bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Long-term spectral responsivity stability of predictable quantum efficient detectors
Authors: Porrovecchio G , Linke U , Smid M , Gran J , Ikonen E , Werner L
Published: September 2022

The stability of induced junction silicon photodiodes used to construct the predictable quantum efficient detector (PQED) has been studied over a time period of a decade by measurements of its spectral responsivity against absolute cryogenic radiometers (CR) in two independent laboratories at CMI and PTB. PQEDs operated at room temperature show a long-term temporal stability within 150 ppm over a broad spectral range during a 10-year period, well within the range of the claimed measurement uncertainty values of the CRs. This long term stability fulfills one of the fundamental requirements to establish a new primary standard for the measurement of power of optical radiation.
Spectral actions for q-particles and their asymptotics
Authors: Ciolli Fabio , Fidaleo Francesco
Published: September 2022

For spectral actions consisting of the average number of particles and arising from open systems made of general free q-particles (including Bose, Fermi and classical ones corresponding to q = ±1 and 0, respectively) in thermal equilibrium, we compute the asymptotic expansion with respect to the natural cut-off. We treat both relevant situations relative to massless and non relativistic massive particles, where the natural cut-off is 1/β = k
B
T and

1
/

β

, respectively. We show that the massless situation enjoys less regularity properties than the massive one. We also treat in some detail the relativistic massive case for which the natural cut-off is again 1/β. We then consider the passage to the continuum describing infinitely extended open systems in thermal equilibrium, by also discussing the appearance of condensation phenomena occurring for Bose-like q-particles, q ∈ (0, 1]. We then compare the arising results for the finite volume situation (discrete spectrum) with the corresponding infinite volume one (continuous spectrum).
Exponentially small quantum correction to conductance
Authors: Oliveira Lucas H , Bento Pedro H S , Novaes Marcel
Published: September 2022

When time-reversal symmetry is broken, the average conductance through a chaotic cavity, from an entrance lead with N
1 open channels to an exit lead with N
2 open channels, is given by N
1
N
2/M, where M = N
1 + N
2. We show that, when tunnel barriers of reflectivity γ are placed on the leads, two correction terms appear in the average conductance, and that one of them is proportional to γ

M
. Since M ∼ ℏ
−1, this correction is exponentially small in the semiclassical limit. We derive this term from a semiclassical approximation, generally expected to give only leading orders in powers of ℏ. Even though the theory is built perturbatively both in γ and in 1/M, the final result is exact.
Bioethanol Production from Waste Paper: An Alternative Energy Source
Authors: Egbe Zimife M. , Nwinyi Obinna C. , Ahuekwe Eze F. , George Dango Z.
Published: September 2022

Bioethanol is one of the best alternative form of energy source in place of fossil fuels. In this study, bioethanol was produced from waste paper following a pre-treatment. The isolates used were isolated from fresh palm wine and characterized via standard microbiological methods. The pre-treatment was done using 5%, 10% and 50% concentrations of sulphuric acid and sodium hydroxide respectively. Results obtained showed that the concentration of glucose from the substrates ranged between 0.2-0.8 ppm with 10% sulphuric acid giving the highest glucose yield. The fermentation of the sugar was carried out usingSaccharomyces cerevisiaefor the production of bioethanol, which was recovered by fractional distillation. From this study, the production of bioethanol from waste paper is a veritable means of shoring up energy deficit especially in the developing countries.
Effects of Glyphosate and Butachlor Herbicides Concentrations on Resident Culturable Bacterial Populations from Surface Water Sources in Makurdi: A Microcosm Study
Authors: Ichor T. , Ityonah B. L. , Asoo M. T. , Ahuekwe E. F.
Published: September 2022

The effect of different concentrations of herbicides on bacterial isolates from various surface water sources was undertaken. The research was aimed at the isolation, identification and characterization of bacteria from selected surface water sources, in order to ascertain the effects of varying concentrations of herbicides on resident bacterial populations. Samples were obtained from five different surface water sources and sediments in Makurdi, using sterilized plastic containers. The herbicides used were Butachlor and Glyphosphate ammonium salt with Rid-over’s trade name (500, 250, 125, 62.5 and 31.5 mg). Both herbicides were spiked in the volume of water samples to reflect the recommendation of the manufacturer). The bacteriological analysis of the samples prior to spiking with the herbicides indicated that, Afuko stream had the highest total heterotrophic bacteria (THB) count of 4.55x107cfu/mL; River Benue 3.45x107cfu / mL; Akighir stream 3.0x107cfu / mL; whereas Mu river and Jamu stream had the lowest total heterotrophic bacteria count of 2.36x107cfu / mL and 2.31x107cfu/mL respectively. The isolates from the water sources in the order of highest percentage occurrences included; Escherichia coli 24(21.7%); Bacillus sp 22(21.2%); Salmonella sp 20(17.6%); Pseudomonas sp 17(15.0%); Proteus sp 16(14.1%) and Staphylococcus aureus 14 (12.3%) before spiking with the herbicides. The number of bacteria colonies increased as the days increased after spiking at different concentrations of the herbicides though colony counts were higher at lower concentrations than higher concentrations. The bacteria isolates have shown resistance to herbicides, which implies biogenic elements for their physiological processes.
Evaluation of Building Materials Using Energy Efficiency Criteria in Selected Museums in South-West Nigeria
Authors: Fadayiro A. A. , Ekhaese O. N. E.
Published: September 2022

