bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
PRINCIPIOS ÉTICOS Y JURÍDICOS DEL DERECHO GENÉTICO EN LAS DECLARACIONES INTERNACIONALES RELACIONADAS CON LAS INTERVENCIONES SOBRE EL GENOMA HUMANO
Authors: Gómez Córdoba Ana Isabel
Published: April 2021

El desarrollo del conocimiento genómico aplicado a la salud humana ofrece grandes beneficios bajo la forma de medicina genómica, predictiva o reparativa; sin embargo, conlleva profundas implicaciones de índole social, política, ética, económica e ideológica, las cuales requieren un marco regulatorio, que de manera genérica se denomina derecho genético. Este artículo pretende caracterizar el derecho genético únicamente en lo referente a las intervenciones en el genoma humano en el área de la biomedicina, desde los principios éticos y jurídicos que deben hacer parte de su fundamentación filosófica, para tal fin se analizarán las más importantes declaraciones emanadas por los organismos y las asociaciones de carácter internacional relacionadas con el tema, para identificar los principios éticos y jurídicos que deben orientar la caracterización del derecho genético.
LA RESPONSABILIDAD DEL ANALISTA FINANCIERO COMO TERCERO DE CONFIANZA
Authors: Combatt Fandiño Adriana Carolina
Published: April 2021

Los escándalos corporativos en los Estados Unidos y en Europa han llamadola atención sobre la importancia que tienen los terceros de confianza ogatekeepers en el mercado, provocando la necesidad inminente de regularsu actividad y responsabilidad. En los casos donde existe una relación contractual es claro cómo encauzar su responsabilidad, existiendo ambigüedaden la forma legal de proceder cuando ésta no existe. Este artículo analiza lasdistintas posiciones que se han sostenido y propone una visión unificada pararegular la actividad y responsabilidad del analista financiero como tercero deconfianza, ante la ausencia de una relación contractual. Se argumenta, sobrela base del análisis de derecho comparado, que el analista como tercero deconfianza será responsable ante terceros cuando éstos formen parte del grupode personas a las que va dirigida la información o se preveía que la podíanobtener, y el daño se cause en la realización de la operación para la cual fueelaborada. En los sistemas de derecho civil, la responsabilidad extracontractuales el instrumento más eficaz para resarcir estos casos.
A New General Methodology to Create Continuous Cooling Transformation Diagrams for Materials Fabricated by Additive Manufacturing
Authors: Ou Chun-Yu , Richard Liu C.
Published: April 2021

Additive manufacturing (AM) is a manufacturing method that can build high-strength materials layer-by-layer to form complex geometries. Previous studies have reported large variations in the mechanical properties of materials made by this process. One of the key factors that may contribute to variations within and among parts made by this process is a difference in the material’s microstructural phase and composition. A continuous cooling transformation (CCT) diagram is a useful tool that can be used with a thermal model for microstructure design and manufacturing process control. However, traditional CCT diagrams are developed based on slow and monotonic cooling processes such as furnace cooling and air cooling, which are greatly different from the repetitive heating and cooling processes in AM. In this study, a new general methodology is presented to create CCT diagrams for materials fabricated by AM. We showed that the effect of the segmented duration within the critical temperature range, which induced precipitate formation, could be cumulative. As multiple cooling processes occurred in a short time, and the temperature drops at a high cooling rate, a constant average cooling rate was assumed when constructing the CCT diagram. Inconel 718 parts fabricated by selective laser melting were analyzed. The accumulated duration required for γ′/γ″ precipitate formation was found to shift from at least 432 s to about 83.38 s. The large difference in the duration (around 518%) highlights the importance of creating CCT diagrams specifically for AM materials. The key factor contributing to phase transformation was identified as the accumulated duration within the critical temperature range. The presented methodology demonstrated the capability of combining a thermal model and experimental observation to quantitatively predict phase transformation and could be used to design microstructures and control AM processes.
Influence of Tool Runout on Force Measurement During Internal Void Monitoring for Friction Stir Welding of 6061-T6 Aluminum
Authors: Franke Daniel , Zinn Michael , Rudraraju Shiva , Pfefferkorn Frank E.
Published: April 2021

The goal of this research was to examine how altering the amount of friction stir tool eccentricity while controlling the amount of slant in the tool shoulder (drivers of oscillatory process forces) effects the generation of process force transients during sub-surface void interaction. The knowledge gained will help improve the accuracy of force-based void monitoring methods that have the potential to reduce the need for post-weld inspection. Process force transients during sub-surface void formation were examined for multiple tools with varying magnitudes of kinematic runout. The eccentric motion of the tool produced oscillations in the process forces at the tools rotational frequency that became distorted when features (flats) on the tool probe interacted with voided volumes, generating an amplitude in the force signals at three times the tool rotational frequency (for three-flat tools). A larger tool eccentricity generates a larger amplitude in the force signals at the tool’s rotational frequency that holds a larger potential to create a distortion during void interaction. It was determined that once void becomes large enough to produce an interaction that generates an amplitude at the third harmonic larger than 30% of the amplitude at the rotational frequency in a weld with no interaction (amplitude solely at rotational frequency), the trailing edge of the tool shoulder cannot fully consolidate the void, i.e., it will remain in the final weld. Additionally, once the void exceeds a certain size, the amplitudes of the third harmonics saturate at 70% of the amplitude at the rotational frequency during full consolidation. The interaction between the eccentric probe and sub-surface void was isolated by ensuring any geometric imperfection in the shoulder (slant) with respect to the rotational axis was removed. The results suggest that geometric imperfections (eccentricity and slant) with respect to the tool’s rotational axis must be known when developing a void monitoring method from force transients of this nature.
Validation of Monte Carlo Simulation Technique for Calibration of Cleavage Fracture Model Parameters, With the Calibrated Values From Experimental Results for Reactor Pressure Vessel Material 20MnMoNi55 Steel in the Lower Self of Ductile-to-Brittle Transition Region
Authors: Bhattacharyya K. , Acharyya S. K.
Published: April 2021

