bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A novel computational methodology to estimate solar energy on building rooftops
Authors: Yousuf Muhammad Uzair , Shere Syed Muneeb
Published: January 2020

Precise estimation of solar radiation is essential for sustainable development and renewable energy consumption. Building rooftops are appropriate locations for solar energy devices. Traditional solar potential estimation approaches usually adopt technologies such as light detection and ranging, which are expensive and available only for existing sites. In this paper, a novel methodology is presented to estimate the solar radiation components for any building rooftop surrounded by obstacles, using the ray‐triangle‐intersection method and discretization of 3D sky vault into sky elements. The proposed methodology accepts a 3D model, including all significant obstacles that produce a triangulated surface mesh and a discrete map. This mesh and map are utilized with solar angles and radiation data to estimate direct and diffuse radiation on the surfaces of the 3D structures. To validate the proposed algorithm, we discuss two case studies. Finally, the 3D radiation maps are generated using solar irradiation data for Karachi, illustrating the effects of nearby obstacles. Several optimizations are applied to the developed algorithm for reducing computational cost. The significant advantage of the methodology is that the skymap is location‐independent. A skymap generated once can be used for the same 3D model located anywhere in the world, with the appropriate solar angles data. This work will benefit consultants, governments, and households in the efficient use of solar energy potential for both existing rooftops and future constructions.
ICT4D 3.0? Part 1—The components of an emerging “digital‐for‐development” paradigm
Authors: Heeks Richard
Published: January 2020

What has changed in the decade or so since the ideas of a new “ICT4D 2.0” phase were first mooted? This paper reviews those changes, based on a new framework model. At a foundational level, it looks at recent and current trends in digital technologies, data, processes and the implications these have for the user demographics and network structures that underpin the role of digital ICTs in international development. It then summarises some of the new building blocks of development: digital roles, digital products and digital business models. We could call what is emerging “ICT4D 3.0.” However, this paper argues that the changes are such that we could talk of a paradigmatic shift and suggests that the elements could be collated as a new “digital‐for‐development” paradigm. Part 2 of this paper explores the patterns of change in the economy and in politics that may be associated with this paradigm.
Predictors of Client Attrition in a University‐Based Community Counseling Clinic
Authors: Harris Shaywanna , Mitchell Michelle D. , Tabet Saundra M. , Hundley Gulnora
Published: January 2020

The purpose of this study was to investigate how symptom distress, social role, interpersonal relationships, gender, age, number of supports, and education level predict client attrition in a community sample. Using binary logistic regression and cross‐sectional data, the authors examined the predictive impact of 8 variables on adult client attrition in a university‐based community counseling clinic. Results indicated that education level, interpersonal relationships, and number of supports significantly predicted attrition. In this sample, gender, age, symptom distress, social role, and race did not significantly predict attrition. Implications for clinical assessment and counseling practice are discussed.
PTPN21‐CDSlong isoform inhibits the response of acute lymphoblastic leukemia cells to NK‐mediated lysis via the KIR/HLA‐I axis
Authors: Wang Huafang , Zhu Ni , Ye Xiaohang , Wang Limengmeng , Wang Binsheng , Shan Wei , Lai Xiaoyu , Tan Yamin , Fu Shan , Xiao Haowen , Huang He
Published: January 2020

Protein tyrosine phosphatase non‐receptor type 21 (PTPN21) is a member of the non‐receptor tyrosine phosphatase family. We have found that PTPN21 is mutated in relapsed Philadelphia chromosome‐negative acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) after allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation. PTPN21 consists of three types of isoforms according to the length of the protein encoded. However, the roles of different isoforms in leukemic cells have not been elucidated. In the study, PTPN21 isoform constitution in five ALL cell lines were identified by transcriptome polymerase chain reaction combined with Sanger sequencing, and the relationship between PTPN21 isoforms and sensitivity to natural killer (NK) cells mediated killing in ALL cell lines were further assessed by knock‐out of different isoforms of PTPN21 using CRISPR‐Cas9 technique. Subsequently, we explored the functional mechanisms through RNA sequencing and confirmatory testing. The results showed that there was no significant change when all PTPN21 isoforms were knocked out in ALL cells, but the sensitivity of NALM6 cells with PTPN21‐CDSlong knock‐out (NALM6‐PTPN21lk) to NK‐mediated killing was significantly increased. Whole transcriptome sequencing and further validation testing showed that human leukocyte antigen class I (HLA‐I) molecules were significantly decreased, accompanied by a significantly downregulated expression of antigen presenting‐related chaperones in NALM6‐PTPN21lk cells. Our results uncovered a previously unknown mechanism that PTPN21‐CDSlong and CDSshort isoforms may play opposite roles in NK‐mediated killing in ALL cells, and showed that the endogenous PTPN21‐CDSlong isoform inhibited ALL cells to NK cell‐mediated lysis by regulating the KIR‐HLA‐I axis.
A novel circular RNA circFN1 enhances cisplatin resistance in gastric cancer via sponging miR‐182‐5p
Authors: Huang Xiao‐xu , Zhang Qiang , Hu Hao , Jin Yan , Zeng Ai‐liang , Xia Ya‐bin , Xu Li
Published: January 2020

