bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The effect of the combination of urea, manure of cow and Azolla on the growth and N uptake of the black rice of Ominio variety
Authors: Lubis K S , Pratiwi N , Rauf A
Published: June 2021

The application of inorganic fertilizers is carried out continuously and it is not balanced with the organic fertilizers causes the soil to harden more easily, unstable pH, the ability of the soil to absorb nutrients, especially Nitrogen is low. A combination of inorganic fertilizers such as manure of cow and Azolla as well as organic fertilizers, urea are used as an alternative to increasing Nitrogen and plant growth. This research has been carried out at Agriculture’s screen house Universitas Sumatera Utara and Socfindo Laboratory. This study was conducted using non-factorial randomized block design with 5 treatments such as U0 (without urea), U1 (urea 250 kg/Ha), U2 (urea 250 kg/Ha with manure of cow 20 ton/Ha, U3 (urea 250 kg/Ha with Azolla 10 ton/Ha), U4 (the combination of urea 250 kg/Ha, manure of cow 20 ton/Ha and Azolla 10 ton/Ha) and 4 replications. The combination of urea, manure of cow and Azolla (U3 treatment) was able to show the best results on plant height, the number of tillers per clump, root dry weight and N-uptake of black rice plants of varieties Ominio. The recommended dosages of urea, manure of cow and Azolla are 250 kg/Ha, 20 ton/Ha and 10 ton/Ha, respectively.
Morphological characteristics of Mangosteen plants (Garcinia mangostana L.) in Langkat District, North Sumatera, Indonesia
Authors: Syahputra M R , Setiado H , Siregar L A M , Damanik R I
Published: June 2021

Mangosteen is one of Indonesia’s native fruit plants that has very large export potential, but at this time the age of mangosteen plants in smallholder plantations has reached more than ten years, so fulfilment of mangosteen export needs will be hindered. This study was aimed to identify the morphological characteristics of mangosteen plants and as a conservation material in several sub-districts (Wampu, Stabat and Tanjung Pura) in Langkat district of North Sumatra, Indonesia, with an accidental sampling survey based on the IPGRI (International Plant Genetic Resources Institute) mangosteen descriptor guide. The result showed that there were 51 characters closely related i.e. (growth, leaf, flower, fruit and seed descriptors) at E16 and E17 was 29.907, with 31 characters in common, and the furthest relationship was found between E1 and E3 with dissimilarity value 138.421 with 21 characters in common.
Effect of Paclobutrazol in micro tuberization of Potato (Solanum tuberosum L.) cultivar Granola Kembang and Repita
Authors: Dalimunthe R H , Setiado H , Lubis K , Damanik R I
Published: June 2021

The seeds or seedlings are the main key to the success of potato cultivation. So one way to obtain high quality of potato seeds is to do with in vitro plant propagation or tissue culture. The research was conducted at Tissue Culture Laboratory, UPT Seed Horticulture Johor Building Medan, used the completely randomized design with two factors. The first factor was potato cultivar (K1: Granola Kembang, and K2: Repita), and the second factor was paclobutrazol M1 (MS + 0 ppm Paclobutrazol), and M2 (MS + 10 ppm Paclobutrazol). The results showed that the concentration of paclobutrazol significantly affected on the plant height, the number of shoots, the number of micro tuber, the micro tuber diameter, and the fresh weight of micro tuber.
Bayoud and Belaat diseases of date palm (Phoenix dactylifera L.) in Figuig oasis of Morocco
Authors: Moujaoui N , Hariri E , Elhoumaizi M A
Published: June 2021

From 2016 to 2017, a survey was carried out during four vegetative cycles of date palm tree (Phoenix dactylifera L.) in Figuig oasis of Morocco. Two types of date palm culture were surveyed, that is traditional and modern plantations. The aim of the survey was mainly to explore date palm diseases, their incidence and geographic distribution in Figuig oasis. Results revealed the presence of two major diseases: the harmful Bayoud disease and Belaat disease. The rate of contamination of each disease reached respectively 3.38% and 3.31%. Spatial distribution of each disease varies for each one both in traditional and modern plantations, as shown in kernel density maps of diseases infestation. Bayoud disease spread more in traditional oasis. In fact, 60.96% of infested date palm trees by Bayoud disease were recorded in traditional plantations. On the contrary, in modern ones, Belaat disease was the main disease and the rate of infestation reached 67.13%. The survey also focuses on the influence of occurred farming practices in infested plantations which are often characterized by a lack of phytosanitary treatment, fertilization and weeding. Furthermore, pruning, gravity irrigation and the presence of underlying culture were also identified as increasing factors for pathogens dissemination.
Root morphology of several varieties of sorghum (Sorghum bicolor (L.) Moench.) on ultisols treated with cocopeat
Authors: Lubis K , Simanjuntak D T G , Bayu E S
Published: June 2021

