bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Examination of Traditional Residences in Bitlis on the Zeydan District Scale in the Context of Space Syntax Analysis Techniques
Authors: Şen Ender , Baran Mine
Published: May 2020

Spatial and spatio-visual analysis are space syntax analysis techniques that examine spatial configuration with graphs and numeric data. This study is based on spatial and spatio-visual analyses of traditional residences and comparison of these analyses. The historically and strategically important city of Bitlis in eastern Turkey was chosen as the study area. The most important structures that constitute the historical urban fabric within this protected area are the traditional residences in Bitlis. The spatial integration values obtained by the accessibility graphs and the visual integration values obtained by the visibility graphs are compared in 15 traditional residences plans using space syntax analysis techniques. For “accessibility” graphs, “Agraph” software and for “visibility” graphs, “Depthmap” software were used. Both programs are based on the theoretical and conceptual basis of space syntax analysis techniques. This research is important in terms of interpreting the existence of social and cultural information as well as environmental factors behind the space configuration of Bitlis traditional residences by examining them using scientific data.
Investigating the Influence of Different L2 Proficiency Measures on Research Results
Authors: Zhang Haiwei , Jiang Yuhao , Yang Jing
Published: May 2020

Researchers have used different measures to examine participants’ second-language (L2) proficiency, yet it remains unclear how these different measures influence research results on the effect of L2 proficiency on the target variable. The present research explored the modulation effect of four different measures of L2 Chinese proficiency on Chinese phonological awareness (PA). Eighty-four L2 learners of Chinese who spoke English or Arabic as their first language completed four different measures of Chinese proficiency: a self-report measure of years of instruction in Chinese, a simplified Hanyu Shuiping Kaoshi (HSK; a standardized Chinese language proficiency test), a reading comprehension test, and a Chinese character recognition test. The overall results of t tests and multiple regression analysis revealed that different measures of L2 proficiency led to various findings on the effect of L2 proficiency on Chinese PA. Compared with the other three measures, the HSK, a comprehensive examination of L2 Chinese proficiency, yielded the most consistent and reliable results with the largest effect size. Our findings contribute to the current understanding of L2 proficiency measures and to future efforts for the improvement of L2 proficiency tests for research purposes.
Different Version, Similar Result? A Critical Analysis of the Multiplicity of Shortened Versions of the Zimbardo Time Perspective Inventory
Authors: Perry John L. , Temple Elizabeth C. , Worrell Frank C. , Zivkovic Urška , Mello Zena R. , Musil Bojan , Cole Jon C. , McKay Michael T.
Published: May 2020

The Zimbardo Time Perspective Inventory (ZTPI) has been extensively used, with more than 1,400 citations in Scopus alone. After identifying psychometric problems however, several authors have attempted to overcome limitations by shortening the scale. As such, there now exist multiple. shortened versions of the ZTPI, all using some of the original 56 items. Although each shorter version reports various broadly acceptable validity parameters using the group with which it was developed, these are often sample specific and at the cost of reliability, generalizability, and ability to detect individual differences in the construct. To examine this more closely, we reviewed the psychometric properties of the ZTPI and some of its derivatives, and found that data-driven approaches to creating these shortened versions of the scale prioritized improved model fit over internal reliability and sensitivity. In conclusion, we suggest that it is time for a new collaborative strategy to address conceptual and measurement concerns with the ZTPI, and discourage data-driven and sample-specific solutions to the psychometric concerns of the scale’s scores. More broadly, we recommend that researchers consider the impact on reliability, generalizability, and ability to detect individual differences when developing short psychometric scales.
The US-North Korean asymmetrical security dilemma: Past the point of nuclear no return?
Authors: Tan Erwin , Park Jae Jeok
Published: May 2020

The bulk of literature on the security dilemma has examined the phenomenon within the context of rivalry between great powers of roughly equal strength (for instance, the United States-Soviet nuclear arms race). Yet no study has examined the implications of power asymmetry between a strong power and a weak one when they are facing the security dilemma in their interaction. This manuscript shall examine how the asymmetry of interaction in the United States-North Korean security dilemma has presented repeated obstacles for the United States in seeking the denuclearization of North Korea. The asymmetry of their rivalry has significant implications for how Washington and Pyongyang view one another in their interaction. This asymmetry has created challenges for Washington as well as Pyongyang, as illustrated through this empirical case study’s analysis of how successive United States White House administrations since 1993 have responded to North Korea’s nuclear ambitions. In this regard, it is possible the asymmetry of their interaction has become so deeply internalized that North Korea is, effectively, past a “point of no return” insofar as its nuclear program is concerned.
Turkey and Afghanistan: Culture, Security and Economics
Authors: Bishku Michael B.
Published: May 2020

This is an examination of political, military, economic and cultural relations between Turkey and Afghanistan since 1919. While cultural connections, Turkish security and technical assistance, and bilateral trade have been emphasized throughout this relationship, the closest ties were during the leadership of Turkey’s Kemal Atatürk and the reign of Afghanistan’s King Amanullah when modernization reforms were in vogue in both countries, and more recently since 2002 during the rule of Turkey’s Islam-oriented Justice and Development (AK) Party, which developed an affinity with the leaders of Afghanistan’s Islamic Republic, but kept open connections with the rival Taliban. Both countries included neighboring Iran in their plans for counteracting aggressive moves by the European powers involved in the Middle East, central and south Asia. Since the Second World War, Turkey has been a member of North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO), while except for the Marxist period (1978–1992), Afghanistan has preferred nonalignment. However, it has been Turkey’s connection with NATO that has facilitated close ties with Afghanistan.
Awareness, attitudes, barriers, and knowledge about evidence-based medicine among family physicians in Croatia: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Nejašmić Danijel , Vrdoljak Davorka , Bralić Lang Valerija , Borovac Josip Anđelo , Marušić Ana
Published: May 2020