Cisplatin (CDDP) is commonly used for gastric cancer (GC) chemotherapy. However, after several CDDP‐based treatment cycles, patients always acquire chemotherapy resistance, which limits the overall clinical efficacy of the treatment. Clarification of the mechanisms responsible for CDDP resistance is required to improve therapeutic outcomes for patients. Circular RNAs (circRNAs) are noncoding RNAs involved in the pathogenesis of cancer, although their role in the mechanism underlying CDDP resistance in GC remains unknown. In the present study, we explored the underlying roles of circRNAs in the modulation of CDDP resistance in CDDP‐sensitive and CDDP‐resistant human GC cells. Using RNA sequencing and quantitative reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction, expression of circFN1 (originating from exons 10, 11, and 12 of the FN1 gene hsa_circ_0058147) was higher in CDDP‐resistant GC cells and tissues. CircFN1 upregulation in GC patients treated by CDDP was significantly correlated with aggressive biological behavior. CircFN1 promoted viability and inhibited apoptosis of GC cells exposed to CDDP in vivo and in vitro. Furthermore, circFN1 suppressed GC cell apoptosis by “sponging” miR‐182‐5p. These findings demonstrate the involvement of circFN1 in CDDP resistance of GC and implicate circFN1 as a therapeutic target for GC patients treated with CDDP. It provides novel evidence of the function of circRNAs as microRNA sponges and highlight a potential therapeutic target for extinguishing CDDP resistance in patients with GC.
Red orange and lemon extract prevents the renal toxicity induced by ochratoxin A in rats
Authors: Damiano Sara , Iovane Valentina , Squillacioti Caterina , Mirabella Nicola , Prisco Francesco , Ariano Andrea , Amenta Margherita , Giordano Antonio , Florio Salvatore , Ciarcia Roberto
Published: January 2020

In this work, we investigated the effects of red orange and lemon extract (RLE) on ochratoxin A (OTA)‐induced nephrotoxicity. In particular, we analyzed the change in renal function and oxidative stress in Sprague–Dawley rats treated with OTA (0.5 mg/kg body weight, b.w.) and with RLE (90 mg/kg b.w.) by oral administration. After OTA treatment, we found alterations of biochemical and oxidative stress parameters in the kidney, related to a severe decrease of glomerular filtration rate. The RLE treatment normalized the activity of antioxidant enzymes and prevented the glomerular hyperfiltration. Histopathological examinations revealed glomerular damages and kidney cortex fibrosis in OTA‐rats, while we observed less severe fibrosis in OTA plus RLE group. Then, we demonstrated that oxidative stress could be the cause of OTA renal injury and that RLE reduces this effect.
Adenotonsillectomy and postoperative respiratory adverse events: A retrospective study
Authors: Hamilton Thomas B. , Thung Arlyne , Tobias Joseph D. , Jatana Kris R. , Raman Vidya T.
Published: January 2020

Objectives

Postoperative respiratory adverse events (PRAEs) are known complications following adenotonsillectomy (AT). Clinical data at a single institution were reviewed to investigate the factors that may contribute to PRAEs in the postanesthesia care unit (PACU). The relationship between PRAEs in the PACU and escalation of care, defined as either an unplanned admission for outpatient surgery or unplanned pediatric intensive care unit (PICU) admission, was investigated.

Methods

The perioperative records for all patients who underwent AT from 2016 to 2018 were reviewed. The surgical procedure was performed at both the main campus and the ambulatory surgery center in accordance with the institutional obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) guidelines. Patient characteristics and intraoperative medications were compared. Categorical variables were summarized as counts with percentages and compared using chi‐square tests or Fisher's exact tests. Continuous variables were summarized as medians with interquartile ranges and compared using rank‐sum tests. Multivariable logistic regression was performed to evaluate the association of intraoperative dosing with the occurrence of PRAEs.

Results

The study cohort included 6110 patients. Ninety‐three patients (2%) experienced PRAEs in the PACU. Of these 93 patients, 14 (15%) resulted in an escalation of care, nearly all of which were unplanned PICU admissions. PRAEs tended to occur in younger patients, non‐Hispanic black patients, and those with a higher American Society of Anesthesiologists (ASA) status.

Conclusions

PRAEs are infrequent after AT at a tertiary institution with OSA guidelines in place. However, when PRAEs do occur, escalation of care may be required. Risk factors include age, ethnic background, and ASA physical status.

Level of Evidence

III.
Designing Biomimetic Microphase‐Separated Motifs to Construct Mechanically Robust Plant Protein Resin with Improved Water‐Resistant Performance
Authors: Zhao Shujun , Wang Zhong , Pang Huiwen , Li Zhi , Zhang Wei , Zhang Shifeng , Li Jianzhang , Li Li
Published: January 2020

