bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Geological Signatures of Tectonic Instability along the North Cambay Basin during the Late Holocene Period, North Gujarat, India
Authors: Das Archana , Solanki Tarun
Published: December 2020

In the present study, the tectono-geomorphic attributes of the northern part of the Cambay basin, Western India, which has recently witnessed a surge in seismic activity has been investigated. The anomalies in the drainage network (morphometry) along with the sedimentological character of the drainages with OSL chronology was used to unravel the abrupt aggradation and incision processes during the late Holocene period. The analysis reveals two major lineaments i.e. NE-SW, which are related to the transfer faults and NW-SE lineaments, related to the listric/normal faults prevalent in the northern Cambay region. The NW-SE trend exhibited the first order streams, which hints the ongoing tectonic activity along the buried structural elements/faults. The valley fill sediments were incised during the late Holocene period i.e. < 3 ka, which is ascribed to the tectonic activity along the buried structure/faults in the Tharad-Sanchor block of the north Cambay basin. The present study is the first attempt to characterize the tectonic activity along the Tharad-Sanchor block of the north Cambay basin using geomorphometry and optical dating.
Mössbauer Spectroscopic Study of Samples from Cambay Shale Formation, Cambay Basin, in Context of Shale Gas or Shale Oil
Authors: Bohra Mridula , Patel K. R. , Kumar Arun , Tripathi R. P.
Published: December 2020

In Cambay basin (India) a thick sedimentary sequence exits consisting of shales. This sequence is known as Cambay Shale Formation (both younger and older). In the present investigation 57Fe Mössbauer spectroscopy study was carried on samples of Cambay Shale Formation. These samples are collected from various depth interval from well UBER#2. Results thus obtained are also compared with the Mössbauer spectroscopic study already available on shale samples of (from Cambay Shale Formation) well K-263. It was found that samples from well UBER#2 show presence of iron mainly in clay forming minerals in Fe2+ state, but show no presence of pyrite or ferric sulphate minerals. In contrast sample studied from well K-263 show presence of iron mainly in pyrite and in ferric sulphate but iron clay minerals is absent in most of the samples. Implication of distribution of iron minerals in these wells is discussed in context of future shale oil and shale gas exploration from this basin.
Post-testing measurement of freely movable and diffusible hydrogen in context of WEC formation at cylindrical roller thrust bearings from 100Cr6
Authors: Linzmayer Martin , Gutiérrez Guzmán Francisco , Manke Gregor , Jacobs Georg , Sous Christopher , Pohl Michael
Published: December 2020

Sub-surface crack networks in areas of altered microstructure are a common cause for bearing failures. Due to its appearance under light microscopy, the damage pattern is referred to as White Etching Cracks (WEC). The root causes leading to the formation of WEC are still under debate. Nevertheless, it has already been shown that atomic hydrogen can have an accelerating effect on the formation and propagation of WEC. In addition to hydrogen pre-charging, hydrogen can be released and absorbed during rolling/sliding due to the decomposing of the lubricant and water. The current work focuses on the analysis of the hydrogen content of cylindrical roller thrust bearings after testing in a FE8 type test rig using two different lubricants. Within the framework of this work, two different hydrogen analysis methods were used and assessed regarding their applicability. The results show that the so-called Hydrogen Collecting Analysis (HCA) is more suitable to investigate the correlation between lubricant chemistry and hydrogen content in the test bearings than the Local Hydrogen Analysis (LHA). The measurements with the HCA show a continuously increasing freely movable and diffusible hydrogen content under tribological conditions, which leads to the formation of WEC. Comparative tests with an oil without hydrogen showed that the tendency of the system to fail as a result of WEC can be reduced by using a lubricant without hydride compounds.
The Environment and Externality
Authors: Yang Zili
Published: December 2020

This innovative book models pollution mitigation as a negative externality whilst also providing desirable and useful solutions, such as establishing the triangular equivalence relationship among the Lindahl equilibrium without transfers, the Nash bargaining solution with the payoffs of the Cournot-Nash equilibrium as the status quo point, and the social optimum under the Lindahl weights. By introducing programming algorithms to validate these relationships numerically, Zili Yang bridges the gap between analytical results and empirical modelling, ultimately solving the Lindahl equilibrium and hybrid Nash equilibria in the influential RICE model. This text demonstrates the complexity and variety of environment externality problems, ranging from mixed externality to correlated externalities to environmental externality under IRS and policy applications. Integrating theory, algorithms and applications in a comprehensive framework, The Environment and Externality will benefit scholars and students working across environmental, resource and climate change economics.
Polling place changes and political participation: evidence from North Carolina presidential elections, 2008–2016
Authors: Clinton Joshua D. , Eubank Nick , Fresh Adriane , Shepherd Michael E.
Published: December 2020

