bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Identification of S22 (ostarine) in human nails and hair using LC‐HRMS. Application to two authentic cases
Authors: Kintz Pascal , Gheddar Laurie , Ameline Alice , Raul Jean‐Sébastien
Published: July 2020

Ostarine, also known as S22 or MK2866 and enobosarm, is a selective androgen receptor modulator (SARM). It has high anabolic potency, in addition to limited androgenic effects. At this time, ostarine has no therapeutic use, but can be abused for performance‐enhancing purposes using the oral route, at dosages of 10–25 mg per day. As the drug can easily be obtained via the Internet or some fitness centers, athletes and more and more amateurs can use it without undergoing the deleterious physiological side effects that are generally associated with testosterone‐related compounds. Since 2008, the World Anti‐Doping Agency (WADA) has prohibited SARMs at‐all‐times in the category of “other anabolic agents” under section S1.2 of the WADA List. In a case of trafficking/abuse, ostarine was identified in nail (subject 1) and hair (subject 2) by LC/HRMS after incubation of 50 mg of matrix in a pH 9.5 buffer, followed by extraction with organic solvents. The drug was quantitated by LC–MS/MS. Ostarine tested positive at 61 pg/mg (toenails) and 111 pg/mg (fingernails) for subject 1. Ostarine was present at 146, 168, 93, and 101 pg/mg in the 4 × 3 cm hair sections of subject 2, clearly demonstrating long‐term use.
Whole‐genome resequencing reveals the pleistocene temporal dynamics of Branchiostoma belcheri and Branchiostoma floridae populations
Authors: Bi Changwei , Lu Na , Huang Zhen , Chen Junyuan , He Chunpeng , Lu Zuhong
Published: July 2020

Global climatic fluctuations governed the ancestral demographic histories of species and contributed to place the current population status into a more extensive ecological and evolutionary context. Genetic variations will leave unambiguous signatures in the patterns of intraspecific genetic variation in extant species since the genome of each individual is an imperfect mosaic of the ancestral genomes. Here, we report the genome sequences of 20 Branchiostoma individuals by whole‐genome resequencing strategy. We detected over 140 million genomic variations for each Branchiostoma individual. In particular, we applied the pairwise sequentially Markovian coalescent (PSMC) method to estimate the trajectories of changes in the effective population size (Ne) of Branchiostoma population during the Pleistocene. We evaluated the threshold of sequencing depth for proper inference of demographic histories using PSMC was ≥25×. The PSMC results highlight the role of historical global climatic fluctuations in the long‐term population dynamics of Branchiostoma. The inferred ancestral Ne of the Branchiostoma belcheri populations from Zhanjiang and Xiamen (China) seawaters was different in amplitude before the first (mutation rate = 3 × 10−9) or third glaciation (mutation rate = 9 × 10−9) of the Pleistocene, indicating that the two populations most probably started to evolve in isolation in their respective seas after the first or third glaciation of the Pleistocene. A pronounced population bottleneck coinciding with the last glacial maximum was observed in all Branchiostoma individuals, followed by a population expansion occurred during the late Pleistocene. Species that have experienced long‐term declines may be especially vulnerable to recent anthropogenic activities. Recently, the industrial pollution and the exploitation of sea sand have destroyed the harmonious living environment of amphioxus species. In the future, we need to protect the habitat of Branchiostoma and make full use of these detected genetic variations to facilitate the functional study of Branchiostoma for adaptation to local environments.
Who gives a flux? Synchronous flowering ofCoffea arabicaaccelerates leaf litter decomposition
Authors: Schmitt Lauren , Perfecto Ivette
Published: July 2020

Coffee (Coffea arabica) flowers synchronously and flowers are only open for a few days before senescing. Flower petals often decompose easily, containing higher concentrations of nutrients relative to other plant tissues. Thus, a pulse of petals into the detrital pool could be beneficial for the decomposer community and accelerate decomposition processes. Our research assessed the magnitude of the pulse of petals within a shaded coffee farm, and the impact of petals on the litter arthropod community and on the rate of leaf litter decomposition. Three plots of 12 coffee plants were monitored throughout the flowering period to estimate the magnitude of the bloom. Pitfall traps were used to assess the litter arthropod community before and after flowering. Finally, litterbags withC. arabicaleaves alone andC. arabicaleaves with flower petals were used to compare the effect of petals on decomposition rates. The average number of flowers open per plant at the peak of the bloom was 792 flowers. When scaling to obtain an estimate per hectare in a year, our results indicate flower petals could contribute 26.27 kg of nitrogen, 2.03 kg of phosphorus, and 26.7 kg of potassium. The leaf litter community did not change during our sampling, suggesting that any community effects may be acting on a longer time scale or smaller spatial scale. Leaf litter decomposed nearly three times as quickly in litterbags that included flower petals, relative to litterbags with onlyC. arabicaleaf litter in the first month and twice as fast in the second month. The rate of decomposition with petals exceeded the rate of decomposition without petals and was highest after one month, though the benefit continued after two months. Our results demonstrate that the presence of flower petals can accelerate short‐term decomposition processes.
Time delay estimation issues for target detection and transmitter identification in multistatic radars
Authors: Dash Dillip , Jayaraman Valarmathi
Published: July 2020

