bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
FRB 171019: an event of binary neutron star merger?
Authors: Jiang Jin-Chen , Wang Wei-Yang , Luo Rui , Du Shuang , Chen Xuelei , Lee Ke-Jia , Xu Ren-Xin
Published: April 2020

The fast radio burst, FRB 171019, was relatively bright when discovered first by ASKAP but was identified as a repeater with three faint bursts detected later by GBT and CHIME. These observations lead to the discussion of whether the first bright burst shares the same mechanism with the following repeating bursts. A model of binary neutron star merger is proposed for FRB 171019, in which the first bright burst occurred during the merger event, while the subsequent repeating bursts are starquake-induced, and generally fainter, as the energy release rate for the starquakes can hardly exceed that of the catastrophic merger event. This scenario is consistent with the observation that no later burst detected is as bright as the first one.
The activity of modern agricultural technique, mina paddy, on salt water and the income of farmers in west matang raya-north aceh regency
Authors: Aziz D
Published: April 2020

This is a study of activity in agricultural modern technique, mina paddy, on salt water and the income of Kena group farmer in West Matang Raya, North Aceh district. This study focuses on identifying the activity of modern agricultural technique on salt water and the income of farmers in Kena group. The major objective of this research is to find out the activity of modern agricultural technique on salt water and the income of Kena group. This study was conducted on February, 2017 with 20 members of Kena group. The data were obtained through library studies, documentations, observation, questionnaires and interviews. The data were analyzed descriptively. Based on the result of this study, the proper activity of modern agricultural technique, mina paddy, can increase the productivity of agricultural products and also increase the farmers’ income compared to the agricultural activities in general. It is suggested that the government can encourage the farmers to do the mina paddy technique on the proper land and help them by providing the fertilizer, seed, pesticide and feed. Therefore, the farmers will have no difficulties and get the motivation to do the mina paddy technique which can improve their prosperity and ensure their food security for the future, especially for the farmers in Kena group, West Matang Raya.
Observation of the Saibatin Traditional House with Biological – Architecture Approach
Authors: Fadilasari Dewi , Lisa Diana
Published: April 2020

Traditional house was one of the symbol of a previous culture that was inherited from generation to generation of each tribe, with a design adapted from the natural conditions of its time, which were built in such ways as to be used and utilized as needed at that time. The Saibatin traditional house is one of Lampung traditional house type, often called lamban or nuwo, also known as stilt houses, where full of symbol, philosophies, and cosmological content of Lampung culture. The objective of this research is to observe the Saibatin traditional houses located in Pekon Kenali, West Lampung Regency, with the biological–architecture approach. The research was conducted by observation methods and descriptive research to identify the object by comparing between data from literature and the results of documentation, as well as observations from research samples. The data from the object of research would be described and juxtaposed with the theories of biologic-architecture. The observations of The Saibatin Traditional House were executed on the whole part of the house inclusive of roof, wall, floor, columns, beam, stairs, foundation and basement. The results show that most parts of The Saibatin Traditional House are using natural materials which are part of biological architecture. The conclusion of observation research of The Saibatin Traditional House that biological architecture is not only suitable for the ancient building of old time, it also adaptable to nowadays situation, proven their existence can still adjust to the development of the era without leaving local wisdom.
Finite Element Stress Analysis of Acrylic with Embedded Optical Fibre Sensors
Authors: Kurdi O , Widyanto S A , Haryadi G D , Suprihanto A , Yulianti I , Rahman A
Published: April 2020

Finite element (FE) techniques are used to analyse mechanical stress in optical fibre sensors embedded in acrylic. The models represent many features observed in real materials with embedded fibre optic for stress and strain sensor application such as for health monitoring of structures. Three thicknesses, namely 6 mm, 8 mm and 10 mm of acrylic were analyzed with the optical fibre embedded at the mid-plane of acrylic. The simulation was done by implementing Finite Element Method using ABAQUS software. Contact between acrylic and optical fibre was modelled as frictionless and with friction. The friction coefficient was varied for various values which are 0.3, and 0.5. This paper investigates the effect of friction coefficient and the effect of fibre optic’s depth embedded in acrylic to the their von Misses stress. Simulation result shows that the higher the friction coefficient the higher von Misses stress in fibre optic and the higher von Misses stress in acrylic. The higher the fibre’s depth the higher von Misses stress in fibre and the lower von Misses stress in acrylic. The maximum stress occurred for the coefficient of friction 0.5, with magnitude of 116.4 MPa and 58.72 MPa for acrylic and optical fibre respectively. The most significant effect of fibre’s depth to the von Misses stress was obtained for 1 mm depth for acrylic and 5 mm for optical fibre, with magnitude of 72.64 MPa and 57.65 MPa for acrylic and optical fibre respectively.
Study the Effect of Dummy Slot in Stator and Rotor on the Cogging Torque Reduction in Permanent Magnet Machine
Authors: Joe Liza Evelyn , Nur Tajuddin
Published: April 2020

