bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Multi-variable, multi-configuration testing of ORCHIDEE land surface model water flux and storage estimates across semi-arid sites in the southwestern US
Authors: MacBean Natasha , Scott Russell L. , Biederman Joel A. , Ottlé Catherine , Vuichard Nicolas , Ducharne Agnès , Kolb Thomas , Dore Sabina , Litvak Marcy , Moore David J. P.
Published: December 2019

Abstract. Plant activity in semi-arid ecosystems is largely controlled by pulses of precipitation, making them particularly vulnerable to increased aridity expected with climate change. Simple bucket-model hydrology schemes in land surface models (LSMs) have had limited ability in accurately capturing semi-arid water stores and fluxes. Recent, more complex, LSM hydrology models have not been widely evaluated against semi-arid ecosystem in situ data. We hypothesize that the failure of older LSM versions to represent evapotranspiration, ET, in arid lands is because simple bucket models do not capture realistic fluctuations in upper layer soil moisture. We therefore predict that including a discretized soil hydrology scheme based on a mechanistic description of moisture diffusion will result in an improvement in model ET when compared to data because the temporal variability of upper layer soil moisture content better corresponds to that of precipitation inputs. To test this prediction, we compared ORCHIDEE LSM simulations from (1) a simple conceptual 2-layer bucket scheme with fixed hydrological parameters; and (2) a 11-layer discretized mechanistic scheme of moisture diffusion in unsaturated soil based on Richards equations against daily and monthly soil moisture and ET observations, together with data-derived transpiration / evaporation, T / ET, ratios, from six semi-arid grass, shrub and forest sites in the southwestern USA. The 11-layer scheme also has modified calculations of surface runoff, bare soil evaporation, and water limitation to be compatible with the more complex hydrology configuration. To diagnose remaining discrepancies in the 11-layer model, we tested two further configurations: (i) the addition of a term that captures bare soil evaporation resistance to dry soil; and (ii) reduced bare soil fraction. We found that the more mechanistic 11-layer model results better representation of the daily and monthly ET observations. We show that is likely because of improved simulation of soil moisture in the upper layers of soil (top 5 cm). Some discrepancies between observed and modelled soil moisture and ET may allow us to prioritize future model development. Adding a soil resistance term generally decreased simulated E and increased soil moisture content, thus increasing T and T / ET ratios and reducing the negative T / ET model-data bias. By reducing the bare soil fraction in the model, we illustrated that modelled leaf T is too low at sparsely vegetated sites. We conclude that a discretized soil hydrology scheme and associated developments improves estimates of ET by allowing the model to more closely match the pulse precipitation dynamics of these semi-arid ecosystems; however, the partitioning of T from bare soil evaporation is not solved by this modification alone.
Statistical analysis of energy consumption, tool wear and surface roughness in machining of Titanium alloy (Ti-6Al-4V) under dry, wet and cryogenic conditions
Authors: Ali Khan Muhammad , Jaffery Syed Husain Imran , Khan Mushtaq , Younas Muhammad , Butt Shahid Ikramullah , Ahmad Riaz , Warsi Salman Sagheer
Published: December 2019

Abstract. Productivity and economy are key elements of any sustainable manufacturing system. While productivity is associated to
quantity and quality, economy focuses on energy efficient processes
achieving an overall high output to input ratio. Machining of hard-to-cut
materials has always posed a challenge due to increased tool wear and energy
loss. Cryogenics have emerged as an effective means to improve
sustainability in the recent past. In the present research the use of
cooling conditions has been investigated as an input variable to analyze its
effect on tool wear, specific cutting energy and surface roughness in
combination with other input machining parameters of feed rate, cutting
speed and depth of cut. Experimental design was based on Taguchi design of
experiment. Analysis of Variance (ANOVA) was carried out to ascertain the
contribution ratio of each input. Results showed the positive effect of
coolant usage, particularly cryogenic, on process responses. Tool wear was
improved by 33 % whereas specific cutting energy and surface roughness
were improved by 10 % and 9 % respectively by adapting the optimum
machining conditions.
Aleutian island arc magma production rates and mechanisms
Authors: Bai Yongliang , Zhang Diya , Dong Dongdong , Wu Shiguo , Wang Zhenjie
Published: December 2019

Abstract. The variation in island arc magma production rates and their influencing mechanisms are of great significance since island arc magma is considered a main source of continental crust growth. The island arc magma directly originates from the molten mantle wedge, and the mantle melting is driven by fluids or melts from the subducted slab. Slab dehydration flux mainly depends on the slab thermal structures, and subducted slab melting requires a sufficiently high temperature. For the Aleutian subduction system, the subducted Pacific Plate has diverse thermal structures due to the existing fracture zones, ridges and slab window, so it is an ideal region for arc magma production rate research. However, the previous estimations are based on seismic profiles that only provide magma production rates at specific regions of the Aleutian arc, and these results are controversial. Here, we design a magma production rate estimation method based on gravity inversion constrained by deep seismic profiles. The first overview map of magma production rates along the Aleutian arc strike demonstrates that the magma production rates have the same trend as the slab dips, and the peaks correspond to the subduction of the fracture zones and ridges. The potential mechanisms for these correlations are as follows: (1) Slab water flux at subarc depths increases with increasing slab dip. More fluid flux would induce more mantle melting, and so the arc magma production rates are increased. (2) Water-rich serpentine is formed by hydrothermal alteration on or near the surface of the subducted slab when there are fracture zones. Serpentine decomposition at a depth of 80–120 km releases fluids in addition to the fluids released during normal slab dehydration. Therefore, more fluids induce more mantle melting and correspond a larger magma production rate. (3) The slab located in the Emperor Seamounts has a relatively high temperature and is also weak, so its melting is easier. Similarly, more slab melt means more mantle melt and a higher island arc magma production rate.
Measuring dynamic wake characteristics with nacelle mounted LiDAR systems
Authors: Reinwardt Inga , Schilling Levin , Dalhoff Peter , Steudel Dirk , Breuer Michael
Published: December 2019

