bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Desecuritisation, deradicalisation, and national identity in Afghanistan: Higher education and desecuritisation processes
Authors: Sahar Arif , Kaunert Christian
Published: November 2021

This article assesses the processes and trends of desecuritisation through the deradicalisation of identity politics within the higher education sector in Afghanistan. It examines the desecuritisation of radicalisation through efforts directed at deradicalisation in the context of a securitised conflict environment. The article draws on the data generated through interviews and discussions with actors engaged with higher education. Higher education, while manipulated by numerous actors for ideo-political purposes, can function as a ‘desecuritisation’ and ‘deradicalisation’ mechanism by supplementing the statebuilding efforts, and more subtly, by providing a venue for critical teaching and learning processes. This article highlights that while the sector is typically a very low reconstruction priority, if addressed strategically, it has the potential to contribute to the desecuritisation of ethnic politics through the deradicalisation of ethnic grievances and hence function as a catalyst for effective and sustainable postwar recovery.
Chronicles of Bailundo: a fragmentary account in Umbundu of life before and after Portuguese colonial rule
Authors: Dulley Iracema
Published: November 2021

‘Chronicles of Bailundo’ is a fragmentary account of life in Bailundo, Central Angola. The manuscript, whose authorship and exact date are unknown, is available at the archives of the American Board of Commissioners for Foreign Missions (ABCFM) at Houghton Library, Harvard University. It was written in Umbundu, the vernacular spoken in Bailundo, by North American Congregational missionaries between 1903 and the 1930s. Although the source mentions no dates, it refers roughly to the period between the seventeenth century and the gradual establishment of Portuguese colonial rule and Christian missions in the late nineteenth and early twentieth centuries. It gives access to both the Umbundu then spoken in Bailundo and the perspective of Umbundu-speaking subjects on what it was like to live in this polity. The source addresses socio-cultural, political and economic aspects of life in Bailundo as well as significant historical events, such as the Bailundo War (1902–03). The text in Umbundu, published as supplementary material with this article, has been transcribed, translated into Portuguese and English, and annotated. The version published following the main introduction of the article presents an annotated sample of the source in English. The full version, published as supplementary material, comprises the complete original in Umbundu, its complete annotated translation into English, and a complete annotated translation into Portuguese. The article addresses the authorship, contents, form and context of production of the source.
Oka Day as an institution of power: kingship, chieftaincy and the community day in contemporary Yorubaland
Authors: Xiao Allen Hai , Ogunode Sunday Abraham
Published: November 2021

This article provides a case study of a Nigerian community day celebration as a constellation of power dynamics in which kingship, chieftaincy and local politics are intertwined. Complementing the interpretations of the community day as a festival and a community development initiative, this research approaches Oka Day as an institution ofpowersthat is invoked by the king but also incorporates chiefs, social groups, invited guests from beyond Oka and local audiences. Indebted to geographies of powers, we take nuanced power practices seriously, illustrated as twisted spatialities of powers embodied in architecture, rituals and oral history narratives. The new framing of powers makes two contributions to the existing interpretations of chieftaincy in Africa: it sheds light on chiefs’ subtle and strategic practices in response to the ‘powers of reach’ exercised by the king and through the organizational institution of Oka Day; and it also demonstrates how actors beyond the locality, including politicians, social clubs and diasporic groups, are drawn into the institution of Oka Day while mediating the powers of reach. Drawing from an analysis of spatialities of powers, we suggest that a spatial thinking facilitates our understandings of the ‘microphysics’ of kingship and chieftaincy in contemporary Yorubaland.
Marrying in a single moment: Zimbabwean Baptist ethics and the management of kin relations
Authors: Williams Green Leanne
Published: November 2021

Scholarship about Southern Africa registers a persistent tension between the prospect of relations created in a processual manner over time and the role of discrete ritual or lifecycle events. Marriage is one of the sites where this tension becomes particularly evident, not only in bridewealth transactions but also in an increasing prominence given to European-style ‘white weddings’. For Baptist Christians living in urban Zimbabwe, the tension raises a host of ethical considerations. This group of Christians seeks to establish and maintain social relations that they value for cultural and for religious reasons, while also facing the ethical task of moderating the degree of obligation that these relations can exert over them. They do so in order to maintain the moral autonomy necessary to live ethical Baptist lives, and attempt to achieve this goal by creating marriages according to a model of immediate transformation, rather than one of gradual unfolding. I suggest that drawing from recent discussions in the anthropological study of ethics offers a way to discuss choice and evaluation in marriage practice in ways not reducible to class interest or social and material expediency alone.
Outcomes following tympanoplasty surgery using porcine-derived small intestinal submucosa
Authors: Pollaers K , Bumbak P , Kuthubutheen J
Published: November 2021

Objective

To determine the outcomes of tympanoplasty surgery using porcine-derived small intestinal submucosa.

Method

A retrospective audit was conducted in a hospital setting. Thirty-five adult and paediatric patients who received a small intestinal submucosa graft as part of tympanoplasty surgery were retrospectively reviewed. Patients underwent either simple tympanoplasty (n = 26) or complex tympanoplasty as part of a concurrent otological procedure such as atticotomy and mastoidectomy. The main outcome measures were rate of tympanic membrane closure and change in four-frequency mean air–bone gap.

