bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
NCCN Guidelines Insights: Soft Tissue Sarcoma, Version 1.2021
Authors: von Mehren Margaret , Kane John M. , Bui Marilyn M. , Choy Edwin , Connelly Mary , Dry Sarah , Ganjoo Kristen N. , George Suzanne , Gonzalez Ricardo J. , Heslin Martin J. , Homsi Jade , Keedy Vicki , Kelly Ciara M. , Kim Edward , Liebner David , McCarter Martin , McGarry Sean V. , Meyer Christian , Pappo Alberto S. , Parkes Amanda M. , Paz I. Benjamin , Petersen Ivy A. , Poppe Matthew , Riedel Richard F. , Rubin Brian , Schuetze Scott , Shabason Jacob , Sicklick Jason K. , Spraker Matthew B. , Zimel Melissa , Bergman Mary Anne , George Giby V.
Published: December 2020

The NCCN Guidelines for Soft Tissue Sarcoma provide recommendations for the diagnosis, evaluation, treatment, and follow-up for patients with soft tissue sarcomas. These NCCN Guidelines Insights summarize the panel discussion behind recent important updates to the guidelines, including the development of a separate and distinct guideline for gastrointestinal stromal tumors (GISTs); reconception of the management of desmoid tumors; inclusion of further recommendations for the diagnosis and management of extremity/body wall, head/neck sarcomas, and retroperitoneal sarcomas; modification and addition of systemic therapy regimens for sarcoma subtypes; and revision of the principles of radiation therapy for soft tissue sarcomas.
Prevalence of Insomnia in an Oncology Patient Population: An Irish Tertiary Referral Center Experience
Authors: Harrold Emily C. , Idris Ahmad F. , Keegan Niamh M. , Corrigan Lynda , Teo Min Yuen , O’Donnell Martin , Lim Sean Tee , Duff Eimear , O’Donnell Dearbhaile M. , Kennedy M. John , Sukor Sue , Grant Cliona , Gallagher David G. , Collier Sonya , Kingston Tara , O’Dwyer Ann Marie , Cuffe Sinead
Published: December 2020

Background:The NCCN Guidelines for Survivorship recommend dedicated sleep assessment. Reported insomnia prevalence in the general Irish population is 6% to 15%. Reported insomnia prevalence internationally among new/recently diagnosed patients with cancer varies from 30.9% to 54.3%. Insomnia prevalence has not been previously quantified in an Irish oncology cohort.Methods:A 40-item questionnaire was prospectively administered to ambulatory patients with cancer aged ≥18 years. Prespecified criteria to define insomnia syndrome combined those of theInternational Classification of Sleep Disorders, version 1, and theDiagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fourth Edition(DSM-IV). The Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale-Depression/Anxiety (HADS-D/A) was used to screen for potential confounding variables.Results:The response rate to the questionnaire was 87% (294/337). The predominant respondent age group was 55 to 64 years (26%; 77/294), 70.7% were female (208/294), and the most common cancer subtypes were breast (37.4%), colorectal (12.9%), and lung (12.2%). A total of 62% (183/294) of patients reported sleep disturbance after diagnosis, 63% (115/183) reported moderate/severe distress related to this disturbance, and 37% (61/183) reported a significant impact on physical function. Although 33% (98/294) met insomnia syndrome criteria, only 34% (33/98) of these patients had a preexisting history of sleep disturbance. Female sex, age <65 years, cancer subtype, alcohol consumption, and HADS-D/A ≥11 were associated with statistically significant higher odds ratios (OR) of insomnia syndrome. Multivariate analysis identified breast cancer (OR, 3.17;P=.01), age <65 years (OR, 1.8;P=.03), and alcohol consumption (OR, 2.3;P=.005) as independent predictors of insomnia syndrome.Conclusions:Insomnia syndrome prevalence in this cohort is comparable to that reported previously and supports dedicated sleep assessment. This study identifies potentially modifiable risk factors for insomnia and demonstrates additional utility of the HADS score in identifying patients at risk.
Successful Use of BRAF/MEK Inhibitors as a Neoadjuvant Approach in the Definitive Treatment of Papillary Craniopharyngioma
Authors: Khaddour Karam , Chicoine Michael R. , Huang Jiayi , Dahiya Sonika , Ansstas George
Published: December 2020

Craniopharyngiomas are rare tumors that arise in the suprasellar region of the brain and are known for their aggressive nature despite their WHO grade I. This is due to the complex neuroanatomy of the sellar/suprasellar region and their proximity to the optic nerve apparatus, hypothalamic–pituitary tract, and other critical neuroanatomical structures. Definitive treatment is based on a multidisciplinary approach and often involves a combination of surgical, radiation, and medical therapy. However, there is high morbidity associated with surgery and RT due to the complex neuroanatomy of this region. Recently,BRAFV600Esomatic mutation has been identified in most papillary craniopharyngiomas. This discovery has led to the novel use of RAF pathway inhibitors to treat these tumors. We report the successful use of dabrafenib (BRAF inhibitor) and trametinib (mitogen-activated protein kinase kinase inhibitor) in the neoadjuvant setting followed by definitive stereotactic radiosurgery. We propose an algorithm based on available literature on the integration of targeted therapy in the management of papillary craniopharyngiomas. Our observations, together with prior case reports, advocate the incorporation of targeted therapy for unresectable craniopharyngiomas and reinforce that treatment with dual-targeted therapy is safe and effective.
Twenty Years after Leave None to Tell the Story, What Do We Now Know about the Genocide of the Tutsi In Rwanda?
Authors: Longman Timothy
Published: December 2020

