bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The features designed of mechatronic system of adaptive hopper’s feeder: case study for Scots pine seeds morphometry
Authors: Tylek P , Demidov D N , Lysych M N , Petrishchev E P , Maklakova E A
Published: December 2020

This article will be of interest to engineers involved in designing devices for improving the quality of forest seeds. From the point of view of automated processing, in order to obtain a quality seedling, the seed of the Scots pine must be conditioned, that is, properly graded, and have sufficient ability to germinate in the field, that is, properly sown. It is based on studies of the movement of a single pine seed in the mechanical system of an optoelectronic separator. The experiment was established by measuring the geometric dimensions of samples (n = 500) from a representative sample of a seedlot. ThePinus sylvestrisL. seeds were collected in the Pavlovsky district of the Voronezh region in autumn 2019. Seed samples were measured using a microscope in three mutually perpendicular directions. Seed samples asymmetric shape and an adaptive hopper’s feeder were modeled using SolidWorks software. Our results point to an important feature in the design of loading bins-the need to approximate the complex shape of a single seed of Scots pine with an asymmetric ellipsoid. The need for discrete seed feeding with a frequency no faster than 10−3-10−2s is established to improve both the separation process.
Computer simulation results of modular hydropneumatic suspension of a logging vehicle
Authors: Nikonov V O , Posmetev V I , Posmetev V V
Published: December 2020

The necessity of increasing the efficiency of timber transportation to consumers by timber trucks equipped with traditional dependent suspensions has been substantiated. The analysis of articles made by foreign scientists in the field of research of characteristics of hydropneumatic suspensions of vehicles is presented. A promising design of a modular-type hydropneumatic suspension is proposed. The goal of the work is formulated to develop mathematical and simulation models for the functioning of the proposed construction of a hydropneumatic suspension of a modular type to assess the influence of the main dependences of the nature of oscillations of a timber truck in time on the values of volume, pressure and temperature of air in the cavity of the pneumatic cylinder of the suspension structure. Developed and investigated mathematical and on its basis simulation models of the functioning of the hydropneumatic suspension. The dependences of the vibration frequencies of the body of a timber truck equipped with a hydropneumatic suspension on the vibration spectrum, as well as the time dependence of the volume, pressure and temperature of the air in the pneumatic cylinder when driving over a random uneven surface and single irregularities, are obtained.
Association of complex genotypes of kappa-casein and diacylglycerol O-acyltransferase from milk production in different lines cows
Authors: Efimova I O , Zagidullin L R , Shaidullin R R , Akhmetov T M , Tyulkin S V , Moskvicheva A B
Published: December 2020

The aim of the investigation was to observe the frequency of complex genotypes CSN3/DGAT1 occurrence and their effect on the milk production of different lines cows. It was found that in the herd of cows 4 genotypes CSN3 AA / DGAT1 AK and CSN3 AB / DGAT1 AA, CSN3 AA / DGAT1 AA, CSN3 AB / DGAT1 AK predominate with a frequency of occurrence of more than 7.3%, notably that the greatest number of combinations are found in the lines of M. Chiftein and R. Sowering. The best indices of milk yield (5736 and 5401 kg), milk fat (208 and 201 kg), milk protein (179 and 170 kg) in the lines of V.B. Aydial and R. Sowering were noted in first-calf heifers with the AB/AK genotype. A significant difference (P < 0.05-0.01) in milk yield, fat and protein in the Sowering line was found between the combinations AB/AK and AA/AA, and AB/AK and AB/KK. In M. Chiftein’s line, the highest milk yield (5045 kg), milk fat (182 kg) and protein (163 kg) were detected in the CSN3 BB / DGAT1 AA genotype, when exceeding the combination of AA/AA and AA/AK (P < 0.05-0.01). In high-producing cows V.B. Aydial’s line has the highest milk productivity in cows with the genotype CSN3 AA / DGAT1 AA, when animals with the genotypes AB/AK and AB/KK are exceeded (P < 0.05-0.01).
Inclusion of plant immunity inducers in the fruit crops protection system for the purpose of reducing the pesticide load
Authors: Ya Ayba L , Karpun N N , Mikhailova Ye V , Pantiya G G
Published: December 2020

One of the new environmentally friendly areas of plant protection is the use of natural protective mechanisms in protection against phytopathogens. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the role of plant immunity inducers of various chemical nature (poly-beta-hydroxybutyric acid, arachidonic acid ethyl ester and chitosan lactate) when included in peach and apple protection systems against diseases dominating in the region of wet subtopics of Russia and Abkhazia (leaf curl and scab, respectively). Studies on peach against leaf curl were conducted on the variety ‘Redhaven’ (Sochi, Russia) in 2014-2016, and on the apple tree against scab on the variety ‘Golden Rangers’ (Gulripshi district, Abkhazia) in 2016-2019. The standard was the peach and apple tree chemical protection system adopted in the region. We studied the effectiveness of tank mixtures of plant immunity inducers (Albit®, Immunocytophite®, Ecogel®) with half dosages of pesticides used in the standard. The biological effectiveness of all mixtures with plant immunity inducers on peach exceeded the standard, and on the apple tree was at the standard level. The best results were obtained in variants with Ecogel® and Albit®. In variants with plant immunity inducers crop yields were 23-60% higher than in the control.
Monitoring productivity of Kazakh Bactrian and Arvana camels of Kazakhstan population
Authors: Baimukanov A , Alibayev N , Semenov V , Ermakhanov M , Abuov G
Published: December 2020