Background

Evidence-based medicine (EBM) aims to assist physicians in making medical decisions based on the integration of the current best evidence, clinical expertise, and patients’ values. Extensive research has been conducted regarding physicians’ awareness, attitudes, barriers, and knowledge about EBM. In Croatia, there is a lack of research on this topic, especially among family physicians (FP). The aim of this study was to assess the awareness, attitudes, barriers, and knowledge about EBM among FPs in Croatia after six years of educational activities organized and provided by Cochrane Croatia.

Methods

In a cross-sectional study, conducted in 2016, we offered to FPs in Croatia a printed or online validated questionnaire to assess attitudes toward and barriers when considering the use of EBM, awareness about sources of evidence, and their level of understanding of evidence-based medicine terminology. The physicians were approached during mandatory continuing medical education courses and through their professional associations. We compared results from two groups of physicians, one with family medicine specialization and the other without.

Results

295 (14%) of all officially registered FPs responded to the questionnaire. Respondents were very positive toward the promotion and usage of EBM. 160 (67%) indicated that they did not have access to the Cochrane Library. The majority reported lack of time available for finding evidence (80%), and patients’ unrealistic expectations that influence doctors’ choice of treatment (72%). Between the two groups of physicians, more family medicine specialists reported time restrictions for finding evidence. The highest level of EBM terminology understanding was reported for study design terms, and the lowest for statistical terms.

Conclusions

This study demonstrated that FPs in Croatia had very positive attitudes toward the use of EBM, they agreed that EBM improves patient care, and they estimated that more than two thirds of their practice is EBM-based. Compared to the results of the first assessment of physicians in 2010, there was some increase in the level of EBM awareness among FPs. However, to further increase the quality of EBM practice in Croatia better access to EBM sources and further educational activities are needed.
Anthropometric measurements of school-going-girls of the Punjab, Pakistan
Authors: Karim Asima , Qaisar Rizwan
Published: May 2020

Background

Child’s growth has been considered an important indicator to evaluate health trends in a population and to devise strategies accordingly. The purpose of the present study was to determine most commonly occurring weight abnormalities among school-going girls from Punjab and to compare with international growth references devised by World Health Organization (WHO) and Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

Methods

In this cross-sectional study a sample of 10,050 child and adolescent girls from 12 districts, 35 public/private sector schools, located in rural, semi-urban and urban areas of northern, central and southern Punjab were included. Parameters were measured according to standardised techniques and centile curves obtained by Lambda, Mu, Sigma (LMS) method.

Results

The results showed an increase in weight, height and BMI of the Punjabi girls until 15 years. When compared with international growth references, weight and BMI in our population were significantly lowered; however, height was lower during 12–16 years of age and the differences observed were more pronounced with CDC as compared to WHO. When 3rd, 50th and 90th percentiles of weight, height and BMI in our population were compared with international standards, the values were lower in our paediatric population.

Conclusion

The Punjabi schoolgirls significantly differed from CDC and WHO references, and this difference should be taken into consideration for evaluation of growth abnormalities in our paediatric population. However, in the absence of national reference data, WHO standards have been considered more appropriate for comparison.
Psychopharmacological effects of riparin III from Aniba riparia (Nees) Mez. (Lauraceae) supported by metabolic approach and multivariate data analysis
Authors: Golzio dos Santos Sócrates , Fernandes Gomes Isis , Fernandes de Oliveira Golzio Adriana Maria , Lopes Souto Augusto , Scotti Marcus Tullius , Fechine Tavares Josean , Chavez Gutierrez Stanley Juan , Nóbrega de Almeida Reinaldo , Barbosa-Filho José Maria , Sobral da Silva Marcelo
Published: May 2020

Background

Currently there is a high prevalence of humor disorders such as anxiety and depression throughout the world, especially concerning advanced age patients. Aniba riparia (Nees) Mez. (Lauraceae), popular known as “louro”, can be found from the Amazon through Guianas until the Andes. Previous studies have already reported the isolation of alkamide-type alkaloids such as riparin III (O-methyl-N-2,6-dyhydroxy-benzoyl tyramine) which has demonstrated anxiolytic and antidepressant-like effects in high doses by intraperitoneal administration.

Methods

Experimental protocol was conducted in order to analyze the anxiolytic-like effect of riparin III at lower doses by intravenous administration to Wistar rats (Rattus norvegicus) (n = 5). The experimental approach was designed to last 15 days, divided in 3 distinct periods of five days: control, anxiogenic and treatment periods. The anxiolytic-like effect was evaluated by experimental behavior tests such as open field and elevated plus-maze test, combined with urine metabolic footprint analysis. The urine was collected daily and analyzed by 1H NMR. Generated data were statistically treated by Principal Component Analysis in order to detect patterns among the distinct periods evaluated as well as biomarkers responsible for its distinction.