This research aimed to determine the root morphology of several sorghum varieties on Ultisol soil-medium treated with cocopeat. The research was carried out at the Greenhouse of the Faculty of Agriculture, Universitas Sumatera Utara, Medan, from April 2019 to January 2020. This research used a randomized block design with two factorials and three replications. Factor I was the planting medium (topsoil, Ultisol, Ultisol + 1 kg of Cocopeat, Ultisol + 2 kg of Cocopeat). Factor II was the Sorghum variety (Pahat, Kawali, Samurai 1, and Samurai 2) treatment. The results indicated that there are several differences in the appearances of sorghum plant varieties on the root morphology (root volume and length) of sorghum on Ultisol soil media treated with cocopeat, and there were interaction effects between sorghum plant varieties and Ultisol soil media treated with cocopeat on the root morphology (root length) of sorghum plants.
Potential test of non-symbiotic nitrogen-fixing bacteria in increasing nitrogen in Andisol soil
Authors: Sembiring M , Anwar S , Sabrina T
Published: June 2021

Nitrogen (N) is one of the elements most needed by plants and widely distributed in nature. Nitrogen fixation can occur symbiotic or non-symbiotic by soil microbes. This research aimed to examine the potential of N-fixing microbes in increasing the availability of N in the soil. This research was conducted at the Soil Biology Laboratory of Faculty of Agriculture, Universitas Sumatera Utara. The results showed that the ability of microbes to increase the availability of N in the soil was varied. The population of N-fixing bacteria increased during 4 weeks of incubation. All bacterial isolates which incubated on Andisol soil were able to increase soil N-total content by around 9.4% -15.6%. The isolate with the most potential to increase soil N-total content was B6 isolate with an increase in total N content by 15.6%.
Impact of South Asian brick kiln emission mitigation strategies on select pollutants and near-term Arctic temperature responses
Authors: Seay Brannon , Adetona Anna , Sadoff Natasha , Sarofim Marcus C , Kolian Michael
Published: June 2021

The brick kiln industrial sector in South Asia accounts for large amounts of short-lived climate forcer (SLCF) emissions, namely black carbon (BC), organic carbon (OC), and sulfur dioxide (SO2; the precursor to atmospheric sulfate [SO4]). These SLCFs are air pollutants and have important impacts on both human health and the Arctic, a region currently experiencing more than double the rate of warming relative to the global average. Using previously derived Arctic equilibrium temperature response factors, we estimate the contribution to Arctic temperature impacts from previously reported emissions of BC, OC, and SO2 from four prevalent South Asian brick kiln types (Bull’s Trench [BTK], Down Draught [DDK], Vertical Shaft [VSBK], and Zig-zag). Net annual BC (115 gigagrams [Gg]), OC (17 Gg), and SO2 (350 Gg) baseline emissions from all four South Asian kiln types resulted in 3.36 milliKelvin (mK) of Arctic surface warming. Given these baseline emissions and Arctic temperature responses, we estimate the current and maximum potential emission and temperature mitigation considering two kiln type conversions. Assuming no change in brick production, baseline emissions have been reduced by 17% when considering current BTK to Zig-zag conversions and have the potential to decrease by 82% given a 100% future conversion rate. This results in a 25% and 119% reduction in Arctic warming, respectively. Replacing DDKs with VSBKs increases baseline SLCF emissions by 28% based on current conversions and has the potential to increase by 131%. This conversion still reduces baseline warming by 31% and 149%, respectively. These results show that brick kiln conversions can have different impacts on local air quality and Arctic climate. When considering brick kiln emissions mitigation options, regional and/or local policy action should consider several factors, including local air quality, worker health and safety, cost, quality of bricks, as well as global climate impacts.
Analysis of multiple data sequences with different distributions: defining common principal component axes by ergodic sequence generation and multiple reweighting composition
Authors: Fukuda Ikuo , Moritsugu Kei
Published: June 2021

Principal component analysis (PCA) defines a reduced space described by PC axes for a given multidimensional-data sequence to capture the variations of the data. In practice, we need multiple data sequences that accurately obey individual probability distributions and for a fair comparison of the sequences we need PC axes that are common for the multiple sequences but properly capture these multiple distributions. For these requirements, we present individual ergodic samplings for these sequences and provide special reweighting for recovering the target distributions.
Historical values of water and carbon intensity of global electricity production
Authors: Peer Rebecca A M , Chini Christopher M
Published: June 2021

The global production of electricity is reliant upon the availability of water resources for the cooling of thermoelectric power plants and in the production of hydroelectricity. Additionally, much of the current global electricity production requires the combustion of fossil fuels, which emit greenhouse gases and create a carbon footprint of electricity production. In this study, we investigate the historical values of global electricity production through country and regional accounting and comparison of carbon and water footprints from 1990–2018. Here we show water footprints of electricity production rising 1.6% year over year from 143 km3 1990 to 220 km3 in 2018. Additionally, the carbon footprint of electricity production increased 2.2% each year with nearly 14 × 1012 kg CO2e emitted in 2018. Our analysis highlights regional comparisons of carbon emissions versus water intensity for a sustainable electricity transition across the globe, recommending the need to account for both resources in policy and technological decisions.
Diagnosing Desire: Mental Health and Modern American Literature, 1890–1955
Authors: Mendelman Lisa
Published: June 2021

