bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Synthesis of a deuterated 6‐AmHap internal standard for the determination of hapten density in a heroin vaccine drug product
Authors: Makarova Mariia , Barrientos Rodell C. , Torres Oscar B. , Matyas Gary R. , Jacobson Arthur E. , Sulima Agnieszka , Rice Kenner C.
Published: January 2021

A deuterated hapten was designed and synthesized that will be essential for a future study of residual hapten and stability of a hapten‐protein conjugate. This hapten, 6‐AmHap, was chosen for a heroin vaccine that is now slated for a Phase 1 clinical trial. A maleimide‐thiol bioconjugation strategy was successfully applied to our heroin vaccine to connect the hapten 6‐AmHap with an immunogenic carrier protein (tetanus toxoid, TT) through a trityl‐protected 3‐mercaptopropanamide linker. The antibodies induced by the vaccine have been found to have activity against several opioids, including heroin and its metabolites, and, importantly, leave alternate pain treatment medications such as methadone untouched. To the best of our knowledge, no other hapten for a heroin vaccine has been deuterated, yet this tool may prove to be of great importance in the study of residual hapten during product release and the long‐term stability program of a hapten‐protein conjugate as part of FDA regulatory requirements. Hydrocodone was the starting material for the synthesis of the deuterated 6‐AmHap, with a stable amide at C6 and a 3‐mercaptopropanamide linker attached at C3. The desired deuterated product was prepared as the disulfide, 3,3′‐disulfanediylbis(N‐((7S,7aR,12bS)‐7‐acetamido‐3‐[2H3]methyl)‐2,3,4,4a,5,6,7,7a‐octahydro‐1H‐4,12‐methanobenzofuro[3,2‐e]isoquinolin‐9‐yl)propanamide), that could be easily reduced to form the needed hapten, N‐((4aR,7S,7aR,12bS)‐7‐acetamido‐3‐[2H3]methyl]‐2,3,4,4a,5,6,7,7a‐octahydro‐1H‐4,12‐methanobenzofuro[3,2‐e]isoquinolin‐9‐yl)‐3‐mercaptopropanamide.
Evolutionary analysis of SARS‐CoV‐2 spike protein for its different clades
Authors: Pereson Matías J. , Flichman Diego M. , Martínez Alfredo P. , Baré Patricia , Garcia Gabriel H. , Di Lello Federico A.
Published: January 2021

The spike protein of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS‐CoV‐2) has become the main target for antiviral and vaccine development. Despite its relevance, e information is scarse about its evolutionary traces. The aim of this study was to investigate the diversification patterns of the spike for each clade of SARS‐CoV‐2 through different approaches. Two thousand and one hundred sequences representing the seven clades of the SARS‐CoV‐2 were included. Patterns of genetic diversifications and nucleotide evolutionary rate were estimated for the spike genomic region. The haplotype networks showed a star shape, where multiple haplotypes with few nucleotide differences diverge from a common ancestor. Four hundred seventy‐nine different haplotypes were defined in the seven analyzed clades. The main haplotype, named Hap‐1, was the most frequent for clades G (54%), GH (54%), and GR (56%) and a different haplotype (named Hap‐252) was the most important for clades L (63.3%), O (39.7%), S (51.7%), and V (70%). The evolutionary rate for the spike protein was estimated as 1.08 × 10−3 nucleotide substitutions/site/year. Moreover, the nucleotide evolutionary rate after nine months of the pandemic was similar for each clade. In conclusion, the present evolutionary analysis is relevant as the spike protein of SARS‐CoV‐2 is the target for most therapeutic candidates; besides, changes in this protein could have consequences on viral transmission, response to antivirals and efficacy of vaccines. Moreover, the evolutionary characterization of clades improves knowledge of SARS‐CoV‐2 and deserves to be assessed in more detail as re‐infection by different phylogenetic clades has been reported.
Upregulated microRNA‐423‐5p promotes oxidative stress through targeting glutathione S‐transferase mu 1 in asthenozoospermia
Authors: Zhang Rongxue , Zuo Yanghua , Cao Senyang
Published: January 2021

The dysregulation of microRNAs (miRNAs) plays an important role in asthenozoospermia. This study evaluated the sperm microRNA‐423‐5p (miR‐423‐5p) expression in asthenozoospermia and normozoospermia, exploring the role of miR‐423‐5p in asthenozoospermia. Eighty participants were divided into asthenozoospermic (AZS, n = 40) and normozoospermic (Norm, n = 40) groups. Fresh semen samples were collected and the sperm cells were separated. Quantitative Real‐Time polymerase chain reaction was used to measure the sperm miR‐423‐5p level. Receiver operating characteristic curve (ROC) was employed to test the diagnostic performance of miR‐423‐5p in asthenospermia. Dual‐reporter luciferase assay was adopted to confirm the target gene of miR‐423‐5p. The target gene level in asthenozoospermia and normozoospermia was measured, and the biological function of target gene in asthenozoospermia was evaluated. Results showed that the miR‐423‐5p expression level in the AZS group was higher than that in Norm group, which was positively correlated with the severity of asthenozoospermia. ROC analysis of miR‐423‐5p showed an area under curve (AUC) of 0.69 (95% confidence interval = 0.57–0.80, p <0 .01), with 80% sensitivity and 60% specificity. Glutathione S‐transferase mu 1 (GSTM1) is a target gene of miR‐423‐5p, which significantly decreased in the AZS group. Compared with Norm group, glutathione S‐transferase (GST) activity and total antioxidant capacity (TAC) level decreased, while malondialdehyde (MDA) level increased in the AZS group. Furthermore, GST activity and TAC level were negatively correlated with miR‐423‐5p expression, while MDA level was positively correlated with miR‐423‐5p expression. In conclusion, the sperm miR‐423‐5p level significantly was upregulated in asthenozoospermia. High‐level miR‐423‐5p inhibited sperm motility through targeting GSTM1 to promote oxidative stress.
The Diffusion of Components from Propellant and Liner at the Interfaces of EPDM Insulation
Authors: Gao Haitao , Chen Fuyin , Cai Rulin , Ye Sujuan , Tan Feng , Xiong Wenjie , Yi Yaoyong , Hu Wei
Published: January 2021