Results

It was observed on treatment group that cortisol, biomarker related to physiological stress was reduced, indicating anxiolytic-like effect of riparin III, probably through activation of 5-HT2A receptors, which was corroborated by behavioral tests.

Conclusion

1H NMR urine metabolic footprint combined with multivariate data analysis have demonstrated to be an important diagnostic tool to prove the anxiolytic-like effect of riparin III in a more efficient and pragmatic way.
Pao Pereira extract suppresses benign prostatic hyperplasia by inhibiting inflammation-associated NFκB signaling
Authors: Dong Yu , Liu Jiakuan , Xue Zesheng , Sun Jingya , Huang Zhengnan , Jing Yifeng , Han Bangmin , Shen Bing , Yan Jun , Huang Ruimin
Published: May 2020

Background

Our previous study revealed the extract from the bark of an Amazonian tree Pao Pereira can suppress benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) in a rat model. Herein, we examined its inhibitory effects on human BPH cells and dissect its molecular mechanism.

Methods

We applied Pao extract to human BPH epithelial BPH-1 and prostate myofibroblast WPMY-1 cells. Cell viability, apoptosis and immunoblotting were performed, followed by gene expression profiling and gene set enrichment analysis (GSEA) to detect the differentially expressed genes and signaling pathway induced by Pao extract. Human ex vivo BPH explant organ culture was also used to examine the effects of Pao extract on human BPH tissues.

Results

Pao extract treatment inhibited viability and induced apoptosis in human BPH-1 and WPMY-1 cells. Gene expression profiling and the following validation indicated that the expression levels of pro-apoptotic genes (eg. PCDC4, CHOP and FBXO32) were induced by Pao extract in both two cell lines. GSEA further revealed that Pao extract treatment was negatively associated with the activation of NFκB signaling. Pao extract suppressed the transcriptional activity of NFκB and down-regulated its target genes involved in inflammation (CXCL5, CXCL6 and CXCL12) and extracellular matrix (ECM) remodeling (HAS2, TNC and MMP13) in both cultured cells and human ex vivo BPH explants.

Conclusion

In both BPH epithelial and stromal cells, Pao extract induces apoptosis by upregulating the pro-apoptotic genes and inhibiting the inflammation-associated NFκB signaling via reducing phosphorylation of NFκB subunit RelA. Our data suggest that Pao extract may be a promising phytotherapeutic agent for BPH.
Moderate- to high intensity aerobic and resistance exercise reduces peripheral blood regulatory cell populations in older adults with rheumatoid arthritis
Authors: Andersson Sofia E. M. , Lange Elvira , Kucharski Daniel , Svedlund Sara , Önnheim Karin , Bergquist Maria , Josefsson Elisabet , Lord Janet M. , Mårtensson Inga-Lill , Mannerkorpi Kaisa , Gjertsson Inger
Published: May 2020

Objective

Exercise can improve immune health and is beneficial for physical function in patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA), but the immunological mechanisms are largely unknown. We evaluated the effect of moderate- to high intensity exercise with person-centred guidance on cells of the immune system, with focus on regulatory cell populations, in older adults with RA.

Methods

Older adults (≥65 years) with RA were randomized to either 20-weeks of moderate – to high intensity aerobic and resistance exercise (n = 24) or to an active control group performing home-based exercise of light intensity (n = 25). Aerobic capacity, muscle strength, DAS28 and CRP were evaluated. Blood samples were collected at baseline and after 20 weeks. The frequency of immune cells defined as adaptive regulatory populations, CD4 + Foxp3 + CD25 + CD127- T regulatory cells (Tregs) and CD19 + CD24hiCD38hi B regulatory cells (Bregs) as well as HLA-DR−/lowCD33 + CD11b + myeloid derived suppressor cells (MDSCs), were assessed using flow cytometry.

Results

After 20 weeks of moderate- to high intensity exercise, aerobic capacity and muscle strength were significantly improved but there were no significant changes in Disease Activity Score 28 (DAS28) or CRP. The frequency of Tregs and Bregs decreased significantly in the intervention group, but not in the active control group. The exercise intervention had no effect on MDSCs. The reduction in regulatory T cells in the intervention group was most pronounced in the female patients.

Conclusion

Moderate- to high intensity exercise in older adults with RA led to a decreased proportion of Tregs and Bregs, but that was not associated with increased disease activity or increased inflammation.

Trial registration

Improved Ability to Cope With Everyday Life Through a Person-centered Training Program in Elderly Patients With Rheumatoid Arthritis - PEP-walk Study,NCT02397798. Registered atClinicalTrials.govMarch 19, 2015.
Effects of larval exposure to sublethal doses of Bacillus thuringiensis var. israelensis on body size, oviposition and survival of adult Anopheles coluzzii mosquitoes
Authors: Gowelo Steven , Chirombo James , Spitzen Jeroen , Koenraadt Constantianus J. M. , Mzilahowa Themba , van den Berg Henk , Takken Willem , McCann Robert
Published: May 2020

Background

Application of the larvicide Bacillus thuringiensis var. israelensis (Bti) is a viable complementary strategy for malaria control. Efficacy of Bti is dose-dependent. There is a knowledge gap on the effects of larval exposure to sublethal Bti doses on emerging adult mosquitoes. The present study examined the effect of larval exposure to sublethal doses of Bti on the survival, body size and oviposition rate in adult Anopheles coluzzii.