This second book project argues that psychological diagnosis drives literary and scientific innovation in the late nineteenth- and early twentieth-century US. I demonstrate how experimental modernism and biomedical development both deploy and resist evolving classifications of mental life. These underappreciated cultural dialogues generate authoritative models of cognitive and corporeal health determined by race and gender. I take up four such medicalized types and establish how these pathologized figures embody anxieties about social change, particularly related to race, gender, and sexuality. Synthesizing literary fiction with transatlantic medical discourse and computational methods with traditional archival practices, this project rethinks the cultural politics at work in biological schemas of wellness and disorder, while highlighting the stumbling blocks of interpretive practices shared by the sciences and the arts.
Factor Structure of the Repeatable Battery for the Assessment of Neuropsychological Status in Huntington’s Disease
Authors: Springate Beth A , Carvalho Janessa O
Published: June 2021

Objective

The Repeatable Battery for the Assessment of Neuropsychological Status is a commonly used neuropsychological screening tool that is useful in a Huntington’s disease (HD) population given its relatively brief administration time and assessment of multiple cognitive domains. Although 5 index scores are calculated, this structure has not been universally supported in clinical samples, which have often found a two- and three-factor structure to be better fitting. This study explored the Repeatable Battery for the Assessment of Neuropsychological Status factor structure in a large HD sample, which has not been done to date.

Method

In total, 147 individuals with HD completed the Repeatable Battery for the Assessment of Neuropsychological Status. An exploratory factor analysis was conducted to explore the Repeatable Battery for the Assessment of Neuropsychological Status factor structure.

Results

Consistent with the findings from a majority of other clinical samples investigated, our results revealed a better fitting two-factor structure (verbal and visual).

Conclusion

The traditional Repeatable Battery for the Assessment of Neuropsychological Status index structure may not be valid in HD, which yields important clinical and research implications.
Vascular endothelial cell-derived exosomal miR-30a-5p inhibits lung adenocarcinoma malignant progression by targeting CCNE2
Authors: Tao Kaiyi , Liu JinShi , Liang JinXiao , Xu XiaoFang , Xu LiWei , Mao WeiMin
Published: June 2021

This study tried to explore the molecular mechanism underlying progression of lung adenocarcinoma (LUAD) and discuss the extracellular communication between cancer cells and vascular endothelial cells. Roughly, differential analysis was carried out to note that miR-30a-5p was lowly expressed in LUAD, whereas CCNE2 was highly expressed. Cell functional experiments demonstrated that overexpressed miR-30a-5p led to suppressed cell abilities in proliferation, migration and invasion. Dual-luciferase reporter gene assay and RNA immunoprecipitation verified the binding of miR-30a-5p and CCNE2, as well as decreased mRNA and protein expression of CCNE2 with miR-30a-5p overexpression. Simultaneous up-regulation of miR-30a-5p and CCNE2 reversed the promotion of CCNE2 on malignant behaviors of LUAD cells. In vivo mice experiments exhibited that high miR-30a-5p expression hindered tumor growth. Additionally, miR-30a-5p was localized on the Extracellular Vesicles microRNA (EVmiRNA) database. MiR-30a-5p was abundant in exosomes derived from vascular endothelial cells. To validate that miR-30a-5p could be delivered to LUAD cells via exosomes and then make an effect, exosomes from vascular endothelial cells were first extracted and identified by transmission electron microscopy and detection of exosomal marker proteins (Alix, CD63, TSG101). Sequentially, the extracted exosomes were labeled with DIO to note that exosomes could be internalized by cancer cells. Further experiments indicated that miR-30a-5p was increased in cancer cells co-cultured with exosomes, which in turn suppressed cell malignant behaviors and made cell cycle arrest. In all, our findings clarified that exosomes derived from vascular endothelial cells delivered miR-30a-5p to LUAD cells to affect tumor malignant progression via the miR-30a-5p/CCNE2 axis.
Neuronal postdevelopmentally acting SAX-7S/L1CAM can function as cleaved fragments to maintain neuronal architecture inCaenorhabditis elegans
Authors: Desse Virginie E , Blanchette Cassandra R , Nadour Malika , Perrat Paola , Rivollet Lise , Khandekar Anagha , Bénard Claire Y
Published: June 2021

Whereas remarkable advances have uncovered mechanisms that drive nervous system assembly, the processes responsible for the lifelong maintenance of nervous system architecture remain poorly understood. Subsequent to its establishment during embryogenesis, neuronal architecture is maintained throughout life in the face of the animal’s growth, maturation processes, the addition of new neurons, body movements, and aging. The Caenorhabditis elegans protein SAX-7, homologous to the vertebrate L1 protein family of neural adhesion molecules, is required for maintaining the organization of neuronal ganglia and fascicles after their successful initial embryonic development. To dissect the function of sax-7 in neuronal maintenance, we generated a null allele and sax-7S-isoform-specific alleles. We find that the null sax-7(qv30) is, in some contexts, more severe than previously described mutant alleles and that the loss of sax-7S largely phenocopies the null, consistent with sax-7S being the key isoform in neuronal maintenance. Using a sfGFP::SAX-7S knock-in, we observe sax-7S to be predominantly expressed across the nervous system, from embryogenesis to adulthood. Yet, its role in maintaining neuronal organization is ensured by postdevelopmentally acting SAX-7S, as larval transgenic sax-7S(+) expression alone is sufficient to profoundly rescue the null mutants’ neuronal maintenance defects. Moreover, the majority of the protein SAX-7 appears to be cleaved, and we show that these cleaved SAX-7S fragments together, not individually, can fully support neuronal maintenance. These findings contribute to our understanding of the role of the conserved protein SAX-7/L1CAM in long-term neuronal maintenance and may help decipher processes that go awry in some neurodegenerative conditions.
What is Known—and not Known—About Acoustic Communication in an Urban Soundscape
Authors: Derryberry Elizabeth P , Luther David
Published: June 2021

