bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Gain-forming effect on optical signal-to-noise ratio in Raman fiber amplifier
Authors: Kazemi Seyyed Hossein , Jebelli Ali , Sirzad Leila
Published: November 2020

We have introduced the comprehensive optical-to-noise ratio (OSNR) to investigate simultaneously the effects of all three major linear noise sources in distributed Raman fiber amplifier (DRFA). The total noise power contains double Rayleigh backscattering (DRB) noise, amplified spontaneous emission (ASE) noise, and relative intensity noise (RIN). Also, we have introduced an approximated gain profile approach, which helps in evaluating the OSNR for higher-order pumping (HOP) configuration for backward, forward, and bidirectional DRFA schemes. Finally, by applying the dynamic and static full-numerical computations on a system of eight wavelength division multiplexing (WDM) channels (for amplifier lengths of 70, 140, and 210 km), we demonstrated that for RIN frequencies greater than 100 kHz, the higher-order bidirectional pumping scheme exceeds the backward schemes by 12 dB.
Laser diode to single-mode graded index fiber coupling via cylindrical microlens on the fiber tip: evaluation of coupling efficiency by ABCD matrix formalism
Authors: Roy Kushal , Majumdar Angshuman , Maiti Shubhendu , Gangopadhyay Sankar
Published: November 2020

We use ABCD matrix formalism for estimation of the coupling optics involving laser diode to cylindrical lensed circular core graded index fiber excitation. The investigation has been carried on for some typical step, parabolic, and triangular index fibers as examples of graded index fiber. It is relevant to mention in this connection that we have shown that the coupling optics is excellent along the vertical plane only while the coupling along the horizontal plane produces poor performance. Analytic expressions for coupling efficiencies are prescribed. The investigations have been made for two commonly used wavelengths, namely 1.3 and 1.5 µm. Our formulations require little computation for the necessary execution. The wavelength of 1.3 µm has been found to be more efficient in respect of coupling. Our formalism takes care of the limited aperture allowed by the cylindrical lens and thus provides the realistic prediction of coupling optics. The results will prove extremely useful to the designers and packagers working with cylindrical microlens.
Training using a simulation-based workshop reduces inaccuracies in estimations of testicular volume
Authors: Craig Jessica N. , Sharman Megan R. , Fitzgerald Ciara G. , Wigg Dominic , Williams Beth S. , Wilkinson Ellen E. , Wright Neil P. , Langley Joe , Elder Charlotte J.
Published: November 2020

Objectives

Measuring testicular volume (TV) by orchidometer is routine in the clinic when staging male puberty. We have developed a simulation model for TV estimation and investigated whether training medical students, using a workshop with simulation models, could improve the accuracy and reliability of TV estimation.

Methods

All participating medical students watched a video representing standard undergraduate training in male pubertal assessment. Volunteers were then randomised directly to assessment or to attend a workshop consisting of a further video and four stations contextualising and practising the skills required for TV estimation, prior to assessment. Three child mannequins displaying testes of 3 mL, 4 mL (twice), 5, 10 and 20 mL were used for assessment. Participants were asked to return a fortnight later for repeat assessment to assess intra-observer reliability, the effect of repeated examinations on accuracy and time on skill retention.

Results

Ninety students participated (55F), 46 attended the workshop and were considered “trained”. There was no difference between the groups in numbers of correct estimations (29% trained, 27% untrained, p=0.593). However, the trained group’s estimations were closer to the true volume, with more from the trained group one bead away (p=0.002) and fewer more than three beads away from the true volume (p<0.001), compared to the untrained group. Trained participants were more accurate at the second assessment (n=80) (p<0.001) and had greater intra-observer reliability (p=0.004).

Conclusions

Overall TV estimation accuracy was poor. Workshop-style training improved accuracy, reliability and retention of skill acquisition and could be considered as a useful learning tool.
Longitudinal 15-year follow-up of women with former early puberty: abnormal metabolic profiles not associated with earlier age at onset of puberty, but associated with obesity
Authors: Jaruratanasirikul Somchit , Satitpatanapan Pitchaya , Sriplung Hutcha
Published: November 2020

Background

In 2011, we described 104 girls who were diagnosed as early puberty (EP) during 2003–2005. In 2019–2020, the former EP women had been followed up 14 years after attaining their final height.

Objective

To determine the reproductive function and metabolic profiles of former EP women.

Study design

Fifty-seven former EP women were evaluated for reproductive function and examined for health status. Blood samples were obtained for metabolic profiles of glucose, lipids and insulin, and testosterone levels.

Results

In 2020, the average age of the study women was 22.9 ± 1.7 years. The average height was 156.7 ± 5.6 cm. The average weight had increased from 52.5 ± 7.8 kg in 2011 to 58.5 ± 11.1 kg in 2020 and average body mass index (BMI) from 21.4 ± 2.9 to 23.8 ± 4.0 kg/m2. Obesity (BMI>25 kg/m2) was found in 8.8% (five participants) in 2011 and had increased to 22.8% (13 participants) in 2020. Most participants (79%) had regular menstrual cycle. Of the 17 married women, 4 (23.5%) had 1–2 children. Dividing the participants into obese and nonobese groups, the average fasting plasma glucose, lipid profiles, and testosterone levels were similar in both groups. However, the average systolic blood pressure and the serum insulin levels and HOMA-IR assessments were significantly higher in the obese group than in the nonobese group.

