bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Aerodynamic investigation of the shock train in a scramjet with the effects of backpressure and divergent angles
Authors: Gugulothu Santhosh K.
Published: July 2020

Numerical simulations are carried out to study the effect of divergence angle and adverse pressure gradient on the movement of a shock wave train in a scramjet isolator. The commercial software tool ANSYS Fluent 16 was used to simplify the two‐dimensional Reynolds‐averaged Navier‐Stokes equation with the compressible fluid flow by considering the density‐based solver with the standard k‐ε turbulence model. The species transport model with a single‐step volumetric reaction mechanism is employed. Initially, the simulated results are validated with experimental results available in the open literature. The obtained results show that the variation of the divergence angle and backpressure on the scramjet isolator has greater significance on the flow field. Also, with an increase in the backpressure, due to the intense turbulent combustion, the shock wave train developed should expand along the length and also move towards the leading edge of the isolator leading to a rapid rise in the pressure so that the pressure at the entrance of the isolator can match the enhanced backpressures.
Health information systems implementation: Weaving alliances in East African Community
Authors: Senyoni Wilfred F.
Published: July 2020

This paper addresses the problem of fragmentation and lack of coordination in the context of health information systems. Drawing on a longitudinal action research study of implementing a regional database in East African Community; a process model is developed illustrating forms of institutional work in weaving alliance through three non‐linear phases: standardisation, evolving and stabilisation. The study first contributes by conceptualising weaving alliance as a process whereby novel Information and Communication Technologies (ICT) capabilities such as the implementation and use of dashboards emerge and co‐evolve with intentional actions by actors aligning stakeholders with diverse interests. The second contribution concerns how dashboards emerge and co‐evolve with existing work practises facilitating a common understanding among multi‐stakeholders. Collectively, the study broadens our understanding of introducing and sustaining ICT4D solutions in settings characterised by fragmented information systems.
Three‐component one‐pot synthesis of pyrazino[2,3‐a]acridine derivatives under catalyst‐free conditions
Authors: Liu Jia‐Yan , Xu Jin‐Xing , Qiao Xiao‐Ming , Cai Ya , Chen Dong‐Sheng
Published: July 2020

A new series of pyrazino[2,3‐a]acridine derivatives were prepared, via three‐component reaction of quinoxalin‐6‐amine, aromatic aldehydes and 5,5‐dimethyl cyclohexane‐1,3‐dione or cyclohexane‐1,3‐dione in ethanol as a solvent at reflux. The advantages of this protocol include mild reaction conditions, easy purification, high yields, and catalyst‐free approach.
Weather type classification and its relation to precipitation over southeastern China
Authors: Wang Yongdi , Sun Xinyu
Published: July 2020

It is very important to identify the possible mechanism of precipitation generation in southeastern China. To determine the weather type (WT) that is likely to generate precipitation, the Jenkinson–Collison classification method was applied to wintertime daily mean sea level pressure data across southeastern China. We found that all WTs with easterly components are prone to generate precipitation. These WTs were merged into one type named the ensemble of easterly wind components (the EE type). The persistence and transformation rules of the EE type are studied. Anticyclone type is the easiest one to convert to EE type. The persistence and transformation rules of the EE type provide favourable conditions for the formation of precipitation. Furthermore, we examined the influence of two common teleconnections (Western Pacific [WP] and Eurasian [EU]) in East Asia in winter on the WTs. When WP is in the positive phase and EU is in the negative phase, EE type weather patterns will appear frequently in southeastern China. At this time, it is most conducive to the formation of precipitation. On the one hand, warm and cold air converge in this area. On the other hand, the prevailing east wind can provide sufficient water vapour. The study implies that whether a WT is easy to produce precipitation can be judged by wind direction. The results will help us better understand the physical mechanism of precipitation generation in this area.
Demystifying the mist: Sources of microbial bioload in dental aerosols
Authors: Kumar Purnima S. , Subramanian Kumar
Published: July 2020

The risk of transmitting airborne pathogens is an important consideration in dentistry and has acquired special significance in the context of recent respiratory disease epidemics. The purpose of this review, therefore, is to examine (1) what is currently known regarding the physics of aerosol creation, (2) the types of environmental contaminants generated by dental procedures, (3) the nature, quantity, and sources of microbiota in these contaminants and (4) the risk of disease transmission from patients to dental healthcare workers. Most dental procedures that use ultrasonics, handpieces, air‐water syringes, and lasers generate sprays, a fraction of which are aerosolized. The vast heterogeneity in the types of airborne samples collected (spatter, settled aerosol, or harvested air), the presence and type of at‐source aerosol reduction methods (high‐volume evacuators, low volume suction, or none), the methods of microbial sampling (petri dishes with solid media, filter paper discs, air harvesters, and liquid transport media) and assessment of microbial bioload (growth conditions, time of growth, specificity of microbial characterization) are barriers to drawing robust conclusions. For example, although several studies have reported the presence of microorganisms in aerosols generated by ultrasonic scalers and high‐speed turbines, the specific types of organisms or their source is not as well studied. This paucity of data does not allow for definitive conclusions to be drawn regarding saliva as a major source of airborne microorganisms during aerosol generating dental procedures. Well‐controlled, large‐scale, multi center studies using atraumatic air harvesters, open‐ended methods for microbial characterization and integrated data modeling are urgently needed to characterize the microbial constituents of aerosols created during dental procedures and to estimate time and extent of spread of these infectious agents.
Mutation Analysis of DNAJC Family for Early‐Onset Parkinson's Disease in a Chinese Cohort
Authors: Li ChunYu , Ou RuWei , Chen YongPing , Gu XiaoJing , Wei QianQian , Cao Bei , Zhang LingYu , Hou YanBing , Liu KunCheng , Chen XuePing , Song Wei , Zhao Bi , Wu Ying , Shang HuiFang
Published: July 2020