How do changes in Election Day polling place locations affect voter turnout? We study the behavior of more than 2 million eligible voters across three closely-contested presidential elections (2008–2016) in the swing state of North Carolina. Leveraging within-voter variation in polling place location change over time, we demonstrate that polling place changes reduce Election Day voting on average statewide. However, this effect is almost completely offset by substitution into early voting, suggesting that voters, on average, respond to a change in their polling place by choosing to vote early. While there is heterogeneity in these effects by the distance of the polling place change and the race of the affected voter, the fully offsetting substitution into early voting still obtains. We theorize this is because voters whose polling places change location receive notification mailers, offsetting search costs and priming them to think about the election before election day, driving early voting.
Threat analysis for more effective lion conservation
Authors: Bauer Hans , Dickman Amy , Chapron Guillaume , Oriol-Cotterill Alayne , Nicholson Samantha K. , Sillero-Zubiri Claudio , Hunter Luke , Lindsey Peter , Macdonald David W.
Published: December 2020

We use comparable 2005 and 2018 population data to assess threats driving the decline of lion Panthera leo populations, and review information on threats structured by problem tree and root cause analysis. We define 11 threats and rank their severity and prevalence. Two threats emerged as affecting both the number of lion populations and numbers within them: livestock depredation leading to retaliatory killing of lions, and bushmeat poaching leading to prey depletion. Our data do not allow determination of whether any specific threat drives declines faster than others. Of 20 local extirpations, most were associated with armed conflicts as a driver of proximate threats. We discuss the prevalence and severity of proximate threats and their drivers, to identify priorities for more effective conservation of lions, other carnivores and their prey.
Towards the comprehension of fasciolosis (re-)emergence: an integrative overview
Authors: Alba Annia , Vazquez Antonio A. , Hurtrez-Boussès Sylvie
Published: December 2020

The increasing distribution and prevalence of fasciolosis in both human and livestock are concerning. Here, we examine the various types of factors influencing fasciolosis transmission and burden and the interrelations that may exist between them. We present the arsenal of molecules, ‘adjusting’ capabilities and parasitic strategies ofFasciolato infect. Such features define the high adaptability ofFasciolaspecies for parasitism that facilitate their transmission. We discuss current environmental perturbations (increase of livestock and land use, climate change, introduction of alien species and biodiversity loss) in relation to fasciolosis dynamics. AsFasciolainfection is directly and ultimately linked to livestock management, living conditions and cultural habits, which are also changing under the pressure of globalization and climate change, the social component of transmission is also discussed. Lastly, we examine the implication of increasing scientific and political awareness in highlighting the current circulation of fasciolosis and boosting epidemiological surveys and novel diagnostic techniques. From a joint perspective, it becomes clear that factors weight differently at each place and moment, depending on the biological, environmental, social and political interrelating contexts. Therefore, the analyses of a disease as complex as fasciolosis should be as integrative as possible to dissect the realities featuring each epidemiological scenario. Such a comprehensive appraisal is presented in this review and constitutes its main asset to serve as a fresh integrative understanding of fasciolosis.
Family functioning in the families of paediatric heart transplant recipients prior to outpatient visits and procedures
Authors: Tadros Hanna J. , Rawlinson Alana R. , Gupta Dipankar
Published: December 2020

In a cross-sectional study, we assessed family functioning prior to outpatient visits and routine heart catheterisations in the families of paediatric heart transplant recipients. Caregivers rated higher short-term family functioning prior to outpatient visits, but not prior to catheterisations. This finding may indicate that family functioning benefits from the support provided during outpatient visits.
Antimicrobial resistance in Mannheimia haemolytica: prevalence and impact
Authors: Credille Brent
Published: December 2020

Bovine respiratory disease (BRD) is the most common cause of morbidity and mortality in North American beef cattle. In recent years, isolation of strains of Mannheimia haemolytica that are resistant to multiple different classes of antimicrobials has become commonplace. New research would suggest that the routine use of antimicrobials by some cattle operations might be driving emerging resistance patterns, with the majority of the spread observed due to propagation of strains of M. haemolytica that have acquired integrative conjugative elements. To date, there is little information evaluating the impact of antimicrobial resistance on clinical outcome in cattle with BRD.
Inter-pregnancy interval and later pediatric cardiovascular health of the offspring – a population-based cohort study
Authors: Imterat Majdi , Wainstock Tamar , Sheiner Eyal , Pariente Gali
Published: December 2020

Recent evidence suggests that a long inter-pregnancy interval (IPI: time interval between live birth and estimated time of conception of subsequent pregnancy) poses a risk for adverse short-term perinatal outcome. We aimed to study the effect of short (<6 months) and long (>60 months) IPI on long-term cardiovascular morbidity of the offspring. A population-based cohort study was performed in which all singleton live births in parturients with at least one previous birth were included. Hospitalizations of the offspring up to the age of 18 years involving cardiovascular diseases and according to IPI length were evaluated. Intermediate interval, between 6 and 60 months, was considered the reference. Kaplan–Meier survival curves were used to compare the cumulative morbidity incidence between the groups. Cox proportional hazards model was used to control for confounders. During the study period, 161,793 deliveries met the inclusion criteria. Of them, 14.1% (n = 22,851) occurred in parturient following a short IPI, 78.6% (n = 127,146) following an intermediate IPI, and 7.3% (n = 11,796) following a long IPI. Total hospitalizations of the offspring, involving cardiovascular morbidity, were comparable between the groups. The Kaplan–Meier survival curves demonstrated similar cumulative incidences of cardiovascular morbidity in all groups. In a Cox proportional hazards model, short and long IPI did not appear as independent risk factors for later pediatric cardiovascular morbidity of the offspring (adjusted HR 0.97, 95% CI 0.80–1.18; adjusted HR 1.01, 95% CI 0.83–1.37, for short and long IPI, respectively). In our population, extreme IPIs do not appear to impact long-term cardiovascular hospitalizations of offspring.
Energy Conversions Associated With Magnetic Reconnection
Authors: Fadanelli S. , Lavraud B. , Califano F. , Cozzani G. , Finelli F. , Sisti M.
Published: December 2020

