bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Contemporary principles for solving the problem in noise reduction from railway rolling stock
Authors: Zelenko Yu , Zelenko D , Neduzha L
Published: December 2020

The statistical and monitoring data confirm the significant impact of the operational mode on the most important noise and vibration parameters, which is relevant for ensuring the efficiency and quality of the operational process with regard to ergonomic and environmental requirements. The article analyzes the acoustic parameters of rolling stock of the railway, emphasizes the peculiarities of noise emission from various elements of rolling stock and a track. Existing approaches towards solving the problem in the organization of railway noise control are outlined. On the basis of existing modern methods for measurement and analysis of acoustic parameters, the authors propose conceptual approaches toward monitoring the acoustic parameters, predicting noise characteristics and constructing the noise maps of railways. The algorithm of the developed acoustic model for the operational monitoring of noise load and the possibility to compile a case of noise maps for Ukrzaliznytsia is presented. The proposed algorithm allows at given basic design parameters and speed of rolling stock, known sound-absorbing and dissipative characteristics of all elements to carry out a rational selection of noise-protective measures in accordance with the sanitary noise regulations for a specific receptive facility.
Research of the mechanism of particles bonding with substrate during thermal spraying of coating
Authors: Khrlamov Yu O , Sokolov V I , Krol O S , Romanchenko O V
Published: December 2020

The problems of modelling of bonding of particles with a part surface during thermal spraying of coatings are considered. The formation of adhesive and cohesive strength of thermal coatings is considered from the standpoint of the theory of welding of materials in solid phase. The formation of interatomic connections between particle materials and parts is accompanied by deformation processes in contact zone, which facilitate the unloading and rupture of connections in the metal – oxygen system, loading and connections between atoms of interacting materials. The kinetics of formation of interatomic connections between materials of particle and substrate at high collision velocities is satisfactorily described by a modified semi – empirical equation that uses experimentally measured quantities: the magnitude of tensile deformation of interatomic connection, the Young’s modulus, the coefficient of thermal linear expansion. Possible influence of nanotopography of substrate surface on the interaction with sprayed particles and formation of coatings with high adhesive and cohesive strength is shown.
Onset of detonation through a cold flow analysis using metallic diaphragms – an experimental approach
Authors: Srikrishnan S , Shaafi T , Dash P K
Published: December 2020

Modern era is looking for high speed transportation systems across globe with due comfort. Innovative design in both aerodynamic and propulsion studies have been made for achieving supersonic to hypersonic speeds ranging a claim of 1km/s under stratosphere limit. The complexity in designing such vehicles in a high-altitude test facility is borne due to the fact that simulation of such conditions as low density, no shock conditions, high rate of dissipation and shock flow comes from unavailability of sufficient technology to pressurize gases to the optimal testing conditions. The prominent ways of constructing a shock tube either involve a blow down type or a vacuum suction type. Here a blow down type shock tube require a built-up pressure comparable to the velocity at the test section. Fibre diaphragms blow out at less critical pressure and are unsuitable for high speed flows. Metal foil are incepted as a concept of diaphragms for this particular problem. Aluminium foils are stacked across a mounting flange on a settling chamber to determine the maximum pressure at which blow down occurs. The results are tabulated for an incremental pressure schema of 1 bar to 10 bar with which it was found that the wave pressure development occurs during each batch of aluminium and recorded to be between 3.5 bar and 9 bar the successive velocities at the exit was found to be increasing with increase of blast pressure.
Implementation of design for manufacturing in hot forging
Authors: Ruban P. , Jayaprakash J.
Published: December 2020

The manufacturing of components in Hot forging method is seen in detail. The concept of Design for Manufacturing in Product design and development is discussed. The Role of Design for Manufacturing will be implemented in this project for the reduction of cost of production, Reduce the wastage during production and also to increase the production rate. Here in this project the Six Case study will be taken for the design of manufacturing in Hot Forging. The cost evaluation in the hot forging process is evaluated.
The effect of structural factors on tribological behaviour of copper-zinc gas-dynamic coatings
Authors: Arkhipov V E , Moskvitin G V , Pugachev M S
Published: December 2020

The paper studies the effect of the structure of copper and brass coatings, obtained by gas-dynamic spattering, on their tribological behaviour. Using durometrical, chemical and X-ray analyses, as well as the wear tests, the authors have determined that the copper coating structure hardness is 102.7 HV, it has pores up to 2 urn in diameter, brass coating consists of 106.5 HV copper, 49.7 HV zinc and 168.7 HV non-metallic compositions (y - and e - phases), distributed by mass as 62:7.9:24.2 % correspondingly. The both coatings have presented good results in sliding friction couple tests.
Application of titanium nitride and titanium alumonitride as intermediate layer for diamond-like coatings of steel parts
Authors: Buyanovskii I A , Samusenko V D , Levchenko V A
Published: December 2020

