bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Reflexiones en torno a las enajenaciones ilegítimas de bienes eclesiásticos (canon 1296 del Código de Derecho Canónico de 1983)
Authors: Jiménez Valencia Faridy
Published: September 2020

Uno de los mayores riesgos que pueden sufrir las propiedades eclesiásticas es su enajenación. Por ello, a lo largo de la historia, la Iglesia ha estado atenta a esta figura, la cual tiene condiciones e identidad propia, y no se refiere o aplica a todos los bienes eclesiásticos, sino solo a cierto tipo de bienes con especificaciones determinadas. La protección fundamental de los bienes eclesiásticos asegura la viabilidad económica de la Iglesia y de las personas jurídicas públicas. Los bienes eclesiásticos son aquellos pertenecientes a una persona jurídica pública, la cual se caracteriza por tener una especial sujeción a una serie de controles por parte de la autoridad eclesiástica. Entre los controles canónicos, se destaca la exigencia de obtener una licencia canónica de dicha autoridad para poder enajenarlos válidamente. Si en algún caso se enajenaran bienes eclesiásticos sin los requisitos canónicos, aunque válidamente según el derecho civil, corresponde a la autoridad competente decretar si debe entablarse alguna acción y cuál sería, personal o real, y por quién y contra quién, para defender los derechos de la Iglesia. No todas las legislaciones civiles acatan las normas canónicas para la válida enajenación de bienes eclesiásticos, por lo que suele suceder que en la legislación civil sean válidos negocios jurídicos patrimoniales que no cumplen con el requisito de la licencia canónica prescrita en el canon 1291 del Código de Derecho Canónico de 1983. Cuando este fenómeno jurídico se produce, hay que determinar las acciones procedentes para que la Iglesia pueda reivindicar sus derechos, bien sea para recuperar la cosa (acción real), bien para resarcirse del precio o para obtener una indemnización (acciones personales), precisándose también la legitimación activa y pasiva, así como la clase de acción, canónica o civil, que sea más procedente, o determinar si no conviene promover proceso alguno.
Influence of the #MeToo Movement on Coaches’ Practices and Relations With Athletes
Authors: Tam Alexia , Kerr Gretchen , Stirling Ashley
Published: September 2020

Inspired by the #MeToo movement, women worldwide are coming forward to publicly share their accounts of sexual violence. These harmful experiences have been reported in a range of domains, including sport. As such, providing safe sport experiences for athletes is at the forefront of current discussions for all stakeholders in the sport environment, particularly coaches. Thus, the purpose of this research was to explore coaches’ perspectives of the #MeToo movement in sport and its influence on coaches’ practices and relationships with athletes. Semistructured interviews were conducted with 12 Canadian coaches, including male (n = 7) and female coaches (n = 5) from a variety of sports and competition environments. The study highlights that coaches expressed strong support for the #MeToo movement, while also noting an associated fear of false accusation. Coaches reflected on how the movement has impacted their coaching practices and relations with athletes and expressed a desire for greater professional development in this area. Implications include a need for greater coach education on safe touch, appropriate boundaries in the coach–athlete relationship, and clarifications regarding the process of investigating athletes’ accusations of sexual violence in order to alleviate coaches’ fears of being falsely accused.
Outer Membrane Disruption Overcomes Intrinsic, Acquired, and Spontaneous Antibiotic Resistance
Authors: MacNair Craig R. , Brown Eric D.
Published: September 2020

The spread of antibiotic resistance is an urgent threat to global health that necessitates new therapeutics. Treatments for Gram-negative pathogens are particularly challenging to identify due to the robust outer membrane permeability barrier in these organisms. Recent discovery efforts have attempted to overcome this hurdle by disrupting the outer membrane using chemical perturbants and have yielded several new peptides and small molecules that allow the entry of otherwise inactive antimicrobials. However, a comprehensive investigation into the strengths and limitations of outer membrane perturbants as antibiotic partners is currently lacking. Herein, we interrogate the interaction between outer membrane perturbation and several common impediments to effective antibiotic use. Interestingly, we discover that outer membrane disruption is able to overcome intrinsic, spontaneous, and acquired antibiotic resistance in Gram-negative bacteria, meriting increased attention toward this approach.
In Silico
Structure-Based Repositioning of Approved Drugs for Spike Glycoprotein S2 Domain Fusion Peptide of SARS-CoV-2: Rationale from Molecular Dynamics and Binding Free Energy Calculations
Authors: Shekhar Nishant , Sarma Phulen , Prajapat Manisha , Avti Pramod , Kaur Hardeep , Raja Anupam , Singh Harvinder , Bhattacharya Anusuya , Sharma Saurabh , Kumar Subodh , Prakash Ajay , Medhi Bikash
Published: September 2020

The present study provides the structural identification of the viable binding residues of the SARS-CoV-2 S2 fusion peptide region, which holds prime importance in the virus’s host cell fusion and entry mechanism. The classical molecular mechanics simulations were set on values that mimic physiological standards for a good approximation of the dynamic behavior of selected drugs in biological systems. The drug molecules screened and analyzed here have relevant antiviral properties, which are reported here and which might hint toward their utilization in the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic owing to their attributes of binding to the fusion protein binding region shown in this study.
Apoptosis in a Whitefly Vector Activated by a Begomovirus Enhances Viral Transmission
Authors: Wang Xin-Ru , Wang Chao , Ban Fei-Xue , Ghanim Murad , Pan Li-Long , Qian Li-Xin , Liu Yin-Quan , Wang Xiao-Wei , Liu Shu-Sheng
Published: September 2020

