bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Adaptive CNN Ensemble for Complex Multispectral Image Analysis
Authors: Jameel Syed Muslim , Hashmani Manzoor Ahmed , Rehman Mobashar , Budiman Arif
Published: April 2020

Multispectral image classification has long been the domain of static learning with nonstationary input data assumption. The prevalence of Industrial Revolution 4.0 has led to the emergence to perform real-time analysis (classification) in an online learning scenario. Due to the complexities (spatial, spectral, dynamic data sources, and temporal inconsistencies) in online and time-series multispectral image analysis, there is a high occurrence probability in variations of spectral bands from an input stream, which deteriorates the classification performance (in terms of accuracy) or makes them ineffective. To highlight this critical issue, firstly, this study formulates the problem of new spectral band arrival as virtual concept drift. Secondly, an adaptive convolutional neural network (CNN) ensemble framework is proposed and evaluated for a new spectral band adaptation. The adaptive CNN ensemble framework consists of five (05) modules, including dynamic ensemble classifier (DEC) module. DEC uses the weighted voting ensemble approach using multiple optimized CNN instances. DEC module can increase dynamically after new spectral band arrival. The proposed ensemble approach in the DEC module (individual spectral band handling by the individual classifier of the ensemble) contributes the diversity to the ensemble system in the simple yet effective manner. The results have shown the effectiveness and proven the diversity of the proposed framework to adapt the new spectral band during online image classification. Moreover, the extensive training dataset, proper regularization, optimized hyperparameters (model and training), and more appropriate CNN architecture significantly contributed to retaining the performance accuracy.
Gremlin in the Vitreous of Patients with Proliferative Diabetic Retinopathy and the Downregulation of Gremlin in Retinal Pigment Epithelial Cells
Authors: Qin Dong , Jiang Yan-rong , Meng Zijun
Published: April 2020

Diabetic retinopathy (DR) is one of the most common causes of blindness globally. Proliferative DR (PDR), an advanced stage of DR, is characterized by the formation of fibrotic membranes at the vitreoretinal interface. The proliferation, migration, and secretion of extracellular matrix molecules in retinal pigment epithelial (RPE) cells contribute to the formation of fibrotic membranes in PDR. Gremlin has been reported to be upregulated in response to elevated glucose levels in the retina of diabetic rat and bovine pericytes. However, the role of gremlin in PDR remains unclear. In the present study, the vitreous concentrations of gremlin were significantly higher in the PDR (67.79±33.96) group than in the control (45.31±12.31) group, and high glucose levels induced the expression of gremlin in RPE cells. The elevated expression of extracellular matrix molecules, such as fibronectin and collagen IV, was significantly reduced by gremlin siRNA in human RPE cells under high-glucose conditions. Thus, gremlin may play a vital role in the development of PDR.
Psychiatric Disorders after Switching to Dolutegravir: A Case Report of a 59-Year-Old Virosuppressed HIV-1 Positive Woman
Authors: Mengato Daniele , Binazzi Raffaella , Unterholzner Ivan , Erne Elke M. , Tavella Alicia
Published: April 2020

We report a case of a woman who experienced psychiatric disorders after switching her antiretroviral therapy (c-ART) to dolutegravir (DTG). She is a 59-year-old HIV-1 positive woman with a recent story of cardiovascular disorders treated with beta-blockers, clopidogrel, and rosuvastatin. She underwent a c-ART switch from darunavir/cobicistat and maraviroc to emtricitabine/tenofovir alafenamide fumarate in association with dolutegravir due to drug-drug interactions. One week later, she started to show psychiatric symptoms that required admission to the psychiatric unit. These disorders resolved within a couple of days after DTG discontinuation to allow a regular discharge. With this case-report, we would like to analyse the possible correlation between integrase inhibitor and severe psychiatric disorders in order to confirm the evidences already published in literature.
Loss of BAP1 Leads to More YAPing in Pancreatic Cancer
Authors: Brekken Rolf A.
Published: April 2020

Pancreatic cancer is increasing in incidence and is expected to be the second leading cause of cancer-related mortality by the year 2030. Understanding molecular pathways that contribute to pancreatic cancer initiation and progression provides the opportunity to uncover potential molecular vulnerabilities that can be exploited therapeutically. In this issue of Cancer Research, Lee and colleagues provide compelling evidence that BRCA1-associated protein (BAP1) functions as a tumor suppressor in pancreatic cancer by promoting the activity of the Hippo tumor suppressor pathway, highlighting YAP and TAZ, Hippo effectors, as attractive therapeutic targets in pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma, especially in BAP1-deficient or low tumors.

See related article by Lee et al., p. 1656
AACR Calls on Congress to Take Immediate Action against COVID-19 and Protect Patients with Cancer during the Pandemic
Authors:   AACR Board of Directors
Published: April 2020

On March 30, 2020, the AACR Board of Directors provided a letter to the U.S. Congressional leadership on behalf of its members in response to the COVID-19 public health emergency.
Dual Relief of T-lymphocyte Proliferation and Effector Function Underlies Response to PD-1 Blockade in Epithelial Malignancies
Authors: Balança Camille-Charlotte , Scarlata Clara-Maria , Michelas Marie , Devaud Christel , Sarradin Victor , Franchet Camille , Martinez Gomez Carlos , Gomez-Roca Carlos , Tosolini Marie , Heaugwane Diana , Lauzéral-Vizcaino Françoise , Mir-Mesnier Lucile , Féliu Virginie , Valle Carine , Pont Frédéric , Ferron Gwénaël , Gladieff Laurence , Motton Stéphanie , Tanguy Le Gac Yann , Dupret-Bories Agnès , Sarini Jérôme , Vairel Benjamin , Illac Claire , Siegfried-Vergnon Aurore , Mery Eliane , Fournié Jean-Jacques , Vergez Sébastien , Delord Jean-Pierre , Rochaix Philippe , Martinez Alejandra , Ayyoub Maha
Published: April 2020

