bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Does Off-Farm Work Improve Farm Income? Empirical Evidence from Tolon District in Northern Ghana
Authors: Anang Benjamin Tetteh , Nkrumah-Ennin Kwame , Nyaaba Joshua Anamsigiya
Published: September 2020

Participation of farm households in off-farm work has gained prominence in recent times as an income diversification strategy. The effect of off-farm work on farm income is however unclear. This paper therefore sought to provide empirical evidence of the income effect of off-farm activity participation using a cross section of maize farmers in Tolon District of Ghana as a case study. In order to account for sample selection bias, the Heckman selection model was used to estimate the factors influencing participation in off-farm work and the determinants of farm income. Furthermore, the study employed propensity score matching to evaluate the impact of off-farm work on farm income. The results indicate that participation in off-farm work is influenced by sex, age, and years of formal education of the respondent, farm size, and number of dependents while farm income is influenced by age of the respondent, farm size, and access to credit. In addition, the result of the propensity score matching revealed that participants in off-farm work increased their farm income by at least GH¢ 1702 as a result of income diversification. The rural economy therefore provides off-farm and on-farm linkages that enhance farmers’ income from agriculture. The creation of employment opportunities outside the farm will therefore complement on-farm work and enhance income from farming.
Survival Analysis of Risk Factors for Mortality in a Cohort of Patients with Tuberculosis
Authors: Xie Yi , Han Jing , Yu Weili , Wu Junping , Li Xue , Chen Huaiyong
Published: September 2020

Identify the treatment effects and risk factors for mortality in patients with pulmonary tuberculosis receiving antituberculosis treatment under the Directly Observed Treatment Short-Course (DOTS) program to reduce the mortality rate of tuberculosis. A retrospective cohort analysis was conducted on the outcomes of antituberculosis treatment of 7,032 patients with tuberculosis in the DOTS program, in the Tuberculosis Management Information System from 2014 to 2017 in Tianjin, China. The Kaplan–Meier method and multifactor Cox proportional risk regression model were used to analyze the risk factors for mortality during antituberculosis treatment under DOTS. The success rate of antituberculosis treatment was 90.24% and the mortality rate was 4.56% among 7,032 cases of tuberculosis in Tianjin. Cox regression analysis showed that advanced age, male sex, human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) positivity, first sputum positivity, retreated tuberculosis, and a delayed visit (≥14 days) were risk factors for mortality in patients with pulmonary tuberculosis receiving antituberculosis treatment under DOTS. The treatment effects in patients with pulmonary tuberculosis during antituberculosis treatment under DOTS were positive in Tianjin. Advanced age, male sex, HIV positivity, first sputum positivity, retreated tuberculosis, and a delayed visit (≥14 days) increased the risk for mortality during antituberculosis treatment.
The Heat Shock Protein 70 Plays a Protective Role in Sepsis by Maintenance of the Endothelial Permeability
Authors: Yuan Xiaoyan , Chen Yajing , Chen Guo , Liu Guorong , Hang Min , Wang Pei , Luo Yajuan , Guo Dongfeng , Xu Lei
Published: September 2020

Sepsis is a severe system inflammatory response syndrome in response to infection. The vascular endothelium cells play a key role in sepsis‐induced organ dysfunction. The heat shock protein 70 (HSP70) has been reported to play an anti‐inflammatory role and protect from sepsis. The present study is aimed at finding the function of HSP70 against sepsis in vascular endothelium cells. Lipopolysaccharide (LPS) and HSP70 agonist and inhibitor were used to treat HUVEC. Cell permeability was measured by transepithelial electrical resistance (TEER) assay and FITC‐Dextrans. Cell junction protein levels were measured by western blot. Mice were subjected to cecal ligation and puncture (CLP) to establish a sepsis model and were observed for survival. After LPS incubation, HSP70 expression was decreased in HUVEC. LPS induced the inhibition of cell viability and the increases of IL‐1β, IL‐6, and TNF‐α. Furthermore, cell permeability was increased and cell junction proteins (E‐cadherin, occludin, and ZO‐1) were downregulated after treatment with LPS. However, HSP70 could reverse these effects induced by LPS in HUVEC. In addition, LPS‐induced elevated phosphorylation of p38 can be blocked by HSP70. On the other hand, we found that inhibition of HSP70 had similar effects as LPS and these effects could be alleviated by the inhibitor of p38. Subsequently, HSP70 was also found to increase survival of sepsis mice in vivo. In conclusion, HSP70 plays a protective role in sepsis by maintenance of the endothelial permeability via regulating p38 signaling.
The Complete Chloroplast Genome of Arabidopsis thaliana Isolated in Korea (Brassicaceae): An Investigation of Intraspecific Variations of the Chloroplast Genome of Korean A. thaliana
Authors: Park Jongsun , Xi Hong , Kim Yongsung
Published: September 2020