Abstract. Light Detection And Ranging (LiDAR) systems have gained a great importance in today's wake characteristic measurements. The aim of this measurement campaign is to track the wake meandering and in a further step to validate the wind speed deficit in the meandering frame of reference (MFR) and in the fixed frame of reference using nacelle mounted LiDAR measurements. The measurement campaign has been prepared in detail by preliminary simulations mimicking the LiDAR behavior and corresponding wind field simulations. Additionally, a comparison between the modelled wake degradation in the MFR and the measured one could be conducted. The simulations were done with two different versions of the Dynamic Wake Meandering (DWM) model. These versions differ only in the description of the quasi-steady wake deficit. Based on the findings from the LiDAR measurements the formulation of the quasi-steady wake deficit in the DWM model has been adjusted, so that the recalibrated model coincides very well with the measurements.
Stage Review of Matrix Theatre’s Two Trains Running
Authors: Román David
Published: December 2019

A review of Two Trains Running by August Wilson, staged at Matrix Theatre in Los Angeles, California from March 1 through March 3, 2019.
A CONSTITUTIVE MODEL FOR BOTH LOW AND HIGH STRAIN NONLINEARITIES IN HIGHLY FILLED ELASTOMERS AND IMPLEMENTATION WITH USER-DEFINED MATERIAL SUBROUTINES IN ABAQUS
Authors: Hohenberger Travis W. , Windslow Richard J. , Pugno Nicola M. , Busfield James J. C.
Published: December 2019

Strain energy functions (SEFs) are used to model the hyperelastic behavior of rubberlike materials. In tension, the stress–strain response of these materials often exhibits three characteristics: (i) a decreasing modulus at low strains (<20%), (ii) a constant modulus at intermediate strains, and (iii) an increasing modulus at high strains (>200%). Fitting an SEF that works in each regime is challenging when multiple or nonhomogeneous deformation modes are considered. The difficulty increases with highly filled elastomers because the small strain nonlinearity increases and finite-extensibility occurs at lower strains. One can compromise by fitting an SEF to a limited range of strain, but this is not always appropriate. For example, rubber seals in oilfield packers can exhibit low global strains but high localized strains. The Davies–De–Thomas (DDT) SEF is a good candidate for modeling such materials. Additional improvements will be shown by combining concepts from the DDT and Yeoh SEFs to construct a more versatile SEF. The SEF is implemented with user-defined material subroutines in Abaqus/Standard (UHYPER) and Abaqus/Explicit (VUMAT) for a three-dimensional general strain problem, and an approach to overcome a mathematically indeterminate stress condition in the unstrained state is derived. The complete UHYPER and VUMAT subroutines are also presented.
The effectiveness of therapeutic massage in painful shoulder syndrome
Authors: WILK IWONA
Published: December 2019

Introduction: The chronic painful shoulder syndrome comprises the set of symptoms located in the area of the shoulder girdle and all the structures which make this complex, namely, the scapula, the clavicle and the arm. The complexity of the structures, which make up for the shoulder girdle, results in frequent dysfunctions as the abnormality in functioning of only one element can lead to the problems with the whole structure. Pain and limited joint mobility are the most frequent symptoms. The dysfunctions of the shoulder girdle limit the patient’s independence and evoke mental and physical discomfort which decrease the quality of life. The syndrome often occurs as a main disorder but in many cases its symptoms coexist with other diseases. The purposeof the work was to present the possibility of application of therapeutic (tensegrity) massage in the chronic pain shoulder syndrome.Material and methods: This article presents the process of massage application to different muscles of the shoulder in the appropriate order, which is called the therapeutic (tensegrity) massage. The purpose of the massage is to decrease the tonus of the muscle and increase the blood flow which ought to result in restoring the shoulder function. Six 45–minute-long massage sessions were performed and repeated every three days.Results: After the therapy, the decrease of painful shoulder was observed along with the vanish of the shoulder and the arm lifting habit. After this massage period, when the pain was smaller, the patient immediately wanted to continue physiotherapy.Conclusions: Massage is one of the forms of therapy, which can be used in the painful shoulder syndrome. It might often constitute the introductory stage to the rehabilitation aimed at mobilization of the patient.
The efectiveness of therapeutic massage in professional long-distance runners - case study
Authors: Wilk Iwona
Published: December 2019