In the earlier work done by the author for the reactor pressure vessel (RPV) material 20MnMoNi55 steel, Monte Carlo simulation technique is shown as an effective statistical technique to calibrate Weibull modulus “m” and Weibull scale parameter “σu” for temperatures −100 °C, −110 °C, −120 °C, −130 °C, and −140 °C by performing only six fracture toughness tests instead of (30 × 5 = 150) number of tests. But it lacks validation with the experimental work. So, in this paper, huge numbers of fracture toughness tests (minimum 30 for each temperature) are performed experimentally at −100 °C, −110 °C, and −130 °C in the lower self of the ductile-to-brittle transition (DBT) region for the RPV material 20MnMoNi55 steel. Then, linear regression analysis of the experimental data is performed to calibrate Weibull modulus m and Weibull scale parameter σu of Beremin (a cleavage fracture model) for the above mentioned temperatures. The calibrate values show a matching trend with that of experimental calibrated values and justify the prediction capability of Monte Carlo simulation to predict the Beremin model parameters with the help of only six fracture toughness tests. This statistical simulation procedure can be considered as an effective technique for the proper calibration of Beremin model parameters for any material.
Microstructure and Properties of Nb Nanoparticles Reinforced Sn–0.7Cu Solder Alloy
Authors: Liu Zheng , Yang Li , Xiong Yifeng , Gao Huiming
Published: April 2021

The effect of trace Nb nanoparticles on the thermal properties, wettability, microstructure, and mechanical properties of Sn–0.7Cu solder alloy was investigated. The results showed that the melting temperature of Sn–0.7Cu composite solder alloy is between 229 °C and 231 °C, and the effect of Nb nanoparticles on the melting temperature is not obvious. The wettability of the solder alloy is remarkably improved by adding Nb nanoparticles. Coarse β-Sn phase and β-Sn/Cu6Sn5 eutectic in the Sn–0.7Cu composite solder alloys are refined by adding appropriate Nb nanoparticles, and then the ultimate tensile strength (37.3 MPa) and the elongation (2.47 mm) of Sn–0.7Cu alloy are increased to the maximum 45.4 MPa and 4.59 mm for Nb-containing alloy. The fracture mechanism of Sn–0.7Cu–xNb composite solder alloys is plastic fracture.
Tolerance Representation Scheme in Solid Model: Part I
Authors: Roy U. , Pollard M. D. , Mantooth K. , Liu C. R.
Published: April 2021

The major objective of this paper is to develop a front-end scheme necessary for interfacing the tolerance module with the solid model. This includes the development of (i) an efficient user interfacing system for inputing tolerance information, (ii) a suitable tolerancing data module (to be attached to the solid model), and (iii) an information retrieval system from the stored database for future tolerance analysis. This work has been developed with the help of the Quick Turnaround Cell (QTC) Design System [7], [8] and TWIN Solid Model Package [4], developed at the Purdue Engineering Research Center (ERC).
Reasoning on the Location of Components for Assembly Packaging
Authors: Kim J. J. , Gossard D. C.
Published: April 2021

The process of locating components in an available space while satisfying spatial relationships among the components is called packaging. The task requires extensive spatial reasoning about geometric shapes. It is a generic design task common to many domains. It is also very time-consuming, especially as machines become more compact and complex.

This paper describes progress toward automation of the packaging problem. An approach is proposed to determine the optimal locations of components in an assembly from spatial relationships between the components. The approach utilizes a novel combination of optimization and solid modeling techniques.
The Development and Implementation of a Design for Producibility Method for Precision Planar Stamped Products
Authors: Schmitz J. M. , Desa S.
Published: April 2021

In this paper we establish the Design For Producibility Design Development Methodology for stamped products which integrates both the design and manufacture of the stamped product. The general concept of considering manufacturing techniques at the initial design stages, often termed Design For Manufacturability, is certainly not novel. However, the proper implementation of this concept is not so widely understood. Our proposed method permits the product designer to control both part functionality and subsequent manufacturing costs through an iterative re-design process. The key step in this method is the mapping scheme from the final part design to the manufacturing domains, namely the die sections, the punching tools, and the basics of the strip layout. We also describe the implementation of the design methodology in a knowledge-based computer environment, called the Producibility Evaluation Package (P.E.P.).
An Obstacle Detection and Avoidance Algorithm for a Planar Manipular
Authors: Cook K. F. , Cipra R. J.
Published: April 2021

This paper develops the modeling, simulation and path modification for obstacle avoidance capabilities in an application to a planar robotic mechanism. Geometric and computer models are developed for both the robotic mechanism, as well as for the obstacles which make up the workspace environment. Obstacle expansion is utilized to reduce the models of the robotic links to simple line segments.