Time delay estimation (TDE) is an active research area due to its importance in a wide range of applications, such as target detection and transmitter identification. At present, the majority of the radar systems are using multistatic architecture because of its improved detection and tracking performance. In multistatic radar systems, where more than one transmitter and receivers are deployed, it is a challenging task to separate multiple echoes at the receiver to estimate the required parameters and identify the number of transmitters. The delay estimation process becomes more complicated when closely spaced multiple targets are involved in the detection process. In this study, various issues associated with conventional matched filtering‐based target detection techniques are investigated in terms of nonlinear time‐frequency representation with ambiguity function and cross‐ambiguity functions. The problems of delay estimation and cross‐range resolution are analyzed through simulations in a multistatic radar system.
An internal swelling factor model to examine the influence of permeability anisotropy on coalbed methane extraction
Authors: Zhang Zhigang , Liu Yanbao , Sun Haitao , Xiong Wei , Shen Kai , Ba Quanbin
Published: July 2020

Owing to the characteristics of coal reservoirs, the gas flow capacity and permeability exhibit strong anisotropy. The anisotropy in terms of the magnitude, which corresponds to the permeability in the horizontal direction being several orders of magnitude larger than that in the vertical direction, has been investigated. However, the anisotropy in terms of the mechanical boundaries, specifically, the presence of constant volume and stress boundaries in the horizontal and vertical directions, respectively, has not been examined. Therefore, a coupling model of the gas flow and coal seam deformation was developed, and a model to reflect the permeabilities in the horizontal and vertical directions was established considering the internal swelling factor. The models were verified considering field production data, and a numerical analysis was performed. In the early and later stages of gas production, the gas appeared from the fracture and matrix systems, and it was extracted in different regions in the timescale and synchronously, respectively. Owing to the constant stress boundary condition in the vertical direction of the coal seam, the reduction in the gas pressure in the fractures decreased the horizontal fracture opening, thereby decreasing the permeability in the horizontal direction. Because the horizontal direction exhibited a constant volume boundary condition, the desorption of the adsorbed gas resulted in volumetric shrinkage of the matrix, thereby increasing the permeability in the vertical direction. Non‐Darcy effects reduced the gas flow rate and exerted considerable influence in the early stage of the extraction. Moreover, this effect exhibited anisotropy, which was more pronounced in the horizontal direction. The surface diffusion coefficient continuously increased, which promoted the flow of the adsorbed gas in the matrix. The proposed model can be used to estimate the impact of the permeability anisotropy on the coalbed methane and underground gas extraction.
Phytochemical profile, cytotoxic, antioxidant, and allelopathic potentials of aqueous leaf extracts of Olea europaea
Authors: Zaïri Amira , Nouir Sahar , Zarrouk Amira , Haddad Houda , khélifa Améni , Achour Lotfi
Published: July 2020

Although bioactivities of Olea europaea (OE) have been widely described, most of them were related to its methanolic extracts or its essential oils, While data related to aqueous extracts still very scarce. Thus, in this study, the phytochemical composition, the antioxidant activity, the cytotoxic potential, and the allelopathic potential of aqueous leaf extracts from two varieties of Olea europaea were investigated and compared. High‐performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) was used to identify and quantify the constituents of the tested plants, and spectrophotometric methods to evaluate antioxidant activities. The cytotoxic potential was investigated using murine oligodendrocytes (158N) while germination seeds’ test was used for allelopathic activity. HPLC analysis showed the presence of 10 phenolic compounds in both extracts. Chemlali variety showed the highest antioxidant and allelopathic activities. Regarding the cytotoxicity effect, a significant increase in cell viability was observed with both of our extracts compared to untreated cells. These results confirm that aqueous extracts from OE produce a range of substances with potential antioxidant, antifungal, and allelopathic effects without toxic effects. Thus, they could be used as an alternative of chemical compounds.
The underappreciated role of auriculotemporal nerve involvement in local failure following parotidectomy for cancer
Authors: Swendseid Brian P. , Philips Ramez H. W. , Rao Neeta K. , Goldman Richard A. , Luginbuhl Adam J. , Curry Joseph M. , Keane William M. , Cognetti David M.
Published: July 2020

Background

Locoregional recurrence rates following parotidectomy for cancer remain as high as 20‐30%. The auriculotemporal nerve (ATN) may allow parotid cancers to spread from the facial nerve (FN) toward the skull base, causing local recurrence.

Methods

Retrospective review of 173 parotidectomies for malignancy. Preoperative and post‐recurrence imaging were reviewed by a neuroradiologist for signs of tumor adjacent to the ATN.

Results

Clinical and imaging signs of possible ATN involvement correlated with FN weakness and sacrifice. Eight patients had pathologically confirmed tumor from the ATN or V3. Forty‐four percent of local recurrences had post‐recurrence imaging showing tumor along the course of the ATN. Locoregional failure along the ATN was also associated with preoperative FN weakness, intraoperative FN sacrifice, and failure to complete recommended adjuvant therapy.