We present theoretical and computational analyses of energy conversions in a magnetized collisionless plasma. We first revisit the theoretical approach to energy conversion analysis and discuss the expected correlations between the different conversion terms. We then present results from a Hybrid‐Vlasov simulation of a turbulent plasma, focusing on the immediate vicinity of a reconnection site. Energy transfers are examined locally and correlations between them are discussed in detail. We show a good anticorrelation between pressure‐driven and electromagnetic acceleration terms. A similar but weaker anticorrelation is found between the heat flux and thermodynamic work acting on internal energies. It is the departure from these anticorrelations that drives the effective changes in the species’ kinetic and internal energies. We also show that overall energy gain or loss is statistically related to the local scale of the system, with higher conversion rates occurring mostly at the smallest local plasma scales. To summarize, we can say that the energization and de‐energization of a plasma is the result of the complex interplay between multiple electromagnetic and thermodynamic effects, which are best taken into account via such a point‐by‐point analysis of the system.
Dynamic Mechanisms Associated With High‐Energy Electron Flux Dropout in the Earth's Outer Radiation Belt Under the Influence of a Coronal Mass Ejection Sheath Region
Authors: Da Silva L. A. , Shi J. , Alves L. R. , Sibeck D. , Souza V. M. , Marchezi J. P. , Medeiros C. , Vieira L. E. A. , Agapitov O. , Jauer P. R. , Alves M. E. S. , Wang C. , Li H. , Liu Z. , Dal Lago A. , Alves M. V. , Rockenbach M. S. , Baker D. N. , Zhang S. Y. , Kanekal S. G.
Published: December 2020

The near‐Earth interplanetary environment conditions affect the dynamics of the relativistic electron population quasitrapped in the radiation belts. A complex chain of processes observed in the magnetosphere can contribute to the variability of these populations when interplanetary structures, such as the interplanetary counterpart of a solar coronal mass ejection (ICME), and high‐speed solar wind streams interact with the magnetosphere. However, as these processes can coexist, it is hard to untangle the relative contribution of each process to the loss of particles and the eventual repopulation. Here we show evidence that it is possible to distinguish the relative contribution of mechanisms related to the loss of the outer radiation belt electrons for an event observed on July 19 and 20, 2016. The interaction of an ICME's turbulent sheath with the Earth's magnetosphere resulted in a decrease in the outer radiation belt relativistic electron population. The ultralow frequency (ULF) and chorus wave activities are detected in the outer radiation belt during the time when the Earth's magnetosphere is under the influence of the ICME's sheath region, as well as the ICME's magnetic cloud region, while the electromagnetic ion cyclotron (EMIC) waves in the outer belt are observed only during the sheath region. Dynamic mechanisms such as magnetopause shadowing, outward radial diffusion driven by ULF waves, pitch‐angle scattering driven by both EMIC and chorus waves are quantitatively analyzed. Our results suggest that the structures of the ICMEs can trigger the drivers to generate the different dynamic mechanisms responsible for the radiation belt population variability.
Deformation Memory in the Lithosphere: A Comparison of Damage‐dependent Weakening and Grain‐Size Sensitive Rheologies
Authors: Fuchs Lukas , Becker Thorsten W.
Published: December 2020

Strain localization in the lithosphere and the formation, evolution, and maintenance of resulting plate boundaries play a crucial role in plate tectonics and thermo‐chemical mantle convection. Previously activated lithospheric deformation zones often appear to maintain a “memory” of weakening, leading to tectonic inheritance within plate reorganizations including the Wilson cycle. Different mechanisms have been proposed to explain such strain localization, but it remains unclear which operates on what spatio‐temporal scales, and how to best incorporate them in large‐scale mantle convection models. Here, we analyze two candidates, (1), grain‐size sensitive rheology and, (2), damage‐style parameterizations of yield, stress which are sometimes used to approximate the former. Grain‐size reduction due to dynamic recrystallization can drive localization in the ductile domain, and grain growth provides a time‐dependent rheological hardening component potentially enabling the preservation of rheological heterogeneities. We compare the dynamic weakening and hardening effects as well as the timescales of strength evolution for a composite rheology including grain‐size dynamics with a pseudo‐plastic rheology including damage‐ (or “strain”‐) dependent weakening. We explore the implications of different proposed grain‐size evolution laws, and test to which extent strain‐dependent rheologies can mimic the weakening and hardening effects of the more complex micro‐physical behavior. Such an analysis helps to better understand the parallels and differences between various strain‐localization modeling approaches used in different tectonics and geodynamics communities. More importantly, our results contribute to efforts to identify the key ingredients of strain‐localization and damage hysteresis within plate tectonics and how to represent those in planetary‐scale modeling.
Inter‐model Spread of the Changes in the East Asian Summer Monsoon System in CMIP5/6 Models
Authors: Zhou Shijie , Huang Gang , Huang Ping
Published: December 2020