Synopsis

Urban environments have some of the most highly modified soundscapes on the planet, affecting the way many animals communicate using acoustic signals. Communication involves transmission of information via signals, such as bird song, between a signaler and a receiver. Much work has focused on the effects of urbanization on signalers and their signals, yet very little is known about how noise pollution affects receiver behaviors and sensory systems. Here, we synthesize key findings to date regarding avian acoustic communication in the urban environment and delineate key gaps in knowledge for future work. We leverage our own work comparing current and historical songs from urban and rural habitats for a subspecies of white-crowned sparrows (Zonotrichia leucophrys nuttalli). We use this system, along with findings from other systems, to answer three key questions in the field: (1) Is song variation consistent with temporal and spatial variation in anthropogenic noise? (2) How are birds adjusting their song to the urban environment? (3) How does song ‘urbanization’ affect signal function? Our synthesis illustrates that the adjustments birds make to their songs in noisy environments can improve signal detection, but potentially at the cost of signal function. Many key gaps in knowledge need to be addressed to complete our understanding of how acoustic communication systems evolve in urban areas, specifically in regard to sexual selection and female preference, as well as how receivers perceive signals in an urban environment.
Kindleberger in retrospect: the Federal Reserve’s dollar swap lines and international lender of last resort rules
Authors: Carré Emmanuel , Le Maux Laurent
Published: June 2021

Our paper shows how Charles P. Kindleberger examined the function of the international lender of last resort and anticipated the rules governing the dollar swap line program (with unlimited amounts and at a fixed price) implemented by the Federal Reserve in the aftermath of the failure of Lehman Brothers in September 2008. We systematically explore Kindleberger’s works on the central bank swap agreement in order to discern the theoretical foundations of the international lender of last resort rules he proposed. In this respect, two of his arguments that appear concomitantly must be distinguished. The first concerns the burden that the leadership partly or mostly should shoulder because of the problem of free riding—this is the traditional argument of benevolent leadership. The second argument concerns the efficiency with which the leadership operates as the stabilizer given the international monetary and financial context—this argument of the efficient stabilizer has been far less studied in the literature. We find that the Federal Reserve was not a benevolent monetary institution, but the global financial stabilizer instead—meaning that Kindleberger’s second argument finally prevailed. We conclude by emphasizing how central bankers rediscovered Kindleberger’s contribution to the international lender of last resort function.
Secretor Status Strongly Influences the Incidence of Symptomatic Norovirus Infection in a Genotype-Dependent Manner in a Nicaraguan Birth Cohort
Authors: Reyes Yaoska , González Fredman , Gutiérrez Lester , Blandón Patricia , Centeno Edwing , Zepeda Omar , Toval-Ruíz Christian , Lindesmith Lisa C , Baric Ralph S , Vielot Nadja , Diez-Valcarce Marta , Vinjé Jan , Svensson Lennart , Becker-Dreps Sylvia , Nordgren Johan , Bucardo Filemón
Published: June 2021

Background

The role of histo-blood group on the burden and severity of norovirus gastroenteritis in young infants has not been well documented.

Methods

Norovirus gastroenteritis was assessed in 443 Nicaraguan children followed from birth until 3 years of age. Stool samples were tested for norovirus by reverse-transcription quantitative polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR), and histo-blood group antigens (HBGAs) were determined by phenotyping of saliva and blood. Hazard ratios and predictors of norovirus acute gastroenteritis (AGE) outcome stratified by HBGA were estimated using Cox proportional hazards models.

Results

Of 1353 AGE episodes experienced by children, 229 (17%) tested positive for norovirus with an overall incidence of 21.9/100 child-years. Secretor children were infected as early as 2 months of age and had a higher incidence of norovirus GII compared to nonsecretor children (15.4 vs 4.1/100 child-years, P = .006). Furthermore, all GII.4 AGE episodes occurred in secretor children. Children infected with GI (adjusted odds ratio [aOR], 0.09 [95% confidence interval {CI}, .02–.33]) or non-GII.4 viruses (aOR, 0.2 [95% CI, .07–.6]) were less likely to have severe AGE compared to GII.4-infected children.