Conclusion

The former EP women had normal menstruation and reproductive function. The former EP women with average BMI at the follow-up had normal metabolic profiles while those who later became obese had significantly higher systolic blood pressure, serum insulin, and HOMA-IR assessments.
Daily intake of macronutrients and energy in childhood and its association with cardiometabolic risk factors in Colombians
Authors: Rojas Lyda Z. , Gamboa-Delgado Edna M. , Quintero-Lesmes Doris C.
Published: November 2020

Objectives

Determine the intake and percentage of adequacy of macronutrients and their association with cardiovascular risk factors in a sample of Colombian schoolchildren.

Methods

Cross-sectional study nested in a prospective population-based cohort in schoolchildren between 6 and 10 years of age; cardiovascular risk markers and anthropometric measures were measured. Macronutrient intake was established through a food consumption frequency questionnaire (FFQ). The percentage of adequacy was evaluated by comparison with the dietary reference intakes (DRI) and the recommendations for energy and nutrient intake (RIEN) for the Colombian population. Linear regression analysis was performed to assess the association between daily macronutrient/energy intake and cardiometabolic risk factors.

Results

A total of 1,282 school children (51.09% boys and 48.91% girls; mean age 8.4 ± 1.4 years). The percentage of energy adequacy was 107% (Q1=87.5; Q3=127.2). The macronutrients in overadequacy were proteins and carbohydrates. The total fiber had a low adequacy around 26.0% (Q1=15.8; Q3=38.6). Fat intake was positively associated with BMI, insulin, and HOMA-IR index, while carbohydrate consumption was related to these same factors, although negatively in tight models.

Conclusions

Schoolchildren in this study had an inadequate protein, carbohydrate, and fiber intake. The results suggest a significant positive and negative relationship between the consumption of both fat and carbohydrates and cardiometabolic risk factors such as BMI, insulin levels, and HOMA-IR.
Evaluation of the efficiency of serum biotinidase activity as a newborn screening test in Turkey
Authors: Ercan Mujgan , Akbulut Emiş Deniz , Oz Ozlem , Ataş Nurgul , Karaca Meryem , Yılmaz Fatma Meriç
Published: November 2020

Objectives

Biotinidase Deficiency (BD) is an autosomal recessive metabolic disorder. However, the relationship between genotype and biochemical phenotype has not been completely elucidated yet. But still, some mutations are accepted to be associated with profound or partial deficiency. We aimed to evaluate the results of biochemical enzyme activity in accordance with the presence of genetic mutations and investigate the correlation between genotype and biochemical phenotype together in the study.

Methods

This retrospective study was carried out using data from medical records of 133 infants detected by the newborn screening followed by serum biotinidase activity (BA) detection with semi-quantitative colorimetric method. Mutation analysis was performed to confirm the diagnosis. In addition, the expected biochemical phenotype based on the known mutant alleles were compared with the observed biochemical phenotype.

Results

When confirmed with mutation analysis results, the diagnostic sensitivity and specificity of serum BA with spectrophotometric method was 93.1% and 95.1%, respectively. In 93.98% of the cases conformity was observed between the biochemical phenotype and the genotype. The c.1330 G>C(p.D444H) and c.470 G>A (p.Arg157His) were the most common allelic variants with frequencies of 63.69% and 33.75%, respectively.

Conclusions

The diagnostic test is supposed to have a high sensitivity to identify asymptomatic BD patients. Apparently healthy cases with almost normal enzyme activity and a variant allele in the genetic analysis were reported to present symptoms under stress conditions, which should be kept in mind. This study can be accepted as an informative report as it may contribute to the literature in terms of the allelic frequency and determination of the relation between genotype and biochemical phenotype. Also, method verification including the assessment of possible effects of non-genetic factors on BA according to the certain mutation types is warranted.
Impact of growth hormone treatment on scoliosis development and progression: analysis of 1128 patients with idiopathic short stature
Authors: Park Se-Jun , Lee Keun-Ho , Lee Chong-Suh , Kim Ki-Tack , Jang Jun Hyuk , Shin Dae Hun , Kim Min Sun , Kim Jiyeon , Cho Sung Yoon , Jin Dong-Kyu
Published: November 2020

Objectives

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the impact of recombinant human growth hormone (rhGH) on the development and progression of scoliosis in patients with idiopathic short stature (ISS).

Methods

Patients with ISS who underwent rhGH treatment from 1997 to 2017 and were followed up for scoliosis screening with serial radiographic examination were included. For assessing scoliosis development, patients who did not have scoliosis at the time of rhGH treatment were included and followed up to determine whether de novo scoliosis developed during the treatment. For evaluating scoliosis progression, patients who already had scoliosis were analyzed. Univariate and multivariate Cox regression analyses of demographic and radiographic variables were performed to determine the related factors in the development and progression of scoliosis.

Results

For assessing scoliosis development, 1093 patients were included. The average duration of rhGH treatment was about 2 years. De novo scoliosis developed in 32 patients (3.7%). The analysis revealed that sex (p=0.016) and chronological age (p=0.048) were statistically significant factors associated with scoliosis development. However, no relationship was observed between scoliosis development and rhGH treatment types or duration. Among 67 patients who already had scoliosis at the time of rhGH treatment, 11 (16.4%) showed scoliosis progression. However, the rhGH types and duration also did not affect scoliosis progression.

