bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Evolution of reproductive structures for in‐flight mating in thynnine wasps (Hymenoptera: Thynnidae: Thynninae)
Authors: Semple Thomas L. , Vidal‐García Marta , Tatarnic Nikolai J. , Peakall Rod
Published: July 2021

Thynnine wasps have an unusual mating system that involves concurrent in‐flight copulation and nuptial feeding of wingless females by alate males. Consequently, thynnine genitalia play a multifunctional role and have likely been subject to various different selective pressures for both reproductive success and food provisioning. Here, we present a new molecular phylogeny for the Australian Thynninae and use 3D‐geometric morphometrics and comparative methods to investigate the morphological evolution of select genital structures across the group. We found significant morphological integration between all male and female structures analysed, which is likely influenced by sexual selection, but also reproductive isolation requirements and mechanical constraints. The morphology of the primary male and female coupling structures was correlated with female body size, and female genitalia exhibited strong negative size allometry. Those male and female coupling structures have evolved at similar evolutionary rates, whereas female structures appear to have evolved a higher degree of morphological novelty over time. We conclude that the unique reproductive strategies of thynnine wasps have resulted in complex evolutionary patterns in their genital morphology, which has likely played a central role in the extensive diversification of the subfamily across Australasia and South America. Our study reinforces the need to treat composite characters such as genitalia by their component parts, and to consider the roles of both male and female reproductive structures in evolutionary studies.
Promotions, managerial project choice, and implementation effort
Authors: Loss Frédéric , Renucci Antoine
Published: July 2021

In our model where career concerns take the form of promotion, managers use projects and effort to influence the labor market beliefs regarding their ability. We show that managers consider how projects affect the extent to which posterior beliefs can differ from initial beliefs, the precision of posterior beliefs, and equilibrium implementation effort costs. The following results obtain. Although projects differ only in terms of the information they reveal, equilibrium implementation effort costs can reverse project choices. More informative projects can induce lower effort despite the learning effect identified by Holmströmm's paper (1999). Regardless of the attractiveness of promotion, equilibrium effort is insufficient at either end of the reputation distribution. Finally, good (respectively, bad) reputation managers sometimes choose the more informative (respectively, less informative) project.
Use of evidence in acute strokedecision‐making: Implications forevidence‐basedmedicine
Authors: Langlois‐Thérien Timothé , Dewar Brian , Upshur Ross E. G. , Shamy Michel
Published: July 2021

Rationale, aims and objectives

Evidence‐Based Medicine proposes a prescriptive model of physician decision‐making in which ‘best evidence’ is used to guide best practice. And yet, proponents of EBM acknowledge that EBM fails to offer a systematic theory of physician decision‐making.

Methods

In this paper, we explore how physicians from the neurology and emergency medicine communities have responded to an evolving body of evidence surrounding the acute treatment of patients with ischemic stroke. Through analysis of this case study, we argue that EBM's vision of evidence‐based medical decision‐making fails to appreciate a process that we have termedepistemic evaluation.

Results and Conclusions

Physicians are required to interpret and apply any knowledge—even what EBM would term ‘best evidence’—in light of their own knowledge, background and experience. This is consequential for EBM as understanding what physicians do and why they do it would appear to be essential to achieving optimal practice in accordance with best evidence.
Moenkhausia andrica (Characiformes: Characidae): a new species from the rio Tapajós basin, Brazil, with minute fin hooklets in females
Authors: Reia Lais , Oliveira Claudio , Benine Ricardo C.
Published: July 2021

In this study, a new species of Moenkhausia is described from the upper rio Juruena, rio Tapajós basin, Brazil. It is distinguished from all congeners by the presence of minute bony hooks in all fins of both mature females and males and combination of a prepelvic region flattened, dorsal portion of the humeral blotch extending two scales horizontally and vertically, lateral line with 28–32 scales, five scale series above and below lateral line; circumpeduncular scales 13–14, anal‐fin rays 16–19 and dorsal portion of eyes blue in live specimens. The new species is also supported by high divergence in the mitochondrial gene cytochrome c oxidase subunit I (COI). The presence of minute fin bony hooks in both females and males, population variations and late development of the lateral line in Moenkhausia andrica are discussed.
Distribution of Sprattus sprattus phalericus (Risso, 1827) and zooplankton near the Black Sea redoxcline
Authors: Melnikov Victor , Pollehne Falk , Minkina Natalia , Melnik Lidia
Published: July 2021

Understanding what environmental drivers influence marine predator–prey relationships can be key to managing and protecting ecosystems, especially in the face of future climate change risks. This is especially important in environments such as the Black Sea, where strong biogeochemical gradients can drive marine habitat partitioning and ecological interactions. We used underwater video recordings in the north‐eastern Black Sea in November 2013 to observe the distribution and behaviour of the Black Sea sprat (Sprattus sprattus phalericus, Risso 1827) and its zooplankton prey. Video recordings have shown that the Black Sea sprat S. sprattus phalericus tolerates severely hypoxic waters near the redoxcline. The school was distributed in the 33–96 m layer [oxygen concentration (O2) 277–84 μmol L−1]. Some individuals were observed to leave the school and descended 20 m deeper for foraging on copepods in the 119–123 m layer (O2 12–10 μmol L−1). Zooplankton appeared concentrated on the upper boundary of the suboxic zone (O2 < 10 μmol L−1). No zooplankton were observed below O2 6–7 μmol L−1 (128 m). Understanding the ability of this species to tolerate low oxygen waters is crucial to predicting future responses to natural and anthropogenic changes in hypoxia.
Intraskeletal bone growth patterns in the North Island Brown Kiwi (Apteryx mantelli): Growth mark discrepancy and implications for extinct taxa
Authors: Heck Christian T. , Woodward Holly N.
Published: July 2021

