bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Eco-piano ModEkAl
Authors: Chabashvili Eka , Jvania Nino , Zhvania Tamar
Published: November 2022

For the major part of contemporary composers, the main field of interest is electroacoustic music. On the one hand, the capabilities of classical instruments often no longer satisfy composers-they see more creative potential in music programming; on the other hand, this interest is driven by the composers' desire to have their composed works performed, the realization of which is much easier at the expense of technologies. These trends have clearly created a shortage of new sounds in instrumental music. It is important to maintain instrumental music and to make its existence suitable for the modern environment. To solve this problem, an upright piano "Zarya" was modified according to the principles of modern musical thinking and very topical ecomusicology into the piano called ModEkAl. The modified piano is a new type of piano constructed for the artistic research 'Has Piano Music Come to an End?' conducted by composer Eka Chabashvili and pianists Nino Jvania and Tamar Zhvania. The piano was modified according to Chabashvili's scheme which was enriched with the ideas of piano master Alexander Zirakashvili. The paper describes the modified instrument in detail, and introduces a new notation system designed exclusively for the ModEkAl.
New works the non-existent past of the distant future
Authors: Gnjatović Ana , Maraš Svetlana
Published: November 2022

The text interprets Svetlana Maraš's electroacoustic radiophonic composition Post-Excavation Activities (2020). The compositional principle, which the author calls the inversion of concrete music, and which includes work with sounds of digital origin whose purpose is to resemble found sound artifacts, has been compared with the imaginary archives. Following the intention of Svetlana Maraš to present the medium as a sounding compositional layer, an analysis was made of which sound objects in this work can be representationally determined and how they participate in the communicativeness of the work of music. The importance of radio as a medium was emphasized, but also the context of the Electronic Studio of Radio Belgrade in which the materials for the composition were created.
International legal regulation of space and high seas: Aspects of humankind legal personality
Authors: Savić Matej
Published: November 2022

In this paper, the author analyzes open issues regarding the status of humankind in International Law, pointing out particular problems related to its international legal personality, primarily from the angle of the Law of the Sea and the Cosmic Law. A special place in this paper is dedicated to international regulations in the field of the Law of the Sea and Cosmic Law in which there is no possibility of establishing sovereignty, where states, as basic subjects of International Law, do not have exclusive competencies. The idea of humankind as a subject of International Law is primarily viewed from the angle of particular areas of International Law in which states are not exclusive holders of rights and duties. Humankind is analyzed as a specific and, above all, abstract concept in International Law.
The extra-territorial jurisdiction in the case-law of the European court of human rights and contemporary challenges
Authors: Popović Igor
Published: November 2022

The paper analyses the concept of extra-territorial jurisdiction as envisaged by the Euroepan Convention on Human Rights (ECHR). This concept of jurisdiction implies an answer to the question whether a person outside the territory of a state can be considered to be under its jurisdiction, and thus whether the ECHR Party can violate any of their proclaimed rights. Initially, the author briefly discusses the concept of extra-territorial jurisdiction in The European Court of Human Rights case law (ECtHR). The author comes to the conclusion that the Court's jurisprudence is not clear or consistent. As a result, the article examines three alternative approaches to extra-territorial jurisdiction that are clear, reality-based, and human rights friendly. These three approaches involve the test of negative and positive obligations, the functionality test, and the control of rights test. In addition, the author considers three contemporary challenges that the ECtHR may face in the fields of migration, 'green' issues, and the use of modern technologies. The author claims that the ECtHR's understanding of jurisdiction is insufficient for modern challenges. The alternative approaches could be a viable answer to such issues.
Alternative art practices between the power of the state and the boundaries of freedom
Authors: Petković Jelena
Published: November 2022

Starting from Theodore Adorno's point of view that the sociability of art is shown through its anti-social character, the paper deals with a sociological analysis of alternative artistic practices and their social reach and boundaries. Associated with a very specific social context, with a clearly established deviation not only from the mainstream of the official, elite art (artistic formalism) but also from the dominant culture and prevailing social values, alternative artistic practices are considered in the context of critical cultural counter-public, which is positioned between the formal and the symbolic powers of the state, on the one hand, and the personal / creative and social freedom of the artist and recipients, on the other hand. In the first part of the paper, we are presented with a general review of the transformations as regards the spheres of artistic creation, reception, and evaluation, which started establishing themselves within Western societies as of the beginning of 20th century, as well as with questioning their most important social functions. Following the existing research and using secondary data sources, the paper continues with an analysis of the underground music scene and lifestyles of young people in Western societies, as well as of those that emerged under the influence of the spread of Western popular culture and art in authoritarian regimes of some Muslim countries in the Middle East, North Africa, and Southeast Asia. Although still sporadic, rather marginalized and regime-controlled, these alternative artistic practices contribute to trans-cultural communication and creative and value synergy, gradually undermining rigid social frameworks and belief systems within different societies (Western and Arab-Islamic) but also between them.
Relating Trailing Vortex Cavitation Inception To Single Phase Flow Measurements
Authors: Green S. , Acosta A.
Published: November 2022

The single phase and cavitating tip vortex shed by a NACA .66-209 rounded tip hydrofoil has been studied. Single phase measurements of instantaneous flow velocity were made by taking double pulsed holograms of microbubbles moving in and around the vortex core. The tailored air bubble technique of Ooi and Acosta (1983) was employed to measure both the mean and fluctuating single phase vortex core static pressure. Cavitation inception was determined visually.

