bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Designing the user experience of musical sonification in public and semi-public spaces
Authors: Rönnberg Niklas , Löwgren Jonas
Published: January 2021

Sonification refers to sonic expression of data or information. It is often thought of as an auditory complement, providing additional information about data which can reveal patterns and facilitate interpretation and understanding of the data. Hence, the listening space created by a sonifi cation is always a hybrid where auditory augmentation complements other information modalities and, in some cases, also spatial qualities. In this work, we focus on sonifi cation in public and semi-public spaces, and specifi cally on musical sonifi cation – the use of musical sounds to create a sonic environment, augmenting or complementing a physical shared space. We draw upon established approaches in interaction design to focus our work on the user experience of musical sonifi cation in public and semi-public spaces. Specifi cally, we fi rst identify the experiential qualities of sonic atmosphere and performativity as important aspects of sonifi cation in public and semi-public spaces, then use those experiential qualities generatively in the speculative design of a musical sonifi cation sketch. The design sketch comprises a dynamic musical sonifi cation of air quality data, intending to give citizens an awareness and an enhanced individual and interpersonal understanding of air quality in their city.
Transient soundscape production
Authors: Walzer Daniel
Published: January 2021

Over the past decade, there has been a steady increase of scholarly output examining the multidisciplinary, creative, and theoretical aspects of sound and music production in the recording studio and beyond (Zagorski-Thomas & Bourbon, 2020; Bennett & Bates, 2019; Hepworth- Sawyer, Hodgson, & Marrington, 2019; Thompson, 2019; Zagorski-Thomas, 2014; Frith & Zagorski-Thomas, 2012). Accordingly, a broad range of literature examines sound as a widespread cultural phenomenon (Papenburg & Schulze, 2016) and an essential source for pedagogical and ethnographic modeling in music technology education (Bell, 2018). Advances in technology make the “studio,” long viewed as a site of artistic and commercial production, available to a broader group of composers, musicians, and artists. Similarly, portable digital recorders afford sound artists and fi eld recordists an expansive range of choices to conduct soundscape research and creative practice. What emerges is a hybrid “composer- producer” identity and a studio’s function in the artistic process. This growth is the rise of an independent and transient practice in soundscape production among multidisciplinary composers and musicians. This article advocates for an updated notion of soundscape composition that integrates fi eld recordings, studio production, and collaboration from musicians representing a broad range of stylistic infl uences. Positioning the studio as a site of cultural production and creativity has implications for how soundscape production is taught to young composers. The author argues for a more inclusive, process-oriented view on both creativity and the places where musicians, composers, and producers work. The article includes a case study from the author’s recent album project, narrative analysis, concluding with a discussion on the pedagogical implications of independent soundscape production in education.
The Environmentalization of space and listening
Authors: Ris Valentin
Published: January 2021

This paper aims to analyze the relationship between listening techniques and technologies and forms of subjectivation in our current auditory culture compared to mid-20th century practices. Applying a media archaeological approach in order to unearth underlying histories of knowledge of the discussed technologies and practices offers a way of understanding how subjectivations and the constitution of environments in the context of large power regimes are intertwined. Against the theoretical backdrop of Gilles Deleuze’s text on “societies of control” and Erich Hörl’s notion of “Environmentalization”, the paper outlines conceptualizations of environments in different forms of sonic control that are inherent in practices and technologies of noise-cancelling headphones and specifi c Spotify playlists. The listening spaces that emerge in the analyzed practices/technologies reveal continuities as well as discontinuities when compared to their historical predecessors. Both the current phenomena are characterized by a process of advancing cybernetization and thus the formation of controllable environments. The depicted transformation corresponds to Deleuze’s observation of a new paradigm of power which he characterized as a shift from “molding” to “modulation”, i.e. a shift from a form-imposing to a self-regulating mode of power. Spotify’s concentration playlists and noisecancelling headphones both operate based on the principle of modulation and represent modes of environmental technologies. In the consideration of the subject-environment relationship on the other hand, current forms of subjectivation become apparent in cybernetic visions of control and environmental power. It is thus shown that listening spaces offer an approach to analyzing power and subjectivation.
The livre partition phenomenon in J.-G. Kastner’s oeuvre
Authors: Seibert Andrei Yur'evich
Published: January 2021

In the 19th century, after a two-centuries oblivion, the interest in a medieval genre “danse macabre” reappeared. Dances of Death were embodied not only in pictorial art, literature and music, but also attracted the attention of scholars. The research subject of this article is one of such scientific works - “Les Danses des Morts” by J.-G. Kastner. Its uniqueness consists in the combination of a theoretical research and practical embodiment of its results in a piece of music. The genre of the tractate is defined by scholars as “livre partition” - a sheet music book. The article contains the biographical data of the life and creative work of the French scholar, music expert and composer, little-known in Russian musicology. Based on their own translation of the original text, the authors study the structure-content components of the tractate and define its specificity. J.-G. Kastner considers the genre “danse macabre” in the historical, philosophical and aesthetic contexts; traces back the interdependence of literary, decorative, and musical versions of the dances. The tractate of the French musicologist considers in detail the range of instruments of dance macabre (based on the collection of wooden engravings of a gothic Doten Dantz printed in the late 15th century). The authors define the features of J.-G. Kastner’s ideas which differ them from the thanatological views of his predecessors H. Peino and E.-H. Langlois.
The results of assorted research on the questions of dynamics of victimization from Internet fraud in the Russian Federation (2010-2019)
Authors: Komarov Anton Anatolevich
Published: January 2021

