bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Mesoscale spatiotemporal predictive models of daily human- and lightning-caused wildland fire occurrence in British Columbia
Authors: Nadeem Khurram , Taylor S. W. , Woolford Douglas G. , Dean C. B.
Published: December 2019

We developed three models of daily human- and lightning-caused fire occurrence to support fire management preparedness and detection planning in the province of British Columbia, Canada, using a lasso-logistic framework. Novel aspects of our work involve (1) using an ensemble of models that were created using 500 datasets balanced (through response-selective sampling) to have equal numbers of fire and non-fire observations; (2) the use of a new ranking algorithm to address the difficulty in interpreting variable importance in models with a large number of covariates. We also introduce the use of cause-specific average spatial daily fire occurrence, termed baseline risk, as a covariate for missing or poorly estimated factors that influence human and lightning fire occurrence. All three models have strong predictive ability, with areas under the Receiver Operator Characteristic curve exceeding 0.9.
Chemoenzymatic oxygenation method for sesquiterpenoid synthesis based on Fe-chelate and ferric-chelate reductase
Authors: Umezawa Satoru , Akao Hiroko , Kubota Mio , Kino Kuniki
Published: December 2019

Sesquiterpenoids are one of the most diverse groups in natural compounds with various chemical structures and bioactivities. In our previous work, we developed the chemoenzymatic oxygenation method based on the combination of Fe(II)-EDTA and ferric-chelate reductase that could synthesize (−)-rotundone, a key aroma sesquiterpenoid of black pepper. Fe(II)-EDTA catalyzed the oxygenation of sesquiterpene to sesquiterpenoid, and ferric-chelate reductase catalyzed the supply and regeneration of Fe(II)-EDTA in this system. We then investigated the effect of various Fe2+-chelates on the catalytic oxygenation of sesquiterpene and applied this system to the synthesis of odor sesquiterpenoids. We determined Fe(II)-NTA to be an efficient oxygenation catalyst by the screening approach focusing on ligand structures and coordination atoms of Fe2+-chelates. Valuable odor sesquiterpenoids such as (+)-nootkatone, (−)-isolongifolenone, and (−)-β-caryophyllene oxide were oxygenatively synthesized from each precursor sesquiterpene by 66%, 82%, and 67% of the molar conversion rate, respectively.

Abbreviations: EDTA: ethylenediaminetetraacetate; NTA: nitrilotriacetate; DTPA: diethylenetriaminepentaacetate; phen: o-phenanthroline; cyclam: 1,4,8,11-tetraazacyclotetradecane; TPA: tris(2-pyridylmethyl)amine; GlcDH: glucose dehydrogenase; HP-β-CD: hydroxypropyl-β-cyclodextrin
Zika NS1–induced ER remodeling is essential for viral replication
Authors: Ci Yali , Liu Zhong-Yu , Zhang Na-Na , Niu Yuqiang , Yang Yang , Xu Caimin , Yang Wei , Qin Cheng-Feng , Shi Lei
Published: December 2019

Zika virus (ZIKV), a recently emerged member of the flavivirus family, forms replication compartments at the ER during its lifecycle. The proteins that are responsible for the biogenesis of replication compartments are not well defined. Here, we show that Zika nonstructural protein 1 (NS1)–induced ER remodeling is essential for viral replication. NS1 expressed in the ER lumen induced ER perinuclear aggregation with an ultrastructure resembling that of the replication compartment. Data from model membrane system indicated that the membrane-binding and membrane-remodeling properties of NS1 depend on its hydrophobic insertion into the membrane. These findings demonstrate that NS1 plays a crucial role in flavivirus replication compartment formation by remodeling the ER structure.
Identification of HCMV-derived T cell epitopes in seropositive individuals through viral deletion models
Authors: Lübke Maren , Spalt Stefanie , Kowalewski Daniel J. , Zimmermann Cosima , Bauersfeld Liane , Nelde Annika , Bichmann Leon , Marcu Ana , Peper Janet Kerstin , Kohlbacher Oliver , Walz Juliane S. , Le-Trilling Vu Thuy Khanh , Hengel Hartmut , Rammensee Hans-Georg , Stevanović Stefan , Halenius Anne
Published: December 2019

In healthy individuals, immune control of persistent human cytomegalovirus (HCMV) infection is effectively mediated by virus-specific CD4+ and CD8+ T cells. However, identifying the repertoire of T cell specificities for HCMV is hampered by the immense protein coding capacity of this betaherpesvirus. Here, we present a novel approach that employs HCMV deletion mutant viruses lacking HLA class I immunoevasins and allows direct identification of naturally presented HCMV-derived HLA ligands by mass spectrometry. We identified 368 unique HCMV-derived HLA class I ligands representing an unexpectedly broad panel of 123 HCMV antigens. Functional characterization revealed memory T cell responses in seropositive individuals for a substantial proportion (28%) of these novel peptides. Multiple HCMV-directed specificities in the memory T cell pool of single individuals indicate that physiologic anti-HCMV T cell responses are directed against a broad range of antigens. Thus, the unbiased identification of naturally presented viral epitopes enabled a comprehensive and systematic assessment of the physiological repertoire of anti-HCMV T cell specificities in seropositive individuals.
Innate immune priming in the absence of TAK1 drives RIPK1 kinase activity–independent pyroptosis, apoptosis, necroptosis, and inflammatory disease
Authors: Malireddi R.K. Subbarao , Gurung Prajwal , Kesavardhana Sannula , Samir Parimal , Burton Amanda , Mummareddy Harisankeerth , Vogel Peter , Pelletier Stephane , Burgula Sandeepta , Kanneganti Thirumala-Devi
Published: December 2019

