bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Using Computer Microscopy Methods to Control the Microstructure of Malleable Cast Iron Product with Spherical Graphite
Authors: Makarenko Konstantin , Nikitin Alexander , Vdovin Alexander , Zentsova Ekaterina
Published: December 2020

The method of identification of objects on images of the microstructure of cast iron with spherical graphite of the correct shape with uniform distribution is presented. Morphological analysis techniques were used to identify shrinkage pores and graphite inclusions in microstructure images. Geometric features of the shape of graphite inclusions were used as methods for identifying graphite, in particular, particle size analysis, which is widely used to identify various objects in computer microscopy. The computer analysis of the image was performed with the program ImageJ. To determine the pores against the background of graphite inclusions, two characteristics were used - the shape and size of the objects themselves. The pores, presented on the image, differ from graphite inclusions by a complex, fractal border and comparatively large areas. For the visualization of the research results, the combination of the graphite part with the calculation and analytical part was used. Such presentation of the results is the most significant and allows to perform the most correct evaluation of the graphitized cast iron microstructure in accordance with GOST 3443-87.
Visualization of the Process of Processing Welds by a Deformation Wave
Authors: Kirichek Andrey , Barinov Sergey , Yashin Alexandr
Published: December 2020

The aim of the paper is to obtain a unified finite element model of a complex process, which makes it possible to obtain visual information related to the influence of the welding process parameters on the results of the process of wave strain hardening of the weld material. Modeling of sequentially executed technological processes of different physical nature - welding and hardening, makes it possible to obtain more general and objective visual information about the process as a whole. Modeling in the Ansys software package is performed in stages, with the output of an earlier stage of modeling acting as the input data of the subsequent stage. At the first stage, the problem of visualizing the process of forming a weld is solved with the possibility of calculating temperature fields, stress and strain fields during heating and cooling of the welded workpiece. At the second stage, the calculated data is imported into the finite element model of processing welds with a deformation wave. A finite element model makes it possible to build microhardness maps for selected (dangerous) sections and visually monitor the change in stresses and strains in welded workpieces, depending on the technological modes of hardening by a deformation wave. The obtained visual information allows for a qualitative and quantitative assessment of the result of a complex process, which contributes to an increase in the bearing capacity and performance of the product as a whole.
Ergonomic Factors in Patenting Computer Systems for Personnel's Selection and Training
Authors: Spasennikov Valery , Androsov Kirill , Golubeva Galina
Published: December 2020

The authors identify ergonomic factors related to the composition, structure and typical functions in the process of taking into account the criteria for the protection of inventions when patenting technical solutions in the field of professional selection and training of operators and drivers of military and civil man-machine complexes. The article describes the ergonomic capabilities of selection methods and devices, technical results from the introduction of virtual, hardware-software and computer simulators for training welders, locomotive drivers, radar systems' operators, operator of remotely piloted aircraft, vehicles' mechanics-drivers. For the selection of patents in subclasses of inventions, criteria for expert evaluation of their ergonomics were first proposed based on such criteria as manageability, serviceability and usability.in total, three experts were involved, and the consistency of the solution (the concordance coefficient) during selection was w=0.67. In advanced research related to the construction of automated patent search systems, it is necessary to develop decisive rules for the selection of inventions. The authors of the article plan to develop criteria for the ergonomics of selected inventions for further analysis of promising systems for selecting and training specialists in such IPC categories as G09B9/00, G06F15/20 and A61B5/16.
A Morphological Study on Gross Anatomical Variations of Embalmed Cadaveric Livers
Authors: Zahid Aliya , Khan Brishna , Munawar Saira
Published: December 2020

Objective: To find out gross anatomical variations of embalmed cadaveric livers. Methods: Present study was conducted in dissection halls of Anatomy departments of Allama Iqbal Medical College, Lahore, Sahiwal Medical College, Sahiwal and Fatima Jinnah Medical University, Lahore during 2016-2019. In this study, 74 livers were dissected out from embalmed cadavers and preserved in 10% formalin. Different morphological variations were observed in livers which included presence of accessory lobes, accessory sulci, notches, changes in size and shape of lobes. Liver specimens were photographed and classified according to Netter's classification of morphological variations of liver. Results: The hepatic morphological variations observed included accessory fissures in the right, left, caudate and quadrate lobes of the liver, accessory lobes, elongated left lobe, hypoplastic left lobe, multiple deep diaphragmatic sulci, pons hepatis, Reidel's lobe, notched borders and bilobed caudate lobe. Conclusion: The knowledge of various variations in morphology of cadaveric livers may help the radiologists to make accurate interpretation of the radiological images, thus minimizing the chances of incorrect reporting. It may also be helpful to the hepatobiliary surgeons to be aware of the morphological variations on the liver surface to avoid surgical complications. Key Words: Embalmed cadaveric livers, accessory lobes, accessory fissures
Problem-Solving Skills as a Mediator Variable in the Relationship between Habits of Mind and Psychological Hardiness of University Students
Authors: Abdellatif, Mohamed Sayed , Zaki Mervat Azmi
Published: December 2020