In 1999, Human Rights Watch (HRW) and the International Federation for Human Rights (FIDH) published an extensive account of genocide in Rwanda, Leave None to Tell the Story. Based on interviews and archival work conducted by a team of researchers and written primarily by Alison Des Forges, Leave None to Tell was quickly recognised as the definitive account of the 1994 genocide. In the ensuing two decades, however, much additional research has added to our understanding of the 1994 violence. In this paper, I assess Leave None to Tell the Story in light of the research conducted since its publication, focusing in particular on three major challenges to the analysis. First, research into the organisation of the genocide disputes the degree to which it was planned in advance. Second, micro-level research into the motivations of those who participated disputes the influence of ideology on the genocide. Third, research has provided increasing evidence and details of violence perpetrated by the Rwandan Patriotic Front (RPF). I contend that despite these correctives, much of the analysis continues to hold up, such as the role of national figures in promoting genocide at the local level, the impact of the dynamics of local power struggles on the violence, and the patterns of violence, including the effort after the initial massacres to implicate a wide portion of the population. Finally, as a member of the team that researched and helped write Leave None to Tell, I reflect on the value of this rare sort of research project that engages human rights organisations in an academic research project.
Two-dimensional silicon-based photonic crystal slab with partial air-bridge
Authors: Tian Jie  , Han Shou-Zhen  , Cheng Bing-Ying  , Li Zhi-Yuan  , Feng Shuai  , Zhang Dao-Zhong  , Jin Ai-Zi  ,   (1)中国科学院物理研究所，微加工实验室,北京  100080; (2)中国科学院物理研究所和凝聚态物理中心光物理开放实验室，北京  100080
Published: December 2020

We describe the fabrication process of a two_dimensional silicon_based photonic crystal (PC) slab with partial air_bridge, which has a photonic band gap in the nearIR range .The process involves the formation of the air_bridge silicon slab by wet etching and the fabrication of periodic air holes by a focused ion beam. We successfully obtained such a sample and measured its transmission in a wide spectrum. It is found that the observed spectrum is consistent with the theoretical values calculated by the plane wave expansion method. The TM0_like modes reduce the size of the band gap, and the partial air bridge is beneficial to the fabrication of large PC slabs. Meanwhile, it is possible to draw light out from the supporting material of the air bridge.
Lumped-mass approach for the calculation of band structure of two-dimensional phononic crystals with high contrast of elastic constant
Authors: Wang Gang  , Wen Ji-Hong  , Liu Yao-Zong  , Yu Dian-Long  , Wen Xi-Sen  ,   国防科学技术大学机电工程研究所，光子/声子晶体研究中心，长沙  410073
Published: December 2020

With each unit cell replaced by a system of finite freedoms of motion, two_dimensional phononic crystals can be simplified to an infinite discrete periodic system. Therefore, the elastic wave band structures of the two_dimensional phononic crystals can be calculated with a straightforward lumped_mass approach, whose computational cost is much lower than the well_known plane wave expansion(PWE) method. The numerical results of the two methods are in reasonable agreements. As the well_known Gibbs oscillations in the PWE can be eliminated with the lumped_mass method, this new approach is insensitive to the sharp variation of elastic constants on the interfaces inside the phononic crystals. Furthermore, the lumped_mass method can also be used to calculate the band structures of two_dimensional phononic crystals with arbitrary unit shapes easily.
Study on homogeneous multiple-pulse barrier discharge at atmospheric pressure
Authors: Wang Yan-Hui  , Wang De-Zhen  ,   大连理工大学三束材料改性国家重点实验室，物理系，大连  116023
Published: December 2020

The homogeneous barrier discharge with multiple current pulses at atmospheric pressure in helium is numerically investigated on the basis of one_dimensional fluid model. The influence of the applied voltage amplitude, frequency, as well as dielectric layer characteristics on the multiple_pulse discharge is discussed and analyzed. The simulation results show that, in the case of smaller gap width, multiple current pulses can be formed in each half_cycle of the applied voltage due to the increase of surface density of the accumulation charges, leading to the enhancement of the induced electric field. Multiple pulses correspond to separate breakdowns in the same time interval. The smaller the gap width, the bigger the number of current pulses per half cycle. The applied voltage and frequency can also influence the number and the amplitude of current pulses. However, there is no obvious influence of the barrier thickness and the permittivity on the number of current pulses.
Rapid growth of Cu-Pb monotectics under containerless condition
Authors: Liu Xiang-Rong  , Wang Nan  , Wei Bing-Bo  ,   西北工业大学应用物理系,西安  710072
Published: December 2020

Rapid growth of Cu_10%Pb hypermonotectics and Cu_374%Pb monotectics ha ve been achieved under containerless condition in drop tube. With the increase o f droplet undercooling, the primary(Cu) phase in hypermonotectios shows a morpho logy transition of “coarse dendrite→fragmental dentrite→equiaxed dentrite”. The momotectic microstructure transfers from multiple monotectic cell to single monotectic cell. Corresponding to the droplet diameter changing from 1000 to 100 μm, the calculated maximum undercooling for hypermonotectics and monotectics a re 269 K(02 TLL) and 245 K (02 TMM) respectively. The maximum grow th velocity of (Cu) dendrite is 24 m/s in Cu_10%Pb hypermonotectics. The growt h of primary (Cu) phase is always controlled by solute diffusion. The effect of Marangoni migration is more significant than that of Stokes motion, and the Mara ngoni migration velocity decreases when droplet diameter becomes small.
Novel physical effects in amorphous alloy crystallization induced by shock wave
Authors: Zhao He-Yun  , Kan Jia-De  , Liu Qing-Ju  , Liu Zuo-Quan  ,   (1)云南大学化学与材料工程学院,昆明  650093; (2)云南大学化学与材料工程学院,昆明  650093;昆明理工大学材料与冶金工程学院,昆明  650093
Published: December 2020