In this study, the effect of dummy slot in stator core and magnet in rotor core greatly affects the value of the cogging torque reduction in permanent magnet machine. The structure of permanent magnet machine was analysed employed finite element based on the finite element method magnetic (2D). In this study, 4 type of permanent magnet machine structure has been analysed. Permanent magnet machine structure in rotor have 4 type design magnet, permanent magnet machine with initial structure magnet, bread loaf, magnet edge slotting, and magnet edge slotting-magnet slot of surface. The cogging torque reduction of the proposed permanent magnet machine were computed and compared with the initial structure. Using the finite element, authors have computed and found that the cogging torque reduction of type 3 and type 1. The cogging torque of proposed permanent magnet machine could be reduced to 97.17% by employing the dummy slot in stator core.
Study of The Effect of Height and Length of Slotting in Magnet Edge on the Cogging Torque Reduction of Fractional Slot Number in Permanent Magnet Machine
Authors: Nur Tajuddin , Joe Liza Evelyn
Published: April 2020

Cogging torque generated in permanent magnet machine effects to some undesirable vibration and noises. In order to minimize the cogging torque in permanent magnet is the most important issues recently. This paper investigated the influence of the value of height and length of slotting in magnet edge on the cogging torque reduction. For purpose of study the structure of 24 slot/10 pole of permanent magnet machines have been chosen. The 2-D finite element based on FEMM 4.2 software was implemented to compute the permanent magnet machine performance. Simulation results showed that by optimising the height and length of slotting in magnet edge can reduce the cogging torque of permanent magnet machine significantly. The most effective way by employing a-two step slotting with 2.5 mm of height and 0.7 mm of length of the slotting in magnet in the first step of slotting. In the second step of in magnet edge, the length of slotting has been assigned as much as 2.3 mm and the height of slotting was 0.588635 mm. By employing the FEMM, three of different magnet structures of permanent magnet machine were analysed. It was found that the cogging torque of permanent magnet machine proposed magnet structure as much as 99.7 % compared with the initial structure of the permanent magnet machine.
Road Improvement Overlay Pavement Flexible at Cibomo – Terumbu Road Serang City
Authors: Rosdiyani Telly , Artiwi Nila Prasetyo , Suratman Ogi
Published: April 2020

Cibomo - Terumbu road to makes an alternative as connecting road (Axis) residential area in Kasemen District, Serang City. There are some damage conditions on the road structure and there is absence of adequate drainage channel with heavy traffic through the road, which lead congestion and inconvenience in driving. It is necessary to solve these problems. This research was conducted to determine the thickness of the pavement layer, and to design the dimensions of the drainage channel. The method used in this planning was the calculation of Bina Marga 1987. Geometric control of the road based on the Road Geometric Planning Basics 1999, while drainage planning was used in the Procedure for Road Surface Drainage Planning (SNI-03-34241994). Planning period for 15 (fifteen) years. The final results of the plan require an additional layer of 6 (six) cm Laston (Concrete Asphalt Surface Coating) MS 590. The size of the drainage channel in accordance with the calculation, channel height (h) is 0.40 m, the channel width (b) is 0.30, and the watch height (w) is 0.45.
Thermal treatment for radioactive waste minimisation and hazard reduction: overview and summary of the EC THERAMIN project
Authors: Scourfield S J , Kent J E , Wickham S M , Nieminen M , Clarke S , Frasca B
Published: April 2020

The EC THERAMIN project aimed to identify which wastes could benefit from thermal treatment, which treatment technologies are under development in participating countries, and how these could be combined to deliver a wide range of benefits. Thermal pre-treatment or immobilisation processes result in significant volume reduction, waste passivation and destruction of organic materials, which reduces risks during waste storage and supports development of safety cases for geological disposal. This paper presents the key conclusions from the project. The potential for thermal treatment of European radioactive waste streams was evaluated and a “Value Assessment” framework was developed to assist in decision making, taking into account all stages of the waste management lifecycle. An overview is given of the strategy followed in performing demonstration trials and subsequent waste product characterisation for a range of waste groups. Case studies for select demonstrator-waste group combinations provide information about these processes in greater depth, including details about the treatment technique, resulting waste product and its characterisation, and disposability implications. Finally, the key conclusions from the project are summarised.
In-Can vitrification of ash
Authors: Fournier M , Massoni N , Hollebecque J F
Published: April 2020

The In-Can Melter is a metallic crucible heated in a refractory furnace using electrical resistors allowing in-container vitrification. The In-Can Melter trial aims to demonstrate the feasibility of the confinement in a glassy matrix of ash coming from existing incineration processes. The ash was pelletised to allow its introduction into the can without dust emissions and then incorporated in a 50 wt.% waste loading confinement matrix. The full-scale trial was preceded by laboratory- and bench-scale tests. The microstructure and chemical durability of the wasteform were characterised.
Hot Isostatically Pressed Zirconolite Wasteforms for Actinide Immobilisation
Authors: Blackburn L R , Gardner L J , Sun S K , Maddrell E R , Stennett M C , Corkhill C L , Hyatt N C
Published: April 2020

