bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Influence of quantum dot morphology on the optical properties of GaSb/GaAs multilayers
Authors: Greenhill C. , Chang A. S. , Zech E. S. , Clark S. , Balakrishnan G. , Goldman R. S.
Published: June 2020

We examine the influence of quantum dot (QD) morphology on the optical properties of two-dimensional (2D) GaSb/GaAs multilayers, with and without three-dimensional nanostructures. Using nanostructure sizes from scanning transmission electron microscopy and local Sb compositions from local-electrode atom-probe tomography as input into self-consistent Schrödinger–Poisson simulations based on 8 × 8 k·p theory, we compute confinement energies for QDs, circular arrangements of smaller QDs, termed QD-rings, and 2D layers on GaAs substrates. The computed confinement energies and the measured photoluminescence emission energies increase from QDs to QD-rings to 2D layers, enabling direct association of nanostructure morphologies with the optical properties of the GaSb/GaAs multilayers. This work opens up opportunities for tailoring near to far infrared optoelectronic devices by varying the QD morphology.
Soft magnetic nanocomposite CoZrTaB–SiO2 thin films for high-frequency applications
Authors: Cronin Darragh , Lordan D. , Wei G. , McCloskey P. , Mathúna C. O. , Masood A.
Published: June 2020

With increasing switching frequencies for passive components in power supplies, there lies a demand for materials that exhibit excellent soft magnetic properties at high frequencies. Electrical resistivity is of particular importance, as a high value is of significant importance in suppressing eddy current loss. The present work is focused on improving material with ultra-soft magnetic properties at high working frequencies by making nanocomposite CoZrTaB–SiO2 thin films using co-sputtering. The films show an increasing trend of resistivity with SiO2 incorporation, attributed to the high degree of electron scattering based on a metal–insulator–metal network. The ultra-low coercivity (Hc ∼ 0.1 Oe) and enhanced anisotropic field (Hk ∼ 42 Oe) of films were correlated to the ferromagnetic exchange coupling, which were significantly affected by a small concentration of SiO2. Relatively high permeability, ultra-low loss response, and high ferromagnetic resonance frequency make this material a promising candidate for replacing conventional magnetic cores in passives, in addition to noise suppression applications.
Seasonal productivity drives aggregations of killer whales and other cetaceans over submarine canyons of the Bremer Sub-Basin, south-western Australia
Authors: Salgado Kent Chandra , Bouchet Phil , Wellard Rebecca , Parnum Iain , Fouda Leila , Erbe Christine
Published: June 2020

Cetaceans are iconic predators that serve as important indicators of marine ecosystem health. The Bremer Sub-Basin, south-western Australia, supports a diverse cetacean community including the largest documented aggregation of killer whales (Orcinus orca) in Australian waters. Knowledge of cetacean distributions is critical for managing the area’s thriving ecotourism industry, yet is largely sporadic. Here we combined aerial with opportunistic ship-borne surveys during 2015–2017 to describe the occurrence of multiple cetacean species on a regional scale. We used generalised estimating equations to model variation in killer whale relative density as a function of both static and dynamic covariates, including seabed depth, slope, and chlorophyll a concentration, while accounting for autocorrelation. Encountered cetacean groups included: killer (n = 177), sperm (n = 69), long-finned pilot (n = 29), false killer (n = 2), and strap-toothed beaked (n = 1) whales, as well as bottlenose (n = 12) and common (n = 5) dolphins. Killer whale numbers peaked in areas of low temperatures and high primary productivity, likely due to seasonal upwelling of nutrient-rich waters supporting high prey biomass. The best predictive model highlighted potential killer whale ‘hotspots’ in the Henry, Hood, Pallinup and Bremer Canyons. This study demonstrates the value of abundance data from platforms of opportunity for marine planning and wildlife management in the open ocean.
Renal impairment: an unnecessary barrier to HIV prevention
Authors: Heron Jack E. , Rix Suzanne , Varma Rick , Gracey David M.
Published: June 2020

The use of tenofovir disoproxil fumarate (TDF) in combination with emtricitabine, prescribed for pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP), is highly effective at reducing incident sexually transmissible HIV infection among those at risk. TDF is associated with proteinuria, Fanconi syndrome and chronic kidney disease, and is not recommended for use in patients with an estimated creatinine clearance <60 mL min−1. There are currently no Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS)-funded PrEP options for patients at risk of HIV infection with moderate renal impairment in Australia. This report describes the case of a patient who acquired HIV soon after PrEP was suspended due to moderate renal impairment. The various clinical and regulatory issues this case raises are discussed.
Three types of HLA-G+ extravillous trophoblasts that have distinct immune regulatory properties
Authors: Papuchova Henrieta , Kshirsagar Sarika , Xu Lily , Bougleux Gomes Hannah A. , Li Qin , Iyer Vidya , Norwitz Errol R. , Strominger Jack L. , Tilburgs Tamara
Published: June 2020

Significance

Fetal extravillous trophoblasts (EVT) invade maternal uterine tissues and play a key role in placental development. EVT express HLA-C, a highly polymorphic antigen that can elicit allogeneic responses, and HLA-G, which is associated with immune tolerance. EVT are difficult to study due to the low numbers that can be obtained, their lack of proliferative capacity, limited survival, and lack of cell lines that recapitulate their unique functions. We succeeded in isolating three types of HLA-G+ EVT from human first trimester and term placental tissues that have significant changes in their phenotypes, gene expression, responses to pro-inflammatory signals, and induction of regulatory T cells. These methods and insights are useful for understanding of maternal–fetal tolerance and development of pregnancy complications.
translating a weighty matter
Authors: Everson Vanessa
Published: June 2020