Results

Thirty-one patients had a follow-up period of longer than two months. Closure was obtained in 22 patients (71 per cent). The mean air–bone gap improved from 20.7 to 12.3 dB HL in the simple tympanoplasty group and from 22.3 to 12 dB HL in the complex tympanoplasty group.

Conclusion

Tympanoplasty surgery with small intestinal submucosa is a viable option for patients where autologous graft is not available or in order to minimise donor site morbidity.
Necrotising otitis externa: a serious condition becoming more frequently encountered
Authors: Eweiss A Z , Al-Aaraj M , Sethukumar P , Jama G
Published: November 2021

Background

Necrotising otitis externa is an aggressive infection of the external ear, which extends to the surrounding bone and soft tissue. In recent years, there has been an apparent increase in the number of patients admitted to our hospital with this condition.

Methods

A retrospective review was conducted of all patients admitted to our hospital with necrotising otitis externa between July 2012 and June 2020.

Results

Among 39 patients included, only 9 were diagnosed in the first four years, and 30 were diagnosed in the last four years. There were 27 males and 12 females, and the mean age was 78.7 years. There were six non-diabetic immunocompetent patients. Cranial nerve palsies developed in 50 per cent of the patients. Disease-related mortality was 7.7 per cent. A favourable outcome was recorded in 66.7 per cent of the patients.

Conclusion

Necrotising otitis externa is associated with high morbidity and mortality. The incidence of the disease is rising in our local geographical area.
The end of tracheostomal stenosis? Introducing the fish mouth technique
Authors: Gendeh H S , Azman M , Mat Baki M , Mohamed A S
Published: November 2021

Background

Post-laryngectomy tracheostomal stenosis is common and often results in an inadequate airway. Several techniques have been described to minimise tracheostomal stenosis. The star technique involves an ‘X’ incision with four flaps sutured into the trachea. The petal technique involves two inferior flaps on either side being sutured into the trachea. The authors combined the star and petal techniques, resulting in an innovative fish mouth technique.

Methods and results

This innovation involves two lateral skin flaps being sutured into an incision on either side of the lateral wall of the trachea. This results in an elongated, broadened and elliptical tracheostoma, mimicking that of a fish mouth.

Conclusion

Benefits of the fish mouth technique include adequate stoma size for respiration, easier clearing of secretions, self-sufficiency without a stent, easier cleaning of a tracheoesophageal voice prosthesis, and stoma occlusion for voice production. The fish mouth technique is easily reproducible and suitable for those with a voice prosthesis.
Validation of a COVID-19 self-assessment tool for the prediction of COVID-19 in a primary health care setting in Egypt
Authors: Abd El-Wahab Ekram W. , Metwally Mohammed
Published: November 2021

Background:

As SARS-CoV-2 infection is sweeping the globe, early identification and timely management of infected patients will alleviate unmet health care demands and ultimately control of the disease. Remote COVID-19 self-assessment tools will offer a potential strategy for patient guidance on medical consultation versus home care without requiring direct attention from healthcare professionals.

Objective(s):

This study aimed to assess the validity and interrater reliability of the initial and modified versions of a COVID-19 self-assessment prediction tool introduced by the Egyptian Ministry of Health and Population (MoHP) early in the epidemic. The scoring tool was released for the public through media outlets for remote self-assessment of SARS-CoV-2 infection connecting patients with the appropriate level of care.

Methods:

We evaluated the initial score in the analysis of 818 consecutive cases presenting with symptoms suggesting COVID-19 in a single-primary health care clinic in Alexandria during the epidemic in Egypt (mid-February through July). Validity parameters, interrater agreement and accuracy of the score as a triage tool were calculated versus the COVID-19 polymerase chain reaction (PCR) test.

Results:

A total of 818 patients reporting symptoms potentially attributable to COVID-19 were enrolled. The initial tool correctly identified 296 of 390 COVID-19 PCR +ve cases (sensitivity = 75.9%, specificity = 42.3%, positive predictive value = 54.5%, negative predictive value = 65.8%). The modified versions of the MoHP triage score yielded comparable results albeit with a better accuracy during the late epidemic phase. Recent history of travel [OR (95% CI) = 12.1 (5.0–29.4)] and being a health care worker [OR (95% CI) = 5.8 (2.8–11.9)] were major predictors of SARS-CoV-2 infection in early and late epidemic phases, respectively. On the other hand, direct contact with a respiratory infection case increased the risk of infection by three folds throughout the epidemic period.

Conclusion:

The tested score has a sufficient predictive value and potential as a triage tool in primary health care settings. Updated implementation of this home-grown tool will improve COVID-19 response at the primary health care level.
Estimating the impact of child and early adolescent depression on subsequent educational attainment: secondary analysis of an existing data linkage
Authors: Wickersham A. , Ford T. , Stewart R. , Downs J.
Published: November 2021

Aims

Depression is thought to be associated with lower subsequent educational attainment during school. But, without longitudinal studies which take account of prior attainment and other potential confounders, estimates of the impact of clinically recognised depression in childhood and early adolescence are unknown. We investigated whether a clinical diagnosis of depression is associated with lower subsequent educational attainment, and whether the association is modified by gender, ethnicity and socioeconomic status.

