bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
D–π–A azine based AIEgen with solvent dependent response towards a nerve agent
Authors: Sathiyaraj Munusamy , Thiagarajan Viruthachalam
Published: July 2020

Selective detection of diethylchlorophosphate using a D–π–A based AIEgen in aqueous as well as non-aqueous environment via different sensing mechanisms.
Simultaneous wastewater treatment and energy harvesting in microbial fuel cells: an update on the biocatalysts
Authors: Guo Yajing , Wang Jiao , Shinde Shrameeta , Wang Xin , Li Yang , Dai Yexin , Ren Jun , Zhang Pingping , Liu Xianhua
Published: July 2020

This review provides an update on MFC-based wastewater treatment and energy harvesting research, and analyze various biocatalysts used in MFCs.
Correction: MiR-132 enhances proliferation and migration of HaCaT cells by targeting TIMP3
Authors: Jiang Lina , Jiang Yizhou , Ji Xiaohui , Li Jiangtao , Zhai Xiaomei
Published: July 2020

Correction for ‘MiR-132 enhances proliferation and migration of HaCaT cells by targeting TIMP3’ by Lina Jiang et al., RSC Adv., 2019, 9, 21125–21133, DOI: 10.1039/C8RA10552A.
Simultaneous detection of small molecules, proteins and microRNAs using single molecule arrays
Authors: Wang Xu , Walt David R.
Published: July 2020

The first example of multiplexed detection of proteins, nucleic acids, and small molecules using single molecule measurement methodology.
The aging effect on the enhancement of thermal stability, mechanical stiffness and fluorescence properties of histidine-appended naphthalenediimide based two-component hydrogels
Authors: Gayen Kousik , Nandi Nibedita , Das Krishna Sundar , Hermida-Merino Daniel , Hamley Ian W. , Banerjee Arindam
Published: July 2020

Two-component hydrogels show remarkable advancement in thermal and mechanical stabilities, and fluorescent intensity upon an unusual aging effect.
In situ exsolution of Ag from AgBiS2 nanocrystal anode boosting high-performance potassium-ion batteries
Authors: Ren Xiaoru , Yu Dongxu , Yuan Long , Bai Yaocai , Huang Keke , Liu Jinghai , Feng Shouhua
Published: July 2020

In situ Ag exsolution from AgBiS2 nanocrystals as an intermediate charge transmitter assists cycling for K+ intercalation in anode reactions.
Cancer cell membrane-coated gold nanorods for photothermal therapy and radiotherapy on oral squamous cancer
Authors: Sun Qiang , Wu Jinggen , Jin Lulu , Hong Liangjie , Wang Fang , Mao Zhengwei , Wu Mengjie
Published: July 2020

Cancer cell membrane-coated gold nanorods are prepared for combinational photothermal therapy and radiation therapy of oral squamous cancer.
A small-molecule/fullerene acceptor alloy: a powerful tool to enhance the device efficiency and thermal stability of ternary polymer solar cells
Authors: Yin Pan , Wang Linqiao , Liang Jingtang , Yu Yufu , Chen Li , Weng Chao , Cui Chaohua , Shen Ping
Published: July 2020

A small-molecule/fullerene acceptor alloy improved the PCE and stability of PBDB-T/PC71BM/IDT-OT ternary PSCs.
Scaling of capacitance of PEDOT:PSS: volumevs.area
Authors: Bianchi Michele , Carli Stefano , Di Lauro Michele , Prato Mirko , Murgia Mauro , Fadiga Luciano , Biscarini Fabio
Published: July 2020

PEDOT:PSS capacitance is saturated at large volumes due to a change of ion penetration from a diffusive (at small volumes) to a non-diffusive regime.
Methyl functionalization on conjugated side chains for polymer solar cells processed from non-chlorinated solvents
Authors: Zhang Chun-Hui , Lin Fengyuan , Huang Wei , Xin Jingming , Wang Jiang , Lin Zhichao , Ma Wei , Yang Tingbin , Xia Jiangbin , Liang Yongye
Published: July 2020

Methyl functionalization on conjugated thiophene side chains is developed as an effective fine-tuning approach for polymeric donors, affording substantial efficiency improvement for polymer solar cells processed from non-chlorinated solvents.
Solution-processable, high current efficiency deep-blue organic light-emitting diodes based on novel biphenyl-imidazole derivatives
Authors: Zhang Zheng , Li Yuqin , Wu Xiaoming , Chu Wenyi , Yin Shougen
Published: July 2020

The optimal deviceVIexhibited a very high luminance of 13 836 cd m−2and a maximum current efficiency of 6.12 cd A−1.
A privileged ternary blend enabling non-fullerene organic photovoltaics with over 14% efficiency
Authors: Yan Jing , Yi Yuan-Qiu-Qiang , Zhang Jianqi , Feng Huanran , Ma Yanfeng , Wan Xiangjian , Li Chenxi , Wei Zhixiang , Chen Yongsheng
Published: July 2020

