bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
CYP2C19 genotype variability in patients with refractory gastroesophageal reflux after per-oral endoscopic myotomy (POEM)
Authors: Perbtani Yaseen B. , Westerveld Donevan R. , Yang Dennis J. , Draganov Peter V.
Published: May 2021

Background and study aims Symptomatic gastroesophageal reflux is a recognized potential adverse event following peroral endoscopic myotomy (POEM). Proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) are an effective first-line therapy; although their efficacy can be affected by genotype cytochrome P450 2C19 (CYP2C19) variability leading to enhanced clearance of PPIs. The aim of our study was to evaluate the incidence of CYP2C19 genotype variability in POEM patients with refractory gastroesophageal reflux symptoms.

Patients and methods This was a single-center, prospective, cohort study of consecutive POEM cases during a 7-year study period (2013–2020). Reflux symptoms were assessed with the validated gastroesophageal reflux disease questionnaire (GerdQ) and objective pH testing after POEM. CYP2C19 genotype testing was obtained in all patients with refractory gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) symptoms, defined as an abnormal pH study and GerdQ score ≥ 8 while on PPIs twice daily.

Results POEM was performed in 325 consecutive patients (48.3 % female; mean age 57 years) during the study period. Twenty patients (6.8 %) had PPI-refractory, post-POEM gastroesophageal reflux based on their GerdQ score (median 9, range 8–11) and abnormal pH studies. CYP2C19 genotype testing identified 55 % (11/20) of these patients as being rapid metabolizers. Out of these, 9 (82 %) had improvement in clinical GERD symptoms after changing to a PPI less affected by CYP2C19 pharmacogenetics.

Conclusions Post-POEM, PPI-refractory GERD is rare. As shown in this study, rapid metabolizers commonly respond by changing to a PPI less affected by CYP2C19 pharmacogenetics, thereby reducing the risk of long-term consequences from GERD and unnecessary anti-reflux surgery.
VACStent: Combining the benefits of endoscopic vacuum therapy and covered stents for upper gastrointestinal tract leakage
Authors: Lange Jonas , Dormann Arno , Bulian Dirk Rolf , Hügle Ulrich , Eisenberger Claus Ferdinand , Heiss Markus Maria
Published: May 2021

Background and study aims Endoscopic treatment has markedly improved the high morbidity and mortality in patients with upper gastrointestinal tract leakage. Most procedures employ either covered self-expanding metal stents (SEMS) or endoscopic vacuum therapy (EVT), both with good clinical success but also with concomitant significant shortcomings inherent in each technique. A newly developed device, the VACStent, combines the fully covered SEMS with a polyurethane sponge cylinder anchored on the outside. This allows endoluminal EVT while keeping the intestinal lumen patent. The benefit is prevention of stent migration because the suction force of the sponge-cylinder immobilizes the VACStent on the intestinal wall, while at the same time, the attached external vacuum pump suctions off any secretions and improves healing with negative-pressure wound treatment (NPWT).

Patients and methods In this pilot study, the first patients to receive the VACStent were assessed. Outcomes included the applicability and stability of the VACStent system together with the clinical course.

Results Three patients with different clinical courses were managed with the VACStent. The first patient suffered anastomotic leakage following subtotal esophagectomy and was successfully treated with two postoperative VACStents for 12 days. The second patient received a covered SEMS for 14 days for acute Boerhaave syndrome. Due to persistent leakage, management was converted to EVT. Seven days, later a VACStent was inserted to allow oral nutrition while the leak finally closed. In the third patient, a LINX Reflux Management System had to be removed for erosion, leaving the gastroesophageal junction (GEJ) with a full-thickness gap. After VACstent insertion, successful closure was achieved within 4 days.

Conclusions These clinical cases demonstrate the applicability and efficacy of the VACstent in management of esophageal and anastomotic leakage. With its vacuum sponge, the stent fosters wound healing while the covered SEMS keeps the passage patent for nutrition.
Pyrrolizidine Alkaloid Contamination in Medicinal Plants: Regulatory Requirements and Their Impact on Production and Quality Control of Herbal Medicinal Products
Authors: Steinhoff Barbara
Published: May 2021

Against the background of potential contamination of medicinal plant materials with pyrrolizidine alkaloids caused by weeds, suppliers of herbal drugs and manufacturers of herbal medicinal products have taken action by establishing a Code of Practice by monitoring potential contamination and by collection of data. In August 2020, the Herbal Medicinal Products Committee, in its new draft public statement, proposed a daily intake of 1.0 µg of pyrrolizidine alkaloids per day for adults in general, also including contaminations of herbal medicinal products. Over the past years, the results of data collections showed a remarkable reduction of the pyrrolizidine alkaloid burden in herbal drugs and herbal extracts. Meanwhile, a stable situation has been achieved for herbal drugs, while further improvement can be observed for herbal extracts. The results indicate that the implemented measures have been efficient and contribute to a continuous and sustainable reduction of
pyrrolizidine alkaloid contamination. A permanent limit of 1.0 µg of pyrrolizidine alkaloids per day is considered appropriate to guarantee sufficient availability of batches used for the production of herbal medicinal products. The new Ph.Eur. general chapter 2.8.26 describes, as an example, an analytical procedure suitable for the determination of target pyrrolizidine alkaloids.
Photocatalytic Homocoupling Transformations
Authors: Sansano José M. , de Gracia Retamosa María , Döndaş Haci Ali , Sobhani Sara , Nájera Carmen , Yus Miguel A.
Published: May 2021

Homocoupling reactions promoted by photocatalysts are not very abundant in the literature. However, the products generated from such processes are very interesting. In this review, we highlight the most relevant reports concerning photocatalyzed dimerizations covering the literature until the middle of 2020. Reactions will be classified according to the type of starting material employed, with an emphasis being placed on the corresponding mechanism.

