bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effect of incorporation of sugar palm (Arenga Pinnata[Wurmb] Merr.) fiber from various geographical regions towards the tensile and flexural properties ofSPF/epoxy composites for engineering applications
Authors: Sapuan S.M. , Harussani M.M.
Published: May 2022

The objective of this study is to evaluate the tensile and flexural properties of epoxy composites reinforced with sugar palm (Arenga pinnata) fiber (SPF) harvested from various geographical locations, in Malaysia; Kuala Jempol, Negeri Sembilan (SPFN9); Benta, Pahang (SPFP); and Tawau, Sabah (SPFS), and from Java, Indonesia (SPFJ). Due to its optimal chemical composition, which includes a higher proportion of cellulose (44.53%), hemicellulose (10.01%) and lignin (41.97%), SPFN9/epoxy composites have the best tensile and flexural strength, according to this study, with 27.09 MPa and 54.44 MPa, respectively. The composites demonstrate slight decreases in the tensile strength (about 27–36%) and flexural strength (about 26%–42%) compared to the neat one. This is associated with the insufficient filling of the polymer amount. The hydrophilic characteristic of SPF makes it tough to bind to hydrophobic epoxy, creating a difficulty with interfacial adhesion between the filler and matrix. Thus, the SPF needed to be treated prior to the fabrication of composites to improve its mechanical properties for structural and automotive applications.
Challenges to implementing parent‐focused antibullying policies: Lessons learned in Connecticut
Authors: Martinez Andrew , O'Connor Kelly , McMahon Susan , Bhatia Shaun , Primavera Judy
Published: May 2022

Bullying is a public health concern warranting policy‐level responses. Toward this end, states are enacting antibullying policies that require schools to be inclusive of parents. The current study examines parent‐related challenges as schools implement newly amended antibullying legislation in Connecticut. School personnel data were analyzed from 24 semistructured interviews and qualitative survey responses across 300 schools. We used inductive coding techniques to synthesize data into broader themes. Four major challenges to implementing antibullying policies emerged from qualitative analysis: (1) challenges to parent engagement, (2) interpretation of the word “bullying,” (3) parent affective responses, and (4) conflicting home and school norms. State antibullying laws call for greater parent engagement, but schools are often not fully inclusive of parents. A greater focus on the developing a positive school climate and a culture of parental engagement can facilitate the implementation of antibullying laws and ensure the safety of children.
Chemically recyclable crosslinked thiol‐ene photopolymers via thiol‐disulfide exchange reactions
Authors: Alfarhan Saleh , Brown James , Liu Boer , Long Timothy , Jin Kailong
Published: May 2022

Conventional crosslinked photopolymers possess permanent network structures, which cannot be remolded/recycled and generally discarded as waste after use. Research has begun to incorporate dynamic bonds into crosslinked photopolymers to make them reprocessable/recyclable, however, previous studies typically require tedious pre‐syntheses to obtain photoreactive building blocks that contain desired dynamic linkages/functionalities. In this study, we report a simple, one‐step, and scalable synthesis of chemically recyclable crosslinked thiol‐ene photopolymers that contain dynamic disulfide bonds from commercially available building blocks. Specifically, liquid polysulfides containing both reactive thiol end groups and internal disulfide bonds, together with multifunctional alkenes, are selected as the building blocks to simultaneously incorporate disulfide bonds during network formation via thiol‐ene photopolymerization. The incorporated dynamic disulfide bonds allow these thiol‐ene networks to be chemically recycled into photoreactive thiol oligomers through base‐catalyzed thiol‐disulfide exchange reactions. The resulting thiol oligomers can be effectively reused, together with the original multifunctional alkenes, for the next‐generation syntheses of crosslinked thiol‐ene photopolymers with chemical compositions and material properties that are nearly identical to those of the originally crosslinked sample. This chemical recycling process can be repeated many (infinite in theory) times to produce recycled thiol‐ene photopolymer networks with full property retention. Overall, the unique chemistry demonstrated in this study could potentially provide a route towards a circular economy of crosslinked photopolymers.
Tertiary motifs as building blocks for the design of protein‐binding peptides
Authors: Swanson Sebastian , Sivaraman Venkatesh , Grigoryan Gevorg , Keating Amy E.
Published: May 2022

Despite advances in protein engineering, the de novo design of small proteins or peptides that bind to a desired target remains a difficult task. Most computational methods search for binder structures in a library of candidate scaffolds, which can lead to designs with poor target complementarity and low success rates. Instead of choosing from pre‐defined scaffolds, we propose that custom peptide structures can be constructed to complement a target surface. Our method mines tertiary motifs (TERMs) from known structures to identify surface‐complementing fragments or “seeds.” We combine seeds that satisfy geometric overlap criteria to generate peptide backbones and score the backbones to identify the most likely binding structures. We found that TERM‐based seeds can describe known binding structures with high resolution: the vast majority of peptide binders from 486 peptide‐protein complexes can be covered by seeds generated from single‐chain structures. Furthermore, we demonstrate that known peptide structures can be reconstructed with high accuracy from peptide‐covering seeds. As a proof of concept, we used our method to design 100 peptide binders of TRAF6, seven of which were predicted by Rosetta to form higher‐quality interfaces than a native binder. The designed peptides interact with distinct sites on TRAF6, including the native peptide‐binding site. These results demonstrate that known peptide‐binding structures can be constructed from TERMs in single‐chain structures and suggest that TERM information can be applied to efficiently design novel target‐complementing binders.
Hydrogen explosions in sprinkler systems
Authors: Park Sungwan , An Songhie , Choi Youngwoo
Published: May 2022

