bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The effects of geographic range size and abundance on extinction during a time of “sluggish”’ evolution
Authors: Casey Michelle M. , Saupe Erin E. , Lieberman Bruce S.
Published: December 2020

Geographic range size and abundance are important determinants of extinction risk in fossil and extant taxa. However, the relationship between these variables and extinction risk has not been tested extensively during evolutionarily “quiescent” times of low extinction and speciation in the fossil record. Here we examine the influence of geographic range size and abundance on extinction risk during the late Paleozoic (Mississippian–Permian), a time of “sluggish” evolution when global rates of origination and extinction were roughly half those of other Paleozoic intervals. Analyses used spatiotemporal occurrences for 164 brachiopod species from the North American midcontinent. We found abundance to be a better predictor of extinction risk than measures of geographic range size. Moreover, species exhibited reductions in abundance before their extinction but did not display contractions in geographic range size. The weak relationship between geographic range size and extinction in this time and place may reflect the relative preponderance of larger-ranged taxa combined with the physiographic conditions of the region that allowed for easy habitat tracking that dampened both extinction and speciation. These conditions led to a prolonged period (19–25 Myr) during which standard macroevolutionary rules did not apply.
ORCHESTRATION AND PITCH PRECISION IN THE ORCHESTRAL MUSIC OF MARC SABAT
Authors: Brook Taylor
Published: December 2020

This article examines the relationship between orchestration and microtonality in the music of Marc Sabat through a score-based analysis of two recent works, Asking Ocean (2016), for string quartet and large ensemble, and The Luminiferous Aether (2018), for large orchestra. Excerpts from these two compositions are discussed to highlight the challenges of composing for orchestral forces in a musical style that demands a high degree of microtonal pitch precision. Through retuning, alteration, and a sensitivity to the construction, techniques and performance practices of orchestral instruments, Sabat has developed a unique manner of orchestrating that is at once timbrally rich and uncompromising in pitch precision. After a brief introduction to the extended just intonation framework that Sabat employs, his concepts of ‘fixed microtonal pitches’ and ‘tuneable intervals’ are discussed and connected to orchestration in his scores. Drawing upon this analysis, connections are made between the microtonal system with orchestration and musical aesthetics broadly.
A FIELD GUIDE TO SONIC BOTANY: THOUGHTS ABOUT ECO-COMPOSITION
Authors: Tsadka Maayan
Published: December 2020

Sonic botany is an ongoing project that I have been developing over the past few years. It incorporates natural artefacts: dry leaves, pods, flowers, branches, rocks, bones and other organic findings. These are used as musical instruments that are played on with a scientific/musical tool: tuning forks in various frequencies. The vibration from the tuning forks resonates through the natural artefacts which amplify the vibration and – via sound – reveal the texture, size, material and condition of the organic matter. This process generates new sonic material, new context and new forms of musical composition. The practice developed into several compositions and projects, a performance practice, a notation system and a way of listening. Here I share some of the insights I gained through this process, the tools and the compositional framework.
Anceps in Tragedy (1): Lyric Iambics
Authors: Itsumi Kiichiro
Published: December 2020

Anceps is not so free that either a long or a short syllable may be used on equal terms. In fact, some strong tendencies are observed in lyric iambics in tragedy. Long syllable is avoided especially at the final anceps in dimeter/trimeter, for instance. Frequencies are statistically calculated each in turn in various combinations of iambic metra, and irregular occurrences are examined in contexts. In contrast to iambics, anceps tends to be long in D/e. Sophocles employs long anceps more frequently than the other two tragedians because his iambics sometimes verge on D/e. In general, long anceps is used in different ways from short. The effect it brought about would not have been felt unless long anceps was delivered differently from short, that is, at the same length as a true long.
The abolition of the liturgical chorēgia and the creation of the agōnothesia in Athens: new considerations on a debated issue
Authors: Ackermann Delphine , Sarrazanas Clément
Published: December 2020

No ancient source indicates when the agōnothesia, attested for the first time in 307/6 BC, was introduced in Athens. Scholars have long attributed its creation, along with the abolition of the liturgical chorēgia, to the government of Demetrius of Phalerum (317–307 BC), motivated by oligarchic ideology and a desire to preserve the wealth of rich citizens. This traditional thesis has recently been challenged, with some scholars attributing the creation of the agōnothesia to the restored democratic government of 307 BC and others to the government of Phocion (322–318 BC). A new look at epigraphical and literary documents hitherto neglected or imperfectly understood (especially from the Attic demes) allows the authors to establish that the liturgical chorēgia disappeared at the beginning of the government of Demetrius of Phalerum, around 316 BC. The institution of the agōnothesia had a precedent (hitherto overlooked) in Lycurgan Athens with the new festival of the Amphiaraia of 331 BC. Both measures were in fact consensual and must not be interpreted as strictly oligarchic in inspiration. The creation of the agōnothesia was above all a pragmatic response on Athens’ part to the major changes that occurred in the agonistic world in the late fourth century.
Counting Hamilton cycles in Dirac hypergraphs
Authors: Glock Stefan , Gould Stephen , Joos Felix , Kühn Daniela , Osthus Deryk
Published: December 2020