Among the state‐of‐the‐art Coupled Model Inter‐comparison Project Phase 5 and 6 (CMIP5/6) models, there is considerable inter‐model spread in the projected changes in the East Asian summer monsoon (EASM) and its components, including the three‐dimensional atmospheric circulation, western North Pacific subtropical high (WNPSH), and East Asian upper‐tropospheric westerly jet (EAJ). In this study, we extracted the leading inter‐model mode of the EASM changes based on the atmospheric circulation, and investigated its relationship with the WNPSH and EAJ. The leading mode of circulation, characterized as a low‐level cyclonic circulation change, is closely correlated with a weakened or eastward‐retreated WNPSH and a southward‐shifted EAJ. This systematic link between them is maintained by the stronger tropospheric warming over East Asia and the western North Pacific, which originates from the greater surface warming over the equatorial western Pacific.
Global Surface Soil Moisture Drydown Patterns
Authors: Sehgal Vinit , Gaur Nandita , Mohanty Binayak P.
Published: December 2020

Understanding the global soil moisture (SM) dynamics and its governing controls beyond the Darcy Scale is critical for various hydrological, meteorological, agricultural, and environmental applications. In this study, we parameterize the pathways of global surface SM (θRS) drydowns using seasonal observation from Soil Moisture Active Passive (SMAP) satellite (between 2015 and 2019) at 36 km resolution. We develop a new data‐driven nonparametric approach to identify the canonical forms of θRS drydown, followed by a nonlinear least squares parameterization of the seasonal drydown pathways at each SMAP footprint. The derived parameters provide the effective soil water retention parameters (SWRPeff), land‐atmospheric coupling strength and soil hydrologic regimes for SMAP footprint. Depending on the footprint heterogeneity, climate, and season, the characteristics curves comprising different drydown phases are discovered at SMAP footprints. Drydown curves respond to the within‐footprint changes in the meteorological drivers, land‐surface characteristics, and the soil‐vegetative and atmospheric dynamics. Drydown parameters display high interseasonal variability, especially in the grasslands, croplands, and savannah landscapes due to significant changes in the landscape characteristics and moisture patterns at the subgrid‐scale. Soil texture exerts influence on the soil water retention and drydown parameters only when the footprint mean θRS is low, specifically in arid and sparsely vegetated regions. The interseasonal variability of the SWRPeff is primarily driven by the landuse and climate of the SMAP footprint. A global understanding of the SM drydown features at SMAP footprint provides a significant step toward a scale‐specific, effective soil hydrologic parameterization for various applications.
Metformin use and lung cancer survival: a population-based study in Norway
Authors: Brancher Suzan , Støer Nathalie C. , Weiderpass Elisabete , Damhuis Ronald A. M. , Johannesen Tom B. , Botteri Edoardo , Strand Trond-Eirik
Published: December 2020

Background

We assessed associations between metformin use and survival in a nationwide Norwegian cohort of lung cancer (LC) patients.

Methods

The study linked 22,324 LC patients from the Cancer Registry of Norway diagnosed 2005–2014 with the Norwegian Prescription Database. We estimated associations of pre- and post-diagnostic metformin use with overall survival (OS) and LC-specific survival (LCSS) using multivariable time-fixed and time-dependent Cox regression.

Results

Pre-diagnostic metformin use was not associated with improved survival in all patients. Nevertheless, pre-diagnostic metformin use was associated with better LCSS in squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) patients (hazard ratio (HR) = 0.79; 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.62–0.99) and in patients with regional stage SCC (HR = 0.67; 95%CI 0.47–0.95). Post-diagnostic metformin use was associated with improved LCSS in all patients (HR = 0.83; 95%CI 0.73–0.95), in patients with SCC (HR = 0.75; 95%CI 0.57–0.98), regional stage LC (HR = 0.74; 95%CI 0.59–0.94), and regional stage SCC (HR = 0.57; 95%CI 0.38–0.86). OS showed similar results. Analyses of cumulative use showed a dose-response relationship in all patients, patients with adenocarcinoma and SCC, and with regional and metastatic LC.