Energy efficiency ensures reduced energy for heating and cooling space, lower maintenance requirements, reduce the cost of running a building, and improve users’ comfort in a space. The amount of energy used by building materials is an essential factor in defining the energy efficiency of the building. This study evaluates the building materials used in selected south-western museums using energy efficiency criteria to identify materials that comply with energy-efficient criteria, which would be recommended to ensure energy-efficient materials are adopted by Museum buildings. The study’s objective is to identify the existing energy-efficient materials used in Museums and evaluate the identified building materials in terms of energy efficiency. The study methodology employed is qualitative, engaging case studies and observation guides to determine the materials used in existing museums. The materials identified were evaluated using the energy-efficient criteria provided by Yüksek [1]. The sample size consists of materials used in selected national Museums of southwest Nigeria. The results derived from the case studies identified the materials used in the selected Museums and their level of energy efficiency, which affects the maintenance and the overall cost for running the Museum. The results from the study identified a total of eleven materials. It was shown from the results that while four of the eleven materials complied fully with the energy-efficient criteria, the other materials did not comply fully with the energy-efficient criteria. This study recommends that more materials that comply with energy-efficient criteria be adopted to improve energy efficiency in buildings. Professionals in the built environment should focus more on energy-efficient materials to ensure an energy-efficient building
Investigation of Architects’ Awareness of Green Building Technologies in Lagos Metropolis
Authors: Opoko A. P. , Obiakor C. J. , Odutayo A. A. , James O. A.
Published: September 2022

There is a growing concern about the negative impacts of buildings on the environment and the need to reduce them. Several studies have identified the relevance of green building strategies in this regard. Architects play vital roles throughout the lifespan of a building, from its conception to its demolition or conversion to other uses. It is in the light of this that this study examined the degree to which architects in the Lagos metropolis are aware of green building technologies. The objectives of the study included identification of the socio-economic characteristics of architects in the study area; investigation of their level of awareness of green building technologies; and to ascertain implementation of green building technologies in building projects by architects in the study area. A structured questionnaire was used to collect data from a sample consisting of 296 registered architects in the study area. The data obtained from this research was analyzed using the Statistical Product for Services and Solutions (SPSS). The findings revealed that architects in the Lagos metropolis have a general understanding of green building technologies but however, they have not implemented many of the technologies in their building projects. Ranking of level of awareness of the technologies investigated showed that architects in the study area were most aware of solar energy systems and least aware of energy efficient windows. Similarly, ranking of implementation of the technologies revealed that daylighting strategies were mostly used while biofuel systems were least used by architects in the study area. The study also showed that the major factor inhibiting architects from implementing green building technologies was clients’ resistance. Based on these findings, the paper recommends an intensive awareness drive to increase clients’ knowledge of the enormous benefits of green building technologies over conventional technologies.
Assessment of Lighting Strategies in Art Galleries: A Comparative Case Study of Selected Art Galleries in Lagos State
Authors: Ekhaese E. N. , Solaja A. O.
Published: September 2022

Light is so important in our everyday lives that it effects user experiences of spaces as well as the user’s overall well-being for a large portion of the day in the built environment. Lighting, among the other aspects that make up the design of spaces, is an important characteristic in a building because it is the primary means of appreciating art and culture. The study aimed to assess purposively selected art galleries as the basis for determining the best lighting strategies to be adopted in the design of an art gallery in Lagos, Nigeria. This study addressed two key objectives – identify the existing lighting strategies used in the assessed art galleries to recommend the best lighting strategies to be used and ascertain how the lighting strategies are implemented. A qualitative research method using case study approach was employed in the research. Content and narrative analyses were used to analyse data. Findings show a significant need for daylight to be implemented alongside artificial lighting in an art gallery. The results align with current global trends towards sustainability.
A Survey of User’s Perception of Urban Parks in Ibeju-Lekki, Lagos State
Authors: Okunlola P. O. , Aduwo B. E. , Omotoye O. T. , Anjorin T. O.
Published: September 2022

Urban green spaces in cities have been attributed to both an ecologically sustainable environment and the well-being of urban residents, thereby improving their quality of life. The positive effects of urban green spaces on individuals, on the other hand, is usually dependent on the extent of these green spaces and their uses. The level of satisfaction with existing urban parks can be assessed based on parameters such as accessibility, safety, and relevant available facilities. The aim of this study is to examine user’s perception of urban parks in ibeju-lekki, Lagos state. The key objective of the study is to determine the design strategies implemented in the design of an urban park; access users’ perception based on the determined design strategies implemented in the selected urban parks. In this research, users of selected urban parks within ibeju-lekki were surveyed to properly investigate their perception of these urban parks in respect to already established survey criteria. Data was gathered through questionnaires, and users were randomly selected across the selected urban parks. The data gathered was analyzed using SPSS and content analysis, and the analyzed data was presented using tables and charts. From the study, it was found that users’ perception of urban parks usually affects their continual use, this is referring to the urban resident rate of patronage of the urban parks. Therefore, to improve resident rate of usage of urban parks, it is important to improve on the design strategies adopted in urban parks.
Development and Performance Evaluation of a Solar Powered Tomatoes Storage Chamber
Authors: Orovwode Hope , Afolabi Gbenga , Agbetuyi Felix , Adoghe Anthony , Adeyemi-Kayode Temitope M. , Elizabeth Amuta
Published: September 2022

