bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Long-term stable, synchronizable, low-noise picosecond Ho:fiber NALM oscillator for Ho:YLF amplifier seeding
Authors: Mahnke Christoph , Hua Yi , Ma Yuxuan , Salman Sarper , Lamb Thorsten , Schulz Sebastian , Heyl Christoph M. , Cankaya Huseyin , Hartl Ingmar
Published: January 2022

We demonstrate a 41.6 MHz, 1.3 ps, 140 pJ Ho:fiber oscillator using a nonlinear amplifying loop mirror (NALM) as saturable absorber. The oscillator is constructed entirely with polarization-maintaining (PM) fibers, is tunable with a center wavelength between 2035 nm and 2075 nm, and can be synchronized to an external RF reference. For our application of Ho:YLF amplifier seeding for dielectric electron acceleration, the laser is tuned to 2050 nm and synchronized to a stable RF reference with 45 fs rms timing jitter in the integration interval [10 Hz, 1 MHz]. We show long term synchronized operation and characterize the relative intensity noise (RIN) and timing jitter of the oscillator for two different Tm-fiber pump lasers.
Control of polarization switching in a VCSEL via resonant feedback from a whispering-gallery-mode cavity
Authors: Jiang Lidan , Shi Leilei , Huang Dongmei , Luo Jing , Gao Qirui , Lan Tianyi , Bai Miaoxin , Li Jiali , Dang Laiyang , Huang Ligang , Deng Ming , Yin Guolu , Zhu Tao
Published: January 2022

We report a method for flexibly switching the dominant polarization of a vertical-cavity surface-emitting laser (VCSEL) by introducing polarization-resolved resonant optical feedback from a whispering-gallery-mode (WGM) cavity to the lasing cavity. Switching between the originally dominant mode and a side mode is experimentally demonstrated under different bias currents once one of them is locked to the resonance mode of the WGM cavity. In addition to a controllable polarization state, the reported VCSEL also demonstrates a linewidth as narrow as tens of kilohertz, which is highly desirable for many applications, including high-speed data communication, light detection and ranging (lidar), and absorption spectroscopy.
Epidemiology of West Nile virus in Africa: An underestimated threat
Authors: Mencattelli Giulia , Ndione Marie Henriette Dior , Rosà Roberto , Marini Giovanni , Diagne Cheikh Tidiane , Diagne Moussa Moise , Fall Gamou , Faye Ousmane , Diallo Mawlouth , Faye Oumar , Savini Giovanni , Rizzoli Annapaola
Published: January 2022

Background

West Nile virus is a mosquito-borne flavivirus which has been posing continuous challenges to public health worldwide due to the identification of new lineages and clades and its ability to invade and establish in an increasing number of countries. Its current distribution, genetic variability, ecology, and epidemiological pattern in the African continent are only partially known despite the general consensus on the urgency to obtain such information for quantifying the actual disease burden in Africa other than to predict future threats at global scale.

Methodology and principal findings

References were searched in PubMed and Google Scholar electronic databases on January 21, 2020, using selected keywords, without language and date restriction. Additional manual searches of reference list were carried out. Further references have been later added accordingly to experts’ opinion. We included 153 scientific papers published between 1940 and 2021.

This review highlights: (i) the co-circulation of WNV-lineages 1, 2, and 8 in the African continent; (ii) the presence of diverse WNV competent vectors in Africa, mainly belonging to theCulexgenus; (iii) the lack of vector competence studies for several other mosquito species found naturally infected with WNV in Africa; (iv) the need of more competence studies to be addressed on ticks; (iv) evidence of circulation of WNV among humans, animals and vectors in at least 28 Countries; (v) the lack of knowledge on the epidemiological situation of WNV for 19 Countries and (vii) the importance of carrying out specific serological surveys in order to avoid possible bias on WNV circulation in Africa.

Conclusions

This study provides the state of art on WNV investigation carried out in Africa, highlighting several knowledge gaps regarding i) the current WNV distribution and genetic diversity, ii) its ecology and transmission chains including the role of different arthropods and vertebrate species as competent reservoirs, and iii) the real disease burden for humans and animals. This review highlights the needs for further research and coordinated surveillance efforts on WNV in Africa.
Spatiotemporal association of rapid urbanization and water-body distribution on hemorrhagic fever with renal syndrome: A case study in the city of Xi’an, China
Authors: Shen Li , Sun Minghao , Wei Xiao , Bai Yao , Hu Qingwu , Song Shuxuan , Gao Boxuan , Zhang Weilu , Liu Jifeng , Shao Zhongjun , Liu Kun
Published: January 2022

Hemorrhagic fever with renal syndrome (HFRS) is a zoonosis characterized by clinical features of high fever, hemorrhage, and renal damage. China has the largest number of HFRS cases worldwide, accounting for over 90% of the total reported cases. In this paper, we used surveyed HFRS data and satellite imagery to conduct geostatistical analysis for investigating the associations of rapid urbanization, water bodies, and other factors on the spatiotemporal dynamics of HFRS from year 2005 to 2018 in Xi’an City, Northwest China. The results revealed an evident epidemic aggregation in the incidence of HFRS within Xi’an City with a phenomenal fluctuation in periodic time series. Rapid urbanization was found to greatly affect the HFRS incidence in two different time phases. HFRS caused by urbanization influences farmers to a lesser extent than it does to non-farmers. The association of water bodies with the HFRS incidence rate was found to be higher within the radii of 696.15 m and 1575.39 m, which represented significant thresholds. The results also showed that geomatics approaches can be used for spatiotemporally investigating the HFRS dynamic characteristics and supporting effective allocations of resources to formulate strategies for preventing epidemics.
Trade-offs between economic, environmental and social sustainability on farms using a latent class frontier efficiency model: Evidence for Spanish crop farms
Authors: Ait Sidhoum Amer , Dakpo K. Hervé , Latruffe Laure
Published: January 2022