The purpose of this article is to examine certain cultural and ethical aspects which make the translator’s task
arduous. Firstly, it is demonstrated that the indissolubility of language and culture (Nida
2002) means that the translator must possess high-level cultural competency and an understanding of context (Herbulot 2004). Secondly, by applying Narrative Theory to translation (Baker 2006), the article highlights ethical considerations associated with translating
certain narratives and advances Fisher’s narrative paradigm as a possible response (Fisher
1984, 1985, 1997). Citing the
example of a translated, contemporary, African novel (Mouanda Kibinde 2004, 2015), the translator-author’s ethical responsibility of prioritizing the reader of the
translated text (Leclercq 2002) is examined against the backdrop of reception theory
(Rosenblatt 1969, 1978 (1994)). The
article concludes by suggesting which courses of action are open to the translator, in the face of weighty, cultural and ethical
constraints (Ortega y Gasset 2013).
Zimbabwe’s Emerging Farmer Classification model: a ‘new’ countryside
Authors: Shonhe Toendepi , Mtapuri Oliver
Published: June 2020

The article presents an Emerging Farmer Classification model and its typologies, revealing the dominance of medium-scale farmers, consisting of smallholder and medium-sized farms, in Hwedza district. The article argues that the Emerging Farmer Classification reflects ongoing reconfiguration in Hwedza district and is a result of the changing workings of capital after the Fast Track Land Reform era. The analysis is based on a case study involving 230 household interviews across five settlement models, and 20 in-depth interviews. The article identifies capital as a key driver shaping agrarian relations, following land redistribution in Zimbabwe.
Stuck in neutral? Federalism, policy instruments, and counter-cyclical responses to COVID-19 in the United States
Authors: Rocco Philip , Béland Daniel , Waddan Alex
Published: June 2020

Federalism plays a foundational role in structuring public expectations about how the United States will respond to the COVID-19 pandemic, as both an unprecedented public-health crisis and an economic recession. As in prior crises, state governments are expected to be primary sites of governing authority, especially when it comes to immediate public-health needs, while it is assumed that the federal government will supply critical counter-cyclical measures to stabilize the economy and make up for major revenue shortfalls in the states. Yet there are reasons to believe that these expectations will not be fulfilled, especially when it comes to the critical juncture of the COVID-19 pandemic. Though the federal government has the capacity to engage in counter-cyclical spending to stabilize the economy, existing policy instruments vary in the extent to which they leverage that capacity. This leverage, we argue, depends on how decentralized policy arrangements affect the implementation of both discretionary emergency policies as well as automatic stabilization programs such as Unemployment Insurance, Medicaid, and the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program. Evidence on the US response to COVID-19 to date suggests the need for major revisions in the architecture of intergovernmental fiscal policy.
Siamon Gordon: A half-century fascination with macrophages
Authors: Houston Stephanie
Published: June 2020

Siamon Gordon is a Glaxo Wellcome Professor Emeritus of Cellular Pathology at the University of Oxford and a fellow of the Royal Society. Throughout his career, Siamon has focused on macrophages, and his work led to the identification of the pan-macrophage marker F4/80 and the description of a role for Dectin-1 in the innate recognition of β-glucans. I caught up with Siamon to discuss his career path and his thoughts on macrophages.
Disruption of membrane cholesterol organization impairs the activity of PIEZO1 channel clusters
Authors: Ridone Pietro , Pandzic Elvis , Vassalli Massimo , Cox Charles D. , Macmillan Alexander , Gottlieb Philip A. , Martinac Boris
Published: June 2020

The human mechanosensitive ion channel PIEZO1 is gated by membrane tension and regulates essential biological processes such as vascular development and erythrocyte volume homeostasis. Currently, little is known about PIEZO1 plasma membrane localization and organization. Using a PIEZO1-GFP fusion protein, we investigated whether cholesterol enrichment or depletion by methyl-β-cyclodextrin (MBCD) and disruption of membrane cholesterol organization by dynasore affects PIEZO1-GFP’s response to mechanical force. Electrophysiological recordings in the cell-attached configuration revealed that MBCD caused a rightward shift in the PIEZO1-GFP pressure–response curve, increased channel latency in response to mechanical stimuli, and markedly slowed channel inactivation. The same effects were seen in native PIEZO1 in N2A cells. STORM superresolution imaging revealed that, at the nanoscale, PIEZO1-GFP channels in the membrane associate as clusters sensitive to membrane manipulation. Both cluster distribution and diffusion rates were affected by treatment with MBCD (5 mM). Supplementation of polyunsaturated fatty acids appeared to sensitize the PIEZO1-GFP response to applied pressure. Together, our results indicate that PIEZO1 function is directly dependent on the membrane composition and lateral organization of membrane cholesterol domains, which coordinate the activity of clustered PIEZO1 channels.
An ion channel in the company of a transporter
Authors: Accili Eric
Published: June 2020

