bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Metabolic Effectiveness of Laparoscopic Sleeve Gastrectomy in Morbid Obesity Treatment: Early and Mid-Term Results of a Single Center
Authors: KIRŞAN Mehmet Ali , KAFADAR Mehmet Tolga , OĞUZ Abdullah
Published: August 2021

Objective: The aim of this study is to reveal the efficacy of laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy (LSG) in the preventable metabolic consequences of morbid obesity. We evaluated the weight loss according to body mass index (BMI), changes in comorbid diseases accompanying obesity in patients who underwent surgery in our clinic in the early and mid-period postoperatively, whether there was vitamin deficiency in the mid-term, and the complications associated with the surgery.

Methods: In this study, a total of 50 patients aged 18-60 who underwent LSG intervention due to morbid obesity between January 1, 2010 and December 2019 by Dicle University School of Medicine, General Surgery Clinic, were retrospectively evaluated. Sociodemographic data of the patients, preoperative BMI, postoperative 3th month, 6th month and 1st year BMI values, preoperative and postoperative 12th month HgA1c levels were measured. Mortality and complication rates were evaluated.

Results: The mean BMI of 50 patients at pre-LSG, postoperative 3rd month, 6th month and 1st year controls were respectively; 45.83±6.37, 37.63±5.88, 31.91±5.10 and 26.82±3.08kg/m2. Compared to before the intervention, the decrease in BMI was significant at the 3rd month, 6th month and 1st year controls (p
Harmonious and obsessive involvement, self-esteem, and well-being. A longitudinal study on MMORPG players
Authors: Sibilla Federica , Musetti Alessandro , Mancini Tiziana
Published: August 2021

Starting from the dualistic model of passion by Vallerand and colleagues (2003), this study aimed to identify “obsessive” and “harmonious” involvements in MMORPGs and to verify their relationships with players’ self-esteem and well-being. An international sample of 147 MMORPG players participated in a longitudinal design filling out for 3 times an online questionnaire measuring game involvement (in terms of Internet Gaming Disorder [IGD] symptoms, time spent playing the video game, sense of presence while playing, and avatar identification), global self-esteem, and well-being (i.e., meaningful life, engaged life, and pleasant life). Results supported the presence of these two different types of involvement: Obsessive involvement, characterized by a close association between IGD symptoms and playing time; Harmonious involvement, characterized by a close association between presence, avatar identification, and IGD symptoms. Cross-lagged effects showed that, over time, low self-esteem and low meaningful life predicted obsessive involvement, which in turn predicted engaged life. The present study contributes to a better understanding of the effects between video games use and the users’ self-esteem and well-being. Furthermore, it contributes to the theoretical debate about problematic involvement in videogames, also providing some indications about problematic gaming assessment and prevention.
Adolescents who are nonusers of fashionable social networking platforms
Authors: Schwartz David , Fritz Hannah L. , Kelleghan Annemarie R. , Ryjova Yana , Omary Adam , Taylor Leslie M. , Luo Tana
Published: August 2021

Social media use is central to the organization of adolescent peer groups. Nonetheless, a small percentage of youth report that they do not have an active presence on any of the social networking platforms that are commonly accessed by their peers. The current study examines the academic and social functioning of this under investigated subgroup. We recruited 376 adolescents (M = 14.4 years of age; 209 girls) from an ethnically diverse urban high school. Participants completed self-report questionnaires assessing digital communication tendencies. A peer nomination inventory was used to index social reputations and reciprocated friendships. In addition, achievement data were obtained from school records. Forty-eight adolescents (12 girls) reported that they did not use any the social networking platforms that were in vogue with their peers (i.e., Snapchat, Instagram, and Twitter). Our findings presented a mixed picture regarding the adjustment of these youth. Compared to their classmates, nonusers of fashionable social networks were less popular and had fewer friends. On the other hand, nonusers were relatively high achieving and tended to establish a small number of friendships with academically high achieving peers.
Dataset compilation by GRASS GIS for thematic mapping of Antarctica: Topographic surface, ice thickness, subglacial bed elevation and sediment thickness
Authors: Lemenkova Polina
Published: August 2021

This paper presents the GRASS GIS-based thematic mapping of Antarctica using scripting approach and associated datasets on topography and geophysics. The state-of-the art in cartographic development points at two important aspects. The first one comprises shell scripting promoted repeatability of the GIS technique, increased automatization in cartographic workflow, and compatibility of GRASS with Python, PROJ and GDAL libraries which enables advanced geospatial data processing: converting formats, re-projecting and spatial analysis. The second aspect is that data visualization greatly influences geologic research through improving the interpretation between the Antarctic glaciation and surface. This includes the machine learning algorithms of image classification enabling to distinguish between glacier and non-glacier surfaces through automatically partitioning data and analysis of various types of surfaces. Presented detailed maps of Antarctic include visualized datasets from the ETOPO1, GlobSed, EGM96 and Bedmap2 projects. The grids include bed and surface elevation, ETOPO1-based bathymetry and topography, bed, ice and sediment thickness, grounded bed uncertainty, subglacial bed elevation, geoid undulations, ice mask grounded and shelves. Data show the distribution of the present-day glacier, geophysical fields and topographic landforms for analysis of processes and correlations between the geophysical and geological phenomena. Advances in scripting cartography are significant contributions to the geological and glaciological research. Processing high-resolution datasets of Southern Ocean retrieved by remote sensing methods present new steps in automatization of the digital mapping, as presented in this research, and promotes comprehensive monitoring of geological, permafrost and glacial processes in Antarctica. All maps have been plotted using GRASS GIS version 7.8. with technical details of scripts described and interpreted.
Měkkýši PR Peliny u Chocně [Molluscs of the Peliny Natural Reserve near Choceň (East Bohemia, Czech Republic)]
Authors: Juřičková Lucie , Horsák Michal , Hrabáková Magda
Published: August 2021