Obstacle detection is achieved through the use of obstacle detection grids, which are constructed to cover the intended area of robotic motion. The classification of motion will be determined entirely from the initial and final configuration of the robot. This classification of robotic motion will determine the shape and type of the grid used to detect the obstacles. Upon obstacle detection, several path modification algorithms are implemented to circumvent these obstructions. The end result and goal of this paper is achieved through the final generation of an obstacle-free trajectory as illustrated by a comprehensive example.
A Contact Force Model With Hysteresis Damping for Impact Analysis of Multibody Systems
Authors: Lankarani H. M. , Nikravesh P. E.
Published: April 2021

A continuous contact force model for the impact analysis of a two-particle collision is presented. The model uses the general trend of the Hertz contact law. A hysteresis damping function is encorporated in the model which represents the dissipated energy in impact. The parameters in the model are determined, and the validity of the model is established. The model is then generalized to the impact analysis between two bodies of a multibody system. A continuous analysis is performed using the equations of motion of either the multibody system or an equivalent two-particle model of the colliding bodies. For the latter, the concept of effective mass is presented in order to compensate for the effects of joint forces in the system. For illustration, the impact situation between a slider-crank mechanism and another sliding block is considered.
Mechanical States in Wound Capacitors: Part I — Prediction
Authors: Reuter R. C. , Allen J. J.
Published: April 2021

The problem of determining the mechanical states inside wound capacitor rolls is addressed through the application of two dimensional, linear elasticity. Allowances are made for heterogeneous wound construction of the capacitor, orthotropic material behavior of the capacitor constituents, and arbitrary winding tension. A key element in the formulation is the derivation of material properties for a wound, orthotropic layer which is equivalent in behavior to a stack of dissimilar plies such as are actually wound on the capacitor simultaneously during one turn of the mandrel. The dissimilar plies are necessary by virtue of the conductor and dielectric materials which must be present in a capacitor. The derivation of predictive equations is based on winding the equivalent layer on an appropriate mandrel, followed by a recovery of the individual ply responses. The capability to explicitly calculate the winding tensions which would be necessary to produce a required wound tension dependence upon capacitor radius is also developed. Numerical results for typical capacitor design and construction are presented, and justification for the application of optimization theory in capacitor development is demonstrated.
Computer-Aided Selection and Performance Rating of Antifriction Bearings
Authors: Arikan M. A. S. , Kaftanoglu B.
Published: April 2021

A computer program is developed for selection and performance rating of antifriction bearings. For each bearing type, a data base which contains boundary dimensions, basic load ratings, limiting speeds and load factors of bearings is created. Properties of lubricants are also stored in separate data bases. Inputs required by the program are, loading and arrangement of bearings, minimum required life, rotational speed, operating temperature, minimum static factor of safety, dimensional constraints, reliability and type of lubrication. For each bearing type, alternative bearings are selected by the program and their performance variables are calculated for oils and greases stored in the data bases. It is left to the user to decide on the most suitable bearing among the ones given by the program. It is also possible to make preferences on bearing types and oils.
Development of New Method for Calculating Engaged Profiles of Gears
Authors: Wang D. , Qi Z. , Shiue F.-C. T.
Published: April 2021

In investigating the problems of engagement of different gear tooth profiles, the authors have found a generality for these problems. Meanwhile, according to the theory of computational geometry and numerical experiments, a parametric cubic spline function is found as a proper curve-fit technique to represent the tooth profiles of these gears. A general method and its numerical algorithm, based on the generality observed and the spline function chosen, is developed for the calculation of gear cutting tools and mating gears with arbitrary profiles. The cutting tools applied include: gear cutters, grinding wheels, and form milling cutters. The method can also be applied to the inspection of the manufacturing accuracy of the gear or helical screw profiles. A computational procedure is illustrated.
Synthesis and Analysis of Cam-Follower Systems With Two Degrees of Freedom
Authors: Tsay D. M. , Huey C. O.
Published: April 2021

A general, integrated, and systematic procedure for the synthesis and analysis of non-rigid cam-follower systems is presented. The method is based on a linear, lumped, two-degree-of-freedom (two-DOF) model and uses spline functions for the synthesis of output motions. Solution techniques for differential equations are identified that make the method sufficiently fast and efficient to be employed in an iterative design process. For the equations that occur in the determination of the cam profile the finite element spline collocation method is used to obtain approximate solutions. To analyze the vibrational response of the follower system, both the finite element spline collocation method and the Crank-Nicolson method are applied. The overall procedure offers the advantage over other procedures of greater generality yet requires only routine application procedures. An example is provided to illustrate the complete synthesis/analysis procedure and the results are compared to those obtained using a traditional polynomial approach.
Dynamic Calibration for Serial Robotic Manipulators Based on the Zero Position Analysis Method
Authors: Qian G. Z. , Kazerounian K.
Published: April 2021

