bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Structural Characterization on Different Type of Silicon Wafer on The Formation of Porous Silicon Structure
Authors: Abd Wahab Nurul Hanida , Abd Rahim Alhan Farhanah , Mahmood Ainorkhilah , Mohmad Salleh Siti Hajar , Radzali Rosfariza , Yusof Yushamdan
Published: June 2020

A set of n-type and p-type porous silicon (PS) layers were fabricated by photoelectrochemical etching using direct current (DC) and pulse current (PC) techniques. The study aims to compare the effect of different wafer type on the formation of the PS structure. The samples were etched in a solution of HF:C2H6O with a composition ratio of 1:4. All the samples were etched at a current density of J = 10 mA/cm2 for 30 minutes. During the PC etching process, the current was supplied through a pulse generator with 14 ms cycle time (T) which the on time (Ton) set to 10 ms and pause time (Toff) set to 4 ms respectively. The samples were then being characterized in terms of surface morphology by using FESEM, EDX, AFM and XRD. The FESEM results indicates that the p-type porous silicon structure produces more uniform structure as compared to the n-type porous silicon structure. On the other hand, XRD results shows that the intensity of p-type porous silicon exhibited higher intensity as compared to n-type porous silicon for both etching techniques applied for fabricating the porous structure.
Effect of varying thermal annealing temperatures on the surface and electrical properties of Mg-doped GaN
Authors: Mohd Hanafiah Noor Afifa , Hassan Zainuriah , Foong Lim Way , Ibrahim Norasmida , Alias Ezzah Azimah , Ahmad Mohd Anas , Atiqah Hamzah Nur , Mohd Asri Rahil Izzati
Published: June 2020

Gallium nitride (GaN)-based light emitting diodes (LEDs) have been widely used to produce blue light that, with phosphor, is converted into white light for every-day applications. Despite its high efficiency, the performance of GaN based LEDs is limited by the low electrical conductivity of magnesium (Mg)-doped GaN due to the high activation energy of Mg (140 – 200 meV) as well as the presence of magnesium-hydride (Mg-H) complex, which may passivate Mg as an acceptor. In this study, the efficacy of thermal annealing treatment at temperatures in the range of 550 - 850°C was investigated to activate metal-organic chemical vapor deposition (MOCVD) grown Mg-doped GaN. Changes in the roughness and surface morphology was observed between the varied annealing temperatures by atomic force microscopy (AFM) while X-ray diffraction (XRD) data acts as supporting information for structural quality. Hall effect characterization was conducted to determine electrical properties of the annealed samples. In this study, a correlation between the resistivity and surface roughness trends was observed through the acquisition of an insight into the lattice distortion affecting the material conductivity that occurred specifically at temperatures above 750 °C.
Measurement of mass attenuation coefficient of polyvinyl alcohol (PVAL) as breast tissue equivalent material in the photon energy range of 16.61–25.26 keV
Authors: Oyiwoja Okoh Franca , Ahmad Kabir Norlaili , Mohd Yusof Mohd Fahmi , Azizah Abdullah Siti Nor
Published: June 2020

Medical physics phantom is commonly designed to mimic physical properties of human tissue. Phantom is widely used to provide quantitative and qualitative information upon its interaction with ionizing radiation in medical imaging, radiation dosimetry and treatment planning procedures. This study was carried out to fabricate a potential medical physics phantom material for mammography using polyvinyl alcohol (PVAL). The mass attenuation coefficients (μ/ρ ) of the PVAL gel samples were calculated based on the measurement of attenuation coefficient studies with low photon energy. The gel samples were prepared at 4 concentrations (5, 10, 15 and 20 %) of PVAL solution. Single photon beam transmission in the energy range between 16.61 and 25.26 keV was used to determine the μ/ρ of the PVAL gel. The low photon energy was chosen as the effective energy used in mammography is in a range between 17.5 to 22.6 keV. This was achieved by using the X-ray fluorescent (XRF) configuration. The experimental μ/ρ were compared with theoretical values of water and breast tissue calculated by using the XCOM computer program. The measured value of μ/ρ of the PVAL gels agreed with the XCOM values of water and breast tissue. The 5% and 10% PVAL gel samples were the closest to water while the 20% PVAL was the closest to breast tissue.
Observed changes in fire patterns and possible drivers over Central Africa
Authors: Jiang Yan , Zhou Liming , Raghavendra Ajay
Published: June 2020