In the current issue of JGP, Lamothe and Kurata explore the functional relationship between the Kv1.2 potassium channel, with Kvβ1.2 bound to the interior aspect of the channel, and Slc7a5, a component of the neutral amino acid transporter LAT1.
Space-Time: from Indefinite at the Locality to Generality at the Infinity
Authors: Avramenko A
Published: June 2020

The article presents physical and theoretical generalizations of the space-time metrics, based on invariant coordinate time transformations over the intervals of the observed periodic emission of pulsars. Synchronization of spatial reference systems by the observed passage of the wave front of the coherent radiation of a pulsar corresponds to the axiomatic matching of coordinate time scales defined by the observed rotation parameters of the pulsar with the initial coordinates of spatial reference frames within the homogeneous Galileo space of the Galaxy. As a result, all physical processes in such coordinates systems, including the observed coherent radiation of a pulsar, are indistinguishable from each of them. The estimated span of minimum recognizable on the pulsar time scale is 10−12–10−14 s in the extent from several years to several decades and then gradually decreases, reaching limit values of the order of 10−16–10−17 s in the extent compared to the lifetime of a pulsar. The relative size of the resolved interval is within approximately 10−19–10−29.
Nonmetricity plane waves in post Riemannian spacetime
Authors: Babourova O V , Frolov B N , Khetzeva M S , Markova N V
Published: June 2020

Using the analogy with the properties of plane electromagnetic waves in Minkowski space, a definition of an affine-metric space of the plane wave type is given, which is characterized by the null action of the Lie derivative on the 40 components of the nonmetricity 1-form in the 4-dimensional affine-metric space. This leads to the conclusion that the nonmetricity of a plane wave type is determined by five arbitrary functions of delayed time. A theorem on the structure of the nonmetricity of the plane wave type is proved, which states that parts of the nonmetricity 1-form irreducible with respect to the Lorentz transformations of the tangent space, such as the Weyl 1-form, the trace 1-form, and the symmetric 1-form, are defined by one arbitrary function each, and the antisymmetric 1-form is defined by two arbitrary functions. Presence of arbitrary functions in the description of nonmetricity plane waves allows transmitting information with the help of nonmetricity waves.
Cosmological parameters of f(R) gravity with kinetic scalar curvature
Authors: Chervon S V , Fomin I V , Mayorova T I , Khapaeva A V
Published: June 2020

We study modified f(R) gravity theory with kinetic scalar curvature reducible to chiral cosmological model of a special type. New method of cosmological parameters calculation based on reduction of two-fields model to standard one with single scalar field is proposed. Parametric correspondence to observational data is shown for massive scalar field, power-law and intermediate inflation.
On conservation laws in teleparallel gravity
Authors: Emtsova E D , Petrov A N , Toporensky A V
Published: June 2020

Applying directly the Noether theorem in the framework of the Teleparallel Equivalent of General Relativity (TEGR), we construct conserved quantities, currents and superpotentials. They are covariant both under coordinate transformations and under local Lorentz rotations, unlike earlier approaches. This advantage is achieved by a presence in expressions of conservation laws of a displacement vector that can be interpreted as a Killing vector, as a proper vector of an observer, etc. We introduce, as well, a principle for a definition of an inertial spin connection that is an undetermined quantity in TEGR in the original formulation. The new expressions for conserved quantities and the introduced principle are applied to calculate mass for the Schwarzschild black hole and energy density for an observer freely falling in spatially flat Friedmann world.
Laser Exciting of Bound Photonic States and High Frequency Gravitational Waves in Media during Combinational Light Processes
Authors: Gorelik V S
Published: June 2020

Multiple Stokes and anti-Stokes satellites (Comb Parametric Raman Processes) were observed in liquids and crystals when excited by picosecond laser pulses of a YAG:Nd3+ solid-state laser with generation wavelengths of 1064 and 532 nm. The Stokes combination satellites of the infrared range were detected as a result of their conversion into the visible spectral region. The bound two-photonic states, corresponding to high frequency gravitational waves, in media due to strong photon-photon interactions is predicted.
Phase transitions in geometrothermodynamic model of charged generalized-NUT black holes
Authors: Grushevskaya H V , Krylova N G
Published: June 2020

Modern cosmological models are constructed in the framework of thermodynamic approaches developed within a Van der Waals-Maxwell theory of the first-order phase transitions. In the present work we study a geometrothermodynamics of two-dimensional first-order phase transition with the distribution of relaxation times in a configuration space which describes a spacetime with Newman-Unti-Tamburino-like metric. We utilized the geometrothermodynamical approach to construct the model of a charged generalized-NUT black hole. We reveal following features of the black-hole phase transition: there are series of bifurcations of pitchfork type in dependences of the Gibbs free energy on the Hawking temperature, and although a scalar Berwald curvature of space changes sign in the phase transition, black-hole stability depends on sign of the curvature after the transition.
Nucleus Decay Oscilllations, Quantum Nonlinearity and Emergent Gravity
Authors: Mayburov S N
Published: June 2020

