bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Dynamics of Approaches to Disseminate Measures for Sustainable Land Management and Adaptation to Climate Change within Agricultural Holdings in the Zou Department
Authors: Yetongnon Edmond , Avakoudjo Julien , Alladassi Félix Kouelo , Agodo Lambert , Mongbo Roch L. , Amadji Firmin , Djedje Mélanie , Godau Tobias
Published: December 2020

The restoration and preservation of terrestrial ecosystems are important challenges for human beings and are subject of many initiatives and intervention approaches. The present paper focuses on the dissemination approaches of sustainable land management and climate change adaptation (SLM/ CCA) measures implemented under the Soil Protection and Rehabilitation for Food Security Project. The influence of changes in these dissemination approaches on the adoption of SLM/ CCA by farmers in the department of Zou were analyzed. A survey was conducted on 150 farmers who are adopters and non-adopters of the targeted measures. These farmers were randomly selected in nine villages in the department of Zou. Interviews were carried out with the team of the project. As methodological approach, 150 farmers were randomly sampled in nine villages of the department of Zou. In addition, interviews were carried out with the project team. Data analysis was performed using descriptive statistics, as well as Chi-square and Pearson's correlation tests. The results showed that the dynamics noted in the dissemination approaches influence the adoption of sustainable land management and climate change adaptation measures, depending on the main activity and the farm total area of the farmers. In addition, adopters of SLM/CCA measures are more affected by the "SOL-Mobil" (98.0%) and "ProSOL Technician" (85.1%) approaches. They are less affected by the “Relay producer” (41.8%) and “Radio broadcast” (4.4%) approaches. Non-adopters are affected by the “ProSOL Technician” (63%) and “Relay Producer” (33.3%) approaches. However, they are less aware of the “Radio broadcast” approach (33.3%) and not affected by the “SOL-Mobil” approach. It is therefore important to take into account the diversity of farmers when implementing these approaches.
Inclusive Practices and Their Effects on Learners’ Academic Performance in Public Primary Schools within Buea Municipality
Authors: Faizefu Ambei Ruhama
Published: December 2020

Persons with disabilities face diverse challenges in educational institutions which greatly affect their access and full participation in academic programmes. The purpose of this study therefore is to find out the Effects of Inclusive Practices on the Academic Performance of Learners with disabilities in public primary schools within Buea municipality. This study was guided by three objectives. To investigate the extent to which teachers’ acceptance of persons with disabilities has been implemented in public primary schools; To find out how far curriculum adaptation for persons with disabilities has affected learners’ academic performance; and To assess the effects of environmental adaptation on the academic performance of learners’ with disabilities in public primary schools within Buea municipality. A survey research design was used to gather data from two public primary schools. The sampled population of the study included 20 teachers. Purposive sampling was used to select the two public primary schools that admit persons with various special educational needs. The research instrument used for collecting data was the questionnaire. This questionnaire was structured under a yes/no format. Collected data was analyzed using mean standard deviation and findings obtained indicated that teachers’ acceptance, curriculum and environmental adaptations have greatly affected the academic performance of learners with disabilities. Thus, this study recommends, there should be action plans to guide and direct the implementation of inclusive educational practices to the entire primary school settings and/or systems. Primary institutions should be constructed with ramps, large classroom space, wash rooms and toilets to ease movements and maneuvering of persons with disabilities. This finding also will help policy makers and educational authorities make better decisions as concerns primary educational pedagogy. With all these archived, it further will enable learners with disabilities to be confident in themselves, learn freely like their peers and many persons with disabilities will be enrolled in public primary schools.
Hypofractionated Radiotherapy Using Simultaneous Integrated Boost Technique with Concurrent and Adjuvant Temozolomide for Glioblastoma
Authors: Elghareeb Manal M. S. , Wahba Hanan Ahmed , Demeri Ahmed M. El- , Elashry Mohamed , Khedr Rasha Abd El Ghany
Published: December 2020

Aim: This study was conducted to assess the safety and efficacy of postoperative hypofractionated radiotherapy (HRT) using simultaneous integrated boost (SIB) technique for glioblastoma (GBM) compared to conventional radiotherapy (CRT).

Study Design: This was a prospective study with historical control arm.

Place and Duration of the Study: Department of Clinical Oncology and Nuclear Medicine, Mansoura University Hospital, Mansoura, Egypt, between May 2017 and June 2019.

Methods: The intervention (HRT) group included 30 patients who received 3D conformal HRT with SIB using field in field (FIF) technique to deliver a differential radiation dose to different targets. Planning target volume 60 (PTV60) includes the gross target volume (GTV) plus a 5-mm margin, and PTV45 includes the GTV plus a 15-mm margin. PTV60 will receive 60 Gy in 20 fractions, and PTV45 will receive 45 Gy in the same 20 fractions (one fraction daily and 5 days per week).The CRT group included 30 patients who received 3D conformal CRT with total dose 60 Gy in 2-Gy fractions delivered over 6 weeks. Both groups was planned to receive concurrent and adjuvant temozolamide.

Results: The median PFS was 10 months in both groups. The median OS was 13 months in HRT group versus 12 months in CRT group which is statistically non significant. The toxicities were mild and acceptable. Performance status and adjuvant temozolamide were significant predictors that affect the overall survival.

