bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Pole analysis of EIT-AT spectrum with Rydberg atoms
Authors: Shi Meng , Jiao Yuechun , Zhao Jianming
Published: October 2021

We investigate the electromagnetically induced transparency (EIT) and Autler Townes (AT) splitting spectrum with a four-level Rydberg atom by pole analysis of the probe coherence. A pair of poles corresponding to the two peaks of the spectral splitting is observed. The spectral split or the pole positions are affected by the microwave intensity (MW) and the detuning between the probe and the coupling laser. In the absence of any detuning, the two poles coincide and separate again on the imaginary axis of the complex detuning plane at weak MW field. The two poles do not coincide when the probe (coupling) laser is detuned for scanning the coupling (probe) laser frequency. However, under finite detuning, the two poles approach the nearest distance in the absence of any splitting and are separated again in the direction parallel to the imaginary axis. The spectral analysis of the poles provides an alternate way to establish the relationship between the splitting and the intensity of MW, which may play a role in the application of atomic-based MW measurements.
Design of a freeform imaging spectrometer based on a solution-diversified automatic design method
Authors: Zhang Benqi , Men Chang , Zhu Jun
Published: October 2021

A freeform imaging spectrometer design method is proposed. Only system specifications, including the slit length, numerical aperture, magnification, spectral range, and spectral resolution, are required as design inputs, and imaging spectrometer systems with various optical power distributions and structures are output. Using three-mirror imaging spectrometers as design examples, a series of initial solutions are obtained with a diffraction grating placed at the secondary mirror. In order to understand and explore the utilization of large number of output results, these initial solutions are visualized by mapping from high-dimensional solution space to three-dimensional space using the t-distributed symmetric neighbor embedding (t-SNE) dimensionality reduction algorithm; then a neural network is trained to fit the imaging qualities, showing good generalization performance, and can predict imaging quality for systems with unknown optical power distributions and structures.
Automated lens design for optical systems consisting of stock lenses
Authors: König Georg , Fu Cailing , Stollenwerk Jochen , Holly Carlo , Loosen Peter
Published: October 2021

The design of lens systems requires advanced knowledge and the mastery of highly specialized software tools. Furthermore, for the realization of the designed lens systems often custom-made lenses are needed, which are expensive and have lead times of several weeks compared to stock lenses with several days. To shorten realization time, a new approach for the automated design of lens systems consisting of stock lenses is developed. In this work, a multi-step process is described which identifies the most robust stock lens combination fulfilling prior defined requirements. The approach is realized with a computer program that can be used by a non-expert to find the most suited selection of stock lenses for a three-lens system for a set of requirements.
Active hyperspectral imager using a tunable supercontinuum light source based on a MEMS Fabry–Perot interferometer
Authors: Kääriäinen Teemu , Dönsberg Timo
Published: October 2021

We have developed an active hyperspectral imager based on a tunable near-infrared supercontinuum light source. Non-dispersive wavelength selection of the supercontinuum laser source is achieved with a microelectromechanical Fabry–Perot interferometer. The tunable light source enables the use of any monochromatic imaging sensor with a suitable spectral sensitivity for hyperspectral imaging. The imager is characterized and demonstrated in the laboratory for remote detection of ice.
Optomagnets in nonmagnetic plasmonic nanostructures: erratum
Authors: Karakhanyan Vage , Lefier Yannick , Eustache Clément , Grosjean Thierry
Published: October 2021

This erratum amends two errors in Opt. Lett.
46, 613 (2021)OPLEDP0146-959210.1364/OL.411108.
Modeling the epidemiological impact of the UNAIDS 2025 targets to end AIDS as a public health threat by 2030
Authors: Stover John , Glaubius Robert , Teng Yu , Kelly Sherrie , Brown Tim , Hallett Timothy B. , Revill Paul , Bärnighausen Till , Phillips Andrew N. , Fontaine Christopher , Frescura Luisa , Izazola-Licea Jose Antonio , Semini Iris , Godfrey-Faussett Peter , De Lay Paul R. , Benzaken Adèle Schwartz , Ghys Peter D.
Published: October 2021

Background

UNAIDS has established new program targets for 2025 to achieve the goal of eliminating AIDS as a public health threat by 2030. This study reports on efforts to use mathematical models to estimate the impact of achieving those targets.

Methods and findings

We simulated the impact of achieving the targets at country level using the Goals model, a mathematical simulation model of HIV epidemic dynamics that includes the impact of prevention and treatment interventions. For 77 high-burden countries, we fit the model to surveillance and survey data for 1970 to 2020 and then projected the impact of achieving the targets for the period 2019 to 2030. Results from these 77 countries were extrapolated to produce estimates for 96 others. Goals model results were checked by comparing against projections done with the Optima HIV model and the AIDS Epidemic Model (AEM) for selected countries. We included estimates of the impact of societal enablers (access to justice and law reform, stigma and discrimination elimination, and gender equality) and the impact of Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19). Results show that achieving the 2025 targets would reduce new annual infections by 83% (71% to 86% across regions) and AIDS-related deaths by 78% (67% to 81% across regions) by 2025 compared to 2010. Lack of progress on societal enablers could endanger these achievements and result in as many as 2.6 million (44%) cumulative additional new HIV infections and 440,000 (54%) more AIDS-related deaths between 2020 and 2030 compared to full achievement of all targets. COVID-19–related disruptions could increase new HIV infections and AIDS-related deaths by 10% in the next 2 years, but targets could still be achieved by 2025. Study limitations include the reliance on self-reports for most data on behaviors, the use of intervention effect sizes from published studies that may overstate intervention impacts outside of controlled study settings, and the use of proxy countries to estimate the impact in countries with fewer than 4,000 annual HIV infections.