Several experimental groups observed periodic modulations of nucleus decay constants which amplitudes are of the order 10−3 and periods of one year, 24 hours or about one month. We argue that such deviations from radioactive decay law can be described in nonlinear quantum mechanics framework, in which decay process obeys to nonlinear Shroedinger equation with Doebner-Goldin terms. Corrections to Hamiltonian of quantum system interaction with gravitation field considered, it’s shown that they correspond to some emergent gravity models, in particular, bilocal gravity theory. It’s shown that modified proposed model predicts decay parameter variations under influence of Sun gravity similar to experimental results for 214Po α-decay life-time oscillations.
Formatting physical fields and pseudometric manifolds. The dark matter
Authors: Petrova L I
Published: June 2020

It is shown that from the equations of conservation laws for energy, linear momentum, angular momentum, and mass, which are conservation laws for material media (such as thermodynamic, gas dynamical, cosmic systems, systems of charged particles, systems of elementary particles and others), it follows the evolutionary relation. This relation, which appears to be nonidentical due to the noncommutativity of conservation laws, describes the evolutionary processes proceeded in material media and accompanied by the origination of physical structures. The physical fields and relevant manifolds are formed by such physical structures. Since, due to the noncommutativity of the conservation laws, the nonpotential inconsistent external actions upon material medium do not converge into the quantities of the material medium itself, this leads to appearance of immeasurable quantities in the material medium. As it is shown, under realization of any degrees of freedom of material medium (to what the degenerate transformation corresponds) the immeasurable quantity locally partly converts into observable and measurable formations and physical structures forming physical fields and corresponding manifolds. However, since this occurs only locally, only a part of measurable quantity converts into physical structures. This means that a certain immeasurable quantity remains in material medium. The dark energy and dark matter are such immeasurable and nonobservable quantities (essence) that emerges due to various nonpotential actions and, due to the noncommuativity of conservation laws, cannot directly convert into own quantities of material medium.
High frequency gravitational waves generation by optical methods
Authors: Pustovoit V , Gladyshev V , Kauts V , Morozov A , Gorelik V , Fomin I , Portnov D , Sharandin E , Kayutenko A
Published: June 2020

In this paper, various types of sources of gravitational waves are considered. The use of the effect of mutual conversion of electromagnetic and gravitational waves in a nonlinear optical dielectric medium is proposed as a promising method for creating a source of gravitational-wave radiation.
Exact solutions of the nilpotent Dirac equation
Authors: Rowlands P , Rowlands S
Published: June 2020

Only a few exact solutions are known for quantum mechanical equations, and some of these tend to be complicated, requiring special mathematical techniques and multiple particular cases. The relativistic nilpotent Dirac equation has the virtue of allowing highly streamlined solutions for all the existing solvable problems and also adding others not solvable analytically by any other method.
Study of the dependence of the spatial structure of the optical response of a microsatellite on its speed and orbit height
Authors: Gladyshev V O , Strunin A G , Kayutenko A V , Portnov D I
Published: June 2020

The paper considers the problem of optical radiation propagation in a passive laser reflector satellite orbiting the Earth, along with reflected signal formation at the earth surface. In these conditions, the optical system will be significantly affected by moving media optics, which may interfere with the possibility of receiving the signal reflected by the satellite. The paper aims to develop a mathematical simulation taking into account the effects of moving media optics and track the spatiotemporal structure of the signal as a function of the optical system velocity.
On the metrizability of the affine connectivity space and the unified theory of fundamental interactions
Authors: Koryukin V M , Koryukin A V
Published: June 2020

We propose the background connectivity interpret as the empirical connectivity, received as the particular case of the transition operator, which had been by induced by the collision integral. Approximating the transition operator by the differential operator we shall demand minimum variance of the given operator from the transition operator for the definition of the metric tensor. As a result we receive with the help of the variation formalism the differential equation of the regression, solving of which can find the metric tensor. By the help of the given tensor we receive the Christoffel symbols. Using the metric tensor and the Christoffel symbols can construct both the Einstein gravitation theory and the Chernikov gravitation theory with the two connectivity’s. Constructing the empirical connectivity theory we shall use the generalized functions, that implies the change of the space-time topology.
The use illumina sequencing technique in studying rumen bacteria diversity of Bali cattle given a feed comprised of elephant grass and rice straw
Authors: Munir  , Ako A , Syahrir S , Natsir A
Published: June 2020

The diversity of rumen bacteria in ruminant animals is highly determined by various factors, including the age and the breed of the animal as well as the feed consumed. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the diversity of rumen bacteria of Bali cattle due to the provision of ration consisted of rice straw and elephant grass as a basal diet. Three adult Bali cattle were given a ration consisted of rice straw and elephant grass ad libitum for four weeks before taking the rumen fluid samples. In addition to the basal diet, each animal was also given a concentrate at the rate of 0.5% of the body weight. Rumen fluid samples were analyzed for pH, NH3 and VFA, while the diversity of the rumen bacteria was determined by the Illumina Sequencing technique. The results of the study showed that rumen conditions of the animal were ideal for the growth of the rumen bacteria, indicated by the value of rumen pH, NH3, and VFA of 6.8, 156.7 mg/L, and 114.3 mmol/L, respectively. Furthermore, based on SILVA taxonomy, two dominant phyla, i.e., Bacteroidetes and Firmicutes, were successfully identified in this study. At the genera level, the most dominant group identified was Prevotella 1, followed by the Christencenellaceae R-7 group. The analysis also showed the existence of an uncultured rumen bacterium with a percentage of 6.98%. In conclusion, the feed provided for the animal was good enough to support the growth of rumen bacteria and the Illumina sequencing technique used in this particular study was able to identify the existence of dominant rumen bacteria as well as the uncultured rumen bacterial of Bali cattle under such feeding conditions.
Influence of different vermicompost levels on growth, yield and quality of forage Sorghum (Sorghum bicolor L. Moench )
Authors: Nohong B , Rinduwati  , Yusuf M
Published: June 2020