The purpose of the study is to perform monitoring of camels of Kazakh Bactrian and Arvana dromedary breeds in the South West region of Kazakhstan; to determine perspective genotypes of purebred camels according to their dairy productivity. The study of class composition of the selected Arvana female camels of the 1st lactation with a milk yield of not less than 1950 kg allowed identifying 21.8% of Elite Class and 78.2% of Class I among 125 animal units. Kazakh Bactrian female camels of the first lactation are also selected with the yield of 1000 kg minimum in the number of 309 animals in the basic collective farms of camel breeding zones. It was found out that of 309 animals, 23.0% compose the Elite Class and 77.0% make the Class I. The estimation of Kazakh Bactrian female camels according to the milking capacity coefficient allowed determining that the optimal parameter for selection is Rank 1.5-1.9. It was found that in female camels according to the fertility index of Rank 1 (up to 42%), colt safety is reliably higher that compared with female camels of the same age with Rank 2 (42-47%) and Rank 3 (47% and higher).
Biological and production capacities of Kazakh Bactrian camels of various pedigrees
Authors: Baimukanov D A , Semenov V G , Zh Iskhan K
Published: December 2020

Kazakh Bactrian (Camelus bactrianus) camels have biological and productive features. So far, there are no scientifically based data on modern breeding practices. The analysis of some peculiarities of Kazakh Bactrian female camels of various pedigrees and determination of their production features are of great importance to develop a productive camel breeding. In this paper some biological peculiarities of Kazakh Bactrian females and their production qualities are determined. It was found that with the decrease of pedigree fraction of Kazakh Bactrian camels the respiration rate increases up to the limit of the physiological standard, body temperature and pulse rate did not change with changing the pedigree of Kazakh Bactrian camels. The recorded data confirm that female camels are clinically healthy in all the physiological parameters. The data show the high level of changes in blood corpuscle concentration, which is 11% higher in red blood cells and 19% higher in white blood cells.
Comparative evaluation of potato varieties bred in Russia and Belarus
Authors: Filippova S , Eliseeva L , Selivanov A , Alexandrova A , Mefodiev G
Published: December 2020

The paper contains findings on comparative evaluation of potato varieties of varied times to maturity bred in Russia and Belarus. The study identified potato varieties that are best adapted to the soil and the climate of the Volga-Vyatka region. Samba and Gulliver varieties deliver the highest yields amongst Russia-bred variety – 53.7 and 50.0 t/ha. These cultivars had the most smooth-skinned tubers without cracks and other damage. Amongst Belarus-bred cultivars, Breeze cultivar stood out – 50.1 t/ha. Samba, Gulliver, Yanka and Zorachka cultivars had the best gustatory qualities. Tuber analysis showed that 82% of Charoite tubers fall into seed grade. Gulliver and Pennant varieties produced large amount of seed tubers – 69.7 and 69% of the total number of tubers, respectively. Samba, Gulliver, Yanka and Zorachka were the tastiest.
Influence of planting density of micro-plants on the number of potato mini-tubers
Authors: Filippova S , Eliseeva L , Isaev O , Ivanova T , Eliseev I , Shashkarov L , Malov N
Published: December 2020

For the first time in the conditions of the Volga-Vyatka region of the Russian Federation, we determined the parameters of planting micro-plants for the output of potato mini-tubers. The study has shown that to increase the yield of mini-tubers of potatoes, it is necessary to develop an optimal method for planting micro-plants that is most suitable for each variety. Some potato varieties, such as Reggae and Samba, produce more mini-tubers when the planting density increases. Whereas Bellarosa potato plants will produce more mini-tubers if the nutrition area for each plant is increased by reducing planting density. In potato varieties Reggie and Samba, by increasing the density of planting, the yield of mini-tubers increases. For the Bellarosa variety, a decrease in the planting density of micro-plants is required.
Assessment influence of recombinant interleukin-2 and polyoxidonium to physiological condition and formation of non-specific resistance of calves 30 days of age
Authors: Klyapnev A V , Velikanov V I , Terentev S S , Gorina A V , Sletov A O , Klyapnev N V , Dunaevskaya A A , Trunova E A
Published: December 2020

The basis of health and the possibility of realizing productive potential of farm animals are high level of natural resistance and immune status of their body. One of the reserves for increasing the productivity of young cattle is increase their resistance, especially in conditions of unbalanced feeding of mother cows and violations of the animal housing. The study period of 20-30 days of age of the calves was chosen taking into account the fact that during this period they have reduced resistance to infectious diseases, because immunoglobulins received with maternal colostrum, breaking by this age, and their own are just beginning to be produced. Active immunity is formed only by 1.5-2 months of age. The calves organism needs at this time stimulation of the immune system and nonspecific resistance, and the effect of immuno modulating drugs is more pronounced. The objective of the study was to assess the effect of recombinant interleukin-2 and polyoxidonium on the physiological state, morphological composition of the blood and the formation of nonspecific resistance of calves. The calves of the first experimental group were parenterally injected with recombinant interleukin-2. The calves of the second experimental group were injected polyoxidonium. The calves of the control group were injected physiological saline. The experimental part was performed on calves at farming enterprise Dalnekonstantinovsky district of Nizhny Novgorod region, Russia. The experimental work was conducted in the spring.
Regional aspects of food security
Authors: Filippova S P , Gordeeva L G , Abrosimova M S , Litvinova O V , Semenova A N , Nesterova N V
Published: December 2020