Conclusions

Secretor status in children strongly influences the incidence of symptomatic norovirus infection in a genogroup or genotype-dependent manner and provides evidence that clinical severity in children depends on norovirus genotypes.
Survivorship in Adolescents and Young Adults With Cancer
Authors: Yarbrough Angela
Published: June 2021

Adolescents and young adults with cancer have an estimated 5-year overall survival rate of more than 75%. It can be difficult to immediately return to a “normal” life after cancer therapy because of a range of physical and psychosocial effects associated not only to the disease but also to late effects that can extend long into survivorship. Adolescents and young adult cancer survivors in the United States are more prone to several adverse treatment effects than those who had no history of cancer. A multidisciplinary health-care team that is well versed in caring for specific developmental issues, as well as addressing onco-fertility, psychosocial and socioeconomic issues, school and work obligations, and long-term side effects is important to meet the needs of this population.
Prediction of target position from multiple fiducial markers by partial least squares regression in real-time tumor-tracking radiation therapy
Authors: Ukon Kanako , Arai Yohei , Takao Seishin , Matsuura Taeko , Ishikawa Masayori , Shirato Hiroki , Shimizu Shinichi , Umegaki Kikuo , Miyamoto Naoki
Published: June 2021

The purpose of this work is to show the usefulness of a prediction method of tumor location based on partial least squares regression (PLSR) using multiple fiducial markers. The trajectory data of respiratory motion of four internal fiducial markers inserted in lungs were used for the analysis. The position of one of the four markers was assumed to be the tumor position and was predicted by other three fiducial markers. Regression coefficients for prediction of the position of the tumor-assumed marker from the fiducial markers’ positions is derived by PLSR. The tracking error and the gating error were evaluated assuming two possible variations. First, the variation of the position definition of the tumor and the markers on treatment planning computed tomograhy (CT) images. Second, the intra-fractional anatomical variation which leads the distance change between the tumor and markers during the course of treatment. For comparison, rigid predictions and ordinally multiple linear regression (MLR) predictions were also evaluated. The tracking and gating errors of PLSR prediction were smaller than those of other prediction methods. Ninety-fifth percentile of tracking/gating error in all trials were 3.7/4.1 mm, respectively in PLSR prediction for superior–inferior direction. The results suggested that PLSR prediction was robust to variations, and clinically applicable accuracy could be achievable for targeting tumors.
Modern architecture in the professional discourse: analysis of the Architectural Biennial of Quito’s 1976–92 archive using bipartite networks
Authors: Rosa Zambrano María , Gonzalez Mario , Medina Ana , Acosta-Vargas Patricia
Published: June 2021

This article studies the contents of the Architectural Biennial of Quito’s (BAQ) archive from its first edition in 1978 to its eighth in 1992, using technological tools and producing bipartite networks that make visible the inter- and intra-relationships of the archive’s data through quantitative and qualitative analysis. By using these methods and means, the results firstly show how the BAQ articulated discussions of modern architecture in Ecuador, and secondly, the extent of local and international exchanges implicated in the professional scope throughout the BAQ. The study of this archive allows one to understand the most important relationships in the architectural productions and communications at the hands of BAQ as a platform for circulating ideas.
The general applicability of self-similar solutions for thermal disc winds
Authors: Sellek Andrew D , Clarke Cathie J , Booth Richard A
Published: June 2021

Thermal disc winds occur in many contexts and may be particularly important to the secular evolution and dispersal of protoplanetary discs heated by high energy radiation from their central star. In this paper, we generalize previous models of self-similar thermal winds – which have self-consistent morphology and variation of flow variables – to the case of launch from an elevated base and to non-isothermal conditions. These solutions are well-reproduced by hydrodynamic simulations, in which, as in the case of isothermal winds launched from the midplane, we find winds launch at the maximum Mach number for which the streamline solutions extend to infinity without encountering a singularity. We explain this behaviour based on the fact that lower Mach number solutions do not fill the spatial domain. We also show that hydrodynamic simulations reflect the corresponding self-similar models across a range of conditions appropriate to photoevaporating protoplanetary discs, even when gravity, centrifugal forces, or changes in the density gradient mean the problem is not inherently scale free. Of all the parameters varied, the elevation of the wind base affected the launch velocity and flow morphology most strongly, with temperature gradients causing only minor differences. We explore how launching from an elevated base affects Ne ii line profiles from winds, finding it increases (reduces) the full width at half maximum (FWHM) of the line at low (high) inclination to the line of sight compared with models launched from the disc midplane and thus weakens the dependence of the FWHM on inclination.
Model-independent constraints on superfluidity from the cooling neutron star in Cassiopeia A
Authors: Shternin Peter S , Ofengeim Dmitry D , Ho Wynn C G , Heinke Craig O , Wijngaarden M J P , Patnaude Daniel J
Published: June 2021