RIPK1 kinase activity has been shown to be essential to driving pyroptosis, apoptosis, and necroptosis. However, here we show a kinase activity–independent role for RIPK1 in these processes using a model of TLR priming in a TAK1-deficient setting to mimic pathogen-induced priming and inhibition. TLR priming of TAK1-deficient macrophages triggered inflammasome activation, including the activation of caspase-8 and gasdermin D, and the recruitment of NLRP3 and ASC into a novel RIPK1 kinase activity–independent cell death complex to drive pyroptosis and apoptosis. Furthermore, we found fully functional RIPK1 kinase activity–independent necroptosis driven by the RIPK3–MLKL pathway in TAK1-deficient macrophages. In vivo, TAK1 inactivation resulted in RIPK3–caspase-8 signaling axis–driven myeloid proliferation and a severe sepsis-like syndrome. Overall, our study highlights a previously unknown mechanism for RIPK1 kinase activity–independent inflammasome activation and pyroptosis, apoptosis, and necroptosis (PANoptosis) that could be targeted for treatment of TAK1-associated myeloid proliferation and sepsis.
Results of the CCRI(II)-K2. H-3 key comparison 2018: measurement of the activity concentration of a tritiated-water source
Authors: Cassette P , Arinc A , Capogni M , Felice P De , Dutsov C , Galea R , Garcia-Toraño E , Kossert K , Liang J , Mitev K , Nähle O , Nedjadi Y , Verdecia P Oropesa , Takács M , Ziemek T
Published: December 2019

A comparison of the activity concentration measurement of a 3H2O solution was organized by the LNE-LNHB under the auspices of the CCRI(II). The solution was sent to thirteen laboratories and eleven measurement reports were received. The results, as well as relevant information on the measurement techniques, are presented and analysed in this paper. All results are consistent within uncertainties. As the solution was traceable to the solution used in the CCRI(II)-K2.H-3 comparison in 2009, the results of both comparisons are also presented.

Main text

To reach the main text of this paper, click on Final Report. Note that this text is that which appears in Appendix B of the BIPM key comparison database kcdb.bipm.org/.

The final report has been peer-reviewed and approved for publication by the CCRI, according to the provisions of the CIPM Mutual Recognition Arrangement (CIPM MRA).
Nonlinear dynamics of weakly dissipative optomechanical systems
Authors: Roque Thales Figueiredo , Marquardt Florian , Yevtushenko Oleg M
Published: December 2019

Optomechanical systems attract a lot of attention because they provide a novel platform for quantum measurements, transduction, hybrid systems, and fundamental studies of quantum physics. Their classical nonlinear dynamics is surprisingly rich and so far remains underexplored. Works devoted to this subject have typically focussed on dissipation constants which are substantially larger than those encountered in current experiments, such that the nonlinear dynamics of weakly dissipative optomechanical systems is almost uncharted waters. In this work, we fill this gap and investigate the regular and chaotic dynamics in this important regime. To analyze the dynamical attractors, we have extended the ‘generalized alignment index’ method to dissipative systems. We show that, even when chaotic motion is absent, the dynamics in the weakly dissipative regime is extremely sensitive to initial conditions. We argue that reducing dissipation allows chaotic dynamics to appear at a substantially smaller driving strength and enables various routes to chaos. We identify three generic features in weakly dissipative classical optomechanical nonlinear dynamics: the Neimark–Sacker bifurcation between limit cycles and limit tori (leading to a comb of sidebands in the spectrum), the quasiperiodic route to chaos, and the existence of transient chaos.
Improved efficiency and photo-stability of methylamine-free perovskite solar cells via cadmium doping
Authors: Chen Yong , Zhao Yang , Ye Qiufeng , Chu Zema , Yin Zhigang , Zhang Xingwang , You Jingbi
Published: December 2019

Although perovskite solar cells containing methylamine cation can show high power conversion efficiency, stability is a concern. Here, methylamine-free perovskite material Cs
x
FA1–x
PbI3 was synthesized by a one-step method. In addition, we incorporated smaller cadmium ions into mixed perovskite lattice to partially replace Pb ions to address the excessive internal strain in perovskite structure. We have found that the introduction of Cd can improve the crystallinity and the charge carrier lifetime of perovskite films. Consequently, a power conversion efficiency as high as 20.59% was achieved. More importantly, the devices retained 94% of their initial efficiency under 1200 h of continuous illumination.
Analytical model for the effects of the variation of ferrolectric material parameters on the minimum subthreshold swing in negative capacitance capacitor
Authors: Rasool Raheela , Najeeb-ud-Din  , Rather G. M.
Published: December 2019