Fire is an integral part of Earth’s system that links regional and global biogeochemical cycles, human activities, and ecosystems. Global estimates for biomass burning indicate that Africa is responsible for ~70% of global burned area and ~50% of fire-related carbon emissions. Previous studies have documented an overall decline in burned area in the African continent, but changes in fire patterns, such as the frequency and size of different fire categories, have not been assessed. In this study, long-term fire trends were investigated using the latest burned area data from the MODerate resolution Imaging Spectroradiometer (MODIS) and the Global Fire Emission Database (GFED4s) over Central Africa (10°E–40°E, 15°N–15°S). A 3D (latitude, longitude, time) connected-component labeling algorithm was applied to identify individual fires and their sizes. The results show a decline in burned area by 2.7–3.2 Mha yr−1 (~1.3% yr−1) for the period 2003–2017, particularly in northern Central Africa. This decline was attributed to significant decreases in both fire frequency and size, particularly for large fires (>100 ha) which contribute to ~90% of the total burned area. Burned area declined in tropical savannas and grasslands but increased at the edges of the Congolese rainforest. A random forest regression model was applied to quantify the influences of climatic conditions, fuel availability, and agricultural activity on burned area changes. Overall, suppressed fuel, increased dry season length, and decreased rainfall contributed to significant declines in burned area in savannas and grasslands. At the edges of the southern Congolese rainforest, suppressed rainfall and warmer temperature were responsible for the increased burned area.
Analysis of Environmental Vulnerability Using Satellite Imagery and Geographic Information System in Coal Mining Area Planning at Banjar Regency
Authors: Nurlina  , Ridwan Ichsan , Hadi Haryanti Ninis , Hanik Umi
Published: June 2020

It has been done research of environmental vulnerability degradation in coal mining area planning using satellite imagery and Geographic Information System. Vulnerability of environmental degradation is the condition of areas that has potential to damage the environment because of human activities or activity that has potential to cause environmental impacts. Monitoring of environmental degradation can be done to determine the ecological vulnerabilities so as to predict and overcome the future events. The development of remote sensing technology and geographic information systems can facilitate the spatial analysis especially environmental degradation. This research was done to map the vulnerability of environmental degradation in coal mining area planning in Banjar regency and classify environmental damage in the area. The analysis based on scoring and weighting of each index resulting ecological vulnerability index (EVI). The results of the overlay and weighting using weighted summation model’s method in coal mining area planning was plotted into four types of zone, i.e., appropriate exploitation zone, optimized exploitation zone, needs to monitoring exploitation zone, and recommended not to be exploitation zone. Thus, the classification of environmental damage in the coal mining area planning of which are moderate to severe erosion, surface runoff in the watershed, moderate salinity resulting in soil degradation, vegetation does not grow well and loss of recharge area.
Effect of Land Mounding on Seedling Growth of Gemor (Nothaphoebe coriacea, Kosterm.) on Peat Swamp Forest
Authors: Budi Santosa Purwanto , Andriani Susy , Ardhana Adnan , Syaifuddin
Published: June 2020

One of potential non-timber forest products (NTFPs) that has became a livelihood for communities around peat swamp forests in Central Kalimantan is gemor (Nothaphoebe coriacea). However, the cultivation of this species is lack of information. In the practice of establishing plantations, land preparation is one of the most important factors. This study examined the effects of site preparation treatments (non-mounding and mounding) on the performance of N. coriacea seedlings. The study was carried out in secondary peat swamp forest in Central Kalimantan, Indonesia. N. coriaceae planting was carried out by line planting (± 3 meters wide) and the light intensity of ± 50%. Land preparation of non-mounding (P0) was carried out on the surface of peatlands. Mounding land preparation (P1) was done by placing a sack filled with peat, with dimensions of ± 25 cm high, 35 cm wide and 50 cm long. Data was analyzed using t-test. The results showed that the preparation of plant land gave relatively similar growth between mound and non-mound on N. coriacea from generative seedlings.
Permaculture Technology in Tropical Freshwater Swamp
Authors: Krisdianto  , Slamat  , Anshari Fahmi , Susilawati Ika Oksi
Published: June 2020

Tropical freshwater swampy in Barito River Basin has not been often for study, mainly due to inaccessibility and the insect-borne diseases. Nevertheless, the swamp has been for living areas Banjarese for many centuries. The swampy not just for agriculture plantation or animal cultivation areas, but also for living areas. This research from 2017 – 2019 aims to collect information about local people use green natural resources for sustainable uses and fluctuation of physical and chemical factors. Data was collected from eleven villages within six regencies by interviewing about 600 people who work directlyfor using natural resources in agriculture, farming or plantation. Physico-chemical factors information is gathered by directly measuring or collecting from government agents. In conclusion, more than 70% of interviewees inform that their knowledge decent from their parents or grandparent who educate them and they also develop their skills practical by learning by doing and developing green natural technology for daily life and earn their income in extreme wetland environments both in monsoon.
To investigate the variation in Swirl Ratio by changing the Valve Lift of an Internal Combustion Engine
Authors: Nath Devang S. , Kumar Naveen
Published: June 2020