Conclusions

Metformin use was associated with improved survival, especially LCSS in patients with regional stage SCC. Further prospective studies are required to clarify the role of metformin in LC treatment.
Ferroptosis: molecular mechanisms and health implications
Authors: Tang Daolin , Chen Xin , Kang Rui , Kroemer Guido
Published: December 2020

Cell death can be executed through different subroutines. Since the description of ferroptosis as an iron-dependent form of non-apoptotic cell death in 2012, there has been mounting interest in the process and function of ferroptosis. Ferroptosis can occur through two major pathways, the extrinsic or transporter-dependent pathway and the intrinsic or enzyme-regulated pathway. Ferroptosis is caused by a redox imbalance between the production of oxidants and antioxidants, which is driven by the abnormal expression and activity of multiple redox-active enzymes that produce or detoxify free radicals and lipid oxidation products. Accordingly, ferroptosis is precisely regulated at multiple levels, including epigenetic, transcriptional, posttranscriptional and posttranslational layers. The transcription factor NFE2L2 plays a central role in upregulating anti-ferroptotic defense, whereas selective autophagy may promote ferroptotic death. Here, we review current knowledge on the integrated molecular machinery of ferroptosis and describe how dysregulated ferroptosis is involved in cancer, neurodegeneration, tissue injury, inflammation, and infection.
Trophic ecology, habitat, and migratory behaviour of the viperfish Chauliodus sloani reveal a key mesopelagic player
Authors: Eduardo Leandro Nolé , Lucena-Frédou Flávia , Mincarone Michael Maia , Soares Andrey , Le Loc’h François , Frédou Thierry , Ménard Frédéric , Bertrand Arnaud
Published: December 2020

Mesopelagic fishes are numerically the most important vertebrate group of all world’s oceans. While these species are increasingly threatened by anthropogenic activities, basic biological knowledge is still lacking. For instance, major uncertainties remain on the behaviour, ecology, and thus functional roles of mesopelagic micronektivores, particularly regarding their interactions with physicochemical features. Here, we examine the trophic ecology, habitat, and migratory behaviour of the viperfish (Chauliodus sloani)—a poorly known and abundant deep-sea species—to further understand the ecology and thus functional role of mesopelagic micronektivores. Moreover, we explore how physical drivers may affect these features and how these relationships are likely to change over large oceanic areas. The viperfish heavily preys on epipelagic migrant species, especially myctophids, and presents spatial and trophic ontogenetic shifts. Temperature restricts its vertical distribution. Therefore, its trophodynamics, migratory behaviour, and functional roles are expected to be modulated by the latitudinal change in temperature. For instance, in most tropical regions the viperfish stay full-time feeding, excreting, and serving as prey (e.g. for bathypelagic predators) at deep layers. On the contrary, in temperate regions, the viperfish ascend to superficial waters where they trophically interact with epipelagic predators and may release carbon where its remineralization is the greatest.
Systematical study of multi-walled carbon nanotube nanofluids based disposed transformer oil
Authors: Suhaimi Nur Sabrina , Md Din Muhamad Faiz , Ishak Mohd Taufiq , Abdul Rahman Abdul Rashid , Mohd Ariffin Maslina , Hashim Nurul ‘Izzati , Wang Jianli
Published: December 2020

In this paper, the electrical, dielectric, Raman and small angle X-ray scattering (SAXS) structure behavior of disposed transformer oil in the presence of multi-walled carbon nanotube (MWCNT) were systematically tested to verify their versatility for preparing better alternative transformer oil in future. MWCNT nanofluids are prepared using a two-step method with concentrations ranging from 0.00 to 0.02 g/L. The test results reveal that 0.005 g/L concentration possesses the most optimum performance based on the electrical (AC breakdown and lightning impulse) and dielectric (permittivity, dissipation factor and resistivity) behavior. According to the trend of AC breakdown strength and lightning impulse pattern, there were 212.58% and 40.01% enhancement indicated for 0.005 g/L concentration compared to the disposed transformer oil. The presence of MWCNT also yielding to the decrement of dissipation factor, increased on permittivity and resistivity behavior of disposed transformer oil which reflected to the performance of electrical properties. Furthermore, it is found that these features correlated to the structural properties as systematically verify by Raman and SAXS analysis study.
Author Correction: A GDSL lipase-like from Ipomoea batatas catalyzes efficient production of 3,5-diCQA when expressed in Pichia pastoris
Authors: Miguel Sissi , Legrand Guillaume , Duriot Léonor , Delporte Marianne , Menin Barbara , Michel Cindy , Olry Alexandre , Chataigné Gabrielle , Salwinski Aleksander , Bygdell Joakim , Vercaigne Dominique , Wingsle Gunnar , Hilbert Jean Louis , Bourgaud Frédéric , Hehn Alain , Gagneul David
Published: December 2020

A Correction to this paper has been published: https://doi.org/10.1038/s42003-020-01488-x
Detection methods of epitranscriptomic mark N6-methyladenosine
Authors: Wang Ye , Jia Guifang
Published: December 2020