Of the approximately 1,100 known plant viruses, about one-third are DNA viruses that are vectored by insects. Plant virus infections often induce cellular and molecular responses in their insect vectors, which can, in many cases, affect the spread of viruses. However, the mechanisms underlying vector responses that affect virus accumulation and transmission are poorly understood. Here, we examined the role of virus-induced apoptosis in the transmission of begomoviruses, a group of single-stranded plant DNA viruses that are transmitted by whiteflies and cause extensive damage to many crops worldwide. We demonstrated that virus infection can induce apoptosis in the insect vector conferring protection to the virions from degradation, leading to enhanced viral accumulation and transmission to host plants. Our findings provide valuable clues for designing new strategies to block the transmission of insect-vectored plant viruses, particularly plant DNA viruses.
Using telemedicine and wearable technology to establish a virtual clinic for people with Parkinson’s disease
Authors: Evans Lauren , Mohamed Biju , Thomas Edward Christopher
Published: September 2020

Background

To develop an effective, patient-centred and sustainable service, we set up a virtual clinic (VC) for patients with Parkinson’s disease, combining phone consultations and reports from wearable technology. The Parkinson’s Kinetigraph (PKG) is a wrist-worn device providing objective motor assessment, generating a report used by clinicians to optimise medication regimens.

Interventions

A pilot study of VC was designed using quality improvement methodology. For a VC appointment, patients were phoned by a clinician. After discussing symptoms and reviewing the PKG report, the clinician could decide on any medication changes or other interventions and relay this to the patient’s general practitioner in a clinic letter. Patient feedback was gathered via questionnaires and data collected on the outcomes and timings of the consultations.

Results

Over 12 clinics, 61 patients had VC appointments. Of questionnaire respondents, 89% were satisfied with VC (n=41). At VC, the clinician was able to make a treatment decision comparable to a face-to-face clinic in 79% of cases (n=48). Reasons appointments were deemed unsuccessful included issues with the PKG, speech or hearing problems and complex phase of disease. VC appointments, including administration time, last on average 22 min. This compares to 20 min face-to-face appointments but these do not include administration time.

Conclusions

We have demonstrated a safe and effective VC template. Most VC appointments are equivalent to face-to-face clinic in terms of treatment outcome. Success could be further improved by appropriate patient selection. Using VC is time saving and can result in releasing face-to-face appointment slots for those in urgent need or newly referred patients. Further cost analysis is required; the cost of the PKG alone is more expensive than a face-to-face appointment, but this does not take into account other value added, such as patient convenience and satisfaction, and reduced need for ambulance transport.
Comparison of aspiration-first versus stentriever-first techniques in performing mechanical thrombectomy for large vessel occlusions
Authors: Fredrickson Vance L , Bonney Phillip A , Rangwala Shivani D , Catapano Joshua S , Cole Tyler S , Cavalcanti Daniel D , Majmundar Neil , Wilkinson D. Andrew , San Roman Luis , Waters Michael F , Albuquerque Felipe C , Ducruet Andrew F
Published: September 2020

Background

Both stentriever and direct-aspiration thrombectomy effectively treat large-vessel occlusions. However, data are limited comparing clinical outcomes after aspiration-first versus stentriever-assisted aspiration for thrombectomy.

Methods

A retrospective cohort study compared procedure times and radiographic outcomes after two mechanical thrombectomy techniques (aspiration first or stentriever). To minimize bias and variability inherent to multi-operator series, we assessed consecutive patients with cerebrovascular occlusions treated by a single surgeon during a 1 year period at two stroke centers. Expanded Thrombolysis in Cerebral Infarction (eTICI) grades were assessed by an investigator blinded to treatment.

Results

Data from 93 patients (median age 70 years) were analyzed: 73 patients (78.5%) were treated with a strentriever-first strategy and 20 (21.5%) were treated with aspiration first, with stentriever rescue therapy required in only three of these cases following unsuccessful aspiration. There were no significant differences in patient demographics, sites of occlusion, or rates of tandem occlusions between aspiration-first and stentriever-assisted groups (p≥0.36). The rate of first-pass eTICI ≥2b was 75.0% (15/20) for aspiration-first and 52.1% (38/73) for strentriever-first groups (p=0.07), while the rate of final eTICI ≥2b was 100% (20/20) and 82.2% (60/72), respectively (p=0.04). The aspiration-first technique was associated with procedural times ≤25 min in a multivariable analysis (adjusted OR 4.77, 95% CI 1.15 to 18.39; p=0.03).