This study analyzes the cause of two explosions that occurred during maintenance on a sprinkler system to examine the risk of such an explosion. In both incidences, the explosion occurred after the system was drained into the water‐collecting tank and shortly after the work began. Sprinkler systems in Korea generally use galvanized pipes to prevent corrosion and extend their lifetime. Zinc is the most common element used as a coating material. Although such a system is not usually perceived as dangerous, our study shows that it can contribute to a build‐up of hazardous factors, which ultimately can lead to accidents. As a common metal oxidation reaction, zinc produces hydrogen gas while oxidizing within the water‐filled pipes. Such hydrogen gas can become explosive when stagnating inside the water‐collecting tank as the sprinkler pipes are drained. In both explosion cases, the automatic water level control system of the water‐collecting tank is suspected to have acted as an ignition source for hydrogen gas explosion by electrical contact. By understanding these two cases, we can provide better safety standards for explosion protection for sprinkler systems that are already installed in buildings and those that will be installed in the future.
Trichoderma species isolated from grapevine with tolerance towards common copper fungicides used in viticulture for plant protection
Authors: Küpper Verena , Steiner Ulrike , Kortekamp Andreas
Published: May 2022

BACKGROUND

Copper‐containing fungicides are applied broadly in organic viticulture against downy mildew caused by Plasmopara viticola. Although long‐term application of copper‐based fungicides is associated with ecotoxic effects on the environment, their use in viticulture is required until sustainable alternatives are available. Trichoderma spp. might be a promising approach to fungicide reduction while promoting plant growth and development and displaying biocontrol activity. This study aims to examine the tolerance and compatibility of Trichoderma spp. to copper fungicides. This work contributes to the development of a spray application consisting of a copper‐tolerant Trichoderma sp. combined with a downscaled copper fungicide rate against P. viticola.

RESULTS

Trichoderma spp. isolated from grapevine wood in vineyards were identified and used for tolerance screening in various concentrations of copper fungicides. Copper hydroxide was identified as being highly compatible with Trichoderma. Two Trichoderma candidates, T. koningiopsis and T. harzianum, showed high copper tolerance in mycelial growth and germination tests, and were adapted to 2.85 g Cu L−1 of the selected fungicide. Microscopic investigations showed the attachment of copper compounds to fungal cell walls and copper uptake within the cytoplasm. In the case of high tolerance, large‐scale copper uptake was prevented.

CONCLUSION

Our findings identified two highly copper‐tolerant Trichoderma isolates with natural adaptation to the vineyard ecosystem, which could be further tested as biostimulants and biocontrol agents, combined with a reduced fungicide rate for sustainable plant protection. © 2022 Society of Chemical Industry.
Tyrosine hydroxylase involved in cuticle tanning and reproduction in the 28‐spotted potato ladybeetle, Henosepilachna vigintioctopunctata
Authors: Chen Shimin , Nanda Satyabrata , Guo Mujuan , Kong Lan , Yang Chunxiao , Liu Zhuoqi , Gao Ran , Qiu Baoli , Zhang Youjun , Zhou Xuguo , Pan Huipeng
Published: May 2022

BACKGROUND

Tyrosine hydroxylase (TH), a melanin synthesis pathway enzyme hydroxylating tyrosine into 3,4‐dihydroxyphenylalanine, is involved in the pigmentation and sclerotization of insect cuticles. However, the role of TH in 28‐spotted potato ladybeetle (Henosepilachna vigintioctopunctata), an emerging pest of the solanaceous crops has been explored to a limited extent. In this study, we integrated dietary RNA interference (RNAi) and hematoxylin and eosin (H&E) staining with various bioassays to analyze the role of tyrosine hydroxylase (HvTH) throughout the developmental processes of Henosepilachna vigintioctopunctata.

RESULTS

The results revealed that ingestion of dsHvTH led to cuticle tanning impairment, arrested larval feeding in the first and second instars of Henosepilachna vigintioctopunctata, and subsequently resulted in 100% mortality. The H&E staining assays revealed that dsHvTH prevented new abdominal cuticle formation. A pharmacological study using 3‐iodo‐tyrosine (3‐IT), a HvTH inhibitor, disrupted larval–larval–pupal cuticle tanning during the third–fourth instar larval development and eventually failed to pupate. Similarly, dsHvTH fed to fourth instars hindered larval–pupal–adult cuticle tanning, and the eclose adults were 100% malformed. Ingestion of dsHvTH or 3‐IT significantly down‐regulated HvTH, HvDDC, Hvebony, and Hvlaccase2 expression and reduced dopamine levels. Finally, HvTH silencing in adult females substantially reduced the offspring hatching rates.