1 Introduction

2 Arenes and Heteroarenes

3 Alkenes

4 Alkanes

5 Alkynes

6 Aldehydes, Ketones, Alcohols, Amines and Imines

7 Carboxylic Acids

8 Nitro Compounds

9 Conclusions
Asymmetric Synthesis of Fused Tetrahydroquinolines via Intra­molecular Aza-Diels–Alder Reaction of ortho-Quinone Methide Imines
Authors: Schneider Christoph , Hofmann Fabian , Gärtner Cornelius , Kretzschmar Martin
Published: May 2021

Aza-Diels–Alder reactions are straightforward processes for the construction of N-heterocycles, featuring inherent atom-economy and stereospecificity. Intramolecular strategies allow the formation of bicyclic core structures with up to three stereocenters within a single step. Herein, this concept is combined with the chemistry of chiral Brønsted acid bound ortho-quinone methide imines to generate a range of interesting fused tetrahydroquinolines in a diastereo- and enantioselective­ manner.
Antimicrobial Activity of Roselle-capped​ Silver​ Nanochip on Aggregatibacter actinomycetemcomitans
Authors: Wacharanad Sirorat , Thatree Puncharee , Yiemwattana Punchaya , Paoprajak Penpitcha , Ngamsangiam Pimchanok , Valyanont Menisa , Yiemwattana Ichaya
Published: May 2021

Objectives This article aimed to study the effects of the​ roselle-capped​ silver​ nanochip​ ​(SNP-Ro​ chip)​ against Aggregatibacter actinomycetemcomitans, and the toxicity of this film on fibroblast cells to develop this SNP-Ro chip into a local chemical for the treatment of periodontitis in the future.

Materials and Methods Using a microwave-assisted synthesis method, silver​ nanoparticles (SNPs) were prepared from a silver nitrate solution and roselle extract as a reducing and capping agent. Then, SNP-Ro chips were fabricated by mixing a solution of SNP-Ro with alginate gel. The antimicrobial effect of the synthesized SNP-Ro chips was performed by the disc diffusion technique and time kill assay. The cytotoxic effect was also determined by the MTS assay.

Statistical Analysis One-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) and Scheffe’s method were used to analyze the data for this experiment.

Results All three ratios of the SNP-Ro chip produced inhibition zones ranging between 18.75 ± 2.08 and 19.03 ± 2.25 mm. In studying the killing time, the three groups of the SNP-Ro chips completely eradicated A. actinomycetemcomitans within 180 minutes. The percentage of the viable SNP-Ro chip-treated human gingival fibroblasts (HGFs) were significantly increased when compared with the alginate chip-treated cells (p < 0.05).

Conclusion This study developed a new method for the deposition of SNPs in alginate gel to make a thin small chip for the sustained release of the SNPs in a periodontal lesion. Therefore, the SNP-Ro chip has the potential to be developed as an adjunctive locally delivered antimicrobial agent in periodontal therapy.
Mehrere tausend Tonnen täglich: Gemeinsame Sache – so optimieren Einkauf und Wäscheorganisation den Prozess
Authors: Schlicker Michael , Troha Christina
Published: May 2021

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A porous edge on turbine blades and aircraft wings reduces noise production
Authors: Bandari Anashe
Published: May 2021

Replacing the outer 20% of an airfoil with a porous metal foam can reduce its noise by up to 7 decibels.
Response of free-standing graphene monolayer exposed to ultrashort intense XUV pulse from free-electron laser
Authors: Medvedev N. , Noei H. , Toleikis S. , Ziaja B.
Published: May 2021

The response of a free-standing graphene monolayer exposed to a few tens of femtoseconds long extreme ultraviolet (XUV) pulse was studied theoretically in order to analyze and compare contributions of various mechanisms to the graphene damage, understood here as a global atomic disintegration. Our simulation results indicate that nonthermal disintegration of the atomic structure is the predominant damage mechanism for a free-standing graphene layer. Only at high absorbed doses, charge-induced disintegration of the graphene structure prevails. We also demonstrate that the progressing damage can be probed by femtosecond optical pulses in the soft UV regime (4 eV photon energy). The achieved quantitative understanding of the damage mechanisms may enable a better control of graphene-based devices when they are exposed to x-ray radiation, as well as an efficient processing of graphene layers with ultrashort intense XUV pulses.
Modes of propagation and instabilities in finitely conducting neutrino-modified magnetohydrodynamic viscous plasma
Authors: Sharma Prerana , Patidar Archana
Published: May 2021