Conclusions

In this single-surgeon series, an aspiration-first technique was associated with a statistically significant improvement in eTICI outcomes and faster procedure times compared with stentriever-assisted aspiration. Further prospective studies are necessary to minimize selection bias inherent in this study design.
Peritoneal lymphomatosis in a dog after resection of LGL intestinal lymphoma: imaging features
Authors: Cordella Alessia , Costantino Roberta , Baldassarre Valeria , Bertaccini Jessica , Bertolini Giovanna
Published: September 2020

A six‐year‐old intact male Chihuahua dog was referred for vomiting, diarrhoea and weight loss. Ultrasonographic (US) and computed tomographic examination revealed a focal thickening in the jejunum, with no signs of gross metastatic disease. Histology and immunohistochemistry performed after surgical resection revealed a presumed large granular lymphocytic lymphoma. Treatment with chlorambucil was started, and no signs of recurrence were noticed at serial US follow‐up for the following months. Six months after surgery, several lesions were seen in the ventrolateral aspect of the peritoneal cavity both on ultrasonography and CT, and cytology confirmed the suspicion of peritoneal lymphomatosis.
The AC006262.5–miR-7855-5p–BPY2C axis facilitates hepatocellular carcinoma proliferation and migration
Authors: Chen Fen-Rong , Wang Yan , Cheng Yan , Shi Hai-Tao , Li Hong , Jia Miao , Sha Su-Mei , Dong Lei
Published: September 2020

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is typically fatal, and patients with hepatocellular carcinoma are usually diagnosed at the late stages. Although the treatments for HCC have been rapidly advancing, novel targets for HCC are still desperately needed, especially for targeted therapies. Here, we identified an enriched long non-coding RNA, AC006262.5, associated with HCC, that promoted the proliferation, migration, and invasiveness of HCC cells, both in vitro and in vivo. In addition, our results revealed that AC006262.5 bound to and regulated miR-7855-5p, a tumor-suppressive miRNA, in HCC. Moreover, our data show that AC006262.5 regulates the expression of BPY2C via miR-7855-5p. Finally, we found that AC006262.5 and miR-7855-5p formed a regulatory loop. Upregulation of AC006262.5 resulted in decreased expression of miR-7855-5p, and downregulation of miR-7855-5p further facilitated the expression of AC006262.5. Our work provides novel targets for HCC diagnosis and treatment, and sheds light on the lncRNA-miRNA regulatory nexus that controls the pathology of HCC.
Development of scintillation detectors with SiPM readout for the NICA project
Authors: Yurevich V. I. , Sedykh S. A. , Sergeev S. V. , Bogoslovski D. N. , Rogov V. Yu. , Tikhomirov V. V. , Lashmanov N. A.
Published: September 2020

Scintillation detectors with SiPM readout are developed for trigger systems and neutron time-of-flight measurements in the framework of the NICA project at JINR. Some detectors are operated in a strong magnetic field of the BM@N and MPD setups. New projects of detectors with picosecond time resolution for trigger of nucleus–nucleus collisions in collider experiment and neutron time-of-flight measurements are discussed.
Development of a fully connected residual neural network for directional gamma ray detection
Authors: Durbin Matthew , Balbier Christopher , Lintereur Azaree
Published: September 2020

Directional detection plays an important role in the search for rogue or illicit radioactive sources but is often complicated by Poisson statistics, large distances, and various sources of noise. A currently used directional detection method involves extracting the angular information of a source’s location from a cluster of detectors in a set geometry. Traditional algorithms designed to process detected data typically involve performing a least squares assessment against a database prepopulated with detector responses of known source locations. These algorithms perform best when the standoff distance is like that available in the prepopulated database; they lose accuracy when distances and environments of measurements are not well represented in the database. Analysis of highly variable and noisy data can often benefit from the robustness of machine learning, which has been implemented in applications such as isotope identification and radium mapping. This work aims to investigate the utility of machine learning algorithms capable of analyzing data with large amounts of statistical variability to improve directional location capabilities for large area source searches. Preliminary results with a fully connected residual neural network include the successful source location for simulated search scenarios to within 1 degree in 24% of trials. The same simulated data analyzed using traditional methods resulted in 1 degree location for 11% of trials. The traditional and neural network algorithms were compared in terms of error and accuracy as well performance as a function of distance for a simulated dataset of source searches. Results indicate that more robust algorithms, such as the implemented neural network, can improve system-inherent accuracy and over all directional capabilities.
Neutron imager with micro channel plates (MCP) in electrostatic mirror configuration: Neutron beam test
Authors: Variale Vincenzo , Skarbo Boris
Published: September 2020

A recent advancement in a new high transparency monitor device based on Micro Channel Plate (MCP) has been proposed for monitoring flux and beam spatial profiles of neutrons. It consisted of the assembly of a very thin aluminum (Al) foil with a 6Li deposit placed along the beam and a MCP equipped with a phosphor screen readout viewed by a CCD camera outside the beam line. The peculiar feature of this device is that it uses an electrostatic mirror to minimize the perturbation of the neutron beam, i.e. absorption and scattering. It can be used at existing time-of-flight facilities, in particular at the neutron Time-of-Flight (n_TOF) facility at CERN, for monitoring the flux and the spatial profile of neutron beams in the thermal and epithermal region. In this contribution, the device experimental test carried out on the n_TOF neutron beam at CERN will be presented and discussed.
The Complexity of Spills: The Fate of the Deepwater Horizon Oil
Authors: Passow Uta , Overton Edward B.
Published: September 2020