We present a new model-independent (applicable for a broad range of equations of state) analysis of the neutrino emissivity due to triplet neutron pairing in neutron star cores. We find that the integrated neutrino luminosity of the Cooper Pair Formation (CPF) process can be written as a product of two factors. The first factor depends on the neutron star mass, radius, and maximal critical temperature of neutron pairing in the core, TCnmax, but not on the particular superfluidity model; it can be expressed by an analytical formula valid for many nucleon equations of state. The second factor depends on the shape of the critical temperature profile within the star, the ratio of the temperature T to TCnmax, but not on the maximal critical temperature itself. While this second factor depends on the superfluidity model, it obeys several model-independent constraints. This property allows one to analyse the thermal evolution of neutron stars with superfluid cores without relying on a specific model of their interiors. The constructed expressions allow us to perform a self-consistent analysis of spectral data and neutron star cooling theory. We apply these findings to the cooling neutron star in the Cassiopeia A supernova remnant using 14 sets of observations taken over 19 yr. We constrain TCnmax to the range of (5–10) × 108 K. This value depends weakly on the equation of state and superfluidity model, and will not change much if cooling is slower than what the current data suggest. We also constrain the overall efficiency of the CPF neutrino luminosity.
Synchrotron self-Compton radiation from magnetically dominated turbulent plasmas in relativistic jets
Authors: Sobacchi Emanuele , Sironi Lorenzo , Beloborodov Andrei M
Published: June 2021

Relativistic jets launched by rotating black holes are powerful emitters of non-thermal radiation. Extraction of the rotational energy via electromagnetic stresses produces magnetically dominated jets, which may become turbulent. Studies of magnetically dominated plasma turbulence from first principles show that most of the accelerated particles have small pitch angles, i.e. the particle velocity is nearly aligned with the local magnetic field. We examine synchrotron self-Compton radiation from anisotropic particles in the fast cooling regime. The small pitch angles reduce the synchrotron cooling rate and promote the role of inverse Compton (IC) cooling, which can occur in two different regimes. In the Thomson regime, both synchrotron and IC components have soft spectra, νFν ∝ ν1/2. In the Klein–Nishina regime, synchrotron radiation has a hard spectrum, typically νFν ∝ ν, over a broad range of frequencies. Our results have implications for the modelling of BL Lacertae objects (BL Lacs) and gamma-ray bursts (GRBs). BL Lacs produce soft synchrotron and IC spectra, as expected when Klein–Nishina effects are minor. The observed synchrotron and IC luminosities are typically comparable, which indicates a moderate anisotropy with pitch angles θ ≳ 0.1. Rare orphan gamma-ray flares may be produced when θ ≪ 0.1. The hard spectra of GRBs may be consistent with synchrotron radiation when the emitting particles are IC cooling in the Klein–Nishina regime, as expected for pitch angles θ ∼ 0.1. Blazar and GRB spectra can be explained by turbulent jets with a similar electron plasma magnetization parameter, σe ∼ 104, which for electron–proton plasmas corresponds to an overall magnetization σ = (me/mp)σe ∼ 10.
CTCF as a regulator of alternative splicing: new tricks for an old player
Authors: Alharbi Adel B , Schmitz Ulf , Bailey Charles G , Rasko John E J
Published: June 2021

Three decades of research have established the CCCTC-binding factor (CTCF) as a ubiquitously expressed chromatin organizing factor and master regulator of gene expression. A new role for CTCF as a regulator of alternative splicing (AS) has now emerged. CTCF has been directly and indirectly linked to the modulation of AS at the individual transcript and at the transcriptome-wide level. The emerging role of CTCF-mediated regulation of AS involves diverse mechanisms; including transcriptional elongation, DNA methylation, chromatin architecture, histone modifications, and regulation of splicing factor expression and assembly. CTCF thereby appears to not only co-ordinate gene expression regulation but contributes to the modulation of transcriptomic complexity. In this review, we highlight previous discoveries regarding the role of CTCF in AS. In addition, we summarize detailed mechanisms by which CTCF mediates AS regulation. We propose opportunities for further research designed to examine the possible fate of CTCF-mediated alternatively spliced genes and associated biological consequences. CTCF has been widely acknowledged as the ‘master weaver of the genome’. Given its multiple connections, further characterization of CTCF’s emerging role in splicing regulation might extend its functional repertoire towards a ‘conductor of the splicing orchestra’.
Front-Back Cervical Deformity Correction by Anterior Cervical Discectomy and Fusion With Posterior Instrumentation: 2-Dimensional Operative Video
Authors: Srinivasan Ethan S , Karikari Isaac O , Williamson Theresa , Shaffrey Christopher I , Than Khoi D
Published: June 2021

Front-back procedures for cervical deformity permit the correction of cervical kyphosis in the setting of unfused facets. Here, we highlight the operative treatment of a 65-yr-old female entailing a 4-level anterior cervical discectomy and fusion (ACDF) at C3-C4, C4-C5, C5-C6, and C6-C7 with hyperlordotic interbody implants, supplemented by a posterior C2-T2 instrumented fusion. The patient initially presented with symptoms of treatment-refractory neck pain while neurologically intact on examination. Her imaging demonstrated significant cervical kyphosis measuring 46° as the Cobb angle between C2 and C7 without neural compression. The patient consented to the procedure and publication of their image. After 2 d of traction, the operation proceeded with the patient initially in a supine position with dissection medial to the sternocleidomastoid muscle down to the vertebral bodies. Discectomies were performed at each level followed by installation of the interbody implants. After closure of this access wound, the patient was turned to a prone position for the posterior element of the operation. The posterior bony elements were exposed and a C2-T2 instrumented fusion performed. Postoperative imaging demonstrated improvement of her sagittal cervical curvature and the patient described improvement in her neck pain.
History and State Coercion in the Arab Spring
Authors: Said Atef
Published: June 2021