In this paper, we analytically study the relationship between the coercive field, remnant polarization and the thickness of a ferroelectric material, required for the minimum subthreshold swing in a negative capacitance capacitor. The interdependence of the ferroelectric material properties shown in this study is defined by the capacitance matching conditions in the subthreshold region in an NC capacitor. In this paper, we propose an analytical model to find the optimal ferroelectric thickness and channel doping to achieve a minimum subthreshold swing, due to a particular ferroelectric material. Our results have been validated against the numerical and experimental results already available in the literature. Furthermore, we obtain the minimum possible subthreshold swing for different ferroelectric materials used in the gate stack of an NC-FET in the context of a manufacturable semiconductor technology. Our results are presented in the form of a table, which shows the calculated channel doping, ferroelectric thickness and minimum subthreshold for five different ferroelectric materials.
A compact two-dimensional analytical model of the electrical characteristics of a triple-material double-gate tunneling FET structure
Authors: Usha C. , Vimala P.
Published: December 2019

This paper presents a compact two-dimensional analytical device model of surface potential, in addition to electric field of triple-material double-gate (TMDG) tunnel FET. The TMDG TFET device model is developed using a parabolic approximation method in the channel depletion space and a boundary state of affairs across the drain and source. The TMDG TFET device is used to analyze the electrical performance of the TMDG structure in terms of changes in potential voltage, lateral and vertical electric field. Because the TMDG TFET has a simple compact structure, the surface potential is computationally efficient and, therefore, may be utilized to analyze and characterize the gate-controlled devices. Furthermore, using Kane's model, the current across the drain can be modeled. The graph results achieved from this device model are close to the data collected from the technology computer aided design (TCAD) simulation.
How many shades of grey are in conformity assessment due to measurement uncertainty?
Authors: Kuselman Ilya , Pennecchi Francesca R , da Silva Ricardo J N B , Brynn Hibbert D
Published: December 2019

When a measured value of a property of a material or object differs from the upper or lower specification limit (actual or ‘true’ value) by the expanded measurement uncertainty or more, there is the clear decision on the material conformity or nonconformity - ‘white’ or ‘black’. In the interval from the measured value to the specification limit, covered by the expanded measurement uncertainty (‘grey zone’), risks of false decisions on conformity increase. Several kinds of the risks, named ‘shades of grey’, should be taken into account. For a multicomponent material there are four kinds of particular risks for each property value of the material (e.g. component concentration or content), and four kinds of total risks related to the material as a whole. Therefore, for n > 1 properties under control for the material conformity assessment one can distinguish 4(n +1) kinds of risks of false decisions – shades of grey.
State and prospects for development of measurements of aerosol particle concentration, as well as air ions
Authors: Dobrovolskiy V I
Published: December 2019

The author highlighted the problems in Russia associated with the metrological support of measurements of the mass concentration of suspended particles of RM-10, RM-2.5, RM-1 fractions, as well as the number concentration of medium and heavy air ions.
Development of primary reference measurement procedures for food quality control
Authors: Medvedevskikh Sergey V , Medvedevskikh Maria Y , Sergeeva Anna S , Baranovskaya Vasilisa B.
Published: December 2019

The work is about the development of primary reference measurement procedures for food quality control based on the methods of gravimetry, butymetry, photometry, chromatography, spectrometry and others.
Improvement of the reference material planning mechanism for the provision of the necessary nomenclature of various areas of the Russian economy
Authors: Sobina Egor P , Medvedevskikh Sergey V , Kremleva Olga N
Published: December 2019

The paper is about necessity of making organizational decisions, creation of publicly available RM nomenclature planning systems with the involvement of experts, integration into Programs of various level on the measures of state support of developed lists of RMs in Russia. Creation of these lists is necessary to ensure uniformity of measurements in the areas of state regulation in Russia.
CEN standard “Harmonized counting of atmospheric ultrafine particles” and UFP monitoring initiatives in Europe
Authors: Bustin Lucia , Tritscher Torsten , Spielvogel Jürgen , Bischof Oliver F. , Scheckman Jacob , Krinke Thomas
Published: December 2019

The paper is devoted the standard CEN/TS 16976 described a standardized measuring method with number concentration of UFP. As well as, described TSI 3750-CEN CPC which meet all of these requirements.
Dosimetric system on the basis of EPR-spectroscopy with use state primary standards of power of the absorbed dose and Standard of number of the paramagnetic centers
Authors: Leskov A S , Kuvykina M B , Tenishev V P
Published: December 2019

This paper presents an overview of the current state of ensuring the measurement uniformity of absorbed dose of ionizing radiation during the treatment of food and agricultural products in Russia. The way of measuring the absorbed dose of ionizing radiation in the range of absorbed doses up to 1 kGy with Primary State Standard GET209-2014 and GET83-2017 is proposed.
Questions of metrological support for bioanalysis. Catalytic activity of enzymes
Authors: Kulyabina E V , Kulyabina T V , Morozova V V , Melkova O N , Guskova E A
Published: December 2019

