bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The VMC Survey
Authors: Groenewegen M. A. T. , Nanni A. , Cioni M.-R. L. , Girardi L. , de Grijs R. , Ivanov V. D. , Marconi M. , Moretti M.-I. , Oliveira J. M. , Petr-Gotzens M. G. , Ripepi V. , van Loon J. Th.
Published: March 2020

Context. Variability is a key property of stars on the asymptotic giant branch (AGB). Their pulsation period is related to the luminosity and mass-loss rate of the star. Long-period variables (LPVs) and Mira variables are the most prominent of all types of variability of evolved stars. The reddest, most obscured AGB stars are too faint in the optical and have eluded large variability surveys.

Aims. We obtained a sample of LPVs by analysing K-band light curves (LCs) of a large number of sources in the direction of the Magellanic Clouds with the colours expected for red AGB stars ((J − K) > 3 mag or equivalent in other colour combinations).

Methods. Selection criteria were derived based on colour-colour and colour-magnitude diagrams from the combination of the VISTA Magellanic Cloud (VMC) survey, Spitzer IRAC and AllWISE data. After eliminating LPVs with known periods shorter than 450 days, a sample of 1299 candidate obscured AGB stars was selected. K-band LCs were constructed by combining the epoch photometry available in the VMC survey with literature data, were analysed for variability, and fitted with a single period sine curve to derive mean magnitudes, amplitudes, and periods. A subset of 254 stars are either new variables, known variables where the period we find is better determined than the literature value, or variables with periods longer than 1000 days. The spectral energy distributions (SEDs) of these stars were fitted to a large number of templates. For this purpose the SEDs and Spitzer IRS spectra of some non-AGB stars (Be stars, HII regions and young stellar objects – YSOs) were also fitted to have templates of the most likely contaminants in the sample.

Results. A sample of 217 likely LPVs is found. Thirty-four stars have periods longer than 1000 days, although some of them have alternative shorter periods. The longest period of a known Mira in the Magellanic Clouds from Optical Gravitational Lensing Experiment data (with P = 1810 d) is derived to have a period of 2075 d based on its infrared LC. Two stars are found to have longer periods, but both have lower luminosities and smaller pulsation amplitudes than expected for Miras. Mass-loss rates and luminosities are estimated from the template fitting. Period-luminosity relations are presented for carbon (C-) and oxygen (O-) rich Miras that appear to be extensions of relations derived in the literature for shorter periods. The fit for the C stars is particularly well defined (with 182 objects) and reads Mbol = (−2.27 ± 0.20) ⋅ log P + (1.45 ± 0.54) mag with an rms of 0.41 mag. Thirty-four stars show pulsation properties typical of Miras while the SEDs indicate that they are not. Overall, the results of the LC fitting are presented for over 200 stars that are associated with YSOs.
Mitigating flicker noise in high-precision photometry
Authors: Sulis S. , Lendl M. , Hofmeister S. , Veronig A. , Fossati L. , Cubillos P. , Van Grootel V.
Published: March 2020

Context. In photometry, the short-timescale stellar variability (“flicker”), such as that caused by granulation and solar-like oscillations, can reach amplitudes comparable to the transit depth of Earth-sized planets and is correlated over the typical transit timescales. It can introduce systematic errors on the inferred planetary parameters when a small number of transits are observed.

Aims. The objective of this paper is to characterize the statistical properties of the flicker noise and quantify its impact on the inferred transit parameters.

Methods. We used the extensive solar observations obtained with SoHO/VIRGO to characterize flicker noise. We simulated realistic transits across the solar disk using SDO/HMI data and used these to obtain transit light curves, which we used to estimate the errors made on the transit parameters due to the presence of real solar noise. We make these light curves publicly available. To extend the study to a wider parameter range, we derived the properties of flicker noise using Kepler observations and studied their dependence on stellar parameters. Finally, we predicted the limiting stellar apparent magnitude for which the properties of the flicker noise can be extracted using high-precision CHEOPS and PLATO observations.

Results. Stellar granulation is a stochastic colored noise, and is stationary with respect to the stellar magnetic cycle. Both the flicker correlation timescales and amplitudes increase with the stellar mass and radius. If these correlations are not taken into account when fitting for the parameters of transiting exoplanets, this can bias the inferred parameters. In particular, we find errors of up to 10% on the ratio between the planetary and stellar radius (Rp∕Rs) for an Earth-sized planet orbiting a Sun-like star.

Conclusions. Flicker will significantly affect the inferred parameters of transits observed at high precision with CHEOPS and PLATO for F and G stars. Dedicated modeling strategies need to be developed to accurately characterize both the star and the transiting exoplanets.
A three phase model to investigate the effects of dead material on the growth of avascular tumours
Authors: Lewin Thomas D. , Maini Philip K. , Moros Eduardo G. , Enderling Heiko , Byrne Helen M.
Published: March 2020