Conclusions

The new targets for 2025 build on the progress made since 2010 and represent ambitious short-term goals. Achieving these targets would bring us close to the goals of reducing new HIV infections and AIDS-related deaths by 90% between 2010 and 2030. By 2025, global new infections and AIDS deaths would drop to 4.4 and 3.9 per 100,000 population, and the number of people living with HIV (PLHIV) would be declining. There would be 32 million people on treatment, and they would need continuing support for their lifetime. Incidence for the total global population would be below 0.15% everywhere. The number of PLHIV would start declining by 2023.
Supplementation of omega-3 and dietary factors can influence the cholesterolemia and triglyceridemia in hyperlipidemic Schnauzer dogs: A preliminary report
Authors: de Albuquerque Paula , De Marco Viviani , Vendramini Thiago Henrique Annibale , Amaral Andressa Rodrigues , Catanozi Sergio , Santana Kelly Gomes , Nunes Valéria Sutti , Nakandakare Edna Regina , Brunetto Marcio Antonio
Published: October 2021

Primary hyperlipidaemia in Schnauzer is characterized by increased plasma triglycerides (TG) and/or total cholesterol (TC) concentration and is associated with an increased risk of developing pancreatitis, insulin resistance and seizures. In humans, omega-3 fatty acids in addition to a low-fat diet can be used to reduce TG and TC. This study evaluated the therapeutic efficacy of omega-3 fatty acids associated to a diet management with two different fat content in Schnauzer with primary hyperlipidaemia. Eighteen dogs with primary hyperlipidaemia were divided into two groups: group 1, n = 10, 8 females, 2 males, age (mean ± standard deviation) of 7.13 ± 2.70 years and body weight (BW) (mean ± standard deviation) of 7.25 ± 1.22 kg were treated with fish oil (approximately 730 mg/day of omega-3) associated with a low-fat and low-calorie diet (approximately 24g of fat/1000 kcal) for 90 days (T90); and group 2, n = 8 dogs, 6 females, 2 males, with 7.0 ± 1.77 years old and average BW of 8.36 ± 1.51 kg, treated with fish oil (approximately 730 mg/day of omega-3) and maintenance diet with moderate amount of fat (approximately 33g of fat/1000 kcal) for 90 days. Plasma TG and TC concentrations and lipoprotein (LP) profile (VLDL, LDL, HDL) were evaluated before and after treatment. TG and TC serum concentrations, expressed in mg/dL (mean ± standard deviation), before and after treatment in group 1 were: TG = 391.30 ± 487.86 (T0) and 118.7 ± 135.21 (T90); TC = 308.2 ± 63.06 (T0) and 139 ± 36.91 (T90). As for group 2, TG = 391.63 ± 336.89 (T0) and 250.75 ± 211.56 (T90); TC = 257.25 ± 92.88 (T0) and 207.25 ± 63.79 (T90). A reduction (p<0.05) of TG and TC was observed in both groups. The distribution of TG and TC among LP was not different between the pre (T0) and post treatment (T90) periods. After 90 days of treatment, the administration of omega-3 fatty acids, associated with a low-fat or maintenance diet reduced triglyceridemia and cholesterolemia without altering LP profile. The current investigation shows that both therapies were effective in reducing plasma TC and TG concentrations without altering LP profile.
Stakeholder acceptability of the risk reduction behavioural model [RRBM] as an alternative model for adolescent HIV risk reduction and sexual behavior change in Northern Malawi
Authors: Mwale Marisen , Muula Adamson S.
Published: October 2021

We sought to assess stakeholder acceptability of a risk reduction behavioural model [RRBM] designed for adolescent HIV risk reduction and whose efficacy we tested in selected schools in Northern Malawi. We used qualitative procedures in sampling, data collection and data analysis. Our data collection instrument was the semi-structured interview and we applied thematic content analysis to establish stakeholder evaluations of the RRBM model. The study population included10 experts working within key organizations and teachers from two schools. The organizations were sampled as providers, implementers and designers of interventions while schools were sampled as providers and consumers of interventions. Individual study participants were recruited purposively through snowball sampling. Results showed consensus among participants on the acceptability, potential for scale up and likelihood of model sustainability if implemented. In essence areas to consider improving and modifying included: focus on the rural girl child and inclusion of an economic empowerment component to target the underlying root causes of HIV risk taking behavior. Stakeholders also recommended intervention extension to out of school adolescent groups as well as involvement of traditional leaders. Involvement of parents and religious leaders in intervention scale up was also highlighted. The study serves as a benchmark for stakeholder involvement in model and intervention evaluation and as a link between researchers and project implementers, designers as well as policy makers to bridge the research to policy and practice gap.
STUDY OF THE TOTAL CONTENT OF ANTIOXIDANTS, POLYSACCHARIDES, ELEMENT COMPOSITION AND AMINO ACIDS OF VEGETABLE RAW MATERIAL OF RIBES NIGRUM L.
Authors: Adzhiakhmetova Similla Leont'yevna , Chervonnaya Nadezhda Mikhaylovna , Pozdnyakov Dmitriy Igorevich , Oganesyan Eduard Tonikovich
Published: October 2021