The relevance of metrological support of measurements carried out in laboratory medicine is examined to increase the accuracy of analyzes results, namely, measurements of the catalytic concentration of the human body enzymes. The development of reference materials with a long shelf life is discussed. The results of the development of Russian reference materials of the catalytic concentration of α-amylase and alkaline phosphatase are discussed. Based on the measuring model (Beer-Lambert-Bouguer law), sources of uncertainty are established. The developed reference materials make it possible to measure the catalytic concentration of enzymes with high reliability, make the correct diagnoses at the early stages of the disease, and make it possible to achieve the world level of metrological support of laboratory medicine in the field of measuring enzyme parameters.
Results of research of transfer measurement standards in the form of pure substances
Authors: Migal Pavel V
Published: December 2019

The paper presents the summarized results of the development of transfer measurement standards in the form of pure substances and the methods of transferring units, characterizing chemical composition from transfer measurement standards to routine measurements with the use of reference materials. The work was performed in the framework of the research project “Purity” and experimental project “Purity2b”.
X-ray absorption spectral analysis of heavy metals with Si-PIN detectors
Authors: Osadchii S M , Petukhov A A , Dunin V B
Published: December 2019

An X-ray absorption spectroscopy method for the detection of heavy metals at the K-absorption edges is implemented using the designed Si-PIN detector. The limits of detection of heavy metals and uncertainty of measurement are estimated by the results of measurements of the thickness of gold and lead foil.
Nanoparticle concentration in engine emissions
Authors: Belenkii D I , Magomedov T M , Balakhanov D M
Published: December 2019

Nanoparticles arising during the operation of the internal combustion engine are dangerous for human health, as they easily penetrate the body through the respiratory tract. Nanoaerosol in car exhaust gases is a complex mixture of different components, often having a polydisperse size distribution of particles, most of which are from 5 to 100 nm. In Europe, since 2008, the Regulation establishes limits of the mass concentration and the counting concentration of nanoparticles in engine emissions (European Commission, Commission Regulation No. 692/2008), however, there is no such Regulation in Russian Federation, which in turn leads to the deterioration of the environmental situation and people health.
Research of metrological characteristics of reference installations based on helium picnometry and hydrostatic weighing methods
Authors: Sobina Egor P
Published: December 2019

The results of investigations of metrological characteristics of reference installations based on the helium pycnometry and hydrostatic weighing methods are demonstrated.
Singularity of GOST R 57165 and GOST 31870 applications to determine of lithium
Authors: Volkov P A , Belus S K , Retivov V M , Zhavoronkov V V
Published: December 2019

The authors propose changes to existing standards GOST К 57165 and GOST 31870 in part of sample preparation for analysis on determining the lithium content in water by atomic emission spectrometry with inductively coupled plasma (AES-ICP)
Development of the Certified Reference Materials in the field of physical and chemical analysis. Reference Materials of the composition of aqueous solutions of yttrium and scandium ions
Authors: Ermakova I I , Ivanov A V , Ziablikova I N , Shobina A N
Published: December 2019

In this work is described to study on rare-earth elements scandium and yttrium were, the development of certified reference materials of aqueous solutions of yttrium and scandium ions.
Reference materials for inductively coupled plasma methods (ICP standards) produced by VNIIFTRI
Authors: Stolboushkina T P , Stakheev A A
Published: December 2019

For the metrological assurance of the high-precision inductively coupled plasma methods, the Russian Metrological Institute of Technical Physics and Radio Engineering (VNIIFTRI) developed four types of certified reference materials (CRMs) of the mass fraction of metals in solutions (ICP CRM). The permissible certified values of the element mass fraction (mass concentration) in the developed ICP CRM range from 800 mg/kg to 1200 mg/kg (from 800 mg/dm3 to 1200 mg/dm3). The developed ICP CRMs can be used for ensuring the metrological traceability of measurements in inorganic analyses to the State Primary Standard for units of the mass fraction and mass (molar) concentration of inorganic components in aqueous solutions based on gravimetric and spectral methods GET 217-2018.
Exposure to cold temperature affects the spring phenology of Alaskan deciduous vegetation types
Authors: Shi Mingjie , Parazoo Nicholas C , Jeong Su-Jong , Birch Leah , Lawrence Peter , Euskirchen Eugenie S , Miller Charles E
Published: December 2019

Temperature is a dominant factor driving arctic and boreal ecosystem phenology, including leaf budburst and gross primary production (GPP) onset in Alaskan spring. Previous studies hypothesized that both accumulated growing degree day (GDD) and cold temperature (chilling) exposure are important to leaf budburst. We test this hypothesis by combining both satellite and aircraft vegetation measurements with the Community Land Model Version 4.5 (CLM), in which the end of plant dormancy depends on thermal conditions (i.e. GDD). We study the sensitivity of GPP onset of different Alaskan deciduous vegetation types to a GDD model with chilling requirement (GC model) included. The default CLM simulations have a 1–12 d earlier day of year GPP onset over Alaska vegetated regions compared to satellite constrained estimates from the Polar Vegetation Photosynthesis and Respiration Model. Integrating a GC model into CLM shifts the phase and amplitude of GPP. During 2007–2016, mean GPP onset is postponed by 5 ± 7, 4 ± 8, and 1 ± 6 d over Alaskan northern tundra, shrub, and forest, respectively. The GC model has the greatest impact during warm springs, which is critical for predicting phenology response to future warming. Overall, spring GPP high bias is reduced by 10%. Thus, including chilling requirement in thermal forcing models improves northern high-latitude phenology, but leads to other impacts during the growing season which require further investigation.
Time-evolution of nonlinear optomechanical systems: interplay of mechanical squeezing and non-Gaussianity
Authors: Qvarfort Sofia , Serafini Alessio , Xuereb André , Braun Daniel , Rätzel Dennis , Bruschi David Edward
Published: December 2019