Conclusions

Parotid cancers may invade the FN and spread to the skull base via the ATN. If not appropriately managed, this may lead to local recurrence.
Synthesis, characterization and antibacterial activity of 1‐([6‐bromo‐2‐hydroxy‐naphthalen‐1‐yl]arylphenyl)methyl)‐3‐chloro‐4‐(arylphenyl)‐azetidin‐2‐one
Authors: Chopde Himani N. , Pandhurnekar Chandrashekhar P. , Yadao Babita G. , Bhattacharya Doyel M. , Mungole Arvind J.
Published: July 2020

One‐pot synthesis of 1‐([6‐bromo‐2‐hydroxy‐naphthalen‐1‐yl]‐aryl‐phenyl)methyl)‐3‐chloro‐4‐(aryl‐phenyl)azetidin‐2‐ones has been reported in the present research work via Staudinger [2 + 2] ketene‐imine cycloaddition reaction pathway. The reaction of 1‐((Benzylideneamino)(aryl)methyl)‐6‐bromo‐naphthalen‐2‐ols with chloroacetic acid and triethylamine afforded 1‐([6‐bromo‐2‐hydroxynaphthalen‐1‐yl]aryl‐phenyl)methyl)‐3‐chloro‐4‐(aryl‐phenyl)azetidin‐2‐ones. For the structural elucidation of series of compounds, different analytical and spectroscopic techniques such as elemental analysis, IR spectra, 1H‐NMR spectra and mass spectra were used. All the newly synthesized compounds were tested for their anti‐bacterial activity studies. It revealed that some of the compounds possesses moderate to good activities as compared to standard drugs. The widest spectrum of anti‐bacterial activities against both gram‐positive and gram‐negative bacterial strains among the examined compounds possessed having more hydroxyl group along with β‐lactam ring compared to other substituted azetidinones.
A sensitivity analysis of the different setups of the RegCM4.5 model for the Carpathian region
Authors: Kalmár Tímea , Pieczka Ildikó , Pongrácz Rita
Published: July 2020

The current study focuses on the RegCM4.5 model and specifically on a comparison of hydrostatic and non‐hydrostatic approaches as well as on different microphysical parameterisations and planetary boundary layer (PBL) schemes. The main goal of the paper is to simulate the historical regional precipitation characteristics of the Carpathian region as reliably as possible. For this purpose, seven different model experiments at a 10 km horizontal resolution were completed for a 10‐year period (1981–1990) using ERA‐Interim reanalysis data (with 0.75° resolution) as initial and boundary conditions. Our simulation matrix consists of hydrostatic and non‐hydrostatic runs together with different treatments of moisture, namely, the SUBEX and the NogTom schemes. In addition, two PBL schemes are tested, the Holtslag and the UW‐PBL scheme. In this detailed validation study, RegCM outputs (e.g., temperature, global radiation, cloud cover, precipitation) are compared to the homogenized, gridded CarpatClim data (available with 0.1° resolution) that are based on measurements at regular meteorological station sites. The validation considers seasonal and monthly means, as well as extreme climatic events. On the basis of the results we can conclude that the role of the non‐hydrostatic core can be clearly recognized for precipitation, particularly over mountains. Moreover, it was also found that the UW‐PBL scheme performs with a negative bias regarding atmospheric boundary layer thickness and temperature and it reduces the wet/dry biases of the Holtslag PBL scheme. Regarding microphysical schemes, the NogTom scheme performs better than the SUBEX scheme, but the modified SUBEX (SUB4.3) can also reduce the precipitation over mountainous areas.
A universal quantification of transgenic soybean event DAS‐68416‐4 using duplex digital PCR
Authors: Liu Jin , Li Zhi‐yong , Dong Jie , Gao Dong‐wei
Published: July 2020

BACKGROUND

As labeling thresholds and low level presence thresholds of genetically modified (GM) components are implemented in more and more countries and regions, the demands for accurate quantification are increasing rapidly. At the same time, digital polymerase chain reaction (PCR) showed considerable benefits compared with former real‐time fluorescence PCR in GM component quantification.

RESULTS

A universal quantification method using duplex digital PCR was established for detection of transgenic soybean event DAS‐68416‐4. The absolute limits of quantification (LOQs) of DAS‐68416‐4 event‐specific gene and lectin reference gene were 0.61 copies μL‐1 and 4.6 copies μL‐1 respectively in droplet digital PCR, while 0.522 copies μL‐1 and 5.192 copies μL‐1 in chip digital PCR. The relative LOQs of DAS‐68416‐4 percentage content was 0.1% in both two digital PCR systems.