Both shock wave crystallization and annealing crystallization of amorphous alloys FeSiB, FeMoSiB and FeCuNbSiB were studied by x-ray diffraction, transmission electron microscopy,and differential scanning calorimetry techniques. A series of novel physical effects of shock wave crystallization have be found according to the experimental results. These physical effects are very difficult to explain by the diffusion theory of solid-state phase transition, but using the theory of fluid diffusion change for shock wave crystallization is feasible.
Studies on the abnormal IR effects for CO adsorption on nanostructured Pt thin films
Authors: Huang Xiao-Jing  , Wu Chen-Xu  , Chen You-Jiang  , Lin Hai  , Jiang Dong-Hua  , Sun Shi-Gang  ,   (1)厦门大学固体表面物理化学国家重点实验室,厦门  361005; (2)厦门大学物理系软凝聚态研究室,厦门  361005; (3)厦门大学物理系软凝聚态研究室,厦门  361005;集美大学理学院物理系,厦门  361021
Published: December 2020

The abnormal IR effects(AIREs) of the adsorption of CO on electrodes made of Pt nanostructured thin films generated in square wave potential treatment were obs erved. Based on the experimental results, the AIREs were analysed and simulated by taking into consideration of the interparticle interaction and the electron- hole damping. The results illustrate that the islanded nanostructured Pt surface s give rise to the interactions between CO molecules as well as between CO molec ules and nanostructured Pt surface. The energy transfer due to electron_hole dam ping and the enhancement of interparticle interaction are the important cause of the changes of IR absorption spectra.
Exciton transfer and the optical properties of two types of quantum islands (dots) in ultrathin CdSe/ZnSe layers
Authors: Wang Fang-Zhen  , Chen Zhang-Hai  , Liu Yi  , Huang Shao-Hua  , Bai Li-Hui  , Shen Xue-Chu  ,   复旦大学物理系，应用表面物理国家重点实验室，上海  200433
Published: December 2020

We have investigated the temperature_dependent photoluminescence of two types of quantum islands in ultrathin CdSe/ZnSe layers. At low temperatures, excitons in these two types of quantum islands can transfer by tunneling. The hopping process of the localized excitons gradually becomes the dominant mechanism with increasing temperature. We found that the small islands are nano_scale clusters with quasi_zero_dimensional properties, which are different from those of the large islands. Experiments indicated that these two types of islands are optically correlated although their excitonic properties are different.
The evolution and two-mode squeezed states of the time-dependent two coupled harmonic oscillators
Authors: Li Jiang-Fan  , Huang Chun-Jia  , Jiang Zong-Fu  , Huang Zu-Hong  ,   (1)长沙理工大学物理与电子科学系,长沙  410077; (2)长沙理工大学物理与电子科学系,长沙  410077;国防科技大学理学院,长沙   410073; (3)国防科技大学理学院,长沙   410073
Published: December 2020

A closed solution of the Schrdinger equation for a timedependent two coupled harmonic oscillators including a driving part and a twomode coupled part is derived by adopting the LewisRiesenfeld invariant theory and properly chosen Hermitian invariant operators. The evolution operator of the system and the condition for generating twomode squeezed states are obtained. It is shown that the quantum fluctuation of squeezed states of the system is independent of the driving part, but depends on the initial states of the system.
Co-movement of astral microtubules, organelles and F-actin by dynein and actomyosin forces in frog egg cytoplasm
Authors: Pelletier James F , Field Christine M , Fürthauer Sebastian , Sonnett Matthew , Mitchison Timothy J
Published: December 2020

How bulk cytoplasm generates forces to separate post-anaphase microtubule (MT) asters inXenopus laevisand other large eggs remains unclear. Previous models proposed that dynein-based, inward organelle transport generates length-dependent pulling forces that move centrosomes and MTs outwards, while other components of cytoplasm are static. We imaged aster movement by dynein and actomyosin forces inXenopusegg extracts and observed outward co-movement of MTs, endoplasmic reticulum (ER), mitochondria, acidic organelles, F-actin, keratin, and soluble fluorescein. Organelles exhibited a burst of dynein-dependent inward movement at the growing aster periphery, then mostly halted inside the aster, while dynein-coated beads moved to the aster center at a constant rate, suggesting organelle movement is limited by brake proteins or other sources of drag. These observations call for new models in which all components of the cytoplasm comprise a mechanically integrated aster gel that moves collectively in response to dynein and actomyosin forces.
The half-life of the bone-derived hormone osteocalcin is regulated through O-glycosylation in mice, but not in humans
Authors: Al Rifai Omar , Julien Catherine , Lacombe Julie , Faubert Denis , Lira-Navarrete Erandi , Narimatsu Yoshiki , Clausen Henrik , Ferron Mathieu
Published: December 2020