Low-frequency wave propagations and instabilities are studied taking into account the finite electrical resistivity and viscosity of the neutrino-coupled plasma. It is assumed that the plasma is permeated by magnetic field. The formulation and analysis of the system including the Fermi weak force due to neutrino plasma coupling is done by neutrino magneto hydrodynamics model. The general dispersion relation is derived from the set of perturbed equations to signify the role of dissipative effects on the growth rate and condition of both neutrino instability and self-gravitational instability. To discuss the influence of resistivity and viscosity on the dynamics of the system, the general dispersion relation is reduced for both perpendicular and parallel mode of propagations. The self-gravitating modes are modified by the presence of neutrinos, viscosity, and resistivity in both perpendicular and parallel modes of propagation, while the gravitational instability criterion is modified only by neutrinos. It is also observed that the number density of neutrinos works against the gravitational instability, while the neutrino beam-free energy supports the self-gravitational instability. In the case of perpendicular propagation, the neutrino beam instability criterion and growth rate are affected by dissipative effects.
A new oscillatory instability in Rayleigh–Bénard convection of a binary mixture with positive separation ratio
Authors: Hu Zhan-Chao , Zhang Xin-Rong
Published: May 2021

It is well-known that for the onset of Rayleigh–Bénard (RB) convection in a binary mixture with Soret effect and negative separation ratio, the competitions between temperature and concentration gradients can lead to oscillatory instability. In this paper, through linear stability analysis, a new oscillatory instability is discovered in a binary mixture with positive separation ratio, thanks to the rich physics of a near-critical binary mixture, i.e., a binary mixture under supercritical pressure near the pseudo-critical state. The rich physics includes cross-diffusion effects (i.e., Soret and Dufour effects) and gravity-related effects (i.e., adiabatic temperature gradient and gravitational diffusion). The linear stability problem is governed by six dimensionless parameters, and the positive separation ratio is shown to be general. It is revealed that there are monotonic and oscillatory instabilities, corresponding to the monotonic and oscillatory growths of small perturbations. The conditions for the unexpected oscillatory instability can be interpreted as there are large enough stabilizing concentration gradient, and total diffusivity rate of concentration is less than that of temperature. Under a positive separation ratio, the stabilizing concentration gradient is a result of gravity-related effects. Besides, based on the physical properties of the reference fluid, when oscillatory instability occurs, gravity-related effects have already been the dominant obstacle for instability. This work provides analytical equations to predict the RB instability. More importantly, the newly discovered oscillatory instability overturns the stereotype of the conceptual connection between oscillatory instability and negative separation ratio.
The fate of compound with AgF2:AgO stoichiometry—A theoretical study
Authors: Domański Mateusz A. , Grochala Wojciech
Published: May 2021

Metal oxyfluorides constitute a broad group of chemical compounds with a rich spectrum of crystal structures and properties. Surprisingly though, none of the ternary oxyfluorides contains a cation from group 11 of the periodic table. Intending to find one, we focused on the silver derivative, the Ag2OF2 system, which may be considered as the 1:1 “adduct” of AgF2 (i.e., an antiferromagnetic positive U charge transfer insulator) and AgO (i.e., a diamagnetic disproportionated negative charge transfer insulator). Here, possible crystal structures of the silver oxyfluoride were studied using evolutionary algorithms based on the density functional theory approach. We analyzed the oxidation states of silver in the low-energy structures, possible magnetic interactions, and energetic stability with respect to the available substrates. Our findings suggest that silver oxyfluoride, if obtained, may form a metastable crystal with cations in three different oxidation states of the same element. Due to the small energy difference, existence of a fully disproportionated metallic compound cannot be ruled out. Finally, we outlined a prospect for the synthesis of polytypes of interest using diverse synthetic approaches, starting from the direct fluorination of Ag2O.
Stability range of localized subcritical Rayleigh–Bénard convection in temperature-dependent viscosity fluids: Constraints from two-dimensional simulations
Authors: Solomatov V. S. , Jain C.
Published: May 2021

We use a finite element code CITCOM to determine the stability range of a unique planform of Rayleigh–Bénard convection in temperature-dependent viscosity fluids—a spatially localized upwelling. Such a planform can only exist at Rayleigh numbers below the critical Rayleigh number for the linear onset of convection. Its initiation requires a finite-amplitude perturbation. We perform numerical simulations in long two-dimensional rectangular boxes with free-slip boundary conditions, which are relevant to convection in planetary interiors. The main result is a stability map of spatially localized single upwellings. Localized upwellings can exist at viscosity contrasts higher than about 150. The range of Rayleigh numbers at which localized upwellings are stable increases with the viscosity contrast. At the largest viscosity contrast studied, 1010, localized upwellings are stable in the range between about 0.5 and 0.9 of the critical Rayleigh number. The horizontal scale of localized upwellings is on the order of the layer thickness and decreases with the viscosity contrast. Spatially localized upwellings can occur on icy satellites and small planets where the conditions are likely to be subcritical due to the small size of these bodies. Localized upwellings might have industrial applications as well, such as patterning of polymers.
Toward quantum Monte Carlo forces on heavier ions: Scaling properties
Authors: Tiihonen Juha , Clay Raymond C. , Krogel Jaron T.
Published: May 2021