CONCLUSIONS

The collective results of the study suggested that HvTH plays conserved roles in larval–pupal–adult cuticle melanization and sclerotization while exhibiting a novel function in Henosepilachna vigintioctopunctata reproduction. © 2022 Society of Chemical Industry.
Schwarzinicine A inhibits transient receptor potential canonical channels and exhibits overt vasorelaxation effects
Authors: Mak Yin‐Ying , Loong Bi‐Juin , Millns Paul , Bauer Claudia C. , Bon Robin S. , Mbaki Yvonne , Lee Fong‐Kai , Lim Kuan‐Hon , Kong Cin , Then Sue‐Mian , Ting Kang‐Nee
Published: May 2022

This study investigated the vasorelaxant effects of schwarzinicine A, an alkaloid recently reported from Ficus schwarzii Koord. Regulation of calcium homeostasis in vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMC) is viewed as one of the main mechanisms for controlling blood pressure. L‐type voltage‐gated calcium channel (VGCC) blockers are commonly used for controlling hypertension. Recently, the transient receptor potential canonical (TRPC) channels were found in blood vessels of different animal species with evidence of their roles in the regulation of vascular contractility. In this study, we studied the mechanism of actions of schwarzinicine A focusing on its regulation of L‐type VGCC and TRPC channels. Schwarzinicine A exhibited the highest vasorelaxant effect (123.1%) compared to other calcium channel blockers. It also overtly attenuated calcium‐induced contractions of the rat isolated aortae in a calcium‐free environment showing its mechanism to inhibit calcium influx. Fluorometric intracellular calcium recordings confirmed its inhibition of hTRPC3‐, hTRPC4‐, hTRPC5‐ and hTRPC6‐mediated calcium influx into HEK cells with IC50 values of 3, 17, 19 and 7 μM, respectively. The evidence gathered in this study suggests that schwarzinicine A blocks multiple TRPC channels and L‐type VGCC to exert a significant vascular relaxation response.
Proportional hazard‐based robust monitoring schemes using logistic distribution
Authors: Nabeel Moezza , Ali Sajid , Shah Ismail
Published: May 2022

In the manufacturing industry, process surveillance plays an important role in improving product reliability. Many monitoring procedures have been devised to improve the reliability of a product in the literature. Due to cascading nature of multistage processes, the quality variable of the final stage can be influenced by the quality variable in the previous stages. Furthermore, the ordinary least squares method produces biased estimates if there are outliers in the historical data. The existence of cascade property in the multistage process and the presence of influential observations (outliers) in the historical data make the analysis of control schemes more challenging. Therefore, it is essential to take into account the impact of effective covariates and outliers in the historical dataset. In this paper, a cumulative sum (CUSUM) and two exponentially weighted moving average (EWMA) charts have been developed to monitor a two‐stage‐dependent process. The proportional hazard (PH) model has been applied to model the relationship among the incoming and outgoing variables of the two stage process. To deal with the deleterious effects of outliers on the results, a robust regression technique known as the M‐estimation has been implemented and the performance of the proposed monitoring procedures has been analyzed through Monte Carlo simulations. Lastly, two real‐life applications of the proposed control schemes are presented.
The Effects of Wheat and Rice Straw as a Substrate on the Treatment of Reverse Osmosis Reject Wastewater in a Single Chamber Microbial Fuel Cell
Authors: Sonu Kumar , Sogani Monika , Syed Zainab , Rajvanshi Jayana
Published: May 2022

This work has examined the effect of cellulose based substrates such as rice straw and wheat straw on the treatment of Reverse osmosis (RO) reject wastewater in a single chamber microbial fuel cell (SCMFC). At a substrate concentration of 125 mg/L (125 mg of substrate in 1 L of RO reject wastewater), the two type of MFCs with rice straw and wheat straw as substrates were operated along with the third one as the control without any substrate. MFC with the wheat straw as the substrate outperformed the MFC with rice straw substrate in respect to maximum power density and total dissolved solid (TDS) removal of 127 mW/m2 and 71.88 percent, respectively. Performance of MFC with the three concentrations of 125, 250, and 500 mg/L of the chosen substrate (wheat straw) were compared. Substrate concentration of 125 mg/L was found to be the most effective. In SCMFCs formed for both the substrates, the ohmic losses were predominant, as shown by the polarization curves.
Thermal, Magnetic and Electrical Properties of PMMA Nanocomposites with Manganese and Zinc Ferrite Nanoparticles and Their Functionalization
Authors: Galhardo Pimenta Tienne Lucas , Tommasini Vieira Ramos Flavio James Humberto , de Fátima Vieira Marques Maria , dos Santos Aguilera Letícia , da Silva Figueiredo André Ben‐Hur
Published: May 2022