Conclusions

De novo scoliosis developed in 3.7% and scoliosis progressed in 16.4% of the patients during rhGH treatment. However, scoliosis development or progression was not affected by the types or duration of rhGH treatment in patients with ISS.
New onset diabetes with diabetic ketoacidosis in a child with multisystem inflammatory syndrome due to COVID-19
Authors: Naguib Monica N. , Raymond Jennifer K. , Vidmar Alaina P.
Published: November 2020

Introduction

Multisystem inflammatory syndrome in children (MIS-C) is a unique clinical complication of SARS-CoV-2 infection observed in pediatric patients. COVID-19 is emerging as a potential trigger for the development of diabetes in children. Here, we report a patient presenting with MIS-C and new onset diabetes, and discuss the implication and clinical management of these concomitant conditions.

Case presentation

An eight-year-old female presented with hyperglycemia, ketosis and metabolic acidosis consistent with diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) in the setting of fever, rash, respiratory distress, hemodynamic instability, reduced systolic function with dilation of the left anterior descending artery, and positive SARS-CoV-2 antibodies suggestive of MIS-C.
Acute respiratory effect of transpyloric feeding for respiratory exacerbation in preterm infants
Authors: Shimokaze Tomoyuki , Yamamoto Kouji , Miyamoto Yoshihisa , Toyoshima Katsuaki , Katsumata Kaoru , Saito Tomoko
Published: November 2020

Objectives

Gastroesophageal reflux may exacerbate chronic lung disease in preterm infants. We evaluated the short-term effects of transpyloric feeding on respiratory status in preterm infants during mechanical ventilation.

Methods

We retrospectively collected data from the hospital information management system. To evaluate the effect of transpyloric feeding on oxygenation, we compared changes in SpO2/FiO2 ratios before and after commencing transpyloric feeding by a piecewise linear regression model.

Results

We examined 33 infants (median gestational age, 25.4 weeks; median birth weight, 656 g) who underwent transpyloric feeding. All tubes were placed at the bedside without fluoroscopy. No cases of unsuccessful placement, gastroduodenal perforation, or tracheal misinsertion occurred. Transpyloric feeding began at a median age of 18 (interquartile range, 15–23) days. Mean SpO2/FiO2 (±SD) ratios were 391 (±49), 371 (±51), 365 (±56), and 366 (±53) 72–96 h before, 0–24 h before, 48–72 h after, and 96–120 h after starting transpyloric feeding, respectively. The rate of change per hour of SpO2/FiO2 ratios increased 48–120 h after compared with 0–96 h before transpyloric feeding (0.03 [95% confidence interval, −0.10 to 0.17] vs. −0.29 [−0.47 to −0.12]) (p=0.007). No apparent changes occurred in the mean airway pressure, amplitude pressure, or pCO2.

Conclusions

Transpyloric feeding during mechanical ventilation can prevent the deterioration of oxygenation without major complications at the stage of respiratory exacerbation in preterm infants.
External validation of a prediction model on vaginal birth after caesarean in a The Netherlands: a prospective cohort study
Authors: Vankan Emy , van Kuijk Sander M. J. , Nijhuis Jan G. , Aardenburg Robert , Delemarre Friso M. C. , Dirksen Carmen D. , van Dooren Ivo M. , Kuppens Simone M. I. , Kwee Anneke , Langenveld Josje , Schoorel Ellen N. , Smits Luc J. , Hermens Rosella P. , Scheepers Hubertina C.
Published: November 2020

Objectives

Discussing the individual probability of a successful vaginal birth after caesarean (VBAC) can support decision making. The aim of this study is to externally validate a prediction model for the probability of a VBAC in a Dutch population.

Methods

In this prospective cohort study in 12 Dutch hospitals, 586 women intending VBAC were included. Inclusion criteria were singleton pregnancies with a cephalic foetal presentation, delivery after 37 weeks and one previous caesarean section (CS) and preference for intending VBAC. The studied prediction model included six predictors: pre-pregnancy body mass index, previous vaginal delivery, previous CS because of non-progressive labour, Caucasian ethnicity, induction of current labour, and estimated foetal weight ≥90th percentile. The discriminative and predictive performance of the model was assessed using receiver operating characteristic curve analysis and calibration plots.

Results

The area under the curve was 0.73 (CI 0.69–0.78). The average predicted probability of a VBAC according to the prediction model was 70.3% (range 33–92%). The actual VBAC rate was 71.7%. The calibration plot shows some overestimation for low probabilities of VBAC and an underestimation of high probabilities.