Osteocalcin (OCN) is an osteoblast-derived hormone with pleiotropic physiological functions. Like many peptide hormones, OCN is subjected to post-translational modifications (PTMs) which control its activity. Here, we uncover O-glycosylation as a novel PTM present on mouse OCN and occurring on a single serine (S8) independently of its carboxylation and endoproteolysis, two other PTMs regulating this hormone. We also show that O-glycosylation increases OCN half-life in plasma ex vivo and in the circulation in vivo. Remarkably, in human OCN (hOCN), the residue corresponding to S8 is a tyrosine (Y12), which is not O-glycosylated. Yet, the Y12S mutation is sufficient to O-glycosylate hOCN and to increase its half-life in plasma compared to wildtype hOCN. These findings reveal an important species difference in OCN regulation, which may explain why serum concentrations of OCN are higher in mouse than in human.
Social, Economic and Health Impact of Industrial Pollution in Dindigul District, Tamil Nadu
Authors: Kannan Srinivasan
Published: December 2020

Background: Pollution of air, water and soil poisons the environment and cause diseases. The illness in a social context needs further exploration in this particular context. That also led to a reduction in agricultural production, drinking water contamination, and cause illness to both human and animal. That is how it is contributing to alterations in social structure specifically the social institutions. By studying the problem of pollution, we address the impact of pollution on health, society and the environment as a whole.

Methods/Design: For the mentioned objectives, the explanatory design was adapted. The study will have three components. A quantitative survey using an interview schedule conducted among the members of the selected villages of Dindigul, district. Specific questions on Social, Economic and Health impacts of industrial pollution will be administered. There will be two different locations, one closer to the Tanneries and villages located 10 Kilometers away from the Tanneries. Even the later villages there are other industries such as handlooms. This will help to understand the difference in the impact of industrial pollution with specific reference to tanneries. Qualitative data aims to conduct in-depth interviews among the village leaders and Focus Group Discussions among the community members. The basic water and soil tests form the villages near tanneries will give additional evidence to understand the physical effects of pollution on the rural environment. The study has received ethical approval from the Institutional Ethics committee.

Discussion: Due to the industrialization in the city of Dindigul and the surrounding area, the pollution from industrial outlets not only affect the environment, but it also affects the social structure, interactions, and employment.
Factors Affecting Entrepreneurial Intentions of Faculty Students
Authors: Bjekić Radmila , Strugar Jelača Maja , Berber Nemanja , Aleksić Marko
Published: December 2020

Research Question: The authors of the article investigate if there is a relationship between the psychological characteristics of students at the Faculty of Economics and their entrepreneurial intentions. Motivation: Based on the study results of Littunen (2000), Walter et al. (2013) and Popescu et al. (2016), the authors planned to identify the factors which would predominately influence the students' entrepreneurial intentions. Idea: The authors believe that the psychological characteristics, such as the greater need for achievement and the need for independence can be treated as important psychological indicators for the students’ predicted entrepreneurial success in the future. Furthermore, these characteristics are significant but not sufficient, therefore the introduction of formal entrepreneurial education at university is likely to additionally contribute to raising the students’ entrepreneurial spirit. Data: The research was conducted during the academic year of 2016/17 on a sample of 517 students in their third and fourth years of studies at the Faculty of Economics. The survey questionnaire adopted already established scales on students’ entrepreneurial intentions as created and carried out by Walter, Parboteeah and Walter (2013). Tools: The PLS analysis was used for exploring relations between psychological characteristics (Need for Achievement and Need for Independence) and entrepreneurial intentions. For that purpose, the authors used Smart PLS 3 software.  Findings: The results show that psychological characteristics are significantly related to students’ entrepreneurial intentions, i.e., the students who have a greater need for achievement and independence, also have stronger entrepreneurial intentions in comparison with those who do not have those needs. Contribution: The paper contributes to the literature by empirically testing how certain factors affect the entrepreneurial intentions of university students of economics.
Modelling EM-Coupling on Electrical Cable-Bundles with a Frequency-Domain Field-to-Transmission Line Model Based on Total Electric Fields
Authors: Parmantier J.-P. , Guiffaut C. , Roissé D. , Girard C. , Terrade F. , Bertuol S. , Junqua I. , Reinex A.
Published: December 2020

This article deals with modelling of EM-coupling on cable-bundles installed in 3D structures. It introduces a modified-Field-to-Transmission-Line model for which the specificity is to account for the reciprocal interaction between EM-fields and induced currents by considering equivalent total field sources. The first part of the paper is devoted to the derivation of this model starting from Agrawal’s classical Field-to-Transmission-Line applied on a two-wire Transmission-Line and leads to a Transmission-Line model in which the signal-wire is now referenced to a fictitious surrounding cylinder acting as a return conductor. The modified-Field-to-Transmission-Line model is then obtained by modifying this derived-model in such a way that is made compatible with numerical approaches and tools based on Agrawal’s Field-to-Transmission-Line model. This modification involves a kL coefficient equal to the ratio of the two per-unit-length inductances of the classical and derived Field-to-Transmission-Line models. Validations of this modified formulation clearly show the capability of this model to predict precise wire responses including EM-radiation losses. The second part of the paper is devoted to its extension to Multiconductor-Transmission-Line-Networks. The process relies on the capability to define an equivalent wire model of the cable-bundle in order to derive the kL coefficient and to numerically evaluate equivalent total field sources. Validation of this extrapolation is presented on a real aircraft test-case involving realistic cable-bundles in order to assess the potentiality of the method for future problems of industrial complexity.
Identification of key genes and pathways in endometriosis by integrated expression profiles analysis
Authors: Cui Ding , Liu Yang , Ma Junyan , Lin Kaiqing , Xu Kaihong , Lin Jun
Published: December 2020