A tight Hamilton cycle in a k-uniform hypergraph (k-graph) G is a cyclic ordering of the vertices of G such that every set of k consecutive vertices in the ordering forms an edge. Rödl, Ruciński and Szemerédi proved that for
$k\ge 3$
, every k-graph on n vertices with minimum codegree at least
$n/2+o(n)$
contains a tight Hamilton cycle. We show that the number of tight Hamilton cycles in such k-graphs is
${\exp(n\ln n-\Theta(n))}$
. As a corollary, we obtain a similar estimate on the number of Hamilton
${\ell}$
-cycles in such k-graphs for all
${\ell\in\{0,\ldots,k-1\}}$
, which makes progress on a question of Ferber, Krivelevich and Sudakov.
Angiographic evidence of backward compression wave: systolic compression of septal perforators in a child with hypertrophic cardiomyopathy
Authors: Natarajan Rupesh , Ameduri Rebecca , Griselli Massimo , Aggarwal Varun
Published: December 2020

Intracoronary wave intensity analysis in hypertrophic cardiomyopathy has shown a large backward compression wave due to compressive deformation of the intramyocardial coronary arteries in systole. The authors describe the angiographic evidence of this backward compression wave, which has not been described in this physiological context and can be a marker of poor prognosis.
Covid-19 in an infant with systemic to pulmonary artery shunt dependent functionally univentricular physiology
Authors: Loomba Rohit S. , Lee Brian , Phillips Molly , Vricella Luca , Wong Joshua
Published: December 2020

We report a case of two-month old with a functionally univentricular heart and parallel circulation who presented to the emergency department with Covid-19 and subsequently developed acute respiratory distress syndrome. The course of illness, clinical values, and laboratory markers are characterized in this report.
JOB DURATION AND HISTORY-DEPENDENT UNEMPLOYMENT INSURANCE
Authors: Andersen Torben M. , Ellermann-Aarslev Christian
Published: December 2020

Unemployment insurance schemes typically include eligibility conditions comprising the employment history prior to becoming unemployed, an aspect largely neglected in the literature. We develop an analytically tractable matching model including such contingencies. Unemployed determine reservation durations for jobs to be acceptable, and stronger employment histories increase reservation durations. This creates a stratification among unemployed; unemployed with short employment histories accept short-term jobs, while those with a strong employment history aims for jobs with a longer duration. A trade-off arises between the employment level and the matching quality in terms of job duration; a stronger reward to employment histories reduces employment, but improves match quality (more long-term jobs). Numerical simulations show that the distribution between short- and long-term jobs is significantly affected by history dependencies in benefits levels and duration. The optimal utilitarian policy is shown to include contingencies based on employment histories of the unemployed.
Can we agree on the quality of clinical supervision? Inter-rater reliability of the Short–SAGE (Supervision: Adherence and Guidance Evaluation) scale
Authors: Beckman Maria , Spännargård Åsa , Alfonsson Sven
Published: December 2020

Clinical supervision is a cornerstone in psychotherapist training, but research in this area is hampered by a lack of validated tools for assessing supervision quality. Short–SAGE (Supervision: Adherence and Guidance Evaluation) is an observational instrument designed for evaluating supervision in cognitive behavioural therapy. The aim of this study was to evaluate the inter-rater reliability of Short–SAGE. Four experienced clinical psychologists participated in three 3-hour Short–SAGE coding training sessions, followed by an additional meeting and coding instructions. In a cross-over design, codings of 20 supervision sessions were then assessed with intraclass correlations (ICC), for both the 3- and 7-point scales of the instrument. In the single measure analyses for both scales, only one item showed ICC in the good range, and the rest of the 14 item ICCs were in the poor to fair range. Moreover, on the 3-point scale, five of the 14 inter-rater correlations were non-significant. For research and training purposes, validated tools to assess supervision quality are highly needed. However, instruments for measuring adherence and/or competence are of little value if the coders do not attain inter-rater reliability. Whether quality of supervision is associated with improvements in supervisees’ competencies is not yet clear. Short–SAGE provides a tool that may enable empirical research in this area. Further studies are needed to assess whether extensive training can improve the inter-rater reliability of Short–SAGE.

Key learning aims

(1)

Readers will be aware of the urgent need for validated tools to assess clinical supervision quality.

(2)

Readers will be familiar with some existing tools for assessing the quality of clinical supervision.

(3)

Readers will be able to identify common problems in the development of instruments for assessing clinical supervision.
Pinto bean response to seeding rate and herbicides
Authors: LeQuia Kathrin D. , Morishita Don W. , Walsh Olga S. , Adjesiwor Albert T.
Published: December 2020

Field experiments were conducted in 2016 and 2017 to evaluate the effects of seeding rate and herbicide programs on weed control and pinto bean yield under irrigation. The experiments comprised a 5 × 5 factorial randomized complete block design with five replications. The weed control treatments comprised a nontreated control, hand-weeded control, EPTC + ethalfluralin PRE, EPTC + ethalfluralin PRE followed by (fb) dimethenamid-P POST at V1, and EPTC + ethalfluralin PRE fb bentazon/imazamox POST. There were five seeding rates ranging from 247,000 to 494,000 seeds ha–1 planted in 19-cm rows. Weed biomass was reduced by 6 kg ha–1 with every additional 1,000 seeds ha–1. EPTC plus ethalfluralin fb either dimethenamid-P or bentazon plus imazamox reduced weed biomass by at least 29% compared to the nontreated control. There was a significant effect of weed control treatment on pinto bean yield (P = 0.0004). However, there was no significant seeding rate (P = 0.42) or seeding rate–by–weed control interaction effect on pinto bean yield (P = 0.38). Pinto bean yield ranged from 3,080 kg ha–1 in the nontreated control to 4,740 kg ha–1 hand-weeded treatment. Increased seeding rate in narrow rows is a cultural practice that can improve weed control in pinto bean but may not necessarily increase yield.
All Human, yet Different
Authors: Hansen Nina , Heu Luzia
Published: December 2020