Fresh vegetables and fruits, most of which are perishable, are known to be good sources of nutrients supplements with health benefits. Tomatoes fruits fall into this category of food supplements. However, the post-harvest losses associated with tomatoes fruits have greatly reduced the profitability of its farming and have even scared some farmers away from producing it. To reduce the losses and encourage tomatoes farming, this study designed, constructed, and evaluated the performance of a solar-powered electronic storage chamber for tomatoes fruits. In the performance evaluation, the weight, firmness, ripening index, and rate of spoilage of tomatoes fruits stored, within six weeks, at room temperature and atmospheric humidity and in the storage chamber were analyzed and compared per week. The results showed that the weight and firmness of the test experiment deteriorated by 24.87% and 20.83% respectively while that of the control experiment deteriorated by 50.59% and 79.68% respectively. Also, the percentage of cumulative spoilage for the test and control experiment was estimated to be 23.32 and 68.84 respectively showing a significant reduction in the rate of spoilage when the tomatoes were stored in the chamber.
Assessment of Physicochemical Parameters in Selected Water Bodies in Oyo and Lagos States
Authors: Bilewu O. F. , Ayanda I. O. , Ajayi T. O.
Published: September 2022

Sustainable provision of safe access to potable water has continued to be a major challenge across the world. Water samples were collected from water bodies at Awba Dam and National Horticulture Research Institute (NIHORT) in Ibadan, Oyo State and the Ogun River in Lagos State. The aim of this study was to gauge the conditions of these frequently used water bodies. The locations were selected based on surrounding population and activities. Sampling was done in the months of April and June, 2021. The physicochemical parameters analysed were pH, electrical conductivity (EC), salinity, total dissolved solids (TDS), chloride, biochemical oxygen demand (BOD) and dissolved oxygen (DO). Average salinity value ranged between 0.2675 ± 0.14 mg/L (UI) and 0.6735 ± 0.22 mg/L (Berger). These values are quite high and significant when compared to the threshold level of 0.0000001 mg/L. Of the three sampling points, the samples obtained from Awba Dam at the University of Ibadan seem to have the better quality in relative terms. This follows from the BOD and TDS values of 3.75 ± 0.28 mg/L and 259.7 ± 156.89 mg/L respectively. This study shows that the mismanagement of our waters through unrestrained and unrestricted dumping of contaminants into it has caused these water bodies to have poor quality and should not be used for the purpose of consumption unless properly treated. The presence of aquatic plants that take in some of these pollutants and release oxygen may also help improve quality.
Debt Sustainability and Economic Growth in Nigeria
Authors: Matthew A. O. , Adetayo A. O.
Published: September 2022

This study examines the effect of debt sustainability on Nigeria’s economic growth. In contrast to previous studies, this study takes a holistic approach that considers both domestic and external debt, as well as debt service payments. The study used yearly data that covered a period of forty years (1981 - 2020). Consequently, the non-linear autoregressive distributed lag (NARDL) econometric technique was used to decompose the effects of the debt variables into their positive and negative effects to ascertain if the inconsistent results documented by previous studies could be attributed to undetected asymmetries. The study established that Nigeria’s total debt stock and debt service payments had a considerable short-run effect on the economic growth of the country, but that only a reduction in total debt stock is important for long-run economic growth in the country. It was discovered that an increase in total debt stock initially has a terrible impact on economic growth, but that it has a positive impact after one year. On the other hand, the short-run effect of a total debt stock decrease is found to be consistently positive for all lags. Concerning debt service payment, the short-run effect showed that economic growth decreases when debt service payment increases and economic growth increases when debt service payment decreases. In the long-run, only a decrease in the total debt stock decreases economic growth significantly. From Recommendations from this study state that debt accumulation should be used to increase the country’s production capacity by increasing investments in infrastructure (e.g., power and better transportation networks) and to improve human capital development as these would help maximize the social gains from debt.
Sustainable Socio-Economic Welfare and Agricultural Employment in ECOWAS: Is there a Non-Linear Relationship?
Authors: Owolabi Oluwarotimi A. , Umehruo Chinyere H. , Aderounmu Busayo , Rotimi Mercy O. , Osabuohien Evans S.
Published: September 2022