The purpose of this study was to integrate the existing expression profile data on endometriosis (EM)-related tissues in order to identify the differentially expressed genes. In this study, three series of raw expression data were downloaded from GEO database. Differentially expressed genes (DEGs) in three tissue types were screened. GO, KEGG pathway enrichment analysis, core differential genes (CDGs) protein–protein interaction (PPI) network and weighted gene co-expression network analysis (WGCNA) were performed, finally, the dysregulation of Hippo pathway in ectopic endometrium (EC) was detected by Western blotting. A total of 1,811 DEGs between eutopic (EU) and normal endometrium (NE), 5,947 DEGs between EC and EU, and 3,192 DEGs between EC and NE datasets were identified. After screening, 394 CDGs were obtained, and 5 hub genes identified in the PPI network. CDGs enrichment and WGCNA network analysis revealed cell proliferation, differentiation, migration and other biological processes, Hippo and Wnt signaling pathways, and a variety of tumor-related pathways. Western blotting results showed that YAP/TAZ was upregulated, and MOB1, pMOB1, SAV1, LATS1 and LATS2 were downregulated in EC. Moreover, CDGs, especially the hub genes, are potential biomarkers and therapeutic targets. Finally, the Hippo pathway might play a key role in the development of endometriosis.
Neither ant dominance nor abundance explain ant-plant network structure in Mexican temperate forests
Authors: Juárez-Juárez Brenda , Cuautle Mariana , Castillo-Guevara Citlalli , López-Vázquez Karla , Gómez-Ortigoza María , Gómez-Lazaga María , Díaz-Castelazo Cecilia , Lara Carlos , Pérez-Toledo Gibrán R. , Reyes Miguel
Published: December 2020

Background

Ant-plant mutualistic networks tend to have a nested structure that contributes to their stability, but the ecological factors that give rise to this structure are not fully understood. Here, we evaluate whether ant abundance and dominance hierarchy determine the structure of the ant-plant networks in two types of vegetation: oak and grassland, in two temperate environments of Mexico: Flor del Bosque State Park (FBSP) and La Malinche National Park (MNP). We predicted that dominant and abundant ant species make up the core, and submissives, the periphery of the network. We also expected a higher specialization level in the ant trophic level than in plant trophic level due to competition among the ant species for the plant-derived resources.

Methods

The ant-plant interaction network was obtained from the frequency of ant-plant interactions. We calculated a dominance hierarchy index for the ants using sampling with baits and evaluated their abundance using pitfall traps.

Results

In MNP, the Formica spp. species complex formed the core of the network (in both the oak forest and the grassland), while in FBSP, the core species were Prenolepis imparis (oak forest) and Camponotus rubrithorax (grassland). Although these core species were dominant in their respective sites, they were not necessarily the most dominant ant species. Three of the four networks (oak forest and grassland in FBSP, and oak forest in MNP) were nested and had a higher number of plant species than ant species. Although greater specialization was observed in the ant trophic level in the two sites and vegetations, possibly due to competition with the more dominant ant species, this was not statistically significant. In three of these networks (grassland and oak forest of MNP and oak forest of FBSP), we found no correlation between the dominance hierarchy and abundance of the ant species and their position within the network. However, a positive correlation was found between the nestedness contribution value and ant dominance hierarchy in the grassland of the site FBSP, which could be due to the richer ant-plant network and higher dominance index of this community.

Conclusions

Our evidence suggests that ant abundance and dominance hierarchy have little influence on network structure in temperate ecosystems, probably due to the species-poor ant-plant network and a dominance hierarchy formed only by the presence of dominant and submissive species with no intermediate dominant species between them (absence of gradient in hierarchy) in these ecosystems.
Literary Powerhouse from the Social Margins
Authors: Cho Hwisang
Published: December 2020

The communal composition and recitation of poems, as the marker of cultural distinction, constituted the central activities in the social networking of educated elites throughout premodern Korea. Poetry societies, therefore, had prospered in elite circles until the dawn of the modern period. This literary culture trickled down to nonelites during the late Chosŏn period (1392–1910). Some poetry societies of secondary status groups developed into centers of literary production in turn-of-the-nineteenth-century Seoul; prominent yangban elites willingly joined them, and their events attracted attention from poets across the country irrespective of their social status.
Eagle and the Snake, or anzû and bašmu?
Authors: Valk Jonathan
Published: December 2020

Much of the surviving text of the Epic of Etana tells the story of an eagle and a snake. The eagle and snake are extraordinary creatures, and their story abounds with mythological subtext. This paper argues that the Neo-Assyrian recension of Etana was amended to include explicit references to the eagle and the snake by the names of their mythological counterparts, anzû and bašmu. These references occur in two analogous contexts and serve the same narrative purpose: to dehumanize the other when the eagle and the snake seek to do each other harm. The deliberate character of these changes and their symmetry suggest that they are the product of a conscientious scribe with a developed literary sensibility .
Evaluation of African Star Apple (Chrysophyllum albidum) Seed Oil as a Potential Feedstock for Industrial Application
Authors: Abel Otache Monday , Chinelo Amagbor Stella , Cynthia Inweh , Agbajor Godwin Kparobo
Published: December 2020

Aims: Evaluate possible application of African Star Apple seed oil as industrial raw material geared towards possible conversion of waste to wealth with no negative impact as it borders on food scarcity. Also unveiling the possibility of a sustainable environment via the eradication of waste from the environment, thereby creating a clean environment.