CONCLUSION

Gene copy ratio is the universal means of expression internationally used in transgenic component contents. Digital polymerase chain reaction (PCR) executes absolute quantification on specific genes, thus is considered to be suitable for detection of transgenic component contents. It was proved in this research on transgenic soybean event DAS‐68416‐4. Results indicated perfect satisfaction for transgenic component quantification needs in various technical performances of duplex digital PCR including repeatability, quantitative linear relationship and relative limits of quantification. © 2020 Society of Chemical Industry
An Ag2S@ZnS‐coated fiber for efficient, long‐life solid‐phase microextraction of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons in water
Authors: Liu Hongmei , Fan Hua , Wang Xiaoqi , Dang Shihao , A Gu
Published: July 2020

Although an efficient and stable fiber coating is essential for the development of solid‐phase microextraction technique, it remains a challenging prospect. Herein, an inorganic nanocomposite material Ag2S@ZnS was prepared and used as a coating for fibers to detect polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons in water samples in combination with a GC with flame ionization detector. Compared with a single ZnS material, the Ag2S@ZnS composite shows many uneven nano‐protrusions on the surface of the microspheres. In conjunction with the relatively scattered microstructure of the coating and the effective anion‐π interaction formed between ZnS and the hydrocarbons, it has a large specific surface area, fast diffusion of the target molecule on its surface, and appropriate adsorption of the target molecules; therefore, it exhibits good extraction efficiency for the hydrocarbons. Under optimal conditions, the proposed analytical method exhibits superior performance with good linearity (0.01–500 µg/L) and low limits of detection (0.001–0.200 µg/L). Combined with high thermal, chemical, and mechanical stability, the service life of the coating was improved and could be used 200 times without a significant reduction in the extraction performance, and at least 2000 extraction–desorption cycles can be achieved. Satisfactory results were also obtained for the real samples.
Tourism and the environmental Kuznets Curve: A panel estimation
Authors: Ghosh Sudeshna
Published: July 2020

This study empirically explores the environmental Kuznets curve hypothesis within a tourism structure using a multivariate framework. The study examines the importance of tourist arrivals on CO2 emissions, using GDP per capita, energy utilization, trade openness, urbanization, and industrial value‐added and physical capital formation as major control variables, for a panel of 95 countries based on annual data from 1995 to 2014. This study is the first of its kind which examines the environmental Kuznets curve (EKC) hypothesis in a tourism framework based on diverse income groups, using second‐order panel estimation method.
Induced Photon Correlations Through the Overlap of Two Four‐Wave Mixing Processes in Integrated Cavities
Authors: Zhang Yanbing , Kues Michael , Roztocki Piotr , Reimer Christian , Fischer Bennet , MacLellan Benjamin , Bisianov Arstan , Peschel Ulf , Little Brent E. , Chu Sai T. , Moss David J. , Caspani Lucia , Morandotti Roberto
Published: July 2020

Induced photon correlations are directly demonstrated by exploring two coupled nonlinear processes in an integrated device. Using orthogonally polarized modes within an integrated microring cavity, phase matching of two different nonlinear four‐wave mixing processes is achieved simultaneously, wherein both processes share one target frequency mode, while their other frequency modes differ. The overlap of these modes leads to the coupling of both nonlinear processes, producing photon correlations. The nature of this process is confirmed by means of time‐ and power‐dependent photon correlation measurements. These findings are relevant to the fundamental understanding of spontaneous parametric effects as well as single‐photon‐induced processes, and their effect on optical quantum state generation and control.
Design, Realization, and Characterization of Advanced Adhesives for Joining Ultra‐Stable C/C Based Components
Authors: Casalegno Valentina , De la Pierre des Ambrois Stefano , Corazzari Ingrid , Turci Francesco , Tatarko Peter , Damiano Olivier , Cornillon Laurence , Terenzi Andrea , Natali Maurizio , Puglia Deborah , Torre Luigi , Ferraris Monica
Published: July 2020

The aim of this work is to develop high‐performance adhesives to join carbon fiber reinforced composites (C/C) for use in aerospace applications; in order to guarantee sound mechanical strength, a low coefficient of thermal expansion, and ease of application on large components. Several different adhesive formulations, based on phenolic or cyanate‐ester resins (charged with the maximum experimentally feasible amount of carbon‐based fillers), are developed and tested. The measurements of the lap shear strength at room temperature of the C/C joined by means of one phenolic and one cyanate ester‐based resin demonstrates that these formulations are the most suitable for the given application. A complete characterization, by means of viscosimetry, dilatometry, and thermal gravimetric analysis, coupled with gas analysis by means of mass spectroscopy, confirms that the phenolic‐based formulation is the most promising joining material. A nano‐indenter is used to obtain its Young modulus and hardness, both inside the joint and as a bulk cured adhesive.
Three‐dimensional reconstruction of material micropores based on stereology and fatigue life prediction
Authors: Sun M. , Qu C. , Zhang G. , Zheng Y. , Xu Zhiqiang
Published: July 2020

In this paper, the fatigue life of Al‐Zn713 alloy castings was studied. Based on stereological theory and finite element method, a new idea of material fatigue life prediction was proposed. Goldsmith‐Cruz‐Orive method was used to reconstruct the three‐dimensional distribution of micropores that based on the two‐dimensional distribution information. The stress analysis of the reconstructed three‐dimensional geometric model was carried out by finite element method. Combining with the modified Coffin‐Manson formula, a material fatigue life prediction system based on the distribution of micropores was established, which opened up a new direction for the research of material fatigue behavior and fatigue life.
Scalable preparation of carbon nanoparticles and graphene nanoflakes using sand paper abrasion
Authors: Mandal P. , Saha M.
Published: July 2020