Agriculture is central to welfare especially in the context of developing countries which include those of ECOWAS, however among those individuals’ dependent on agriculture for their livelihood are those living in poverty and earning low incomes amongst other living standards. On the other hand, sustainable socio-economic welfare is not given much attention in the welfare literature compared to other welfare categorisations such as socio-economic welfare and economic welfare. This study explores the effect of agricultural employment on sustainable socio-economic welfare as well as the possibility of a non-linear relationship between the aforementioned variables in a balanced panel of Fifteen ECOWAS member countries. Human Sustainable Development Index (HSDI) was used as proxy for Sustainable socio-economic welfare, while the proportion of employed individuals realising a living from agriculture is the measure for agricultural employment. The results from utilising panel data fixed effects estimation show that agricultural employment adversely and significantly resulted in sustainable socio-economic welfare declining while the hypothesis of non-linear relationship between the aforementioned variables was not supported. Consequently, the study recommends that ECOWAS member country governments in raising welfare levels focus necessarily on sustainable socio-economic welfare rather than socio-economic welfare that has been the traditional focus of welfare efforts. Also ECOWAS country governments should ensure that agriculture sector interventions effectively target the poor and vulnerable households relying on agriculture for their livelihood.
Rinser Machine and the Dynamics-based Failure Analysis for Spur Gear Fault Detection: A Forensic Review
Authors: Orhevba Amanda O. , Salawu Enesi Y. , Ajayi Oluseyi O. , Inegbenebor Anthony O. , Leramo Richard O. , Dirisu Joseph O. , Afolalu Sunday A.
Published: September 2022

Gear fault detection and its severity is essential for analyzing the availability, maintainability and reliability of rinser machines. The occurrence of multiple failures of gears and their analysis is becoming more challenging, thereby causing the increased unavailability of rinser machines. This study reviewed the rinser machine and its various advantages and disadvantages, including the problems associated with the machine. More so, various types of failures associated with the spur gears were studied, and it was established that the detection and the diagnosis of gear faults would inform a maintenance planner on scheduled maintenance. Thus, the absence of failure detection will cause uncontrolled machine breakdown and, consequently, result in unsafe operation as well as a loss of productivity. The study concludes and recommends grey cast iron as alternative material that could reduce chemical failure and failure resulting from fatigue.
Expert Opinions on Assisted Migration and Ecosystem Pushing in Coral Reefs
Authors: Mertz Edith Maria , McDonald Anne
Published: September 2022

Assisted migration is becoming a hot topic in view of the growing impacts of climate change on ecosystems. One area where assisted migration and its cousin ecosystem pushing could have increasing importance is in coral restoration, but marine scientists’ opinions on the ethics and feasibility of assisted migration and ecosystem pushing in coral conservation has not been assessed. Surveys and interviews were conducted with coral research practitioners to determine the field’s receptibility to such techniques. Thematic network analysis revealed that support for ecosystem pushing was mixed. Several management guidelines followed from the analysis. A grounded theory statement on ecosystem pushing was produced that serves as a starting point for managers to consider the complexity and implications of the action.
Inland Waterway Transport in Vietnam: Strategies to Improve Transportation Efficiency during COVID-19 Pandemic
Authors: Dang Xuan-Kien , Tran Tien-Dat , Tran Mai-Huong , Pham Thi Duyen-Anh
Published: September 2022

On a global scale, the COVID-19 pandemic had quite a negative influence on society, the economy, transportation, and the environment. There will be an eruption of covid-19 in Vietnam, especially in 2021, which would impair internal freight transit. Restricting road and aviation travel to inland waterways is an extreme strategy to deal with the situation. This paper examines the Vietnam national inland waterway transportation infrastructure, highlighting the outstanding problems. Finally, some solutions were proposed to fully utilize the transportation industry’s capabilities during and after the pandemic.
Evaluation of the Behavior of Climatic Elements in the Mantaro Valley from 2000 to 2020, Department of Junín.
Authors: Sandoval F M , Mucha L F , Platero I Y
Published: September 2022

In recent years, climate change has doubled its impact worldwide due to different anthropogenic activities, altering the climatic variability of atmospheric elements and meteorological phenomena that play a relevant role in establishing life on the planet. Thus, the behaviour of climatic elements was evaluated and analysed between the period 2000-2020 in the provinces of Chupaca, Huancayo and Concepción del Valle del Mantaro, by means of the synoptic climatology method using MATLAB software to process hydrometeorological data (TX, TI, RR and RH) provided by SENAMHI. The behaviour of these variables resulted in an increase from -0.5°C to 6°C of TI, TX increased the value of the year 2000-2020 with a +6°C and the amplitude of the values of the distribution of the whisker box, regarding RR from the year 2011-2020 the value of 500 mm decreased to 200 mm in the station “F” while the value of RH decreased and was maintained in the station “C, B, A” because there was no significant increase in temperature to heat the air. Thus, the analysed data evidences and reinforces the variation of the climate system in the values of TX, TI, RR and RH.
Suitability of Sandstone Rocks as Cladding Stones (Riprap) for Riverbank Protection, from Injana Formation, Northern Iraq
Authors: Rawee Loai Moussa , Mohamed Ahmed Ibraheem , Kheder Muhand Essa
Published: September 2022