Background

Recently, members of the DnaJ homolog C (DNAJC) family have been identified to be associated with Parkinson's disease (PD) and other neurodegenerative disorders. However, most studies are based on European‐ancestry population and no comprehensive analysis is further conducted.

Objectives

In this study, we aim to systematically explore the associations of DNAJCs by genetic analysis in a large Chinese early‐onset PD (EOPD) cohort.

Methods

Rare variants were identified using whole exome sequencing in a cohort of 664 unrelated patients with EOPD. Allelic association analysis was performed with Fisher's exact test to clarify the associations at allele level. Gene‐based burden analysis was conducted for both rare variants and damaging variants to illuminate the involvement of DNAJCs in EOPD at the gene level.

Results

In total, 61 rare variants were identified in the current study. At the allele level, 2 variants, p.T1109R and p.L174H, in DNAJC26 were significant after Bonferroni correction; 2 variants, p.V1271A and p.A476V, in DNAJC26; 2 variants, p.M477T and p.D1670G, in DNAJC13; 1 variant, p.L19I, in DNAJC10; and 1 variant, p.N526S, in DNAJC6 reached nominal significance. Moreover, a novel compound heterozygous mutation in DNAJC6 was identified. At the gene level, gene‐based burden analysis showed a clear enrichment of rare variants in DNAJC26 in patients with EOPD, but not other DNAJCs.

Conclusions

Our work identifies novel rare variants of DNAJC26 to be associated with EOPD and enhances our understanding of the role of DNAJC family members in EOPD. © 2020 International Parkinson and Movement Disorder Society
Eight‐channel parallel transmit‐receive system for 7 T MRI with optically controlled and monitored on‐coil current‐mode RF amplifiers
Authors: Gudino Natalia , de Zwart Jacco A. , Duyn Jeff H.
Published: July 2020

Purpose

To demonstrate a practical implementation of an eight‐channel parallel‐transmit system for brain imaging at 7 T based on on‐coil amplifier technology.

Methods

An eight‐channel parallel transmit‐receive system was built with optimized on‐coil switch‐mode current RF power amplifiers. The amplifiers were optically controlled from an eight‐channel interface that was connected to a 7 T MRI scanner. The interface also optically received a down‐converted version of the coil current sensed in each amplifier for monitoring and feedback adjustments.

Results

Each on‐coil amplifier delivered more than 100 W peak power and provided enough amplifier decoupling (<−15 dB) for the implemented eight‐channel array configuration. Phantom and human images were acquired to demonstrate practical operation of this new technology in a 7 T MRI scanner.

Conclusion

Further development and improvement of previously demonstrated on‐coil technology led to successful implementation of an eight‐channel parallel‐transmit system able to deliver strong B1 fields for typical brain imaging applications. This is an important step forward toward implementation of on‐coil RF amplification for high‐field MRI.
Saving rodents, losing primates—Why we need tailored bushmeat management strategies
Authors: Bachmann Mona Estrella , Nielsen Martin Reinhardt , Cohen Heather , Haase Dagmar , Kouassi Joseph A. K. , Mundry Roger , Kuehl Hjalmar S.
Published: July 2020

Efforts to curb the unsustainable wildlife trade in tropical forests conceptualize bushmeat as a generic resource, exploited by a homogeneous group. However, bushmeat is composed of miscellaneous species differing in risks of zoonotic disease transmissions, sensitivity to hunting and abundance. If people choose these species for varying reasons, mitigation approaches that neglect specific drivers would likely target abundant species, e.g. rodents. Meanwhile, rare species of greater conservation relevance, like many primates, would be overlooked. Additionally, if reasons vary between user groups, their responsiveness to interventions may differ too.

We assessed this possibility for three common strategies to mitigate bushmeat use, which are: development‐based—reducing reliance on bushmeat; educational—increasing environmental and school education; and cultural—promoting environmentally friendly habits.

We interviewed 348 hunters, 202 traders and 985 consumers of bushmeat around Taï National Park, Côte d'Ivoire, and tested if factors related to the above strategies affected selection for primates, duikers and rodents.

Our analyses revealed that people chose taxa for very different reasons. Users with shared characteristics favoured similar taxa; hunters economically reliant on bushmeat income targeted primates and duikers, while hunters and consumers nutritionally reliant on wildlife protein preferred rodents. Different groups used the same taxa for varying reasons. For example, hunting of primates was associated with economic needs, while their consumption appeared a matter of status. Meanwhile, cultural habits, like religion, specifically affected consumption and taboos inhibited the use of primates; environmental awareness was linked to lower utilization of most taxa within most user groups.