This paper brings a review of a long-term malacological survey of Peliny, an important Nature Reserve near Choceň town (East Bohemia, Czech Republic). Altogether, 50 mollusc species have been recorded during the last 100 years (representing 21% of the total Czech mollusc fauna). The isolated populations of the East-Alpine Cochlodina commutata, Itala ornata, and Pupilla sterrii were confirmed. The last mentioned species has a single site there within the East Bohemia. Rare woodland species Platyla polita, Daudebradia rufa, and Vertigo alpestris were recorded for the first time.
O uso de tecnologia e o acesso à água na zona rural de um município do nordeste do Estado do Pará
Authors: Alves Brendo Luiz Araújo , Nascimento Vitor Glins da Silva , Pereira Júnior Antônio , Carneiro Francimary da Silva
Published: August 2021

O conceito de zona rural é comumente relacionado com o de zona urbana, uma vez que é classificada como o território fora dos limites do processo de urbanização. Por isso, a zona urbana sempre foi privilegiada no que concerne à implantação de sistemas de água encanada e potável, em detrimento à zona rural. Diante disso, esta pesquisa objetivou demonstrar que o uso de tecnologias no meio rural, sejam elas inovadoras ou não, facilita o acesso à água. A pesquisa foi realizada no município de Nova Timboteua, no nordeste do estado do Pará. Quanto ao método, utilizou-se o dedutivo, pois partiu-se de duas premissas positivas para uma conclusão verdadeira. A pesquisa apresenta abordagem qualitativa e quantitativa, de natureza aplicada, com procedimento exploratório. Em relação ao acesso e à captação da água na comunidade rural Sapucaia, os dados obtidos e analisados indicaram que 29 (96,6%) das 30 famílias que são totalmente dependentes das nascentes para realizar qualquer tipo atividade que necessite do recurso hídrico, não dispõe de nenhum mecanismo tecnológico que auxilie na captação e/ou facilite o acesso à água. Com a verificação dos dados, o Sítio Jonas é a única propriedade na comunidade a utilizar um motobomba de 40 HP de potência interligado a um sistema de encanação adaptado, que transporta a água do igarapé para reservatórios da residência e para irrigação de uma plantação de hortaliças. Nesse sentido, por mais que haja uma considerável facilidade de acesso à água na propriedade supramencionada, ainda existem 29 famílias que captam o recurso de forma primitiva e lenta, fato que ressalta a importância de um sistema de água encanada.
Diagnóstico dos serviços de saneamento urbano do município de Porto Nacional/TO
Authors: Nascimento Jackelliny Cristina Neves do , Mendes Alesi Teixeira
Published: August 2021

O objetivo deste trabalho foi analisar a evolução do atendimento dos serviços públicos de abastecimento de água e de esgotamento sanitário no município de Porto Nacional – TO, com base nos dados Sistema Nacional de Informações sobre Saneamento Básico (SNIS). Os dados utilizados nesta etapa foram obtidos no sítio eletrônico do SNIS, referentes ao município de Porto Nacional, no período compreendido entre os anos de 2011 e 2019, a análise histórica de atendimento consistiu na comparação dos percentuais de prestação dos indicadores do ano de 2018 com o percentual de anos anteriores. As metas de curto e médio prazo previstas no Plansab para a região Norte foram superadas e os indicadores se mantem próximos das metas previstas para o Brasil.
Desenvolvimento costeiro na Amazônia: problemas socioambientais do litoral Paraense, Brasil
Authors: Souza Hyago Elias Nascimento
Published: August 2021

Esta pesquisa teve objetivo de identificar os problemas socioambientais nas principais praias oceânicas do litoral paraense (Pará, Amazônia, Brasil) e discuti-los com ênfase no planejamento, gerenciamento e desenvolvimento dessa região. As praias estudadas foram Ajuruteua (Bragança), Princesa (Maracanã), Atalaia e Maçarico (Salinópolis). Foram utilizados os métodos da Capacidade de Carga Recreacional (CCR) e DPSIR. Os parâmetros utilizados na avaliação da qualidade da água apresentaram-se insatisfatórios para as praias de Ajuruteua, Maçarico e Atalaia. A qualidade ecológica da praia da Princesa foi considerada excelente. A praia do Atalaia apresentou melhores índices de qualidades de serviços. A CCR apresentou diminuição na capacidade de todas as praias. A análise do DPSIR demonstrou o Estado das quatro praias. As pressões naturais e antrópicas observadas foram erosão, elevada precipitação, alta turbidez da água, a falta de planejamento para o desenvolvimento socioeconômico, uso e ocupação desordenado do solo, ausência de saneamento e ausência de gerenciamento costeiro e infraestrutura adequada. Os problemas socioambientais revelam que as praias do Atalaia e Ajuruteua são as mais impactadas. O Estado em que as praias se encontram sugerem que não houve planejamento para o desenvolvimento socioeconômico do litoral paraense e que as políticas públicas adotadas pelos municípios não estão sendo aplicadas.
Resíduos farmacêuticos: riscos ambientais do descarte inadequado de medicamentos
Authors: Vieira Flávia Monaco
Published: August 2021