The physicomechanical and tribological characteristics of DLC coatings was investigated, with using TiN and AlTiN hard coatings as intermediate layers. The tests were carried out both with dry friction and in the environment of PAO-4. It was found that intermediate coatings provide good adhesion of the DLC to steel; the best result was obtained with the AlTiN coating. The main factor determining antifriction properties in the friction pair “steel - coating” with boundary lubrication is tribological properties of coatings.
The use of boehmite in tribology
Authors: Fedotov A V , Gvozdev A V , Dunaev A V , Pekhalsky I A
Published: December 2020

The analysis of the results of the use of nanostructure boehmite as a break-in and prophylactic tribological preparations is carried out. The mechanism of boehmite action during the running-in of a diesel engine and a drilling rig gearbox is considered. A boehmite-based product reduces break-in time, reduces the friction coefficient and wear of tribological couplings. A scheme of the effect of boehmite on increasing the life of tribological compounds is developed. Justified its use as a repair and recovery tribological product.
Keeping Work and Family Separate: A Serial Mediation Analysis of Social Workers’ Work–Family Segmentation, Work–Family Enrichment and Job Performance in Australia
Authors: Kalliath Parveen , Chan Xi Wen , Kalliath Thomas
Published: December 2020

With increased blurring of boundaries between work and family lives, work–family segmentation has been suggested as an effective work–life strategy for social workers who are involved in complex human service work, to reduce work–family conflict and enhance work–family enrichment. Yet, numerous studies have examined social workers’ work–family conflict experiences, and only a few have focussed on social workers’ work–family enrichment experiences. Correspondingly, drawing on boundary theory, conservation of resources theory and work–family enrichment theory, we investigated how family-to-work enrichment and work-to-family enrichment help social workers to benefit from work–family segmentation to increase their job performance. Using an online survey of Australian social workers (n = 504), we tested the impact of work–family segmentation on the job performance of social workers through family-to-work-enrichment and work-to-family enrichment. The study found evidence for the positive impact of work–family segmentation in helping social workers to experience family-to-work enrichment and work-to-family enrichment, thereby enhancing their job performance. The theoretical and practical implications of the findings for social workers, supervisors and the social service agencies are discussed.
Heterozygous deletion ofSox9in mouse mimics the gonadal sex reversal phenotype associated with campomelic dysplasia in humans
Authors: Bagheri-Fam Stefan , Combes Alexander N , Ling Cheuk K , Wilhelm Dagmar
Published: December 2020

Heterozygous mutations in the human SOX9 gene cause the skeletal malformation syndrome campomelic dysplasia which in 75% of 46, XY individuals is associated with male-to-female sex reversal. Although studies in homozygous Sox9 knockout mouse models confirmed that SOX9 is critical for testis development, mice heterozygous for the Sox9-null allele were reported to develop normal testes. This led to the belief that the SOX9 dosage requirement for testis differentiation is different between humans, which often require both alleles, and mice, in which one allele is sufficient. However, in prior studies, gonadal phenotypes in heterozygous Sox9 XY mice were assessed only by either gross morphology, histological staining or analyzed on a mixed genetic background. In this study, we conditionally inactivated Sox9 in somatic cells of developing gonads using the Nr5a1-Cre mouse line on a pure C57BL/6 genetic background. Section and whole-mount immunofluorescence for testicular and ovarian markers showed that XY Sox9 heterozygous gonads developed as ovotestes. Quantitative droplet digital PCR confirmed a 50% reduction of Sox9 mRNA as well as partial sex reversal shown by an upregulation of ovarian genes. Our data show that haploinsufficiency of Sox9 can perturb testis development in mice, suggesting that mice may provide a more accurate model of human disorders/differences of sex development than previously thought.
Space–time discretization for nonlinear parabolic systems withp-structure
Authors: Berselli Luigi C , Růžička Michael
Published: December 2020

In this paper we consider nonlinear parabolic systems with elliptic part, depending only on the symmetric gradient, which can be also degenerate. We prove optimal error estimates for solutions with natural regularity. The main novelty, with respect to previous results, is that we obtain the estimates directly without introducing intermediate semidiscrete problems, which enables the treatment of homogeneous Dirichlet boundary conditions. In addition, we prove the existence of solutions of the continuous problem with the requested regularity, if the data of the problem are smooth enough.
Schumpeter Lecture 2019: Slow Household Deleveraging
Authors: Guerrieri Veronica , Lorenzoni Guido , Prato Marta
Published: December 2020

We use a model of precautionary savings with housing and mortgages to study the effects of a deleveraging shock on consumer spending. We focus on the deleveraging caused by a contraction in home values, and compute numerically the partial-equilibrium effect of the shock. Our simulations show that household deleveraging is associated with a long and protracted weakness in consumption. These effects appear even if we assume, realistically, that housing wealth is illiquid and mortgage debt is long term. We show that housing wealth matters for consumption decisions due to an insurance force: consumers know they can sell their house if they get hit by sufficiently negative shocks in the future. We also show that our slow deleveraging mechanism is amplified when incomes are affected by a weak aggregate consumption demand through general-equilibrium effects.
Potential Molecular Targets in the Setting of Chemoradiation for Esophageal Malignancies
Authors: Jabbour Salma K , Williams Terence M , Sayan Mutlay , Miller Eric D , Ajani Jaffer A , Chang Andrew C , Coleman Norman , El-Rifai Wael , Haddock Michael , Ilson David , Jamorabo Daniel , Kunos Charles , Lin Steven , Liu Geoffrey , Prasanna Pataje G , Rustgi Anil K , Wong Rosemary , Vikram Bhadrasain , Ahmed Mansoor M
Published: December 2020

