bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Rapid and transient reorganization of the cytoskeleton in GH3B6 cells during short-term exposure to thyroliberin
Authors: Moortele Solange Van De , Rosenbaum Etelka , Tixier-Vidal AndrÉe , Tougard Claude
Published: April 2021

The cytoskeletal organization of the rat pituitary tumor cell line GH3B6 was analysed using immunofluorescence, in basal conditions and after stimulation by thyroliberin (TRH). Under basal conditions, a dense and entangled cytoplasmic microtubule network, a perinuclear cage of cytokeratin fibers, and a diffuse distribution of F-actin were revealed.

Short-term stimulation of these cells by TRH induces a first early phase of PRL release (0-2 min), concomitant with a rarefaction of cytoplasmic PRL-containing granules, followed by a second plateau phase (5-30 min), concomitant with modifications of the Golgi zone. We show that TRH induced early and transient modifications in the cytoskeletal distribution during these short periods of stimulation. First, after 2 min of stimulation, small fluorescent tubulin blebs appeared under the plasma membrane. Then, after 5 min they disappeared, and a thin actin network, accentuated by thicker fibers, organized transiently in the cytoplasm. After 30 min, the microtubules and cytokeratin networks had extended throughout the cytoplasm and the actin distribution was diffuse again.

So, in this study, we have shown the existence of a parallelism between the redistribution of intracellular PRL compartments and the reorganization of cytoskeletal elements, during exposure to TRH. We could not clearly correlate these modifications with transduction mechanisms involved in TRH action.
The intermediate filament-related system of higher plant cells shares an epitope with cytokeratin 8
Authors: Ross Joanne H. E. , Hutchings Amanda , Butcher Geoffrey W. , Lane E. Birgitte , Lloyd Clive W.
Published: April 2021

It is now apparent that plants possess intermediate filament (IF) antigens that exist either as cytoplasmic fibrillar bundles (FBs) or in a finer form, codistributing with the microtubule arrays. In a previous study a monoclonal antibody (AFB) against the fibrillar bundles was shown to recognize representatives of what may be considered as a ‘core’ group of type III IFs. Here a monoclonal antibody is described that extends the range of similarity to cytokeratin. MAC322 stains the cytokeratin network in PtK2 cells, unlike AFB that stained vimentin. Like other anti-IF antibodies successfully used against plants, it stains their microtubule-associated system but is also able to stain FBs, with or without methanol pretreatment. By immunoblotting, MAC322 does not recognize the acidic (type I) cytokeratino in MCF7 and TR146 epithelial cell lines but recognizes cytokeratin 8. This was confirmed by a positive cross-reaction against recombinant human cytokeratin 8. This type II polypeptide is known to be characteristic of simple epithelia, to occur in the earliest stages of amphibian development, and also in some non-epithelial and dedifferentiated cells.

The sharing of a cytokeratin 8 epitope between higher plants and animals reinforces the idea that IF forms evolved before the two kingdoms diverged.
Notes on Arachnoidiscus, Pleurosigma, Amphiprora, Eunotia, and Amphora
Authors: Walker-Arnott G. A.
Published: April 2021

Arachnoidiscus.—Since my observations on this genus were published in the last number of this Journal, at p. 160, my attention has been called to the ‘Annals and Mag. of Nat. Hist.,’ for 1848, vol. i, p. 393, in which there is a translation of Ehrenberg’s paper on Hemiptychus. I am likewise informed by another correspondent that it was published in the ‘Berlin Proceedings’ for 1848, p. 7. I have not access to the original, but from what is said in the translation, it is clear that Ehrenberg got his specimens from Mr. Topping, of London ; and as it is generally well understood that the Arachnoidiscus was obtained by Mr. Topping from Ichaboe guano, the suspicion I threw out is verified. Whether it was certainly from Patagonia, that the Danish vessel Waldemar (spoken of by Ehrenberg) brought its cargo of guano, I know not ; Ehrenberg understood this, and his information may have been correct, although doubts arise from the following considerations. From that guano Ehrenberg obtained the diatom which he has called Entopyla australis, for which he quotes as a synonym his former Surirella (?) australis ; now my impression, from studying attentively his generic character, is that the Entopyla australis is the same as my Eupleuria (or Gephyria) incurvata, which is from Ichaboe and Saldanha Bay guano -, while his Sur. australis, from the Falkland Islands, and not, I believe, from guano at all, is probably my Eu. ocellata. But it is almost impossible to determine this point without seeing perfect specimens.
On Triceratium and some New Allied Forms, with figures of the same
Authors: Wallich Surgeon G. C.
Published: April 2021

“The want of short characters/’ observes Professor Walker-Arnott, “(intended to place clearly before the mind the few essential points of difference between supposed new and already known forms or species) cannot be supplied by figures or diffuse descriptions of the entire object, as these leave quite in the dark the precise marks of distinction observed by the writer, if such actually existed.”
Microscopical Society
Authors: Laxkester Dr.
Published: April 2021

General Alexander, Henry Carr, Esq., and Dr. G. Walker were balloted for, and duly elected members of the Society.
Remarks on the Structure of the Gregarinæ, and on the Development of G. (Monocystis) Sipunculi, Köll.
Authors: Lankester E. Ray
Published: April 2021