This paper presents information on the total content of antioxidants, polysaccharides, micro and macro elements and amino acids of Ribes nigrum L. leaves. The purpose of this work is to study the chemical composition of Ribes nigrum L. leaves. The flavonoids were quantified spectrophotometrically, pectin substances gravimetrically, and the percentage of functional groups in pectin substances was carried out by the titrimetric method. The determination of the lipid-cholesterol blood profile of pectin substances isolated from of Ribes nigrum L. leaves was performed on 30 rats. The procedure for introducing solutions of the studied pectin substances and cholesterol solution were separated by a 2-hour interval. The total content of antioxidants was determined by amperometric method. The maximum content of antioxidants was revealed in the extraction of Ribes nigrum L. leaves, obtained by extraction with ethyl alcohol 50%. The content of water-soluble polysaccharides and pectin substances from of Ribes nigrum L. leaves is 2.17±0.06 and 9.91±0.28, respectively. The studied pectin substances belong to the group of low esterified pectins. The use of pectin substances from of Ribes nigrum L. leaves contributed to the correction of dyslipidemia. The sum of flavonoids in the analyzed object is 0.67±0.01%. The extraction of Ribes nigrum L. leaves obtained by extraction with purified water revealed aspartic and glutamic acids, alanine, proline, methionine and valine. Based on the data obtained, potassium predominates in the extraction from currants obtained by extraction with ethyl alcohol 70%. During the study, flavonoids, polysaccharides, amino acids, micro and macro elements of Ribes nigrum L. leaves were studied.
STUDY OF THE FLAVONOID COMPOSITION AND BIOLOGICAL ACTIVITY OF HAWTHORN`S LEAVES CRATAEGUS PONTICA
Authors: Raimova Kamola Vakhabjanova , Abdulladzhanova Nodira Gulomzhanovna , Toshpulatov Farrukh Nazimovich , Ergashev Nurali Azamovich , Matchanov Alimzhan Davlatbaevich
Published: October 2021

The results of studies of the content of polyphenolic compounds and their antioxidant activity in the Pontic hawthorn plant Crataegus pontica K.Koch., growing in the mountainous regions of the Tashkent region of the Republic of Uzbekistan are presented. The collection of raw materials took place in the spring at the beginning of October 2019 and at the end of April 2020. The conditions for the isolation of polyphenolic compounds were selected under various conditions. It was shown that the optimal content of polyphenols is extracted with 70% acetone, followed by fractionation of the aqueous residue with ethyl acetate and precipitation with hexane. It was shown that in the plants harvested in spring, the amount of polyphenols was 4.28%, and the collected volume was 2.6%, of the air-dry mass of the raw material. Chromatographic methods (BC and TLC) revealed that the composition of plant leaves collected in spring contains more polyphenols than those collected in autumn. This plant contains compounds belonging to the class of flavonols, phenolic acids and flavan-3-ols. Polyphenols were identified by rutin, quercetin, quercetin-3-O-β-galactoside, catechin, and gallic acid by BC and TLC methods.

The antioxidant activity of the sum of polyphenolic compounds was studied in the model of lipid peroxidation (LPO) in rat liver mitochondria. It was found that polyphenols have a protective effect on mitochondria, a reduced damaging effect of Fe2+ / ascorbate and antioxidant activity depends on the concentration of the studied polyphenolic substances. The introduction of rutin into the incubation medium in 5 μM medium inhibits LPO processes by 32.0%, and at 10 μM – by 85.9% and in 20 μM – by 96.8%, compared with the control.
APPLICATION OF MICROCOLUMN HPLC-UV FOR RAPID QUANTITATIVE ANALYSIS OF ARBUTIN, BERGEN-IN AND GALLIC ACID IN BERGENIA CRASSIFOLIA
Authors: Shishmareva Tat'yana Mikhaylovna , Shishmarev Vyacheslav Mikhaylovich , Olennikov Daniil Nikolayevich
Published: October 2021

This work is aimed at the development of a microcolumn HPLC-UV assay for the rapid quantitative analysis of arbutin, bergenin, and gallic acid in Bergenia crassifolia. The results obtained indicate appropriate metrological parameters of the developed assay. It was found that the known methods of quantitative analysis of phenolic glycosides using SPE-spectrophotometry cannot be characterized as selective and accurate, due to the fact that the presences of the impurity compounds that do not belong to the group of phenolic glycosides negatively influenced the results. The developed assay was used for quantitative analysis of wild and commercial samples of B. crassifolia raw material. It was found that the content of arbutin, bergenin, and gallic acid in samples of B. crassifolia rhizomes collected in the Republic of Buryatia was 38.58–45.97, 66.74–139.76 and 1.22–1.65 mg/g, respectively, and for commercial batches of raw materials 20.57–41.37, 35.04–83.94 and 0.22–1.28 mg/g, respectively. It was found that the process of gradual enzymatic changes in the color of B. crassifolia leaves (green, red, black) leads to significant changes in the chemical composition. The most pronounced phenomenon is the degradation of bergenin, the presence of which is noted only in green leaves. The concentration of gallic acid is reduced in black leaves. Arbutin is characterized by an increased content in red leaves (102.02 mg/g). Additionally, a quantitative analysis of the peduncles and flowers of B. crassifolia was realized, and it was shown that they are distinguished by a high content of arbutin 48.40 and 42.15 mg/g, respectively, as well as bergenin in flowers (16.89 mg/g). The study demonstrated that the developed technique can be applied for a quick, selective, and accurate quantitative analysis of three compounds in various organs of B. crassifolia.
FUNCTIONAL MATERIALS FROM PAPER WASTES. II. CELLULOSE HYDROGELS WITH HIGH WATER RETEN-TION CAPACITY OBTAINED FROM SOLUTIONS OF WASTE PAPER IN DMAC/LiCl
Authors: Mikhailidi Aleksandra Mikhaylovna , Kotelnikova Nina Yefimovna
Published: October 2021