Although the development of effective combined chemoradiation regimens for esophageal cancers has resulted in statistically significant survival benefits, the majority of patients treated with curative intent develop locoregional and/or distant relapse. Further improvements in disease control and survival will require the development of individualized therapy based on the knowledge of host and tumor genomics and potentially harnessing the host immune system. Although there are a number of gene targets that are amplified and proteins that are overexpressed in esophageal cancers, attempts to target several of these have not proven successful in unselected patients. Herein, we review our current state of knowledge regarding the molecular pathways implicated in esophageal carcinoma, and the available agents for targeting these pathways that may rationally be combined with standard chemoradiation, with the hope that this commentary will guide future efforts of novel combinations of therapy.
The Network That Never Sleeps
Authors: Mukhopadhyay Sanjay , Kanakis Constantine , Golab Kathryn , Hermelin Daniela , Crane Genevieve M , Mirza Kamran M
Published: December 2020

This review describes how Twitter is currently used by laboratory professionals for education, research, and networking. This platform has a global audience. It enables users to post information publicly, easily, rapidly, and free of charge. The absence of hierarchies enables interactions that may not be feasible offline. Laboratory professionals teach thousands of people using text, images, polls, and videos. Academic discussion flourishes without paywalls. Published research is shared faster than ever before, articles are discussed in online journal clubs, and research collaborations are facilitated. Pathologists network globally and make new friends within and beyond their specialty. Pathology departments and residency programs showcase trainees and faculty and celebrate graduations. As users in one time zone go to bed, others who are just waking up begin to read and tweet, creating a 24/7/365 live global online conference. We encourage others to plug into the power of Twitter, the network that never sleeps.
Make-Belief Translation: Fictive Truths and World-Building from The Lord of the Rings to Theological Institutions
Authors: Godin Mark
Published: December 2020

This article explores the relationship of truth and fiction through three case studies of imagined translation used to construct worlds. The first is The Lord of the Rings by J. R. R. Tolkien, who presents the work as a translation of an ancient text. The second and third are both theological metaphors: imagining teaching as translation, and offering translation as a model for inter-religious dialogue. Comparing these cases extends the theory of world-building—most commonly associated with fantasy and science fiction—into a tool for reflecting on institutions and their structures. The case studies offer insights on negotiating relationships across difference, and on the fabrication of difference itself.
Human mucosal-associated invariant T cells respond to Mucorales species in a MR1-dependent manner
Authors: Böttcher Sarah , Hartung Susann , Meyer Florian , Rummler Silke , Voigt Kerstin , Walther Grit , Hochhaus Andreas , von Lilienfeld-Toal Marie , Jahreis Susanne
Published: December 2020

Activation of mucosal-associated invariant T cells (MAIT cells) by certain bacteria, viruses, and yeast is well studied, but the activation potential of filamentous moulds from the order Mucorales is not known. Here, we show a rapid response of human MAIT cells against the Mucorales species Mucor circinelloides, Rhizopus arrhizus, and Rhizopus microsporus. This activation included upregulation of CD69 and degranulation marked by increased CD107a expression, while intracellular perforin and granzyme A expression were reduced. Furthermore, blocking of the antigen-presenting molecule major histocompatibility complex class I-related abrogated MAIT cell activation demonstrating a T cell receptor-dependent stimulation by Mucorales.
Carbon stars as standard candles – II. The median J magnitude as a distance indicator
Authors: Parada Javiera , Heyl Jeremy , Richer Harvey , Ripoche Paul , Rousseau-Nepton Laurie
Published: December 2020

We introduce a new distance determination method using carbon-rich asymptotic giant branch stars (CS) as standard candles and the Large and Small Magellanic Clouds (LMC and SMC) as the fundamental calibrators. We select the samples of CS from the ((J − Ks)0, J0) colour–magnitude diagrams, as, in this combination of filters, CS are bright and easy to identify. We fit the CS J-band luminosity functions using a Lorentzian distribution modified to allow the distribution to be asymmetric. We use the parameters of the best-fitting distribution to determine if the CS luminosity function of a given galaxy resembles that of the LMC or SMC. Based on this resemblance, we use either the LMC or SMC as the calibrator and estimate the distance to the given galaxy using the median J magnitude ($\overline{J}$) of the CS samples. We apply this new method to the two Local Group galaxies NGC 6822 and IC 1613. We find that NGC 6822 has an ‘LMC-like’ CS luminosity function, while IC 1613 is more ‘SMC-like’. Using the values for the median absolute J magnitude for the LMC and SMC found in Paper I we find a distance modulus of μ0 = 23.54 ± 0.03 (stat) for NGC 6822 and μ0 = 24.34 ± 0.05 (stat) for IC 1613.
Chromatin regulatory dynamics of early human small intestinal development using a directed differentiation model
Authors: Hung Yu-Han , Huang Sha , Dame Michael K , Yu Qianhui , Yu Qing C , Zeng Yi A , Camp J Gray , Spence Jason R , Sethupathy Praveen
Published: December 2020