Conclusions

The prediction model showed good performance and was externally validated in a Dutch population. Hence it can be implemented as part of counselling for mode of delivery in women choosing between intended VBAC or planned CS after previous CS.
A typological portrait of Mano, Southern Mande
Authors: Khachaturyan Maria
Published: November 2020

This paper provides a typological survey of Mano, a Mande language of Guinea and Liberia. It sketches a linguistic portrait of Mano as a representative member of the Southern branch of the Mande family. The family features shared by Mano include S-Aux-O-V-X word order, the parallelism between nominal and verbal syntax, and the ubiquity of passive lability. The branch features include rich tonal morphology, the unstable character of nasal consonants, and rich pronominal paradigms, including auxiliaries that index the person and number of the subject. Some of the features presented here have not been sufficiently analyzed in the Mandeist literature, so it is unclear how unusual Mano is in comparison to other Mande languages in terms of the large class of inalienably possessed nouns, or the clause-level nominalization that may include another clause as its constituent. Finally, some properties are almost certainly specific to Mano, such as the dedicated tonal forms used in conditional clauses. This paper puts Mano in its typological context, elaborating on those features which are cross linguistically well attested versus those which are cross linguistically rare.
How usage-based approaches to language can contribute to a unified theory of heritage grammars
Authors: López-Beltrán Priscila , Carlson Matthew T.
Published: November 2020

In this paper, we argue that usage-based approaches to grammar, which specify how linguistic experience leads to grammatical knowledge through the interplay of cognitive, linguistic and social factors, have a central role to play in contributing to a unified theory of heritage language acquisition and processing with much greater explanatory adequacy. We discuss how this approach (1) offers solutions to long- standing problems in the field of heritage language research, (2) links phenomena that have been explained under diverging theoretical perspectives and (3) leads to new hypotheses and testable predictions about what we can expect heritage speakers acquire from their input. We conclude that usage-based approaches are crucial to move away from deficit-oriented perspectives on heritage grammars by taking into consideration how variation in sociolinguistic experience gives rise to differences in how heritage speakers acquire and use their language.
How do presenters engage with their audience? Speakers’ multimodal interpersonal behaviour in research dissemination talks
Authors: Valeiras-Jurado Julia , Morell Teresa
Published: November 2020

Speakers in research dissemination talks are challenged with the need to connect with an audience that does not necessarily share their knowledge and expertise. This communicative situation can be particularly challenging for speakers using English both as a foreign language and for academic purposes. This study combines multimodal and ethnographic methods to explore how speakers of dissemination talks engage with their public. It focuses on four presenters’ use and combination of language, paralanguage, kinesics, proxemics and gaze during intensive moments of engagement. The results show that these interpersonal rich points consist of dense multimodal ensembles that serve to shorten the distance between presenters and their audiences. The findings suggest that a skilful orchestration of modes can be greatly beneficial to achieve the desired level of audience engagement. Therefore, developing speakers’ multimodal communicative competence should be a priority in English for specific and academic purposes (ESP/EAP) training.
Small Pipe-Clay Devotional Figures: Touch, Play and Animation
Authors: Smits Lieke
Published: November 2020

Small, mass-produced pipe-clay figurines were popular devotionalia in the late medieval Low Countries. In this paper, focusing on representations of the Christ Child, I study the sensory and playful ways in which such objects were used as ‘props of perception’ in spiritual games of make-believe or role-play. Not only does this particular iconography invite tactile and playful behaviour, the figurines fit within a larger context of image practices involving visions and make-believe. Through such practices images were animated and imbued with a divine power. Contemporary written sources suggest that, especially for women, ownership of and sensory engagement with small-scale figures provided them with agency.
Roughness of the Controllability for Time Varying Systems Under the Influence of Impulses, Delay, and Nonlocal Conditions
Authors: Leiva Hugo , Cabada Dalia , Gallo Rodolfo
Published: November 2020

In this paper, we prove that the controllability of time varying linear system is preserved if we add impulses, delay and nonlocal conditions on it. In order to do that, we assume some conditions on the non-linear terms and apply the Rothe’s fixed point theorem to obtain the main result. In other words, we find sufficient controllability conditions for the semilinear system under the influence of impulses, delay, and nonlocal conditions.
On-line detection algorithm of ore grade change in grinding grading system
Authors: Zhao Jianjun , Zhou Junwu
Published: November 2020

In process industry control, process data is critical for both control and fault diagnosis. Timely detection of outliers and mutation point in process data can quickly adjust control parameters or discover potential failures throughout the system. Aiming at the shortcomings of the traditional mutation point detection method, such as the detection time delay and not being suitable for the process industrial data that mixed outliers, this paper proposes a mutation point and outliers detection method that is suitable for the grinding grading system using the wavelet method to analyze the “Efficient Scoring Vector.” In this algorithm, to distinguish between outliers and mutation points in the detection process, we propose a detection framework based on the relationship between Lipschitz index and wavelet coefficients. Under this framework, the detection algorithm proposed in this paper can detect outliers and mutation points simultaneously. The advantage of this is that the accuracy of the mutation point detection is not affected by the outliers. This means that the method can process grinding grading system process data containing outliers and mutation points under actual operating conditions and is more suitable for practical applications. Finally, the effectiveness and practicability of the proposed detection method are proved by simulation results.
Stable solutions to the nonlinear RLC transmission line equation and the Sinh–Poisson equation arising in mathematical physics
Authors: Abdul Kayum Md. , Seadawy Aly R. , Akbar Ali M. , Sugati Taghreed G.
Published: November 2020