The commercial demand for carbon nanoparticles and graphene nanoflakes are high due to their diverse usage over the past few years. However, large scale production processes are quite laborious and time consuming relying mainly on high energy and inert atmospheric condition. Herein, the abrasion technique has been utilized to exfoliate carbon nanoparticles and graphene nanoflakes from willow charcoal stick and graphite rod, respectively. The role of sandpaper in polishing is quite immense for the isolation of nanocarbons from willow charcoal and graphite. Transmission electron microscope (TEM) confirmed the formation of carbon nanoparticles whereas, high resolution transmission electron microscope (HRTEM) and atomic force microscope (AFM) topography revealed the formation of few layers of graphene nanoflakes. This entire green process was economically viable for scalable preparation of nanocarbons at room temperature and completely independent of inert conditions, usage of solvents, chemicals and the problem of by‐product formation.))
Effect of friction coefficient change on internally shaped tubes drawing process using finite elements method
Authors: Botko F. , Bella P. , Hatala M. , Beraxa P. , Lehocká D. , Sutak D.
Published: July 2020

Presented article is focused on the effect of friction coefficient of drawing mandrel surface on parameters of the drawing process. Drawing of tubes with the internally shaped surface is complex problematics. Creation of internal ribbing is determined by many deformation zones which affect stress and strain acting in forming process. Finite elements method application on solving presented problematics gives the opportunity to simulate and optimize process without expensive prototype mandrels. Research if mainly focused on the shape and properties of drawing mandrel. For simulations purposes were selected three friction coefficients which are common in drawing process in dependence of tool surface and coating in combination with lubrication. Acquired results show behavior of strains and stresses in drawing process. Maximal values of observed parameters accompanied with jump changes are mostly pronounced in inner layer. Obtained values are applicable for setting of lubrication in drawing process from the perspective of elimination jump changes in stresses which can shorten life time of mandrel and lower quality of final product.
Offer online admission receptions to connect with students, increase yield
Authors: Pavlik Amelia
Published: July 2020

India. China. These were just a few of the destinations on the admission reception itinerary for Christopher Connor's team. Then, COVID‐19 happened. And they needed an alternative plan — fast.
COVID‐19: The residuals
Authors: Dennis Marguerite J.
Published: July 2020

The Random House Dictionary of the English Language defines “residual” as “that which remains.”
The move to online — Getting it done
Authors: Elfman Lois
Published: July 2020

In the wake of COVID‐19, colleges and universities moved their classes to online platforms. Some academics have previous experience teaching online courses, while others lacked home computers capable of handling Zoom or other necessary programs.
Provide adult learners with hands‐on skills, networking opportunities for career readiness
Authors: Sutton Halley
Published: July 2020

A passion for education runs in Vadim Revzin's family. Revzin's father, Samuel Revzin, started a progressive neighborhood school system, called School No. 16, in Belarus in 1981 that prioritized student interest and skill over a prescribed curriculum, and went on to be a successful model for education reform in the former Soviet Union.
Intraindividual Variability in Narrative Identity: Complexities, Garden Paths, and Untapped Research Potential
Authors: Pasupathi Monisha , Fivush Robyn , Greenhoot Andrea Follmer , McLean Kate C.
Published: July 2020

This paper introduces key concepts for studying intraindividual variability in narratives (narrative IIV). Narrative IIV is conceptualized in terms of sources of within–person variation (events and audiences) and dimensions of variation (structural and motivational/affective dimensions of narratives). Possible implications of narrative IIV for well–being and self and social development are outlined. Considering narrative IIV leads to complexity in both theory and method, raising the issue of whether some avenues might be more productive than others. Using previously collected data, we sought to evaluate the research potential of different indices of narrative IIV ( n = 106 participants; n = 1272 narratives). All analyses were preregistered: doi: 10.17605/OSF.IO/SXV4W . Findings show that narrative IIV is distinct depending on source and dimension, replicating previous work. However, narrative IIV was largely unrelated to the measures of well–being and self and social development used in the present study. These findings support the practice of aggregating across narratives in existing research, at least for these outcomes and sources of variation, and provide important guidance for investigators who remain interested in the possible insights that narrative IIV may reveal about the person. © 2020 European Association of Personality Psychology
Study on the mechanism of crystallization deformation of sulfate saline soil during the unidirectional freezing process
Authors: Zhang Jing , Lai Yuanming , Zhao Yanhu , Li Shuangyang
Published: July 2020

The freezing of sulfate saline soil involves the coupling effect of heat and mass transfer and crystallization deformation. The influence of salt content and temperature on the crystallization of ice and salt was analyzed by using a one‐side freezing experiment. Based on the effect of solute and temperature on water activity, a crystallization kinetics model of ice–water phase change in saline soil was established. The application of supersaturation in the crystallization kinetics model of solution–crystal phase change is improved with the Frezchem model. The calculated results are compared with experimental data to validate the effectiveness of the proposed model. the study shows that: (a) crystallization can be well illustrated by the proposed model based on the concepts of the formation factor of ice crystals and solution supersaturation; (b) convection and diffusion are the main means of salt redistribution, which cause the accumulation of salt above the freezing front and the formation of discontinuously distributed–layered salt crystal zones; and (c) the alternate crystallization of ice and salt increases variation i solute concentration and then increases crystallization pressure, which leads to the deformation of salt expansion.
Direct 4D‐Var assimilation of space‐borne cloud radar and lidar observations. Part II: Impact on analysis and subsequent forecast
Authors: Janisková Marta , Fielding Mark D.
Published: July 2020

