ray radiographs in high energy density plasma experiments, enabled in part by innovations in engineering and manufacturing of integrated circuits and materials. As a consequence, the radiographs of today are filled with a great deal of detail, but few of these features are extracted in a systematic way. Analysis techniques familiar to plasma physicists tend toward brittle 1D lineout or Fourier transform type analyses. The techniques applied to process our data have not kept pace with improvements in the quality of our data. Fortunately, the field of computer vision has a wealth of tools to offer, which have been widely used in industrial imaging and, more recently, adopted in biological imaging. We demonstrate the application of computer vision techniques to the analysis of x-ray radiographs from high energy density plasma experiments, as well as give a brief tutorial on the computer vision techniques themselves. These tools robustly extract 2D contours of shocks, boundaries of inhomogeneities, and secondary flows, thereby allowing for increased automation of analysis, as well as direct and quantitative comparisons with simulations.
The effect of interconnections on gas adsorption in materials with spherical mesopores: A Monte Carlo simulation study
Authors: Maximov Max A. , Molina Marcos , Gor Gennady Y.
Published: March 2021

Gas adsorption is a standard method for measuring pore-size distributions of nanoporous materials. This method is often based on assuming the pores as separate entities of a certain simple shape: slit-like, cylindrical, or spherical. Here, we study the effect of interconnections on gas adsorption in materials with spherical pores, such as three-dimensionally ordered mesoporous (3DOm) carbons. We consider interconnected systems with two, four, and six windows of various sizes. We propose a simple method based on the integration of solid–fluid interactions to take into account these windows. We used Monte Carlo simulations to model argon adsorption at the normal boiling point and obtained adsorption isotherms for the range of systems. For a system with two windows, we obtained a remarkably smooth transition from the spherical to cylindrical isotherm. Depending on the size and number of windows, our system resembles both spherical and cylindrical pores. These windows can drastically shift the point of capillary condensation and result in pore-size distributions that are very different from the ones based on a spherical pore model. Our results can be further used for modeling fluids in a system of interconnected pores using Monte Carlo and density functional theory methods.
Wave trapping by acoustic black hole: Simultaneous reduction of sound reflection and transmission
Authors: Mi Yongzhen , Zhai Wei , Cheng Li , Xi Chenyang , Yu Xiang
Published: March 2021

Reduction of vibration and sound energy in the form of traveling waves is of vital importance in many applications. Recent development of acoustic metamaterials opens up unusual ways for sound wave manipulation and control. Among acoustic metamaterials, a much newer concept, Acoustic Black Hole (ABH), has been drawing growing attention in recent years, which shows great potential for acoustic energy trapping and dissipation. In a duct ABH with a properly tailored continuous cross-sectional reduction and impedance variation, it is shown that the sound speed can be progressively reduced, which means that sound waves are eventually trapped in the structure. In this paper, such a wave trapping mechanism is further explored in the context of sound transmission problems, in which an exceptional phenomenon—simultaneous reduction of sound reflection and transmission—is realized. The archived trapping mechanism also ensures that little sound waves will be bounced back to the source to jeopardize the overall performance. Transfer matrix method simulations and impedance tube experiments are performed to characterize the behavior of such a structure and to validate the theory. The promising ABH-specific features arising from the proposed design could overcome many existing limitations of traditional noise control devices.
Chemo-hydrodynamic pulsations in simple batch A + B → C systems
Authors: Budroni Marcello A. , Polo Alessandro , Upadhyay Virat , Bigaj Adam , Rongy Laurence
Published: March 2021