Abstract. Only little social psychological research is conducted outside so-called WEIRD (Western, Educated, Industrialized, Rich and Democratic societies) cultures (e.g., in the “Global South”). Although cross-cultural replication of social psychological theorizing and findings is thus essential for higher external validity of the field, valid cross-cultural replications are not straightforward to do. Indeed, they require more than “copy-and-pasting” the same research design in different countries. To facilitate valid cross-cultural replications, we present a collection of concrete recommendations that integrate emic and etic approaches: (1) establishing an egalitarian and respectful partnership with representatives of the local community, (2) examining whether constructs carry the same meaning are relevant in and across contexts, and (3) preparing culture-sensitive research materials and procedures. These recommendations aim to inform and improve purely “etic” approaches.
“Work Is Life”: An Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis of the Experiences of Work–Life Balance Among Nongovernment Workers
Authors: Dee Ariana Denise A. , Dizon Leyah Christine T. , Aldaba Jose Rafael M. , Teng-Calleja Mendiola
Published: December 2020

This study explored the experiences of work–life balance (WLB) of development nongovernment organization (NGO) workers in the Philippines. Interpretative phenomenological analysis was used to make sense of the data gathered from semistructured interviews with 6 NGO fieldworkers. Findings surfaced 3 superordinate themes arising from the WLB experiences of NGO workers as (a) work–life synthesis (WLS) rather than WLB characterized by perceiving that work is life, living out one’s calling, and having integrated relationships; (b) challenges disrupting WLS such as heavy and unpredictable workload, unintended spillover, and fatigue; and (c) the presence of both internal and external factors enabling WLS. This study contributes to psychological literature by introducing a new conception of WLB as WLS outside its conventionally associated corporate interpretation. Practical implications of this study include the identification of several enabling and hindering factors affecting the WLS of NGO workers that could be addressed by organizational leaders and/or human resource management units of NGOs.
Structure of human RNA polymerase III
Authors: Ramsay Ewan Phillip , Abascal-Palacios Guillermo , Daiß Julia L. , King Helen , Gouge Jerome , Pilsl Michael , Beuron Fabienne , Morris Edward , Gunkel Philip , Engel Christoph , Vannini Alessandro
Published: December 2020

In eukaryotes, RNA Polymerase (Pol) III is specialized for the transcription of tRNAs and other short, untranslated RNAs. Pol III is a determinant of cellular growth and lifespan across eukaryotes. Upregulation of Pol III transcription is observed in cancer and causative Pol III mutations have been described in neurodevelopmental disorders and hypersensitivity to viral infection. Here, we report a cryo-EM reconstruction at 4.0 Å of human Pol III, allowing mapping and rationalization of reported genetic mutations. Mutations causing neurodevelopmental defects cluster in hotspots affecting Pol III stability and/or biogenesis, whereas mutations affecting viral sensing are located in proximity to DNA binding regions, suggesting an impairment of Pol III cytosolic viral DNA-sensing. Integrating x-ray crystallography and SAXS, we also describe the structure of the higher eukaryote specific RPC5 C-terminal extension. Surprisingly, experiments in living cells highlight a role for this module in the assembly and stability of human Pol III.
Evolutionary design of optimal surface topographies for biomaterials
Authors: Vasilevich Aliaksei , Carlier Aurélie , Winkler David A. , Singh Shantanu , de Boer Jan
Published: December 2020

Natural evolution tackles optimization by producing many genetic variants and exposing these variants to selective pressure, resulting in the survival of the fittest. We use high throughput screening of large libraries of materials with differing surface topographies to probe the interactions of implantable device coatings with cells and tissues. However, the vast size of possible parameter design space precludes a brute force approach to screening all topographical possibilities. Here, we took inspiration from Nature to optimize materials surface topographies using evolutionary algorithms. We show that successive cycles of material design, production, fitness assessment, selection, and mutation results in optimization of biomaterials designs. Starting from a small selection of topographically designed surfaces that upregulate expression of an osteogenic marker, we used genetic crossover and random mutagenesis to generate new generations of topographies.
Micronucleus frequency in buccal mucosa cells of patients with neurodegenerative diseases
Authors: Reimann Hauke , Stopper Helga , Polak Thomas , Lauer Martin , Herrmann Martin J. , Deckert Jürgen , Hintzsche Henning
Published: December 2020