The objective of this study was to determine the effect of vermicompost fertilizer level on growth, dry matter yield and quality of sorghum (Sorghum
bicolor (L.) Moench)). This study was arranged using a split-plot in time trial design with the main plot of each main harvest and the level of application of vermicompost fertilizer as subplots. The vermicompost fertilizer were : P0= 0 kg vermicompost/ha (0 kg N/ha, 0 kg P2O5/ha, 0 kg K2O/ha); P1 = 5.000 kg vermicompost/ha (30.5 kg N/ha, 11 kg P2O5/ha, 41 kg K2O/ha); P2 =10.000 kg vermicompost/ha (61 kg N/ha, 22 kg P2O5/ha, 82 kg K2O/ha); P3= 15.000 kg vermicompost/ha (91.50 kg N/ha, 33 kg P2O5/ha, 123 kg K2O/ha), respectively. The variables in this study included the plant height, dry matter yield, crude protein, crude fiber, NDF and ADF. The results showed that if the vermicompost fertilizer dosage was increased the plant height, dry matter yield and crude protein would increase, but did not affect the crude fiber, NDF and ADF. Regrowth (ratoon) influences plant height and dry matter yield, while crude protein and crude fiber and ADF do not affect. It can be concluded that applying vermicompost fertilizer significantly increased growth, dry matter yield and significantly affected crude protein, while regrowth resulted in lower growth and dry matter yield.
Effectivenes of Lactobacillus plantarum 1UHCC bacteria in partial hydrolysis of goat bone in producing gelatin
Authors: Hasma  , Abustam E , Malaka R , Said M I , Nahariah N , Laga A
Published: June 2020

Gelatin was obtained from the bones of goats that are hydrolyzed in several stages. In the initial stage, immersion is carried out using an acid solution so that the goat’s bones can be partially hydrolyzed and the connective tissue of the bone becomes loose so that the gelatin can be easily extracted. Partial hodrolysis in goat bones using chemical acids has been widely used but very few utilize biological acids produced by Lactic Acid Bacteria (BAL), specificallyLactobacillus plantarum. Therefore, it is necessary to grow lactic acid bacteria in maintenance media to produce lactic acid as a preservative in the bones. This study aimed to obtain preliminary information to determine the ability ofL. Plantarum1UHCC to degrade goat bone protein soaked in MRSB media. The indicators measured were lactic acid, pH, total bacteria, and total dissolved protein with different soaking times. This was conducted according to a completely randomized design (CRD) with three treatment duration of fermentation (24, 48 and 72 h, repectively) and three replications. The results showed that there was a significant effect (P<0.01) of the fermentation time on lactic acid, pH, total bacteria, dissolved protein value. Lactic acid concentration at 24 h fermentation time was 0.954±0.001% and this values was decreased to 0.821±0.092% after fermented for 48 h, but showed a significant increase at 72 h (0.942±0.002%). The pH value at 24-hour incubation were 5.413±0.015 then increased to 6.600±0.044 at 48 h of incubation; and decreased to at 72 h 6.303±0.266 at 72 h. Total bacterial values showed an increase in fermentation time of 24 h, 48 h and 72 h respectively were 8.248±0.196; 9.475±0.274 ; 9666±0.236 (log10CFU/mL). The value of dissolved protein showed an increase of 31.170±0.120 mg/mL; 31.183±0.101 mg/mL; 32.707 ±0.115mg/mL. This study indicated that 72 h fermentation time showed better quality of partial hydrolysis in goat bones.
Characteristics of duck farmers moving from Pinrang regency to Sidrap regency, Indonesia
Authors: Hastang  , Sirajuddin S N , Asnawi A , Kadir S , Mahyuddin
Published: June 2020

This study aimed to determine the characteristics of duck farmers who move from Pinrang regency to Sidrap regency. This study was conducted from January to March 2017 in Pinrang regency and Sidrap regency, South Sulawesi, Indonesia. The study population was all the farmers who maintained post-harvest ducks, a totally 412 breeders. The population in this study was all duck farmers. The number of samples used in this study was 80 respondents. The data used is quantitative which the data in the form of numbers or figures related to the current study. The data was primary and secondary data, both of them were quantitative and qualitative. Data analysis was frequency distribution. The results showed that the characteristics of duck breeders moving from Pinrang to Sidrap, i.e. more men than women, productive age, the education level of respondents was elementary school or even uneducated, the general experience of farmers was 9–12 year.
Level of competitiveness of cattle fattening business in Gowa Regency
Authors: Nurlaelah S , Hastang  , Insani A N , Hasrin  , Magfirah N
Published: June 2020

This study aims to determine the level of competitiveness of beef cattle fattening business in Gowa Regency, South Sulawesi Province. This research was conducted in March 2018. Sources of data from primary data and secondary data. Analyis data with PAM(Policy Analysis Matrix). The results showed that the cattle fattening business in Gowa Regency had a competitiveness at South Sulawesi Province and provides benefits in its management and with government support
Effect of intrinsic factors on farmers’ willingness to pay on the success of artificial insemination of Bali cattle
Authors: Ningsi R , Asnawi A , Abdullah A
Published: June 2020