The Sinh–Poisson equation and the RLC transmission line equation are important nonlinear model equations in the field of engineering and power transmission. The modified simple equation (MSE) procedure is a realistic, competent and efficient mathematical scheme to ascertain the analytic soliton solutions to nonlinear evolution equations (NLEEs). In the present article, the MSE approach is put forward and exploited to establish wave solutions to the previously referred NLEEs and accomplish analytical broad-ranging solutions associated with parameters. Whenever parameters are assigned definite values, diverse types of solitons originated from the general wave solutions. The solitons are explained by sketching three-dimensional and two-dimensional graphs, and their physical significance is clearly stated. The profiles of the attained solutions assimilate compacton, bell-shaped soliton, peakon, kink, singular periodic, periodic soliton and singular kink-type soliton. The outcomes assert that the MSE scheme is an advance, convincing and rigorous scheme to bring out soliton solutions. The solutions obtained may significantly contribute to the areas of science and engineering.
Ferroelectric behavior in paracrystalline poly(vinyl trifluoroacetate)
Authors: Barique Mohammad A. , Matsuda Yasuhiro , Tasaka Shigeru
Published: November 2020

Dielectric behavior in paracrystalline poly(vinyl trifluoroacetate) was investigated from the viewpoint of ferroelectricity. This polymer has a large CF3 dipole moment (2.3 Debye) and structural defects due to the atactic sequence in its chain conformation. It is possible to rotate the dipoles in paracrystals with defects under high electric field. The dielectric behavior was measured from 20 to 200 °C. A large dielectric constant and dielectric relaxation strength (Δε = 17 at 110 °C) were observed in the α-relaxation region. Corona poling on the samples was carried out at DC field 80 MV/m and 80 °C. Ferroelectric D–E hysteresis loop was observed under high electric field, and the remanent polarization and coercive field at 40 °C were 15 mC/m2 and 155 MV/m, respectively. Pyroelectric response and thermally stimulated current were measured from the current through the electrode irradiated by a pulsed semiconductor laser. A pyroelectric constant of about 6 μC/m2K was observed, which was stable up to near the poling temperature. The ferroelectricity in poly(vinyltrifluoroacetate) stems from the rotation of molecular chains in its paracrystals and orientation of the CF2 dipoles. Poly(vinyltrifluoroacetate) dielectrics can be used for capacitors with high power density, artificial skins, muscles and other flexible electronics.
The application of the natural killer cells, macrophages and dendritic cells in treating various types of cancer
Authors: Helmin-Basa Anna , Gackowska Lidia , Balcerowska Sara , Ornawka Marcelina , Naruszewicz Natalia , Wiese-Szadkowska Małgorzata
Published: November 2020

Innate immune cells such as natural killer (NK) cells, macrophages and dendritic cells (DCs) are involved in the surveillance and clearance of tumor. Intensive research has exposed the mechanisms of recognition and elimination of tumor cells by these immune cells as well as how cancers evade immune response. Hence, harnessing the immune cells has proven to be an effective therapy in treating a variety of cancers. Strategies aimed to harness and augment effector function of these cells for cancer therapy have been the subject of intense researches over the decades. Different immunotherapeutic possibilities are currently being investigated for anti-tumor activity. Pharmacological agents known to influence immune cell migration and function include therapeutic antibodies, modified antibody molecules, toll-like receptor agonists, nucleic acids, chemokine inhibitors, fusion proteins, immunomodulatory drugs, vaccines, adoptive cell transfer and oncolytic virus–based therapy. In this review, we will focus on the preclinical and clinical applications of NK cell, macrophage and DC immunotherapy in cancer treatment.
Synthesis, characterization and computational studies of 1,3-bis[(
E)-furan-2-yl)methylene]urea and 1,3-bis[(
E)-furan-2-yl)methylene]thiourea
Authors: Alabi Kazeem Adelani , Abdulsalami Ibrahim Olasegun , Adeoye Moriam Dasola , Aderinto Shukurat Modupe , Adigun Rasheed Adewale
Published: November 2020

Urea and thiourea derivatives: 1,3-bis[(E)-furan-2-yl)methylene]urea (BFMU) and 1,3-bis[(E)-furan-2-yl)methylene]thiourea (BFMT) were synthesized and characterized by spectrometry analyses (UV, IR, 1H NMR and 13C NMR). They were screened for antibacterial (Salmonella typhi, Staphylococcus aureus, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Xanthomonas axonopodis and Streptococcus bovis) and antifungal (Fusarium oxysporum, Colletotrichum gloeosporioides and Cercospora zeae-maydis) activities. Quantum chemical calculations of frontier molecular orbital energies (EHOMO and ELUMO), and their associated global parameters were carried out by DFT levels of theory, with complete relaxation in the potential energy surface using 6-31G* basis set (DFT/B3LYP/6-31G*). Azomethine functional groups (C=N) appeared at δ 7.6 ppm and δ 7.0 ppm in the proton spectra, the peaks between δ 105 and δ 160 ppm of 13C spectra represent the methylene carbons (C=C). BFMU is a better inhibitor of P. aeruginosa and S. bovis, while BFMT is a better inhibitor of S. typhi, S. aureus and X. axonopodis and the fungi isolates (F. oxysporum, C. gloeosporioides and C. zeae-maydis) used. The global parameters agreed favorably with the experimental results, indicating the higher activity of BFMT.
Unterschiedliche Lebenserwartungen und Rentenanpassung
Authors: Richter Wolfram F. , Werding Martin
Published: November 2020