The Striation of the Tunics of Gregarinida.—Whilst the term Gregarines has been in everybody’s mouth in relation to a parasitic growth on hair—which could only have been ascribed to these organisms as a result of profound ignorance—there has been on the other hand considerable advance in our knowledge of the life-history and structure of those Protozoa to which the name Gregarina rightly belongs, in consequence of the admirable investigation by Professor Edouard van Beneden of the Gregarina parasite in the small intestine of the lobster.
The Minute Anatomy of the Brachiate Echinoderms
Authors: Carpenter P. Herbert
Published: April 2021

In the following pages I propose to give some account of the work that has been done during the last few years upon the minute anatomy of the Starfishes, Ophiurids, and Crinoids. I do not intend to touch upon the question of the skeleton at all, as I have already discussed its morphology in the pages of this Journal.1 At present I aim only at giving an intelligible account of what appear to be well-established discoveries in the anatomy and physiology of the nervous, vascular, and generative systems of these three groups.
Memoirs: Upon the Cause of the Striation of Voluntary Muscular Tissue
Authors: Haycraft John Berry
Published: April 2021

The structure of striated muscular tissue has occupied the attention of many histologists, and various, often antagonistic, have been the views held from time to time since Schwann first investigated this difficult subject.
Studies on the Comparative Anatomy of Sponges.: II. On the Anatomy and Histology of Stelo-spongus flabelliformis, Carter; with Notes on the Development
Authors: Dendy Arthur
Published: April 2021

The species upon the study of which the present paper is based, was first described by Mr. H. J. Carter, F.R.S., in 1885 (6), under the name Stelospongus flabelliformis. The first specimens were dredged by Mr. J. Bracebridge Wilson, M.A., and forwarded by him to England as part of a large collection entrusted to Mr. Carter for description. Mr. Carter’s description is unfortunately brief and unaccompanied by figures, and he does not enter into any details concerning the anatomy of the Sponge. He notes, however, in a subsequent paper (7), that it is characterised by the presence of very large embryos, and this remark first led me to the identification of my specimens.
On Some Points in the Natural History of Fungia
Authors: Lister J. J.
Published: April 2021

During a visit to the Seychelles Islands at the latter end of last and the beginning of the present year I was so fortunate as to find species of the Madreporian Coral Fungia, both in the fixed and free conditions. Owing to the-shortness of the time now at my disposal I have not been able to examine the material I have brought home as completely as I hope to on some future occasion, but as it throws light on some of the stages of the life-history of this group of Corals which have hitherto been obscure, a preliminary account may not be without interest.
Studies on the Structure and Formation of the Calcareous Skeleton of the Anthozoa
Authors: Bourne Gilbert C.
Published: April 2021

Milne Edwards and Haime, and the older authors on coral structure, regarded the calcareous skeleton of the Madreporaria as a calcified mesoderm. In 1881 Dr. A. von Heider, of Graz (11), described a layer of rounded cells underlying the corallum of Cladocora, and named them calicoblasts, since he judged from their position that they must be the coral-forming elements. In the following year. G. von Koch (17), in a memoir on the development of Astroides calycularis, confirmed the observation of von Heider, and further demonstrated the fact that the calicoblast layer is a product of the basal ectoderm.
A Histochemical Study of the Cytoplasmic Inclusions of the Epithelial Cells in the Epididymis of the Mouse
Authors: Christie A. C.
Published: April 2021

A histochemical study has been made of the cytoplasmic inclusions of the epithelial cells lining the storage section of the canal in the head of the epididymis of the mouse. Spherical bodies, usually situated in the vicinity of the nucleus and here referred to as juxta-nuclear bodies, are shown to consist of cerebroside with some phospholipid. The juxta-nuclear bodies have been regarded by other authors as derived from the nucleolus, but there is no histochemical similarity. A large supra-nuclear body exists, consisting of a matrix of protein and carbohydrate with enmeshed spheres. The latter do not colour with any dye or histochemical reagent used in this investigation. They are partially or completely surrounded by rims or crescents consisting wholly or mainly of lipid. Droplets and much smaller granules are present in the region between the supra nuclear body and the free border of the cell. The contents of the former show no histochemical evidence of the presence of organic matter, while the latter consist of protein and carbohydrate.
A Simple Pyronine /Methyl Green Technique
Authors: Jordan Barbara M. , Baker John R.
Published: April 2021

Brachet’s pyronine /methyl green technique, which gives good results when made with certain foreign dyes, does not work well when British specimens of pyronine and methyl green are used. Instructions are given for making up and using a reliable staining solution containing dyes that are readily available in this country.
A Comparative Morphological Study of the Tracheal System in Larval Diptera. Part I
Authors: Whitten Joan M.
Published: April 2021

The larval tracheal system of species representative of certain families in the Diptera Nematocera, Brachycera, and Cyclorrhapha is discussed. Detailed descriptions are given of the larval systems of members of the families Psychodidae, Trichoceridae, Anisopidae, Scatopsidae, Bibionidae, Phoridae, and Calliphoridae.

Attention is drawn to the fact that the dissimilarity between the tracheal systems of the species from the selected families—more particularly between the Diptera Nematocera and Cyclorrhapha—is superficial. The differences overlie what is in fact a series of tracheal systems in which the number and distribution of the main elements is remarkably constant. The homologies of these main elements in all three suborders are demonstrated. Correlation between the form of the central nervous system and the distribution of the tracheae is also shown.