The object of this research is the process of victimization of population of the Russian Federation from Internet fraud in the period from 2010 to 2019. The subject of this research is a number of criminological indicators that characterize the dynamics of victimization and criminal victimization. Using the empirical data, the author determines the actual number of the Internet fraud victims; built a retrospective model of development of this process based on calculation of the average annual rate of growth; increases awareness on the dynamics of the number of victims until 2013. The conclusion is made on the growing scope of victimization, which according to the data of assorted research of 2013-2019 carries an exponential function. Each three years the total number of victims doubles, which continues to grow since 2012 (associated with the reform of criminal legislation aimed at identification of the additional types of fraud using computer technologies). This pattern was used for structuring the projection models of victimization of users of the Russian segment of the Internet until 2021 (inclusively). The results of additional assorted research of 2020 demonstrate that only in 20% of cases the damage from Internet fraud exceeds 1,000 rubles. In accordance of the principle of recurrence of the Internet fraud, the structure of victimization is as follows: 52% are the victims of such crimes in recent year; 1/3 of respondents were the victims in previous years, but not in recent year; and only 13% became the victims in past years and recent year.  
Judicial statistics and corporate structure of the Russian courts
Authors: Vasilev Dmitrii
Published: January 2021

The subject of this research is the impact of assessment of judicial performance in accordance with the indicators of judicial statistics upon the organization of culture of the Russian court, which incorporates the shared by majority of judges informal rules of conduct, traditions, and values. The article describes such criteria for assessment of judicial performance as “quality”, “quantity”, and “terms”. In studying the historical origin of judicial performance assessment based on judicial statistics, it is demonstrated that the tradition of such assessment was founded in the 1930s, when political leadership who carried out repressive policy instigated “socialistic competition” between the courts and the judges. The article analyzes the impact of the “struggle for statistics” upon conduct of judges. Such circumstance that in consideration of cases the judges take into account judicial statistics violate the requirement of procedural fairness. There is a contradiction between the Russian legislation, which for the most part complies with the universally recognized international principles, and conservative organizational culture of the Russian courts. Mechanism of reproduction of the latter is the inertia of the “struggle for statistics”. In order to bring into compliance the representations of Russian judges on the acceptable conduct with the values of democratic justice, the system of assessment of judicial performance requires revision.
Preparation of Fe-Al alloy layer on CLAM steel
Authors: Wei Bing-Jun , Hu Li , Xiang Xin , Yang Fei-Long , Zhang Gui-Kai , Wang Huan ,   Institute of Materials, China Academy of Engineering Physics, Mianyang 621900, China
Published: January 2021

Reduced activation ferritic/martensitic steel is one of the candidate materials for tritium breeding module in the fusion reactor. In order to control the permeability of tritium in an acceptable range, coating with low hydrogen isotope permeability, known as tritium permeation barrier, is usually prepared on the surface of such structural materials. The FeAl/Al2O3 is the first choice of tritium permeation barrier for many countries, because of its fine performance of high permeation reduction factor, corrosion resistance and high-temperature resistance. The surface morphology and microstructure of Fe-Al infiltrated layer have important influence on the quality of Al2O3 coating. In this study, Al coating on the surface of CLAM steel is prepared by electroplating of aluminum from AlCl3-EMIC. Then the Fe-Al infiltrated layer is obtained by diffusion between Al and substrate by annealing. The effects of annealing time and temperature on the microstructure of Fe-Al infiltrated layer are studied by X-ray diffraction, scanning electron microscope and energy dispersive spectrometer. The results show that 20-μm-thick aluminum coating is obtained on the CLAM steel surface by electroplating. The Al coating is uniform and compact, and the size of its surface columnar grain decreases with electroplating current density increasing. Annealing results show that neither hole nor gap is observed between the Fe-Al infiltrated layer and the substrate. In addition, the infiltrated layer is found to be tightly bound to the substrate with a thickness ranging from 7 μm to 45 μm, depending on the annealing parameters. At the initial stage of annealing, Cr enriched Fe-Al alloy is formed evidently. However, such a Cr enrichment disappears at higher annealing temperature or longer annealing time due to diffusion. The surface of infiltrated layer changes from aluminum-rich phase to aluminum-poor phase, and its thickness increases with annealing time or temperature rising. The temperature dependence of the growth rate of Fe-Al infiltrated layer can be described by Arrhenius equation. At this time, the Arrhenius activation energy of aluminization on CLAM steel is calculated to be 78.48 kJ/mol. At 640 ℃ and 760 ℃, the growth of Fe-Al infiltrated layer is controlled by the grain boundary as well as the volume diffusion. When the reasonable thickness and microstructure of Fe-Al alloy layer are used and annealing time or temperature keeps as low as possible, the optimal annealing temperature and time are 700 ℃/10 h, respectively.
Antagonism between germ cell-less and Torso receptor regulates transcriptional quiescence underlying germline/soma distinction
Authors: Colonnetta Megan M , Lym Lauren R , Wilkins Lillian , Kappes Gretchen , Castro Elias A , Ryder Pearl V , Schedl Paul , Lerit Dorothy A , Deshpande Girish
Published: January 2021