Arabidopsis thaliana (L.) Heynh. is a model organism of plant molecular biology. More than 1,700 whole genome sequences have been sequenced, but no Korean isolate genomes have been sequenced thus far despite the fact that many A. thaliana isolated in Japan and China have been sequenced. To understand the genetic background of Korean natural A. thaliana (named as 180404IB4), we presented its complete chloroplast genome, which is 154,464 bp long and has four subregions: 85,164 bp of large single copy (LSC) and 17,781 bp of small single copy (SSC) regions are separated by 26,257 bp of inverted repeat (IRs) regions including 130 genes (85 protein-coding genes, eight rRNAs, and 37 tRNAs). Fifty single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) and 14 insertion and deletions (INDELs) are identified between 180404IB4 and Col0. In addition, 101 SSRs and 42 extendedSSRs were identified on the Korean A. thaliana chloroplast genome, indicating a similar number of SSRs on the rest five chloroplast genomes with a preference of sequence variations toward the SSR region. A nucleotide diversity analysis revealed two highly variable regions on A. thaliana chloroplast genomes. Phylogenetic trees with three more chloroplast genomes of East Asian natural isolates show that Korean and Chinese natural isolates are clustered together, whereas two Japanese isolates are not clustered, suggesting the need for additional investigations of the chloroplast genomes of East Asian isolates.
MicroRNA-587 Functions as a Tumor Suppressor in Hepatocellular Carcinoma by Targeting Ribosomal Protein SA
Authors: Chen Miao , Wang Duo , Liu Junjie , Zhou Zhizhan , Ding Zhanling , Liu Lianfeng , Su Danke , Li Hang
Published: September 2020

Background. Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is one of the most highly aggressive cancer worldwide with an extremely poor prognosis. Evidence has revealed that microRNA-587 (miR-587) is abnormally expressed in a series of cancers. However, its expressions and functions in HCC have not been clearly acknowledged. Methods. We detected the expression level of miR-587 both in the Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) database and 86 paired clinical HCC tissues together with paired adjacent normal tissues by quantitative real‐time PCR (qRT‐PCR). Afterwards, the transfected HCC cell line SMMC‐7721 cells were collected for the cell proliferation assay, cell‐cycle arrest, cell migration, and invasion assays to explore the roles of miR-587 in regulating cellular function. In addition, bioinformatics analysis, combined with qRT‐PCR and dual‐luciferase reporter assays, were performed to confirm whether ribosomal protein SA (RPSA) mRNA was the direct target gene of miR-587. Moreover, the Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) and GEO databases as well as 86 paired clinical HCC tissues were used to verify the negative regulation between miR-587 and RPSA. Results. In the present study, both the GEO database (GSE36915 and GSE74618) analysis and qRT‐PCR analysis of 86 paired clinical tissues showed that miR-587 was significantly downregulated in HCC tissues. The overexpression of miR-587 inhibited proliferation, cell cycle, migration, and invasion in SMMC‐7721 cells. In addition, miR‐587 directly interacted with the 3 ′‐untranslated region (UTR) of RPSA. Moreover, miR-587 overexpression directly suppressed RPSA expression, and the two genes were inversely expressed in HCC based on the analyses in TCGA and GEO (GSE36376) databases and qPCR analysis of 86 paired clinical tissues. Conclusion. Our results demonstrate that miR-587 is downexpressed in HCC and regulates the cellular function by targeting RPSA.
On WPA2-Enterprise Privacy in High Education and Science
Authors: Perković T. , Dagelić A. , Bugarić M. , Čagalj M.
Published: September 2020

A plethora of organizations, companies, and foremost universities and educational institutions are using WPA2-Enterprise protocol to allow their end-users to connect to provided Wi-Fi networks. When both the provider’s and the end-user’s devices are configured properly, it is considered one of the safest Wi-Fi connection protocols with the added benefits of having a unique password for every Wi-Fi user. However, a known evil twin attack can be performed to steal users’ Wi-Fi login credentials, if the devices are not configured correctly. Considering the widespread use of Wi-Fi-enabled smartphones and rising concerns regarding users’ privacy, we focus on the privacy aspects of WPA2-Enterprise vulnerabilities mainly on the widespread Eduroam network. We show that device deanonymization is a concerning liability of many Eduroam networks. More than 87% of 1650 devices collected during a two-month test on our university are vulnerable to MAC address deanonymization attack. Furthermore, by analyzing the Eduroam Configuration Assistant Tool of 1066 different institutions around the world, 67% of exported Eduroam profiles having the Wi-Fi device reveal the user’s identity in the clear, thus linking the users with the device’s MAC address. Indeed, the analysis of the configuration profiles has been confirmed by performing the deanonymization attack on a large-scale international music festival in our country, where 70% of the devices have been vulnerable. Additionally, we showcase the psychological aspects of secure Eduroam users, where some are willing to modify secure configuration profiles to gain aspects to certain blocked features. As a result, the attacker is granted with user credentials and IMSI number and provided with access to all Eduroam-related services.
Association between Thyroid Function and Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver Disease in Euthyroid Type 2 Diabetes Patients
Authors: Huang Bin , Yang Shengju , Ye Shandong
Published: September 2020