Methods

Third-instar An. coluzzii larvae were exposed to control and sublethal Bti concentrations at LC20, LC50 and LC70 for 48 h. Surviving larvae were reared to adults under standard colony conditions. Thirty randomly selected females from each treatment were placed in separate cages and allowed to blood feed. Twenty-five gravid females from the blood-feeding cages were randomly selected and transferred into new cages where they were provided with oviposition cups. Numbers of eggs laid in each cage and mortality of all adult mosquitoes were recorded daily. Wing lengths were measured of 570 mosquitoes as a proxy for body size.

Results

Exposure to LC70Bti doses for 48 h as third-instar larvae reduced longevity of adult An. coluzzii mosquitoes. Time to death was 2.58 times shorter in females exposed to LC70Bti when compared to the control females. Estimated mortality hazard rates were also higher in females exposed to the LC50 and LC20 treatments, but these differences were not statistically significant. The females exposed to LC70 concentrations had 12% longer wings than the control group (P < 0.01). No differences in oviposition rate of the gravid females were observed between the treatments.

Conclusions

Exposure of An. coluzzii larvae to sublethal Bti doses reduces longevity of resultant adults and is associated with larger adult size and unclear effect on oviposition. These findings suggest that anopheline larval exposure to sublethal Bti doses, though not recommended, could reduce vectorial capacity for malaria vector populations by increasing mortality of resultant adults.
Evolutionary correlation of water-related traits between different structures of Dendrobium plants
Authors: Sun Mei , Feng Chun-Hui , Liu Zhen-Ya , Tian Kun
Published: May 2020

Background

Leaf water conservation and pseudobulb water storage are two of the strategies commonly employed by epiphytic plants to adapt to dry environments. During the flowering period, a great deal of water transpires through the flowers, which then influences water-related processes. However, there is little research on the coordinated relationship between the different structures of epiphytes. Our study explored the phylogenetic conservation and evolutionary correlations between structural traits of 8 species in the genus Dendrobium by using phylogenetic independent contrast (PIC) analysis.

Results

Leaf dry mass, leaf water content, leaf dry matter content, specific leaf area, stomatal density, stomatal area index, pseudobulb length, pseudobulb width, and flower dry mass show strong phylogenetic signals. Pseudobulb length is significantly positively correlated with stomatal volume but significantly negatively correlated with mesophyll thickness according to both species mean values and PIC values. Pseudobulb internode length is also positively correlated with stomatal volume but negatively correlated with stomatal density according to PIC values. Pseudobulb width is significantly positively correlated with leaf dry mass, stomatal density, stomatal area index, flower petal vein number and flower dry mass but negatively correlated with specific leaf area according to species mean values. However, these correlations are insignificant when PIC values are analyzed. Stomatal volume is positively correlated with flower dry mass, and after phylogeny is considered, this correlation is still significant. Leaf dry mass is positively correlated with flower petal vein number according to species values. Flower number per pseudobulb is negatively correlated with upper epidermal cell size according to species values but negatively correlated with stomatal area index according to PIC values. There are no correlations between pseudobulb and flower water-related traits according to PIC values.

Conclusions

A trade-off should exist in epiphytic plants between the two drought-tolerant strategies of pseudobulb storage and leaf water retention. Plants possessing thick blades with a few large stomata tend to use the pseudobulb water storage strategy to adapt to drought. Small flowers and low flower dry mass should be associated with the leaf water retention strategy. In addition, flowers and leaves exhibit an obvious water balance and should share common selection pressures. The present study provides a case with which to understand the coordinated adaptation of different structures in epiphytic plants.
The level of genetic diversity and differentiation of tropical lotus, Nelumbo nucifera Gaertn. (Nelumbonaceae) from Australia, India, and Thailand
Authors: Mekbib Yeshitila , Huang Shi-Xu , Ngarega Boniface K. , Li Zhi-Zhong , Shi Tao , Ou Ke-Fang , Liang Yu-Ting , Chen Jin-Ming , Yang Xing-Yu
Published: May 2020

Background

Nelumbo nucifera Gaertn., a perennial aquatic macrophyte species, has been cultivated in several Asian countries for its economic importance, and medicinal uses. Two distinct ecotypes of the species are recognized based on the geographical location where the genotypes are adapted, i.e., tropical lotus and temperate lotus. The genetic diversity levels and differentiation of the tropical lotus from poorly studied geographic regions still remain unclear. Here, the population genetic diversity and structure of 15 tropical lotus populations sampled from the previous understudied natural distribution ranges, including India, Thailand, and Australia, were assessed using nine polymorphic SSR markers.

Results

The SSR markers used to genotype the 216 individuals yielded 65 alleles. The highest and lowest genetic diversity estimates were found in Thailand and Indian populations, respectively. STRUCTURE analysis revealed three distinct genetic clusters, with relatively low admixtures, supported by PCoA cluster analysis. Low levels of gene flow (mean N⁠m = 0.346) among the three genetic clusters signified the Mantel test for isolation by distance, revealing the existence of a positive correlation between the genetic and geographic distances (r = 0.448, P = 0.004). Besides, AMOVA analysis revealed a higher variation among populations (59.98%) of the three groups. Overall, the populations used in this study exposed a high level of genetic differentiation (FST = 0.596).