The flow in the vortex core is highly unsteady. The r.m.s. axial velocity fluctuation can be as high as 0.2Uoo Core pressure fluctuations greater than the freestream dynamic pressure have been measured. These fluctuations are thought to accompany local axial velocity fluctuations. With saturated water, inception occurs at mean core pressures above the vapour pressure. However, the pressure fluctuations are certainly substantial enough to account for these elevated inception indices. The fluctuations also explain why inception occurs immediately downstream of the hydrofoil. The rapid establishment of fully developed trailing vortex cavitation when the cavitation number is reduced below inception is attributable to the small variation in mean core pressure with downstream distance. The inception index decreases dramatically with decreasing dissolved air content. The cause of this decrease is not known.
A Matrix Data Base Approach to Planing Craft Resistance Model Experiments
Authors: Hoyt John , Dipper Martin
Published: November 2022

A matrix data base approach to the modeling of planing craft thrustline in towing tank resistance experiments is presented. The matrix data base approach does not actually attempt to model a specific thrustline geometry in the towing tank. Instead, a matrix of drag and running trims for a discrete range of model weights on water and longitudinal centers of gravity are obtained experimentally with a model fixed in surge, and free in pitch and heave. This matrix is then curve fit and the desired thrustline conditions are either interpolated or extrapolated from the experimentally derived data base. This method provides not only the performance information for the desired ballast and thrustline condition, but also the ability to estimate performance over a fairly large range of gross vehicle weights, longitudinal centers of gravity, and thrustline geometries.
A current view on Sea Ice Modelling
Authors: Jones S. , Timco G. , Frederking R.
Published: November 2022

A brief history of the development of model ice is given. For a typical model test, in which the geometric scale factor equals 30, the mechanical properties of all of the different model ices are tabulated, For many of the ices, data have not been published. It is shown that only columnar grained ice can correctly model situations where compression is important. Some current concerns of ice modelling are discussed, but lack of good quality full-scale data makes an objective comparison between model and full-scale difficult.
Chaotic Dynamics In Continuous Mode Icebreaking
Authors: Ettema R. , Sharifi M. , Georgakakos K. , Stern F.
Published: November 2022

Presented herein are the results of an exploratory study on the application of chaos theory to continuous-mode ice breaking by a towed model-scale icebreaker hull. The study shows that continuous-mode ice breaking by a towed hull comprises a chaotic-dynamic system of comparatively low dimension. The implications of this result are discussed.
The New Fisheries Flume Tank Facilities at the Marine Institute
Authors: Aboulazm A.
Published: November 2022

A new Fisheries Flume Tank was built and commissioned in March 1988 at the campus of the Marine Institute in St. John’s, Newfoundland, Canada. The tank is designed primarily for fisheries research and training, however, other applications can be accommodated. The tank is one of the largest circulating water tanks in the world.

This paper presents a detailed description of the Flume Tank Facility at the Marine Institute, including a detailed technical description and specifications. Tank operating conditions and limitations are also presented.

Although the Flume Tank's main function is to support fisheries research and education, many other applications in the field of fluid mechanics model testing, can make good use of the tank.

It is clear from the material presented in this paper that the new Marine Institute Flume Tank is a very useful research facility in many fisheries and non-fisheries areas, particularly, vessel and offshore structure flow applications.
Use of Side Beaches in the 200 m Towing Tank at the Institute for Marine Dynamics
Authors: Harris Carl
Published: November 2022

The Clear Water Towing Tank (CWTT) at the Institute for Marine Dynamics (IMD) measures 200 m long x 12 m wide x 7 m deep with a usable run length of approximately 150 meters. The tank is equipped with an electrically driven (manned) towing carriage capable of speeds up to 10 mis and a hydraulically operated, computer controlled dual-flap wavemaker which can generate regular waves of up to 1.0 min height or irregular waves with significant wave heights of up to 0,3 meters.

The tank when built was not equipped with any form of side beaches. Retro-fitting the facility with traditional-style side beaches would be a major expense. Adjustable-height vertical baffles would also, perhaps, be impractical given the limited amount of space between the underside of the towing carriage and the water surface.

In an effort to improve the efficiency of use of this facility, it was decided to experiment with low cost flexible side beaches in the CWTT. Beaches of this type are described by Enzinger and Johnson (Reference 1). The authors report a marked decrease in tank settling time and a corresponding increase in the testing efficiency of their tanks. One notable difference in the IMD approach is the use of these 'beaches' on both sides of the tank rather than just one as is the case in the Hydromechanics Laboratory of the U.S. Naval Academy. It was logical to assume that having energy absorbing devices on both walls would decrease the settling time even further for a nominal extra expense.

This paper describes the use of the (double) 'course rope' beaches in the CWTT and experiments conducted in calm water and regular waves to determine their effectiveness for this facility.
Seakeeping Test on a Semisubmersible Moored in the Environments of Wind, Waves, and Currents
Authors: Hurray J.
Published: November 2022

The Institute for Marine Dynamics has recently completed a test program on a moored offshore structure in the clear-water tow tank. The program is the first commercial project of this type completed at IMD and required development of techniques to model mooring systems and simulate wind and current.