Two non-fullerene small molecule acceptors, NT-4F and NT-4Cl, were designed and synthesized. Power conversion efficiencies of 11.44% and 14.55% were achieved for NT-4Cl-based binary and ternary devices, respectively.
Enantioseparation, in vitro testing, and structural characterization of triple-binding reactivators of organophosphate-inhibited cholinesterases
Authors: Maraković Nikola , Knežević Anamarija , Rončević Igor , Brazzolotto Xavier , Kovarik Zrinka , Šinko Goran
Published: July 2020

The enantiomers of racemic 2-hydroxyimino-N-(azidophenylpropyl)acetamide-derived triple-binding oxime reactivators were separated, and tested for inhibition and reactivation of acetylcholinesterase (AChE) and butyrylcholinesterase (BChE) inhibited with tabun (GA), cyclosarin (GF), sarin (GB), and VX. Both enzymes showed the greatest affinity toward the methylimidazole derivative (III) of 2-hydroxyimino-N-(azidophenylpropyl)acetamide (I). The crystal structure was determined for the complex of oxime III within human BChE, confirming that all three binding groups interacted with active site residues. In the case of BChE inhibited by GF, oximes I (kr = 207 M−1 min−1) and III (kr = 213 M−1 min−1) showed better reactivation efficiency than the reference oxime 2-PAM. Finally, the key mechanistic steps in the reactivation of GF-inhibited BChE with oxime III were modeled using the PM7R6 method, stressing the importance of proton transfer from Nε of His438 to Oγ of Ser203 for achieving successful reactivation.
Clinically relevant high levels of human C-reactive protein induces endothelial dysfunction and hypertension by inhibiting the AMPK-eNOS axis
Authors: Cheng Lele , Wang Liang , Guo Manyun , He Jinlong , Deng Yangyang , Liu Junhui , Wei Yuanyuan , Wang Chen , Zhou Juan , Ma Li , Song Qing , Yuan Zuyi , Wu Yue
Published: July 2020

Successful treatment of resistant hypertension accompanied by elevated human C-reactive protein (hCRP) remains a key challenge in reducing the burden of cardiovascular diseases. It is still unclear whether clinically relevant high-level hCRP is merely a marker or a key driver of hypertension. Here, we investigated the role and mechanism of clinically relevant high level of hCRP in hypertension. Elevated blood pressure was observed in all three hCRP overexpression models, including adeno-associated virus 9 (AAV9)-transfected mice, AAV9-transfected rats and hCRP transgenic (hCRPtg) rats. hCRPtg rats expressing clinically relevant high-level hCRP developed spontaneous hypertension, cardiac hypertrophy, myocardial fibrosis and impaired endothelium-dependent relaxation. Mechanistically, studies in endothelial nitric oxide (NO) synthase (eNOS) knockout mice transfected with AAV9-hCRP and phosphoproteomics analysis of hCRP-treated endothelial cells revealed that hCRP inhibited AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK)-eNOS phosphorylation pathway. Further, activation of AMPK by metformin normalized endothelial-dependent vasodilation and decreased the blood pressure of hCRPtg rats. Our results show that clinically relevant high-level hCRP induces hypertension and endothelial dysfunction by inhibiting AMPK-eNOS signaling, and highlight hCRP is not only an inflammatory biomarker but also a driver of hypertension. Treatment with metformin or a synthetic AMPK activator may be a potential strategy for vaso-dysfunction and hypertension in patients with high hCRP levels.
Acoustic Measures of Emotion in School-Age Children Who Stutter: Findings From a Single Subject
Authors: Salvo Heather D. , Schmidt Anna M.
Published: July 2020

Purpose

The purpose of this study was to encourage and justify the examination of acoustic measures of emotion (mean fundamental frequency [F0], F0 range, jitter, and shimmer) from school-age children who stutter (CWS) in a novel procedure combining psychophysiological measures of stress with acoustic analysis.

Method

One school-age CWS (aged 11;9 [years;months]) completed a cognitively stressful speech-language task and a control speech-language task. Vocal acoustic samples were collected during the stressful task and the control task. These samples were later analyzed for F0, F0 range, jitter, and shimmer. Physiological measures of emotional arousal, including electrodermal response frequency and electrodermal response amplitude, were also recorded prior to, during, and after each condition for manipulation check purposes. Physiological measures of emotion regulation, indexed by mean heart rate variability, were also collected prior to and after each condition for manipulation check purposes.

Results

Findings from the psychophysiological measures suggest that the CWS experienced increased stress during the stress-inducing task. Acoustic measures indicate that the CWS reduced rather than increased her mean F0, F0 range, jitter, and shimmer only for high vowels /i u/ during the control task compared to stressful task.

Conclusions

Overall, these pilot findings support the need for further study of vocal acoustic and psychophysiological measures of emotion from CWS as well as children who do not stutter.
NGC 4104: A shell galaxy in a forming fossil group
Authors: Lima Neto G. B. , Durret F. , Laganá T. F. , Machado R. E. G. , Martinet N. , Cuillandre J.-C. , Adami C.
Published: July 2020

Context. Groups are the most common association of galaxies in the Universe and they are found in different configuration states, such as loose, compact, and fossil groups.