Thyroid function and type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) are both associated with increased risks of adverse clinical outcomes in nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). Our study is aimed at evaluating the association between thyroid function and NAFLD in T2DM patients with normal thyroid function (euthyroid) and analyzing the potential effects of metformin on the pathological process. Overall, 369 T2DM patients were enrolled between July 2017 and September 2018 and stratified into NAFLD and non-NAFLD groups. Data on age, gender, body mass index (BMI, kg/m2), metformin use, and basal metabolic rate (BMR) were obtained from participants’ records. All patients were tested for biochemical markers, indexes of glucose metabolism, lipid metabolism, bone metabolism, and thyroid function at baseline. Multivariate analyses detected increased odds of NAFLD among individuals with T2DM per unit increase in their BMI and free triiodothyronine (FT3) and thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH); the odds ratios (OR) were 1.25, 3.02, and 1.58, respectively (all p<0.05). Positive correlations were detected between alanine aminotransferase (ALT) and FT3 (r=0.221, p=0.010), and negative correlations were noted between TSH and BMR (r=−0.618, p<0.001) and between BMR and FT3 (r=−0.452, p<0.001) in T2DM subjects with NAFLD. A significant difference in serum FT3 (t=2.468, p=0.0167) and TSH (t=2.658, p=0.010) levels was found between obese individuals with NAFLD who used and did not use metformin. The pathological mechanism of T2DM complicated by NAFLD in euthyroid patients may be associated with insulin resistance and a thyroid hormone resistance-like manifestation, i.e., relevant hypothyroidism. Metformin can potentially decrease the double-resistance situation, especially in obese individuals.
Multiscale Fusion Method for the Enhancement of Low-Light Underwater Images
Authors: Zhou Jingchun , Zhang Dehuan , Zhang Weishi
Published: September 2020

To solve the color cast and low contrast of underwater images caused by the effects of light absorption and scattering, we propose a novel underwater image enhancement method via bi-interval histogram equalization. The proposed method consists of three main parts: color correction, contrast enhancement, and multiscale fusion. First, the color cast is eliminated by automatic white balancing. Then, homomorphic filtering is adopted to decompose the image into high-frequency information and low-frequency information, the high-frequency information is enhanced by the gradient field bi-interval equalization which enhances the contrast and details of the image, and the low-frequency information is disposed via gamma correction for adjusting the exposure. Finally, we adopt a multiscale fusion strategy to fuse the high-frequency information, high-frequency after bi-interval equalization, and low-frequency information based on contrast, saturation, and exposure. Qualitative and quantitative performance evaluations demonstrate that the proposed method can effectively enhance the details and global contrast of the image and achieve better exposedness of the dark areas, which outperforms several state-of-the-art methods.
Resistance Training Associated with Dietetic Advice Reduces Inflammatory Biomarkers in the Elderly
Authors: Lopes Lilian Maria Peixoto , Oliveira Emerson Cruz de , Becker Lenice Kappes , Costa Guilherme de Paula , Pinto Kelerson Mauro de Castro , Talvani André , Carraro Júlia Cristina Cardoso , Coelho Daniel Barbosa
Published: September 2020

Aging is a biological process during which chronic low‐grade inflammation is present due to changes in the immune system of the elderly. The main objective of this study is to evaluate the effects of resistance training associated with dietary advice on chronic inflammation in the elderly. We conducted a prospective intervention study in which we evaluated anthropometric parameters and inflammatory biomarkers (CRP, IL‐8, CCL‐2, and leptin) in 40 elderly people before and after long‐term progressive resistance training (19 weeks) associated with dietary advice. The participants trained twice a week on nonconsecutive days, and the training lasted one hour with an intensity of 60‐85% of 1‐MR. Dietary advice was explained in person and individually focusing on foods rich in compounds with anti‐inflammatory and antioxidant properties. Participants were instructed at the beginning of the training program, and dietary advice was reinforced verbally weekly. There was an improvement in body composition evidenced by a reduction in waist circumference and body fat percentage and by the increase in arm circumference, calf circumference, and corrected arm muscle area. In addition, there was a reduction in the inflammatory biomarkers CCL‐2 (p = 0.01) and leptin (p < 0.01). Resistance training associated with dietary guidance can contribute to a healthy aging due to observed improvements in body composition and in the inflammatory profile of the elderly.
Review of Sensor Network-Based Irrigation Systems Using IoT and Remote Sensing
Authors: Li Wei , Awais Muhammad , Ru Weimin , Shi Weidong , Ajmal Muhammad , Uddin Saad , Liu Chenchen
Published: September 2020

The motivation for this review paper came from the developing countries where the economy is mostly dependent on agriculture and climate conditions. Based on current conditions and historical records, profitability in production farming depends on making a right and timely operational decision. Precision farming is a systematic program designed to maximize the productivity of agriculture by carefully tailoring the soil and crop management to meet the specific requirements in each field while preserving environmental quality. This review paper highlights the development of an automated irrigation system with portable wireless sensor networks and decision support methods to remotely measure the environmental parameters in an agriculture field. Radio satellite, mobile phones, sensors, internet-based communication, and microcontroller capture the ecological parameters such as soil moisture, temperature, humidity, and light intensity. The knowledge gained from the sensors is transferred directly to the cloud server by using IoT technology. Users from anywhere in the world can display them through an internet-enabled device. Development of sensor-based application in modern agriculture makes it cost-effective and potentially productive and increases the efficiency through precision agriculture farming. Different limitations have been reported in the previously reviewed publications like the shortage of power in the field that can be solved by using a solar panel that recharges the battery at the same time using electricity. Bluetooth application in the agriculture sector is mainly improved by design system optimization. Problems related to transmission and radio range frequency can be solved by using a power class upgraded antenna.
The Use of Pleural Fluid to Serum Glucose Ratio in Establishing the Diagnosis of a Not So Sweet PD-Related Hydrothorax: Case Report and Literature Review
Authors: Bohra Nidrit , Sullivan Abigayle , Chaudhary Haseeb , Demko Trudy
Published: September 2020