Although understanding of T-cell exhaustion is widely based on mouse models, its analysis in patients with cancer could provide clues indicating tumor sensitivity to immune checkpoint blockade (ICB). Data suggest a role for costimulatory pathways, particularly CD28, in exhausted T-cell responsiveness to PD-1/PD-L1 blockade. Here, we used single-cell transcriptomic, phenotypic, and functional approaches to dissect the relation between CD8+ T-cell exhaustion, CD28 costimulation, and tumor specificity in head and neck, cervical, and ovarian cancers. We found that memory tumor–specific CD8+ T cells, but not bystander cells, sequentially express immune checkpoints once they infiltrate tumors, leading, in situ, to a functionally exhausted population. Exhausted T cells were nonetheless endowed with effector and tumor residency potential but exhibited loss of the costimulatory receptor CD28 in comparison with their circulating memory counterparts. Accordingly, PD-1 inhibition improved proliferation of circulating tumor–specific CD8+ T cells and reversed functional exhaustion of specific T cells at tumor sites. In agreement with their tumor specificity, high infiltration of tumors by exhausted cells was predictive of response to therapy and survival in ICB-treated patients with head and neck cancer. Our results showed that PD-1 blockade–mediated proliferation/reinvigoration of circulating memory T cells and local reversion of exhaustion occur concurrently to control tumors.
Ghrelin Gene Polymorphisms in Irritable Bowel Syndrome
Authors: Kalli Theodora , Koutouratsas Tilemachos , Karamanolis George , Gazouli Maria
Published: April 2020

Introduction/Objective: Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a bowel disorder characterized by pain accompanying defecation or altered bowel habits, divided into diarrhea-predominant, constipation-predominant, and alternating subtypes, whose pathogenesis is considered to include disordered bowel motility. The hormone ghrelin is a growth hormone secretagogue which furthermore affects gastrointestinal motility. We study the association between its genetic polymorphisms and the risk for IBS. Methods: IBS patients meeting the Rome III criteria and controls similar in age and gender were recruited. Whole blood samples were used for genotyping via polymerase chain reaction and restriction fragment length polymorphism for the polymorphisms rs34911341, rs696217, and rs2075356. Results: Participants included 142 patients and 209 controls. The rs696217 GG genotype frequency was higher in patients (78.87%) compared to controls (55.5%). The rs696217 GT genotype was significantly less frequent among patients than in controls (OR 0.31, 95% CI 0.19–0.52), as was the T allele (OR 0.43, 95% CI 0.28–0.66). No significant differences in genotype distribution were found for the rs34911341 and rs2075356 polymorphisms between patients and controls. The genotype frequencies did not significantly differ between IBS subtype groups for any of the polymorphisms studied. Conclusions: The GG and GT genotypes of the rs696217 polymorphism, as well as the G-allele, demonstrate significant association with IBS susceptibility, while the T allele appears to bear a protective effect. Ghrelin’s polymorphisms are plausibly involved in IBS pathogenesis, but do not correlate with any distinct IBS subtype.
Acute Exposure to Fructose Impairs Endothelium-Dependent Relaxation via Oxidative Stress in Isolated Rat Aortic Rings
Authors: Yoon Sangwon , Lee Eunjo , Kim Mina , Kim InKyeom
Published: April 2020

Introduction: Although both glucose and fructose are hexoses, their catabolism is quite different: the catabolism of fructose is initiated by ketohexokinase and is not regulated by negative feedback, which results in oxidative stress. Objective: We hypothesized that fructose impairs endothelium-dependent relaxation via oxidative stress in rat aortic rings. Methods: Sprague-Dawley rats were offered 20% fructose solution or tap water for 2 weeks, after which vascular reactivity was measured in isolated aortic rings. In a separate experiment, vascular reactivity was measured after acute exposure to ∼10 mM fructose in isolated aortic rings from untreated rats. Results: Although high-fructose intake statistically significantly increased blood pressure and body weight, it did not affect contraction and relaxation in aortic rings. The substitution of fructose for glucose in Krebs solution inhibited vascular relaxation in aortic rings, which was abolished by pretreatment with antioxidants. Decreasing the glucose concentration in Krebs solution inhibited vascular relaxation, whereas decreasing the fructose concentration in Krebs solution improved vascular relaxation in the aortic rings. Pretreatment with antioxidants improved the vascular relaxation in Krebs solution with fructose substituted for glucose. Conclusions: These results indicate that fructose impairs endothelium-dependent relaxation via oxidative stress in isolated rat aortic rings.
Transcriptional Patterning of the Ventricular Cardiac Conduction System
Authors: Burnicka-Turek Ozanna , Broman Michael T. , Steimle Jeffrey D. , Boukens Bastiaan J. , Petrenko Nataliya B. , Ikegami Kohta , Nadadur Rangarajan D. , Qiao Yun , Arnolds David E. , Yang Xinan H. , Patel Vickas V. , Nobrega Marcelo A. , Efimov Igor R. , Moskowitz Ivan P.
Published: April 2020

Rationale:

The heartbeat is organized by the cardiac conduction system (CCS), a specialized network of cardiomyocytes. Patterning of the CCS into atrial node versus ventricular conduction system (VCS) components with distinct physiology is essential for the normal heartbeat. Distinct node versus VCS physiology has been recognized for more than a century, but the molecular basis of this regional patterning is not well understood.