Spatio-temporal oscillations can be induced under batch conditions with ubiquitous bimolecular reactions in the absence of any nonlinear chemical feedback, thanks to an active interplay between the chemical process and chemically driven hydrodynamic flows. When two reactants A and B, initially separated in space, react upon diffusive contact, they can power convective flows by inducing a localized variation of surface tension and density at the mixing interface. These flows feedback with the reaction-diffusion dynamics, bearing damped or sustained spatio-temporal oscillations of the concentrations and flow field. By means of numerical simulations, we detail the mechanism underlying these chemohydrodynamic oscillations and classify the main dynamical scenarios in the relevant space drawn by parameters ΔM and ΔR, which rule the surface tension- and buoyancy-driven contributions to convection, respectively. The reactor height is found to play a critical role in the control of the dynamics. The analysis reveals the intimate nature of these oscillatory phenomena and the hierarchy among the different phenomena at play: oscillations are essentially hydrodynamic and the chemical process features the localized trigger for Marangoni flows unstable toward oscillatory instabilities. The characteristic size of Marangoni convective rolls mainly determines the critical conditions and properties of the oscillations, which can be further tuned or suppressed by the buoyancy competition. We finally discuss the possible experimental implementation of such a class of chemo-hydrodynamic oscillator and its implications in fundamental and applied terms.
2H NMR study on temperature-dependent water dynamics in amino-acid functionalized silica nanopores
Authors: Steinrücken Elisa , Wissel Till , Brodrecht Martin , Breitzke Hergen , Regentin Julia , Buntkowsky Gerd , Vogel Michael
Published: March 2021

We prepare various amino-acid functionalized silica pores with diameters of ∼6 nm and study the temperature-dependent reorientation dynamics of water in these confinements. Specifically, we link basic Lys, neutral Ala, and acidic Glu to the inner surfaces and combine 2H nuclear magnetic resonance spin–lattice relaxation and line shape analyses to disentangle the rotational motions of the surfaces groups and the crystalline and liquid water fractions coexisting below partial freezing. Unlike the crystalline phase, the liquid phase shows reorientation dynamics, which strongly depends on the chemistry of the inner surfaces. The water reorientation is slowest for the Lys functionalization, followed by Ala and Glu and, finally, the native silica pores. In total, the rotational correlation times of water at the different surfaces vary by about two orders of magnitude, where this span is largely independent of the temperature in the range ∼200–250 K.
An asymmetric semi-circular bend method for investigating fracture behavior of brittle rocks under dynamic mixed mode I/II loading
Authors: Li Youzhen , Dai Feng , You Wei , Liu Yi
Published: March 2021

Understanding the fracture behavior of brittle rocks under dynamic mixed mode I/II loading is imperative and beneficial for the stability analysis of rock engineering structures. However, available research studies on the dynamic mixed mode fracture of brittle rocks are rather rare, and existing testing methods own some complexity in the specimen preparation or experimental operation. In this study, a novel and efficient experimental method is developed for investigating the fracture behavior of brittle rocks under mixed mode I/II impact loading. For the first time, the asymmetric semi-circular bend (ASCB) specimen is introduced into a split Hopkinson pressure bar loading system to obtain dynamic mixed mode fracture toughness of granite. By virtue of digital image correlation techniques combined with high-speed photography, the progressive fracture processes of specimens with different mode mixity are also visualized. Results show that the dynamic force equilibrium and the crack tip initiation are satisfied for all the tests, validating the feasibility and reliability of this method. The fracture path of the ASCB specimen under dynamic mixed mode I/II loading deviates from the original loading direction and finally generates a curved crack, which is quite different from the straight fracture path under pure mode I loading. In addition, experimental results indicate the significant loading rate dependence of the dynamic fracture toughness, and the dynamic effective fracture toughness under mode I loading is greater than that under mode II loading at a given loading rate. Our proposed method is convenient and reliable to investigate dynamic mixed mode I/II fracture of brittle rocks.
Spin wave spectral probing of degenerate microstates in building-block of square artificial spin ice
Authors: Arora Nimisha , Das Pintu
Published: March 2021