We solve the time evolution of a nonlinear optomechanical Hamiltonian with arbitrary time-dependent mechanical displacement, mechanical single-mode squeezing and a time-dependent optomechanical coupling up to the solution of two second-order differential equations. The solution is based on identifying a minimal and finite Lie algebra that generates the time-evolution of the system. This reduces the problem to considering a finite set of coupled ordinary differential equations of real functions. To demonstrate the applicability of our method, we compute the degree of non-Gaussianity of the time-evolved state of the system by means of a measure based on the relative entropy of the non-Gaussian state and its closest Gaussian reference state. We find that the addition of a constant mechanical squeezing term to the standard optomechanical Hamiltonian generally decreases the overall non-Gaussian character of the state. For sinusoidally modulated squeezing, the two second-order differential equations mentioned above take the form of the Mathieu equation. We derive perturbative solutions for a small squeezing amplitude at parametric resonance and show that they correspond to the rotating-wave approximation at times larger than the scale set by the mechanical frequency. We find that the non-Gaussianity of the state increases with both time and the squeezing parameter in this specific regime.
Invasive Aquatic Plant Species of Chenderoh Reservoir, Malaysia and Jatiluhur Reservoir, Indonesia
Authors: Ismail S N , Subehi L , Mansor A , Mashhor M
Published: December 2019

The sampling was carried out in two sampling sites; Chenderoh Reservoir, Malaysia and Jatiluhur Reservoir, Indonesia. These reservoirs are the initial of cascade reservoirs on Perak River and Citarum River. The aquatic plants distribution and abundance were recorded, and water quality parameters were measured. A total of 23 aquatic plant species from 14 families were identified. The populations of water hyacinth (Eichhornia crassipes) and giant salvinia (Salvinia molesta) were recorded in all sampling points of both reservoirs. Based on the TSI (Chl a), Chenderoh Reservoir was subjected to a mesotrophic, whereas, Jatiluhur Reservoir was subjected to an eutrophic reservoir. E. crassipes and S. molesta which were abundant in those reservoirs were listed in the 100 world worst invasive alien species.
The River Basin Spatial Informative Nesting (E-BASIN) framework as an alternative approach for flood disaster management
Authors: Izham M Y , Aznarahayu R , Nurul Azni M A , Norashila M N
Published: December 2019

The usage of technology is vital towards flood management. It helps on delivering the information on disasters occurred in the affected areas. Heavy rainfall and flood disaster occur frequently in Malaysia during the monsoon seasons. This causes significant impact towards human life, loss of properties and damage to the surrounding environment. The requirement on effective flood disaster management within river basin boundaries has become a necessity by managing the weather records, simulating present and future flood events; and providing best approach of reducing flood impact assessment before, during and after. This article aims to propose a new framework in flood disaster management as an alternative way to disseminate flood events, namely E-Basin framework. E-Basin is designed via “light and easy” approach to visualise, alert and report flood events among affected local residents, societies and related agencies situated in flood-prone areas. The implementation of E-Basin framework could provide further guideline among the involved agencies for improving effectiveness of flood disaster management geographically in the 4th Industrial Revolution era.
Bacterial indicators reveal water quality status of Rangkui River, Bangka Island, Indonesia
Authors: Maghfiroh Miratul , Novianti Heni , Lukman  , Nurtjahya Eddy
Published: December 2019

Rangkui River flows across Pangkal Pinang City, the capital of Bangka Belitung Province. Land uses vary and can inevitably be pollution hot-spots for this river. This study aimed to investigate the current status of Rangkui River based on bacterial indicators in association with other water quality parameters. The sample collection was completed in March 2017 within 6 stations. Water quality parameters observed were temperature, TSS, turbidity, pH, DO, salinity, BOD, COD, Nitrate and Phosphate. The results of faecal coliform observation indicated that the stations closer to upstream (station 1, 2, 3) showed lower faecal coliform concentration (530-940 MPN/100 ml) as compared to those closer to downstream (station 4, 5, 6) which had the amount of ∼11,000 MPN/100 ml. Phylogenetic study emphasized that isolates of interest were more similar to Escherichia group. The water from Rangkui River could be classified from Class I to Class IV according to Indonesia Government Regulation No.82/2001. PCA revealed Station 3 and 6 obviously separated from other stations so that more concerns should be given to improving water quality in these areas.
Bifurcation analysis of the prey-predator models incorporating herd behaviours
Authors: Manaf Z I A , Mohd M H
Published: December 2019