Methods

We conducted a secondary analysis of an existing administrative data linkage between national educational data and a large mental healthcare provider in London, UK (2007–2013). Depression diagnosis before age 15 (exposure) was measured from electronic health records, and subsequent educational attainment at age 15–16 (outcome) was measured from educational records. We fitted logistic regression models and adjusted for gender, ethnicity, socioeconomic status, relative age in school year, neurodevelopmental disorder diagnosis and prior attainment. We investigated effect modifiers using interaction terms.

Results

In total, n = 63 623 were included in analysis, of whom n = 242 had record of a depression diagnosis before age 15. Depression was associated with lower odds of subsequently achieving expected attainment levels in national exams, after adjustment for all covariates (odds ratio = 0.60, 95% confidence interval = 0.43 to 0.84, p = 0.003). There was no evidence that gender, ethnicity or socioeconomic status modified this association.

Conclusions

These findings support a relationship between depression and lower subsequent educational attainment. This highlights the need for tailored educational interventions to support children and adolescents with depression, particularly in the lead up to key educational milestones.
Critical timing of weed removal in dry bean as influenced by the use of preemergence herbicides
Authors: Beiermann Clint W. , Miranda Joshua W.A. , Creech Cody F. , Knezevic Stevan Z. , Jhala Amit J. , Harveson Robert , Lawrence Nevin C.
Published: November 2021

The critical timing of weed removal (CTWR) is the point in crop development when weed control must be initiated to prevent crop yield loss due to weed competition. A field study was conducted in 2018 and 2020 near Scottsbluff, NE, to determine how the use of preemergence herbicides affects the CTWR in dry bean. The experiment was arranged as a split plot, with herbicide treatment and weed removal timing as main and sub-plot factors, respectively. Herbicide treatments consisted of no-preemergence application, or pendimethalin (1,070 g ai ha–1) + dimethenamid-P (790 g ai ha–1) applied preemergence. Sub-plot treatments included season-long weed-free, weed removal at: V1, V3, V6, R2, and R5 dry bean growth stages, and a season-long weedy control. A four-parameter logistic model was used to estimate the impact of time of weed removal, for all response variables including dry bean yield, dry bean plants m–1 row, number of pods per plant, number of seeds per pod, and seed weight. The CTWR based on 5% yield reduction was estimated to range from the V1 growth stage [(16 d after emergence (DAE)] to the R1 growth stage (39 DAE) in the no-preemergence herbicide treatment. In the preemergence-applied treatment, the CTWR began at the R2 growth stage (47 DAE). Number of dry bean plants m–1 row was reduced in the no-preemergence treatment when weed removal was delayed beyond the R2 growth stage in the 2020 field season. The use of preemergence herbicides prevented a reduction in the number of pods per plant in 2020, and the number of seeds per pod in 2018 and 2020. In 2018, the number of pods per plant was reduced by 73% when no preemergence herbicide was applied, compared to 26% in the preemergence-applied treatment. The use of preemergence-applied soil-active herbicides in dry bean delayed the CTWR and preserved yield potential.
Evolution of a Shallow Volcanic Arc Pluton During Arc Migration: A Tectono‐Thermal Integrated Study of the St. Martin Granodiorites (Northern Lesser Antilles)
Authors: Noury Mélanie , Philippon Mélody , Cornée Jean‐Jacques , Bernet Matthias , Bruguier Olivier , Montheil Leny , Legendre Lucie , Dugamin Elza , Bonno Michael , Münch Philippe
Published: November 2021

A new data set combining thermobarometry, geo‐thermochronology, chronostratigraphic, and structural analyses highlights the tectono‐thermal evolution of the St. Martin granodiorite from its emplacement to its surface exposure. The described vertical motions in this part of the upper plate of the Lesser Antilles subduction zone since 30 Myrs are linked to the migration of the Lesser Antilles volcanic arc toward the plate interior. Results suggest that the St. Martin granodioritic pluton emplaced at 4–5 km depth and underwent a four‐step history: (a) 30–27 Ma, emplacement along N20–40° transtensive structures oblique to the trench followed by, (b) 27–24 Ma, rapid post‐emplacement cooling and exhumation (∼0.6 mm/yr) controlled by perpendicular to the trench N45° trending structures, (c) 24–9 Ma, slow subsidence (0.01 mm/yr) and development of carbonate platforms associated to tectonic quiescence, westward migration of the arc, and subsequent cooling of the crust, (d) 9 Ma to present‐day, exhumation (∼0.25 mm/yr) and uplift of Neogene carbonate platforms mainly along N45° faults that likely accommodate the progressive trench curvature since 30 Ma. Pecube forward modeling using this scenario reproduces both the observed present‐day geometry and thermochronometric ages. A similar sequence of events is observed in the Virgin Islands. Along with our new data, this suggests a southward migration of the deformation associated with the opening of the Anegada Trough.
Microplastics Morph Cell Metabolism
Authors: Tripathy-Lang Alka
Published: November 2021

Microplastics get into our bodies, potentially altering how certain cells convert sugar into energy, especially in the gut. Continued ingestion could cause chronic problems.
Mantle Structure and Flow Across the Continent‐Ocean Transition of the Eastern North American Margin: Anisotropic S‐Wave Tomography
Authors: Brunsvik Brennan R. , Eilon Zachary C. , Lynner Colton
Published: November 2021