Transcriptional quiescence, an evolutionarily conserved trait, distinguishes the embryonic primordial germ cells (PGCs) from their somatic neighbors. InDrosophila melanogaster, PGCs from embryos maternally compromised forgerm cell-less(gcl) misexpress somatic genes, possibly resulting in PGC loss. Recent studies documented a requirement for Gcl during proteolytic degradation of the terminal patterning determinant, Torso receptor. Here we demonstrate that the somatic determinant of female fate,Sex-lethal(Sxl), is a biologically relevant transcriptional target of Gcl. Underscoring the significance of transcriptional silencing mediated by Gcl, ectopic expression of a degradation-resistant form of Torso (torsoDeg) can activateSxltranscription in PGCs, whereas simultaneous loss oftorso-like(tsl) reinstates the quiescent status ofgclPGCs. Intriguingly, likegclmutants, embryos derived from mothers expressingtorsoDegin the germline display aberrant spreading of pole plasm RNAs, suggesting that mutual antagonism between Gcl and Torso ensures the controlled release of germ-plasm underlying the germline/soma distinction.
Bi-channel image registration and deep-learning segmentation (BIRDS) for efficient, versatile 3D mapping of mouse brain
Authors: Wang Xuechun , Zeng Weilin , Yang Xiaodan , Zhang Yongsheng , Fang Chunyu , Zeng Shaoqun , Han Yunyun , Fei Peng
Published: January 2021

We have developed an open-source software called bi-channel image registration and deep-learning segmentation (BIRDS) for the mapping and analysis of 3D microscopy data and applied this to the mouse brain. The BIRDS pipeline includes image preprocessing, bi-channel registration, automatic annotation, creation of a 3D digital frame, high-resolution visualization, and expandable quantitative analysis. This new bi-channel registration algorithm is adaptive to various types of whole-brain data from different microscopy platforms and shows dramatically improved registration accuracy. Additionally, as this platform combines registration with neural networks, its improved function relative to the other platforms lies in the fact that the registration procedure can readily provide training data for network construction, while the trained neural network can efficiently segment-incomplete/defective brain data that is otherwise difficult to register. Our software is thus optimized to enable either minute-timescale registration-based segmentation of cross-modality, whole-brain datasets or real-time inference-based image segmentation of various brain regions of interest. Jobs can be easily submitted and implemented via a Fiji plugin that can be adapted to most computing environments.
Can Narrow Band Chirp Stimulus Shake the Throne of 500 Hz Tone Burst Stimulus for Cervical Vestibular Myogenic Potentials?
Authors: Ocal F Ceyda Akin , Karacayli Ceren , Coban Volkan Kenan , Satar Bulent
Published: January 2021

Background and Objectives: The aim of the study was to compare effects of tone-burst (TB) and narrow-band (NB) Claus Elberling (CE)-chirp stimuli on amplitude, latency and interaural asymmetry ratio (IAR) of cervical vestibular evoked myogenic potentials (cVEMP) in healthy individuals.Subjects and Methods: The study included 50 healthy volunteers. cVEMP procedure was carried out using 500 Hz TB and NB-CE-chirp stimulus (360-720 Hz, up-chirp) in random order. cVEMP were recorded at 100 dB nHL. For each ear and each stimulus, P1 latency, N1 latency and P1N1 amplitude were measured. IAR was also calculated.Results: Mean age was 26.66±9.48 years. cVEMP’s in response to both TB and NB CE-chirp stimuli were obtained in all subjects. No statistically significant difference in P1 latency, N1 latency, and P1N1 amplitude was found between the right and left ears for both TB and NB CE-chirp stimuli (p>0.05). In both sides, P1 and N1 latencies were significantly shorter in NB CE-chirp stimulation compared to TB stimulation (p=0.000). In both sides, no statistically significant difference was found in P1N1 amplitude between two types of stimuli (p>0.05).Conclusions: The chirp stimulus produces robust but earlier cVEMP than TB does. This largest series study on NB chirp cVEMP shows that NB chirp is a good and new reliable alternative.
The Advances of Plant Product Meat Alternatives as a Healthier and Environmentally Friendly Option for Animal Meat Protein Consumption
Authors: Fonmboh Dobgima John , Aba Ejoh Richard , Awah Tita Magarete , Fokunang Tembe Estella , Ndasi Ngwasiri Pride , Ngangmou Noumo Thierry , Tita Bengyella Louis , Nono Njinkio Borgia , Samelle Edrice Ajabi Eselle , Fokunang Benyella Lovet , Nubia Kaba Christian , Ntungwen Fokunang Charles
Published: January 2021