Research on N6-methyladenosine (m6A) in recent years has revealed the complex but elegant regulatory role of this RNA modification in multiple physiological processes. The advent of m6A detection technologies is the basis for studying the function of this RNA modification. These technologies enable the detection of m6A sites across transcriptome or at specific gene, thereby revealing the alternation and dynamic of RNA modification. However, non-specific signals that arise from the antibody-based methods and the low-resolution landscape have become the major drawback of classic m6A detection methods. In this review, we summarize the current available methods and categorized them into three groups according to the utilization purpose, including measurement of total m6A levels, detection m6A locus in single gene, and m6A sequencing. We hope this review helps researchers in epitranscriptomic field find an appropriate m6A detection tool that suites their experimental design.
Link‐delay and spectrum‐availability aware routing in cognitive sensor networks
Authors: Tran‐Dang Hoa , Kim Dong‐Seong
Published: December 2020

This study designs and presents routing protocols multi‐channel, multi‐hop cognitive radio sensor network (CRSN), which are based on spectrum sensing, spectrum‐availability analysis and per‐hop delay analysis. In order to cope with the spectrum dynamics in the CRSNs, a framework is proposed to estimate the remaining duration of spectrum availability which is based on the expected idle length of channels, sensing period and communication history on the channel. Such methodology allows cognitive users to mitigate communication interruptions caused by arrivals of primary users, thus to improve the transmission performance over each hop. In particular, in combination with the per‐hop delay analysis, the routing paths from sources to the sink can be established such as they provide the shortest delay opportunistically or shorter delay but reliable communication along the selected paths. Extensive simulation results show that the proposed routing algorithms potentially improve the network performances in terms of throughput, delay and energy consumption.
Computation‐constrained spectrum sensing in IoT‐based scenarios
Authors: Mu Junsheng , Xie Dongliang , Huang Hai , Jing Xiaojun
Published: December 2020

As a key technology to discover idle spectrum in cognitive radio (CR) networks, classical spectrum sensing schemes mainly focus on the improvement of sensing accuracy and available throughput. However, both sensing performance and sensing complexity are significant elements that influence the performance of a CR in computation‐constrained scenarios. Motivated by this, theproposed study is devoted to computation‐constrained spectrum sensing and a tradeoff is considered between sensing performance and sensing complexity. First, the authors give two functions to evaluate the detection efficiency and communication efficiency of a CR. On this basis, two specific models are provided to obtain the optimal sensing operations in computation‐constrained conditions, respectively. Then they analyse these two models and conclude their advantages and disadvantages. Finally, simulation experiments validate the effectiveness of the proposed schemes. Note that computation‐constrained spectrum sensing works as a significant issue in the internet of things (IoT)‐based applications and the proposed schemes provide effective solutions for it.
Sol–gel preparation of spherical γ‐Al2O3 with macro‐mesopores as an efficient adsorbent for acid fuchsin
Authors: Zhang Tiantian , Xin Xiulan , Liu Hongqin , Song Nan , Wang Yan , Shi Yige , Cheng Yuqing
Published: December 2020

Spherical gamma‐alumina (γ‐Al2O3) has a wide range of applications in the field of adsorption due to its low bulk density, larger pore size, higher strength and thermal stability. In this study, spherical γ‐Al2O3 with macro‐mesopores was prepared with isopropanol aluminium as the aluminium source via a sol–gel process. Spherical γ‐Al2O3 was characterised by means of nitrogen adsorption and desorption curve, scanning electron microscope, transmission electron microscope, X‐ray diffraction and so on. The adsorption performance of the prepared spherical γ‐Al2O3 was studied by probe experiment of adsorption of acid fuchsin (AF) solution. The results showed that the spherical γ‐Al2O3, which was prepared under the condition of hydrolysis time of 1 h, hydrolysis temperature of 85°C, ageing temperature of 95°C and ageing time of 7 h, had the strongest adsorption capacity for AF, and the adsorption efficiency could reach 96.24% in 40 mg/l AF solution. In addition, after six cycles of use, the spherical γ‐Al2O3 had no damage and the adsorption efficiency still could reach 88.40%. This work provides a feasible method for the preparation of spherical γ‐Al2O3, and could also help to understand the connection between its textural properties and adsorption performance.
Optimal extraction of echelle spectra: Getting the most out of observations
Authors: Piskunov Nikolai , Wehrhahn Ansgar , Marquart Thomas
Published: December 2020

Context. The price of instruments and observing time on modern telescopes is quickly increasing. Therefore, it is worth revisiting the data reduction algorithms to extract every bit of scientific information from available observations. Echelle spectrographs are typical instruments used in high-resolution spectroscopy, but attempts to improve the wavelength coverage and versatility of these instruments has resulted in a complicated and variable footprint of the entrance slit projection onto the science detector. Traditional spectral extraction methods generally fail to perform a truly optimal extraction when the slit image is not aligned with the detector columns and, instead, is tilted or even curved.

Aims. Here, we present the mathematical algorithms and examples of their application to the optimal extraction and the following reduction steps for echelle spectrometers equipped with an entrance slit that is imaged with various distortions. The new method minimises the loss of spectral resolution, maximises the signal-to-noise ratio, and efficiently identifies local outliers. In addition to the new optimal extraction, we present order splicing and a more robust continuum normalisation algorithm.