Manganese (MnFe2O4) and zinc (ZnFe2O4) ferrite nanoparticles were synthesized by the combustion method. Furthermore, the modification of these particles with a silane compound was performed. Thus, the particles produced were analyzed for morphology using Scanning electron microscopy (SEM), thermal stability, and composition assisted by Thermogravimetric analysis (TGA). It is noteworthy that the present work used an unprecedented Far‐Fourier‐transform infrared spectroscopy (Far‐FTIR) technique to differentiate the types of ferrites and their surface functionalization, as it is a simpler, more efficient, and high‐resolution method. It is worth mentioning that there are few comparative studies of zinc and manganese ferrites in the literature, much less distinguishing these ferrites simply and efficiently. In addition, there is also a lack of scientific knowledge about its chemical functionalization as compatibilization, especially silanization. Novel PMMA nanocomposites were prepared with the different synthesized particles in the contents from 0.1 % to 1.0 wt.% by the in situ polymerization technique. The nanocomposites were characterized by the analysis of SEM, TGA, Differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), and FTIR mainly by their morphology, thermal resistance, glass transition temperature, proving the chemical interactions, electrical conductivity, capacitance, and dielectric constant. Furthermore, it was evidenced that, in addition to the improvements in thermal, electrical, and interface properties, the produced nanocomposites showed excellent electromagnetic shielding properties even at low filler contents. It is noteworthy that the capacitance increases 63 % for the composite with 1.0 % zinc ferrite and 43 % for manganese ferrite. Also, the electromagnetic absorption results proved that even the low filler contents tested in this work, up to 1.0 %, presented an excellent potential for applying as electromagnetic shielding materials, reaching up to 70 % attenuation with the use of zinc ferrite. Both ferrites showed excellent results, even superior to those found in the literature for other particles with the same purposes, and still needed a lower content to achieve excellent results.
Anionic Complexes of the Perfluorinated Three‐Mercury Anticrown (o,o’‐C6F4C6F4Hg)3. Dependence of the Anion Coordination Type on Counter‐Cation in Case of Chloride and Bromide Anions
Authors: Gribanyov Dmitry A. , Tugashov Kirill I. , Dolgushin Fedor M. , Peregudov Alexander S. , Kabaeva Nina M. , Tikhonova Irina A. , Shur Vladimir B.
Published: May 2022

The interaction of the macrocycle (o,o′‐C6F4C6F4Hg)3 (1) containing three mercury centres with arylphosphonium salts ([Ph4P]Cl or [Ph4P]Br) yields halide complexes, [Ph4P]{[(o,o′‐C6F4C6F4Hg)3](η1:η1‐X)} (X=Cl, Br) having infinite polymer chain structure in the crystal. In both adducts, the halide anion is situated outside of the cavity of the three‐mercury anticrown 1 and bridged by two mercury centres of neighbouring anticrown moieties. At the same time, when mercuracycle 1 interacts with tetraalkylammonium salts ([nBu4N]Cl or [nBu4N]Br), then the discrete 1 : 1 complexes [nBu4N]{[(o,o′‐C6F4C6F4Hg)3](η3‐X)} (X=Cl, Br) of completely different structure are formed. In these halide complexes the anion is located inside the cavity of macrocycle 1 and coordinates the three mercury atoms symmetrically. The synthesized halide complexes [nBu4N]{[(o,o′‐C6F4C6F4Hg)3](η3‐X)} (X=Cl, Br) are the first example of complexes of the macrocycle 1 where it behaves as anticrown.
Environment‐Sensitive Carbon Dots Derived from Naphthalenediol for Solvent Polarity Indicator and Anti‐Counterfeiting
Authors: Bai Jing , Cheng Yanyan , He Futao , Liu Qiqi , Qiang Shunfei , Zhang Lanxi , Yang Jiahao , Wang Chiyu , Xu Yuanqing , Zhang Wenkai
Published: May 2022

Herein, a novel type of environment‐sensitive carbon dots (ES‐CDs) has been synthesized via ethanothermal reaction using 1,6‐naphthalenediol as a carbon source and sulfuric acid as a catalyst. The morphology and structure of ES‐CDs are characterized by transmission electron microscopy (TEM), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT‐IR) and X‐ray photoelectron spectra (XPS). ES‐CDs exhibit green and excitation wavelength independent emission in different solvents. Using the optical response of ES‐CDs towards acetone‐water binary mixtures with different composition, the sensitive detection of solvent polarity is realized based on the inner filter effect (IFE). The ink‐jet printed patterns of ES‐CDs show a blue‐to‐green conversion as exposure to external vapor from hydrogen chloride to ammonia, and enable information to hide assisting with a laser direct writing. We believe that the environment‐sensitive carbon dots developed in this study are potential candidates for solvent sensing and fluorescence anti‐counterfeiting.
Characterizing integration challenges in mission engineering to form solution strategies
Authors: Hernandez Alejandro S. , Pollman Anthony G.
Published: May 2022

This paper presents a systematic approach to characterize integration challenges when implementing mission engineering and discusses some specific techniques to address these issues. With the introduction of mission engineering in the DOD science and technology lexicon, integration assumes a new dimension beyond the system product level. First, the authors offer a more precise definition of integration that focuses on incorporating a new technology or military capability into an existing organization's infrastructure. Using a collection of system integration literature and a set of examples, the authors define major problem areas regarding integration. Analyses of these issues present opportunities to identify specific methods to avoid or mitigate them. The resultant process is a foundation for mission engineering practitioners to plan successful integration of a new system. Acceptance of these procedures in the mission engineering community may lead to inclusion as standard practices in the DOD Mission Engineering Guide.
Numerical study on split base plate connection with concentric anchors between steel‐plate composite wall and concrete basemat
Authors: Vakili Sadeghi Hadis , Mirghaderi Seyed Rasoul , Epackachi Siamak , Asgarpoor Masoumeh , Gharavi Ali
Published: May 2022