In vivo tumours are highly heterogeneous entities which often comprise intratumoural regions of hypoxia and widespread necrosis. In this paper, we develop a new three phase model of nutrient-limited, avascular tumour growth to investigate how dead material within the tumour may influence the tumour’s growth dynamics. We model the tumour as a mixture of tumour cells, dead cellular material and extracellular fluid. The model equations are derived using mass and momentum balances for each phase along with appropriate constitutive equations. The tumour cells are viewed as a viscous fluid pressure, while the extracellular fluid phase is viewed as inviscid. The physical properties of the dead material are intermediate between those of the tumour cells and extracellular fluid, and are characterised by three key parameters. Through numerical simulation of the model equations, we reproduce spatial structures and dynamics typical of those associated with the growth of avascular tumour spheroids. We also characterise novel, non-monotonic behaviours which are driven by the internal dynamics of the dead material within the tumour. Investigations of the parameter sub-space describing the properties of the dead material reveal that the way in which non-viable tumour cells are modelled may significantly influence the qualitative tumour growth dynamics.
Atypische diabetische Ketoazidose bei Patienten mit Typ-2-Diabetes unter SGLT-2-Therapie
Authors: Kopf Stefan
Published: March 2020

Die Therapie mit SGLT-2-Inhibitoren bei Patienten mit Diabetes mellitus nimmt aufgrund der positiven Ergebnisse auf kardiovaskuläre Ereignisse zu. Dadurch kommt es auch zu einer Zunahme der unerwünschten Nebenwirkungen. Eine seltene, aber lebensbedrohliche Nebenwirkung ist die atypische oder euglykämische diabetische Ketoazidose. Diese Nebenwirkung wird in allen Präparaten dieser Substanzklasse beschrieben. Statistisch ist es eine seltene Nebenwirkung mit einer Inzidenzrate von 0,1–2,2 %. Typische Symptome sind unter anderem Übelkeit, Bauchschmerzen, Erbrechen, vermehrter Durst und Verwirrtheitszustände. Als auslösende Faktoren werden reduzierte Nahrungsaufnahme, Infektionen, reduzierte Insulindosis und größere chirurgische Eingriffe angesehen. Bei Verdacht auf eine solche atypische diabetische Ketoazidose muss sofort ärztliche Hilfe in Anspruch genommen werden.
Intervention und Operation unter antithrombotischer Therapie & Antikoagulation
Authors: Hermesmeier Jonas , Gonska Bernd-Dieter
Published: March 2020

Der richtige periinterventionelle Umgang mit Patienten, die unter einer Dauertherapie mit Blutverdünnern stehen, ist wichtig und wird in Zukunft an Bedeutung gewinnen. Von der Abwägung der Risiken einer Unterbrechung oder Fortführung der Medikamenteneinnahme, über die Überbrückung mit Heparin bis hin zum korrekten zeitlichen Ablauf müssen eine Vielzahl an Faktoren für jeden Patienten individuell beachtet werden.

Durch die steigende Lebenserwartung nimmt die Anzahl an Patienten zu, die einer dauerhaften Antikoagulation oder Thrombozytenaggregationshemmung bedürfen. Gleichzeitig steigt die Zeit, die diese mit einer solchen Therapie leben. Die zugrundeliegenden Erkrankungen stellen selten eine Kontraindikation für andere Eingriffe dar und so bedürfen mehr und mehr solcher Patienten einer Operation oder Intervention. Der richtige periinterventionelle Umgang mit Patienten unter Dauertherapie mit Blutverdünnung ist wichtig und wird in Zukunft noch an Bedeutung gewinnen. Dieses Thema betrifft alle operativ oder interventionell Tätigen wie auch die mitbetreuenden Ärzte. In Bezug auf die korrekte Vorgehensweise besteht weiterhin eine lebhafte Forschungsaktivität, doch auch unabhängig von einzelnen Substanzen sind zuletzt Behandlungsparadigmen in Bewegung gekommen.
Radiographic Prognostic Factors Relevant to Surgical Outcomes of Arthroscopic Partial Medial Meniscectomy in Elderly Patients with Mild Osteoarthritis
Authors: Park Sang Hoon , Choi Chong Hyuk , Yoo Ju Hyung , Kim Sung Hwan , Yoon Han Kook , Jung Min , Choi Ki Hong , Moon Hyun Soo
Published: March 2020

The aim of this study was to investigate radiographic factors relevant to predict surgical outcomes of arthroscopic partial meniscectomy (APM) in elderly patients with mild osteoarthritis (Kellgren–Lawrence grades 1 and 2). Data of 172 consecutive patients aged >70 years who underwent arthroscopic meniscal surgery were reviewed retrospectively. The patients who met the inclusion criteria were classified into two groups based on the minimal clinically important difference value of the Lysholm knee scoring scale comparing the score of the last visit with that of the preoperative period: group 1 (with clinically significant improvement) and group 2 (without clinically important change). Radiographic factors assessed on X-ray and magnetic resonance images were evaluated using bivariate and logistic regression analyses. A total of 73 patients were included in this study. Bivariate analysis revealed that the extent of meniscus extrusion (p = 0.031), meniscus extrusion ratio (p = 0.001), and grade of meniscus degeneration (p = 0.019) were significantly different between the groups. Multivariate logistic regression analysis showed that the meniscus extrusion ratio was the most important independent predictive factor for surgical outcomes with clinically important changes (coefficient = 0.159, p = 0.009). On receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve analysis, the cutoff point of the meniscus extrusion ratio discriminating the two groups was 34.2% (sensitivity: 79.3%; specificity: 68.6%; accuracy: 72.6%). Meniscus extrusion ratio was the most relevant predictive factor for discriminating patients with clinically important change. Meniscus extrusion ratio, with the cutoff point of 34.2%, could serve as a guide to determine whether to perform APM in elderly patients with mild osteoarthritis. This is a Level IV, therapeutic case series study.
Antiphosphatidylserine/Prothrombin Antibodies: An Update on Their Association with Clinical Manifestations of Antiphospholipid Syndrome
Authors: Radin Massimo , Foddai Silvia G. , Cecchi Irene , Rubini Elena , Schreiber Karen , Roccatello Dario , Bertolaccini Maria Laura , Sciascia Savino
Published: March 2020

Objective The aim of the study is to perform a systematic review on the recent available evidence on antiphosphatidylserine/prothrombin (aPS/PT) antibodies and their association with clinical manifestations of the antiphospholipid syndrome (APS).