In ecology, herd behaviour corresponds to the situation how a group of animals of the same species interacts in the time of danger. A herd mechanism offers more protection for preys against predators. But this mechanism can also provide defence from predators. To address this problem, we consider two ecological models of prey-predator interactions with the presence of different herd behaviours. While the first system represents a simple prey-predator model incorporating herd behaviour in prey populations only, the second one considers the herd behaviour in both prey and predator populations. We examine how different strategies of herd behaviours can determine the outcomes of species interactions. To do this, we employ stability analysis and numerical simulations to illustrate different dynamical behaviours of the two models, e.g. coexistence and extinction steady states and also limit cycles. By using bifurcation analysis, we observe the occurrences of Hopf bifurcation, transcritical bifurcation, limit point and limit point of cycles. These bifurcations can shape the overall dynamics of these two ecological systems.
Population structure and gonadal maturity stage of endemic and alien fish dominant species in Lake Matano, South Sulawesi
Authors: Nasution SH , Dina R
Published: December 2019

Lake Matano, one of the lakes in the Malili Lake complex, is located in East Luwu District, South Sulawesi Province. Lake Matano is an ancient lake that is very deep with high biota and endemicity, including fish. The dominant endemic fish found on Lake Matano is Telmatherina antoniae. At present, dominant alien fish which is Louhan fish is also found at this site. This paper aims to convey the latest information regarding population structure of the dominant endemic and alien fish in Lake Matano, namely relative abundance distribution, size structure (length and weight), growth patterns and gonadal maturity stages. Sampling was carried out in May and August 2016 at five stations. Fish were caught using gill nets with seven mesh sizes and installed for at least two hours. The relative abundance of fish at each station is determined based on the average of catch per unit effort, namely the number of fish caught per hour of gillnet installation(ind/hour), with growth pattern determined based on the length weight relationship, and the stage of gonadal maturity determined morphologically. Telmatherina antoniae and Louhan were found at all stations with the highest relative abundance in MT4 (Petea) and MT2 (Nuha), respectively. The length of T. antoaniae ranged from 64 to 105 mm (82.24 ± 0.61 mm) and weight 2.3 to 11 grams (5.62 ± 0.14 mm). The length of Louhan ranged from 51 to 185 mm (96.42 ± 3.36 mm) and weight from 2.5 to 102.6 grams (21.66 ± 2.36 grams). In May and August both T. antoniae and Louhan were found with gonadal maturity stage I to IV.
Characterisation of allelochemical compounds signature in two mangrove forest species of Rhizophora apiculata and Acrostichum aureum and potential in suppressing weed growth
Authors: Othman Rashidi , Ramya Razanah , Mohd Hassan Norazian , Masyitah Wan Daud Wan , Nadia Johari Nursyafica
Published: December 2019

Rhizophora apiculata and Acrostichum aureum are a common mangrove species in Malaysia. Allelochemical interaction of the mangrove species was speculated to play an important role in dominance in the harsh mangrove environment. This study assessed the quantitative and qualitative determination for total phenolic content and individual phenolic compounds as allelochemical content for R. apiculata and A. aureum leaves as a potential allelopathic substance. The second objective is to investigate the allelopathic effect towards weed germination and growth through in vitro model system. Two types of maceration extraction comprising water extraction and sequential alkaline extract were used for allelochemical screening analysis. Both extractions were separated by ethyl acetate. Acrostichum aureum had the highest total phenolic content (1129.52 µg GAE/g DW) in comparison with R. apiculata. Meanwhile, the quantitative analysis by HPLC, revealed that different extraction detected different individual phenolic acid, Caffeic acid detected in both mangrove species in sequential alkaline extraction by A. aureum. The allelopathic effect of Chloris barbata for A. aureum extract indicated that during pre-emergent development, the suppression of weed growth was higher compared to post-emergent. Therefore, A. aureum may work as an allelochemical producer and can contribute to the establishment of pure colonies of A. aureum in the mangrove ecosystem.
Soil Water Analysis Tools (SWAT) hydrology modelling as a basis for spatial planning: a case study in Cimandiri Watershed, West Java Province
Authors: Ridwansyah I , Yulianti M , Wibowo H
Published: December 2019

Appropriate spatial planning can be analysed by looking at its impact on water resources on a watershed scale through a hydrological modelling approach. The objective of this study was to examine the effect of land-use change and the spatial plan of the region in the Cimandiri watershed using Soil Water Analysis Tools (SWAT) hydrological modelling. The Cimandiri watershed (1,830 km2) is situated in West Java Province, Indonesia. This watershed has a strategic position because of its proximity to the Capital City of Jakarta. This study highlights the importance of hydrological response considerations in spatial planning. From 1994 to 2016, there has been a reduction of forest land cover (157.8 ha), paddy fields (688.5 ha) and plantations (216.4 ha). This land-use change affects the hydrological conditions of the Cimandiri Watershed. The results indicated that there was an increase in the surface flow of 8.7 mm/year (186.6 to 195.3 mm/year), from 1994 to 2016 while baseflow decreased from 781.64 to 777.7 mm/year. The verification models were in satisfactory categories (R2 0.62 and NSE 0.51). Therefore, this indicated hydrological conditions in 1994 were relatively better than in 2016. The simulation result on the spatial plan shows the surface runoff, and the base rate was 284.9 mm/year and 684.7 mm/year, respectively. Interestingly, land use proportion based on urban spatial planning generated relatively higher surface runoff and sediment yield compared to existing land use. Hence there should be a review of the existing urban spatial planning of Sukabumi Regency that was resulting in the worst hydrological response based on SWAT model.
An investigation into the tribological properties of wood flour reinforced polypropylene composites
Authors: Ibrahim Mohamed A , Hirayama T , Khalafallah Diab
Published: December 2019