Steel‐plate composite (SC) walls can be connected to a concrete basemat using a base plate and a set of anchors eccentric to the wall. The base plate can be separated into two parts so that the concrete of the wall and basemat is cohesive, and thus, the wall can be manufactured more easily and economically. Additionally, compression and shear demand are directly transferred from infill concrete to concrete basemat. Another change in the base plate connection of available tested walls involves transferring anchors to the bottom of faceplates. As a result of this modification, the base plate is removed from the force transmission chain, and the force is transferred directly from the wall to the anchors. After presenting the design criteria for this type of connection, three test walls with concrete foundations were verified in LS‐Dyna. The walls were modeled with a split base plate connection and concentric anchors, and then compared to other types of wall‐basemat connections. Three rectangular sections were then chosen as benchmarks and modeled with three anchors of different sizes to evaluate the effect of this parameter on walls behavior. The design equations presented for the single base plate connection were found applicable to design split base plate connections. Then all walls were compared to the test wall‐fixed base wall connection. Finally, the models were analyzed with elastic walls to determine whether the foundation is stronger than the wall. The split base plate connection with concentric anchors was found to be stronger than connected parts and can be an alternative to existing connections.
Impact of environmental and socio‐economic stressors leading to unequal distribution of COVID‐19 incidences in the state of Louisiana
Authors: Dasgupta Priyadarshini , Kuhn Lisa , Massawe Ephraim , Williams Mason , Perrone Julian , Dutta Pratik , Roy Debarshi
Published: May 2022

Louisiana (LA) ranks fifth in the United States in cancer mortality rate. LA's infamous “cancer alley” is a well evidenced region near the southeast part of the Mississippi river surrounding the petrochemical hub of the state. LA has also experienced a high COVID‐19 death rate and incidences compared to other states during the recent pandemic. In this study we analyzed publicly available datasets related to health and socio‐economic parameters in LA to determine the factors triggering high incidences and deaths caused by COVID‐19. Correlation analysis was performed to find the impact of different parameters on the outcome of COVID‐19. Our analysis showed higher COVID‐19 incidences in the parishes which are in and around the “cancer alley” with a correlation of r = 0.9. Interestingly, results also indicated a strong correlation (r = 0.9) between the death rates caused by asbestos toxicity to COVID‐19 caused death rate. Furthermore, we found that office‐administration related employment has a positive correlation to COVID‐19 incidences in the “cancer alley.” However, we also found both white and black races are equally affected by the COVID‐19 pandemic in the “cancer alley” region. In conclusion, our analysis strongly suggests that inhabiting “cancer alley” could significantly enhance the chances of getting affected by SARS‐CoV‐2 virus compared to other regions in LA.
Using Turn and Talk to Develop Language: Observations in Early Classrooms
Authors: Hindman Annemarie H. , Wasik Barbara A. , Anderson Kate
Published: May 2022

Turn and Talk is widely used in early‐grade classrooms, but very little rigorous research or evidence‐based guidance has been offered to teachers. In this exploratory paper, we take the first step toward establishing a teacher‐friendly discussion on this common technique. After briefly describing the Turn and Talk technique, we first ask: What does research on adult–child and child–child conversations in classrooms tell us would make Turn and Talk as effective as possible for early language development? We summarize evidence‐based guidelines from the research. Second, we ask: What specific, real‐world examples show how preschool, kindergarten, and first‐grade teachers can use Turn and Talk in ways that align with research recommendations? We share short vignettes from observations of teachers bringing these research recommendations to life. We conclude with reflection questions for teachers who are currently using, or considering using, Turn and Talk.
Major bat‐borne zoonotic viral epidemics in Asia and Africa: A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Khan Shahneaz Ali , Imtiaz Mohammed Ashif , Islam Md Mazharul , Tanzin Abu Zubayer , Islam Ariful , Hassan Mohammad Mahmudul
Published: May 2022

Bats are the natural reservoir host for many pathogenic and non‐pathogenic viruses, potentially spilling over to humans and domestic animals directly or via an intermediate host. The ongoing COVID‐19 pandemic is the continuation of virus spillover events that have taken place over the last few decades, particularly in Asia and Africa. Therefore, these bat‐associated epidemics provide a significant number of hints, including respiratory cellular tropism, more intense susceptibility to these cell types, and overall likely to become a pandemic for the next spillover. In this systematic review, we analysed data to insight, through bat‐originated spillover in Asia and Africa. We used STATA/IC‐13 software for descriptive statistics and meta‐analysis. The random effect of meta‐analysis showed that the pooled estimates of case fatality rates of bat‐originated viral zoonotic diseases were higher in Africa (61.06%, 95%CI: 50.26 to 71.85, l2% = 97.3, p < 0.001). Moreover, estimates of case fatality rates were higher in Ebola (61.06%; 95%CI: 50.26 to 71.85, l2% = 97.3, p < 0.001) followed by Nipah (55.19%; 95%CI: 39.29 to 71.09, l2% = 94.2, p < 0.001), MERS (18.49%; 95%CI: 8.19 to 28.76, l2% = 95.4, p < 0.001) and SARS (10.86%; 95%CI: 6.02 to 15.71, l2% = 85.7, p < 0.001) with the overall case fatality rates of 29.86 (95%CI: 29.97 to 48.58, l2% = 99.0, p < 0.001). Bat‐originated viruses have caused several outbreaks of deadly diseases, including Nipah, Ebola, SARS and MERS in Asia and Africa in a sequential fashion. Nipah virus emerged first in Malaysia, but later, periodic outbreaks were noticed in Bangladesh and India. Similarly, the Ebola virus was detected in the African continent with neurological disorders in humans, like Nipah, seen in the Asian region. Two important coronaviruses, MERS and SARS, were introduced, both with the potential to infect respiratory passages. This paper explores the dimension of spillover events within and/or between bat–human and the epidemiological risk factors, which may lead to another pandemic occurring. Further, these processes enhance the bat‐originated virus, which utilises an intermediate host to jump into human species.
Connecting hunt outcomes to the demographics, behaviors, and experiences of wild turkey hunters in Mississippi
Authors: Butler Adam B. , Wang Guiming
Published: May 2022