Methods A detailed literature search was applied a priori to Ovid MEDLINE, In-Process and Other Non-Indexed Citation 2012 to present and to abstract from EULAR and ACR/ARHP Annual Meetings (2012–2019).

Results Data from 2,901 patients, 587 diseases controls and 559 healthy controls included in 15 retrieved studies was analyzed. The patient population included 1,219 patients classified as APS according to the Sidney criteria, 285 patients with isolated persistently positive antiphospholipid antibodies (aPL) and 1,397 patients with a clinical suspicion of APS. Twelve studies, including 1,888 patients, analyzed the association between aPS/PT antibodies and thrombosis. We observed a statistically significant association between aPS/PT IgG/IgM positivity and thrombotic events (mean odds ratio [OR]: 6.8 [95% CI: 3.18–16.4], p < 0.05), confirmed when analyzing aPS/PT IgG (mean OR: 6.7 [95% CI: 3.04–21.6], p < 0.05) and aPS/PT IgM (mean OR: 4.35 [95% CI: 1.54–17.77], p < 0.05) separately. Seven studies, including 1,388 patients, evaluated the association between aPS/PT antibodies and PM. When pooled together, we found a statistically significant association between any PM and aPS/PT IgG/IgM positivity (mean OR: 10.6 [95% CI: 3.54–35.38], p < 0.05), particularly aPS/PT IgG positivity (mean OR: 6.7 [95% CI: 3.04–21.6], p < 0.05).

Conclusion Our results highlight the strong association between aPS/PT and the clinical manifestations of APS. With the available level of evidence, aPS/PT testing can be considered as a robust test applicable in the investigation of patients suspected for APS, also beyond the research settings.
Long-Term Safety and Efficacy of Recombinant Coagulation Factor IX Albumin Fusion Protein (rIX-FP) in Previously Treated Pediatric Patients with Hemophilia B: Results from a Phase 3b Extension Study
Authors: Kenet Gili , Chambost Hervé , Male Christoph , Halimeh Susan , Lambert Thierry , Li Yanyan , Seifert Wilfried , Santagostino Elena
Published: March 2020

Introduction A phase 3b extension study evaluated the long-term safety and efficacy of a recombinant fusion protein-linking coagulation factor IX (FIX) with albumin (rIX-FP) for the routine prophylaxis and on-demand treatment of bleeding in pediatric hemophilia B patients.

Methods Previously treated patients aged <12 years with moderate to severe hemophilia B enrolled in a 3-year extension study following a phase 3 pivotal study in which they received weekly rIX-FP prophylaxis. In the extension study, they could maintain or extend their prophylaxis interval to every 10 or 14 days if they were well controlled on the 7-day regimen.

Results Compared with their initial regimen, by the end of the study, dosing intervals were the same, extended, and shortened in 16, 4, and 4 patients, respectively. Very low annualized spontaneous bleeding rates (AsBRs) were observed; median AsBR was 0.0 for the 7- and 10-day regimens, and 1.1 for the 14-day regimen. The 7- and 14-day regimens were comparable in preventing spontaneous bleeds; mean (95% confidence interval) difference in AsBR of −1.2 (−2.6 to 0.3) bleeding episodes/year/subject. Overall, 96% of bleeding episodes were successfully treated with one or two injections of rIX-FP. Patients on a 14-day regimen maintained a mean steady-state trough FIX level of >7.2 IU/dL. No patient developed an inhibitor.

Conclusion This extension study demonstrated the long-term safety and efficacy of weekly rIX-FP in pediatric patients. Additionally, it showed that adequate bleed protection can be achieved with 10- or 14-day rIX-FP regimens in selected pediatric patients while maintaining safety.
Polarization-independent hybrid plasmonic coupler based on T-shaped slot waveguide
Authors: Ma Youqiao , Li Jinhua , Maeda Hiroshi
Published: March 2020

In this paper, a novel polarization-independent hybrid plasmonic coupler based on a T-shaped slot waveguide is proposed and investigated by numerical simulations using the finite element method. The structure supports both the TE-polarized slot waveguide mode and the TM-polarized plasmonic mode, offering a greater possibility to achieve the polarization-independent operation. The simulation results show that with proper structural parameters, the waveguide coupler with high extinction ratios of 31.2 dB (TE) and 30 dB (TM) and low insertion losses of 0.38 dB (TE) and 2.04 dB (TM) can be achieved at a telecommunication wavelength of 1550 nm. An investigation of the influence of structural perturbations indicates that the proposed coupler also has a good tolerance to fabrication errors. The proposed structure has potential applications in the field of subwavelength integrated photonic circuits.
Study of cavitation bubble collapse near a rigid boundary with a multi-relaxation-time pseudo-potential lattice Boltzmann method
Authors: He Xiaolong , Zhang Jianmin , Xu Weilin
Published: March 2020