Quantum Monte Carlo (QMC) forces have been studied extensively in recent decades because of their importance with spectroscopic observables and geometry optimization. Here, we benchmark the accuracy and computational cost of QMC forces. The zero-variance zero-bias (ZVZB) force estimator is used in standard variational and diffusion Monte Carlo simulations with mean-field based trial wavefunctions and atomic pseudopotentials. Statistical force uncertainties are obtained with a recently developed regression technique for heavy tailed QMC data [P. Lopez Rios and G. J. Conduit, Phys. Rev. E 99, 063312 (2019)]. By considering selected atoms and dimers with elements ranging from H to Zn (1 ≤ Zeff ≤ 20), we assess the accuracy and the computational cost of ZVZB forces as the effective pseudopotential valence charge, Zeff, increases. We find that the costs of QMC energies and forces approximately follow simple power laws in Zeff. The force uncertainty grows more rapidly, leading to a best case cost scaling relationship of approximately Zeff6.5(3) for diffusion Monte Carlo. We find that the accessible system size at fixed computational cost scales as Zeff−2, insensitive to model assumptions or the use of the “space warp” variance-reduction technique. Our results predict the practical cost of obtaining forces for a range of materials, such as transition metal oxides where QMC forces have yet to be applied, and underscore the importance of further developing force variance-reduction techniques, particularly for atoms with high Zeff.
Forage value of vegetative leaf and stem biomass fractions of selected grasses indigenous to African rangelands
Authors: Mganga Kevin Z. , Ndathi Aphaxard J. N. , Wambua Stephen M. , Bosma Luwieke , Kaindi Eric M. , Kioko Theophilus , Kadenyi Nancy , Musyoki Gilbert K. , van Steenbergen Frank , Musimba Nashon K. R.
Published: May 2021

Context Rangeland grasses native to Africa constitute the main diet for free-ranging livestock and wild herbivores. Leaf:stem ratio is a key characteristic used for assessing quality of forages. However, studies to determine the allocation of biomass to leaves and stems as well as chemical components and nutritive value, especially of grasses in African rangelands, are rare. Aim This study was conducted to establish biomass allocation and chemical and mineral components in leaf and stem fractions of three grasses, Eragrostis superba, Enteropogon macrostachyus and Cenchrus ciliaris, all indigenous to African rangelands. Methods Plant height, plant densities, plant tiller densities and biomass yields were estimated at the elongation stage, before inflorescence. Chemical and mineral components were determined from biomass harvested at the vegetative phase for all three grass species. Dry matter, ash content, organic matter, crude protein, neutral detergent fibre, acid detergent fibre, acid detergent lignin, and calcium, phosphorus and potassium contents were determined. Key results Enteropogon macrostachyus displayed significantly greater plant and tiller densities and plant height than the other two species. Leaf and stem biomass fractions varied significantly (P < 0.05) among grasses. Leaf:stem ratio of E. superba was double that of E. macrostachyus and C. ciliaris. Crude protein and organic matter yields and net energy for lactation were highest (P < 0.05) in E. superba leaf biomass, as was Ca content. Conclusions Eragrostis superba demonstrated greater potential as a forage species for ruminant animal production than E. macrostachyus and C. ciliaris. Implications Eragrostis superba is a key forage species that warrants promotion in pasture establishment programs in its native environments.
Incubation, hatchery practice and the welfare of layer hens
Authors: Underwood Greg , Andrews Daniel , Phung Tin , Edwards Lauren E.
Published: May 2021

For modern layers to achieve optimum production performance and welfare state, the entire production process needs to be managed to achieve target bodyweight, body composition and flock uniformity. In addition to genetic improvements, flock health, environment, nutrition and on-farm husbandry practices, incubation and hatchery practices have become a focal point for producing optimum chick quality. Chick quality is a collective term involving chick size and anatomical features, physiology, robustness and liveability over the first week after placement. Chick quality is a key focus for hatcheries as this has been positively correlated with overall flock performance, especially egg production, shell quality, liveability and animal welfare. Recent advances in incubation have focussed on the benefits of all-in–all-out (single-stage) machines. Innovation in incubation systems is completely conducted today by international manufacturers, and is largely driven by the meat chicken industry. Disposal of male layer chicks has increased as a consumer welfare concern, and while investment in research and legislation changes are focussed towards providing or driving new solutions, there are currently no commercial options for industry to deal with this problem before incubation or hatch. Chick transport systems and equipment have also significantly improved in recent years, providing optimum conditions to ensure temperature uniformity and minimal moisture loss during transit before placement, thus optimising chick quality. Together, recent improvements in incubation equipment and hatchery practice can produce commercial layer chicks that are healthy, of high quality, and are then in an optimal physiological state and condition to achieve their genetic potential.
Leaf water δ
Authors: Mejia-Chang Monica , Reyes-Garcia Casandra , Seibt Ulli , Royles Jessica , Meyer Moritz T. , Jones Glyn D. , Winter Klaus , Arnedo Miquel , Griffiths Howard
Published: May 2021