The Deepwater Horizon oil spill was the largest, longest-lasting, and deepest oil accident to date in US waters. As oil and natural gas jetted from release points at 1,500-m depth in the northern Gulf of Mexico, entrainment of the surrounding ocean water into a buoyant plume, rich in soluble hydrocarbons and dispersed microdroplets of oil, created a deep (1,000-m) intrusion layer. Larger droplets of liquid oil rose to the surface, forming a slick of mostly insoluble, hydrocarbon-type compounds. A variety of physical, chemical, and biological mechanisms helped to transform, remove, and redisperse the oil and gas that was released. Biodegradation removed up to 60% of the oil in the intrusion layer but was less efficient in the surface slick, due to nutrient limitation. Photochemical processes altered up to 50% (by mass) of the floating oil. The surface oil expression changed daily due to wind and currents, whereas the intrusion layer flowed southwestward. A portion of the weathered surface oil stranded along shorelines. Oil from both surface and intrusion layers were deposited onto the seafloor via sinking marine oil snow. The biodegradation rates of stranded or sedimented oil were low, with resuspension and redistribution transiently increasing biodegradation. The subsequent research efforts increased our understanding of the fate of spilled oil immensely, with novel insights focusing on the importance of photooxidation, the microbial communities driving biodegradation, and the formation of marine oil snow that transports oil to the seafloor.
The CXCL12/CXCR4/ACKR3 Axis in the Tumor Microenvironment: Signaling, Crosstalk, and Therapeutic Targeting
Authors: Smit Martine J. , Schlecht-Louf Géraldine , Neves Maria , van den Bor Jelle , Penela Petronila , Siderius Marco , Bachelerie Françoise , Mayor Federico
Published: September 2020

Elevated expression of the chemokine receptors CXCR4 and ACKR3 and of their cognate ligand CXCL12 is detected in a wide range of tumors and the tumor microenvironment (TME). Yet, the molecular mechanisms by which the CXCL12/CXCR4/ACKR3 axis contributes to the pathogenesis are complex and not fully understood. To dissect the role of this axis in cancer, we discuss its ability to impinge on canonical and less conventional signaling networks in different cancer cell types; its bidirectional crosstalk, notably with receptor tyrosine kinase (RTK) and other factors present in the TME; and the infiltration of immune cells that supporttumor progression. We discuss current and emerging avenues that target the CXCL12/CXCR4/ACKR3 axis. Coordinately targeting both RTKs and CXCR4/ACKR3 and/or CXCL12 is an attractive approach to consider in multitargeted cancer therapies. In addition, inhibiting infiltrating immune cells or reactivating the immune system along with modulating the CXCL12/CXCR4/ACKR3 axis in the TME has therapeutic promise.
Redesign and process of reforming an existing undergraduate Nutritional Sciences program
Authors: Becker Tyler B. , Lucas Jim , Li Wei , Fenton Jenifer I.
Published: September 2020

Due to current and upcoming needs in the discipline and accreditation, the Nutritional Sciences faculty at a major university reformed their curriculum using backward design. As part of this process, they developed new learning outcomes that aligned to the institutional learning outcomes and mapped these new outcomes across the major’s required courses. Also, they reorganized the existing major’s single focus on biomedical nutrition into an academic program with a core curriculum and three concentrations (biomedical and molecular nutrition, global health and nutrition, and public health nutrition). The faculty designed new core and concentration courses and modified existing courses to distribute the essential learning across the major curriculum. Additionally, the committee created two service courses to fill voids in nutrition education for nonmajors. Despite abundant literature on backward and curriculum design, this process produced important learning about how to conduct and implement curriculum reform in a science-based discipline.
Smartphone-assisted experimentation as a didactic strategy to maintain practical lessons in remote education: alternatives for physiology education during the COVID-19 pandemic
Authors: Lellis-Santos Camilo , Abdulkader Fernando
Published: September 2020

Online and distance education may be dismissed by educators who argue that these methods are not equivalent to traditional face-to-face education due to the lack of laboratory classes. However, smartphone-assisted experimentation is an innovative and powerful didactic tool that helps educators in the teaching process of physiology, particularly in situations with a lack of financial support for purchasing laboratory equipment, or lack of support for homework and assignments, distance learning courses, and emergency remote education, such as during the COVID-19 pandemic. Therefore, we present the concept of the mobile learning laboratory (MobLeLab), which is a collection of smartphone applications that allow scientific data collection, such as physiological variables, for educational purposes. The three types of MobLeLabs (simulators, built-in, and plug-in) are presented, as well as ideas on how to use smartphone sensors to collect physiological data. Additionally, we elaborate on the principles of the protocols for physiology education with MobLeLabs and discuss their importance to fostering scientific method reasoning by students.
Long-chain acyl-CoA synthetase-1 mediates the palmitic acid-induced inflammatory response in human aortic endothelial cells
Authors: Ren Guang , Bhatnagar Sushant , Hahn Daniel J. , Kim Jeong-a
Published: September 2020