The ability to evaluate population trends through time is essential to successful conservation of wildlife. Directly estimating abundance of eastern wild turkeys (Meleagris gallopavo silvestris) is difficult, with few practical options for wide‐scale population monitoring. As a result, managers often rely on abundance indices derived from hunter harvest. Catch‐per‐unit‐effort (CPUE) is a commonly used metric which standardizes harvest totals and has been shown to track turkey abundance, but its use is predicated on an assumption of spatially and temporally consistent hunter efficiency. From 2015–2018, we surveyed avid turkey hunters in Mississippi to evaluate mechanisms driving harvest efficiency. We questioned each hunter about their demographics and behaviors, collected observations from their hunts, and used 2‐stage hurdle models to relate these variables to individual CPUE. Hunter attributes had variable effects on hunt outcomes. Hunter age had a significant positive effect on the probability of harvesting at least one turkey (an approximate 2% gain in success per year of age) yet was only weakly associated with CPUE of successful hunters. When considering only successful hunters, the percentage of hunts in which a turkey was heard, and the standardized index of total turkey observations were related to CPUE. Additionally, we determined the tendency for hunters to miss a turkey during the hunting season decreased with increasing hunter age. Our results indicate individual characteristics subject to temporal change play a role in determining CPUE and thereby have the potential to mask trends in abundance derived from CPUE data. Moreover, evidence suggested relative hunter efficiency was amplified when turkey encounters were fewer. Collectively, our results urge caution in use of CPUE as a surrogate for abundance estimates.
Significance of magnetohydrodynamic Williamson Sutterby nanofluid due to a rotating cone with bioconvection and anisotropic slip
Authors: Abdal Sohaib , Siddique Imran , Din Irfan Saif Ud , Ahmadian Ali , Hussain Sajjad , Salimi Mehdi
Published: May 2022

The thermal transmission outcomes of Williamson Sutterby nanofluids owing to spinning cone with gyrotactic micro‐organisms such as self‐motivated microbes along with anisotropic slip conditions are probed in this article. The axi‐symmetric, unstable three‐dimensional stream of fluids is swayed by magnetic and buoyancy forces. Utilizing appropriate similarity variables, the leading partial differential formulation for velocity, temperature, concentration, and motile density of nanofluids are altered into nonlinear ordinary differential equations and these equations together with boundary constraints are resolved by computational code for Runga–Kutta method in MATLAB platform. A concise computational strategy is made by altering the inputs of influential factors. Nusselt number, Sherwood number, and motile density number are also computed and listed in tables. As the magnitudes of the slip parameters expand, the Nusselt number, and Sherwood number decline. The velocity along the x‐axis and the concentration variations amplify as the u‐velocity slip and solutal slip parameters are boosted. The temperature profile goes down for boosted values of A and . The fluids temperature distribution enhances directly with thermophoretic effect and Brownian motion of nano‐entities.
Further Reflections on Scientific Discovery and The Haze
Authors: Johnson Benjamin
Published: May 2022

We have followed the scientific developments of ammonia synthesis from the elements from the initial determinations of equilibrium through to the beginning of industrial upscaling during the first decade of the twentieth century. A central result of this presentation is that natural scientific details about the involved chemistry and physics could be accurately presented.
One Final Element
Authors: Johnson Benjamin
Published: May 2022

There is one component that, but for a few intimations, has been conspicuously missing from the description of the Haze: the role of curiosity in scientific research.
Advances in Organic Chemistry, Catalysis, and the Chemical Industry
Authors: Johnson Benjamin
Published: May 2022

As we saw in the last section, the modern understanding of chemistry began in the second half of the eighteenth century with the advances of Antoine Lavoisier and others, and further contributions from John Dalton and Jöns Jacob Berzelius in the early 1800s. This period saw the emergence of organic chemistry, which, with the help of new conceptual and experimental tools, established itself as a discipline separate from inorganic chemistry over the next half century. The researchers of this period encountered considerable confusion due to the complexities and behavior of organic structures. Aided by increasingly accurate elementary analysis, they nevertheless made significant advances based on the empirical studies of structure chemistry. While these developments, along with other factors, helped the chemical and dye industries make large strides in chemical synthesis, the conceptual and experimental tools did not supply sufficient understanding of chemical systems to enable ammonia synthesis from the elements. Here we will focus on two developments that illustrate the experimentally-based approach to organic chemistry in the 1800s in order to frame the conceptual leap in physical chemistry toward the end of the century that led to Fritz Haber’s breakthrough.
The Challenge of Technical Implementation
Authors: Johnson Benjamin
Published: May 2022

In 1908, Fritz Haber entered into a contractual agreement with BASF to develop, on the basis of his discovery, an industrial-scale, high pressure synthesis of ammonia.
Methodologische Grundlegung und methodisches Vorgehen
Authors: Esposito Raffaella Simona
Published: May 2022