Ein strukturbildendes Merkmal der Gesetzlichen Rentenversicherung (GRV) ist die Teilhabeäquivalenz, der zufolge Rentenleistungen proportional mit den Beitragszahlungen steigen. Die konkrete Art der Rentenberechnung geht allerdings zu Lasten von Versicherten, die viele Jahre in die GRV eingezahlt haben und eine unterdurchschnittliche Lebenserwartung aufweisen. Soweit solche Personen als wirtschaftlich leistungsschwach anzusehen sind, wirkt die Rentenberechnung damit regressiv. Die Ursache liegt zum einen im Verzicht auf eine Aufzinsung von Beitragszahlungen und zum anderen in der risikounabhängigen Form der Versicherung. Die „Rente ab 63“ und die „Grundrente“ lassen sich als wenig treffsichere Versuche der Politik deuten, die regressive Verteilungswirkung zu mildern. In diesem Beitrag verfolgen die Autoren einen anderen Lösungsansatz. Sie plädieren dafür, einkommensschwachen Versicherten bei ihrer Verrentung das Recht zu gewähren, zwischen zwei Formen von Rentenanpassung zu wählen. Statt einer Rente mit lohnorientierter Anpassung nach geltendem Recht sollen die Begünstigten eine barwertgleiche Rente mit reinem Inflationsausgleich wählen können. Eine solche Rente nach österreichischem Vorbild startet höher, wächst im Regelfall aber schwächer als die deutsche Rente. Wenn die regressiv wirkende Umverteilung in der GRV auf diese Weise reduziert wird, lassen sich – so die Erwartung – weitere Anhebungen der Regelaltersgrenze, die zur Bewältigung des demografischen Wandels erforderlich sind, politisch leichter durchsetzen.
Understanding uranium oxide hardening during prolonged storage
Authors: Pastoor Kevin J. , Robinson Shane L. , Greenwell R. Allan , Quintero Hilsaca Camila V. , Shafer Jenifer C. , Jensen Mark P.
Published: November 2020

Uranium ore concentrates (UOCs), the product of uranium mining and milling, are primarily comprised of uranium oxide (U3O8 and UO2) or peroxide (UO4·4H2O and UO4·2H2O) compounds. Following production, UOCs are typically placed in storage until they are converted to uranium hexafluoride (UF6) at a uranium conversion facility. In this study, the chemical changes responsible for an interesting hardening phenomenon observed in UOCs stored for prolonged periods was investigated to understand underlying causes. Powder X-ray diffraction and thermogravimetric analysis were used to characterize free-flowing and hardened UOC samples and revealed the hardened material had undergone hydration and oxidation as indicated by increased moisture content and the presence of metaschoepite [(UO2)4O(OH)6](H2O)5 and/or schoepite [(UO2)4O(OH)6](H2O)6. Additionally, an aging study found metaschoepite in UOCs after 3 months exposure to a high relative humidity environment. The same study found agglomerated, but not fully hardened, material in nearly all aged UOCs samples. These results suggest metaschoepite and schoepite are indicative of UOCs exposed to elevated levels of H2O during storage. Lastly, a drying/calcining study of hardened U3O8 material demonstrated a means of remediation and identified an intermediate compound of potential interest, dehydrated schoepite. Dehydrated schoepite results from heating metaschoepite or schoepite between 100 and 300 °C and indicates partial reversal of hardened U3O8 to its original condition.
Study on microstructure and wear resistance of Zr-17Nb alloy irradiated by high current pulsed electron beam
Authors: Sun Yue , Li Kui , Gao Bo , Sun Pengyue , Fu Haiyang , Liu Zhuang , Yin Juntai
Published: November 2020

In this paper, the microstructure and wear resistance of Zr-17Nb alloy treated by high current pulsed electron beam were studied in detail. A phase change occurs after pulse treatments using X-Ray Diffraction (XRD) analysis, showingβ(Nb) phase andα(Zr) phase transformed by a part ofβ(Zr, Nb) phase. Also, narrowing and shifting ofβ(Zr, Nb) diffraction peaks were found. Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM) and metallographic analysis results reveal that the microstructure of alloy surface before high current pulsed electron beam (HCPEB) treatment is composed of equiaxed crystals. But, after 15 and 30 pulse treatments, crater structures are significantly reduced. Besides, it was also found that the alloy surface has undergone eutectoid transformation after 30 pulse treatments, and the reaction ofβ(Zr, Nb) → αZr +βNb had occurred. Microhardness test results show that microhardness value presents a downward trend as the number of pulses increases, which is mainly due to the coarsening of the grains and the formation of a softerβ(Nb) phase after phase transformation. The wear resistance test results show that the friction coefficient increases first, then decreases and then increases with the increase of pulse number.
Effect of notch on static and fatigue properties of T800 fabric reinforced composites
Authors: Xu Mingrui , Huang Jianjin , Zeng Benyin , He Dingni , Fu Yu , Deng Hua
Published: November 2020

To investigate the effect of notches on static and fatigue properties of T800 fabric carbon fibre reinforced epoxy, comparative tests were conducted between specimens of three depths of notches and un-notched specimens. Results demonstrate that the residual tensile strength of specimens is linearly decreased with the increasing depth of notches from 2mm to 4mm. The tensile strength on notched specimens dropped 31.5% comparing with no-damaged laminate. Due to the effect of notches, the fatigue limit was reduced to 55% of UTS and the slope of theS-Ncurve tends to be horizontal. In-situ damage expansion process was observed and the shape of proposed normalizedS-Ncurves could be explained and concluded as two stages: the first stage accounts for 20% of the fatigue life, showing a dramatic decrease of fatigue strength; the remaining stage takes up the rest of the total life span, representing a steady decline in strength. It shows that no-damaged and notched laminates exhibit different behaviours in terms of damage evolution.
Lead extrusion ten months after spinal cord stimulator implantation: a case report
Authors: Reehl David , Cheriyan Thomas , Qureshi Owais , Sun Zhuo , Singh Paramvir , Dua Anterpreet
Published: November 2020

Objectives

The purpose of this case report is to describe an occurrence of a rare complication of lead extrusion, which was observed 10 months after spinal cord stimulator (SCS) implantation.