Conclusions

The nine polymorphic microsatellite markers used in our study sufficiently differentiated the fifteen tropical N. nucifera populations based on geography. These populations presented different genetic variability, thereby confirming that populations found in each country are unique. The low genetic diversity (HE = 0.245) could be explained by limited gene flow and clonal propagation. Conserving the available diversity using various conservation approaches is essential to enable the continued utilization of this economically important crop species. We, therefore, propose that complementary conservation approaches ought to be introduced to conserve tropical lotus, depending on the genetic variations and threat levels in populations.
Attitude control of an inverted-pendulum-type robotic wheelchair to climb stairs considering dynamic equilibrium
Authors: Onozuka Yuya , Tomokuni Nobuyasu , Murata Genki , Shino Motoki
Published: May 2020

The wheelchair is the major means of transport for elderly and physically disabled people in their daily lives. However it cannot overcome architectural barriers such as curbs and stairs. In this study, we developed an inverted-pendulum-type robotic wheelchair for climbing stairs. This wheelchair has a seat slider and two rotary links between the front and rear wheels on each side. When climbing stairs, the wheelchair rotates the rotary links while maintaining an inverted state of a mobile body by controlling the position of the center of gravity using a seat slider. In previous research, we confirmed that the wheelchair can climb by applying the control method consisting of a center-of-gravity control phase and rotary link control phase. However, it took approximately 15 s to rotate the rotary links during climbing because faster climbing causes the movement of wheels and the wheelchair to fall. This paper focuses on a control method to restrain the movement of the wheels when the stair climbing speed is increased. We realized that the movement was caused by forces acting on the pitch angle, such as the inertial force and the reaction of the driving force. We proposed the method considering the dynamic equilibrium of the pitch angle and confirmed the effect of the restraining wheels’ movement when the proposed method was applied.
Risk of Islet and Celiac Autoimmunity in Cotwins of Probands With Type 1 Diabetes
Authors: Triolo Taylor M , Pyle Laura , Seligova Sona , Yu Liping , Gottlieb Peter A , Steck Andrea K
Published: May 2020

Context

Concordance for persistent islet autoimmunity (IA) and type 1 diabetes in monozygotic twins after probands are diagnosed is variable (30%-70%). Risk for development of IA in dizygotic twins is thought to be similar to nontwin siblings. Little is known in regard to the development of celiac autoimmunity (CDA) in twins of subjects with type 1 diabetes.

Objective

Our aim was to investigate the development of IA and CDA in cotwins of probands with type 1 diabetes.

Methods

Since 1995, the Twin Family Study has followed 336 twins (168 twin probands with type 1 diabetes and 168 cotwins) for a median of 14 years (interquartile range:10-18 years). Cotwins were followed for the development of IA, type 1 diabetes, and CDA.

Results

In monozygotic cotwins, cumulative incidence by age 20 was 14% for IA and 10% for CDA. Development of IA and CDA by age 20 was 9% and 12% in dizygotic cotwins, respectively. While the numbers are small, IA by age 30 years was 26% in monozygotic and 39% in dizygotic twins. In proportional hazards models, the proband’s younger age at diagnosis, but not sex or human leukocyte antigen were associated with time to IA and CDA in cotwins.

Conclusion

CDA risk by age 20 in cotwins was 10% to 12%. With long-term follow-up, cumulative incidence for IA is high in dizygotic twins, similar to monozygotic twins, suggesting a role of possible early environmental factors shared by type 1 diabetes discordant cotwins.
Dual-level autoregulation of the E. coli DeaD RNA helicase via mRNA stability and Rho-dependent transcription termination
Authors: Ojha Sandeep , Jain Chaitanya
Published: May 2020

DEAD-box proteins (DBPs) are RNA remodeling factors associated with RNA helicase activity that are found in nearly all organisms. Despite extensive studies on the mechanisms used by DBPs to regulate RNA function, very little is known about how DBPs themselves are regulated. In this work, we have analyzed the expression and regulation of DeaD/CsdA, the largest of the DBPs in Escherichia coli (E. coli). We show that deaD transcription initiates 838 nt upstream of the start of the coding region. We have also found that DeaD is autoregulated through a negative feedback mechanism that operates both at the level of deaD mRNA stability and Rho-dependent transcription termination, and this regulation is dependent upon its mRNA 5′ untranslated region (5′ UTR). These findings suggest that DeaD might be regulating the conformation of its own mRNA through its RNA helicase activity to facilitate ribonuclease and Rho access to its 5′ UTR.
Exact design of complex amplitude holograms for producing arbitrary scalar fields
Authors: Johnson Cameron W. , Pierce Jordan S. , Moraski Rich C. , Turner Amy E. , Greenberg Alice T. , Parker Will S. , McMorran Benjamin J.
Published: May 2020