Little has been seismically imaged through the lithosphere and mantle at rifted margins across the continent‐ocean transition. A 2014–2015 community seismic experiment deployed broadband seismic instruments across the shoreline of the eastern North American rifted margin. Previous shear‐wave splitting along the margin shows several perplexing patterns of anisotropy, and by proxy, mantle flow. Neither margin parallel offshore fast azimuths nor null splitting on the continental coast obviously accord with absolute plate motion, paleo‐spreading, or rift‐induced anisotropy. Splitting measurements, however, offer no depth constraints on anisotropy. Additionally, mantle structure has not yet been imaged in detail across the continent‐ocean transition. We used teleseismic S, SKS, SKKS, and PKS splitting and differential travel times recorded on ocean‐bottom seismometers, regional seismic networks, and EarthScope Transportable Array stations to conduct joint isotropic/anisotropic tomography across the margin. The velocity model reveals a transition from fast, thick, continental keel to low velocity, thinned lithosphere eastward. Imaged short wavelength velocity anomalies can be largely explained by edge‐driven convection or shear‐driven upwelling. We also find that layered anisotropy is prevalent across the margin. The anisotropic fast polarization is parallel to the margin within the asthenosphere. This suggests margin parallel flow beneath the plate. The lower oceanic lithosphere preserves paleo‐spreading‐parallel anisotropy, while the continental lithosphere has complex anisotropy reflecting several Wilson cycles. These results demonstrate the complex and active nature of a margin which is traditionally considered tectonically inactive.
California's Volatile Hydroclimate: Lessons From the Paleoclimate Record
Authors: Johnson Kathleen R.
Published: November 2021

Climate change is expected to decrease mean precipitation in California, but changes in hydroclimate extremes are likely to have more immediate and significant impacts on California water resources, ecosystems, and economy. Paleoclimate records can provide valuable baseline data for constraining natural hydroclimate variability and improving climate projections, but quantitative precipitation records are limited. A new study by de Wet et al. (2021) provides the first semi‐quantitative record of early Holocene precipitation in central California, based on speleothem calcium isotope (δ44Ca) variations, that indicates that precipitation variability during and preceding the 8.2 kyr event approached or exceeded that of recent decades. This study outlines a new approach for developing more robust and quantitative hydroclimate records, and also highlights that precipitation “whiplash” is a ubiquitous feature of California's climate that we must prepare for, especially given the likelihood that human‐caused climate change is already increasing the frequency and severity of hydrologic extremes.
Electron Acceleration by Magnetosonic Waves in the Deep Inner Belt (L = 1.5–2) Region During Geomagnetic Storm of August 2018
Authors: Zhang Zhenxia , Xiang Zheng , Wang Yongfu , Ni Binbin , Li Xinqiao
Published: November 2021

The relativistic electron acceleration in the inner radiation belt have received little attention in the past due to sparse measurements. The 90° minimum pitch angle distributions of electrons in extremely low L‐shells during storms are speculated to be preferentially heated by fast magnetosonic waves. The high‐quality measurements of relativistic electrons by instruments onboard Van Allen Probes and ZH–1 provide a great opportunity to investigate the dynamics of relativistic electrons in the inner radiation belt. At extremely low L‐shells (L 2), a weak flux enhancement (increased by 2–3 times) of 100s keV electrons and the corresponding formation of butterfly PADs are observed during the major geomagnetic storm (minimum Dst ≈ −179 nT) occurred in August 2018. Simultaneously the magnetosonic waves, accompanied with weak hiss waves, were observed also in such low L‐shells. Combining with a numerical simulation of wave and particle interaction model, magnetosonic waves are thought to play an important role in electron acceleration and formation of butterfly PADs during this storm, which is the first direct observation in such low L‐shells.
Influences of Deep‐Water Seamounts on the Hydrodynamic Environment in the Northwestern Pacific Ocean
Authors: Jiang Xingliang , Dong Changming , Ji Yuxiang , Wang Chunsheng , Shu Yeqiang , Liu Lingxiao , Ji Jinlin
Published: November 2021

The presence of seamounts impacts the ocean's hydrodynamic environment. A 5‐year numerical simulation is conducted over the Northwestern Pacific Ocean (NWPO) to investigate the influence of seamounts. The results are validated against satellite remote sensing data and in‐situ measurements. Sensitivity experiments show that the presence of seamounts increases the complexity of the flow field, leading to enhanced relative vorticity, divergence, and strain rate. Additionally, eddy activity is enhanced while eddy propagation is suppressed. Five main physical processes that affect the hydrodynamic environment are examined around the Caiwei (CS), Weijia (WS) and Niulang (NS) seamounts. (a) Seamount‐induced negative vorticities are found above the three seamounts most of the time and extend to about 600 m above the summit of the seamounts; (b) density fronts, a few kilometers in width, are present in the bottom boundary layer of the three seamounts, with accompanying jets occurring at the same locations; (c) seamount‐induced topographic Rossby waves (TRWs) signals are extracted when a 7‐ to 10‐day band‐pass filter is applied to the temperature and velocity anomaly fields around CS (WS and NS) at 5,350 m (5,350 m and 4,500 m); (d) seamount‐eddy interactions result in abundant eddies generated and trapped around the three seamounts; and (e) lee waves are found at the three seamounts. The systematic discussion of these physical processes near the deep seamounts provides a new understanding of how these processes enhance biological connectivity among seamounts.
Roles of Terrain, Surface Roughness, and Cold Pool Outflows in an Extreme Rainfall Event Over the Coastal Region of South China
Authors: Li Huiqi , Huang Yongjie , Hu Sheng , Wu Naigeng , Liu Xiantong , Xiao Hui
Published: November 2021