Neurodegenerative diseases show an increase in prevalence and incidence, with the most prominent example being Alzheimer’s disease. DNA damage has been suggested to play a role in the pathogenesis, but the exact mechanisms remain elusive. We enrolled 425 participants with and without neurodegenerative diseases and analyzed DNA damage in the form of micronuclei in buccal mucosa samples. In addition, other parameters such as binucleated cells, karyolytic cells, and karyorrhectic cells were quantified. No relevant differences in DNA damage and cytotoxicity markers were observed in patients compared to healthy participants. Furthermore, other parameters such as lifestyle factors and diseases were also investigated. Overall, this study could not identify a direct link between changes in buccal cells and neurogenerative diseases, but highlights the influence of lifestyle factors and diseases on the human buccal cytome.
Geochemical and organic petrographic characteristics of high bituminous shales from Gurha mine in Rajasthan, NW India
Authors: Singh Alok K. , Hakimi Mohammed Hail , Kumar Alok , Ahmed Adeeb , Abidin Nor Syazwani Zainal , Kinawy Mostafa , Mahdy Osama El , Lashin Aref
Published: December 2020

A high bituminous shale horizon from the Gurha mine in the Bikaner sub-basin of the Rajasthan District, NW India, was studied using a collection of geochemical and petrological techniques. This study investigated the nature and environmental conditions of the organic matter and its relation to the unconventional oil-shale resources of the bituminous shale. The analyzed shales have high total organic carbon and total sulfur contents, suggesting that these shale sediments were deposited in a paralic environment under reducing conditions. The dominant presence of organic matter derived from phytoplankton algae suggests warm climatic marine environment, with little connection to freshwater enhancing the growth of algae and other microorganisms. The analyzed bituminous shales have high aquatic-derived alginite organic matters, with low Pr/Ph, Pr/n-C17, and Ph/n-C18 ratios. It is classified as Type II oil-prone kerogen, consistent with high hydrogen index value. Considering the maturity indicators of geochemical Tmax (< 430 °C) and vitrinite reflectance values less than 0.40%VRo, the analyzed bituminous shale sediments are in an immature stage of the oil window. Therefore, the oil-prone kerogen Type II in the analyzed bituminous shales has not been cracked by thermal alteration to release oil; thus, unconventional heating is recommended for commercial oil generation.
Dance training improves the CNS’s ability to utilize the redundant degrees of freedom of the whole body
Authors: Koh Kyung , Park Yang Sun , Park Da Won , Shim Jae Kun
Published: December 2020

Professional dancers demonstrate an amazing ability to control their balance. However, little is known about how they coordinate their body segments for such superior control. In this study, we investigated how dancers coordinate body segments when a physical perturbation is given to their body. A custom-made machine was used to provide a short pulling impulse at the waist in the anterior direction to ten dancers and ten non-dancers. We used Uncontrolled Manifold analysis to quantify the variability in the task-relevant space and task-irrelevant space within the multi-dimensional space made up of individual segments’ centers of mass with a velocity adjustment. The dancers demonstrated greater utilization of redundant degrees of freedom (DoFs) supported by the greater task-irrelevant variability as compared to non-dancers. These findings suggest that long-term specialized dance training can improve the central nervous system’s ability to utilize the redundant DoFs in the whole-body system.
Physical education class participation is associated with physical activity among adolescents in 65 countries
Authors: Uddin Riaz , Salmon Jo , Islam Sheikh Mohammed Shariful , Khan Asaduzzaman
Published: December 2020

In this study we examined the associations of physical education class participation with physical activity among adolescents. We analysed the Global School-based Student Health Survey data from 65 countries (N = 206,417; 11–17 years; 49% girls) collected between 2007 and 2016. We defined sufficient physical activity as achieving physical activities ≥ 60 min/day, and grouped physical education classes as ‘0 day/week’, ‘1–2 days/week’, and ‘ ≥ 3 days/week’ participation. We used multivariable logistic regression to obtain country-level estimates, and meta-analysis to obtain pooled estimates. Compared to those who did not take any physical education classes, those who took classes ≥ 3 days/week had double the odds of being sufficiently active (OR 2.05, 95% CI 1.84–2.28) with no apparent gender/age group differences. The association estimates decreased with higher levels of country’s income with OR 2.37 (1.51–3.73) for low-income and OR 1.85 (1.52–2.37) for high-income countries. Adolescents who participated in physical education classes 1–2 days/week had 26% higher odds of being sufficiently active with relatively higher odds for boys (30%) than girls (15%). Attending physical education classes was positively associated with physical activity among adolescents regardless of sex or age group. Quality physical education should be encouraged to promote physical activity of children and adolescents.
Manufacturing micropatterned collagen scaffolds with chemical-crosslinking for development of biomimetic tissue-engineered oral mucosa
Authors: Suzuki Ayako , Kodama Yoshihiro , Miwa Keito , Kishimoto Kazuma , Hoshikawa Emi , Haga Kenta , Sato Taisuke , Mizuno Jun , Izumi Kenji
Published: December 2020