The uncontrolled recycling activities of waste species can lead to series problems to both environment and human health. In addition, the exploration of environmentally friendly materials has been received growing interests from researchers and academicians. Herein, we investigated the tribological and mechanical properties of wood flour reinforced polypropylene (WF/PP) composites. The WF/PP complexes were successfully fabricated via a controllable injection molding approach using PP frameworks incorporating 5 wt%, 15 wt%, 25 wt%, 35 wt%, 45 wt%, and 55 wt% WF in the presence of maleated polypropylene (MA-PP) as an effective coupling agent to enhance the WF adhesion to the polymeric matrix and promote the interfacial interaction and wettability. Results demonstrate improved mechanical properties and wear resistance of the as-synthesized composites with the increment of WF content, benefiting from the robust interfacial adhesion and collaborative effects of both natural filler and polymeric components. The inherent strength of natural fibers significantly contributes to the overall strength of the resultant composites. Remarkably, the embedment of coupling agent enables superior properties to certain dozens of WF due to further impregnation of filler along the matrix. Thus, our developed synthesis method holds a promise as efficient pathway to fabricate hybrids comprising polymer and natural fibers to achieve a maximum utilization.
Formation of a phase pure kesterite CZTSe thin films using multisource hybrid physical vapour deposition
Authors: Simya O K , Geetha Priyadarshini B , Balachander K , Ashok Anuradha M
Published: December 2019

Copper Zinc Tin Selenide (CZTSe) absorber films were obtained by growing CZT films with simultaneous RF and DC magnetron sputtering followed by thermal evaporation of Selenium. The deposition of CZTSe films was performed with different sputter powers with in-situ and post annealing of the deposited films at 400 °C in order to get uniformity and phase purity. Detailed GIXRD analysis concluded that a phase pure CZTSe film was obtained for in-situ annealed sample with Cu-Sn deposited through RF sputter power of 250W and Zn deposited through pulsed DC power of 200W. In conclusion from Raman scattering measurements, phase pure Raman active A mode of Kesterite CZTSe was observed for the same sample. Compositional analysis by EDS and XPS clearly showed that the CZTSe films are having Cu poor and Zn rich composition, favoring shallow Cu-vacancy which is highly desirable as p-type absorber layers for solar cells. The optical bandgaps (Eg) of the films calculated using Tauc plots were within the reported bandgap value of 1.0–1.35eV. The present deposition approach using hybrid PVD tool helps to control individual fluxes (Cu-Sn, Zn, Se), more precisely without the need of extra selenization step, leading to one step reduction in production process.
A dynamic study of effect of multiple parameters on interface characteristic in double-vertical explosive welding
Authors: Sun Zerui , Shi Changgen , Fang Zhonghang , Shi Hang
Published: December 2019

Previous studies focused on the research of single parameters on the bonding quality of explosive welded composite plates. To explore the dynamic influence of multiple parameters on the interface, a VST (velocity, stand-off gap and charge thickness) function was proposed. The three-dimensional diagram clearly and intuitively showed that the collision velocity was comprehensively affected by the explosive thickness and stand-off gap. Four different sets of parameters were chosen and the composite plates were successfully manufactured in the experiment of double vertical explosive welding (DVEW). The interface morphology, element distribution and the mechanical property were discussed respectively. The optical microscope showed that all the samples were wavy interface but the dimensions of the ripples was different. The defects, such as melting layer and island region, appeared less frequently at bonding interface when the collision velocity was lower. The grain refinement, adiabatic shear bands were found at the crest and side of wave respectively. The width of elements diffusion layer of joint increased in line with higher collision velocity. It was indicated the maximum microhardness reached 293HV at the bonding interface due to work hardening. Shear and tensile tests suggested the the mechanical property of large wave was better than that of small wavy interface. The fracture morphology showed obvious stratification and the dimple at the bonding interface was smaller in diameter and less plastic.
Solvothermal synthesis method for dual-phase Li4Ti5O12/TiO2 composites for high-stability lithium storage
Authors: Zhang YuQing , Zeng Min , Wu Xin , Bai Yuan , Li Jing
Published: December 2019