The distributions of CAM and C3 epiphytic bromeliads across an altitudinal gradient in western Panama were identified from carbon isotope (δ13C) signals, and epiphyte water balance was investigated via oxygen isotopes (δ18O) across wet and dry seasons. There were significant seasonal differences in leaf water (δ18Olw), precipitation, stored ‘tank’ water and water vapour. Values of δ18Olw were evaporatively enriched at low altitude in the dry season for the C3 epiphytes, associated with low relative humidity (RH) during the day. Crassulacean acid metabolism (CAM) δ18Olw values were relatively depleted, consistent with water vapour uptake during gas exchange under high RH at night. At high altitude, cloudforest locations, C3 δ18Olw also reflected water vapour uptake by day. A mesocosm experiment with Tillandsia fasciculata (CAM) and Werauhia sanguinolenta (C3) was combined with simulations using a non-steady-state oxygen isotope leaf water model. For both C3 and CAM bromeliads, δ18Olw became progressively depleted under saturating water vapour by day and night, although evaporative enrichment was restored in the C3 W. sanguinolenta under low humidity by day. Source water in the overlapping leaf base ‘tank’ was also modified by evaporative δ18O exchanges. The results demonstrate how stable isotopes in leaf water provide insights for atmospheric water vapour exchanges for both C3 and CAM systems.
Incomplete surveys for environmental impact assessments jeopardise threatened species recovery
Authors: Dyer Alesia B. , Simmonds Jeremy S.
Published: May 2021

Australia’s biodiversity is declining despite two decades of protection for threatened species under the nation’s key environmental legislation, the Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999 (EPBC Act). Among its main functions, the EPBC Act frames the assessment and approval of new developments. However, little research has been conducted into compliance with policy guidelines under the EPBC Act that outline minimum assessment requirements where projects potentially impact threatened species. Focusing on the Endangered northern quoll (Dasyurus hallucatus), we analysed ‘referrals’ (a required preliminary impact (self-)assessment) of proposed projects in the species’ range between 2007–2010 and 2016 onwards (i.e. before and after species-specific assessment guidelines released), to determine (1) the level of compliance with Commonwealth assessment guidelines, and (2) consistency in the type and amount of survey effort between the two time periods. Of the 33 referrals submitted after 2016 that we examined, only six conducted the minimum ‘reconnaissance survey’ requirement comprising a multi-faceted field data collection protocol. The types of surveys conducted also differed, albeit marginally, among referrals submitted between the two periods. Despite our findings of variation in survey approach (both periods), and the overwhelming failure to comply with minimum survey requirements (post-2016 only), all the projects we examined were approved under the EPBC Act without the need for further assessment. We suggest that assessments for threatened species under environmental legislation – including proposed national environmental standards in Australia – be improved through strictly enforced minimum survey requirements, lest inadequate environmental impact assessments jeopardise the recovery of threatened species.
Integrating biobanking could produce significant cost benefits and minimise inbreeding for Australian amphibian captive breeding programs
Authors: Howell Lachlan G. , Mawson Peter R. , Frankham Richard , Rodger John C. , Upton Rose M. O. , Witt Ryan R. , Calatayud Natalie E. , Clulow Simon , Clulow John
Published: May 2021

Captive breeding is an important tool for amphibian conservation despite high economic costs and deleterious genetic effects of sustained captivity and unavoidably small colony sizes. Integration of biobanking and assisted reproductive technologies (ARTs) could provide solutions to these challenges, but is rarely used due to lack of recognition of the potential benefits and clear policy direction. Here we present compelling genetic and economic arguments to integrate biobanking and ARTs into captive breeding programs using modelled captive populations of two Australian threatened frogs, namely the orange-bellied frog Geocrinia vitellina and the white bellied frog Geocrinia alba. Back-crossing with frozen founder spermatozoa using ARTs every generation minimises rates of inbreeding and provides considerable reductions in colony size and program costs compared with conventional captive management. Biobanking could allow captive institutions to meet or exceed longstanding genetic retention targets (90% of source population heterozygosity over 100 years). We provide a broad policy direction that could make biobanking technology a practical reality across Australia’s ex situ management of amphibians in current and future holdings. Incorporating biobanking technology widely across this network could deliver outcomes by maintaining high levels of source population genetic diversity and freeing economic resources to develop ex situ programs for a greater number of threatened amphibian species.
Seasonal habitat suitability models for a threatened species: the Gunnison sage-grouse
Authors: Apa Anthony D. , Aagaard Kevin , Rice Mindy B. , Phillips Evan , Neubaum Daniel J. , Seward Nathan , Stiver Julie R. , Wait Scott
Published: May 2021