Due to the complex phase change and heat transfer processes, the mechanisms of cavitation bubble collapse near a rigid boundary are well recognized to be complicated. Based on a modified large-density ratio multi-relaxation-time pseudo-potential lattice Boltzmann model, a single and a dual cavitation bubble collapse process near a rigid boundary with large-density and various viscosity ratios are simulated in the present study. Effects of density ratio, viscosity ratio, initial pressure difference, and distance between the cavitation bubble and wall on the cavitation process are studied. Furthermore, the evolution of maximum pressure, micro-jet velocity, lifetime, deformation index, and the first introduced total kinetic energy of cavitation bubbles are analyzed in the development of cavitation. Simulations show that the interaction mode of the bubbles and the distance between the rigid boundary and the lower bubble are key factors in determining the effect of aeration reduction. The study also shows that the proposed lattice Boltzmann pseudo-potential model is a robust and effective tool for studying the collapse of near-wall cavitation bubbles and has potential to predict the interaction of cavitation bubbles in the presence of complex boundaries.
Numerical simulations of inert and reactive highly underexpanded jets
Authors: Su Hongmin , Cai Jinsheng , Qu Kun , Pan Shucheng
Published: March 2020

In this study, the high-resolution numerical simulations of the two-dimensional (2D) multi-component inert and reactive highly underexpanded jets are conducted to quantify the influences of the injected gas mixture properties on the flow structure. First, the gas mixture with the specified species mass fractions is imposed to exhaust into the quiescent air with a Mach number of 1.0, of which the specific heat ratios (γe) range from 1.3 to 1.6. Our results indicate that the larger γe yields a relatively shorter and thinner jet core under the same inlet pressure ratio due to the sound speed increasing. Next, we focus on the chemical reaction effects on the jets with a premixed hydrogen–air mixture injection. The results reveal that the shock-induced combustion develops into a detonation, inducing numerous vortices behind the combustion wave, while the combustion in the mixing layer cannot be preserved due to the instability of the supersonic shearing. During the detonation process, the increasing pressure accompanied by the heat release forces the Riemann wave to move upstream compared with the inert one. The violent detonation periodically propagates between the two jet triple points. The detonation collision leads to the intersection of their slip lines, which causes distinct vortex formation. In addition, the main frequencies, corresponding to the Riemann wave movement, the oscillation of the shock-induced ignition positions, the periodical propagation of the detonation, and the collision of the detonation triple points, are explored to explain the unsteady process of the reactive highly underexpanded jet.
Effective pair interaction of patchy particles in critical fluids
Authors: Farahmand Bafi N. , Nowakowski P. , Dietrich S.
Published: March 2020

We study the critical Casimir interaction between two spherical colloids immersed in a binary liquid mixture close to its critical demixing point. The surface of each colloid prefers one species of the mixture with the exception of a circular patch of arbitrary size, where the other species is preferred. For such objects, we calculate, within the Derjaguin approximation, the scaling function describing the critical Casimir potential, and we use it to derive the scaling functions for all components of the forces and torques acting on both colloids. The results are compared with available experimental data. Moreover, the general relation between the scaling function for the potential and the scaling functions for the force and the torque is derived.
Faba bean-rapeseed silage as substitute for Italian ryegrass silage: effects on performance and milk quality of grazing dairy cows
Authors: Jiménez-Calderón J. D. , Martínez-Fernández A. , Soldado A. , González A. , Vicente F.
Published: March 2020

Three trials were conducted to study the effect of including in the ration of dairy cows the intercrop faba bean-rapeseed or Italian ryegrass silages on feed intake, milk quality and enteric methane emissions. Ten lactating Holstein cows, randomly allocated in two groups, were used in each trial in a crossover design. Dry matter intake and milk yield were recorded daily for each data period. Milk was sampled for analyses three times per period. Enteric methane emission was estimated applying a model that includes bodyweight, dry matter intake, nutritional values of feeds and milk composition. Concentrate and grass intake did not differ between treatments, while total mixed ration intake was higher with Italian ryegrass silage. Milk yield and protein concentration also increased with the Italian ryegrass treatment. The milk urea concentration was higher with the faba bean and rapeseed diet. Fatty acid profiles were affected by feeding strategy. Thereby, t11 18:1, c9 18:1 and total unsaturated fatty acid were higher when the intercrop silage was fed. As consequence, atherogenicity index and thrombogenicity index were lower under that treatment. Estimated enteric methane emissions did not differ between treatments. In conclusion, faba bean-rapeseed intercrop can be an alternative to Italian ryegrass to feed dairy cows. The rations formulated with the intercrop silage have potential to improve the milk fatty acid content, and show healthier profiles for consumers. However, it would be useful to study the protein content of these crops to avoid possible excess urea in milk and to maintain sustainable milk yield and milk protein content.
Timing and duration of low voltage electrical stimulation on selected meat quality characteristics of light and heavy cattle carcasses
Authors: Webb E. C. , Agbeniga B.
Published: March 2020