This article studies trade-offs of farms in terms of economic sustainability (proxied here by technical efficiency), environmental sustainability (proxied here by farmers’ commitment towards the environment) and social sustainability (proxied here by farmers’ contribution to on farm well-being and communities’ well-being). We use the latent class stochastic frontier model and create classes based on three separating variables, representing farms’ environmental sustainability and social sustainability. The application to a sample of Spanish crop farms shows that more environmentally sustainable farms are likely to have lower levels of technical efficiency. However, improvements in social concerns, both towards own farm and the larger community, may lead to improved technical efficiency levels. In general, our study provides evidence of trade-offs for farms between economic sustainability and environmental sustainability, but also between environmental sustainability and social sustainability.
Agentes protectores del menor y redes sociales. El dilema de TiKToK
Authors: Martín-Ramallal Pablo , Ruiz-Mondaza Mercedes
Published: January 2022

Los menores de edad deben disfrutar de todos los derechos y libertades, y se les deben facilitar garantías para su autorrealización. Los vídeos en redes sociales pasan a ser el escaparate donde proyectan su personalidad e inquietudes. Los jóvenes encuentran en las Tecnologías de la Información y Comunicación las herramientas y lenguajes con los que desarrollar su creatividad y socializarse. El artículo pone el foco en los sistemas de protección que ofrece TiKToK a los menores de edad dada su penetración entre estos. En la fase de resultados se ha realizado un análisis basado en una revisión de las “Condiciones de Uso” y demás instrumentos, confrontadas todas mediante los agentes protectores de los jóvenes cerrando a través de una breve exposición de casos. Se han observado diversos vídeos creados y redifundidos por menores. Como discusión, el trabajo arroja que TiKToK presenta algunas cuestiones que no se ajustan a rigor respecto al marco específico en el que opera, optando por presentar normas generales para contextos en los que hubiera sido deseable mayor concreción. Concluimos reconociendo que TiKToK realiza esfuerzos por controlar el acceso de los menores, así como los contenidos que generan y consumen, pero no siempre se cumple dicha disyuntiva.
Regulación y autorregulación en la creación de contenidos de menores en plataformas digitales [Editorial]
Authors: Martínez-Pastor Esther , Cetina-Presuel Rodrigo , Castelló-Martínez Araceli
Published: January 2022

El fenómeno de los menores influyentes en las plataformas de vídeos experimenta un crecimiento imparable en el consumo, la actividad, la presencia de marcas alrededor de estos contenidos y la capacidad de influencia y transformación social de algunos contenidos. Todo ello también incrementa la problemática derivada, por ser un fenómeno parcialmente previsto en la normativa vigente. Existen nuevos y emergentes retos investigadores para el colectivo de los públicos involucrados: menores creadores de contenidos, padres, madres o tutores legales, profesionales del medio YouTube, seguidores, docentes e investigadores y sociedad en general. Ser youtuber es una de las cinco profesiones más deseadas por los niños españoles (Adecco, 2021). Inmersos en la cultura de la participación (Jenkins, 2006; Aparici y Osuna-Acedo, 2013), YouTube ofrece un espacio accesible donde almacenar estos contenidos y permite a los usuarios interactuar con ellos al buscar, compartir y comentar contenidos audiovisuales alrededor de los cuales dichos usuarios construyen comunidades.  Los/as menores creadores expresan su identidad con vídeos que reflejan su forma de ver la vida e influyen en la comunidad de seguidores (Tur-Viñes, Nuñez- Gómez y González-Río, 2018). Este sociosistema se basa en contenidos audiovisuales con marcadas implicaciones para la publicidad y su  regulación y autorregulación. El presente monográfico cumple el objetivo de acercarse al marco normativo y a las iniciativas de autorregulación sobre los menores creadores de contenidos, desde una perspectiva audiovisual, publicitaria y educomunicativa. Este fenómeno ha suscitado la necesidad de reformar normativas de la Unión Europea como la Directiva de Comercio Electrónico, la Directiva de Servicios de Medios Audiovisuales y el Reglamento de Protección de Datos (GDPR), de cambiar políticas en plataformas para ajustarlas a la normativa COPPA -en el caso de EEUU-y de redactar códigos de autorregulación por diversas entidades, muchas veces impulsadas por la interacción, o como resultado de, las acciones de entes regulatorios como la FTC en los Estados Unidos. En torno a dicho marco normativo, el presente monográfico aborda temas relacionados con la publicidad, la protección de los datos personales y de la privacidad y las responsabilidades de los diferentes sujetos que participan de esta realidad, así como el papel de las Administraciones y de los padres de los menores.
Cancellation of Towing Ship Interference in Passive SONAR in a Shallow Ocean Environment
Authors: M. Remadevi , Sureshkumar N. , Rajesh R. , Santhanakrishnan T.
Published: January 2022