Our results demonstrate that educational‐, cultural‐, and development‐based strategies may address different needs and taxa. Consumers may present a key target group, as they rejected rare species for multiple cultural and educational reasons. Notably, the widespread effect of environmental awareness could facilitate large‐scale demand‐reduction approaches. Nevertheless, there is no one‐size‐fits‐all solution and campaigns need to be tailored to specific taxa and user groups. Ultimately, clear target definitions, prior in‐depth research, community‐driven solutions and tools from marketing and psychology may help to design novel strategies that encompass the diversity of bushmeat species and its users.

A free Plain Language Summary can be found within the Supporting Information of this article.
A hidden message: Decoding artistic intent
Authors: Rogala Jacek , Bajno Beata , Wróbel Andrzej
Published: July 2020

Understanding how art makes impressions upon the perceiver has been a fundamental topic of philosophical interest since the time of ancient Greece. However, the extent of artistic perception and aesthetic appreciation has been the topic of empirical studies only recently, following the emergence of psychology as an independent field of science. The present study discusses the hypothesis that the impression created by artwork on the viewer can be predicted by examining activity of neuronal networks. In particular, we focus on neural activity evoked by abstract stimuli that matches elements of the viewers' previously learned conceptual dictionary. We show that artistic appreciation fundamentally depends on how easily the author's intent expressed in his or her artwork can be abstracted and decoded, on a neuronal level, into new or merged concept networks. More diverse intellectual and personal experiences—and their corollary neural networks—may facilitate the creation of new networks. These new networks, in turn, modulate the extent to which art can be apprehended and appreciated.
Computer modeling of a potential agent against SARS‐Cov‐2 (COVID‐19) protease
Authors: Lesk Arthur M. , Konagurthu Arun S. , Allison Lloyd , Garcia de la Banda Maria , Stuckey Peter J. , Abramson David
Published: July 2020

We have modeled modifications of a known ligand to the SARS‐CoV‐2 (COVID‐19) protease, that can form a covalent adduct, plus additional ligand‐protein hydrogen bonds.
Metabolic profiling of senkyunolide A and identification of its metabolites in hepatocytes by ultra‐high‐performance liquid chromatography combined with diode‐array detector and high‐resolution mass spectrometry
Authors: Zhang Hui , Liu Chunjuan , Wang Minghua , Sui Yong
Published: July 2020

Rationale

Senkyunolide A is one of the bioactive constituents originally isolated from Ligusticum chuanxiong Hort. To better understand the action of this constituent, it is necessary to study the metabolic profiles in different species.

Methods

For the metabolic stability study, senkyunolide A at a concentration of 0.5 μM was individually incubated with hepatocytes of mouse, rat, dog, monkey and human at 37°C for 2 h. For metabolite profiling and identification, senkyunolide A (10 μM) was incubated with hepatocytes and the incubation samples were analyzed by ultra‐high‐performance liquid chromatography combined with diode‐array detector and high‐resolution mass spectrometry (UHPLC/DAD‐HRMS). The identities of the metabolites were characterized by accurate masses, product ions and retention times.

Results

Senkyunolide A was metabolically unstable in hepatocytes. The in vitro half‐lives were 136.2, 60.6, 33.65, 55.96 and 138 min in mouse, rat, dog, monkey and human hepatocytes, respectively. Furthermore, a total of 14 metabolites were detected. M1 and M9 were the most abundant metabolites in all species. The metabolic pathways of senkyunolide A involved the following pathways: (1) hydroxylation to form 10‐ and 11‐hydroxysenkyunolide A, which further underwent epoxidation followed by GSH conjugation; (2) epoxidation followed by epoxide hydrolysis or GSH conjugation; and (3) aromatization to form 3‐butylphthalide followed by hydroxylation.

Conclusions

Hydroxylation, epoxidation, aromatization and GSH conjugation were the main metabolic pathways of senkyunolide A. This study provides an overview of the metabolic profiles of senkyunolide A, which is helpful for a better understanding of the action of this compound.
Dynamics of Single‐Stranded RNA Looping Probed and Photoregulated by Sulfonated Pyrene
Authors: Xu Jie , Tojo Sachiko , Fujitsuka Mamoru , Kawai Kiyohiko
Published: July 2020

RNAs especially the noncoding RNAs which lack protein‐coding capacity but have critical functions in a wide range of cellular processes have received increased attention. They are reported to be associated with normal development and physiology, and their disruption would cause cancer. RNAs are dynamic molecules and the structural transition of them is fundamental to many RNA‐involved cellular processes. The study of transition dynamics is critical to gaining knowledge on how the transition occurs, what factors govern the transition, and how to externally regulate the transition. Previously, we have reported the synthesis of sulfonated pyrene, SPy, and its application as a photoregulator for single‐stranded DNA (ssDNA) looping. Herein, we studied the dynamics of single‐stranded RNA (ssRNA) looping in aqueous solution by using SPy as both a probe and a photoregulator. The rate of end‐to‐end loop formation in ssRNA regulated by SPy upon photostimulation suggests a retarding impact of the ribose 2′‐OH. The results also attest that (rU)n sequences are endowed with higher flexibility compared with (dT)n sequences and demonstrate the slowing down effect of C5‐CH3 group in thymine base on the looping dynamics of polythymine sequences. The photoregulated ssRNA looping observed herein occurs at μs to tens of μs time scales. All the findings provide important insight into the flexibility and structural transition dynamics of oligonucleotides.
Assaying the importance of system complexity for the systems engineering community
Authors: Potts Matthew W. , Sartor Pia A. , Johnson Angus , Bullock Seth
Published: July 2020