Hydrothorax is a well-known but rare complication of peritoneal dialysis (PD), with an average incidence of 2% mainly in cases of continuous ambulatory peritoneal dialysis (CAPD). In more than 80% of these cases, the hydrothorax is attributed to an abnormal pleuroperitoneal communication. It commonly manifests as unilateral effusion, predominantly on the right. A thoracentesis to determine pleural glucose has been a diagnostic aid well relied on, as the dextrose rich dialysate raises the pleural fluid glucose. A pleural fluid glucose to serum glucose gradient greater than 50 mg/dL is suggestive of a leak with a specificity of 100% according to some studies; however, its sensitivity is variable. Our case illustrates a diagnostic dilemma due to a relatively low pleural fluid to serum glucose gradient of 21 mg/dL that caused a delay in diagnosis. A pleural fluid to serum glucose ratio >1.0 was used as a diagnostic marker that pointed toward a peritoneal leak. For confirmation, a peritoneal scintigraphy with nuclear technetium 99 scan was performed that revealed a pleuroperitoneal fistula as the source of the recurring hydrothorax in the setting of automated peritoneal dialysis (APD). The hydrothorax completely resolved with termination of APD on follow-up as the patient was transitioned to intermittent hemodialysis (HD).
Out-of-Hospital Cardiac Arrest due to Coronary Spasm with Recurrent Ventricular Fibrillation
Authors: Rathod Vrijraj Sinhji , Kanitkar Tanmay , Karamasis Grigoris
Published: September 2020

We present a case of ventricular fibrillation (VF) secondary to ischaemia induced by coronary artery spasm. An 82-year-old man initially presented with an out-of-hospital VF arrest. On return of spontaneous circulation (ROSC), he was found to be in fast atrial fibrillation (AF); an invasive coronary angiogram revealed unobstructed coronary arteries. During his hospital stay, he developed chest pain, with concomitant ST elevation on ECG (electrocardiogram), which spontaneously resolved. A repeat coronary angiography revealed coronary spasm. Later, he had further ST elevation resulting in ventricular fibrillation. It became clear his initial presentation was most likely due to coronary vasospasm rather than a plaque-rupture or ventricular scar-related event, and he was thus successfully treated with multiple vasodilators and an implantable cardiac defibrillator. This case report highlights how conventional imaging modalities may not always lead to a diagnosis.
Effect of Stress and Moisture Content on Permeability of Gas-Saturated Raw Coal
Authors: Wang Junhui , Wan Zhijun , Wang Yi , Liu Zhixiang , Liu Sifei , Zhang Hongwei , Pei Qiuyan
Published: September 2020

Hydraulic fracturing and premining gas drainage are important to safe mining and coalbed methane extraction. These technical processes cause the redistribution of in-situ stress and the regional variation of moisture contents within the affected zone. Therefore, we investigated the coupled effect of variable stresses (from 9 MPa to 27 MPa) and moisture contents (from 0.22% to 4.00%) on the permeability evolution of gas-saturated raw coal. The results show that (1) the relationship between the mean effective stress and the permeability can be described by a power function according to the permeability evolution model of the porous matrix established in this study. Besides, the influence mechanisms of moisture on fitting coefficients in the function were analyzed. (2) The permeability decreases with the increase of in-situ stress (e.g., confining pressure or volumetric stress) in a negative exponential manner. (3) The curves of permeability variations with moisture content are not always linear, and the permeability is more sensitive to the moisture content than the volumetric stress in the test range. Moreover, the sensitivity of permeability varies in different regions. These results would be beneficial for permeability prediction and surface well parameters design.
Study on the Allowable Exposure Time of Temporary Goaf in the Open Stope and Backfill Mining Method with Large Structure Parameters
Authors: Liu Xiaosheng , Wang Weijun , Luo Yizhong , Zhan Jin
Published: September 2020

Based on the uniaxial rheological experiment data of iron ore rock mass and filling body in large‐scale stope obtained by using the rock servo controlling creep equipment, the characteristics of the creep curve were analyzed. The creep models of iron ore and filling body which can show the attenuation creep of rock were constructed. And a nonlinear creep model was obtained. According to the rheological data of the iron ore and the filling body, the parameters of the new nonlinear creep model were identified to obtain the material parameters of the creep model. Then, the creep model parameters were fitted and reduced to calculate the reasonable exposure time of temporary goaf in the large‐scale stope. The results show that the reasonable exposure time of stope is 520 ～ 650 days, and the reasonable exposure time of filling body is 410 ～ 520 days. The model can well describe the initial attenuation creep stage and steady creep stage in the creep curve, which proves the correctness and rationality of the model. The study provides a reference for mining design and safety production of similar mines with large‐scale stope structure.
Cross-Cultural Adaptation and Validation of “Malocclusion Impact Questionnaire” into Moroccan Arabic
Authors: Bourzgui Farid , Diouny Samir , Mkhantar Hadam , Serhier Zineb , Bennani Othmani Mohamed
Published: September 2020