Abstract Context The Gunnison sage-grouse (Centrocercus minimus) has experienced range-wide declines and has been listed as Threatened by the USA Fish and Wildlife Service to receive protections under the USA Endangered Species Act. A draft Recovery Plan was recently completed. No seasonal habitat models have been developed for the small isolated populations. Aims To develop a habitat suitability model that was collaboratively developed between modellers and conservation practitioners to predict the probability of use by Gunnison sage-grouse during the breeding and summer seasons in designated occupied critical habitat, and extrapolate to adjacent designated unoccupied critical habitat. Methods We captured, marked and tracked Gunnison sage-grouse in nine different studies spanning 25 years. We used a suite of biotic, abiotic and vegetation local-level and population-scale covariates in a use-available resource selection function to develop models that predict the probability of use by Gunnison sage-grouse. Key results We used 9140 Gunnison sage-grouse locations from 406 individual birds to develop nine resource selection models for occupied habitat and extrapolated model predictions to adjacent unoccupied critical habitat in five small isolated Gunnison sage-grouse populations. A majority of our models validated well. Conclusions We report the first two-season resource use-based habitat suitability models for five of six small isolated Gunnison sage-grouse populations. Because of the unique habitat use by Gunnison sage-grouse in each population, we recommend that resource managers strategically target management actions in individual populations and avoid ‘one-size-fits-all’ habitat management prescriptions. Implications Our models will assist managers in the identification of seasonal habitats within populations to target management actions for Gunnison sage-grouse recovery.
Post-nesting movements and feeding ground distribution by the hawksbill turtle (
Authors: Barr Claire E. , Hamann Mark , Shimada Takahiro , Bell Ian , Limpus Colin J. , Ferguson Janine
Published: May 2021

Context Hawksbill sea turtles (Eretmochelys imbricata) are conservation-dependent species in many areas of the world. A key component to ensuring successful conservation initiatives for the species is understanding their distribution and habitat use, in particular, knowing the nesting sites, migration routes and foraging areas for each genetic stock, and how these might overlap with threats. Aims Investigate the post-nesting movements of hawksbill sea turtles nesting in the Torres Strait, including migration movements and foraging ground size and distribution. Methods Nine nesting hawksbill turtles of the north-eastern Australian genetic stock were satellite-tagged between the 2010 and 2019 nesting seasons for 182 ± 143 days (mean ± s.d.). Key results Three turtles continued to nest on adjacent islands before commencing their post-nesting migrations. From the nine tracked turtles, the following three migration movement strategies were identified: (1) direct migration between the nesting beach and foraging ground, (2) non-direct movements with a period of meandering, and (3) establishment of two foraging areas separated by direct movement pathways. Foraging grounds were distributed across the Torres Strait and north-eastern Australia and varied in size between 0.54 km2 and 3.31 km2 (95% UD). None of the turtles migrated outside of Australian waters. Conclusions The localisation of these movements and habitats within Australian waters provides a unique conservation opportunity, whereby protection efforts involve multiple life stages and potentially preserve turtles from multiple genetic stocks. The variety of inter-nesting, migration and home range strategies used by the tracked turtles in the present study highlight the broad scope of hawksbill movements. Implications Our findings are useful for the implementation of future marine conservation areas and shed light into the nesting, migratory and foraging behaviours of hawkbills from this genetic stock. An understanding of the movement tracks and habitats used by a genetic pool is essential for well grounded implementation of conservation areas and management regulations.
Worldviews, trust, and risk perceptions shape public acceptance of COVID-19 public health measures
Authors: Siegrist Michael , Bearth Angela
Published: May 2021

Significance

The successful implementation of measures aimed at reducing the number of people infected with COVID-19 crucially depends on public acceptance of these measures. We show that it is not gender or age but psychological variables, such as trust and worldviews, that strongly influence people’s risk perceptions and acceptance of the measures. We are able to show these effects in both cross-sectional and longitudinal study designs. Since the acceptance of implemented measures crucially depends on whether they are in line with people’s values and worldviews, the latter two variables are as relevant as epidemiological facts for successful risk management.
Efficient network immunization strategy based on generalized Herfindahl–Hirschman index
Authors: Chen Peng , Qi Mingze , Lu Xin , Duan Xiaojun , Kurths Jürgen
Published: May 2021

The topic of finding effective strategies to restrain epidemic spreading in complex networks is of current interest. A widely used approach for epidemic containment is the fragmentation of the contact networks through immunization. However, due to the limitation of immune resources, we cannot always fragment the contact network completely. In this study, based on the size distribution of connected components for the network, we designed a risk indicator of epidemic outbreaks, the generalized Herfindahl–Hirschman index (GHI), which measures the upper bound of the expected infection’s prevalence (the fraction of infected nodes) in random outbreaks. An immunization approach based on minimizing GHI is developed to reduce the infection risk for individuals in the network. Experimental results show that our immunization strategy could effectively decrease the infection’s prevalence as compared to other existing strategies, especially against infectious diseases with higher infection rates or lower recovery rates. The findings provide an efficient and practicable strategy for immunization against epidemic diseases.
Hidden photon dark matter interacting via axion-like particles
Authors: Arias Paola , Arza Ariel , Jaeckel Joerg , Vargas-Arancibia Diego
Published: May 2021

We investigate a scenario where the dark matter of the Universe is made from very light hidden photons transforming under a Z
2-symmetry. In contrast to the usual situation, kinetic mixing is forbidden by the symmetry and the dark photon interacts with the Standard Model photon only via an axion-like particle acting as a “messenger”. Focusing on signatures involving the ordinary photon, our survey of the phenomenology includes limits from cosmological stability, CMB distortions, astrophysical energy loss, light-shining-through-walls experiments, helioscopes and solar X-ray observations.
Non-uniqueness of massless transverse-traceless graviton
Authors: Aoki Katsuki , Di Filippo Francesco , Mukohyama Shinji
Published: May 2021