Towed array sonars are preferred for detecting stealthy underwater targets that emit faint acoustic signals in the ocean, especially in shallow waters. However, the towing ship being near to the array behaves as a loud target, introducing additional interfering signals to the array, severely affecting the detection and classification of potential targets. Canceling this underlying interference signal is a challenging task and is investigated in this paper for a shallow ocean operational scenario where the problem is more critical due to the multipath phenomenon. A method exploiting the eigenvector analysis of spatio-temporal covariance matrix based on space time adaptive processing is proposed for suppressing tow ship interference and thus improving target detection. The developed algorithm learns the interference patterns in the presence of target signals to mitigate the interference across azimuth and to remove the spectral leakage of own-ship. The algorithm is statistically analyzed through a set of relevant metrics and is tested on simulated data that are equivalent to the data received by a towed linear array of acoustic sensors in a shallow ocean. The results indicate a reduction of 20-25dB in the tow ship interference power while the detection of long-range low SNR targets remain largely unaffected with minimal power-loss. In addition, it is demonstrated that the spectral leakage of tow ship, on multiple beams across the azimuth, due to multipath, is also alleviated leading to superior classification capabilities. The robustness of the proposed algorithm is validated by the open ocean experiment in the coastal shallow region of the Arabian Sea at Off-Kochi area of India, which produced results in close agreement with the simulations. A comparison of the simulation and experimental results with the existing PCI and ECA methods is also carried out, suggesting the proposed method is quite effective in suppressing the tow ship interference and is immensely beneficial for the detection and classification of long-range targets.
Dataset Evaluation for Multi Vehicle Detection using Vision Based Techniques
Authors: Nine Julkar , Kishor Anapunje Aarti
Published: January 2022

Vehicle detection is one of the primal challenges of modern driver-assistance systems owing to the numerous factors, for instance, complicated surroundings, diverse types of vehicles with varied appearance and magnitude, low-resolution videos, fast-moving vehicles. It is utilized for multitudinous applications including traffic surveillance and collision prevention. This paper suggests a Vehicle Detection algorithm developed on Image Processing and Machine Learning. The presented algorithm is predicated on a Support Vector Machine(SVM) Classifier which employs feature vectors extracted via Histogram of Gradients(HOG) approach conducted on a semi-real time basis. A comparison study is presented stating the performance metrics of the algorithm on different datasets.
Multiple Sklerose und körperliche Aktivität
Authors: van der Ven E. , Riemann-Lorenz K. , Rosenkranz S. C. , Patra S. , Heesen C.
Published: January 2022

Multiple sclerosis and physical activity: A German-wide survey on the behaviour, barriers and desires of those affected Background: Physical activity (PA) has beneficial effects on many disease related symptoms in people with multiple sclerosis (pwMS). Physical parameters – such as muscle strength, endurance, and balance – as well as fatigue, depression and neurocognitive functioning, can be positively influenced by regular PA. Nevertheless, pwMS are less physically active than the general population. The reasons for this are not well understood. Hypothesis: We hypothesized that beside personal factors, environmental factors such as transport and access to exercise facilities probably are responsible for the widespread physical inactivity among people with MS. The perception of environmental barriers could be influenced by the place of residence (city/rural area) or the degree of physical impairment. Methods: Between April and October 2017 we examined the perception of PA and exercise options among pwMS from different regions in Germany. Using an online survey, we collected data from 630 pwMS. Results: Our data indicate that pwMS in rural areas gave lower ratings for their PA and exercise options than those in cities (p<0.001). In rural areas, environmental barriers were more often mentioned as a reason for physical inactivity. In addition, MS patients with greater disability rated their PA and exercise options lower than those with less severe disability (p<0.001). The degree of physical impairment increases the perception of environmental barriers. Among physically active people with MS, the mean acceptable travel time to exercise facilities was 17 minutes, with a high variance. Surprisingly, this did not differ significantly between city and rural areas. The mean acceptable cost for sporting facilities was € 46.01 per month, also with a high variance. The three most desired activities were: swimming (13.9%, n=59), relaxation techniques (12.2%, n=52), and dancing (8.2%, n=35). Conclusion: Our study provides information on the perception of PA and exercise options among people with MS in different regions of Germany. Living in rural areas and having greater disability are associated with a lower rating of PA and exercise options.
Výzkum, experti a politici – podivuhodný život ideje inkluzivního vzdělávání v ČR
Authors: Štech Stanislav
Published: January 2022

Vliv poznatků pedagogického výzkumu na politické rozhodnutí je vždy zprostředkovaný a působí, pokud ho jednoznačně legitimizuje. Legitimita rozhodnutí je dána silnými „kognitivními základy“, tj. přesvědčivostí poznatků, které jsou politiky uznány, pokud jsou v souladu se sdílenou referenční hodnotou společnosti. Na příkladu zavádění inkluzivního vzdělávání v ČR je identifikováno slabé propojení klíčového konceptu modifikovatelnosti s referenční ideou rovnosti šancí. Zprostředkovateli kognitivního jádra změny se nestali výzkumníci, ale tzv. experti zdůrazňující organizační překážky vzdělavatelnosti žáků se speciálními vzdělávacími potřebami v běžné škole. Jejich hlasy byly zesíleny médii a v důsledku vedly k tomu, že poznatkové jádro reformy bylo potlačeno. Kognitivní základy změny spočívaly v konfrontaci možností a limitů změnitelnosti dispozic žáků s konceptem vrozených a stabilních dispozic. Na scéně tak zůstal jen spor o abstraktně humanistickou podobu rovnosti šancí.
Tripeptides from Allium subhirsitum L. extracts: Pharmacokinetics properties, toxicity prediction and in silico study against SARS-CoV-2 enzymes and pro-inflammatory proteins
Authors: Snoussi Mejdi , Noumi Emira , Mosbah Amor , Redissi Alaeddine , Saeed Mohd , Tasleem Munazzah , Alreshidi Mousa , Adnan Mohd , Al-Rashidi Ayshah , Siddiqui Arif Jamal , Aouadi Kaïss , De Feo Vincenzo , Kadri Adel
Published: January 2022