A 1:45 scale model of a moored, six-column, semisubmersible floating production system was tested in the simulated environment of waves, wind and current to deter-mine motions and mooring forces. The model was moored in the tow tank of dimensions 200 m x 12 m with a still water depth of 7 m. The full scale spread mooring consisting of twelve catenary lines was modelled using four thin cables attached to vertical springs supported at the tank walls. The model mooring system was designed to model horizontal stiffness only and hydrodynamic effects on the mooring lines were assumed to be negligible.

Both regular and irregular waves were generated for the test program. The irregular spectra were analyzed to identify grouping patterns used to compute the slow drift forces on the vessel. Wind was simulated using a bank of twelve analog controlled fans. Two gusting spectra were simulated by fluctuating the fan speeds. Currents were produced in the tank using two rows of nozzles positioned one above the other below the still water surface. Two submersible pumps supported from the main carriage approximately 23 m from the nozzles were used to set up a surface current. The vessel was subjected to the three environments separately. The two irregular wave spectra were then run with wind and current included.

Test results were compared to those predicted by a computer program based on the traditional 3-dimensional source distribution technique using an idealized wetted hull surface of 576 panels. A comparison between the measured and computed results was made with respect to first-order oscillatory motions, second-order drift displacements and mooring forces.
High Order Wave and Current Interactions
Authors: Baddour R. , Song S.
Published: November 2022

The interaction between high order water waves with a uniform current normal to the wave crests is considered. The combined wave-current motion resulting from the interaction is assumed stable and irrotational. The velocity potential, dispersion relation, the particle kinematics and pressure distribution up to the third order are developed. The conservation of mean mass, momentum and energy, together with the dispersion relation on the free surface are used to derive a set of four nonlinear equa­tions, through which the relationship between wave-free current, current-free wave and the combined wave current parameters is established. Numerical results for a range of current values are also presented.
Bergy Bit Motion Near Offshore Structure
Authors: Wishahy Momen , Pawlowski Jacek
Published: November 2022

A theoretical investigation of the motion of bergy bits and growlers near a gravity based structure was conducted, taking into account the effect of the diffraction of waves by the structure. A nonlinear time-domain method based on the concept of modal potentials (equivalent motion concept) and a corresponding computational algorithm are presented. Large heave motions of a spherical ice mass are predicted in close vicinity of the structure. In addition to instances where collisions were predicted, the ice drifted around or maintained a stationary position in front of the structure.
Four Screw Powering Experiments: Data Reduction, Extrapolation and Correlations
Authors: Chang Peter , Beaver William
Published: November 2022

Methodologies and algorithms used for model powering experiment data collection, data reduction, and extrapolation to full scale arc presented in this paper. While the algorithms are tailored to four screw ships they can be generalized to the arbitrary case of a model which has unequally loaded sets of propellers. Algorithms for the prediction of maximum ship speed, based on shaft revolution rate, torque or delivered power limits are presented. Correlation of model powering experiment predictions and full scale trials data show that model experiments consistently under predict the inboard/outboard torque ratio. Possible explanations for this phenomenon are given.
Experimental Investigation of Oscillating Foil Propellers
Authors: Lai P.S.K. , McGregor R. , Bose N.
Published: November 2022

A flexible fin propeller model with a rectangular oscillating foil of aspect ratio 4.0 has been tested in the Hydrodynamics Laboratory of the University of Glasgow. The performance of the model was tested in both forward speed zero speed conditions. Experimental results are compared with theoretical results from a linearised mathematical model. High propulsive efficiencies around 0.7 were obtained with this model propeller. In the zero speed condition, the propulsive thrust coefficient (CTb) decreases as the oscillating frequency increases. Investigations were made into the speed of advance variation over span of the foil, and frictional losses in the driving mechanism. The test apparatus was checked to make sure that it functioned as intended in all aspects. The application of a flexible fin propeller to a small ship is found to be feasible from a hydrodynamic viewpoint.
On the Nonlinear Calculation of the Steady Bow Wave of a Ship
Authors: Noblesse Francis
Published: November 2022

A nonlinear local analysis of the steady potential flow at a ship bow and stern, and more generally at any point along a ship waterline, is presented. The hull boundary condition and the nonlinear kinematic and dynamic free-surface boundary conditions are satisfied exactly, at the actual position of the free surface, in this analysis. The bow-flow analysis shows that the free surface at a ship bow is tangent to the stem.This theoretical result appears to agree with existing experimental measurements of the steady bow waves of the Wigley hull and the Series 60 CB=0.60 model. Furthermore, simple analytical expressions defining the fluid velocity at the bow and the stern, and at any other point along the ship waterline, in terms of the elevation of the free surface at the corresponding point are also obtained. These analytical expressions and the available experimental measurements of the wave profiles along the Wigley hull show that the velocity of the flow disturbance due to this hull is fairly small compared to the hull speed everywhere along the waterline except in very small regions around the bow and the stern, where the total fluid velocity is nearly equal to the hull speed in magnitude but directed vertically. Nonlinearities therefore appear to be quite important, although only in extremely small regions surrounding a ship bow and stern. A successful nonlinear method of calculation must then be able to represent the very rapid variation in the direction of the fluid velocity occurring within small regions around a ship bow and stern. In particular, a sufficiently fine discretization is required in these regions.
Model Test to Evaluate the Capsize Resistance of a Motor Lifeboat in Breaking Waves
Authors: Zseleczky John , Cohen Steven
Published: November 2022