In the present work, we assessed the level of food security in the Chuvash Republic according to the level of physical availability and affordability as well as sufficiency of food products. Adequacy of consumption is determined by comparing the actual volume of product consumption with the rates authorized by the Ministry of Health of the Russian Federation. The analysis revealed a high level of physical availability of food in the region that it is not supported by a sufficient economic basis. As a result, a certain part of the population does not have the opportunity to receive foodstuff in quantity and quality within permissible recommended rates. Solution of the food security problem requires a systematic approach based on the development of agricultural production and solution of the social and economic problems aimed to improve the household quality of life.
A novel study on augmented physical parameters of nickel doped stannic oxide film
Authors: Babu A Victor , Murugan S , BerniceVictoria D C , Gnanamuthu S Joshua , Ravichandran S
Published: December 2020

A noval study on the fabrication of virgin and nickel (Ni) doped stannic oxide (SnO2) thin films with different doping extent have been conducted to augment the properties of stannic oxide thin films to incorporate into the electric cell which utilizes sun’s energy. The influence of the Ni doping with various extents on the structural, optical and magnetic properties of the different synthesized samples of stannic oxide thin films are investigated byX-ray diffraction (XRD), Scanning electron microscopy (SEM), UV-Visible spectrophotometer and Vibrating Sample Magnetometer (VSM). All the fabricated samples of SnO2: Ni(1at%, 2at%, 3at% and 4at%) exhibited tetragonal structure of stannic oxide. The fusion of Ni into the stannic oxide lattice makes imperfection in the crystal and the presence of additional peaks confirms that the nickel domination is well observed. Increase in the extent of Ni doping causes diminution in optical band gap. The magnetic study reveals that the ferromagnetic signal is gradually enhanced with augment in doping concentration.
Quantum correlations in

PT

-symmetric systems
Authors: Roccati Federico , Lorenzo Salvatore , Massimo Palma G , Landi Gabriel T , Brunelli Matteo , Ciccarello Francesco
Published: December 2020

We study the dynamics of correlations in a paradigmatic setup to observe

PT

-symmetric physics: a pair of coupled oscillators, one subject to a gain one to a loss. Starting from a coherent state, quantum correlations (QCs) are created, despite the system being driven only incoherently, and can survive indefinitely. Both total and QCs exhibit different scalings of their long-time behavior in the

PT

-broken/unbroken phase and at the exceptional point (EP). In particular,

PT

symmetry breaking is accompanied by non-zero stationary QCs. This is analytically shown and quantitatively explained in terms of entropy balance. The EP in particular stands out as the most classical configuration, as classical correlations diverge while QCs vanish.
Mechanical properties of colloidal crystals at fluid interfaces
Authors: Buttinoni Ivo , Dullens Roel P A
Published: December 2020

We characterise the local mechanical properties of two-dimensional colloidal crystals with hexagonal symmetry assembled at the flat interface between oil and water. Our experiments elucidate the conditions under which the material behaves isotropically, as opposed to those where the microstructure plays a major role. Brownian fluctuations are used to extract the stiffness of the lattice under the continuum approximation, whereas at larger displacements, obtained by optically driving one particle through the structure, the mechanical resistance of the lattice depends on both the area fraction and the direction of the applied force. Remarkably, the minimum resistance does not necessarily correspond to a probe being driven between neighbours, i.e. at 30° with respect to the crystal axes.
The moving spotlighter’s way of ‘unfreezing the spotlight’
Authors: Jhou Nihel H
Published: December 2020

In their 2020 paper ‘Unfreezing the spotlight’, Correia and Rosenkranz argue that the spotlight theory – the mix of the view that, always, everything always exists and the view that there is a metaphysically robust property of presentness for times – is sufficient for temporal passage, and that the fact ‘that this robust property of presentness attaches to different times as time goes by … is unnecessary’. In this paper, I shall reveal that Correia and Rosenkranz’s spotlight theory is a moving spotlight theory in disguise.
Identification of differentially expressed gene modules in heterogeneous diseases
Authors: Zolotareva Olga , Khakabimamaghani Sahand , Isaeva Olga I , Chervontseva Zoe , Savchik Alexey , Ester Martin
Published: December 2020

Motivation

Identification of differentially expressed genes is necessary for unraveling disease pathogenesis. This task is complicated by the fact that many diseases are heterogeneous at the molecular level and samples representing distinct disease subtypes may demonstrate different patterns of dysregulation. Biclustering methods are capable of identifying genes that follow a similar expression pattern only in a subset of samples and hence can consider disease heterogeneity. However, identifying biologically significant and reproducible sets of genes and samples remain challenging for the existing tools. Many recent studies have shown that the integration of gene expression and protein interaction data improves the robustness of prediction and classification and advances biomarker discovery.