Developing new prophylactic and therapeutic agents with broad-spectrum antiviral activities is urgently needed to combat emerging human severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2). Since no available clinically antiviral drugs have been approved to eradicate COVID-19 as of the writing of this report, this study aimed to investigate bioactive short peptides from Allium subhirsutum L. (Hairy garlic) extracts identified through HR-LC/MS analysis that could potentially hinder the multiplication cycle of SARS-CoV-2 via molecular docking study. The obtained promising results showed that the peptides (Asn-Asn-Asn) possess the highest binding affinities of -8.4 kcal/mol against S protein, (His-Phe-Gln) of -9.8 kcal/mol and (Gln-His-Phe) of -9.7 kcal/mol towards hACE2, (Thr-Leu-Trp) of -10.3 kcal/mol and (Gln-Phe-Tyr) of -9.8 kcal/mol against furin. Additionally, the identified peptides show strong interactions with the targeted and pro-inflammatory ranging from -8.1 to -10.5 kcal/mol for NF−κB-inducing kinase (NIK), from -8.2 to -10 kcal/mol for phospholipase A2 (PLA2), from -8.0 to -10.7 kcal/mol for interleukin-1 receptor-associated kinase 4 (IRAK-4), and from -8.6 to -11.6 kcal/mol for the cyclooxygenase 2 (COX2) with Gln-Phe-Tyr model seems to be the most prominent. Results from pharmacophore, drug-likeness and ADMET prediction analyses clearly evidenced the usability of the peptides to be developed as an effective drug, beneficial for COVID-19 treatment.
The effect of post-abortion care (PAC) on anxiety in women with spontaneous abortion based on MicroRNA-21 expression, cortisol level, and Fordyce happiness pattern
Authors: Gong Leilei , Han Jun , Yan Wenwen , Qin Yichen
Published: January 2022

Abortion is one of the most common complications in pregnancy, and the cause of its occurrence in many cases remains unknown. The high prevalence and consequences of anxiety in women with spontaneous abortion could highlight the importance and role of post-abortion care (PAC). Detection and identification of biomarkers related to abortion and anxiety can effectively diagnose and prevent complications. Among the known biomarkers, microRNAs and the cortisol level have high potential. Therefore, the present study evaluated the effect of post-abortion care (PAC) on anxiety in women with spontaneous abortion based on MicroRNA-21 expression, cortisol level, and Fordyce happiness pattern. In this randomized clinical trial, 72 women with spontaneous abortion were studied and randomly divided into two groups of intervention (n = 36) and control (n = 36). Data were collected through a demographic questionnaire and HADS. To assess PAC, the intervention group was consulted in 8 sessions of 60 minutes in the first 72 hours after abortion. Meetings were held twice a week for four weeks. Both groups were followed up immediately after and one month after the intervention. To evaluate biological factors, 4ml of blood sample was obtained from the subjects. Blood cortisol levels were measured by the Cortisol Competitive Human ELISA Kit (Thermo-Fisher, USA), and microRNA-21 evaluation was performed by Real-time PCR technique. Data were analyzed using SPSS16 software. Results showed that before the intervention, there was no significant difference in the mean score of anxiety between the control and intervention groups (P> 0.05); But at the time immediately and one month after the intervention, there was a significant difference in the mean score of anxiety (p <0.001). The results of biological factors evaluation showed that in the intervention group, serum cortisol levels and microRNA-21 expression decreased significantly (p <0.05). In general, PAC based on the happiness pattern can control the anxiety of women with spontaneous abortion. Therefore, it is recommended as an effective and non-invasive intervention in preventing women's psychological problems after spontaneous abortion.
Preparation of highly water-resistant wood adhesives using ECH as a crosslinking agent
Authors: Ding Chen , Li Ning , Chen Zhikang , Zhang Yufei
Published: January 2022

In this study, kraft lignin and epichlorohydrin (ECH) were used to prepare no-formaldehyde wood adhesives. The lignin was first treated by ball milling, then reacted with glyoxal to produce glyoxalated lignin under alkaline conditions, and then blended with ECH to prepare lignin-based formaldehyde-free adhesive. The influence of the content of ECH on the physicochemical properties of the adhesives was explored, and the possible synthesis mechanism of the ECH-modified glyoxalated lignin adhesives (glyoxalated kraft lignin-epoxy [GKLE]) was investigated. The results show that ECH was beneficial to improving the plywood shear strength and water resistance; the plywood prepared with GKLE-50 adhesive displays comparable water resistance as phenol–formaldehyde resins and its wet shear strength (type I) was 1.05 MPa, exceeding the Chinese National Standards GB/T 9846-2015. Scanning electron microscopy analysis showed that the increase of ECH content promoted the adhesive to penetrate the wood to form glue nails, improving the wet shear strength of the plywood. Chemical analysis indicated that glyoxalation was used to introduce hydroxyethyl groups into the ortho positions of the aromatic rings of lignin, and then the ring-opening reaction between glyoxalated lignin and ECH occurred forming ether bonds. Overall, lignin has displayed great potential in replacing formaldehyde-based adhesives for industrial applications.
A novel movement system screen for primary care providers: a multisite, observational study
Authors: Kettle Christine , McKay Lauren , Cianciolo Anthony M. , Kareha Stephen M. , Ruggeri Cara E.
Published: January 2022