This study investigated the role of problem-solving skills as a mediator variable in the relationships between habits of mind and the psychological hardiness among university students, and to identify the difference between male and female students in each of the habits of mind, psychological hardiness, and problem-solving skills. The sample comprised of 285 male and female, third-year Faculty of Education, University students. The data collection utilized the habits of mind scale, the problem-solving scale, and the psychological hardiness scale (Mekhemer, 1996). SPSS v.25 and AMOS v.24 were used to process data. The findings revealed that problem-solving skills partially mediates the relationship between habits of mind and psychological hardiness, and the results also demonstrated that there are no statistically significant differences between male and female students in habits of mind, problem-solving skills, and psychological hardiness. Future research suggestions include planning stakeholders at the university stage should take into consideration the necessity to integrate habits of mind and problem-solving skills in curricula, and providing training for faculty members to enhance university students' psychological hardiness.
Sustainability Pedagogy: Effects and Impacts on High School Students’ Knowledge, Behaviour Intention and Actual Behaviour about Sustainability
Authors: Grandisoli Edson , Jacobi Pedro Roberto
Published: December 2020

The sustainability pedagogy has been considered a central framework for projects in Education for Sustainability due to its importance of equipping people with knowledge, values, skills, attitudes, and behaviors compatible with sustainability. Despite its theoretical-practical importance, there is still a gap in works that demonstrate its actual effectiveness. This work presents the outcomes of the Education for Sustainability Project (EfS) (2010-2016) developed by high school teachers and students in Sao Paulo, Brazil. The EfS considered a particular sustainability pedagogy as a guide for its activities and interventions in the school through active learning methodologies and multi-stakeholder social learning. Its effects and impacts on participant students’ knowledge, actual behavior, and behavior intention were assessed quali-quantitatively by open-ended questions pre and post-tests. The participant students presented marked changes in knowledge and behaviors (compared to a control group) considering the adopted sustainability pedagogy, evidencing its effectiveness as a framework for different projects aiming at the formation of more sustainable individuals and societies.
Examining Validity of the Candidate Notification Scale for Gifted Children by Mokken Scale Analysis
Authors: Bilgen Özge Bıkmaz
Published: December 2020

The purpose of this study is to examine the validity of the scale for identifying gifted children, whose validity was proven by exploratory, confirmatory factor analysis, and whose reliability was proven the Cronbach alpha coefficient for identifying children in the 3-6 age group, using Mokken scaling based on nonparametric item response theory. The study group of the research consists of 253 students. As a result of the analysis of the 13-item 3-dimensional scale (above average ability, creativity and task commitment) with Monotone homogeneity Model, it is seen that a one-dimensional structure is obtained and the model fits when analyzed as a three-dimensional construct. For model data fit, when the discrimination and reliability values of the items are examined, it can be said that the one-dimensional structure of the scale is at an acceptable level, and relatively higher values are obtained for each criterion in the three-dimensional structure compared to the one-dimensional structure. Based on the findings, it can be interpreted that a parallel result was obtained in the validity study based on non-parametric item response theory of the scale, which was developed based on confirmatory factor analysis.
Altered Glenohumeral Biomechanics in Proximal Humeral Fracture Malunion
Authors: Wright Melissa A. , Lobao Mario H. , Abbasi Pooyan , Parks Brent G. , Mistretta Katherine L. , Murthi Anand M.
Published: December 2020

Introduction:

There is little biomechanical evidence to support the traditional guideline that 45° represents acceptable proximal humerus deformity. We evaluated glenohumeral contact pressure (GP) and area, subacromial contact pressure, and joint abduction to assess biomechanical changes with different proximal humerus deformities.

Methods:

Fifteen fresh-frozen cadaver shoulders were used. Intact specimens were tested on a custom dynamic shoulder frame. Subsequently, a surgical neck fracture was made in each specimen and fixed using a custom dual hinge plate for fixation of 15°, 30°, and 45° deformities in varus, valgus, antecurvatum, retrocurvatum, and combined varus-antecurvatum and valgus-retrocurvatum. Specimens were then retested.

Results:

Compared with the intact state, GP was markedly lower with all levels of varus and varus-antecurvatum deformity. Valgus and combined valgus-retrocurvatum deformity of 45° led to notable increases in GP compared with the intact state. Varus deformities of 30° and 45° caused significant increases in subacromial pressures and limited abduction markedly from 60° to 54.2° and 44.6° (P < 0.001).

Discussion:

Varus and antecurvatum proximal humerus deformities as small as 15° were associated with notable alterations in glenohumeral joint mechanics. With valgus and retrocurvatum deformity, statistically significant joint alterations occurred only at higher deformity levels.
De zitting als ritueel
Authors: Jironet D.F. (Disa)
Published: December 2020

De zitting als ritueel

Wanneer heeft een strafzitting betekenis? Hoe kunnen we de kostbare tijd op zo’n manier benutten dat er niet alleen een grens wordt getrokken bij gedrag dat in strijd is met de regels, maar dat de schade hersteld wordt, er moreel inzicht ontstaat en de breuk in de samenleving hersteld wordt? Het vraagt om een nieuw perspectief op de zitting – de zitting als modern ritueel.
Bestrijding van hybride mismatches in de Nederlandse vennootschapsbelasting
Authors: Bouwman J.N.
Published: December 2020