Im vorliegenden Kapitel wird aufgezeigt, wie die konventionentheoretische Perspektive an das Datenmaterial herangetragen wurde, d. h. mit welchen Forschungsstrategien die theoretisch formulierten Forschungsfragen methodisch erhoben wurden. Ausserdem wird das Forschungsdesign (kantonale Fallstudien) begründet, die Datenbasis vorgestellt sowie die Methoden der Datenerhebung und -auswertung beschrieben.
Fragmentation functions for gluon into Bc or $$ {B}_c^{\ast } $$ meson
Authors: Zheng Xu-Chang , Chang Chao-Hsi , Wu Xing-Gang
Published: May 2022

Abstract

In the paper, we calculate the fragmentation functions for g → Bc and g → $$ {B}_c^{\ast } $$

B
c
∗

. The ultraviolet divergences in the calculation are removed through the renormalization of the operator definition of the fragmentation functions under the modified minimal subtrac- tion scheme. We then obtain the fragmentation functions $$ {D}_{g\to {B}_c} $$

D

g
→

B
c

(z, μF) and $$ {D}_{g\to {B}_c^{\ast }} $$

D

g
→

B
c
∗

(z, μF), which are presented as figures and fitting functions. The obtained fragmentation functions are complementary to the previous work on the next-to-leading order fragmentation functions for $$ \overline{b} $$

b
¯

→ Bc($$ {B}_c^{\ast } $$

B
c
∗

) and c → Bc($$ {B}_c^{\ast } $$

B
c
∗

).
Relating the Outer-Independent Total Roman Domination Number with Some Classical Parameters of Graphs
Authors: Cabrera Martínez Abel , Kuziak Dorota , Yero Ismael G.
Published: May 2022

For a given graph G without isolated vertex we consider a function $$f: V(G) \rightarrow \{0,1,2\}$$

f
:
V
(
G
)
→
{
0
,
1
,
2
}

. For every $$i\in \{0,1,2\}$$

i
∈
{
0
,
1
,
2
}

, let $$V_i=\{v\in V(G):\; f(v)=i\}$$

V
i

=

{
v
∈
V

(
G
)

:

f

(
v
)

=
i
}

. The function f is known to be an outer-independent total Roman dominating function for the graph G if it is satisfied that; (i) every vertex in $$V_0$$

V
0

is adjacent to at least one vertex in $$V_2$$

V
2

; (ii) $$V_0$$

V
0

is an independent set; and (iii) the subgraph induced by $$V_1\cup V_2$$

V
1

∪

V
2

has no isolated vertex. The minimum possible weight $$\omega (f)=\sum _{v\in V(G)}f(v)$$

ω

(
f
)

=

∑

v
∈
V
(
G
)

f

(
v
)

among all outer-independent total Roman dominating functions for G is called the outer-independent total Roman domination number of G. In this article we obtain new tight bounds for this parameter that improve some well-known results. Such bounds can also be seen as relationships between this parameter and several other classical parameters in graph theory like the domination, total domination, Roman domination, independence, and vertex cover numbers. In addition, we compute the outer-independent total Roman domination number of Sierpiński graphs, circulant graphs, and the Cartesian and direct products of complete graphs.
Intracellular mono-ADP-ribosyltransferases at the host–virus interphase
Authors: Lüscher Bernhard , Verheirstraeten Maud , Krieg Sarah , Korn Patricia
Published: May 2022

The innate immune system, the primary defense mechanism of higher organisms against pathogens including viruses, senses pathogen-associated molecular patterns (PAMPs). In response to PAMPs, interferons (IFNs) are produced, allowing the host to react swiftly to viral infection. In turn the expression of IFN-stimulated genes (ISGs) is induced. Their products disseminate the antiviral response. Among the ISGs conserved in many species are those encoding mono-ADP-ribosyltransferases (mono-ARTs). This prompts the question whether, and if so how, mono-ADP-ribosylation affects viral propagation. Emerging evidence demonstrates that some mono-ADP-ribosyltransferases function as PAMP receptors and modify both host and viral proteins relevant for viral replication. Support for mono-ADP-ribosylation in virus–host interaction stems from the findings that some viruses encode mono-ADP-ribosylhydrolases, which antagonize cellular mono-ARTs. We summarize and discuss the evidence linking mono-ADP-ribosylation and the enzymes relevant to catalyze this reversible modification with the innate immune response as part of the arms race between host and viruses.
The Global Experiment: How the International Atomic Energy Agency Proved Dosimetry to Be a Techno-Diplomatic Issue
Authors: Rentetzi Maria
Published: May 2022

This paper draws attention to the role of the IAEA in shaping radiation dosimetry practices, instrumentation, and standards in the late 1950s and 1960s. It traces the beginnings of the IAEA’s radiation dose intercomparison program which targeted all member states and involved the WHO so as to standardize dosimetry on a global level. To standardize dosimetric measurement methods, techniques, and instruments, however, one had to devise a method of comparing absorbed dose measurements in one laboratory with those performed in others with a high degree of accuracy. In 1964 the IAEA thus started to build up what I call the “global experiment,” an intercomparison of radiation doses with participating laboratories from many of its member states. To carry out the process of worldwide standardization in radiation dosimetry, I argue, an organization with the diplomatic power and global reach of the IAEA was absolutely necessary. Thus, “global experiment” indicates a novel understanding of the experimental process. What counts as an experiment became governed by a process that was designed and strictly regulated by an international organization; it took place simultaneously in several laboratories across the globe, while experimental data became centrally owned and alienated from those that produced it.
Comparison of continuum damage models for nonlinear finite element analysis of timber under tension in parallel and perpendicular to grain directions
Authors: Rahman Shaikh Atikur , Ashraf Mahmud , Subhani Mahbube , Reiner Johannes
Published: May 2022