Results

Here, we present DESMOND, a new method for identification of Differentially ExpreSsed gene MOdules iN Diseases. DESMOND performs network-constrained biclustering on gene expression data and identifies gene modules—connected sets of genes up- or down-regulated in subsets of samples. We applied DESMOND on expression profiles of samples from two large breast cancer cohorts and have shown that the capability of DESMOND to incorporate protein interactions allows identifying the biologically meaningful gene and sample subsets and improves the reproducibility of the results.

Availability and implementation

https://github.com/ozolotareva/DESMOND.

Supplementary information

Supplementary data are available at Bioinformatics online.
Functional neurological disorder 2.0?
Authors: Stone Jon
Published: December 2020

This scientific commentary refers to ‘Briquet syndrome revisited: implications for functional neurological disorder’, by Maggio et al. (https://doi.org/10.1093/braincomms/fcaa156)
Lateralization in monogamous pairs: wild geese prefer to keep their partner in the left hemifield except when disturbed
Authors: Zaynagutdinova Elmira , Karenina Karina , Giljov Andrey
Published: December 2020

Behavioural lateralization, which reflects the functional specializations of the two brain hemispheres, is assumed to play an important role in cooperative intraspecific interactions. However, there are few studies focused on the lateralization in cooperative behaviours of individuals, especially in a natural setting. In the present study, we investigated lateralized spatial interactions between the partners in life-long monogamous pairs. The male-female pairs of two geese species (barnacle, Branta leucopsis, and white-fronted, Anser albifrons geese), were observed during different stages of the annual cycle in a variety of conditions. In geese flocks, we recorded which visual hemifield (left/right) the following partner used to monitor the leading partner relevant to the type of behaviour and the disturbance factors. In a significant majority of pairs, the following bird viewed the leading partner with the left eye during routine behaviours such as resting and feeding in undisturbed conditions. This behavioural lateralization, implicating the right hemisphere processing, was consistent across the different aggregation sites and years of the study. In contrast, no significant bias was found in a variety of geese behaviours associated with enhanced disturbance (when alert on water, flying or fleeing away when disturbed, feeding during the hunting period, in urban area feeding and during moulting). We hypothesize that the increased demands for right hemisphere processing to deal with stressful and emergency situations may interfere with the manifestation of lateralization in social interactions.
Impact of Diet and Moisture Content on the Development ofMusca domestica(Diptera: Muscidae)
Authors: Kökdener Meltem
Published: December 2020

The purpose of this study was to investigate the effects of different diets and moisture levels on the life-history parameters of house flies. The experiments were carried out at the Animal Physiology Research Laboratory of Ondokuz Mayıs University in 2019. House fly larvae were reared on three diets (wheat bran, fish meal poultry meal) with 50, 60, 70, 80, and 90% moisture levels. The effects on the life-history parameters were compared with multivariate analysis of variance (MANOVA). Our results show significant differences in size, weight, survivorship, and development across the diet types, and moisture content tested. In this study, the larval development period was shortest when the moisture content of the poultry meal diet was 50%. Larvae of Musca domestica Linnaeus, 1758 (Diptera: Muscidae) did not develop on any diets at 90% moisture. The wheat bran diet was superior to the other diets for all parameters tested.
Transcatheter aortic valve implantation for tricuspid aortic valve with a calcium bridge between the cusps: a case report
Authors: Nakashima Masaki , Tada Norio , Hata Masaki
Published: December 2020

Background

Indications for transcatheter aortic valve (AV) implantation (TAVI) have been extended to patients with challenging anatomical features such as a bicuspid AV. However, no case reports of TAVI for tricuspid AV with a ‘calcium bridge’ have been published.

Case summary

We report the case of an 87-year-old woman with severe symptomatic aortic stenosis (AS). Pre-procedural multidetector computed tomography (MDCT) showed a calcium bridge between the non-coronary and left cusps. Although these cusps appeared to be fused together in the centre by the calcium bridge, the commissure area between the fused cusps appeared to normally open. We cracked apart the calcium bridge from the commissure area using balloon aortic valvuloplasty, which was guided by transoesophageal echocardiography. Subsequently, we successfully implanted a balloon-expandable transcatheter heart valve (THV).

Discussion

To our knowledge, this is the first report of TAVI for a tricuspid AV with a ‘calcium bridge’ between the non-coronary and left cusps. In our patient, the unique structure of cusp fusing in the centre seemed to be caused by an acquired atherosclerotic process, as documented using a contemporary technique, i.e. MDCT. Cracking the calcium bridge with a balloon aortic valvuloplasty ensured that the THV adequately expanded. Severe AS caused by a calcium bridge may be treated with detailed evaluation of the AV morphology together with a procedural strategy planning.
Development and Validation of a UPLC-DAD Method for the Simultaneous Quantification of Eight Antihypertensive Drugs in the Pharmaceutical Matrix
Authors: El Karbane Miloud , Benchekroun Yassine Hameda , Abousalih Fatima Zahra , Bennani Ismail , Azougagh Mohamed , Saffaj Taoufiq , Bouatia Mustapha
Published: December 2020

Background

Hypertension is a critical health problem; it is a prevalent risk factor for cardiovascular disease. Many treatments to combat hypertension are available, however many patients are resistant to the standard therapeutic approaches. The association of two or more substances in a fixed-dose combination is effective and tolerated as a substitute for the standard therapeutic approach.