Plant protein, as a sustainable alternative to petroleum‐derived resin, has exhibited notable potential for engineering wood products without formaldehyde emission, while the poor mechanical and water‐resistant performances limit its practical applications. Inspired by mussel chemistry and structure, a dopamine‐functionalized polyurethane (D‐PU) elastomer is synthesized in this work acting as a bio‐inspired crosslinking unit to improve the properties of soy protein (SP) resin. It is found that the catechol groups of the incorporated D‐PU not only triggers polyurethane to interact with SP matrix giving rise to a stable crosslinking network with excellent load‐bearing capacity, but also serves as a water‐resistant barrier to reduce the water erosion effect on resin. Moreover, a desired microphase‐separated morphology is observed within the continuous protein phase after introducing D‐PU. The microphase‐separated structure simultaneously strengthens and toughens SP adhesive layer, thus achieving high‐efficiency stress transfer and energy dissipation as well as accelerating SP to further permeate into the substrate forming more mechanical adhesion nails. As a result, the modified SP‐D‐PU resin presents an impressive improvement in dry and wet adhesion strength up to 70.5% and 133.9% compared to the pristine SP resin, respectively. The proposed biomimetic design may offer a workable strategy for preparing of high‐performance bio‐based composites.
Differences between mid‐urethral sling outcomes in diabetic and nondiabetic women
Authors: Chung Doreen E. , Antosh Danielle D. , Umpierrez Denise , Barbosa Zonia , Yurteri‐Kaplan Ladin , Grimes Cara L.
Published: January 2020

Aims

The aim is to assess whether subjects with diabetes mellitus (DM) have greater urinary retention and increased post‐void residual volume (PVR) following mid‐urethral sling (MUS) surgery.

Methods

This multi‐center retrospective study included patients who underwent MUS (2012‐2016). Baseline data included demographics, comorbidities, urinary symptoms, urodynamics data, PVR, and responses to validated questionnaires (UDI6 and IIQ7). Intraoperative data, postoperative voiding trial results, postop questionnaires, and complications were also noted. Patients with and without DM were compared. Significance was defined as P < .05.

Results

A total of 605 MUS were included, 538(89%) without DM and 67(11%) with DM, of which 69% were transobturator and 31% retropubic. No differences were seen in urinary retention and passing void trial(79% DM vs 81% non‐DM; P = .72). Mean PVR at discharge was similar between groups (136 mL DM vs 139 mL non‐DM; P = .922). There were no differences between groups in UDI6 and IIQ7 sum scores at baseline and 1 month. DM subjects reported more bother at baseline on certain UDI‐6 and IIQ‐7 items including frequent urination, leakage related to urgency, and feeling frustrated. At 3 months postop, all subjects demonstrated improvement in scores. Interestingly, patients with DM reported worse quality of life on the IIQ7 sum.

Conclusions

Among subjects with well‐controlled diabetes and more comorbidities who underwent MUS there were few differences in postoperative voiding dysfunction or PVR compared to nondiabetic women. DM patients were more bothered at baseline by urge‐related symptoms. Quality of life following sling surgery appears to be worse in patients with DM at 3 months based on IIQ7. This data suggests that diabetic women with lower HbA1C can be counseled similarly to these complication rates and voiding dysfunction after MUS.
Pentraxin 3 Regulates miR‐21 Expression and Secretion in Brown Adipocytes During Lipopolysaccharide‐Induced Inflammation
Authors: Lin Teyueh , Guo Hong , Chen Xiaoli
Published: January 2020

Objective

This study investigates the role of pentraxin 3 (PTX3) in the regulation of inflammatory homeostasis involving anti‐inflammatory miR‐21 during lipopolysaccharide (LPS) stimulation in adipocytes.

Methods

Using PTX3 knockout (PTX3 KO) mouse and primary stromal vascular cell models, this study determined the effect of PTX3 deficiency on the expression and secretion of miR‐21 in brown adipose tissue (BAT) and brown adipocytes as well as the rescue effect of recombinant PTX3 on miR‐21 during LPS‐induced inflammation.

Results

Among three fat depots, BAT was the major tissue and fully differentiated brown adipocytes were the major cells that expressed miRNA‐processing enzymes and produced miRNA. Moreover, brown adipocytes, but not stromal vascular cells, were the LPS‐responsive cells in miR‐21 production. PTX3 deficiency attenuated LPS‐stimulated upregulation of miR‐21 in sera and BAT. In wild‐type brown adipocytes, LPS stimulation significantly upregulated cellular miR‐21. Interestingly, this stimulatory effect of LPS was attenuated, and cellular and secreted miR‐21 levels were reduced in PTX3 KO cells upon LPS stimulation. Treatment of recombinant PTX3 reversed the cellular and secreted levels of miR‐21 and attenuated an LPS‐stimulated increase in the expression ofTnf‐αandMcp1genes in PTX3 KO adipocytes.

Conclusions

PTX3 plays an anti‐inflammatory role, in part through regulating miR‐21 expression and secretion.
Effect of thermal loading on syntactic foam sandwich composite
Authors: Waddar Sunil , Pitchaimani Jeyaraj , Doddamani Mrityunjay
Published: January 2020

An experimental investigation carried out on the deflection behavior of sandwich composites with a fly ash cenosphere/epoxy syntactic foam core and plain‐woven sisal fiber fabric/epoxy skin subjected to nonuniform heating is presented. The influence of cenosphere volume fraction in the syntactic foam core, three different heating cases (increase‐decrease, decrease, and decrease‐increase), and cenospheres’ surface treatment effect is analyzed. The temperature deflection is acquired with the help of a LabVIEW program. The critical buckling and snap‐initiation temperatures are found from the temperature‐deflection plots. It is observed that the sandwich beam undergoes snap‐through buckling behavior due to viscoelastic forces associated with the syntactic foam core. The critical buckling temperature increases with the filler content, and the surface treatment enhances the buckling behavior marginally. Results also demonstrate that the sandwiching of the syntactic foam core between the natural fiber skin enhances critical buckling temperatures compared to the syntactic foam core.
Copolymer‐Derived N/B Co‐Doped Nanocarbons with Controlled Porosity and Highly Active Surface
Authors: Yuan Rui , Wang Han , Sun Mingkang , Whitacre Jay , Matyjaszewski Krzysztof , Kowalewski Tomasz
Published: January 2020