This research aims to test the Suitability of Sandstone rocks taken from Injana formation in the Al-Shirqat region (Northern Iraq), as cladding stones for riverbank protection, where the Injana formation in addition to the quaternary sediments are mainly exposed in the study area. For this purpose, three stations were chosen representing the exposed study area where sandstone layers are located. Petro-physical examinations and mechanical geotechnical investigation are undertaken. The Petro-physical examinations showed that the absorption rate ranges between (1.13 - 1.16) %, and the dry density ranges between (1.75 - 1.82) g/cm3, while the Specific gravity ranged between (2.59 - 2.64). The mechanical properties results showed that the values of uniaxial compressive strength ranges between (7.97 - 12.28) MPa and mechanical abrasion (82.3 - 89.2) %, and the values of chemical abrasion ranged between (8.7-12.3) %. By comparing these properties with the National Center for Construction Laboratories and Research standards (NCCLR), It was found that they were within the limits of the standard except for the values of mechanical abrasion, it falls outside the specifications. Also, according to Florida Department of Transportation Standards (FDOT) that compared with, the properties of sandstone rocks are not suitable for cladding purposes because the property of mechanical abrasion falls outside the limits of the standard, and when comparing the properties of the Sandstone with American standards (ASTM), It turned out to be within the limits of the specification.
Tectonostratigraphic Evolution of the Western Desert of Iraq
Authors: Alhadiathy Abdul Hameed A. , Najar Isam
Published: September 2022

The study area is in the northern part of the Western Desert of Iraq. From the conclusion of Paleozoic and Mesozoic basins and their distribution according to the available geological (outcrops and boreholes) and geophysical data (seismic, gravity and magnetic interpretations controlled by geological data), it is found that, Triassic- Jurassic (and sometimes Cretaceous) basins are found closely related to the basic or ultrabasic basement (for example Anah, Tilul, and Ras Al-Fahama basins). These basins were formed by isostatic adjustment during the extension phase that took place in the Early Mesozoic (may be Triassic or Jurassic) which caused subsidence of heavy parts (basic or ultrabasic) of the basement. From the style and thickness of sediments it is clear that the northern and eastern parts of the area exhibit evidence of a tendency for uplift during Paleozoic times (forming ridges or horsts) and down-warping during the Mesozoic times (forming basins or grabens). While in contrast the western part of the area exhibits evidence or tendency for down-warping during Paleozoic forming basin or graben (as in Gaara basin) and uplift during the Mesozoic times.
3D Petrophysical Modeling of Mauddud Formation at Ratawi Oil Field, Southern Iraq
Authors: Hameed Humam Q. , Saleh Afrah H.
Published: September 2022

3D Petrophysical model for Mauddud Formation in Ratawi oilfield had been created. Five wells have been chosen in Basra governorate to construct Structural and petrophysical (effective porosity, water saturation and Net /Gross) models. Structural model showed that Ratawi oilfield composed of one anticline fold, where its axis extends toward North to South. After creating zones for Mauddud Formation, which was divided into 5 zones i.e. A, B, C, D and E zone. Layers were built for each zone according to petrophysical properties. A, B and D units were divided in 1 layers as a barrier, While the unit B was divided into 25 layers and the unit D was divided into 15 layers because it represents reservoir zones. The 3D grid of Mauddud Formation model that was built consists of (841295) cell and each cell have dimensions I =91 * J =215 * K =43. Finally, Petrophysical models (effective porosity, water saturation and Net /Gross) had been constructed for each zone of Mauddud Formation. Based on data analyses and results from modelling, the B then D is a important reservoir unit in terms of its good properties (high effective porosity, low water saturation) and increase in production periods from the thickness of the total reservoir.
Modular assembly of bioprinted perfusable blood vessel and tracheal epithelium for studying inflammatory respiratory diseases
Authors: Nam Hyoryung , Choi Yoo-mi , Cho Sungkeon , Gao Ge , Kim Donghwan , Kim Jongmin , Choi Hwanyong , Lee Se-Hwan , Jang Jinah
Published: September 2022

In vitroorgan models allow for the creation of precise preclinical models that mimic organ physiology. During a pandemic of a life-threatening acute respiratory disease, an improved trachea model (TM) is required. We fabricated a modular assembly of the blood vessel and TMs using 3D bioprinting technology. First, decellularized extracellular matrix (dECM) were prepared using the porcine trachea and blood vessels. A trachea module was fabricated based on the tracheal mucosa-derived dECM and microporous membrane. Further, a blood vessel module was manufactured using the prepared vascular-tissue-derived dECM. By assembling each manufactured module, a perfusable vascularized TM simulating the interface between the tracheal epithelium and blood vessels was fabricated. This assembled model was manufactured with efficient performance, and it offered respiratory symptoms, such as inflammatory response and allergen-induced asthma exacerbation. These characteristics indicate the possibility of manufacturing a highly functional organ model that mimics a complex organ environment in the future.
Efficient data acquisition and training of collisional-radiative model artificial neural network surrogates through adaptive parameter space sampling
Authors: Garland Nathan A , Maulik Romit , Tang Qi , Tang Xian-Zhu , Balaprakash Prasanna
Published: September 2022