Willingness to pay (WTP) or willingness to pay is the willingness of individuals to issue rewards for services they obtain. WTP analysis is used to find out how far each farmer is willing to pay or spend money in the context of compensation for inseminator services according to the desired conditions. Usually, inseminators receive operational costs from farmers, but in an unspecified or voluntary amount. This study aims to determine the amount of breeders PAP value on Artificial Insemination (AI) of Bali cattle and examine what factors influence the PAP of farmers. This research was conducted in Libureng district, Bone regency. Data analysis using multiple linear regression analysis. The research results show that Factor age, length of education, knowledge about IB, have a significant effect on the WTP of farmers.
Farmer performance in beef cattle production Intibona Village, Indonesia
Authors: Amrawaty A A , Hastang  , Sumarni
Published: June 2020

This study aims to understand the performance of breeders in beef cattle farming in the Tibona Village, Bulukumpa District, Bulukumba Regency. This research was conducted between May and July 2019. The samples for this study was drawn based on purposive sampling method. This research located in the most populated beef cattle in Bulukumba Regency which has the largest number of beef cattle populations, 2252. The population in this study were beef cattle breeders in Tibona Village, Bulukumpa district, Bulukumba Regency as many as 350 populations. There are seven hamlets in Tibona Village, each of which has two farmers/livestock groups while each group consist of 25 farmers. The research used descriptive analysis. The results of this study regarding the Performance of Farmers in Beef Cattle business in Tibona Village, Bulukumpa sub-district, District of Bulukumba, showed that overall, the performance of breeders in Tibona Village included in the category of good performance.
Touch-induced mechanical strain in somatosensory neurons is independent of extracellular matrix mutations inCaenorhabditis elegans
Authors: Nekimken Adam L. , Pruitt Beth L. , Goodman Miriam B.
Published: June 2020

We visualized and measured touch-induced mechanical strain in somatosensory neurons in vivo and found that mutations affecting links between the extracellular matrix and the touch receptor neurons had little effect on strain transmission. The findings suggest that bulk tissue mechanics play an important role in transmitting the energy carried in a touch.
You’re From … Where, Again? A Critical Assessment of Institutional Diversity in the Society for Epidemiologic Research
Authors: Bovbjerg Marit L , Misra Dawn , Snowden Jonathan M
Published: June 2020

The Society for Epidemiologic Research (SER) has recently taken laudable steps toward increasing diversity, equity, and inclusion within the society, including participation in the annual meeting. In this essay, we argue that there is one critical piece of the diversity and inclusion equation that is, however, overlooked: institution. At the 2019 Annual Meeting, a mere 8 institutions accounted for a disproportionate number of both oral concurrent sessions and symposium speakers. This lack of institutional diversity, unless addressed, will hinder SER’s ability to address other aspects of diversity, equity, and inclusion.
Methodological Issues in Population-Based Studies of Multigenerational Associations
Authors: McGee Glen , Perkins Neil J , Mumford Sunni L , Kioumourtzoglou Marianthi-Anna , Weisskopf Marc G , Schildcrout Jonathan S , Coull Brent A , Schisterman Enrique F , Haneuse Sebastien
Published: June 2020

Laboratory-based animal research has revealed a number of exposures with multigenerational effects—ones that affect the children and grandchildren of those directly exposed. An important task for epidemiology is to investigate these relationships in human populations. Without the relative control achieved in laboratory settings, however, population-based studies of multigenerational associations have had to use a broader range of study designs. Current strategies to obtain multigenerational data include exploiting birth registries and existing cohort studies, ascertaining exposures within them, and measuring outcomes across multiple generations. In this paper, we describe the methodological challenges inherent to multigenerational studies in human populations. After outlining standard taxonomy to facilitate discussion of study designs and target exposure associations, we highlight the methodological issues, focusing on the interplay between study design, analysis strategy, and the fact that outcomes may be related to family size. In a simulation study, we show that different multigenerational designs lead to estimates of different exposure associations with distinct scientific interpretations. Nevertheless, target associations can be recovered by incorporating (possibly) auxiliary information, and we provide insights into choosing an appropriate target association. Finally, we identify areas requiring further methodological development.
COVID-19 in Immunocompromised Hosts: What We Know So Far
Authors: Fung Monica , Babik Jennifer M
Published: June 2020

The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic caused by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) has caused significant morbidity and mortality for patients and stressed healthcare systems worldwide. The clinical features and outcomes of COVID-19 among immunosuppressed patients, who are at presumed risk of more severe disease but who may also have decreased detrimental inflammatory responses, are not well characterized. We review the existing literature on COVID-19 among immunocompromised populations ranging from patients with cancer and solid-organ transplant recipients to patients with HIV and those receiving immunomodulatory therapy for autoimmune disease. Patients with malignancy and solid-organ transplant recipients may be at increased risk of severe COVID-19 disease and death, whereas for those with other types of immunocompromise, current evidence is less clear. Overall, further prospective controlled studies are needed to determine the attributable risk of immunocompromising conditions and therapies on COVID-19 disease prognosis.
Infections in Patients Colonized With Extended-spectrum Beta-Lactamase-Producing Enterobacterales: A Retrospective Cohort Study
Authors: Vock Isabelle , Aguilar-Bultet Lisandra , Egli Adrian , Tamma Pranita D , Tschudin-Sutter Sarah
Published: June 2020