The establishment of the small intestinal (SI) lineage during human embryogenesis ensures functional integrity of the intestine after birth. The chromatin dynamics that drive SI lineage formation and regional patterning in humans are essentially unknown. To fill this knowledge void, we apply a cutting-edge genomic technology to a state-of-the-art human model of early SI development. Specifically, we leverage chromatin run-on sequencing (ChRO-seq) to define the landscape of active promoters, enhancers and gene bodies across distinct stages of directed differentiation of human pluripotent stem cells into SI spheroids with regional specification. Through comprehensive ChRO-seq analysis we identify candidate stage-specific chromatin activity states, novel markers and enhancer hotspots during the directed differentiation. Moreover, we propose a detailed transcriptional network associated with SI lineage formation or regional patterning. Our ChRO-seq analyses uncover a previously undescribed pattern of enhancer activity and transcription at HOX gene loci underlying SI regional patterning. We also validated this unique HOX dynamics by the analysis of single cell RNA-seq data from human fetal SI. Overall, the results lead to a new proposed working model for the regulatory underpinnings of human SI development, thereby adding a novel dimension to the literature that has relied almost exclusively on non-human models.
Nutrients for executive function development and related brain connectivity in school-aged children
Authors: Costello Sarah E , Geiser Eveline , Schneider Nora
Published: December 2020

Executive functions refer to a set of higher-order cognitive processes involved in the control and organization of information to serve goal-directed behaviors. Skills in executive functioning are developed throughout childhood and adolescence and have been shown to be predictive of academic achievement. The coordination of these complex processes is critically dependent on brain maturation and connectivity, including key neurodevelopmental processes like myelination and synaptogenesis. Among other factors, research highlights the influential effect of nutrition and diet on these neurodevelopmental processes, which may impact executive function performance in healthy and deficient populations. This review considers the research to date on the role of key nutrients that have been identified for executive function development and their underlying neurophysiological processes in school-aged children.
Pullback of the Normal Module of Ideals with Low Codimension
Authors: Miranda-Neto Cleto B
Published: December 2020

The normal module (or sheaf) of an ideal is a celebrated object in commutative algebra and algebraic geometry. In this paper, we prove results about its pullback under the natural projection, focusing on subtle numerical invariants such as, for instance, the reduction number. For certain codimension 2 perfect ideals, we show that the pullback has reduction number two. This is of interest since the determination of this invariant in the context of modules (even for special classes) is a mostly open, difficult problem. The analytic spread is also computed. Finally, for codimension 3 Gorenstein ideals, we determine the depth of the pullback, and we also consider a broader class of ideals provided that the Auslander transpose of the conormal module is almost Cohen–Macaulay.
Automated Fall and Pressure Injury Risk Assessment Systems
Authors: Jin Yinji , Kim Heejeong , Jin Taixian , Lee Sun-Mi
Published: December 2020

This study examined the clinical usability of two automated risk assessment systems—the Automated Fall Risk Assessment System and Automated Pressure Injury Risk Assessment System. The clinical usability of automated assessment systems was tested in three ways: agreement between the scales that nurses generally use and the automated assessment systems, focus group interviews, and the predicted amount of time saved for risk assessment and documentation. For the analysis of agreement, 1160 patients and 1000 patients were selected for falls and pressure injuries, respectively. A total of 60 nurses participated in focus group interviews. The nurses personally checked the time taken to assess and document the risks of falls and pressure injury for 271 and 251 patient cases, respectively. The results for the agreement showed a κ index of 0.43 and a percentage of agreement of 71.55% between the Automated Fall Risk Assessment System and the Johns Hopkins Fall Risk Assessment Tool. For the agreement between the Automated Pressure Injury Risk Assessment System and the Braden scale, the κ index was 0.52 and the percentage of agreement was 80.60%. The focus group interviews showed that participants largely perceived the automated risk assessment systems positively. The time it took for assessment and documentation were about 5 minutes to administer the Johns Hopkins Fall Risk Assessment Tool and 2 to 3 minutes to administer the Braden scale per day to all patients. Overall, the automated risk assessment systems may help in obtaining time devoted to directly preventing falls and pressure injuries and thereby contribute to better quality care.
The functional medicine approach to atrial fibrillation: can a cure for atrial fibrillation be found in the gut?
Authors: Svinarich John Thomas
Published: December 2020

Purpose of review

The importance of addressing the proximal causes of atrial fibrillation is recognized, yet frustration with the currently applied preventive measures is high. This review describes the functional medicine model (FMM), which identifies the proximal causes of atrial fibrillation at the level of gene-environment interaction.

Recent findings

The pathological processes leading to atrial fibrillation sustaining disorder have been elucidated in translational studies and are described as ‘nodal points.’ Examples are inflammation, oxidative stress, autoimmune mechanisms, and visceral adiposity. These same nodal points also cause disorder that results in atrial fibrillation-related complications and the development of atrial fibrillation-associated diseases. These nodal points vary from patient to patient and can be identified by careful evaluation of the patients clinical phenotype.