Effective plasma transport modeling of magnetically confined fusion devices relies on having an accurate understanding of the ion composition and radiative power losses of the plasma. Generally, these quantities can be obtained from solutions of a collisional-radiative (CR) model at each time step within a plasma transport simulation. However, even compact, approximate CR models can be computationally onerous to evaluate, and in-situ evaluation of these models within a larger plasma transport code can lead to a rigid bottleneck. As a way to bypass this bottleneck, we propose deploying artificial neural network (ANN) surrogates to allow rapid evaluation of the necessary plasma quantities. However, one issue with training an accurate ANN surrogate is the reliance on a sufficiently large and representative training and validation data set, which can be time-consuming to generate. In this work we explore a data-driven active learning and training routine to allow autonomous adaptive sampling of the problem parameter space to ensure a sufficiently large and meaningful set of training data is assembled for the network training. As a result, we can demonstrate approximately order-of-magnitude savings in required training data samples to produce an accurate surrogate.
Stress deprivation of tendon explants or Tpm3.1 inhibition in tendon cells reduces F-actin to promote a tendinosis-like phenotype
Authors: Inguito Kameron L. , Schofield Mandy M. , Faghri Arya D. , Bloom Ellen T. , Heino Marissa , West Valerie C. , Ebron Karl Matthew M. , Elliott Dawn M. , Parreno Justin
Published: September 2022

Mechanical stress deprivation results in actin depolymerization in tendons. Tendon cell F-actin is stabilized by tropomyosin isoform 3.1 (Tpm3.1). Inhibition of Tpm3.1 results in pathological changes reminiscent of tendinosis.
EagleImp: fast and accurate genome-wide phasing and imputation in a single tool
Authors: Wienbrandt Lars , Ellinghaus David
Published: September 2022

Motivation

Reference-based phasing and genotype imputation algorithms have been developed with sublinear theoretical runtime behaviour, but runtimes are still high in practice when large genome-wide reference datasets are used.

Results

We developed EagleImp, a software based on the methods used in the existing tools Eagle2 and PBWT, which allows accurate and accelerated phasing and imputation in a single tool by algorithmic and technical improvements and new features. We compared accuracy and runtime of EagleImp with Eagle2, PBWT and prominent imputation servers using whole-genome sequencing data from the 1000 Genomes Project, the Haplotype Reference Consortium and simulated data with 1 million reference genomes. EagleImp was 2–30 times faster (depending on the single or multiprocessor configuration selected and the size of the reference panel) than Eagle2 combined with PBWT, with the same or better phasing and imputation quality in all tested scenarios. For common variants investigated in typical genome-wide association studies, EagleImp provided same or higher imputation accuracy than the Sanger Imputation Service, Michigan Imputation Server and the newly developed TOPMed Imputation Server, despite larger (not publicly available) reference panels. Additional features include automated chromosome splitting and memory management at runtime to avoid job aborts, fast reading and writing of large files and various user-configurable algorithm and output options. Due to the technical optimizations, EagleImp can perform fast and accurate reference-based phasing and imputation and is ready for future large reference panels in the order of 1 million genomes.

Availability and implementation

EagleImp is implemented in C++ and freely available for download at https://github.com/ikmb/eagleimp.

Supplementary information

Supplementary data are available at Bioinformatics online.
CGV: Cancer Genome Viewer, a web service for integrative cancer genome and pharmacogenomic data analysis
Authors: Choi Ji-Hye , Choi Hui-Seon , Cho Seong-Ho , Lee Ji-Hye , Woo Hyun Goo
Published: September 2022

Motivation

Multi-omic profiling data, such as The Cancer Genome Atlas and pharmacogenomic data, facilitate research into cancer mechanisms and drug development. However, it is not easy for researchers to connect, integrate and analyze huge and heterogeneous data, which is a major obstacle to the utilization of cancer genomic data.

Results

We developed Cancer Genome Viewer (CGV), a user-friendly web service that provides functions to integrate and visualize cancer genome data and pharmacogenomic data. Users can easily select and customize the samples to be analyzed with the pre-defined selection options for patients’ clinic-pathological features from multiple datasets. Using the customized dataset, users can perform subsequent data analyses comprehensively, including gene set analysis, clustering or survival analysis. CGV also provides pre-calculated drug response scores from pharmacogenomic data, which may facilitate the discovery of new cancer targets and therapeutics.

Availability and implementation

CGV web service is implemented with the R Shiny application at http://cgv.sysmed.kr and the source code is freely available at https://git.sysmed.kr/sysmed_public/cgv.

Supplementary information

Supplementary data are available at Bioinformatics online.
Establishment of a useful in vitro decidual induction model using eCG-primed nonpregnant mouse endometrial stromal cells
Authors: Kim Ji Eun , Lee Min Young , Kang Min-Ji , Byun Jihyun , Jo Jeong Bin , Yang Hye-Yeong , Kim Jong-Hoon , Lee Kyung-Ah , Cheon Yong-Pil
Published: September 2022