Bestrijding van hybride mismatches in de Nederlandse vennootschapsbelasting

Met ingang van 1 januari 2020 is de tweede EU-richtlijn tegen belastingontwijking, ATAD 2, in afdeling 2.2A van de Nederlandse vennootschapsbelasting geïmplementeerd. ATAD 2 bestrijdt fiscale voordelen – in de vorm van een aftrek zonder heffing dan wel een dubbele aftrek (hybride mismatches) – die ontstaan in grensoverschrijdende situaties omdat de belastingstelsels van landen niet op elkaar aansluiten. In de bijdrage worden de vanuit Nederlands perspectief meest in het oog lopende hybride mismatches besproken (waaronder de cv/bv-structuur en het gebruik van de Amerikaanse check-the-box-regeling). Tevens wordt ingegaan op de wijze waarop de mismatches worden bestreden. Voorts is er aandacht voor de documentatieverplichting die is ingevoerd om de maatregelen tegen hybride mismatches effectief te kunnen toepassen. Ten slotte is een aantal kanttekeningen geplaatst bij de wijze waarop de Nederlandse wetgever ATAD 2 heeft geïmplementeerd.
The Molecular Analysis of rs11614913 Polymorphism from miRNA196a Gene and Its Relationship with TNF-α Gene Expression in Cervical Cancer
Authors: Hamta Ahmad , Hajihassani Fatemeh
Published: December 2020

Background: Cervical cancer (CC) is one of the most common malignant tumors in women, which has been diagnosed as fourth cancer in females worldwide. In addition to human papillomavirus (HPV), genetic factors, including altered expression of some microRNAs and mutations in tumor necrosis factor α (TNF-α) gene, are involved in this cancer. Objectives: This study aimed to investigate the rs11614913 polymorphism from the miRNA196a gene and its association with the expression of the TNF-α gene in cervical cancer for early diagnosis and treatment. Methods: In this study, 52 samples of pre-cancerous and cancerous lesions, and 50 tissue samples were collected from healthy subjects in an Iranian population. DNA was extracted from the samples, and rs11614913 polymorphism of the miRNA196a gene was investigated by PCR. RNA was extracted from the samples, and the expression of the miRNA196a and TNF-α genes were evaluated. Finally, for data analysis, Epi Info software version 7.1.3.10 and MedCalc Version 19.2.0 were used. Results: The frequency of CC, TC, and TT genotypes from rs11614913 polymorphism of miRNA196a gene was 0.58, 0.34, and 0.08, respectively, but in the healthy group it was 0.36, 0.46, and 0.18, respectively. The results also showed that the expression of miRNA196a and TNF-α genes in the patient group was higher than the control group. Conclusions: Based on the results of this study, a significant correlation was found between CC genotype and rs11614913 polymorphism of miRNA196a gene and TNF-α gene expression in the cervical cancer sample. Therefore, investigating these factors in patients with cervical cancer may be helpful.
The Association of Apolipoprotein A1 Gene Polymorphisms with Acute Lymphocytic Leukemia in Tehran Province
Authors: Bahrebar Mostafa , Chalak Tahmineh
Published: December 2020

Background: Acute lymphocytic leukemia (ALL) is a cancer of the lymphoid line of blood cells. It is characterized by the development of large numbers of immature lymphocytes. It is one of the most common cancers among children. Molecular markers can play an important role in determining the nature of leukemia-related tumors and can be used as a diagnostic adjuvant along with precise pathological methods. Some research has shown that apolipoprotein A1 gene polymorphisms were associated with the formation of various types of diseases. Objectives: This study aimed to evaluate the association of ApoA1 gene insertion/deletion polymorphisms with ALL disease. Methods: The salting-out method was used for DNA extraction from the blood samples. Questionnaires were prepared with the approval of a demographic data expert. The genotype distribution and allele frequencies for the ApoA1 gene insertion/deletion polymorphisms were determined by Gap-polymerase chain reaction (Gap-PCR) to compare patient’s cases with ALL disease and healthy subjects. This case-control study was performed by odds ratio (OR, with a confidence interval of 0.95) to reveal the association of these polymorphisms with ALL disease. Results: In this study, two ApoA1 gene polymorphisms, including II and DD genotypes, were observed, which II genotype had the highest frequency in both groups of healthy subjects and patients. However, no significant differences were found between the two groups (P > 0.05). ALL and both genotypes had a higher frequency in males than females. Despite the high frequency of both genotypes in males, there were no significant differences between healthy subjects and patients in terms of age and sex (P > 0.05). Conclusions: Based on the results of this study, it can be concluded that ApoA1 gene polymorphisms were not associated with ALL disease. It was not effective in the formation or exacerbation of it in this population. Also, it could not be identified as a prognostic marker. It should be noted that these findings are the first report of the degree of association of ApoA1 polymorphisms with ALL.
Exosome a Story From Waste to Become a Gold Mine
Authors: Soleymaninejadian Ehsan
Published: December 2020

: Exosomes are emerging as a novel therapeutic avenue which is exploring. These naturally made nanoparticles are mainly used by cells to communicate. Given that they are composed of a lipid layer and the macromolecules that they carry inside, including lipids, proteins, and microRNA, can be considered as good candidates for drug and gene delivery. However, the source of exosomes to be used in the clinic needs to be investigated, as they are naturally made by cells, and they quickly can move through the body without being recognized by the immune system. In this review, we tried to bring the recent breakthroughs for exosome isolation, characterization, and therapeutic use. We discussed the origin of exosomes, their composition, and their potential for clinical use as a targeted gene and drug delivery systems.
Mechanism of bubble sinking in vertically vibrating water
Authors: Zhao Xiao-Gang , Yang Hao-Ran , Zhang Qi , Cheng Lin , Zhang Xiang-Yu , Wang Feng-Long , Duan Cheng-Bo , Zhuo Wei , Xu Chun-Long , Hou Zhao-Yang ,   College of Science, Chang’an University, Xi’an 710064, China,   School of Materials Science and Engineering, Chang’an University, Xi’an 710064, China
Published: December 2020

