bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Bio‐PUF‐MAC authenticated encryption for iris biometrics
Authors: Narasimhan Sivasankari , Arunachalam Muthukumar
Published: May 2020

Biometrics is one of the ways for human authentication. Fabrication of biometrics by intruders, limits the accuracy of authentication. The user‐specific keys (ie,) pseudo‐random numbers give more security for biometric template protection and increase the accuracy of authentication also. The user‐specific token or keys can also be fabricated by intruders by any of the prediction methods. To avoid the creation of fake biometric and fake user‐specific keys, a device‐specific Physical Unclonable Function (PUF) is proposed. In this article, iris authentication is provided by unclonable PUF‐based true random numbers to enhance the unique authentication. Nonreversible Message Authentication Codes (MAC) are developed using PUF and Discrete Wavelet Transform features of iris biometrics. Systematically, MAC codes also created with, encryption algorithm. Encryption is additionally providing confidentiality in the individual iris. Experiments are done with CUHK Iris Image Dataset. Proposed Bio‐PUF system has significant functional advantages in point of view of the unclonable pseudo‐random number from PUF. Experimentally, Avalanche effect, entropy, NCPR, and UACI parameters are analyzed with PUF‐based crypt functions. For 75% of matching with the Bio‐PUF‐MAC codes with enrolment, the accuracy for correct identification is 77.73%.
The effects of home noninvasive ventilation on the quality of life and physiological parameters of patients with chronic respiratory failure
Authors: Yüksel Aycan , Çiftçi Fatma , Çiledağ Aydın , Kaya Akın
Published: May 2020

Introduction

Home noninvasive mechanical ventilation (HNIV) in patients with chronic hypercapnic respiratory failure (CHRF) may improve the health‐related quality of life (HRQoL) and reduce hospitalizations.

Objective

To determine the effects of HNIV on HRQoL, sleep quality and hospitalization rates in restrictive thoracic diseases (RTD) and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) patients with CHRF.

Methods

In this prospective, single center study patients divided into two groups; the COPD and the RTD groups. HRQoL assessed by The Medical Outcome Study 36‐Item Short‐form Health Survey (SF‐36) and Severe Respiratory Insufficiency (SRI); the sleep quality was assessed by Epworth and Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index questionnaires. The patients were reevaluated first month, third months, sixth months and 1 year following HNIV establishment, during which time, hospitalization rates were recorded.

Results

Ninety (COPD n = 50, RTD n = 40) out of 102 eligible patients completed the study. Significant improvements in blood gases and HRQoL were observed in the first month of HNIV establishment and remained stable. Mean ± SD SRI summary scale improved significantly from 30 ± 12 baseline to 65 ± 16 at 1 year in COPD group (P < 0.001) and from 39 ± 13 to 63 ± 18 in RTD group (P < 0.001). HNIV reduced hospitalization rates from a mean of 1.9 ± 1.1 to 0.5 ± 0.9 in COPD group (P < 0.001) and a mean of 1.9 ± 1 to 0.5 ± 0.7 in RTD group (P < 0.001).

Conclusion

HNIV improves HRQoL, sleep quality and gas exchange and reduces hospitalizations in patients with CHRF regardless of etiology.
Presence and prognostic value of ventricular diastolic function in arrhythmogenic right ventricular cardiomyopathy
Authors: Sadeghpour Anita , Hosseini Leila , Rezaeian Nahid , Alizadehasl Azin , Maleki Majid , Emkanjoo Zahra , Bakhshandeh Hooman , Zadehbagheri Fatemeh
Published: May 2020

Introduction

Limited data exist regarding the presence and importance of diastolic parameters in patients with arrhythmogenic right ventricular cardiomyopathy (ARVC). We sought to evaluate RV diastolic parameters and echo‐based diastolic predictors of major adverse cardiovascular events (MACE).

Method

48 patients with a definitive diagnosis of ARVC were included and followed for 6‐18 months. A comprehensive standard two‐dimensional (2D) transthoracic echocardiography (TTE) with precise evaluation of systolic and diastolic indices of both ventricles was done. RV isovolumetric relaxation time (IVRT), RV myocardial performance index (MPI), and right atrial (RA) volume were evaluated.

Results

48 patients (mean age = 38.5 ± 14 years; 79.2% male) were enrolled. 27.3% had grade I, 68.2% had grade II, and 4.5% had grade III RV diastolic dysfunction. In 12‐month follow‐up, 12 patients (25%, with mean RV3DEF = 24.8 ± 9%) experienced MACE and required hospitalization: ventricular tachyarrhythmia in 7 patients (14.6%), RV clot in 2 subjects (4.2%), and right‐sided failure in 3 cases (6.3%). In logistic regression analysis, tissue Doppler velocity of tricuspid annulus (e' TV) (P = .02, OR = 0.581, CI = 0.368‐0.917), peak E mitral valve (P = .043, OR = 0.95, CI = 0.913‐0.999), tissue Doppler velocity of septal e' (P = .052, OR = 0.733, CI = 0.536‐1.003), and MPI (P = .009, OR = 95, CI = 3.083‐2942) were powerful predictors of MACE.