The application of the FMM identifies the gene--environment interactions that facilitate the patients nodal points and corrects them with emphasis on personalized diet, nutrition, and lifestyle changes.
Systems analysis of hematopoiesis using single-cell lineage tracing
Authors: Rodriguez-Fraticelli Alejo E. , Camargo Fernando
Published: December 2020

Purpose of review

In the last few decades, revolutionary advances in next-generation sequencing have led to single-cell lineage tracing technologies that now enable researchers to identify and quantify hematopoietic cell behavior with unprecedented detail. Combined readouts of cell lineage and cell state from the same cell mitigate the need to prospectively isolate populations of interest, and allow a system-level understanding of dynamic developmental processes. We will discuss the advantages and shortcomings of these technologies, the intriguing discoveries that stemmed from lineage tracing hematopoiesis at the single-cell level and the directions toward which the field is moving.

Recent findings

Single-cell lineage tracing studies unveiled extensive functional heterogeneity within discrete immunophenotypic populations. Recently, several groups merged lineage tracing with single-cell RNA sequencing to visualize clonal relationships directly on transcriptional landscapes without the requirement for prospective isolation of cell types by FACS. To study the cell dynamics of hematopoiesis, without perturbation in their native niche, researchers have developed mouse models with endogenous single-cell lineage tracing systems, which can simultaneously trace thousands of hematopoietic progenitor cells in a single mouse, without transplantation. The emerging picture is that multiple hematopoietic hierarchies coexist within a single individual, each with distinct regulatory features. These hierarchies are imprinted during development much earlier than previously predicted, persisting well into adulthood and even after injury and transplantation.

Clone-tracking experiments allow stem-cell researchers to characterize lineage hierarchies during blood development and regeneration. Combined with single-cell genomics analyses, these studies are allowing system-level description of hematopoiesis in mice and humans. Early exploratory studies have unveiled features with important implications for human biology and disease.

Video abstract

http://links.lww.com/COH/A21
IgG reactivity profile to Paracoccidioides spp. antigens in people with asymptomatic Paracoccidioidomycosis
Authors: Lenhard-Vidal Adriane , Bender Flávia Raquel , Assolini João Paulo , Maruo Ana Elisa Mayumi , Vieira Luiz Tiago , Pereira Ellen Cristina , Ono Mario Augusto , Sano Ayako , Itano Eiko Nakagawa
Published: December 2020

Introduction. Paracoccidioidomycosis (PCM) is a systemic mycosis caused by Paracoccidioides spp. As the disease is known to affect mostly men over 40 years old who previously worked handling soil, some cities of agricultural economy in endemic regions may have more cases of paracoccidioidal infection.

Gap statement. The true frequency of PCM cannot be established in Brazil because it is not a disease of mandatory reporting. The detection of paracoccidioidal infection may assist in the planning of health services, in order to provide early detection of the disease and to prevent its worsening or even progression to death. In addition, little is described about sera reactivity with antigens from different species of Paracoccidiodes, especially P. lutzii.

Aim. Current research was conducted in an inland municipality of southern Brazil, in order to assess infection rate within this endemic region of PCM disease.

Methodology. ELISA was employed to evaluate 359 sera from random volunteers from Guarapuava, Paraná, Brazil, to detect IgG against cell-free antigens (CFA) from P. restrepiensis B339, P. americana LDR3 and P. lutzii LDR2. Confirmatory ELISA employed gp43 from B339. Reduction of cross-reactions was sought by treatment with sodium metaperiodate (SMP-CFA, SMP-gp43). Immunoblot was performed with 37 selected sera among those reactive in ELISA. Epidemiological profile was assessed by questionnaire.

Results. ELISA reactivity was: CFA/SMP-CFA in general 37.3/17.8 %, B339 25.3/14.5 %, LDR3 24.5/1.4 %, LDR2 8.3/5.8 %; gp43/SMP-gp43 7.2/4.7 %. There were sera reactive with multiple CFAs. In immunoblot, five sera showed the same reaction profile with P. lutzii’s antigens as PCM disease sera. Rural residence and soil-related professions were risk factors for paracoccidioidal infection.

Conclusion. The low prevalence is in accordance with previous reports of lower PCM disease endemicity in Guarapuava than in other areas of Paraná. Although P. brasiliensis seems to be the prevalent strain of the region, 21 sera from people who only lived in Guarapuava reacted with P. lutzii LDR2. CFA-ELISA with whole antigens seems a good option for serological screening in epidemiological surveys.
A 25-year retrospective study of Chlamydia psittaci in association with equine reproductive loss in Australia
Authors: Akter Rumana , Sansom Fiona M. , El-Hage Charles M. , Gilkerson James R. , Legione Alistair R. , Devlin Joanne M.
Published: December 2020

Introduction.