In today’s scenario, humans are facing the issue of the global pollution crisis and the authorities worldwide have implemented stringent norms. Poor air quality has a hazardous impact on the lives of the people. The major emissions from exhaust pipe contain Particulate Matter (PM), Nitrogen Oxides (NOx), Carbon Monoxide (CO) and greenhouse gases which exploit the environment due to which the air quality index is degrading. Furthermore, these exhaust gases can trigger acute diseases in humans like headaches, nausea, fatigue, etc. A huge amount of research and development is being carried out on reducing the harmful emissions by changing the properties of fuels, and geometry or mechanical changes in the engine itself can further hold on the emissions well within the range. One of the methods is to improve the swirl formed in the combustion chamber. Swirl motion is the intentional spinning of the air that promotes even mixing of fuel and air when fuel is introduced to the cylinder during intake. Better swirl formed helps in efficient combustion which subsequently leads to lesser emissions. This research paper studies the change in swirl ratio by varying the valve lift of an internal combustion engine. The observations were made through simulations done in ANSYS™ 17.0 FLUENT using Cold Flow Simulation in IC ENGINE module. Meaningful curves of swirl ratio obtained for different valve lifts are then compared.
Analysis on the Behaviour of Stiffened and Unstiffened Steel Plate Shear Walls with Enhanced Performance
Authors: Verma Isha , Setia Saraswati , Berwal Parveen , Goel Rajesh , Singh Vikram
Published: June 2020

Steel Plate Shear Walls (SPSWs) are utilized for frameworks apposing lateral load for new as well as retrofit developments. For the most part, the shear walls made of thin plates are utilized, however for smaller loads it exhibits buckling resulting in a hysteretic behavior that is highly pinched. So as to lessen the buckling, holes are made in steel plate. Most of the studies provide either a circular or a rectangular hole in the steel plates. Hence we propose an elliptical hole which would improve the performance of the SPSW. This study develops and analyses the performance of a stiffened and unstiffened SPSW model with and without opening in the steel wall.
Analysis of Human Olfactory Receptor system using Fractal Dimension
Authors: Rout Ranjeet Ku , Umer Saiyed , Pati Smitarani , Pali Harveer Singh
Published: June 2020

An extensive diverseness of chemicals having discrete odours can be identified by Humans. On the basis of various deviation of development of proposed model on olfactory receptor of Human database has been proposed. There are very large family of ORs sequences for example rat, Human, chimpanzee and mouse etc. In this paper we work up on the Human OR genes, as very few experimental/quantitative works have been done for different species. It is very difficult to identify a DNA sequence whether belongs to a particular family or not, without any valid biological validation. In our viewpoint, an appropriate understanding of these Human olfactory receptor system DNA sequence s is essential to validate, a particular DNA sequence is in a family or not.
Technical Aspects of Grid Connected PV Array
Authors: Chauhan Gaurav , Bangia Sakshi
Published: June 2020

Solar PV energy is a form of renewable energy which uses free and abundant energy from sun and gives an environmental friendly cyclic operation. The output of a PV system is fluctuating in nature which in turn reduces its reliability and do not provide the continuous power to the end users. The solar PV array can be directly connected to the grid or can have a standalone (off grid) connection. Due to seasonal and periodic variation the off grid connection does not provide the continuous supply of energy and hence is not reliable. So grid connected PV systems are required in order to satisfy the load demand. In this work the performance analysis of grid connected PV array has been carried out. The simulation is done in MATLAB and power profile is estimated with different load conditions and different problems associated with grid connected PV array have been identified.
A Study of Green Bond Market in India: A Critical Review
Authors: Verma Ashima , Agarwal Rachna
Published: June 2020

An upcoming and a novel area in finance is Green Bonds. It comes under the broader head of Green Finance. Green Bonds use their proceeds in environmentally friendly projects. They signify Socially Responsible Investing (SRI) through investing in Energy Efficiency, Green Infrastructure, Renewable Energy and Water Improvement. The world landscape is on a drastic change and world temperatures are rising. Science evidences that climate change is rough and there is a pressing need to gear up to save the world. Academicians around the globe are putting efforts in various fields including the financial sector. And green bonds are one of the profound ways to stabilize the current environmental picture.

The study will analyse green bonds from a comprehensive viewpoint. First the paper will talk about the current scenario of Green Bonds in India. The study will also accentuate the future prospects of green bonds. And finally, it will feature the practical suggestions in the Indian context.
Removal of Reactive Red 120 from Model Textile Waste Solution by Micellar-Enhanced Ultrafiltration
Authors: Sikder Jaya , Bose Joyeeta , Tanksale Harshvardhan , Chakraborty Sudip
Published: June 2020

The textile wastewater effluents discharged into the water bodies is one of the main issues of environmental contamination. A novel process which results particularly suitable for the treatment of this effluent is the Micellar-enhanced Ultrafiltration (MEUF). The possibility of removing Reactive Red-120 dye using the MEUF process with Cetylpyridinium Bromide as a surfactant has been investigated in this experiment. The total Flux and Rejection properties were analysed at varying concentrations of the surfactant, and combination of salts. The application of MEUF process is very appreciable owing to the efficiency it renders being at par with the levels of RO or NF but at a much cheaper cost.
Fundamental Study on Hysteresis Reduction of Piezoelectric Actuators by Preload Control
Authors: Sakuta Shigeru , Tsuruoka Shigeomi
Published: June 2020

Piezoelectric actuator is usually used in feedback system because of the hysteresis non-linearity of between input voltage and output displacement. The aim of this paper is analysis of the hysteresis to reduce cost of high precision positioning system by piezoelectric actuator with open-loop control. Ratio of max hysteresis to max displacement, RHD, has been proposed as an evaluation indicator for the hysteresis. Effects of compressive stresses, i.e. preload, in two directions on RHD were investigated and bulk and stacked piezoelectric actuators with low RHD have been studied experimentally.
Experimental Study on Torsional Vibration of Engine Crankshaft and Cylinder Block
Authors: Zhang Pandeng , Liu Zhao , Zhu Yutian , Zhuo Jianming , Chen Haijian
Published: June 2020