The junction between the epithelium and the underlying connective tissue undulates, constituting of rete ridges, which lack currently available soft tissue constructs. In this study, using a micro electro mechanical systems process and soft lithography, fifteen negative molds, with different dimensions and aspect ratios in grid- and pillar-type configurations, were designed and fabricated to create three-dimensional micropatterns and replicated onto fish-scale type I collagen scaffolds treated with chemical crosslinking. Image analyses showed the micropatterns were well-transferred onto the scaffold surfaces, showing the versatility of our manufacturing system. With the help of rheological test, the collagen scaffold manufactured in this study was confirmed to be an ideal gel and have visco-elastic features. As compared with our previous study, its mechanical and handling properties were improved by chemical cross-linking, which is beneficial for grafting and suturing into the complex structures of oral cavity. Histologic evaluation of a tissue-engineered oral mucosa showed the topographical microstructures of grid-type were well-preserved, rather than pillar-type, a well-stratified epithelial layer was regenerated on all scaffolds and the epithelial rete ridge-like structure was developed. As this three-dimensional microstructure is valuable for maintaining epithelial integrity, our micropatterned collagen scaffolds can be used not only intraorally but extraorally as a graft material for human use.
Impact of data on generalization of AI for surgical intelligence applications
Authors: Bar Omri , Neimark Daniel , Zohar Maya , Hager Gregory D. , Girshick Ross , Fried Gerald M. , Wolf Tamir , Asselmann Dotan
Published: December 2020

AI is becoming ubiquitous, revolutionizing many aspects of our lives. In surgery, it is still a promise. AI has the potential to improve surgeon performance and impact patient care, from post-operative debrief to real-time decision support. But, how much data is needed by an AI-based system to learn surgical context with high fidelity? To answer this question, we leveraged a large-scale, diverse, cholecystectomy video dataset. We assessed surgical workflow recognition and report a deep learning system, that not only detects surgical phases, but does so with high accuracy and is able to generalize to new settings and unseen medical centers. Our findings provide a solid foundation for translating AI applications from research to practice, ushering in a new era of surgical intelligence.
Grating-coupled interferometry reveals binding kinetics and affinities of Ni ions to genetically engineered protein layers
Authors: Jankovics Hajnalka , Kovacs Boglarka , Saftics Andras , Gerecsei Tamas , Tóth Éva , Szekacs Inna , Vonderviszt Ferenc , Horvath Robert
Published: December 2020

Reliable measurement of the binding kinetics of low molecular weight analytes to their targets is still a challenging task. Often, the introduction of labels is simply impossible in such measurements, and the application of label-free methods is the only reliable choice. By measuring the binding kinetics of Ni(II) ions to genetically modified flagellin layers, we demonstrate that: (1) Grating-Coupled Interferometry (GCI) is well suited to resolve the binding of ions, even at very low protein immobilization levels; (2) it supplies high quality kinetic data from which the number and strength of available binding sites can be determined, and (3) the rate constants of the binding events can also be obtained with high accuracy. Experiments were performed using a flagellin variant incorporating the C-terminal domain of the nickel-responsive transcription factor NikR. GCI results were compared to affinity data from titration calorimetry. We found that besides the low-affinity binding sites characterized by a micromolar dissociation constant (Kd), tetrameric FliC-NikRC molecules possess high-affinity binding sites with Kd values in the nanomolar range. GCI enabled us to obtain real-time kinetic data for the specific binding of an analyte with molar mass as low as 59 Da, even at signals lower than 1 pg/mm2.
Promising candidates for extracorporeal cardiopulmonary resuscitation for out-of-hospital cardiac arrest
Authors: Shin Yo Sep , Kim Youn-Jung , Ryoo Seung Mok , Sohn Chang Hwan , Ahn Shin , Seo Dong Woo , Kim Won Young
Published: December 2020

Precise criteria for extracorporeal cardiopulmonary resuscitation (ECPR) are still lacking in patients with out-of-hospital cardiac arrest (OHCA). We aimed to investigate whether adopting our hypothesized criteria for ECPR to patients with refractory OHCA could benefit. This before-after study compared 4.5 years after implementation of ECPR for refractory OHCA patients who met our criteria (Jan, 2015 to May, 2019) and 4 years of undergoing conventional CPR (CCPR) prior to ECPR with patients who met the criteria (Jan, 2011 to Jan, 2014) in the emergency department. The primary and secondary outcomes were good neurologic outcome at 6-months and 1-month respectively, defined as 1 or 2 on the Cerebral Performance Category score. A total of 70 patients (40 with CCPR and 30 with ECPR) were included. For a good neurologic status at 6-months and 1-month, patients with ECPR (33.3%, 26.7%) were superior to those with CCPR (5.0%, 5.0%) (all Ps < 0.05). Among patients with ECPR, a group with a good neurologic status showed shorter low-flow time, longer extracorporeal membrane oxygenation duration and hospital stays, and lower epinephrine doses used (all Ps < 0.05). The application of the detailed indication before initiating ECPR appears to increase a good neurologic outcome rate.
Quantum control operations with fuzzy evolution trajectories based on polyharmonic magnetic fields
Authors: Fuentes Jesús
Published: December 2020