High protein from meat consumption has been associated recently to environmental depletion and health related issues despite the important contribution of meat and meat products in diet and growth development. This has motivated debates on a drastic shift from excessive meat consumption amongst stake holders, academics, animal rights activists and environmentalist as informed consumers are pushing food scientist for a more sustainable alternative protein source. Plant proteins are considered a suitable alternative protein. However, the nutritional, functional potential and the form of presentation have shown some technological difficulties which indicates that direct transformation of plant proteins to meat products is less feasible. Though meat alternative research is promising in developed countries, there are technological breakthroughs that have permitted to replace in part or fully certain sensory attributes of meat inspired by the technology behind the ancient east Asian traditionally structured products like tofu, seitan and tempeh. However, despite the global increase in meat consumption associated with high standard of living, the search for the meat protein alternative from plant products have been limited to the conventional sources of soybeans, beans, lentils, vegetables and pulses. Future research could be diversified and orientated towards improving the existing African foods produced endogenously from wild orchid tubers widely consumed in low middle income countries in the form of cakes, meat substitutes, fake meat, mock meat and/or meat replacements. The successful production of a convenient and acceptable plant-based meat replacement will go a long way to reduce or eliminate excessive meat consumption. This review is geared towards a wider data search concerning the advances in meat alternative research and particularly to illustrate on some neglected African endogenously processed products consumed as meat alternatives that needs further research on the wild tubers sources as ingredients for potential convenient and acceptable meat alternatives or extender.
Ethnoichthyological Study of Biological Characteristics and Ecology (Salminus brasiliensis: Teleostei/Characiform): Importance, Status and Conservation Challenges in the Region of Mato Grosso, Brazil
Authors: Dantas Elisangela Santana de Oliveira , Júnior Diniz Pereira Leite
Published: January 2021

Introduction: Salminus is a genus of ichthyofauna currently constituted by five species of migratory neotropical fish, predators, which are important in commercial, ecological and sport fishing.

Aims: The article reflects the conception of fishermen about the ecological interrelationships of ichthyofauna, the relationship with sport fishing, aspects of trophic interactions among fish, the use of habitats aimed at feeding or reproduction and relations with fishing activity.

Methodology: Study carried out in the state of Mato Grosso, central region of Brazil. 122 fishing professionals and artisanal fishermen were interviewed. The testimonies were obtained through phonographic interviews, carried out during visits in temperate sport fishing from 2018 to 2020, verifying questions related to fishing and the study specimen S. brasiliensis.

Results: Among the interviewees, 37 were sport fishermen (30.3%), 22 artisanal fishermen (18.1%) and 63 guide fishermen (51.6%). The interviewees reported several situations and approaches on the problems generated by sport fishing in the State. The results were consistent with the scientific literature and revealed detailed knowledge about the survival strategies of S. brasiliensis. The answers revealed the fishermen's observations on the decrease in fishing resources, the scarcity of species and the conflicts related to sport fishing, making it necessary to look for the best ways of recovering and conserving native species and monitoring in the surveyed places.

Conclusion: S. brasiliensis is an example of the ichthyofauna that is much sought after by sport fishing. The interviewees demonstrated important perceptions of the changes that are occurring in the rivers of Mato Grosso and it was found that it is necessary to intensify studies looking for ways to recover and conserve the native ichthyofauna in the region. The results obtained aim to promote social contributions and partnerships with professional and artisanal fishermen, encouraged to achieve a better harmony between fishing and nature, creating actions that can be extended to indigenous, quilombola and riverside peoples.
Screening of Locally Isolated Penicillium Species from the Soil for Amylase Production
Authors: Jakheng S. P. E. , Thomas J. , Umar M. , Ojeleye F. S. , Albert A. K. , Oko J. O. , Ojo S. A. , Sagir M. R. , Amuta I. C. , Gaiya J. D. , Kutman N. A.
Published: January 2021

Background: A number of microorganisms are capable of degrading amylase and only a few of these microorganisms produce significant quantities of enzymes capable of completely hydrolyzing the amylase. Fungi are the main amylase-producing microorganisms.

Aims: The present study targeted to screen Penicillium species isolated locally from soil for amylase production.

Materials and Methods: In this research, fungal species belonging to genera penicillum species were isolated from soil and screened for their ability to degrade cellulose (lactose, fructose, sucrose and dextrose) for enzyme activity. Enzymatic fungi were evaluated after 7 days for the production of amylase enzymes by lactophenol microscopic examination. The concentrations for 7 days of production were formulated by dilution method as 0.148 mg/ml, 0.313 mg/ml, 0.303 mg/ml, 0.127 mg/ml, 0.161 mg/ml, 0.079 mg/ml and 0.099 mg/ml respectively.

Results: The maximum amylase production was obtained on the 2nd day of production which was 0.313 mg/ml and minimum production was obtained on the 6th day of production which was 0.079 mg/ml. Optimal pH was obtained at pH of 6 and temperature of 45°C with concentrations 0.587 mg/ml and 0.090 mg/ml.

Conclusion: The results of this study implied that a high concentration of enzymatic fungi could be obtained locally from the soil and the Penicillium isolates hold varied industrial production of amylase.
Citric Acid Production from Waste Substrate by Using Some Fungi
Authors: Sharma Shrishti , Parkhey Suruchi , Saraf Ashish , Das Sachin
Published: January 2021