In order to demonstrate the deployment of Hot Isostatic Pressing (HIP) for the immobilisation of Pu stocks and residues, a series of active and inactive zirconolite formulations have been processed and characterised. In this instance, Ce, U, and Th have been applied as chemical surrogates for Pu4+. A range of formulations targeting isovalent Zr4+ site substitution (i.e. to simulate CaZr1-xPuxTi2O7) have been processed by HIP and characterised by powder X-ray diffraction, and scanning electron microscopy, in order to determine surrogate partitioning between the host zirconolite phase, and accessory phases that may have formed during the HIP process.
Development of Generic Criteria for Evaluating the Disposability of Thermally Treated Wastes
Authors: Harvey L , Galson D , Catherin S , Romero M-A , Fournier M , Fuller A , Wickham S
Published: April 2020

The potential to generate wasteforms with enhanced properties that support safe storage and disposal is one of the key factors driving thermal treatment of radioactive waste. Depending on the specific treatment method and waste substrate, thermal treatment can greatly reduce chemical reactivity, yielding a primary product that is more durable than wasteforms produced via non-thermal routes and with reduced potential for gas generation and other detrimental behaviour in a storage / disposal environment. On the other hand, thermal treatment can concentrate radioactivity into a smaller volume, potentially affecting waste handling and / or classification. It also generates secondary wastes whose management requires consideration as part of a holistic evaluation of thermal treatment. Moreover, some thermal treatment routes do not generate a primary product that is directly disposable without further conditioning. Generic disposability criteria have been derived that can be used to evaluate the primary products from any form of thermal treatment. These generic disposability criteria highlight the factors that are relevant for waste product disposability and the ways in which thermal treatment can impact on these factors (both positively and negatively). They are equally applicable to any packaging or disposal concept, regardless of the engineered barriers that are present, and in any disposal environment, regardless of its characteristics and the nature of the host rock / geology. They could aid waste management organisations in developing their own disposability criteria, tailored to a particular context, for application in national waste management programmes.
Characterisation of co-mixed HIP wasteforms for Magnox sludge and clinoptilolite wastes
Authors: Walling S A , Gardner L J , Hyatt N C
Published: April 2020

Co-mixed simulant wasteforms consisting of calcined Magnox sludge simulant and clinoptilolite, with additions of a glass forming frit and CeO2 or U3O8 were processed using Hot Isostatic Pressing (HIP). This enabled the production of high waste loaded materials, with the successful incorporation of both simulant and active material. These formed heterogeneous glass-ceramic products, with decomposition of raw materials and some vitreous phase formation. The aqueous durability of these materials was assessed over a 28-day period using a modified PCT test, and favourably compared to the durability of an international glass. Overall this verifies the potential for HIP technology to be used in wasteform production, with potential large reductions in waste volume, especially if co-mixed wastes are considered.
The HADES Facility for High Activity Decommissioning Engineering & Science: part of the UK National Nuclear User Facility
Authors: Hyatt N C , Corkhill C L , Stennett M C , Hand R J , Gardner L J , Thorpe C L
Published: April 2020

Research and innovation is key to delivering UK Government’s civil nuclear energy policy, in particular to accelerate reduction in the hazard, timescale and cost of legacy decommissioning and geological disposal of radioactive wastes. To address this challenge, a national centre of excellence, the HADES Facility, has been established to support research and innovation in High Activity Decommissioning Engineering & Science, as part of the wider network of UK National Nuclear User Facilities. Herein, we describe the development of this user facility, the current status of its capability, and functional equipment specifications. The unique capabilities of the HADES Facility, in the UK academic landscape, are emphasised, including: handling of weighable quantities of 99Tc and transuranics; quantitative electron probe microanalysis of radioactive materials; hot isostatic pressing of radioactive materials; and laboratory-based X-ray absorption and emission spectroscopy. An example case study of the application of the HADES capability is described, involving thermal treatment of a real radioactive ion exchange resin waste to produce a conceptual vitrified waste form.
Shape memory effect of polymeric composite materials filled with NiMnSbB shape memory alloy for textile materials
Authors: Topel-Zeren Esra , Akşit Aysun , Aydoğdu Yıldırım
Published: April 2020

The aim of the study was to obtain a smart textile material with shape memory alloys. NiMn-based shape memory alloy was produced by arc melting system for this purpose. Phase transition temperatures of the fabricated alloy were determined by using differential scanning calorimeter (DSC). The crystallographic structure of the fabricated alloy was characterized by x-ray diffractometer (XRD). The fabricated shape memory alloy was converted to the particle form and filled into polymer matrix to obtain shape memory effect of this polymeric composite material. Polymeric composites (PCs) were produced in film form and shape training of PCs were studied under different conditions. The shape memory behavior of samples was investigated into the water for fast response during applying heat. Damping capacity of composites was measured by using dynamic mechanical analyzer (DMA) according to temperature rising. The shape recovery was observed under certain stimuli on the SMA filled polymeric composites.
Certification of a functionality in a quantum network stage
Authors: Lipinska Victoria , Thinh Lê Phuc , Ribeiro Jérémy , Wehner Stephanie
Published: April 2020