How should organizations approach the evaluation of system complexity at the early stages of system design in order to inform decision making? Since system complexity can be understood and approached in several different ways, such evaluation is challenging. In this study, we define the term “system complexity factors” to refer to a range of different aspects of system complexity that may contribute differentially to systems engineering outcomes. Views on the absolute and relative importance of these factors for early–life cycle system evaluation are collected and analyzed using a qualitative questionnaire of International Council on Systems Engineers (INCOSE) members (n = 55). We identified and described the following trends in the data: there is little between‐participant agreement on the relative importance of system complexity factors, even for participants with a shared background and role; participants tend to be internally consistent in their ratings of the relative importance of system complexity factors. Given the lack of alignment on the relative importance of system complexity factors, we argue that successful evaluation of system complexity can be better ensured by explicit determination and discussion of the (possibly implicit) perspective(s) on system complexity that are being taken.
Swimming alone? Why linking flood risk perception and behavior requires more than “it's the individual, stupid”
Authors: Rufat Samuel , Fekete Alexander , Armaş Iuliana , Hartmann Thomas , Kuhlicke Christian , Prior Tim , Thaler Thomas , Wisner Ben
Published: July 2020

A common assertion in discussions of flooding is that risk perception is critical and is linked to risk‐mitigating behavior. Furthermore, many assert that the adverse effects of floods could be reduced by changes in risk communication, thereby influencing risk perception to foster mitigating behavior. We argue that these assertions are based on quite questionable underlying assumptions: That stakeholders are generally aware of flood risk, that they have the capacity to engage in disaster risk reduction, and that their actions can be effective. The belief in and policies influenced by these three questionable assertions support, in turn, policies that shift responsibility for flood risk reduction onto individuals and homeowners, without regard for social and spatial justice issues. In contrast, we argue that context matters to understanding the complexity of the relation between flood risk perception and behavior, local power relations, and other constraints and opportunities that affect stakeholders. While the academic community has long played a pivotal role in supporting practical flood risk management, future research should take a more critical perspective on the underlying assumptions and focus on improving coordination across theories, methods, and variables, fostering comparative studies across disciplines, contexts, and scales.

This article is categorized under:

Engineering Water > Planning Water

Human Water > Water as Imagined and Represented

Science of Water > Water Extremes
Swampland constraints on 5d $$ \mathcal{N} $$ = 1 supergravity
Authors: Katz Sheldon , Kim Hee-Cheol , Tarazi Houri-Christina , Vafa Cumrun
Published: July 2020

Abstract

We propose Swampland constraints on consistent 5-dimensional $$ \mathcal{N} $$
N
= 1 supergravity theories. We focus on a special class of BPS magnetic monopole strings which arise in gravitational theories. The central charges and the levels of current algebras of 2d CFTs on these strings can be calculated by anomaly inflow mechanism and used to provide constraints on the low-energy particle spectrum and the effective action of the 5d supergravity based on unitarity of the worldsheet CFT. In M-theory, where these theories are realized by compactification on Calabi-Yau 3-folds, the special monopole strings arise from wrapped M5-branes on special (“semi-ample”) 4-cycles in the threefold. We identify various necessary geometric conditions for such cycles to lead to requisite BPS strings and translate these into constraints on the low-energy theories of gravity. These and other geometric conditions, some of which can be related to unitarity constraints on the monopole worldsheet, are additional candidates for Swampland constraints on 5-dimensional $$ \mathcal{N} $$
N
= 1 supergravity theories.
The Higgs and leptophobic force at the LHC
Authors: Pérez Pavel Fileviez , Golias Elliot , Murgui Clara , Plascencia Alexis D.
Published: July 2020

Abstract

The Higgs boson could provide the key to discover new physics at the Large Hadron Collider. We investigate novel decays of the Standard Model (SM) Higgs boson into leptophobic gauge bosons which can be light in agreement with all experimental constraints. We study the associated production of the SM Higgs and the leptophobic gauge boson that could be crucial to test the existence of a leptophobic force. Our results demonstrate that it is possible to have a simple gauge extension of the SM at the low scale, without assuming very small couplings and in agreement with all the experimental bounds that can be probed at the LHC.
Imitation of action-effects increases social affiliation
Authors: Dignath David , Born Gregory , Eder Andreas , Topolinski Sascha , Pfister Roland
Published: July 2020

Imitating someone’s actions influences social-affective evaluations and motor performance for the action model and the imitator alike. Both phenomena are explained by the similarity between the sensory and motor representations of the action. Importantly, however, theoretical accounts of action control hold that actions are represented in terms of their sensory effects, which encompass features of the movement but also features of an action’s consequence in the outside world. This suggests that social-affective consequences of imitation should not be limited to situations in which the imitator copies the model’s body movements. Rather, the present study tested whether copying the perceived action-effects of another person without imitating the eventual body movements increases the social-affective evaluation of this person. In three experiments, participants produced visual action-effects while observing videos of models who performed either the same or a different movement and produced either the same or a different action-effect. If instructions framed the action in terms of the movement, participants preferred models with similar movements (Experiment 1). However, if instructions framed the action in terms of the to-be produced action-effect in the environment, participants preferred models with similar action-effects (Experiments 2 and 3). These results extend effect-based accounts of action control like the ideomotor framework and suggest a close link between action control and affective processing in social interactions.
Mentalisierung bei Störungen aus dem schizophrenen Formenkreis
Authors: Richter Felix , Steinmair Dagmar , Löffler-Stastka Henriette
Published: July 2020