The diffusion coefficient is an important parameter in the field of migration and diffusion. Different diffusion theories have been established to estimate the diffusion coefficient, including the weight gain rate. However, the research was based on the migration of different solvents into simple polymers. Few reports focused on the migration of components from propellant and liner into ethylene‐propylene terpolymer (EPDM) insulation. In this paper, a new parameter named surface area diffusion rate was proposed to measure the migration of components from propellant and liner at interfaces of EPDM insulation, and the comparison with the traditional weight gain rate was made. The result shows that the surface area diffusion rate is independent of the shape of the material and is more reliable than previously used methods. Furthermore, the relationship of the surface area diffusion rate with time and temperature was investigated. In addition, the diffusion activation energy and the relationship of surface area diffusion rate with the bonding properties were discussed.
A Universal Model for DX‐Center Binding Energy in Cubic III–V Compounds
Authors: Karpov Sergey Yu.
Published: January 2021

Based on the approach suggested by Chadi and Chang, a simple analytical model is suggested for estimating binding energies of DX‐centers in n‐type zinc‐blende semiconductor alloys with direct–indirect bandgap transition. Comparison of the model predictions with numerous experiments shows the only adjustable model parameter to be independent of either kind of n‐type impurity or particular alloy. Though the nature of such a universality is not completely clear, the model can be helpful for practical estimations and modeling/simulation of semiconductor devices utilizing the ternary and quaternary compounds. Application of the model to wide‐bandgap zinc‐blende semiconductors reveals a general trend of decreasing DX‐center binding energy with the bandgap, resulting in narrowing the composition range of alloys where DX‐center formation dominates over that of conventional shallow donors. Considering DX‐centers with multiple‐charge impurity statistics enables accurate calculation of free electron concentration and concentration of ionized impurities in the space‐charge regions.
Spin Half‐Adder
Authors: Patra Moumita
Published: January 2021

A new proposal is given to design a spin half‐adder in a nanojunction. It is well known that at finite voltage a net circulating current (known as “circular current”) appears within a mesoscopic ring under the asymmetric ring‐to‐electrode interface configuration. This circular current induces a finite magnetic field at the center of the ring. Herein, this phenomenon is utilized to construct a spin half‐adder. The circular current–induced magnetic field is used to regulate the alignments of local free spins; by their orientations the output states of the “sum” and “carry” are specified. All the outputs are spin based; therefore, the results get atomically stored in the system. The experimental possibilities of the proposed model are also illustrated.
Spin‐Polarized Photoluminescence in Au25(SC8H9)18 Monolayer‐Protected Clusters
Authors: Herbert Patrick J. , Knappenberger Kenneth L.
Published: January 2021

Here, the observation of spin‐polarized emission for the Au25(SC8H9)18 monolayer‐protected cluster (MPC) is reported. Variable‐temperature variable‐field magnetic circular photoluminescence (VTV‐MCPL) measurements are combined with VT‐PL spectroscopy to provide state‐resolved characterization of the transient electronic structure and spin‐polarized electron‐hole recombination dynamics of Au25(SC8H9)18. Through analysis of VTV‐MCPL measurements, a low energy (1.64 eV) emission peak is assigned to intraband relaxation between core‐metal‐localized superatom‐D to ‐P orbitals. Two higher energy interband components (1.78 eV, 1.94 eV) are assigned to relaxation from superatom‐D orbitals to states localized to the inorganic semirings. For both intraband superatom‐based or interband relaxation mechanisms, the extent of spin‐polarization, quantified as the degree of circular polarization (DOCP), is determined by state‐specific electron‐vibration coupling strengths and energy separations of bright and dark electronic fine‐structure levels. At low temperatures (<60 K), metal–metal superatom‐based intraband transitions dominate the global PL emission. At higher temperatures (>60 K), interband ligand‐based emission is dominant. In the low‐temperature PL regime, increased sample temperature results in larger global PL intensity. In the high‐temperature regime, increased temperature quenches interband radiative recombination. The relative intensity for each PL mechanism is discussed in terms of state‐specific electronic‐vibrational coupling strengths and related to the total angular momentum, quantified by Landé g‐factors.
Super Composite: Carbon Fibre Infused 3D Printed Tectonics
Authors: Mohamed H. , Bao D. W. , Snooks R.
Published: January 2021