Each described system is analysed into its main constituents and represented by a ‘larval tracheal pattern’. On close examination the patterns or plans of each system in the various families are shown to conform to a ‘general plan’ common to all the species described, and probably representative of a general larval plan for the whole order; it is suggested that it approaches what must be the primitive distribution of tracheae in the Diptera. It is also suggested that this pattern may prove of phylogenetic importance should it be possible to discover similar generalized patterns for the other insect orders. It is shown how the plan can be used in interpreting previous descriptions by other workers.

The results presented illustrate the stability and remarkable constancy of the basic pattern of the tracheal system throughout the main sub-divisions of the order. No correlation is seen between the form of the internal tracheal system and the variations shown by the spiracles, the elements of the tracheal system remaining constant in number and origin in all the species described.

In a future paper it is proposed to describe the systems of species from the remaining nematoceran families; considerable deviation from this general plan is to be seen, but the systems can be interpreted in the light of the present results.
Revealing Naïveté and Sophistication from Procrastination and Preproperation
Authors: Freeman David J.
Published: April 2021

This paper proposes a novel way of distinguishing whether a person is naïve or sophisticated about her own dynamic inconsistency using only her task-completion behavior. It shows that adding an unused extra opportunity to complete a task can lead a naïve (but not a sophisticated) person to complete it later and can lead a sophisticated (but not a naïve) person to complete the task earlier. These results provide a framework for revealing preference and sophistication types from behavior in a general environment that includes that of O’Donoghue and Rabin (1999). (JEL D15, D91)
Fees, Reputation, and Information Production in the Credit Rating Industry
Authors: Bizzotto Jacopo , Vigier Adrien
Published: April 2021

We compare a credit rating agency’s incentives to acquire costly information when it is only paid for giving favorable ratings to the corresponding incentives when the agency is paid up-front, i.e., irrespective of the ratings assigned. We show that, in the presence of moral hazard, contingent fees provide stronger dynamic incentives to acquire information than up-front fees and may induce higher social welfare. When the fee structure is chosen by the agency, contingent fees arise as an equilibrium outcome, in line with the way the market for credit rating actually works. (JEL D21, D82, D83, G24)
Is No News (Perceived As) Bad News? An Experimental Investigation of Information Disclosure
Authors: Jin Ginger Zhe , Luca Michael , Martin Daniel
Published: April 2021

This paper uses laboratory experiments to directly test a central prediction of disclosure theory: that strategic forces can lead those who possess private information to voluntarily provide it. In a simple sender-receiver game, we find that senders disclose favorable information, but withhold unfavorable information. The degree to which senders withhold information is strongly related to their stated beliefs about receiver actions, and their stated beliefs are accurate on average. Receiver actions are also strongly related to their stated beliefs, but their actions and beliefs suggest that many are insufficiently skeptical about nondisclosed information in the absence of repeated feedback. (JEL C70, D82, D83)
Common-Value Public Goods and Informational Social Dilemmas
Authors: Cox Caleb A. , Stoddard Brock
Published: April 2021

We experimentally examine private information and communication in a public goods environment with uncertain returns. We consider a common-value public goods game in which the return to contribution is either high or low. Before contributing, three players observe private signals correlated with the return and send cheap talk messages to one another. There are social gains from truthfulness, but a private incentive to exaggerate. We compare treatments with and without cheap talk, finding that communication is largely truthful and increases efficiency. In further treatments, we increase the incentive to exaggerate and find reduced truthfulness and smaller gains from communication. (JEL C72, D82, D83, H41)
An artificial intelligence deep learning model for identification of small bowel obstruction on plain abdominal radiographs
Authors: Kim DH , Wit H , Thurston M , Long M , Maskell GF , Strugnell MJ , Shetty D , Smith IM , Hollings NP
Published: April 2021

Objectives:

Small bowel obstruction is a common surgical emergency which can lead to bowel necrosis, perforation and death. Plain abdominal X-rays are frequently used as a first-line test but the availability of immediate expert radiological review is variable. The aim was to investigate the feasibility of using a deep learning model for automated identification of small bowel obstruction.

Methods:

A total of 990 plain abdominal radiographs were collected, 445 with normal findings and 445 demonstrating small bowel obstruction. The images were labelled using the radiology reports, subsequent CT scans, surgical operation notes and enhanced radiological review. The data were used to develop a predictive model comprising an ensemble of five convolutional neural networks trained using transfer learning.

Results:

The performance of the model was excellent with an area under the receiver operator curve (AUC) of 0.961, corresponding to sensitivity and specificity of 91 and 93% respectively.

Conclusion:

Deep learning can be used to identify small bowel obstruction on plain radiographs with a high degree of accuracy. A system such as this could be used to alert clinicians to the presence of urgent findings with the potential for expedited clinical review and improved patient outcomes.