Aims. We studied the galaxy group MKW 4s, dominated by the giant early-type galaxy NGC 4104 at z = 0.0282, with the aim of understanding the evolutionary stage of this group and to place it within the framework of the standard ΛCDM cosmological scenario.

Methods. We obtained deep optical data with CFHT/Megacam (g and r bands) and we applied both the GALFIT 2D image fitting program and the IRAF/ELLIPSE 1D radial method to model the brightest group galaxy (BGG) and its extended stellar envelope. We also analysed the publicly available XMM-Newton and Chandra X-ray data. From N-body simulations of dry-mergers with different mass ratios of the infalling galaxy, we were able to constrain the dynamical stage of this system.

Results. Our results show a stellar shell system feature in NGC 4104 and an extended envelope that was reproduced by our numerical simulations of a collision with a satellite galaxy taking place about 4−6 Gyr ago. The initial pair of galaxies had a mass ratio of at least 1:3. Taking into account the stellar envelope contribution to the total r band magnitude and the X-ray luminosity, MKW 4s falls into the category of a fossil group.

Conclusions. Our results show that we are witnessing a rare case of a shell elliptical galaxy in a forming fossil group.
Water megamaser emission in hard X-ray selected AGN
Authors: Panessa F. , Castangia P. , Malizia A. , Bassani L. , Tarchi A. , Bazzano A. , Ubertini P.
Published: July 2020

Context. Water megamaser emission at 22 GHz has proven to be a powerful tool for astrophysical studies of active galactic nuclei (AGN) because it allows an accurate determination of the mass of the central black hole and of the accretion disc geometry and dynamics. However, after searches among thousands of galaxies, only about 200 of them have shown such spectroscopic features, most of them of uncertain classification. In addition, the physical and geometrical conditions under which a maser activates are still unknown.

Aims. We characterize the occurrence of water maser emission in an unbiased sample of AGN by investigating the relation with the X-ray properties and the possible favourable geometry that is required to detect water maser.

Methods. We searched for 22 GHz maser emission in a hard X-ray selected sample of AGN, taken from the INTEGRAL/IBIS survey above 20 keV. Only half of the 380 sources in the sample have water maser data. We also considered a volume-limited sub-sample of 87 sources, for which we obtained new observations with the Green Bank and Effelsberg telescopes (for 35 sources). We detected one new maser and increased its radio coverage to 75%.

Results. The detection rate of water maser emission in the total sample is 15 ± 3%. This fraction increases to 19 ± 5% for the complete sub-sample, especially when we consider type 2 (22 ± 5% and 31 ± 10% for the total and complete samples, respectively) and Compton-thick AGN (56 ± 18% and 50 ± 35% for the total and complete samples, respectively). No correlation is found between water maser and X-ray luminosity. We note that all types of masers (disc and jet) are associated with hard X-ray selected AGN.

Conclusions. These results demonstrate that the hard X–ray selection may significantly enhance the maser detection efficiency over comparably large optical or infrared surveys. A possible decline in detection fraction with increasing luminosity might suggest that an extremely luminous nuclear environment does not favour maser emission. The large fraction of CT AGN with water maser emission could be explained in terms of geometrical effects. The maser medium would then be the very edge-on portion of the obscuring medium.
Evolution of downflows in the transition region above a sunspot over short time-scales
Authors: Nelson C. J. , Krishna Prasad S. , Mathioudakis M.
Published: July 2020

Context. Downflows with potentially super-sonic velocities have been reported to occur in the transition region above many sunspots; however, how these signatures evolve over short time-scales in both spatial and spectral terms is still unknown and requires further research.

Aims. In this article, we investigate the evolution of downflows detected within spectral lines sampling the transition region on time-scales of the order of minutes and we search for clues as to the formation mechanisms of these features in co-temporal imaging data.

Methods. For the purposes of this article, we used high-resolution spectral and imaging data sampled by the Interface Region Imaging Spectrograph on the 20 and 21 May 2015 to identify and analyse downflows. Additionally, photospheric and coronal imaging data from the Hinode and Solar Dynamics Observatory satellites were studied to provide context about the wider solar atmosphere.

Results. Four downflows were identified and analysed through time. The potential super-sonic components of these downflows had widths of around 2″ and were observed to evolve over time-scales of the order of minutes. The measured apparent downflow velocities were structured both in time and space, with the highest apparent velocities occurring above a bright region detected in Si IV 1400 Å images. Downflows with apparent velocities below the super-sonic threshold that was assumed here were observed to extend a few arcseconds away from the foot-points, suggesting that the potential super-sonic components are linked to larger-scale flows. The electron density and mass flux for these events were found to be within the ranges of 109.6–1010.2 cm−3 and 10−6.81–10−7.48 g cm−2 s−1, respectively. Finally, each downflow formed at the foot-point of thin “fingers”, extending out around 3–5″ in Si IV 1400 Å data with smaller widths (< 1″) than the super-sonic downflow components.