An efficient process for recycling paper and cardboard wastes via dissolution in N,N-dimethylacetamide/lithium chloride (DMAc/LiCl) system and regeneration from solutions to obtain hydrogels has been developed. Pretreatment of waste paper has been carried out by thermal defibrillation of waste paper in water and homogenization to obtain fibre samples. The dissolution of fibre materials has been performed in two ways varying the process temperature and the way the reagents have been introduced. Regeneration from solutions has been carried out by spontaneous gelation without the use of antisolvents, at room temperature and atmospheric pressure. As a result, hydrogels were obtained which differed in color and transparency depending on feedstock. The physico-chemical properties of the hydrogels have been characterized. It has been shown that they were stable in an aqueous medium, capable of retaining a significant amount of water (over 4000 wt.%), and were porous systems which has been confirmed by scanning electron microscopy. According to a wide-angle X-ray scattering, the crystallographic structure of the pristine waste paper samples corresponded to a structural modification of cellulose I. Regenerated samples as freeze-dried hydrogels had the structure of cellulose II. A functional and an elemental composition studied with FTIR spectroscopy and an energy-dispersive X-ray microanalysis characterized these hydrogels as the cellulose samples containing small amount of inorganic impurities. The resulting hydrogels had a system of through pores of different sizes, and this predetermined their use as adsorbents and active matrices.
Cultivating historical consciousness in the history classroom: Uncovering the subtleties of student meaning making with the help of found poetry
Authors: Popa Nathalie
Published: October 2021

This article explores student meaning making in a Grade 11 US history unit on the Second World War. The 10-lesson unit was designed as an experiment that aimed to apply an instructional model of historical consciousness to a classroom context. Although the notion of historical consciousness has gained significant interest in the field of history education, translating it into educational practice remains a challenge. In this study, it refers to a disposition to make meaning of the past for oneself, which is manifested in three meaning-making abilities and processes (Boix Mansilla and Gardner, 2007; Nordgren and Johansson, 2015; Rüsen, 2004). To study the manifestation of historical consciousness in the learning process during this unit, I employed found poetry on collected classroom transcripts and observations, as well as student work. I turned to this qualitative, arts-informed method when I realised the analytic methods that I had employed so far failed to capture important subtleties of students’ historical consciousness emerging from the data. In this paper, I present and discuss the results of my analysis, offer a rationale for using found poetry in history education research and reflect on the need for relevant and meaningful school history.
Perbaikan Sifat Fisik dan Kimia Tanah dengan Pembenah Tanah Anting-anting, Bandotan, dan Lamtoro untuk Pertumbuhan dan Produksi Bawang Merah (Allium ascalonicum L.)
Authors: Aprisa Relita , Hastuti Endah Dwi , Suedy Sri Widodo Agung
Published: October 2021

Pembenah tanah merupakan bahan-bahan sintetis atau alami yang digunakan untuk memperbaiki sifat fisik dan kimia tanah, sehingga dapat mendukung pertumbuhan dan produksi tanaman. Anting-anting, bandotan dan lamtoro merupakan tumbuhan yang mengandung bahan organik > 5% sehingga dapat digunakan sebagai pembenah tanah. Penambahan pembenah tanah  ini diharapkan akan meningkatkan sifat fisik tanah, kimia tanah, pertumbuhan dan produksi bawang merah. Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk mengkaji pengaruh penambahan konsentrasi dan jenis pembenah tanah terhadap sifat fisik tanah, kimia tanah, pertumbuhan dan produksi bawang merah. Penelitian ini dilakukan di Kebun Percobaan Kawasan Tembalang, Laboratorium BSF Tumbuhan Jurusan Biologi FSM Universitas Diponegoro, Laboratorium Tanah Universitas Kristen Satya Wacana Salatiga. Rancangan yang digunakan adalah Rancangan Acak Lengkap (RAL) pola faktorial dengan dua faktor. Faktor yang pertama yaitu konsentrasi pembenah tanah dan faktor yang kedua yaitu jenis pembenah tanah. Masing-masing perlakuan dengan 3 ulangan. Sedangkan data kualitas kimia tanah dianalisis secara deskriptif. Hasil penelitian menunjukkan bahwa konsentrasi dan jenis pembenah tanah berpengaruh terhadap sifat fisik dan kimia tanah namun tidak berpengaruh terhadap pertumbuhan serta produksi bawang merah. Interaksi antara konsentrasi dan jenis pembenah tanah berpengaruh terhadap peningkatan kapasitas lapang tanah.  Interaksi yang memberikan pengaruh yaitu jenis pembenah Lamtoro konsentrasi 25%, 50% dan 75%, pembenah Bandotan konsentrasi 50% dan 75% serta pembenah Anting-anting konsentrasi 25%. Jenis pembenah Lamtoro konsentrasi 75% memberikan pengaruh optimal terhadap kapasitas lapang tanah. Kata kunci : pembenah tanah, Anting-anting, Bandotan, Lamtoro, Bawang merah
Perkecambahan Biji, Kandungan Pigmen Fotosintesis dan Pertumbuhan Tanaman Kacang Tunggak (Vigna unguiculata L. Walp.) pada Kondisi Naungan
Authors: Azhari Nadya Aulia , Izzati Munifatul , Saptiningsih Endang
Published: October 2021