An extreme rainfall event with maximum 12 hr accumulated rainfall of 464.8 mm associated with a quasi‐stationary mesoscale convective system occurred over the western coastal region of South China in June 2017. An observational analysis shows that early convective storms were initiated near the mountains and moved northeastwards. Moreover, a convergence line between cold northerly winds and warm southerly winds in the lower levels was formed, which favored the development of the quasi‐stationary system. Cold northerly winds were associated with land breeze, downslope winds as well as previous rainfall during earlier period, and cold pool outflows during later period. Cloud‐resolving simulations were performed to examine the roles of terrain, land‐sea surface roughness contrast, and cold pool outflows in the formation of heavy rainfall. Results demonstrate that land‐sea surface roughness contrast and mountains in the middle of Yangjiang and Jiangmen facilitated the formation of the convergence line during earlier period, and cold pool outflows sustained it during later period. Besides orographic lifting, coastal hills helped reduce the stability. Mountains in the middle of Yangjiang hindered the movement of the convective system, without which the associated heavy rainfall would shift farther north. Mt. Tianlu with westward concave morphology played a vital role in the formation of local convergence and the concentration of heavy rainfall. Without it, the total rainfall in the region of interest was reduced. This study suggests the importance of representing processes associated with the complex underlying surface in models for the prediction of heavy rainfall in coastal regions.
Improved Estimation of Glacial‐Earthquake Size Through New Modeling of the Seismic Source
Authors: Olsen Kira G. , Nettles Meredith , Cathles L. Mac , Burton Justin C. , Murray Tavi , James Timothy D.
Published: November 2021

The number of gigaton‐sized iceberg‐calving events occurring annually at Greenland glaciers is increasing, part of a larger trend of accelerating mass loss from the Greenland Ice Sheet. Though visual observation of large calving events is rare, ∼60 glacial earthquakes generated by these calving events are currently recorded each year by regional and global seismic stations. An empirical relationship between iceberg size and MCSF, a summary measure of glacial‐earthquake size, was recently demonstrated by Olsen and Nettles (2019), https://doi.org/10.1029/2019JF005054. However, MCSF is known to be sensitive to choices made in modeling the seismic source. We incorporate constraints on the seismic source from laboratory studies of calving and test multiple source time functions using synthetic and observed glacial‐earthquake waveforms. We find that a simple, fixed time function with a shape informed by laboratory results greatly improves estimates of earthquake size. The average ratio of estimated to true peak force values is 1.03 for experiments using our preferred source model, compared with an average of 0.3 for models used in previous studies. We find that maximum‐force values estimated from waveform modeling depend far less on model choices than does MCSF, and therefore prefer maximum force as a measure of glacial‐earthquake size. Using both synthetic and real data, we confirm a correlation between maximum force and iceberg mass. Our results support the possibility of developing useful scaling relationships between seismic observables and physical parameters controlling glacier calving.
Two‐Phase Relative Permeability of Rough‐Walled Fractures: A Dynamic Pore‐Scale Modeling of the Effects of Aperture Geometry
Authors: Gong Yanbin , Sedghi Mohammad , Piri Mohammad
Published: November 2021

An accurate description of the relative permeability–saturation function is crucial for reliable predictions of multi‐phase flow behavior in subsurface applications. Although extensive efforts have been put forth to investigate the relative permeability behavior in different types of porous media, only few studies have focused on rough‐walled fractures. In this work, we present an entirely new, cost‐effective, heavily‐parallelized, dynamic pore‐network modeling framework that is employed to conduct a systematic study of relative permeability curves under two‐phase flow conditions in rough‐walled fractures. We first build a two‐dimensional (101.42 × 24.86 mm2) equivalent pore network of a Berea sandstone fracture from its x‐ray images. Subsequently, dynamic primary drainage and imbibition simulations are conducted in the fracture. We show that the two‐phase fluid occupancy maps predicted from the simulations agree well with the fracture fluid configurations obtained via X‐ray computed tomography. Afterward, the validated model is used to probe two‐phase flow properties in a series of synthetic aperture fields generated with a broad range of geometric characteristics including aperture spatial correlation length (normalized correlation length varying from 0.05 to 0.95), anisotropy factor (0.25–4), surface roughness (normalized fracture roughness varying from 0.05 to 0.4), and mean aperture size (50–800 μm). The generated results provide novel insights into the effects of these features on two‐phase flow properties such as fluid–fluid interfacial area, phase interference, and relative permeability. Moreover, based on the simulation results we propose two new correlations to describe the relative permeability curves for primary drainage and imbibition processes in rough‐walled fractures.
A machine vision tool for facilitating the optimization of large-area perovskite photovoltaics
Authors: Taherimakhsousi Nina , Fievez Mathilde , MacLeod Benjamin P. , Booker Edward P. , Fayard Emmanuelle , Matheron Muriel , Manceau Matthieu , Cros Stéphane , Berson Solenn , Berlinguette Curtis P.
Published: November 2021