This research posits an innovative process of embedding carbon fibre as the primary structure within large-scale polymer 3D printed intricate architectural forms. The design and technical implications of this research are explored and demonstrated through two proto-architectural projects, Cloud Affects and Unclear Cloud, developed by the RMIT Architecture Snooks Research Lab. These projects are designed through a tectonic approach that we describe as a super composite – an approach that creates a compression of tectonics through algorithmic self-organisation and advanced manufacturing. Framed within a critical view of the lineage of polymer 3D printing and high tech fibres in the field of architectural design, the research outlines the limitations of existing robotic processes employed in contemporary carbon fibre fabrication. In response, the paper proposes an approach we describe as Infused Fibre Reinforced Plastic (IFRP) as a novel fabrication method for intricate geometries. This method involves 3D printing of sacrificial formwork conduits within the skin of complex architectural forms that are infused with continuous carbon fibre structural elements. Through detailed observation and critical review of Cloud Affects and Unclear Cloud (Fig. 2), the paper assesses innovations and challenges of this research in areas including printing, detailing, structural analysis and FEA modelling. The paper notes how these techniques have been refined through the iterative design of the two projects, including the development of fibre distribution mapping to optimise the structural performance.
Erratum to: The electro-weak couplings of the top and bottom quarks — global fit and future prospects
Authors: Durieux Gauthier , Irles Adrian , Miralles Víctor , Peñuelas Ana , Perelló Martín , Pöschl Roman , Vos Marcel
Published: January 2021

In the course of follow-up work a mistake was discovered in the parameterization of the dependence of the W-boson helicity fractions in top quark decays. The dependence on two operator coefficients, Cφtb and CbW, was erroneously omitted. Inclusion of this dependence leads to significantly stronger bounds on these operators from the current data and modifies also the HL-LHC prospects. The expectations for e+e− colliders are not affected. We present corrected results in this erratum.
Predictive Policing
Authors: Povalej Roman , Volkmann Dirk
Published: January 2021

Mit zunehmender Digitalisierung extendieren insbesondere die qualitativen und quantitativen Kriterien der polizeilichen Arbeit. Mathematische Algorithmen, wie Predictive Policing, halten immer mehr Einzug. Retrospektiv werden dabei eine effektivere und effizientere Ausdifferenzierung der Risikogebiete realisiert. Bei der prädiktiven Prognose werden mittels mathematischer Algorithmen Wahrscheinlichkeiten zur Ausweisung relevanter Risikogebiete bestimmt, die in Deutschland überwiegend raumbezogene, aber auch personenbezogene Verfahren implizieren. Im Rahmen einer Diskussion, z. T. am Beispiel des Phänomens Wohnungseinbruchdiebstähle, nähern wir uns inhaltlich dem Themenkomplex. Die Effizienz der fallspezifischen Datenanalyse implementiert die Registrierung immenser Datenmengen, die insbesondere durch die Qualität aber auch Quantität der relevanten Informationen eminent geprägt wird.
High spatial correlation in brain connectivity between micturition and resting states within bladder-related networks using 7 T MRI in multiple sclerosis women with voiding dysfunction
Authors: Shi Zhaoyue , Tran Khue , Karmonik Christof , Boone Timothy , Khavari Rose
Published: January 2021

Background

Several studies have reported brain activations and functional connectivity (FC) during micturition using functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) and concurrent urodynamics (UDS) testing. However, due to the invasive nature of UDS procedure, non-invasive resting-state fMRI is being explored as a potential alternative. The purpose of this study is to evaluate the feasibility of utilizing resting states as a non-invasive alternative for investigating the bladder-related networks in the brain.

Methods

We quantitatively compared FC in brain regions belonging to the bladder-related network during the following states: ‘strong desire to void’, ‘voiding initiation (or attempt at voiding initiation)’, and ‘voiding (or continued attempt of voiding)’ with FC during rest in nine multiple sclerosis women with voiding dysfunction using fMRI data acquired at 7 T and 3 T.

Results

The inter-subject correlation analysis showed that voiding (or continued attempt of voiding) is achieved through similar network connections in all subjects. The task-based bladder-related network closely resembles the resting-state intrinsic network only during voiding (or continued attempt of voiding) process but not at other states.

Conclusion

Resting states fMRI can be potentially utilized to accurately reflect the voiding (or continued attempt of voiding) network. Concurrent UDS testing is still necessary for studying the effects of strong desire to void and initiation of voiding (or attempt at initiation of voiding).
Quantitative volumetric analysis of the Golgi apparatus following X-ray irradiation by super-resolution 3D-SIM microscopy
Authors: Oike Takahiro , Uchihara Yuki , Permata Tiara Bunga Mayang , Gondhowiardjo Soehartati , Ohno Tatsuya , Shibata Atsushi
Published: January 2021