N/B co‐doped nanocarbon (NBC) is emerging as promising candidate in various applications. However, most synthetic approaches require complex heteroatom/carbon precursors, and suffer from poor porosity control and inevitable formation of electrochemically inactive N─B bonded species. In this study, we propose a new route to produce NBC from a single copolymer precursor, polyacrylonitrile‐b‐poly(styrene boronic ester) (PAN‐b‐PSBpin). Both polymeric blocks play dual roles during pyrolysis, i.e., PAN serves as both a carbon source and nitrogen source, and PSBpin functions as both a boron source and porogenic block. Importantly, a linear relationship between mesopore size in NBC and block length in copolymers was observed, allowing for excellent porosity control in NBC. X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy revealed only separated N and B configurations in formed NBC, assuring highly active surface examined by an efficient four‐electron transfer process in oxygen reduction reaction and large geometric capacitances (Csa = 68 μF cm−2 and Cvol = 750 F cm−3) in supercapacitors. © 2020 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Polym. Sci. 2020, 58, 225–232
Improving AlN Crystal Quality and Strain Management on Nanopatterned Sapphire Substrates by High‐Temperature Annealing for UVC Light‐Emitting Diodes
Authors: Hagedorn Sylvia , Walde Sebastian , Susilo Norman , Netzel Carsten , Tillner Nadine , Unger Ralph-Stephan , Manley Phillip , Ziffer Eviathar , Wernicke Tim , Becker Christiane , Lugauer Hans-Jürgen , Kneissl Michael , Weyers Markus
Published: January 2020

Herein, AlN growth by metalorganic vapor‐phase epitaxy on hole‐type nanopatterned sapphire substrates is investigated. Cracking occurs for an unexpectedly thin‐layer thickness, which is associated to altered nucleation conditions caused by the sapphire pattern. To overcome the obstacle of cracking and at the same time to decrease the threading dislocation density by an order of magnitude, high‐temperature annealing (HTA) of a 300 nm‐thick AlN starting layer is successfully introduced. By this method, 800 nm‐thick, fully coalesced and crack‐free AlN is grown on 2 in. nanopatterned sapphire wafers. The usability of such templates as basis for UVC light‐emitting diodes (LEDs) is furthermore proved by subsequent growth of an UVC‐LED heterostructure with single peak emission at 265 nm. Prerequisites for the enhancement of the light extraction efficiency by hole‐type nanopatterned sapphire substrates are discussed.
Multifunctional Heterogeneous Carbon Nanotube Nanocomposites Assembled by DNA‐Binding Peptide Anchors
Authors: Kim Kyung‐Il , Yoon Seokyoung , Chang Junhyuck , Lee Seonghyun , Cho Hui Hun , Jeong Sun Hwan , Jo Kyubong , Lee Jung Heon
Published: January 2020

Although carbon nanotubes (CNTs) are remarkable materials with many exceptional characteristics, their poor chemical functionality limits their potential applications. Herein, a strategy is proposed for functionalizing CNTs, which can be achieved with any functional group (FG) without degrading their intrinsic structure by using a deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA)‐binding peptide (DBP) anchor. By employing a DBP tagged with a certain FG, such as thiol, biotin, and carboxyl acid, it is possible to introduce any FG with a controlled density on DNA‐wrapped CNTs. Additionally, different types of FGs can be introduced on CNTs simultaneously, using DBPs tagged with different FGs. This method can be used to prepare CNT nanocomposites containing different types of nanoparticles (NPs), such as Au NPs, magnetic NPs, and quantum dots. The CNT nanocomposites decorated with these NPs can be used as reusable catalase‐like nanocomposites with exceptional catalytic activities, owing to the synergistic effects of all the components. Additionally, the unique DBP–DNA interaction allows the on‐demand detachment of the NPs attached to the CNT surface; further, it facilitates a CNT chirality‐specific NP attachment and separation using the sequence‐specific programmable characteristics of oligonucleotides. The proposed method provides a novel chemistry platform for constructing new functional CNTs suitable for diverse applications.
Doubly robust‐type estimation of population moments and parameters in biased sampling
Authors: Shimizu Yuya , Hoshino Takahiro
Published: January 2020

We propose an estimation method of population moments or parameters in “biased sampling data” in which for some units of data, not only the variables of interest but also the covariates have missing observations, and the proportion of “missingness” is unknown. We use auxiliary information such as the distribution of covariates or their moments in random sampling data in order to correct the bias. Moreover, with additional assumptions, we can correct the bias even if we have only the moment information of covariates. The main contribution of this paper is the development of a doubly robust‐type estimator for biased sampling data. This method provides a consistent estimator if either the regression function or the assignment mechanism is correctly specified. We prove the consistency and semi‐parametric efficiency of the doubly robust estimator. Both the simulation and empirical application results demonstrate that the proposed estimation method is more robust than existing methods.
Parametric identification of the joint distribution of the potential outcomes
Authors: Hoshino Takahiro , Takahata Keisuke
Published: January 2020