Chlamydia psittaci

is primarily a pathogen of birds but can also cause disease in other species. Equine reproductive loss caused by

C. psittaci

has recently been identified in Australia where cases of human disease were also reported in individuals exposed to foetal membranes from an ill neonatal foal in New South Wales.

Hypothesis/Gap Statement. The prevalence of

C. psittaci

in association with equine reproductive over time and in different regions of Australia is not known.

Aim. This study was conducted to detect

C. psittaci

in equine abortion cases in Australia using archived samples spanning 25 years.

Methodology. We tested for

C. psittaci

in 600 equine abortion cases reported in Australia between 1994 to 2019 using a

Chlamydiaceae

real-time quantitative PCR assay targeting the 16S rRNA gene followed by high-resolution melt curve analysis. Genotyping and phylogenetic analysis was performed on positive samples.

Results. The overall prevalence of

C. psittaci

in material from equine abortion cases was 6.5 %.

C. psittaci

-positive cases were detected in most years that were represented in this study and occurred in Victoria (prevalence of 7.6 %), New South Wales (prevalence of 3.9 %) and South Australia (prevalence of 15.4 %). Genotyping and phylogenetic analysis showed that the

C. psittaci

detected in the equine abortion cases clustered with the parrot-associated 6BC clade (genotype A/ST24), indicating that infection of horses may be due to spillover from native Australian parrots.

Conclusion. This work suggests that

C. psittaci

has been a signiﬁcant agent of equine abortion in Australia for several decades and underscores the importance of taking appropriate protective measures to avoid infection when handling equine aborted material.
Transient neuronal suppression for exploitation of new sensory evidence
Authors: Shinn Maxwell , Lee Daeyeol , Murray John D. , Seo Hyojung
Published: December 2020

In noisy but stationary environments, decisions should be based on the temporal integration of sequentially sampled evidence. This strategy has been supported by many behavioral studies and is qualitatively consistent with neural activity in multiple brain areas. By contrast, decision-making in the face of non-stationary sensory evidence remains poorly understood. Here, we trained monkeys to identify the dominant color of a dynamically refreshed bicolor patch that becomes informative after a variable delay. Animals' behavioral responses were briefly suppressed after evidence changes, and many neurons in the frontal eye field displayed a corresponding dip in activity at this time, similar to that frequently observed after stimulus onset. Generalized drift-diffusion models revealed consistency of behavior and neural activity with brief suppression of motor output, but not with pausing or resetting of evidence accumulation. These results suggest that momentary arrest of motor preparation is an important component of dynamic perceptual decision making.
Detection of NDM-1, VIM-1 and AIM-type metallo-beta-lactamase genes in Gram-negative bacteria isolated from clinical samples in Tamil Nadu
Authors: Manohar Prasanth , Joseph Aemy , Karthika B , AnuPriya Pradeep , Mani Swetha S , Varsha VS , Ramesh Nachimuthu
Published: December 2020

The distribution of carbapenem-resistant Gram-negative bacteria has become an increasing public health concern in India. The aim of this study was to investigate the prevalence of carbapenem-resistant bacteria isolated from the clinical samples in Tamil Nadu, India. A total of 126 non-repetitive Gram-negative bacteria were taken for this study. The susceptibility to meropenem was determined by Minimum Inhibitory Concentration (MIC) by broth micro-dilution. The phenotypic resistance screening such as MHT (Modified Hodge test), EDTA disk synergy and CIM (carbapenem inactivation method) were performed. A multiplex PCR was used for the detection of carbapenemase-encoding genes. Among the 126 isolates studied, 82 (65.07%) meropenem-resistant isolates were identified by MIC. A total of 18 (21.9%) isolates were found to be positive for Metallo-β-Lactamase production through EDTA synergy test. None of the isolates were carbapenemase producer by MHT and CIM. The isolates identified with resistance genes (8/82) wereblaNDM-1in twoKlebsiellasp., twoP. aeruginosaand oneA. baumannii,blaVIM-1in oneP. aeruginosaandblaAIM-1in oneP. aeruginosaand oneA. baumannii. The study showed the distribution and increase of carbapenem-resistant bacteria in the study region. Therefore, constant monitoring and effective elimination should be focused to reduce the spread of carbapenem-resistant isolates.
Molecular basis of functional compatibility between ezrin and other actin-membrane associated proteins during cytokinesis
Authors: Yang Guang , Hiruma Shota , Kitamura Akira , Kinjo Masataka , Mishra Mithilesh , Uehara Ryota
Published: December 2020