Citric acid is one of the most commonly used and easily available multifunctional organic acids. This is widely used in different industrial applications. Citric acid is 2hydroxyl 1,2,3 propanetricarboxylic acid. It is present in many fruits and vegetables. Citric acid is usually found in lemon. The global demand for Citric acid is about 6.08x105per year its uses are increasing day by day. Aspergillus niger and Aspergillus flavus organisms are used for citric acid production. In this present study citric acid production from the different waste substrates such as Banana peels, Coconut husk, and Rice straw were carried out using Aspergillus niger and Aspergillus flavus isolated from soil sample. Characterization and identification were done with the help of microscopic examination based on lactophenol cotton blue staining. Aspergillus niger and Aspergillus flavus are appeared as branched hypae with conidial spore. The production of citric acid was performed by solid state fermentation and estimated on the different fermentation days, different pH and different concentration of substrate. We observed that high level of citric acid production was on 9th day of fermentation as compared to others days of fermentation.
Determinants and Policy Ramifications of Cocoa Farmers’ Use of Agrochemicals in Cocoa-Based (Theobroma cacao) Agroforestry Systems in Cameroon
Authors: Tsufac Azembouh Roshinus , Awazi Nyong Princely , Yerima Bernard Palmer Kfuban
Published: January 2021

The application of agrochemicals in agroforestry systems in general and cocoa-based agroforestry systems in particular is unprecedented as agroforestry systems are considered as environmentally benign, agro-ecological and sustainable agricultural systems. It was within this context that this study was undertaken to examine the determinants of cocoa farmers’ use of agrochemical in cocoa-based agroforestry systems. Through a mixed research approach, and data analysis using appropriate descriptive and inferential statistical tools, it was found that the main types of herbicides used by cocoa farmers in cocoa-based agroforestry systems are Paraquat (50%) and Glyphosate (40%). For fungicides, the main types used were Mancozeb (70%), Maneb (65%), Ridomil (60%), Caocobre (50%), and Nordox (40%). For insecticides, the main types used were Methyl (65%), Imidacloprid (60%), Endosulfan (50%), Cypermethrin (50%), and Fenobucarp (40%). The most common pests and diseases affecting cocoa perceived by cocoa farmers in cocoa-based agroforestry systems were Black pod – Phytophtora spp (100%), Capsid/Mirids – Distantiella theobroma and Sahlbergella singularis (100%), Cocoa Swollen Shoot Virus Disease – CSSVD (60%), Witches’ broom – Crinipellis perniciosa (50%) and Vascular streak dieback (40%). Most cocoa farmers perceived that the use of all three agrochemicals (herbicides, fungicides, and insecticides) in cocoa-based agroforestry systems have negative socio-economic and environmental impacts.  From Spearman rank correlation and logistic regression coefficients, it was noticed that the main explanatory variables having a statistically significant direct non-cause-effect and cause-effect relationship (p<0.05) with cocoa farmers’ use of agrochemicals in cocoa-based agroforestry systems were gender, income, availability of agrochemicals, access to information, membership in farming groups, and access to extension services. Meanwhile the main explanatory variables having a statistically significant indirect or inverse non-cause-effect and cause-effect relationship (p<0.05) with cocoa farmers’ use of agrochemicals in cocoa-based agroforestry systems were farm size and number of farms. It is recommended that policy makers take a critical look at the different agrochemicals used by cocoa farmers as well as the determinants of their use when formulating policies geared towards ensuring the sustainable use of these agrochemicals in cocoa-based agroforestry systems.
A Novel Antibacterial Topical Gel from Nigella sativa and Achyranthes aspera against Acne Causing Microorganisms
Authors: Rahat Iqra , Sharma Satish Kumar
Published: January 2021

Inflammation in sebaceous follicles leads to skin related maladies more specifically, acne vulgaris. Bacterial species involved in causing such maladies involve P. acnes, S. epidermidis, S. aureus. These microbes have negatively affected the currently available remedies for acne vulgaris. In this research herbal Nigella sativa, Achyranthes aspera seeds were used instead of using any chemical based product on skin. The present study aims to develop novel antibacterial gel using Nigella sativa, Achyranthes aspera seeds to target pathogens that cause dermal acne. To extract the antibacterial property of the seed, they were soaked in desired chemicals individually in a shaker and then evaporated by using a rotary evaporator. After the extraction the extract was screed using the agar gel well diffusion method against P. acnes as well as S. aureus. From the diffusion method it was found that the extract is loaded with antibacterial properties. Now, the extract of N. sativa and A. aspera seeds was further divided into gels of 2 different concentrations and subjected for stability evaluation of antimicrobial activity. In this research it was found that the antibacterial property of the 10% of seed extract used was surpassed the commercial synthetic product. In addition, it was found that there were no changes in colour, pH, odor, consistency, homogeneity, and washing capacity, although the antibacterial potential was physiologically stable during storage time. The strong antimicrobial property produced from the extract in topical gel formulations suggests that the formulation can be a potential alternative to current remedies in the treatment of acne vulgaris.
Isradipine plasma pharmacokinetics and exposure–response in early Parkinson’s disease
Authors: Venuto Charles S. , Yang Luoying , Javidnia Monica , Oakes David , James Surmeier D. , Simuni Tanya
Published: January 2021

Objectives

Isradipine is a dihydropyridine calcium channel inhibitor that has demonstrated concentration‐dependent neuroprotective effects in animal models of Parkinson’s disease (PD) but failed to show efficacy in a phase 3 clinical trial. The objectives of this study were to model the plasma pharmacokinetics of isradipine in study participants from the phase 3 trial; and, to investigate associations between drug exposure and longitudinal clinical outcome measures of PD progression.