Conclusions: HRT with SIB using 3D conformal RTH with (FIF) technique in patients with GBM is a feasible and safe treatment and its results is comparable to the conventional radiotherapy.
Effect of Citrofortunella microcarpa (Calamansi) Peelings on Whole Blood Coagulation Using Blood Samples from Albino Mice
Authors: Rocha Ian Christopher N. , Roque Shannon Jean R. , Tanyag Lerrice G. , Reyes Katherine A. , Sigui Ma. Ann Miyel M.
Published: December 2020

Citrofortunella microcarpa, locally known as calamansi in the Philippines, is an intergeneric hybrid between Citrus reticulata and Fortunella japonica. This fruit is widely cultivated in the Philippines for its fruit juice as an abundant source of vitamin C and as a condiment in many local foods in the country. Sadly, only the pulp is needed for squeezing while the peels are thrown after extracting the juice. Previous studies revealed that the peels of Citrus, as member of the Rutaceae family, can synthesize both coumarins and furanocoumarins wherein their derivates are used as oral anticoagulants which can inhibit vitamin K from functioning as a cofactor in the hepatic synthesis of the vitamin K-dependent coagulation factors II, VII, IX, and X. In this study, the extract of calamansi peelings were proven to have an anticoagulant property on blood samples from albino mice. This study will pave the way for scientists to allot time in studying calamansi peelings for it may be another source of medicine to help patients who are prone to have stroke, myocardial infarction, and other blood clotting diseases.
An Efficient and Inexpensive PEI-mediated Transfection for Transient Overexpression of CYP2C9 in WRL 68 Normal Liver Cells
Authors: Mutalib Nurliana Abd , Daud Akmal Arif , Halim Hasseri , Latip Normala Abd
Published: December 2020

Aims: This study aims to develop an efficient, and inexpensive transfection procedure using low cost polyethylenimine (PEI) as transfection reagent for overexpression of CYP2C9 in WRL 68 host cells.

Introduction: Overexpression of CYP450 isozymes such as CYP2C9 has been a reliable approach in developing a high specificity in vitro tool for inhibition study of this liver enzyme. Transient or stable transfection are used to insert plasmid DNA into a mammalian host cell in order to produce proteins. There are many efficient transfection reagents available in the market for this purpose, however, it can be expensive, and a low-cost alternative is favorable.

Methodology: Cytotoxicity of PEI was screened on four cell lines namely WRL 68, HepG2, MCF-7 and A549 using MTS assay. WRL 68 was transiently transfected with CYP2C9 plasmid using PEI and DNA concentration as well as transfection time was optimized for the best efficiency and expression. Expression of CYP2C9 protein was measured using qPCR and further evaluated with western blot analysis.

Results: IC50 values of PEI are 0.327 ± 0.013 mg/mL (WRL-68), 0.395 ± 0.037 mg/mL (HepG2), 1.159 ± 0.032 mg/mL (A549) and 1.281 ± 0.000 mg/mL (MCF-7). Combination of 3ug plasmid DNA with 2.8 μM of PEI and 10.5 mM NaCl resulted in the highest transfection efficiency and expression after 48 hours.

Conclusion: A low-cost and efficient PEI transient transfection procedure was optimized for CYP2C9 overexpression and useful for the purpose of further development of cell-based enzyme inhibition model.
The Influence of Celebrity Endorsement and The Advertisement Message Towards Telkomsel's Product Awareness and Its Impact on The Purchase Intention
Authors: Ayuni Dinda Mutiara , Prasetyawati Yuliana Riana
Published: December 2020

The phenomenon of increasing number of data services usage in Indonesia has triggered each operator (telecommunication companies) to have an actual tariff war related to the demands. Contradicted to those phenomena, Telkomsel, resisted to compete in the lower prices. Instead, using Raffi Ahmad as the endorser for their latest internet package, which is expected to fit the role to influencing the upper-class prospective customers. This study aims to determine the influence of Celebrity Endorsement and Advertisement Message to Purchase Intention through Telkomsel’s Product Awareness. This study is using non-probability sampling techniques with purposive sampling approach, with the sample of 205 respondents that have seen Telkomsel’s OMG product advertising on digital media. The methodology of this research is quantitative approach and the data obtained are tested using path analysis model. Both Celebrity Endorsement and Advertisement Message have a significance influence towards Product Awareness and Purchase Intention partially. The result also shows that there is a higher indirect influence among Celebrity Endorsement to Purchase Intention and Advertising Message to Purchase Intention by 0.3759 and 0.4716 respectively.
Mix design and properties of Ultra-High Performance Fibre Reinforced Concrete for the construction of a composite UHPFRC - concrete bridge
Authors: Schmidt Michael , Brühwiler Eugen , Fehling Ekkehard , Denarié Emmanuel , Leutbecher Torsten , Teichmann Thomas
Published: December 2020

The mix design and properties of the two different types of UHPFRC materials that will be used for the construction of an innovative 46m long, 2-span overpass road bridge are presented. The originality of this bridge construction project is to combine conventional reinforced concrete with UHPFRC to strengthen those zones of the bridge structure which are exposed to aggressive media like deicing salts.