Context The present study investigated the effects of several electrical-stimulation parameters with conventional chilling of heavy- and light-grade carcasses from commercial feedlot cattle on selected meat-quality attributes. Aims The aim was to determine the combination of electrical-stimulation parameters that produced the most desirable results in terms of meat quality, which will serve as a guide to processors seeking to enact best processes in the meat industry. Methods Low-voltage electrical stimulation (110 V peak, 17 pulses/s, 5-ms pulse width) was applied either early post-mortem (PM) at 7 min or late PM at 45 min, for either 30 or 60 s on steer carcasses (n = 98) divided into two weight categories (light (≤260 kg) and heavy (≥290 kg) grades). The Longissimus lumborum muscle was evaluated for sarcomere length, myofibril fragment length (MFL), calpain-1, calpastatin, shear force and drip loss (3 and 14 days PM). Key results There were no significant differences in sarcomere length and no sarcomere shortening was observed. There were minor inconsistencies where early stimulation coincided with marginally longer MFL at 3 and 14 days PM, while late stimulation produced the shortest MFL at 14 days PM. Higher decline in calpain-1 concentration (mean 36.2%) was recorded in the early stimulated carcasses compared with the late stimulated carcasses (mean 29.7%) from 1 to 24 h PM, while calpastatin concentration decreased at a similar rate (mean 24%). Early stimulation resulted in lower shear force (P < 0.05) at 3 days PM, especially in the heavier carcasses, indicating that higher initial temperature did accelerate tenderisation. At 14 days PM, there were no significant differences in shear force as regards stimulation time or carcass weight. Higher drip loss was however recorded in the early stimulated carcasses. Conclusions Early application of low-voltage electrical stimulation produced faster tenderisation early PM, due to higher rigor temperature, but, after aging for 14 days, all meat was acceptably tender with a lower variability, regardless of the stimulation time and carcass weight. Higher drip loss was associated with higher tenderness, which is normal and not a defect. Implications The use of low-voltage electrical stimulation should be encouraged for its ability to reduce variability in meat quality due to carcass-weight differences, especially in the current feedlot systems.
Accuracies of direct genomic breeding values for birth and weaning weights of registered Charolais cattle in Mexico
Authors: Jahuey-Martínez Francisco J. , Parra-Bracamonte Gaspar M. , Garrick Dorian J. , López-Villalobos Nicolás , Martínez-González Juan C. , Sifuentes-Rincón Ana M. , López-Bustamante Luis A.
Published: March 2020

Context Genomic prediction is now routinely used in many livestock species to rank individuals based on genomic breeding values (GEBV). Aims This study reports the first assessment aimed to evaluate the accuracy of direct GEBV for birth (BW) and weaning (WW) weights of registered Charolais cattle in Mexico. Methods The population assessed included 823 animals genotyped with an array of 77000 single nucleotide polymorphisms. Genomic prediction used genomic best linear unbiased prediction (GBLUP), Bayes C (BC), and single-step Bayesian regression (SSBR) methods in comparison with a pedigree-based BLUP method. Key results Our results show that the genomic prediction methods provided low and similar accuracies to BLUP. The prediction accuracy of GBLUP and BC were identical at 0.31 for BW and 0.29 for WW, similar to BLUP. Prediction accuracies of SSBR for BW and WW were up to 4% higher than those by BLUP. Conclusions Genomic prediction is feasible under current conditions, and provides a slight improvement using SSBR. Implications Some limitations on reference population size and structure were identified and need to be addressed to obtain more accurate predictions in liveweight traits under the prevalent cattle breeding conditions of Mexico.
Estimation of genetic parameters for micro-environmental sensitivities of production traits in Holstein cows using two-step method
Authors: Ehsaninia Jamshid , Hossein-Zadeh Navid Ghavi , Shadparvar Abdol Ahad
Published: March 2020

Context The request for more uniform animal products, which is motivated chiefly by economic reasons, has enhanced the interest in decreasing variability of characters via selection. In the present dairy operation, breeding dairy cows which have strong resistance against environmental changes for main traits is very important. Aims The aim of this study was to estimate genetic parameters for heterogeneity of residual variance in milk yield and composition of Iranian Holstein cows. Methods The dataset included 305-day production records of cows which were provided by the Animal Breeding Center and Promotion of Animal Products of Iran between 1983 and 2014. In two-step method, univariate analyses were conducted to estimate variance components for 305-day production traits. Then, genetic variability of residual variances was estimated. Key results Estimates of heritability for micro-environmental sensitivities of milk, fat and protein yields in the first three lactations of Holstein cows were low and equal to 0.043, 0.028 and 0.039; 0.031, 0.019 and 0.024; 0.027, 0.016 and 0.019 respectively. Considerable genetic coefficient of variations of residual variance for above mentioned traits (0.261, 0.247 and 0.218; 0.221, 0.204 and 0.194; 0.219, 0.199 and 0.178 respectively) indicated significant additive genetic variation for micro-environmental sensitivities. Conclusions The results of this study indicate that micro-environmental sensitivities were present for milk production traits of Iranian Holsteins. High genetic coefficient of variation for micro-environmental sensitivities indicated the possibility of reducing environmental variation and increase in uniformity via selection. Implications Reduction of environmental sensitivities would increase the predicted performance of animals and decreased corresponding threats for dairy farmers.
Zinc nutrition in chickpea (Cicer arietinum): a review
Authors: Ullah Aman , Farooq Muhammad , Rehman Abdul , Hussain Mubshar , Siddique Kadambot H. M.
Published: March 2020