Background: Regardless of the sport discipline, the rules of prophylaxis, coaching methods and experience, injuries and contusions in athletes occur. They are inevitable, and when they eventually appear, a comprehensive therapy should be applied to avoid complications and further injuries.Material and methods: A female runner was given a classical massage, before and after the training session each of 10 minutes and, additionally, two sessions of 45-minute-tensegrity massage. Two diferent confgurations were worked out (I and II) because only selected connective tissues were intensively sensitive to compression. Results: After the classical massage the decrease in pain of fbular muscles (peroneus longus and brevis) was achieved, however, after the tensegrity massage the reduction of pain in inguinale ligaments was additionally observed. The massage of the tissues being in direct and indirect contact with the injured area resulted in complete pain elimination.Conclusions: Tensegrity massage can be used in the cases of connective tissue injuries and other mild injuries which are found in athletes. The choice of the type of the massage always depends on current symptoms and needs of the athletes. The therapy ought to be completed with the education on the preventive activities which athletes should follow. Keywords: classical and tensegrity massage, injury, pain
Arrhythmogenic right ventricular cardiomyopathy – step by step diagnosis
Authors: Gładysz Justyna
Published: December 2019

Background: The arrhythmogenic right ventricular cardiomyopathy (ARVC) is a rare and genetically determined heart disease. Its first manifestation might be a sudden cardiac death which usually affects young and apparently healthy people. The diagnosis of ARVC is based on Task Force diagnostic criteria. Aim of the study: The aim of this study was to present the rules of diagnostic procedures in patients suspected to be suffering from ARVC. Material and methods: This article demonstrates current diagnostic criteria of ARVC on the example of a 24-year-old female patient with sustained ventricular tachycardia and cardiac arrest. Case description: The patient met four major criteria of Task Force which resulted from the abnormalities in imaging and electrocardiographic examinations. Conclusions: The precise examination based on the medical history and commonly available non-invasive and relatively cheap tests, i.e. electrocardiography and echocardiography, enabled the ARVC diagnosis in the patient.
What should guide priority setting in health care? A study of public preferences in Sweden
Authors: Ryen Linda , Jakobsson Niklas , Svensson Mikael
Published: December 2019

Priority setting criteria in health care are commonly set by politicians on behalf of the public. It is desirable that these criteria are in line with societal preferences in order to gain acceptance for decisions on what health services to provide and reimburse. We study public preferences for the allocation of the health care budget based on age, disease severity and treatment cost. We use data from a web survey where 1,160 respondents provided their views on priority setting criteria in health care. The data was analyzed using multinomial logistic regression analyses and one-sample proportion tests. Between 13 to 25 percent of the respondents agree that age, disease severity and treatment cost are valid criteria for priority setting, whereas 56 to 80 percent support weaker versions of the statements. We also find significant differences within the population; young men are for example more prone to support explicit priority setting criteria. Our results imply a need for trade-offs in health care priority setting if balancing differing preferences among population groups. To achieve a greater understanding for priority setting in general, and for using economic reasoning in particular, there may be a need for more public transparency to make clear that priority setting is inevitable.

Published: Online December 2019
Prejuicio contra los romaníes en Grecia: Un desafío para el trabajo social
Authors: Asimopoulos Charis , Martinaki Sofia , Kompoti Despoina , Kontogianni Eleni , Gouga Georgia
Published: December 2019

Los romanies son uno de los grupos más marginados y socialmente excluidos de Grecia. La discriminación, las barreras y la exclusión social se deben principalmente a las opiniones estereotipadas y los prejuicios que se han configurado para ellos a lo largo de los años. El objetivo de esta investigación fue investigar las actitudes y los prejuicios hacia los romanies según los puntos de vista de los profesionales del bienestar, la salud y la educación. La encuesta se realizó con metodología cualitativa y, en particular, con entrevistas semiestructuradas. El grupo de entrevistados incluyó a treinta profesionales de bienestar social, salud y educación que trabajan en diferentes servicios en la ciudad de Atenas. Las investigaciones han demostrado que los profesionales del bienestar, la salud y la educación, bajo la influencia de actitudes sociales soberanas, pueden correr el riesgo de ser las mismas ideas preconcebidas y negativas hacia los romanies que la población general. Los resultados de la encuesta respaldan la necesidad de desarrollar intervenciones apropiadas para reducir la sensación de amenaza y cambio de las actitudes negativas de los profesionales de servicios hacia los romanies, centrándose en las intervenciones de enfoque multicultural, crítico y antirrepresivo y la adopción de políticas multiculturales, aceptación de la diversidad y combate discriminación.The Roma are one of the most marginalised and socially excluded groups in Greece. They face discrimination, barriers and social exclusion mainly as a result of anti-Roma stereotypes and prejudices formed throughout the centuries. The purpose of this research was to investigate attitudes and prejudices towards the Roma according to the views of education, health and social welfare professionals. The research used qualitative methods and in particular a semi-structured interview. The group of interviewees included twenty three professionals working in various settings in the city of Athens. The research showed that welfare, health and education professionals, under the influence of dominant social attitudes, are likely to become vehicles of the same anti-Roma prejudices and negative attitudes held by the general population. The research results highlight the need to develop appropriate intervention measures designed to reduce the feeling of threat and change the negative anti-Roma attitudes of these professionals, by focusing on multicultural, critical and anti-oppressive approaches and adopting multicultural policies aimed at accepting diversity and fighting discrimination.
LA PRESENCIA DE GALICIA EN LAS ÚLTIMAS REPRESENTACIONES DEL CICLO MÍTICO DE VALLE-INCLÁN (2000-2015)
Authors: Landín Martínez Pablo
Published: December 2019