Conclusion

In our study, RV diastolic function parameters including e' TV and e′ MV, RA volume and area, and RV MPI were powerful predictors of MACE and may be considered during the baseline and follow‐up of the ARVC patients.
Political credit cycles
Authors: Kern Andreas , Amri Puspa
Published: May 2020

This paper tests the existence of political credit cycles, the positive comovement between credit and elections. While several single‐country studies point to the existence of this relationship, the link between electoral cycles and credit expansion has seen little exploration at the multicountry level. Using a comprehensive dataset covering bank and non‐bank credit in 165 countries from 1960 to 2013, we show that both government and private credit significantly increase in election years. This finding suggests the possibility that politicians use not only fiscal and monetary policy to court voters, but also implement credit policies such as interest rate subsidies and tax breaks for debt to enhance credit growth. We also find that a higher degree of financial openness weakens the frequency and magnitude of political credit cycles; yet, the conditional effect of financial openness is stronger for developing countries than developed economies.
International Association of Dental Traumatology guidelines for the management of traumatic dental injuries: 2. Avulsion of permanent teeth
Authors: Fouad Ashraf F. , Abbott Paul V. , Tsilingaridis Georgios , Cohenca Nestor , Lauridsen Eva , Bourguignon Cecilia , O'Connell Anne , Flores Marie Therese , Day Peter F. , Hicks Lamar , Andreasen Jens Ove , Cehreli Zafer C. , Harlamb Stephen , Kahler Bill , Oginni Adeleke , Semper Marc , Levin Liran
Published: May 2020

Avulsion of permanent teeth is one of the most serious dental injuries. Prompt and correct emergency management is essential for attaining the best outcome after this injury. The International Association of Dental Traumatology (IADT) has developed these Guidelines as a consensus statement after a comprehensive review of the dental literature and working group discussions. It represents the current best evidence and practice based on that literature search and expert opinions. Experienced researchers and clinicians from various specialties and the general dentistry community were included in the working group. In cases where the published data did not appear conclusive, recommendations were based on consensus opinions or majority decisions of the working group. They were then reviewed and approved by the members of the IADT Board of Directors.

The purpose of these Guidelines is to provide clinicians with the most widely accepted and scientifically plausible approaches for the immediate or urgent care of avulsed permanent teeth.

The IADT does not, and cannot, guarantee favorable outcomes from adherence to the Guidelines. However, the IADT believes that their application can maximize the probability of favorable outcomes.
Male morphology, performance and female mate choice of a swarming insect
Authors: Akutsu Takamichi , Morse Douglass H.
Published: May 2020

Females of many species select mates based on important morphological and performance traits. This behaviour likely facilitates reproductive success thus exhibiting sexual selection. Most such studies have evaluated a single morphological variable, and only a minority of them studies the effects of behaviour and performance (functional capacity: Irschick et al., Evolutionary Ecology Research, 10, 177–196, 2008) at all.

This study compares male morphological and performance traits differing in three variables that may correlate with fitness: condition index, flight ascent speed and resistance to torpor in relation to male mating success in the parasitoid wasp species Alabagrus texanus (Braconidae), a species where males swarm about emerging virgin females that display both choosy and non‐choosy behavioural phenotypes.

Males that successfully mated with choosy females exhibited higher condition indices and somewhat stronger resistance to torpor than other males. Conversely, males that mated with non‐choosy females did not differ in any trait from other males we measured. Early‐arriving males did not have higher condition indices or greater mating success than other males.

Thus, both morphological and performance traits contributed to male success, which acted through female choice, indicating a role for sexual selection. Patterns of choice further differed among females, independent of male traits.
Association between cholesterol levels and infections after ischemic stroke
Authors: Mazzacane F. , Leuci E. , Persico A. , Micieli G. , Candeloro E. , Cavallini A. , Morotti A.
Published: May 2020

Background and purpose

Multiple studies have suggested an immunomodulatory role of cholesterol. We investigated whether cholesterol levels are associated with the risk of infectious complications (ICs) in acute ischemic stroke patients.

Methods

A single‐center prospective cohort was analyzed. Total (TOTc), low‐density lipoprotein cholesterol and high‐density lipoprotein cholesterol levels were measured within 24 h from admission. The outcome of interest was the occurrence of any IC (pneumonia, urinary tract infection, sepsis, other infection) during hospitalization. Predictors of ICs were investigated with multivariable logistic regression.

Results

A total of 603 patients were included (median age 78 years, 49.3% males), of whom 134 (22.2%) developed an IC. Subjects with ICs had lower TOTc compared with patients without ICs (median 157 vs. 173 mg/dL; P < 0.001). When TOTc was stratified in quartiles, we observed a linear decrease in the prevalence of ICs with higher TOTc levels (Q1, <144 mg/dL, 32.7%; Q2, 145–168 mg/dL, 24.7%; Q3, 169–197 mg/dL, 17.8%; Q4, >197 mg/dL, 13.3% P < 0.001). The inverse relationship between TOTc and ICs remained significant after adjustment for confounders in logistic regression [odds ratio (OR) for 10 mg/dL increase, 0.92; 95% confidence intervals (CI), 0.87–0.97; P = 0.001]. This association was also confirmed for low‐density lipoprotein cholesterol (OR, 0.93; 95% CI, 0.88–0.99; P = 0.013) and high‐density lipoprotein cholesterol (OR, 0.85; 95% CI, 0.73–0.98; P = 0.026) and was not mediated by statin treatment.