We investigated relative proportions of extended-spectrum beta-lactamase-producing Enterobacterales (ESBL-PE) versus non-ESBL-PE (nESBL-PE) infections in ESBL-PE colonized patients. ESBL-PE are not causative for the majority of infections in hospitalized patients colonized with ESBL-PE. Site of infection and patient-level exposures may be useful predictors of nESBL-PE infections, potentially guiding empiric treatment recommendations.
Three-dimensional crustal Vp and Vs structures beneath the southern segment of the Tan-Lu fault revealed by active source and earthquake data
Authors: Zhang Yunpeng , Wang Baoshan , Xu Tao , Yang Wei , Wang Weitao , Xu Yihe , Li Lu
Published: June 2020

The 2400-km-long Tan-Lu fault, the largest deformation zone in eastern China, plays a decisive role in the seismicity, regional tectonics and mineral deposits distributions. However, the velocity structure beneath the Tan-Lu fault, particularly in the southern segment, is poorly imaged due to the lack of local earthquakes. To obtain a high-resolution crustal structure image, we carried out an active source experiment by firing mobile airgun sources along the Yangtze River in the Anhui Province in October 2015. We manually picked 4118 P wave and 1906 Swave first arrival times from the airgun signals. We also collected 28 957 P wave and 26 257 S wave first arrival times from local earthquakes in a larger area. 3-D crustal velocity images beneath the southern segment of the Tan-Lu fault and surrounding areas are studied using traveltime tomography. Compared with the local earthquake data, the active source data provide better constraints on the upper crustal structure, which further refines the resolution of the lower-crust structure. The Vp and Vs crustal structures are consistent with the local geological settings, and earthquakes are primarily clustered near faults and are spatially correlated with low-velocity zones. Strong velocity contrasts are observed across the Tan-Lu fault zone, which is the main factor controlling local anomalies. The high Vp, Vs and Vp/Vs beneath the Qinling-Dabie orogenic belt and the Middle-Lower Yangtze River Metallogenic Belt may relate to Mesozoic lithospheric delamination and asthenospheric upwelling. These results also demonstrate that the mobile large-volume airgun sources are promising tools for 3-D crustal structure surveys.
Periodic Points and Topological Restriction Homology
Authors: Malkiewich Cary , Ponto Kate
Published: June 2020

We answer in the affirmative two conjectures made by Klein and Williams. First, in a range of dimensions, the equivariant Reidemeister trace defines a complete obstruction to removing $n$-periodic points from a self-map $f$. Second, this obstruction defines a class in topological restriction homology. We prove these results using duality and trace for bicategories. This allows for immediate generalizations, including a corresponding theorem for the fiberwise Reidemeister trace.
Friends, Fellows, and Foes: A New Framework for Studying Relational Peace
Authors: Söderström Johanna , Åkebo Malin , Jarstad Anna K
Published: June 2020

In this article, we suggest that taking a relational view of peace seriously is a fruitful avenue for expanding current theoretical frameworks surrounding peace as a concept. Paving the way for such an approach, this article conducts a review of the literature that takes on peace as a relational concept. We then return to how a relationship is conceptualized, before turning to how such components would be further defined in order to specify relational peace. Based on this framework, we argue that a peaceful relationship entails deliberation, non-domination, and cooperation between the actors in the dyad; the actors involved recognize and trust each other and believe that the relationship is either one between legitimate fellows or one between friends. The article clarifies the methodological implications of studying peace in this manner. It also demonstrates some of the advantages of this approach, as it shows how peace and war can coexist in webs of multiple interactions, and the importance of studying relations, and how actors understand these relationships, as a way of studying varieties of peace.
A logistic model for age-specific COVID-19 case-fatality rates
Authors: Gao Xiang , Dong Qunfeng
Published: June 2020

To develop a mathematical model to characterize age-specific case-fatality rates (CFR) of COVID-19. Based on 2 large-scale Chinese and Italian CFR data, a logistic model was derived to provide quantitative insight on the dynamics between CFR and age. We inferred that CFR increased faster in Italy than in China, as well as in females over males. In addition, while CFR increased with age, the rate of growth eventually slowed down, with a predicted theoretical upper limit for males (32%), females (21%), and the general population (23%). Our logistic model provided quantitative insight on the dynamics of CFR.
Determination of Lactose in Lactose-Free and Low-Lactose Milk, Milk Products, and Products Containing Dairy Ingredients by the LactoSens®R Amperometry Method: First Action 2020.01
Authors: Halbmayr-Jech Elisabeth , Kittl Roman , Weinmann Patrick , Schulz Christopher , Kowalik Anna , Sygmund Christoph , Brunelle Sharon
Published: June 2020

Background

The AOAC Stakeholder Panel on Strategic Food Analytical Methods approved Standard Method Performance Requirements (SMPR®) 2018.009 for lactose in low-lactose or lactose-free milk, milk products, and products containing dairy ingredients. The LactoSens®R Method is a biosensor assay kit developed for the determination of lactose in a variety of lactose-free or low-lactose milk, dairy, and infant formula products produced with yeast-neutral lactases.