Saturated fatty acid (SFA) induces proinflammatory response through a Toll-like receptor (TLR)-mediated mechanism, which is associated with cardiometabolic diseases such as obesity, insulin resistance, and endothelial dysfunction. Consistent with this notion, TLR2 or TLR4 knockout mice are protected from obesity-induced proinflammatory response and endothelial dysfunction. Although SFA causes endothelial dysfunction through TLR-mediated signaling pathways, the mechanisms underlying SFA-stimulated inflammatory response are not completely understood. To understand the proinflammatory response in vascular endothelial cells in high-lipid conditions, we compared the proinflammatory responses stimulated by palmitic acid (PA) and other canonical TLR agonists [lipopolysaccharide (LPS), Pam3-Cys-Ser-Lys4 (Pam3CSK4), or macrophage-activating lipopeptide-2)] in human aortic endothelial cells. The expression profiles of E-selectin and the signal transduction pathways stimulated by PA were distinct from those stimulated by canonical TLR agonists. Inhibition of long-chain acyl-CoA synthetases (ACSL) by a pharmacological inhibitor or knockdown of ACSL1 blunted the PA-stimulated, but not the LPS- or Pam3CSK4-stimulated proinflammatory responses. Furthermore, triacsin C restored the insulin-stimulated vasodilation, which was impaired by PA. From the results, we concluded that PA stimulates the proinflammatory response in the vascular endothelium through an ACSL1-mediated mechanism, which is distinct from LPS- or Pam3CSK4-stimulated responses. The results suggest that endothelial dysfunction caused by PA may require to undergo intracellular metabolism. This expands the understanding of the mechanisms by which TLRs mediate inflammatory responses in endothelial dysfunction and cardiovascular disease.
Amyloid Beta-Peptide Increases BACE1 Translation through the Phosphorylation of the Eukaryotic Initiation Factor-2α
Authors: Picón-Pagès Pol , Gutiérrez Daniela A. , Barranco-Almohalla Alejandro , Crepin Giulia , Tajes Marta , ILL-Raga Gerard , Guix Francesc X. , Menéndez Silvia , Arumí-Uría Montserrat , Vicente Rubén , Álvarez Alejandra R. , Muñoz Francisco J.
Published: September 2020

Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is tightly linked to oxidative stress since amyloid beta-peptide (Aβ) aggregates generate free radicals. Moreover, the aggregation of Aβ is increased by oxidative stress, and the neurotoxicity induced by the oligomers and fibrils is in part mediated by free radicals. Interestingly, it has been reported that oxidative stress can also induce BACE1 transcription and expression. BACE1 is the key enzyme in the cleavage of the amyloid precursor protein to produce Aβ, and the expression of this enzyme has been previously shown to be enhanced in the brains of Alzheimer’s patients. Here, we have found that BACE1 expression is increased in the hippocampi from AD patients at both the early (Braak stage II) and late (Braak stage VI) stages of the disease as studied by immunohistochemistry and western blot. To address the role of Aβ and oxidative stress in the regulation of BACE1 expression, we have analyzed the effect of subtoxic concentrations of Aβ oligomers (0.25 μM) and H2O2 (10 mM) on a human neuroblastoma cell line. Firstly, our results show that Aβ oligomers and H2O2 induce an increase of BACE1 mRNA as we studied by qPCR. Regarding BACE1 translation, it is dependent on the phosphorylation of the eukaryotic initiation factor 2α (eIF2α), since BACE1 mRNA bears a 5′UTR that avoids its translation under basal conditions. BACE1 5′UTR contains four upstream initiating codons (uAUGs), and its translation is activated when eIF2α is phosphorylated. Consistently, we have obtained that Aβ oligomers and H2O2 increase the levels of BACE1 and p-eIF2α assayed by western blot and confocal microscopy. Our results suggest that Aβ oligomers increase BACE1 translation by phosphorylating eIF2α in a process that involves oxidative stress and conforms a pathophysiological loop, where the Aβ once aggregated favors its own production continuously by the increase in BACE1 expression as observed in AD patients.
Proportion and Associated Factors of Nonreassuring Fetal Heart Rate Patterns in Finote Selam Primary Hospital, North West Ethiopia
Authors: Kassahun Eden Asmare , Aweke Amlaku Mulat , Getu Almaz Aklilu , Gela Getahun Belay , Limenih Simachew Kassa , Mekonnen Mesafint Ewnetu , Abtie Tilksew Ayalew
Published: September 2020

Introduction. Nonreassuring fetal heart rate patterns (NRFHRP) suggest fetal conciliation or a deteriorating ability to handle the stress of labor. Nearly half of stillbirths occurring worldwide are due to hypoxia which is primarily manifested by NRFHRP. Hence, this study assessed the proportion and associated factors of NRFHRP in the Finote Selam primary hospital, North West Ethiopia. Methods. An institution‐based retrospective cross‐sectional study was conducted from March 1 to April 1, 2019, on 364 charts of mothers who gave birth from January 2017 to January 2018 at the Finote Selam primary hospital. A computer‐based simple random sampling technique was used to select charts. A secondary data was collected using a structured questionnaire adapted from different literatures. The data was entered and analyzed using Epi Info version 7 and Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) version 23.0. Binary logistic regression was executed, and all explanatory variables with p value < 0.2 were entered into multivariable logistic regressions. Multivariable logistic regression was used to control the effect of confounding variables and to identify factors affecting NRFHRP. Odds ratios with 95% confidence intervals were computed, and statistical significance was declared if p < 0.05. Result. Out of 364 total deliveries, NRFHRP was detected on 55 (15.1%) fetuses, and the commonest NRFHRP detected was bradycardia 44 (80%). Most NRFHRP (38.18%) occurred on the deceleration phase of labor. There was no identified possible cause for NRFHRP on 34.5% of cases. Referral from nearby health institutions [AOR = 2.832 (95% CI 1.457, 5.503)], primigravida [AOR = 2.722 (95% CI 1.377, 5.381)], augmentation of labor [AOR = 3.664 (95% CI 1.782, 7.534)], and meconium‐stained amniotic fluid [AOR = 6.491 (95% CI 3.198, 13.173)] were significantly associated with NRFHRP. Conclusion. The proportion of NRFHRP is high. Referral from nearby health institutions, primigravida mothers, augmentation of labor, and meconium‐stained amniotic fluid were significantly associated with NRFHRP. Implementing a better referral link and close monitoring during follow‐up could minimize NHFHRP.
Numerical Study on the Disturbance Effect of Short‐Distance Parallel Shield Tunnelling Undercrossing Existing Tunnels
Authors: Huang Zhen , Zhang Chenlong , Fu Helin , Deng Huangshi , Ma Shaokun , Fu Jiajun
Published: September 2020