El “ciclo mítico” de Valle-Inclán abarca cinco obras cuyo espacio común es una Galicia mítica como escenario ideal para la recreación de las pasiones e instintos más básicos de los personajes. El objetivo de este artículo es analizar la presencia de este espacio común en las puestas en escena de los primeros quince años del siglo XXI, en dos puntos concretos: la escenificación y la caracterización de los personajes.ABSTRACTThe “Mythical Cycle” of Valle-Inclán includes five works whose common space is a mythical Galicia as the ideal setting for the recreation of the most basic passions and instincts of the characters. The objective of this article is to analyze the presence of this common space in the perfomances of the first fifteen years of the 21st century, from two specific points: the staging and the characterization of the characters.
MODELOS ESTADÍSTICOS PARA EL ANÁLISIS FUNCIONAL DE LOS PROCESOS DE GRAMATICALIZACIÓN EN LAS CONSTRUCCIONES PROGRESIVAS DEL INGLÉS
Authors: Van Arkel Simón Carlos
Published: December 2019

En este artículo se analizan las relaciones cuantitativas existentes entre las construcciones progresivas del inglés y diferentes patrones funcionales, cuantificables a partir del conjunto de corpora York-Toronto-Helsinki-Penn, en aras de ilustrar los procesos de gramaticalización que experimentan estas construcciones. Se elabora un análisis estadístico que prueba la existencia de relaciones significativas entre los aumentos en las frecuencias de aparición normalizadas de las construcciones progresivas y la evolución de cuatro dimensiones funcionales del modelo multifactorial, así como entre los aumentos en el indicador estimado de los procesos de gramaticalización y tres de dichas dimensiones, en ambos casos, en función del género textual. Asimismo, se describen las principales tendencias de las formas progresivas totales y cinco de sus variantes sintácticas en función de las dimensiones relevantes del modelo multifactorial, así como el período de la lengua.ABSTRACTIn this paper we examine the quantitative relations between English progressive constructions and different functional patterns, measurable on the family of corpora York-Toronto-Helsinki-Penn, in order to illustrate the grammaticalization processes undergone by these constructions. We conduct a statistical analysis that demonstrates significant relationships between the increments in the standardized frequencies of progressive constructions and the changing patterns of four functional dimensions from the multidimensional model, and between the increase in the estimated index of grammaticalization and three of these dimensions, in both cases, according to textual genre. We also describe the main tendencies of the total number of progressive forms and five of its syntactic variants related to the relevant dimensions of the multidimensional model and the historical period.
Comparative study of equilibrium characteristics of Cu|Cu(II), Cu(I), glycine system containing sulfate or perchlorate as a supporting electrolyte
Authors: Mikulskis Kazimieras , Kanapeckaitė Stasė , Survila Arvydas
Published: December 2019

The distribution of species in Cu(II)-glycine solutions, containing sulfate or perchlorate as a supporting electrolyte, is considered. Substantial differences are observed at pH < 4.5, where the molar fraction of monoligand complex (associate) CuSO4 reaches up to 20 percent of the total Cu(II) concentration. Cu(I)-containing species are generated at the Cu|solution interface. These are Cu+ aqua-complexes (acid media) or mono- and bidentate Cu(I)-glycine complexes (alkaline media). The addition of sulfate reduces the content of Cu+ ions, but practically does not affect the distribution of Cu(I) complexes. The study of acidbase equilibria involving Cu+ ions shows that the thermodynamic probability of Cu2O formation remains low in both perchlorate and sulfate media. HSO4– ions formed in acid media should be treated as rather labile proton donors. This is quantitatively confirmed by experimental data, according to which the rate of hydrogen evolution increases correspondingly when perchlorate is replaced by sulfate in glycine solutions.
Fraudes, violences et autres comportements déviants dans le sport professionnel et olympique
Authors: Caneppele12 Stefano , Cinaglia Giulia , Sperrer Christina , Langlois Fiona
Published: December 2019