Conclusion

Higher cholesterol levels are independently associated with lower risk of ICs in ischemic stroke patients. Further studies are needed to confirm our findings and characterize the biological mechanisms underlying this association.
Carbon flow through energycane agroecosystems established post‐intensive agriculture
Authors: Crow Susan E. , Wells Jon M. , Sierra Carlos A. , Youkhana Adel H. , Ogoshi Richard M. , Richardson Daniel , Tallamy Glazer Christine , Meki Manyowa N. , Kiniry James R.
Published: May 2020

As part of an integrated energy and climate system, biomass production for bioenergy based on the tropical perennial C4 grass energycane can both offset fossil fuels and store soil carbon (C). We measured energycane yields, root biomass, soil C pools, and soil C stocks in a 4 year field trial and modeled C flow from plants to soils in the surface layer of no‐till energycane planted after more than a century of intensive sugarcane agriculture. Aboveground yields ranged from 16.7 to 19.0 Mg C/ha over the 4 year trial. Although total C stocks did not significantly differ in the surface layer (approx. 0–20 cm) during the study, C in free and occluded light fractions decreased, whereas C in the mineral‐rich dense fraction increased over 4 years. Belowground system inputs, estimated from measurements and informed by convergence in the final soil fraction model, were set to 2.5 Mg C ha−1 year−1. With this input value, we estimated that surface soils retained photosynthetically fixed C predominantly within the mineral‐associated organic matter pool for a mean and median transit time of 177 and 110 years, respectively. Although we did not model C flow to deep soil layers (approx. 0–100 cm), observed C accumulation (11.4 Mg C ha−1 year−1) and root growth down to 120 cm suggest that soil processes and resulting C sequestration at the surface are likely to persist deeper into the soil profile. Energycane, as a strong candidate for climate change mitigation and land degradation remediation, showed high biomass yields and allocation of resources to roots, with sequestered soil C expected to persist for over a century.
Special theme introduction: methodological cosmopolitanism across the socio‐cultural sciences
Authors: BLOK ANDERS , SELCHOW SABINE
Published: May 2020

The cosmopolitan sociology of Ulrich Beck has been widely recognized as making vital contributions to crosscutting conversations on globalization and transnational studies, including these debates that are being played out on the pages of Global Networks. Beck's impassioned critique of ‘methodological nationalism’ in his own discipline of sociology, in particular, has often served as a springboard for programmatic calls to attend more closely to transnational actors, issues, and processes. However, beyond the occasional acknowledgement, comparatively less attention has been paid so far to the potentialities, specificities, and practicalities of Beck's affirmative alternative vision for the socio‐cultural sciences, that of ‘methodological cosmopolitanism’. Building on and extending out from research experiences obtained in Beck's East Asia and Europe‐focused Cosmopolitan Climate Change (Cosmo‐Climate) project, this special theme brings together experts from across a range of socio‐cultural research fields to discuss and critically interrogate the challenges and capacities of doing methodological cosmopolitanism.
Grisailles: Reconstruction and characterization of historical recipes
Authors: Vilarigues Márcia , Machado Carla , Machado Andreia , Costa Marta , Alves Luis C. , Cardoso Isabel P. , Ruivo Andreia
Published: May 2020

This study aims to contribute to the rediscovery of old technologies in the art of stained‐glass painting with grisaille, a dark color paint, used to create contours and shadows, produced by mixing ground lead‐based glass with coloring agents such as iron and copper. The reproduction of selected recipes belonging to five different treatises, dated from the 10th to the 19th century was designed to study the evolution of the composition and production technology of this historical paint and the repercussions of this development on the thermal compatibility of the grisailles with the glass substrates.The results indicate that the raw materials and the production methods remained roughly the same throughout the centuries. However, the chemical composition of the lead‐based glass and the source of colorants (burned metals were replaced by ochre's and earths in the 19th century) did change. These modifications impacted on the morphology of the grisailles paint layers towards a greater homogeneity. The results also reveal low thermal compatibility between these two materials, associated with both the composition and the morphology of the grisaille.
Thrombus in the left atrial appendage in patients with atrial fibrillation treated with non‐vitamin K antagonist oral anticoagulants in clinical practice—A multicenter registry
Authors: Gorczyca Iwona , Michalska Anna , Chrapek Magdalena , Budnik Monika , Starzyk Katarzyna , Jelonek Olga , Uziębło‐Życzkowska Beata , Kapłon‐Cieślicka Agnieszka , Gawałko Monika , Krzesiński Paweł , Jurek Agnieszka , Scisło Piotr , Kochanowski Janusz , Kiliszek Marek , Gielerak Grzegorz , Filipiak Krzysztof J. , Opolski Grzegorz , Wożakowska‐Kapłon Beata
Published: May 2020

Background

The prevalence and predictors of left atrial appendage thrombus (LAAT) in patients with non‐valvular atrial fibrillation (AF) who have been treated with non‐vitamin K antagonist oral anticoagulants (NOACs) are not well defined. We aimed to assess the occurrence and predictors of LAAT on transesophageal echocardiography (TOE) in patients with non‐valvular AF treated with NOACs for at least 3 weeks.

Methods

Consecutive patients with non‐valvular AF who underwent TOE before catheter ablation or electrical cardioversion in three high‐reference centers between 2014 and 2018 were included. Patients on apixaban were excluded from the study due to low numbers in this category. All patients received NOACs for at least 3 weeks before TOE.

Results

A total of 1148 patients (female, 38.1%; mean age, 62.1 years) referred to our centers for catheter ablation of AF (52.1%) or electrical cardioversion (47.9%) were included. Patients were on rivaroxaban (51.9%) or dabigatran (48.1%). Preprocedural TOE revealed LAAT in 4.4% of all patients. Multivariable logistic regression analysis showed the CHA2DS2‐VASc score ≥2 points (OR = 2.11; 95% CI, 1.15‐3.88; P = .0161), non‐paroxysmal AF (OR = 6.30; 95% CI, 2.22‐17.91; P = .0005), and GFR <60 mL/min/1.73 m2 (OR = 2.05; 95% CI, 1.14‐3.67; P = .0160) were independent predictors of LAAT in patients treated with NOACs.