Introduction. The malocclusion index questionnaire (MIQ) is widely used in research and clinical practice. To our knowledge, there are no studies of its use in Moroccan patients. Aim. The objective of this study was to translate and culturally adapt the malocclusion impact questionnaire (MIQ) into Moroccan Arabic and to assess its reliability and validity among a sample of young Moroccan teenagers. The PIDAQ was cross-culturally adapted into Malay version by forward- and backward-translation processes, followed by psychometric validation. Materials and Methods. The MIQ was cross-culturally adapted into Moroccan Arabic by forward- and backward-translation processes, followed by psychometric validations. The MIQ was completed by a representative sample of 94 Moroccan adolescents aged 12–17 years selected randomly from five public schools of Casablanca. Internal consistency reliability was determined from Cronbach’s alpha, and the intraclass coefficient of the item scores was obtained in 1 month in a subset of 30 subjects. Data were analyzed using the Statistical SPSS software, version 16.0, SPSS Inc, Chicago, IL, USA. Results. The MIQ was completed twice by each participant at one-month interval to assess test reliability; the intraclass coefficient was r = 0.958, showing an excellent reproducibility. The internal consistency demonstrated the reliability of the questionnaire with Cronbach’s alpha coefficient of 0.917. The validity of the questionnaire was assessed by evaluation of the relationship between the total scores of the MIQ and normative need for orthodontic treatment according to ICON. The questionnaire showed an insignificant correlation (0.129, p<0.05). Conclusion. The Moroccan Arabic version of the MIQ was found to be reliable, whereas it has unacceptable validity according to ICON, and hence, it is unlikely to be a useful measure in orthodontic clinical trials for Moroccan adolescents.
Permeability of the Hydrated Shale under Cyclic Loading and Unloading Conditions
Authors: Xianshan Liu , Man Li , Ming Xu , Zhiyong Kang
Published: September 2020

The hydrated shales under cyclic loading and unloading conditions are common for the shale reservoir development; corresponding mechanical properties and permeability evolution are very significant and should be deeply researched. Firstly, the experiments of the hydrated shales under the above conditions are discussed, showing that the peak strength is lower and corresponding permeability is higher for more days of hydrating treatment. Secondly, the damage theory is proposed to analyze the shale permeability evolution due to hydromechanical damage and get permeability variation under initial loading and unloading conditions, observing that the permeability in the loading process decreases with increasing confining pressure and increases in the unloading process with decreasing confining pressure; however, the former changes much greater than the latter considering the same confining pressure, indicating that the irreversible damage for the hydrated shales in this cyclic condition has resulted in obvious difference of the permeability. Furthermore, the curves between the permeability and confining pressure based on the experimental data are fitted as negative exponential functions under initial loading conditions and power functions under more cyclic loading conditions, showing that more loading process will change the permeability evolution model. However, the permeability while unloading changes smoothly and can be fitted as a power function with the confining pressure. And in addition, the loss ratio and recovery ratio of the permeability have been deeply researched under five cyclic loading and unloading conditions, thoroughly explaining the permeability decreasing variation with more cyclic processes. Finally, the sensitive coefficients of the permeability have been investigated to observe the largest coefficients under initial cyclic conditions and less and less with more cyclic processes, especially the coefficients while loading which are more sensitive to lower confining pressure and smaller while unloading, which is in accordance with the shale permeability loss and recovery variation, revealing the permeability evolution of the hydrated shale under complex extracted environment.
Research of Transitional Failure Mode as Damage Evolution in Rock Wall
Authors: Li Xiao-guang , Li Changhong , Li Yuan , Zhang Pu-jin
Published: September 2020

The stress condition of tunnel surrounding rock mass is complex. The stress concentration of in situ brittle rock mass caused by excavation results in localized damage evolution parallel to the free face, which is called surface instability. The rock wall shows the transition characteristics of the failure mode with the distance from the surface to the depth. Low strength surface instability and transition failure modes of the tunnel’s rock wall are common in deep condition but cylindrical specimens cannot simulate stress state of rock wall surface well in conventional rock mechanics tests. This paper conducted the indoor experimental study of the biaxial stress state and studied the surface instability of samples. An indoor test device for the simulation of transitional surface failure of the rock wall was developed. Through a biaxial stress loading test on the rectangular rock sample, the damage process and crack development of rock samples were analyzed, and the law of stress and strain related to the failure mode transition was characterized as well. Based on test results and strength analysis, an explanation of the failure theory and its corresponding model are proposed based on the maximum strain strength theory. Furthermore, this paper concludes that the failure mode of surface instability presents transition feature from brittle to ductile with the increase of distance from the surface to depth.
The “Loopole” Antenna: A Hybrid Coil Combining Loop and Electric Dipole Properties for Ultra-High-Field MRI
Authors: Lakshmanan Karthik , Cloos Martijn , Brown Ryan , Lattanzi Riccardo , Sodickson Daniel K. , Wiggins Graham C.
Published: September 2020

Purpose. To revisit the “loopole,” an unusual coil topology whose unbalanced current distribution captures both loop and electric dipole properties, which can be advantageous in ultra-high-field MRI. Methods. Loopole coils were built by deliberately breaking the capacitor symmetry of traditional loop coils. The corresponding current distribution, transmit efficiency, and signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) were evaluated in simulation and experiments in comparison to those of loops and electric dipoles at 7 T (297 MHz). Results. The loopole coil exhibited a hybrid current pattern, comprising features of both loops and electric dipole current patterns. Depending on the orientation relative to B0, the loopole demonstrated significant performance boost in either the transmit efficiency or SNR at the center of a dielectric sample when compared to a traditional loop. Modest improvements were observed when compared to an electric dipole. Conclusion. The loopole can achieve high performance by supporting both divergence-free and curl-free current patterns, which are both significant contributors to the ultimate intrinsic performance at ultra-high field. While electric dipoles exhibit similar hybrid properties, loopoles maintain the engineering advantages of loops, such as geometric decoupling and reduced resonance frequency dependence on sample loading.
Removal of Heavy Metal Ion Using Polymer-Functionalized Activated Carbon: Aspects of Environmental Economic and Chemistry Education
Authors: Ha Hoang Thu , Huong Nguyen Thi , Dan Le Linh , Tung Nguyen Duy , Trung Vinh Bao , Minh Tran Dinh
Published: September 2020