Les sources ouvertes en ligne sont de plus en plus utilisées comme outils de renseignement. Cette contribution explore la manière dont elles peuvent être utilisées pour étudier la déviance dans le sport professionnel et olympique. L’étude a considéré les fraudes perpétrées sur le terrain (le dopage, la manipulation de match et les fraudes à l’éligibilité) et en dehors (la corruption), les violences sur et en dehors du terrain de jeu (le hooliganisme et le terrorisme), ainsi que les autres comportements préjudiciables commis par les sportifs, que ce soit sur le terrain ou en dehors. Un dispositif de veille en ligne a été mis en place pour la récolte d’articles publiés en 2016 en anglais. Des 775 cas qui ont été relevés, les fraudes (surtout les cas de dopage et de manipulations de matchs) comptaient à elles seules pour 85 % des cas. Au total, 87 pays sont impliqués dans cette étude, bien que certaines sous-régions – l’Europe de l’Est (17,4 %), l’Afrique de l’Est (16,1 %), ainsi que l’Australie et la Nouvelle-Zélande (10,2 %) – se démarquent par une concentration plus élevée de cas. Quant aux patterns temporels, des distributions sont concentrées surtout aux mois d’août et novembre pour les fraudes, et aux mois de juin et juillet pour les violences. Ces tendances peuvent laisser supposer une saisonnalité des comportements déviants. En se concentrant sur les biais liés au langage et aux types de sources, des recherches plus approfondies sur le sujet pourraient contribuer à une surveillance systématique de la représentation médiatique de ces phénomènes dans le monde.
Description des lieux chez des enfants victimes d’agression1
Authors: Marcil2 Marie-Pierre , Cyr Mireille , Dion Jacinthe
Published: December 2019

L’entrevue d’enquête auprès d’un enfant victime d’agression sexuelle comporte plusieurs défis, dont l’obtention d’un nombre suffisant de détails précis pour comprendre l’agression. Cette étude s’intéresse à la nature des mots dévoilés par l’enfant pour décrire les lieux de son agression en fonction de son âge et du type de questions posées. Une analyse de contenu a été effectuée sur les témoignages de 75 enfants âgés de 3 à 12 ans présumés victimes d’agression sexuelle, interrogés à partir du protocole du National Institute of Child Health and Human Development (NICHD). Tel qu’il est attendu, la description des lieux s’enrichit à mesure que l’enfant vieillit. L’étendue du vocabulaire et l’utilisation d’adjectifs, d’adverbes et de prépositions augmentent avec l’âge, ce qui améliore grandement la précision des témoignages. Ces résultats illustrent l’impact du développement sur la qualité de la description offerte par l’enfant. Les questions fermées amènent de manière générale des réponses beaucoup plus vagues que les questions ouvertes, surtout chez les plus jeunes enfants. Cette observation soutient les recommandations des experts voulant que les questions ouvertes soient à prioriser afin d’obtenir l’information la plus complète possible.
STUDI FENOMENOLOGI: MEKANISME KOPING PEREMPUAN YANG BELUM MEMPUNYAI KETURUNAN DITINJAU DARI ASPEK BUDAYA MINANGKABAU
Authors: Rahmaniza Rahmaniza , Riasmini Ni Made , Netrida Netrida
Published: December 2019

Phenomenology Study: Coping Mechanism of Women No Heredity Viewed by Minangkabau Culture. The Minangkabau tribe adheres to the matrilineal kinship system. Based on this system, when a woman suffers infertility, so it means the family has not the next generation, and the line of descent will cut off. This condition makes the women need to have a coping mechanism to avoid psychology problems, including depression, anxiety, stress, neglected, discrimination, under pressure to divorce, and perceive abused. The study aimed to explore the coping mechanism of infertility women in the context of Minangkabau culture. This phenomenology study applied an in-depth interview, which involved ten women who were selected through a snowball sampling technique. Collaizi’s analysis method resulted in six themes. Those themes are through psychological and social change, obtain a response from others, the views of Minangkabau culture, adaptive coping used by women no heredity, the families were main source support, community social support. The findings strengthen the justification to involve psycho-social aspects in the infertility treatment.Keywords: Coping mechanism, infertile women, Minangkabau culture Abstrak Suku Minangkabau menganut sistem kekerabatan matrilineal. Berdasarkan sistem ini, ketika seorang wanita menderita kemandulan, itu berarti keluarga tidak memiliki generasi berikutnya, dan garis keturunan akan terputus. Kondisi ini membuat perempuan perlu memiliki mekanisme koping untuk menghindari masalah psikologi, termasuk depresi, kecemasan, stres, diabaikan, diskriminasi, di bawah tekanan untuk bercerai, dan juga merasa dilecehkan. Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk mengeksplorasi mekanisme koping wanita infertilitas dalam konteks budaya Minangkabau. Studi fenomenologi ini menerapkan wawancara mendalam yang melibatkan sepuluh wanita yang dipilih melalui teknik pengambilan sampel bola salju. Melalui metode analisis dari Collaizi, menghasilkan enam tema. Tema-tema tersebut termasuk Mengalami perubahan psikologis dan perubahan sosial, mendapat  respon dari orang sekitarnya, pandangan budaya Minangkabau, koping adaptif yang digunakan oleh perempuan belum mempunyai keturunan, keluarga menjadi sumber dukungan utama, dukungan sosial dari masyarakat. Temuan ini memperkuat pembenaran untuk melibatkan aspek psiko-sosial dalam pengobatan infertilitas. Kata kunci: Budaya Mingkabau, mekanisme koping, perempuan infertile
Exchange of water for sterol underlies sterol egress from a StARkin domain
Authors: Khelashvili George , Chauhan Neha , Pandey Kalpana , Eliezer David , Menon Anant K
Published: December 2019