We explore a class of quantum control operations based on a wide family of harmonic magnetic fields that vary softly in time. Depending on the magnetic field amplitudes taking part, these control operations can produce either squeezing or loop (orbit) effects, and even parametric resonances, on the canonical variables. For these purposes we focus our attention on the evolution of observables whose dynamical picture is ascribed to a quadratic Hamiltonian that depends explicitly on time. In the first part of this work we survey such operations in terms of biharmonic magnetic fields. The dynamical analysis is simplified using a stability diagram in the amplitude space, where the points of each region will characterise a specific control operation. We discuss how the evolution loop effects are formed by fuzzy (non-commutative) trajectories that can be closed or open, in the latter case, even hiding some features that can be used to manipulate the operational time. In the second part, we generalise the case of biharmonic fields and translate the discussion to the case of polyharmonic fields. Using elementary properties of the Toeplitz matrices, we can derive exact solutions of the problem in a symmetric evolution interval, leading to the temporal profile of those magnetic fields suitable to achieve specific control operations. Some of the resulting fuzzy orbits can be destroyed by the influence of external forces, while others simply remain stable.
Biochemical and biophysical characterization of the main protease, 3-chymotrypsin-like protease (3CLpro) from the novel coronavirus SARS-CoV 2
Authors: Ferreira Juliana C. , Rabeh Wael M.
Published: December 2020

Severe acute respiratory syndrome-coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) is responsible for the novel coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). An appealing antiviral drug target is the coronavirus 3C-like protease (3CLpro) that is responsible for the processing of the viral polyproteins and liberation of functional proteins essential for the maturation and infectivity of the virus. In this study, multiple thermal analytical techniques have been implemented to acquire the thermodynamic parameters of 3CLpro at different buffer conditions. 3CLpro exhibited relatively high thermodynamic stabilities over a wide pH range; however, the protease was found to be less stable in the presence of salts. Divalent metal cations reduced the thermodynamic stability of 3CLpro more than monovalent cations; however, altering the ionic strength of the buffer solution did not alter the stability of 3CLpro. Furthermore, the most stable thermal kinetic stability of 3CLpro was recorded at pH 7.5, with the highest enthalpy of activation calculated from the slope of Eyring plot. The biochemical and biophysical properties of 3CLpro explored here may improve the solubility and stability of 3CLpro for optimum conditions for the setup of an enzymatic assay for the screening of inhibitors to be used as lead candidates in the discovery of drugs and design of antiviral therapeutics against COVID-19.
Modelling of hydrogen sulfide fate and emissions in extended aeration sewage treatment plant using TOXCHEM simulations
Authors: Zwain Haider M. , Nile Basim K. , Faris Ahmed M. , Vakili Mohammadtaghi , Dahlan Irvan
Published: December 2020

Odors due to the emission of hydrogen sulfide (H2S) have been a concern in the sewage treatment plants over the last decades. H2S fate and emissions from extended aeration activated sludge (EAAS) system in Muharram Aisha-sewage treatment plant (MA-STP) were studied using TOXCHEM model. Sensitivity analysis at different aeration flowrate, H2S loading rate, wastewater pH, wastewater temperature and wind speed were studied. The predicted data were validated against actual results, where all the data were validated within the limits, and the statistical evaluation of normalized mean square error (NMSE), geometric variance (VG), and correlation coefficient (R) were close to the ideal fit. The results showed that the major processes occurring in the system were degradation and emission. During summer (27 °C) and winter (12 °C), about 25 and 23%, 1 and 2%, 2 and 2%, and 72 and 73% were fated as emitted to air, discharged with effluent, sorbed to sludge, and biodegraded, respectively. At summer and winter, the total emitted concentrations of H2S were 6.403 and 5.614 ppm, respectively. The sensitivity results indicated that aeration flowrate, H2S loading rate and wastewater pH highly influenced the emission and degradation of H2S processes compared to wastewater temperature and wind speed. To conclude, TOXCHEM model successfully predicted the H2S fate and emissions in EAAS system.
A report on COVID-19 epidemic in Pakistan using SEIR fractional model
Authors: Ahmad Zubair , Arif Muhammad , Ali Farhad , Khan Ilyas , Nisar Kottakkaran Sooppy
Published: December 2020

Recently, novel coronavirus is a serious global issue and having a negative impact on the economy of the whole world. Like other countries, it also effected the economy and people of Pakistan. According to the publicly reported data, the first case of novel corona virus in Pakistan was reported on 27th February 2020. The aim of the present study is to describe the mathematical model and dynamics of COVID-19 in Pakistan. To investigate the spread of coronavirus in Pakistan, we develop the SEIR time fractional model with newly, developed fractional operator of Atangana–Baleanu. We present briefly the analysis of the given model and discuss its applications using world health organization (WHO) reported data for Pakistan. We consider the available infection cases from 19th March 2020, till 31st March 2020 and accordingly, various parameters are fitted or estimated. It is worth noting that we have calculated the basic reproduction number $${\mathfrak{R}}_{0} \approx 2.30748$$

R
0

≈
2.30748

which shows that virus is spreading rapidly. Furthermore, stability analysis of the model at disease free equilibrium DFE and endemic equilibriums EE is performed to observe the dynamics and transmission of the model. Finally, the AB fractional model is solved numerically. To show the effect of the various embedded parameters like fractional parameter $$\alpha$$
α
on the model, various graphs are plotted. It is worth noting that the base of our investigation, we have predicted the spread of disease for next 200 days.
Evaluation of a panel of spermatological methods for assessing reprotoxic compounds in multilayer semen plastic bags
Authors: Schulze M. , Schröter F. , Jung M. , Jakop U.
Published: December 2020