Uterine endometrial differentiation is essential for developmental continuity and female health. A convenient in vitro model mimicking the physiological status is needed to effectively evaluate implantation and uterine response mechanisms. Thus, we developed a promising in vitro model, the FSS (FSH mimic-stimulated synchronized) model, by using primary mouse uterine stromal cells (mUSCs) obtained from equine chorionic gonadotropin (eCG)-primed mice. These mUSCs could be differentiated into decidualized cells with 17 beta-estradiol (E2) and progesterone (P4). The pregnancy day 4 (PD4) model, in which mUSCs are obtained at day 4 of pregnancy, was used as a control. The cell shape index and polyploidy rates were similar between the two models. The staining intensities of lipids and glycogen were significantly higher in the induced groups in both models but stronger in the FSS model than in the PD4 model. The expression levels of AP-TNAP, cathepsin L, Prl8a2, Gja1, Cebpb, and Igfbp1 were increased at 24 h after decidual induction. PR-alpha and PR-beta levels were also increased at 24 h after decidual induction in both models. These results indicate that the FSS model provides a convenient method for obtaining USCs that are usable for various experimental approaches due to their physiological competence and flexibility for triggering induction. This may serve as a model system for the study of pathogeneses originating from the endometrium or communication with other tissues and lead to a better understanding of embryo implantation mechanisms. Furthermore, the results of this study will be integral for further refinements of 3D uterine culture manipulation techniques.
Angela’s Story of Childhood Sexual Abuse
Authors: Ajayi Chinyere Elsie
Published: September 2022

The aim of this article was to gain an in-depth understanding of one woman’s experiences of childhood sexual abuse (CSA). The analysis presented in this article is grounded in the voice-centred relational or the listening guide (LG) method of narrative analysis developed by Gilligan and colleagues. The LG is an analytical framework that allows for the systematic consideration of the many voices embedded in a person’s story. Analysis illuminates (1) how the religious practice of ‘spiritual baths’ served as a risk factor for the CSA Angela experienced and (2) how the patriarchal family structure and gendered expectations provided the contexts for the perpetration of CSA and the silencing of her voice. Angela speaks of her on-going struggles with her experiences of CSA, a voice which represents her voice of psychological distress. Nonetheless, her coping strategies are understood through her voice of resilience speaking of embracing her Christian faith and the role of motherhood in her journey to resilience. Findings highlight the need for effective safeguarding policies within religious settings, and for social workers to apply cultural sensitivity when working with or planning intervention for Nigerian children who experience CSA.
Systematic Mapping and Review of Landscape Fire Smoke (LFS) Exposure Impacts on Insects
Authors: Liu Yanan , Francis Robert A , Wooster Martin J , Grosvenor Mark J , Yan Su , Roberts Gareth
Published: September 2022

Landscape fire activity is changing in many regions because of climate change. Smoke emissions from landscape fires contain many harmful air pollutants, and beyond the potential hazard posed to human health, these also have ecological impacts. Insects play essential roles in most ecosystems worldwide, and some work suggests they may also be sensitive to smoke exposure. There is therefore a need for a comprehensive review of smoke impacts on insects. We systematically reviewed the scientific literature from 1930 to 2022 to synthesize the current state of knowledge of the impacts of smoke exposure from landscape fires on the development, behavior, and mortality of insects. We found: (1) 42 relevant studies that met our criteria, with 29% focused on the United States of America and 19% on Canada; (2) of these, 40 insect species were discussed, all of which were sensitive to smoke pollution; (3) most of the existing research focuses on how insect behavior responds to landscape fire smoke (LFS); (4) species react differently to smoke exposure, with for example some species being attracted to the smoke (e.g., some beetles) while others are repelled (e.g., some bees). This review consolidates the current state of knowledge on how smoke impacts insects and highlights areas that may need further investigation. This is particularly relevant since smoke impacts on insect communities will likely worsen in some areas due to increasing levels of biomass burning resulting from the joint pressures of climate change, land use change, and more intense land management involving fire.
Making Good and Breaking Bad: Materiality and Community in Netherlandish Cities, 1380–1520
Authors: Coomans Janna
Published: September 2022

This article discusses community formation at a neighbourhood level from a material-spatial perspective. It argues that a wholesome, safe, ‘good’ living environment required both social harmony and well-functioning material (infra-) structures. Neighbours’ conflicts, mined from the court records of five cities in the late medieval Low Countries, provide the evidence for two main themes. The first concerns making things, especially houses and their attendant facilities, and the second breaking things: acts of deliberate destruction within living environments, and by implication, breaking communal peace. Neighbours took on diverse roles, among which their more material commitments have remained especially underexplored by historians. Yet the shared use, construction and upkeep of facilities and infrastructure around domestic spaces, which were of high value, had considerable influence on power relations and social interactions. Groups of neighbours participated in legal validation processes and offered physical help to each other, but also policed local social order and bad behaviour. The latter often involved damaging material constructions. Such informal communities thus acted as links to more formalised urban structures and organisations, and as foundations from which the latter could develop. Their interactions with central urban governments were more multidirectional and contested than has often been assumed. Understanding the social-material dynamic at the neighbourhood level therefore reveals an important layer in pre-modern urban politics.
Congenital cystic adenomatoid malformations of the lung: a retrospective study of diagnosis, treatment strategy and postoperative morbidity in surgically treated patients
Authors: Verhalleman Quinten , Richter Jute , Proesmans Marijke , Decaluwé Herbert , Debeer Anne , Van Raemdonck Dirk
Published: September 2022

OBJECTIVES

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the diagnosis of, clinical signs of and strategy for congenital cystic adenomatoid malformations (CCAM).