Conclusions

In non‐valvular AF patients treated with NOACs, the prevalence of LAAT was 4.4% before electrical cardioversion or ablation. In addition to the CHA2DS2‐VASc score, the type of AF and renal function should be considered in the stratification of thromboembolism risk in AF patients and qualification for a preprocedural TOE.
An Integrative Investigation of Parabistichella variabilis (Protista, Ciliophora, Hypotrichia) Including Its General Morphology, Ultrastructure, Ontogenesis, and Molecular Phylogeny
Authors: Dong Jingyi , Chen Xumiao , Liu Yongqiang , Ni Bing , Fan Xinpeng , Li Lifang , Warren Alan
Published: May 2020

Hypotrichs are a highly differentiated and very diverse group of ciliated protists. Their systematics and taxonomy are challenging and call for detailed investigations on their general morphology, ultrastructure, ontogenesis, and molecular phylogeny. Here, a comprehensive study is conducted on a brackish water population of Parabistichella variabilis using light and electron microscopy and phylogenetic analyses based on small subunit ribosomal DNA sequence data. Its morphology, including the infraciliature, pellicle, nuclei, buccal seal, and extrusomes, is documented. The present findings indicate that in P. variabilis: (i) the cortical granules are extrusomes, which differ from those of other hypotrichs; (ii) the buccal seal is bounded by the plasma membrane and contains a single layer of longitudinal microtubules; (iii) two contractile vacuoles might be present rather than one; and (iv) the pharyngeal disks are bounded by a single membrane. Early‐to‐middle stages of ontogenesis are described for the first time, enabling the complete characterization of this process. Phylogenetic analyses indicate that Parabistichella variabilis is closely related to several species from different genera, such as Orthoamphisiella breviseries, Uroleptoides magnigranulosus, and Tachysoma pellionellum. However, ultrastructural and gene sequence data for more taxa are needed in order to resolve the systematics of Parabistichella.
Stillbirth at Term: Grief Theories for Care of Bereaved Women and Families in Intrapartum Settings
Authors: Black Beth Perry
Published: May 2020

Death in intrapartum settings poses a paradox for providers, whose expertise may be limited in assisting bereaved women and families facing the trauma of stillbirth. Many providers are familiar with Kübler‐Ross’ stage theory of grief; however, more recent theories augment her early work in care of bereaved persons. Through an evolving case study of a couple for whom pregnancy ends in stillbirth at term, 4 theories of grief—loss of the assumptive world, the dual process model, continuing bonds, and complicated grief—are presented to assist intrapartum care providers toward more comprehensive understanding of the complexities of grief responses not fully explained by simple stage theory. These 4 theories are not prescriptive, nor are they comprehensive; however, they are highly relevant and foundational for current understanding of responses and needs of bereaved women and families for whom pregnancy ends in death.
Spatially sensitive harvest design can minimize genetic relatedness and enhance genetic outcomes in translocation programmes
Authors: Pacioni C. , Atkinson A. , Wayne A. F. , Maxwell M. A. , Ward C. G. , Spencer P. B. S.
Published: May 2020

The design used to source animals for translocation and captive breeding programmes can strongly influence sampling results and outcomes. To date, no trapping design has been specifically directed at maximizing genetic diversity of individuals for use in such programmes. Using genetic and demographic data, we investigated the spatial structure of critically endangered woylie (Bettongia penicillata ogilbyi) populations for developing a spatial trapping design that would return a genetically representative cohort of animals by taking advantage of the dispersal behaviour of the species. Using microsatellite markers, we tested our design against more conventional trapping approaches and determined that animals captured under our spatial design were less related than animals captured using grid or standard transect designs. We clearly show that incorporating the target species’ ecology (e.g. dispersal patterns) in the capture design will improve the genetic differences (through reduced relatedness) between harvested individuals. This study sets out a practical approach that can significantly improve potential conservation outcomes. This approach is applicable to all species that have a predictable dispersal pattern.
Mixing particles from various HCV genotypes increases the HBV‐HCV vaccine ability to elicit broadly cross‐neutralizing antibodies
Authors: Beaumont Elodie , Joël Clément Benoit , Guérin Vanessa , Chopin Lucie , Roch Emmanuelle , Gomez‐Escobar Elsa , Roingeard Philippe
Published: May 2020

The development of a safe, effective and affordable prophylactic vaccine against hepatitis C virus (HCV) remains a medical priority. Hepatitis B‐C subviral envelope particles, which could be produced by industrial procedures adapted from those established for the hepatitis B virus vaccine, appear promising for use for this purpose. The prototype HBV‐HCV bivalent vaccine‐bearing genotype 1a HCV envelopes can induce neutralizing antibodies against this genotype, but is less effective against other genotypes. We show here, in a small animal model, that the use of a set of vaccine particles harbouring envelopes from different HCV genotypes in various association strategies can induce broad neutralizing protection or an optimized protection against a particular genotype prevalent in a given region, such as genotype 4 in Egypt. This vaccine could help to control the hepatitis C epidemic worldwide.
Genetic variants in the MTHFR are not associated with fatty liver disease
Authors: De Vincentis Antonio , Mancina Rosellina Margherita , Pihlajamäki Jussi , Männistö Ville , Petta Salvatore , Dongiovanni Paola , Fracanzani Anna Ludovica , Valenti Luca , Tavaglione Federica , Romeo Stefano , Vespasiani‐Gentilucci Umberto
Published: May 2020