Observations related to cloud, such as radiances from microwave imagers, have been at the forefront of recent developments in data assimilation for numerical weather prediction (NWP). While they offer unrivalled spatial coverage, they contain limited information on the vertical structure of clouds. In contrast, active observations from profiling instruments such as cloud radar and lidar contain a wealth of information on the structure of clouds and precipitation, providing the much‐needed vertical context of clouds, but have never been assimilated directly in global NWP models. To explore the potential benefits of these profiling observations, the European Centre for Medium‐Range Weather Forecasts (ECMWF) Four‐Dimensional Variational (4D‐Var) data assimilation system has been recently adapted to allow direct assimilation of cloud profile observations from space‐borne radar and lidar instruments. In this paper, in conjunction with its companion paper, the first‐time direct assimilation of cloud radar and lidar observations into a global NWP model is demonstrated. Using CloudSat radar reflectivity and CALIPSO attenuated backscatter shows that the assimilation brings the analysis closer to these observations and has a mainly neutral affect on other assimilated observations. Some improvements in the forecast skill are also observed when verified against the experiment's own analysis, with the largest positive impact noticed for temperature at the lowest model levels and for vector wind above 500 hPa, but longer experiments are required to reach 95% statistical significance of the results. The potential improvements in the model radiation budget is explored by verifying with Clouds and the Earth's Radiation Energy System (CERES) observations. Sensitivity of the results to observation error and to the observation reduction by increased averaging is also discussed. The demonstration of statistically significant improvements to forecast skill in some metrics without any significant degredation in others shows great promise for the future use of cloud radar and lidar observations in NWP.
Novel coronavirus SARS‐CoV‐2 (Covid‐19) dynamics inside the human body
Authors: Saha Asit , Saha Barsha
Published: July 2020

A knowledge‐based cybernetic framework model representing the dynamics of SARS‐CoV‐2 inside the human body has been studied analytically and in silico to explore the pathophysiologic regulations. The following modeling methodology was developed as a platform to introduce a predictive tool supporting a therapeutic approach to Covid‐19 disease. A time‐dependent nonlinear system of ordinary differential equations model was constructed involving type‐I cells, type‐II cells, SARS‐CoV‐2 virus, inflammatory mediators, interleukins along with host pulmonary gas exchange rate, thermostat control, and mean pressure difference. This formalism introduced about 17 unknown parameters. Estimating these unknown parameters requires a mathematical association with the in vivo sparse data and the dynamic sensitivities of the model. The cybernetic model can simulate a dynamic response to the reduced pulmonary alveolar gas exchange rate, thermostat control, and mean pressure difference under a very critical condition based on equilibrium (steady state) values of the inflammatory mediators and system parameters. In silico analysis of the current cybernetical approach with system dynamical modeling can provide an intellectual framework to help experimentalists identify more active therapeutic approaches.
Ramsey, Paper, Scissors
Authors: Fox Jacob , He Xiaoyu , Wigderson Yuval
Published: July 2020

We introduce a graph Ramsey game called Ramsey, Paper, Scissors. This game has two players, Proposer and Decider. Starting from an empty graph on n vertices, on each turn Proposer proposes a potential edge and Decider simultaneously decides (without knowing Proposer's choice) whether to add it to the graph. Proposer cannot propose an edge which would create a triangle in the graph. The game ends when Proposer has no legal moves remaining, and Proposer wins if the final graph has independence number at least s. We prove a threshold phenomenon exists for this game by exhibiting randomized strategies for both players that are optimal up to constants. Namely, there exist constants 0 < A < B such that (under optimal play) Proposer wins with high probability if , while Decider wins with high probability if . This is a factor of larger than the lower bound coming from the off‐diagonal Ramsey number r(3,s).
Game‐based learning: A review of tabletop exercises for cybersecurity incident response training
Authors: Angafor Giddeon N. , Yevseyeva Iryna , He Ying
Published: July 2020

The surge in cyber security breaches including the shortage of skilled cyber incident response (CSIR) professionals and the ever‐changing cyber threat landscape is a big concern for the security industry. As a result, training providers are seeking innovative ways to tackle current security challenges. Businesses in public and private sectors recognize the importance of implementing effective cyber security measures, one of which is training their employees. Many are taking active steps to ensure that employees and cyber security incident response teams (CSIRTs) can identify and respond to breaches through state‐of‐the‐art training. There are indications that pioneering training programs like serious games (SGs), including tabletop exercises (TTXs), can play a role in CSIR training. This paper reviewed TTX related SGs literature, analyzed existing CSIR training exercises and reported how TTXs are currently being used in CSIR training. It also discussed why TTXs are increasingly becoming a popular tool for CSIR and emergency response (ER) training, analyzed the strengths and weaknesses of the current research and identified areas for future research. The findings suggest that TTX training improves the awareness, understanding, and preparation levels of CSIRTs. That TTXs enhance their strategic decision‐making, enabling CSIRTs to be better prepared when dealing with security incidents. It observed that TTX related training improved the skills and aptitudes of CSIRTs and security operative center personnel. TTXs assist trainees to acquire and demonstrate both technical and nontechnical skills, including soft skills which are essential but often observed to be lacking in new graduates and some experienced technically minded personnel. TTX training augments traditional methods like classroom lectures by providing opportunities for experiential learning and practice‐based approaches in dealing with real‐life problems.
Generating a Roadmap for Possible Selves via a Vision Intervention: Alignment of Second Language Motivation and Classroom Behavior
Authors: Sato Masatoshi
Published: July 2020