We have investigated the spin wave modes of dipolar coupled, highly shape anisotropic magnetic nanoislands forming square artificial spin ice system by performing micromagnetic simulations using MuMax3 in combination with Matlab coding. Here, artificial spin ice is considered to be formed by the four identical square ring-type structure of elliptical shaped nanoislands of permalloy. Our results demonstrate a direct relation between the spin wave modes generated and the micro-states formed in the system. Thus, we show that single ring type structure may alone be adequately used to understand the spin wave modes of square artificial spin ice.
DIY radio-collar attachment for small macropods
Authors: Ross Alexandra K. , Lawes Jasmin C. , Lowry Janelle A. , Letnic Mike
Published: March 2021

There is currently a paucity of publications reporting different ways of minimising stress in collared mammals. We describe the construction of a DIY (do-it-yourself; i.e. self-made) radio-collar attachment that can improve the animal welfare outcomes of radio-tracking surveys for small macropods. The flexible collar is light, designed for long-term wear, and can stretch to allow a snagged animal to free itself without choking. We present our findings using capture and radio-collaring data from a population of an endangered macropod. Of 39 DIY radio-collars, 25 remained attached for over four months, 4 fell off naturally after 9–15 weeks, and 10 were unattached by other mechanisms (e.g. a predation event). Adverse reactions were uncommon, and we present recommendations for future radio-collaring studies.
Calcitic seaweed (
Authors: Bury de Azevedo dos Santos Liliana , Genova Jansller Luiz , de Oliveira Carvalho Paulo Levi , Evaristo Rupolo Paulo , Teixeira Carvalho Silvana
Published: March 2021

Context Lithothamnion calcareum is a calcitic seaweed (CS), rich in calcium (Ca) and other minerals, with potential for use in piglet feeding. Aim The aims were to compare L. Calcareum (CS) with calcitic limestone (CL) as a source of Ca for use in piglet feeding for effects on total tract digestibility and daily balance of Ca, growth performance and serum variables, and to assess solubility of Ca sources through in vitro testing. Methods In Expt 1, an availability assay was performed on 24 crossbred male piglets with initial average body weight (BW) of 15.17 ± 0.70 kg in a randomised complete block design with six replicates of four treatments and one piglet per experimental unit. The starter dietary treatments were: basal diet with minimal amount of Ca (0.068%); diet with low Ca (0.018%); and two diets containing either CL or CS to provide 0.82% total Ca. In Expt 2 (growth performance), 96 crossbred male piglets, with initial average BW of 6.01 ± 0.70 kg were assigned in a randomised complete block design with eight replicates of three treatments (CL, CL + CS, or CS) and four piglets per experimental unit, assessed over pre-starter phases I and II and the starter phase. Key results In Expt 1, Ca source did not influence (P > 0.05) apparent and true digestibility or daily balance and concentration of Ca in the piglets. In Expt 2, no significant differences (P > 0.05) existed for growth performance during the pre-starter I and II phases, although a trend (P ≤ 0.1) was evident for final BW, daily weight gain and feed conversion ratio (FCR) during the pre-starter II phase. Piglets fed CL showed a reduction in FCR during the starter phase (P = 0.02) and for the total period (P = 0.007). Final BW and daily weight gain did not differ between CL and CS diets during the starter phase or for the total period. No effect (P > 0.05) was observed of Ca source on Ca and phosphorus concentrations in serum. CS had a solubility 1.9 times higher than CL. Conclusion Piglet performance parameters were generally similar for diets including CS and CL as a source of Ca. Implications Based on the evaluation criteria used in these experiments, L. calcareum has potential to replace calcitic limestone as an alternative source of Ca.
Exploring adolescent and clinician perspectives on Australia’s national digital health record, My Health Record
Authors: Beaton Laura , Williams Ian , Sanci Lena
Published: March 2021