Previously we identified Lam/GramD1 proteins, a family of endoplasmic reticulum membrane proteins with sterol-binding StARkin domains that are implicated in intracellular sterol homeostasis. Here, we show how these proteins exchange sterol molecules with membranes. An aperture at one end of the StARkin domain enables sterol to enter/exit the binding pocket. Strikingly, the wall of the pocket is longitudinally fractured, exposing bound sterol to solvent. Large-scale atomistic molecular dynamics simulations reveal that sterol egress involves widening of the fracture, penetration of water into the cavity, and consequent destabilization of the bound sterol. The simulations identify polar residues along the fracture that are important for sterol release. Their replacement with alanine affects the ability of the StARkin domain to bind sterol, catalyze inter-vesicular sterol exchange and alleviate the nystatin-sensitivity of lam2Δ yeast cells. These data suggest an unprecedented, water-controlled mechanism of sterol discharge from a StARkin domain.
Interdiffusion during heteroepitaxial Au growth on Pd thin films by electroless Au plating (ELGP) at room temperature
Authors: Yang Mingyue , Toyama Ryo , Tue Phan Trong , Majima Yutaka
Published: December 2019

Electroless Au plating (ELGP) on Pd thin films is performed. The ELGP time dependence on the surface morphology is investigated by a scanning electron microscope. Continuous nucleation and growth of hemispherical Au islands are observed as the plating time increases. Heteroepitaxial growth of the electroless plated Au on the Pd surface is confirmed by cross-sectional scanning transmission electron microscope images. Cross-sectional energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy reveals interdiffusion between the Pd atoms and the plated Au atoms at room temperature, which allows the formation of Au–Pd alloys. The heteroepitaxial Au growth on Pd is significant for reducing contact resistance of Au/Pd structures.
A high latitude Devonian lungfish, from the Famennian of South Africa
Authors: Gess Robert W. , Clement Alice M.
Published: December 2019

New fossil lungfish remains comprising two parasphenoids, tooth plates and scales from the Famennian Witpoort Formation of South Africa are described. From the parasphenoid material, which bears similarity to Oervigia and Sagenodus but is nevertheless unique, a new genus, Isityumzi mlomomde gen. et sp. nov. is erected. Tooth plates and scales from the same locality may be conspecific but are not yet assigned until further material becomes available. The tooth plates closely resemble those of some taxa in the Carboniferous genus Ctenodus. The new taxon is significant as only the second Devonian lungfish described from the African continent, and for hailing from the high-latitude (polar) Waterloo Farm environment situated close to 70° south during the Famennian.
Rediscovery of Osteocephalus vilarsi (Anura: Hylidae): an overlooked but widespread Amazonian spiny-backed treefrog
Authors: Ferrão Miquéias , Moravec Jiří , Moraes Leandro J.C.L. , de Carvalho Vinicius T. , Gordo Marcelo , Lima Albertina P.
Published: December 2019

Osteocephalus vilarsi (Melin, 1941) is an Amazonian treefrog species known for over 75 years from its holotype only. Due to a lack of published data on its morphological diagnostic characters and their variations, as well as the absence of molecular, acoustic and ecological data supporting its identity, a highly dynamic taxonomic history has led this species to be confused and even synonymised with other Osteocephalus species from distinct species groups. The molecular phylogenetic relationships of O. vilarsi were investigated based on recently collected specimens from eight Northwestern Brazilian localities in the state of Amazonas, leading to its removal from the Osteocephalus taurinus species group and placement in the Osteocephalus planiceps species group. Furthermore, detailed data on morphology and colour variation are provided, as well as advertisement call and tadpole descriptions. Finally, the currently known geographic range of O. vilarsi is considerably extended, first data on the natural history of the species are provided, and the possible ecological preference of O. vilarsi for Amazonian white-sand forests is discussed.
Management of recurrent ureteral stricture: a retrospectively comparative study with robot-assisted laparoscopic surgery versus open approach
Authors: Wang Qing , Lu Yuchao , Hu Henglong , Zhang Jiaqiao , Qin Baolong , Zhu Jianning , Dirie Najib Isse , Zhang Zongbiao , Wang Shaogang
Published: December 2019

Background

Management of recurrent ureteral stricture is challenging. Consensus on the best surgical choice has not been demonstrated. In this study, we aim to report our experience in treating recurrent ureteral stricture and demonstrate whether robot-assisted procedure for redo ureteral surgery is as effective as open procedure while remaining less invasive.

Methods

We retrospectively assessed 41 patients (22 robot-assisted surgeries and 19 open surgeries) who underwent consecutive robot-assisted and open procedures for redo ureteral surgery from January 2014 to 2018 in our institution. Perioperative outcomes, including demographics, operative time, estimated blood loss, complications, pain scores, success rate and cost, were compared between two groups.

Results

There was no significant intergroup difference in terms of age, body mass index, gender composition and American Society of Anesthesiologists scores. A total of 31 patients underwent redo pyeloplasty and ten underwent redo uretero-ureterostomy. Compared with open group, robot-assisted group showed shorter operative time (124.55 min vs. 185.11 min, p < 0.0001), less estimated blood loss (100.00 mL vs. 182.60 mL, p = 0.008) and higher cost (61161.77¥ vs. 39470.79¥, p < 0.0001). Complication rate and pain scores were similar between two groups. Median follow-up periods were 30 and 48 months for robot-assisted and open group respectively. Success rate in the robot-assisted (85.71%) and the open group (82.35%) was not significantly different.