In the continuation of a kinematic calibration method developed in a previous report, a new dynamic calibration model for serial robotic manipulators is presented in this paper. This model is based on the Zero Position Analysis Method. It entails the process of estimating the errors in the robot’s dynamic parameters by assuming that the kinematic parameters are free of errors. The convergence and effectiveness of the model are demonstrated through numerical simulations.
Overcoming Culture Restriction for SARS-CoV-2 in Human Cells Facilitates the Screening of Compounds Inhibiting Viral Replication
Authors: Ramirez Santseharay , Fernandez-Antunez Carlota , Galli Andrea , Underwood Alexander , Pham Long V. , Ryberg Line A. , Feng Shan , Pedersen Martin S. , Mikkelsen Lotte S. , Belouzard Sandrine , Dubuisson Jean , Sølund Christina , Weis Nina , Gottwein Judith M. , Fahnøe Ulrik , Bukh Jens
Published: April 2021

Efforts to mitigate the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic include the screening of existing antiviral molecules that could be repurposed to treat severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) infections. Although SARS-CoV-2 replicates and propagates efficiently in African green monkey kidney (Vero) cells, antivirals such as nucleos(t)ide analogs (nuc’s) often show decreased activity in these cells due to inefficient metabolization.
RNA Sequencing Data Sets and Their Whole-Genome Sequence Assembly of Dengue Virus from Three Serial Passages in Vero Cells
Authors: Wongsurawat Thidathip , Punyadee Nuntaya , Jenjaroenpun Piroon , Mairiang Dumrong , Tangthawornchaikul Nattaya , Malasit Prida , Avirutnan Panisadee , Suriyaphol Prapat , Chin-inmanu Kwanrutai
Published: April 2021

We present RNA sequencing data sets and their genome sequence assembly for dengue virus that was isolated from a patient with dengue hemorrhagic fever and serially propagated in Vero cells. RNA sequencing data obtained from the first, third, and fifth passages and their corresponding whole-genome sequences are provided in this work.
Complete and Draft Genome Sequences of the Cruciferous Pathogens Pseudomonas cannabina pv. alisalensis and Pseudomonas syringae pv. maculicola
Authors: Fujikawa Takashi , Takikawa Yuichi , Inoue Yasuhiro
Published: April 2021

Pseudomonas cannabina
pv. alisalensis and
P. syringae
pv. maculicola cause bacterial leaf blight and bacterial leaf spot of crucifers (Brassicaceae). Both pathogens are threats to the cultivation of cruciferous crops. Here, we sequenced two strains of each pathogen, which will contribute to the development of countermeasures for the above diseases.
Differential diagnoses of pseudolymphomatous folliculitis: considerations as regards one case
Authors: Mendoza Ramírez José Bruno , Ayala Dafne , Heald Adrian , Moreno Gabriela Y C
Published: April 2021

Pseudolymphomatous folliculitis (PLF) is a rare disease of cutaneous lymphoid hyperplasia, with a low index of clinical suspicion. We present the clinical case of a 19-year-old male patient, with a solitary violet erythematous nodule of 6 months of evolution, located in the right infraorbital region, without presenting another symptomatology. Histopathological examination showed a lymphocytic infiltrate that surrounds the hair follicles, sebaceous and sweat glands that focally destroy their basement membrane. PLF was diagnosed based on histological and immunohistochemical studies. In the multiple studies and case reports, the variability of the initial clinical diagnosis never corresponds to PLF, becoming a pathology with a low suspect index.
Right paraduodenal hernia with extensive bowel gangrene treated with staged surgery: a Bogota bag followed by resection in a low-resource setting
Authors: Ismavel Vijay Anand , Kichu Moloti , Hechhula David Paul , Yanadi Rebecca
Published: April 2021

We report a case of right paraduodenal hernia with strangulation of almost the entire small bowel at presentation. Since resection of all bowel of doubtful viability would have resulted in too little residual length to sustain life, a Bogota bag was fashioned using transparent plastic material from an urine drainage bag and the patient monitored intensively for 18 hours. At re-laparotomy, clear demarcation lines had formed with adequate length of viable bowel (100 cm) and resection with anastomosis was done with a good outcome on follow-up, 9 months after surgery. Our description of a rare cause of strangulated intestinal obstruction and a novel method of maximising length of viable bowel is reported for its successful outcome in a low-resource setting.
Perfect storm along the neuro-cardiac axis: stroke complicated by acute biventricular dysfunction—Takotsubo syndrome or neurogenic stress cardiomyopathy?
Authors: Jackson Meghan , Nosib Shravan
Published: April 2021

Acute biventricular dysfunction complicating acute ischaemic stroke poses diagnostic and therapeutic challenges with respect to anticoagulation and short-term and long-term prognosis. We present the uncommon case of an elderly patient presenting with this clinical scenario, who made a full recovery on conservative therapy. Management strategies are discussed and the emerging topic of neuro-cardiac syndromes, namely neurogenic stress cardiomyopathy as distinct from Takotsubo syndrome, is explored.
Mental well-being interventions in the military: The ten key principles
Authors: Lawrence Erin G , Jones N , Greenberg N , Fear N T , Wessely S , Michael G , Taylor-Beirne S , Simms A
Published: April 2021