Objective

The new ultra performance liquide chromatography method was developed and validated to assay a combination of eight antihypertensive drugs including a diuretic: hydrochlorothiazide, dihydropyridine calcium channel blocker: Amlodipine and angiotensin II type 1 receptor blockers (sartans): valsartan, candesartan, eprosartan, olmesartan, losartan, and irbesartan in the pharmaceutical matrix.

Methods

Chromatographic separation was performed on an Acquity® UPLC C18 1.7 µm 2.1 × 100 mm column, with a gradient of buffer solution and acetonitrile, in the proportion of (80:20 v/v).

Results

Good resolution was obtained, and an optimal analysis time of less than 5 min was achieved. The method was validated according to the International Conference on Harmonization guidelines following the classical approach and accuracy profile, and it is shown to be suitable for intended applications. The method was successfully used for quality control laboratories and the determination of these drugs combinations in pharmaceutical dosage forms.
The Quantification of Oxycodone and Its Phase I and II Metabolites in Urine
Authors: Truver Michael T , Jakobsson Gerd , Chermà Maria D , Swortwood Madeleine J , Gréen Henrik , Kronstrand Robert
Published: December 2020

The purpose of this research was to develop and validate an analytical method for the detection and quantification of noroxymorphone-3β-D-glucuronide (NOMG), oxymorphone-3β-D-glucuronide (NOMG), noroxymorphone (NOM), oxymorphone (OM), 6α-oxycodol (αOCL), 6β-oxycodol (βOCL), noroxycodone (NOC) and oxycodone (OC) in urine by liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry to be used in a human study. The method was validated according to the Academy Standards Board Standard Practices for Method Development in Forensic Toxicology. The method was then applied to a single-dose pilot study of a subject. Urine samples were collected from the subject after ingesting 10-mg OC as an immediate-release tablet. Additionally, urine specimens (n = 15) that had previously been confirmed positive for OC were analyzed using the validated method. The calibration range for NOMG and OMG was 0.05–10 μg/mL; for all other analytes, it was 0.015–10 μg/mL. Validation parameters such as bias, precision, carryover and dilution integrity, all met the validation criteria. After the method was validated, urine samples from the first subject in the controlled dose study were analyzed. It was observed that OC, NOC and OMG contained the highest concentrations and were present in either the 0.5 or 1 h void. NOC and OMG were detected until the 48 h collection, while OC was detectable till the 24 h collection. Time to reach maximum concentration (Tmax) in the urine was achieved within 1.5 h for OC and within 3 h for NOC and OMG. Maximum concentration (Cmax) in the urine for OC, NOC and OMG was 3.15, 2.0 and 1.56 μg/mg, respectively. OC concentrations in authentic urines ranged from 0.015 to 12 μg/mL. Ranges for NOMG and OMG were 0.054–9.7 μg/mL and 0.14–67 μg/mL, respectively. A comprehensive method for the quantification of NOMG, OMG, NOM, OM, αOCL, βOCL, NOC and OC in urine was optimized and met the validation criteria. The concentrations of NOMG and OMG presented in this study provide the details needed in the forensic community to better comprehend OC pharmacokinetics.
Manipulation of Gut Symbionts for Improving the Sterile Insect Technique: Quality Parameters of Bactrocera dorsalis (Diptera: Tephritidae) Genetic Sexing Strain Males After Feeding on Bacteria-Enriched Diets
Authors: Zhang Qiwen , Cai Pumo , Wang Bo , Liu Xuxiang , Lin Jia , Hua Ruohan , Zhang Hehe , Yi Chuandong , Song Xuesen , Ji Qinge , Yang Jianquan , Chen Shi
Published: December 2020

One environmentally friendly method used to manage Bactrocera dorsalis (Hendel), a key agricultural pest of substantial economic importance, is the sterile insect technique (SIT). Nevertheless, several deficiencies related to this strategy impair the success of the SIT, including the inferior performance of released sterile males compared with wild males, which could be partly solved by the utilization of gut symbionts as probiotic dietary components. In this study, a culture-dependent method was used to isolate and characterize gut-associated bacterial species in adult B. dorsalis genetic sexing strain (GSS) males. In addition, three bacterial isolates from the Enterobacteriaceae family, namely, Enterobacter sp., Morganella morganii, and Moellerella wisconsensis, were used as supplements in larval and adult diets to assess their effects on the life-history traits of irradiated males. Consistent with many previous studies, Enterobacter spp. was shown to be beneficial, with some quality control indices, such as adult size, pupal weight, survival rate under stress and nutritionally rich conditions, and mating competitiveness, being significantly increased, while slight nonsignificant increases in emergence rate and flight ability were observed. Conversely, the M. morganii and M. wisconsensis strains both had negative effects on irradiated male fitness and mating competitiveness. Our results, in combination with those of earlier studies, can contribute to improving the effectiveness of SIT application by enhancing the different aspects of augmentative rearing and biological traits of pests under laboratory rearing conditions.
Management of Navel Orangeworm (Lepidoptera: Pyralidae) Using Four Commercial Mating Disruption Systems in California Almonds
Authors: Haviland David R , Rijal Jhalendra P , Rill Stephanie M , Higbee Bradley S , Burks Charles S , Gordon Chelsea A
Published: December 2020