Advances in knowledge:

This paper describes a novel labelling method using composite clinical follow-up and demonstrates that ensemble models can be used effectively in medical imaging tasks. It also provides evidence that deep learning methods can be used to identify small bowel obstruction with high accuracy.
İbn Kemmûne’nin Cisim Anlayışı
Authors: Pattabanoğlu Fatma Zehra
Published: April 2021

İslâm felsefenin klasik dönem çalışmalarının ardından, on ikinci yüzyıl sonrasında ortaya çıkan yeni yapılanmanın resmini görmek ve sonraki süreci anlamak bakımından İbn Kemmûne (ö. 1284) dikkat çeken isimlerdendir. Bu makale onun daha önce akademik camiada tartışılmamış cisim teorisiyle ilgilidir. Bundan dolayı konu, mümkün bir mahiyet olarak cismin nasıl varlık kazandığı ve bu süreci yönlendiren ilkelerin tabiat alanına nasıl yansıdığı, cismin ne olduğu, kurucu unsurları, çeşitleri, nitelikleri ve eklentileri çerçevesinde tabiat felsefesi ve metafizikle bağlantılı olarak ele alınmıştır. Böylece İbn Kemmûne’ye göre ilk cismin ilk felek olduğu, daha sonrakilerin sudûr süreci içerisinde meydana geldiği ve cismin sebebinin akıl olduğu tespit edilmiştir. Ayrıca madde ve sûretten oluşan cismin; kesintisiz, kendisine işaret edilen ve aklen sonsuz bölünebilir bir cevher olduğu belirlenmiş, ancak cismin kurucu unsurlarından olan madde ve sûretin cevher kategorisi altında değerlendirilmediği görülmüştür. Diğer taraftan İbn Kemmûne’nin müstakil eserlerinde ve şerhlerinde Meşşâî ve İşrâkî geleneğin cisim hakkındaki temel iddialarına yaklaşımı gözden geçirilmiştir. Bu iddiaların detayında yapılan ispatlar ve akıl yürütmelerde, cismin tanımı ve tabiatı konusunda İbn Kemmûne’nin büyük oranda İbn Sînâ gibi, cismin nitelikleri ve eklentileri konusunda ise kısmen Sühreverdî gibi düşündüğü anlaşılmıştır. Çalışmada Sühreverdî’de dönüşüm geçiren İbn Sînâ’nın cisim teorisinin, İbn Kemmûne’de nasıl şekillendiği ve bu bağlamda özgün bir içeriğinin olup olmadığı araştırılmıştır. Böylece sistem kurucu olan her iki filozoftan sonra, İslâm düşüncesinde felsefî birikimin değişim, dönüşüm ve aktarım sürecini takip edebilmek açısından makalenin alana katkı sağlaması amaçlanmıştır.
Semantic decisions in adolescents with autism spectrum disorders - functional magnetic resonance imaging study
Authors: Bryńska Anita , Wolak Tomasz , Naumczyk Patrycja , Srebnicki Tomasz , Wolańczyk Tomasz
Published: April 2021

Cel pracy

Cel: ocena aktywacji fMRI w trakcie wykonywania zadań semantycznych u adolescentów z ASD.

Metoda

Materiał: 44 praworęcznych nastolatków płci męskiej w wieku 12-19 lat (śr. 14,3 ± 2,0) - 31 z zaburzeniami ze spektrum autyzmu, którzy spełniali kryteria DSM-IV-TR dla zespołu Aspergera oraz 13 prawidłowo rozwijających się nastolatków dobranych pod względem wieku i ręczności. Metoda: Badania czynnościowe (fMRI) przeprowadzono w czasie podejmowania decyzji semantycznych i kontrolnych decyzji fonologicznych w trzech kategoriach zadań: rzeczowniki konkretne, czasowniki o znaczeniach mnogich, słowa opisujące stany umysłu. Analizy statystyczne przeprowadzono na poziomie p<0,05 z korekcją FWE (family-wise error) oraz p<0,001.

Wyniki

Wyniki: w grupie ASD niższy sygnał BOLD wykazano w wielu obszarach mózgu (m.in. przedklinek, tylna część zakrętu obręczy, zakręt kątowy, zakręt parahipokampalny) niezależnie od kategorii zadania oraz sposobu przetwarzania. Najmniejsze różnice dla przetwarzania semantycznego stwierdzono dla rzeczowników konkretnych, największe dla słów opisujących stany umysłu.

Wnioski

Wnioski: obecność odmiennych wzorców aktywacji w grupie ASD podkreśla rolę nieprawidłowej organizacji funkcjonalnej obszarów OUN związanych nie tylko z funkcjami językowymi w powstawaniu deficytów semantycznych.
PENGARUH KOMPOSISI PENGELOLA PERUSAHAAN TERHADAP KINERJA KEUANGAN (Studi pada Badan Usaha Milik Negara yang Terdaftar di Bursa Efek Indonesia)
Authors: Putri Meyzia Irestia , Mujino Mujino , Rinofah Risal
Published: April 2021

This study aims to examine the effect of the composition of company managers on financial performance. The composition of the company management is proxied by using the number of independent commissioners, the board of commissioners, and the board of directors. The company's financial performance is measured by profitability ratios, namely Return On Investment (ROI). The population in this study are companies that are included in the State Owned Enterprises (SOEs) listed on the Indonesia Stock Exchange (BEI) in 2010-2018.The sample selection technique used purposive sampling method. Based on the criteria that have been determined, 8 companies chosen as sample. The type of data used are secondary data in the form of annual reports and financial statements. Data analysis technique used multiple linear regression analysis.The results of this study showed that simultaneously, independent commissioner, board of commissioner, and board of directors have a significant effect on ROI. Partially, independent commissioner, audit committee, board of commissioner, and board of directors has positive and significant effect on ROI. While another Good Corporate Governance proxy, which are the audit committee and board of directors  have a positive effect but not significant on ROI.
PERAN MEDIASI KEPUASAN PELANGGAN PADA PENGARUH E-SERVICE QUALITY, PERSEPSI HARGA, DAN PROMOSI PENJUALAN TERHADAP LOYALITAS PELANGGAN
Authors: Septiani Risa , Nurhadi Nurhadi
Published: April 2021