Objective:

To study the genetic and genomic mechanisms underlying node versus VCS distinction and investigate rhythm consequences of failed VCS patterning.

Methods and Results:

Using mouse genetics, we found that the balance between T-box transcriptional activator,
Tbx5
, and T-box transcriptional repressor,
Tbx3
, determined the molecular and functional output of VCS myocytes. Adult VCS-specific removal of
Tbx5
or overexpression of
Tbx3
re-patterned the fast VCS into slow, nodal-like cells based on molecular and functional criteria. In these cases, gene expression profiling showed diminished expression of genes required for VCS-specific fast conduction but maintenance of expression of genes required for nodal slow conduction physiology. Action potentials of
Tbx5
-deficient VCS myocytes adopted nodal-specific characteristics, including increased action potential duration and cellular automaticity. Removal of
Tbx5
in vivo precipitated inappropriate depolarizations in the atrioventricular (His)-bundle associated with lethal ventricular arrhythmias. TBX5 bound and directly activated
cis
-regulatory elements at fast conduction channel genes required for fast physiological characteristics of the VCS action potential, defining the identity of the adult VCS.

Conclusions:

The CCS is patterned entirely as a slow, nodal ground state, with a T-box dependent, physiologically dominant, fast conduction network driven specifically in the VCS. Disruption of the fast VCS gene regulatory network allowed nodal physiology to emerge, providing a plausible molecular mechanism for some lethal ventricular arrhythmias.
Implantable Cardioverter–Defibrillators in Trials of Drug Therapy for Heart Failure: A Systematic Review and Meta‐Analysis
Authors: Gama Francisco , Ferreira Jorge , Carmo João , Costa Francisco Moscoso , Carvalho Salomé , Carmo Pedro , Cavaco Diogo , Morgado Francisco Belo , Adragão Pedro , Mendes Miguel
Published: April 2020

BACKGROUND

Medical therapy for heart failure with reduced ejection fraction evolved since trials validated the use of implantable cardioverter–defibrillators (
ICD
s). We sought to evaluate the performance of
ICD
s in reducing mortality in the era of modern medical therapy by means of a systematic review and meta‐analysis of contemporary randomized clinical trials of drug therapy for heart failure with reduced ejection fraction.

METHODS AND RESULTS

We systematically identified randomized clinical trials that evaluated drug therapy in patients with heart failure with reduced ejection fraction that reported mortality. Studies that enrolled <1000 patients, patients with left ventricular ejection fraction >40%, or patients in the acute phase of heart failure and study treatment with devices were excluded. We identified 8 randomized clinical trials, including 31 701 patients of whom 3631 (11.5%) had an
ICD
.
ICDs
were associated with a lower risk of all‐cause mortality (relative risk [RR], 0.85; 95% CI, 0.78–0.94) and sudden cardiac death (RR, 0.49; 95% CI, 0.40–0.61). Results were consistent among studies published before and after 2010. In meta‐regression analysis, the proportion of nonischemic etiology did not affect the associated benefit of
ICD
.

CONCLUSIONS

In our meta‐analysis of contemporary randomized trials of drug therapy for heart failure with reduced ejection fraction, the rate of
ICD
use was low and associated with a decreased risk in both all‐cause mortality and sudden cardiac death. This benefit was still present in trials with new medical therapy.
Judicial Support for the Islamic Financial Services Industry: Towards Reform-oriented Interpretive Approaches
Authors: Oseni Umar A. , Hassan M. Kabir , Ali S. Nazim
Published: April 2020

This study examines different dimensions and permutations of invaluable judicial support to Islamic financial services and products and identifies specific areas where the judiciary has helped to shape the industry in line with the original value proposition of Islamic financial intermediation. While relying on qualitative legal methods with comparative case analysis from different jurisdictions, this study conducts cross-jurisdiction case analyses and identifies the role of judiciary in introducing sustainable practices. It concludes that the judicial function has played a significant role in ensuring justice and fairness through purposive interpretation of contracts, recognition and enforcement of foreign arbitral awards and judgments, consistency and predictability of outcomes, legal risk mitigation, and facilitation of mediation and arbitral proceedings, thereby positively reshaping the future of Islamic financial services industry. Above all, the availability of binding judicial precedents, which is hitherto not common for Islamic law matters, is a welcome development in the Islamic financial services industry.
Voices of School-Age Street-Children Denied Basic Education in Tanzania
Authors: Anangisye William A.L.
Published: April 2020

This paper reports the findings of a study that was conducted to explore issues related to the continued denial of school-age street-children access to and, hence, lack of participation in basic education. Such children from socially and economically marginalised backgrounds still go without basic education the efforts to arrest the trend dating back to the 1960s notwithstanding. Specifically, it revisits reasons and activities behind their exclusion from accessing, and participating in basic education amid concerted national, regional and international efforts to advocate and foster universal basic education. The qualitative study was conducted on the streets of Dar es Salaam and Iringa regions of Tanzania. The qualitative inquiry informed data generation and analysis procedures. The study found that destitution was the primary reason that made school-age children forgo basic education. Moreover, the activities street-children engaged in at the expense of primary schooling were mainly labour-intensive, which threatened their health. On the whole, despite official pronouncements, some children still remain excluded from accessing and participating in primary education, thus undermining the sustainable development goal four.
Defining Genocide
Authors: O’Brien Melanie
Published: April 2020