Osteohistology, the study of bone microstructure, provides an important avenue for assessing extinct and extant vertebrate growth and life history. Cortical vascularity and collagen fibre organization are direct reflections of growth rate, while bone growth marks are indicative of absolute age. However, each skeletal element has its own ontogenetic trajectory and microstructure of certain bones may not be a true representation of whole body growth. Extensive comparative study of modern taxa is required to resolve intraskeletal discrepancies among age, vascularity and tissue organization in extinct vertebrates. Despite their comparative utility, studies of bone microstructure in modern taxa are severely lacking. Here, we add to a growing comparative osteohistological database by describing (1) bone tissue organization, (2) growth mark count, (3) sexually dimorphic bone (e.g. medullary bone) and (4) secondary cortical reconstruction in the bone microstructure of a 14‐year‐old male and 5‐year‐old female North Island Brown Kiwi (Apteryx mantelli). Transverse and longitudinal histological ground sections were processed and described for femora, tibiotarsi, tarsometatarsi, humeri, ulnae and radii in both kiwis. Cortical bone can generally be described as parallel‐fibered tissue, interrupted by cyclical growth marks, with vascular canals oriented longitudinally within primary and secondary osteons. Tissue morphologically resembling medullary bone is present in the hindlimbs of the female, and coarse compacted cancellous bone (CCCB) is found sporadically in the male and female hindlimbs. Lines of arrested growth (LAGs) are present in all hindlimb bones of both kiwi, but remodelling has obliterated all LAGs in the male ulnae and radii. LAG count varies intraskeletally, but large weight bearing elements such as femora and tibiotarsi have less remodelling and, thus, higher number of LAGs. LAG count did not match absolute age in any skeletal element; a maximum of seven LAGs are present in the male kiwi and a maximum of seven LAGs in the female kiwi. The tissue organization within the forelimbs and hindlimbs is reflective of the protracted growth strategy of the North Island Brown Kiwi and congruent with previous studies of the kiwi. LAGs were highly variable throughout the skeleton of the kiwi and a decoupling of age and LAG deposition is apparent from the male kiwi samples. Excess LAGs in the 5‐year‐old female kiwi may be a product of hatching, egg laying or captivity. Regardless, LAG count variation in the kiwi stresses the importance of intraskeletal sampling when assessing growth patterns of extinct taxa. An extensive ontogenetic sampling of kiwi is necessary for future investigations of bone growth patterns, CCCB formation, medullary bone and LAG deposition and obliteration in these elusive birds.
Effects of a combination of botanical actives on skin health and antioxidant status in post‐menopausal women: A randomized, double‐blind, placebo‐controlled clinical trial
Authors: Tumsutti Pakagamon , Maiprasert Mart , Sugkraroek Pansak , Wanitphakdeedecha Rungsima , Bumrungpert Akkarach
Published: July 2021

Background

Skin aging is one of the most concerning issues during the post‐menopausal period. Despite the promising effects of hormonal therapy, there is still concerned about the long‐term outcomes from the treatment. Therefore, nutraceuticals that contain estrogenic and antioxidative effects have gained a lot of attention as an alternative therapy for slowing down skin age‐related changes in women after menopause.

Objective

This study was aimed at evaluating the effects of a combination of nutraceuticals on skin health and antioxidant status in women after menopause.

Methods

Post‐menopausal women aged 45–60 years old were enrolled and randomly allocated (n = 110) equally to either treatment or placebo group (n = 55 per group). The test product, a nutraceutical containing a blend of Glycine max, Cimicifuga racemosa, Vitex agnus‐castus, and Oenothera biennis extracts, was administered over a 12‐week period, with dermatological parameters evaluated at baseline, week 6, and week 12 of the study. Additionally, glutathione (GSH) and malondialdehyde (MDA) levels were detected at baseline and week 12 to evaluate the antioxidant status.

Results

At week 6, skin roughness was significantly improved in the treatment group (n = 50 completed), while at week 12, a significant improvement and large effect sizes observed in skin elasticity (Cohen's d = 1.56, [SDpooled = 0.10]), roughness (d = 1.53, [0.67]), smoothness (d = −1.33, [34.65]), scaliness (d = −0.80 [0.095]), and wrinkles (d = −1.02 [13.68]) compared to placebo (n = 51 completed). Moreover, GSH was significantly increased (d = 1.54 [32.52]) whereas MDA was significantly decreased (d = −1.66, [0.66]) in the test group, compared to placebo. Blood biochemistry, along with vital signs, did not differ between groups, and no subjects reported any adverse throughout the trial.