In the concept stage of designing a new motor lifeboat, model tests were used to investigate the behavior of the proposed boat in large breaking waves. Instead of attempting to predict full scale performance of the boat in an absolute sense, comparative tests were performed using models of both the new boat and an existing boat - whose full scale performance was well documented after years of service in the field. This paper summarize a the model test techniques and test results obtained from the program.
CREENCIAS Y EXPECTATIVAS DE LOS ESTUDIANTES DE MÚSICA DEL MÁSTER DE PROFESOR DE EDUCACIÓN SECUNDARIA DE LA UNIVERSITAT DE VALÈNCIA
Authors: López Calatayud Fernando
Published: November 2022

La formación de los futuros docentes es un aspecto importante para el sistema educativo español, pues contará próximamente con esos titulados en sus aulas. Conocer sus creencias, expectativas y factores relacionados con su formación, como la distribución de los créditos de las asignaturas de cursan, pueden ayudar a mejorar esa formación y el desarrollo de las clases. Con esta finalidad, este trabajo tiene como objetivo conocer las opiniones de estudiantes de la especialidad de Música del Máster de Profesor de Educación Secundaria de la Universitat de València. Eso se hace recopilando esos aportes y comparándolos con los de un trabajo anterior (López-Calatayud y Botella-Nicolás, 2021). De esta manera, se pueden advertir los cambios personales y formativos. Los resultados presentan algunas diferencias significativas, como que la asignatura de Música en Secundaria debe desarrollar en el alumno competencias TIC musicales y que parecen estar más interesados en materias de innovación e investigación (Innovación docente e iniciación a la investigación educativa en Música). Asimismo, existen diferencias de género. Los hombres se han interesado más por el desarrollo de las clases y el Trabajo Final de Máster y las mujeres por conocer estrategias de actuación y recursos didácticos.
Post-Conquest Forged Charters Containing English: A List
Authors: Zagórska Paulina
Published: November 2022

The paper presents a list of sixty-nine forged charters containing English pro- duced following the Norman Conquest of 1066. The list can be considered a supplement to The Production and Use of English Manuscripts 1066–1220 (Da Rold et al. 2010) – a project conducted jointly at the University of Leeds and University of Leicester collecting all known texts containing English, in order to provide an insight and allow research into “transitional”, post-Conquest English. The paper outlines the significance of charters in the Medieval world, and discusses some key issues and misconceptions related to study- ing this period in the history of the English language.
Conventional Knowledge, Pictorial Elucidation, Etymological Motivation, and Structural Elaboration in a Thematic Dictionary of Idioms
Authors: Wiliński Jarosław
Published: November 2022

The primary focus of this article is on the usefulness of conventional knowledge, pictorial illustrations, and etymological notes in the process of defining the meaning of idioms within the macrostructure of a thematic dictionary of idioms based on cognitive principles of linguistic organization, and on the use of phonological motivation and iconic and scalar ordering as principles for explaining the form of idiomatic expressions. This article makes a noteworthy contribution to the widely-held view in current language teaching and pedagogy that grouping figurative idioms under source domains and conceptual metaphors, using visuals for explaining the literal reading of idioms, providing background information about their literal meanings or origins, as well as drawing students’ attention to the lexical make-up of idioms can be conducive to their learning and understanding and especially beneficial for students’ retention of the meaning and form of such phrases (Kӧvecses and Szabó 1996; Kӧvecses 2001; 2002; Benor and Levy 2006; Boers and Lindstromberg 2008a; Kӧvecses and Csábi 2014).
Exploring First and Fourth Year University Students’ Level of Critical Thinking Skills at Arab Open University- Jordan
Authors: Al-husban Naima Ahmad , Mashaleh Majdi , Damrah Laila
Published: November 2022

This study aims to explore Arab Open University- Jordan (AOU) students’ critical thinking skills, and whether these skills varied according to variables like their university level (first and fourth year of study), gender, age, and major at university. 248 students have been randomly
chosen to participate in the study. California Critical Thinking Skills Test was used to collect data. The study revealed that students’ general levels of critical thinking were below the acceptable educational level, and students in the fourth year had better critical thinking skills
than students in the first year. Additionally, females showed a higher level of critical thinking than males whereas age and major did not play a major role in developing critical thinking skills. Based on the results, reforms in the education system should be initiated in terms of course
content, instruction, and evaluation. Further research should also be conducted to determine which factors contribute to developing students’ critical thinking skills
T cell deficiency precipitates antibody evasion and emergence of neurovirulent polyomavirus
Authors: Lauver Matthew D , Jin Ge , Ayers Katelyn N , Carey Sarah N , Specht Charles S , Abendroth Catherine S , Lukacher Aron E
Published: November 2022