We report a fast, reliable and non-destructive method for quantifying the homogeneity of perovskite thin films over large areas using machine vision. We adapt existing machine vision algorithms to spatially quantify multiple perovskite film properties (substrate coverage, film thickness, defect density) with pixel resolution from pictures of 25 cm2samples. Our machine vision tool—called PerovskiteVision—can be combined with an optical model to predict photovoltaic cell and module current density from the perovskite film thickness. We use the measured film properties and predicted device current density to identify a posteriori the process conditions that simultaneously maximize the device performance and the manufacturing throughput for large-area perovskite deposition using gas-knife assisted slot-die coating. PerovskiteVision thus facilitates the transfer of a new deposition process to large-scale photovoltaic module manufacturing. This work shows how machine vision can accelerate slow characterization steps essential for the multi-objective optimization of thin film deposition processes.
3D quantum Hall effects and nonlinear Hall effect
Authors: Li Shuai , Wang C. M. , Du Z. Z. , Qin Fang , Lu Hai-Zhou , Xie X. C.
Published: November 2021

The classical and quantum Hall effects are important subjects in condensed matter physics. The emergent 3D quantum Hall effects and nonlinear Hall effect have attracted considerable interest recently, with the former elevating the quantum Hall effect to a higher dimension and the latter extending the Hall effect to higher-order responses. In this perspective, we briefly introduce these two new members of the Hall family and discuss the open questions and future research directions.
Abrupt climate changes in the last two deglaciations simulated with different Northern ice sheet discharge and insolation
Authors: Obase Takashi , Abe-Ouchi Ayako , Saito Fuyuki
Published: November 2021

There were significant differences between the last two deglaciations, particularly in Atlantic Meridional Overturning Circulation (AMOC) and Antarctic warming in the deglaciations and the following interglacials. Here, we present transient simulations of deglaciation using a coupled atmosphere–ocean general circulation model for the last two deglaciations focusing on the impact of ice sheet discharge on climate changes associated with the AMOC in the first part, and the sensitivity studies using a Northern Hemisphere ice sheet model in the second part. We show that a set of abrupt climate changes of the last deglaciation, including Bolling–Allerod warming, the Younger Dryas, and onset of the Holocene were simulated with gradual changes of both ice sheet discharge and radiative forcing. On the other hand, penultimate deglaciation, with the abrupt climate change only at the beginning of the last interglacial was simulated when the ice sheet discharge was greater than in the last deglaciation by a factor of 1.5. The results, together with Northern Hemisphere ice sheet model experiments suggest the importance of the transient climate and AMOC responses to the different orbital forcing conditions of the last two deglaciations, through the mechanisms of mass loss of the Northern Hemisphere ice sheet and meltwater influx to the ocean.
Andrographolide promotes hippocampal neurogenesis and spatial memory in the APPswe/PS1ΔE9 mouse model of Alzheimer’s disease
Authors: Arredondo Sebastian B. , Reyes Daniel T. , Herrera-Soto Andrea , Mardones Muriel D. , Inestrosa Nibaldo C. , Varela-Nallar Lorena
Published: November 2021

In Alzheimer´s disease (AD) there is a reduction in hippocampal neurogenesis that has been associated to cognitive deficits. Previously we showed that Andrographolide (ANDRO), the main bioactive component of Andrographis paniculate, induces proliferation in the hippocampus of the APPswe/PSEN1ΔE9 (APP/PS1) mouse model of AD as assessed by staining with the mitotic marker Ki67. Here, we further characterized the effect of ANDRO on hippocampal neurogenesis in APP/PS1 mice and evaluated the contribution of this process to the cognitive effect of ANDRO. Treatment of 8-month-old APP/PS1 mice with ANDRO for 4 weeks increased proliferation in the dentate gyrus as evaluated by BrdU incorporation. Although ANDRO had no effect on neuronal differentiation of newborn cells, it strongly increased neural progenitors, neuroblasts and newborn immature neurons, cell populations that were decreased in APP/PS1 mice compared to age-matched wild-type mice. ANDRO had no effect on migration or in total dendritic length, arborization and orientation of immature neurons, suggesting no effects on early morphological development of newborn neurons. Finally, ANDRO treatment improved the performance of APP/PS1 mice in the object location memory task. This effect was not completely prevented by co-treatment with the anti-mitotic drug TMZ, suggesting that other effects of ANDRO in addition to the increase in neurogenesis might underlie the observed cognitive improvement. Altogether, our data indicate that in APP/PS1 mice ANDRO stimulates neurogenesis in the hippocampus by inducing proliferation of neural precursor cells and improves spatial memory performance.
Household visitation during the COVID-19 pandemic
Authors: Ross Stuart , Breckenridge George , Zhuang Mengdie , Manley Ed
Published: November 2021