Objective

In response to a call for methods, the LactoSensR method was validated in a single laboratory study with comparison to SMPR 2018.009.

Method

The LactoSensR method was evaluated for calibration, interference, repeatability, recovery, and robustness. In a method comparison study samples naturally containing low levels of lactose were evaluated using LactoSensR and an accredited high-performance anion-exchange chromatography with pulsed amperometric detection.

Results

Calibration with lactose standard solutions was shown to be linear and the method was shown to be free of interference from a variety of sugars, vitamins, alcohols, flavorings, and other compounds. Matrix studies, including 85 spiked materials, 55 products naturally containing lactose, and 13 reference materials, resulted in RSDr of 0–10.5% at 8–100 mg lactose/100 g and 0.2–5.4% at >100 mg lactose/100 g for milk and dairy products and 1.0–6.8% for infant formula, in compliance with SMPR 2018.009 with few exceptions. Recovery was 85.0–110.3% at 8–100 mg lactose/100 g and 85.6–109.7% at >100 mg lactose/100 g for milk and dairy products and 91.1–97.0% for infant formula, also meeting the performance requirements with few exceptions. The method was shown to be robust to changes in ambient temperature, sample temperature, and sample volume.

Conclusions

The LactoSensR method compares favorably with the requirements of SMPR 2018.009 and should be adopted as a First Action AOAC Official MethodSM.

Highlights

The LactoSensR method is a fast, easy-to-use method that meets the requirements of SMPR 2018.009.
Role of Apis cerana cerana N-terminal asparagine amidohydrolase (AccNtan1) in oxidative stress
Authors: Zhao Guangdong , Wang Chen , Wang Ying , Wang Lijun , Xu Baohua , Guo Xingqi
Published: June 2020

N-Terminal asparagine amidohydrolase is a component of the ubiquitin-dependent N-end rule pathway of protein degradation that has been implicated in a variety of physiological functions, including the sensing of heme, oxygen, nitric oxide, selective elimination of misfolded proteins and the repair of DNA. We identified the Apis cerana cerana N-terminal asparagine amidohydrolase (AccNtan1) gene from A. cerana cerana and investigated its role in oxidation resistance. Multiple sequence alignments and phylogenetic analysis revealed that N-terminal asparagine amidohydrolase is highly conserved in insect species. Quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction analysis indicated that the expression levels of AccNtan1 were significantly lower in the wing, honey sac and abdomen than in other tissues and were significantly higher in early stages of development, including the larva, prepupa and pink-eyed pupa stages, than in later stages. We further observed that AccNtan1 expression was induced by several environmental stressors, including aberrant temperature, H2O2, UV, heavy metals and pesticides. Moreover, a bacteriostatic assay suggested that overexpression of AccNtan1 enhances the resistance of bacteria to oxidative stress. In addition, knockdown of AccNtan1 using RNA interference significantly affected the expression levels of most antioxidant genes and the activity levels of several antioxidant enzymes. Thus, we hypothesize that AccNtan1 plays important roles in environmental stress responses and antioxidative processes.
Risk factors for lymph node metastasis of ovarian, fallopian tube and primary peritoneal cancer in hereditary breast and ovarian cancer syndrome
Authors: Mitamura Takashi , Sekine Masayuki , Arai Masami , Shibata Yuka , Kato Momoko , Yokoyama Shiro , Yamashita Hiroko , Watari Hidemichi , Yabe Ichiro , Nomura Hiroyuki , Enomoto Takayuki , Nakamura Seigo ,   the Registration Committee of the Japanese HBOC Consortium
Published: June 2020

Background

To establish an individualized surgical strategy for lymphadenectomy in ovarian cancer patients with the germline BRCA1 and BRCA2 pathogenic variants (BRCA1+ and BRCA2+), we investigated the clinicopathological characteristics that are involved in the increased risk of lymph node metastasis.

Methods

We retrospectively reviewed the data of Japanese women registered in the database of the Japanese Hereditary Breast and Ovarian Cancer Consortium, who underwent BRCA1 and BRCA2 genetic testing.

Results

We evaluated the predictors of lymph node metastasis in all patients with the information of age at the diagnosis, disease site, histological subtype, 2014 FIGO stage, personal breast cancer history and family history; 233, 153 and 32 patients in the BRCA− (no pathogenic variant), BRCA1+ and BRCA2+ groups, respectively. The prevalence of lymph node metastasis was not markedly different between BRCA− (20.0%), BRCA1+ (18.4%) and BRCA2+ (26.2%). Multivariate analysis revealed an absence of a family history of ovarian cancer as an independent predictor for an increased risk of lymph node metastasis in BRCA1+, and the prevalence of lymph node metastasis was 11.7 and 42.0% in the groups with and without a family history of ovarian cancer, respectively. This subgroup without a family history of ovarian cancer did not show any correlation with a particular variant of BRCA1, including two common variants of c.188 T > A and c.2800C > T.

Conclusions

This study suggested that certain genetic factors related to the penetrance of hereditary breast and ovarian cancer syndrome altered the frequency of lymph node metastasis in BRCA1+ ovarian cancer, and family history may be useful to personalize the indication of lymphadenectomy.