Context

Movement of the human body is essential for the interaction of an individual within their environment and contributes to both physical and emotional quality of life. Movement system disorders (MSDs) are kinesiopathologic conditions that result from either altered movement patterns, trauma, or pathology. A screening tool may facilitate earlier diagnosis and treatment of acute MSDs. This tool could prevent progression to chronic conditions, leading to better patient outcomes and quality of life.

Objectives

Our study evaluated whether a screening tool would be able to accurately screen individuals for MSDs, explore comorbidities that may predict the prevalence of MSDs, and identify why people do not discuss these problems with their primary care provider (PCP).

Methods

A multisite, observational study in a primary care setting. Data were analyzed to determine the psychometric properties of the screening question. Logistic regression was performed to explore the relationship of comorbidities with MSDs. Thematic analysis was performed to explore why patients do not discuss these issues with their PCP.

Results

The point prevalence of MSDs was determined to be 78%. The sensitivity of the screening question was determined to be good (70%). Arthritis, obesity, sleep disorders, and gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) were significant predictors for an MSD. Thematic analysis regarding why patients do not discuss the MSD with their physician revealed: (1) the perceived lack of importance of the problem; (2) the lack of access to healthcare, and (3) the acuity of the problem.

Conclusions

Screening for an MSD and associated comorbidities could prevent the transition of acute conditions to chronic conditions. If PCPs can identify predictors and factors associated with an MSD, they may be able to screen for MSDs more effectively. Earlier identification of MSDs may facilitate earlier treatment and prevent costs associated with resulting chronic disorders and persistent pain and disability.
Green synthesis of silver nanoparticles and evaluation of their anti-bacterial activities: use ofAloe barbadensis millerandOcimum tenuiflorumleaf extracts
Authors: Sharma Saurabh , Kumar Kuldeep , Thakur Naveen
Published: January 2022

The presence of various phytochemicals makes the leaf extract-based green synthesis advantageous to other conventional methods, as it facilitates the production of non-toxic by-product. In the present study, leaf extracts from two different plants:Aloe barbadensis millerandOcimum tenuiflorum, were used to synthesise Ag nanoparticles. The absorbance at 419-432 nm from UV-visible spectroscopy indicates the formation of Ag in the synthesised samples. The effect of precursors’ concentration on the stability, size and shape of the synthesised samples has also been investigated at constant heating temperature, stirring time, and the pH of the solution. The TEM results showed that all the synthesised samples of nanoparticles demonstrated stability with a size range of 7-70 and 9-48 nm withAloe barbadensis millerandOcimum tenuiflorumleaf extracts, respectively. The formation of smaller Ag nanoparticles due to utilisation of different precursor concentration and leaf extracts was also explained. The synthesised samples’ anti-bacterial activity was examined against the pathogens,Bacillus subtilis,Staphylococcus aureus, andEscherichia coli. In general, the green synthesis approach established a prospective for developing highly stable Ag nanoparticles with rigid particle shape/size distribution from different leaf extracts for the development of better anti-bacterial agents.
Generation of high-uniformity and high-resolution Bessel beam arrays through all-dielectric metasurfaces
Authors: Chen Lei , Kanwal Saima , Yu Binbin , Feng Jijun , Tao Chunxian , Wen Jing , Zhang Dawei
Published: January 2022

Bessel beam arrays are progressively attracting attention in recent years due to their remarkable non-diffracting nature and parallel manipulation capabilities in diverse applications. However, the poor phase discretization of conventional approaches such as spatial light modulators leads to low numerical aperture (NA) beam arrays due to the limitation imposed by the Nyquist sampling theorem and poor uniformity of the beam intensity. The key contribution of this study is to experimentally demonstrate the generation of high-uniformity and high-resolution Bessel beam arrays by utilizing all-dielectric metasurfaces. This is attained by optimizing the design of the supercell of a Dammann grating, particularly decreasing each supercell of the grating to a proper size. We demonstrate a 4 × 4 array of Bessel beams with a subwavelength transverse dimension (570 nm, ∼0.9λ) and a large NA of 0.4 for each beam in the array, while maintaining a relatively high uniformity intensity (52.40%) for the array. Additionally, the Bessel beam arrays are generated in a broadband range through the proposed all-dielectric metasurfaces. Our results are of great significance and particularly useful for applications of metasurface-based Bessel beam arrays in multidisciplinary fields such as laser fabrication, biomedical imaging, data storage, and multi-particle trapping.
Dynamic inversion of planar-chiral response of terahertz metasurface based on critical transition of checkerboard structures
Authors: Urade Yoshiro , Fukawa Kai , Miyamaru Fumiaki , Okimura Kunio , Nakanishi Toshihiro , Nakata Yosuke
Published: January 2022