We show the identification of the joint distribution of the potential outcomes under various parametric specifications. The key factor of the identification is the nonnormality of the distribution of the observed variables, with which we can obtain information of higher order moments that are not determined only by mean and variance. In particular, we show the identification of the joint distribution of the potential outcomes when it is specified by a normal mixture. Because any continuous distribution can be well approximated by a finite mixture distribution, our result may cover a wide class of distributions. The identification results derived are useful for estimating quantile treatment effects, causal mediation effects, and heterogeneous treatment effects, which cannot be estimated even if the unconfoundedness assumption is satisfied.
Single‐loop model prediction control of PMSM with moment of inertia identification
Authors: Liu Fengyang , Kang Erliang , Cui Naizheng
Published: January 2020

In order to improve the dynamic response performance and robustness of the permanent magnet synchronous motor control system and optimize the parameter adjustment of the control system, a motor control method based on single‐loop model prediction and moment of inertia parameter identification with forgetting factor is proposed. First, the motor state equation in the prediction model is designed, and the single‐loop model predictive control method is proposed. Then, comparing the effects of various parameters of the motor on the running stability of the motor, a least‐squares identification method based on forgetting factor is added to identify the moment of inertia online and optimize the prediction model in real time. The simulation and experimental results show that the proposed method has good dynamic performance for the permanent magnet synchronous motor adapting to the rotational speed and load variation. At the same time, the addition of the moment of inertia identification enhances the accuracy and system robustness of the motor model parameters during the model prediction process. This method provides an effective way of engineering control. © 2020 Institute of Electrical Engineers of Japan. Published by John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
Exploring “Socialist Solidarity” in Higher Education: East German Advisors in Post-Independence Mozambique (1975–1992)
Authors: Piepiorka Alexandra
Published: January 2020

The chapter seeks to retrace the spirit of “socialist solidarity” in the context of educational (development) aid, dwelling on the historical example of cooperation in higher education between the People’s Republic of Mozambique and the German Democratic Republic during the first decade(s) of Mozambican independence. Besides picturing the socialist outlook and multinational ambiance of Mozambique’s Eduardo Mondlane University, the author addresses intercultural and ideological challenges that East German cooperators encountered while on their mission in southern Africa. Related to this, notions of educational and ideological transfer in the framework of “socialist solidarity” will be discussed.
Education Through Labor: From the deuxième portion du contingent to the Youth Civic Service in West Africa (Senegal/Mali, 1920s–1960s)
Authors: Tiquet Romain
Published: January 2020

Under the French colonial regime, the “second portion” of the military was used as labour brigades, compelled to serve for two years in works of public nature. They were encamped in labor camp and were taught the value of work as well as discipline and basic rules of hygiene. After the independence of the francophone West African countries in 1960, postcolonial leaders in Senegal and Mali try to implement a civil service for the youth in order to offer them basic education. In reality, the civil service appears as a way to control and use the recruits for economic purposes echoing in some extent the former colonial “second portion du contingent.” More broadly, through the analysis of the legacies and continuities, I argue that the postcolonial elites perpetuate the “civilizing mission,” no more for the so-called mise en valeur of the colonies but for the development of the territory.
The Use of Credit by Rice Farmers in Takeo
Authors: Sothorn Kem
Published: January 2020

This study examined the credit access of different types of farmers and the impact of credit on farmers’ production and livelihoods to identify options for improving credit access and promoting successful credit utilisation. Qualitative research was undertaken in Takeo Province, where microfinance institutions (MFIs) have proliferated. The villages studied represented three types of rice-farming system. The challenges facing rice farmers included high and increasing input costs, the low quality of fertilisers, and the rising cost of mechanisation due to the price of fuel. While these trends increased the demand for credit, the squeeze on farm profits was reducing the viability of agricultural loans. Lack of formal land title to use as collateral was also a barrier to credit for many farmers. The need to ensure high repayment rates by carefully assessing potential clients meant that MFIs screened out poor farmers with little collateral and high vulnerability. Poor farmers often resorted to loans from informal sources when subject to livelihood shocks, despite the high risk of falling further into indebtedness. A challenge facing all farmers was the high interest rates for formal credit. MFIs were charging 30% p.a. to maintain financial sustainability. However, MFIs have reduced interest rates over time due to increasing competition and local saving. Rural development NGOs could better integrate training in farm and business skills in their credit programmes. Greater private sector involvement in the rice sector through contract farming may also help finance smallholder development. Provided the vulnerability of poor farmers is addressed, expansion of commercial credit will have a largely positive impact on rural livelihoods.
The Domestic Rice Value Chain in the Mekong Delta
Authors: The Anh Dao , Van Tinh Thai , Ngoc Vang Nguyen
Published: January 2020