The common missense sequence variants of methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase (MTHFR), rs1801131 (c.A1298C) and rs1801133 (c.C677T), favour the development of hyperhomocysteinemia and diminished DNA methylation. Previous studies, carried out in small series and with suboptimal characterization of the hepatic phenotype, tested the association of these genetic variants with fatty liver disease (FLD), with conflicting results. Here, we assessed the association of rs1801131 and rs1801133 with hepatic phenotype in the Liver Biopsy Cross‐Sectional Cohort, a large cohort (n=1375 from Italy and 411 from Finland) of European individuals with suspect FLD associated with dysmetabolism. A total of 1786 subjects were analysed by ordinal regression analyses. The rs1801131 and the rs1801133 variants were not associated with steatosis, inflammation, ballooning or fibrosis. The present study suggests that changes in folate and methionine metabolism resulting from these 2 variants are not associated with a clinically significant impact on FLD in Europeans.
Invisible Populations and the #MeToo Movement
Authors: Johnson Richard Greggory , Renderos Hugo
Published: May 2020

The #MeToo movement has done a great deal to address sexual abuse and violence. There is no doubt that justice may occur when the right person speaks out. However, what happens when the wrong people—that is, people of color, the working class women, and transgender people— speak out on the same issue? When these “wrong people” do speak out, they are discredited, marginalized, and silenced by being ignored. This Viewpoint essay addresses two populations that have been overlooked by the #MeToo movement: women of color and transgender people. The essay concludes with recommendations for how the movement can move forward given the criticisms around the absence of diversity and transparency.
Responding to COVID‐19 through Surveys of Public Servants
Authors: Schuster Christian , Weitzman Lauren , Sass Mikkelsen Kim , Meyer‐Sahling Jan , Bersch Katherine , Fukuyama Francis , Paskov Patricia , Rogger Daniel , Mistree Dinsha , Kay Kerenssa
Published: May 2020

Responding to COVID‐19 presents unprecedented challenges for public sector practitioners. Addressing those challenges requires knowledge about the problems that public sector workers face. This Viewpoint essay argues that timely, up‐to‐date surveys of public sector workers are essential tools for identifying problems, resolving bottlenecks, and enabling public sector workers to operate effectively during and in response to the challenges posed by the pandemic. This essay presents the COVID‐19 Survey of Public Servants, which is currently being rolled out in several countries by the Global Survey of Public Servants Consortium to assist governments in strategically compiling evidence to operate effectively during the COVID‐19 pandemic.
Sustainable Development in Europe: A Multicriteria Decision Analysis
Authors: Resce Giuliano , Schiltz Fritz
Published: May 2020

This paper proposes a novel approach to evaluate European countries on Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) by means of Hierarchical Stochastic Multicriteria Acceptability Analysis (HSMAA). HSMAA produces rankings with Monte Carlo generation of weights, overcoming the need to choose one specific set of weights. The main contribution of this paper lies in the possibility of quantifying the probability by which each country receives a given ranking. Furthermore, HSMAA allows to take into account the hierarchical nature of SDG measurement given that each of the 17 Goals also consists of several indicators. Our results show that Denmark outperforms other European countries, while lower levels of performance are observed in Romania and Bulgaria. In between bottom and top performers, we also find that many countries’ rankings vary widely by the chosen set of weights, exemplifying the need to rank countries based on multiple weightings and to quantify the probabilities of each ranking.
Periodic problem for the nonlinear damped wave equation with convective nonlinearity
Authors: Carreño‐Bolaños Rafael , Juarez‐Campos Beatriz , Naumkin Pavel I.
Published: May 2020

We study the nonlinear damped wave equation with a linear pumping and a convective nonlinearity. We consider the solutions, which satisfy the periodic boundary conditions. Our aim is to prove global existence of solutions to the periodic problem for the nonlinear damped wave equation by applying the energy‐type estimates and estimates for the Green operator. Moreover, we study the asymptotic profile of global solutions.
Spurious, marked leukocytosis in 2 cats with Heinz body hemolytic anemia
Authors: Johnson Courtney E. , Seelig Davis M. , Moore Frances M. , Ruska Tammy J. , Heinrich Daniel A.
Published: May 2020

Two domestic shorthair cats were presented with anorexia and dehydration following ingestion of caramelized onions. Shared key findings from a CBC (ADVIA 2120), serum biochemistry, and urinalysis included a spurious, marked leukocytosis with discordant basophil (BASO) channel and peroxidase channel WBC counts, normal manual leukocyte counts, mild, non‐regenerative anemia with discrepancies between automated and manual reticulocyte counts, an abundance of large Heinz bodies (HBs), and highly irregular scattergrams. Case 1 also demonstrated a markedly elevated mean corpuscular hemoglobin concentration (MCHC) and discrepancies between RBC hemoglobin indices. Spurious leukocyte results were confirmed through re‐analysis of samples (including the acquisition of a new sample, use of an alternate analyzer (Sysmex XT‐2000iV; Case 1 only), and evaluation of scattergrams and blood films (Cases 1 and 2). Repeatedly discrepant reticulocyte counts were also identified. In both cases, the erroneous BASO WBC counts, discrepancies in reticulocyte counts and RBC indices, and atypical scattergrams were interpreted to result from various effects of the HBs. These cases emphasize the importance of reviewing blood films, interpreting scattergrams, and the usefulness of duplicate methods for determining various measurands on hematology analyzers.
ModellingChloris virgatagermination and emergence under different temperature and light quality conditions
Authors: Rodriguez Sebastián , Kruk Betina Claudia , Satorre Emilio Horacio
Published: May 2020