The navel orangeworm, Amyelois transitella (Walker), is the most significant pest of California almonds. Direct feeding on the kernel by the larvae causes reductions in salable crop, crop quality, and exportability. Pheromone mating disruption (MD) targeting navel orangeworm is a relatively new technique with the potential to improve management. In 2017, we used replicated ~16-ha plots to compare the efficacy of four commercial MD systems (CheckMate, Cidetrak, Isomate, and Semios) for their relative impacts on the number of navel orangeworm in monitoring traps and crop quality. From 2017 to 2018, we conducted nine direct comparison studies in 16 to 40 ha almond orchards to compare conventional pest management programs to programs incorporating pheromone MD systems. Across all studies, MD reduced male moth captures in pheromone traps by >94%. In the efficacy study, use of mating disruption led to 35% and 53% reductions in kernel damage in Nonpareil and pollinizer cultivars, respectively, and an average increase in crop value of $370 ha−1. In the direct comparison, kernel damage to Nonpareil and pollinizer cultivars was reduced by 65% and 78%, respectively, resulting in an average increase in crop value of $357 ha−1. Economic analyses showed that increases in crop returns exceeded the costs of implementing MD systems with the break-even point ranging from 0.86 to 1.06% of kernel damage. These results suggest that adding MD to an existing navel orangeworm management program is a cost-effective way to reduce damage while promoting sustainable pest management practices.
Deep neuromuscular paralysis during hip arthroscopic surgery: influence on perineal tissue pressures and hip joint width
Authors: Ledowski Thomas , Lim Tao Shan , Kotov Artur , Hontomin Shaun , Winfield Francis , Heng Yi Ying , Sim Hon Ern
Published: December 2020

Pudendal nerve injuries are not an uncommon side effect of patient positioning on a traction table, and muscle relaxation has been suggested to mitigate this risk by reducing pressure on the perineum. A total of 40 patients scheduled for hip arthroscopic surgery under general anaesthesia were recruited. After induction of anaesthesia, pressures on the perineum were measured in 20 subjects by means of an ultra-thin pressure sensor mat wrapped around the perineal post. Perineal pressures were assessed after the induction of anaesthesia, after leg traction and after deep muscle relaxation. In 22 subjects, the hip joint width was measured radiographically at the same time points. Pressures on the perineum were high after traction (median maximum pressure 2540 g cm−2). Neuromuscular paralysis reduced perineal pressures only minimally, but significantly (−5 g cm−2; P = 0.007). Traction increased hip joint width significantly [mean 66 (12)%; P = 0.001) and muscle relaxation further increased joint width by a mean of 3.2 (0–20)% (P = 0.001). Muscle relaxation was more beneficial for male patients (joint width increase 6.8% versus 2.8%; P = 0.04), as well as patients in whom traction alone did not achieve sufficient joint width. Muscle relaxation reduced the perineal pressure during hip arthroscopic surgery by only a negligible amount. With regard to joint space, relaxation may be of highest benefit in male patients and/or patients in whom traction alone produces only a relatively small increase in joint width (trial registration: ANZCTR 12617000191392).
Characterizing the Feeding Injury Caused by Phylloscelis rubra (Hemiptera: Dictyopharidae) to Cranberries
Authors: Rodriguez-Saona Cesar , Kyryczenko-Roth Vera , Schiffhauer Daniel , Firbas Nicolas
Published: December 2020

Due to changes in pest management practices, farmers’ reports of severe feeding injury to cranberries, Vaccinium macrocarpon Aiton Ericales: Ericaceae, caused by the cranberry toad-bug, Phylloscelis rubra Ball, have increased in recent years in New Jersey (United States). Currently, however, limited information is available on the effects of P. rubra feeding or density of individuals needed to cause injury to cranberry vines and fruit. In 2015‒2017, we conducted studies to characterize injury to cranberry at a range of P. rubra densities by using cages in a screen-house and field, to establish a correlation between P. rubra density and crop injury in an open field experiment, and to measure the effects of P. rubra injury on the nutritional content (i.e., amounts of macro- and microelements) of cranberry vines. Phylloscelis rubra feeding on cranberry vines produced typical injury symptoms at relatively low densities (i.e., 2 individuals per vine in field cages or <10 individuals per sweep net sample in open fields), which included discolored (yellowish or reddish) or dead (brown) vines. This vine injury could lead to reductions in fruit mass and total fruit number. However, P. rubra injury to cranberry vines did not alter their nutritional composition. In general, this study highlights the ability of P. rubra to cause substantial injury to cranberry vines even when population densities were relatively low, which could result in declines in fruit production (quality and quantity). Therefore, infestations by P. rubra in cranberries must be considered when making pest management decisions in regions where this insect is present.
A Medieval Epigraphic Corpus and its Retro-Developments (CIFM-CBMA): The Exploratory Research of the Cosme2 Consortium
Authors: Magnani Eliana , Perreaux Nicolas
Published: December 2020