The construction of new tunnels poses a threat to the operational safety of closely existing tunnels, and the construction mode of parallel undercrossing over short distances has the most significant impact. In this study, a new double‐line shield tunnel parallel undercrossing of existing tunnels in Hefei, China, is taken as an example. A three‐dimensional (3D) numerical model using FLAC3D finite difference software was established. The dynamic construction of the new double‐line shield tunnel undercrossing the existing subway tunnel over a short distance and in parallel was simulated. The pattern of existing tunnel settlement and change in lining stress caused by the shield tunnelling process were analyzed. The reliability of simulation was verified through field‐monitoring data. Finally, based on the numerical model, the effects of change in stratum sensitivity on the settlement of existing tunnel, lining internal force, and surface settlement are discussed. The results show that during shield tunnelling, the maximum ground settlement is 3.9 mm, the maximum settlement at the arch waist of existing tunnel near the new tunnel is 7.75 mm, and the maximum vault settlement is 5.38 mm. The maximum stress of lining of existing tunnel before the excavation is 7.798 × 105 Pa. After the construction of double‐line shield tunnel, the maximum stress of lining is 1.124 × 106 Pa, an increase of 44% than that before the construction. The surface settlement and tunnel settlement are sensitive to the weakening of soil layer strength, and lining stress is not affected by the weakening of soil layer strength. The field‐monitoring results are consistent with the numerical simulation results, and the model calculation is reliable. This study plays an important role in ensuring construction safety and optimizing the construction risk control of a tunnel.
From Hardware to Operating System: A Static Measurement Method of Android System Based on TrustZone
Authors: Hei Xinhong , Gao Wen , Wang Yichuan , Zhu Lei , Ji Wenjiang
Published: September 2020

Android system has been one of the main targets of hacker attacks for a long time. At present, it is faced with security risks such as privilege escalation attacks, image tampering, and malicious programs. In view of the above risks, the current detection of the application layer can no longer guarantee the security of the Android system. The security of mobile terminals needs to be fully protected from the bottom to the top, and the consistency test of the hardware system is realized from the hardware layer of the terminal. However, there is not a complete set of security measures to ensure the reliability and integrity of the Android system at present. Therefore, from the perspective of trusted computing, this paper proposes and implements a trusted static measurement method of the Android system based on TrustZone to protect the integrity of the system layer and provide a trusted underlying environment for the detection of the Android application layer. This paper analyzes from two aspects of security and efficiency. The experimental results show that this method can detect the Android system layer privilege escalation attack and discover the rootkit that breaks the integrity of the Android kernel in time during the startup process, and the performance loss of this method is within the acceptable range.
Evaluation of Ground Displacements Caused by Installing Jet Grouted Columns Using Machine Learning Methods
Authors: Wang Zhi-Feng , Peng Xing-Bin , Liu Yong , Cheng Wen-Chieh , Wang Ya-Qiong , Wu Chao-Jun
Published: September 2020

During the jet grouting process, large volumes of high pressurized fluids injected into the soils will cause significant ground displacements, which may bring harmful impacts on surrounding environment. Therefore, it is essential to provide an accurate estimation of the ground displacement in the design stage. Based on multiple nonlinear regression (MNLR) and support vector regression (SVR), the prediction approaches are established, respectively. The column radius (Rc), Young’s modulus (E), and distance from column center to target point (LOA) are selected as the input parameters, while the displacement of target point A at the radial direction (δA) is taken as the output parameter. Comparisons results on the prediction performance of ground displacements indicate that the MNLR‐based approach has a better prediction effect. The design charts of the MNLR‐based approach for predicting the ground displacement are created, which will be helpful for the practicing engineers to get a quick estimation.
Influence of the Nature and Rate of Alkaline Activator on the Physicochemical Properties of Fly Ash‐Based Geopolymers
Authors: EL Alouani Marouane , Alehyen Saliha , EL Achouri Mohammed , Hajjaji Abdelowahed , Ennawaoui Chouaib , Taibi M’hamed
Published: September 2020