Place and Duration of Study: Fresh ripped fruits of African Star Apple were bought from some local market sellers at Agbarha-Otor market which is located in Ughelli North Local Government Area of Delta State, Nigeria on longitude 6° 2' 54" E /5° 30' 40" N, between November, 2019 and March, 2020.

Experimental Details: Soxhlet extraction with n-hexane as solvent was used for the oil extraction of 100 g per batch of extraction. Pretreatment procedure of oil was done prior to transesterification. Homogenous base-catalyzed transesterification reaction was used in this study under controlled experimental conditions such as temperature, reaction time, methanol to oil molar ratio and catalyst type and concentration were examined under varied ranges to ascertain optimum experimental conditions for the reaction. Extracted seeds oil were analysed for its physicochemical properties using standard methods via: specific gravity, acid value, refractive index, saponification value, iodine value and free fatty acid using standard methods.

Results: The results showed an oil yield of 14.9%, an indication that the seed reflects a poor source of abundant oil. Results obtained for the physiochemical properties, revealed that; specific gravity, refractive index, saponification value, acid value, free fatty acid and iodine value showed values of 0.896 kg/m3, 1.549, 231.32 mgKOH/g, 3.23 mgKOH/g, 2.07% and 47.63 mg/100 g respectively. Also, results for Methanol: Oil ratio showed that maximum yield was obtained at 6:1 molar ratio. Maximum conversion efficiency for molar concentration was achieved at 0.75% for both catalysts. While a reaction time of 125 min projected better yield.

Conclusion: The seed of African star fruit are discarded as waste, therefore its use as a source of oil for industrial feedstock and other domestic application, poses no challenge with regards to food security. Its non-drying potential based on its low iodine value, makes it suitable lubricating oil for industrial application. Similarly, potential application of the oil as feedstock for the production of biodiesel is justified on the basis of its low acid value. Conclusively, the seeds may not have sufficient oil volume potential to be used as edible (domestic) and industrial oil. Consequently upon its low yield, application for biofuel production in commercial scale becomes unrealistic.
Antimicrobial and Antioxidant Activity of Some Plant Extracts against Different Food Spoilage and Pathogenic Microbes
Authors: Seddiek Abdullah S. , Hamad Gamal M. , Zeitoun A. A. , Zeitoun M. A. M. , Ali Salim
Published: December 2020

Aims: Guava (Psidium guajava), pomegranate (Punica granatum), olive (Olea europaea L.), and moringa (Moringa oleifera( extracts which are assumed to contain active components and which are renewable sources in fighting infections of microbes. This study aimed to investigate its antioxidant and antimicrobial activity.

Methodology: The agar well diffusion technique, minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC), total phenolic content (TPC), total flavonoid content (TFC), and the free radical scavenging activity of the plant extracts were applied.

Results: All extracts exhibited different results against the microorganism used in the research. The minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) values for bacteria and fungi ranged from 25 to 300 mg/mL. The antioxidant activity was evaluated by using DPPH radical scavenging assay. In addition, the amount of total phenolic content (TPC) of the extracts ranged from 48.08 to 324.08 mg/g, while total flavonoid content (TFC) ranged from11.53 to 65.85 mg/g.

Conclusion: It could be noticed that the guava and pomegranate extracts had strong antioxidant and antimicrobial effects, while olive extract had a moderate effect, but moringa showed a very weak effect against tested microbes. Therefore, the herbal extracts of guava and pomegranate could be used as novel, safe, and effective food preservatives instead of chemical ones.
Evaluation of Nutrient and Phytochemical Composition of Cola lepidota Fruits (K. Schum): An Underutilized Fruit
Authors: Okwu G. I. , Abolo C. Okwu- , Emereole C. F. , Ogbonna O. A.
Published: December 2020

This study examined the nutrient and phytochemical composition of Cola lepidota fruits commonly known as Monkey Kola. The pulps were extracted, grated and dried. Dried pulps were milled into flour and packaged in properly labeled air-tight polyethene sachets. The nutrient composition was determined using standard AOAC methods while the phytochemical composition was determined using the gravimetric and spectrophotometric methods. Findings from the results revealed that 100 g portion of fresh Cola lepidota was high in moisture content (88.9%), moderate in carbohydrate content. The most abundant mineral was calcium (182.5 mg/100 g), followed by magnesium (87.5 mg/100 g), potassium (68.1 mg/100 g) and phosphorous (34.4 mg/100 g). Cola lepidota has substantial amount of vitamin A (25.63 mg/100 g) and vitamin C (12.98 mg/100 g). The phytochemical compositions found in the fruit were quite high, the most abundant were flavonoid (420.7 mg/100 g) and saponin (42.4 mg/100 g). These findings indicate rich nutritional and potential health benefits of this underutilized fruit. Thus, the information obtained from the study will contribute in widening the scope of the knowledge and encourage conservation and domestication preservation of this species.
Wirebond Process Optimization through Stitch Relocation on QFN Package
Authors: Moreno A. , Jr. E. Graycochea , Gomez F. R.
Published: December 2020

One of the most challenging assembly manufacturing process in semiconductor industry is wirebond process using a wire as direct material. With this new technology, some issues were encountered during the first trial of a quad flat no-leads (QFN) package. This paper is focused on the heal crack seen on the stitch formation during second bond. A comprehensive improvement was done by relocating the stitch formation on the second bond. Ultimately, heal crack occurrence was successfully eliminated.
Optimal Placement and Sizing of Capacitors in Radial Distribution Systems: A Two-Stage Method
Authors: Salimon Sunday Adeleke , Baruwa Abiodun Aderemi , Amuda Saheed Oluwasina , Adeleke Hafiz Adesupo
Published: December 2020

Optimal allocation of shunt capacitors in the radial distribution networks results in both technical and economic benefits. This paper presents a two-stage method of Loss Sensitivity Factor (LSF) and Cuckoo Search Algorithm (CSA) to find the optimal size and location of shunt capacitors with the objective of minimizing cost due to power loss and reactive power compensation of the distribution networks.