To obtain quantitative volumetric data for the Golgi apparatus after ionizing radiation (IR) using super-resolution three-dimensional structured illumination (3D-SIM) microscopy. Normal human retinal pigment epithelial (RPE) cells were irradiated with X-rays (10 Gy), followed by immunofluorescence staining of the Golgi marker RCAS1. 3D-SIM imaging was performed using DeltaVision OMX version 4 and SoftWoRx 6.1. Polygon rendering and spot signal identification were performed using Imaris 8.1.2. Differences between groups were assessed by Welch’s t test. RCAS1 signals in untreated cells were located adjacent to nuclei and showed a reticular morphology. Upon IR, the area of RCAS1 signals expanded while retaining the reticular morphology. Polygon rendering imaging revealed that the volume of RCAS1 at 48 h post-IR was greater than that for unirradiated cells (93.7 ± 19.0 μm3 vs. 33.0 ± 4.2 μm3, respectively; P < 0.001): a 2.8-fold increase. Spot signal imaging showed that the number of RCAS1 spot signals post-IR was greater than that for unirradiated cells [3.4 ± 0.8 (× 103) versus 1.3 ± 0.2 (× 103), respectively; P < 0.001]: a 2.7-fold increase. This is the first study to report quantitative volumetric data of the Golgi apparatus in response to IR using super-resolution 3D-SIM microscopy.
On the potential and constraints of mariculture development in Bangladesh
Authors: AftabUddin Sheikh , Hussain M. Gulam , Abdullah Al Mamun , Failler Pierre , Drakeford Benjamin M.
Published: January 2021

Development of a blue economy is firmly embedded in the development plans of Bangladesh. Advances in freshwater aquaculture have promoted Bangladesh to the fifth largest fish producer in the world. However, the marine resource base of Bangladesh, which is now even greater following the recent settling of disputes regarding maritime boundaries with neighbouring countries, lends itself to the development of marine aquaculture—known as mariculture. Several potential areas and opportunities for mariculture development have been identified for implementation under the concept of blue economy development in Bangladesh. We identify the most promising fish species as the hilsa shad (Tenualosa ilisha), seabass (Lates calcarifer) and the grey mullet (Mugil cephalus), and the shrimp species as black tiger shrimp (Penaeus monodon), brown shrimp (Metapenaeus monoceros), Indian white shrimp (Penaeus indicus) and the mud crab (Scylla serata). Further, some non-traditional marine species like seaweed, microalgae, shellfish (mussel, oyster) and the sea cucumber offer considerable potential. However, there remain major challenges and constraints that need to be addressed in order for mariculture to further develop and contribute to a growing blue economy in Bangladesh. Most notably, ministries, departments and research institutions, along with interested private entrepreneurs, must collaborate to formulate strategies for effective development and implementation, so that mariculture can contribute to food security and economic development through export opportunities.
Mark Making and Human Becoming
Authors: Malafouris Lambros
Published: January 2021

This is a paper about mark making and human becoming. I will be asking what do marks do? How do they signify? What role do marks play in human becoming and the evolution of human intelligence? These questions cannot be pursued effectively from the perspective of any single discipline or ontology. Nonetheless, they are questions that archaeology has a great deal to contribute. They are also important questions, if not the least because evidence of early mark making constitutes the favoured archaeological mark of the ‘cognitive’ (in the ‘modern’ representational sense of the word). In this paper I want to argue that the archaeological predilection to see mark making as a potential index of symbolic representation often blind us to other, more basic dimensions of the cognitive life and agency of those marks as material signs. Drawing on enactive cognitive science and Material Engagement Theory I will show that early markings, such as the famous engravings from Blombos cave, are above all the products of kinesthetic dynamics of a non-representational sort that allow humans to engage and discover the semiotic affordances of mark making opening up new possibilities of enactive material signification. I will also indicate some common pitfalls in the way archaeology thinks about the ‘cognitive’ that needs overcome.
Investigation on the optical, spectral, electrical, mechanical, and laser damage threshold studies of bis (4-acetylanilinium) tetrachloridozincate (B4ATCZ) crystal
Authors: Suriya M. , Manimaran M. , Boaz B. Milton , Murugesan K. Sakthi
Published: January 2021

An efficient semi-organic nonlinear optical bis (4-acetylanilinium) tetrachloridozincate [(C8H10NO)2 ZnCl4] (B4ATCZ) single crystal was synthesized and successfully grown by the slow evaporation method. The single-crystal X-ray diffraction data confirm that B4ATCZ crystallized into an orthorhombic crystal system (Cmca). The UV–Vis–NIR transmittance spectrum was taken to assess the optical transmission, cut-off wavelength, and bandgap energy. The TG–DSC investigation ensures that the B4ATCZ is stable up to 235 °C. The mechanical behavior of the B4ATCZ compound was determined by Vickers Microhardness analysis. The surface laser-induced damage threshold value of the grown B4ATCZ crystal was endowed to be 19.78 GW/cm2 on testing with 1064 nm Nd: YAG laser radiation. The positive photoconductive properties and charge transport mechanism of B4ATCZ crystal were analyzed through photoconductivity and dielectric studies. The electron excitation and lifetime measurements of the molecules in the B4ATCZ crystal were studied by fluorescence spectral analysis. The HOMO–LUMO analysis evidently interprets the occurrence of N–H⋯O and N–H⋯Cl intermolecular hydrogen bonds influencing the charge transfer in the system. The electrostatic potential surface reveals the possible sites for hydrogen bonding electrophilic and nucleophilic interactions. Third-order nonlinear optical activity evaluated by the Z-scan measurements indicates the self-focusing and reverse saturable absorption in the crystal. The aforesaid results affirm that the metal-organic B4ATCZ is a potential material for optoelectronic and nonlinear optical device applications.
Dutch utility weights for the EORTC cancer-specific utility instrument: the Dutch EORTC QLU-C10D
Authors: Jansen Femke , Verdonck-de Leeuw Irma M. , Gamper Eva , Norman Richard , Holzner Bernhard , King Madeleine , Kemmler Georg ,   the European Organisation for Research and Treatment of Cancer (EORTC) Quality of Life Group
Published: January 2021

Purpose

To measure utilities among cancer patients, a cancer-specific utility instrument called the European Organization for Research and Treatment of Cancer (EORTC) QLU-C10D has been developed based on EORTC quality of life core module (QLQ-C30). This study aimed to provide Dutch utility weights for the QLU-C10D.