The influence of alkali cations on mix design of geopolymers is essential for their mechanical, thermal, and electrical performance. This research investigated the influence of alkali cation type on microscale characteristics and mechanical, dielectric, and thermal properties of fly ash‐based geopolymer matrices. The geopolymers were elaborated via class F fly ash from the thermal plant Jorf Lasfar, El Jadida (Morocco), and several alkaline solutions. Morphological, structural, mechanical, dielectric, and thermal characteristics of materials synthesized via fly ash with different proportions of KOH and NaOH aged 28 days were evaluated. The physicochemical properties of class F fly ash‐based geopolymers were assessed using X‐ray diffraction (XRD), Fourier‐transform infrared spectrometry (FTIR), and scanning electron microscopy coupled with energy dispersive X‐ray spectroscopy (SEM/EDX) analyses. Based on readings of the results obtained, XRD and FTIR analysis detected the creation of semicrystalline potassium/sodium aluminate‐silicate hydrate (KASH/NASH) gel in the elaborated matrices after the geopolymerization reaction. The SEM analysis proved the formation of alkali alumina‐silicate hydrate gel in the raw material particles after the polycondensation stage. Experimental compressive strength data indicated that the highest compressive strength (39 MPa) was produced by the alkaline activator (75% KOH/25% NaOH). The dielectric parameters values of the elaborated materials changed depending of the mass ratios KOH/NaOH. Dielectric findings demonstrated that geopolymers containing 100% NaOH have better dielectric performances. The fire resistance study revealed that the geopolymer binders induced by KOH are stable up to 600°C. Based on these results, it can be deduced that the formulated geopolymer concrete possesses good mechanical, dielectric, and fire resistance properties.
Smart River Monitoring Using Wireless Sensor Networks
Authors: Adu-Manu Kofi Sarpong , Katsriku Ferdinand Apietu , Abdulai Jamal-Deen , Engmann Felicia
Published: September 2020

Water quality monitoring (WQM) systems seek to ensure high data precision, data accuracy, timely reporting, easy accessibility of data, and completeness. The conventional monitoring systems are inadequate when used to detect contaminants/pollutants in real time and cannot meet the stringent requirements of high precision for WQM systems. In this work, we employed the different types of wireless sensor nodes to monitor the water quality in real time. Our approach used an energy-efficient data transmission schedule and harvested energy using solar panels to prolong the node lifetime. The study took place at the Weija intake in the Greater Accra Region of Ghana. The Weija dam intake serves as a significant water source to the Weija treatment plant which supplies treated water to the people of Greater Accra and parts of Central regions of Ghana. Smart water sensors and smart water ion sensor devices from Libelium were deployed at the intake to measure physical and chemical parameters. The sensed data obtained at the central repository revealed a pH value of 7. Conductivity levels rose from 196 S/cm to 225 S/cm. Calcium levels rose to about 3.5 mg/L and dropped to about 0.16 mg/L. The temperature of the river was mainly around 35°C to 36°C. We observed fluoride levels between 1.24 mg/L and 1.9 mg/L. The oxygen content rose from the negative DO to reach 8 mg/L. These results showed a significant effect on plant and aquatic life.
Hallmark Circulating Tumor-Associated Cell Clusters Signify 230 Times Higher One-Year Cancer Risk
Authors: Ranade Anantbhushan , Bhatt Amit , Page Raymond , Limaye Sewanti , Crook Timothy , Akolkar Dadasaheb , Patil Darshana
Published: September 2020

We have previously shown that circulating ensembles of tumor-associated cells (C-ETACs) are a systemic hallmark of cancer based on analysis of blood samples from 16,134 individuals including 10,625 asymptomatic individuals and 5,509 diagnosed cases of cancer. C-ETACs were ubiquitously (90%) detected across all cancer types and were rare (3.6%) among the asymptomatic population. Consequently, we hypothesized that asymptomatic individuals with detectable C-ETACs would have a definitively elevated risk of developing cancer as compared with individuals without C-ETACs. In the present manuscript we present 1-year follow-up data of the asymptomatic cohort which shows that C-ETAC positive individuals have a 230-fold (P < 0.00001) higher 1-year cancer risk as compared with individuals where C-ETACs were undetectable. Simultaneously, we also expanded the study to include 4,419 symptomatic individuals, suspected of cancer, prior to undergoing an invasive biopsy for diagnosis. C-ETACs were detected in 4,101 (92.8%) of these 4,419 cases where cancer was eventually confirmed. We conclude that detection of C-ETACs can identify patients at risk of cancer and can be reliably used to stratify asymptomatic individuals with an elevated 1-year risk of cancer.

Prevention Relevance:

The study evaluated a blood test that can determine if healthy (‘asymptomatic’) individuals without a history of cancer have an increased risk of developing cancer within the next one year. This test can significantly minimize radiological or invasive screening in the majority individuals who do not have any increased risk.
Severe Dizziness and Hypereosinophilia: Coincidence or Complication? A Case Report
Authors: Lo Presti Giorgia , Barda Beatrice , Uhr Mario , Raimondi Monika , Mora Oreste
Published: September 2020

Hypereosinophilia is a common issue in medicine. One rare cause is myeloproliferative neoplasm with PDGFRA rearrangement. In these patients, the gold standard for therapy is low-dose imatinib. We present the case of a patient with a new diagnosis of myeloproliferative neoplasm following an unconventional diagnostic pattern, which developed clinically relevant unexplained dizziness a week after starting treatment. Our case presented with lower back pain and multiple bone lesions at MRI investigation. Bone marrow and cytogenetic analysis led to the diagnosis of myeloproliferative neoplasm with PDGFRA rearrangement. We started a treatment with a tyrosine kinase inhibitor (imatinib), and the patient noticed an onset of severe, persistent and intense dizziness, which was more intense with closed eyes. Diagnostic tests were not conclusive, and dizziness persisted at 48 months of follow-up. In conclusion, clinically relevant dizziness was never described in patients with myeloproliferative neoplasm. Even if the exact physiopathological mechanism is not clear, clinicians should know that hypereosinophilia could lead to central nervous system damage.
Benign-Appearing Glucagonoma Undergoing Malignant Transformation after a Prolonged Period
Authors: Shakir Mohamed K.M. , Ebrahim Ismail C. , Snitchler Andrea N. , Mai Vinh Q. , Hoang Thanh D.
Published: September 2020