Dynamic inversion of the planar-chiral responses of a metasurface is experimentally demonstrated in the terahertz regime. To realize this inversion, the critical transition of the checkerboard-like metallic structures is used. Resonant structures with planar chirality and their complementary enantiomeric patterns are embedded in the checkerboard. Using vanadium dioxide as a variable resistance, the metasurface is implemented in the terahertz regime. The responses of the metasurface to circularly polarized waves are then characterized by terahertz time-domain spectroscopy. Further, the sign of the circular conversion dichroism, which is closely related to the handedness of the planar chirality of the metasurface, is observed to be inverted at 0.64 THz by varying the temperature. Such invertible planar-chiral responses can be applied practically to the handedness-invertible chiral mirrors.
Hybrid films from plant and bacterial nanocellulose: mechanical and barrier properties
Authors: Cruz Thiago Moreira , Mascarenhas Adriano Reis Prazeres , Scatolino Mário Vanoli , Faria Douglas Lamounier , Matos Lays Camila , Duarte Paulo Junio , Neto João Moreira , Mendes Lourival Marin , Tonoli Gustavo Henrique Denzin
Published: January 2022

The accumulation of petroleum polymers compromises biodiversity and causes environmental problems. Nanocellulose enhances biodegradability and can improve the physical-mechanical performance of materials. The objective was to produce and characterize hybrid films composed of bacterial cellulose (BC) and plant nanocellulose from Eucalyptus (Euc) or Pinus (Pin). Films were produced by the casting method using filmogenic suspensions with different cellulose nanofibrils (CNFs) proportions from both the sources (0, 25, 50, 75 and 100 %). CNFs suspensions were characterized by transmission electron microscopy. The morphology of the films was analyzed using scanning electron microscopy. In addition, the transparency, contact angle, wettability, oil and water vapor barrier and mechanical properties were also evaluated. The contact angles were smaller for films with BC and the wettability was greater when comparing BC with plant CNFs (0.10 ° 

s

−
1

{\text{s}^{-1}}

for 75 % Euc/25 % BC and 0.20 ° 

s

−
1

{\text{s}^{-1}}

for 25 % Euc/75 % BC). The water vapor permeability (WVP) of the 100 % BC films and the 25 % Euc/75 % BC composition were the highest among the studied compositions. Tensile strength, Young’s modulus and puncture strength decreased considerably with the addition of BC in the films. More studies regarding pre-treatments to purify BC are needed to improve the mechanical properties of the films.
Investigation of the effect of light fastness on the color changes of maps prepared by electrophotographic digital printing
Authors: Özomay Zafer , Söz Çağla Koşak , Sönmez Sinan
Published: January 2022

In this study the prints were made on paper substrates, which were thought as map substrate alternatives, with 3 different surface properties at 1200 dpi by using the electrophotographic printing system. Color and gloss values of the samples were determined both before and after exposure to light for a period of 42 hours to determine the light fastness of the substrate and the print on it. The studies revealed that after the light fastness tests (i) the width of the color universe of the papers with matte surfaces is more than that of the papers with glossy surfaces, (ii) the loss of brightness of woodfree paper is higher than that of the other paper samples and (iii) the print chroma values obtained in woodfree paper is lower than those of the coated surfaces. Moreover, (iv) the deltaE00{E_{00}}measurements revealed that all paper samples experienced different color losses in different colors, and the most significant differences in these color losses were in magenta and black.
Dicarbonyl compounds in the synthesis of heterocycles under green conditions
Authors: Hartwig Daniela , Soares Liane K. , Dapper Luiz H. , Nascimento José E. R. , Lenardão Eder João
Published: January 2022

Carbon–carbon and carbon-heteroatom bond forming reactions are strategically employed for the generation of a variety of heterocyclic systems. This class of compounds represents the most general structural unit, present in many natural compounds. They are recognized for their valuable biologically properties and wide range of applications in medicinal, pharmaceutical, and other related fields of chemistry. This is an updated review on the use of dicarbonyl compounds under environmentally friendly conditions to access a series of heterocyclic structures, e.g., quinoxaline, quinazolinones, benzochalcogenazoles, indoles, among others. Synthetic protocols involving copper-catalyzed, multicomponent and cascade reactions, decarboxylative cyclization, recycling of CO2, and electrochemical approaches are presented and discussed.
A Literature Review of Bitumen Aging: From Laboratory Procedures to Field Evaluation
Authors: Siroma Rodrigo Shigueiro , Nguyen Mai Lan , Hornych Pierre , Chailleux Emmanuel
Published: January 2022

Because bitumen aging is behind the major pavement distresses, a better understanding of it is of utmost importance for tailoring longer-lasting roads and developing more effective maintenance strategies. For this purpose, this paper presents an in-depth review of the relevant literature on the aging phenomenon of neat (unmodified) bitumen. The main accelerated laboratory aging procedures as well as some recent ones, for both bitumen and asphalt mix, are presented, and their effectiveness in reproducing the effects corresponding to field aging are discussed. Then, the main laboratory tests used to track the evolution of bitumen aging and some end-of-life criteria that reflect poor pavement performance are outlined. Finally, a promising method whereby the colloidal structure of bitumen can be estimated from its rheological behavior is presented.
Experience of Graduate Counseling Students During COVID-19: Application for Group Counseling Training
Authors: Urkmez Bilal , Pinkney Chanda , Bonnah Amparbeng Daniel , Gunawan Nanang , Isiko Jennifer Ojiambo , Tomlinson Brandon , Bhat Christine Suniti
Published: January 2022