O consumo exacerbado de fármacos aliado à falta de conscientização sobre o descarte correto apresentam riscos ambientais e à saúde pública. Desta forma, o trabalho visa expor os riscos ambientais do descarte inadequado de medicamentos pela população brasileira. Por meio da pesquisa bibliográfica, foi realizada uma análise crítica dos impactos ambientais negativos dos resíduos farmacêuticos e dos hábitos da população quanto ao descarte desses resíduos. Como resultado da pesquisa, pode-se concluir que a maioria da população realiza o descarte de forma errônea (lixo comum, pia, vaso sanitário) e carece de informação sobre a forma correta (logística reversa). Essa atitude apresenta riscos ambientais, tais como: contaminação do solo, poluição do ar, qualidade da água, morte de espécies aquáticas e surgimento de bactérias resistentes.
Líneas metodológicas de evaluaciones de impacto ambiental
Authors: Silva Cleber Vinicius Vitorio da , Garcia Pauli Adriano de Almada , Garcia Vanessa da Silva , Aguiar Lais Alencar de , Almeida Josimar Ribeiro de
Published: August 2021

Una evaluación de impacto debe abarcar los siguientes aspectos: describir la acción propuesta, así como otras alternativas; predecir la naturaleza y magnitud de los 'efectos ambientales'; predecir los aspectos humanos; interpretar los resultados y prevenir los efectos ambientales. Además, hay que disponer de una metodología para las fases de comunicación (información al público y al ejecutivo) y, de acuerdo al caso, para los procedimientos de inspección durante la fase de construcción y de operación del proyecto o la acción de que se trate.
Ekonomisko un vides zaudējumu novērtēšanas metodoloģija paaugstinātas bīstamības objektos
Authors:   , Urbans Mihails
Published: August 2021

Promocijas darbs veltīts ekonomisko un vides zaudējumu metodoloģijas izstrādei paaugstinātas bīstamības objektos. Efektīvas novērtēšanas metodes paaugstina drošības līmeni un palīdz sagatavoties iespējamajai avārijai, kas saistīta ar liela enerģijas krājuma nekontrolētu atbrīvošanos, kā arī prognozēt iespējamo zaudējumu apmēru avārijas gadījumā. Promocijas darbā veikta avārijas situāciju izraisošo apdraudējumu modelēšana un apkopota ārkārtējo situāciju statistika pasaulē. Autors izstrādājis lietderīgu, inovatīvu vides un ekonomisko zaudējumu aprēķina metodoloģiju, lai jebkurš interesents, neieguldot lielus laika resursus, varētu iegūt ticamu un pamatotu rezultātu. Darbā apkopotas arī pašreizējās riska novērtēšanas metodes un izvērtētas to nepilnības un priekšrocības, analizēta korelācija starp objektu nolietojumu un ārkārtas situāciju biežuma pieaugumu, izstrādāti priekšlikumi riska mazināšanai objekta ekspluatācijas periodā un piedāvāta iespējamās avārijas radīto zaudējumu novērtēšanas metodoloģija. Autora piedāvātās bīstamības novērtēšanas metodoloģijas pamatā ir probit funkcijas modelis, kas līdz šim Latvijā ir ļoti reti izmantots. Promocijas darbā probit modeļa konstantes pārbaudītas, aprēķinos izmantojot dažādus iespējamo avāriju scenārijus. Autora izstrādātās metodoloģijas algoritms ir inovatīvs, tajā ir seši pamatbloki: riska scenārija noteikšana; parametri, kas atkarīgi no paaugstinātas bīstamības objekta (turpmāk – PBO) apkārtnes un ārējiem meteoroloģiskajiem apstākļiem; iespējamie riska scenāriji un to varbūtības modelēšana; negatīvo seku uz vidi apzināšana; varbūtības aprēķināšana, izmantojot probit modeli; ekonomisko un vides zaudējumu novērtēšana. Piedāvātais blokshēmu izpildes algoritms ir cieši saistīts ar efektivitātes teoriju, kas paredz operāciju izpildes secīgumu un pamatota vadības lēmuma pieņemšanu saskaņā ar veikto procedūru, kurā tiek ņemti vērā dažāda veida dati. Izmantojot piedāvāto autora izstrādāto metodoloģiju, var gūt priekšstatu par riska līmeni attiecīgajā objektā un paredzēt iespējamos ekonomiskos videi radītos zaudējumus avārijas gadījumā. Piedāvāto metodoloģiju var izmantot gan objekta projektēšanas stadijā, gan esošos paaugstinātas bīstamības objektos. Promocijas darbā sniegts detalizēts aprēķina piemērs, ko var izmantot kā paraugu.
UV aktivētas uretānakrilātu kopolimerizācijas pārklājumi izmantošanai kosmētikas nozarē
Authors:   , Grigale-Soročina Zane
Published: August 2021