We consider testing the ability of quantum network nodes to execute multi-round quantum protocols. Specifically, we examine protocols in which the nodes are capable of performing quantum gates, storing qubits and exchanging said qubits over the network a certain number of times. We propose a simple ping-pong test, which provides a certificate for the capability of the nodes to run certain multi-round protocols. We first show that in the noise-free regime the only way the nodes can pass the test is if they do indeed possess the desired capabilities. We then proceed to consider the case where operations are noisy, and provide an initial analysis showing how our test can be used to estimate parameters that allow us to draw conclusions about the actual performance of such protocols on the tested nodes. Finally, we investigate the tightness of this analysis using example cases in a numerical simulation.
Projections of declining outdoor skating availability in Montreal due to global warming
Authors: Dickau Mitchell , Matthews Damon , Guertin Étienne , Seto Donny
Published: April 2020

Outdoor skating is a valued and culturally important winter activity in Canada that is vulnerable to warming winter temperatures resulting from anthropogenic climate change. Changes to the outdoor skating season (OSS) due to climate change have been estimated from historical weather records using the occurrence of daily temperatures below a particular temperature threshold as a proxy for rink availability. However, research on the actual weather conditions needed for outdoor rinks to be maintained in reasonable condition is limited. In this study, we used historical weather data and daily reports on outdoor rinks in Montréal to identify which daily or multi-day temperature variable can best act as an indicator of outdoor ice rink availability. We evaluated a series of temperature variables using a logistic regression to predict the likelihood of open rinks during each day of the season. Using AIC scores to select the best model, we found that the mean of the preceding six-day maximum temperature was the best predictor of skating availability. Using this temperature predictor, we then projected changes in the duration of the future OSS in Montréal based on global climate model data, downscaled to the island of Montréal using the MarkSim Weather Generator. Our results showed that the mean OSS duration in Montréal would range from a 15% to a >75% decline by 2090 depending on which future emissions scenario we follow. In a scenario that limits global temperature rise to below 2.0 °C (RCP 2.6), we projected a 41 day mean OSS duration at the end of this century. By contrast, under a business-as-usual emissions pathway (RCP 8.5), the average length of the OSS in Montréal could decline to only 11 days per year. Our results suggest that very ambitious climate change mitigation will be required to preserve outdoor skating in Montréal in the face of ongoing global climate change.
A Dictionary of Dentistry
Authors: Ireland Robert
Published: April 2020

This dictionary covers thousands of important terms and concepts used in dentistry today. Entries are written in clear and concise English without the use of unnecessary dental or medical jargon, and many entries are supplemented by detailed line drawings or colour photographs.

The dictionary defines terms in a broad range of dental specialist areas. In this edition expanded coverage has been given in particular to topics that include oral surgery, oral medicine, special care dentistry, anaesthesia, restorative dentistry, paediatric dentistry, anatomy, and orthodontics.

An essential guide for dental practitioners and dental students, it is also an invaluable reference source for all members of the dental team, medical practitioners, lawyers involved with members of the dental profession, and the general reader.
The Sun: A Very Short Introduction
Authors: Judge Philip
Published: April 2020

The Sun: A Very Short Introduction explores the science, structure, origins, workings, and future evolution of the Sun and solar physics, and its impact on life on earth. What are sunspots, and why do they form? What dynamic forces govern the Sun’s magnetic fields? Has the Sun grown brighter, smaller, or slower with age? Solar physics remains an observationally driven subject and determining cause and effect can be hampered by the Sun’s complexity. However, studying the Sun has led to remarkable discoveries in astronomy and basic physics, and recent technological developments and missions—some of which are already being deployed—will almost certainly improve our knowledge of the Sun, our nearest star.
1. The Sun, our star
Authors: Judge Philip
Published: April 2020

‘The Sun, our star’ presents a short history of the Sun and its relationship with Earth. While our ancestors worshipped the Sun, we may now take it for granted. Alpha Centauri A, the nearest other Sun-like star, is four light years away, compared to the Sun’s eight light minutes. The Sun and stars are neither solid nor liquid but composed of ionized particles in a plasma state. This plasma can sustain magnetic fields but not electric fields. The Sun exhibits remarkable phenomena such as sunspots, the corona, flares, the solar wind, and coronal mass ejections. Its atmosphere is layered into photosphere, chromosphere, and corona.
3. Spots and magnetic fields
Authors: Judge Philip
Published: April 2020

‘Spots and magnetic fields’ explores sunspot behaviour. We have known since 1908 that sunspots are magnetic, but why does the Sun form them at all? Is the Sun extraordinary in this, or is its behaviour in line with other stars? The Sun’s magnetic field is generated by a solar dynamo, which can be partly explained by magnetohydrodynamics (MHD)—the study of the magnetic properties and behaviour of electrically conducting fluids—however, there is no full consensus on the solar dynamo. In the 1960s the new science of helioseismology gave us insights into the Sun’s interior rotation, but we are unable to make truly critical observations in the solar interior.
4. War
Authors: Reus-Smit Christian
Published: April 2020