Adolescence is often a time when risk-taking behaviours emerge and attendance at primary health care is low. School-based health services can serve to improve access to health care. Clinicians play a key role in improving adolescents’ health literacy and capacity to make informed care decisions. Australia’s national digital health record, My Health Record (MHR), has posed significant challenges for both clinicians and adolescents in understanding impacts on patient privacy. Guidance is required on how best to communicate about MHR to adolescents. This exploratory qualitative study aims to examine adolescents’ understanding of MHR, clinicians’ knowledge of MHR and their use of MHR with adolescents. Focus groups with students, school health and well-being staff and semistructured interviews with GPs and nurses were undertaken in one regional and one urban secondary school-based health service in Victoria. Transcripts from audio recorded sessions were examined using thematic analysis. Resulting themes include minimal understanding and use of MHR, privacy and security concerns, possible benefits of MHR and convenience. The results suggest opportunities to address gaps in understanding and to learn from adolescents’ preferences for digital health literacy education. This will support primary care clinicians to provide best-practice health care for adolescents.
Extracellular vesicles in the male reproductive tract of the softshell turtle
Authors: Chen Qiusheng , Holt William V.
Published: March 2021

Extracellular vesicles (EVs) are a heterogeneous group of cell-derived membranous structures comprising exosomes and microvesicles that originate from the endosomal system or are shed from the plasma membrane respectively. As mediators of cell communication, EVs are present in biological fluids and are involved in many physiological and pathological processes. The role of EVs has been extensively investigated in the mammalian male reproductive tract, but the characteristics and identification of EVs in reptiles are still largely unknown. In this review we focus our attention on EVs and their distribution in the male reproductive tract of the Chinese softshell turtle Pelodiscus sinensis, mainly discussing the potential roles of EVs in intercellular communication during different phases of the reproductive process. In softshell turtles, Sertoli–germ cell communication via multivesicular bodies can serve as a source of EVs during spermatogenesis, and these EVs interact with epithelia of the ductuli efferentes and the principal cells of the epididymal epithelium. These EVs are involved in sperm maturation, transport and storage. EVs are also shed by telocytes, which contact and exchange information with other, as well as distant interstitial cells. Overall, EVs play an indispensable role in the normal reproductive function of P. sinensis and can be used as an excellent biomarker for understanding male fertility.
A spatial genetic framework for koala translocations: where to?
Authors: Norman Janette A. , Christidis Les
Published: March 2021

Wildlife translocations are gaining acceptance as a valuable conservation tool for threatened Australian fauna. The 2019–2020 bushfire crisis has significantly affected koala habitat across four states, and translocations, when properly implemented, could facilitate the demographic and genetic recovery of affected populations. Current translocation policies lack an appropriate spatial framework to guide conservation actions and this could lead to unexpected or undesirable outcomes with the potential to hinder population recovery. To address these concerns, we propose development of a spatial framework based on knowledge of population genetic structure and population-specific dispersal patterns estimated from molecular data. At an operational level, application of a spatial genetic framework obviates the need to specify restrictive translocation limits, reduces reliance on subjective interpretations of population structure, and provides the potential to improve translocation success and conservation outcomes. We strongly encourage implementation of a spatial genetic framework and its integration into the decision-making process for selection and prioritisation of release sites for translocated koalas by wildlife carers, researchers and wildlife managers. The proposed framework would also support koala conservation and management more broadly.
Years of good life is a well-being indicator designed to serve research on sustainability
Authors: Lutz Wolfgang , Striessnig Erich , Dimitrova Anna , Ghislandi Simone , Lijadi Anastasia , Reiter Claudia , Spitzer Sonja , Yildiz Dilek
Published: March 2021

Significance

Attempts at comprehensive quantitative assessments of sustainable development can focus on either determinants or constituents of long-term human well-being. While much research on determinants has relied on economic concepts of capital and inclusive wealth, here we focus on the constituents of well-being using a demographic approach. We construct a tailor-made metric based on life expectancy and indicators of objective and subjective well-being. The future trend in this metric has the potential to serve as a sustainability criterion and marks a crucial step in the endeavor to comprehensively assess sustainable development. At this stage, it is only applied to observed past and current conditions. To address sustainability, it will be combined with scenarios addressing future changes including feedback from environmental change.
Toxoplasma gondii
association with host mitochondria requires key mitochondrial protein import machinery
Authors: Blank Matthew L. , Xia Jing , Morcos Mary M. , Sun Mai , Cantrell Pamela S. , Liu Yang , Zeng Xuemei , Powell Cameron J. , Yates Nathan , Boulanger Martin J. , Boyle Jon P.
Published: March 2021