The COVID-19 pandemic has posed novel risks related to the indoor mixing of individuals from different households and challenged policymakers to adequately regulate this behaviour. While in many cases household visits are necessary for the purpose of social care, they have been linked to broadening community transmission of the virus. In this study we propose a novel, privacy-preserving framework for the measurement of household visitation at national and regional scales, making use of passively collected mobility data. We implement this approach in England from January 2020 to May 2021. The measures expose significant spatial and temporal variation in household visitation patterns, impacted by both national and regional lockdown policies, and the rollout of the vaccination programme. The findings point to complex social processes unfolding differently over space and time, likely informed by variations in policy adherence, vaccine relaxation, and regional interventions.
Role of RIPK1 in SMAC mimetics-induced apoptosis in primary human HIV-infected macrophages
Authors: Caballero Ramon Edwin , Dong Simon Xin Min , Gajanayaka Niranjala , Ali Hamza , Cassol Edana , Cameron William D. , Korneluk Robert , Tremblay Michel J. , Angel Jonathan B. , Kumar Ashok
Published: November 2021

Macrophages serve as viral reservoirs due to their resistance to apoptosis and HIV-cytopathic effects. We have previously shown that inhibitor of apoptosis proteins (IAPs) confer resistance to HIV-Vpr-induced apoptosis in normal macrophages. Herein, we show that second mitochondrial activator of caspases (SMAC) mimetics (SM) induce apoptosis of monocyte-derived macrophages (MDMs) infected in vitro with a R5-tropic laboratory strain expressing heat stable antigen, chronically infected U1 cells, and ex-vivo derived MDMs from HIV-infected individuals. To understand the mechanism governing SM-induced cell death, we show that SM-induced cell death of primary HIV-infected macrophages was independent of the acquisition of M1 phenotype following HIV infection of macrophages. Instead, SM-induced cell death was found to be mediated by IAPs as downregulation of IAPs by siRNAs induced cell death of HIV-infected macrophages. Moreover, HIV infection caused receptor interacting protein kinase-1 (RIPK1) degradation which in concert with IAP1/2 downregulation following SM treatment may result in apoptosis of macrophages. Altogether, our results show that SM selectively induce apoptosis in primary human macrophages infected in vitro with HIV possibly through RIPK1. Moreover, modulation of the IAP pathways may be a potential strategy for selective killing of HIV-infected macrophages in vivo.
Galerkin finite element study for mixed convection (TiO2–SiO2/water) hybrid-nanofluidic flow in a triangular aperture heated beneath
Authors: Redouane Fares , Jamshed Wasim , Suriya Uma Devi S. , Prakash M. , Nisar Kottakkaran Sooppy , Nasir Nor Ain Azeany Mohd , Khashan M. Motawi , Yahia I. S. , Eid Mohamed R.
Published: November 2021

Fluidity and thermal transport across the triangular aperture with lower lateral inlet and apply placed at the vertical outlet of the chamber which filled with efficient TiO2–SiO2/water hybrid nanofluid under the parametrical influence. Several parameters are tested like the numbers of Hartmann ($$0 \le Ha \le 100$$

0
≤
H
a
≤
100

), Richardson ($$0 \le Ri \le 5$$

0
≤
R
i
≤
5

), and Reynolds ($$10 \le Re \le 1000$$

10
≤
R
e
≤
1000

) were critiqued through streamlines, isotherms, and Nusselt number ($$Nu$$

Nu

). Numerical model has to be developed and solved through the Galerkin finite element method (GFEM) by discretized with 13,569 triangular elements optimized through grid-independent analysis. The Hartmann number ($$Ha$$

Ha

), exerts minimal impact over the flow and thermal aspects while the other parameters significantly manipulate the physical nature of the flowing and thermal aspects behaviors.
Simultaneous Viscum pleurodesis and video-assisted thoracic surgery (VATS) bullectomy in patients with primary spontaneous pneumothorax
Authors: Jung Hee Suk , Kim Hyun Jung
Published: November 2021

Although surgery is the gold standard for treatment of primary spontaneous pneumothorax (PSP), recurrence after surgery remains a concern. This study sought to evaluate the efficacy of simultaneous pleurodesis using Viscum album (VA) extract and video-assisted thoracic surgery (VATS) bullectomy for the treatment of PSP. From March 2016 to June 2020, 175 patients with PSP underwent bullectomy and intraoperative pleurodesis with VA extract at a single institution. All operations were performed through thoracoscopy by one surgeon. Upon completion of bullectomy, a polyglycolic acid sheet was used to cover the stapler lines, and 40 mg of VA extract was instilled over the entire chest wall before chest tube placement. The median operating time was 20 min (interquartile ranges, 15–30) and the median indwelling time of chest drainage was 2 days (interquartile ranges, 2–3). There were no postoperative complications over grade 3. During the median follow-up period of 38 months (interquartile ranges, 15–48), no recurrence of pneumothorax was observed. The results of this study demonstrated that simultaneous Viscum pleurodesis and VATS bullectomy provides a feasible and effective treatment option for preventing postoperative pneumothorax in patients with PSP.
Genome-wide analysis of autophagy-related genes in Medicago truncatula highlights their roles in seed development and response to drought stress
Authors: Yang Mingkang , Wang Liping , Chen Chumin , Guo Xu , Lin Chuanglie , Huang Wei , Chen Liang
Published: November 2021