Conclusion

These data indicate the supplementation with the formulated blend of four herbal extracts is supportive of skin health and antioxidant status in women of menopausal age.
Overcoming the Early‐stage Conundrum of Digital Platform Ecosystem Emergence: A Problem‐Solving Perspective
Authors: Murthy Ramya K. , Madhok Anoop
Published: July 2021

Platform sponsors and complementors co‐create value in digital platform ecosystems. But how does a digital platform ecosystem emerge in the incipient stage, especially in a situation where value co‐creation involves attracting complementors to platform sponsors who are unknown to one another? We posit that a platform sponsor’s choice of scope signals value co‐creation opportunities and thereby attracts complementors and consumers. We draw upon the problem‐solving perspective, rooted in the knowledge‐based view of the firm, to shift the emphasis away from the actor (‘who’) to the problem at hand (‘what’) and demonstrate how incipient platform sponsors can align their scope with the problem to stimulate ecosystem emergence. Using fuzzy‐set qualitative comparative analysis on a dataset of crowdfunding campaigns, we identify multiple pathways and associated propositions for successful emergence of digital platform ecosystems, notably for innovation, open‐source, and information ecosystems. The framework we conceptualize highlights novel considerations to overcome the early‐stage challenge of attracting participation to an ecosystem that is yet to emerge.
Is There a Bidirectional Causal Relationship Between Religiosity and Volunteering?
Authors: Son Joonmo , Wilson John
Published: July 2021

Most studies of the effect of religiosity on volunteering overlook or fail to deal adequately with the possibility that there is reverse causal relation, from volunteering to religiosity, which should be taken into account. Using four waves of the Americans’ Changing Lives study, we estimate a reciprocal relationship between church attendance and religious and secular volunteering, using dynamic panel models with fixed effects using structural equation modeling and measuring both lagged and proximate effects. Religious service attendance increases future religious volunteering via its proximate effect on religious volunteering while religious volunteering has cross‐lagged and proximate effects on both religious service attendance and secular volunteering. On the other hand, there are neither cross‐lagged nor proximate effects between church going and secular volunteering. Religious and secular types of volunteering are reciprocally related, suggesting religious people are drawn into secular work not only directly, but also via their volunteer work for religious organizations.
Drivers of change and stability in the gut microbiota of an omnivorous avian migrant exposed to artificial food supplementation
Authors: Pekarsky Sasha , Corl Ammon , Turjeman Sondra , Kamath Pauline L. , Getz Wayne M. , Bowie Rauri C. K. , Markin Yuri , Nathan Ran
Published: July 2021

Human activities shape resources available to wild animals, impacting diet and probably altering their microbiota and overall health. We examined drivers shaping microbiota profiles of common cranes (Grus grus) in agricultural habitats by comparing gut microbiota and crane movement patterns (GPS‐tracking) over three periods of their migratory cycle, and by analysing the effect of artificially supplemented food provided as part of a crane‐agriculture management programme. We sampled faecal droppings in Russia (nonsupplemented, premigration) and in Israel in late autumn (nonsupplemented, postmigration) and winter (supplemented and nonsupplemented, wintering). As supplemented food is typically homogenous, we predicted lower microbiota diversity and different composition in birds relying on supplementary feeding. We did not observe changes in microbial diversity with food supplementation, as diversity differed only in samples from nonsupplemented wintering sites. However, both food supplementation and season affected bacterial community composition and led to increased abundance of specific genera (mostly Firmicutes). Cranes from the nonsupplemented groups spent most of their time in agricultural fields, probably feeding on residual grain when available, while food‐supplemented cranes spent most of their time at the feeding station. Thus, nonsupplemented and food‐supplemented diets probably diverge only in winter, when crop rotation and depletion of anthropogenic resources may lead to a more variable diet in nonsupplemented sites. Our results support the role of diet in structuring bacterial communities and show that they undergo both seasonal and human‐induced shifts. Movement analyses provide important clues regarding host diet and behaviour towards understanding how human‐induced changes shape the gut microbiota in wild animals.
Remarkable recent changes in the genetic diversity of the avirulence gene AvrStb6 in global populations of the wheat pathogen Zymoseptoria tritici
Authors: Stephens Christopher , Ölmez Fatih , Blyth Hannah , McDonald Megan , Bansal Anuradha , Turgay Emine Burcu , Hahn Florian , Saintenac Cyrille , Nekrasov Vladimir , Solomon Peter , Milgate Andrew , Fraaije Bart , Rudd Jason , Kanyuka Kostya
Published: July 2021

Septoria tritici blotch (STB), caused by the fungus Zymoseptoria tritici, is one of the most economically important diseases of wheat. Recently, both factors of a gene‐for‐gene interaction between Z. tritici and wheat, the wheat receptor‐like kinase Stb6 and the Z. tritici secreted effector protein AvrStb6, have been identified. Previous analyses revealed a high diversity of AvrStb6 haplotypes present in earlier Z. tritici isolate collections, with up to c.18% of analysed isolates possessing the avirulence isoform of AvrStb6 identical to that originally identified in the reference isolate IPO323. With Stb6 present in many commercial wheat cultivars globally, we aimed to assess potential changes in AvrStb6 genetic diversity and the incidence of haplotypes allowing evasion of Stb6‐mediated resistance in more recent Z. tritici populations. Here we show, using targeted resequencing of AvrStb6, that this gene is universally present in field isolates sampled from major wheat‐growing regions of the world in 2013–2017. However, in contrast to the data from previous AvrStb6 population studies, we report a complete absence of the originally described avirulence isoform of AvrStb6 amongst modern Z. tritici isolates. Moreover, a remarkably small number of haplotypes, each encoding AvrStb6 protein isoforms conditioning virulence on Stb6‐containing wheat, were found to predominate among modern Z. tritici isolates. A single virulence isoform of AvrStb6 was found to be particularly abundant throughout the global population. These findings indicate that, despite the ability of Z. tritici to sexually reproduce on resistant hosts, AvrStb6 avirulence haplotypes tend to be eliminated in subsequent populations.
Patients' and relatives' experiences of post‐ICU everyday life: A qualitative study
Authors: Vester Louise Buus , Holm Anna , Dreyer Pia
Published: July 2021

Background

As advancements in intensive care treatment have resulted in decreased mortality rates, more attention has been given to the experience of life after critical illness. Despite an increase in literature describing the physical, psychological, and cognitive health problems arising after critical illness, there is a shortage of research exploring the lifeworld of patients and relatives, including its internal and external interplay in everyday life. Addressing this is essential for gaining insights into the experience of everyday life and recovery after critical illness.