In this chapter, the author proposes the need to study the colonial and postcolonial nexus of coercion in Arab states in order to explore how the coercive apparatus in the region was tied to a colonial formation, through postcolonial configurations of states. In doing so, the author argues against the dominance of presentism and methodological nationalism in the study of Arab states. While focusing on the cases of Egypt, Syria, Libya, and Yemen, the author demonstrates that one cannot understand the role that coercion played in the Arab Spring and its trajectory or the new wave of repression after the Arab Spring as an insulated contemporary problem. The author interrogates the existence of paramilitary groups and the entanglements of coercion with regional and international postcolonial politics. The analysis reveals that understanding the central problems related to the coercive apparatus of Arab states necessitates situating them within their foundation—that is, within the colonial and postcolonial contexts out of which they emerged.
Doing Tricks: Affordances and Challenges for a Sociolinguistics of Sex Work
Authors: Borba Rodrigo
Published: June 2021

Sex work has long been of interest to a variety of fields, among them anthropology, sociology, public health, and feminist theory, to name but a few. However, with very few exceptions, sociolinguistics seems to have ignored the fact that commercial sex, as an intersubjective business transaction, is primarily negotiated in embodied linguistic interaction. By reviewing publications in distinct social scientific areas that directly or indirectly discuss the role of language in the sex industry, this chapter critically assesses the analytical affordances and methodological challenges for a sociolinguistics of sex work. It does so by discussing the “tricks” played by sex work on sociolinguistic theory and methods, as a power-infused context of language use in which issues of agency (or lack thereof) and embodiment are paramount. The chapter concludes that the study of language in commercial sex venues is sociolinguistically promising and epistemologically timely.
Language and Sexual Politics: Discursive Negotiations of Belonging
Authors: Levon Erez
Published: June 2021

This chapter discusses the relationship between language and sexual politics. It focuses on the ways language is used to police membership in different gendered and sexual groups, to construct self and others along gendered and sexual lines, and to negotiate belonging in different communities and institutions. The first half of the chapter summarizes prominent research in this area. Topics covered include struggles over labeling practices, discursive constructions of sexual authenticities, and the role of language and sexuality in the creation and reproduction of national ideologies. The second half turns to a detailed case study of language and sexual politics among lesbians in Israel. The chapter describes how the women in question use particular linguistic practices, such as variation in Hebrew gender morphology, to construct distinct sexual selves, and, in the process, challenge prevailing sexual norms in Israel. The discussion also highlights future directions for language and sexuality research, focusing on the importance of an adequate theory of power.
Mediatizing Sex: Sexting and/as Digital Discourse
Authors: Thurlow Crispin
Published: June 2021

This chapter focuses on sex/uality in the context of so-called new media and, specifically, digital discourse: technologically mediated linguistic or communicative practices, and mediatized representations of these practices. To help think through the relationship among sex, discourse, and (new) media, the discussion focuses on sexting and two instances of sexting “scandals” in the news. Against this backdrop, the chapter sets out four persistent binaries that typically shape public and academic writing about sex/uality and especially digital sex/uality: new-old, mediation-mediatization, private/real-public/fake, and personal-political. These either-or approaches are problematic, because they no longer account for the practical realities and lived experiences of both sex and media. Scholars interested in digital sex/uality are advised to adopt a “both-and” approach in which media (i.e., digital technologies and The Media) both create pleasurable, potentially liberating opportunities to use our bodies (sexually or otherwise) and simultaneously thwart us, shame us, or shut us down. In this sense, there is nothing that is really “new” after all.
Administrative Justice in the Private Sector
Authors: Benish Avishai , Pélisse Jérôme
Published: June 2021

This chapter explores the still largely uncharted territory of administrative justice in the private sector. The chapter presents a theoretical and empirical account of the extension of administrative justice norms and institutions into the private sphere. It does so by mapping and analysing the different paths by which administrative justice is diffused in privatized and contracted out services and in originally private services. It draws upon illustrative examples of such diffusion for each of these private realms. The chapter concludes with insights into the convergence of public and private models of decision-making and dispute resolution and the hybrid nature of this field.
Public Inquiries and Administrative Justice
Authors: Donson Fiona , O'Donovan Darren
Published: June 2021

The public inquiry represents a final accountability backstop in many jurisdictions—an institution born of the failures of other mechanisms to respond to scandals, crises, and disasters. While each inquiry responds to differing political and administrative dynamics, there are many shared features and challenges in delivering their mandate of truth and reform. This article analyses the shared design challenges inquiries face in developing historical narratives, holding actors to account, producing recommendations for change, and delivering a restorative process for victims. The discussion begins with a reflection on the theoretical and constitutional underpinning of the public inquiry, something often overlooked given the pragmatic nature of such mechanisms. The article then moves to the practice of inquiries, reflecting on how design of their remit and their procedures rests upon a clear and effective terms of reference. The article offers an analytical framework for understanding the normative and operational choices that determine whether an inquiry can be successful. For all the limitations that can be highlighted in relation to the operation of public inquiries, the article concludes that the institution has an important role to play in administrative justice. Yet for an inquiry to be an effective administrative justice change-maker, effective design and a clear remit need to be combined with broader public and political acceptance of the inquiry.
The International Law of Peace
Authors: Bailliet Cecilia M.
Published: June 2021