Kacang tunggak merupakan salah satu jenis kacang yang memiliki kandungan protein tertinggi kedua setelah kedelai. Pemanfaatan yang belum optimal menyebabkan kurangnya pengembangan intensif dalam produksi kacang tunggak, termasuk dalam budidayanya. Budidaya yang dilakukan secara tumpang sari dengan tanaman lainnya menyebabkan kacang tunggak ternaungi. Naungan pada tanaman dapat menyebabkan perubahan lingkungan mikro yang berdampak pada pertumbuhan tanaman. Tujuan penelitian ini untuk mengetahui pengaruh naungan terhadap perkecambahan benih, kandungan pigmen fotosintesis dan pertumbuhan kacang tunggak. Penelitian menggunakan Rancangan Acak Lengkap (RAL) dengan faktor tunggal berupa naungan. Perlakuan terdiri dari kontrol (tanpa naungan) dan perlakuan naungan (40%). Masing-masing perlakuan dengan 3 ulangan. Parameter yang diamati berupa daya perkecambahan biji, tinggi batang, jumlah daun, waktu munculnya bunga pertama, jumlah polong, berat basah, berat kering, klorofil a, klorofil b, total klorofil dan karotenoid. Data dianalisis dengan uji T pada taraf signifikansi 5%. Hasil penelitian menunjukkan bahwa perlakuan naungan tidak berpengaruh terhadap kandungan klorofil a, klorofil b, klorofil total dan karotenoid, namun menunjukkan perbedaan yang signifikan terhadap persentase perkecambahan, tinggi tanaman, jumlah daun, durasi kemunculan bunga pertama, jumlah polong, berat basah serta berat kering tanaman. Kata kunci : kacang tunggak, naungan pigmen fotosintesis, menghindar, polong
KORELACJA ZMIAN STĘŻEŃ PYŁÓW ZAWIESZONYCH PM10 Z TYPAMI CYRKULACJI ATMOSFERYCZNEJ W KONINIE W LATACH 2012–2016
Authors: Karczewska Kaja , Kolendowicz Leszek , Półrolniczak Marek , Forycka–Ławniczak Hanna
Published: October 2021

The subject of the paper is the influence of atmospheric circulation on the content of suspended PM10 in the air in Konin. For this purpose dust concentrations from the period 2012–2016 were generally characterized. PM10 particulate matter concentration average hourly data were obtained from the Main Inspectorate of Environmental Protection website. Based on these data, long-term, seasonal and daily changes in the PM10 concentration in the atmosphere were investigated. The study analysed the daily variability of the PM10 suspended particulate matter concentration to present seasonal differences (in hot and cold seasons). In order to determine the influence of atmospheric circulation on the PM10 particulate matter concentration, the concentration levels data were compared with the types of circulation prevailing on the same day. In this study according to synoptic maps the days with maximum and minimum concentrations PM levels were analysed. It was found which type of meteorological circulation is conducive to higher levels concentrations of particulate matter PM10, and which has a positive effect on the quality of the air in Konin.
Causal Priority in Metaphysics Θ.8
Authors: Meadows Katherine
Published: October 2021

Aristotle’s Metaphysics Θ.8 argument for the priority of actuality to potentiality poses an immediate interpretive problem: the argument uses two distinct tests for priority, one of which threatens to reverse the results of the other. This paper argues that the standard approach to this passage, according to which one thing is prior to another when it satisfies the ontological independence test from Metaphysics Δ.11, fails to secure the argumentative unity of the passage. It introduces a new, causal account of priority which explains both Aristotle’s claims about priority and the way he argues for them.
Exploration of novel biomarkers for hypertensive disorders of pregnancy by comprehensive analysis of peptide fragments in blood: their potential and technologies supporting quantification
Authors: Araki Yoshihiko , Miura Yoshiki , Fujiwara Hiroshi
Published: October 2021

Among the many complications associated with pregnancy, hypertensive disorders of pregnancy (HDP) constitute one of the most important. Since the pathophysiology of HDP is complex, new disease biomarkers (DBMs) are needed to serve as indicators of disease activity. However, in the current status of laboratory medicine, despite the fact that blood pressure measurement has been used for a long time, not many DBMs contribute adequately to the subsequent diagnosis and treatment. In this article, we discuss studies focusing on peptide fragments in blood identified by comprehensive quantitative methods, among the currently proposed DBM candidates. Furthermore, we describe the basic techniques of peptidomics, especially quantitative proteomics, and outline the current status and challenges of measuring peptides in blood as DBM for HDP.
Restructuring IUPAC at the Turn of the 20th Century
Authors: Becker Edwin D. , Van Tiggelen Brigitte
Published: October 2021

Around the turn of the century IUPAC undertook a major restructuring. Commissions, which had been the heart of IUPAC’s scientific work for most of its 80-year history, were virtually eliminated and largely replaced with a system of peer-reviewed projects [1, 2, 3]. Brigitte Van Tiggelen asked Ted Becker, Secretary General in that key transition period (1996-2003) and a central figure in the restructuring effort, to reflect on the rationale for this significant change and to describe just what was done.
One House for €1: Case Studies on the Governance of Abandoned Properties in Small Villages
Authors: Pera Alessandra
Published: October 2021