Conclusions. Downflows can appear, disappear, and recur within time-scales of less than one hour in sunspots. As the potential super-sonic downflow signatures were detected at the foot-points of both extended fingers in Si IV 1400 SJI data and sub-sonic downflows in Si IV 1394 Å spectra, it is likely that these events are linked to larger-scale flows within structures such as coronal loops.
Seismic evidence for near solid-body rotation in two Kepler subgiants and implications for angular momentum transport
Authors: Deheuvels S. , Ballot J. , Eggenberger P. , Spada F. , Noll A. , den Hartogh J. W.
Published: July 2020

Context. Asteroseismic measurements of the internal rotation of subgiants and red giants all show the need for invoking a more efficient transport of angular momentum than theoretically predicted. Constraints on the core rotation rate are available starting from the base of the red giant branch (RGB) and we are still lacking information on the internal rotation of less evolved subgiants.

Aims. We identify two young Kepler subgiants, KIC 8524425 and KIC 5955122, whose mixed modes are clearly split by rotation. We aim to probe their internal rotation profile and assess the efficiency of the angular momentum transport during this phase of the evolution.

Methods. Using the full Kepler data set, we extracted the mode frequencies and rotational splittings for the two stars using a Bayesian approach. We then performed a detailed seismic modeling of both targets and used the rotational kernels to invert their internal rotation profiles using the MOLA inversion method. We thus obtained estimates of the average rotation rates in the g-mode cavity (⟨Ω⟩g) and in the p-mode cavity (⟨Ω⟩p).

Results. We found that both stars are rotating nearly as solid bodies, with core-envelope contrasts of ⟨Ω⟩g/⟨Ω⟩p = 0.68 ± 0.47 for KIC 8524425 and ⟨Ω⟩g/⟨Ω⟩p = 0.72 ± 0.37 for KIC 5955122. This result shows that the internal transport of angular momentum has to occur faster than the timescale at which differential rotation is forced in these stars (between 300 Myr and 600 Myr). By modeling the additional transport of angular momentum as a diffusive process with a constant viscosity νadd, we found that values of νadd >  5 × 104 cm2 s−1 are required to account for the internal rotation of KIC 8524425, and νadd >  1.5 × 105 cm2 s−1 for KIC 5955122. These values are lower than or comparable to the efficiency of the core-envelope coupling during the main sequence, as given by the surface rotation of stars in open clusters. On the other hand, they are higher than the viscosity needed to reproduce the rotation of subgiants near the base of the RGB.

Conclusions. Our results yield further evidence that the efficiency of the internal redistribution of angular momentum decreases during the subgiant phase. We thus bring new constraints that will need to be accounted for by mechanisms that are proposed as candidates for angular momentum transport in subgiants and red giants.
On energy relationships between explosive rupture and extraction processes at quarries
Authors: Zharikov Sergey , Kutuev Vyacheslav
Published: July 2020

The article deals with the links between mineral extraction processes. The most universal characteristic of the process is its energy intensity. Production process cycles are considered in the relationship between their energy characteristics, taking into account the extraction in the working face over time. This approach has been largely determined by earlier studies in the direction of studying the energy intensity of technological processes. However, the relationship between explosive rupture energy and excavation has not been established, although the link between explosive preparation and the performance of the excavation equipment was stated in the technical literature multiple times. The presented material analyzed previously published materials on establishing relationships between drilling and explosive rupture processes of rock massif. The energy characteristics of excavation works and explosive rupture were considered. Prospective direction of technological links study was proposed. Attention is drawn to the fact that the approach to relationships definition between processes may not always be monotonous, because it is sometimes difficult to express physical meaning in a flat system.
New information about the mechanism of oil displacement from productive reservoirs using flow control technologies
Authors: Mukhametshin Rustam , Kvon Gulnara
Published: July 2020

The article is devoted to improving the efficiency of methods application to increase oil recovery of deposits that are at the final stage of development. This stage is characterized by a high degree of waterlogging of reservoirs and extracted products. From a wide range of chemical methods for increasing oil recovery in Russian oil deposits, flow-regulating (flow-deflecting) technologies have become widespread. The article analyzes the results of purposeful use of thickened water for the completion of reserves of already flooded sandstone layers. Experimental studies were performed on two specially created five-point elements in the experimental sections of the Romashkinskoye deposit. To monitor the process of low-viscosity and high-viscosity oil displacement the following methods were used: a) intake, monitoring and production wells, in which the interval of productive horizons are lined with fiberglass pipes; b) method of high-frequency resistivity (technology of "VNIIneftepromgeophysics" Institute). The studies performed in the monitoring mode showed that, along with the increase in reservoir coverage by flooding at the macro level, there is also a displacement of part of the capillary-trapped oil in the already flooded layers’ intervals, that is, at the level of micro-uniformity of the porous medium. The paper concludes on the effectiveness of using flow-regulating technologies in conditions of high water availability of development objects.
Influence of construction of bearing assembly on the size characteristic of crushing by a jaw crusher
Authors: Mayorov Stanislav , Bochkov Vladimir S. , Lagunova Yuliya A. , Dmitriev Vladimir
Published: July 2020