Methods

A cross-sectional valuation study was performed in 1017 participants representative in age and gender of the Dutch general population. The valuation method was a discrete choice experiment containing 960 choice sets, i.e. pairs of QLU-C10D health states, each health state described in terms of the 10 QLU-C10D domains and the duration of that health state. Each participant considered 16 choice sets, choosing their preferred health state from each pair. Utility scores were derived using generalized estimation equation models. Non-monotonic levels were combined.

Results

Utility decrements were generated for all 10 QLU-C10D domains, with largest decrements for pain (− 0.242), physical functioning (− 0.228), and role functioning (− 0.149). Non-monotonic levels of emotional functioning, pain, fatigue, sleep problems, and appetite loss were combined. No decrement in utility was seen in case of a little or quite a bit impairment in emotional functioning or a little pain. The mean QLU-C10D utility score of the participants was 0.85 (median = 0.91, interquartile range = 0.82 to 0.96).

Conclusion

Dutch utility decrements were generated for the QLU-C10D. These are important for evaluating the cost-utility of new cancer treatments and supportive care interventions. Further insight is warranted into the added value of the QLU-C10D alongside other utility instruments.
The complexity of frugal colouring
Authors: Bard Stefan , MacGillivray Gary , Redlin Shayla
Published: January 2021

A t-frugal colouring of a graph G is an assignment of colours to the vertices of G, such that each colour appears at most t times in the neighbourhood of any vertex. A dichotomy theorem for the complexity of deciding whether a graph has a 1-frugal colouring with k colours was found by McCormick and Thomas, and then later extended to restricted graph classes by Kratochvil and Siggers. We generalize the McCormick and Thomas theorem by proving a dichotomy theorem for the complexity of deciding whether a graph has a t-frugal colouring with k colours, for all pairs of positive integers t and k. We also generalize bounds of Lih et al. for the number of colours needed in a 1-frugal colouring of a given $$K_4$$

K
4

-minor-free graph with maximum degree $$\Delta $$
Δ
to t-frugal colourings, for any positive integer t.
Atypical Gunshot Injury Traversing the Neck with an Unexpected Nonlinear Bullet Trajectory: a Case Report and Review of the Literature
Authors: Matsui Yuuki , Iguchi Sena , Sato Emiri , Sato Yoichiro , Shindo Ken , Ishida Michiko , Saito Yutaka , Nakamura Kazuki , Kushima Yu , Nishiwaki Masao , Imanishi Yorihisa
Published: January 2021

Gunshot injuries involving the head and neck region yield profound morbidity and mortality rates. Projectile-related factors comprising various physical and dynamic properties of a bullet, as well as tissue-related factors, determine the disruptive effects of projectiles on living tissues. We experienced an extremely unusual case of a gunshot injury to the neck, wherein the bullet transversely penetrated across the deep neck structures to the contralateral side of the shoulder without damaging any vital organs. A 51-year-old man presented with a gunshot wound to the neck from a point-blank range. A bullet entry hole was observed on the left side of the neck without an exit hole; however, the patient was conscious, vital signs were normal, and no active bleeding, cranial nerve palsy, or aero-digestive tract injury was found. Imaging tests revealed a bullet lying in front of the right humeral head, which was extracted by emergency surgery. The patient was uneventfully discharged. According to the localization of the damaged tissues and the positional relationship between the bullet’s entrance and its destination, the bullet was estimated to have nonlinearly traversed the neck by traveling through the interstructural spaces associated with the least tissue resistance. Our experience strongly suggests the importance of realizing the unpredictable nature of a bullet trajectory in a body. An appropriate understanding of various ballistic factors and wounding mechanisms can be of great help in the adequate assessment and management of patients with gunshot injuries.
Influence of frying parameters and optimization of deep fat frying conditions on the physicochemical and textural properties of chicken nuggets from FUNAAB-Alpha broilers
Authors: Faloye O. R. , Sobukola O. P. , Shittu T. A. , Bakare H. A.
Published: January 2021

Influence of deep fat frying parameters on quality attributes of chicken nuggets from FUNAAB-Alpha broilers and optimization of the process using Box-Behnken experimental design of response surface methodology was investigated. Fried chicken nuggets were obtained using frying temperature (155–175 °C), frying time (3–7 min) and sample thickness (0.5–2.5 cm) as independent variables. Oil and moisture contents, texture (hardness, chewiness, adhesiveness, cohesiveness and springiness) and colour (L*, a* and b*) of samples were analyzed using standard procedures. Significance of each term in polynomial regression equations was evaluated on quality attributes. The accuracy of the regression models varied between 0.727 and 0.939. The effect of frying temperature on quality attributes of fried chicken nuggets was more significant (p > 0.05). The optimum frying temperature, frying time and sample thickness are determined as 175 °C, 3 min, 2.32 cm, respectively. Absolute percent error between optimized and experimental data were within the acceptable limit.