We study a theory of minimally modified gravity called
cuscuton/VCDM that propagates only two gravitational degrees of
freedom. Despite being apparently different from general relativity
(GR), it is in principle possible that this theory might be
obtained via a field redefinition starting from the GR action. This
would make the vacuum theory equivalent to GR and the theory would
differ from GR only in the presence of matter. In this paper,
studying the dispersion relation of gravitational waves and the
dynamics of the Bianchi-I universe, we prove that such a field
redefinition does not exist and that the theory differs from GR
already in vacuum.
From a locality-principle for new physics to image features of regular spinning black holes with disks
Authors: Eichhorn Astrid , Held Aaron
Published: May 2021

Current observations present unprecedented opportunities to probe the true nature of black holes, which must harbor new physics beyond General Relativity to provide singularity-free descriptions. To test paradigms for this new physics, it is necessary to bridge the gap all the way from theoretical developments of new-physics models to phenomenological developments such as simulated images of black holes embedded in astrophysical disk environments.

In this paper, we construct several steps along this bridge. We construct a novel family of regular black-hole spacetimes based on a locality principle which ties new physics to local curvature scales. We then characterize these spacetimes in terms of a complete set of curvature invariants and analyze the ergosphere and both the outer event as well as distinct Killing horizon. Our comprehensive study of the shadow shape at various spins and inclinations reveals characteristic image features linked to the locality principle. We also explore the photon rings as an additional probe of the new-physics effects. A simple analytical disk model enables us to generate simulated images of the regular spinning black hole and test whether the characteristic image-features are visible in the intensity map.
Numerical simulations of partial elements excitation for hemispherical high-intensity focused ultrasound phased transducer*
Authors: Zhang Yanqiu , Zhang Hao , Sun Tianyu , Pan Ting , Wang Peiguo , Jian Xiqi
Published: May 2021

The hemispherical phased transducer maximizes the coverage of the skull and the ultrasonic energy per unit area of the skull is minimized, thereby reducing the risk of skull burns, but the transducer has a small focal area adjustment range, increasing the focal length of treatment is an urgent question for this type of transducer. In this paper, a three-dimensional high-intensity focused ultrasound (HIFU) transcranial propagation model is established based on the human head structure. The finite difference time domain (FDTD) is combined with the Westervelt acoustic wave nonlinear propagation equation and Penne's biological heat conduction equation for numerical simulation of the sound pressure field and temperature field. Forming a treatable focal area in a small-opening hemispherical transducer with a small amount of numerical simulation calculation focusing at a set position to determine the minimum partial excitation area ratio of focusing. And then, applying these preliminary results to a large-opening diameter hemispherical transducer and the temperature field formed by it or full excitation is studied. The results show that the focus area with the excitation area ratio of less than 22% moves forward to the transducer side when the excitation sound is formed. When the excitation area ratio is greater than or equal to 23%, it focuses at the set position. In the case of partial incentives, using 23% of the partial array, the adjustable range of the treatable focal area formed in the three-dimensional space is larger than that of the full excitation.
Voltage-controllable magnetic skyrmion dynamics for spiking neuron device applications
Authors: Zhu Ming-Min , Cui Shu-Ting , Xu Xiao-Fei , Shi Sheng-Bin , Nian Di-Qing , Luo Jing , Qiu Yang , Yang Han , Yu Guo-Liang , Zhou Hao-Miao
Published: May 2021

Voltage-controlled magnetic skyrmions have attracted special attention because they satisfy the requirements for well-controlled high-efficiency and energy saving for future skyrmion-based neuron device applications. In this work, we propose a compact leaky-integrate-fire (LIF) spiking neuron device by using the voltage-driven skyrmion dynamics in a multiferroic nanodisk structure. The skyrmion dynamics is controlled by well tailoring voltage-induced piezostrains, where the skyrmion radius can be effectively modulated by applying the piezostrain pulses. Like the biological neuron, the proposed skyrmionic neuron will accumulate a membrane potential as skyrmion radius is varied by inputting the continuous piezostrain spikes, and the skyrmion radius will return to the initial state in the absence of piezostrain. Therefore, this skyrmion radius-based membrane potential will reach a definite threshold value by the strain stimuli and then reset by removing the stimuli. Such the LIF neuronal functionality and the behaviors of the proposed skyrmionic neuron device are elucidated through the micromagnetic simulation studies. Our results may benefit the utilization of skyrmionic neuron for constructing the future energy-efficient and voltage-tunable spiking neural networks.
Preparation of spin squeezed state in SiV centers coupled by diamond waveguide*
Authors: Ma Yong-Hong , Xu Yuan , Ding Quan-Zhen , Chen Yu-Sui
Published: May 2021

Spin squeezing is a fascinating manifestation of many-particle entanglement and one of the most promising quantum resources. In this paper, we propose a novel realization of a solid-state quantum spin squeezing by applying SiV centers embedded in a diamond waveguide with the help of a microwave field. The phenomena about the generation of spin squeezing are analyzed numerically in Markovian environments. Our analysis shows that spin squeezing can be generated with the microwave field’s help under some realistic conditions, despite the presence of dephasing and mechanical damping. This solid-state spin squeezing based on SiV centers in diamonds might be applied to magnetometers, interferometry, and other precise measurements.
Deep learning of resting-state electroencephalogram signals for three-class classification of Alzheimer’s disease, mild cognitive impairment and healthy ageing
Authors: Huggins Cameron J , Escudero Javier , Parra Mario A , Scally Brian , Anghinah Renato , Vitória Lacerda De Araújo Amanda , Basile Luis F , Abasolo Daniel
Published: May 2021