This proposal aims at analyzing the Italian initiative “Case a 1 €” launched in 2009 for the preservation of abandoned goods, in Gangi, a small village near Palermo. The Municipality has put for sale the ruined houses for the symbolic prize of 1 €. As this initiative has been imitated by other municipalities in Italy and thus become a model, my intention is to explore how it works based on two different levels of investigation, in terms of: 1) contractual schemes (parties and respective rights and obligations) and 2) policy choices, comparing proposed and achieved goals by the administrations and the parties. Some relevant issues arise after 12 years: is the initiative an appropriate answer for the management of abandoned properties, both private and public? Is it an effective instrument to undermine the idea that such properties are a burden? Can they become a resource for collective, social and economic development? Is it a model to regain cultural identity revitalizing the small, abandoned centers, promoting inclusion, participation and environmental sustainability? I will use both inductive and deductive methods, examining and comparing some case studies in Sicily, among those municipalities that adopted this policy (Cammarata, Sambuca, Gangi, Itala, Salemi, Regalbuto, Mussomeli and Saponara). In order to investigate level 1), I will identify the contractual frames and documents provided online by the Municipalities administrations. To find answers on level 2), I will analyze (when available) the number of goods transferred from private parties to Municipalities and of those finally assigned to the final buyer. I will interview the administration’s civil servants and the final buyers to understand if their expectations (private and collective) have been satisfied.
Reviewing the Indonesian Anticorruption Court: A Cost-Effective Analysis
Authors: Ramadhan Choky Risda
Published: October 2021

As part of anticorruption reform, the Indonesian Anticorruption Court Law 2009 mandated the establishment of 514 anti-corruption courts in every city. The Indonesian Supreme Court, however, could only establish 34 courts. Three factors that explain this delay: (1) a lack of budget to fund the court; (2) the limited number of people with the integrity and capacity to serve as ad hoc judges; and (3) distrust from citizens regarding the conviction rate and corruption that occurred within the anticorruption court. Some activist and legal scholars proposed either to evaluate or even abolish the anticorruption court. This article contributes in evaluating the newly created court. There are two indicators, cost per case and collection of monetary penalty that could serve as the basis of cost-effectiveness analysis of the Indonesian Anticorruption Court. As a preliminary review, the prosecution of the crime of corruption is cost-effective if the cases had been prosecuted by the Anticorruption Agency (KPK). Alternative policies based on cost-effectiveness are proposed to improve the performance of the anticorruption court without sacrificing resources.
The tribological properties of single-layer hybrid PTFE/Nomex fabric/phenolic resin composites underwater
Authors: Ying Liu , Gengyuan Gao , Dan Jiang , Zhongwei Yin
Published: October 2021

In this study, the tribological properties of hybrid polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE)/Nomex fabric/phenolic resin composites were investigated under three operating conditions: dry sliding, dry sliding after soaking in water for 12 h, and water dripping lubrication. The friction coefficient (COF) was measured with a pin-on-disk tribometer. The wear surface was analyzed with a scanning electron microscope. The results show that water weakens the tribological properties of single-layer hybrid PTFE/Nomex fabric/phenolic resin composites. The fabric composites show slight abrasive wear with stable COF under dry sliding conditions, significant abrasive wear with oscillating COF after soaking, and destruction with severely oscillating COF under water dripping lubrication. Generally, water weakens the effect in two ways. The first is weakening the binding force between phenolic resin and Nomex fiber. The second is that Nomex fiber absorbs water and expands, which reduces its strength. Finally, the ideas to improve the tribological properties under water dripping lubrication are presented.
Menschen unterscheiden. Grundlinien einer Theorie der Humandifferenzierung
Authors: Hirschauer Stefan
Published: October 2021

Dieser Aufsatz entwickelt ein analytisches Vokabular für die Erforschung von Prozessen der Humandifferenzierung – einer Form kultureller Differenzierung, die neben Formen sozialer und gesellschaftlicher Differenzierung wirkt und ihre Ansatzpunkte in unterstellten ‚Eigenschaften‘ von Menschen findet. Der Beitrag unterscheidet verschiedene Stufen der Humandifferenzierung: zunächst die elementaren Prozesse der vorsprachlichen Unterscheidung, der Kategorisierung, der materiellen Dissimilierung und der Klassifikation. Dann arbeitet er vier Besonderheiten der Humandifferenzierung heraus: die Agentivität und Relationalität ihrer Objekte, die Perspektivität von Selbst- versus Fremdkategorisierung sowie ihr besonderes Potenzial für Asymmetrien – ihre Entfaltungen in Wir/die-Alterisierungen sowie in unterschiedlichen Modi asymmetrischen Unterscheidens (Distinktion, Devaluierung, Diskriminierung und Stigmatisierung). Prozesse der Humandifferenzierung können durch ihre Verschränkung mit Formen sozialer und gesellschaftlicher Differenzierung in Grenzbildung und Polarisierung eskalieren, sie können aber auch praktisch minimiert, normativ eingehegt und institutionell abgeschwächt werden.
Bildung um jeden Preis? Über den Zusammenhang zwischen fehlender Gymnasialempfehlung und Entwicklung von Kompetenzen, Lebenszufriedenheit und anderer Faktoren in der Sekundarstufe
Authors: Bittmann Felix
Published: October 2021