Methods. We developed and implemented new algorithms that create a continuum-normalised spectrum. In the process, we account for the (variable) tilt or curvature of the slit image on the detector and achieve optimal extraction without prior assumptions about the slit illumination. Thus, the new method can handle arbitrary image slicers, slit scanning, and other observational techniques aimed at increasing the throughput or dynamic range.

Results. We compare our methods with other techniques for different instruments to illustrate the superior performance of the new algorithms compared to commonly used procedures.

Conclusions. Advanced modelling of the focal plane requires significant computational effort but it has proven worthwhile thanks to the retrieval of a greater store of science information from every observation. The described algorithms and tools are freely available as part of our PyReduce package.
Fundamental physics with ESPRESSO: Towards an accurate wavelength calibration for a precision test of the fine-structure constant
Authors: Schmidt Tobias M. , Molaro Paolo , Murphy Michael T. , Lovis Christophe , Cupani Guido , Cristiani Stefano , Pepe Francesco A. , Rebolo Rafael , Santos Nuno C. , Abreu Manuel , Adibekyan Vardan , Alibert Yann , Aliverti Matteo , Allart Romain , Allende Prieto Carlos , Alves David , Baldini Veronica , Broeg Christopher , Cabral Alexandre , Calderone Giorgio , Cirami Roberto , Coelho João , Coretti Igor , D’Odorico Valentina , Di Marcantonio Paolo , Ehrenreich David , Figueira Pedro , Genoni Matteo , Génova Santos Ricardo , González Hernández Jonay I. , Kerber Florian , Landoni Marco , Leite Ana C. O. , Lizon Jean-Louis , Lo Curto Gaspare , Manescau Antonio , Martins Carlos J. A. P. , Megévand Denis , Mehner Andrea , Micela Giuseppina , Modigliani Andrea , Monteiro Manuel , Monteiro Mario J. P. F. G. , Mueller Eric , Nunes Nelson J. , Oggioni Luca , Oliveira António , Pariani Giorgio , Pasquini Luca , Redaelli Edoardo , Riva Marco , Santos Pedro , Sosnowska Danuta , Sousa Sérgio G. , Sozzetti Alessandro , Suárez Mascareño Alejandro , Udry Stéphane , Zapatero Osorio Maria-Rosa , Zerbi Filippo
Published: December 2020

Observations of metal absorption systems in the spectra of distant quasars allow one to constrain a possible variation of the fine-structure constant throughout the history of the Universe. Such a test poses utmost demands on the wavelength accuracy and previous studies were limited by systematics in the spectrograph wavelength calibration. A substantial advance in the field is therefore expected from the new ultra-stable high-resolution spectrograph ESPRESSO, which was recently installed at the VLT. In preparation of the fundamental physics related part of the ESPRESSO GTO program, we present a thorough assessment of the ESPRESSO wavelength accuracy and identify possible systematics at each of the different steps involved in the wavelength calibration process. Most importantly, we compare the default wavelength solution, which is based on the combination of Thorium-Argon arc lamp spectra and a Fabry-Pérot interferometer, to the fully independent calibration obtained from a laser frequency comb. We find wavelength-dependent discrepancies of up to 24 m s−1. This substantially exceeds the photon noise and highlights the presence of different sources of systematics, which we characterize in detail as part of this study. Nevertheless, our study demonstrates the outstanding accuracy of ESPRESSO with respect to previously used spectrographs and we show that constraints of a relative change of the fine-structure constant at the 10−6 level can be obtained with ESPRESSO without being limited by wavelength calibration systematics.
Microscopic equation of state of hot nuclear matter for numerical relativity simulations
Authors: Logoteta Domenico , Perego Albino , Bombaci Ignazio
Published: December 2020

Context.A precise understanding of the equation of state (EOS) of dense and hot matter is key to modeling relativistic astrophysical environments, including core-collapse supernovae (CCSNe), protoneutron star (PNSs) evolution, and compact binary mergers.

Aims.In this paper, we extend the microscopic zero-temperature BL (Bombaci and Logoteta) nuclear EOS to finite temperature and arbitrary nuclear composition. We employ this new EOS to describe hotβ-stable nuclear matter and to compute various structural properties of nonrotating PNS. We also apply the EOS to perform dynamical simulations of a spherically symmetric CCSN.

Methods.The EOS is derived using the finite temperature extension of the Brueckner–Bethe–Goldstone quantum many-body theory in the Brueckner–Hartree–Fock approximation. Neutron star properties are computed by solving the Tolman–Oppenheimer–Volkoff structure equations numerically. The sperically symmetric CCSN simulations are performed using the AGILE-IDSA code.