Aims and objectives

To explore patients' and relatives' experiences of everyday life after critical illness.

Design

Data were collected using semi‐structured interviews with 7 relatives and 12 patients. Interviews were audiotaped and transcribed verbatim.

Methods

Drawing on the phenomenological‐hermeneutic tradition, data were analysed using Ricoeur's theory of interpretation, as described by Dreyer and Pedersen.

Findings

The lifeworld of everyday life was disclosed in the theme “Finding oneself after critical illness,” described as an overall comprehensive understanding. This theme was divided into the subthemes (a) redefining the self, (b) reintegrating with family, and (c) resuming everyday life, which followed the trajectory of the three phases: the known past, the uncertain present, and the unknown future.

Conclusion

Critical illness and physical, psychological, and cognitive health problems create new and emerging difficulties in patients' and relatives' experiences of everyday life after intensive care. These experiences affect their understanding of themselves, their families, and their ability to resume pre‐intensive care unit everyday life.

Implications for practice

The study underlines the need to supplement the affirmed domains in post‐intensive care syndrome with a social domain to enhance family‐centred care within the intensive care unit and across sectoral borders. Additionally, it highlights the need to develop rehabilitation strategies aimed at patients' and relatives' multifactorial health problems.
Vitellogenin from planthopper oral secretion acts as a novel effector to impair plant defenses
Authors: Ji Rui , Fu Jianmei , Shi Yu , Li Jing , Jing Maofeng , Wang Lu , Yang Shiying , Tian Tian , Wang Lihua , Ju Jiafei , Guo Huifang , Liu Bin , Dou Daolong , Hoffmann Ary A. , Zhu‐Salzman Keyan , Fang Jichao
Published: July 2021

Vitellogenin (Vg) is a well‐known nutritious protein involved in reproduction in nearly all oviparous animals, including insects. Recently, Vg has been detected in saliva proteomes of several piercing–sucking herbivorous arthropods, including the small brown planthopper (Laodelphax striatellus, SBPH). Its function, however, remains unexplored.

We investigated the molecular mechanism underlying SBPH orally secreted Vg‐mediated manipulation of plant–insect interaction by RNA interference, phytohormone and H2O2 profiling, protein–protein interaction studies and herbivore bioassays.

A C‐terminal polypeptide of Vg (VgC) in SBPH, when secreted into rice plants, acted as a novel effector to attenuate host rice defenses, which in turn improved insect feeding performance. Silencing Vg reduced insect feeding and survival on rice. Vg‐silenced SBPH nymphs consistently elicited higher H2O2 production, a well‐established defense mechanism in rice, whereas expression of VgC in planta significantly hindered hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) accumulation and promoted insect performance. VgC interacted directly with the rice transcription factor OsWRKY71, a protein which is involved in induction of H2O2 accumulation and plant resistance to SBPH.

These findings indicate a novel effector function of Vg: when secreted into host rice plants, this protein effectively weakened H2O2‐mediated plant defense through its association with a plant immunity regulator.
Cohort and Period Effects as Explanations for Declining Dementia Trends and Cognitive Aging
Authors: Clouston Sean A. P. , Terrera Graciela Muniz , Rodgers Joseph Lee , O'Keefe Patrick , Mann Frank D. , Lewis Nathan A. , Wänström Linda , Kaye Jeffrey , Hofer Scott M.
Published: July 2021

Studies have reported that the age‐adjusted incidence of cognitive impairment and dementia have decreased over the past two decades. Aging is the predominant risk factor for Alzheimer's disease and related dementias and for neurocognitive decline. However, aging alone cannot explain changes in the overall age‐adjusted incidence of dementia. The objective of this position paper was to describe the potential for cohort and period effects in cognitive decline and incidence of dementia. Cohort effects have long been reported in demographic literature, but starting in the early 1980s researchers began reporting large historical cohort trends in cognitive function. At the same time, period effects have emerged in the form of economic factors and stressors in early and midlife that may result in reduced cognitive dysfunction. Recognizing that aging individuals today were once children and adolescents and that research has clearly noted that childhood cognitive performance are associated with old‐age cognitive performance, this review proposes the need to connect these cohort effects with differences in late‐life functioning.
Increased seed number per silique in Brassica juncea by deleting cis‐regulatory region affecting BjCLV1 expression in carpel margin meristem
Authors: Wang Gang , Zhang Xiangxiang , Huang Wei , Xu Ping , Lv Zewen , Zhao Lun , Wen Jing , Yi Bin , Ma Chaozhi , Tu Jinxing , Fu Tingdong , Shen Jinxiong
Published: July 2021