Engine cylinder block vibration usually does not consider the influence of torsional vibration of crankshaft. Because cylinder block and crankshaft vibrate separately, crankshaft torsional vibration may have a coupling effect on the vibration of the cylinder block, especially when the crankshaft torsional vibration is very large when engine is idling. In order to evaluate the coupling effect, a pilot test program was designed and developed under idle no-load condition. The torsional vibration of the crankshaft comes from the encoder sensor, and the torsional vibration of the cylinder block comes from the calculation of two acceleration sensors arranged on the cylinder block. This paper derives the formula for extracting the torsional vibration signal of the cylinder from two acceleration signals. Data analysis of spectrum and coherence reveal that the torsional of the crankshaft is greater than the cylinder block at the engine 3rd order frequency 35Hz, and the torsional vibration signals of the two have strong coupling at integer multiples of the 0.5th order frequency of the engine in the range of 100Hz that is prone to vibration problems. Through the above tests and data analysis, it is more accurate to consider the influence of crankshaft torsional vibration when studying engine vibration.
Conformal and CR mappings on Carnot groups
Authors: Cowling Michael , Li Ji , Ottazzi Alessandro , Wu Qingyan
Published: June 2020

We consider a class of stratified groups with a CR structure and a compatible control distance. For these Lie groups we show that the space of conformal maps coincide with the space of CR and anti-CR diffeomorphisms. Furthermore, we prove that on products of such groups, all CR and anti-CR maps are product maps, up to a permutation isomorphism, and affine in each component. As examples, we consider free groups on two generators, and show that these admit very simple polynomial embeddings in

C

N

\mathbb {C}^N

that induce their CR structure.
The spectral localizer for semifinite spectral triples
Authors: Schulz-Baldes Hermann , Stoiber Tom
Published: June 2020

The notion of a spectral localizer is extended to pairings with semifinite spectral triples. By a spectral flow argument, any semifinite index pairing is shown to be equal to the signature of the spectral localizer. As an application, a formula for the weak invariants of topological insulators is derived. This provides a new approach to their numerical evaluation.
SCYL1 arginine methylation by PRMT1 is essential for neurite outgrowth via Golgi morphogenesis
Authors: Amano Genki , Matsuzaki Shinsuke , Mori Yasutake , Miyoshi Ko , Han Sarina , Shikada Sho , Takamura Hironori , Yoshimura Takeshi , Katayama Taiichi
Published: June 2020

This study reveals that PRMT1 regulates the interaction between SCYL1 and γ2-COP for Golgi organization via SCYL1 arginine methylation. We propose that SCYL1 arginine methylation by PRMT1 contributes to axon and dendrite morphogenesis in neurons. This report contributes to the elucidation of brain development via arginine methylation.
Examining Normative Reference Values and Item-Level Symptom Endorsement for the Quality of Life in Neurological Disorders (Neuro-QoL™) v2.0 Cognitive Function-Short Form
Authors: Iverson Grant L , Connors Eric J , Marsh Jacqueline , Terry Douglas P
Published: June 2020

Objective

We examined the normative reference values, item-level symptom endorsement, internal consistency reliability, and the base rates of symptoms endorsed for the quality of life in neurological disorders (Neuro-QoL™) v2.0 Cognitive Function-Short Form.

Method

The Neuro-QoL™ v2.0 Cognitive Function-Short Form measures subjective cognitive difficulties. The normative sample from the U.S. general population was stratified by gender, education, health status, self-reported diagnosis of depression or anxiety, and recent mental health symptoms (i.e., endorsed frequent anxiety or depression symptoms in the last week).

Results

A cohort of 1,009 adults completed this scale and their mean score was 32.60 (SD = 6.89). The base rates of those who reported zero cognitive symptoms were consistently higher among the healthy samples (healthy men = 79.2%; all men = 63.9%; healthy women = 90.2%; all women = 80.0%). Endorsing three or more cognitive symptoms was more common in the mental health subgroups for both men (full men’s sample [n = 493] = 17.6%; depression subgroup [n = 70] = 30.0%; anxiety subgroup [n = 61] = 29.5%; mental subhealth group [n = 70] = 38.6%) and women (full women’s sample [n = 516] = 7.4%; depression subgroup [n = 123] = 13.0%; anxiety subgroup [n = 103] = 12.6%; mental health subgroup [n = 101] = 14.9%). Internal consistency was measured using Cronbach’s α and ranged from 0.87 to 0.94 across groups.