Organisations including the United Kingdom Armed Forces should seek to implement mental health interventions to increase the psychological well-being of their workforce. This editorial briefly presents ten key principles that military forces should consider before implementing such interventions. These include job-focused training; evaluating interventions; the use of internal versus external training providers; the role of leaders; unit cohesion, single versus multiple session psychological interventions; not overgeneralising the applicability of interventions; the need for repeated skills practice; raising awareness and the fallibility of screening.
Analysis of 200 000 exome-sequenced UK Biobank subjects illustrates the contribution of rare genetic variants to hyperlipidaemia
Authors: Curtis David
Published: April 2021

Background

A few genes have previously been identified in which very rare variants can have major effects on lipid levels.

Methods

Weighted burden analysis of rare variants was applied to exome sequenced UK Biobank subjects with hyperlipidaemia as the phenotype, of whom 44 054 were designated cases and 156 578 controls, with the strength of association characterised by the signed log 10 p value (SLP).

Results

With principal components included as covariates there was a tendency for genes on the X chromosome to produce strongly negative SLPs, and this was found to be due to the fact that rare X chromosome variants were identified less frequently in men than women. The test performed well when both principal components and sex were included as covariates and strongly implicated LDLR (SLP=50.08) and PCSK9 (SLP=−10.42) while also highlighting other genes previously found to be associated with lipid levels. Variants classified by SIFT as deleterious have on average a twofold effect and their cumulative frequency is such that they are present in approximately 1.5% of the population.

Conclusion

These analyses shed further light on the way that genetic variation contributes to risk of hyperlipidaemia and in particular that there are very many protein-altering variants which have on average moderate effects and whose effects can be detected when large samples of exome-sequenced subjects are available. This research has been conducted using the UK Biobank Resource.
Unweighted lotteries and compounding injustice: reply to Schmidtet al
Authors: Miller Tate Alex James
Published: April 2021

I argue that Schmidtet al, while correctly diagnosing the serious racial inequity in current ventilator rationing procedures, misidentify a corresponding racial inequity issue in alternative ‘unweighted lottery’ procedures. Unweighted lottery procedures do not ‘compound’ (in the relevant sense) prior structural injustices. However, Schmidtet aldo gesture towards a real problem with unweighted lotteries that previous advocates of lottery-based allocation procedures, myself included, have previously overlooked. On the basis that there are independent reasons to prefer lottery-based allocation of scarce lifesaving healthcare resources, I develop this idea, arguing that unweighted lottery procedures fail to satisfy healthcare providers’ duty to prevent unjust population-level health outcomes, and thus that lotteries weighted in favour of Black individuals (and others who experience serious health injustice) are to be preferred.
Anatomical considerations for obturator nerve block with fascia iliaca compartment block
Authors: Bendtsen Thomas Fichtner , Pedersen Erik Morre , Moriggl Bernhard , Hebbard Peter , Ivanusic Jason , Børglum Jens , Nielsen Thomas Dahl , Peng Philip
Published: April 2021

This report reviews the topographical and functional anatomy relevant for assessing whether or not the obturator nerve (ON) can be anesthetized using a fascia iliaca compartment (FIC) block. The ON does not cross the FIC. This means that the ON would only be blocked by an FIC block if the injectate spreads to the ON outside of the FIC. Such a phenomena would require the creation of one or more artificial passageways to the ON in the retro-psoas compartment or the retroperitoneal compartment by disrupting the normal anatomical integrity of the FI. Due to this requirement for an artificial pathway, an FIC block probably does not block the ON.
Interspecific and intraspecific variation in leaf toughness of Arctic plants in relation to habitat and nutrient supply
Authors: Fetcher Ned , Iglesia Sofia , Turner Stephen J. , Parker Thomas C.
Published: April 2021

Leaf toughness is an important functional trait that confers resistance to herbivory and mechanical damage. We sought to determine how species composition, climate, seasonality, and nutrient availability influence leaf toughness in two types of tundra in northern Alaska. We measured leaf toughness as force to punch for 11 species of Arctic plants in tussock tundra and dry heath tundra at 17 sites distributed along a latitudinal gradient. Rubus chamaemorus L. and the graminoids occupied opposite ends of the leaf toughness spectrum, with Rubus chamaemorus requiring the least force to punch, whereas one of the graminoids, Eriophorum vaginatum L., required the most. Leaf toughness increased with mean summer temperature for Eriophorum vaginatum and Betula nana L., whereas it declined with warmer temperatures for the other species. Toughness of mature leaves of Eriophorum vaginatum did not vary through the growing season but declined significantly after senescence. Application of N and P fertilizer in an experimental site decreased leaf toughness in three species but had no effect on four others. Leaf toughness of four out of five species in dry heath was greater than for the same species in tussock tundra, but there was no difference in community-weighted mean toughness between tussock tundra and dry heath.
Population dynamics of muskrats (Ondatra zibethicus) and American mink (Neovison vison): investigating contemporary patterns in a classic predator–prey system
Authors: Ahlers Adam A. , Lyons Timothy P. , Heske Edward J.
Published: April 2021