Promocijas darbā pētītas uretāna diakrilātu un monoakrilātu kompozīcijas, kas, cietējot kosmētisko laku prasībām atbilstoša UV aktivētas kopolimerizācijas procesa apstākļos, veido šķērssaistītas struktūras pārklājumus ar augstiem stiprības-deformācijas, virsmas cietības, virsmas gaismas atstarošanas spējas, adhēzijas saistības un citiem rādītājiem. Darba literatūras apskatā apkopota informācijas par dabīgo nagu pārklājumu veidiem un pamatkomponentēm, kas ir to sastāvā. Raksturoti sistēmā ieejošo pamatkomponenšu izvēles ierobežojumi. Aprakstīta apstākļu un komponentu ietekme uz dabīgo nagu. Darba metodiskajā daļā raksturoti pētījumā izmantotie materiāli, un aprakstīta kompozīciju iegūšanas procesa gaita. Aprakstītas izmantotās pētīšanas metodes: nepolimerizētu kompozīciju reoloģisko īpašību raksturošana; polimerizācijas procesa diferenciālā termiskā analīze; polimerizācijas dziļuma noteikšana; polimerizētu sistēmu šķērssaistītās daļas satura noteikšana; sacietējušu pārklājumu stiprības-deformācijas rādītāju noteikšana stiepē; pārklājumu virsmas cietības, virsmas spīduma un virsmas nodilumizturības noteikšana; pārklājumu adhēzijas saistības un tās noturības novērtēšana; pārklājumu saistības pētījumi in-vitro un in-vivo uz dabīgajiem nagiem; pigmentētu pārklājumu spektroskopiskā analīze un krāsas nemainības novērtējums; pārklājumu sastāvu salīdzināšana saistībā ar to funkcionalitāti un ietekmi uz cilvēku veselību. Darba eksperimentālajā daļā izstrādātas komponentu izvēles, kompozītsistēmu veidošanas un atbilstošo pārklājumu iegūšanas metodoloģijas. Izstrādāta metodoloģija iegūstamo pārklājumu struktūras un īpašību kopuma novērtēšanai. Izpētīta atsevišķu kosmētisko pārklājumu veidošanai piemērotu uretāndiakrilātu un monoakrilātu ķīmiskās dabas un to satura attiecību ietekme uz UV aktivētas kopolimerizācijas procesā veidojošos šķērssaistīto struktūru un atbilstošiem pārklājuma īpašību rādītājiem. Novērtēta atsevišķu piedevu ietekme uz šķērssaistīto pārklājumu īpašībām, to adhēzijas saistību ar pārklājamo virsmu un noturību pārklājuma noņemšanas procesā. Izstrādāta UV starojumā cietējošo pārklājumu rūpnieciskā izstrādes shēma.
Disintegration promotes protospacer integration by the Cas1-Cas2 complex
Authors: Ma Chien-Hui , Javanmardi Kamyab , Finkelstein Ilya J , Jayaram Makkuni
Published: August 2021

‘Disintegration’—the reversal of transposon DNA integration at a target site—is regarded as an abortive off-pathway reaction. Here, we challenge this view with a biochemical investigation of the mechanism of protospacer insertion, which is mechanistically analogous to DNA transposition, by the Streptococcus pyogenes Cas1-Cas2 complex. In supercoiled target sites, the predominant outcome is the disintegration of one-ended insertions that fail to complete the second integration event. In linear target sites, one-ended insertions far outnumber complete protospacer insertions. The second insertion event is most often accompanied by the disintegration of the first, mediated either by the 3′-hydroxyl exposed during integration or by water. One-ended integration intermediates may mature into complete spacer insertions via DNA repair pathways that are also involved in transposon mobility. We propose that disintegration-promoted integration is functionally important in the adaptive phase of CRISPR-mediated bacterial immunity, and perhaps in other analogous transposition reactions.
The structure of photosystem I from a high-light-tolerant cyanobacteria
Authors: Dobson Zachary , Ahad Safa , Vanlandingham Jackson , Toporik Hila , Vaughn Natalie , Vaughn Michael , Williams Dewight , Reppert Michael , Fromme Petra , Mazor Yuval
Published: August 2021

Photosynthetic organisms have adapted to survive a myriad of extreme environments from the earth’s deserts to its poles, yet the proteins that carry out the light reactions of photosynthesis are highly conserved from the cyanobacteria to modern day crops. To investigate adaptations of the photosynthetic machinery in cyanobacteria to excessive light stress, we isolated a new strain of cyanobacteria, Cyanobacterium aponinum 0216, from the extreme light environment of the Sonoran Desert. Here we report the biochemical characterization and the 2.7 Å resolution structure of trimeric photosystem I from this high-light-tolerant cyanobacterium. The structure shows a new conformation of the PsaL C-terminus that supports trimer formation of cyanobacterial photosystem I. The spectroscopic analysis of this photosystem I revealed a decrease in far-red absorption, which is attributed to a decrease in the number of long- wavelength chlorophylls. Using these findings, we constructed two chimeric PSIs in Synechocystis sp. PCC 6803 demonstrating how unique structural features in photosynthetic complexes can change spectroscopic properties, allowing organisms to thrive under different environmental stresses.
The pro-regenerative effects of hyperIL6 in drug-induced liver injury are unexpectedly due to competitive inhibition of IL11 signaling
Authors: Dong Jinrui , Viswanathan Sivakumar , Adami Eleonora , Schafer Sebastian , Kuthubudeen Fathima F , Widjaja Anissa A , Cook Stuart A
Published: August 2021

It is generally accepted that IL6-mediated STAT3 signaling in hepatocytes, mediated via glycoprotein 130 (gp130; IL6ST), is beneficial and that the synthetic IL6:IL6ST fusion protein (HyperIL6) promotes liver regeneration. Recently, autocrine IL11 activity that also acts via IL6ST but uses ERK rather than STAT3 to signal, was found to be hepatotoxic. Here we examined whether the beneficial effects of HyperIL6 could reflect unappreciated competitive inhibition of IL11-dependent IL6ST signaling. In human and mouse hepatocytes, HyperIL6 reduced N-acetyl-p-aminophenol (APAP)-induced cell death independent of STAT3 activation and instead, dose-dependently, inhibited IL11-related signaling and toxicities. In mice, expression of HyperIl6 reduced ERK activation and promoted STAT3-independent hepatic regeneration (PCNA, Cyclin D1, Ki67) following administration of either IL11 or APAP. Inhibition of putative intrinsic IL6 trans-signaling had no effect on liver regeneration in mice. Following APAP, mice deleted forIl11exhibited spontaneous liver repair but HyperIl6, despite robustly activating STAT3, had no effect on liver regeneration in this strain. These data show that synthetic IL6ST binding proteins such as HyperIL6 can have unexpected, on-target effects and suggest IL11, not IL6, as important for liver regeneration.
Solving musculoskeletal biomechanics with machine learning
Authors: Smirnov Yaroslav , Smirnov Denys , Popov Anton , Yakovenko Sergiy
Published: August 2021