Conclusions

The Neuro-QoL™ v2.0 Cognitive Function-Short Form is a brief, efficient, and reliable measure of perceived cognitive difficulties. As expected, individuals with a favorable overall health and quality of life reported less cognitive symptoms than the total sample, whereas individuals with mental health difficulties reported more. These normative values and base rates stratified by gender, overall health, and mental health status may be useful when interpreting this measure in clinical practice.
Genetic diversity ofCalliphora vicina(Diptera: Calliphoridae) in the Iberian Peninsula based oncox1, 16S and ITS2 sequences
Authors: Fuentes-López Alberto , Rebelo María Teresa , Romera Elena , López-López Alejandro , Galián José
Published: June 2020

The study of Diptera at the scene of a crime can provide essential information for the interpretation of evidence. Phylogeographic reconstruction could help differentiate haplotypes of a dipteran species in a geographical area, clarifying, for example, the details of a possible relocation of a corpse. In addition, inferring the ancestral areas of distribution helps to understand the current status of the species and its biogeographic history. One of the most important species in forensic entomology is Calliphora vicina Rovineau-Desvoidy, 1830 (Diptera: Calliphoridae). The aim of this work is to increase our knowledge of this species in the Iberian Peninsula using 464 specimens from Spain and Portugal. These samples were identified using morphological keys and by molecular methods using fragments of the cox1, 16S and ITS2 genes. The phylogeographic history of these populations was inferred from haplotype networks and the reconstruction of ancestral areas of distribution. The molecular results corroborated the morphological identifications of the samples. Phylogeographic networks showed no geographical structure, as haplotypes are shared among almost all populations. reconstruct ancestral state in phylogenies analyses showed a high rate of movement among populations, possibly related to human activity. These results suggest that this species had a very rapid and recent spatial and demographic expansion throughout the Iberian Peninsula.
The correlation of phylogenetics, elevation and ploidy on the incidence of apomixis in Asteraceae in the European Alps
Authors: Pegoraro Luca , Baker Ellen C , Aeschimann David , Balant Manica , Douzet Rolland , Garnatje Teresa , Guignard Maïté S , Leitch Ilia J , Leitch Andrew R , Palazzesi Luis , Theurillat Jean-Paul , Hidalgo Oriane , Pellicer Jaume
Published: June 2020

Asexual reproduction has often been regarded as an evolutionary dead end, but asexual lineages (most notably those that are apomictic) are present in several angiosperm families and often comprise a large number of taxa, both widespread and endemic. Investigating correlations between genetic, environmental and taxonomic factors and the incidence of apomixis has represented a challenge for many years, with previous analyses frequently omitting one or more of these variables. Here, flow cytometric seed screening, cytological data and ecological variables have been integrated in a phylogenetic framework to create a comprehensive dataset for 229 of Asteraceae from the European Alps. Data were analysed using phylogenetically informed generalized linear mixed models (pMCMCglmm) where elevation, ploidy and phenology were assessed for their potential correlation with asexual reproduction and apomixis type. Although apomixis is not dominant among the species studied, our results confirm that an odd ploidy (e.g. 3x) and, to a lesser extent, an even polyploid level (i.e. 4x) significantly increase its probability, most probably due to chromosome misalignments during meiosis. The distribution of apomictic species does not correlate with elevation, and there is a weak correlation between early flowering initiation and aposporous apomixis. Although current and future changes in climate may severely impact the survival of the flora of the European Alps, asexual reproduction and polyploidization may prove to be, at least temporarily, lifelines for the survival of a species under the novel climatic conditions. Therefore, uncovering how apomicts and polyploids evolve and persist will be essential for understanding the ecology of the European Alps and hence informing future conservation strategies.
It Sucks to Be Single! Marital Status and Redistribution of Social Security
Authors: Groneck Max , Wallenius Johanna
Published: June 2020

In this article, we study the labour supply effects and the redistributional consequences of the US social security system. We focus particularly on auxiliary benefits, where eligibility is linked to marital status. To this end, we develop a dynamic, structural life cycle model of singles and couples, featuring uncertain marital status and survival. We account for the socio-economic gradients to both marriage stability and life expectancy. We find that auxiliary benefits have a large depressing effect on married women’s employment. Moreover, we show that a revenue neutral minimum benefit scheme would moderately reduce inequality relative to the current US system.
Temporal patterns in the interaction between photosynthetic picoeukaryotes and their attached fungi in Lake Chaohu
Authors: Liu Changqing , Shi Xiaoli , Wu Fan , Zhang Min , Gao Guang , Wu Qinglong
Published: June 2020

The combination of flow cytometric sorting and high-throughput sequencing revealed the broad existence of photosynthetic picoeukaryote attached fungi (PPE-attached fungi) in Lake Chaohu. The relative sequence abundance of attached fungi was negatively correlated with that of the photosynthetic picoeukaryotes (PPEs). PPE-attached fungal communities were mainly composed of Basidiomycota, Chytridiomycota and Ascomycota. Temperature, Si and PPE community structure are the most important driving factors for the temporal succession of PPE-attached fungal communities. In particular, PPE-attached fungi can be divided into three groups from high to low temperatures. Phylogenetic molecular ecological network results indicated that the connectivity and the total number of links in the network of the high-temperature group (> 21.82°C) are higher than those in the other two temperature groups (between  9.67 and  21.82°C, and < 9.67°C, respectively). Moreover, the interaction between PPE-attached fungi and the PPEs changed from antagonistic to cooperative, with the decline in temperature. The most abundant operational taxonomic units of PPE-attached fungi were affiliated with the Cladosporium, the most common saprophytic fungus, whereas most fungal hub taxa were Chytridiomycota, the main parasite fungi of phytoplankton.
CRISPRcasIdentifier: Machine learning for accurate identification and classification of CRISPR-Cas systems
Authors: Padilha Victor A , Alkhnbashi Omer S , Shah Shiraz A , de Carvalho André C P L F , Backofen Rolf
Published: June 2020