Graphic abstract
Biologia futura: embryo–maternal communication via progesterone-induced blocking factor (PIBF) positive embryo-derived extracellular vesicles. Their role in maternal immunomodulation
Authors: Szekeres-Bartho Julia , Csabai Timea , Gorgey Eva
Published: January 2021

Paternal antigens expressed by the foetus are recognized as foreign. Therefore,—according to the rules of transplantation immunity—the foetus ought to be “rejected”. However, during normal gestation, maternal immune functions are re-adjusted, in order to create a favourable environment for the developing foetus. Some of the mechanisms that contribute to the altered immunological environment, for example, the cytokine balance and NK cell function, with special emphasis on the role of progesterone and the progesterone-induced blocking factor (PIBF) will be reviewed.
Selective Harvesting Robotics: Current Research, Trends, and Future Directions
Authors: Kootstra Gert , Wang Xin , Blok Pieter M. , Hemming Jochen , van Henten Eldert
Published: January 2021

Purpose of Review

The world-wide demand for agricultural products is rapidly growing. However, despite the growing population, labor shortage becomes a limiting factor for agricultural production. Further automation of agriculture is an important solution to tackle these challenges.

Recent Findings

Selective harvesting of high-value crops, such as apples, tomatoes, and broccoli, is currently mainly performed by humans, rendering it one of the most labor-intensive and expensive agricultural tasks. This explains the large interest in the development of selective harvesting robots. Selective harvesting, however, is a challenging task for a robot, due to the high levels of variation and incomplete information, as well as safety.

This review paper provides an overview of the state of the art in selective harvesting robotics in three different production systems; greenhouse, orchard, and open field. The limitations of current systems are discussed, and future research directions are proposed.
Use of flexible work practices and employee outcomes: the role of work–life balance and employee age
Authors: Ferdous Tahrima , Ali Muhammad , French Erica
Published: January 2021

Flexible work practices (FWPs) give employees some control over when and where they work. Using boundary theory and role balance theory, this study proposes and tests a mediation model focusing on how the relationships between FWPs usage and employee outcomes (i.e., wellbeing and turnover intention) are mediated by work−life balance (WLB). It also tests the moderating role of employee age on the relationship between WLB and employee outcomes using socioemotional selectivity theory. The model was tested using survey data from 293 employees of an Australian for-profit organization. The findings indicate that FWPs usage is positively associated with WLB, WLB is positively associated with wellbeing and negatively with turnover intentions, and WLB partially mediates the relationships between FWPs usage and employee outcomes. The results provide partial support that employee age moderates the relationship between WLB and turnover intentions. Theoretical, research and practical contributions are discussed.
Fighting Words: Pro-Choice Cause Lawyering, Legal-Framing Innovations, and Hostile Political-Legal Contexts
Authors: McCammon Holly J. , Beeson-Lynch Cathryn
Published: January 2021

Drawing on social-movement and sociolegal theorizing, we investigate legal-framing innovations in the briefs of reproductive-rights cause lawyers in prominent US Supreme Court abortion cases. Our results show that pro-choice activist attorneys engage in innovative women’s-rights framing when the political-legal context is more resistant to abortion rights for women, that is, when the political-legal opportunity structure is generally closed to reproductive-rights activism. We consider reproductive-rights framing in three types of pivotal abortion cases over the last half-century: challenges to limitations on public funding of abortion, challenges to regulations that include multiple restrictions on abortion access, and challenges to bans on second-trimester abortions. Our analysis proceeds both qualitatively and quantitatively, with close reading of the briefs to distill the main women’s-rights frames, a count analysis using text mining to examine use of the frames in the briefs, and assessment of the political-judicial context to discern its influence on cause-lawyer legal framing. We conclude by theorizing the importance of the broader political-legal context in understanding cause-lawyer legal-framing innovations.
Violation of the Global Ceasefire in Nagorno-Karabagh: A Viral Amplification of Aggression
Authors: Chekijian Sharon , Bazarchyan Alexander
Published: January 2021

On March 23, 2020, the United Nations (UN) made an “Appeal for a Global Ceasefire following the Outbreak of Coronavirus.” Despite this appeal, the Nagorno-Karabagh war was instigated on September 27, 2020. This Guest Editorial frames the conflict in the context of the UN appeal and by introducing a figure that plots seven-day average coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) cases overlaid with key inflection points to illustrate the clear impact that conflict has had on pandemic spread in Armenia. The conflict in Nagorno-Karabagh provides a timely, concise, and illustrative example of conflict and its impact on health. Finally, an argument is made that the ability to enforce the UN “Appeal for a Global Ceasefire” is essential to ensure global health and security.
Dissociation of Proactive and Reactive Cognitive Control in Individuals with Schizotypy: An Event-Related Potential Study
Authors: Jia Lu-xia , Qin Xiao-jing , Cui Ji-fang , Shi Hai-song , Ye Jun-yan , Yang Tian-xiao , Wang Ya , Chan Raymond C. K.
Published: January 2021

Objective:

Patients with schizophrenia and individuals with schizotypy, a subclinical group at risk for schizophrenia, have been found to have impairments in cognitive control. The Dual Mechanisms of Cognitive Control (DMC) framework hypothesises that cognitive control can be divided into proactive and reactive control. However, it is unclear whether individuals with schizotypy have differential behavioural impairments and neural correlates underlying these two types of cognitive control.