Mustard yield per plant is severely restricted by the seed number per silique. The seed number per silique in the Brassica juncea trilocular mutant J163‐4 is significantly greater than that in normal bilocular plants. However, how the trilocular silique of J163‐4 is formed remains unclear. Here, we studied the gene structure and function of mc2 in B. juncea and Arabidopsis using comparative morphology and molecular genetic experiments. We found that mc2 is a CLV1 ortholog, BjA7.CLV1. The deletion of cis‐regulatory region in mc2 promoter, which affects Mc2 expression in carpel margin meristem (CMM), led to trilocular silique formation. The BjCLV1 sequence with its complete promoter containing the cis‐regulatory region can restore the Bjclv1 and clv1 mutant phenotypes in B. juncea and Arabidopsis, respectively. Additionally, this cis‐regulatory region had a collinear segment in the promoter of CLV1 homologous gene in most Brassicaceae species. Our results are consistent with the report that BjCLV1 represents a conserved pleiotropic role in shoot meristem and CMM development, which contains a cis‐regulatory sequence specifically expressed BjCLV1 in CMM in its promoter, and this cis‐regulatory region is conserved in Brassicaceae species. These results offer a reliable approach for fine‐tuning the traits of seed yield in Brassicaceae crops.
Epistemic insouciance, souciance, and hypersouciance
Authors: Le Morvan Pierre
Published: July 2021

Refining and extending Cassam's important account of the vice of epistemic insouciance, I distinguish between expressive and receptive forms of it. Focusing on the latter, I discuss its perniciousness. I then delineate a virtue and a vice that have hitherto not been discussed in the literature: epistemic souciance and epistemic hypersouciance.
The South African–United States sovereign bond spread and its association with macroeconomic fundamentals
Authors: Fedderke Johannes W.
Published: July 2021

The yield spread of South African to United States 10‐year government bonds over the last 5 years has increased substantially to levels approaching those last seen during the mid‐1980s. This paper examines the association between the spread and macroeconomic fundamentals over the 1960–2019 sample period, under the GARCH and GARCH‐M class of estimators. We find that higher South African economic growth, lower inflation, public and private debt, as well as rand–dollar appreciation are all associated with a statistically significantly lower South African–United States yield spread. The strongest impact is associated with the public debt‐to‐GDP ratio. Mean spread levels do not appear to be influenced by yield volatility. Finally, while there is no evidence of sign bias in the impact of shocks on yield volatility (negative shock impacts are no different than positive), there is evidence of size bias for both positive and negative shocks: larger shocks have a larger impact on volatility than small, regardless of their sign. Collectively, and even ignoring the impact of private sector leveraging, South Africa’s performance in these macroeconomic fundamentals is associated with an increase in the South African–United States yield spread of 363 basis points (since 2012).
Population and quantitative genetic analyses of life‐history trait adaptations in Amaranthus palmeri S. Watson
Authors: Leon Ramon G. , van der Laat Rocio
Published: July 2021

Amaranthus palmeri populations can evolve life‐history traits despite its high levels of genetic diversity and gene flow. However, it was not known whether those differences were due to selection or other evolutionary processes. We used microsatellite markers to quantify genetic differentiation among 10 Amaranthus palmeri populations and determined whether the differences in life‐history traits among the populations could be attributed to selection. Genetic differentiation was small (ΦST = 0.093), indicating that there were high rates of gene flow among populations. AMOVA showed that only 9% of the genetic variability was explained by variation among populations and 90% was found within populations. Using ΦST as a surrogate for FST in the QST−FST analysis, we confirmed that most traits followed the same pattern as neutral markers and were not under selection. However, important traits for weediness such as plant height, dry weight and nitrogen use efficiency were under selection. These results provide evidence that selection forces in agroecosystems can increase weediness in A. palmeri, and that those forces should be identified to develop strategies to counter them when possible.
Optimization of Cold Flow Properties of Biodiesel by Addition of Cold Flow Improver
Authors: Yin Wong Yuin , Haron Saharudin
Published: July 2021

Despite the renewable and sustainable characteristics, biodiesel is poor in cold flow property (CFP) which causes a significant drawback that have limited its application. Thickening or crystallization of biodiesel in low temperature can readily result in the clogging of fuel pipes and fuel filters. The purpose of this study is to determine the optimum properties of blended biodiesel that gives the most accurate simulation results of blended biodiesel’s CFP. TmoleX18 and COSMOthermX were used to identify the viscosities and densities of pure palm oil biodiesel and pure ethanol under different temperatures. The densities, viscosities and pour points of ethanol blended biodiesel was then calculated by using Grunberg-Nissan and, Riazi and Daubert equations. The simulation results were obtained under different compositions of ethanol added from 0 to 0.2 mole fraction at temperature range of 30 °C to -5 °C. The optimum combination of viscosities and densities of blended biodiesel for the blended cold flow properties was at 10 °C and 30 °C respectively.  The simulation error at 0.1 mole fraction of ethanol was 0.92 %.
Torrefaction of Oil Palm Frond Petiole: Effect of Particle Sizes, Sections and Batches
Authors: Mohd Fuad Muhammad Ariff Hanaffi , Loijon Eljoji J. A. , Hasan Mohd Faizal , Abdul Rahman Mohd Rosdzimin , Nyakuma Bemgba B. , Mad Saad Shaharil
Published: July 2021