Chickpea (Cicer arietinum L.) is an important grain legume that is grown and consumed all over the world. Chickpea is mostly grown in rainfed areas and marginal soils with low available zinc (Zn); however, its productivity is affected by micronutrient deficiencies in soil, particularly Zn deficiency. Zinc is a structural constituent and regulatory cofactor of enzymes involved in various plant biochemical pathways. As such, Zn deficiency impairs plant growth and development by reducing enzyme activity, disturbing ribosomal stabilisation, and decreasing the rate of protein synthesis. Moreover, Zn deficiency induces flower abortion and ovule infertility, leading to low seedset and substantial yield reductions. Nonetheless, inclusion of chickpea in cropping systems (e.g. rice–wheat), either in rotation or intercropped with cereals, improves Zn availability in the soil through the release of phosphatases, carboxylates, and protons by roots and soil microbes. This review discusses the role of Zn in chickpea biology, various factors affecting Zn availability, and Zn dynamics in soil and chickpea-based cropping systems. The review also covers innovative breeding strategies for developing Zn-efficient varieties, biofortification, and agronomic approaches for managing Zn deficiency in chickpea. Strategies to improve grain yield and grain Zn concentration in chickpea through use of different Zn-application methods—soil, foliar and seed treatments—that are simple, efficient and cost-effective for farmers are also discussed. Screening of efficient genotypes for root Zn uptake and translocation to the grain should be included in breeding programs to develop Zn-efficient chickpea genotypes.
Assessment of metal contamination in coastal marine sediments of Makadi Bay on the Red Sea, Egypt
Authors: Youssef Mohamed , Madkour Hashem , El Attar Raafat , Mansour Abbas , Badawi Amani
Published: March 2020

To assess the heavy metal contamination in the sediments of Makadi Bay (Hurghada, Egypt), surface samples were collected from 32 locations. Six heavy metals (Fe, Mn, Zn, Cu, Pb and Cd) were analysed using atomic absorption spectrophotometry. The order of trace metal concentration in the samples was Mn>Zn>Pb>Cu>Cd. The analytical results were subjected to univariate statistical analyses to evaluate the distribution and abundance of the metals in the area. The degree of pollution of the sediments by these metals was evaluated by calculating enrichment factors and the geoaccumulation, pollution load and soil pollution indices. The results indicated that all marine sediment locations are practically unpolluted by metals. The high metal concentrations of Pb and Cd due to anthropogenic sources (mean 38.76 and 2.43μgg–1 respectively) recorded in most samples are essentially attributable to the anomalous concentrations of Pb and Cd in these samples. Both natural and anthropogenic sources of Pb and Cd contamination around Makadi Bay are possible. Generally, the levels of heavy metals in the study area do not constitute any serious environmental risk, except in the case of Pb and Cd.
Characteristics of aerobic methane-oxidising bacterial community at the sea-floor surface of the Nankai Trough
Authors: Okita Noriko , Hoaki Toshihiro , Suzuki Shinya , Hatamoto Masashi
Published: March 2020

Methane hydrate is one of the new energy sources, but methane leakage could cause environmental issues such as marine ecosystem changes and global warming. The methane-oxidising bacterial (MOB) community could reflect the methane concentration, thus it may be an indicator of methane leakage. We obtained two sea-floor surface samples from a methane seep area and 12 samples from other general sea-floor areas of the Nankai Trough for the detection and phylogenetic analysis of the particulate methane monooxygenase (pmoA) gene. Using quantitative polymerase chain reaction analysis, the methane seep samples were found to have 106 copies of the pmoA gene per gram of sediment, whereas the general sea-floor area samples of the Nankai Trough contained 103–104 copies of the gene per gram of sediment. Phylogenetic analysis of the pmoA gene sequences showed that the sequences detected in the general and methane seep area samples differed significantly. Specifically, the pmof1–pmor primer pair could detect pmoA genes for the methane seep area, whereas pmoA gene from the general seafloor samples could be detected only using the A189–mb661 primer pair. The results of this study may facilitate the detection of unintended leakage of methane at methane hydrate production sites by monitoring MOB communities using pmoA-targeted phylogenetic analysis and quantification.
Corrigendum to: Anatomy of the adventitious roots of Philodendron (Araceae) and its importance for the systematics of the genus
Authors: de Oliveira Ferreira Rafaela , Campos Borges Ana Cristina , Rodrigues dos Campos Juan Augusto , Leite Medeiros Artur Manoel , Sakuragui Cassia Mônica , Cardoso Vieira Ricardo , Tenorio Vitor
Published: March 2020

The genus Philodendron Schott comprises the following three currently accepted subgenenera: P. subg. Philodendron, P. subg. Pteromischum and P. subg. Meconostigma; however, these lack a well-defined classification. In the present study, we examined anatomically samples of adventitious roots in species of the group, so as to establish aspects relevant for taxonomic purposes. The anatomical analyses emphasised the characteristics of the steles in cross-sections of the root samples from regions near the apex to the most mature zones. A species of a closely related genus Adelonema, namely A. crinipes, was included in the study to clarify the results. Our results indicated notable differences in the species of the subgenus Meconostigma, mainly in terms of the presence (and variations) of a lobed stele, whereas the cylindrical stele stood out among the common characteristics in P. subg. Philodendron, P. subg. Pteromischum and the related species A. crinipes. Moreover, the characteristics shared by P. subg. Philodendron and P. subg. Pteromischum corroborated the phylogenetic hypothesis that these two taxa were more closely related to one another than to P. subg. Meconostigma.
Syntax of causative-passive correlation from a cross-linguistic perspective
Authors: Hu Xiaoshi
Published: March 2020