This study aim was to determine the effect of e-service quality, price perception, and sales promotion on customer loyalty through customer satisfaction on Gojek customers in Yogyakarta. This research is a quantitative study with survey method. The population in this study were Gojek customers in Yogyakarta. The sampling technique used was purposive sampling, with a total sample of 235 respondents. The technique of collecting data used an online questionnaire that has been tested for validity and reliability. The data analysis technique used to test the hypothesis was bootstrapping method using macro PROCESS by Andrew F. Hayes. The results of this study show that there is a positive effect of e-service quality on the satisfaction of Gojek Yogyakarta customers, there is a positive effect of price perception on the satisfaction of Gojek Yogyakarta customers, there is a positive effect of sales promotion on the satisfaction of Gojek Yogyakarta customers, there is a positive effect of customer satisfaction on the loyalty of Gojek Yogyakarta customers, there is a positive effect of e-service quality on the loyalty of Gojek Yogyakarta customers, there is a positive effect of price perception on the loyalty of Gojek Yogyakarta customers, there is a positive effect of sales promotion on the loyalty of Gojek Yogyakarta customers, and there is the effect of e service quality, price perception, and sales promotion on customer loyalty through Gojek Yogyakarta customer satisfaction, as evidenced by the e-service quality variable mediation coefficient of 0,0442; the mediation coefficient of price perception variable is 0,0404; and the mediation coefficient of sales promotion variable is 0.0676.
PENGARUH KETIDAKPASTIAN KEBIJAKAN EKONOMI AMERIKA SERIKAT, TIONGKOK, DAN JEPANG TERHADAP JAKARTA ISLAMIC INDEX
Authors: Royhana Maulidia , Warninda Titi Dewi
Published: April 2021

This research aims to analyze the influence of United State Economic Policy Uncertainty, Tiongkok Economic Policy Uncertainty, and Japan Economic Policy Uncertainty on the Jakarta Islamic Index. This study used time-series data from January 2001 to December 2019 and Error Correction Model (ECM) to analyze the short-term and long-term effects of United State, Tiongkok and Japan Economic Policy Uncertainty on the Jakarta Islamic Index. The results of this research show that United State EPU and Tiongkok EPU have no short-term and long-term effect on Jakarta Islamic Index. Meanwhile, in the short-term, Japan EPU has a significant influence on the Jakarta Islamic Index but has no long-term influence.
KARAKTERISTIK PERUSAHAAN DAN STRUKTUR MODAL USAHA KECIL DAN MENENGAH DI INDONESIA: ANALISIS DATA PANEL
Authors: Dwiputri Rachmaniar Myrianda , Najmudin Najmudin
Published: April 2021

The purpose of this paper is to determine the firm’s characteristics and capital structure of SMEs registered in Indonesia. This study use panel data analysis for twenty-five firms over three years (2016-2018). The samples of this study were 25 Indonesian SMEs registered in the Pefindo25 index. The capital structure determinants are expressed as a function of size, tangible assets, current ratio, return on asset, and growth. This study used a pooled fixed effect to estimate the relationship between the variables. The result shows that the capital structure of registered SMEs in Indonesia is negatively affected by size, current ratio, return on asset, and growth. Registered SMEs in Indonesia have a capital structure that is in line with POT predictions.
Concentration Dependent Effects of Green Inhibitors on Gravimetric Indices of Corrosion Linked Metal Integrity
Authors: Niyi Olowoyo D. , Akpan Fadairo Ekaette , Ejiro Aziza Andrew
Published: April 2021

The use of plant phytochemicals as anti-corrosion agents is gaining widespread acceptance. This study was designed to evaluate the concentration dependent effects of green inhibitors from Pennisetum purpureum (elephant grass) Mangifera indica (mango leaves) and Heveabrasiliensis (rubber leaves) on some gravimetric indicators of corrosion linked metal stability. The material strength, weight loss, corrosion rate of the metal coupons and the inhibition efficiency of the green inhibitors were determined after 3 days. Our findings revealed a slight increase (p=0.05) in material strength (MS) of Pennisetum purpureum inhibitor treated - iron and steel at 100% inhibitor relative to their controls (minus Pennisetum purpureum -iron and steel coupons) and also relative to the (+Mangifera indica inhibitor and + Heveabrasiliensis -treated iron and steel coupons at 50% concentration. The material strength for P. purpureum-treated aluminium was slightly increased (p>0.05). There was also a slight decrease (p>0.05) in the weight loss of P. purpureum exposed iron coupon at a 100% inhibitor when compared to the controls, 50% P. purpureum exposed iron coupon and at 50 and 100% H. brasiliensis and M. indica-treated iron coupon in 15% acid medium. Pre-treatment of test metals with the combined green inhibitors at 50 and 100% concentration caused a significant (p≤0.05) decreases in weight loss and increases in material strength of all three test metals when compared to their respective inhibitor-free controls, and when treatment was done with a single green inhibitor. There was a slight decrease in the corrosion rate of iron, aluminium and steel coupons in acid medium treated with 50% P. purpureum inhibitor when compared to the same parameter of other green inhibitors evaluated in this study, albeit, the reduction was not significant (p>0.05). There was a further decreases (p≤0.05) in the corrosion rate of iron and steel when the combined green inhibitors at 100% concentration(+All green inhibitors (PAGI) at 100%) were used relative to when treatment was done using individual green inhibitors separately. The inhibition efficiency of the combined green inhibitors at 50% concentration on aluminium, iron and steel was 86% 57% and 60% respectively. While the treatment of the same coupons with combined inhibitors (+PAGI at100% concentration) increased the inhibition efficiency to 88% 75% and 74% for aluminium, iron and steel respectively. Overall, the study revealed the possible anti-corrosion effects of the extracts of H. brasiliensis, P. purpureum and M. indica on aluminium, iron and steel coupons and the synergism in anti-corrosion characteristics of these green inhibitors when combined. This study establishes the anticorrosion effects of H. brasiliensis, P. purpureum and M. indica extracts.
Intra-Crustal Seismicity Triggering in Shillong Massif – An Appraisal on Recent Seismicity
Authors: Borgohain Himanta
Published: April 2021