This study aimed to investigate the effect of batches (1, 2 and 3), particle sizes (<250 µm, range of 300 µm to 500 µm), and sections (bottom, middle and top) on combustion performance of the oil palm frond (OPF) petiole after torrefaction at 275 °C. The higher heating value (HHV), mass yield, energy yield, HHV yield and proximate analyses of the untorrefied and torrefied OPF petiole for all cases were determined.  The comparison between the untorrefied and torrefied OPF petiole as well as an international benchmark was also performed. In this study, the highest HHV of the torrefied OPF petiole (22.85±0.07MJ/kg) was obtained at the bottom section with the particle size of < 250 µm.  Furthermore, the fixed carbon content of the torrefied OPF petiole increased, whereas the volatile matter, moisture content, mass and energy yields decreased for all cases after torrefaction.  HHV yield of OPF petiole was recorded up to 141% after torrefaction.  The ash content was sufficiently satisfied the international benchmark for most cases, except for top section (300-500µm).  The changes in combustion properties of the torrefied OPF petiole for all cases were found to be insignificant whereas significant improvement could be observed when compared to untorrefied OPF petiole.  Overall, the study revealed that the appropriate particle size for torrefaction can promote it to be a vital source for energy production from oil palm biomass.
Proofs Of Incorporeality of God In Islam And Judaism: Analysis On The Discourse Of Al-Ghazālī And Maimonides
Authors: Senin Nurhanisah , Amat Misra Mustafa Kamal , Mohd Khambali@Hambali Khadijah , Wan Ramli Wan Adli
Published: July 2021

This study aims to examine the concept of incorporeality of God according to al-Ghazālī and Maimonides. Due to the existence of ‘human-like’ attributes and actions in the Hebrew Bible, it entails to various interpretations towards anthropomorphic verses within Muslim and Jewish society. During the golden age of Islamic civilization, fellow Jews and Christian were seen to be engaged in theological discourse with Muslim scholars. The emerging trend during that time in inculcating rational interpretations into religion has triggered scholars to be engaged in the inter-theological dialogue. Prior to this critical situation, al-Ghazālī and Maimonides were seen playing vital roles in affirming the incorporeality of God and refuting anthropomorphism in their respective religions. Therefore, this study will highlight their methods in affirming the incorporeality of God. In sum, it can be observed that al-Ghazālī employed kalām’s method of arguments on jawhar fard while Maimonides’ methods reciprocate Aristotle’s argument on the theory of motion. Through their propositions, both scholars denounced God to be associated to any form of substance, accident and body. Both argued that God is an incorporeal being that does not possess any forms or figures. However, Maimonides arguing through the theory of motion led to the concept of God as the First Mover. Meanwhile al-Ghazālī opposed against the former concept and argued that God particularized (mukhaşşiş) of every creations. In sum, it is apparent that the argument of incorporeality that serves as the fundamental proposition is essential in having the right understanding on the concept of God. Despite having the similarities in arguing on the incorporeality of God, both al- Ghazālī and Maimonides differ in comprehending the concept of God.
Cultured Meat: Islamic and Other Religious Perspectives
Authors: Hamdan Mohammad Naqib , Post Mark , Ramli Mohd Anuar , Kamarudin Mohd Khairy , Md Ariffin Mohd Farhan , Zaman Huri Nek Mohd Farid
Published: July 2021

Cultured meat is one of the most promising idea in food technology and it is expected to be in the market in the following years. One of the main obstacles is the acceptance of consumers that follow their religious teaching about food consumption, including meat. This article will discuss the religious perspectives on cultured meat, especially from the Islamic Law view. This study has implemented qualitative research and applied document analysis from the collected data of various sources. The result shows that there was high probability of cultured meat acceptance in the majority of the religions if the production complies with their religious meat dietary teaching. Further research must be done to investigate the acceptance of cultured meat among religious followers.
Experimental Investigation Using Response Surface Methodology for Condition Monitoring of Misaligned Rotor System
Authors: Patil Shital , Jalan Arun Kumar , Marathe Amol M.
Published: July 2021

Misalignment is one of the key reasons for vibrations in most of the rotating system. The present study focuses on interactions among speed, load, and defect severity by investigating their effect on the system vibration. Response surface methodology (RSM) with root-mean-square (RMS) as a response factor is used to understand the influence of such interactions on the system performance. Experiments are planned using design of experiments, and analysis is carried out using analysis of variance (ANOVA). It is observed that speed has a remarkable effect on RMS value in both parallel and angular types of misalignment and affects the system performance. RSM results revealed that a change in load has less impact on vibration amplitude in case of horizontal and vertical directions, but there is a significant variation in RMS value in axial direction for both types of misalignment. A slight increase in the RMS value with an increase in defect severity is observed in the axial direction. These observations will help to understand the misalignment defect and its effect in a better way.
Numerical Analysis of the Transient Wear and Lubrication Behaviors of Misaligned Journal Bearings Caused by Linear Shaft Misalignment
Authors: Yang Tianyou , Han Yanfeng , Wang Yijia , Xiang Guo
Published: July 2021