Two principally different types of UHPFRC will be used for the bridge construction: a mix for casting on the construction site with a high cement and steel fibre content for the load bearing and water proofing top layer of the bridge deck slab and for an innovative UHPFRC hinge. The kerb and sidewalk overlay elements are prefabricated using a practically proven UHPFRC with comparatively low cement content and low steel fibre content due to the fact that these elements are prestressed. These kerb elements will be directly glued to the bridge deck which is a further step towards an advanced construction system for concrete structures.
Dynamic Controller Instantiation in MEC-NFV based Software Defined Internet of Vehicles
Authors: Sabino Atricia , Simoes Rhodney , Dias Kelvin
Published: December 2020

Softwarization of vehicular networks has been a fundamental approach to deal with its dynamic topology along with requirements of scalability and flexible resource management in order to deploy future Internet of Vehicles (IoV). Despite Software-defined Vehicular Networks (SDVN) has gained momentum in industry and academia to tackle the aforementioned issues, some requirements such as on-demand allocation of network functions and scalability support are not yet satisfactorily addressed in current proposals. Even scalable solutions based on distributed and hierarchical SDN controllers are commonly deployed statically before the network operation. With the advent of network functions virtualization (NFV), it is expected that IoV will benefit from a standard architecture for dynamic instantiating of SDN controllers to provide an efficient solution for IoV management. This article proposes and evaluates a flexible and dynamic solution for the management of IoV through the synergy between SDN and NFV paradigms in order to provide on-demand instantiation of SDN controllers, as well as meet QoS requirements. The results demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposal in supporting the increasing demand for connected vehicles, reduction in packet loss, jitter control, and avoiding processing overhead when compared to the performance of traditional architecture.
Effect of Application Time of Two Different Disinfectants on the Surface Roughness of an Elastomeric Impression Material
Authors: Karaman Tahir , Oztekin Faruk , Tekin Samet
Published: December 2020

Introduction: Pathogens, such as cytomegalovirus, hepatitis B virus, hepatitis C virus, herpes simplex virus types 1 and 2, and human immunodeficiency virus are transmitted, threatening the health of dental laboratory workers, especially as a result of saliva and blood contact of patients. To prevent cross-infection, impression materials should be disinfected at the end of the impression process in the mouth. Aim: To study the effect of application time of sodium hypochlorite and quaternary ammonium-based disinfectant solution on the surface roughness of an elastomeric impression material. Materials and Methods: In this in-vitro study done during March 2020, 10 disc-shaped samples were used in each group, with a total of 110 samples obtained from a light body elastomeric impression material with dimensions of 15×3 mm. The samples were kept in a sodium hypochlorite solution (Wizard; Rehber Kimya, Istanbul, Turkey) at concentrations of 1% and 5% for 1, 5, 10, and 30 minutes and in a quaternary ammonium-based disinfectant (Zeta 7 Solution, Zhermack SpA, Italy) for 10 and 30 minutes. Surface roughness measurements were taken with a profilometer device. The data obtained were statistically analysed by Kolmogorov-Smirnov test and Wilcoxon signed rank test for dependent/paired groups for the continuous data. The significance level was set to α=0.05. Results: A statistically significant difference was found between the control group and the 1% sodium hypochlorite (30 min p-value 0.037), and 5% sodium hypochlorite (30 min p-value 0.017). The statistical evaluation of the surface roughness of the samples with different concentrations of sodium hypochlorite and the same times was done and found statistically significant at 30 mins, p-value 0.021. Conclusion: The prolonged application of the sodium hypochlorite disinfectant at 1% and 5% concentrations caused a significant increase in the light body elastomeric impression material’s surface roughness
Janus Oligomers Demonstrating Full‐Spectrum Visible Light Reflection and Tunable Photoluminescence towards Dual‐Mode Dynamic Anti‐Counterfeiting
Authors: Yao Bing , Lin Pengcheng , Sun Hua , Wang Shifan , Luo Congcong , Li Zhao , Du Xihua , Ding Yue , Xu Yan , Wan Hongri , Zhu Wenyou
Published: December 2020

Stimulus‐responsive multimodal optical materials demonstrating tunable optical behaviors possess significant application in optoelectronic materials and devices. Introducing fluorescent elements into liquid crystal structures is a common strategy. The design of hybrid optical structure at molecular level is seldom reported. Herein, novel Janus oligomers (JOs) combining the chiral nematic liquid crystalline (CNLC) units and the photoluminescent (PL) units on organosilicon oligomers by molecular grafting are proposed. The as‐prepared JOs display brilliant visible light reflection originating from the chiral arrangement of the CNLC segments. The discrete pyrene chromogenic segments in the CNLC matrix enable the quantum yield and PL lifetime of JOs to be up to 38.58% and 68.45 ns. Furthermore, the JOs present dual‐mode thermochromic performances, the blue‐shift reflection across the full‐spectrum visible light region, and the highly sensitive PL evolution. The JOs can be manufactured into dynamic anti‐counterfeiting patterns with fast and reversible response by screen printing. The Janus optical structure enabled by chemically coupling different optical elements at the molecular level provides a templated strategy to create the next generation of intelligent hybrid optical materials.
Reactive Oxygen Species‐Regulating Strategies Based on Nanomaterials for Disease Treatment
Authors: Zhang Chenyang , Wang Xin , Du Jiangfeng , Gu Zhanjun , Zhao Yuliang
Published: December 2020