Causatives and passives are two different types of syntactic constructions, but their interaction can be observed cross-linguistically. By investigating the causative-passive correlation in Chinese, English and French, we try to offer an appropriate account for the causative-passive correlation by specifying its necessary conditions. We argue that the constructions which involve the causative-passive correlation must be mono-phasal, and the embedded object can be co-referred to the matrix subject by syntactic movement.
On the scope of quantifier phrases in Chinese passive construction
Authors: Yang Xiaolong , Wu Yicheng
Published: March 2020

Quantifier phrases (QP) can co-occur in a single sentence, which may cause ambiguity in terms of scope relation, viz. wide scope and narrow scope interpretations.Aoun & Li (1993)claim that quantifier scope ambiguity also exists in Chinese passive construction, such asyige nűren bei meige ren ma‘a woman was scolded by everyone’. FollowingLee (1986)’s proposal, it is argued in this paper that the scopal relations of Chinese QPs are not purely syntactic as in Aoun & Li’s analysis, but should be determined by the interaction between syntax, semantics, and pragmatics. Based on naturalistic data, it is shown that (i) Chinese QPs can be classified into whQP, distributive-universal QP and group-denoting QP, whose semantic properties determine the scope relations between them; (ii) in general, a QP is devoid of referentiality, yet it can acquire referentiality depending on its co-occurrence with other QPs or contextual factors; (iii) the subject definiteness constraint in Chinese, a language-specific constraint, would affect the interpretation of subject QPs in Chinese passive construction.
X-ray diffraction and microstructural analysis of Cu–TiO2 layers deposited by cold spray
Authors: Rutkowska-Gorczyca Małgorzata
Published: March 2020

Scientific research shows that copper, under appropriate conditions, has the properties of an antibacterial substance and acts as a bactericidal and bacteriostatic material. Another material that has antibacterial properties is titanium dioxide (TiO2). Avoidance of a crystal structure allows the formation of coatings with nanometric TiO2 powders using the low-pressure cold spray method. The paper presents results of qualitative X-ray diffraction phase analysis and research using the methods of transmission electron microscopy of composite Cu–TiO2 coatings, with different proportions of the modifying phase TiO2. Studies have shown that the conditions accompanying application in a cold gas environment do not initiate conversion from the amorphous phase into the crystalline structure of anatase.
Biosorption of sterols from tobacco waste extract using living and dead of newly isolated fungus Aspergillus fumigatus strain LSD-1
Authors: Liu Fang , Zhang Xiaoping , Wang Mingdao , Guo Lele , Yang Yingyue , Zhao Mingqin
Published: March 2020

Sterols are verified to be able to produce polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons during its pyrolysis. In this study, a kind of Aspergillus fumigatus (LSD-1) was isolated from cigar leaves, and the biosorption effects on the stigmasterol, β-sitosterol, campesterol, cholesterol, and ergosterol by using living and dead biomass of LSD-1 were investigated. The results showed that both living and dead biomass could efficiently remove these sterols in aqueous solution and tobacco waste extract (TWE). Interestingly, compared with the living biomass of LSD-1, the dead biomass of LSD-1 not only kept a high adsorption efficiency but also did not produce ergosterol. Overall, dead biomass of LSD-1 was a more suitable biosorbent to sterols in TWE. Furthermore, Brunner-Emmet-Teller (BET), Fourier transformed infrared spectrometer (FTIR) and scanning electron microscope (SEM) analysis were used to explore the biosorption process of living and dead biomass and their differences, suggesting that the biosorption of sterols was a physical process.
Nanomaterials by design: a review of nanoscale metallic multilayers
Authors: Sáenz-Trevizo A , Hodge A M
Published: March 2020

Nanoscale metallic multilayers have been shown to have a wide range of outstanding properties, which differ to a great extent from those observed in monolithic films. Their exceptional properties are mainly associated with the large number of interfaces and the nanoscale layer thicknesses. Many studies have investigated these materials focusing on magnetic, mechanical, optical, or radiation tolerance properties. Thus, this review provides a summary of the findings in each area, including a description of the general attributes, the adopted synthesis methods and most common characterization techniques used. This information is followed by a compendium of the material properties and a brief discussion of related experimental data, as well as existing and promising applications. Other phenomena of interest, including thermal stability studies, self-propagating reactions and the progression from nano multilayers to amorphous and/or crystalline alloys, are also covered. In general, this review highlights the use of nano multilayer architectures as viable routes to overcome the challenges of designing and implementing new engineering materials at the nanoscale.
The Improvement of Teacher Competency Makes Expansion Learning Media through Model Workshops Modeling, Modification and Creativity
Authors: Simbolon R , Saragih A H , Situmorang J
Published: March 2020