The purpose of this study is to investigate the role of the misalignment journal, caused by linear shaft misalignment, on the transient wear and mixed lubrication performances using a numerical model. In the numerical model, the transient geometry lubrication clearance considering the journal misalignment, the transient elastic deformation, and the transient wear depth of the bearing are incorporated to evaluate the transient film thickness during the wear process. The evolutions, under different external loads, of the wear depth of the bearing, wear-rate, elastic deformation of the bearing, film thickness, fluid pressure, and contact pressure are calculated by the numerical model. Furthermore, the calculated results of the misaligned journal bearing are compared with those of the aligned journal bearing. The results show that the distributions of the wear depth of the bearing, film pressure, and elastic deformation of the bearing are asymmetric along the axial direction and the peak values of them shift toward the back end when the journal misalignment is considered. The maximum wear depth, maximum fluid pressure, maximum contact pressure, and maximum bearing’s elastic deformation of the misaligned journal condition are significantly larger than those of the aligned journal condition.
Pedestrians' Perceptions of Autonomous Vehicle External Human-Machine Interfaces
Authors: Ferenchak Nicholas N. , Shafique Sheheryar
Published: July 2021

The objective of this work was to better understand pedestrians' understanding, trust, comfort, and acceptance of autonomous vehicle (AV) external human-machine interfaces (eHMIs). A link between mechanical engineering (i.e., automotive engineering) and civil engineering (i.e., multimodal transportation systems) is necessary to understand the effectiveness of varying AV-to-human communication strategies. Using a within-subject experiment design, 47 participants interacted with AVs possessing one of four eHMIs in a virtual reality (VR) environment. We administered a Likert scale survey to measure participants' perceptions of the eHMIs and used ordinal logistic regressions to analyze the results. We also accounted for participants' gender and stated interest in AVs, novel contributions to this field of research. The presence of an eHMI was found to improve participants' perceptions of AVs. Although females generally reported higher levels of understanding, trust, comfort, and acceptance, males' scores increased more significantly with the introduction of an eHMI. Text eHMIs outperformed nontextual interfaces, with participants noting the best perceptions with the text eHMI located on the AV's grille. Participants' understanding and identification of right-of-way (ROW) were most improved by the eHMIs while trust and comfort were most impacted by the participants' stated interest in AVs. Acceptance had little response to the eHMIs or stated AV interest and gender had little impact in the statistical models. This research supports the development of a standard, uniform AV-pedestrian communication strategy and strengthens the connection between humans and AVs.
Radiation-Induced Surface Wettability Enhancement of an Indium Tin Oxide and Titanium Oxide Film-Coated Sapphire
Authors: Wang Kai , Liang Hui , Inoue Junya , Erkan Nejdet , Okamoto Koji
Published: July 2021

Surface wettability is an important parameter that affects nucleate boiling. Irradiation can alter the surface wettability on metal surfaces without altering the surface macrostructure. The wettability characteristics of indium tin oxide and TiO2 film-coated sapphire substrates following gamma-ray and electron beam irradiation were experimentally investigated. A sapphire plate was exposed to gamma rays and electron beams. Within the irradiation dose, no evident change in the sapphire surface color was found. The surface contact angle decreased after irradiation, and surface wettability was enhanced with more irradiation. After irradiation, the contact angle recovered with time. The related mechanism is possible due to the absorption/desorption of hydroxyl groups. Our results indicate that the irradiation method can be used in indium tin oxide film-coated sapphire experiments to study nucleate boiling.
Wafer-level uniformity of atomic-layer-deposited niobium nitride thin films for quantum devices
Authors: Knehr Emanuel , Ziegler Mario , Linzen Sven , Ilin Konstantin , Schanz Patrick , Plentz Jonathan , Diegel Marco , Schmidt Heidemarie , Il’ichev Evgeni , Siegel Michael
Published: July 2021

Superconducting niobium nitride thin films are used for a variety of photon detectors, quantum devices, and superconducting electronics. Most of these applications require highly uniform films, for instance, when moving from single-pixel detectors to arrays with a large active area. Plasma-enhanced atomic layer deposition (ALD) of superconducting niobium nitride is a feasible option to produce high-quality, conformal thin films and has been demonstrated as a film deposition method to fabricate superconducting nanowire single-photon detectors before. Here, we explore the property spread of ALD-NbN across a 6-in. wafer area. Over the equivalent area of a 2-in. wafer, we measure a maximum deviation of 1% in critical temperature and 12% in switching current. Toward larger areas, structural characterizations indicate that changes in the crystal structure seem to be the limiting factor rather than film composition or impurities. The results show that ALD is suited to fabricate NbN thin films as a material for large-area detector arrays and for new detector designs and devices requiring uniform superconducting thin films with precise thickness control.
IgSF11 homophilic adhesion proteins promote layer-specific synaptic assembly of the cortical interneuron subtype
Authors: Hayano Yasufumi , Ishino Yugo , Hyun Jung Ho , Orozco Carlos G. , Steinecke André , Potts Elizabeth , Oisi Yasuhiro , Thomas Connon I. , Guerrero-Given Debbie , Kim Eunjoon , Kwon Hyung-Bae , Kamasawa Naomi , Taniguchi Hiroki
Published: July 2021

IgSF11 homophilic cell adhesion molecules regulate the synaptic laminar specificity of cortical chandelier cells.
Cellular remains in a ~3.42-billion-year-old subseafloor hydrothermal environment
Authors: Cavalazzi Barbara , Lemelle Laurence , Simionovici Alexandre , Cady Sherry L. , Russell Michael J. , Bailo Elena , Canteri Roberto , Enrico Emanuele , Manceau Alain , Maris Assimo , Salomé Murielle , Thomassot Emilie , Bouden Nordine , Tucoulou Rémi , Hofmann Axel
Published: July 2021