Methods

Plasma samples from nearly all study participants randomized to immediate‐release isradipine 5‐mg twice daily (166 of 170) were collected for population pharmacokinetic modeling. Estimates of isradipine exposure included apparent oral clearance and area under the concentration‐time curve. Isradipine exposure parameters were tested for correlations with 36‐month changes in disease severity clinical assessment scores, and time‐to‐event analyses for initiation of antiparkinson therapy.

Results

Isradipine exposures did not correlate with the primary clinical outcome, changes in the antiparkinson therapy‐adjusted Unified Parkinson’s Disease Rating Scale parts I–III score over 36 months (Spearman rank correlation coefficient, rs: 0.09, P = 0.23). Cumulative levodopa equivalent dose at month 36 was weakly correlated with isradipine plasma clearance (rs: 0.18, P = 0.035). This correlation was sex dependent and significant in males, but not females. Those with higher isradipine exposure had decreased risk of needing antiparkinson treatment over 36 months compared with placebo (hazard ratio: 0.87, 95% CI: 0.78–0.98, P = 0.02).

Interpretation

In this clinical trial, higher isradipine plasma exposure did not affect clinical assessment measures of PD severity but modestly decreased cumulative levodopa equivalent dose and the time needed for antiparkinson treatment initiation.

Trial Registration

ClinicalTrials.gov NCT02168842.
Relationship Between Patient‐Reported Readiness for Total Knee Arthroplasty and Likelihood of a Good Outcome at One‐Year Follow‐Up
Authors: Hawker Gillian A. , Conner‐Spady Barbara L. , Bohm Eric , Dunbar Michael J. , Jones C. Allyson , Ravi Bheeshma , Noseworthy Tom , Woodhouse Linda J. , Faris Peter , Dick Donald , Powell James , Paul Paulose , Marshall Deborah A. ,   BEST‐Knee Study Team
Published: January 2021

Objective

To determine the relationship between patients' preoperative readiness for total knee arthroplasty (TKA) and surgical outcome at 1 year post‐TKA.

Methods

This prospective cohort study recruited patients with knee osteoarthritis (OA) who were ≥30 years and were referred for TKA at 2 hip/knee surgery centers in Alberta, Canada. Those who underwent primary unilateral TKA completed questionnaires prior to TKA to assess pain using the Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Osteoarthritis Index (WOMAC), physical disability using the Knee Injury and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score physical function short form, perceived arthritis coping efficacy, general self‐efficacy, depressed mood using the Patient Health Questionnaire 8, body mass index, comorbidities, and TKA readiness (patient acceptable symptom state; willingness to undergo TKA); these same individuals also completed the above questionnaires 1 year post‐TKA to assess surgical outcomes. A good TKA outcome was defined as an individual having improved knee symptoms, measured using the Osteoarthritis Research Society International–Outcome Measures in Rheumatology responder criteria, and overall satisfaction with results of the TKA. Poisson regression with robust error estimation was used to estimate the relative risk (RR) of a good outcome for exposures, before and after controlling for covariates.

Results

Of 1,272 TKA recipients assessed at 1 year post‐TKA, 1,053 with data for the outcome assessed in the study were included (mean ± SD age 66.9 ± 8.8 years; 58.6% female). Most patients (87.8%) were definitely willing to undergo TKA and had “unacceptable” knee symptoms (79.7%). Among patients who underwent TKA, 78.1% achieved a good outcome. Controlling for pre‐TKA OA‐related disability, arthritis coping efficacy, comorbid hip symptoms, and depressed mood, definite willingness to undergo TKA and unacceptable knee symptoms were associated with a greater likelihood of a good TKA outcome, with adjusted RRs of 1.18 (95% confidence interval [95% CI] 1.04–1.35) and 1.14 (95% CI 1.02–1.27), respectively.

Conclusion

Among patients who underwent TKA for knee OA, patients' psychological readiness for TKA and willingness to undergo TKA were associated with a greater likelihood of a good outcome. Incorporation of these factors in TKA decision‐making may enhance patient outcomes and appropriate the use of TKA.
Centimeter‐Sized Single Crystals of Two‐Dimensional Hybrid Iodide Double Perovskite (4,4‐Difluoropiperidinium)4AgBiI8 for High‐Temperature Ferroelectricity and Efficient X‐Ray Detection
Authors: Wang Chang‐Feng , Li Haojin , Li Mao‐Guang , Cui Yu , Song Xin , Wang Qin‐Wen , Jiang Jia‐Ying , Hua Miao‐Miao , Xu Qi , Zhao Kui , Ye Heng‐Yun , Zhang Yi
Published: January 2021