Contemporary international law is in a state of flux based on shifts within the geopolitical order. This chapter discusses the normative evolution of the concept of peace international law from peaceful coexistence to the current identification of a right to peace and discusses the interface with the Responsibility to Protect doctrine. It discusses a wide range of dilemmas presented by peace treaties, Jus Post Bellum, and the interface between the umbrella terms of Human Security, Security, and Peace. The chapter suggests that these normative iterations represent a watershed in human rights and international law as non-Western approaches to conflict prevention gain traction.
Peace in Non-Western Theory
Authors: Polat Necati
Published: June 2021

This chapter looks critically into the exhortations in recent peace thinking to accommodate visions of peace outside European modernity, called the West. The discussion problematizes the premise of a radical distinction in cultural terms between the West and the non-West, questioning for each front the notion of a linear cultural transmission from ancient times onward. The binary, the chapter argues, is premised effectively on an oblivion of hybridities, especially in the Mediterranean basin, already before modernity and, later, under modernity, of the virtual recasting of much of what has been out there in the periphery, however named or classified, in the image of modernity. The chapter then considers some of the characteristic oversimplifications in peace research around the theme, which, albeit with a strong anti-ethnocentric posture to begin with, end up largely reproducing the classical Orientalism in its reductionisms.
The United Nations and the Responsibility to Rebuild
Authors: Bellamy Alex J.
Published: June 2021

Peacebuilding and statebuilding were integral parts of the Responsibility to Protect (R2P) when the principle was first articulated in 2001. But since 2005 they have developed quite separately, creating a gap between the theories and practices of protection and peacebuilding. The effects of this gap are not just theoretical but practical too. The UN’s failure to properly follow through with rebuilding support in Libya contributed to that country’s descent into chaos and civil war, especially after 2013. Likewise a failure to incorporate atrocity-prevention concerns into ongoing peacebuilding efforts in places like Sri Lanka and the Central African Republic meant that the UN’s field presences did not do all they could to prevent atrocities or protect vulnerable populations. This chapter examines the relationship between peacebuilding and R2P in the UN context. It shows how the two were conceived as being mutually supporting activities but were separated during the UN’s wider deliberations on reform. It describes the effects of this gap between peacebuilding and protection before arguing that the two agendas are closely aligned and should be integrated. And it points to practical work to ensure that atrocity prevention is mainstreamed into peacebuilding efforts, and vice versa.
Global Civil Society, Peacebuilding, and Statebuilding
Authors: Kaldor Mary , Kostovicova Denisa
Published: June 2021

This chapter grounds a definition of global civil society in the existence of international law and links with international networks of either international NGOs or support groups crucial for enabling civil society groups in postconflict countries to operate. Conceptualizing civil society in these global terms, the chapter critiques a technocratic approach to peace- and statebuilding that reduces the multitude of civil society actors to NGOs and their limited ability to address the social condition created by war. If the state of persistent disorder created by a combination of fragmentation and globalization is to be transformed, activist civil society needs to be regarded as a partner in countering sectarian and fundamentalist narratives and in increasing the accountability of corrupt elites. Activist civil society is underpinned by an assumption that protest, activism, debate, and deliberation are the main mechanisms for change. Linked up with international actors, it can provide the basis for a strategy for constructing legitimate institutions at different levels. By focusing on elites associated with the armed groups as participants in the peace talks in a top-down approach to conflict resolution, the international community has at least implicitly endorsed the marginalization of activist civil society. Reversing this relationship opens up new possibilities for reducing violence and for building peace.
Technologies of Peace
Authors: Duursma Allard , Karlsrud John
Published: June 2021

This chapter examines the effects of the digital revolution and new information and communication technologies on peacekeeping and peacebuilding. The chapter is concerned with how digital and web-based information and communication technologies can be used to prevent and manage armed violence, foster inclusive societies, and ensure a durable and high-quality peace. The UN is increasingly adopting new technologies, particularly within the field of peacekeeping. To increase situational awareness, UN peacekeeping staff have crowdsourced information and used drones and satellite imagery. In addition, the analysis of peacekeeping data holds great potential for early warning. New technological tools can help foster collaboration, transform attitudes, and give a stronger voice to local communities. Online platforms have been used to monitor elections, document human rights abuses, and facilitate communication between members of different sides in a conflict. However, since one cannot simply assume that technology will change everything for the better, it is crucial to be aware of the ethical implications of the use of new peace technologies. The UN needs to be careful that early warning is translated into early action. Peacekeepers and peacebuilders should also be vigilant when it comes to mitigating the possible abuse and negative side effects of the use of peace technologies. The chapter concludes that peace technologies significantly influence the prospects for peacekeeping and peacebuilding, particularly when the use of technology helps peacekeepers and peacebuilders be more people-centric.