Background

CRISPR-Cas genes are extraordinarily diverse and evolve rapidly when compared to other prokaryotic genes. With the rapid increase in newly sequenced archaeal and bacterial genomes, manual identification of CRISPR-Cas systems is no longer viable. Thus, an automated approach is required for advancing our understanding of the evolution and diversity of these systems and for finding new candidates for genome engineering in eukaryotic models.

Results

We introduce CRISPRcasIdentifier, a new machine learning–based tool that combines regression and classification models for the prediction of potentially missing proteins in instances of CRISPR-Cas systems and the prediction of their respective subtypes. In contrast to other available tools, CRISPRcasIdentifier can both detect cas genes and extract potential association rules that reveal functional modules for CRISPR-Cas systems. In our experimental benchmark on the most recently published and comprehensive CRISPR-Cas system dataset, CRISPRcasIdentifier was compared with recent and state-of-the-art tools. According to the experimental results, CRISPRcasIdentifier presented the best Cas protein identification and subtype classification performance.

Conclusions

Overall, our tool greatly extends the classification of CRISPR cassettes and, for the first time, predicts missing Cas proteins and association rules between Cas proteins. Additionally, we investigated the properties of CRISPR subtypes. The proposed tool relies not only on the knowledge of manual CRISPR annotation but also on models trained using machine learning.
Twisting: Incidence and Risk Factors of an Intraprocedural Challenge Associated With Pipeline Flow Diversion of Cerebral Aneurysms
Authors: Bender Matthew T , Young Robert W , Zarrin David A , Campos Jessica K , Caplan Justin M , Huang Judy , Tamargo Rafael J , Lin Li-Mei , Colby Geoffrey P , Coon Alexander L
Published: June 2020

BACKGROUND

Pipeline Embolization Device (PED; Medtronic) “twisting” manifests with the appearance of a “figure 8” in perpendicular planes on digital subtraction angiography. This phenomenon has received little attention in the literature, requires technical precision to remediate, and has potential to cause ischemic stroke if not properly remediated.

OBJECTIVE

To report incidence, risk factors, and sequelae of PED twisting and to discuss techniques to remediate a PED twist.

METHODS

Case images were reviewed for instances of twisting from a prospectively-maintained, Institutional Review Board-approved cohort of patients undergoing flow diversion for cerebral aneurysm.

RESULTS

From August 2011 to December 2017, 999 PED flow diverting stents were attempted in 782 cases for 653 patients. A total of 25 PED twists were observed while treating 20 patients (2.50%, 25/999). Multivariate analysis revealed predictors of twisting to be: Large and giant aneurysms (odds ratio (OR) = 9.66, P = .005; OR = 27.47, P < .001), increased PED length (OR = 1.14, P < .001), and advanced patient age (OR = 1.07, P = .002). Twisted PEDs were able to be remediated 75% of the time, and procedural success was achieved in 90% of cases. PED twisting was not found to be a significant cause of major or minor complications. However, at long-term follow-up, there was a trend towards poor occlusion outcomes for the cases that encountered twisting.

CONCLUSION

Twisting is a rare event during PED deployment that was more likely to occur while treating large aneurysms with long devices in older patients. While twisting did not lead to major complications in this study, remediation can be challenging and may be associated with inferior occlusion outcomes.
Evidence-based umbrella review of cognitive effects of prefrontal tDCS
Authors: Farhat Luis C , Carvalho Andre F , Solmi Marco , Brunoni Andre R
Published: June 2020

Transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) is a non-invasive brain stimulation technique, which has been increasingly used as an investigational tool in neuroscience. In social and affective neuroscience research, the prefrontal cortex has been primarily targeted, since this brain region is critically involved in complex psychobiological processes subserving both Șhotș and Școldș domains. Although several studies have suggested that prefrontal tDCS can enhance neuropsychological outcomes, meta-analyses have reported conflicting results. Therefore, we aimed to assess the available evidence by performing an umbrella review of meta-analyses. We evaluated the effects of prefrontal active vs sham tDCS on different domains of cognition among healthy and neuropsychiatric individuals. A MeaSurement Tool to Assess Systematic Reviews 2 was employed to evaluate the quality of meta-analyses, and the GRADE system was employed to grade the quality of evidence of every comparison from each meta-analysis. PubMed/MEDLINE, PsycINFO and the Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews were searched, and 11 meta-analyses were included resulting in 55 comparisons. Only 16 comparisons reported significant effects favoring tDCS, but 13 of them had either very low or low quality of evidence. Of the remaining 39 comparisons which reported non-significant effects, 38 had either very low or low quality of evidence. Meta-analyses were rated as having critically low and low quality. Among several reasons to explain these findings, the lack of consensus and reproducibility in tDCS research is discussed.
Using reinforcement learning models in social neuroscience: frameworks, pitfalls and suggestions of best practices
Authors: Zhang Lei , Lengersdorff Lukas , Mikus Nace , Gläscher Jan , Lamm Claus
Published: June 2020