Reactive oxygen species (ROS) play an essential role in physiological and pathological processes. Studies on the regulation of ROS for disease treatments have caused wide concern, mainly involving the topics in ROS‐regulating therapy such as antioxidant therapy triggered by ROS scavengers and ROS‐induced toxic therapy mediated by ROS‐elevation agents. Benefiting from the remarkable advances of nanotechnology, a large number of nanomaterials with the ROS‐regulating ability are developed to seek new and effective ROS‐related nanotherapeutic modalities or nanomedicines. Although considerable achievements have been made in ROS‐based nanomedicines for disease treatments, some fundamental but key questions such as the rational design principle for ROS‐related nanomaterials are held in low regard. Here, the design principle can serve as the initial framework for scientists and technicians to design and optimize the ROS‐regulating nanomedicines, thereby minimizing the gap of nanomedicines for biomedical application during the design stage. Herein, an overview of the current progress of ROS‐associated nanomedicines in disease treatments is summarized. And then, by particularly addressing these known strategies in ROS‐associated therapy, several fundamental and key principles for the design of ROS‐associated nanomedicines are presented. Finally, future perspectives are also discussed in depth for the development of ROS‐associated nanomedicines.
Engineered Tools to Study Intercellular Communication
Authors: Yang Benjamin A. , Westerhof Trisha M. , Sabin Kaitlyn , Merajver Sofia D. , Aguilar Carlos A.
Published: December 2020

All multicellular organisms rely on intercellular communication networks to coordinate physiological functions. As members of a dynamic social network, each cell receives, processes, and redistributes biological information to define and maintain tissue homeostasis. Uncovering the molecular programs underlying these processes is critical for prevention of disease and aging and development of therapeutics. The study of intercellular communication requires techniques that reduce the scale and complexity of in vivo biological networks while resolving the molecular heterogeneity in “omic” layers that contribute to cell state and function. Recent advances in microengineering and high‐throughput genomics offer unprecedented spatiotemporal control over cellular interactions and the ability to study intercellular communication in a high‐throughput and mechanistic manner. Herein, this review discusses how salient engineered approaches and sequencing techniques can be applied to understand collective cell behavior and tissue functions.
Modafinil‐coated nanoparticle increases expressions of brain‐derived neurotrophic factor, glial cell line‐derived neurotrophic factor and neuronal nuclear protein, and protects against middle cerebral artery occlusion‐induced neuron apoptosis in the rat hippocampus
Authors: Torfeh Alireza , Abdolmaleki Zohreh , Nazarian Sepideh , Shirazi Beheshtiha Seyed Hamed
Published: December 2020

The present study investigates the neuroprotective effects of modafinil‐coated nanoparticle in rats' hippocampal CA1 region. Male Wistar rats (n = 48) were randomly divided into four groups. Then middle cerebral artery occlusion (MCAO) was performed by inserting a silicone coat filament in the right internal carotid artery via the external carotid artery until it reached the anterior cerebral artery. Modafinil (100 mg/kg) or modafinil‐coated nanoparticle (100 mg/kg) was given to the rats as an oral gavage once a day. Infarct volume, brain‐derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), glial cell line‐derived neurotrophic factor (GDNF), neuronal nuclear protein (NeuN) and Caspase‐3 and, Caspase‐8 as apoptotic genes were measured in the hippocampal CA1 region. Cresyl violet staining revealed that modafinil nanoparticle significantly decreased the neurodegeneration. Reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction results showed that modafinil nanoparticle use significantly increased the expression of neurotrophic factors (even more than modafinil alone group; p = .01). Moreover, the apoptotic markers were significantly decreased in nanoparticle modafinil (MN group); p < .05). The western blot analysis and Immunohistochemistry results confirmed the neuroprotective and anti‐apoptotic effects of modafinil nanoparticle. This study's results showed that the use of modafinil‐coated nanoparticle has neuroprotective effects by increasing neurotrophic factors and reducing apoptosis after MCAO in the CA1 area of the hippocampus. However, further studies are needed especially, in human samples.
When natural resources run out, market knowledge steps in: Lessons on natural resource deployment from a longitudinal study in a resource‐scarce region of Ethiopia
Authors: Gugissa Desalegn A. , Ingenbleek Paul T.M. , van Trijp Hans C.M. , Teklehaimanot Mebrahtu L. , Tessema Workneh K.
Published: December 2020

With the increasing scarcity of natural resources, the ability to maintain quality standards during resource‐scarce times becomes more critical for business performance. Theories on managing resource scarcity cannot be easily tested in contexts where resources are still abundant. This study therefore turns to an emerging market context in which natural resource availability naturally varies strongly between seasons, namely, that of Ethiopian pastoralists who for many generations learned to adapt to natural resource scarcity. Central to our theory is the natural resource deployment capability, which is the ability of a business to make efficient and effective use of available resources to maintain business performance during resource‐scarce times. Using three‐wave longitudinal data from 120 pastoral family‐based livestock businesses, the study shows that when resources are scarce or extremely scarce, market knowledge helps to better deploy the scarce natural resources, leading to higher product quality. The findings imply that businesses with a better understanding of markets have stronger natural resource deployment capability. The lesson for businesses that are confronted with approaching resource scarcity is therefore to strengthen their ability to deploy resources efficiently and effectively by strengthening their market knowledge in which such capability is rooted.
Differentiation and activation of human CD4 T cells is associated with a gradual loss of myelin and lymphocyte protein
Authors: Leitner Judith , Mahasongkram Kodchakorn , Schatzlmaier Philipp , Pfisterer Karin , Leksa Vladimir , Pata Supansa , Kasinrerk Watchara , Stockinger Hannes , Steinberger Peter
Published: December 2020