Oldest microfossils with methane-based metabolism in a subsurface environment expand the frontiers of early Earth habitability.
The mechanism of gap creation by a multifunctional nuclease during base excision repair
Authors: Yoo Jungmin , Lee Donghun , Im Hyeryeon , Ji Sangmi , Oh Sanghoon , Shin Minsang , Park Daeho , Lee Gwangrog
Published: July 2021

ExoIII tightly anchors itself at the AP site, cuts the backbone, and processively digests the downstream DNA without dissociation.
Meaningful messaging: Sentiment in elite social media communication with the public on the COVID-19 pandemic
Authors: Box-Steffensmeier Janet M. , Moses Laura
Published: July 2021

A new study finds how tone in elite messaging affects information spread and public reaction on social media during the pandemic.
Chemical or Genetic Alteration of Proton Motive Force Results in Loss of Virulence of Burkholderia glumae, the Cause of Rice Bacterial Panicle Blight
Authors: Iqbal Asif , Panta Pradip R. , Ontoy John , Bruno Jobelle , Ham Jong Hyun , Doerrler William T.
Published: July 2021

Bacterial panicle blight (BPB) is a disease of rice characterized by grain discoloration or sheath rot caused mainly by
Burkholderia glumae
. The DedA family is a highly conserved membrane protein family found in most bacterial genomes that likely function as membrane transporters.
Resident TP712 Prophage of Lactococcus lactis Strain MG1363 Provides Extra Holin Functions to the P335 Phage CAP for Effective Host Lysis
Authors: Escobedo Susana , Wegmann Udo , Pérez de Pipaon Mikel , Campelo Ana B. , Stentz Régis , Rodríguez Ana , Martínez Beatriz
Published: July 2021

Prophages are bacterial viruses that integrate in the chromosomes of bacteria until an environmental trigger induces their lytic cycle, ending with lysis of the host. Prophages present in dairy starters can compromise milk fermentation and represent a serious threat in dairy plants.
Early Laboratory Diagnosis of COVID-19 by Antigen Detection in Blood Samples of the SARS-CoV-2 Nucleocapsid Protein
Authors: Thudium Rebekka F. , Stoico Malene P. , Høgdall Estrid , Høgh Julie , Krarup Henrik B. , Larsen Margit A. H. , Madsen Poul H. , Nielsen Susanne D. , Ostrowski Sisse R. , Palombini Amanda , Rasmussen Daniel B. , Foged Niels T.
Published: July 2021

The purpose of this study was to characterize the diagnostic performance of a newly developed enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) for detection of SARS-CoV-2 nucleocapsid protein (NP) in blood. Blood samples were collected during hospitalization of 165 inpatients with PCR-confirmed SARS-CoV-2 infection and from 505 outpatients with relevant symptoms of COVID-19 simultaneously with PCR testing.
Adeno-associated Virus 9 Structural Rearrangements Induced by Endosomal Trafficking pH and Glycan Attachment
Authors: Penzes Judit J. , Chipman Paul , Bhattacharya Nilakshee , Zeher Allison , Huang Rick , McKenna Robert , Agbandje-McKenna Mavis
Published: July 2021

There are 13 distinct Adeno-associated virus (AAV) serotypes that are structurally homologous and whose capsid proteins (VP1 to −3) are similar in amino acid sequence. However, AAV9 is one of the most commonly studied and is used as a gene therapy vector.
Peroxiredoxin 1 Interacts with TBK1/IKKε and Negatively Regulates Pseudorabies Virus Propagation by Promoting Innate Immunity
Authors: Lv Lin , Bai Juan , Gao Yanni , Jin Ling , Wang Xianwei , Cao Mingzhu , Liu Xing , Jiang Ping
Published: July 2021

PRV interacts with numerous cellular proteins during productive infection. Here, we demonstrated the interaction of viral protein UL13 with the antioxidant enzyme PRDX1, which functions in multiple signal transduction pathways.
A Pilot Study of Microbial Succession in Human Rib Skeletal Remains during Terrestrial Decomposition
Authors: Deel Heather , Emmons Alexandra L. , Kiely Jennifer , Damann Franklin E. , Carter David O. , Lynne Aaron , Knight Rob , Xu Zhenjiang Zech , Bucheli Sibyl , Metcalf Jessica L.
Published: July 2021

Microbes are known to facilitate vertebrate decomposition, and they can do so in a repeatable, predictable manner. The succession of microbes in the skin and associated soil can be used to predict time since death during the first few weeks of decomposition.
Optimization and Stability Testing of Four Commercially Available Dried Blood Spot Devices for Estimating Measles and Rubella IgG Antibodies
Authors: Kaduskar Ojas , Bhatt Vaishali , Prosperi Christine , Hayford Kyla , Hasan Alvira Z. , Deshpande Gururaj Rao , Tilekar Bipin , Vivian Thangaraj Jeromie Wesley , Kumar Muthusamy Santhosh , Gupta Nivedita , Murhekar Manoj V. , Moss William J. , Mehendale Sanjay M. , Sangal Lucky , Sapkal Gajanan
Published: July 2021

Dried blood spot (DBS) collection offers various advantages over conventional methods of blood collection, especially when collecting and transporting samples for a serosurvey. Yet use of DBS requires additional processing steps in the laboratory that can add to variability in results.