Ferroelectricity and X‐ray detection property have been recently implemented for the first time in hybrid bromide double perovskites. It sheds a light on achieving photosensitive and ferroelectric multifunctional materials based on 2D lead‐free hybrid halide double perovskites. However, the low Tc, small Ps, and relatively low X‐ray sensitivity in the reported bromide double perovskites hinder practical applications. Herein, the authors demonstrate a novel 2D lead‐free iodide double perovskite (4,4‐difluoropiperidinium)4AgBiI8 (1) for high‐performance X‐ray sensitive ferroelectric devices. Centimeter‐sized single crystal of 1 is obtained and exhibits an excellent ferroelectricity including a high Tc up to 422 K and a large Ps of 10.5 μC cm−2. Moreover, due to a large X‐ray attenuation and efficient charge carrier mobility (μ)–charge carrier lifetime (τ) product, the crystal 1 also exhibits promising X‐ray response with a high sensitivity up to 188 μC·Gyair−1 cm−2 and a detection limit below 3.13 μGyair·s−1. Therefore, this finding is a step further toward practical applications of lead‐free halide perovskite in high‐performance photoelectronic devices. It will afford a promising platform for exploring novel photosensitive ferroelectric multifunctional materials based on lead‐free double perovskites.
An Accelerated Wound‐Healing Surgical Suture Engineered with an Extracellular Matrix
Authors: Setiawati Agustina , Jang Dongyoon , Cho Daeyon , Cho Shingyu , Jeong Hayan , Park Sungmin , Gwak Jungsug , Ryu Soo Ryeon , Jung Won Hee , Ju Bong‐Gun , Jung Kwang‐Hwan , Kwon Oh‐Sun , Shin Kwanwoo
Published: January 2021

A suture is a ubiquitous medical device to hold wounded tissues together and support the healing process after surgery. Surgical sutures, having incomplete biocompatibility, often cause unwanted infections or serious secondary trauma to soft or fragile tissue. In this research, UV/ozone (UVO) irradiation or polystyrene sulfonate acid (PSS) dip‐coating is used to achieve a fibronectin (FN)‐coated absorbable suture system, in which the negatively charged moieties produced on the suture cause fibronectin to change from a soluble plasma form into a fibrous form, mimicking the actions of cellular fibronectin upon binding. The fibrous fibronectin coated on the suture can be exploited as an engineered interface to improve cellular migration and adhesion in the region around the wounded tissue while preventing the binding of infectious bacteria, thereby facilitating wound healing. Furthermore, the FN‐coated suture is found to be associated with a lower friction between the suture and the wounded tissue, thus minimizing the occurrence of secondary wounds during surgery. It is believed that this surface modification can be universally applied to most kinds of sutures currently in use, implying that it may be a novel way to develop a highly effective and safer suture system for clinical applications.
Manganese Tetraphosphide (MnP4) as a High Capacity Anode for Lithium‐Ion and Sodium‐Ion Batteries
Authors: Kim Kyeong‐Ho , Hong Seong‐Hyeon
Published: January 2021

Phosphorus‐rich 6‐MnP4 nanoparticles are synthesized via high energy mechanical milling (HEMM) and their electrochemical properties as an anode for lithium‐ion batteries (LIBs) and sodium‐ion batteries (SIBs) are investigated focusing on the electrochemical activity and reaction mechanism. The 6‐MnP4 nanoparticles with a triclinic structure (P‐1) are successfully synthesized by HEMM and they are composed of 5 to 20 nm‐sized crystallites. During the lithiation process, the MnP4 phase undertakes the sequential alloying (MnP4 + 7 Li+ + 7 e− → Li7MnP4) and conversion (Li7MnP4 + 5 Li+ + 5 e− → Mn0 + 4 Li3P) reactions. On the other hand, the MnP4 nanoparticles are directly converted to Mn0 and Na3P without the formation of an intermediate Na–Mn–P alloy phase during sodiation process. The MnP4 electrode shows high initial discharge and charge capacity (1876 and 1615 mAh g−1 for LIBs, and 1234 and 1028 mAh g−1 for SIBs) and high initial Coulombic efficiency (86% for LIBs and 83% for SIBs), indicating a promising candidate for high capacity anodes. In addition, the long‐term cyclability and high rate capability of MnP4 can be further improved through the formation of MnP4/graphene nanocomposites and vanadium substituted Mn0.75V0.25P4 solid solutions.
Active Site Identification in FeNC Catalysts and Their Assignment to the Oxygen Reduction Reaction Pathway by In Situ57Fe Mössbauer Spectroscopy
Authors: Ni Lingmei , Gallenkamp Charlotte , Paul Stephen , Kübler Markus , Theis Pascal , Chabbra Sonia , Hofmann Kathrin , Bill Eckhard , Schnegg Alexander , Albert Barbara , Krewald Vera , Kramm Ulrike I.
Published: January 2021

FeNC catalysts are the most promising substitutes for Pt‐based catalysts for the oxygen reduction reaction in proton exchange fuel cells. However, it remains unclear which FeN4moieties contribute to the reaction mechanism and in which way. The origin of this debate could lie in various preparation routes, and therefore the aim of this work is to identify whether the active site species differ in different preparation routes or not. To answer this question, three FeNC catalysts, related to the three main preparation routes, are prepared and thoroughly characterized. Three transitions A–C that are distinguished by a variation in the local environment of the deoxygenated state are defined. By in situ57Fe Mössbauer spectroscopy, it can be shown that all three catalysts exhibit a common spectral change assigned to one of the transitions that constitutes the dominant contribution to the direct electroreduction of oxygen. Moreover, the change in selectivity can be attributed to the presence of a variation within additional species. Density functional theory calculations help to explain the observed trends and enable concrete suggestions on the nature of nitrogen coordination in the two FeN4moieties involved in the oxygen reduction reaction of FeNC catalysts.
Flexibility index of black‐box models with parameter uncertainty through derivative‐free optimization
Authors: Zhao Fei , Grossmann Ignacio E. , García‐Muñoz Salvador , Stamatis Stephen D.
Published: January 2021