The increase of fertility performance in sows is one of the biggest achievements in pig production over the last 30 years. Nevertheless, pig farms using artificial insemination (AI) repeatedly experienced in recent year’s fertility problems with dramatic consequences due to toxic compounds from plastic semen bags. In particular, bisphenol A diglycidyl-ether (BADGE) present in multilayer plastic bags can leach into the semen and could affect the functionality of the spermatozoa. Former studies could not find any alterations in spermatozoa based on the exposure to BADGE. The aim of the study was to evaluate effects of BADGE on boar spermatozoa using an extended panel of spermatological methods. In spring 2019, a large drop in farrowing rates from 92.6 ± 2.3% to 63.7 ± 11.1% in four sow farms in Croatia was detected. In migration studies, BADGE could be identified as a causal toxic compound and leached into the extended semen in concentration of 0.37 ± 0.05 mg/L. Detailed spermatological studies showed that significant predictors for effects on spermatozoa were different levels of motility and kinematic data after a prolonged storage time, thermo-resistance test (prolonged incubation time), mitochondrial activity, membrane integrity and fluidity. No serious effects were observed for sperm morphology and DNA fragmentation. These results provide new insights into the development of a new quality assurance concept for a detailed spermatological examination during testing of plastic materials for boar semen preservation. It could be shown that boar spermatozoa are an excellent biosensor to detect potential toxicity and fertility-relevant compounds.
Chitosan–Alginate–Pectin-coated Suspended-Liquid-Encapsulating (CAPSuLE) marbles for therapeutic agent storage and delivery
Authors: Kim Yoojin , Oh Seokmin , Lee Heehyung , Lee Dongsoo , Kim Mihyun , Baek Heung Soo , Park Won Seok , Kim Eunmi , Jang Jae-Hyung
Published: December 2020

Suspended-liquid encapsulating systems, exhibiting versatile features for biological applications, were developed by integrating principles for creating liquid marbles and coacervates.
Plasmonic foam platforms for air quality monitoring
Authors: Becerril-Castro I. Brian , Munoz-Munoz Franklin , Castro-Ceseña Ana B. , González Ana L. , Alvarez-Puebla Ramon A. , Romo-Herrera Jose M.
Published: December 2020

A plasmonic reversible gas sensor is proposed with the design of a plasmonic foam using surface-enhanced resonance Raman scattering.
Salt-responsive polyampholyte-based hydrogel actuators with gradient porous structures
Authors: Shao Zijian , Wu Shanshan , Zhang Qian , Xie Hui , Xiang Tao , Zhou Shaobing
Published: December 2020

A polyampholyte-based hydrogel actuator with water-responsive shape deformation was fabricated, and the gradient distribution of chemical composition was proved by micro-FTIR.
Celebrating the 110th anniversary of PKU chemistry
Authors: Li Yan
Published: December 2020

Guest editor Yan Li introduces this themed collection in celebration of 110 years of chemistry at Peking University.
The bioactive components as well as the nutritional and health effects of sea buckthorn
Authors: Ren Ruru , Li Nan , Su Chao , Wang Yingli , Zhao Xiaojun , Yang Lingling , Li Yanting , Zhang Bo , Chen Jianyu , Ma Xueqin
Published: December 2020

Sea buckthorn (SB), also named sea berry, has been used in daily life for centuries with kinds of purposes ranging from a beverage with a pleasant taste and flavor, to an agent for treatment of many disorders and diseases.
Antibacterial activity of AgNPs–TiO2 nanotubes: influence of different nanoparticle stabilizers
Authors: Bilek Ondrej , Fialova Tatiana , Otahal Alexandr , Adam Vojtech , Smerkova Kristyna , Fohlerova Zdenka
Published: December 2020

Synergictic antibacterial effect of AgNPs–TiO2 nanotubes is influenced by different nanoparticle stabilizers.
Morphology and performance relationship studies on biodegradable ternary blends of poly(3-hydroxybutyrate-co-3-hydroxyvalerate), polylactic acid, and polypropylene carbonate
Authors: Hedrick Mary M. , Wu Feng , Mohanty Amar K. , Misra Manjusri
Published: December 2020

Morphological arrangement leads to biodegradable stiffness–toughness–HDT balanced ternary blends.
The mechanism of Co oxyhydroxide nano-islands deposited on a Pt surface to promote the oxygen reduction reaction at the cathode of fuel cells
Authors: Lu Jinghao , Yang Libin , Guo Wei , Xiao Songtao , Wang Lingyu , OuYang Yinggen , Gao Peng
Published: December 2020

The Pt–OCoOH structure has a positive effect on the ORR; the bond length, binding energy and d-band center were investigated to explain the improved ORR activity.
Recent progress in the development of biomass-derived nitrogen-doped porous carbon
Authors: Matsagar Babasaheb M. , Yang Ren-Xuan , Dutta Saikat , Ok Yong Sik , Wu Kevin C.-W.
Published: December 2020

Synthesis of biomass-derived N-doped porous carbon for energy storage and catalysis applications is a sustainable and environmentally friendly approach.
Photoelectrochemical reduction of N2 to NH3 under ambient conditions through hierarchical MoSe2@g-C3N4 heterojunctions
Authors: Mushtaq Muhammad Asim , Arif Muhammad , Fang Xiaoyu , Yasin Ghulam , Ye Wen , Basharat Majid , Zhou Bo , Yang Shiyu , Ji Shengfu , Yan Dongpeng
Published: December 2020