Conclusions

Robot-assisted surgery for recurrent stricture after previous ureteral reconstruction is as effective as open procedure and is associated with shorter operative time and less estimated blood loss.
The response of fine root morphological and physiological traits to added nitrogen in Schrenk’s spruce (Picea schrenkiana) of the Tianshan mountains, China
Authors: Gong Lu , Zhao Jingjing
Published: December 2019

Fine roots are essential for water and nutrient uptake in plants, but little is known about the variation in fine root traits and the underlying mechanisms that drive it. Understanding the responses of fine root function traits to changing environmental conditions and the role of fine root traits as drivers of forest ecosystem processes are critical for informing physiological and ecological theory as well as ecosystem management. We measured morphological and physiological traits of fine roots from six soil layers and three diameter classes in Schrenk’s spruce (Picea shrenkiana) forests of the Tianshan mountains, China. We found significant effects of nitrogen addition on these morphological and physiological traits, which varied by soil layer and root diameter. Specifically, specific root length (SRL) was higher in medium N addition group (N2) than in control group (N0). Specific root area (SRA) was higher in the control group (N0) than fertilized groups (N1, N2 and N3). Root tissue density (RTD) was higher in low N addition group (N1) than in the other group. Root dry matter content had no significant difference among four treatment groups. SRL, SRA, and RTD of fine roots in different diameter classes were all significantly different between high N addition (N3) and the control (N0) groups. The physiological characteristics of fine roots showed that soluble sugar (SS), fine root vitality (FRV), and tissue water content (TWC) in different soil layers were higher in the control group than in the fertilized groups. While soluble protein (SP), malondialdehyde (MDA) and free proline (FP) were lower in the control group (N0) than in the fertilized groups. In addition, SS, FRV, SP, TWC, FP, and MDA in all N addition treatments groups were significantly different from the control group. Fine root morphological traits were closely related to physiological traits, and added nitrogen inputs change these correlations. Our study confirms that nitrogen addition has specific effects on the morphological and physiological traits of fine roots of Schrenk’s spruce, and the effects of N addition vary according to the amount added.
New Records of Two Non-native Clam Species (Bivalvia: Cardiidae) from the Coastal Waters of Bangladesh
Authors: Islam Md. Royhanur , Nirob Sadman Sakin , Molla Md. Habibur Rahman , Rahman Kauser , Haque Md. Mozammal , Rahman M. Aminur , Khan Saleha , Alom M. Zahangir
Published: December 2019

Benthic suspension feeders, such as many marine bivalve molluscs, influence the nutrient and organic cycles of benthic and pelagic systems through their ability to filter a wide size range of particles and deposit organic matters that sink to the bottom. They also play important roles in coastal and marine ecosystems by filtering the water and serving as habitat and prey for a variety of sea life. Due to the increasing trends of environmental contaminations in recent years, many bivalves have been using as a potential biomarker for assessing the worse environment. Moreover, the shell of a bivalve is comprised of calcium carbonate, which may support thousands of calciferous organisms into the water body. Mostly, bivalves inhabit the tropics, as well as temperate and boreal waters, and they can survive and even flourish in extreme environmental conditions like Bangladesh. Nowadays, many bivalve molluscs have been identified as a superior source of bioactive compounds and are using for pharmaceutical and nutraceutical purposes as well as other applications. However, until now, few systematic studies on marine bivalve molluscs have been conducted through which a total of 437 marine and brackish water species were identified and recorded in Bangladesh. But still, our knowledge of taxonomy and systematic on marine molluscs are primitive in the context of the country. Here we report two new species of bivalve molluscs, Parvicardium exiguum and Trachycardium procerum belonging to the family Cardiidae, from the Kutubdia Island of Bangladesh. The study added these two bivalve species, which has not been recorded from the coastal zone of Kutubdia Island during the previous studies. To sum up, studies and survey on taxonomy and systematics in marine bivalves will provide new dimensions for further research about these important marine invertebrates.
Economics of Makhana Production and Socio-economic Profile of Makhana Growers in Bihar
Authors: Atal Ravi , Patil Shridhar , Sohane R. K. , Datt Ram , Roy Choudhary Suborna , Singh S. N.
Published: December 2019