Numerous countries have shown signs of environmental pollution to prioritize economic growth and benefits, leading to seriously contaminated waters. This work indicated the method to synthesize a green material, which could remove contaminants to protect the natural environment. The porosity and functionality effects of amine-functionalized activated carbon (AFAC) enhanced the removal of toxic heavy metals (THMs) in aqueous solution. The raw activated carbon (RAC) was thermally modified with ultrahigh pure nitrogen (UHPN) at 500°C and 1000°C and then amine-functionalized with coupling agent of aminopropyltriethoxysilane (APS). They were denoted as AFAC-5 and AFAC-10, respectively. The data showed an enhanced metal adsorption capacity of the AFACs, because the modification produced more desired porosity and increased amine functional groups. AFAC-10, modified at a higher temperature, showed much higher THM adsorption capacity than AFAC-5, modified at a lower temperature, and RAC. The adsorption capacity decreased in the following order: Ni > Cd > Zn, which was in good agreement with the increasing electronegativity and ionic potential and the decreasing atomic radius. The maximum THM adsorption capacity of AFAC-10 for Ni, Cd, and Zn was 242.5, 226.9, and 204.3 mg/g, respectively.
In Vitro Antibacterial Activity of Crude Extracts of Artocarpus heterophyllus Seeds against Selected Diarrhoea-Causing Superbug Bacteria
Authors: Eve Asio , Aliero Adamu Almustapha , Nalubiri Doreen , Adeyemo Rasheed Omotayo , Akinola Saheed Adekunle , Pius Theophilus , Nabaasa Saphurah , Nabukeera Susan , Alkali Bashir , Ntulume Ibrahim
Published: September 2020

The current upsurge in resistance to conventional antibiotics, as well as high cost of orthodox medical treatment, called for the use of medicinal plants as an alternative therapy. This research was aimed at determining the antibacterial activity of Artocarpus heterophyllus seed extracts (Jackfruit as it is locally called) in the treatment of diarrhoea. Ethanolic and hexanolic seed crude extracts of the plant were screened for antidiarrhoeal activity against bacteria isolated from clinical samples (methicillin-resistant and susceptible Staphylococcus aureus, multidrug-resistant Pseudomonas aeruginosa, ciprofloxacin-resistant Salmonella typhimurium, and third-generation cephalosporin-resistant Escherichia coli). Plant phytochemical screening was conducted using standard methods. The antibacterial activity was carried out using the agar well diffusion method and compared to the standard antibiotics ceftriaxone and vancomycin. The minimum inhibitory concentration was determined by the microbroth dilution method, whereas the minimum bactericidal concentration was determined by plating out from microtitre plates with no visible growth. The results of phytochemical screening revealed the presence of tannins, flavonoids, reducing sugars, cardiac glycosides, saponins, and steroids from the prepared crude extracts. The ethanolic and hexanolic extracts had activity on multidrug-resistant Pseudomonas aeruginosa, methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus, and methicillin-susceptible Staphylococcus aureus with the mean and standard error zone of inhibition that ranged from 8.5 ± 0.5 to 16.5 ± 0.25 mm; however, the extracts were found not to have activity on resistant E. coli and Salmonella typhimurium. The ethanolic crude extract had the lowest MIC and MBC values of 31.25 and 125 mg/ml, respectively, compared to the hexane extract which had the MIC and MBC values of 62.50 and 250 mg/ml, respectively. This provides the evidence for its usage as an alternative herbal remedy for the treatment of diarrhoea caused by susceptible and methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus and multidrug resistant Pseudomonas aeruginosa.
Improving Malignancy Prediction in AUS/FLUS Pediatric Thyroid Nodules with the Aid of Ultrasound
Authors: Arora Shruthi , Khoury Jane , Trout Andrew T. , Chuang Janet
Published: September 2020

Introduction: The standard workup of thyroid nodules concerning for malignancy includes fine-needle aspiration (FNA). In 2015, the American Thyroid Association (ATA) guidelines for the management of pediatric thyroid nodules recommended that all nodules with a Bethesda III cytology undergo surgical resection. Objectives: To correlate a Bethesda III cytology with histologic and clinical outcomes to determine the relevance of the ATA recommendations, and to evaluate whether Thyroid Imaging Reporting and Data System (TI-RADS) scoring could identify Bethesda III nodules at a lower risk of malignancy. Methods: A retrospective chart review of patients who had undergone thyroid nodule FNA from 2008 to 2018 was performed. Malignancy rates were determined for each Bethesda category. The reference standard was histopathology or 2-year follow-up of imaging outcomes for nonoperative cases. Ultrasound exams of Bethesda III nodules were reviewed and TI-RADS scores assigned. Results: A total of 143 FNA samples from 128 patients were identified. The mean age was 14.9 years (range 7–22). Twenty-two (15%) of the FNA samples were Bethesda III; the malignancy rate was 38%. A TI-RADS score was assigned in 20 of the 22 Bethesda III nodules. ROC analysis found an optimal cut-off for malignancy prediction of ≥7 points (risk category TR5). The negative predictive value was 85.7% (95% CI 35.9–99.6) and the positive predictive value was 83.3% (95% CI 57.2–98.2). Conclusion: Although, at baseline, thyroid nodules with a Bethesda III classification carry a moderate risk of malignancy in the pediatric population, TI-RADS scoring can identify nodules with a lower risk within this group. If validated by larger studies, this can inform decision making and reduce unneeded surgery.
Urological Outcome after Fetal Spina Bifida Repair: Data from the Zurich Cohort
Authors: Mazzone Luca , Hölscher Alice Catherine , Moehrlen Ueli , Gobet Rita , Meuli Martin , Horst Maya
Published: September 2020