This article traces the historical development of the term “genocide” and discusses how it evolved from a post-World War II concept into a key component of international criminal law. Dr. O’Brien outlines some of the legal challenges that attend several of the key terms in the generally accepted definition of genocide: ‘destroy’, ‘in part’, ‘groups’, ‘intent’, and so on. She then concludes with an important and politically nuanced point essential to understanding the politics and afterlife of the Rwanda genocide – the weight of the “g” word.
Rwanda, the Holocaust, and the Predictable Path to Genocide
Authors: Drew Phillip
Published: April 2020

This article is a comparative examination of the policies and actions that led up to the genocides in Nazi Germany and Rwanda. Referring to the ‘Ten Stages of Genocide’ as developed by Gregory Stanton, the author follows the evolution of the respective racial regimes, and discusses their development of racial identification, racist laws and the propaganda that ultimately encouraged their societies to support their genocidal actions.
The ictr and Its Contribution to the Revivification of International Criminal Law
Authors: Crawford Emily
Published: April 2020

In this article, Emily Crawford explores one set of key institutional and legal responses to, and consequences of, the Rwanda genocide – the ictr and the revival of icl that the ictr and the icty heralded. Tracing the development of the concept and institutions of icl, Crawford observes how the case law of the [ad hoc] tribunals, and the ictr in particular, were pivotal in progressively developing the international law of genocide, and the law of non-international armed conflict’.
Rwanda: Lessons Observed. Lessons Learned?
Authors: Boulden Jane
Published: April 2020

In seeking to determine whether and in what way the experience in Rwanda may have changed peacekeeping, this article examines three official international institutional reports that were issued after the genocide in Rwanda. Their discussion of United Nations peacekeeping after Rwanda, each from a slightly different vantage point, provides a window into the thinking of the time as to what changes should occur in peacekeeping as a result of the Rwanda experience. Two reports focused on the future of peacekeeping more generally, the Brahimi Report, published in 2000, and the hippo Report, published in 2015 are used as benchmarks to determine whether and to what extent those proposed changes occurred. The article argues that while many changes in peacekeeping can be identified since 1994, peacekeeping remains unchanged at its core in that it is still based on the foundational principles of consent, impartiality and minimal use of force.
cop 25: Losing Sight of (Raising) Ambition
Authors: Streck Charlotte , Unger Moritz von , Greiner Sandra
Published: April 2020

The 25th session of the Conference of the Parties (cop-25) of the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (unfccc) became the longest cop on record – but yielded few results. It appears that four years after the adoption of the Paris Agreement, enthusiasm has waned and political bargaining and bean-counting have taken over. Countries, for even the slightest chance to keep temperatures ‘well below’ 2 degrees Celsius, must do much more than they have previously committed to and accelerate the shift towards a zero-carbon economy. However, the conference largely failed to heed the rallying cry of the Chilean presidency. The flagship decisions (grouped under the banner “Chile-Madrid Time for Action”) neither produced new commitments – enhancing ambition or finance for developing countries – nor new rules that would nudge countries closer to the climate action targets needed. The leftover pieces from last year’s negotiations of the “Paris Rulebook” were also not resolved, in particular the unfinished decisions on Article 6 on market- and non-market mechanisms. The procrastination shows that the new architecture of the Paris Agreement, while addressing several of the shortcomings of the Kyoto Protocol, suffers from its own weaknesses. The meager results of Madrid give reason to pause and reflect on the conditions that may hold countries back from fully embracing the Paris Agreement, but also to consider the future and nature of carbon markets and what is making the issue so difficult to resolve.
A Sellarsian Transcendental Argument against External World Skepticism
Authors: Geier Marin
Published: April 2020

This paper investigates the relation between what James Conant has called Kantian and Cartesian varieties of skepticism. It is argued that a solution to the most prominent example of a Kantian variety of skepticism, i.e. Kripkensteinian skepticism about rule-following and meaning, can be found in the works of Wilfrid Sellars. It is then argued that, on the basis of that very same solution to the Kantian problematic of rule-following and meaning, a novel argument against external world skepticism can be formulated. This argument takes the shape of a transcendental argument, which is reminiscent of Hilary Putnam’s infamous argument against the brain-in-a-vat hypothesis, but is, as is argued, superior to it in certain respects.
Are There Heavyweight Perceptual Reasons?
Authors: Ranalli Chris
Published: April 2020

Genia Schönbaumsfeld has recently argued for the view that our ordinary perceptual reasons provide support for heavyweight metaphysical and epistemological views, such as that there is a mind-independent physical world. Call this the Heavyweight Reasons Thesis. In this paper, I argue that we should reject the Heavyweight Reasons Thesis. I also argue that the rejection of the Heavyweight Reasons Thesis is compatible with the Factive Perceptual Reasons Thesis, the thesis that our perceptual reasons for our ordinary beliefs can be factive, but that factive reasons aren’t necessarily better reasons than subjectively indiscriminable non-factive reasons.
Eunotia itacueretabaensis sp. nov. (Bacillariophyceae, Eunotiaceae) from the Campos Gerais region, Southern Brazil