The digital ‘Burgundian Epigraphic Corpus’ is the result of a collaboration between two teams, the Corpus of Inscriptions of Medieval France (CIFM) and the Corpus of Medieval Burgundian Texts (CBMA), as part of the Cosme2 (Consortium Sources Médiévales—linked to TGIR Huma-Num from CNRS—France), dedicated to digital approaches to historical corpora. This article explains how a complex set of documents mixing Latin, Greek, and Old French texts, accompanied by rich metadata, has been processed in order to allow new surveys by humanists. It shows how the corpus is constantly reinvested and how its exploitation, thanks to digital methods, generates new data and metadata that can be reinjected into the corpus and in turn operated, creating a kind of virtuous circle. Three retro-developments are briefly discussed here: (1) semantic web, connectivity, and named entities; (2) geographic information system (GIS) and automated extraction of new metadata; (3) lemmatization and automatic language detection.
Categorical and algebraic aspects of the intuitionistic modal logic IEL― and its predicate extensions
Authors: Rogozin Daniel
Published: December 2020

The system of intuitionistic modal logic $\textbf{IEL}^{-}$ was proposed by S. Artemov and T. Protopopescu as the intuitionistic version of belief logic (S. Artemov and T. Protopopescu. Intuitionistic epistemic logic. The Review of Symbolic Logic, 9, 266–298, 2016). We construct the modal lambda calculus, which is Curry–Howard isomorphic to $\textbf{IEL}^{-}$ as the type-theoretical representation of applicative computation widely known in functional programming.We also provide a categorical interpretation of this modal lambda calculus considering coalgebras associated with a monoidal functor on a Cartesian closed category. Finally, we study Heyting algebras and locales with corresponding operators. Such operators are used in point-free topology as well. We study complete Kripke–Joyal-style semantics for predicate extensions of $\textbf{IEL}^{-}$ and related logics using Dedekind–MacNeille completions and modal cover systems introduced by Goldblatt (R. Goldblatt. Cover semantics for quantified lax logic. Journal of Logic and Computation, 21, 1035–1063, 2011). The paper extends the conference paper published in the LFCS’20 volume (D. Rogozin. Modal type theory based on the intuitionistic modal logic IEL. In International Symposium on Logical Foundations of Computer Science, pp. 236–248. Springer, 2020).
Primordial black holes from the QCD epoch: linking dark matter, baryogenesis, and anthropic selection
Authors: Carr Bernard , Clesse Sebastien , García-Bellido Juan
Published: December 2020

If primordial black holes (PBHs) formed at the quark-hadron epoch, their mass must be close to the Chandrasekhar limit, this also being the characteristic mass of stars. If they provide the dark matter (DM), the collapse fraction must be of order the cosmological baryon-to-photon ratio ∼10−9, which suggests a scenario in which a baryon asymmetry is produced efficiently in the outgoing shock around each PBH and then propagates to the rest of the Universe. We suggest that the temperature increase in the shock provides the ingredients for hotspot electroweak baryogenesis. This also explains why baryons and DM have comparable densities, the precise ratio depending on the size of the PBH relative to the cosmological horizon at formation. The observed value of the collapse fraction and baryon asymmetry depends on the amplitude of the curvature fluctuations that generate the PBHs and may be explained by an anthropic selection effect associated with the existence of galaxies. We propose a scenario in which the quantum fluctuations of a light stochastic spectator field during inflation generate large curvature fluctuations in some regions, with the stochasticity of this field providing the basis for the required selection. Finally, we identify several observational predictions of our scenario that should be testable within the next few years. In particular, the PBH mass function could extend to sufficiently high masses to explain the black hole coalescences observed by LIGO/Virgo.
Virtues in public health: easing the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic
Authors: del Castillo Fides A
Published: December 2020

Public health and ethics are commonly regarded as separate concepts. However, this paper argues that public health must be grounded in ethical virtues. The need to carefully integrate ethical practice in public health is a response to ease the negative impact of coronavirus disease 2019 to future generations. Hence, the virtue of compassion is proposed to hurdle the effects of the pandemic.
The Structure of Protest Cycles: Inspiration and Bridging in South Korea’s Democracy Movement
Authors: Chang Paul Y , Lee Kangsan
Published: December 2020

Although the concept of protest cycles has received much attention in the collective action literature, its empirical operationalization remains relatively crude compared to the rich theoretical discussion. Reimagining social movements as populations of interlinked protests, we demonstrate the advantages of analyzing protest event networks with a novel dataset related to South Korea’s democracy movement. In our conceptualization, protest events play the role of network nodes and links were identified based on protesters citing prior events as sources of inspiration for mobilizing. Appropriating strategies for network analysis, we assess the types of events that were more likely to be cited as sources of inspiration and bridge otherwise disconnected events. Our analysis shows that protests that raised systemic versus local issues and events that were repressed by the state were more likely to occupy central positions in the democracy movement. By identifying the characteristics of events that contribute to movement inspiration and bridging, our novel approach to analyzing protest events sheds new light on dominant themes in social movement research.
High and low ambient temperature at night and the prescription of hypnotics
Authors: Min Kyoung-bok , Lee Sohyae , Min Jin-Young
Published: December 2020

Study Objectives

This study investigated the association between ambient nighttime temperature and sleep problems assessed by the prescription dose of sleeping pills in South Korean adults.