Shillong plateau in the North East India resembles a kind of inselberg, confined in between the great Hilamalayan mountain belts in the north and the Arakan-Yoma towards east. The study area is governed by a system of complex seismotectonic features responsible for the intense seismicity in the region, significantly the devastation aftermath the 1897 great Assam Earthquake (Ms~8.7). Spatio-temporal distribution of seismicity triggering inside the plateau from 1966 to 2013 suggests distinctly variable depth-ranges of seismicity zones within the crust. The depth section counterparts of the seismicity monitoring within Shillong plateau and its periphery infers the bottom of the seismogenic zone to lie at ~40km depth with an average depth of earthquake occurrence at 22.31km; besides, the study also dictates the dominant earthquake magnitude as ≤4.99Mw, wherein most of the earthquakes are confined within magnitude 3-5 Mw with an average magnitude 3.42 MW. The study reveals intense seismic activity in the central and western part of Shillong plateau owing to the conjecture of a number of active faults. The present study incorporates both qualitative as well as quantitative approach while understanding the types of recent seismicity pattern in the Shillong massif.
Behavioral Biomarker Responses of Filopaludina bengalensis to Acute Copper Toxicity
Authors: Ghosh Pratyush , Dutta Mouli , Panigrahi Ashish Kumar
Published: April 2021

As heavy metals are bioaccumulative and toxic in nature, increasing heavy metal levels in the environment is of great concern. The present study was aimed to assess the acute toxicity effects of copper on some behavioral attributes of Filopaludina bengalensis (locally known as ‘Genri’), a freshwater gastropod, under laboratory condition. Exposure to copper (0.50-2.0 ppm) for 96 h resulted in significant mortality. Recorded LC50 value at 96h was 0.586 ppm. The aggregation tendency, crawling activity and mucus secretion were observed at different exposure period upon acute exposure of copper (0.586 ppm).With the advancement of exposure period, gradual deaggregation was observed in snails of copper treated sets. There was statistically significant difference (P <0.01) in aggregation response and foot protrusion response at different span of exposure in copper treated groups. In copper treated sets, a substantial increase (P<0.01) in mucus secretion (%) was evident with time. Foot protrusion and movement was inhibited in copper treated groups. All three responses in the copper treated groups were significantly different (P <0.01) from that of control groups. The behavioral responses observed in this study of Filopaludina bengalensis could be used as biomarkers for copper contamination in any aquatic ecosystems.
How important is sleep for cardiac health?
Authors: Richardson Andrew
Published: April 2021

Andrew Richardson, educational advisor for the British Association for Nursing in Cardiovascular Care, discusses the link between obstructive sleep apnoea and cardiovascular disease.
The Evaluation of the Intellectual Disabled Children's Fundamental Motor Skill Proficiency
Authors: Ergin Murat , Özbek Sıtkı
Published: April 2021

The aim of this cross-sectional study is to determine the fundamental motor skills (FMS) proficiency of children with mild intellectual disabled (MID) and to compare their FMS proficiencies in terms of age and gender. This study has three purposes. These are a) Defining the FMS proficiencies of the participants, b) Examining the FMS proficiencies of the participants in terms of gender variable, c) Examining the FMS proficiencies of the participants in terms of the age variable. Participants consisted of 122 MID students aged 7-10 years (M = 8.25, SD = 0.92). FMS proficiency was evaluated with the Gross Motor Development Test-Second Edition (TGMD-2). Independent Samples t test and ANOVA test were used to test the differences between groups. As a result: a) It was observed that the participants could not perform the FMS at the mastery level. Participants failed to demonstrate FMS proficiency appropriate for their age and showed delays in FMS compared to the TGMD-2 normative sample. Most of the participants performed “below average” and “poor” for LOC and OC skills. It was determined that the participants obtained higher scores in LOC subtest compared to OC subtest, b) It was determined that males were more proficiency in FMS and subtests than females, c) No difference was found in FMS proficiency in terms of age. These results show that opportunities need to be increased to develop the FMS proficiency.
Interference fading suppression in φ-OTDR using space-division multiplexed probes
Authors: Zhao Zhiyong , Wu Huan , Hu Junhui , Zhu Kun , Dang Yunli , Yan Yaxi , Tang Ming , Lu Chao
Published: April 2021