Upon generation of monoclonal antibodies to the T cell antigen receptor/CD3 (TCR/CD3) complex, we isolated mAb MT3, whose reactivity correlates inversely with the production of IFN‐γ by human peripheral blood T lymphocytes. Using eukaryotic expression cloning, we identified the MT3 antigen as myelin‐and‐lymphocyte (MAL) protein. Flow cytometry analysis demonstrates high surface expression of MAL on all naïve CD4+ T cells whereas MAL expression is diminished on central memory‐ and almost lost on effector memory T cells. MAL– T cells proliferate strongly in response to stimulation with CD3/CD28 antibodies, corroborating that MAL+ T cells are naïve and MAL– T cells memory subtypes. Further, resting MAL– T cells harbor a larger pool of Ser59‐ and Tyr394‐ double phosphorylated lymphocyte‐specific kinase (Lck), which is rapidly increased upon in vitro restimulation. Previously, lack of MAL was reported to prevent transport of Lck, the key protein tyrosine kinase of TCR/CD3 signaling to the cell membrane, and to result in strongly impaired human T cell activation. Here, we show that knocking out MAL did not significantly affect Lck membrane localization and immune synapse recruitment, or transcriptional T cell activation. Collectively, our results indicate that loss of MAL is associated with activation‐induced differentiation of human T cells but not with impaired membrane localization of Lck or TCR signaling capacity.
LWEDM: Learning with error based secure mobile digital rights management system
Authors: Dharminder Dharminder
Published: December 2020

Mobile multimedia security is essential to ensure a secure communication in industries, businesses, and organizations. Mobile multimedia is a new concept for an enterprise, where organizations need to be secure. In the last decade, a number of anonymous authentication protocols have been designed based on factorization and discrete logarithm assumptions. Shor's algorithm solves a number‐theoretic assumption in polynomial time using postquantum computers that creates a trouble. However, learning with errors is an advanced hard assumption that cannot be solved by any known existing quantum algorithm. This inspires one to design an anonymous postquantum authentication protocol for the mobile digital rights management system. The protocol has been proved secure in a random oracle model under learning with errors assumption. Moreover, the article contributes an informal security discussion, an implementation using automated validation of internet security protocols and applications. The performance analysis ensures its efficiency even in the postquantum era.
Characteristics and formation mechanism of the fractures in Archaean buried hill: A case study in the BZ19‐6 Block, Bohai Bay Basin, China
Authors: Dai Xiaojuan , Tang Huafeng , Li Huiyong , Zhang Yan , Xu Peng , Wang Pujun , Song Guomin , Du Xianli
Published: December 2020

While Archean buried hill fractured reservoirs have been found for the first time in the BZ19‐6 Block of the Bozhong Sag in the Bohai Bay Basin, the mechanisms driving their creation and evolution are not well known for low degree of exploration. Using core data, image logs, and our knowledge of the regional geology, we characterized the features and explored the formation mechanisms of these fractures. Our core samples captured two types of fractures: high‐angle shear fractures and low‐ to moderate‐angle tensile fractures. Based on the cross‐cutting relationships, four distinct sets of fractures formed at different stages and related to different tectonic events. The first fracture set (Set I) is high‐angle shear fractures having an E‐W orientation, partially filled by calcite, and was formed by transpressive processes in the Early Yanshanian. The second fracture set (Set II) is characterized by moderate angles, partially filled by asphalt and calcite with variable orientations and a more mesh‐like appearance, formed in an extensional environment in the middle Yanshanian. During transpressive activities in the Late Yanshanian, the high‐angle shear fractures of the third fracture set (Set III) formed with NW‐SE orientations and partially filled by asphalt. The fourth fracture set (Set IV), which occurred in the Early Himalayan, involves high‐angle shear fractures that is oriented in the NE‐SW direction and only part of them are filled by clay minerals. Macroscopic fracture features, orientations, and distribution patterns can significantly alter the nature of a reservoir; the fractures in Set I (E‐W‐oriented) and III (NW‐SE‐oriented) are typically the widest (excluded fills), and they tend to have the greatest impact on the overall reservoir permeability.
A gradient‐type iterative method for impulse noise removal
Authors: Liu Jinkui , Cao Haisong , Zhao Yongxiang , Zhang Liqiao
Published: December 2020

Image denoising is a typical inverse problem and is hard to be solved. Fortunately, a powerful two‐phase method for restoring images corrupted by high‐level impulse noise has been proposed. The key point of the method is the computational efficiency of the second phase which requires the minimization of a smooth objective function defined on the terms of edge‐preserving potential function. In this paper, we propose an effective three‐term conjugate gradient method to restore the corrupted images in the second phase of two‐phase method. An attractive feature of the proposed method is that the search direction satisfies the sufficient descent property at each iteration without any line search. The global convergence is established for general smooth functions under the Armijo‐type line search. Preliminary numerical results are reported to indicate that the proposed method to be used for impulse noise removal is promising.
Maximum‐correntropy‐based Kalman filtering for time‐varying systems with randomly occurring uncertainties: An event‐triggered approach
Authors: Su Tingli , Wang Zidong , Zou Lei , Alsaadi Fuad E.
Published: December 2020