Deep learning is a relatively new computational technique for the description of the musculoskeletal dynamics. The experimental relationships of muscle geometry in different postures are the high-dimensional spatial transformations that can be approximated by relatively simple functions, which opens the opportunity for machine learning (ML) applications. In this study, we challenged general ML algorithms with the problem of approximating the posture-dependent moment arm and muscle length relationships of the human arm and hand muscles. We used two types of algorithms, light gradient boosting machine (LGB) and fully connected artificial neural network (ANN) solving the wrapping kinematics of 33 muscles spanning up to six degrees of freedom (DOF) each for the arm and hand model with 18 DOFs. The input-output training and testing datasets, where joint angles were the input and the muscle length and moment arms were the output, were generated by our previous phenomenological model based on the autogenerated polynomial structures. Both models achieved a similar level of errors: ANN model errors were 0.08 ± 0.05% for muscle lengths and 0.53 ± 0.29% for moment arms, and LGB model made similar errors—0.18 ± 0.06% and 0.13 ± 0.07%, respectively. LGB model reached the training goal with only 103samples, while ANN required 106samples; however, LGB models were about 39 times slower than ANN models in the evaluation. The sufficient performance of developed models demonstrates the future applicability of ML for musculoskeletal transformations in a variety of applications, such as in advanced powered prosthetics.
Computed Tomography elucidates ontogeny within the basal therapsid clade Biarmosuchia
Authors: Duhamel Aliénor , Benoit Julien , Day Michael , Rubidge Bruce , Fernandez Vincent
Published: August 2021

Biarmosuchia is a clade of basal therapsids that includes forms possessing plesiomorphic ‘pelycosaurian’ cranial characters as well as the highly derived Burnetiamorpha which are characterised by cranial pachyostosis and a variety of cranial bosses. Potential ontogenetic variation in these structures has been suggested based on growth series of other therapsids with pachyostosed crania, which complicates burnetiamorph taxonomic distinction and thus it is essential to better understand cranial ontogeny of the Burnetiamorpha. Here, three new juvenile biarmosuchian skulls from the late Permian of South Africa are described using X-ray micro computed tomography (CT). We found that juvenile biarmosuchians are distinguished from adults by their relatively large orbits, open cranial sutures, and incomplete ossification of the braincase and bony labyrinth. Also, they manifest multiple centres of ossification within the parietal and preparietal bones. CT examination reveals that the holotype of Lemurosaurus pricei (BP/1/816), previously alleged to be a juvenile, shows no evidence of juvenility and is thus probably an adult. This suggests that the larger skull NMQR 1702, previously considered to be an adult L. pricei, may represent a new taxon. This study provides, for the first time, a list of characters by which to recognise juvenile biarmosuchians.
Multi-objective Optimization of a Mechatronic Solar Tracking Mechanisms
Authors:   Transilvania University of Braşov, 500036 Braşov, Romania, Alexandru Cătălin
Published: August 2021

In this work, the multi-objective optimization of a dual-axis solar tracker is carried out by using a virtual prototyping software platform that integrates CAD (Computer Aided Design) – CATIA, MBS (Multi-Body Systems) – ADAMS and DFC (Design for Control) – EASY5 computer aided engineering programs. The solar tracking mechanism performs the bi-axial orientation of a PV panel, with the purpose to increase of the amount of incident solar radiation captured by the conversion system, thus improving its energy output. The optimization study aims to determine the optimal arrangement of the linear actuators that control the two degrees of freedom of the system (i.e. the diurnal and elevation movements of the PV panel) and the optimal tuning of their control elements (controllers), so that to minimize the energy consumption for performing the tracking and the tracking errors (relative to the imposed orientation program), while complying with the functional and constructive requirements/constraints coming from the type of actuator used in the application (which is a real/existing one). The tracking mechanism is approached/designed in mechatronic concept (i.e. concurrent engineering), by integrating the mechanical and control subsystems at the virtual prototype level.
A Mathematical Model for Tool Sharing between Workers by Exact Solution Approach
Authors:   Indian Institute of Information Technology Design and Manufacturing, Jabalpur, India, Yadav Ashish
Published: August 2021

Multi-manned assembly lines are generally used to produce large-sized volume products such as cars and trucks. This article addresses the multi-manned two sided assembly line balancing problem with the objectives sharing tool between workstations. This paper presents a mathematical model and a Lingo -16 solvers based exact algorithm for multi-manned two-sided assembly line system configuration with tool sharing between adjacent workstations for companies that need intelligent solutions to satisfy customized demands on time with existing resources. The results obtained indicate that tool shared between parallel stations of two or more parallel lines beneficial for assembly line to minimize workstations, idle time and reduce tool cost.
An overview and synthesis of research on English loanwords in Japanese
Authors: Allen David
Published: August 2021

Loanwords in Japanese that share form and meaning with English words are referred to as Japanese-English cognates (e.g., ラジオ /radӡio/ “radio”) and are of fundamental concern for researchers concerned with vocabulary learning and instruction. This concern is reflected in the growing body of research into Japanese-English cognates in applied linguistics, which has addressed a wide range of questions in different contexts and with various methodologies. However, the research relevant to applied linguists appears not only in various domestic and international learning- and teaching-focused publications, but also in the feeder disciplines of linguistics, sociolinguistics and psycholinguistics. Consequently, identifying published research on Japanese-English cognates presents a considerable challenge for the applied linguist, which may in turn hinder progression in the field. Therefore, this article reports a comprehensive yet non-exhaustive literature search, which yielded a corpus of 130research publications, for which a full reference list is provided. Furthermore, an overview and synthesis of the research is given, illustrating how cognates are typically treated in the feeder disciplines and in studies focusing on language learning and/or teaching, and assessment. Based on this synthesis, the following key areas for future research are identified: learners’ identification and use of cognates in English, their knowledge of loanwords in Japanese, their attitudes and beliefs towards cognates, researchers’ categorisation of cognates, whether classroom teaching approaches to cognates impact learning outcomes, and the extent of the cognate advantage in a range of assessment formats.
A procedure for determining Japanese loanword status for English words
Authors: Allen David
Published: August 2021