METHODS

In this retrospective study, patients who had thoracic surgery for CCAM lesions at the University Hospitals of Leuven from July 1993 to July 2016 were identified. Data on diagnosis, prenatal ultrasound findings, clinical signs, lesion site, CCAM type, associated anomalies, imaging, surgical approach and postoperative morbidity were reviewed. The Fisher exact and Mann–Whitney tests were used as appropriate.

RESULTS

A total of 55 patients were identified with CCAM. In 65% (n = 36/55), CCAM was detected on prenatal ultrasound scans. Prenatal symptoms due to hydrops or mass effect were present in 22% (n = 8/36), 6 of whom eventually needed prenatal intervention (thoracoamniotic shunting or intrauterine puncture). Elective surgery was performed in 40% of patients (n = 22/55); others developed clinical signs that indicated the need for semi-urgent surgery, with clinical signs of pulmonary infection and respiratory distress being the most common. Most patients had a single lobectomy via a minithoracotomy. Postoperative complications and length of stay were significantly higher in patients with CCAM with preoperative clinical signs.

CONCLUSIONS

Surgery in asymptomatic patients with CCAM can be performed safely with few postoperative complications and can be planned at a young age in patients with a high risk of developing clinical signs later in life.
SpanishHTTgene study reveals haplotype and allelic diversity with possible implications for germline expansion dynamics in Huntington disease
Authors: Ruiz de Sabando Ainara , Urrutia Lafuente Edurne , Galbete Arkaitz , Ciosi Marc , García Amigot Fermín , García Solaesa Virginia ,   Spanish HD Collaborative group, Martínez Victoria Álvarez , Martinez-Descals Asunción , Mila Montserrat , Trujillo-Tiebas Maria José , López-Sendón Jose Luis , Fenollar-Cortés María , Legarda Inés , Noguera Sara Bernal , Millán Jose M , Durán-Herrera Camen , Monckton Darren G , Ramos-Arroyo Maria A
Published: September 2022

We aimed to determine the genetic diversity and molecular characteristics of the Huntington disease (HD) gene (HTT) in Spain. We performed an extended haplotype and exon one deep sequencing analysis of the HTT gene in a nationwide cohort of population-based controls (n = 520) and families with symptomatic individuals referred for HD genetic testing. This group included 331 HD cases and 140 carriers of intermediate alleles. Clinical and family history data were obtained when available. Spanish normal alleles are enriched in C haplotypes (40.1%), whereas A1 (39.8%) and A2 (31.6%) prevail among intermediate and expanded alleles, respectively. Alleles ≥ 50 CAG repeats are primarily associated with haplotypes A2 (38.9%) and C (32%), which are also present in 50% and 21.4%, respectively, of HD families with large intergenerational expansions. Non-canonical variants of exon one sequence are less frequent, but much more diverse, in alleles of ≥27 CAG repeats. The deletion of CAACAG, one of the six rare variants not observed among smaller normal alleles, is associated with haplotype C and appears to correlate with larger intergenerational expansions and early onset of symptoms. Spanish HD haplotypes are characterized by a high genetic diversity, potentially admixed with other non-Caucasian populations, with a higher representation of A2 and C haplotypes than most European populations. Differences in haplotype distributions across the CAG length range support differential germline expansion dynamics, with A2 and C showing the largest intergenerational expansions. This haplotype-dependent germline instability may be driven by specific cis-elements, such as the CAACAG deletion.
The GBA variant E326K is associated with alpha-synuclein aggregation and lipid droplet accumulation in human cell lines
Authors: Smith Laura J , Bolsinger Magdalena M , Chau Kai-Yin , Gegg Matthew E , Schapira Anthony H V
Published: September 2022

Sequence variants or mutations in the GBA gene are numerically the most important risk factor for Parkinson disease (PD). The GBA gene encodes for the lysosomal hydrolase enzyme, glucocerebrosidase (GCase). GBA mutations often reduce GCase activity and lead to the impairment of the autophagy-lysosomal pathway, which is important in the turnover of alpha-synuclein, accumulation of which is a key pathological hallmark of PD. Although the E326K variant is one of the most common GBA variants associated with PD, there is limited understanding of its biochemical effects. We have characterized homozygous and heterozygous E326K variants in human fibroblasts. We found that E326K variants did not cause a significant loss of GCase protein or activity, endoplasmic reticulum (ER) retention or ER stress, in contrast to the L444P GBA mutation. This was confirmed in human dopaminergic SH-SY5Y neuroblastoma cell lines overexpressing GCase with either E326K or L444P protein. Despite no loss of the GCase activity, a significant increase in insoluble alpha-synuclein aggregates in E326K and L444P mutants was observed. Notably, SH-SY5Y overexpressing E326K demonstrated a significant increase in the lipid droplet number under basal conditions, which was exacerbated following treatment with the fatty acid oleic acid. Similarly, a significant increase in lipid droplet formation following lipid loading was observed in heterozygous and homozygous E326K fibroblasts. In conclusion, the work presented here demonstrates that the E326K mutation behaves differently to the common loss of function GBA mutations; however, lipid dyshomeostasis and alpha-synuclein pathology are still evident.