The mechanism that mediates the interaction between the contractile ring and the plasma membrane during cytokinesis remains elusive. We previously found that ERM (Ezrin/Radixin/Moesin) proteins, which usually mediate cellular pole contraction, become over-accumulated at the cell equator and support furrow ingression upon the loss of other actin-membrane associated proteins, anillin and supervillin. In this study, we addressed the molecular basis of the semi-compatibility between ezrin and other actin-membrane associated proteins in mediating cortical contraction during cytokinesis. We found that depletion of supervillin and anillin caused over-accumulation of the membrane-associated FERM domain and actin-binding C-terminal domain (C-term) of ezrin at the cleavage furrow, respectively. This finding suggests that ezrin differentially shares its binding sites with these proteins on the actin cytoskeleton or inner membrane surface. Using chimeric mutants, we found that ezrin C-term, but not the FERM domain, can substitute for the corresponding anillin domains in cytokinesis and cell proliferation. On the other hand, either the membrane-associated or the actin/myosin-binding domains of anillin could not substitute for the corresponding ezrin domains in controlling cortical blebbing at the cell poles. Our results highlight specific designs of actin- or membrane-associated moieties of different actin-membrane associated proteins with limited compatibility, which enables them to support diverse cortical activities on the shared actin-membrane interface during cytokinesis.
Immunofocusing and enhancing autologous Tier-2 HIV-1 neutralization by displaying Env trimers on two-component protein nanoparticles
Authors: Brouwer Philip J. M. , Antanasijevic Aleksandar , de Gast Marlon , Allen Joel D. , Bijl Tom P. L. , Yasmeen Anila , Ravichandran Rashmi , Burger Judith A. , Ozorowski Gabriel , Torres Jonathan L. , LaBranche Celia , Montefiori David C. , Ringe Rajesh P. , van Gils Marit J. , Moore John P. , Klasse Per Johan , Crispin Max , King Neil P. , Ward Andrew B. , Sanders Rogier W.
Published: December 2020

The HIV-1 envelope glycoprotein trimer is poorly immunogenic because it is covered by a dense glycan shield. As a result, recombinant Env glycoproteins generally elicit inadequate antibody levels that neutralize clinically-relevant, neutralization-resistant (Tier-2) HIV-1 strains. Multivalent antigen presentation on nanoparticles is an established strategy to increase vaccine-driven immune responses. However, due to nanoparticle instability in vivo, the display of non-native Env structures, and the inaccessibility of many neutralizing antibody (NAb) epitopes, the effects of nanoparticle display have been modest for Env trimers. Here, we generated two-component self-assembling protein nanoparticles presenting twenty SOSIP trimers of the clade C Tier-2 genotype 16055. An immunization study in rabbits demonstrated that these nanoparticles induced 60-fold higher autologous Tier-2 NAb titers than the corresponding SOSIP trimers. Epitope mapping revealed that nanoparticle presentation focused antibody responses to an immunodominant apical epitope. Thus, these nanoparticles are a promising platform to improve the immunogenicity of Env trimers with apex-proximate NAb epitopes.
Modeling the impact of single-cell stochasticity and size control on the population growth rate in asymmetrically dividing cells
Authors: Barber F. , Min J. , Murray A. W. , Amir A.
Published: December 2020

Microbial populations show striking diversity in cell growth morphology and lifecycle [1]; however, our understanding of how these factors influence the growth rate of cell populations remains limited. We use theory and simulations to predict the impact of asymmetric cell division, cell size regulation and single-cell stochasticity on the population growth rate. Our model predicts that coarse-grained noise in the single-cell growth rate λ decreases the population growth rate, as previously seen for symmetrically dividing cells [2]. However, for a given noise in λ we find that dividing asymmetrically can enhance the population growth rate for cells with strong size control (between a “sizer” and an “adder”). To reconcile this finding with the abundance of symmetrically dividing organisms in nature, we propose that additional constraints on cell growth and division must be present which are not included in our model, and we explore the effects of selected extensions thereof. Further, we find that within our model, epigenetically inherited generation times may arise due to size control in asymmetrically dividing cells, providing a possible explanation for recent experimental observations in budding yeast [3]. Taken together, our findings provide insight into the complex effects generated by non-canonical growth morphologies.
An automated guided logistics robot for pallet transportation
Authors: Lin Rui , Huang Haibo , Li Maohai
Published: December 2020

Purpose

This study aims to present an automated guided logistics robot mainly designed for pallet transportation. Logistics robot is compactly designed. It could pick up the pallet precisely and transport the pallet up to 1,000 kg automatically in the warehouse. It could move freely in all directions without turning the chassis. It could work without any additional infrastructure based on laser navigation system proposed in this work.

Design/methodology/approach

Logistics robot should be able to move underneath and lift up the pallet accurately. Logistics robot mainly consists of two sub-robots, like two forks of the forklift. Each sub-robot has front and rear driving units. A new compact driving unit is compactly designed as a key component to ensure access to the narrow free entry of the pallet. Besides synchronous motions in all directions, the two sub-robots should also perform synchronous lifting up and laying down the pallet. Logistics robot uses a front laser to detect obstacles and locate itself using on-board navigation system. A rear laser is used to recognize and guide the sub-robots to pick up the pallet precisely within ± 5mm/1o in x-/yaw direction. Path planning algorithm under different constraints is proposed for logistics robot to obey the traffic rules of pallet logistics.

Findings

Compared with the traditional forklift vehicles, logistics robot has the advantages of more compact structure and higher expandability. It can realize the omnidirectional movement flexibly without turning the chassis and take zero-radius turn by controlling compact driving units synchronously. Logistics robot can move collision-free into any pallet that has not been precisely placed. It can plan the paths for returning to charge station and charge automatically. So it can work uninterruptedly for 7 × 24 h. Path planning algorithm proposed can avoid traffic congestion and improve the passability of the narrow roads to improve logistics efficiencies. Logistics robot is quite suitable for the standardized logistics factory with small working space.