Typical methods to holographically encode arbitrary wavefronts assume the hologram medium only applies either phase shifts or amplitude attenuation to the wavefront. In many cases, phase cannot be introduced to the wavefront without also affecting the amplitude. Here we show how to encode an arbitrary wavefront into an off-axis transmission hologram that returns the exact desired arbitrary wavefunction in a diffracted beam for phase-only, amplitude-only, or mixed phase and amplitude holograms with any periodic groove profile. We apply this to design thin holograms for electrons in a TEM, but our results are generally applicable to light and X-ray optics. We employ a phase reconstruction from a series of focal plane images to qualitatively show the accuracy of this method to impart the expected amplitude and phase to a specific diffraction order.
Quantum cascade laser-based reflectance spectroscopy: a robust approach for the classification of plastic type
Authors: Michel Anna P. M. , Morrison Alexandra E. , Colson Beckett C. , Pardis William A. , Moya Xavier A. , Harb Charles C. , White Helen K.
Published: May 2020

The identification of plastic type is important for environmental applications ranging from recycling to understanding the fate of plastics in marine, atmospheric, and terrestrial environments. Infrared reflectance spectroscopy is a powerful approach for plastics identification, requiring only optical access to a sample. The use of visible and near-infrared wavelengths for plastics identification are limiting as dark colored plastics absorb at these wavelengths, producing no reflectance spectra. The use of mid-infrared wavelengths instead enables dark plastics to be identified. Here we demonstrate the capability to utilize a pulsed, widely-tunable (5.59 - 7.41 µm) mid-infrared quantum cascade laser, as the source for reflectance spectroscopy, for the rapid and robust identification of plastics. Through the application of linear discriminant analysis to the resulting spectral data set, we demonstrate that we can correctly classify five plastic types: polyethylene terephthalate (PET), high density polyethylene (HDPE), low density polyethylene (LDPE), polypropylene (PP), and polystyrene (PS), with a 97% accuracy rate.
11 µm, high beam quality idler-resonant CdSe optical parametric oscillator with continuous-wave injection-seeded at 2.58 µm
Authors: Chen Yi , Yang Chao , Liu Gaoyou , Yao Baoquan , Wang Ruixue , Yang Ke , Mi Shuyi , Dai Tongyu , Duan Xiaoming , Ju Youlun
Published: May 2020

We report an idler-resonant, continuous-wave (CW) seed injected, optical parametric oscillator (OPO) based on cadmium selenide (CdSe). The CdSe OPO was pumped by a 2.09 µm ns-pulsed laser and injection-seeded by a 2.58 µm CW laser. The idler-resonant oscillator was designed to maximize the optical-to-optical conversion efficiency and optimize the beam quality. The injected seed laser was designed to reduce the pump threshold. With this setup, the average idler output power of 802 mW was obtained corresponding to a pulse energy of 0.8 mJ at the wavelength of 11.01 µm and linewidth (FWHM) of 0.6 cm−1, optical-to-optical conversion efficiency of 4.4%, quantum conversion efficiency of 23.3%, beam quality of M2x = 1.23, M2y = 1.12, and pulse width of 21 ns. In addition, by turning the angle of the CdSe, wavelength tuning of 10.55-11.98 µm was achieved.
Photoionization-assisted, high-efficiency emission of a dispersive wave in gas-filled hollow-core photonic crystal fibers
Authors: Chen Yifei , Huang Zhiyuan , Yu Fei , Wu Dakun , Fu Jianhua , Wang Ding , Pang Meng , Leng Yuxin , Xu Zhizhan
Published: May 2020

We demonstrate that the phase-matched dispersive wave (DW) emission within the resonance band of a 25-cm-long gas-filled hollow-core photonic crystal fiber (HC-PCF) can be strongly enhanced by the photoionization effect of the pump pulse. In the experiments, we observe that as the pulse energy increases, the pump pulse gradually shifts to shorter wavelengths due to soliton-plasma interactions. When the central wavelength of the blueshifting soliton is close to the resonance band of the HC-PCF, high-efficiency energy transfer from the pump light to the DW in the visible region can be obtained. During this DW emission process, we observe that the spectral center of the DW gradually shifts to longer wavelengths leading to a slightly increased DW bandwidth, which can be well explained as the consequence of phase-matched coupling between the pump pulse and the DW. In particular, at an input pulse energy of 6 µJ, the spectral ratio of the DW at the fiber output is measured to be as high as ∼53%, corresponding to an overall conversion efficiency of ∼19%. These experimental results, well accompanied by theoretical simulations and analysis, offer a practical and effective method of generating high-efficiency tunable visible light sources and provide a few useful insights into the fields of soliton-plasma interaction and resonance-induced DW emission.
Elimination of odd and even intermodulation distortions of analog microwave photonics link based on GaAs MZMs
Authors: Shaqiri Shemsi , Haxha Shyqyri , Mirza Taimur N.
Published: May 2020

In this paper, a high linear Analogue Microwave Photonic Link (AMPL) is proposed and experimentally demonstrated by unique ways of deploying Gallium Arsenide (GaAs), two Electro-optic Mach-Zehnder Modulators (MZMs), and Balanced Photo detector (BPD). All even and odd intermodulation distortions products are suppressed under noise floor. Second Order Harmonics (SOH) are also significantly suppressed by careful arrangements of microwave shifters and MZMs. The proposed configuration of AMPL is a single-side band. We have also developed and implemented a full mathematical model for proposed configuration, and linearization of the system is tested by introducing an additional RF signal. Our experimental measurements exhibit the suppression under the noise floor of all even and odd IMD and significant suppression of SOH. Spurious Free Dynamic Range (SFDR) of the proposed analogue photonic link for a linearized signal is 119.5 dB.Hz2/3. The proposed novel AMPL would have a great impact on future aerospace, defense and satellite-to-ground downlink communication systems applications.
Photonic temperature and wavelength metrology by spectral pattern recognition
Authors: Janz Siegfried , Cheriton Ross , Xu Dan-Xia , Densmore Adam , Dedyulin Sergey , Todd Andrew , Schmid Jens H. , Cheben Pavel , Vachon Martin , Dezfouli Mohsen Kamandar , Melati Daniele
Published: May 2020