As a promising anode material, lithium titanate (Li4Ti5O12) displays extremely stable cycling and high safety performance. Nevertheless, its application is hindered because of a low electron conductivity and low specific capacity. Herein, dual-phase Li4Ti5O12/TiO2 (LTO/TO) was synthesized by a straightforward solvothermal method utilizing crystallized water of lithium hydroxide to hydrolyse tetrabutyl titanate at high temperature and pressure conditions. This work demonstrated that LTO/TO composites have excellent electrochemical performance and indicated that the inherent defects of LTO can be improved by the decoration of TO. At a current density of 1.0 A g−1 (∼6 C), the discharge capacity of LTO/TO sample reached 197 mAh g−1 after 100 cycles, while LTO exhibited 180 mAh g−1. It appears that nanostructure LTO/TO composites may shorten the diffusion distance of electrons and lithium ions.
Relationships between structure and microwave dielectric properties in cotton fabrics
Authors: Mukai Yusuke , Suh Minyoung
Published: December 2019

The microwave dielectric properties of cotton fabrics in the fabric thickness direction are investigated in relation to the fabric construction, thread count and solid volume fraction (SVF) under the five different relative humidity (RH) conditions. The dielectric constants of the fabric samples exhibits increasing trends with RH, and this is primarily due to more abundant free water in the samples. For most of woven and knitted samples, an increase in thread count results in a higher dielectric constant and this is associated with the increase in SVF. By comparing the woven and knitted samples of the same SVFs, it is found that the woven fabrics tend to have higher dielectric constants than the knitted samples at near 2.45 GHz. This observation of the dielectric properties of cotton fabrics clearly indicates that although the SVF is primarily responsible for the resulting dielectric properties of fabrics, other structural parameters must also be considered in dielectric analysis. Based on in-situ analysis of yarn orientations in the given samples, we claim that the yarn orientation plays an important role in the microwave dielectric properties of cotton fabrics.
Distinct Distress Symptom Trajectories Over 3 Years Are Associated With Baseline Illness Perceptions in Individuals With Coronary Heart Disease
Authors: Chilcot Joseph , Lee Ester , Tylee Andre , Brown June , Weinman John , Hotopf Matthew , Palacios Jorge E
Published: December 2019

Background

Depression and anxiety symptoms (termed distress) are common among coronary heart disease (CHD) patients and associated with poor outcomes. Illness perceptions predict distinct outcome trajectories in other long-term conditions, yet it is not known how they relate to distress trajectories in CHD.

Purpose

This study aimed to examine whether baseline illness perceptions are associated with distress symptom trajectories among primary care CHD patients.

Methods

This is a secondary analysis of 803 CHD patients from the UPBEAT-UK study, who completed the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale every 6 months for 3 years. Baseline assessments included the Brief Illness Perception Questionnaire. Using latent class growth analysis, Palacios et al. (2018) identified five distinct distress symptom trajectories (“stable low,” “chronic high,” “improving,” “worsening,” and “fluctuating”) in this cohort. Adjusted multinomial logistic regression analyses were used to test the association between baseline illness perceptions and distress symptom trajectories.

Results

Compared with the stable low distress trajectory, stronger illness identity (odds ratio [OR] = 1.31, p < .01), higher perceived consequences (OR = 1.47, p < .01), illness-related emotion (OR = 1.66, p < .01), and illness concerns (OR = 1.36, p < .01) increased the odds of having chronic high distress. Stronger illness coherence (OR = 0.89, p < .05) and personal (OR = 0.77, p < .01) and treatment control (OR = 0.75, p < .01) reduced the odds of chronic high distress. Worsening distress symptoms were associated with weaker perceptions of treatment control, higher perceived consequences, and greater illness-related concerns and emotions.

Conclusions

Illness perceptions of CHD are associated with distress symptom trajectories. Therapeutically modifying unhelpful illness perceptions in CHD patients who experience high levels of distress could potentially improve mental health outcomes.
Fictionality
Authors: Zetterberg-Nielsen Simona , Zetterberg-Nielsen Henrik
Published: December 2019

Fictionality is a term used in various fields within and beyond literary theory, from speech act theory through the theory of fictional worlds, to theories of “as if.” It is often equated with the genre of the novel. However, as a consequence of the rhetorical theory of fictionality developed from the early 21st century, the concept has gained ground as an autonomous communicative device, independent of its relation to any genre.

Theories of fictionality have been developed (1) prior to the establishment of fiction as a genre, with Plato, Aristotle, Philip Sidney, and Pierre Daniel Huet; (2) with the establishment of fiction by Blankenburg and some of the first novelists, such as Daniel Defoe and Horace Walpole; (3) after the establishment of the novel, with Samuel Taylor Coleridge, Hans Vaihinger, John Searle, Kendall Walton, Dorrit Cohn, Richard Walsh, and others. From the 1990s, the debates on fictionality have centered on questions of whether fictionality is best described in terms of semantic, syntactic, or pragmatic approaches. This includes discussions about possible signposts of fictionality, encouraged by the semantic and syntactic approaches, and about how to define the concept of fictionality, as either a question of text internal features as argued by the semantic and syntactic theorists, or as a question of contextual assumptions, as held by the pragmatists.

Regarding fictionality as a rhetorical resource, among many other resources in communication at large, has a number of consequences for the study of fictionality and for literary theory in general. First, it contributes the insight that literature is similar to other acts of communication. Second, overtly invented stories do not have to follow the rules of non-invented communication. Third, a rhetorical approach to fictionality makes visible the ways in which fiction interacts with and affects reality, in concrete, yet complicated ways.