Methods

We used the 2002–2015 National Health Insurance Service-National Sample Cohort. A total of 711,079 adults who were 20 years old or older were included, wherein 42,858 adults (~6%) had been prescribed hypnotic medications including zolpidem (N05CF02) and triazolam (N05CD05). Ambient temperature data was calculated as the mean highest temperature of nighttime (23:00–07:00) for every month from January to December. We combined the drug-prescribed date with the administrative districts-level daily nighttime temperature between 2002 and 2015.

Results

We found that a non-linear, U-shaped relationship between nighttime temperature and hypnotic medication prescription. With an increase per 1°C temperature or an increase in a square per 1°C, the prescription dose of sleeping pills was significantly increased (both p < 0.05). At each 5°C nighttime temperature, subjects belonging to low (≤0°C and 0–5°C) or high (20–25°C and ≥25°C) temperature categories had significantly higher doses of sleeping pills than those at the reference temperature (10–15°C). Changes in nighttime temperature had a significant non-linear effect on the prescribed dosage of hypnotic medications for both adults (p < 0.0001) and the elderly (p = 0.0006).

Conclusion

We found that either a high or low nighttime temperature was significantly associated with a high daily dose of hypnotic medications in the Korean population.
Genome Sequence Resource of Bacillus velezensis EB14, a Native Endophytic Bacterial Strain with Biocontrol Potential Against the Poplar Stem Canker Causative Pathogen, Sphaerulina musiva
Authors: Sachin N. , Tsang A. , Shaanker R. Uma , Dayanandan S.
Published: December 2020

Bacillus velezensis EB14, isolated from a leaf of Populus × jackii, possesses antagonistic activity against Sphaerulina musiva, a fungal pathogen of Populus sp. that causes leaf spots and stem cankers on poplars, limiting the utility of hybrid poplars as plantation trees. We sequenced the genome of B. velezensis EB14 to gain insights into the underlying basis of its antagonistic activity. Here, we report the complete genome sequence of B. velezensis EB14, a gram-positive bacterium of the family Bacillaceae. Through antiSMASH analysis, we predicted several gene clusters coding for the biosynthesis of antimicrobial compounds and several genes involved in plant bacterial interactions. These findings support the potential of developing B. velezensis EB14 as a biocontrol agent against S. musiva in poplar plantations. The genome of B. velezensis EB14 along with genome sequences of closely related B. velezensis species are invaluable for comparative genomic analyses to gain insights into bacterial, fungal, and host plant interactions.
Learning While Biking for Nursing Students: The Impact of the Built Environment on Health
Authors: McNiel Paula , Koplitz Jodi
Published: December 2020

The impact of the built environment on health prompted nurse faculty to implement a new physically engaging educational offering. A 10-mile bicycle ride was piloted with two senior-level baccalaureate community clinical nursing students (n = 17). Facilitated discussions with an interdisciplinary panel took place at 10 scheduled stops along the ride, highlighting health, terminology, environmental legislation, and community advocacy. Specific learning outcomes were established and evaluated. Feedback reflected positive student learning. This activity highlights a new approach to meeting core baccalaureate essentials and demonstrates the importance of the nurse’s role as community advocate for healthy built environments.
The COVID-19 Student WorkForce at the Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai: A Model for Rapid Response in Emergency Preparedness
Authors: Bahethi Rohini R. , Liu Benjamin Y. , Asriel Benjamin , Blum James R. , Huxley-Reicher Zina , Agathis Alexandra Z. , Pathak Shravani , Sainte Willis Michelle , Muller David
Published: December 2020

Problem

In accordance with guidelines from the Association of American Medical Colleges, medical schools across the United States suspended clerkships and transitioned preclinical courses online in March 2020 because of the COVID-19 pandemic. Hospitals and health systems faced significant burdens during this time, particularly in New York City.

Approach

Third- and fourth-year medical students at the Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai formed the COVID-19 Student WorkForce to connect students to essential roles in the Mount Sinai Hospital System and support physicians, staff members, researchers, and hospital operations. With the administration’s support, the WorkForce grew to include over 530 medical and graduate students. A methodology was developed for clinical students to receive elective credit for these volunteer activities.

Outcomes

From March 15, 2020, to June 14, 2020, student volunteers recorded 29,602 hours (2,277 hours per week) in 7 different task forces, which operated at 7 different hospitals throughout the health system. Volunteers included students from all years of medical school as well as PhD, master’s, and nursing students. The autonomous structure of the COVID-19 Student WorkForce was unique and contributed to its ability to quickly mobilize students to necessary tasks. The group leaders collaborated with other medical schools in the New York City area, sharing best practices and resources and consulting on a variety of topics.

Next Steps

Going forward, the COVID-19 Student WorkForce will continue to collaborate with student leaders of other institutions and prevent volunteer burnout; transition select initiatives into structured, precepted student roles for clinical education; and maintain a state of readiness in the event of a second surge of COVID-19 infections in the New York City area.