Originality/value

This is a new innovation for pallet transportation vehicle to improve logistics automation.
Do clusters create shared value? A social network analysis of the motor valley case
Authors: Alberti Fernando G. , Belfanti Federica
Published: December 2020

Purpose

This paper aims to contribute to the debate about creating shared value (CSV) and clusters, by shedding light on how clusters might generate shared value, i.e. cause social and business benefits, hence focusing on the following research question “do clusters create shared value?”

Design/methodology/approach

The study relied on social network analysis methods and techniques. Data have been collected from both primary and secondary sources, in the empirical context of the Motor Valley cluster in Emilia-Romagna. The authors computed three independent and four dependent variables to operationalize the concept of cluster development and shared value creation. A multiple regression quadratic assignment procedure and, more specifically, the most accurate model of that procedure, that is the double semi-partialling method, has been carried out to answer the research question. Finally, empirical evidence has been complemented with other cluster-level data recently collected by the Italian Cluster Mapping project.

Findings

The findings confirm how the development of the Motor Valley cluster in Emilia-Romagna contributed to the creation of economic and social growth opportunities for all the actors. The study shows that clusters do create shared value and the chosen cluster development variables do explain much of the business and social impact variables at a very high statistical significance level.

Originality/value

The paper contributes to the under-explored research on clusters and CSV with a very first attempt in providing quantitative evidence of the phenomenon.
Children’s toy or grown-ups’ gamble? LEGO sets as an alternative investment
Authors: Shanaev Savva , Shimkus Nikita , Ghimire Binam , Sharma Satish
Published: December 2020

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to study LEGO sets as a potential alternative asset class. An exhaustive sample of 10,588 sets is used to generate inferences regarding long-term LEGO performance, its diversification benefits and return determinants.

Design/methodology/approach

LEGO set performance is studied in terms of equal- and value-weighted portfolios, sorts based on set characteristics and cross-sectional regressions.

Findings

Over 1966–2018, LEGO value-weighted index accounted for survivorship bias enjoys 1.20% inflation-adjusted return per annum, well below 5.54% for equities. However, the defensive properties of LEGO are considerable, as including 5%–25% of LEGO in a diversified portfolio is beneficial for investors with varying levels of risk aversion. LEGO secondary market is relatively internationalised, with investors from larger economies, countries with higher per capita incomes and less income inequality are shown to trade LEGO more actively.

Practical implications

LEGO investors derive non-pecuniary utility that is separable from their risk-return profile. LEGO is not exposed to any of the Fama-French factors, however, set-specific size and value effects are also well-pronounced on the LEGO market, with smaller sets and sets with lower price-to-piece ratio exhibiting higher yields. Older sets are also enjoying higher returns, demonstrating a liquidity effect.

Originality/value

This is the first study to investigate the investment properties of LEGO as an alternative asset class from micro- and macro-financial perspectives that overcomes many survivorship bias limitations prevalent in earlier research. LEGO trading is shown to be an important source of valuable data to enable original robustness checks for prominent theoretical concepts from asset pricing and behavioural finance literature.
Understanding sources of financial well-being in Romania: a prerequisite for transformative financial services
Authors: Ianole-Calin Rodica , Hubona Geoffrey , Druica Elena , Basu Cecilia
Published: December 2020

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to investigate the extent to which financial behavior and financial well-being are affected by cognitive and non-cognitive factors in a specific Romanian post-communist context. This study shows that financial well-being is significantly linked to both financial education and to a set of non-cognitive factors. This paper offers strategic insights on what financial services should communicate to consumers and how they should be communicated, achieve the mutual benefits of the transformative paradigm.

Design/methodology/approach

This study uses an online sample of 1,602 participants, representative of the general population in Romania concerning income and education, to collect data on financial anxiety, financial security and financial saving behavior (dependent variables), self-control, optimism, future orientation, deliberative thinking and financial literacy (independent variables). This paper measures the latent constructs – as composite indices, using partial least squares – path modeling. Working with WarpPLS software version 6.0 allows exploration of both linear and non-linear relationships involved in the model, along with their practical and managerial implications.

Findings

The results indicate that the key component to address in the development of financial services (in the post-soviet context) is financial anxiety. This study finds that, in contrast to Western countries, in Central, Eastern and Southeastern Europe (CESEE), financial education is not always a panacea. Additionally, financial security is not always the most important goal for consumers.

Practical implications

This paper suggests managerial recommendations for redefining the relationship between banks and the Romanian population, focused mainly on diminishing financial anxiety and increasing financial security, as key elements of transformative financial services.

Originality/value

The study highlights the significant role played by behavioral variables in shaping financial well-being in Romania, being among the very few investigations illustrating the relevance of the topic in post-communist countries. This research shows unique challenges for the design of transformative financial services in a specific (post-communist) setting and provides insights on how financial services marketing can become more effective in the CESEE region.