A well-studied predator–prey relationship between American mink (Neovison vison (Schreber, 1777); formerly known as Mustela vison Schreber, 1777) and muskrats (Ondatra zibethicus (Linnaeus, 1766)) in Canada has advanced our understanding of population cycles including the influence of density dependence and lagged responses of predators to prey abundances. However, it is unclear if patterns observed in Canada extend across the southern half of their native range. We used data from the United States to create a 41-year time series of mink and muskrat harvest reports (1970–2011) for 36 states. After controlling for pelt-price effects, we used second-order autoregressive and Lomb–Scargle spectral density models to identify the presence and periodicity of muskrat population cycles. Additionally, we tested for evidence of delayed or direct density dependence and for predator-driven population dynamics. Our results suggest muskrat populations may cycle in parts of the United States; however, results varied by modeling approaches with Lomb–Scargle analyses providing more precise parameter estimates. Observed cycle lengths were longer than expected with weak amplitudes and we urge caution when interpreting these results. We did not detect evidence of a predator–prey relationship driven by a lagged numerical response of American mink. American mink and muskrat fur returns were largely correlated across the region suggesting extraneous factors likely synchronize both populations.
Fake dark matter from retarded distortions
Authors: Re Federico
Published: April 2021

We push ahead the idea developed in a previous work, that some fraction of the dark matter and the dark energy can be explained as a relativistic effect. The inhomogeneity matter generates gravitational distortions, which are general relativistically retarded. These combine in a magnification effect since the past matter density, which generated the distortion we feel now, is greater than the present one. The non negligible effect on the averaged expansion of the universe contributes both to the estimations of the dark matter and to the dark energy, so that the parameters of the Cosmological Standard Model need some corrections. In this second work we apply the previously developed framework to relativistic models of the universe. It results that one parameter remain free, so that more solutions are possible, as function of inhomogeneity. One of these fully explains the dark energy, but requires more dark matter than the Cosmological Standard Model ($$91\%$$

91
%

of the total matter). Another solution fully explains the dark matter, but requires more dark energy than the Cosmological Standard Model ($$15\%$$

15
%

more). A third noteworthy solution explains a consistent part of the dark matter ($$63\%$$

63
%

of the total matter) and also some of the dark energy ($$4\%$$

4
%

).
Comments on the symmetry breaking condition in MacDowell–Mansouri action
Authors: Díaz-Saldaña I. , Sabido M. , López-Domínguez J. C. , Rosales-Quintero J. E.
Published: April 2021

In this work, we study the symmetry breaking conditions, given by a (anti)de Sitter-valued vector field, of a full (anti)de Sitter-invariant MacDowell–Mansouri inspired action. We show that under these conditions, the action breaks down to General Relativity with a cosmological constant, the four-dimensional topological invariants, as well as the Holst term. We obtain the equations of motion of this action, and analyze the symmetry breaking conditions.
PRICING AMERICAN OPTIONS WITH THE RUNGE–KUTTA–LEGENDRE FINITE DIFFERENCE SCHEME
Authors: LE FLOC’H FABIEN
Published: April 2021

This paper presents the Runge–Kutta–Legendre (RKL) finite difference scheme, allowing for an additional shift in its polynomial representation. A short presentation of the stability region, comparatively to the Runge–Kutta–Chebyshev scheme follows. We then explore the problem of pricing American options with the RKL scheme under the one factor Black–Scholes and the two factor Heston stochastic volatility models, as well as the pricing of butterfly spread and digital options under the uncertain volatility model, where a Hamilton–Jacobi–Bellman partial differential equation needs to be solved. We explore the order of convergence in these problems, as well as the option greeks stability, compared to the literature and popular schemes such as Crank–Nicolson, with Rannacher time-stepping.
COHERENT RISK MEASURES AND NORMAL MIXTURE DISTRIBUTIONS WITH APPLICATIONS IN PORTFOLIO OPTIMIZATION
Authors: SHI XIANG , KIM YOUNG SHIN
Published: April 2021

This paper investigates the coherent risk measure of a class of normal mixture distributions which are widely-used in finance. The main result shows that the mean-risk portfolio optimization problem with these normal mixture distributions can be reduced to a quadratic programming problem which has closed form of solution by fixing the location parameter and skewness parameter. In addition, we show that the efficient frontier of the portfolio optimization problem can be extended to three dimensions in this case. The worst-case value-at-risk in the robust portfolio optimization can also be calculated directly. Finally, the conditional value-at-risk (CVaR) is considered as an example of coherent risk measure. We obtain the marginal contribution to risk for a portfolio based on the normal mixture model.
A Multiscale Failure Modeling Framework for Strain Localization in Quasi-Brittle Materials
Authors: Xing Wenjin , Miller Anthony D.
Published: April 2021