Bildung ist ein zentraler Prädiktor des beruflichen Erfolgs. Da dies Eltern bekannt ist, versuchen sie meistens ihren Kindern den Gymnasialbesuch zu ermöglichen, da dort der höchste Bildungsabschluss erworben werden kann. Dazu wird mitunter die Übergangsempfehlung ignoriert. Wie sich dies auf die weitere Entwicklung des Kindes auswirkt, ist bisher nur unzureichend bekannt. Die folgenden Analysen demonstrieren mittels Mehrebenen-Wachstumskurvenmodellen, dass SchülerInnen ohne Empfehlung häufiger das Gymnasium ohne Abschluss verlassen, signifikant schlechtere Kompetenzen aufweisen und diese Differenzen auch nach mehreren Schuljahren in der Sekundarstufe nicht aufholen können. Zudem berichten sie ein geringeres Wohlbefinden und lesen weniger gerne. Die Gesundheit sowie Fehltage sind jedoch nicht beeinflusst. Schließlich kann in Mediationsanalysen gezeigt werden, dass diese Nachteile besonders durch die unzureichenden akademischen Leistungen erklärt werden können.
Tonic GABAAReceptor-Mediated Currents of Human Cortical GABAergic Interneurons Vary Amongst Cell Types
Authors: Field Martin , Lukacs Istvan P. , Hunter Emily , Stacey Richard , Plaha Puneet , Livermore Laurent , Ansorge Olaf , Somogyi Peter
Published: October 2021

Persistent anion conductances through GABAAreceptors (GABAARs) are important modulators of neuronal excitability. However, it is currently unknown how the amplitudes of these currents vary among different cell types in the human neocortex, particularly among diverse GABAergic interneurons. We have recorded 101 interneurons in and near layer 1 from cortical tissue surgically resected from both male and female patients, visualized 84 of them and measured tonic GABAAR currents in 48 cells with an intracellular [Cl–] of 65 mmand in the presence of 5 μmGABA. We compare these tonic currents among five groups of interneurons divided by firing properties and four types of interneuron defined by axonal distributions; rosehip, neurogliaform, stalked-bouton, layer 2–3 innervating and a pool of other cells. Interestingly, the rosehip cell, a type of interneuron only described thus far in human tissue, and layer 2–3 innervating cells exhibit larger tonic currents than other layer 1 interneurons, such as neurogliaform and stalked-bouton cells; the latter two groups showing no difference. The positive allosteric modulators of GABAARs allopregnanolone and DS2 also induced larger current shifts in the rosehip and layer 2–3 innervating cells, consistent with higher expression of the δ subunit of the GABAAR in these neurons. We have also examined how patient parameters, such as age, seizures, type of cancer and anticonvulsant treatment may alter tonic inhibitory currents in human neurons. The cell type-specific differences in tonic inhibitory currents could potentially be used to selectively modulate cortical circuitry.

SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENTTonic currents through GABAAreceptors (GABAARs) are a potential therapeutic target for a number of neurologic and psychiatric conditions. Here, we show that these currents in human cerebral cortical GABAergic neurons display cell type-specific differences in their amplitudes which implies differential modulation of their excitability. Additionally, we examine whether the amplitudes of the tonic currents measured in our study show any differences between patient populations, finding some evidence that age, seizures, type of cancer, and anticonvulsant treatment may alter tonic inhibition in human tissue. These results advance our understanding of how pathology affects neuronal excitability and could potentially be used to selectively modulate cortical circuitry.
Long-Range Respiratory and Theta Oscillation Networks Depend on Spatial Sensory Context
Authors: Sheriff Andrew , Pandolfi Guinevere , Nguyen Vivian S. , Kay Leslie M.
Published: October 2021

Neural oscillations can couple networks of brain regions, especially at lower frequencies. The nasal respiratory rhythm, which elicits robust olfactory bulb oscillations, has been linked to episodic memory, locomotion, and exploration, along with widespread oscillatory coherence. The piriform cortex is implicated in propagating the olfactory-bulb-driven respiratory rhythm, but this has not been tested explicitly in the context of both hippocampal theta and nasal respiratory rhythm during exploratory behaviors. We investigated systemwide interactions during foraging behavior, which engages respiratory and theta rhythms. Local field potentials from the olfactory bulb, piriform cortex, dentate gyrus, and CA1 of hippocampus, primary visual cortex, and nasal respiration were recorded simultaneously from male rats. We compared interactions among these areas while rats foraged using either visual or olfactory spatial cues. We found high coherence during foraging compared with home cage activity in two frequency bands that matched slow and fast respiratory rates. Piriform cortex and hippocampus maintained strong coupling at theta frequency during periods of slow respiration, whereas other pairs showed coupling only at the fast respiratory frequency. Directional analysis shows that the modality of spatial cues was matched to larger influences in the network by the respective primary sensory area. Respiratory and theta rhythms also coupled to faster oscillations in primary sensory and hippocampal areas. These data provide the first evidence of widespread interactions among nasal respiration, olfactory bulb, piriform cortex, and hippocampus in awake freely moving rats, and support the piriform cortex as an integrator of respiratory and theta activity.

SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENTRecent studies have shown widespread interactions between the nasally driven respiratory rhythm and neural oscillations in hippocampus and neocortex. With this study, we address how the respiratory rhythm interacts with ongoing slow brain rhythms across olfactory, hippocampal, and visual systems in freely moving rats. Patterns of network connectivity change with behavioral state, with stronger interactions at fast and slow respiratory frequencies during foraging as compared with home cage activity. Routing of interactions between sensory cortices depends on the modality of spatial cues present during foraging. Functional connectivity and cross-frequency coupling analyses suggest strong bidirectional interactions between olfactory and hippocampal systems related to respiration and point to the piriform cortex as a key area for mediating respiratory and theta rhythms.
EFFECT OF CHITOSAN FILM SURFACE STRUCTURE ON THE CONTACT ANGLE
Authors:   Research Network Łukasiewicz - Institute of Biopolymers and Chemical Fibres,, Jagodzińska Sylwia , Pałys Beata , Wawro Dariusz ,   Institute of Security Technologies “MORATEX”
Published: October 2021

The aim of this study was to evaluate the influence of the surface microstructure of chitosan films on the contact angle. Films without plasticising additives made of chitosan or regenerated chitosan were selected for the tests. A sessile drop method based on the European Pharmacopoeia was used to determine the contact angle. Due to the method of film production, the contact angle measurements were made on both the top and bottom surfaces of the film. For chitosan or regenerated chitosan films, the method of preparation slightly affected the difference in wettability between the top and bottom of the films, as confirmed by scanning electron microscopy. On the other hand, the wettability of the top and bottom of cellulose films varied greatly depending on the side of the film. Both chitosan and cellulose films had a homogeneous structure. There were differences in the microstructure between the top and the bottom of the sample in the cellulose film, a factor that affected the contact angle and thus the wettability of the surface.
MicroRNA-21 enhances estradiol production by inhibiting WT1 expression in granulosa cells
Authors: Hilker Renée Emily , Pan Bo , Zhan Xiaoshu , Li Julang
Published: October 2021

In antral follicles, the transition of proliferative granulosa cells to estradiol-producing is critical for proper oocyte maturation. MicroRNAs are noncoding RNAs that play important roles in ovarian follicular development; however, this has yet to be fully characterized. MicroRNA-21 is significantly higher in granulosa cells isolated from large antral follicles compared to those from small antral follicles. To investigate the function of miR-21, porcine granulosa cells were transfected with miR-21 mimic or miR-21 targeted siRNA. Cells with the miR-21 mimic had higher aromatase expression and estradiol production but decreased WT1 expression. Conversely, cells with the miR-21 siRNA secreted less estradiol and had higher WT1 expression. We hypothesized that miR-21 promotes estradiol production by inhibiting WT1 protein synthesis. We found a potential miR-21 binding site in the 3’UTR of the WT1 transcript and performed a dual-luciferase reporter assay using the WT and mutated 3’UTR. Compared to the negative control, the miR-21 mimic induced a significant decrease in luciferase activity in the WT 3’UTR. This decrease was reversed when the 3’UTR was mutated, suggesting miR-21 targets this site to inhibit WT1 expression. We next transfected porcine granulosa cells with WT1 targeted siRNA and observed a significant increase in aromatase expression and estradiol secretion. We propose that miR-21 represses WT1 expression in granulosa cells to potentially promote aromatase expression and estradiol production. This study offers the first report of a microRNA regulating WT1 expression in granulosa cells and reveals the role of miR-21 in WT1’s regulation of estradiol production.
Reconciling Home and Work During Lockdown: The Role of Organisational Segmentation Supplies for Psychological Detachment and Work-Home Conflict
Authors: Žiedelis Arūnas , Lazauskaitė-Zabielskė Jurgita , Urbanavičiūtė Ieva
Published: October 2021

When the lockdown was introduced to limit the spread of the coronavirus, many employees were forced to work from home, thus facing challenges to detach from work and balance work and home responsibilities. As physical boundaries between work and non-work became non-existent, organisational norms supporting segmentation between the two domains became more important than ever before. This study aimed to examine the effect of organisational segmentation supplies for psychological detachment and work-home conflict among employees with different boundary management preferences. A sample of 172 employees from one private sector organisation responded to a questionnaire measuring segmentation supplies, segmentation preferences, psychological detachment and work-home conflict. Moderated mediation analysis revealed that segmentation supplies had a protective effect on the work-home conflict, which was partly mediated by psychological detachment. Employees’ segmentation preferences did not moderate this effect. Results show segmentation supplies by the organisation to be a valuable resource when working from home that helps to psychologically detach from work and balance work and home responsibilities even for employees who prefer to integrate work and home life.
The Images of Nations’ Locus in the Axiosphere of the Culture
Authors: Niewiara Aleksandra
Published: October 2021

The article contains reflections on axiology of such cultural conceptualizations as images of nations and countries. The problem is presented as being of interest to imagology (a humanities discipline). Special emphasis is on the ideas of the precursor of Polish imagology, Jan Stanislaw Bystroń. The principle of “centrality” proposed by Bystroń in 1923 as having an impact on the evaluation and construction of images of nations, ethnic groups and countries, is presented as corresponding to the “me first” image scheme proposed by cognitive linguistics and confronted with the philosophical concept of ordo amoris by Max Scheller, according to which man knows and evaluates the world not only in accordance with his mind and will, but above all in accordance with the fundamental order of love. The issue was discussed on the basis of statements about Poles and Lithuanians.