When a container filled with water is subjected to vertical vibration, bubbles in the water may sink. This phenomenon exists widely in the field of engineering, and has a non-negligible influence on aerospace engineering and ship engineering. Therefore, it is of great significance to study the movement of bubble sinking in order to reduce the adverse effect caused by bubble sinking in the project. In previous papers, the effect of Basset force on bubble motion was usually ignored. In this paper, the bubble motion model based on the ideal gas equation is built for spherical bubbles, and the influence of the Basset force on the bubble motion is considered in the model. In the process of solving Basset force, the motion is directly separated and the convergence factor is introduced in theoretical solution. The equal step composite trapezoid formula is applied to the numerical solution. The results of numerical calculation show that the added mass force is important for bubble sinking. We find that the Basset force has no effect on the stable oscillation position of bubble, but it can accelerate the later trajectory of bubble motion. Importantly, we demonstrate that the bubble is hindered by the following component forces: buoyancy, viscous resistance, and flow thrust (which are ordered from large to small value). The movement of the bubble is observed to be in the form of oscillation, and there exists a depth, i.e. a critical depth: the bubble oscillate steadily at this depth, specifically, the bubble rises above this depth and sinks below this depth. When the vibration pressure changes, the location of the bubble’s stable oscillation will also be affected. The origin can be ascribed to the change of added mass force caused by the change of vibration pressure. Meanwhile, on the basis of digital image processing method, denoising, filtering, local stretching, image binarization and image filling are used to extract the characteristic dimension of bubbles. The theoretical value of the critical depth of bubble sinking matches the experimental result and their relative error is less than 5%. These new findings enrich the understanding of the moving bubbles in liquid materials used in nuclear reactors, rocket propulsion fuels and chemical experiments.
Research progress of piezoelectrets based micro-energy harvesting
Authors: Zhang Mi , Zuo Xi , Yang Tong-Qing , Zhang Xiao-Qing ,   Shanghai Key Laboratory of Special Artificial Microstructure Materials and Technology, School of Physics Science and Engineering, Tongji University, Shanghai 200092, China,   School of Materials Science and Engineering, Tongji University, Shanghai 201804, China
Published: December 2020

In this paper, the progress of micro-energy harvesters by using piezoelectret-based transducers as a core element is reviewed, including basic physical principle and properties of piezoelectrets, and their applications in micro-energy harvesting. Piezoelectret is electret-based piezoelectric polymer with a foamed structure. The piezoelectric effect of such material is a synergistic effect of the electret property of the matrix polymer and the foam mechanical structure in the material. Piezoelectret, featuring strong piezoelectric effect, flexibility, low density, very small acoustic impedance and film form, is an ideal electromechanical material for lightweight flexible sensors and mechanical energy harvesters. The piezoelectret prepared by means of grid, template patterning, supercritical CO2 assisted low-temperature assembly, lithography mold combined with rotary coating and hot pressing has regular voids and good piezoelectric properties. Piezoelectret has been used to harvest vibrational energy, human motion energy and sound energy.

According to the stress direction applied to the piezoelectrets, operating modes of energy harvesters can be divided into 33 and 31 modes. The vibrational energy harvesters based on piezoelectret are utilized to harvest medium frequency vibrational energy generated by factory machines, aircrafts, automobiles, etc. Such energy harvesters can generate considerable power even in a small size. Human motion energy harvesters are generally used to power wearable sensors. The high sensitivity, lightweight, and flexibility of the piezoelectret make such a material a promising candidate for harvesting human motion energy. Owing to very small acoustic impedance, high figure-of-merit, flat response in audio and low-frequency ultrasonic range, the piezoelectrets are more appropriate for acoustic energy harvesting in air medium than conventional PZT and ferroelectric polymer PVDF.

In the future, specific micro-energy harvesters using piezoelectrets as transduction material can be designed and fabricated according to the practical application environment, and their performance can be enhanced by using flexible connections of transduction elements.
Constitutive activation of cellular immunity underlies the evolution of resistance to infection in Drosophila
Authors: Leitão Alexandre B , Arunkumar Ramesh , Day Jonathan P , Geldman Emma M , Morin-Poulard Ismaël , Crozatier Michèle , Jiggins Francis M
Published: December 2020

Organisms rely on inducible and constitutive immune defences to combat infection. Constitutive immunity enables a rapid response to infection but may carry a cost for uninfected individuals, leading to the prediction that it will be favoured when infection rates are high. When we exposed populations of Drosophila melanogaster to intense parasitism by the parasitoid wasp Leptopilina boulardi, they evolved resistance by developing a more reactive cellular immune response. Using single-cell RNA sequencing, we found that immune-inducible genes had become constitutively upregulated. This was the result of resistant larvae differentiating precursors of specialized immune cells called lamellocytes that were previously only produced after infection. Therefore, populations evolved resistance by genetically hard-wiring the first steps of an induced immune response to become constitutive.
Canonical goal-selective representations are absent from prefrontal cortex in a spatial working memory task requiring behavioral flexibility
Authors: Böhm Claudia , Lee Albert K
Published: December 2020