Results of an experimental study on crushing granite from Iset deposit of the Ural region on the SHD-10M jaw crusher has been presented. Degree of influence of a bearing assembly of the SHD 10M crusher on fineness of final product by fractions has been determined, experiments with sampling has been conducted, results has been recorded, fineness characteristics of crushing product by “plus” and “minus” using the A-20 analyzer has been determined. Values of productivity, crushing time by fineness classes has been given.
Determination of the working area of a hydraulic excavator
Authors: Suslov Nikolay , Chernukhin Stanislav
Published: July 2020

The article discusses the mechanisms of walking used on dragline excavators. The disadvantages of each mechanism are identified and based on this, the most promising movement mechanism is selected – a three-legged walking mechanism with a hydraulic drive. For this mechanism, the main disadvantages are also identified. The following is a technical solution that allows you to save this mechanism from the main drawback – the need to raise the center of mass of the excavator to a significant height to ensure the maximum step value. The technical solution includes the presence of a flat hydrostatic support that allows to increase the efficiency of the mechanism in open-pit mining operations. The calculation of oil consumption through a flat hydrostatic support in the conditions of its use on quarry soils with different bearing capacity is made.
The study of seismic effects and shock air waves during a large-scale blast at the Ust-Katavskiy granite quarry
Authors: Menshikov Pavel , Taranzhin Semen , Flyagin Alexander
Published: July 2020

The analysis of the values of the permissible speed of seismic vibrations and the calculation of the limiting values of short-term vibration at the base of the protected objects of Ust-Katav town and the settlement of Maliy Berdyash are carried out. Instrumental measurements of the speed of seismic vibrations of soil and pressure at the front of an air shock wave (air blast) during a large-scale blast in a quarry of building stone (dolomites) of «Ust-Katavskiy Granite Quarry» LLC (UKGK) were carried out in order to determine and evaluate safe seismic and shock air the impact of blasting on residential buildings in the settlement of Maliy Berdyash and the building of a special comprehensive boarding school in the Ust-Katavskiy urban district of the Chelyabinsk region. The conditions for blasting that provide seismic safety of protected objects are determined.
Simulation of intercepting bus stations in a major city
Authors: Antipova Alena , Smirnova Olga
Published: July 2020

The article discusses the experience of developing and testing a methodology for studying the movement of buses on scheduled routes in intercity and suburban traffic from the bus terminal of a major city. The AnyLogic 8 University simulation package was used for visual representation of traffic, which allows us to get quantitative characteristics of traffic on an hourly schedule as a result. Based on the results of the study, a logistics approach was developed to determine the location of transport hubs "bus terminal/bus station", as a system of intercepting bus stations that should be integrated into the route network of the major city.
Assessment of the feasibility of applying an excess-profits tax from hydrocarbon production for deposits at the final stage of development
Authors: Rudneva Larisa , Rudenok Olga , Larionova Svetlana
Published: July 2020

The author's approaches to the feasibility of applying an excess-profits tax from hydrocarbon production to various types of deposits are reflected. The possibility of applying this tax in the operation of an oil field at the final stage of development is studied. A comparative assessment of the technical and economic performance of the field under consideration under the current and new tax regimes was carried out. Based on the modeling of scenarios for the development of the world oil market, its parameters have been determined, under which the development of the field using the new tax regime will ensure economic and budgetary efficiency.
Assessment of management effectiveness of structural units of a vertically integrated oil company
Authors: Rudneva Larisa , Rudenok Olga , Zonova Natalya
Published: July 2020

The article discusses the issues of assessing the effectiveness of managing structural units of a vertically integrated oil company (VIOC). The features are identified and the effectiveness of the management of VIOC structural units in the context of individual business segments is assessed; the main problems in their management are identified. Using the results of the study will allow a more reasonable approach to determining the directions of increasing the efficiency of managing the structural divisions of the oil company and will be useful in identifying and developing priorities for the strategic development of VIOC.
Analysis of cross-program effects in the sphere of small and medium-sized businesses in the region (on the example of the Kurgan region)
Authors: Khudyakova Tatiana
Published: July 2020

The article is devoted to the identification and analysis of cross-program effects in the sphere of small and medium-sized businesses that are formed during the implementation of state programs of the Kurgan region. The relevance and usefulness of identifying inter-program connections are proved. The state programs of the Kurgan region that form the effects in the sphere of small and medium-sized businesses in the region are identified. Groups of cross-program effects were formed and the number of state programs and their activities that form various types of effects in the sphere of small and medium-sized businesses in the region was found. The assessment of cross-program effects for each task of the program of small and medium-sized businesses development in the region was carried out. The paper presents quantitative results of assessment of cross-program effects value created by state programs for each group of cross-program effects and each task of the program for the development of small and medium-sized businesses in the region.
Geological and engineering conditions of deposits as foundation of their safe development
Authors: Abaturova Irina , Storozhenko Lyubov , Savintsev Ivan , Petrova Irina
Published: July 2020

The article studies geological and engineering conditions of the mineral deposits located in cryolithic zone. The demand to study and analyze geological and engineering conditions is justified by safety requirements established to development of the deposits. The article is focused on pebble-phosphate deposit located in Polar Urals. The geological and engineering conditions of this site fall within very severe category, which is connected with endogenetic and exogenic processes of its accumulation. It is the genesis of the deposit that generated the factors that complicate drilling-in conditions, included but not limited to weathering crusts with significant depths and discontinuity, frozen rock mass and its cavernous porosity.
Prediction of confinement effects on the number of Covid-19 outbreak in Algeria
Authors: Moussaoui Ali , Auger Pierre
Published: July 2020