Objective. This study aimed to produce a novel deep learning (DL) model for the classification of subjects with Alzheimer’s disease (AD), mild cognitive impairment (MCI) subjects and healthy ageing (HA) subjects using resting-state scalp electroencephalogram (EEG) signals. Approach. The raw EEG data were pre-processed to remove unwanted artefacts and sources of noise. The data were then processed with the continuous wavelet transform, using the Morse mother wavelet, to create time-frequency graphs with a wavelet coefficient scale range of 0–600. The graphs were combined into tiled topographical maps governed by the 10–20 system orientation for scalp electrodes. The application of this processing pipeline was used on a data set of resting-state EEG samples from age-matched groups of 52 AD subjects (82.3 ± 4.7 years of age), 37 MCI subjects (78.4 ± 5.1 years of age) and 52 HA subjects (79.6 ± 6.0 years of age). This resulted in the formation of a data set of 16197 topographical images. This image data set was then split into training, validation and test images and used as input to an AlexNet DL model. This model was comprised of five hidden convolutional layers and optimised for various parameters such as learning rate, learning rate schedule, optimiser, and batch size. Main results. The performance was assessed by a tenfold cross-validation strategy, which produced an average accuracy result of 98.9 ± 0.4% for the three-class classification of AD vs MCI vs HA. The results showed minimal overfitting and bias between classes, further indicating the strength of the model produced. Significance. These results provide significant improvement for this classification task compared to previous studies in this field and suggest that DL could contribute to the diagnosis of AD from EEG recordings.
The Development of Learning Management To Enhance Mathematical Thinking Ability For Secondary School Students
Authors: Srithammasart Suphawadi , Wijakkanalan Santi , Heingraj Channarong
Published: May 2021

The objectives of this research was to develop the learning management process for enhancing the Secondary School Students’ Mathematical Thinking Ability. There were 3 steps of development including: 1) the synthesis of related research literature, 2) the outlining of learning management process, and 3) the evaluation in Propriety of learning process by 5 experts in Mathematical Learning Management and Evaluation through Focus Group Discussion and usage of Evaluation Form in Propriety of Learning Management including 5 steps: 1) the experience association, 2) the association of knowledge construction, 3) the problem consideration, 4) the sharing, and 5) the learning reflection and evaluation of Propriety in learning management process, found that Propriety of the learning management process for enhancing the Secondary School Students’ Mathematical Thinking Ability, was in “The Highest” level.
Numerical Study Of Spun Pile To Pile Cap Connections In Soft Soil
Authors: Yulius  , Prakoso Widjojo Adi , Orientilize Mulia , Sentosa Bastian Okto Bangkit
Published: May 2021

Numerical study was conducted by SAP software to investigate behavior of two spun piles embedded in soft soil which were connected to pile cap based on Indonesia design code. Push over analysis were performed using SAP software with two different axial loads; 0.1 and 0.4 offc.Agand two different percentages of rebar on concrete infill. To ensure validity of numerical results, model validation was performed against experimental test conducted by other researcher. Horizontal spring was generated by LPILE software to represent soil. The results found that different axial force as 0.1 and 0.4 offc.Agaffect the occurrence of moment crack of spun piles by 18% and 39%, respectively. Addition of rebar on concrete infill slightly improve moment crack of spun pile. Both parameters do not affect displacement ductility of pile which defines as ratio of maximum displacement to yield displacement.
Design and analysis of 32 bit high speed carry select adder
Authors: Sireesha P , Kumar G Ramachandra , Bhargavi C P , Sowjanya A , Manga Rao P
Published: May 2021

In the area of VLSI design, the focus is on reducing delays, power consumption and space, and improving speed. This paper presents the design of 32-bit modified-HSCSA using parallel prefix adder in which the basic design is based on Binary to Excess-1 Converter (BE1C) and also handouts brief review on traditional techniques used in standard BE1C, Brent-Kung (BK), Lander-Fischer (LF) and Kogge-Stone (KS). The performance of the presented 32 bit modified –CSA using parallel prefix adder is compared with traditional techniques and observed reduced delay. Verilog HDL is used to design the structure and the simulation and synthesis is carried out using Xilinx.
Number Plate Detection and Recognition using a Novel Computer Vision Approach for Indian Motor Vehicles
Authors: Naveenkumar M , Vijayaganth V , Mohan M
Published: May 2021

Number plate detection research problem was carried out for some duration. Since each country has their own way of representing numbers for the vehicles, we couldn’t recognize all at once. In this paper, we focus on Indian vehicles’ number plate. Digital images are used in this model, so it provides additional features in security aspects like theft, parking in office, and in apartments to check only authorized persons are coming. The proposed method uses canny edge detection to find the edges of the vehicle, and the morphological transformation is used to highlight the characters in the number plate. Optical character recognition (OCR) is used to recognize the characters from the number plate, and we use bilateral filters to remove the noises.