The recent years have witnessed a dramatic increase in the use of reinforcement learning (RL) models in social, cognitive and affective neuroscience. This approach, in combination with neuroimaging techniques such as functional magnetic resonance imaging, enables quantitative investigations into latent mechanistic processes. However, increased use of relatively complex computational approaches has led to potential misconceptions and imprecise interpretations. Here, we present a comprehensive framework for the examination of (social) decision-making with the simple Rescorla–Wagner RL model. We discuss common pitfalls in its application and provide practical suggestions. First, with simulation, we unpack the functional role of the learning rate and pinpoint what could easily go wrong when interpreting differences in the learning rate. Then, we discuss the inevitable collinearity between outcome and prediction error in RL models and provide suggestions of how to justify whether the observed neural activation is related to the prediction error rather than outcome valence. Finally, we suggest posterior predictive check is a crucial step after model comparison, and we articulate employing hierarchical modeling for parameter estimation. We aim to provide simple and scalable explanations and practical guidelines for employing RL models to assist both beginners and advanced users in better implementing and interpreting their model-based analyses.
University characteristics and probabilities for funding of proposals in the European Framework Programs
Authors: Piro Fredrik Niclas , Børing Pål , Scordato Lisa , Aksnes Dag W
Published: June 2020

Previous studies have pointed at participation in the European Framework Programs for Research and Innovation as elite driven, foremost by large and prestigious universities. By analyzing all proposals (including rejected proposals) rather than funded projects only, we have investigated whether such findings also hold for success in proposal decisions. We study which university characteristics are associated with successful proposal outcomes. Our study finds that university size is indeed an important driver for success, but independent of size; it is essential with a relative high volume of proposals. Those Higher Education Institutions who submit relatively many proposals compared to their size performs better, especially in the European Research Council. What are important success criterions vary across thematic areas and to some extent over time, reflecting changing goals of the EU programs. Success is based on complex mechanisms, where many universities—irrespective of size—for different reasons perform well in the framework programs.
Arbitrary Detention in Malaysia: Security Offenses (Special Measures) Act 2012
Authors: Chua Eden H B
Published: June 2020

Legislative erosion of basic human rights is not uncommon in Southeast Asia. The Malaysian government’s recent detention of 12 people under Security Offenses (Special Measures) Act 2012 for their alleged links to Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam has renewed extensive calls from civil society groups for its total repealment. It targets security offenses by creating the powers of arrest without warrant followed by pre-charge detention for up to 28 days. It also removes the courts’ exclusive authority of adjudicating bail applications. To evaluate its value and relevance, this article reviews its fundamental operation and specifically looks at how the courts have attempted to interpret its most controversial provision. This article in the end suggests that while there is clearly the need for reforms, the main focus has to be on implementing safeguards that can help avert its misuse while also cautioning against its broad ambit.
Disseminated Cutaneous Leishmaniasis in a Pediatric Patient from Peru
Authors: Arteaga-Livias Kovy , Santos-Huerta Mijael , Dámaso-Mata Bernardo , Panduro-Correa Vicky , Gonzales-Zamora Jose A , Rodriguez-Morales Alfonso J
Published: June 2020

Introduction

Leishmaniasis is a disease predominantly prevalent in the tropics, considered as one of the primary neglected diseases, preferably affects individuals of low socioeconomic status. Although this condition is well described in children, disseminated cutaneous leishmaniasis is a rare form of increasing importance and multiple cases observed in the adult population; however, still little described in children.

Case

We present the case of a 12-year-old male, who has multiple ulcerative and nodular lesions distributed throughout the body, of ∼1 year of evolution that did not respond to antimicrobial treatment. After the diagnostic process, positive serological tests were found for leishmaniasis, with improvement in the picture after the use of sodium stibogluconate.

Discussion

Disseminated cutaneous leishmaniasis is a clinical form that is described with increasing frequency and should be recognized and treated appropriately, mainly in the pediatric population, avoiding complications and sequelae.
Altered Mental Status Among Febrile Hospitalized HIV-Infected Children Aged 0–59 Months in Mozambique
Authors: Moon Troy D , Maússe Fabião E , Gebretsadik Tebeb , Kenga Darlenne B , Charles Pedro , Agy Mustuafá , Simbine Samuel , Sacarlal Jahit
Published: June 2020

Background

Altered mental status (AMS) is a priority presenting sign that must be assessed in HIV-infected, febrile children, yet diagnosis is difficult in areas with limited diagnostic capacity. Malaria and bacterial meningitis have been reported as the most common causes of AMS in febrile children presenting to the hospital in sub-Saharan Africa. However, in an HIV-infected child, central nervous system manifestations are diverse.