The prefrontal cortex (PFC)’s functions are thought to include working memory, as its activity can reflect information that must be temporarily maintained to realize the current goal. We designed a flexible spatial working memory task that required rats to navigate – after distractions and a delay – to multiple possible goal locations from different starting points and via multiple routes. This made the current goal location the key variable to remember, instead of a particular direction or route to the goal. However, across a broad population of PFC neurons, we found no evidence of current-goal-specific memory in any previously reported form – that is differences in the rate, sequence, phase, or covariance of firing. This suggests that such patterns do not hold working memory in the PFC when information must be employed flexibly. Instead, the PFC grouped locations representing behaviorally equivalent task features together, consistent with a role in encoding long-term knowledge of task structure.
Kommunala bolag – i vems intresse?
Authors: Bergh Andreas , Erlingsson Gissur
Published: December 2020

I denna uppsats redovisas resultat från en enkätundersökning besvarad av 648 fullmäktigeledamöter och bolagstyrelseledamöter i 30 svenska kommuner. Vi visar att det råder betydande oenighet bland kommunpolitiker kring huruvida ledamöter i kommunala bolagsstyrelser i första hand bör representera kommunens eller bolagets intressen. Oenighet råder även om i vilken utsträckning bolagsstyrelseledamöterna bör representera sitt partis intressen, där politiker från s, v och mp är mer benägna än politiker från övriga partier att anse att styrelseledamöterna bör representera sitt partis intressen. Resultaten är tankeväckande i ljuset av att kommunala bolag har funnits länge i Sverige, att antalet är trendmässigt stigande samt att allvarlig kritik har riktats mot att majoriteten av bolagens styrelseledamöter rekryteras på politisk grund. Vissa har påpekat att de kommunala bolagens styrelser saknar adekvat kunskap om vad det innebär att bedriva företag, andra har uppmärksammat att det riskerar att politisera bolagen samt kortsluta förutsättningar för ansvarsutkrävande. Styrelseuppdraget kompliceras av att kommunala bolag verkar under både offentlig och privat rätt. Observationerna i uppsatsen utgör ett viktigt bidrag till forskningen om kommunala bolag. Det vi ser kan utgöra potentiella problem eftersom det är enkelt att föreställa sig att intresse- och målkonflikter uppstår avseende huruvida en styrelseledamot ska låta sina ställningstaganden styras av partipolitiska hänsyn alternativt kommunens eller bolagets intressen.
Antiviral Activity, Phytochemistry and Toxicology of Some Medically Interesting Allium Species: A Mini Review
Authors: Lengbiye Emmanuel M. , Mbadiko Clement M. , Falanga Clarisse M. , Matondo Aristote , Inkoto Clement L. , Ngoyi Etienne M. , Kabengele Carlos N. , Bongo Gedeon N. , Gbolo Benjamin Z. , Kilembe Jason T. , Mwanangombo Domaine T. , Tshibangu Damien S. T. , Tshilanda Dorothée D. , Mihigo Shetonde O. , Ngbolua Koto-te-Nyiwa , Mpiana Pius T.
Published: December 2020

Aims: COVID-19 pandemic affects hundreds of thousands of people worldwide. Since there is no effective treatment, the need of finding alternative methods, which can help to curb this pandemic is urgent. This study aims to collect the information on the virucidal and toxicity properties of the Allium species. This genus is known to be source of nutraceuticals and also used as food. In this context, species of this genus can be proposed as an alternative solution against COVID-19.

Methodology: The literature review was conducted on Allium spp during searches on different databases such as PubMed, PubMed Central, Science Direct, Scielo, DOAJ, Science alert and Google scholar. The scientific names of Allium species, antiviral compounds, antiviral activity and toxicology of the plants of interest were used as keywords. Mendeley was used to make bibliographic references and the chemical structures of the natural compounds from Allium genus were drawn using ChemBioDraw Ultra 12.0 software.

Results: The findings from literature review showed that the Allium genus has demonstrated antiviral activity on several types of virus (Herpes simplex virus type 1, Herpes simplex virus type 2, Human immunodeficiency virus, Influenza virus, Cytomegalovirus, Human papillomavirus, Vesicular stomatitis virus, vaccinia virus, and human rhinovirus type 2 human cytomegalovirus). The species of this genus have also been used as food. Some species of Allium genus contain minerals such as Zinc, which have shown an effect on SARS-CoV-1, and could be involved in account for the reported antiviral effect.

Conclusion: Edible Allium species could be used in the management of COVID-19. Molecular docking of main molecules of Allium species with SARS-CoV-2 protease is in progress.
University Students’ Perception of Japanese Encephalitis
Authors: Iqbal Muhammad Shahid , Khan Salah-Ud-Din , Iqbal Muhammad Zahid
Published: December 2020

Objective: The objective of the study was to evaluate the perception of Japanese Encephalitis (JE) among future healthcare providers in a university in Malaysia.