Throughout history, war has had a profound effect on the structures and practices of political authority. ‘War’ explores the connections between war—purposive, organized violence—and the organization of political authority. It discusses how war shapes such organization: it was central to the emergence of sovereign states in Europe, and the international community has routinely used war to secure the existing system of states. War-making has also been a prime marker of political authority. Finally, war has been the principal object of authoritative control in international relations. Together, these connections have profoundly affected the global organization of political authority, and vice versa.
8. An essential political science
Authors: Reus-Smit Christian
Published: April 2020

This Very Short Introduction argues that when seeking to understand international relations we should focus on the global organization of political authority, and on the human and environmental consequences of such organization. It provides an illuminating framework for understanding the nature, effects, and control of war; the relationship between politics and economics; the significance of human rights; and the impact of cultural difference. ‘An essential political science’ also proposes that such a focus helps us better understand many of today’s most pressing concerns as well. International relations has a special role addressing the macro-conditions—the global arrangements of legitimate political power—that condition politics in more local contexts.
Sequence repetitiveness quantification and de novo repeat detection by weighted k-mer coverage
Authors: Feng Cong , Dai Min , Liu Yongjing , Chen Ming
Published: April 2020

DNA repeats are abundant in eukaryotic genomes and have been proved to play a vital role in genome evolution and regulation. A large number of approaches have been proposed to identify various repeats in the genome. Some de novo repeat identification tools can efficiently generate sequence repetitive scores based on k-mer counting for repeat detection. However, we noticed that these tools can still be improved in terms of repetitive score calculation, sensitivity to segmental duplications and detection specificity. Therefore, here, we present a new computational approach named Repeat Locator (RepLoc), which is based on weighted k-mer coverage to quantify the genome sequence repetitiveness and locate the repetitive sequences. According to the repetitiveness map of the human genome generated by RepLoc, we found that there may be relationships between sequence repetitiveness and genome structures. A comprehensive benchmark shows that RepLoc is a more efficient k-mer counting based tool for de novo repeat detection. The RepLoc software is freely available at http://bis.zju.edu.cn/reploc.
Activity or connectivity? A randomized controlled feasibility study evaluating neurofeedback training in Huntington’s disease
Authors: Papoutsi Marina , Magerkurth Joerg , Josephs Oliver , Pépés Sophia E , Ibitoye Temi , Reilmann Ralf , Hunt Nigel , Payne Edwin , Weiskopf Nikolaus , Langbehn Douglas , Rees Geraint , Tabrizi Sarah J
Published: April 2020

Non-invasive methods, such as neurofeedback training, could support cognitive symptom management in Huntington’s disease by targeting brain regions whose function is impaired. The aim of our single-blind, sham-controlled study was to collect rigorous evidence regarding the feasibility of neurofeedback training in Huntington’s disease by examining two different methods, activity and connectivity real-time functional MRI neurofeedback training. Thirty-two Huntington’s disease gene-carriers completed 16 runs of neurofeedback training, using an optimized real-time functional MRI protocol. Participants were randomized into four groups, two treatment groups, one receiving neurofeedback derived from the activity of the supplementary motor area, and another receiving neurofeedback based on the correlation of supplementary motor area and left striatum activity (connectivity neurofeedback training), and two sham control groups, matched to each of the treatment groups. We examined differences between the groups during neurofeedback training sessions and after training at follow-up sessions. Transfer of training was measured by measuring the participants’ ability to upregulate neurofeedback training target levels without feedback (near transfer), as well as by examining change in objective, a priori defined, behavioural measures of cognitive and psychomotor function (far transfer) before and at 2 months after training. We found that the treatment group had significantly higher neurofeedback training target levels during the training sessions compared to the control group. However, we did not find robust evidence of better transfer in the treatment group compared to controls, or a difference between the two neurofeedback training methods. We also did not find evidence in support of a relationship between change in cognitive and psychomotor function and learning success. We conclude that although there is evidence that neurofeedback training can be used to guide participants to regulate the activity and connectivity of specific regions in the brain, evidence regarding transfer of learning and clinical benefit was not robust.
Early Risk Factors for the Duration of Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2 Viral Positivity in Patients With Coronavirus Disease 2019
Authors: Lin Aifen , He Ze-Bao , Zhang Sheng , Zhang Jian-Gang , Zhang Xia , Yan Wei-Hua
Published: April 2020

Background

Pneumonia coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) has became a pandemic. However, information on early risk factors for the duration of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) viral positivity is not yet available.

Methods

In this prospective study, a cohort of 137 patients with confirmed SARS-CoV-2 were enrolled. Clinical information and laboratory data were retrieved from electronic medical records. Viral positivity duration was calculated by the interval from the day of confirmed SARS-CoV-2 positive results to the day SARS-CoV-2 testing showed negative results in these 137 patients with COVID-19. Early risk factors for the duration of SARS-CoV-2 viral positivity were evaluated.