The first case of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) in Algeria was reported on 25 February 2020. Since then, it has progressed rapidly and the number of cases grow exponentially each day. In this article, we utilize SEIR modelling to forecast COVID-19 outbreak in Algeria under two scenarios by using the real-time data from March 01 to April 10, 2020. In the first scenario: no control measures are put into place, we estimate that the basic reproduction number for the epidemic in Algeria is 2.1, the number of new cases in Algeria will peak from around late May to early June and up to 82% of the Algerian population will likely contract the coronavirus. In the second scenario, at a certain date T, drastic control measures are taken, people are being advised to self-isolate or to quarantine and will be able to leave their homes only if necessary. We use SEIR model with fast change between fully protected and risky states. We prove that the final size of the epidemic depends strongly on the cumulative number of cases at the date when we implement intervention and on the fraction of the population in confinement. Our analysis shows that the longer we wait, the worse the situation will be and this very quickly produces.
Sunflower in the global vegetable oil system: situation, specificities and perspectives
Authors: Pilorgé Etienne
Published: July 2020

Sunflower is the third oilseed produced in the world, the fourth vegetable oil and third oilseed meal among protein feed sources. In the past decades, the competition has been tough on the very dynamic vegetable oils and oilseed meals markets, respectively driven by palm oil and soybean meal. The sunflower sector succeeded in maintaining its competitiveness through continuous innovation in genetics, cropping practices and research of added value leading to a higher market segmentation. This article establishes a picture of the past evolutions and present situation of the global sunflower sector and review potential development fields.
The Clinical Effectiveness of Preimplantation Genetic Diagnosis for Chromosomal Translocation Carriers: A Meta-analysis
Authors: Mahdavi Manijeh , Sharafi Seyedeh M. , Daniali Seyede S. , Riahi Roya , Kheirollahi Majid
Published: July 2020

Published data on the relationship between pregnancy outcomes of preimplantation genetic diagnosis (PGD) in translocation carriers have implicated inconclusive results. To identify potentially eligible reports, an electronic search was conducted in several databases, including PubMed, Scopus, Web of Knowledge, and Cochrane. Pooled odd ratios (ORs) and 95% confidence intervals (Cis) were estimated based on a random-effect model to evaluate the strength of association between PGD and successful pregnancy outcome in translocation carriers. A total of six cohort studies were included in the current study. The meta-analysis of these studies revealed that the PGD method was associated with an increased successful pregnancy outcome of translocation carriers (OR = 8.58; 95%CI: 1.40–52.76). In subgroup analysis, there was no significant association according to the chromosomal translocation carrier origin and the type of translocated chromosomes, as well as country. In developed countries, the pregnancy outcome of PGD was significantly improved in translocation carriers (OR = 21.79; 95%CI: 1.93–245.52). The current meta-analysis demonstrated that the PGD method is associated with successful pregnancy outcome in both types of reciprocal and Robertsonian translocation carriers, especially in developed countries.
CRISPLD2 Gene Polymorphisms with Nonsyndromic Cleft Lip Palate in Indian Population
Authors: Neela Praveen Kumar , Gosla Srinivas Reddy , Husain Akhter , Mohan Vasavi
Published: July 2020

Cleft lip palate (CLP) is one of the common congenital anomalies with multifactorial etiology. Many genes are associated with its etiology. In one of the studies CRISPLD2 gene polymorphisms rs1546124, rs4783099, and rs16974880 were reported in the Chinese population. However, its role in the Indian population is not yet studied. Hence, this research was conducted on the Indian population to know the role of these high-risk polymorphisms in patients with nonsyndromic CLP. Following an inclusion and exclusion criteria, 20 multiplex CLP families were selected from a high volume cleft center in India. Genomic DNA was isolated from these families. Single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) rs1546124, rs4783099, and rs16974880 were analyzed for their association using MassARRAY method. A whole-genome association analysis toolset, PLINK was used for statistical analysis. The polymorphisms followed Hardy–Weinberg equilibrium. None of the polymorphisms showed any significance. Hence the high-risk polymorphisms rs1546124, rs4783099, and rs16974880 are not associated with nonsyndromic CLP in Indian population.
What is gun culture? Cultural variations and trends across the United States
Authors: Boine Claire , Siegel Michael , Ross Craig , Fleegler Eric W. , Alcorn Ted
Published: July 2020