JC polyomavirus (JCPyV) causes progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy (PML), a life-threatening brain disease in immunocompromised patients. Inherited and acquired T cell deficiencies are associated with PML. The incidence of PML is increasing with the introduction of new immunomodulatory agents, several of which target T cells or B cells. PML patients often carry mutations in the JCPyV VP1 capsid protein, which confer resistance to neutralizing VP1 antibodies (Ab). Polyomaviruses (PyV) are tightly species-specific; the absence of tractable animal models has handicapped understanding PyV pathogenesis. Using mouse polyomavirus (MuPyV), we found that T cell deficiency during persistent infection, in the setting of monospecific VP1 Ab, was required for outgrowth of VP1 Ab-escape viral variants. CD4 T cells were primarily responsible for limiting polyomavirus infection in the kidney, a major reservoir of persistent infection by both JCPyV and MuPyV, and checking emergence of these mutant viruses. T cells also provided a second line of defense by controlling the outgrowth of VP1 mutant viruses that evaded Ab neutralization. A virus with two capsid mutations, one conferring Ab-escape yet impaired infectivity and a second compensatory mutation, yielded a highly neurovirulent variant. These findings link T cell deficiency and evolution of Ab-escape polyomavirus VP1 variants with neuropathogenicity.
Feature selection enhancement and feature space visualization for speech-based emotion recognition
Authors: Kanwal Sofia , Asghar Sohail , Ali Hazrat
Published: November 2022

Robust speech emotion recognition relies on the quality of the speech features. We present speech features enhancement strategy that improves speech emotion recognition. We used the INTERSPEECH 2010 challenge feature-set. We identified subsets from the features set and applied principle component analysis to the subsets. Finally, the features are fused horizontally. The resulting feature set is analyzed using t-distributed neighbour embeddings (t-SNE) before the application of features for emotion recognition. The method is compared with the state-of-the-art methods used in the literature. The empirical evidence is drawn using two well-known datasets: Berlin Emotional Speech Dataset (EMO-DB) and Ryerson Audio-Visual Database of Emotional Speech and Song (RAVDESS) for two languages, German and English, respectively. Our method achieved an average recognition gain of 11.5% for six out of seven emotions for the EMO-DB dataset, and 13.8% for seven out of eight emotions for the RAVDESS dataset as compared to the baseline study.
APPINetwork: an R package for building and computational analysis of protein–protein interaction networks
Authors: Gosset Simon , Glatigny Annie , Gallopin Mélina , Yi Zhou , Salé Marion , Mucchielli-Giorgi Marie-Hélène
Published: November 2022

Background

Protein–protein interactions (PPIs) are essential to almost every process in a cell. Analysis of PPI networks gives insights into the functional relationships among proteins and may reveal important hub proteins and sub-networks corresponding to functional modules. Several good tools have been developed for PPI network analysis but they have certain limitations. Most tools are suited for studying PPI in only a small number of model species, and do not allow second-order networks to be built, or offer relevant functions for their analysis. To overcome these limitations, we have developed APPINetwork (Analysis of Protein–protein Interaction Networks). The aim was to produce a generic and user-friendly package for building and analyzing a PPI network involving proteins of interest from any species as long they are stored in a database.

Methods

APPINetwork is an open-source R package. It can be downloaded and installed on the collaborative development platform GitLab (https://forgemia.inra.fr/GNet/appinetwork). A graphical user interface facilitates its use. Graphical windows, buttons, and scroll bars allow the user to select or enter an organism name, choose data files and network parameters or methods dedicated to network analysis. All functions are implemented in R, except for the script identifying all proteins involved in the same biological process (developed in C) and the scripts formatting the BioGRID data file and generating the IDs correspondence file (implemented in Python 3). PPI information comes from private resources or different public databases (such as IntAct, BioGRID, and iRefIndex). The package can be deployed on Linux and macOS operating systems (OS). Deployment on Windows is possible but it requires the prior installation of Rtools and Python 3.

Results

APPINetwork allows the user to build a PPI network from selected public databases and add their own PPI data. In this network, the proteins have unique identifiers resulting from the standardization of the different identifiers specific to each database. In addition to the construction of the first-order network, APPINetwork offers the possibility of building a second-order network centered on the proteins of interest (proteins known for their role in the biological process studied or subunits of a complex protein) and provides the number and type of experiments that have highlighted each PPI, as well as references to articles containing experimental evidence.

Conclusion

More than a tool for PPI network building, APPINetwork enables the analysis of the resultant network, by searching either for the community of proteins involved in the same biological process or for the assembly intermediates of a protein complex. Results of these analyses are provided in easily exportable files. Examples files and a user manual describing each step of the process come with the package.
Performance of Finger Millet [Eleusine coracana (L.) Gaertn.] Influenced by Integrated Effect of Vermicompost and Inorganic Fertilizer Rates in Ethiopia
Authors: Feyanbule Mamo Mekonnen , Ashagre Habtamu , Abraham Thomas
Published: November 2022