Spectral pattern recognition is used to measure temperature and generate calibrated wavelength/frequency combs using a single silicon waveguide ring resonator. The ring generates two incommensurate interleaving TE and TM spectral combs that shift independently with temperature to create a spectral pattern that is unique at every temperature. Following an initial calibration, the ring temperature can be determined by recognizing the spectral resonance pattern, and as a consequence, the wavelength of every resonance is also known. Two methods of pattern-based temperature retrieval are presented. In the first method, the ring is locked to a previously determined temperature set-point defined by the coincidence of only two specific TE and TM cavity modes. Based on a prior calibration at the set-point, the ring temperature and hence all resonance wavelengths are then known and the resulting comb can be used as a wavelength calibration reference. In this configuration, all reference comb wavelengths have been reproduced within a 5 pm accuracy across an 80 nm range by using an on-chip micro-heater to tune the ring. For more general photonic thermometry, a spectral correlation algorithm is developed to recognize a resonance pattern across a 30 nm wide spectral window and thereby determine ring temperature continuously to 50 mK accuracy. The correlation method is extended to simultaneously determine temperature and to identify and correct for wavelength calibration errors in the interrogating light source. The temperature and comb wavelength accuracy is limited primarily by the linewidth of the ring resonances, with accuracy and resolution scaling with the ring quality factor.
Circular pyramidal kirigami microscanner with millimeter-range low-power lens drive
Authors: Hashimoto Masaaki , Taguchi Yoshihiro
Published: May 2020

This paper proposes an electrothermally-actuated circular pyramidal kirigami microscanner with a millimeter-range low-power lens drive for endoscopic biomedical applications. A variation of Japanese origami art, kirigami involves creation of out-of-plane structures by paper cutting and folding. The proposed microscanner is composed of freestanding kirigami film on which the spiral-curved thermal bimorphs are strategically placed. The kirigami microscanner is electrothermally transformed into an out-of-plane circular multistep pyramid by Joule heating. The circular pyramidal kirigami microscanner on a small footprint of 4.5 mm × 4.5 mm was fabricated by microelectromechanical system processes. A large four-step pyramidal actuation was successfully demonstrated, and a large 1.1-mm lens travel range at only 128 mW was achieved.
The discursive representation of Islam and Muslims in the British tabloid press
Authors: Miladi Noureddine
Published: May 2020

This article employs Critical Discourse Analysis (CDA) on a sample from British tabloid newspapers to unearth the representation of Islam and Muslims. It attempts to unpack the evolving discursive language and its impact on the reinvention and diffusion of negative stereotypes such as the ‘terrorism’ frame. With a specific focus the study considers the media’s systematic distortion of Islamic conceptions/religious terminologies such as ‘Islamist’, ‘Fatwa’, ‘Sharia’, ‘Jihad’, ‘Hijab’ and ‘Islamic State’, which are founded on what Edward Said calls the ‘ideology of difference’. Findings from this study show that such conceptions have not only lost their original significance as established in the mainstream Islamic literature, but have become on the one hand associated with the War on Terror and its ramifications and on the other have become exclusively signifying specific pejorative connotations. Fear and threat have become the meanings and frames firmly embedded in these Islamic terminologies. In the minds of the public this association is now taken for granted due to the prevailing values being recurrently circulated through the media, political speeches, ‘think-tanks’ literature and policy-making documents.
Conducting Research on West Bank Settlements: Architecture as Punctum and Archive
Authors: Allweil Yael , Ben Hilell Keren
Published: May 2020

Conducting research on Israel's settlement project has become increasingly difficult throughout the past decade due to restrictions on public access to both the field and archives, including those of contemporary planning data. Meanwhile, scholars and activists have continued to document the spatial implications of settlements by diversifying their methods, including using architecture as forensic evidence of political aggression. In response, those who regulate access to archives and the field have focused on obfuscating information that could corroborate the illegality of settlements. This has led to a cyclical process in which the exposure of information and data has prompted the creation of further barriers to the field. Deep gaps in formal, authoritative data require methodological creativity and flexibility, such as reading the built environment itself as a primary source. Borrowing from Roland Barthes, this article points to the transgressive potential of architecture as a punctum, a point that opens research to multiple interpretations and helps researchers circumvent restrictions imposed by those regulating access to primary material. In this case study, we show how limited access to archival data has led researchers to study pre-approved settlement planning documents and settler-produced documentary clips, interweaving field and archive in meaningful ways. We argue that, by taking such an approach, researchers may transcend not only issues of access, but also traditional boundaries of disciplines.
Archives as Fields of Heritage-Making in Istanbul's Historic Peninsula
Authors: Aykaç Pinar
Published: May 2020