This study explored the impact of a vision intervention in a second language (L2) classroom. In addition to self‐reported motivational variables, the study examined the intervention’s impact on L2 production during teacher–student interactions. Two intact university‐level classes were assigned to the experimental (n = 26) and control (n = 24) groups. The vision intervention focused on entrepreneurship to trigger and enhance vision of the business‐major students and incorporated group work relating to future L2 use in the global market. The results show that the intervention positively affected the ideal L2 self and international posture, but the ought‐to L2 self and intended effort were not affected. Also, the experimental group increased target language use over time. The correlational analyses of the motivational and behavioral variables showed that only after the intervention was target language use positively correlated with the ideal L2 self, but negatively with the ought‐to L2 self. The article concludes with pedagogical recommendations such as using vision‐based materials tailored for a specific group of learners and breaking down the learning goals into smaller and more manageable pieces.
Parthenium hysterophorus mediated inflammation and hyper‐responsiveness via NF‐κB pathway in human A549 lung cancer cell line
Authors: Kaur Mandeep , Gupta Kunj Bihari , Thakur Shweta , Kaur Sukhchain , Dhiman Monisha
Published: July 2020

Being one of the notorious weed P. hysterophorus has invaded almost every part India and is the lead cause of skin allergies and severe dermatitis among farmers and rural population. It is an invasive obnoxious weed capable of surviving extreme environmental conditions and various parts of this plant are reported to cause severe contact allergies in humans due to the presence of high concentrations of toxic sesquiterpene lactones viz. parthenin. It can stimulate numerous cellular and immune responses that may translate into Oxidative stress, allergies, and inflammation. The effect of P. hysterophorus flower extract was evaluated on cell viability, oxidative stress and inflammation in A549 lung cancer cell line by spectrophotometric and reverse transcriptase‐polymerase chain reaction methods. Schrodinger software based docking was performed for possible interactions studies. The A549 cells treated with P. hysterophorus flower extract favors increase in cell viability, reactive oxygen species generation. The mRNA expression of proinflammatory cytokines such as IFN‐γ, TNF‐α, and IL‐1β was significantly increased whereas no change in IL‐18 expression was observed. Significant increase in protein expression of NF‐κB was observed, suggesting the role of NF‐κB signalling in allergic responses. The docking studies demonstrated the potential interaction between Parthenin and NF‐κB/IL‐1β/IL‐18 suggesting their activation leading to inflammation. The current study emphasize that P. hysterophorus mediates oxidative stress, and inflammatory process via alterations in expression of proinflammatory cytokines such as IL‐1β, IFN‐γ through NF‐κB activation which was also confirmed in docking studies. Cellular and molecular mechanisms involved in pathogenesis of allergic/chronic inflammation and severe dermatitis need to be further investigated to identify specific binding partners responsible for severe inflammation which can provide some leads in developing effective targets against severe dermatitis and skin allergies.
Mammalian cell and tissue imaging using Raman and coherent Raman microscopy
Authors: Fung Anthony A. , Shi Lingyan
Published: July 2020

Direct imaging of metabolism in cells or multicellular organisms is important for understanding many biological processes. Raman scattering (RS) microscopy, particularly, coherent Raman scattering (CRS) such as coherent anti‐Stokes Raman scattering (CARS) and stimulated Raman scattering (SRS), has emerged as a powerful platform for cellular imaging due to its high chemical selectivity, sensitivity, and imaging speed. RS microscopy has been extensively used for the identification of subcellular structures, metabolic observation, and phenotypic characterization. Conjugating RS modalities with other techniques such as fluorescence or infrared (IR) spectroscopy, flow cytometry, and RNA‐sequencing can further extend the applications of RS imaging in microbiology, system biology, neurology, tumor biology and more. Here we overview RS modalities and techniques for mammalian cell and tissue imaging, with a focus on the advances and applications of CARS and SRS microscopy, for a better understanding of the metabolism and dynamics of lipids, protein, glucose, and nucleic acids in mammalian cells and tissues.