Authors: BARTOZEK ELAINE C.R. , TREMARIN PRISCILA I. , PERES CLETO K. , BRANCO CIRO C.Z.
Published: April 2020

We describe a new periphytic eunotioid species, Eunotia itacueretabaensis sp. nov., found in a second order stream in Vila Velha State Park in Southern Brazil. We analyzed both size variation and external and internal morphological features under light and scanning electron microscopy. The new species is mainly characterized by large size and morphology variation, and by the presence of three slight undulations in the dorsal margin of the valve in larger individuals, while smaller ones feature a single undulation, making it distinct from other known species. Its morphology is compared with similar species, as Eunotia pectinalis and Eunotia silvae. Eunotia itacueretabaensis was found attached to submerged tree trunks and forming macroscopic colonies in a fast flow acidic stream. Besides representing a new addition to the present database of Brazilian diatom flora, our study highlights the important role of environmental conservation areas, which serve as important repositories for unexplored species.
Cytotaxonomy of five Arabis L. (Brassicaceae) species endemic to Turkey

Authors: ŞİRİN EMRAH
Published: April 2020

In this study, the karyomorphology of five endemic Arabis taxa (A. alanyensis, A. androsacea, A. aubrietioides, A. davisii, and A. deflexa) was examined. The chromosome number of these species was determined for the first time. As a result of the karyomorphological studies, the chromosome number was determined to be x =8 for all species. Arabis androsacea and A. aubrietioides are tetraploid whereas other species are diploid. Considering the asymmetry indices, we can conclude that all taxa have symmetrical karyotypes. The most common karyotype formulas are 2n = 4x = 32m and 2n = 2x = 14m + 2sm, respectively. Arabis davisii (on the second chromosome pair) and A. deflexa (on the third chromosome pair) are distinguished from others by showing a secondary constriction.
Review of the Camponotus samius complex (Hymenoptera: Formicidae) in the Turano-Balkan region, with the description of a new species from Iran
Authors: SALATA SEBASTIAN , KHALILI-MOGHADAM ARSALAN , BOROWIEC LECH
Published: April 2020

Here we define the Camponotus samius complex, a distinct subunit within the compressus-sylvaticus group, and revise the species known from the Turano-Balkan region (the Balkans, Middle East, Anatolia, Caucasus, Iran and W Turkestan). We confirm the presence of six species of the complex from the Turano-Balkan region, and we provide diagnoses and a key. Additionally, based on new material from the Chaharmahal va Bakhtiari Province of Iran, we describe Camponotus bakhtiariensis sp. nov.—a new member of the samius complex.
A new species of Chasmogenus Sharp, 1882 and new records of Hydrophilidae (Coleoptera) from Northeastern Brazil
Authors: ALVES TAYNÁ , CLARKSON BRUNO , LIMA LUCAS RAMOS COSTA
Published: April 2020

Chasmogenus cajuina sp. nov., a new species of the water scavenger beetle (Hydrophilidae: Acidocerinae) is described and illustrated, based on adult males, collected in the Lower Parnaíba River Basin, north of Piauí, Northeast Region of Brazil. In addition, Helochares (Sindolus) femoratus (Brullé, 1841) and Hydrobiomorpha spatula Bachmann, 1988 are recorded from Piauí State for the first time.
Fabrication and Photoluminescent Properties of Gd2O3: Eu3+ Nanowires in AAO Template
Authors: Li Suwen , Song Hongwei , Yu Lixin , Liu Zhongxin , Pan Guohui , Yu Hongquan , Dai Qilin , Fan Libo , Lei Yanqiang , Wang Tie , Ren Xinguang , Lu Shaozhe , Zhao Haifeng
Published: April 2020

Uniform Gd2O3: Eu3+ nanowires were fabricated by using anodic aluminum oxide template (AAO). The spectral measurements indicate that with the increasing annealing temperature the excitation band of Eu3+ in Gd2O3 : Eu3+
nanowires/AAO shifted blue, the intensity ratio of 5D0–7F2 to 5D0–7F1 decreased, and the lifetime became longer. In the sample annealed at 1000°C two spectral components, the sharper and
broader lines were identified, corresponding to two different local environments, the Eu3+ ions in cubic phase and in amorphous phase, respectively. The 5D0–7F1 transitions of Eu3+ ions in cubic phase had longer lifetime
than that in amorphous phase. In contrast to the lifetime of the 5D0–7FJ transitions in the bulk, that in Gd2O3 : Eu3+/AAO composite films increased due to influence of the surrounding media (AAO).
Spherical SiO2 @ GdPO4 : Eu3+ Core–Shell Phosphors: Sol–Gel Synthesis and Characterization
Authors: Lin Cuikun , Zhao Bo , Wang Zhenling , Yu Min , Wang Huan , Kong Deyan , Lin Jun
Published: April 2020

Nanocrystalline GdPO4 : Eu3+ phosphor layers were coated on non-aggregated, monodisperse and spherical SiO2 particles by Pechini sol–gel method, resulting in the formation of core–shell structured SiO2 @ GdPO4
: Eu3+ particles. X-ray diffraction (XRD), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR), field emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), photoluminescence (PL), low-voltage cathodoluminescence (CL), time-resolved PL spectra and lifetimes
were used to characterize the core–shell structured materials. Both XRD and FT-IR results indicate that GdPO4 layers have been successfully coated on the SiO2 particles, which can be further verified by the images of FESEM and TEM. Under UV light excitation, the
SiO2 @ GdPO4 : Eu3+ phosphors show orange-red luminescence with Eu3+ 5D0–7F1 (593 nm) as the most prominent group. The PL excitation and emission spectra suggest that an energy transfer occurs
from Gd3+ to Eu3+ in SiO2 @ GdPO4 : Eu3+ phosphors. The obtained core–shell phosphors have potential applications in FED and PDP devices.
On the Effect of Nanocrystallization and Disorder on the Magnetic Properties of Cu-Rich, FeMnCu Alloys
Authors: Stewart S. J. , Marco J. F. , Crespo P. , Romero J. J. , Martínez A. , Hernando A. , Palomares F. J. , González J. M.
Published: April 2020