Macroscale mesh sensitivity and RVE size dependence are the two major issues that make the conventional homogenization techniques incapable of modeling the softening behavior of quasi-brittle materials. In this paper, a new continuous–discontinuous multiscale modeling approach to failure is presented. Inspired by the classical crack band model of Bazant and Oh (1983), this approach is built upon an extended computational homogenization (CH) scheme for representing the macroscale crack behavior. During the multiscale computation, once a macroscale material point loses its stability with the XFEM, a new crack segment represented is inserted for which cohesive RVE models using the extended CH and with copied initial states are coupled to crack integration points. In the extended CH, the macroscale strain applied to the boundary of the cohesive RVE model is enriched with a macroscale discontinuity related term regularized with the effective length of the microscale localization band. This helps alleviate the RVE size dependency of the homogenized cohesive response. The weakly periodic BCs that are aligned with the localization direction are employed to minimize spurious boundary effects. Several numerical examples are provided to demonstrate the effectiveness of this framework, with a comparison against direct numerical simulations.
A Computational Study on Inter-Phase Heat Transfer in a Conical Fluidized Bed Reactor Using Hot Air
Authors: Y. Hashim Mohamed , Sim Hyun Sik , Im Ik-Tae
Published: April 2021

This paper presents a computational study on the inter-phase heat transfer inside a conical fluidized bed reactor when hot air is introduced through the bottom inlet. Two different diameters, 2.0[Formula: see text]mm and 4.0[Formula: see text]mm glass particles are used as the first and second solid phase and hot air is used as the third phase. A gas–particle heat transfer and particle–particle heat transfer are investigated by using computational fluid dynamics. Euler–Euler two-fluid model is used to describe dynamics of particles and fluid flow in the reactor. We observe that gas–particle heat transfer coefficient is large when solid particle is small. This is the same tendency as the gas–particle heat transfer coefficient when cold air is introduced among hot particles. Particle-to-particle heat transfer depends much on the superficial velocity at the inlet.
A Perfect Storm
Authors: Datta Pratim , Whitmore Mark , Nwankpa Joseph K.
Published: April 2021

In an age where news information is created by millions and consumed by billions over
social media
(
SM
) every day, issues of information biases, fake news, and echo-chambers have dominated the corridors of technology firms, news corporations, policy makers, and society. While multiple disciplines have tried to tackle the issue using their disciplinary lenses, there has, hitherto, been no integrative model that surface the intricate, albeit “dark” explainable AI confluence of both technology and psychology. Investigating information bias anchoring as the overarching phenomenon, this research proposes a theoretical framework that brings together traditionally fragmented domains of AI technology, and human psychology.

The proposed Information Bias Anchoring Model reveals how SM news information creates an information deluge leading to uncertainty, and how technological rationality and individual biases intersect to mitigate the uncertainty, often leading to news information biases. The research ends with a discussion of contributions and offering to reduce information bias anchoring.
Protection Motivation Theory in Information Systems Security Research
Authors: Haag Steffi , Siponen Mikko , Liu Fufan
Published: April 2021

Protection motivation theory (PMT) is one of the most commonly used theories to examine information security behaviors. Our systematic review of the application of PMT in information systems (IS) security and the comparison with its application for decades in psychology identified five categories of important issues that have not yet been examined in IS security research. Discussing these issues in terms of why they are relevant and important for IS security, and to what extent IS research has not considered them, offers new research opportunities associated with the study of PMT and IS security threats. We suggest how future studies can approach each of the open issues to provide a new road map for quantitative and qualitative IS scholars.
Review—Recent Advances in Sensor Arrays for the Simultaneous Electrochemical Detection of Multiple Analytes
Authors: Ozer Tugba , Henry Charles S.
Published: April 2021

In this review, electrochemical sensor arrays were investigated for various chemical/biological sensing applications including proteins, whole cell pathogens, and small molecules. Utilization of multi-electrode arrays is important for monitoring cancer and other diseases by allowing for detection of multiple proteins in a single assay. Various voltammetric, amperometric, and potentiometric techniques have been used for investigating the electrochemical properties of the electrode surfaces. Electrodes modified with different nanomaterials, antibodies, enzymes, aptamers, etc. have been used to improve performance. This review focuses on recent publications that provide insight into the development of sensor arrays based on microfluidic and paper-based devices. We also discuss incorporation of these devices with portable potentiostats and wireless data acquisition technology for simultaneous analysis of multiple targets.
Ultra-Thin Mesoporous LiV3O8 Nanosheet with Exceptionally Large Specific Area for Fast and Reversible Li Storage in Lithium-Ion Battery Cathode
Authors: Song Huanqiao , Li Jiangang , Luo Mingsheng , Zhao Qiannan , Liu Feng
Published: April 2021