In this article, the maximum‐correntropy‐based Kalman filtering problem is investigated for a class of linear time‐varying systems in the presence of non‐Gaussian noises and randomly occurring uncertainties (ROUs). The random nature of the parameter uncertainties is characterized by a stochastic variable conforming to the Bernoulli distribution. In order to avoid unnecessary data transmission and reduce consumption of limited communication resource, the event‐triggered mechanism (ETM) is introduced in the sensor‐to‐filter channel to decide whether the data should be transmitted or not. A novel performance index is first proposed to reflect the joint effects from the non‐Gaussian noises, the ETM as well as the ROUs. Under the proposed performance index, an event‐based Kalman filter is then constructed whose gain is calculated based on the maximum correntropy criterion. Finally, the effectiveness of the proposed filtering scheme is verified via a practical target tracking example.
Nonspecular Reflection of Droplets
Authors: Zhu Pingan , Chen Chengmin , Nandakumar Krishnaswamy , Wang Liqiu
Published: December 2020

The bouncing of droplets on super‐repellent surfaces normally resembles specular reflection that obeys the law of reflection. Here, the nonspecular reflection of droplet impingement onto solid surfaces with a dimple for energy‐efficient, omnidirectional droplet transport is reported. With the dimple of the radius being comparable to that of the droplet, all the symmetries in the law of reflection can be broken down so that the droplet is endowed with a translational velocity finely tunable in both its direction and magnitude simply by varying the radii of the droplet and the dimple, the impinging position, and droplet Weber number. Tailoring the initial and translational velocity of impinging droplets would steer their reflected trajectories at will, thus enabling versatile droplet manipulation including trapping, shedding, antigravity transport, targeted positioning, and on‐demand coalescence of droplets.
Pelvic ultrasounds referred from the emergency department: Agreement between sonographer findings and radiologists' reports
Authors: Kolsky Ellen , Baker Tim , Pontonio Luke , Kelson Tamika , Schneider Michal
Published: December 2020

Introduction

When radiologists are not available, sonographers may be able to provide an interim report, especially for patients referred from emergency or in remote clinics. The aim of this study was to compare the agreement of diagnostic findings between sonographers and radiologists for patients referred from the emergency department for pelvic ultrasound.

Methods

Sonographer findings and corresponding radiologists' reports of consecutive pelvic ultrasound examinations referred from the emergency department were compared prospectively over a 7‐month period. Paediatric cases were excluded. Diagnostic agreement was scored by an independent investigator into the following: grade 1—agree with radiologist report; grade 2—minor discrepancy, unlikely to impact patient management; grade 3—major discrepancy, likely to impact patient management but does not lead to adverse outcomes for the patient; and grade 4—major discrepancy, findings likely to result in significantly adverse outcome for the patient.

Results

A total of 118 cases were recruited. Of those, 113 (95.7%) were graded as grade 1, four (3.4%) were graded as grade 2 and one as grade 3 (0.8%). No cases were categorised as grade 4. The case classified as grade 3 was initially reported by the sonographer as early ovarian torsion. The corresponding radiologist's report documented no evidence of ovarian torsion. However, three days later, the woman underwent emergency surgery where ovarian torsion was confirmed and the ovary removed.

Conclusion

When radiologists are unavailable to report on urgent cases requiring pelvic ultrasound, sonographers can provide accurate interim reports to assist in the timely management of patients.
Supporting the Right to Read: Principles for Selecting Children’s Books
Authors: Hartsfield Danielle E. , Kimmel Sue C.
Published: December 2020

Young readers depend on adults to provide access to a variety of materials representing diverse perspectives and providing information about topics of interest and importance to them. The decisions of literacy professionals to include or exclude a book from a lesson or a collection have far‐reaching implications for the kinds of ideas, information, genres, and formats available for young readers. Given this gatekeeping role, how can educators ensure that they are providing students with a diverse range of books and avoiding censorship? The authors present six principles that educators can use when making book selections for the curriculum or the classroom or school library collection; application of the principles is demonstrated usingGeorgeby Alex Gino, one of the most frequently challenged children’s books in recent years. Applying these selection principles will assist educators with understanding how to avoid censorship and support students’ right to read.
Sex Differences in Outcome After Thrombectomy for Acute Ischemic Stroke are Explained by Confounding Factors
Authors: Deb-Chatterji Milani , Schlemm Eckhard , Flottmann Fabian , Meyer Lukas , Alegiani Anna , Brekenfeld Caspar , Fiehler Jens , Gerloff Christian , Thomalla Götz ,   GSR-ET Investigators, Gerloff C. , Fiehler J. , Thomalla G. , Alegiani A. , Boeckh-Behrens  , Wunderlich Silke , Ernemann Ulrike , Poli Sven , Siebert Eberhard , Nolte Christian H. , Zweynert Sarah , Bohner Georg , Ludolph Alexander , Henn Karl-Heinz , Pfeilschifter Waltraud , Keil Fee , Röther Joachim , Eckert Bernd , Berrouschot Jörg , Bormann Albrecht , Solymosi László , Petzold Gabor , Kraemer Christoffer , Dichgans Martin , Tiedt Steffen , Kellert Lars , Dorn Franziska , Petersen Martina , Stögbauer Florian , Braun Michael , Hamann Gerhard F. , Gröschel Klaus , Uphaus Timo
Published: December 2020

Purpose

The aim of this study was to analyze sex differences in outcome after thrombectomy for acute ischemic stroke in clinical practice in a large prospective multicenter registry.

Methods

Data of consecutive stroke patients treated with thrombectomy (June 2015–April 2018) derived from an industry-independent registry (German Stroke Registry–Endovascular Treatment) were prospectively analyzed. Multivariable binary logistic regression analyses were applied to determine whether sex is a predictor of functional independence outcome (defined as a modified Rankin scale [mRS] 0–2) 90 days after stroke.