Finger millet is extensively cultivated in the tropical and sub-tropical regions of Africa and is known to save the lives of small income farmers from starvation at times of extreme drought. Therefore, this field experiment was carried out to study the integrated effect of vermicompost and inorganic fertilizer blended NPSB with urea on yield and yield components of finger millet. Treatments of the experiment consisted of four levels of vermicompost (25, 50, 75, and 100%) and three levels of recommended NPSB and urea (25, 50 and 75%) rates, control, recommended vermicompost alone (4.64 t ha-1), and inorganic fertilizer alone (100 kg NPSB ha-1 and 90 kg urea ha-1). Experiment was arranged in the field in Randomized Complete Block Design in fifteen treatments replicating thrice. The maximum (10730.4 kg ha-1) dry biomass weight and straw yield (88235 kg ha-1) was obtained with the application of 100: 25% vermicompost and recommended NPSB with urea. Utmost harvest index (33.8 7%) and grain yield (2202 kg ha-1) of finger millet were obtained with the application of 25:50% vermicompost and blended NPSB with urea. The highest net benefit of ETB 56475.9 ha-1 with a marginal rate of return of 93.63% was recorded from application of 25:50% vermicompost (1.16 tons ha-1) and blended NPSB with urea, (50 kg NPSB ha-1 and 45 kg urea ha-1), fertilizer. Hence, it is recommended to apply 25:50% vermicompost (1.16 tons ha-1), and blended NPSB with urea, (50 kg NPSB ha-1 and 45 kg urea ha-1), fertilizer to increase finger millet productition in the study area.
Assessment of Variability and Genetic Diversity for Elite Rice (Oryza sativa L.) Genotypes of Telangana and Andhra Pradesh
Authors: Harisha Rajappa , Bhadru Dharavath , Bhargava Kadthala , Vanisri Satturu , Shankar Vuppu Gouri , Balakrishnan Adithya P. , Gowda M. Manoj , Singhal Shaily
Published: November 2022

The current investigation was undertaken with eighteen elite rice genotypes to study the genetic diversity, variability, heritability and genetic advance for yield and yield attributing traits. The ANOVA revealed the significant variability among the genotypes for the traits studied. 1000 seed weight is having highest phenotypic coeffcient variation and genotypic coeffcient variation (24.882 & 24.835) followed by grain yield per plant (20.315 & 19.523 respectively). Heritability estimates of yield attributing traits ranged from 58.3% (Panicle length) to 99.6% (1000 seed weight). High heritability along with higher genetic advance observed for 1000 seed weight, numbers of productive tillers, plant height and grain yield per plant indicating that selection for these traits would be effective. The diversity analysis revealed that genotypes were grouped into four clusters, cluster I was the largest comprising 14 genotypes and cluster II with two genotypes followed by Cluster III and IV with one variety each indicating a high degree of divergence among the genotypes.
Okullarda Ayrılma, Kayıtsız Kalma, Muhalefet ve Sadakat ile Örgütsel Adalet İlişkisinde İş Doyumunun Aracı Etkisi
Authors: ÖZGE SAĞBAŞ Nuray , ÖZDEMİR Murat
Published: November 2022

Bu araştırmada okullarda ayrılma, kayıtsız kalma, muhalefet ve sadakat ile örgütsel adalet ilişkisinde iş doyumunun aracı etkisi incelenmiştir. İlişkisel tarama deseninde yürütülen araştırmanın hedef evrenini, Ankara iline bağlı dokuz ilçedeki resmi Anadolu Liselerinde görev yapan 6605 öğretmen oluşturmaktadır. Araştırmaya küme örnekleme yoluyla belirlenen 612 öğretmen gönüllü olarak katılmıştır. Veri analizi öncesinde ölçeklerin geçerlikleri DFA, güvenirlikleri ise Cronbach alfa katsayısı incelenmiş olup, tümünün geçerli ve güvenilir olduğu görülmüştür. Veri setinin analizinde aritmetik ortalama, standart sapma, Pearson korelasyon ve bootstrapping aracılık testi kullanılmıştır. Korelasyon analizi sonuçları; örgütsel adalet ve iş doyumunun, işten ayrılma, muhalefet ve kayıtsız kalma davranışları ile negatif, sadakat ile pozitif yönlü ve anlamlı ilişki içerisinde olduğunu ortaya koymuştur. Bu kapsamda örgütsel adalet ve iş doyumu öğretmenlerin ayrılma, muhalefet etme, kayıtsız kalma ve sadakat davranışlarının anlamlı bir yordayıcısıdır. Aracılık testi sonuçları ise ayrılma, kayıtsız kalma, muhalefet ve sadakat ile örgütsel adalet arasındaki ilişkide iş doyumunun aracı etkiye sahip olduğunu göstermiştir. Araştırma bulgularına dayalı olarak öğretmenlerin işten ayrılma, kayıtsız kalma ve muhalefet davranışlarının en aza indirilebilmesi için okullarda uygulamaların adil bir şekilde yapılmasının önemli bir etmen olduğu çıkarımında bulunulmuştur.
Bioinspired and biomolecular catalysts for energy conversion and storage
Authors: Salamatian Alison A. , Bren Kara L.
Published: November 2022

Metalloenzymes are remarkable for facilitating challenging redox transformations with high efficiency and selectivity. In the area of alternative energy, scientists aim to capture these properties in bioinspired and engineered biomolecular catalysts for the efficient and fast production of fuels from low‐energy feedstocks such as water and carbon dioxide. In this short review, efforts to mimic biological catalysts for proton reduction and carbon dioxide reduction are highlighted. Two important recurring themes are the importance of the microenvironment of the catalyst active site and the key role of proton delivery to the active site in achieving desired reactivity. Perspectives on ongoing and future challenges are also provided.
Astrocytes in Paper Chips and Their Interaction with Hybrid Vesicles
Authors: Abild Meyer Cathrine , De Dios Andres Paula , Brodszkij Edit , Westensee Isabella N. , Lyons Joseph , Vaz Sandra H. , Städler Brigitte
Published: November 2022