This article is categorized under:

Laboratory Methods and Technologies > Imaging

Biological Mechanisms > Metabolism

Analytical and Computational Methods > Analytical Methods
Numerical Model of Moving-Base Rotating Accelerometer Gravity Gradiometer
Authors: Yu Mingbiao , Cai Tijing
Published: July 2020

In development of a rotating accelerometer gravity gradiometer (RAGG), it is difficult for us to distinguish the measurement signals and error components in the RAGG output without a verified and correctness RAGG analytical model. In addition, many key techniques, such as RAGG analytical model validation, online error compensation, post motion error compensation, are difficult to be verified. RAGG numerical model can provide validation platform for solving all the above problems, which can speed up the development of the RAGG. In this study, based on the principle and configuration of the RAGG, we synthetically consider almost all the error factors, such as circuit gain mismatch, installation errors, accelerometer scale-factor imbalance, and accelerometer second-order error coefficients, construct a parameters adjustable RAGG numerical model. In multi-frequency gravitational gradient simulation experiment, we use the RAGG numerical model simulating the situation that a test mass rotates about the RAGG with time-varying angular velocity to generate multi-frequency gravitational gradient excitations; the experiment results are consistent with the theoretical ones; the RAGG numerical model can recur some phenomenons of a actual RAGG.
Hope as a Virtue in the Middle Ages
Authors: Pinsent Andrew
Published: July 2020

As a theological disposition revealed in Scripture, the recognition of hope as an important virtue coincided with the radical transformation in virtue ethics in the early Middle Ages. As the ideals of pagan antiquity gave way to the Christian aspirations for the Kingdom of Heaven, early work on hope was strongly influenced by writers with a monastic background, such as Pope St Gregory the Great. The rise of scholasticism in the twelfth and thirteenth centuries, however, gave an impetus to finding a coherent account of virtue ethics that would incorporate hope along with the other theological virtues and revealed attributes of perfection, such as the gifts and fruits of the Holy Spirit. This chapter examines, in particular, the attempt of St Thomas Aquinas to develop such an account and the role of hope in this account, drawing from new research in experimental psychology. The chapter concludes by considering briefly the transposition of the medieval account of hope to aspects of contemporary life.
Sensitive and selective detection of DNA fragments associated with Ganoderma boninense by DNA-nanoparticle conjugate hybridisation
Authors: Rani Ekta , Mohshim Siti Akhtar , Yusof Nor Hidayat , Ahmad Muhammad Zamharir , Goodacre Royston , Alang Ahmad Shahrul Ainliah , Wong Lu Shin
Published: July 2020

A colourimetric assay for the detection of DNA fragments associated with the oil palm pathogen Ganoderma boninense and other fungi DNA is reported. The assay is based on the aggregation of DNA-nanoparticle conjugates in the presence of complementary DNA from the target organism. Here, various designs of DNA-nanoparticle conjugates were evaluated, and it was found that the best design gave a visually observable colour change with as little as 2 pmol of double-stranded DNA analyte even in the presence of a large excess of a mixture of non-complementary DNA. Overall, this label-free system is rapid, sensitive, selective, simple in design, and easy to carry out. It does not require specialist equipment or specialist training for the interpretation of the results, and therefore has the potential to be deployed for agricultural diagnostics in the field.

Graphic abstract

Development of a colourimetric assay based on DNA-nanoparticle conjugates for the oil palm pathogen Ganoderma boninense.
Initial Psychometric Evaluation of a Brief Sexual Functioning Screening Tool for Transmasculine Adults: Transmasculine Sexual Functioning Index
Authors: Reisner Sari L. , Pletta David R. , Potter Jennifer , Deutsch Madeline B.
Published: July 2020

Introduction

Evaluation of sexual functioning in transmasculine (TM) adults—those who identify as men, male, transmen, or non-binary yet were assigned a female sex at birth—is limited by lack of availability of brief screening measures.

Aim

Study aims were to (i) conduct initial psychometric evaluation of a brief screening tool to assess sexual functioning in TM adults for easy use in outpatient visits, epidemiologic studies, and assessment of treatment and surgical outcomes and (ii) assess the correlates of sexual functioning.

Methods

The 6-item version of the Female Sexual Function Index was adapted and piloted for use with TM adults. The resulting scale, the Transmasculine Sexual Functioning Index (TM-SFI), was administered to 150 TM adults via computer-assisted self-interview. A multivariable model was fit to assess demographic, psychosocial, and gender affirmation correlates of sexual functioning.

Main Outcome Measure

The main outcomes of this study were the calculated reliability and validity of the TM-SFI and fit cumulative logit models to estimate associations of medical gender affirmation (chest surgery) and body image self-consciousness with level of sexual functioning.

Results

Internal consistency reliability was good (Cronbach’s alpha = 0.80). Item correlations ranged from 0.21 to 0.80 (P < .05). All scale items loaded onto a single factor (eigenvalue = 11.13; factor loadings > 0.50), evidence of good construct validity. After controlling for potential confounders, participants who had chest surgery exhibited significantly higher odds of being in the highest sexual functioning tertile relative to those without chest surgery (adjusted odds ratio = 2.46; 95% confidence interval = 1.08–5.64; P = .033). Moderate-to-high body image self-consciousness was associated with lower odds of sexual functioning (adjusted odds ratio = 0.42; 95% confidence interval = 0.18–0.94; P = .035).

Conclusion

Initial evaluation of the TM-SFI warrants formal psychometric validation against clinical diagnoses of sexual functioning concerns in TM patients. The brief screener can be used to assess sexual functioning in TM adults and may identify TM who could benefit from clinical interventions to improve sexual functioning.