Chloris virgatais a problematic weed around the world. Prediction of weed germination rates could be a useful strategy to optimise timing of weed control actions. We studied the germination and emergence ofC. virgatacollected seeds under different after‐ripening treatments and different exhumation dates after seed dispersal, to estimate seed dormancy level and predict weed emergence dynamics under field conditions. Three experiments were conducted under controlled conditions to determine base, optimum and maximum germination temperatures (Tb,ToandTmrespectively) and comprised: (a) exposure of seeds to gradually increasing and decreasing temperatures between 5 and 35°C; (b) exposure of seeds to different constant temperatures; and (c) exposure of seeds to different light quality conditions (red – far red ratio) and temperature regimes (constant and alternating temperatures). To explore genuine environmental conditions, a field experiment was performed to determine weed emergence under different shading levels. Finally, with the data obtained, a thermal time model for dormancy release was used to predictC. virgataseedling emergence in the Argentine Pampas region. Seeds after‐ripened in cold and wet conditions and constant 25°C showed the highest germination percentages. The values ofTb(7°C),To(28°C) andTm(40°C) remained constant at all exhumation dates. Neither light quality nor thermal regime modified the final germination percentages. However, shading delayed seedling emergence under field conditions, even when it was adjusted by thermal time. These results may allow predictingC. virgataemergence in temperate regions and help to improve weed control in integrated weed management strategies.
Experimental and Theoretical Studies for Improving the Performance of a Modified Shape Savonius Wind Turbine
Authors: El-Askary W. A. , Saad Ahmed S. , AbdelSalam Ali M. , Sakr I. M.
Published: May 2020

In this paper, measurements and computations are performed to study the performance of a 45-deg twisted Savonius rotor with a modified profile, at various overlap ratios (δ), aspect ratios (AR), and wind velocity (V). A free air jet test rig is used to carry out the experiments, while three-dimensional unsteady Reynolds-averaged Navier–Stokes (URANS) equations are used, in conjunction with the renormalization group (RNG) k–ɛ turbulence model, to perform the computations. The present experimental results successfully verify the simulation predictions obtained by the selected turbulence model. The RNG k–ɛ turbulence model has been chosen based on previous tests performed and published by the authors. Furthermore, both torque coefficient (CT) and power coefficient (CP) are numerically predicted at various tip speed ratios (λ) for overlap ratios (δ) ranging from 0.0 to 0.5, aspect ratios (AR) ranging from 0.75 to 3, and wind velocity values ranging from 4 to 18 m/s. Unlike the conventional rotor, the present twisted rotor with a modified profile produces significant performance improvement in the case of modified rotor without overlapping (δ = 0.0). Moreover, the peaks of CT and CP of the twisted rotor with the modified profile are enhanced with the increase in the aspect ratio. However, the percentage increase is noticed to be insignificant for AR greater than two. The maximum power coefficient (CPmax) for the twisted rotor with the modified profile and optimized design is 0.305 at a wind velocity of 6 m/s, with a performance gain of 75.3% compared to the conventional Savonius wind rotor which has CPmax=0.174.
Analytical Transport Network Theory for Onsager, Coupled Flows: Part 2—Network-Scale Modeling of Linear, Electrokinetic Flow
Authors: Cocco Alex P. , Grew Kyle N.
Published: May 2020

The analytical transport network (ATN) model was developed to study transport through heterogeneous and hierarchical microstructural networks. Here, ATN is extended to electrokinetic flow, a linear, coupled flow that satisfies Onsager’s reciprocity relations. In Part 1, a channel-scale model was developed to describe electrokinetic flow through a channel of arbitrary morphology. In Part 2, we exploit the computational economy of the channel-scale model to develop an efficient network-scale model of electrokinetic flow in large, geometrically complex material structures. The corresponding algorithm for applying the theory to voxel-based, three-dimensional (3D) images is automated and computationally efficient. In addition, it provides a means for rapidly obtaining a structure’s tortuosity factor from a 3D image. We outline the manner in which morphology and topology exerts an additional influence on electrokinetic flow relative to pure conduction and viscous fluid flow. The effort represents an important initial step in extending the ATN approach to a broader range of linear and eventually nonlinear coupled flow phenomena. The extension is relevant to a number of technological fields, including emerging energy conversion and storage technologies.
Monolithically fabricated sample for the calibration of the tip-sample thermal conductance in scanning thermal microscopy
Authors: Umatova Zarina , Zhang Yuan , Lambert Rory , Dobson Phillip S. , Weaver Jonathan M. R.
Published: May 2020

A novel device consisting of a set of membranes with nine different geometries and metallizations monolithically fabricated on a single die is proposed as a possible calibration sample for characterizing thermal conductance between the tip and the sample with “active” resistive scanning thermal microscope (SThM) probes. Such probes, in which the tip is significantly heated by the current used to measure their temperature-dependent resistance, are often used in investigations of the thermal conductivity of samples. Thermally grown silicon dioxide was chosen as a membrane material for all devices due to its low thermal and electrical conductivity, and gold structures were used to vary the thermal conduction to mimic a range of materials. The result showed a range of samples with thermal conductance of 15–85 times the thermal conductance quantum at room temperature, which would be typical for SThM measurements of thermal conductance resulting from contact of the tip with bulk materials having thermal conductivities ranging from those of poly methyl methacrylate to bulk silicon.
Speech recognition with cochlear implants as a function of the number of channels: Effects of electrode placement
Authors: Berg Katelyn A. , Noble Jack H. , Dawant Benoit M. , Dwyer Robert T. , Labadie Robert F. , Gifford René H.
Published: May 2020