The role of astrocytes in brain function has received increased attention lately due to their critical role in brain development and function under physiological and pathophysiological conditions. However, the biological evaluation of soft material nanoparticles in astrocytes remains unexplored. Here, the interaction of crosslinked hybrid vesicles (HVs) and either C8‐D1A astrocytes or primary astrocytes cultured in polystyrene tissue culture or floatable paper‐based chips is investigated. The amphiphilic block copolymer poly(cholesteryl methacrylate)‐block‐poly(2‐carboxyethyl acrylate) (P1) and 1,2‐dioleoyl‐sn‐glycero‐3‐phosphoethanolamine lipids are used for the assembly of HVs with crosslinked membranes. The assemblies show no short‐term toxicity towards the C8‐D1A astrocytes and the primary astrocytes, and both cell types internalize the HVs when cultured in 2D cell culture. Further, it is demonstrated that both the C8‐D1A astrocytes and the primary astrocytes could mature in paper‐based chips with preserved calcium signaling and glial fibrillary acidic protein expression. Last, it is confirmed that both types of astrocytes could internalize the HVs when cultured in paper‐based chips. These findings lay out a fundamental understanding of the interaction between soft material nanoparticles and astrocytes, even when primary astrocytes are cultured in paper‐based chips offering a 3D environment.
Self‐Healable Triboelectric Nanogenerators: Marriage between Self‐Healing Polymer Chemistry and Triboelectric Devices
Authors: Li Changyang , Guo Hengyu , Wu Zhiyi , Wang Peng , Zhang Dun , Sun Yihan
Published: November 2022

Based on the triboelectrification and electrostatic induction coupling, triboelectric nanogenerators (TENGs) can convert mechanical energy into electrical energy, showing a promising potential in the fields of micro/nano energy and self‐powered sensors applications. However, the devices are prone to malfunction due to fatigue and damage, limiting their development and applications. In this review, according to the working modes and operational malfunctions as well as the possible solutions, it is proposed that a robust TENG device can be constructed from three perspectives: self‐healing friction layers, self‐healing electrodes, and self‐healing whole devices. Based on the structure, suitable environment, and self‐healing materials, the design ideas and fabrication approaches of self‐healing TENGs in recent years are summarized in detail. Finally, the development of self‐healing TENGs in energy harvesting and self‐powered sensors is outlined. It is the wish to provide insights and guidance for the application design of self‐healing TENGs in the future.
P‐Mediated Cu–N4 Sites in Carbon Nitride Realizing CO2 Photoreduction to C2H4 with Selectivity Modulation
Authors: Xie Wenke , Li Kuangjun , Liu Xuan‐He , Zhang Xing , Huang Hongwei
Published: November 2022

Photocatalytic CO2 reduction to high value‐added C2 products (e.g., C2H4) is of considerable interest but challenging. The C2H4 product selectivity strongly hinges on the intermediate energy levels in the CO2 reduction pathway. Herein, Cu–N4 sites anchored phosphorus‐modulated carbon nitride (CuACs/PCN) is designed as a photocatalyst to tailor the intermediate energy levels in the the C2H4 formation reaction pathway for realizing its high production with tunable selectivity. Theoretical calculations combined with experimental data demonstrate that the formation of the C−C coupling intermediates can be realized on Cu–N4 sites and the surrounding doped P facilitates the production of C2H4. Thus, CuACs/PCN exhibits a high C2H4 selectivity of 53.2% with a yielding rate of 30.51 µmol g−1. The findings reveal the significant role of the coordination environment and surrounding microenvironment of Cu single atoms in C2H4 formation and offer an effective approach for highly selective CO2 photoreduction to produce C2H4.
Nucleus‐Targeting Carbon Quantum Dots Assembled with Gambogic Acid via π–π Stacking for Cancer Therapy
Authors: Liu Shanshan , Wang Jianfeng , Li Haiguang , Xu Chen , Guo Yimin , Bao Xiaotong , Guan Shaokang , Liu Hairong , Zhang Tao
Published: November 2022

Chemotherapy combined with nanocarriers has received increased attention as a thriving strategy for tumor therapy. However, drug resistance (DR), poor circulation, and retention in cells are the main challenges of this therapy. Herein, a novel strategy is developed to target drug delivery via π–π stacking interactions to overcome DR and short circulation and retention in cells. Carbon quantum dots (CDs) and gambogic acid (GA) are assembled via a π–π stacking interaction, which increases the drug‐loading capacity of CDs as well as the circulation and retention of GA‐loaded CDs (CDs/GA). CDs/GA significantly inhibit cell proliferation because CDs enter the nucleus and avoid drug pump recognition. GA released from CDs/GA promotes apoptosis by inducing the production of reactive oxygen species via the mitochondrial pathway. As a result, the delivery system of CDs/GA via π–π stacking displays a significant therapeutic effect on hepatoma (HepG2) and cervical cancer (HeLa) cells. The mechanisms of DR and induction of apoptosis are further investigated. The results suggest that chemotherapy combined with CDs can facilitate the targeting of the nucleus, thereby inducing apoptosis via the mitochondrial pathway.
Effect of collaborative dementia care on potentially inappropriate medication use: Outcomes from the Care Ecosystem randomized clinical trial
Authors: Liu Amy K. , Possin Katherine L. , Cook Kristen M. , Lynch Shalini , Dulaney Sarah , Merrilees Jennifer J. , Braley Tamara , Kiekhofer Rachel E. , Bonasera Stephen J. , Allen Isabel E. , Chiong Winston , Clark Amy M. , Feuer Julie , Ewalt Joan , Guterman Elan L. , Gearhart Rosalie , Miller Bruce L. , Lee Kirby P.
Published: November 2022

Introduction

Potentially inappropriate medications (PIMs) cause adverse events and death. We evaluate the Care Ecosystem (CE) collaborative dementia care program on medication use among community‐dwelling persons living with dementia (PLWD).