We report on the temperature dependencies of the Mössbauer spectra and the AC magnetic susceptibility measured in Cu-rich, FeMnCu samples prepared by mechanically alloying, using, on the one side, Cu and prealloyed FeMn powders and, on the other, pure element Cu, Mn, and Fe powders.
From the correlation of the Mössbauer and susceptibility data we conclude about the basic characteristics of the phase distributions present in the different studied samples. Those distributions are a consequence of both the nanostructure induced upon milling and of the different signs
of the Mn/Cu (negative) and Fe/Cu (positive) enthalpies of mixing. The proposed phase distributions are significantly different in the samples prepared from different precursors and this fact is analyzed in terms of the disproportion of the precursor FeMn alloy and in those of the favoured
Mn/Cu interdiffusion and the hindered Fe/Cu one.
A Statistical–Dynamical Downscaling for the Urban Heat Island and Building Energy Consumption—Analysis of Its Uncertainties
Authors: Schoetter Robert , Hidalgo Julia , Jougla Renaud , Masson Valéry , Rega Mario , Pergaud Julien
Published: April 2020

High-resolution maps of the urban heat island (UHI) and building energy consumption are relevant for urban planning in the context of climate change mitigation and adaptation. A statistical–dynamical downscaling for these parameters is proposed in the present study. It combines a statistical local weather type approach with dynamical simulations using the mesoscale atmospheric model Meso-NH coupled to the urban canopy model Town Energy Balance. The downscaling is subject to uncertainties related to the weather type approach (statistical uncertainty) and to the numerical models (dynamical uncertainty). These uncertainties are quantified for two French cities (Toulouse and Dijon) for which long-term dense high-quality observations are available. The seasonal average nocturnal UHI intensity is simulated with less than 0.2 K bias for Dijon, but it is overestimated by up to 0.8 K for Toulouse. The sensitivity of the UHI intensity to weather type is, on average, captured by Meso-NH. The statistical uncertainty is as large as the dynamical uncertainty if only one day is simulated for each weather type. It can be considerably reduced if 3–6 days are taken instead. The UHI reduces the building energy consumption by 10% in the center of Toulouse; it should therefore be taken into account in the production of building energy consumption maps.
Referral Prioritization in Home Care Occupational Therapy: A Matter of Perspective
Authors: Raymond Marie-Hélène , Feldman Debbie Ehrmann , Demers Louise
Published: April 2020

Background.

Prioritizing referrals for home care occupational therapy is somewhat subjective, and public and patient perspectives on waiting list priorities are unknown.

Purpose.

To explore the views of home care occupational therapists (OTs), older persons (OPs) and adults with disabilities on waiting list priorities, as well as issues and challenges underlying these priorities.

Method.

We conducted in-depth interviews with 11 OTs, 10 OPs and 9 adults with disabilities. Participants were asked to prioritize referral scenarios while explaining their choices. Directed and conventional content analysis allowed the identification of themes for each group of participants.

Findings.

OTs experienced conflicts of values but mainly prioritized referrals based on client safety. OPs sought to maximize client’s independence, and persons with disabilities aimed to improve clients’ social participation.

Implications.

OTs should seek the perspectives of their target clientele on referral prioritization criteria and strive to adjust prioritization practices accordingly.
Electromechanical impact analysis of 2–2 cement-based piezoelectric sensor considering resistor
Authors: Zhang Taotao , Li Jiayi , Liu Wende
Published: April 2020

The model of the 2–2 type cement-based piezoelectric sensor, which is connected with a resistor while under the impact mechanical load, is established in this article. The dynamic theoretical expressions are acquired by utilizing the separation variable method and the matrix coefficient method and then used to analyze and discuss the electrical properties and the influence of the resistance value, which is verified correctly by numerical analysis. Also, the effect of resistor value and different material parameters on dynamic properties of such sensor is further investigated. And a reverse voltage is proposed to balance the displacement of the free-end and the stress of the fixed-end to enhance the safety. At last, the acoustic impedance ratio associated with the compatibility of the composite is discussed. The conclusions discussed in this work could provide some theoretical references for optimizing the design of the 2–2 cement-based piezoelectric sensor connected to electrical components in practical application.
Evaluation and optimization of a clinical pharmacist driven transitions of care model for malignant hematology
Authors: Wind Lucas S , Knight Thomas G , Auten Jessica J , Bates Jill S , Marucci Leonardo , Creedle Crista J , Foster Matthew C , Muluneh Benyam
Published: April 2020