Results

The median SARS-CoV-2 viral positivity duration is 12 days (range, 4 to ~45) for this cohort. Cox regression results showed a significantly shorter viral positivity duration was related to younger age (hazard ratio [HR], .658; P = .017); disease not being severe (HR, .653; P = .076); higher lymphocyte (HR, 1.464; P = .033), eosinophil (HR, 1.514; P = .020), and CD8+ T-cell (HR, 1.745; P = .033) counts; and lower IL-6 (HR, .664; P = .036) and IL-10 (HR, .631; P = .021). Multivariate analysis with covariable-adjusted results showed that the CD8+ T-cell count (HR, 2.376; P= .114) was a predominant risk factor for the duration of SARS-CoV-2 viral positivity.

Conclusions

Our findings show early laboratory parameters such as CD8+ T-cell count to be risk factors for the duration of SARS-CoV-2 viral positivity, which has significance in the control and prevention of the disease.
Severe acute respiratory SARS-CoV-2 infection in dialysis patients in northern Italy: a single-centre experience
Authors: Fontana Francesco , Giaroni Francesco , Frisina Monica , Alfano Gaetano , Mori Giacomo , Lucchi Leonardo , Magistroni Riccardo , Cappelli Gianni
Published: April 2020

Background

Dialysis patients are considered at high risk for COVID-19 and the infection can easily spread in dialysis units.

Methods

We conducted an observational single-centre cohort study to describe clinical characteristics, treatments and outcomes of dialysis patients with severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) infection. We tested patients who presented symptoms or had contact with a confirmed case. We enrolled 15 patients positive for SARS-CoV-2.

Results

We tested 37 of 306 dialysis patients. Patients with SARS-CoV-2 infection were older (mean age 75.96 ± 11.09 years) and all had comorbidities. At presentation, most had interstitial infiltrates on chest X-ray, three-quarters had leucopenia and none had respiratory insufficiency. During follow-up, there was an increase in serum C-reactive protein and interleukin-6. Eighty percent of patients received supplemental oxygen; none received non-invasive ventilation, one was intubated. Most patients (80%) were treated with oral hydroxychloroquine for a median time of 6.5 days [interquartile range (IQR) 5–14.5] and 40% received azithromycin; two patients received a short course of antivirals and one received a single dose of tocilizumab. Only two patients did not require hospitalization. Of the nine survivors, eight still tested positive for SARS-CoV-2 a median of 19 days (IQR 9.25–23) after diagnosis. Six patients died (case fatality rate 40%) a median of 5.5 days (IQR 1.75–9.75) after diagnosis. The main reported cause of death was respiratory failure related to COVID-19 (five patients).

Conclusions

We report a single-centre experience of SARS-CoV-2 infection in dialysis patients. The disease showed a high case fatality rate and most patients required hospitalization. Survivors show prolonged viral shedding.
A Reconsideration of the Role of Demand in Malthus’s Theory of Accumulation*
Authors: Smith Matthew
Published: April 2020

This paper is concerned with the role of effective demand in Malthus’s theory of accumulation expounded in his Principles of Political Economy. As is well known, Keynes praised Malthus for being a forerunner in identifying a lack of effective demand as a cause of depression in economic activity and a constraint on growth. There have since been many interpretations in the literature of Malthus’s position by reference to his arguments against Say’s Law in contending the possibility of “general gluts” and to his theory of capital accumulation. We begin by examining Malthus’s conception of the supply-side factors that determine what we call, “potential accumulation”, being accumulation that is not constrained by demand. The paper then considers the role of effective demand in Malthus’s well known contention of the possibility of “general gluts” and, connectedly, in his theory of demand-constrained capital accumulation. On this basis, we then appraise whether Malthus’s theory anticipates Keynes’s principle of effective demand by reference to the debate on this question in the literature, showing that while Malthus lacked a meaningful saving-investment analysis, he does provide insights important to the modern demand-led approach to growth.
The Aggregation Pheromone of Metamasius spinolae (Coleoptera: Dryophthoridae) Revisited: Less is More
Authors: Malo Edi A , Gutiérrez-Escobar Verónica , Castrejón-Ayala Federico , Rojas Julio C
Published: April 2020

The weevil Metamasius spinolae (Gyllenhal) is the most important insect pest of cultivated prickly pear in Mexico. A previous work reported that the pheromone of this weevil species was composed by three components. In this study, we reinvestigated the aggregation pheromone of M. spinolae using gas chromatography-electroantennography and gas chromatography–mass spectrometry to locate and identify new potential pheromonal compounds. The behavioral activity of identified compounds was evaluated in laboratory and field trials. Metamasius spinolae males released four compounds: 2-methyl-4-heptanone, 6-methyl-2-hepten-4-one, 2-methyl-4-octanone, and 2-hydroxy-2-methyl-4-heptanone. In the laboratory assays, depending on the concentration, the compounds were attractive, neutral, or repellent to M. spinolae. Field evaluation showed that traps baited with 2-hydroxy-2-methyl-4-heptanone singly or in most of the binary or tertiary blends where this compound was present captured a higher number of M. spinolae compared to live males and the other compounds identified. In conclusion, our results indicate that 2-hydroxy-2-methyl-4-heptanone is the main component of the aggregation pheromone of M. spinolae. We suggest that this compound should be used for developing a monitoring or a mass-trapping system for M. spinolae.
Improvised ensemble counterpoint: on the notation of the bass in Agostino Agazzari’s Eumelio (1606)
Authors: Hall Matthew J
Published: April 2020