We developed empirical methods to identify variations in elements of gun culture across states. Using these methods, we then analyzed the prominence of these subcultures between states and over time from 1998 through 2016. Using state-level data, we conducted a principal component analysis of 11 variables associated with gun-related behaviors and retained only the significant components. We then analyzed the presence of these components over time and across states. Based on the principal component analysis, we identified three cultural variations. Component 1 reflected recreational elements of gun culture. Component 2 represented a self-defense element of gun culture. Component 3 was indicative of a symbolic cultural element centered around the protection of the Second Amendment and insurrectionism. Over time, the recreational cultural element declined in prominence while the self-defense one rose and the Second Amendment advocacy one remained stable. This paper advances the literature on gun culture by demonstrating that: (1) gun culture is not monolithic; (2) there are multiple elements of gun culture that vary substantially between states; (3) over time, the recreational gun subculture has been falling in prominence whereas the self-defense subculture has been rising; and (4) there is another subculture, distinct from the self-defense one, which consists in mobilization around the Second Amendment and was strongest in places where state firearm laws are most extensive.
The ethical and epistemological pitfalls of translating phylogenetic HIV testing: from patient-centered care to surveillance
Authors: Sandset Tony
Published: July 2020

In both HIV science and public health policy, efforts to end the HIV epidemic are increasingly focusing on molecular HIV surveillance as a helpful tool for identifying, intervening in and controlling the disease. HIV surveillance is meant to identify clusters of genetically similar viral strains in near real-time in communities and areas where transmissions occur, and then to intervene by means of enhanced public health approaches. This article critically engages with how molecular HIV surveillance—a practice and technology portrayed as a benign public health intervention—empties and purifies many of the social and political contexts of HIV transmissions. McClelland et al. (Crit Public Health 1–7, 2019) see the rise of molecular HIV surveillance as a form of “repurposing” of clinical phylogenetic testing done in the context of HIV care. In this article, I argue that this so-called repurposing can be understood as a form of “translation”. Looking at how phylogenetic HIV testing has been translated from clinical, patient-centered use to a form of molecular HIV surveillance, I seek to map some of the potential ethical and epistemological pitfalls of such a translational process. More specifically, I look at the unintended consequences of translating a particular evidence-based practice—phylogenetic HIV testing—from one usage to another. To this end, I engage with Michel Foucault and his work on the biopower of medicine, exploring how such power disciplines subjects into undergoing a form of medical surveillance that influences norms and behaviors. Ultimately, I argue that the translation of phylogenetic testing from patient-centered care in the clinic to a form of epidemiological surveillance needs to be critically examined in order to avoid ethical and potentially detrimental consequences for HIV-affected communities.
Does extra-large equal extra-ordinary? The ‘Wall of Chinggis Khan’ from a multidimensional perspective
Authors: Shelach-Lavi Gideon , Honeychurch William , Chunag Amartuvshin
Published: July 2020

This paper focuses on a hitherto little-known long (or “Great”) wall that stretches along 737 km from northern Inner Mongolia in China, through Siberia into northeastern Mongolia. The wall was constructed during the late medieval period (10th to 13th century CE) but is commonly called the “Wall of Chinggis Khan” (or ‘Chingisiin Dalan’ in Mongolian). It includes, in addition to the long-wall itself, a ditch feature and numerous associated fortifications. By way of an analysis of this impressive construction we seek to better understand the concept of monumentality and in turn shed light on the wall’s structure, function and possible reasons for its erection. We pose the interesting question of whether any construction that is very large and labor intensive should be defined as a “monument”, and if so, what that definition of monumentality actually entails and whether such a concept is useful as a tool for research. Our discussion is relevant to the theme of this collection of papers in that it addresses the concept of the ‘extraordinary’ as conceived by archeologists. Following our analysis and discussion, we conclude that although size and expenditure of energy are important attributes of many monuments, monumentality (i.e., expression of the extraordinary) is not a binary “either-or” concept. Rather than ask whether the “Wall of Chinggis Khan” was or was not a monument per se, our analysis reveals aspects in which it was indeed monumental and extraordinary, and others in which it was not extraordinary, but rather an ordinary utilitarian artifact.
Hidden musicality in Chinese Xiangsheng: a response to the call for interdisciplinary research in studying speech and song
Authors: Lawson Francesca R. Sborgi
Published: July 2020

Recent scholarship in the field of music cognition suggests the need for increased interdisciplinarity in moving beyond the boundaries of Western European music, and the study of the relationship between language and music is an especially fruitful area that can benefit from interdisciplinary collaboration. This paper heeds the call for collaborative research in cultures outside of Western Europe by focusing onXiangsheng, a form of Chinese musical comedy that features an intriguing relationship between speech and song in performance. The present paper argues that analytical tools and perspectives from conversational analysis, communicative musicality, empirical research on music-language relationships, and performative mutuality in ethnomusicology all speak to the idea ofmusicality—the underlying capacity that undergirds our ability to communicate both verbally and musically—as a common foundational behavior in both speech and song. Musicality is particularly apparent in the way ChineseXiangchengactors relate to each other and their audiences in both spoken and musical modalities, and this paper suggests how judiciously employing a variety of methodological approaches in the study of musicality can yield important insights for researchers from all disciplines.
Micrometer scale InGaN green light emitting diodes with ultra-stable operation
Authors: Liu Xianhe , Wu Yuanpeng , Malhotra Yakshita , Sun Yi , Mi Zetian
Published: July 2020