We propose and experimentally demonstrate a novel interference fading suppression method for phase-sensitive optical time domain reflectometry (φ-OTDR) using space-division multiplexed (SDM) pulse probes in a few-mode fiber. The SDM probes consist of multiple different modes, and three spatial modes (LP01, LP11a, and LP11b) are used in this work for the proof of concept. Firstly, the Rayleigh backscattering light of different modes is experimentally characterized, and it turns out that the waveforms of the φ-OTDR traces for distinct modes are all different and independent. Thanks to the spatial difference of the fading positions for distinct modes, multiple probes from spatially multiplexed modes can be used to suppress the interference fading in φ-OTDR. Then, the performances of the φ-OTDR systems using a single probe and multiple probes are evaluated and compared. Specifically, the statistical analysis shows that the fading probabilities over both the fiber length and the time scale are reduced significantly by using multiple SDM probes, which verifies the significant performance improvement on fading suppression. By introducing the concept of SDM to φ-OTDR, the proposed novel interference fading suppression method avoids the complicated frequency or phase modulation, which has the advantages of simplicity, good effectiveness and high reliability.
Gas environment independent temperature sensor via double-metal surface plasmon resonance
Authors: Yu Hongyan , Sun Xinyu , Liu Guolei , Fateh Ullah , Ban Dasai , Deng Niping , Qiu Feng
Published: April 2021

As the sensitivity of the optical temperature sensor increases, one of the most important noise sources may be from the fluctuation of the surrounding gas environment (refractive index change). In this work, we have designed and fabricated an optical temperature sensor with a device size of 15 μm2. The sensor is constructed by a titanium dioxide grating on top of a double-metal surface plasmon resonance (SPR) structure. Our design can provide minimal gas environment dependence without compromising the performance in terms of temperature sensitivity. In addition, the design also facilitates a generous dimensional tolerance in the device fabrication. Based on the design, a proof-of-concept device has been fabricated and characterized. The obtained sensitivity of the fabricated sensor reaches 135 pm/℃. Meanwhile, the measured resonance wavelength shift is ∼0.004 pm in different gases (air, CH4, and CO2). The presented temperature sensor should be convenient and valuable for high-accuracy temperature measurements and integrated opto-electronic sensing chips.
Experimental characterization of group and phase delays induced by bending and twisting in multi-core fibers
Authors: Veronese Riccardo , Fontaine Nicolas K. , Chen Haoshuo , Mazur Mikael , Ryf Roland , Santagiustina Marco , Galtarossa Andrea , Palmieri Luca
Published: April 2021

The local variations of group and phase propagation delays induced by bending and twisting a coupled core three-core fiber are experimentally characterized, for the first time, to the best of our knowledge, along the fiber length, with millimeter-scale spatial resolution. The measurements are performed by means of spectral correlation analysis on the fiber’s Rayleigh backscattered signal, enabling for a distributed measurement of the perturbation effects along the fiber length. A mathematical model validating the experimental results is also reported.
Fiber polarizer based on selectively silver-coated large-core suspended-core fiber
Authors: Zhang Xian , Wang Caoyuan , Yu Ruowei , Xiao Limin , Zhu Xiao-Song , Shi Yi-Wei
Published: April 2021

A tunable fiber polarizer based on the selectively silver-coated large-core suspended-core fiber (LSCF) was proposed. A thin silver layer was coated on the inner surface of two opposite air holes of the LSCF by the chemical liquid-phase deposition method. The

y

-polarized light (parallel to the two silver-coated air holes) will excite surface plasmon resonance and experience large transmission loss, while the

x

-polarized light does not, resulting in a fiber polarizer. By varying the liquid filled in the microchannels of the LSCF, the operating wavelength can be tuned in the visible and near infrared region along with the surface plasmon resonance wavelength. The dependence of the polarization characteristics on the fiber length was experimentally investigated. The maximum polarization extinction ratio (PER) of 20.1 dB, 19.6 dB, and 18.3 dB and insertion loss (IL) of 2.24 dB, 2.56 dB, and 2.08 dB are achieved with the optimal fiber length of 16 cm at the operating wavelengths of 565.4 nm, 626.7 nm, and 739.7 nm, respectively. Compared with the multimode fiber-based polarizers reported previously, the proposed selectively silver-coated LSCF polarizer exhibits higher PER and lower IL.
Measurement of suction pressure dynamics of sea lampreys, Petromyzon marinus
Authors: Shi Hongyang , Holbrook Christopher M. , Cao Yunqi , Sepúlveda Nelson , Tan Xiaobo
Published: April 2021