The COVID-19 pandemic resulted in many universities moving abruptly from face-to-face to online instruction. One group of students involved in this transition was master’s-level counseling students. Their experiential group counseling training (EGCT) program started in a face-to-face format and abruptly transitioned to an online format because of COVID-19. In this phenomenological study, we examined these students’ experiences of participating and leading in six face-to-face and four online EGCT groups. Two focus groups were conducted, and three major themes emerged: positive participation attributes, participation-inhibiting attributes, and suggestions for group counseling training. The findings point to additional learning and skill development through the online group experience as well as its utility as a safe space to process the novel experience brought about by COVID-19.
Recovery of male reproductive endocrine function after ceasing prolonged testosterone undecanoate injections
Authors: Handelsman David J , Desai Reena , Conway Ann J , Shankara-Narayana Nandini , Stuckey Bronwyn G A , Inder Warrick J , Grossmann Mathis , Yeap Bu Beng , Jesudason David , Ly Lam P , Bracken Karen , Wittert Gary Allen
Published: January 2022

Context

The time course of male reproductive hormone recovery after stopping injectable testosterone undecanoate (TU) treatment is not known.

Objective

The aim of this study was to investigate the rate, extent, and determinants of reproductive hormone recovery over 12 months after stopping TU injections.

Materials and Methods

Men (n = 303) with glucose intolerance but without pathologic hypogonadism who completed a 2-year placebo (P)-controlled randomized clinical trial of TU treatment were recruited for further 12 months while remaining blinded to treatment. Sex steroids (testosterone (T), dihydrotestosterone, oestradiol, oestrone) by liquid chromatography-mass sprectometry, luteinizing hormone (LH), follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) and sex hormone-binding globulin (SHBG) by immunoassays and sexual function questionnaires (Psychosexual Diary Questionnaire, International Index of Erectile Function, and short form survey (SF-12)) were measured at entry (3 months after the last injection) and 6, 12, 18, 24, 40, and 52 weeks later.

Results

In the nested cohort of TU-treated men, serum T was initially higher but declined at 12 weeks remaining stable thereafter with serum T and SHBG at 11 and 13%, respectively, lower than P-treated men. Similarly, both questionnaires showed initial carry-over higher scores in T-treated men but after 18 weeks showed no difference between T- and P-treated men. Initially, fully suppressed serum LH and FSH recovered slowly towards the participant’s own pre-treatment baseline over 12 months since the last injection.

Conclusions

After stopping 2 years of 1000 mg injectable TU treatment, full reproductive hormone recovery is slow and progressive over 15 months since the last testosterone injection but may take longer than 12 months to be complete. Persistent proportionate reduction in serum SHBG and T reflects lasting exogenous T effects on hepatic SHBG secretion rather than androgen deficiency.
A corrigendum to "A note on compact-like semitopological groups" [Carpathian Math. Publ. 2019, 11 (2), 442-452]
Authors: Peng Liang-Xue
Published: January 2022

A corrigendum to "A note on compact-like semitopological groups" [Carpathian Math. Publ. 2019, 11 (2), 442-452]
What do Students Really Understand? Secondary Education Students’ Conceptions of Genetics
Authors: Kılıç Mocan Didem
Published: January 2022

Abstract: Individuals with a secondary education should have a knowledge level sufficient to make sense of what they read or hear about genetics, and they should be able to think scientifically in evaluation and decision-making processes. The purpose of this study is to identify the basic understanding of secondary education students about genetic concepts and the reasons for the difficulty of learning and teaching genetics. Semi-structured interviews that include student drawings have been conducted with 24 students to gain a comprehensive perspective on secondary education students’ understanding of the basic concepts of genetics. The answers given by the students to the interview questions and their drawings have been analyzed with content analysis. Qualitative data analyzed with a holistic point of view were collected and evaluated under the categories of ‘DNA, gene and chromosome’ and ‘Cell divisions and heredity relationship.’ As a general result, it has been found that students have inaccurate and inconsistent information about the basic concepts of genetics, have difficulties in establishing relationships between these concepts, and cannot fully understand and explain the processes underlying genetic events. It has been observed that various factors have an effect on this result. It will be possible to support students to develop a more accurate understanding of genetic concepts and issues by working on the weaknesses in genetics teaching, providing an enriched teaching environment with current teaching methods and materials, and moving away from rote learning.
Adrenalectomy improves glycemic responses in congenic obese LA/Ntul//-cp RATS
Authors: Tulp Orien L , Awan Aftab R , Einstein George P
Published: January 2022