Introduction: Neurogenic lower urinary tract dysfunction (NLUTD) represents a severe burden for patients with open spina bifida (OSB). The effect of fetal OSB repair on the urological outcome remains unclear, as controversial data exist. The aim of this study was to further increment existing outcome data and to demonstrate that our earlier published positive preliminary results are not erratic. Methods: Data from standardized urological follow-up appointments of patients with fetal OSB repair operated at our center were analyzed. Data were obtained from urodynamic studies (UDSs) and radiologic exams performed in the newborn (gestational age 37–39 weeks), at ages of 6, 12, 18, and 24 months, and then at yearly intervals. Results: Of 82 patients (mean age 2.6 years, range 6 months to 7 years), 26 (32%) had a normal bladder function as demonstrated by UDSs. Of the 56 (68%) patients with NLUTD, 29 (51%) patients showed initially a normal UDS, but developed NLUTD in the follow-up, 19 (66%) of them spontaneously and another 10 (34%) in association with growth and development, or surgery of inclusion cysts. Radiologic abnormalities (upper tract dilatation and vesico-uretero-renal reflux) were seen in 15%, mainly patients with NLUTD. Conclusion: Our results add an important set of information to the existing body of evidence. The data reconfirm our earlier published favorable preliminary results and support other studies that show a possible benefit of prenatal OSB repair on the urological outcome, but they also demonstrate that the positive effect remains limited.
Noninvasive Detection of Hemolysis with ETCOc Measurement in Neonates at Risk for Significant Hyperbilirubinemia
Authors: Bhatia Ashwani , Chua Mei Chien , dela Puerta Rowena , Rajadurai Victor Samuel
Published: September 2020

Background: Hemolytic hyperbilirubinemia due to blood group incompatibility or glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase deficiency (G6PD) is a common cause of significant hyperbilirubinemia. Hemolysis in a hyperbilirubinemic infant increases the risk of bilirubin neurotoxicity. A new portable device (CoSense) can rapidly detect breath end-tidal carbon monoxide corrected to ambient carbon monoxide (ETCOc). ETCOc levels are surrogate markers of hemoglobin breakdown and bilirubin production. Objective: The aim was to evaluate the association between ETCOc values and hemolysis and its relevance in neonates at risk for significant hyperbilirubinemia. Methods: A prospective study was conducted among newborn infants born at more than 35 weeks and with a birth weight greater than 2,000 g with a G6PD deficiency, blood group incompatibility, or clinical jaundice needing phototherapy during the first 7 days of life. The recruited infants had their breath ETCOc measured twice, first on the day of recruitment and then again on the following day. Results: Fifty infants completed this study. Their mean ETCOc was 1.61 (±0.56) ppm. There was a linear correlation (r = 0.89) between increasing ETCOc values and reticulocyte counts (RC). Sixteen newborns with ABO incompatibility had a significantly higher mean ETCOc of 1.98 ppm (±0.71) as compared to 1.43 (±0.38) ppm in the nonhemolytic hyperbilirubinemia (NHH) group (n = 25) (p = 0.002). This was suggestive of hemolysis as shown by the significantly higher RC of 6.90% (±3.38) compared to 4.68 (±1.26) in the NHH group (p <0.005). Neonates with an ETCOc level ≥1.8 ppm had a higher RC, a lower hemoglobin level, higher serum bilirubin levels, and a rapid rise in serum bilirubin and needed a longer duration of phototherapy. ETCOc values ≥1.8 ppm were suggestive of hemolysis (RC ≥6%), with a sensitivity of 90% and a specificity of 83%. Conclusion: Higher ETCOc values ≥1.8 ppm are suggestive of hemolysis and they are associated with significant hyperbilirubinemia.
The Effect of Isotretinoin on Oocyte Maturation in Adolescent Female Rats
Authors: Kacamak Pinar , Ozogul Candan , Saribas Gulistan Sanem , Akarca Dizakar Saadet Ozen , Emniyet Sert Asiye Asli
Published: September 2020