Heritage-making is a process of valorization carried out using complex exchanges, contestations, and negotiations between various actors. State actors attempt, through various strategies, to employ heritage-making in order to construct a unified heritage discourse and avoid multivocality. One of these strategies is the control of state archives, an approach that seeks to dictate what is accessible and inaccessible and thus to dominate conceptualizations of heritage. This paper discusses how research in state archives sheds light on heritage-making in Istanbul's historic peninsula and how the state's tendency to restrain access reflects the contested nature of Istanbul's heritage. The restriction or denial of archival access becomes a significant component of heritage-making in Turkey, shaped not only by the past but also by the present. Therefore, archives and the practice of archival research become both a tool for the researcher and at the same time a subject worthy of research in and of itself. This paper argues that the attitudes of state institutions and the discourses they adopt in restraining access to archives are in fact objects of enquiry in the understanding of the precise boundaries of their scope of authority and, as such, can provide further insight into the fragmented nature of the state and state archives.
Comparative Study of the Inhibitor Efficiency of Maize Husk Polar Extract in H2SO4
and HCL Acid Environment for Corrosion Control of Mild Steel
Authors: Ochuko Solomon , Peter Anaidhuno , Erebugha Abraham
Published: May 2020

This research work investigated the comparative study of the inhibitor efficiency of Maize Husk Polar Extract (MHPE) green inhibitor to monitor and control corrosion on mild steel in 1.5M of HCl and 1.5M of H2SO4, using gravimetric analysis, Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR). The extract was found to efficiently inhibit the corrosion process in 1.5M of HCl and 1.5M of H2SO4 as the inhibitor efficiency increased with increase in the concentration MHPE. The maximum inhibition efficiency of MHPE was 93.6% in 1.5m of HCl at 384 hours. However, in 1.5M of H2SO4, the maximum inhibition efficiency was 96% at 48 hours in 5ml/litre further increase in inhibitor concentration drastically reduced the efficiency to 28.3% at 25ml/litre for 48hrs. Phytochemical analysis revealed the presence of alkaloid flavonoids, phenolics, phytates, saponins, terpenoids anthocyanins, steroids and tannins. The FTIR of MHPE and the corrosion product shows the variation of the peak numbers and the nature of shift indicates the interaction among the functional groups of extract in the corrosion inhibition process. It also confirmed the presence of C-O functional group as the most dominant in the entire corrosion product. The isotherm parameters were evaluated using Langmuir isotherm model, Temkin isotherm model, Frumkin isotherm model and Flory-Huggins isotherm model and it was observed that Langmuir model gave the best fit with the experimental data because the values of the degree of correlation was found to be about unity which shows a very good fit for the experimental data. Also the adsorption process was physiosorption due to the fact that all the values of (G are less than -40KJ/mol. The study clearly shows that by the efficiency of MHPE, gotten from the two media, MHPE is suitable for corrosion control in oil pipelines during pigging, acidizing of reservoirs, hydraulic fracturing and hydro-testing.
Potential anti-diabetic property of the aqueous extract of the leaves of Saba senegalensis Pichon (apocynaceae) in mice
Authors: Mamadou Dosso , Adama Coulibaly , Ousmane Coulibaly , Doudjo Soro , J. David N'guessan
Published: May 2020

This study made it possible to demonstrate that Saba senegalensis has hypoglycemic and anti-hyperglyvemic effects in mice. The aqueous extract of Saba senegalensis from 75 to 250 mg / Kg bw causes a dose-dependent hypoglycemia ranging from 4.84 to 34.62% (p <0.01-0.05), in normoglycemic mice, 60 minutes after treatment. The Glucose-Induced Hyperglycemia Orally (OPGH) test showed that in the presence of Saba senegalensis aqueous extract at a concentration between 75 and 250mg/Kg bw, the glucose-induced hyperglycemic peak (3g/Kg bw) is reduced from 26.49 to 71.77% (p < 0.01-0.05), 30 minutes after treatment. Oral administration of the aqueous extract of this plant in doses up to 5000 mg / Kg bw resulted in no deaths in mice during two weeks of observation.Â Â Â
PEREMPUAN DAN PERCERAIAN: Kajian tentang Cerai Gugat di Pengadilan Agama Bekasi
Authors: Saadah Mazroatus
Published: May 2020

This work departs from the phenomennon of the high rate of diforce in the Religious Court in Indonesia initiated by the wifes. Focusing on the diforce in the Religious Court of Bekasi, this article argues that the awarenes of gender equality between husband and wife is one of main reasons of marriage diforce proposed by the wifes. Early marriage is another reason behind the diforce. The rest is the less knowledge of the couple of husband and wife about the islamic doctrines on the rights and obligations of husband and wife.Cerai gugat merupakan jenis perceraian yang paling banyak diajukan ke Pengadilan Agama di Indonesia. Artikel ini membahas tentang cerai gugat yang terjadi di Pengadilan Agama Bekasi. Terdapat beberapa alasan yang mengakibatkan pengajuan cerai gugat di Bekasi. Salah satu yang berperan penting adalah kesadaran gender. Kesadaran akan kesejajaran hak dan kewajiban suami isteri menjadi salah satu sebab cerai gugat diajukan ke Pengadilan Agama. Selain itu, terdapat pula cerai gugat yang disebabkan oleh adanya perkawinan dini. Alasan lainya adalah kurangnya pengetahuan pasangan suami isteri akan doktrin agama tentang hak dan kewajian suami isteri dalam Islam.