Methods

A patient with low back pain and failed back surgery syndrome underwent implantation of a SCS without complications. Ten months after implantation, one SCS lead extruded from her lower back leading to surgical removal of the leads.

Results

After identifying the complication of a SCS lead extruding from the patient’s back, a surgical revision was performed to remove the SCS leads but retain the implantable pulse generator (IPG) in the gluteal region. During the surgery, it was noted that the anchors were in the appropriate position, sutured and fibrosed to a deep fascial layer. There were no complications from the surgical revision and no infectious process was observed.

Conclusions

We report the occurrence and management of a rare complication of SCS lead extrusion after SCS implantation for failed back surgery syndrome. After recognition, removal of the leads with retention of the IPG was able to effectively resolve the complication. The revising procedure was well tolerated but resulted in the recurrence of the patient’s previous low back pain. We believe that knowledge of this case and its management will aid future physicians in the recognition and management of this rare complication of SCS implantation. Furthermore, as there is a paucity of literature discussing the management of lead extrusion after SCS implantation, we hope that this case report will spur additional research on the management of this complication.
Structural evidence for kinetic and thermal stability changes of α-amylase due to exposure to [emim][lactate] ionic liquid
Authors: Akhavan Tina , Ebrahimi Mehdi , Hekmat Azadeh
Published: November 2020

Objectives

α-amylases hydrolyze α-1,4 glycosidic bonds in starch. ILs used as co-solvent in different enzymatic reactions to improve activity, selectivity and stability of enzymes. In this study, fluorescence spectroscopy method was used to explain the effect of [emim][lactate] on kinetic and thermal stability of Aspergillus oryzae α-amylase.

Methods

Effect of different concentrations of [emim][lactate] on activity of α-amylases was determined. Kinetic parameters, optimum pH and temperature and thermal stability were determined and compared with absence of [emim][lactate]. Intrinsic fluorescence spectroscopy for Trp residues was performed for both presence and absence of [emim][lactate].

Results

Activity of α-amylase decreases in presence of [emim][Lac]. Moreover, Km of α-amylase in the presence of [emim][lactate] increases while Vm decreased. Optimum temperature in presence of [emim][lactate] increases from 45 to 50 °C while optimum pH decreases from 9 to 7. Thermal stability of α-amylase in the presence of [emim][lactate] is similar to that in the absence of [emim][lactate] at 40 and 50 °C but decreases at 60 °C. Intrinsic fluorescence spectroscopy shows unfolding of native structure of α-amylase is dependent on [emim][lactate] concentration.

Conclusions

Presence of [emim][lactate] ionic liquid as co-solvent leads to structural unfolding of α-amylase and loss of its activity and thermal stability.
Rapid Retooling for Emergency Response with Hybrid Manufacturing
Authors: Saleeby Kyle , Feldhausen Thomas , Love Lonnie , Kurfess Thomas
Published: November 2020

The global manufacturing industry has served as a keystone in supporting the weight of emergency response operations during the coronavirus disease (COVID-19) pandemic. Development of core technologies necessary to prevent the spread of COVID-19, including Personal Protective Equipment, infection testing kits, and vaccine research supplies, requires intensive manufacturing operations to support a population at scale. The production of these items is traditionally dependent on the tool and die industry, requiring imports of steel castings from overseas suppliers. The United States (U.S.) manufacturing industry was left isolated and unprepared as international borders closed overnight and normal supply chains were cut. This technical note provides a forward-looking approach at the benefits of hybrid manufacturing processes to provide rapid reconfiguration capabilities in the U.S. tool and die industry. A demonstration in rapid production of new tooling is provided to illustrate these benefits. Finally, emerging hybrid technologies are discussed in pursuit of more flexible manufacturing operations.
Cybersecurity Assurance in the Emerging Manufacturing-as-a-Service (MaaS) Paradigm: A Lesson from the Video Streaming Industry
Authors: Tiwari Akash , Narasimha Reddy A. L. , S. Bukkapatnam Satish T.
Published: November 2020