Japanese loanwords are mainly derived from English. These loanwords provide a considerable first-language (L1) resource that may assist in second-language (L2) vocabulary learning and instruction. However, given the huge number of loanwords, it is often difficult to determine whether an English word has a loanword equivalent and whether the loanword is likely to be widely known among the Japanese. This article demonstrates an efficient method of answering these two questions. The method employs corpus frequency data from the Balanced Corpus of Contemporary Written Japanese, from which the existence and frequency of loanwords in Japanese can be determined. Following the guidelines presented herein, researchers will be able to use data from the corpus themselves to check cognate frequency, thereby determining the cognate status of items used in research.
Influence of Seed Invigoration with Seaweed, Panchagavya and Beejamrutha on Seed Quality Parameters of Quinoa (Chenopodium quinoa Willd.) under Salinity Condition
Authors: Kiran C. H. Sai , Chaurasia Arun Kumar , Shukla Pradeep Kumar , Thammineni Krishna Sai , Reddy P. V. Raghunath
Published: August 2021

Quinoa is a saline-tolerant crop and highly nutritious compared with rice, wheat, and oats. Quinoa cultivar EC507704 were used to check the performance of seed invigoration with organic treatments under different salinity levels current experiment was conducted in 2021 at the seed testing laboratory department of Genetics and Plant Breeding, Naini Agriculture Institute, Prayagraj (U. P.). Experimentation was carried out by using Complete Randomized Design with four replications by using top of the paper method. The salinity levels were obtained by dissolving 0mM, 100mM, and 200mM NaCl in one liter of distilled water. Filter papers were supplied with a salt solution to place the treated seeds. The treatments used in this experiment are T0 distilled water as Control, T1 and T2 Seaweed 5% and 10%, T3,T4,T5 Panchagavya 4%,6% and 10%, T6,T7,T8 and T9 Beejamrutha 25%,50%,75% and 100%. The results indicated the superiority with the interaction of treatment and salinity of T9S0 Beejamrutha 100% in 0mM NaCl shows 92% in germination percentage, 3.60cm in shoot length, 6.85cm in root length, 10.45cm in seedling length, 0.25g in dry weight, 961.32 in Seedling vigour index compared with control. The better performance of Beejamrutha increases the seed quality parameters due to the presence of beneficial microorganisms, nutrients, and growth-inducing hormones.
Bacteriological Examination of Used Towels from Female and Male Hostel of Federal University of Lafia
Authors: Hadi Naja’atu Shehu , Osuyi UYI, Gerard , Bashir Sani , Yusuf Fatima Al-Mustapha , Shuaibu Kabiru Abdullahi , Obiokpa Sunday Otunsha
Published: August 2021

Bath towels have the ability to retain microbes, moist and warm environment offers microbes a favorable place to grow and survive. These microbes can be transmitted through direct contact with our hands and other inanimate objects within the environment. This study aimed at examining bacterial contamination of used towels. Used towels from male and female hostels at Federal University of Lafia, were assessed to determine their bacterial concentration. A total of sixteen (16) used towels were sampled, eight towels each from female and male hostels were sampled between April and May 2021. Identification and characterization of bacterial isolates was carried out using standard cultural, morphological and biochemical methods. Pseudomonas spp, Staphylococcus aureus, Klebsiella spp, Escherichia coli, Streptococcus, Micrococcus spp, Serratia sp and Coagulase Negative Staphylococcus were identified as contaminants in the towel samples analyzed. The female towels assessed in this study had the highest number of colonies with 4.39 x 109, while the male towels had the least number of colonies 3.88 x 109. Male and female towels sampled were all contaminated, but with no significant difference in the contamination rates (p>0.05). Staphylococcus aureus and coagulase-negative Staphylococcus were the most prevalent organisms isolated from male (62.5%; 5/8) and female (100%; 8/8) towels respectively. The high prevalence of diverse bacterial species is worrisome considering the epidemiology and clinical importance of the isolates, compounded by antimicrobial resistance and high mortality rate. Hence, there is need to enforce and improve hygiene practice among students. Frequent washing of towels and use of medicated soaps and disinfectants in bathing and washing water is hereby canvassed.
Ultimate Boundedness of Discrete-Time Uncertain Neural Networks with Leakage and Time-Varying Delays
Authors: Hua Jiajun , He Danhua
Published: August 2021

In this paper, by using the general discrete Halanay inequalities, the techniques of inequalities and some other properties, we study the ultimate boundedness of a class of the discrete-time uncertain neural network systems and obtain several sufficient conditions to ensure the ultimate boundedness of discrete-time uncertain neural networks with leakage and time-varying delays. Finally numerical examples are given to verify the correctness of the conclusion.
Evaluation of Antioxidant Property of Moringa Oleifera Leaves and its Effectiveness Against Rheumatoid Arthritis
Authors: Kapil Manas Jyoti , Deka Dhiren , Lahkar Mangala , Sharma Neelakshi
Published: August 2021