The first stage utilizes the LSF to predict the potential candidate buses for shunt capacitor placement thereby reducing the search space of the second stage and avoiding unnecessary repetitive load flow while the second stage uses the CSA to find the size and actual placement of the shunt capacitors satisfying the operating constraints.

The applicability of the proposed two stage method is tested on the standard IEEE 33-bus and Ayepe 34-bus Nigerian radial distribution networks of the Ibadan Electricity Distribution Company. After running the algorithm, the simulation results gave percentage real and reactive power loss reduction of 34.28% and 28.94% as compared to the base case for the IEEE 33-bus system while the percentage real and reactive power loss reduction of 22.89% and 21.40% was recorded for the Ayepe 34-bus system.

Comparison of the obtained results with other techniques in literatures for the standardized IEEE 33-bus reveals the efficiency of the proposed method as it achieved technical benefits of reduced total power loss, improved voltage profile and bus voltage stability, and the economic benefit of reduced total cost due to electrical power loss and compensation.
Periodontal Disease and COVID 19
Authors: Siddharthan S. , Naing Nyi Nyi , Arfah Nadiah Wan-
Published: December 2020

The aim of this study is to assess the association of periodontal disease and COVID 19. Coronavirus have been announced pandemic along the globe by the WHO, which have severely affected every countries healthcare framework and health care profession­als globally. Due to this pandemic every individual facing severe problems both economically and emotionally. The similarity seen on inflammatory response pathway shows there is a potential relationship between COVID-19 and Periodontitis are related. Considering the relationship, significant importance should be given to maintain periodontal health, maintaining careful and good oral hygiene in the COVID-19 situation. There is also chance of feasibility that periodontal disease can be susceptible for an individual’s COVID-19 unfavourable outcomes. This relationship shows the interrelation among periodontal disease and COVID-19 and between the cytokine relationship which advices in improving hygiene in oral cavity during this COVID situation. And it is found individuals with periodontal disease have high risk of getting COVID associated unfavourable consequences.
The effect of bilayer order and fluidity on detergent‐induced liposome fusion
Authors: Saez R. , Goñi F.M. , Alonso A.
Published: July 2002

Surfactants induce fusion (or increase in size) of sonicated liposomes. This phenomenon is enhanced by cholesterol and inhibited by the intrinsic polypeptide gramicidin A. By comparison with previous physical studies we conclude that liposome ‘fusion’ is facilitated when both fluidity and static order of the bilayer are high.
Scyliorhinin I and II: two novel tachykinins from dogfish gut
Authors: Conlon J.Michael , Deacon Carolyn F. , O'Toole Liam , Thim Lars
Published: July 2002

Two peptides with tachykinin‐like ability to contract longitudinal muscle from the guinea pig ileum were isolated from the intestine of the common dogfish, Scyliorhinus caniculus. The amino acid sequence of scyliorhinin I was established as Ala‐Lys‐Phe‐Asp‐Lys‐Phe‐Tyr‐Gly‐Leu‐Met‐NH2 and this peptide cross‐reacted with antisera directed against the C‐terminal region fo substance P. The amino acid sequence of scyliorhinin II was established as Ser‐Pro‐Ser‐Asn‐Ser‐Lys‐Cys‐Pro‐Asp‐Gly‐Pro‐Asp‐Cys‐Phe‐val‐Gly‐Leu‐Met‐NH2 and this peptide cross‐reacted with antisera directed against the C‐terminal region of neurokinin A. The mammalian peptides substance P and neurokinin A were absent from the dogfish intestinal tissue.
The preparation and properties of novel reversible polymer‐protein conjugates 2‐ω‐Methoxypolyethylene (5000) glycoxymethylene‐3‐methylmaleyl conjugates of plasminogen activators
Authors: Garman Andrew J. , Barret Kalindjian S.
Published: July 2002

The preparation of a reagent capable of reversibly attaching polyethylene glycol to proteins and the use of this material in modifying the plasminogen activators urokinase‐ and tissue‐type plasminogen activator are described. The characterisation and the reversible nature of these protein‐polymer conjugates are discussed, and some of the in vitro properties of these modified enzymes are explored.
Clustering in coated vesicles of polyunsaturated phospholipids segregated from plasma and Golgi membranes of adrenocortical cells
Authors: de Paillerets Christine , Bomsel Morgane , Weintraub Hadassa , Pépin Dominique , Alfsen Annette
Published: July 2002