LiV3O8 is considered as a promising cathode material for lithium-ion batteries (LIBs) because of its high specific capacity and good safety. However, the poor cycling stability and low rate capability of LiV3O8 electrode seriously hinder its application in long lifespan and high power LIBs. In the present work, an ultra-thin mesoporous LiV3O8 nanosheet is synthesized on the basis of efficient reduction-oxidation and freeze-dried strategy. The mesoporous nanosheet with a very small thickness of about 1.36 nm has an exceptionally large surface area of 397 m2 g−1 (8–20 times of LiV3O8 reported). The electrochemical test results indicate that the nanosheet cathode can deliver a reversible capacity of 301 mA h g−1 at current density of 100 mA g−1 in the potential range of 2.0–4.0 V and retain 87.1% of the starting discharge capacity after 550 discharge/charge cycles at 2000 mA g−1. The excellent lithium storage performances are ascribed to its unique flexible ultra-thin mesoporous nanosheet structure, which can increase the surface pseudocapacitive lithium storage, reduce the charge transfer resistance, improve the diffusion coefficient of lithium ion, and accommodate the volume changes of LiV3O8 in the discharge-charge processes. These results demonstrate a great potential of ultra-thin mesoporous LiV3O8 nanosheet for large capacity, long life and high power LIBs.
Taste activity in the parabrachial region in adult rats following neonatal chorda tympani transection
Authors: Martin Louis J. , Breza Joseph M. , Sollars Suzanne I.
Published: April 2021

Early and chronic loss of taste input from the chorda tympani is associated with abnormal taste behaviors. We found that compared to when the chorda tympani is sectioned acutely, chronic nerve loss leads to amplification of spared inputs in the gustatory pons, with higher response to salty and sour stimuli. Findings point to plasticity that may compensate for sensory loss, but permanent deficits in taste signaling also occur following early denervation.
Colonic Metastasis of Adenoid Cystic Carcinoma 19 Years after the Primary Tumor Resection
Authors: Mallikarjunappa Subramanya Sakaleshpura , Jakate Shriram , Cheng Lin
Published: April 2021

Adenoid cystic carcinoma (ACC) is a tumor characterized by slow growth and late distant metastasis. The lung and breast are the most common sites for metastasis. Colonic metastasis of such a tumor is rare, with few case reports available. Here, we report a case of ACC arising from minor salivary gland that metastasized to the colon 19 years after the primary tumor resection, with literature review of the clinical, histological, and molecular features of ACC. This case raises our awareness of such tumors as a differential diagnosis of colorectal cancer.
Late-Onset Isolated Corticotrope Deficiency in a Woman with Down Syndrome
Authors: Oueslati Ibtissem , Ben Jemaa Marwa , Yazidi Meriem , Chaker Fatma , Chihaoui Melika
Published: April 2021

Isolated corticotrope deficiency is a rare cause of secondary adrenocortical insufficiency. Its occurrence in patients with Down syndrome is exceptional. Herein, we report a case of an isolated corticotrope deficiency diagnosed at the age of 33 years in a woman with Down syndrome and discuss its possible mechanisms. A 33-year-old woman with Down syndrome was referred to our department for the investigation of low blood pressure. She complained of asthenia, dizziness, and palpitation with arterial hypotension for the past 4 years. The thyroid function was normal and anti-thyroperoxidase antibodies were negative. The peak of cortisol level in response to the insulin-induced hypoglycemia test was 9.4 μg/dl. ACTH level was normal, indicating corticotrope deficiency. Other pituitary hormones were normal. Magnetic resonance imaging scan revealed a partially empty sella turcica. Genetic analysis showed no mutations and no copy number variants of the TBX19 and NFKB2 genes. The mechanism of isolated corticotrope deficiency is unclear, but it may be induced by autoimmune mechanism in similar to other disorders of patients with Down syndrome.
[Retracted] Identification of Hearing Loss‐Associated Variants of PTPRQ, MYO15A, and SERPINB6 in Pakistani Families
Authors: Mahmood Umair , Bukhari Shazia A. , Ali Muhammad , Ahmed Zubair M. , Riazuddin Saima
Published: April 2021

The inner ear is an essential part of a well‐developed and well‐coordinated hearing system. However, hearing loss can make communication and interaction more difficult. Inherited hearing loss (HL) can occur from pathogenic genetic variants that negatively alter the intricate inner ear sensory mechanism. Recessively inherited forms of HL are highly heterogeneous and account for a majority of prelingual deafness. The current study is designed to investigate genetic causes of HL in three consanguineous Pakistani families. After IRB approval, the clinical history and pure tone audiometric data was obtained for the clinical diagnosis of HL segregating in these three Pakistani families. We performed whole exome sequencing (WES) followed by Sanger sequencing in order to identify and validate the HL‐associated pathogenic variants, respectively. The 3‐D molecular modeling and the Ramachandran analysis of the identified missense variants were compiled to evaluate the impact of the variants on the encoded proteins. Clinical evaluation revealed prelingual severe to profound sensorineural HL segregating among the affected individuals in all three families. Genetic analysis revealed segregation of several novel variants associated with HL, including a canonical splice‐site variant (c.55‐2A>G) of PTPRQ in family GCFHL‐01, a missense variant [c.1079G>A; p.(Arg360Gln)] of SERPINB6 in family LUHL‐01, and an insertion variant (c.10208‐10211insCCACCAGGCCCGTGCCTC) within MYO15A in family LUHL‐011. All the identified variants had very low frequencies in the control databases. The molecular modeling of p.Arg360Gln missense variant also predicted impaired folding of SERPINB6 protein. This study reports the identification of novel disease‐causing variants in three known deafness genes and further highlights the genetic heterogeneity of HL in Pakistani population.