Autophagy is a highly conserved process of degradation of cytoplasmic constituents in eukaryotes. It is involved in the growth and development of plants, as well as in biotic and abiotic stress response. Although autophagy-related (ATG) genes have been identified and characterized in many plant species, little is known about this process in Medicago truncatula. In this study, 39 ATGs were identified, and their gene structures and conserved domains were systematically characterized in M. truncatula. Many cis-elements, related to hormone and stress responsiveness, were identified in the promoters of MtATGs. Phylogenetic and interaction network analyses suggested that the function of MtATGs is evolutionarily conserved in Arabidopsis and M. truncatula. The expression of MtATGs, at varied levels, was detected in all examined tissues. In addition, most of the MtATGs were highly induced during seed development and drought stress, which indicates that autophagy plays an important role in seed development and responses to drought stress in M. truncatula. In conclusion, this study gives a comprehensive overview of MtATGs and provides important clues for further functional analysis of autophagy in M. truncatula.
Commuting network effect on urban wealth scaling
Authors: Alves Luiz G. A. , Rybski Diego , Ribeiro Haroldo V.
Published: November 2021

Urban scaling theory explains the increasing returns to scale of urban wealth indicators by the per capita increase of human interactions within cities. This explanation implicitly assumes urban areas as isolated entities and ignores their interactions. Here we investigate the effects of commuting networks on the gross domestic product (GDP) of urban areas in the US and Brazil. We describe the urban GDP as the output of a production process where population, incoming commuters, and interactions between these quantities are the input variables. This approach significantly refines the description of urban GDP and shows that incoming commuters contribute to wealth creation in urban areas. Our research indicates that changes in urban GDP related to proportionate changes in population and incoming commuters depend on the initial values of these quantities, such that increasing returns to scale are only possible when the product between population and incoming commuters exceeds a well-defined threshold.
Assessment of landslide behaviour in colluvium deposit at Doi Chang, Thailand
Authors: Soralump Suttisak , Shrestha Avishek , Thowiwat Worawat , Sukjaroen Ramatre , Chaithong Thapthai , Yangsanphu Sirisart , Koirala Abhishek , Jotisankasa Apiniti
Published: November 2021

The paper presents the case study of the recurrent slope movement in colluvium deposits at Doi Chang, Thailand. A thorough site investigation confirmed the slope movement rate corresponding to slow creep during dry season, while in the rainy season, its velocity remarkably increased. Despite frequent repair, the movement rate was sufficient to result in the recurrent damage of infrastructures like roads and buildings, causing economic loss and public concerns. Furthermore, surface mapping revealed that the hill's topography led to the concentration of flowing water in a particular area. This resulted in a high level of groundwater table, especially during the rainy season. The inclinometer installed in that area suggested an average movement rate of 20.5 mm/month in the wet season. In contrast, during the dry season, it was limited within 2 mm/month, indicating that the increase in the rate of slope movement in the colluvium deposit was primarily due to the rising groundwater table. Field and laboratory tests were conducted to determine the properties of the colluvium deposit. Landslide susceptibility assessment was performed using infinite slope model and later integrated with GIS to evaluate the factor of safety (FS) over a large area. The FS decreased below 1 when the groundwater level rose to 0.3 cm below the ground surface, and using GIS, based on infinite slope model, the potential risk zone were delineated.
Pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic similarity between SAR341402 insulin aspart and Japan-approved NovoRapid in healthy Japanese subjects
Authors: Shiramoto Masanari , Yoshihara Tatsuya , Schmider Wolfgang , Takagi Hiroki , Nowotny Irene , Kajiwara Miyuki , Muto Hideya
Published: November 2021

This study compared the pharmacokinetic and glucodynamic profiles of biosimilar SAR341402 insulin aspart to Japan-approved insulin aspart (NovoRapid) in healthy Japanese males. In this single-center, randomized, double-blind, single-dose, two-period, crossover study, subjects received 0.3 U/kg of SAR341402 or NovoRapid before undergoing a 10 h euglycemic clamp procedure. Plasma insulin aspart concentrations and blood glucose levels were measured, and glucose infusion rates (GIRs) were assessed. Primary endpoints were maximum plasma insulin aspart concentration (INS-Cmax), area under the plasma insulin concentration–time curve to the last quantifiable concentration (INS-AUClast), area under the GIR–time curve during the clamp (GIR-AUC0–10 h), and maximum GIR (GIRmax). Forty subjects were randomized with 39 completing both treatment periods. Pharmacokinetic exposure showed a mean ratio between products of 1.00 (90% confidence interval [CI] 0.94–1.05) for INS-Cmax and 1.02 (90% CI 1.00–1.04) for INS-AUClast. Glucodynamic activity showed a mean ratio between products of 1.00 (95% CI 0.93–1.06) for GIR-AUC0–10 h and 1.01 (95% CI 0.95–1.08) for GIRmax. The 90% CIs for pairwise treatment ratios were within the predefined equivalence range of 0.80–1.25. Both treatments were well tolerated. We concluded that similar pharmacokinetic exposure and glucodynamic potency were shown for SAR341402 and NovoRapid in healthy Japanese males.