The rice value chain in the Mekong Delta is a large and complex system, linking 1.5 million small-scale rice farmers to large numbers of traders, processors, wholesalers, retailers, and exporters. About 30% of production enters the domestic market and 70% is exported, accounting for over 90% of national exports. Input suppliers are widely dispersed, providing seeds, fertilizers, and other inputs competitively to farmers. Agricultural extension is provided by both public and private sectors through farmer groups. There has been rapid mechanization with two-wheeled tractors and combined harvesters, the latter mainly provided through contract services. However, there is limited availability of driers at the farm or commune level, meaning that most farmers sell wet paddy at a discount to be dried at the mills. Almost all the rice crop is sold to local traders—small, independent operators who transport paddy by boat to the rice mills. Most paddy goes through small mills that produce white rice, some of which are sold directly to domestic wholesalers but most of which go to exporters for polishing and bagging. Wholesalers are medium-sized enterprises, buying from polishing factories, traders, and directly from millers. Most of their sales are to traditional retailers who are spread widely across the region, operating small stores. The rice is sold loose and packaged after purchase. Modern retailers selling pre-packaged and labeled rice at higher prices have a small share of the domestic market. None of the actors in the domestic value chain appears to gain an excessive margin, with returns on working capital around 7–10%. Credit to enable producers, service providers, and processors to invest in improved technology may improve the efficiency of the value chain. The government should implement a policy to promote the quality of rice through contract farming between cooperatives and private enterprises based on quality standards. The export market should be opened up to private enterprises that obtain export contracts based on quality.
The Cross-Border Trade in Rice from Cambodia to Vietnam
Authors: The Anh Dao , Van Tinh Thai
Published: January 2020

The cross-border trade in paddy from Cambodia to Vietnam, especially between Takeo and An Giang Provinces, has increased substantially in volume, reaching an estimated 1000 t per day in the peak season of November–December. The growth of this trade is because (1) the quality of the wet-season crop in Takeo meets domestic demand in Vietnam; (2) some An Giang farmers rent land for cultivation in Cambodia and transport paddy into Vietnam for the domestic market; (3) the harvest in Takeo is later than in An Giang, helping maintain the throughput of the rice mills in An Giang; (4) Cambodian paddy is cheaper than Vietnamese paddy of the same type; (5) Cambodia does not have sufficient capacity for processing and storage. The cross-border value chain has three channels: (1) from producers directly to Vietnamese traders (5%); (2) from producers to Cambodian traders, who sell to Vietnamese traders (55%); and (3) from producers to Cambodian traders who sell to Vietnamese paddy wholesalers along the border (40%). Processed rice is distributed to wholesalers in the cities or directly to numerous traditional retailers. While there is no formal labelling or certification, the Cambodian rice is identifiable to consumers who pay 50–100% more for traditional Cambodian rice. The volume of paddy from Cambodia increases the supply of specialty rice for the domestic market in Vietnam, thus filling an important niche. Imports from Cambodia also frees up domestic rice for the export market. However, these cheaper paddy imports may also have a negative impact on domestic production and incomes, especially in the border areas. It may be necessary to develop joint policies to manage better the cross-border trade.
Predictive modelling to support sensitivity analysis for robust design in aerospace engineering
Authors: Dasari Siva Krishna , Cheddad Abbas , Andersson Petter
Published: January 2020

The design of aircraft engines involves computationally expensive engineering simulations. One way to solve this problem is the use of response surface models to approximate the high-fidelity time-consuming simulations while reducing computational time. For a robust design, sensitivity analysis based on these models allows for the efficient study of uncertain variables’ effect on system performance. The aim of this study is to support sensitivity analysis for a robust design in aerospace engineering. For this, an approach is presented in which random forests (RF) and multivariate adaptive regression splines (MARS) are explored to handle linear and non-linear response types for response surface modelling. Quantitative experiments are conducted to evaluate the predictive performance of these methods with Turbine Rear Structure (a component of aircraft) case study datasets for response surface modelling. Furthermore, to test these models’ applicability to perform sensitivity analysis, experiments are conducted using mathematical test problems (linear and non-linear functions) and their results are presented. From the experimental investigations, it appears that RF fits better on non-linear functions compared with MARS, whereas MARS fits well on linear functions.
Validating lane drifts as a predictive measure of drug or sleepiness induced driving impairment
Authors: Vinckenbosch F. R. J. , Vermeeren A. , Verster J. C. , Ramaekers J. G. , Vuurman E. F.
Published: January 2020

Background

Standard deviation of lateral position (SDLP) has been accepted as a reliable parameter for measuring driving impairment due to lowered vigilance caused by sleepiness or the use of sedating drugs. Recently, lane drifts were proposed as an additional outcome measure quantifying momentary lapses of attention. The purpose of this study was to validate lane drifts as outcome measure of driver impairment in a large data pool from two independent research centers.

Methods

Data from 11 placebo-controlled studies that assessed the impact of alcohol, hypnotics, and sleep deprivation on actual driving performance were pooled. In total, 717 on-the-road tests performed by 315 drivers were subjected to an automated algorithm to detect occurrences of lane drifts. Lane drifts were defined as deviations > 100 cm from the mean (LDmlp) and from the absolute lateral position (LDalp) for 8 s.

Results

The number of LDmlpwas low and did not differ between treatments and baseline, i.e., 14 vs. 3 events, respectively. LDalpwere frequent and significantly higher during treatment relative to baseline, i.e., 1646 vs. 470 events. The correlation between LDalpand SDLP in the treatment conditions was very high (rs = 0.77). The frequency of the occurrence of treatment-induced lane drifts however depended on baseline SDLP of drivers, whereas treatment-induced changes in SDLP occurred independent of baseline SDLP.