Results

In total, 2316 patients were included in the analysis, 1170 (50.5%) were female and 1146 (49.5%) were male. Women were older (median age 78 vs. 72 years; p < 0.001) and more frequently had a prestroke functional impairment defined by mRS >1 (24.8% vs. 14.1%; p < 0.001). In unadjusted analyses, independent outcome at 90 days was less frequent in women (33.2%) than men (40.6%; p < 0.001). Likewise, mortality was higher in women than in men (30.7% vs. 26.4%; p = 0.024). In adjusted regression analyses, however, sex was not associated with outcome. Lower age, a lower baseline National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale score, a higher Alberta Stroke Program Early CT score, prestroke functional independence, successful reperfusion, and concomitant intravenous thrombolysis therapy predicted independent outcome.

Conclusion

Women showed a worse functional outcome after thrombectomy for acute ischemic stroke in clinical practice; however, after adjustment for crucial confounders sex was not a predictor of outcome. The difference in outcome thus appears to result from differences in confounding factors such as age and prestroke functional status.
Differences in the clinical characteristics of COVID-19 patients who died in hospital during different phases of the pandemic: national data from Italy
Authors:   The Italian National Institute of Health COVID-19 Mortality Group (*), Palmieri Luigi , Palmer Katie , Lo Noce Cinzia , Meli Paola , Giuliano Marina , Floridia Marco , Tamburo de Bella Manuela , Piccioli Andrea , Brusaferro Silvio , Onder Graziano
Published: December 2020

Background

Epidemiological data obtained during the initial wave of the COVID-19 epidemic showed that persons dying with COVID-19 were typically older men with multiple chronic conditions. No studies have assessed if the characteristics of patients dying with COVID-19 have changed in the second phase of the epidemic, when the initial wave subsided. The aim of the present study was to compare characteristics of patients dying with COVID-19 in Italy in the first ‘peak’ phase of the epidemic and in its second phase.

Methods

Medical charts of patients with COVID-19 who died while in hospital in Italy were reviewed to extract information on pre-existing comorbidities, in-hospital complications, and disease trajectories. The course of the epidemic was classified in two 3-month periods: March–May 2020 and June–August 2020.

Findings

Overall, in the Italian population, 34,191 COVID-19 deaths occurred in March–May 2020 and 1,404 in June–August 2020. Patients dying in March–May were significantly younger (80.1 ± 10.6 vs. 82.8 ± 11.1 years,p < 0.001) and less frequently female (41.9% vs. 61.8%,p < 0.001) than those dying in June–August. The medical charts of 3533 patients who died with PCR-confirmed SARS-CoV-2 infection in March–May 2020 (10.3% of all deaths occurring in this period) and 203 patients who died in June–August 2020 (14.5% of all deaths occurring in this period) were analysed. Patients who died in March–May 2020, compared to those who died in June–August 2020, hadsignificantly lower ratesof multiple comorbidities (3 or more comorbidities: 61.8% vs 74.5%,p = 0.001) and superinfections (15.2% vs. 52.5%,p < 0.001). Treatment patterns also substantially differed in the two study periods, with patients dying in March–May 2020 being less likely to be treated with steroids (41.7% vs. 69.3%,p < 0.001) and more likely to receive antivirals (59.3% vs. 41.4%,p < 0.001). Survival time also largely differed, with patients dying in March–May 2020 showing a shorter time from symptoms onset to death (mean interval: 15.0 vs. 46.6 days,p < 0.001). The differences observed between the two periods remained significant in a multivariate analysis.

Interpretation

The clinical characteristics of patients dying with COVID-19 in Italy, their treatment and symptom-to-death survival time have significantly changed overtime. This is probably due to an improved organization and delivery of care and to a better knowledge of disease treatment.
Participatory needs assessment and action planning for a clinical and translational research network
Authors: Johnson LaKaija J. , Rohde Jolene , Cramer Mary E. , Zimmerman Lani , Geary Carol R. , Tibbits Melissa K. , Rizzo Matthew , Estabrooks Paul A.
Published: December 2020

The goal of this study was to assess the utility of participatory needs assessment processes for continuous improvement of developing clinical and translational research (CTR) networks. Our approach expanded on evaluation strategies for CTR networks, centers, and institutes, which often survey stakeholders to identify infrastructure or resource needs, using the case example of the Great Plains IDeA-CTR Network. Our 4-stage approach (i.e., pre-assessment, data collection, implementation of needs assessment derived actions, monitoring of action plan) included a member survey (n= 357) and five subsequent small group sessions (n= 75 participants) to better characterize needs identified in the survey and to provide actionable recommendations. This participatory, mixed-methods needs assessment and strategic action planning process yielded 11 inter-related recommendations. These recommendations were presented to the CTR steering committee as inputs to develop detailed, prioritized action plans. Preliminary evaluation shows progress towards improved program capacity and effectiveness of the network to respond to member needs. The participatory, mixed-methods needs assessment and strategic planning process allowed a wide range of stakeholders to contribute to the development of actionable recommendations for network improvement, in line with the principles of team science.
Total Theatre for Total War: Experiences of the Military Play in Revolutionary France
Authors: Connors Logan J.
Published: December 2020