Purpose

To implement and optimize a pilot transitions of care model for scheduled chemotherapy admissions in patients with hematologic malignancies at our institution. Methodology: We utilized the plan-do-study-act (PDSA) quality improvement technique to prospectively measure success of interventions related to improving transitions of care processes that occurred in multiple stages including development of standardized operating procedures, electronic medical record documentation, and education to the malignant hematology multidisciplinary group. Chart review was performed retrospectively for at least nine patients per PDSA cycle. Areas of intervention addressed and measured regarding communication between the ambulatory care and acute care settings included: admission purpose, processes related to insurance benefits investigations for specialty medications required in the post-discharge setting, and plan for growth factors, prophylactic antimicrobials, and follow-up. Results and conclusions: We included 28 patients and performed a total of three PDSA cycles demonstrating specific improvements in: communication regarding status of benefits investigations performed for specialty medications prior to admission, resolution of these benefits investigations at various time points, improvement in efficient use of the electronic medical record for chemotherapy orders, and patient instructions for appropriate use of prophylactic antimicrobials. Although improvement was noted initially with prescribing of discharge antiemetics and antimicrobials, regression to baseline was noted with the third PDSA cycle.
Evidence of pulmonary arterial hypertension in two patients with common variable immunodeficiency
Authors: Huston Jessica , Johnson Joyce , Hemnes Anna , Pugh Meredith
Published: April 2020

Common variable immunodeficiency is a chronic illness plagued with recurrent infections and the potential to develop autoimmune disease. These patients may manifest a spectrum of complications ranging from hematologic malignancy to chronic parenchymal lung disease. Regular immunoglobulin replacement therapy improves immunologic debility but does not mitigate other features of this disease. Here, we discuss a complication of common variable immunodeficiency not previously characterized in the literature. We present two cases of advanced pulmonary vascular disease associated with common variable immunodeficiency treated with pulmonary vasodilators.
Attitudes towards exercise among medical specialists who manage patients with pulmonary hypertension
Authors: Chia Karen S. W. , Wong Peter K. K. , Gonzalez Senen , Kotlyar Eugene , Faux Steven G. , Shiner Christine T.
Published: April 2020

Exercise training was not traditionally recommended for patients with pulmonary hypertension. However, recent work has demonstrated that exercise improves endurance and quality‐of‐life in patients with pulmonary hypertension. Unfortunately, patients with pulmonary hypertension are often sedentary. While some studies have examined patient attitudes to exercise, none have investigated physician perspectives on exercise in patients with pulmonary hypertension. This multinational survey of physicians involved in treating patients with pulmonary hypertension sought to ascertain physician attitudes to exercise and physician‐identified barriers and enablers of exercise in this patient population. We collected cross‐sectional survey data from a cohort of 280 physicians, including rehabilitation physicians, cardiologists, respiratory physicians and rheumatologists. We found that overall, 86% physicians recommended exercise, in line with current guidelines, although there were differences in the rationale for prescribing exercise and in the type of exercise prescription. Barriers to exercise included patient‐related factors, such as patient ill health preventing exercise; poor patient motivation and lack of understanding regarding the benefits of exercise. Systemic barriers included cost/funding issues and limited availability of appropriate services. Perceived enablers of exercise included access to appropriate programmes, provision of education and supportive treating clinicians. Further research is required to identify and implement interventions to promote physical activity in patients with pulmonary hypertension.
Clinical correlates of insomnia in patients with persistent post-traumatic headache compared with migraine
Authors: Kim Soo-Kyoung , Chong Catherine D. , Dumkrieger Gina , Ross Katherine , Berisha Visar , Schwedt Todd J.
Published: April 2020

Background

Close associations between insomnia with other clinical factors have been identified in migraine, but there have been few studies investigating associations between insomnia and clinical factors in patients with persistent post-traumatic headache (PPTH). The study objective was to contrast the severity of insomnia symptoms in PPTH, migraine, and healthy controls, and to identify factors associated with insomnia in patients with PPTH vs. migraine.

Methods

In this cross-sectional cohort study, 57 individuals with PPTH attributed to mild traumatic brain injury, 39 with migraine, and 39 healthy controls were included. Participants completed a detailed headache characteristics questionnaire, the Migraine Disability Assessment Scale (MIDAS), Insomnia Severity Index (ISI), Hyperacusis Questionnaire (HQ), Allodynia Symptom Checklist, Photosensitivity Assessment Questionnaire, Beck Depression Inventory (BDI), State-Trait Anxiety Inventory, Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) checklist, Ray Auditory Verbal Learning Test, and the Trail Making Test A and B to assess headache characteristics, disability, insomnia symptoms, sensory hypersensitivities, and neuropsychological factors. Fisher’s test and one-way ANOVA or Tukey’s Honest Significant Difference were used to assess group differences of categorical and continuous data. Stepwise linear regression analyses were conducted to identify clinical variables associated with insomnia symptoms.

Results

Those with PPTH had significantly higher ISI scores (16.7 ± 6.6) compared to migraine patients (11.3 ± 6.4) and healthy controls (4.1 ± 4.8) (p <  0.001). For those with PPTH, insomnia severity was most strongly correlated with the BDI (Spearman’s rho (ρ) = 0.634, p <  0.01), followed by Trait Anxiety (ρ = 0.522, p <  0.01), PTSD (ρ = 0.505, p <  0.01), HQ (ρ = 0.469, p <  0.01), State Anxiety (ρ = 0.437, p <  0.01), and MIDAS scores (ρ = 0.364, p <  0.01). According to linear regression models, BDI, headache intensity, and hyperacusis scores were significantly positively associated with insomnia severity in those with PPTH, while only delayed memory recall was negatively associated with insomnia severity in those with migraine.