To determine the effects of adrenalectomy on typical insulin-mediated glycemic responses in male obese rats, groups (n=6 -12 rats/phenotype) of normally reared congenic lean and obese animals were fed a Purina chow diet from 6 to 9 weeks of age, and the Chow diet plus a highly palatable cafeteria diet from 9 to 12 weeks of age. The congenic LA/Ntul//-cp rat strain is noted for its longevity and early expression of the obese trait but remains non-diabetic throughout much if not all of its normal lifespan. Subgroups of obese animals were subjected to bilateral adrenalectomy (ADX) at 6 weeks of age to remove glucocorticoid contributions to glycemic parameters. Measures of weight gain (WG )and of glucose tolerance (OGT) were obtained in the three treatment groups at 6, 9 and 12 weeks of age. WG on ADX-obese rats was similar to that of their lean littermates at 6 and 9 weeks of age on the chow diet but increased to twice that observed in their lean littermates from 9 to 12 weeks of age. OGT responses after 30 to 60 minutes and the area under the OGT curve were impaired but not diabetic in obese animals at all ages compared to lean littermates and returned toward those of normally lean rats after ADX. The Insulin to glucose ratio (I:G) was also consistent with insulin resistance in obese but not in ADX-obese or lean rats at 12 weeks of age. In conclusion, ADX resulted in normalization of OGT and glycemic parameters in the obese phenotype at 9 and 12 weeks of age. These results are consistent with normalization of typical insulin-mediated components of glycemic parameters and glucose uptake in peripheral tissues following adrenalectomy of congenic obese rats. The results further suggest that the counterregulatory effects of insulin and glucocorticoid hormones may be contributory to the impaired glycemic responses in the obese phenotype of the LA/N//-cp (corpulent) rat and are consistent with a receptor-mediated element in the development of insulin resistance and glucose uptake in peripheral tissues commonly associated with the early development of obesity in this strain.
Saberes pedagógicos para la enseñanza infantil desde la perspectiva de personas educadoras de infantes
Authors: Flores Lueg Carolina , Alvarado Retamal Tannia , Gutiérrez Oyarce Tannia Belén , Medel Lilo Sandra Patricia
Published: January 2022

En este artículo se presentan los resultados de un estudio sobre las significaciones que las educadoras de infantes les otorgan a los saberes profesionales y pedagógicos que sustentan su labor docente y le dan sentido a sus prácticas de enseñanza. La investigación se situó desde un paradigma interpretativo, con una metodología cualitativa y el método fenomenológico hermenéutico. Fue desarrollada en el año 2020 con la participación de siete educadoras incluidas intencionalmente según criterios previamente definidos y su disponibilidad, quienes desempeñan su labor en establecimientos escolares ubicados en la Región de Ñuble, Chile. Como técnica de producción de información se empleó la entrevista semiestructurada, y el análisis de los datos se realizó por medio de un proceso de categorización mixta (deductiva e inductiva). Desde la perspectiva deductiva, la categoría central para el análisis fue “saberes profesionales” y, desde la perspectiva inductiva, “saberes experienciales adquiridos sobre la enseñanza” y “procesos de reflexión docente”. Se consideró la triangulación intersujetos como procedimiento para garantizar la credibilidad de la información. Los principales resultados evidencian que, para las educadoras, los saberes pedagógicos representan el cimiento de su identidad profesional, cuya dimensión experiencial se constituye en el principal marco referencial sobre el cual resuelven emocional e intuitivamente las situaciones de enseñanza.
Distribution of shallow water soft and hard bottom seabeds in the Isla del Coco National Park, Pacific Costa Rica
Authors: Sibaja-Cordero Jeffrey A. , Troncoso Jesús S. , Benavides-Varela Catalina , Cortés Jorge
Published: January 2022

Geographic Information Systems (GIS) applications used in marine habitats are powerful tools for management and monitoring of marine reserves and resources. Here, we present a series of maps of the soft and hard substrates in the shallow waters (>80 m depth) of Parque Nacional Isla del Coco (PNIC= Isla del Coco National Park). We use bathymetry data and field data as input for a GIS, GAM, and kriging methods to generate a series of maps that describe the bottom characteristics. Eight types of bottom were found in the PNIC by composition and grain size. The shore of the island and islets consisted of rocky formations (mainly basalts), with coral reefs in the subtidal of some areas. Rhodolith beds had a dispersing distribution. The bottom on the southern and southwestern region is hard substrate, while sediments cover the northern and northeastern zones. Slightly gravelly sand dominated the bays, while gravelly sand (with more coarse grains) was frequent offshore. The inner areas of Chatham and Wafer bays have mud and organic matter. The sediments in the area are mostly carbonates, except in Bahía Yglesias where clastic sediments (from the erosion of basalts) are presented. The information generated in this study could be a valuable input for future monitoring in the PNIC. Citation: Sibaja-Cordero, J.A., J.S. Troncoso, C. Benavides-Varela & J. Cortés. 2012. Shallow water soft and hard bottoms of Isla del Coco National Park, Pacific Costa Rica. Rev. Biol. Trop. 60 (Suppl. 3): 53-66. Epub 2012 Dec 01.
Revisión y comparación de escenarios de cambio climático para el Parque Nacional Isla del Coco, Costa Rica
Authors: Maldonado Tito , Alfaro Eric
Published: January 2022

Se revisaron y compararon escenarios de cambio climáticos utilizando distintas técnicas (MAGICC/SCENGEN, PRECIS and SDSM) con el objetivo de evaluar posibles cambios de temperatura y precipitación en el Parque Nacional Isla del Coco, Costa Rica, para el horizonte temporal del 2080 (2070-2099). Los resultados reflejan una dependencia importante con el Modelo de Circulación General, el método de ajuste de escala y con el escenario socio-económico usado. Los escenarios obtenidos reflejan un aumento en la media y la varianza del ciclo anual de la temperatura superficial del aire, siendo consistentes con un calentamiento global futuro. Los resultados para la precipitación difieren entre sí. Se observó que la mayoría de los escenarios analizados proyectan aumentos en al acumulado medio del ciclo anual, sin embargo, al considerar su variabilidad, no fue posible establecer una tendencia clara hacia un aumento o una disminución, debido principalmente a que casi todos los escenarios estudiados proyectan un incremento en la variabilidad del acumulado anual de la precipitación.