Conclusion

LDmlpis not useful as an outcome measure of driver impairment due to its rare occurrence, even when treatment-induced increments in SDLP are evident. Treatment effects on LDalpand SDLP are closely related.
Risk stratification in GIST: shape quantification with CT is a predictive factor
Authors: Wei Sheng-cai , Xu Liang , Li Wan-hu , Li Yun , Guo Shou-fang , Sun Xiao-rong , Li Wen-wu
Published: January 2020

Background

Tumor shape is strongly associated with some tumor’s genomic subtypes and patient outcomes. Our purpose is to find the relationship between risk stratification and the shape of GISTs.

Methods

A total of 101 patients with primary GISTs were confirmed by pathology and immunohistochemistry and underwent enhanced CT examination. All lesions’ pathologic sizes were 1 to 10 cm. Points A and B were the extremities of the longest diameter (LD) of the tumor and points C and D the extremities of the small axis, which was the longest diameter perpendicular to AB. The four angles of the quadrangle ABCD were measured and each angle named by its summit (A, B, C, D). For regular lesions, we took angles A and B as big angle (BiA) and small angle (SmA). For irregular lesions, we compared A/B ratio and D/C ratio and selected the larger ratio for analysis. The chi-square test, t test, ROC analysis, and hierarchical or binary logistic regression analysis were used to analyze the data.

Results

The BiA/SmA ratio was an independent predictor for risk level of GISTs (p = 0.019). With threshold of BiA at 90.5°, BiA/SmA ratio at 1.35 and LD at 6.15 cm, the sensitivities for high-risk GISTs were 82.4%, 85.3%, and 83.8%, respectively; the specificities were 87.1%, 71%, and 77.4%, respectively; and the AUCs were 0.852, 0.818, and 0.844, respectively. LD could not effectively distinguish between intermediate-risk and high-risk GISTs, but BiA could (p < 0.05). Shape and Ki-67 were independent predictors of the mitotic value (p = 0.036 and p < 0.001, respectively), and the accuracy was 87.8%.

Conclusions

Quantifying tumor shape has better predictive efficacy than LD in predicting the risk level and mitotic value of GISTs, especially for high-risk grading and mitotic value > 5/50HPF.

Key Points

• The BiA/SmA ratio was an independent predictor affecting the risk level of GISTs. LD could not effectively distinguish between intermediate-risk and high-risk GISTs, but BiA could.

• Shape and Ki-67 were independent predictors of the mitotic value.

• The method for quantifying the tumor shape has better predictive efficacy than LD in predicting the risk level and mitotic value of GISTs.
Element length calculation in B-spline meshes for complex geometries
Authors: Otoguro Yuto , Takizawa Kenji , Tezduyar Tayfun E.
Published: January 2020

Variational multiscale methods, and their precursors, stabilized methods, have been playing a core-method role in semi-discrete and space–time (ST) flow computations for decades. These methods are sometimes supplemented with discontinuity-capturing (DC) methods. The stabilization and DC parameters embedded in most of these methods play a significant role. Various well-performing stabilization and DC parameters have been introduced in both the semi-discrete and ST contexts. The parameters almost always involve some element length expressions, most of the time in specific directions, such as the direction of the flow or solution gradient. Until recently, stabilization and DC parameters originally intended for finite element discretization were being used also for isogeometric discretization. Recently, element lengths and stabilization and DC parameters targeting isogeometric discretization were introduced for ST and semi-discrete computations, and these expressions are also applicable to finite element discretization. The key stages of deriving the direction-dependent element length expression were mapping the direction vector from the physical (ST or space-only) element to the parent element in the parametric space, accounting for the discretization spacing along each of the parametric coordinates, and mapping what has been obtained back to the physical element. Targeting B-spline meshes for complex geometries, we introduce here new element length expressions, which are outcome of a clear and convincing derivation and more suitable for element-level evaluation. The new expressions are based on a preferred parametric space and a transformation tensor that represents the relationship between the integration and preferred parametric spaces. The test computations we present for advection-dominated cases, including 2D computations with complex meshes, show that the proposed element length expressions result in good solution profiles.
Assessment of Chlorella vulgaris, Scenedesmus obliquus, and Oocystis minuta for removal of sulfate, nitrate, and phosphate in wastewater
Authors: Ajala Sheriff Olalekan , Alexander Matthew L.
Published: January 2020

Application of wastewater for algal biomass production can not only lead to production of thousands of tons of biomass for subsequent biofuel production, but also can provide for significant removal of contaminants in wastewater. The aim of the present study is to evaluate the growth, contaminant removal, and biochemical component (lipid, carbohydrate, and protein) accumulation potential of Chlorella vulgaris, Scenedesmus obliquus, and Oocystis minuta cells in wastewater supplemented with different concentrations of sulfate, nitrate, and phosphate. The results show maximum biomass productivity of 33, 19, and 98 mg dw/L/d for C. vulgaris, S. obliquus, and O. minuta, respectively. Phosphate removal (more than 90%) was highest in the culture with O. minuta; about 93% nitrate was removed by C. vulgaris, and the highest sulfate removal of 36% was observed in the culture with S. obliquus. The biochemical composition of the microalgae cells is in the ranges of 22–65% carbohydrate, 19–38% protein, and 8–17% lipid. This indicates that carbohydrate and protein are preferentially accumulated as compared to lipids under the growth conditions investigated for each of the microalgae strains.
Refining the bigger picture: On the integrative memory model
Authors: Aggleton John P.
Published: January 2020