This study investigated the effects of cochlear implant (CI) electrode array type and scalar location on the number of channels available to CI recipients for maximum speech understanding and sound quality. Eighteen post-lingually deafened adult CI recipients participated, including 11 recipients with straight electrode arrays entirely in scala tympani and 7 recipients with translocated precurved electrode arrays. Computerized tomography was used to determine electrode placement and scalar location. In each condition, the number of channels varied from 4 to 22 with equal spatial distribution across the array. Speech recognition (monosyllables, sentences in quiet and in noise), subjective speech sound quality, and closed-set auditory tasks (vowels, consonants, and spectral modulation detection) were measured acutely. Recipients with well-placed straight electrode arrays and translocated precurved electrode arrays performed similarly, demonstrating asymptotic speech recognition scores with 8–10 channels, consistent with the classic literature. This finding contrasts with recent work [Berg, Noble, Dawant, Dwyer, Labadie, and Gifford. (2019). J. Acoust. Soc. Am. 145, 1556–1564] that found precurved electrode arrays well-placed in scala tympani demonstrate continuous performance gains beyond 8–10 channels. Given these results, straight and translocated precurved electrode arrays are theorized to have less channel independence secondary to their placement farther away from neural targets.
Examining Coaches’ Perspectives on the Use of Exercise as Punishment
Authors: Kerr Gretchen , Battaglia Anthony , Stirling Ashley , Bandealy Ahad
Published: May 2020

The negative consequences associated with punishment, highlighted by researchers in the parenting and education domains, have stimulated a shift toward more developmentally appropriate methods of behavior modification. Despite the reported negative outcomes linked with punishment use, preliminary research in sport indicates that punishment, specifically in the form of exercise, remains a common strategy in this domain. The purpose of this study therefore was to explore interuniversity coaches’ perspectives on the use of exercise as punishment. Semistructured interviews with eight interuniversity coaches (four males and four females) were conducted. Data were analyzed using inductive thematic analysis. Participant accounts revealed that exercise as punishment was implemented frequently in a variety of forms (e.g., push-ups and sprints). Perceived benefits for the use of exercise as punishment, such as performance motivation and team cohesion, as well as suggested alternative methods of behavioral modification were also reported. Findings are interpreted in accordance with punishment, shaming, and coach education research. Recommendations for future research and practice are suggested.
Physical Activity Coparticipation Among Parent–Young-Child Dyads
Authors: Dlugonski Deirdre , DuBose Katrina D. , Habeeb Christine M. , Rider Patrick
Published: May 2020

Purpose: This study examined patterns of physical activity coparticipation among parent–child (2–5 y) dyads. Method: The dyads (N = 47; 51% mother–child) each wore a Bluetooth-enabled accelerometer for 8 days to measure physical activity and physical activity coparticipation. The parents completed demographic and self-reported family physical activity questionnaires. Results: The parent–child dyads spent 145 (79) minutes per day in-proximity according to the Bluetooth-enabled accelerometers. The majority (90%) of parent–child in-proximity time was spent with the parent and child engaged in some combination of sedentary or light activities. Child light, moderate, and vigorous physical activity was not associated with parent light (P = .12) or moderate to vigorous physical activity (P = .45), but was positively associated with parent–child in-proximity active minutes (light, moderate, and vigorous) (P < .01). Children in the highest tertile of parent–child physical activity coparticipation engaged in more daily moderate to vigorous physical activity compared with children in the lowest tertile (72.7 vs 50.3 min). There was a positive, statistically significant association between self-reported and objective measures of physical activity coparticipation (r = .47, P = .001). Conclusion: Children who engaged in the most physical activity with their parent had the highest moderate to vigorous physical activity. Future studies should continue to provide contextual information about how parents and children spend their time together to improve family-based physical activity interventions.
Size-dependent influence of NO
x
on the growth rates of organic aerosol particles
Authors: Yan C. , Nie W. , Vogel A. L. , Dada L. , Lehtipalo K. , Stolzenburg D. , Wagner R. , Rissanen M. P. , Xiao M. , Ahonen L. , Fischer L. , Rose C. , Bianchi F. , Gordon H. , Simon M. , Heinritzi M. , Garmash O. , Roldin P. , Dias A. , Ye P. , Hofbauer V. , Amorim A. , Bauer P. S. , Bergen A. , Bernhammer A.-K. , Breitenlechner M. , Brilke S. , Buchholz A. , Mazon S. Buenrostro , Canagaratna M. R. , Chen X. , Ding A. , Dommen J. , Draper D. C. , Duplissy J. , Frege C. , Heyn C. , Guida R. , Hakala J. , Heikkinen L. , Hoyle C. R. , Jokinen T. , Kangasluoma J. , Kirkby J. , Kontkanen J. , Kürten A. , Lawler M. J. , Mai H. , Mathot S. , Mauldin R. L. , Molteni U. , Nichman L. , Nieminen T. , Nowak J. , Ojdanic A. , Onnela A. , Pajunoja A. , Petäjä T. , Piel F. , Quéléver L. L. J. , Sarnela N. , Schallhart S. , Sengupta K. , Sipilä M. , Tomé A. , Tröstl J. , Väisänen O. , Wagner A. C. , Ylisirniö A. , Zha Q. , Baltensperger U. , Carslaw K. S. , Curtius J. , Flagan R. C. , Hansel A. , Riipinen I. , Smith J. N. , Virtanen A. , Winkler P. M. , Donahue N. M. , Kerminen V.-M. , Kulmala M. , Ehn M. , Worsnop D. R.
Published: May 2020

NO
x
is important for particle growth as it can participate in HOM formation and alter the HOM volatility distribution.
Chemotaxis strategies of bacteria with multiple run modes
Authors: Alirezaeizanjani Zahra , Großmann Robert , Pfeifer Veronika , Hintsche Marius , Beta Carsten
Published: May 2020