Method:

Twenty-five individuals with schizotypy and 26 matched healthy controls (HCs) completed both reactive and proactive control tasks with electroencephalographic data recorded. The proportion of congruent and incongruent trials was manipulated in a classic colour-word Stroop task to induce proactive or reactive control. Proactive control was induced in a context with mostly incongruent (MI) trials and reactive control in a context with mostly congruent (MC) trials. Two event-related potential (ERP) components, medial frontal negativity (MFN, associated with conflict detection) and conflict sustained potential (conflict SP, associated with conflict resolution) were examined.

Results:

There was no significant difference between the two groups in terms of behavioural results. In terms of ERP results, in the MC context, HC exhibited significantly larger MFN (360–530 ms) and conflict SP (600–1000 ms) amplitudes than individuals with schizotypy. The two groups did not show any significant difference in MFN or conflict SP in the MI context.

Conclusions:

The present findings provide initial evidence for dissociation of neural activation between proactive and reactive cognitive control in individuals with schizotypy. These findings help us understand cognitive control deficits in the schizophrenia spectrum.
Community midwives’ and health visitors’ experiences of research recruitment: a qualitative exploration using the Theoretical Domains Framework
Authors: Rose Jennie , Lynn Kieran , Akister Jane , Maxton Fiona , Redsell Sarah A.
Published: January 2021

Background:

Successful research is frequently hampered by poor study recruitment, especially in community settings and with participants who are women and their children. Health visitors (HVs) and community midwives (CMs) are well placed to invite young families, and pregnant and postnatal women to take part in such research, but little is known about how best to support these health professionals to do this effectively.

Aim:

This study uses the Theoretical Domains Framework (TDF) to explore the factors that influence whether HVs and CMs invite eligible patients to take part in research opportunities.

Method:

HVs (n = 39) and CMs (n = 22) working in four NHS Trusts and one community partnership in England completed an anonymous, online survey with open-ended questions about their experiences of asking eligible patients to take part in the research. Qualitative data were analysed using directed content analysis and inductive coding to identify specific barriers and enablers to patient recruitment within each of the 14 theoretical domains.

Findings:

Six key TDF domains accounted for 81% of all coded responses. These were (a) environmental context and resources; (b) beliefs about capabilities; (c) social/professional role and identity; (d) social influences; (e) goals; (f) knowledge. Key barriers to approaching patients to participate in the research were time and resource constraints, perceived role conflict, conflicting priorities, and particularly for HVs, negative social influences from patients and researchers. Enablers included feeling confident to approach patients, positive influence from peers, managers and researchers, beliefs in the relevance of this behaviour to health care and practice and good knowledge about the study procedures, its rationale and the research topic. The findings suggest that to improve research recruitment involving HVs and CMs, a package of interventions is needed to address the barriers and leverage the enablers to participant approach.
Development in astronomy in Ethiopia and East-Africa through nuclear activity in galaxies
Authors: Pović Mirjana
Published: January 2021

In this paper we summarise the research that is currently going on in Ethiopia and East-Africa in extragalactic astronomy and physics of active galaxies and active galactic nuclei (AGN). The study is focused on some of the still open questions such as: what are the stellar ages and populations of ultra hard X-ray detected AGN and connection between AGN and their host galaxies?, what are the properties of AGN in galaxy clusters and the role that environment has in triggering nuclear activity?, what are the morphological properties of AGN and how precisely we can deal with morphological classification of active galaxies?, what are the properties of galaxies in the green valley and the role of AGN in galaxy evolution?, and what are the properties of radio-loud and radio-quiet quasars (QSO) and dichotomy between the two?. Each of these questions has been developed under one specific project that will be briefly introduced. These projects involve 6 PhD and 3 MSc students and collaborations between Ethiopia, Rwanda, South Africa, Uganda, Tanzania, Spain, Italy, and Chile. With all projects we aim: first, to contribute to our general knowledge about AGN, and second, to contribute to the development in astronomy and science in Ethiopia and East-Africa.
Star formation and AGN activities in selected nearby HII galaxies in the LeMMINGS survey
Authors: Obi Ikechukwu
Published: January 2021

We investigate the relative fraction of the emission generated by star formation and nuclear activities in 6 nearby HII galaxies selected from the first high resolution radio data release of LeMMINGS, the Legacy e-MERLIN Multi-band Imaging of Nearby Galaxies Survey. These galaxies are supposed to be powered solely by star formation according to the BPT diagram but exhibit jetted morphologies on parsec scales indicating the presence of a low luminosity AGN. We further carried out a multi-wavelength SED fiiting and analysis using the CIGALE code, estimating stellar masses and star formation rates.
Towards a new paradigm of dust structure in AGN: Dissecting the mid-IR emission of Circinus galaxy
Authors: Stalevski Marko , Asmus Daniel , Tristram Konrad R. W.
Published: January 2021