The present study is performed with the purpose of evaluating the antioxidant nature of Moringa Oleifera leaves and the effectiveness of the leaf extract against the disease called Rheumatoid Arthritis. The disease is very chronic and it is a common disease. So the study is focused on the medicinal properties of Moringa Oleifera leaves, chemical composition of Moringa Oleifera leaves and seeds, the antioxidant nature of moringa leaves and its extracts, the effectiveness of moringa leaf extract against the Rheumatoid Arthritis disease, reason behind the effectiveness of moringa leaves and discussion and analysis of the result generated.
Crystal Symmetry Engineering in Epitaxial Perovskite Superlattices
Authors: Ding Xiang , Yang Baishun , Leng Huaqian , Jang Jae Hyuch , Zhao Junrui , Zhang Chao , Zhang Sa , Cao Guixin , Zhang Ji , Mishra Rohan , Yi Jiabao , Qi Dongchen , Gai Zheng , Zu Xiaotao , Li Sean , Huang Bing , Borisevich Albina , Qiao Liang
Published: August 2021

Interface plays a critical role in determining the physical properties and device performance of heterostructures. Traditionally, lattice mismatch, resulting from the different lattice constants of the heterostructure, can induce epitaxial strain. Over past decades, strain engineering has been demonstrated as a useful strategy to manipulate the functionalities of the interface. However, mismatch of crystal symmetry at the interface is relatively less studied due to the difficulty of atomically structural characterization, particularly for the epitaxy of low symmetry correlated materials on the high symmetry substrates. Overlooking those phenomena restrict the understanding of the intrinsic properties of the as‐ determined heterostructure, resulting in some long‐standing debates including the origin of magnetic and ferroelectric dead layers. Here, perovskite LaCoO3‐SrTiO3 superlattice (SL) is used as a model system to show that the crystal symmetry effect can be isolated by the existing interface strain. Combining the state‐of‐art diffraction and electron microscopy, it is found that the symmetry mismatch of LaCoO3‐SrTiO3 SL can be tuned by manipulating the SrTiO3 layer thickness to artificially control the magnetic properties. The work suggests that crystal symmetry mismatch can also be designed and engineered to act as an effective strategy to generate functional properties of perovskite oxides.
High Antibacterial Activity and Selectivity of the Versatile Polysulfoniums that Combat Drug Resistance
Authors: Sun Jing , Li Min , Lin Min , Zhang Bo , Chen Xuesi
Published: August 2021

Sulfonium‐ion‐containing polymers exhibit significant potential benefits for various applications. An efficient strategy to synthesize a type of antibacterial sulfonium‐ion‐bearing polypeptoids via a combination of ring‐opening polymerization and a post‐polymerization functionalization with various functional epoxides is presented. A systematic investigation is further performed in order to explore the influence of the overall hydrophobic/hydrophilic balance on the antimicrobial activity and selectivity of the prepared polysulfoniums. Notably, those chlorepoxypropane‐modified polysulfoniums with an optimized amphiphilic balance show higher selectivity toward both Gram‐negative Escherichia coli and Gram‐positive Staphylococcus aureus, than to red blood cells. The polymers also show great efficiency in inhibiting S. aureus biofilm formations, as well as in further eradicating the mature biofilms. Remarkably, negligible antibacterial resistance and cross‐resistance to commercial antibiotics is shown in these polymers. The polysulfoniums further show their potent in vivo antimicrobial efficacy in a multidrug‐resistant S. aureus infection model that is developed on mouse skin. Similar to the antimicrobial peptides, the polysulfoniums are demonstrated to kill bacteria through membrane disruption. The obtained polypeptoid sulfoniums, with high selectivity and potent antibacterial property, are excellent candidates for antibacterial treatment and open up new possibilities for the preparation of a class of innovative antimicrobials.
Catalytic Enantioselective Oxidative Homocoupling of 2‐Acyl Imidazoles
Authors: Demirel Nemrud , Qin Jie , Ivlev Sergei I. , Harms Klaus , Meggers Eric
Published: August 2021

A diastereoselective and enantioselective construction of 2,3‐disubstituted 1,4‐dicarbonyl compounds is reported. Nishiyama's RuPhebox complex (2.0 mol% catalyst loading) serves as a chiral Lewis acid catalyst in conjunction with BrCCl3 and a base for the oxidative homocoupling of 2‐acyl imidazoles via the stereocontrolled reaction of intermediate Ru enolates with in situ brominated 2‐acyl imidazoles. Cleavage of the achiral imidazole auxiliary provides optically active 2,3‐disubstituted succinic acids which are useful intermediates in the synthesis of chiral compounds like the natural product class of lignans.

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Engineering Catalyst Layers for Next‐Generation Polymer Electrolyte Fuel Cells: A Review of Design, Materials, and Methods
Authors: Suter Theo A. M. , Smith Keenan , Hack Jennifer , Rasha Lara , Rana Zahra , Angel Gyen Ming A. , Shearing Paul R. , Miller Thomas S. , Brett Dan J. L.
Published: August 2021

Polymer electrolyte fuel cells (PEFCs) are a promising replacement for the fossil fuel–dependent automotive and energy sectors. They have become increasingly commercialized in the last decade; however, significant limitations on durability and performance limit their commercial uptake. Catalyst layer (CL) design is commonly reported to impact device power density and durability; although, a consensus is rarely reached due to differences in testing conditions, experimental design, and types of data reported. This is further exacerbated by aspects of CL design such as catalyst support, proton conduction, catalyst, fabrication, and morphology, being significantly interdependent; hence, a wider appreciation is required in order to optimize performance, improve durability, and reduce costs. Here, the cutting‐edge research within the field of PEFCs is reviewed, investigating the effect of different manufacturing techniques, electrolyte distribution, support materials, surface chemistries, and total porosity on power density and durability. These are critically appraised from an applied perspective to inform the most relevant and promising pathways to make and test commercially viable cells. This holistic view of the competing aspects of CL design and preparation will facilitate the development of optimized CLs, especially the incorporation of novel catalyst support materials.
Association betweenFTO(rs17817449) genetic variant, gamma‐glutamyl transferase, and hypertension in Slovak midlife women
Authors: Falbová Darina , Vorobeľová Lenka , Siváková Daniela , Beňuš Radoslav
Published: August 2021

Objectives

This cross‐sectional study investigates associations between theFTOrs 17817449 genetic variant, liver enzymes, and hypertension in Slovak midlife women.