The existing methods of flexibility index are mainly based on mixed‐integer linear or nonlinear programming methods, making it difficult to readily deal with complex mathematical models. In this article, a novel solution strategy is proposed for finding a reliable upper bound of the flexibility index where the process model is implemented in a black box that can be directly executed by a commercial simulator, and also avoiding the need for calculating derivatives. Then, the flexibility index problem is formulated as a sequence of univariate derivative‐free optimization (DFO) models. An external DFO solver based on trust‐region methods can be called to solve this model. Finally, after calculating the critical point of the model parameters, the vertex enumeration method and two gradient approximation methods are proposed to evaluate the impact of process parameters and to evaluate the flexibility index. A reaction model is studied to show the efficiency of the proposed algorithm.
Pearl lecture: Biological normalcy: A new framework for biocultural analysis of human population variation
Authors: Wiley Andrea S.
Published: January 2021

Biological normalcy is a new analytical framework for understanding the bi‐directional relationships between the biology of populations and cultural norms. Populations are characterized by statistical distributions—that is, measures of central tendency and variance—for biological traits, and these co‐exist in societies with ideas about what constitutes “normal” human bodies, that is, normative views about what bodies “should” be like. While statistical norms may carry no explicit evaluative weight, the question is how they are related to judgments about what is “normal” or “abnormal.” In a 1947 paper, Margaret Mead recognized their potential relationship: “normal…may refer to the statistically usual in the culture—usually without any recognition that this is culturally relative—so that the statistically usual is identified with the basically human….” Despite her observations over 70 years ago, little has been done on this topic, yet such work promises new insights into the relationship between culture and biology, here described at the population level, rather than as individual genetic characteristics. Using examples of sex/gender, race/ethnicity, age, and my work on human variation in the ability to drink milk, I outline the ways in which statistical norms may: influence individuals' perceptions of what is “normal” (Mead's “basically human”); lead to normative judgments about what human biology “should” be (“ethno‐biocentrism”) that are reinforced by biases in discourse about human variation; and potentially feedback to mold the biological characteristics of a population.
The distribution in native populations from Mexico and Central America of the C677T variant in the MTHFR gene
Authors: Reyes Lucio , Godfrey David , Ming Li‐June , MacLean Caroline , Gonzalez Francisco J. , Madrigal Lorena
Published: January 2021

Objectives

To explore evolutionary hypotheses for the high frequencies of a substitution in the methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase (MTHFR) gene, in Mexican and Central American Indigenous populations.

Materials and methods

We obtained allele frequencies for the C677T variant in the MTHFR gene and ecological information for 37 indigenous samples from Mexico and Central America. We calculated Hardy–Weinberg equilibrium and computed Fst statistics. We computed correlations between the samples' allele frequencies and ecological and geochemical variables.

Results

Many of the samples have extremely high frequencies of the T allele ( = 0.62, median = 0.66). In this region, the frequency of the T allele decreases from Southeast to Northwest and is significantly correlated with longitude, latitude, altitude, and insolation.

Conclusions

The native people of Central America and Mexico evolved high frequencies of an allele which has been shown to produce deleterious clinical effects including neural tube effects, cardiovascular events, and cancer. This allele has a clinal distribution in the region, perhaps associated with solar irradiation. As (Contreras‐Cubas et al., 2016) noted, the traditional diet of these populations, which is high in folate, has likely mitigated the negative effect of the allele. It is of primary importance that their rights to their homeland and traditional diets be respected. It is a matter of Public Health to investigate whether this allele is a factor in the current wave of cardiovascular diseases affecting the majority population of this region, since it descends from the Native peoples and the Mediterranean population, which also has high frequencies of the allele.
Bilateral asymmetry and developmental plasticity of the humerus in modern humans
Authors: Zelazny Kaya G. , Sylvester Adam D. , Ruff Christopher B.
Published: January 2021

Objective

This study investigates bilateral asymmetry in the humerus of modern human populations with differing activity patterns to assess the relative plasticity of different bone regions in response to environmental influences, particularly the biomechanical demands of handedness.

Methods

External breadths, cross‐sectional properties, and centroid sizes were used to quantify directional and absolute asymmetry of humeral diaphyseal, distal periarticular, and articular regions in six populations with differing subsistence strategies (total n = 244). Geometric section properties were measured using computed tomography at six locations along the distal humerus, while centroid sizes of the distal articular and periarticular regions, as well as eight segments of the diaphysis, were extracted from external landmark data. Bilateral asymmetries were compared between populations and sexes. Each property was also tested for correlation with bilateral asymmetry at 40% of bone length, which has been shown to correlate with handedness.

Results

Asymmetry is highest in the diaphysis, but significant through all distal bone regions. Asymmetry increases in the region of the deltoid tuberosity, and progressively declines distally through the shaft and distal periarticular region. Articular asymmetry is higher than periarticular asymmetry, approaching levels seen just proximal to the olecranon fossa, and is weakly but significantly correlated with diaphyseal asymmetry. Hunter‐gatherers from Indian Knoll have significantly higher levels of asymmetry than other groups and are more sexually dimorphic, particularly in cross‐sectional properties of the diaphysis.

Conclusions

Humeral dimensions throughout the diaphysis, including regions currently used in taxonomic assignments of fossil hominins, likely respond to in vivo use, including population and sex‐specific behaviors.