Das Konzept der Mentalisierungsfähigkeit, etabliert ausgehend von der Theory of Mind (ToM), beinhaltet jene menschliche Fähigkeit, die eigenen mentalen Zustände (z. B. Gedanken, Gefühle, Motive) sowie entsprechend jene des Gegenübers, in einen Sinn- und Bedeutungszusammenhang zu bringen und aus diesem mehr oder weniger tiefen Verständnis hilfreiche Erklärungsmodelle für Verhalten zu generieren. Entwickeln und entfalten sich menschliche mentale Funktionen und Fähigkeiten im „Gegenseitigen-aufeinander-bezogen-Sein“, so impliziert diese Weltsicht das Individuum als im Wesentlichen sozial determiniert. Leidensdruck infolge depressiver als auch schizophreniformer Störungen resultiert ganz wesentlich aus eingeschränkter Mentalisierungsfähigkeit, dies unabhängig von der unterschiedlichen Ätiologie der genannten Störungen.

Die folgenden Ausführungen legen dar, inwieweit Defizite in der Mentalisierung bei schizophreniformen Störungsbildern in Erscheinung treten. Diese Defizite sind gekennzeichnet durch eine mangelhafte Ausbildung von Metarepräsentationen und zeigen je nach Symptomatik verschiedene prämentalistische Verarbeitungsmodi und deren spezifische Ausformungen (Hypo‑/Hypermentalisieren). An einer geschilderten Fallvignette wird dies verständlich.
The Characteristic Recovery Time as a Novel, Noninvasive Metric for Assessing In Vivo Cartilage Mechanical Function
Authors: Cutcliffe Hattie C. , Davis Keithara M. , Spritzer Charles E. , DeFrate Louis
Published: July 2020

Osteoarthritis (OA) is a disease characterized by the degeneration of cartilage tissue, and is a leading cause of disability in the United States. The clinical diagnosis of OA includes the presence of pain and radiographic imaging findings, which typically do not present until advanced stages of the disease when treatment is difficult. Therefore, identifying new methods of OA detection that are sensitive to earlier pathological changes in cartilage, which may be addressed prior to the development of irreversible OA, is critical for improving OA treatment. A potentially promising avenue for developing early detection methods involves measuring the tissue’s in vivo mechanical response to loading, as changes in mechanical function are commonly observed in ex vivo studies of early OA. However, thus far the mechanical function of cartilage has not been widely assessed in vivo. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to develop a novel methodology that can be used to measure an in vivo mechanical property of cartilage: the characteristic recovery time. Specifically, in this study we quantified the characteristic recovery time of cartilage thickness after exercise in relatively young subjects with asymptomatic cartilage. Additionally, we measured baseline cartilage thickness and T1rho and T2 relaxation times (quantitative MRI) prior to exercise in these subjects to assess whether baseline MRI measures are predictive of the characteristic recovery time, to understand whether or not the characteristic recovery time provides independent information about cartilage’s mechanical state. Our results show that the mean recovery strain response across subjects was well-characterized by an exponential approach with a characteristic time of 25.2 min, similar to literature values of human characteristic times measured ex vivo. Further, we were unable to detect a statistically significant linear relationship between the characteristic recovery time and the baseline metrics measured here (T1rho relaxation time, T2 relaxation time, and cartilage thickness). This might suggest that the characteristic recovery time has the potential to provide additional information about the mechanical state of cartilage not captured by these baseline MRI metrics. Importantly, this study presents a noninvasive methodology for quantifying the characteristic recovery time, an in vivo mechanical property of cartilage. As mechanical response may be indicative of cartilage health, this study underscores the need for future studies investigating the characteristic recovery time and in vivo cartilage mechanical response at various stages of OA.
Development and mining of a database of historic European paper properties
Authors: Strlič Matija , Liu Yun , Lichtblau Dirk Andreas , De Bruin Gerrit , Knight Barry , Winther Thea , Kralj Cigić Irena , Brereton Richard G.
Published: July 2020

A database of historic paper properties was developed using 729 samples of European origin (1350–1990), analysed for acidity, degree or polymerisation (DP), molecular weight of cellulose, grammage, tensile strength, as well as contents of ash, aluminium, carbonyl groups, rosin, protein, lignin and fibre furnish. Using Spearman’s rank correlation coefficient and principal component analysis, the data were examined with respect to methods of manufacture, as well as chemical stability of paper. Novel patterns emerged related to loss of DP and accumulation of carbonyl groups and acidity with time and the role of lignin and rosin, as well as rate of degradation (k = 10−5 year−1) at room conditions. In-depth understanding of long-term degradation of lignin and rosin is needed to better understand the relationships between composition and degradation of historic paper. This study highlights the importance of mining significant volumes of analytical data, and its variability, obtained from real historic objects.
Use of public water supply fluoride concentration as an indicator of population exposure to fluoride in England 1995–2015
Authors: Roberts David J. , Morris J. , Wood A. , Verlander N. Q. , Leonardi G. S. , Fletcher T.
Published: July 2020