Teachers in Middle School Sub Rayon 23 Medan still has low competence in making learning media. The creative ideas from the science teacher have not yet emerged, the teacher’s understanding of making the learning media expansion is still minimal, the teacher has not been motivated to make the media curiosity about the media is still low. This study aims to find out how to improve teacher competencies in making science learning media, especially expansion. The action hypothesis in this study is the teacher’s competence in making science learning media possible improved through workshops. The subjects of the study were 9 people of Natural Sciences at Sub Rayon 23 Junior High School in Medan. The object of research is learning media especially expansion. Media Learning IPA is Swelling Solids of goods secondhand or materials that price it cheap so it can be affordable. The results of the data analysis makes learning media Expansion Solids in cycle 1 at 29.33 (Less), Cycle 2 at 64.00 (Good), and meeting 3 at 84.89 (Very good). Increase in the average value of teacher competence: 84.89%-29.33% = 55.56%. The results of the questionnaire analysis showed that 95.00% of the science teachers of the Sub- Rayon 23 Junior High School in Medan strongly agreed to make the learning media for Solid Substance Expansion through workshops conducted by researchers because of their increased competence.
Development of a blended learning model using the online learning system (SIPDA), Universitas Negeri Medan
Authors: Siregar N , Manurung S L
Published: March 2020

This study aims to produce a model of blended learning that is assisted by an Universitas Negeri Medan (Unimed) online learning system (SIPDA) that is valid, practical, and effective. The stages of developing a SIPDA-assisted Blended learning model consist of (1) preliminary stages, (2) prototyping stages, which include planning, evaluation, and revision, and (3) product assessment stages. The quality of the SIPDA-based Blended learning model refers to the quality criteria, according to Nieveen, which includes valid and practical measures. The study conducted at Unimed in the sixth-semester students of Mathematics Education Study Program. The instruments in this study consisted of (1) the validity assessment instruments of the component models and learning support tools, (2) the practical assessment instruments of lecturers and students. The results showed that the SIPDA-based blended learning model that included the syntax/steps of learning, social systems, reaction principles, support systems, and instructional and supportive impacts, along with learning support tools, had met valid and practical criteria.
The use of Mixed Apps as accommodation of mathematical student creativity
Authors: Andriani A , Sagala P N
Published: March 2020

Mixed Apps is a mixture of 3 information and communication technology applications, Web applications, Google classroom applications, and hang out applications. The web application was a place for lecturers and students to share learning material; the google classroom application was for task collection while the hangout was for video conferences. In general, this research was conducted to improve the quality of the process and learning outcomes further, especially in mathematics teaching and learning strategy courses. The specific purpose of this study is to describe the effect of using Mixed Apps on the creativity of Mathematics Education students. This research method is mixed research, a mixture of qualitative methods, and quantitative methods. This research i at a university in Medan city with 30 students. The research instruments were interview items, student creativity products, creativity product assessment sheets and student questionnaire responses. As for learning by utilizing Mixed apps, some students have high creativity scores of 20 students, five students who are of moderate value, and five who fall into the low category. But overall, 87% of students have a positive (happy) response to learning by using Mixed Apps.
Perception of Biology Student Universitas Negeri Medan towards Biology Cell Learning Based on E-Learning
Authors: Gaol A Y L , Sipahutar H
Published: March 2020

The purpose of this research is to know the students’ perceptions of learning biology cell based on e-learning. This descriptive research was done by questionnaire in collecting the data. The source of the data was students of biology of FMIPA Unimed class of 2018. Based on the questioners that have been analyzed, 80,76% students feel that e-learning support them in learning teaching process and 96,15% argue that e-learning can help them to access subject matter. But 50% students face some problems to interact, not only with other students but also with lecturer. Further research is needed to develop e-learning content in biology cell to make it easier for students to understand and to improve the interaction between student and lecturer in e-learning.
The Development of Teaching Material of Physics Introductory for Biology with Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) Approach
Authors: Rangkuti Muhammad Aswin , Ritonga Winsyahputra , Brata Wasis Wuyung Wisnu
Published: March 2020

In higher education, many concepts in physics are applied in various disciplines that explain the development of the theory they learn; one of them is Physics Introductory. Natural Science Students, such as Biology and Chemistry, unwittingly use many essential concepts of Physics. However, the learning process in this course generally only explains concepts in Physics without relating them to the needs of interdisciplinary knowledge. As a result, interdisciplinary students feel that Physics is meaningless and not applicable. This raises the perception that causes them not interested to learn Physics. In fact, the concepts contained in this course are very important for the development of their knowledge. This research will try to rearrange the materials in the Physics introductory course linked to the Biology concepts. The development of teaching materials uses the Research and Development (R & D) method. This paper will discuss theories and publications that support the importance of interdisciplinary integrated learning. Furthermore, the development of teaching material and its effectiveness will be discussed in our future publication.
Implementation Of Textbook That Integrates KKNI 6 Task Improving Student Mathematical Communication Ability.
Authors: Manurung SL , Elfitra  , Simorangkir M
Published: March 2020

The purposes of this study were: first to determine the mathematical communication ability differences between students who learned with textbook that integrates 6 task KKNI and students who learned without using textbooks that integrated 6 task KKNI; second to describe the interaction between the application of textbook integrates 6 task KKNI with students’ mathematics prior knowledge.. This study is semi-experimental research. DIK class D-Mat 2019 and the class F-MAT DIK 2019 were randomly selected as consecutively the control class and the experimental class. The instrument used for this study took place, namely mathematical communication ability test and observation sheet. Data was analyzed using ANOVA analysis and ANACOVA. The results showed that, the first class of students communication skills mathematical experiment better than the students who are in the control class. Second, there is no interaction between the application of integrated textbook 6 KKNI task and beginning math ability of students to students mathematical communication.