Species-specific monitoring activities represent fundamental tools for natural resource management and conservation but require techniques that target species-specific traits or markers. Sea lamprey, a destructive invasive species in the Laurentian Great Lakes and conservation target in North America and Europe, is among very few fishes that possess and use oral suction, yet suction has not been exploited for sea lamprey control or conservation. Knowledge of specific characteristics of sea lamprey suction (e.g., amplitude, duration, and pattern of suction events; hereafter ‘suction dynamics’) may be useful to develop devices that detect, record, and respond to the presence of sea lamprey at a given place and time. Previous observations were limited to adult sea lampreys in static water. In this study, pressure sensing panels were constructed and used to measure oral suction pressures and describe suction dynamics of juvenile and adult sea lampreys at multiple locations within the mouth and in static and flowing water. Suction dynamics were largely consistent with previous descriptions, but more variation was observed. For adult sea lampreys, suction pressures ranged from –0.6 kPa to –26 kPa with 20 s to 200 s between pumps at rest, and increased to –8 kPa to –70 kPa when lampreys were manually disengaged. An array of sensors indicated that suction pressure distribution was largely uniform across the mouths of both juvenile and adult lampreys; but some apparent variation was attributed to obstruction of sensing portal holes by teeth. Suction pressure did not differ between static and flowing water when water velocity was lower than 0.45 m/s. Such information may inform design of new systems to monitor behavior, distribution and abundance of lampreys.
Prevalence of human respiratory syncytial virus, parainfluenza and adenoviruses in East Africa Community partner states of Kenya, Tanzania, and Uganda: A systematic review and meta-analysis (2007–2020)
Authors: Umuhoza Therese , Bulimo Wallace D. , Oyugi Julius , Musabyimana Jean Pierre , Kinengyere Alison A. , Mancuso James D.
Published: April 2021

Background

Viruses are responsible for a large proportion of acute respiratory tract infections (ARTIs). Human influenza, parainfluenza, respiratory-syncytial-virus, and adenoviruses are among the leading cause of ARTIs. Epidemiological evidence of those respiratory viruses is limited in the East Africa Community (EAC) region. This review sought to identify the prevalence of respiratory syncytial virus, parainfluenza, and adenoviruses among cases of ARTI in the EAC from 2007 to 2020.

Methods

A literature search was conducted in Medline, Global Index Medicus, and the grey literature from public health institutions and programs in the EAC. Two independent reviewers performed data extraction. We used a random effects model to pool the prevalence estimate across studies. We assessed heterogeneity with the I2 statistic, and Cochran’s Q test, and further we did subgroup analysis. This review was registered with PROSPERO under registration number CRD42018110186.

Results

A total of 12 studies met the eligibility criteria for the studies documented from 2007 to 2020. The overall pooled prevalence of adenoviruses was 13% (95% confidence interval [CI]: 6–21, N = 28829), respiratory syncytial virus 11% (95% CI: 7–15, N = 22627), and parainfluenza was 9% (95% CI: 7–11, N = 28363). Pooled prevalence of reported ARTIs, all ages, and locality varied in the included studies. Studies among participants with severe acute respiratory disease had a higher pooled prevalence of all the three viruses. Considerable heterogeneity was noted overall and in subgroup analysis.

Conclusion

Our findings indicate that human adenoviruses, respiratory syncytial virus and parainfluenza virus are prevalent in Kenya, Tanzania, and Uganda. These three respiratory viruses contribute substantially to ARTIs in the EAC, particularly among those with severe disease and those aged five and above.
Changes in ionizing radiation dose rate affect cell cycle progression in adipose derived stem cells
Authors: Rusin Matthew , Ghobrial Nardine , Takacs Endre , Willey Jeffrey S. , Dean Delphine
Published: April 2021

Biomedical use of radiation is utilized in effective diagnostic and treatment tools, yet can introduce risks to healthy tissues. High energy photons used for diagnostic purposes have high penetration depth and can discriminate multiple tissues based on attenuation properties of different materials. Likewise, the ability to deposit energy at various targets within tumors make the use of photons effective treatment for cancer. Radiation focused on a tumor will deposit energy when it interacts with a biological structure (e.g. DNA), which will result in cell kill should repair capacity of the tissue be overwhelmed. Likewise, damage to normal, non-cancerous tissues is a consequence of radiation that can lead to acute or late, chronic toxicity profiles. Adipose derived stem cells (ADSCs) are mesenchymal stem cells that have been proven to have similar characteristics to bone marrow derived stem cells, except that they are much easier to obtain. Within the body, ADSCs act as immunomodulators and assist with the maintenance and repair of tissues. They have been shown to have excellent differentiation capability, making them an extremely viable option for stem cell therapies and regenerative medicine applications. Due to the tissue ADSCs are derived from, they are highly likely to be affected by radiation therapy, especially when treating tumors localized to structures with relatively high ADSC content (eg., breast cancer). For this reason, the purpose behind this research is to better understand how ADSCs are affected by doses of radiation comparable to a single fraction of radiation therapy. We also measured the response of ADSCs to exposure at different dose rates to determine if there is a significant difference in the response of ADSCs to radiation therapy relevant doses of ionizing radiation. Our findings indicate that ADSCs exposed to Cesium (Cs 137)-gamma rays at a moderate dose of 2Gy and either a low dose rate (1.40Gy/min) or a high dose rate (7.31Gy/min) slow proliferation rate, and with cell cycle arrest in some populations. These responses ADSCs were not as marked as previously measured in other stem cell types. In addition, our results indicate that differences in dose rate in the Gy/min range typically utilized in small animal or cell irradiation platforms have a minimal effect on the function of ADSCs. The potential ADSCs have in the space of regenerative medicine makes them an ideal candidate for study with ionizing radiation, as they are one of the main cell types to promote tissue healing.