The coronavirus disease 2019 outbreak has incapacitated physical supply chains of various industrial sectors. This has been a call for attention to rethinking innovative methods to improve supply chain resilience. Emerging manufacturing technologies like additive/hybrid manufacturing are enabling small and medium enterprises (SMEs) to transform into cybermanufacturing kiosks that deliver manufacturing-as-a-service by digitizing much of the manufacturing workflow (design, communication, and manufacturing). This transformation is causing a paradigm shift in which major producers and original equipment manufacturers can outsource manufacturing of components to distributed SMEs located near the point of need. The increasing reliance on a digital thread would reduce the burden of resiliency required from the physical supply chains. Although digital threads are reducing the burden on the physical supply chains, they introduce a new class of cyber-resilience requirements, chiefly in ensuring the integrity of the designs and other intellectual properties shared across the digital thread. A novel design-sharing scheme for the digital thread based on video streaming is introduced herein to address the issue of IP theft and tampering. The potential of design-sharing schemes for the improvement of the cyberresilience of digital supply chains is discussed.
Time-of-Day-Dependent Gating of the Liver-Spinal Axis Initiates an Anti-Inflammatory Reflex in the Rat
Authors: Soto-Tinoco Eva , Santacruz Esteban , Basualdo-Sigales María del Carmen , Guerrero-Vargas Natalí N. , Buijs Ruud M.
Published: November 2020

The autonomic nervous system (ANS) modulates the immune response through the engagement of an anti-inflammatory reflex. There is controversy regarding which efferent branch of the ANS, sympathetic or parasympathetic, downregulates the intensity of the inflammatory response. Furthermore, how information about the immune status of the body reaches the CNS to engage this reflex remains unclear. The present study demonstrates the existence of a liver-spinal axis that conveys early circulating inflammatory information to the CNS in response to lipopolysaccharide (LPS) and serves as the afferent arm of a sympathetic anti-inflammatory reflex. Furthermore, brainstem and spinal cord visceral sensory neurons show a time-of-day-dependent sensitivity to the incoming inflammatory information, in particular, prostaglandins (PG). Consequentially, the liver-spinal axis promotes the retention of tumor necrosis factor α (TNFα) in the liver and spleen during the resting period, resulting in low plasmatic TNFα levels. Consistently, low sensitivity for LPS during the active period promotes the release of TNFα from the organs into the circulation, resulting in high plasmatic TNFα levels. The present novel findings illustrate how the time-of-day-dependent activation of the liver-spinal axis contributes to the daily fluctuations of the inflammatory response.
A Model for the Origin of Motion Direction Selectivity in Visual Cortex
Authors: Freeman Alan W.
Published: November 2020

Motion perception is a vital part of our sensory repertoire in that it contributes to navigation, awareness of moving objects, and communication. Motion sense in carnivores and primates originates with primary visual cortical neurons selective for motion direction. More than 60 years after the discovery of these neurons, there is still no consensus on the mechanism underlying direction selectivity. This paper describes a model of the cat's visual system in which direction selectivity results from the well-documented orientation selectivity of inhibitory neurons: inhomogeneities in the orientation preference map for inhibitory neurons leads to spatially asymmetric inhibition, and thus to direction selectivity. Stimulation of the model with a drifting grating shows that direction selectivity results from the relative timing of excitatory and inhibitory inputs to a neuron. Using a stationary contrast-reversing grating reveals that the inhibitory input is spatially displaced in the preferred direction relative to the excitatory input, and that this asymmetry leads to the timing difference. More generally, the model yields physiologically realistic estimates of the direction selectivity index, and it reproduces the critical finding with contrast-reversing gratings that response phase advances with grating spatial phase. It is concluded that a model based on intracortical inhibition can account well for the known properties of direction selectivity in carnivores and primates.

SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENTMotion perception is vital for navigation, communication, and the awareness of moving objects. Motion sense depends on cortical neurons that are selective for motion direction, and this paper describes a model for the physiological mechanism underlying cortical direction selectivity. The essence of the model is that intracortical inhibition of a direction-selective cell is spatially inhomogeneous and therefore depends on whether a stimulus generates inhibition before or after reaching the cell's receptive field: the response is weaker in the former than in the latter case. If the model is correct, it will contribute to the understanding of motion processing in carnivores and primates.
GERAKAN HIJRAH DAN KONSTRUKSI EMOSI KEISLAMAN DI PERKOTAAN
Authors: Fuad Sahlul
Published: November 2020

Abstract. This paper discusses the construction of Islamic Islamic emotions in urban areas as a reflection of the influence of the hijrah movement that is widespread in Indonesia,. The growth of the Muslim middle class and the rapid advancement of information technology in Indonesia has become fertile ground for the increasing migration movement among millennial. The movement of hijrah is an expression of new Islamic emotions that brings together the spirit of religiosity and the lifestyle of the middle class. However, along with the increasing trend of transnational ideologies that lead to fundamentalism and radicalism movements, the migration movement has the potential to support transnational ideological movements targeting young people who are new to Islam.  Abstrak. Paper ini membahas tentang konstruksi emosi keislaman muslim perkotaan sebagai refleksi atas pengaruh gerakan hijrah yang berkembang luas di Indonesia, khususnya di kawasan perkotaan. Pertumbuhan kelas menengah muslim dan kemajuan teknologi informasi yang pesat di Indonesia menjadi lahan yang subur bagi meningkatnya gerakan hijrah di kalangan millenial. Gerakan hijrah merupakan ekspresi emosi keislaman baru yang mempertemukan antara semangat religiusitas dan gaya hidup kelas menengah. Namun, seiring dengan meningkatnya kecenderungan ideologi transnasional yang mengarah pada gerakan fundamentalisme dan radikalisme, gerakan hijrah menjadi potensial sebagai pendukung gerakan ideologi transnasional yang menyasar para generasi muda yang baru mengenal Islam.