In bovine adrenocortical cells, the fatty acyl chains of the phospholipids have been identified in the membranes of the different cell compartments: plasma membranes, Golgi complex and coated vesicle membranes. An increase in the total number of unsaturation in the fatty acid is demonstrated in the coated vesicle membranes as compared with the plasma and Golgi membranes. Furthermore, it appears that phosphatidylcholine and phosphatidylethanolamine are both enriched in polyunsaturated fatty acyl chains, namely arachidonic and adrenic acids in both types of coated vesicles. Only two of the fatty acids are characteristic of Golgi complex and small coated vesicles, 22:5 (n−6) in PC and 22:6 (n−3) in PE, suggesting that the SCV could originate from the Golgi stacks. A high value of the ratio 22:5 (n−3)/22:6 (n−3) is observed which is, as far as we know, characteristic of adrenal cells.
Potentiation by adrenaline of thrombin‐induced elevation of pHi is not essential for synergistic activation of human platelets
Authors: Steen Vidar M. , Cook Carol A. , Tysnes Ole-Bjørn , Holmsen Holm
Published: July 2002

Gel‐filtrated human platelets were stimulated with thrombin in the absence and presence of adrenaline. Adrenaline markedly enhanced the thrombin‐induced increase in cytoplasmic pH (pHi) in BCECF‐loaded platelets. This rise in pHi was strongly inhibited by the Na+/H+ exchange blocker EIPA. The potentiation by adrenaline of thrombin‐induced PLC activation measured as [32P]PA formation and final platelet responses was, however, not blocked by EIPA, even at low concentrations of thrombin. These results indicate that the enhancement by adrenaline of thrombin‐induced cytoplasmic alkalinization may be a secondary effect which is not essential for the potentiation by adrenaline of platelet activation by thrombin.
Activation of pro‐urokinase by the human T cell‐associated serine proteinase HuTSP‐1
Authors: Brunner Georg , Simon Markus M. , Kramer Michael D.
Published: July 2002

The human T cell‐associated serine proteinase‐1 (HuTSP‐1) is expressed by activated T lymphocytes and is exocytosed upon their interaction with target cells. Here, we report that HuTSP‐1 is able to convert single‐chain human pro‐urokinase into the active two‐chain enzyme. Time‐dependent activation by HuTSP‐1 of recombinant human pro‐urokinase as well as natural pro‐urokinase derived from human melanoma cells was demonstrated in a chromogenic assay specific for active urokinase type plasminogen activator and in immunoblotting experiments revealing the conversion of single‐chain into two‐chain urokinase. Control experiments excluded plasmin as the activating agent. These data suggest a novel pathway for plasmin generation during T cell‐mediated processes such as immune responses and extravasation of immune cells.
Crystallization and preliminary X‐ray analysis of a peridinin‐chlorophyll a protein from Amphidinium carterae
Authors: Steck Karolin , Wacker Thomas , Welte Wolfram , Sharples Frank P. , Hiller Roger G.
Published: July 2002

Crystals of a water‐soluble (M
r ≈ 39 000) peridinin‐chlorophyll a protein from Amphidinium carterae are reported. The crystals diffract to 2.2 Å and belong to a monoclinic (B2) and a triclinic (P1) space group. Spectra of the protein in the crystal and in solution are almost identical.
Voltage‐dependent pump currents of the sarcoplasmic reticulum Ca2+‐ATPase in planar lipid membranes
Authors: Eisenrauch Andreas , Bamberg Ernst
Published: July 2002

Sarcoplasmic reticulum vesicles containing largely Ca2+‐ATPase were incorporated into planar lipid membranes. The ATPase was activated by a UV flash‐induced concentration jump of ATP from a photolabile caged ATP. Under these conditions stationary pump currents were observed. The dependence of these pump currents on applied voltages was investigated. The current‐voltage curve of the Ca2+‐ATPase shows monotonously increasing pump currents with increasing positive potentials of the ATP containing compartment. This indicates the existence of electrogenic steps in the direction of the transported Ca2+ ions. From the extrapolated reversal potentials of the curve is concluded that less than four positive net charges are transported per hydrolyzed ATP.
The effect of botulinum toxin type D on the triggered and constitutive exocytosis/endocytosis cycles in cultures of bovine adrenal medullary cells
Authors: von Grafenstein Herman , Borges Ricardo , Knight Derek E.
Published: July 2002

The extracellular fluid phase marker, horseradish peroxidase, enters chromaffin cells when triggered to secrete catecholamine. This triggered uptake, like secretion, is abolished in cells pre‐incubated with botulinum toxin. Endocytosis of horseradish peroxidase into unstimulated cells is unaffected by botulinum toxin but is inhibited when the temperature is reduced. Once internalised by the unstimulated cells, horseradish peroxidase is released back into the extracellular fluid, the rate of release being temperature sensitive but unaffected by carbamylcholine or botulinum toxin. These results suggest that triggered exocytosis is a necessary event to precede triggered endocytosis, and that botulinum toxin may affect only the triggered exocytosis/endocytosis cycle and not the constitutive cycle.
Primary structure of rat pancreatic lipase mRNA
Authors: Wicker-Planquart Catherine , Puigserver Antoine
Published: July 2002

The sequence of a rat pancreatic lipase mRNA was determined. The data have been assigned the following accession number, X61925, in the EMBL data library. The total length of the messenger is 1531 nucleotides, plus a poly(A) stretch of about 60 nucleotides. A 72‐nucleotides 5′‐noncoding region is followed by a 1419‐nucleotides open reading frame which encodes a protein of 473 amino acids, including the 17 amino acid signal peptide. The mature enzyme (456 residues) has 6 additional C‐terminal amino acids, as compared with the amino acid sequence of pig (direct amino acid sequence), dog, man and rat isoenzyme from Genbank, M58369 (all deduced from the nucleotide sequence). A higher degree of homology exists between the amino acid sequence of rat mature enzyme with those of dog (88%), pig (75%) and man (75%) than with that of rat isolipase (74%).