The Bihar state produces more than 80 per cent of Makhana globally. Despite having monopoly production, the net profit earned by Makhana producers is relatively small as the cost of cultivation is high. In order to analyse the cost of cultivation and to identify major cost incurring operations, the present study was conducted in Purnea, Darbangha and Saharsa districts of Bihar. A random sample of 120 Makhana growers and 60 processors was randomly selected from study area. Respondents’ personal interviews were conducted with the help of semi structured interview schedule to collect the data. Findings of the study revealed that majority of the Makhana cultivators belongs to Mallah community. The average age of Makhana growers was 47 years (SD=10.3). The majority of Makhana growers (65.83%) belonged to the age group of 45-64 years. Further it was observed that 100 per cent of the sampled growers’ and processors’ households were headed by males. The average family size of Makhana grower was 9. The majority of the Makhana growers were living in joint family. It was found that, majority (76.66%) of the Makhana growers were having small and marginal holdings of which 34.16 per cent were small farmer and 42.5 per cent were marginal farmer. It was also observed that the average income of the Makhana growers was Rs. 224925 per year. Further it was found that cost of Makhana cultivation per acre was Rs. 48248/acre, The major cost component of Makhana cultivation was found to be the harvesting activity which contributed around 60 per cent of total cultivation cost. The revenue earned by sales of Makhana was Rs. 59299 per care. From each acre of Makhana cultivated farmers earned Rs. 11051. The B:C Ratio of Makhana production activity was found to be 1:1.22. Therefore it was concluded that, there exists ample scope for reduction of cost of cultivation through mechanization of harvesting activity.
Epidemiological Distribution of Different Vibrio cholerae Strains Causing Cholera Disease in Endemic Countries: A Review
Authors: Ebob Tarh Jacqueline
Published: December 2019

Cholera is an acute severe watery diarrhoeal disease caused by a toxigenic strains of Vibrio cholerae. Significant clinical presentations characteristic of this disease include; asymptomatic intestinal colonization, accompanied by rapid fluid and electrolyte loss, cholera sicca (unusual accumulation of fluid in the intestinal lumen leading to circulatory collapse and death), significant hypovolemia and electrolyte abnormalities, abdominal pain and discomfort, borborygmi, and vomiting. However, diagnostic pointers like hypokalemia, hypo or hypernatremia, isonatremic dehydration, hypocalcemia, and acidosis may be seen. Yet, in complicated cases, Kidney failure with acute tubular necrosis due to anuria, low glycogen, inadequate gluconeogenesis, severe hypoglycemia, coma (in rare occasions), chronic enteropathy, malnutrition and pneumonia in children may occur. Since man is the natural host of this pathogenic bacterium (Vibio cholera), which he sheds into the environment through faeces or vomitus, its eradication has become difficult especially from their natural warm aquatic environmental reservoirs. The association of this disease with drinking water, and food, has been traced to the pollution of water sources (wells, rivers, streams and ponds) as well as food sources like vegetables (from gardens which are watered with sewage contaminated water from the environment). Cholera has become a night mare especially in continents like Asia and Africa, which lack adequate healthcare facilities and infrastructures. These areas represent the most endemic regions of the nearly 50 countries recorded to be endemic to cholera in the world. The World Health Organization reports that only an estimated 5–10% of the actual case number are officially reported annually worldwide. This review attempts to describe the epidemiological distribution of the various strains of Vibrio cholerae causing epidemics all over the globe.
Cause and Effect Estimates on Corn Yield as a Function of Tractor Planting Speed
Authors: Ferreira Luiz Leonardo , Araújo Gabriel de Souza , Carvalho Ivan Ricardo , Santos Gildomar Alves dos , Fernandes Marilaine de Sá , Carnevale Ariana Bertola , Curvêlo Carmen Rosa da Silva , Pereira Alexandre Igor de Azevedo
Published: December 2019

The objective of this work was to explain the cause and effect estimates on corn yield as a function of planting speed. The study was conducted from January 21 to June 15, 2019, at Fazenda Invernadinha, rural area of ​​the municipality of Mineiros, GO, Brazil. The experimental design consisted of randomized blocks, corresponding to five tractor planting velocities (4, 6, 8, 10 and 12 km h-1), in 4 replicates, where each plot consisted of 8 300 m long lines spaced at each 0.9 m, for a population of 60.000 plants ha-1. Sowing was carried out in no-till system after soybean harvest. A John Deere tractor and planter assembly were used, models 7715 (182 hp horsepower) and 2115 CCS Vacumeter (8 rows of 0.9 m respectively) with 30-hole 30 mm seed discs. Data were submitted to the assumptions of the statistical model, verifying the normality and homogeneity of the residual variances, as well as the additivity of the model. The analyzes were performed in the Rbio R interface, besides the Genes Software. It was concluded that the plant population is the variable that most influences the cause and effect estimates on corn yield. For high corn yields it is recommended that the tractor planting speed be adjusted to 6 km h-1.
Influence of Excessive Mobile Phone Use on Anxiety and Academic Performance among Medical College Students
Authors: Ali Akhtar , Mehmood Sehrish , Farooq Lubna , Arif Humaira , Korai Nadeem Akhtar , Khan Muhammad Aitmaud Uddolah
Published: December 2019

Objectives: The objectives of this study were focused on finding the influence of excessive mobile phone usage on academic performance of medical students and to find association between excessive mobile phone usage and anxiety in students of a medical University Karachi.

Methods: It was a questionnaire based study, three different standardized questionnaires were used to assess the sleep pattern and anxiety, however academic performance were evaluated by their last attempted exam.

Results: Excessive mobile phone usage was significantly (p-value = 0.001) associated with disturbed sleep pattern and sleep quality. But we did not had significant results for anxiety and academic performance.

Conclusion: Excessive mobile phone use may disturb sleep pattern and quality of sleep but it does not affect academic performance and does not lead to anxiety.