Methods

Secondary analysis of a randomized clinical trial (RCT) comparing CE to usual care (UC) on changes in PIMs, over 12 months between March 2015 and May 2020. Secondary outcomes included change in number of medications, clinically relevant PIMs, and anti‐dementia medications.

Results

Of 804 PLWD, N = 490 had complete medication data. The CE resulted in significantly fewer PIMs compared to UC (−0.35; 95% CI, −0.49 to −0.20; P < 0.0001). Number needed to prevent an increase in 1 PIM was 3. Total medications, PIMs for dementia or cognitive impairment, CNS‐active PIMs, anticholinergics, benzodiazepines, and opioids were also fewer. Anti‐dementia medication regimens were modified more frequently.

Conclusion

The CE medication review intervention embedded in collaborative dementia care optimized medication use among PLWD.

Highlights

Compared to usual care (UC), the Care Ecosystem (CE) medication review intervention prevented increases in potentially inappropriate medications (PIMs).

Use of anticholinergics, benzodiazepines, and opioids were significantly reduced, with a trend for antipsychotics.

Anti‐dementia medications were adjusted more frequently.

The CE medication review intervention embedded in collaborative dementia care optimized medication use.
Population‐based discovery and Mendelian randomization analysis identify telmisartan as a candidate medicine for Alzheimer's disease in African Americans
Authors: Zhang Pengyue , Hou Yuan , Tu Wanzhu , Campbell Noll , Pieper Andrew A. , Leverenz James B. , Gao Sujuan , Cummings Jeffrey , Cheng Feixiong
Published: November 2022

Introduction

African Americans (AAs) and European Americans (EAs) differ in Alzheimer's disease (AD) prevalence, risk factors, and symptomatic presentation and AAs are less likely to enroll in AD clinical trials.

Methods

We conducted race‐conscious pharmacoepidemiologic studies of 5.62 million older individuals (age ≥60) to investigate the association of telmisartan exposure and AD outcome using Cox analysis, Kaplan–Meier analysis, and log‐rank test. We performed Mendelian randomization (MR) analysis of large ethnically diverse genetic data to test likely causal relationships between telmisartan's target and AD.

Results

We identified that moderate/high telmisartan exposure was significantly associated with a reduced incidence of AD in the AAs compared to low/no telmisartan exposure (hazard ratio [HR] = 0.77, 95% CI: 0.65–0.91,p‐value = 0.0022), but not in the non‐Hispanic EAs (HR = 0.97, 95% CI: 0.89–1.05,p‐value = 0.4110). Sensitivity and sex‐/age‐stratified patient subgroup analyses identified that telmisartan's medication possession ratio (MPR) and average hypertension daily dosage were significantly associated with a stronger reduction in the incidence of both AD and dementia in AAs. Using MR analysis from large genome‐wide association studies (GWAS) (over 2 million individuals) across AD, hypertension, and diabetes, we further identified AA‐specific beneficial effects of telmisartan for AD.

Discussion

Randomized controlled trials with ethnically diverse patient cohorts are warranted to establish causality and therapeutic outcomes of telmisartan and AD.

Highlights

Telmisartan is associated with lower risk of Alzheimer's disease (AD) in African Americans (AAs).

Telmisartan is the only angiotensin II receptor blockers having PPAR‐γ agonistic properties with beneficial anti‐diabetic and renal function effects, which mitigate AD risk in AAs.

Mendelian randomization (MR) analysis demonstrates the specificity of telmisartan's protective mechanism to AAs.
Biocatalytic Thionation of Epoxides for Enantioselective Synthesis of Thiiranes
Authors: Ma Ran , Hua Xia , He Cheng‐Li , Wang Hui‐Hui , Wang Zhu‐Xiang , Cui Bao‐Dong , Han Wen‐Yong , Chen Yong‐Zheng , Wan Nan‐Wei
Published: November 2022

Expanding the enzymatic toolbox for the green synthesis of valuable molecules is still of high interest in synthetic chemistry and the pharmaceutical industry. Chiral thiiranes are valuable sulfur‐containing heterocyclic compounds, but relevant methods for their enantioselective synthesis are limited. Herein, we report a biocatalytic thionation strategy for the enantioselective synthesis of thiiranes, which was developed based on the halohydrin dehalogenase (HHDH)‐catalyzed enantioselective ring‐opening reaction of epoxides with thiocyanate and a subsequent nonenzymatic rearrangement process. A novel HHDH was identified and engineered for enantioselective biocatalytic thionation of various aryl‐ and alkyl‐substituted epoxides on a preparative scale, affording the corresponding thiiranes in up to 43 % isolated yield and 98 % ee. Large‐scale synthesis and useful transformations of chiral thiiranes were also performed to demonstrate the utility and scalability of the biocatalytic thionation strategy.