Public health monitoring of Community Water Fluoridation (CWF) schemes requires estimates of exposure to fluoride in public water supplies (PWS). We aimed to use routine data to estimate population exposure to PWS-fluoride in England and to determine whether PWS-fluoride exposure from 2005 to 2015 could be used as a proxy for exposure for 1995–2004, when fluoride concentration data that could be linked to population health data were unavailable. We calculated annual mean water supply zone PWS-fluoride concentrations from monitoring data for 1995–2015, stratified by fluoridation scheme-flagging. We allocated annual 2005–2015 mean PWS-fluoride concentrations to small area boundaries to describe population exposure within five concentration categories (< 0.1 to ≥ 0.7 mg/L). We compared zone-level 1995–2004 and 2005–2015 mean PWS-fluoride concentrations using Spearman correlation. Most (72%) of the population received PWS with < 0.2 mg/L fluoride and 10% with ≥ 0.7 mg/L. Fluoride concentrations in 1995–2004 and 2005–2015 were similar (median 0.11 mg/L (lower quartile–upper quartile (LQ–UQ) 0.06–0.17) and 0.11 mg/L (LQ–UQ 0.07–0.17), respectively) and highly correlated (coefficient 0.93) if un-fluoridated but differed (1995–2004 median 0.78 mg/L (LQ–UQ 0.59–0.92); 2005–2015 0.84 mg/L (LQ–UQ 0.72–0.95)) and correlated weakly (coefficient 0.31) if fluoridated. Fluoride concentrations in 2005–2015 approximate those in 1995–2004 but with a greater risk of misclassification in fluoridation schemes.
Predicting microcystin concentration action-level exceedances resulting from cyanobacterial blooms in selected lake sites in Ohio
Authors: Francy Donna S. , Brady Amie M.G. , Stelzer Erin A. , Cicale Jessica R. , Hackney Courtney , Dalby Harrison D. , Struffolino Pamela , Dwyer Daryl F.
Published: July 2020

Cyanobacterial harmful algal blooms and the toxins they produce are a global water-quality problem. Monitoring and prediction tools are needed to quickly predict cyanotoxin action-level exceedances in recreational and drinking waters used by the public. To address this need, data were collected at eight locations in Ohio, USA, to identify factors significantly related to observed concentrations of microcystins (a freshwater cyanotoxin) that could be used in two types of site-specific regression models. Real-time models include easily or continuously-measured factors that do not require that a sample be collected; comprehensive models use a combination of discrete sample-based measurements and real-time factors. The study sites included two recreational sites and six water treatment plant sites. Real-time models commonly included variables such as phycocyanin, pH, specific conductance, and streamflow or gage height. Many real-time factors were averages over time periods antecedent to the time the microcystin sample was collected, including water-quality data compiled from continuous monitors. Comprehensive models were useful at some sites with lagged variables for cyanobacterial toxin genes, dissolved nutrients, and (or) nitrogen to phosphorus ratios. Because models can be used for management decisions, important measures of model performance were sensitivity, specificity, and accuracy of estimates above or below the microcystin concentration threshold standard or action level. Sensitivity is how well the predictive tool correctly predicts exceedance of a threshold, an important measure for water-resource managers. Sensitivities > 90% at four Lake Erie water treatment plants indicated that models with continuous monitor data were especially promising. The planned next steps are to collect more data to build larger site-specific datasets and validate models before they can be used for management decisions.
Hidden Sites, Hidden Images, Hidden Meanings: Does the Location and Visibility of Motifsand Sites Correlate to Restricted or Open Access?
Authors: Domingo Inés , Smith Claire , Jackson Gary , Roman Didac
Published: July 2020

Using an ethnographic approach, this research assesses common assumptions in rock art research in terms of their validity for Aboriginal rock art sites in the Barunga region of the Northern Territory, Australia. In particular, we assess the potential and limits of the commonly held assumption that open or restricted access to sites and/or the meaning of motifs can be assessed by determining the visibility of the site or image within the landscape. This research calls into question some assumptions that are core to contemporary archaeological method and theory. Our results challenge the notion that a secluded location, or difficulty of access, is needed to restrict access to a site. “Hidden” sites do not need to be hidden, as site access is controlled by a plethora of cultural rules. Moreover, sites that appear to be hidden within the landscape may be open access sites, although access may be restricted for periods of time. Conversely, sites that are visible and accessible from a landscape perspective can be subject to restricted access, regulated through social rules. In addition, the results question the notion that the control of secret information in rock art sites is determined by the visibility and location of motifs and sites. Hidden meanings are not necessarily related to hidden locations or the low visibility of the art, since cultures can have many other ways of hiding meaning. Finally, the results of this study challenge the commonly held dichotomy between sacred/restricted access and secular/open access.
Applicability of computed tomography preoperative assessment of the LAA in LV summit ablations
Authors: Kuniewicz Marcin , Krupiński M. , Gosnell M. , Budnicka K. , Jakob N. , Karkowski G. , Urbańczyk-Zawadzka M. , Lelakowski J. , Walocha J.
Published: July 2020

Purpose

Ventricular arrhythmias originating from the left ventricular summit (LVS) may present with challenges for catheter ablation. Recently, the left atrial appendage (LAA) became a new vantage point for mapping and ablating arrhythmias from that region, but data of possible usefulness is limited.