The integrative memory model contains multiple subsystems. In this commentary, the processes within these subsystems are questioned. First, the assumption that familiarity largely reflects perceptual fluency is examined. Next, the distinction between “process” and “representational” models of temporal lobe function is challenged. Finally, the “relational representation core system” (or “extended hippocampal system”), which is central to the model, is especially sketchy. Here, I highlight key questions to be addressed in order to understand this system's role in trace formation.
Validity of a dish composition database for estimating protein, sodium and potassium intakes against 24 h urinary excretion: comparison with a standard food composition database
Authors: Shinozaki Nana , Murakami Kentaro , Masayasu Shizuko , Sasaki Satoshi
Published: January 2020

Objective:

We assessed the validity of a recently developed dish composition database (DCD) against urinary biomarkers compared with a standard food composition database (FCD).

Design:

Intakes of protein, Na and K were estimated by 2 × 24 h urine collections and by 4 d dietary record data based on the DCD (including 128 dishes) or FCD (including 1878 foods).

Setting:

Japan.

Participants:

A total of 161 men and 163 women aged 20–69 years.

Results:

Compared with the 24 h urine-based estimates, the median intakes estimated using the DCD and FCD differed significantly for protein and Na in men and for Na and K in women. Deattenuated Spearman correlation coefficients using 24 h urine-based estimates for the intakes of protein, Na and K were lower in the DCD (respectively: 0·26, 0·15 and 0·44 in men; 0·22, 0·27 and 0·22 in women) than those in the FCD (respectively: 0·43, 0·40 and 0·59 in men; 0·33, 0·45 and 0·42 in women). When data on dish portion size reported by participants were used for estimation instead of standard portion-size data based on the DCD, the accuracy of the estimated median intakes did not change notably, whereas the deattenuated correlation coefficients improved (for protein, Na and K respectively: 0·32, 0·31 and 0·56 in men; 0·31, 0·41 and 0·39 in women).

Conclusions:

The DCD supported by individual-level information on dish portion size showed fair to moderate validity in ranking individuals according to their intakes of protein, Na and K, similar to the FCD.
Unprecedented Hemispheric Asymmetries During a Surprise Ionospheric Storm: A Game of Drivers
Authors: Astafyeva Elvira , Bagiya Mala S. , Förster Matthias , Nishitani Nozomu
Published: January 2020

The geomagnetic storm occurred on 25–26 August 2018 as a surprise to forecasters. The arrival of a weak coronal mass ejection did not show a sudden impulse in the magnetic data; however, when the Interplanetary magnetic field Bz turned southward, it intensified and further remained unchangeably negative for the next 9 hr, causing a major storm with the minimum SYM‐H excursion of −205 nT. In this work, we study the thermospheric, ionospheric, and electrodynamic behavior during this storm. We use a set of space‐borne (the Swarm constellation, GUVI/TIMED) and ground‐based (GPS receivers, magnetometers, SuperDARN) instruments. We particularly focus on storm effects in the American and East Pacific sectors, where unprecedented hemispheric asymmetries occurred in the thermosphere and ionosphere during the main and the recovery phases of the storm. At the beginning of the storm, a strong positive ionospheric storm was observed in the Northern Hemisphere, while in the Southern Hemisphere, surprisingly, no storm effect occurred. During the recovery phase, the thermospheric composition ratio O/N2 showed an extreme expansion of the bulge into the opposite hemisphere. Our analysis shows that in each case the asymmetry was produced by a unique combination of drivers that acted at particular moment of time and in particular place. The seasonal asymmetry in the high‐latitude plasma and neutral mass density distributions along with the asymmetries in the geomagnetic field and the timing of these impacts played the decisive role.
Quantifying the Uncertainty of a Coupled Plume and Tephra Dispersal Model: PLUME‐MOM/HYSPLIT Simulations Applied to Andean Volcanoes
Authors: Tadini A. , Roche O. , Samaniego P. , Guillin A. , Azzaoui N. , Gouhier M. , de' Michieli Vitturi M. , Pardini F. , Eychenne J. , Bernard B. , Hidalgo S. , Le Pennec J. L.
Published: January 2020

Numerical modeling of tephra dispersal and deposition is essential for evaluation of volcanic hazards. Many models consider reasonable physical approximations in order to reduce computational times, but this may introduce a certain degree of uncertainty in the simulation outputs. The important step of uncertainty quantification is dealt in this paper with respect to a coupled version of a plume model (PLUME‐MoM) and a tephra dispersal model (HYSPLIT). The performances of this model are evaluated through simulations of four past eruptions of different magnitudes and styles from three Andean volcanoes, and the uncertainty is quantified by evaluating the differences between modeled and observed data of plume height (at different time steps above the vent) as well as mass loading and grain size at given stratigraphic sections. Different meteorological data sets were also tested and had a sensible influence on the model outputs. Other results highlight that the model tends to underestimate plume heights while overestimating mass loading values, especially for higher‐magnitude eruptions. Moreover, the advective part of HYSPLIT seems to work more efficiently than the diffusive part. Finally, though the coupled PLUME‐MoM/HYSPLIT model generally is less efficient in reproducing deposit grain sizes, we propose that it may be used for hazard map production for higher‐magnitude eruptions (sub‐Plinian or Plinian) for what concern mass loading.