We report on the demonstration of InGaN photonic nanocrystal light emitting diodes (LEDs), which operate in the green wavelength (∼548 nm). The devices are designed to operate at the Γ point of the photonic band structure and exhibit a spectral linewidth ∼4 nm, which is nearly five to ten times narrower than that of conventional InGaN quantum well LEDs in this wavelength range. Significantly, the device performance, in terms of the emission peak and spectral linewidth, is nearly invariant with injection current, suggesting the insusceptibility to quantum-confined Stark effect commonly seen in InGaN quantum wells. The external quantum efficiency is characterized by a sharp rise with increasing current and reaches a maximum at ∼5 A/cm2, which is comparable to conventional blue quantum well LEDs. A relatively small (∼30%) efficiency droop was measured at an injection current density over 200 A/cm2 at room temperature without any active cooling.
Eddy–wave duality in a rotating flow
Authors: Espa Stefania , Cabanes Simon , King Gregory P. , Di Nitto Gabriella , Galperin Boris
Published: July 2020

A series of experiments with rotating, electromagnetically forced, turbulent flows were carried out at the Sapienza University of Rome to investigate the eddy–wave duality in flows with a β-effect and the electromagnetic force acting in the westward direction. When the β-effect is significant, i.e., as in planetary atmospheric and oceanic circulations, nonlinear eddy/wave interactions facilitate flow self-organization into zonal patterns in which Rossby waves and westward propagating cyclonic and anticyclonic eddies coexist. Upon time averaging, eddies disappear and the flow pattern transforms into a system of alternating zonal jets. What is the relationship between eddies, jets, and Rossby waves? To address this issue, we designed a laboratory experiment in which a westward zonal flow is produced by applying an electromagnetic small-scale forcing to a thin layer of a rotating fluid. In order to investigate different levels of flow zonality and a wider range of zonal modes, we varied the forcing intensity and the area of the forced sector. The zonal flow evolves as a system of westward propagating, large scale, cyclonic, and anticyclonic eddies. The propagation speed of the traveling structures was calculated from the Hovmöller diagrams of both the streamfunction and the centroids of clusters of different types (cyclonic and anticyclonic eddy cores and saddle point neighborhoods) obtained via an Okubo–Weiss analysis. The results were compared with the theoretical phase speed of a Rossby wave. The correspondence between these two characteristics at the radius of maximum shear corresponding to the epicenter of the barotropic instability is quite good, particularly after including the radial variation of the zonal velocity in the β-term. It is concluded that the Rossby waves and eddies are inseparable as the former maintain the instability that sustains the latter. This symbiosis visually resembles the Rossby soliton.
A filament stretching rheometer for in situ X-ray experiments: Combining rheology and crystalline morphology characterization
Authors: Pepe Jessica , Cleven Lucien C. , Suijkerbuijk Eduard J. M. C. , Dekkers Erwin C. A. , Hermida-Merino Daniel , Cardinaels Ruth , Peters Gerrit W. M. , Anderson Patrick D.
Published: July 2020

We present a rheometer that combines the possibility to perform in situ X-ray experiments with a precise and locally controlled uniaxial extensional flow. It thus allows us to study the crystallization kinetics and morphology evolution combined with the rheological response to the applied flow field. A constant uniaxial deformation rate is ensured, thanks to a fast control scheme that drives the simultaneous movement of the top and bottom plates during a pulling experiment. A laser micrometer measures the time evolution of the smallest diameter, where the highest stress is concentrated. The rheometer has a copper temperature-controlled oven with the ability to reach 250 °C and a N2 connection to create an inert atmosphere during the experiments. The innovation of our rheometer is the fixed location of the midfilament position, which is possible because of the simultaneous controlled movement of the two end plates. The copper oven has been constructed with four ad hoc windows: two glass windows for laser access and two Kapton windows for X-ray access. The key feature is the ability to perfectly align the midfilament of the sample to the laser micrometer and to the incoming X-ray beam in a synchrotron radiation facility, making it possible to investigate the structure and morphologies developed during extensional flow. The rheological response measured with our rheometer for low-density polyethylene (LDPE) is in agreement with the linear viscoelastic envelope and with the results obtained from the existing extensional rheometers. To demonstrate the capability of the instrument, we have performed in situ-resolved X-ray experiments on LDPE samples exhibiting extensional flow-induced crystallization.
An electronic approach for the automation of angle-resolved spectroscopic measurements
Authors: Vasi Sebastiano , Lupò Giuseppe
Published: July 2020

Angle-resolved light scattering techniques are powerful tools to obtain structural and spectroscopic information on the investigated sample by means of the study of the pattern of the angular distribution of scattered light. In this paper, we show the details of a new electronic system conceived to automate a Raman coherent backscattering setup, in which it is crucial to acquire several spectra at different angles in a wide spectral acquisition range. In this frame, we used this electrical circuit to trigger the signal edges between the charged-coupled device and the motorized nanorotator stage in our setup, carrying out a considerable quantity of measurements only with an initial input given by the operator and minimizing the supervision of the experiment and, therefore, the time invested by the user in it. By means of this system that can be easily integrated in the setup, we can perform distinct type of measurements by using different configurations of the components that make up the experimental setup.