A reliable and efficient numerical modelling technique is essential to investigate the behaviour of timber and engineered timber products to promote their widespread use in construction. Wood is an anisotropic material and hence its mechanical properties largely depend on grain direction and type of loading i.e., material behaves differently under compression and tension. Material responses under tension parallel and perpendicular to the grain directions have been reported in the literature but the relevant progressive fracture behaviour has been ignored in typical numerical simulations, due to the complexities and uncertainties around modelling as well as lack of reliable test data. Fracture characteristics play a significant role in analysing crack initiation, propagation, and failure modes of timber so that its full potential can be utilised by knowing the post-elastic behaviour. This paper applies and compares four continuum damage mechanics based constitutive material models (MAT-22, MAT54/55, MAT-143 and MAT-261) available in the commercial finite element software LS-DYNA for simulating the post-elastic behaviour of general timber lamella products. Timber was modelled as both orthotropic and transversely isotropic material to simulate the fracture behaviour in tensile load cases. It is shown that the predicted fracture properties correlate well with experimental data. It was observed that all considered built-in continuum damage models in LS-DYNA are able to simulate the elastic response, but MAT-261, which was originally developed for modelling fibre reinforced composite materials, provides a simple yet reliable option for simulating fracture behaviour of timber.
Health impact of seven herpesviruses on (pre)diabetes incidence and HbA1c: results from the KORA cohort
Authors: Woelfle Tim , Linkohr Birgit , Waterboer Tim , Thorand Barbara , Seissler Jochen , Chadeau-Hyam Marc , Peters Annette
Published: May 2022

Aims/hypothesis

The prevalence of type 2 diabetes is increasing worldwide, and previous studies have suggested that it is higher in individuals who are seropositive for herpesviruses. This study examines the prospective association of herpesviruses with (pre)diabetes to evaluate their potential role in diabetes aetiology.

Methods

Two follow-up examinations of the German population-based KORA cohort (F4 and FF4) were used to identify participants with normal glucose tolerance at baseline, thus being at risk for (pre)diabetes (n = 1257). All participants had repeated OGTTs and antibody measurements for herpes simplex virus (HSV) 1 and 2, varicella-zoster virus, Epstein–Barr virus, cytomegalovirus (CMV) and human herpesvirus 6 and 7. Regression models were used to evaluate the association between serostatus with (pre)diabetes incidence after a 7 year follow-up and HbA1c.

Results

HSV2 and CMV were associated with (pre)diabetes incidence after adjustment for sex, age, BMI, education, smoking, physical activity, parental diabetes, hypertension, lipid levels, insulin resistance and fasting glucose. Seropositivity of both viruses was also cross-sectionally associated with higher HbA1c at baseline, with the association of HSV2 being independent of confounders, including the prevalence of (pre)diabetes itself. While seropositivity for multiple herpesviruses was associated with a higher incidence of (pre)diabetes, this association was not independent of confounders.

Conclusions/interpretation

The associations of HSV2 and CMV serostatus with (pre)diabetes incidence indicate that these herpesviruses may contribute to the development of impaired glucose metabolism. Our results highlight the link between viral infection and (pre)diabetes, and the need for more research evaluating viral prevention strategies.

Graphical abstract
Effects of seawater pCO2 on the skeletal morphology of massive Porites spp. corals
Authors: Allison Nicola , Ross Phoebe , Brasier Alex , Cieminska Nadia , Lopez Martin Nicolas , Cole Catherine , Hintz Chris , Hintz Ken , Finch Adrian
Published: May 2022

Ocean acidification alters the dissolved inorganic carbon chemistry of seawater and can reduce the calcification rates of tropical corals. Here we explore the effect of altering seawater pCO2 on the skeletal morphology of 4 genotypes of massive Porites spp. which display widely different calcification rates. Increasing seawater pCO2 causes significant changes in in the skeletal morphology of all Porites spp. studied regardless of whether or not calcification was significantly affected by seawater pCO2. Both the median calyx size and the proportion of skeletal surface occupied by the calices decreased significantly at 750 µatm compared to 400 µatm indicating that polyp size shrinks in this genus in response to ocean acidification. The coenosteum, connecting calices, expands to occupy a larger proportion of the coral surface to compensate for this decrease in calyx area. At high seawater pCO2 the spines deposited at the skeletal surface became more numerous and the trabeculae (vertical skeletal pillars) became significantly thinner in 2 of the 4 genotypes. The effect of high seawater pCO2 is most pronounced in the fastest growing coral and the regular placement of trabeculae and synapticulae is disturbed in this genotype resulting in a skeleton that is more randomly organised. The study demonstrates that ocean acidification decreases the polyp size and fundamentally alters the architecture of the skeleton in this major reef building species from the Indo-Pacific Ocean.