Results.Our EOS models are able to reproduce typical features of both PNS and spherically symmetric CCSN simulations. In addition, our EOS model is consistent with present measured neutron star masses and particularly with the masses:M = 2.01 ± 0.04 M⊙andM= 2.14−0.18+0.20M⊙of the neutron stars in PSR J0348+0432 and PSR J0740+6620 respectively. Finally, we suggest a feasible mechanism to produce low-mass black holes (M ∼ 2 M⊙) that could have far-reaching consequences for interpreting the gravitational wave event GW190814 as a BH–BH merger.
Study of hydrophobin-type proteins from Funalia trogii
Authors: Khludin Artem , Kolesnikov Boris , Khrapatov Nikita , Shamtsyan Mark
Published: December 2020

Hydrophobins are low-molecular surface-active proteins of fungi with high surface activity and the ability to self-assemble at the interface. The unusual properties of hydrophobins open up possibilities for their application in various fields, including medicine and the food industry. The wide range of possible applications of hydrophobins makes it important to develop and improve technology for their isolation and purification. The aim of the study was to select methods for the extraction of hydrophobin-type proteins and to study the ability of the obtained extracts to modify the solid surface. The source of hydrophobins in this study was the biomass of the fungus Funalia trogii. Methods for the isolation of hydrophobin-type proteins were developed, including purification of the extract from ballast proteins, followed by the destruction of agglomerates of hydrophobin-type proteins using acids in high concentrations. The surface activity and the ability to modify the surface of the obtained proteins were evaluated. As a result, we obtained extracts containing hydrophobin-type proteins with high surface activity. Funalia trogii extracts are capable of changing the hydrophobicity of the surface and can be used in various industries.
Use of phytobiotics in animal husbandry and poultry
Authors: Pashtetsky Vladimir , Ostapchuk Pavel , Kuevda Tatiana , Zubochenko Denis , Yemelianov Sergey , Uppe Veronika
Published: December 2020

Scientists working in the field of animal nutrition have recently begun to pay more attention to biologically active substances contained in plants-phytobiotics. Their complex study (composition, effect on the body) is carried out only in the last 20-30 years. It was found that the use of plant components in animal husbandry (plant parts, essential oils, extracts) was accompanied by an increase in feed conversion, an overall improvement in production indicators, and an immunostimulatory effect.
An iterative vertex enumeration method for objective space based vector optimization algorithms
Authors: Kaya İrfan Caner , Ulus Firdevs
Published: December 2020

An application area of vertex enumeration problem (VEP) is the usage within objective space based linear/convex vector optimization algorithms whose aim is to generate (an approximation of) the Pareto frontier. In such algorithms, VEP, which is defined in the objective space, is solved in each iteration and it has a special structure. Namely, the recession cone of the polyhedron to be generated is the ordering cone. We consider and give a detailed description of a vertex enumeration procedure, which iterates by calling a modified “double description (DD) method” that works for such unbounded polyhedrons. We employ this procedure as a function of an existing objective space based vector optimization algorithm (Algorithm 1); and test the performance of it for randomly generated linear multiobjective optimization problems. We compare the efficiency of this procedure with another existing DD method as well as with the current vertex enumeration subroutine of Algorithm 1. We observe that the modified procedure excels the others especially as the dimension of the vertex enumeration problem (the number of objectives of the corresponding multiobjective problem) increases.
The voice of society in healthcare politics in Latvia
Authors: Bikava Ieva , Kreituse Ilga , Skride Andris
Published: December 2020

It is impossible to imagine contemporary democracy without society participation in the process of developing regulations and implementation of changes that have a significant impact on society. The opinion of the society is represented by social communities, interest groups, and other non-governmental organizations, which unite people with similar views and ideas and serves as a representative of common opinion to government. The principles of good governance demand cooperation and collaboration with society in all phases of developing, implementing and assessing changes in any policy. The article represents the research on evaluation of cooperation and collaboration practice, as well as an assessment of used lobbying strategies and evaluation of their results in Healthcare politics in Latvia. The research is based on in-depth interviews with the representative of main actors presenting the NGO sector, as well as the representatives of the Ministry of Welfare. The research results indicated that actors that operate in Healthcare sector use all of the possible lobbying techniques with various outcomes. The achieved results are dependent on the skills and available resources of Interest groups, on the desire and possibilities to follow good governance principles in state authorities, as well as of the topical issue.
Definition of the lower extremity overuse: A review
Authors: Nesterovica Darja
Published: December 2020

Injuries of the lower extremity overuse are common among different adult populations with high physical demands such as athletes and soldiers. Contradiction exists among used different definitions of overuse injury. Objective: to identify most common overuse injury definition and propose overuse injury criteria based on recent literature review. Methods: literature review of the most recent literature about lower extremity overuse injuries published between 2013 and June 2018. Studies retrieved through MEDLINE, PubMEd and ScienceDirect, applying inclusion and exclusion criteria and language restrictions. Results: 18 articles met all inclusion criteria out of 2995 articles screened. Included research populations are different sport athletes (n = 11) and soldiers (n = 5). Most studies described such overuse injuries as lower extremity stress fractures (n = 10) and Achilles tendinopathy (n = 7). Most reported overuse injury definition – injury due to large amount of physical activity training (n = 8) or repetitive micro-trauma (n = 4), Conclusions: lower extremity overuse injury is an injury due to high physical load because of incomplete repair process and with gradual onset. Important criteria for defining overuse injury include absence of known single traumatic event, progressive symptoms and lack of recovery period.