Recent mid-infrared (MIR) observations of nearby active galactic nuclei (AGN), revealed that their dust emission appears prominently extended in the polar direction, at odds with the expectations from the canonical dusty torus. This polar dust, tentatively associated with dusty winds driven by radiation pressure, is found to have a major contribution to the MIR flux from a few to hundreds of parsecs. One such source with a clear detection of polar dust is a nearby, well-known AGN in the Circinus galaxy. We proposed a phenomenological model consisting of a compact, thin dusty disk and a large-scale polar outflow in the form of a hyperboloid shell and demonstrated that such a model is able to explain the peculiar MIR morphology on large scales seen by VLT/VISIR and the interferometric data from VLTI/MIDI that probe the small scales. Our results call for caution when attributing dust emission of unresolved sources entirely to the torus and warrant further investigation of the MIR emission in the polar regions of AGN.
A new tool to derive chemical abundances in type-2 active galactic nuclei
Authors: García-Benito Rubén , Pérez-Montero Enrique , Dors Oli L. , Vlchez José M. , Cardaci Monica V. , Hägele Guillermo F.
Published: January 2021

Abstarct

We present a new tool for the analysis of the optical emission lines of the gas in the Narrow Line Region (NLR) around Active Galactic Nuclei (AGNs). This new tool can be used in large samples of objects in a consistent way using different sets of optical emission-lines taking into the account possible variations from the O/H - N/O relation. The code compares certain observed emission-line ratios with the predictions from a large grid of photoionization models calculated under the most usual conditions in the NLR of AGNs to calculate the total oxygen abundance, nitrogen-to-oxygen ratio and ionization parameter. We applied our method to a sample of Seyfert 2 galaxies with optical emission-line fluxes from the literature. Our results confirm the high metallicity of the objects of the sample and provide consistent values with the direct method. The usage of models to calculate precise ICFs is mandatory when only optical emission lines are available to derive chemical abundances using the direct method in NLRs of AGN.
AGN1 vs AGN2 dichotomy as seen from the point of view of ionized outflows
Authors: Sani Eleonora
Published: January 2021

I present a detailed study of ionized outflows in a large sample of 650 hard X-ray detected AGN. Taking advantage of the legacy value of the BAT AGN Spectroscopic Survey (BASS, DR1), we are able to reveal the faintest wings of the [OIII] emission lines associated with outflows. The sample allows us to derive the incidence of outflows covering a wide range of AGN bolometric luminosity and test how the outflow parameters are related with various AGN power tracers, such as black hole mass, Eddington ratio, luminosity. I’ll show how ionized outflows are more frequently found in type 1.9 and type 1 AGN (50% and 40%) with respect to the low fraction in type 2 AGN (20%). Within such a framework, I’ll demonstrate how type 2 AGN outflows are almost evenly balanced between blue- and red-shifted winds. This, in strong contrast with type 1 and type 1.9 AGN outflows which are almost exclusively blue-shifted. Finally, I’ll prove how the outflow occurrence is driven by the accretion rate, whereas the dependence of outflow properties with respect to the other AGN power tracers happens to be quite mild.
Discovery of new changing look in NGC 1566
Authors: Oknyansky Victor L. , Tsygankov Sergey S. , Lipunov Vladimir M. , Gorbovskoy Evgeny S. , Tyurina Nataly V.
Published: January 2021

We present continuation of the multi-wavelength (from X-ray to optical) monitoring of the nearby changing look (CL) active galactic nucleus in the galaxy NGC 1566 performed with the Neil Gehrels Swift Observatory,the MASTER Global Robotic Network over the period 2007–2019. We also present continuation of optical spectroscopy using the South African Astronomical Observatory 1.9-m telescope between Aug. 2018 and Mar. 2019. We investigate remarkable re-brightenings in of the light curve following the decline from the bright phase observed at Dec. 2018 and at the end of May 2019. For the last optical spectra (31 Nov. 2018–28 Mar. 2019) we see dramatic changes compared to 2 Aug. 2018, accompanied by the fading of broad emission lines and high-ionization [FeX]6374Å line. Effectively, one more CL was observed for this object: changing from Sy1.2 to the low state as Sy 1.8–Sy1.9 type. Some possible explanations of the observed CL are discussed.
The BLR physics from the long-term optical monitoring of type-1 AGN
Authors: Ilić Dragana
Published: January 2021

The variation of optical continuum and broad emission lines is observed in all type 1 active galactic nuclei (AGN). In some cases even extreme variability is detected when broad-line profiles completely disappear as is the case in the co-called changing-look AGN, which raise new question on the theoretical model of AGN. This variability is an important tool to study the physics and geometry of the broad line region (BLR), e.g. it can be used to estimate its size through the reverberation mapping technique. Especially, long-term campaigns give new insights, like the detection of the periodic signals or discoveries of changing-look AGN. Here we will present the results of our long-term monitoring campaign of several well-known AGN, as e.g. NGC 3516 for which we confirm that it is the changing-look AGN, putting special attention of the applications for future large time-domain spectroscopic surveys, like the MaunaKea Spectroscopic Explorer project.
Properties of X-ray detected far-IR AGN in the green valley
Authors: Mahoro Antoine , Pović Mirjana , Väisänen Petri , Nkundabakura Pheneas , Nyiransengiyumva Beatrice , van der Heyden Kurt
Published: January 2021

In this study, we analysed active galactic nuclei in the “green valley” by comparing active and non-active galaxies using data from the COSMOS field. We found that most of our X-ray detected active galactic nuclei with far-infrared emission have star formation rates higher than the ones of normal galaxies of the same stellar mass range.