Objective: Isotretinoin is used in acne vulgaris treatment for more than 20 years. Isotretinoin has serious side effects on many organs, but there are no comprehensive studies investigating its possible toxic effects on reproductive organs. Thus, we aimed to investigate the possible toxic effects of isotretinoin administration on oocyte maturation in female rat gonads in this study. Methods: Thirty-two adolescent female rats (Wistar Albino, 220 ± 35 g) were randomly divided into 4 groups with 8 subjects in each group: group 1, group 2, group 3, and group 4. Different doses of isotretinoin which was dissolved in sesame oil were given to rats by gavage: 7.5 mg/kg/day in group 3 and 15 mg/kg/day in group 4. The rats in group 2 received sesame oil by gavage. To create gavage stress, only gavage was administered to the rats in group 1. The gavages for each group continued once a day and at a certain time for 30 days. To determine the effect of isotretinoin on oocyte maturation, the periodic acid-Schiff reaction was performed for histochemical and histomorphometric evaluation of the zona pellucida, and staining of growth differentiation factor-9 (GDF-9) and bone morphogenetic protein-15 (BMP-15) was performed for immunohistochemical analysis. Results: When the thickness of the zona pellucida was evaluated, a statistically significant difference was found between group 1 and experimental groups (group 3 and group 4). In the experimental groups, it was determined that the thickness of the zona pellucida was decreased depending on the increase in dose. GDF-9 and BMP-15 expressions in oocytes of primordial and primary follicles decreased significantly in the experimental groups compared to group 1 and group 2. However, the expression of GDF-9 and BMP-15 in oocytes of secondary follicles was not significantly different between group 1 and group 2 and the experimental groups. Conclusions: In our study, we showed toxic effect of isotretinoin on oocyte maturation in female rats.
Case Series: Organophosphate Contamination of Camel’s Mammary Glands Affects Human Health
Authors: Al Ali Maryam Saif , Al Shamsi Jasem , Sabbar Saweera
Published: September 2020

In this case series, we present 2 cases of previously healthy farmers, who presented with symptoms of a cholinergic crisis that developed several hours after ingestion of camel milk. The initial case was treated with supportive medical care without using antidote as no history of direct exposure to pesticides was available.The second case presented with symptoms of cholinergic crisis that developed several hours after the ingestion of camel milk. Clinical features included slurred speech, headache, vomiting, diarrhea, frequent ­micturition, muscle fasciculation, chest discomfort, and atrial fibrillation. The patient developed bradycardia that responded to intravenous atropine. Routine investigations were unremarkable, but acetylcholinesterase and pseudocholinesterase levels were both low. The patient was managed with intravenous fluids, analgesia, atropine, and pralidoxime, which were administered when he developed respiratory symptoms secondary to excessive secretions. The following day, the patient was asymptomatic and discharged. On the medical history, the patient denied any other ingestion including food and drink or potential organophosphate exposure on the day of symptom onset. Application of organophosphate pesticides to the mammary glands of camels has been used for many decades against Sarcoptes scabei cameli, a mite that causes a dermal infestation in camels similar to human scabies infections.
Systematics of big-eyed bats, genus Chiroderma Peters, 1860 (Chiroptera: Phyllostomidae)
Authors: GARBINO GUILHERME S. T. , LIM BURTON K. , TAVARES VALÉRIA DA C.
Published: September 2020

We present a revision of the Neotropical bat genus Chiroderma, commonly known as big-eyed bats. Although species of Chiroderma have a wide distribution from western México to southern Brazil, species limits within Chiroderma are not clearly defined, as attested by identification errors in the literature, and there is no comprehensive revision of the genus that includes morphological and molecular data. Our review is based on phylogenetic analyses of two mitochondrial (COI and CYTB) and two nuclear (RAG2 and DBY) genes, coalescence analyses of mitochondrial genes, and morphological analyses including type specimens of all named taxa. We recognize seven species in three clades: the first clade includes (1) C. scopaeum Handley, 1966, endemic to western México and previously considered a subspecies of C. salvini; and (2) C. salvini Dobson, 1878, a taxon associated with montane forests, distributed from México to Bolivia; the second clade includes (3) C. improvisum Baker and Genoways, 1976, endemic to the Lesser Antilles, and (4) C. villosum Peters, 1860, widely distributed on the continental mainland and polytypic, with subspecies C. v. villosum and C. v. jesupi; and the third clade includes (5) the polytypic C. doriae Thomas, 1891, with C. d. doriae distributed in eastern Brazil and Paraguay, and C. d. vizottoi, occurring in northeastern Brazil; (6) C. trinitatum Goodwin, 1958, distributed from Trinidad to Amazonia; and (7) C. gorgasi Handley, 1960, distributed from Honduras to trans-Andean South America, previously considered a subspecies of C. trinitatum.
Isolation and Extraction of Microplastics from Environmental Samples: An Evaluation of Practical Approaches and Recommendations for Further Harmonization
Authors: Lusher Amy L. , Munno Keenan , Hermabessiere Ludovic , Carr Steve
Published: September 2020

Researchers have been identifying microplastics in environmental samples dating back to the 1970s. Today, microplastics are a recognized environmental pollutant attracting a large amount of public and government attention, and in the last few years the number of scientific publications has grown exponentially. An underlying theme within this research field is to achieve a consensus for adopting a set of appropriate procedures to accurately identify and quantify microplastics within diverse matrices. These methods should then be harmonized to produce quantifiable data that is reproducible and comparable around the world. In addition, clear and concise guidelines for standard analytical protocols should be made available to researchers. In keeping with the theme of this special issue, the goals of this focal point review are to provide researchers with an overview of approaches to isolate and extract microplastics from different matrices, highlight associated methodological constraints and the necessary steps for conducting procedural controls and quality assurance. Simple samples, including water and sediments with low organic content, can be filtered and sieved. Stepwise procedures require density separation or digestion before filtration. Finally, complex matrices require more extensive steps with both digestion and density adjustments to assist plastic isolation. Implementing appropriate methods with a harmonized approach from sample collection to data analysis will allow comparisons across the research community.