Bacteria exhibit distinct swim modes, thereby facilitating robust and efficient chemotaxis performance in complex habitats.
From asymmetrical to balanced genomic diversification during rediploidization: Subgenomic evolution in allotetraploid fish
Authors: Luo Jing , Chai Jing , Wen Yanling , Tao Min , Lin Guoliang , Liu Xiaochuan , Ren Li , Chen Zeyu , Wu Shigang , Li Shengnan , Wang Yude , Qin Qinbo , Wang Shi , Gao Yun , Huang Feng , Wang Lu , Ai Cheng , Wang Xiaobo , Li Lianwei , Ye Chengxi , Yang Huimin , Luo Mi , Chen Jie , Hu Hong , Yuan Liujiao , Zhong Li , Wang Jing , Xu Jian , Du Zhenglin , Ma Zhanshan (Sam) , Murphy Robert W. , Meyer Axel , Gui Jianfang , Xu Peng , Ruan Jue , Chen Z. Jeffrey , Liu Shaojun , Lu Xuemei , Zhang Ya-ping
Published: May 2020

Allotetraploid cyprinids have a unique strategy for balancing subgenomic stabilization and diversification in rediploidization.
UV-B radiation was the Devonian-Carboniferous boundary terrestrial extinction kill mechanism
Authors: Marshall John E. A. , Lakin Jon , Troth Ian , Wallace-Johnson Sarah M.
Published: May 2020

A brief UV-B burst, during a climatic warming interval, collapsed the Devonian-Carboniferous boundary terrestrial ecosystem.
Brain delivery and activity of a lysosomal enzyme using a blood-brain barrier transport vehicle in mice
Authors: Ullman Julie C. , Arguello Annie , Getz Jennifer A. , Bhalla Akhil , Mahon Cathal S. , Wang Junhua , Giese Tina , Bedard Catherine , Kim Do Jin , Blumenfeld Jessica R. , Liang Nicholas , Ravi Ritesh , Nugent Alicia A. , Davis Sonnet S. , Ha Connie , Duque Joseph , Tran Hai L. , Wells Robert C. , Lianoglou Steve , Daryani Vinay M. , Kwan Wanda , Solanoy Hilda , Nguyen Hoang , Earr Timothy , Dugas Jason C. , Tuck Michael D. , Harvey Jennifer L. , Reyzer Michelle L. , Caprioli Richard M. , Hall Sejal , Poda Suresh , Sanchez Pascal E. , Dennis Mark S. , Gunasekaran Kannan , Srivastava Ankita , Sandmann Thomas , Henne Kirk R. , Thorne Robert G. , Di Paolo Gilbert , Astarita Giuseppe , Diaz Dolores , Silverman Adam P. , Watts Ryan J. , Sweeney Zachary K. , Kariolis Mihalis S. , Henry Anastasia G.
Published: May 2020

An enzyme transport vehicle enables brain delivery of lysosomal enzymes across the blood-brain barrier in mice.
TCP1γ Subunit Is Indispensable for Growth and Infectivity of Leishmania donovani
Authors: Yadav Shailendra , Kuldeep Jitendra , Siddiqi Mohammad I. , Goyal Neena
Published: May 2020

T-complex protein-1 (TCP1) is a ubiquitous group II chaperonin and is known to fold various proteins, such as actin and tubulin. In
Leishmania donovani
, the γ subunit of TCP1 (LdTCP1γ) has been cloned and characterized. It forms a high-molecular-weight homo-oligomeric complex that performs ATP-dependent protein folding. In the present study, we evaluated the essentiality of the LdTCP1γ gene. Gene replacement studies indicated that LdTCP1γ is essential for parasite survival.
Complete and Draft Genome Sequences of 12 Plant-Associated
Rathayibacter
Strains of Known and Putative New Species
Authors: Tarlachkov Sergey V. , Starodumova Irina P. , Dorofeeva Lubov V. , Prisyazhnaya Natalia V. , Leyn Semen A. , Zlamal Jaime E. , Elane Marinela L. , Osterman Andrei L. , Nadler Steven A. , Subbotin Sergei A. , Evtushenko Lyudmila I.
Published: May 2020

Complete and draft genome sequences of 12
Rathayibacter
strains were generated using Oxford Nanopore and Illumina technologies. The genome sizes of these strains are 3.21 to 4.61 Mb, with high G+C content (67.2% to 72.7%) genomic DNA. Genomic data will provide useful baseline information for natural taxonomy and comparative genomics of members of the genus
Rathayibacter
.
Complete Genome Sequence of Bifidobacterium longum Strain Jih1, Isolated from Human Feces
Authors: Inoue Hikaru , Shibata Sayaka , Ii Konosuke , Inoue Joe , Fukuda Shinji , Arakawa Kazuharu
Published: May 2020

We report the complete genome sequence of
Bifidobacterium longum
strain Jih1, isolated from human feces. The assembled genome comprised one circular chromosome of 2.37 Mb. The chromosome harbors 1,941 protein-coding genes.
Draft Genome Sequence of Enterococcus faecalis UMB7780, Isolated from the Female Urinary Tract
Authors: Kalski Martin , Miller-Ensminger Taylor , Voukadinova Adelina , Wolfe Alan J. , Putonti Catherine
Published: May 2020

Here, we present the draft genome sequence of
Enterococcus faecalis
UMB7780, isolated from the female urinary tract. The genome size is 3,005,901 bp, with a GC content of 37.36%, genome coverage of 179×, and an
N
50
score of 169,627 bp. Genome analysis identified evidence of antibiotic resistance, as well as intact prophages.