Methods

From September to December 2019, we retrospectively analyzed 48 consecutive patient hearts (20 male; mean age 57.9y ± 11.56) undergoing diagnostic coronary vessel imaging in 64 dual-source computer tomography angiography (CTA). Distances from the LAA to the LVS, LAA shape type, and coronary arteries in the LVS region were measured. Also, we compared the true LVS area from CTA with a calculated formula derived from LVS definition.

Results

The mean LVS area calculated from the formula was 291.58 mm2 (± 115.5) while the true area calculated from CT was 263.33 mm2 (± 99.49) (p = 0.44). The mean inaccessible area was 133.42 mm2 (± 72.89), accessible 95.67 mm2 (± 72.77). The mean LAA coverage over LVS was 196.08 mm2—which is approximately 75% of LVS size in general. The most common LAA shape was chicken wing (50%); windsock has the highest accessible area coverage on average (80.23%), followed by chicken wing (59.88%), broccoli (47.72%), and cactus (46.98%). The mean distance from LAA to the surface was 5.14 mm (1.5 to 10 mm) and was not correlated with BMI. LAA has a 98% coverage over the point of transition between the great cardiac vein and anterior interventricular vein.

Conclusion

Angio-CT assessment of the LAA over the LVS structures may be helpful in decision making before an ablation procedure. LAA appears to be a promising mapping approach in LVS arrhythmias.
Is Mental Well-Being in the Oldest Old Different from That in Younger Age Groups? Exploring the Mental Well-Being of the Oldest-Old Population in Europe
Authors: Donisi Valeria , Tedeschi Federico , Gonzalez-Caballero Juan Luis , Cresswell-Smith Johanna , Lara Elvira , Miret Marta , Forsman Anna K. , Wahlbeck Kristian , Amaddeo Francesco , Kalseth Jorid
Published: July 2020

The oldest-old population is increasing in Europe, and greater focus is placed on promoting mental well-being (MWB) in this population. The European Welfare Models and Mental Wellbeing in Final Years of Life project aims to develop a better understanding of how best to promote positive MWB in the oldest-old population. Using a resources approach, the present study aimed to provide empirical evidence about the structure of MWB in the 80 + year age group and to compare this with the structure of MWB in the old (65–79 years) and adult (18–64 years) population. Twenty-eight items reflecting a focus on positive aspects of MWB were selected from the European Social Survey data (24 countries). After application of an exploratory approach using Exploratory Structural Equation Modelling, five- and six-factor model solutions were found to be statistically appropriate, and the results are consistent with the most widely studied dimensions of MWB. Despite specific differences in the factor models and item loadings, evaluation of formal invariance showed that dimensions built in the same way are comparable across age groups. Although explorative and not conclusive, the results of this study contribute insights into the multidimensional structure of MWB in the oldest-old population and provide a starting point for further research on promoting MWB in the later stages of life.
Kinematic analysis of a rolling tensegrity structure with spatially curved members
Authors: Schorr Philipp , Li Enrique Roberto Carrillo , Kaufhold Tobias , Hernández Jorge Antonio Rodríguez , Zentner Lena , Zimmermann Klaus , Böhm Valter
Published: July 2020

In this work, a tensegrity structure with spatially curved members is applied as rolling locomotion system. The actuation of the structure allows a variation of the originally cylindrical shape to a conical shape. Moreover, the structure is equipped with internal movable masses to control the position of the center of mass of the structure. To control the locomotion system a reliable actuation strategy is required. Therefore, the kinematics of the system considering the nonholonomic constraints are derived in this paper. Based on the resulting insight in the locomotion behavior a feasible actuation strategy is designed to control the trajectory of the system. To verify this approach kinematic analyses are evaluated numerically. The simulation data confirm the path following due to an appropriate shape change of the tensegrity structure. Thus, this system enables a two-dimensional rolling locomotion.
Investigating Mercury’s Environment with the Two-Spacecraft BepiColombo Mission
Authors: Milillo A. , Fujimoto M. , Murakami G. , Benkhoff J. , Zender J. , Aizawa S. , Dósa M. , Griton L. , Heyner D. , Ho G. , Imber S. M. , Jia X. , Karlsson T. , Killen R. M. , Laurenza M. , Lindsay S. T. , McKenna-Lawlor S. , Mura A. , Raines J. M. , Rothery D. A. , André N. , Baumjohann W. , Berezhnoy A. , Bourdin P. A. , Bunce E. J. , Califano F. , Deca J. , de la Fuente S. , Dong C. , Grava C. , Fatemi S. , Henri P. , Ivanovski S. L. , Jackson B. V. , James M. , Kallio E. , Kasaba Y. , Kilpua E. , Kobayashi M. , Langlais B. , Leblanc F. , Lhotka C. , Mangano V. , Martindale A. , Massetti S. , Masters A. , Morooka M. , Narita Y. , Oliveira J. S. , Odstrcil D. , Orsini S. , Pelizzo M. G. , Plainaki C. , Plaschke F. , Sahraoui F. , Seki K. , Slavin J. A. , Vainio R. , Wurz P. , Barabash S. , Carr C. M. , Delcourt D. , Glassmeier K.-H. , Grande M. , Hirahara M. , Huovelin J. , Korablev O. , Kojima H. , Lichtenegger H. , Livi S. , Matsuoka A. , Moissl R. , Moncuquet M. , Muinonen K. , Quèmerais E. , Saito Y. , Yagitani S. , Yoshikawa I. , Wahlund J.-E.
Published: July 2020