Methods: A cross-sectional and observational study was conducted among the students of three different healthcare provider faculties in a university in Malaysia with the help of pre-validated research tool. The Statistical Package for Social Science (SPSS) Version 24.0 was used to enter and analyze the data.

Results: Overall, 252 respondents from three different health care faculties participated in the current study. The dental faculty students had better perception as compared to the other two faculties. The female students had a better perception of JE as compared to the students who were living in hostels.

Conclusion: Overall appropriate perception was observed in the three health care provider faculty students. The present study concluded that dental and pharmacy students had a better perception of JE than medical students.
Cannabis
Authors: Phalen Robert N.
Published: December 2020

The cannabis industry has burgeoned in recent years and industrial hygienists are becoming more involved with the protection of workers who cultivate, harvest, process, and distribute these goods to the public. Law enforcement agencies involved with this industry also need to be aware of the associated hazards and controls necessary to protect their agents. To protect workers, industrial hygienists need to understand the production processes, goods produced, and be informed of the recognized hazards within the industry. The biological hazards include exposures to mold, allergens, and sensitizers. The chemical hazards include exposures to cannabinoids and terpenes from the
Cannabis sativa
plant, pesticides used during cultivation, extraction solvents, carbon dioxide used to enhance plant growth or in processing extracts, and carbon monoxide from combustion sources. The physical hazards include ergonomic issues with cultivation and harvesting, exposure to UV light outside and within indoor grow operations, heat stress, and potentially noise. The aim is to provide industrial hygienists enough background information and technical knowledge for proper recognition, evaluation, and control of the various known biological, chemical, and physical hazards associated with the industry, with a major focus on medical and recreational marijuana production.
Natural history of Type 2 and 3 spinal muscular atrophy: 2‐year NatHis‐SMA study
Authors: Annoussamy Mélanie , Seferian Andreea M. , Daron Aurore , Péréon Yann , Cances Claude , Vuillerot Carole , De Waele Liesbeth , Laugel Vincent , Schara Ulrike , Gidaro Teresa , Lilien Charlotte , Hogrel Jean‐Yves , Carlier Pierre , Fournier Emmanuel , Lowes Linda , Gorni Ksenija , Ly‐Le Moal Myriam , Hellbach Nicole , Seabrook Timothy , Czech Christian , Hermosilla Ricardo , Servais Laurent ,   the NatHis‐SMA study group
Published: December 2020

Objective

To characterize the natural history of spinal muscular atrophy (SMA) over 24 months using innovative measures such as wearable devices, and to provide evidence for the sensitivity of these measures to determine their suitability as endpoints in clinical trials.

Methods

Patients with Type 2 and 3 SMA (N = 81) with varied functional abilities (sitters, nonsitters, nonambulant, and ambulant) who were not receiving disease‐modifying treatment were assessed over 24 months: motor function (Motor Function Measure [MFM]), upper limb strength (MyoGrip, MyoPinch), upper limb activity (ActiMyo®), quantitative magnetic resonance imaging (fat fraction [FFT2] mapping and contractile cross‐sectional area [C‐CSA]), pulmonary function (forced vital capacity [FVC], peak cough flow, maximum expiratory pressure, maximum inspiratory pressure, and sniff nasal inspiratory pressure), and survival of motor neuron (SMN) protein levels.

Results

MFM32 scores declined significantly over 24 months, but not 12 months. Changes in upper limb activity could be detected over 6 months and continued to decrease significantly over 12 months, but not 24 months. Upper limb strength decreased significantly over 12 and 24 months. FVC declined significantly over 12 months, but not 24 months.FFT2increased over 12 and 24 months, although not with statistical significance. A significant increase in C‐CSA was observed at 12 but not 24 months. Blood SMN protein levels were stable over 12 and 24 months.

Interpretation

These data demonstrate that the MFM32, MyoGrip, MyoPinch, and ActiMyo®enable the detection of a significant decline in patients with Type 2 and 3 SMA over 12 or 24 months.
Synergistic Effects of Cation and Anion in an Ionic Imidazolium Tetrafluoroborate Additive for Improving the Efficiency and Stability of Half‐Mixed Pb‐Sn Perovskite Solar Cells
Authors: Kim Hongki , Lee Jong Woo , Han Gi Rim , Kim Seong Keun , Oh Joon Hak
Published: December 2020

Narrow‐bandgap mixed Pb‐Sn perovskite solar cells (PSCs) have great feasibility for constructing efficient all‐perovskite tandem solar cells, in combination with wide‐bandgap lead halide PSCs. However, the power conversion efficiency of mixed Pb‐Sn PSCs still lags behind lead‐based counterparts. Here, additive engineering using ionic imidazolium tetrafluoroborate (IMBF4) is proposed, where the imidazolium (IM) cation and tetrafluoroborate (BF4) anion efficiently passivate defects at grain boundaries and improve crystallinity, simultaneously relaxing lattice strain, respectively. Defect passivation is achieved by the chemical interaction between the IM cation and the positively charged under‐coordinated Pb2+ or Sn2+ ions, and lattice strain relaxation is realized by lattice expansion with the intercalation of BF4 anions into the perovskite lattice. As a result, the synergistic effects of the cation and anion in the IMBF4 additive greatly enhance the optoelectronic performance of half‐mixed Pb‐Sn perovskites, leading to much longer carrier lifetimes. The best‐performing half‐mixed Pb‐Sn PSC shows an efficiency above 19% with negligible hysteresis, while retaining over 90% of its initial efficiency after 1000 h in a nitrogen‐filled glovebox and showing a lifetime to 80% degradation of 53.5 h under continuous illumination.
Tunable Photocontrolled Motions of Anil‐Poly(ethylene terephthalate) Systems through Excited‐State Intramolecular Proton Transfer and Trans–Cis Isomerization
Authors: Huang Arui , Hu Jie , Han Mengmeng , Wang Kangwei , Xia Jian Long , Song Jiajia , Fu Xuelian , Chang Kai , Deng Xiaocong , Liu Siwei , Li Qianqian , Li Zhen
Published: December 2020