Methods

We assessed 576 Slovak women aged 39 to 65 years. The women were interviewed and examined during their medical examination at local Health Centers and then divided into subgroups according to their blood pressure status; 255 women with hypertension and 321 normotensive. TheFTOgenetic variant was detected by polymerase chain reaction‐restriction fragment length polymorphism. Resultant data was analyzed by linear regression analysis and general linear models to adjust for risk factors associated with gamma‐glutamyl transferase levels (GGT), including waist to hip ratio (WHR) and uric acid (UA).

Results

A significant association between theFTOvariant and GGT levels was observed in the hypertensive group after control for confounding covariates, including WHR and UA (p = .004). The predicted GGT level for GT/TT hypertensive carriers is 0.158 μkat/L higher than for GG carriers. Moreover, the two‐way analysis of covariance revealed significant interaction betweenFTOeffects and hypertension on logGGT levels (p = .042). Finally, hypertensive women with the T‐allele had the highest estimated marginal mean value of logGGT at −0.39 μkat/L while the GG‐genotype in both hypertensive and normotensive women had the lowest value at −0.54 μkat/L.

Conclusions

This study suggests that theFTO(rs17817449) variant is associated with higher serum GGT levels in hypertensive midlife women.
Expanding the phenotype of ASXL3‐related syndrome: A comprehensive description of 45 unpublished individuals with inherited and de novo pathogenic variants in ASXL3
Authors: Schirwani Schaida , Albaba Shadi , Carere Deanna Alexis , Guillen Sacoto Maria J. , Milan Zamora Francisca , Si Yue , Rabin Rachel , Pappas John , Renaud Deborah L. , Hauser Natalie , Reid Evan , Blanchet Patricia , Foulds Nichola , Dixit Abhijit , Fisher Richard , Armstrong Ruth , Isidor Bertrand , Cogne Benjamin , Schrier Vergano Samantha , Demirdas Serwet , Dykzeul Natalie , Cohen Julie S. , Grand Katheryn , Morel Dayna , Slavotinek Anne , Albassam Hessa F. , Naik Swati , Dean John , Ragge Nicola , Costa Cinzia , Tedesco Maria Giovanna , Harrison Rachel E. , Bouman Arjan , Palen Emily , Challman Thomas D. , Willemsen Marjolein H. , Vogt Julie , Cunniff Christopher , Bergstrom Katherine , Walia Jagdeep S. , Bruel Ange‐Line , Kini Usha , Alkuraya Fowzan S. , Slegesky Valerie , Meeks Naomi , Girotto Paula , Johnson Diana ,   DDD Study, Newbury‐Ecob Ruth , Ockeloen Charlotte W. , Prontera Paolo , Lynch Sally Ann , Li Dong , Graham John M. , Pierson Tyler Mark , Balasubramanian Meena
Published: August 2021

The study aimed at widening the clinical and genetic spectrum of ASXL3‐related syndrome, a neurodevelopmental disorder, caused by truncating variants in the ASXL3 gene. In this international collaborative study, we have undertaken a detailed clinical and molecular analysis of 45 previously unpublished individuals with ASXL3‐related syndrome, as well as a review of all previously published individuals. We have reviewed the rather limited functional characterization of pathogenic variants in ASXL3 and discuss current understanding of the consequences of the different ASXL3 variants. In this comprehensive analysis of ASXL3‐related syndrome, we define its natural history and clinical evolution occurring with age. We report familial ASXL3 pathogenic variants, characterize the phenotype in mildly affected individuals and discuss nonpenetrance. We also discuss the role of missense variants in ASXL3. We delineate a variable but consistent phenotype. The most characteristic features are neurodevelopmental delay with consistently limited speech, significant neuro‐behavioral issues, hypotonia, and feeding difficulties. Distinctive features include downslanting palpebral fissures, hypertelorism, tubular nose with a prominent nasal bridge, and low‐hanging columella. The presented data will inform clinical management of individuals with ASXL3‐related syndrome and improve interpretation of new ASXL3 sequence variants.
Was macht Hochentropie‐Legierungen zu außergewöhnlichen Elektrokatalysateuren?
Authors: Löffler Tobias , Ludwig Alfred , Rossmeisl Jan , Schuhmann Wolfgang
Published: August 2021

Die Bildung einer großen Anzahl verschiedener Multi‐Element‐aktiven Zentren in komplexen Mischkristallwerkstoffen, die häufig auch als Hochentropie‐Legierungen bezeichnet werden, bietet neue und einzigartige Konzepte für das Katalysatordesign, die bestehende Limitierungen aufbrechen und die Sichtweise auf Struktur‐Aktivitäts‐Beziehungen verändern. Wir erörtern diese Konzepte, indem wir das derzeitige konzeptuelle Grundlagenwissen zusammenfassen und die Chancen und Grenzen dieser Materialklasse kritisch bewerten sowie Designstrategien aufzeigen. Es wird ein Fahrplan vorgeschlagen, der veranschaulicht, welche der charakteristischen Konzepte mit welcher Strategie genutzt werden können und welche Durchbrüche möglich sind, um die zukünftige Forschung in dieser vielversprechenden Materialklasse für die (Elektro‐)Katalyse zu leiten.