Methods

We conducted a clinical observational study of HIV-infected febrile children, aged 0–59 months, hospitalized in Mozambique and prospectively followed. Within this cohort, a nested study was designed to characterize children admitted with AMS and to assess factors associated with mortality. Univariate and multivariable analysis were performed comparing characteristics of the cohort by AMS status and evaluated demographic and clinical factors by in-hospital mortality outcome.

Results

In total, 727 children were enrolled between April 2016 and February 2019, 16% had AMS at admission. HIV-infected, febrile children, who presented with AMS and who had a diagnosis of bacteremia, had a 4-fold increased relative odds of in-hospital mortality, and children who presented with neurologic symptoms on admission had a roughly 8-fold higher odds of in-hospital mortality relative to children without presenting neurologic findings.

Conclusions

Mozambique has a pressing need to expand local diagnostic capacity. Our results highlight the critical need for clinicians to incorporate a broader differential into their potential causes of AMS, and to develop a Ministry of Health approved diagnostic and management algorithm, which is standardly used, to manage patients for whom reliable and relevant diagnostic services are not available.
ClubrootTracker: A Resource to Plan a Clubroot-Free Farm
Authors: Muirhead Kevin , Todd Christopher D. , Wei Yangdou , Bonham-Smith Peta , Pérez-López Edel
Published: June 2020

Clubroot is a devastating disease affecting cruciferous crops worldwide. Clubroot was first described in the 13th century in Russia and from that moment has been affecting European, Asian, and American brassica production. Plasmodiophora brassicae is the clubroot causal agent, and it is an obligate intracellular parasite that, as soil-borne resting spores, can remain viable in soil for many years. This persistence in the soil is a major negative contributing factor to the management of clubroot disease and highlights the importance for brassica growers to have ready access to current information on the distribution of the pathogen. The interactive online tool ClubrootTracker ( http://clubroottracker.ca ) has been developed to enable users to view pathogen and disease presence in geographic locations across the world. ClubrootTracker, as described in this manuscript, has been developed to provide brassica farmers a tool that will contribute to clubroot management and aid in planning a clubroot-free farm. This tool is an open resource that has the main goal of acquisition of GPS information in reporting the pathogen or the disease by the researchers working with it around the world.
Identifying international barriers and facilitators to research utilization
Authors: Younas Ahtisham
Published: June 2020

Purpose:

To define research utilization (RU) and identify barriers and facilitators to RU in nursing practice.

Methods:

An international integrative review of 42 studies was conducted related to barriers and facilitators of RU.

Results:

Following a review of the research that met the inclusion criteria, the author identifies common themes related to the implementation of research into clinical practice and the challenges surrounding RU.

Conclusion:

Despite consistently perceived barriers to research among nurses from different geographic, cultural, and clinical backgrounds, practice changes are typically out of their hands. Further research is necessary to gauge perception among the nursing associations, regulatory bodies, healthcare organizations, policy makers, and managers responsible for implementing these changes.
Randomized Trial Comparing Preliminary Results of Radialization and Centralization Procedures in Bayne Types 3 and 4 Radial Longitudinal Deficiency
Authors: Mittal Samarth , Garg Bhavuk , Mehta Nishank , Kumar Vijay , Kotwal Prakash
Published: June 2020

Background:

The choice of surgical procedure in severe (Bayne and Klug types 3 and 4) radial longitudinal deficiency (RLD) is contentious. Existing studies have reported varying results with both centralization and radialization procedures. The purpose of this study was to compare the clinical and radiologic outcome of radialization and centralization procedures at a short-to-intermediate–term follow-up for the treatment of types 3 and 4 RLD.

Methods:

Fourteen patients with 17 affected limbs having types 3 or 4 RLD were recruited in this prospective, randomized, controlled trial. After initial application of successive casts for soft tissue distraction, patients were randomized to 2 wrist alignment procedures—centralization and radialization. Clinical and radiologic parameters recorded at stipulated intervals until a final follow-up of 24 months included hand-forearm angle, ulnar bow, forearm length, arm length, total angulation, and range of motion at elbow, wrist, and fingers.

Results:

Centralization was performed in 9 affected limbs, whereas radialization was performed in 8 affected limbs. Nine affected limbs had type 4 RLD, and 8 affected limbs had type 3 RLD. There was no significant difference in the hand-forearm angle in the immediate postoperative period. At 3 months, the radiologic hand-forearm angle increased to 19 degrees in the centralization group, while the radialization group showed an average increase to 4 degrees. This increase in the hand-forearm angle continued at 6-, 12-, and 24-month follow-up assessments. Worsening of the deformity was more in the centralization group, as compared with the radialization group. The forearm length also significantly differed in the 2 groups at 6-, 12-, and 24-month follow-up; however, when adjusted for preoperative lengths, the difference was significant only at 12- and 24-month follow-up.

Conclusions:

At a short-to-intermediate–term follow-up, radialization fares better than centralization in terms of recurrence of deformity and in terms of affecting the forearm length. Longer follow-up with a larger sample size is needed to draw definitive conclusions.

Level of Evidence:

Level I.