Conclusions

Insomnia symptoms were more severe in those with PPTH compared to migraine and healthy control cohorts. Depression, headache intensity, and hyperacusis were associated with insomnia in individuals with PPTH. Future studies should determine the bidirectional impact of treating insomnia and its associated symptoms.
Controlling DNA Translocation Through Solid-state Nanopores
Authors: Yuan Zhishan , Liu Youming , Dai Min , Yi Xin , Wang Chengyong
Published: April 2020

Compared with the status of bio-nanopores, there are still several challenges that need to be overcome before solid-state nanopores can be applied in commercial DNA sequencing. Low spatial and low temporal resolution are the two major challenges. Owing to restrictions on nanopore length and the solid-state nanopores’ surface properties, there is still room for improving the spatial resolution. Meanwhile, DNA translocation is too fast under an electrical force, which results in the acquisition of few valid data points. The temporal resolution of solid-state nanopores could thus be enhanced if the DNA translocation speed is well controlled. In this mini-review, we briefly summarize the methods of improving spatial resolution and concentrate on controllable methods to promote the resolution of nanopore detection. In addition, we provide a perspective on the development of DNA sequencing by nanopores.
Prediction Network of Metamaterial with Split Ring Resonator Based on Deep Learning
Authors: Hou Zheyu , Tang Tingting , Shen Jian , Li Chaoyang , Li Fuyu
Published: April 2020

The introduction of “metamaterials” has had a profound impact on several fields, including electromagnetics. Designing a metamaterial’s structure on demand, however, is still an extremely time-consuming process. As an efficient machine learning method, deep learning has been widely used for data classification and regression in recent years and in fact shown good generalization performance. We have built a deep neural network for on-demand design. With the required reflectance as input, the parameters of the structure are automatically calculated and then output to achieve the purpose of designing on demand. Our network has achieved low mean square errors (MSE), with MSE of 0.005 on both the training and test sets. The results indicate that using deep learning to train the data, the trained model can more accurately guide the design of the structure, thereby speeding up the design process. Compared with the traditional design process, using deep learning to guide the design of metamaterials can achieve faster, more accurate, and more convenient purposes.
The primary cilium dampens proliferative signaling and represses a G2/M transcriptional network in quiescent myoblasts
Authors: Venugopal Nisha , Ghosh Ananga , Gala Hardik , Aloysius Ajoy , Vyas Neha , Dhawan Jyotsna
Published: April 2020

Background

Reversible cell cycle arrest (quiescence/G0) is characteristic of adult stem cells and is actively controlled at multiple levels. Quiescent cells also extend a primary cilium, which functions as a signaling hub. Primary cilia have been shown to be important in multiple developmental processes, and are implicated in numerous developmental disorders. Although the association of the cilium with G0 is established, the role of the cilium in the control of the quiescence program is still poorly understood.

Results

Primary cilia are dynamically regulated across different states of cell cycle exit in skeletal muscle myoblasts: quiescent myoblasts elaborate a primary cilium in vivo and in vitro, but terminally differentiated myofibers do not. Myoblasts where ciliogenesis is ablated using RNAi against a key ciliary assembly protein (IFT88) can exit the cell cycle but display an altered quiescence program and impaired self-renewal. Specifically, the G0 transcriptome in IFT88 knockdown cells is aberrantly enriched for G2/M regulators, suggesting a focused repression of this network by the cilium. Cilium-ablated cells also exhibit features of activation including enhanced activity of Wnt and mitogen signaling and elevated protein synthesis via inactivation of the translational repressor 4E-BP1.

Conclusions

Taken together, our results show that the primary cilium integrates and dampens proliferative signaling, represses translation and G2/M genes, and is integral to the establishment of the quiescence program.
Validation of in-house liquid direct agglutination test antigen: the potential diagnostic test in visceral Leishimaniasis endemic areas of Northwest Ethiopia
Authors: Ayelign Birhanu , Jemal Mohammedamin , Negash Markos , Genetu Meaza , Wondmagegn Tadelo , Zeleke Ayalew Jejaw , Worku Ligabaw , Bayih Abebe Genetu , Shumie Girma , Behaksra Sinknesh Wolde , Fenta Tiruwork , Damte Demekech , Yeshanew Arega , Gadisa Endalamaw
Published: April 2020

Background

Visceral leishmaniasis in Ethiopia is a re-emerging threat to public health, with increased geographical distribution and number of cases. It is a fatal disease without early diagnosis and treatment; thus, the availability of affordable diagnostic tools is crucial. However, due to delays caused by import regulations, procurement and late delivery of imported test kits, accessibility remains a problem in the control program. Therefore, we aimed to produce and evaluate the performance of an in-house liquid (AQ) direct agglutination test (DAT) antigen.

Result

The AQ-DAT was produced at the Armauer Hansen Research Institute, usingLeishmania donovanistrain (MHOM/ET/67/L82). Sera from 272 participants; 110 microscopically confirmed cases of VL, 76 apparently healthy and 86 patients who had infectious disease other than VL were tested with AQ-DAT, and standard kits: Freeze-dried DAT (FD-DAT) and rK39. Taking microscopy as a gold standard; the sensitivity and specificity of the AQ-DAT were 97.3 and 98.8%, respectively. It had high degrees of agreement (k > 0.8), with a significant (P < 0.05) correlation compared to microscopy, FD-DAT, and rK39.

Conclusion

Although further standardization is required, the in-house AQ-DAT could improve diagnostic accessibility, minimize intermittent stock outs and strengthen the national VL control program.