With the combination of excited‐state intramolecular proton transfer and trans–cis isomerization as microscopic molecular motions under light stimulus, multiple photodeformable processes are achieved in anil‐poly(ethylene terephthalate) systems, including simple bending, dancing butterflies, and switches. The doping films can realize light‐driven contraction as large as 70% and bending angle of about 141°, upon a simple stretching process. The internal mechanism is confirmed by transient absorption spectra, and the relationship between molecular structure and photocontrolled motion is investigated by theoretical calculations and crystal analysis. This work provides a convenient approach by utilizing anils to fabricate reversible actuations with desirable geometries, greatly contributing to the applications and manufacturing of soft robots and related research.
Light‐Activated Stress Relaxation, Toughness Improvement, and Photoinduced Reversal of Physical Aging in Glassy Polymer Networks
Authors: Sowan Nancy , Song Han Byul , Cox Lewis M. , Patton James R. , Fairbanks Benjamin D. , Ding Yifu , Bowman Christopher N.
Published: December 2020

A covalent adaptable network (CAN) with high glass transition temperature (Tg), superior mechanical properties including toughness and ductility, and unprecedented spatio‐temporally controlled dynamic behavior is prepared by introducing dynamic moieties capable of reversible addition fragmentation chain transfer (RAFT) into photoinitiated copper(I)‐catalyzed azide–alkyne cycloaddition (CuAAC)‐based networks. While the CuAAC polymerization yields glassy polymers composed of rigid triazole linkages with enhanced toughness, the RAFT moieties undergo bond exchange leading to stress relaxation upon light exposure. This unprecedented level of stress relaxation in the glassy state leads to numerous desirable attributes including glassy state photoinduced plasticity, toughness improvement during large deformation, and even photoinduced reversal of the effects of physical aging resulting in the rejuvenation of mechanical and thermodynamic properties in physically aged RAFT‐CuAAC networks that undergo bond exchange in the glassy state. Surprisingly, when an allyl‐sulfide‐containing azide monomer (AS‐N3) is used to form the network, the network exhibits up to 80% stress relaxation in the glassy state (Tg − 45 °C) under fixed displacement. In situ activation of RAFT during mechanical loading results in a 50% improvement in elongation to break and 40% improvement in the toughness when compared to the same network without light‐activation of RAFT during the tensile testing.
Construction of Hierarchical α‐Fe2O3/SnO2 Nanoball Arrays with Superior Acetone Sensing Performance
Authors: Wang Peng , Wang Su‐Zhen , Han Qing , Zou Dong‐Qinq , Zhao Wen‐Kai , Wang Xue‐Dong , Luo Chen , Yang Xin , Wu Xing , Xie Wan‐Feng
Published: December 2020

Gas sensors based on SnO2, Fe2O3, and their nanocomposites are promising candidates for sensing of acetone, ethanol, hydrogen, NO2, ozone, and formaldehyde. In this work, a rational hydrothermal route is designed to prepare α‐Fe2O3/SnO2 porous sphere arrays assembled with hierarchical nanostructure (denoted as α‐Fe2O3(x%)/SnO2). The results demonstrate that the α‐Fe2O3(4%)/SnO2 based sensor exhibits excellent sensing performance, the short response/recovery time of 3 and 4 s, respectively. A very low working temperature of 200 °C, wide linear detection range (from 500 ppb to 500 ppm), and long‐term cycling stability of as long as 90 days, and stable performance at 80% of relative humidity. The sensing signals can be accurately sampled and processed by the integrated circuit system, to collect and monitor the acetone concentration alteration signals in real time. Furthermore, the gas sensing performance is interpreted by the functions of hierarchical nanostructure and synergistic effect of Fe2O3/SnO2 nanohybrids.
A Catalytic Construction of Indoles via Formation of Ruthenium Vinylidene Species from N‐Arylynamides
Authors: Tayu Masanori , Watanabe Ryuta , Isogi Satoshi , Saito Nozomi
Published: December 2020

Treatment of ynamides with a catalytic amount of TpRuCl(PPh3)2 resulted in the construction of indole scaffolds known as privileged structure motifs. This reaction involved a cascade of 1,2‐rearrangement and cyclization carrying out C−C bond formation via a ruthenium vinylidene intermediate, as revealed by a deuterium‐labeling experiments. Furthermore, the transformation of multi‐functionalized ynamide, derived from a practical drug molecule, showed a high functional group tolerance of this reaction.