The ESA-JAXA BepiColombo mission will provide simultaneous measurements from two spacecraft, offering an unprecedented opportunity to investigate magnetospheric and exospheric dynamics at Mercury as well as their interactions with the solar wind, radiation, and interplanetary dust. Many scientific instruments onboard the two spacecraft will be completely, or partially devoted to study the near-space environment of Mercury as well as the complex processes that govern it. Many issues remain unsolved even after the MESSENGER mission that ended in 2015. The specific orbits of the two spacecraft, MPO and Mio, and the comprehensive scientific payload allow a wider range of scientific questions to be addressed than those that could be achieved by the individual instruments acting alone, or by previous missions. These joint observations are of key importance because many phenomena in Mercury’s environment are highly temporally and spatially variable. Examples of possible coordinated observations are described in this article, analysing the required geometrical conditions, pointing, resolutions and operation timing of different BepiColombo instruments sensors.
The social fabric of understanding: equilibrium, authority, and epistemic empathy
Authors: Jäger Christoph , Malfatti Federica Isabella
Published: July 2020

We discuss the social-epistemic aspects of Catherine Elgin’s theory of reflective equilibrium and understanding and argue that it yields an argument for the view that a crucial social-epistemic function of epistemic authorities is to foster understanding in their communities. We explore the competences that enable epistemic authorities to fulfil this role and argue that among them is an epistemic virtue we call “epistemic empathy”.
Obstacles, Interfacial Forms, and Turbulence: A Numerical Analysis of Soil–Water Evaporation Across Different Interfaces
Authors: Coltman Edward , Lipp Melanie , Vescovini Andrea , Helmig Rainer
Published: July 2020

Exchange processes between a turbulent free flow and a porous media flow are sensitive to the flow dynamics in both flow regimes, as well as to the interface that separates them. Resolving these complex exchange processes across irregular interfaces is key in understanding many natural and engineered systems. With soil–water evaporation as the natural application of interest, the coupled behavior and exchange between flow regimes are investigated numerically, considering a turbulent free flow as well as interfacial forms and obstacles. Interfacial forms and obstacles will alter the flow conditions at the interface, creating flow structures that either enhance or reduce exchange rates based on their velocity conditions and their mixing with the main flow. To evaluate how these interfacial forms change the exchange rates, interfacial conditions are isolated and investigated numerically. First, different flow speeds are compared for a flat surface. Second, a porous obstacle of varied height is introduced at the interface, and the effects the flow structures that develop have on the interface are analyzed. The flow parameters of this obstacle are then varied and the interfacial exchange rates investigated. Next, to evaluate the interaction of flow structures between obstacles, a second obstacle is introduced, separated by a varied distance. Finally, the shape of these obstacles is modified to create different wave forms. Each of these interfacial forms and obstacles is shown to create different flow structures adjacent to the surface which alter the mass, momentum, and energy conditions at the interface. These changes will enhance the exchange rate in locations where higher velocity gradients and more mixing with the main flow develop, but will reduce the exchange rate in locations where low velocity gradients and limited mixing with the main flow occur.
Molecular characterization, purification, and antioxidant activity of recombinant superoxide dismutase from the Pacific abalone Haliotis discus hannai Ino
Authors: Qiao Kun , Fang Chunhua , Chen Bei , Liu Zhiyu , Pan Nan , Peng Hui , Hao Hua , Xu Min , Wu Jingna , Liu Shuji
Published: July 2020

Superoxide dismutase (SOD) is an acidic metalloenzyme that scavenges free radicals produced by endogenous and exogenous substances. In the present study, the tissue distribution of the superoxide dismutase HdhCu/Zn-SOD was investigated in Haliotis discus hannai Ino. The expression profile after lipopolysaccharide (LPS) challenge was determined using quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qPCR). To study the antioxidant activity of a recombinant HdhCu/Zn-SOD protein, the HdhCu/Zn-SOD gene was cloned into the pPIC9K vector and transformed into the Pichia pastoris GS115 strain by electroporation. After induction by methanol, the recombinant product was purified using immobilized metal affinity chromatography and confirmed using mass spectrometry. The optimal expression conditions were determined to be incubation with 0.5% methanol at pH 6.0, resulting in a stable expressed product with the molecular weight of approximately 17 kDa and 21 kDa. The enzymatic activity of HdhCu/Zn-SOD consistently increased with increasing Cu2+ concentrations and showed good thermal stability. Recombinant HdhCu/Zn-SOD showed a strong ability to scavenge superoxide anions and hydroxyl radicals and protected L929 cells against the toxicity caused by H2O2 through its in vitro antioxidant activity. The heterologous expression of HdhCu/Zn-SOD in P. pastoris and the antioxidant activity of this enzyme are reported for the first time.

Graphic abstract