Glucagonoma are rare neuroendocrine tumors arising in the Langerhans islets of the pancreas. We report a patient with glucagonoma differentiation into a malignant form after 13 years. A 63-year-old asymptomatic man was evaluated for an enhancing lesion at the distal pancreas. Physical examination was normal. Laboratory values were normal except for an elevated serum glucagon level (206 pg/mL, Ref. 50–150). Somatostatin and other tumor markers were normal. A PET scan confirmed abnormal uptake at the distal pancreas, correlating with a CT scan. The patient underwent laparoscopic distal pancreatectomy with resection of a 2.6-cm mass which predominantly expressed glucagon. Serum glucagon levels normalized immediately postoperatively. He remained asymptomatic for 13 years with normal blood glucose, glucagon, and chromogranin levels and normal surveillance MRI scans. Thirteen years following surgery, an elevated serum glucagon level (230 pg/mL) was observed. At this time he also remained asymptomatic. Abdominal MRI and a PET scan revealed hepatic lesions. Biopsy of the hepatic lesion confirmed metastatic glucagonoma. The patient was treated with lanreotide, which normalized the serum glucagon levels, and the tumor size remained stable for 12 months of follow-up. Complete remission without any treatment for more than 13 years confirmed the benign course of the glucagon-secreting tumor. The precipitating factors are unknown. This case highlights the importance of continuous monitoring of neuroendocrine tumors even beyond 10 years.
Disease Response to Pazopanib in Follicular Dendritic Cell Sarcoma
Authors: Shah Pooja , Shah Smit , Agostino Nicole
Published: September 2020

Follicular dendritic cell sarcoma (FDCS) is a rare sarcoma, which commonly presents as a slow-growing, painless mass. There are only a few hundred reported FDCS cases, and the role for adjuvant chemo- or radiation therapy has not been established. Choosing an appropriate therapy in disseminated disease can therefore be challenging. A 26-year-old patient with FDCS was admitted with dyspnea, fever, and night sweats. He was found to have a large right hemothorax with compressive atelectasis on initial imaging. CT of the chest revealed multiple bilateral lung and pleural nodules with associated bilateral hilar adenopathy, a hypodense mass within the right hemithorax, and necrotic right external iliac and inguinal nodes. Inguinal node biopsy diagnosed FDCS. The patient was initially treated with cyclophosphamide, doxorubicin, vincristine, and prednisone chemotherapy. Gemcitabine/Taxotere was given as second-line therapy and pembrolizumab as third-line therapy, with continued disease progression after 2 cycles of both regimens. The patient was switched to fourth-line therapy with pazopanib and had a partial response for 9 months. This case illustrates a successful FDCS treatment with pazopanib. Due to the rarity of FDCS, where large studies comparing treatment approaches are not available, recommendations for optimal treatment are not well defined. This case is in support of growing evidence suggesting that FDCS responds to systemic therapies that are used for soft tissue sarcoma, such as pazopanib.
Brain Functional Magnetic Resonance Imaging Highlights Altered Connections and Functional Networks in Patients With Hypertension
Authors: Carnevale Lorenzo , Maffei Angelo , Landolfi Alessandro , Grillea Giovanni , Carnevale Daniela , Lembo Giuseppe
Published: September 2020

Hypertension is one of the main risk factors for vascular dementia and Alzheimer disease. To predict the onset of these diseases, it is necessary to develop tools to detect the early effects of vascular risk factors on the brain. Resting-state functional magnetic resonance imaging can investigate how the brain modulates its resting activity and analyze how hypertension impacts cerebral function. Here, we used resting-state functional magnetic resonance imaging to explore brain functional-hemodynamic coupling across different regions and their connectivity in patients with hypertension, as compared to subjects with normotension. In addition, we leveraged multimodal imaging to identify the signature of hypertension injury on the brain. Our study included 37 subjects (18 normotensives and 19 hypertensives), characterized by microstructural integrity by diffusion tensor imaging and cognitive profile, who were subjected to resting-state functional magnetic resonance imaging analysis. We mapped brain functional connectivity networks and evaluated the connectivity differences among regions, identifying the altered connections in patients with hypertension compared with subjects with normotension in the (1) dorsal attention network and sensorimotor network; (2) dorsal attention network and visual network; (3) dorsal attention network and frontoparietal network. Then we tested how diffusion tensor imaging fractional anisotropy of superior longitudinal fasciculus correlates with the connections between dorsal attention network and default mode network and Montreal Cognitive Assessment scores with a widespread network of functional connections. Finally, based on our correlation analysis, we applied a feature selection to highlight those most relevant to describing brain injury in patients with hypertension. Our multimodal imaging data showed that hypertensive brains present a network of functional connectivity alterations that correlate with cognitive dysfunction and microstructural integrity.

Registration—

URL:
https://www.clinicaltrials.gov
; Unique identifier: NCT02310217.