Significance

Many pathogens manipulate the host environment to promote their survival and eventual transmission.
Toxoplasma gondii
, an intracellular parasite that can cause disease in those with weakened immune systems, is no exception. One of the more dramatic effects of
T. gondii
infection on the host cell is a relocalization of the host mitochondria around the parasite-containing vacuole. Here, we have identified two host proteins that are required for
T. gondii
manipulation of host mitochondria, both of which are involved in mitochondrial protein import. This discovery is a remarkable example of a parasite gene evolving to specifically target a host receptor on the surface of an organelle.
Communicating artificial neural networks develop efficient color-naming systems
Authors: Chaabouni Rahma , Kharitonov Eugene , Dupoux Emmanuel , Baroni Marco
Published: March 2021

Significance

Color names in human languages are organized into efficient systems optimizing an accuracy/complexity trade-off. We show that artificial neural networks trained with generic deep-learning methods to play a color-discrimination game develop color-naming systems whose distribution on the accuracy/complexity plane is strikingly similar to that of human languages. We proceed to show that efficiency and narrow complexity crucially depend on the discrete nature of communication, acting as an information bottleneck on the emergent code. This suggests that efficient categorization of colors (and possibly other semantic domains) in natural languages does not depend on specific biological constraints of humans, but it is instead a general property of discrete communication systems.
Lineage-specific selection and the evolution of virulence in the
Candida
clade
Authors: Singh-Babak Sheena D. , Babak Tomas , Fraser Hunter B. , Johnson Alexander D.
Published: March 2021

Significance

Of the many microbial species on earth, only a small number are able to thrive in humans and cause disease. Comparison of closely related pathogenic and nonpathogenic species can therefore be useful in identifying key features that contribute to virulence. We created interspecies hybrids between
Candida albicans
, a prevalent fungal pathogen of humans, and
Candida dubliniensis
, a close, but much less pathogenic, relative. By comparing genome-wide expression differences between the two genomes in the same cell, we surmised that since the two species diverged from a common ancestor, natural selection has acted upon the expression level of an ancient metabolic pathway, illustrating that pathogenicity traits can arise over evolutionary timescales through small expression changes in deeply conserved proteins.
Testosterone reduces generosity through cortical and subcortical mechanisms
Authors: Ou Jianxin , Wu Yin , Hu Yang , Gao Xiaoxue , Li Hong , Tobler Philippe N.
Published: March 2021

Significance

Testosterone is associated with aggressive behavior in both animals and humans. Here, we establish a link between increased testosterone and selfishness in economic decision making and identify the neural mechanisms through which testosterone reduces generosity in a double-blind, placebo-controlled, between-participant study. We find that testosterone induces more selfish choices, particularly when distant others are concerned. Moreover, it disrupts the representation of other-regarding value in local activity and functional connectivity involving the temporoparietal junction and subcortical regions involved in reward processing. Our study provides causal evidence for a testosterone-mediated neurohormonal link between generosity and the valuation system.
Extreme weather events and military conflict over seven centuries in ancient Korea
Authors: Jun Tackseung , Sethi Rajiv
Published: March 2021

Significance

We examine the link between extreme weather events and interstate conflict using data covering the three ancient kingdoms on the Korean Peninsula over seven centuries. Extreme weather events, such as drought and heavy rainfall, have a direct causal effect on conflict, but this effect is asymmetric: Shocks are far more likely to give rise to opportunistic invasions (where the state experiencing the shock is attacked) than to desperate invasions (where the state experiencing the shock initiates attack). We identify food insecurity as a critical source of vulnerability. Since climate change is leading to increased frequency of extreme weather events, a better understanding of the implications for labor-intensive armed conflict can help with mitigation strategies.
Mechanistic basis for ubiquitin modulation of a protein energy landscape
Authors: Carroll Emma C. , Latorraca Naomi R. , Lindner Johanna M. , Maguire Brendan C. , Pelton Jeffrey G. , Marqusee Susan
Published: March 2021