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Genotype × trait biplot and canonical correlations for spectral and agronomic traits in corn
Authors: Santana Dthenifer Cordeiro , Flores Marcela da Silva , Cotrim Mayara Favero , Rodrigues Erina Vitório , Santos Adriano dos , Teodoro Larissa Pereira Ribeiro , Baio Fabio Henrique Rojo , Silva Junior Carlos Antonio da , Teodoro Paulo Eduardo
Published: December 2020

The current challenge of corn (Zea mays L.) crops is to reach high yield to supply the world's demand for food, especially under different fertilization regimes and using the latest technology. We hypothesized that wavelengths and vegetation indices have a linear relationship with agronomic variables in corn. Our objectives were to verify the formation of super‐traits and to study the association between wavelengths and vegetation indices with agronomic traits in corn cultivated under high and low topdressing N. The experiments were carried out in two crop seasons using a randomized block design with three replicates in a factorial scheme (11 genotypes × 2 contrasting levels of N: low, 60 kg ha–1 and high, 180 kg ha–1). At full bloom, the spectral variables green (550 nm), red (660 nm), red‐edge (735 nm), and near‐infrared (790 nm) and the vegetation indices normalized difference vegetation index (NDVI), normalized difference red‐edge index (NDRE), green normalized difference vegetation index (GNDVI), and soil‐adjusted vegetation index (SAVI) were evaluated. Agronomic traits evaluated were leaf N, plant height, first pod height, stem diameter, cob length, rows per cob, grains per row, and grain yield. Results showed that SAVI, GNDVI, NDVI, and NDRE and red‐edge and red were associated with agronomic traits in corn. The association between the agronomic traits evaluated here can be used to estimate the leaf N content and corn yield.
Waste high‐density polyethylene recycling process systems for mitigating plastic pollution through a sustainable design and synthesis paradigm
Authors: Zhao Xiang , You Fengqi
Published: December 2020

This article addresses the sustainable design and synthesis of open‐loop recycling process of waste high‐density polyethylene (HDPE) under both environmental and economic criteria. We develop by far the most comprehensive superstructure for producing monomers, aromatic mixtures, and fuels from waste HDPE. The superstructure optimization problem is then formulated as a multi‐objective mixed‐integer nonlinear fractional programming (MINFP) problem to simultaneously optimize the unit net present value (NPV) and unit life cycle environmental impacts. A tailored global optimization algorithm integrating the inexact parametric algorithm with the branch‐and‐refine algorithm is applied to efficiently solve the resulting nonconvex MINFP problem. Results show that the optimal unit NPV ranges from $107.2 to $151.3 per ton of HDPE treated. Moreover, the unit life cycle greenhouse gas emissions of the most environmentally friendly HDPE recycling process are 0.40 ton CO2‐eq per ton of HDPE treated, which is 63% of that of the most economically competitive process design.
Ontogenetic and morphological variation in primate long bones reflects signals of size and behavior
Authors: Nadell Jason A. , Elton Sarah , Kovarovic Kris
Published: December 2020

Objectives

Many primates change their locomotor behavior as they mature from infancy to adulthood. Here we investigate how long bone cross‐sectional geometry in Pan, Gorilla, Pongo, Hylobatidae, and Macaca varies in shape and form over ontogeny, including whether specific diaphyseal cross sections exhibit signals of periosteal adaptation or canalization.

Materials and methods

Diaphyseal cross sections were analyzed in an ontogenetic series across infant, juvenile, and adult subgroups. Three‐dimensional laser‐scanned long bone models were sectioned at midshaft (50% of biomechanical length) and distally (20%) along the humerus and femur. Traditional axis ratios acted as indices of cross‐sectional circularity, while geometric morphometric techniques were used to study cross‐sectional allometry and ontogenetic trajectory.

Results

The humeral midshaft is a strong indicator of posture and locomotor profile in the sample across development, while the mid‐femur appears more reflective of shifts in size. By comparison, the distal diaphyses of both limb elements are more ontogenetically constrained, where periosteal shape is largely static across development relative to size, irrespective of a given taxon's behavior or ecology.

Discussion

Primate limb shape is not only highly variable between taxa over development, but at discrete humeral and femoral diaphyseal locations. Overall, periosteal shape of the humeral and femoral midshaft cross sections closely reflects ontogenetic transitions in behavior and size, respectively, while distal shape in both bones appears more genetically constrained across intraspecific development, regardless of posture or size. These findings support prior research on tradeoffs between function and safety along the limbs.
Comparison between pea and soy protein‐based bioplastics obtained by injection molding
Authors: Jiménez‐Rosado Mercedes , Rubio‐Valle Jose Fernando , Perez‐Puyana Víctor , Guerrero Antonio , Romero Alberto
Published: December 2020

The elaboration of bioplastics from renewable polymers (e.g., proteins) is a field with great potential for industrial applications such as food packaging and agriculture. This study evaluates the development of bioplastic systems by injection molding using two different raw materials: soy protein isolate (SPI) and pea protein isolate (PPI). Both proteins are by‐products, which lowers the price of processed bioplastics. However, it is necessary to control their properties during the manufacture processing, in order to ensure that they can replace conventional plastics. Therefore, the main objective of this work was to compare the properties of SPI and PPI bioplastics processed at different injection times (150, 300, and 450 s) and different mold temperatures (70 and 130°C). Thus, mechanical properties, water uptake capacity, and transparency were evaluated. The results show the potential of these raw materials to produce bioplastics that can replace conventional plastics, and that the processing conditions can be modified to obtain the desired final properties.