Unfigured basslines serve as the starting points for collective improvisation in several sections of Agostino Agazzari’s Eumelio (1606). Agazzari makes clear that musicians used such basslines for effective ensemble improvisations in his well-known treatise Del sonare sopra’l basso con tutti li stromenti (1607) and in other contemporaneous documents. Gloria Rose has identified isolated examples of written ‘tablatures of the bass’, or contrapuntal templates from which ensembles improvised. However, analysis of the harmonic and modal parameters of the vocal monody in Eumelio shows how constrained the possibilities for improvisation actually were, indicating that the training of musicians c.1600 prepared them to improvise collectively from a bassline, even without such written tablatures. Some aspects of historical musicianship could lead to successful and enjoyable collective improvisation today, suggesting ways to bridge the gap between the contrapuntal training of modern and past musicians.
A Piece of History: The Legacy of George W. Counts and Underrepresented Populations
Authors: Berthaud Vladimir , Hewlett Dial
Published: April 2020

The fight for social justice and diversity in medicine stems from racial inequalities and discrimination that have permeated our society for centuries. As America has become more diverse in recent years, African American physicians remain largely underrepresented in the healthcare workforce and academic medicine. In the field of infectious diseases, one man, George W. Counts, has shouldered the struggle to end disparities in education, training, research, and academic advancement. This article celebrates his legacy and rekindles the discussion about inclusion, diversity, access, and equity in infectious diseases.
Point-of-Care Therapeutic Drug Monitoring for Precision Dosing of Immunosuppressive Drugs
Authors: Taddeo Adriano , Prim Denis , Bojescu Elena-Diana , Segura Jean-Manuel , Pfeifer Marc E
Published: April 2020

Background

Immunosuppressive drugs (ISD) are an essential tool in the treatment of transplant rejection and immune-mediated diseases. Therapeutic drug monitoring (TDM) for determination of ISD concentrations in biological samples is an important instrument for dose personalization for improving efficacy while reducing side effects. While currently ISD concentration measurements are performed at specialized, centralized facilities, making the process complex and laborious for the patient, various innovative technical solutions have recently been proposed for bringing TDM to the point-of-care (POC).

Content

In this review, we evaluate current ISD-TDM and its value, limitations, and proposed implementations. Then, we discuss the potential of POC-TDM in the era of personalized medicine, and provide an updated review on the unmet needs and available technological solutions for the development of POC-TDM devices for ISD monitoring. Finally, we provide concrete suggestions for the generation of a meaningful and more patient-centric process for ISD monitoring.

POC-based ISD monitoring may improve clinical care by reducing turnaround time, by enabling more frequent measurements in order to obtain meaningful pharmacokinetic data (i.e., area under the curve) faster reaction in case of problems and by increasing patient convenience and compliance. The analysis of the ISD-TDM field prompts the evolution of POC testing toward the development of fully integrated platforms able to support clinical decision-making. We identify 4 major areas requiring careful combined implementation: patient usability, data meaningfulness, clinicians’ acceptance, and cost-effectiveness.
Preoperative Localization of Breast MRI Lesions: MRI-guided Marker Placement With Radioactive Seed Localization as an Alternative to MRI-guided Wire Localization
Authors: Saphier Nicole , Kondraciuk Jessica , Morris Elizabeth , Bernard-Davila Blanca , Mango Victoria
Published: April 2020

Objective

Preoperative MRI-guided wire localization (MWL) presents challenges to both the physician and patient. In this study, we examined the efficiency and outcome of MRI-guided marker placement followed by mammographic-guided radioactive seed localization (MMP/RSL) as an alternative localization method. The primary outcome parameter was pathology upon excision. The secondary outcome parameters were total procedure time and clinical indication for localization.

Methods

A retrospective review of a large tertiary cancer center’s breast imaging database was performed. Records of 21 patients with MMP/RSL (24 markers) from August 2013 to January 2019 were compared with 34 patients receiving MWL (48 wires) from January 2016 to January 2019. Multiple factors, including age, prelocalization pathology, postsurgical pathology, concordance, re-excision rates, and total procedure time required for each technique, were compared. Univariate and descriptive statistical analyses were performed.