Significance

Fluctuations on a protein’s energy landscape encode the mechanistic basis for vital biological processes not always evident from static structures alone. Ubiquitination, a key posttranslational modification, can affect a protein’s energy landscape with consequences for proteasomal degradation, but the molecular mechanisms driving ubiquitin-induced energetic changes remain elusive. Here, we find that distinct thermodynamic mechanisms can produce the same outcome of ubiquitin-induced destabilization at sensitive sites. At a nonsensitive site, we observe formation of a substrate–ubiquitin interaction that may serve to protect against destabilization. This work will enable development of predictive models of the effect of ubiquitin at any given site on a protein with implications for understanding and engineering regulated ubiquitin signaling and protein quality control in vivo.
Market demand for conference interpreting
Authors: Huh Jiun
Published: March 2021

This study explored market demand for conference interpreting in South Korea, focusing on clients’ views on the
key factors that affect their recruiting decisions. The study conducted a semi-structured interview using fictitious resumes with
14 participants who are clients of conference interpreting services. The study’s results indicate that: (1) participants place
high importance on interpreting quality, particularly emphasizing quality items such as content accuracy and terminology
awareness; (2) domain-specific interpreting experience, academic background, and price serve as important quality signals in their
recruiting decision-making; and (3) price-quality association is present. Furthermore, the interview results suggest that a
collaborative approach from clients is necessary to create an enabling environment for quality interpreting services. Ultimately,
this study presents noteworthy information regarding clients’ rationales for their recruitment criteria. This information is
expected to widen our understanding of the interpreting market in South Korea.
COVID silver linings
Authors: Levis John M. , Hegelheimer Sinem Sonsaat
Published: March 2021

The global pandemic caused a storm of cancellations of professional conferences and professional travel, but the
storm has also had technological silver linings in opportunities for professional development including greater numbers of
webinars, virtual conferences, and new uses of videoconferencing. We expect that many of these new expansions of professional
development will continue in the field of L2 pronunciation.
Single-parameter and parameter combination errors in L2 productions of Swiss German Sign Language
Authors: Ebling Sarah , Tissi Katja , Sidler-Miserez Sandra , Schlumpf Cheryl , Boyes Braem Penny
Published: March 2021

This article presents a study of errors made by hearing adult L2 learners of Swiss German Sign Language (Deutschschweizerische Gebärdensprache, DSGS). As part of a statistical analysis of single-parameter errors, movement was found to be the parameter most susceptible to errors, followed by location, orientation, and handshape. An analysis of production errors with respect to combinations of manual parameters was also conducted, something that previously has not been undertaken. The parameter combination most frequently involved in errors was movement with location. Possible aspects contributing to the higher error rate for movement are suggested, among which are the inherent complexity of the movement parameter. Finally, the article discusses factors influencing the judgment of errors.
The linguistic landscape and soundscape of Windhoek
Authors: Schulte Marion
Published: March 2021

Both the pre-independence lingua franca Afrikaans
and the post-independence official language English are used to
communicate in public contexts in Namibia although most Namibians
speak other languages at home. This article aims to find out which
languages are used for communication in public spaces in Windhoek,
Namibia’s capital. It is based on linguistic landscaping and
soundscaping data and compares this contemporary data with the
pre-independence linguistic landscape reported in Kleinz (1984) to assess the
diachronic development of public language use. This investigation
finds that English is the most frequent language used in written
communication in the public sphere. English also seems to be
favoured by non-White Namibians in service encounters, while many
White Namibians select Afrikaans in these situations.