After storming the Bastille on 14 July 1789, Joseph Arné had little time to take in the significance of his actions. Earlier that day, the twenty-something soldier from Franche-Comté had led a daring assault, neutralized several Swiss Guards with his bare hands, and supposedly disabled a cannon that was pointed at his charging comrades. As the sun set, Arné was greeted by throngs of cheering Parisians, who joined the younggrenadierin patriotic songs, chants, and dancing. What Arné perhaps did not understand when he finally went to sleep that night was that he was about to become a theatrical star and a public figure. The next morning, Arné was back in the streets, this time “drawn through Paris in a triumphal chariot.” Several weeks later, he was portrayed as the protagonist inLa Fête du grenadier, the first play dedicated to the July events, which premiered at the Théâtre de l'Ambigu on 3 September. That evening, the real-life Arné, and not the actor who was playing him, was “enthusiastically celebrated by the spectators and at the end of the piece went onstage to standing ovations.”
CONVERGENCE ZONE POLITICS AT THE ARCHAEOLOGICAL SITE OF UCANAL, PETEN, GUATEMALA
Authors: Halperin Christina T. , Garrido Lopez Jose Luis , Salas Miriam , LeMoine Jean-Baptiste
Published: December 2020

The Maya archaeological site of Ucanal is located in Peten, Guatemala, close to the contemporary border with Belize. In pre-Columbian times, the site also sat at the frontiers of some of the largest political centers, Naranjo in Peten, Guatemala, and Caracol, in Belize. Entangled between these dominant centers and with ties to peoples in the Upper Belize Valley, the Petexbatun region in Guatemala, northern Yucatan, and elsewhere, Ucanal was a critical convergence zone of political and cultural interaction. This paper synthesizes archaeological research by the Proyecto Arqueológico Ucanal to underscore the ways in which this provincial polity, identified epigraphically as K'anwitznal, maneuvered within and between different cultural affiliations and political networks. We find that the site's role as a political frontier during the Late Classic period was more of a bridge than an edge. During the later Terminal Classic period, the K'anwitznal kingdom gained independence, but continued to serve as a critical convergence of influences and interaction spheres from throughout the Maya area and beyond.
ZnO/SiO2 core/shell nanowires for capturing CpG rich single-stranded DNAs
Authors: Musa Marina , Yasui Takao , Nagashima Kazuki , Horiuchi Masafumi , Zhu Zetao , Liu Quanli , Shimada Taisuke , Arima Akihide , Yanagida Takeshi , Baba Yoshinobu
Published: December 2020

Modification of the surface of ZnO nanowires through atomic layer deposition (ALD) for the fabrication of a ZnO/SiO2 (core/shell) nanowire microfluidic device for capturing CpG-rich single-stranded DNAs (ssDNAs).
Enriching street-vended zobo (Hibiscus sabdariffa) drink with turmeric (Curcuma longa) to increase its health-supporting properties
Authors: Idowu-Adebayo Folake , Toohey Mary J. , Fogliano Vincenzo , Linnemann Anita R.
Published: December 2020

Street-vended foods are cheap, readily available and have been currently identified as possible means for micronutrient fortification in an effort to prevent malnutrition in developing countries.
The role of natural products in the prevention and treatment of pulmonary fibrosis: a review
Authors: Wang Liqun , Li Sha , Yao Yuqin , Yin Wenya , Ye Tinghong
Published: December 2020

Natural products prevent and treat pulmonary fibrosis by regulating oxidative stress, inflammatory injury, epithelial–mesenchymal transition (EMT), fibroblast activation and metabolic disorders.
Targeted liposomal drug delivery: a nanoscience and biophysical perspective
Authors: Liu Yibo , Castro Bravo Karla M. , Liu Juewen
Published: December 2020

By varying biophysical properties of drug-loaded liposomes such as size, head-group chemistry and polarity, fluidity, rigidity, and PEGylation, their effects on both passive and active targeting are reviewed with cancer therapy as the main example.
Towards the identification of the gold binding region within trypsin stabilized nanoclusters using microwave synthesis routes
Authors: Griep Mark H. , Sellers Michael S. , Subhash Bijil , Fakner Alexis M. , West Abby L. , Bedford Nicholas M.
Published: December 2020

Elucidating the location of stabilized nanoclusters within their protein hosts is an existing challenge towards the optimized development of functional protein-nanoclusters.
Nanotechnological immunoassay for rapid label-free analysis of candidate malaria vaccines
Authors: Brunetti Giulio , Padovani Francesco , De Pastina Annalisa , Rotella Chiara , Monahan Amy , Hoffman Stephen L. , Jongo Said A. , Abdulla Salim , Corradin Giampietro , Pluschke Gerd , Daubenberger Claudia , Hegner Martin
Published: December 2020

Oscillating micro-cantilever array enables immunoassay for single-step label-free analysis of candidate malaria vaccines. Differential read-out reveals epitope-specific timeline of malaria infection in complex serum samples.
Circular and linear: a tale of aptamer selection for the activation of SIRT1 to induce death in cancer cells
Authors: Al-Sudani Basma , Ragazzon-Smith Abby H. , Aziz Athar , Alansari Rania , Ferry Natalie , Krstic-Demonacos Marija , Ragazzon Patricia A.
Published: December 2020

We report novel SIRT1 ligands that bind and modulate the activity of SIRT1 within cells and enhance its enzymatic activity. From a pool of aptamers we identify circular AC3 as having anticancer activity.