Ammonia is the main precursor for the production of fertilizers, a hydrogen energy carrier and an emerging clean fuel that plays a crucial role in sustaining life on the globe.
Investigation of Embodied Language Processing on Command-Swallow Performance in Healthy Participants
Authors: Kurosu Atsuko , Pratt Sheila R. , Palmer Catherine , Shaiman Susan
Published: December 2020

Purpose

During videofluoroscopic examination of swallowing, patients commonly are instructed to hold a bolus in their mouth until they hear a verbal instruction to swallow, which usually consists of the word
swallow
and is commonly referred to as the command swallow condition. The language-induced motor facilitation theory suggests that linguistic processes associated with the verbal command to swallow should facilitate the voluntary component of swallowing. As such, the purpose of the study was to examine the linguistic influences of the verbal command on swallowing.

Method

Twenty healthy young adult participants held a 5-ml liquid bolus in their mouth and swallowed the bolus after hearing one of five acoustic stimuli presented randomly: congruent action word (
swallow
), incongruent action word (
cough
), congruent pseudoword (
spallow
), incongruent pseudoword (
pough
), and nonverbal stimulus (1000-Hz pure tone). Suprahyoid muscle activity during swallowing was measured via surface electromyography (sEMG).

Results

The onset and peak sEMG latencies following the congruent action word
swallow
were shorter than latencies following the pure tone and pseudowords but were not different from the incongruent action word. The lack of difference between
swallow
and
cough
did not negate the positive impact of real words on timing. In contrast to expectations, sEMG activity duration and rise time were longer following the word
swallow
than the pure tone and pseudowords but were not different from
cough
. No differences were observed for peak suprahyoid muscle activity amplitude and fall times.

Conclusions

Language facilitation was observed in swallowing. The clinical utility of the information obtained in the study may depend on the purposes for using the command swallow and the type of patient being assessed. However, linguistic processing under the command swallow condition may alter swallow behaviors and suggests that linguistic inducement could be useful as a compensatory technique for patients with difficulty initiating oropharyngeal swallows.
Mechanical properties of fiber-reinforced composite resin exposed to alcoholic beverage
Authors: Sunarintyas Siti , Yi Cheah , Agustiono Purwanto
Published: December 2020

Addition of fiber to dental bridgework was thought to be more efficient comparing to porcelain-fused to metalwork. In other side, some patients consumed alcoholic beverage in their daily life. This study aimed to determine mechanical properties of fiber-reinforced composite (FRC) exposed to alcoholic beverage. The materials used were dental resin (i-FLOW i-dental, Lithuania), polyethylene fiber (Vactrise, USA), and 4 alcoholic beverages. FRC samples (40) were divided into 10 groups (n=4, control:aquades). Each Sample was soaked in beverage for 5 s followed by 5 s in aquades for each cycle (10 cycles daily for 4 wk). Mechanical properties were examined for hardness and flexural strength. The result showed the mean values for hardness (KHN) were: 98.70±6.03 (aquades), 99.01±4.92 (Beer), 87.65±7.83 (Vermouth), 80.23±5.22 (Rum), 78.20±3.70 (Tequila); while for flexural strength (MPa) were: 336.00±25.05 (aquades), 308.25±10.39 (Beer), 215.07±34.86 (Vermouth), 194.89±27.69 (Rum), 175.48±33.58 (Tequila). The ANOVA revealed significant differences in hardness and flexural strength (p<0.05). The LSD showed no significant difference in hardness and flexural strength of FRC soaked in aquades and Beer, while for other groups and aquades the differences were significant. In conclusion, FRCs soaked in different concentration of alcoholic beverages affected the decrease of hardness and flexural strength properties.
Malpositions of anterior teeth was conducted by using form investigation based on sex
Authors: Nirmalasari Nirmalasari , Sugiatno Erwan , Widiati Sri
Published: December 2020

Malpositioned anteriors teeth can aethetically influence, self-appearance, the function of mastication and speech. Malpositioned teeth refers to altered positioning of one or more teeth from a well-alligned jaw. In general, boy’s jaw is bigger than girl’s. This enable to makes difference risk of malpositioned anteriors teeth between boy and girl. The aim of this study to find information about to detect risk difference malpositioned anteriors teeth in student of SMPN 6 Yogyakarta based on sex. Research used observational with cross sectional. The subjects of study were entire student of class VII SMPN 6 Yogyakarta that fulfil criteria and got that is 211 students are 91 students of boy and 120 of girl students. The objects of this study are jaw of anteriors teeth on and lower jaw. The evaluation malpositioned anteriors teeth was conducted by using form investigation based on sex are boy and girl, evaluation appropriate criteria prevalence malpositioned anteriors teeth which cover mesioversion, distoversion, buccoversion, palatoversion, linguoversion, labioversion, torsiversion, transversion and axiversion was scored 1, while normal position was scored 0. The results of the research were obtained by applying statistics method which used cross tabulation to obtainOdds Ratio(OR) and appropriate magnitude OR = 0.59, OR < 1 (Protective risk factor), that meaning boy sex will be protected to the happening malpositioned anteriors is compared boy sex. From the research, it can be concluded that risk malpositioned anteriors teeth in girl student SMPN 6 Yogyakarta which was high than boy students.