Results

Mean patient age in years (MMP/RSL = 54.1 ± 13.1, MWL = 55.1 ± 10.8, P = 0.389), time in MR scanner in minutes (MMP/RSL = 31.7 ± 12.0, MWL = 35.8 ± 13.1, P = 0.678), and postsurgical pathology malignancy rates (MMP/RSL = 71.4%, MWL = 65.7%, P = 0.7715) were similar without statistically significant differences. As expected, the mean total procedure time was slightly longer without a statistically significant difference (47.3 ± 19.8 min versus 35.8 ± 13.1 min, P = 0.922) for the MMP/RSL group. All patients in both groups underwent successful localization with 100% radiologic-pathology concordance. Re-excision rates were lower for the MMP/RSL group (9.5%) versus the MWL group (16.7%); however, they were not found to be statistically significant (P = 0.7104).

Conclusion

MMP/RSL is a feasible alternative to MWL and may alleviate many challenges presented by MWL. Further studies are needed.
First Report of Nipaecoccus viridis (Hemiptera: Pseudococcidae) Associated with Citrus Production in the United States
Authors: Diepenbrock Lauren M , Ahmed Muhammad Z
Published: April 2020

Nipeacoccus viridis (Newstead), is an invasive, polyphagous mealybug pest recently found causing damage in citrus production fields in several counties in Florida, United States. In this short communication, we document the finding of this pest, its associated damage in citrus groves, and provide basic diagnostic and scouting information. Nipaecoccus viridis is a pest of concern, necessitating the quick development of management tools.
Comparative Molecular Description of a Novel GST Gene in Culex pipiens (Diptera: Culicidae)
Authors: Ali Hagar Samy , Khaled Amany Soliman , Hamouda Laila Sayed , Ghallab Enas Hamdy
Published: April 2020

Repeated exposure to insecticides, particularly pyrethroids and organophosphates, has resulted in the development of insecticide resistance in the mosquito Culex pipiens, a primary disease vector. Glutathione S-transferase (GST) is involved in the phase II detoxification of numerous xenobiotics, including insecticides. In this study, a GST gene (CPIJ002678) was amplified, sequenced, and used in comprehensive molecular analyses ending up in development of a rapid assay to distinguish more tolerant individuals from susceptible Culex pipiens using the Restriction Fragment Length Polymorphism (RFLP) technique. Field collected Culex pipiens strains from untreated areas, organophosphates-treated areas and a lab strain reared for many generations, all were used in CDC bottle bioassays to evaluate the susceptibility status of the studied individuals to malathion insecticide. Interestingly, both field sites collected groups showed high levels of resistance at the malathion diagnostic time. Gene amplification, and bidirectional direct sequencing results were analyzed. Compared with the reference genome sequence, the pairwise alignment of the amplified sequences showed 96.6% similarity to the reference sequence in the GenBank database. The confirmed gene sequences were assembled and aligned using various bioinformatic softwares. The assembled contigs were used in NEBcutter V2.0 for constructing restriction maps and checked for the availability of differences (if present) between susceptible and more tolerant strains. Specific molecular RFLP markers were successfully recognized to differentiate the more tolerant from the susceptible Culex pipiens phenotypes.
Qua Objects and Their Limits
Authors: Loets Annina J
Published: April 2020

It is both a matter of everyday experience and a tenet of sociological theory that people often occupy a range of social roles and identities, some of which are associated with mutually incompatible properties. But since nothing could have incompatible properties, it is not clear how this is possible. It has been suggested, notably by Kit Fine (1982, 1999, 2006), that the puzzling relation between a person and their various social roles and identities can be explained by admitting an ontology of social qua objects—objects constituted by, yet distinct from, the persons on which they are based. This article argues that admitting even a rich ontology of such qua objects does not suffice to explain the puzzle cases of interest. Instead, alternative resources are required which, once available, diminish the motivation for adopting an ontology of social qua objects in the first place. The paper concludes by considering whether there remains work for social qua objects in explaining differences in persistence conditions between a person and the social individuals to which they may give rise, but reaches a negative verdict. Social qua objects, if they exist, have little work to do in our theorizing about the relation between a person and their various social roles and identities.
Astronomical masers and Dicke’s superradiance
Authors: Rajabi Fereshteh , Houde Martin
Published: April 2020

We consider the radiation properties and processes of a gas with a population inversion using the formalism based on the Maxwell–Bloch equations. We focus on the maser action and Dicke’s superradiance to establish their relationship in the overall radiation process during the temporal evolution of the system as a function of position. We show that the maser action and superradiance are not competing phenomena but are rather complementary and define two distinct limits for the intensity of radiation. Masers characterize the quasi-steady state limit, when the population inversion density and the polarization amplitude vary on time-scales longer than those of non-coherent processes affecting their evolution (e.g. collisions), while superradiance defines the fast transient regime taking place when these conditions are reversed. We show how a transition from a maser regime to superradiance will take place whenever a critical threshold for the column density of the population inversion is reached, at which point a strong level of coherence is established in the system and a powerful burst of radiation can ensue during the transient regime. This critical level also determines the spatial region where a transition from the unsaturated to the saturated maser regimes will take place; superradiance can thus be seen as the intermediary between the two. We also quantify the gain in radiation intensity attained during the superradiance phase relative to the two maser regimes and show how the strong coherence level during superradiance is well suited to explain observations that reveal intense and fast radiation flares in maser-hosting regions.