bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
EFFECT OF IMAGE MATCHING WINDOW SIZE ON SATELLITE JITTER FREQUENCY DETECTION
Authors: Zhang H. , Liu S. , Ye Z. , Tong X. , Xie H. , Zheng S. , Du Q.
Published: August 2020

Abstract. Satellite attitude jitter is a common and complex phenomenon for high-resolution satellites and it is detectable by multi-temporal image matching. This paper analyses the effect of image matching window size on jitter frequency detection. First, two simulation images with a given short time lag and line scanning frequency affected by a modelled jitter are generated based on the principle of dynamic imaging model. Then, the relative image distortions are obtained by dense image matching with different matching window size and the frequency is estimated through spectrum analysis of the obtained image distortions. The experimental results demonstrated the feasibility and reliability of high frequency jitter detection based on dense image matching, and the results indicated that the maximum detectable frequency is almost not affected by the change of image matching window size, which provided useful demonstration of image-based satellite jitter detection capacity.
DEVELOPING AN IMAGE BASED LOW-COST MOBILE MAPPING SYSTEM FOR GIS DATA ACQUISITION
Authors: Frentzos E. , Tournas E. , Skarlatos D.
Published: August 2020

Abstract. The aim of this study is to develop a low-cost mobile mapping system (MMS) with the integration of vehicle-based navigation data and stereo images acquired along vehicle paths. The system consists of a dual frequency GNSS board combined with a low-cost INS unit and two machine vision cameras that collect colour image data for road and roadside objects. The navigation data and the image acquisition are properly synchronized to associate position and attitude to each digital frame captured. In this way, upon pixel location of objects appearing on the video frames, their absolute geographical coordinates can be extracted by employing standard photogrammetric methods. Several calibration steps are implemented before survey operation: camera calibration, relative orientation between cameras and determination of rotation angles and offsets between vehicle and cameras reference frames. A software tool has been developed to facilitate and speed up the calibration procedures. Furthermore, easy object coordinate extraction is supported, either in auto mode, where the conjugate image coordinates are obtained in real time using image correlation techniques. Several surveying experiments were executed to certify and check the accuracy and efficiency of the system. From the achieved results, the developed system is efficient for collecting and positioning road spatial objects such as such as road boundaries, traffic lights, road signs, power poles, etc, more rapidly and less expensively. The obtained absolute positional accuracy is less than 1 meter, depending on the availability and quality of the GPS signal.
GEOMETRIC PERFORMANCE OF A CAMERA WITH SINGLE SENSOR AND MULTIPLE HEADS
Authors: Tommaselli A. M. G. , Berveglieri A. , Imai N. N. , Santos G. H. , Moriya E. A. S. , Watanabe F. S. Y. , Salvador Neto L.
Published: August 2020

Abstract. Remote sensing with lightweight optical sensors is becoming a powerful tool to solve many problems in agriculture. Achieving the level of spatial and spectral resolutions required for this type of detection at an acceptable cost-benefit ratio has motivated the development of new sensors which must be lightweight to be carried by mobile robots either aerial or terrestrial. One new type of multiple head cameras has been developed by Agrowing, an Israeli company developing technology for digital agriculture. The aim of this paper is to analyse the geometric features of an Agrowing dual head camera trough calibration experiments. The sensor was calibrated following two options, depending on the cropping technique used to produce the 4 spectral bands. Different calibration techniques were also used and very accurate results were achieved. Experiments with data collected with a UAV also confirmed the results achieved with close range calibration.
PERFORMANCE EVALUATION OF ELM WITH A-OPTIMIZED DESIGN REGULARIZATION FOR REMOTE SENSING IMAGERY CLASSIFICATION
Authors: Lin Y. , Zhang T. , Qian K. , Xie G. , Cai J.
Published: August 2020

Abstract. The automatic classification technology of remote sensing images is the key technology to extract the rich geo-information in remote sensing images and to monitor the dynamic changes of land use and ecological environment. Remote sensing images have the characteristics of large amount of information and many dimensions. Therefore, how to classify and extract the information in remote sensing images has become a crucial issue in the field of remote sensing science. With the development of neural network theory, many scholars have carried out research on the application of neural network models in remote sensing image classification. However, there are still some problems to be solved in artificial neural network methods. In this study, considering the problem of large-scale land classification for medium resolution and multi-spectral remote sensing imagery, an improved machine learning algorithm based on extreme learning machine for remote sensing classification has been developed via regularization theory. The improved algorithm is more suitable for the application of post-classification change monitoring of features in large scale imaging. In this study, our main job is to evaluate the performance of ELM with A-optimal design regularization (here we call it simply as A-optimal RELM). So the accuracy and efficiency of A-optimal RELM algorithm for remote sensing imagery classification, as well as the algorithms of support vector machine (SVM) and original ELM are compared in the experiments. The experimental results show that A-optimal RELM performs the best on all three different images with overall accuracy of 97.27% and 95.03% respectively. Besides, the A-optimal RELM performs better on the details of distinguish similar and confusing terrestrial object pixels.
Treatment decision-making in men with localized prostate cancer living in remote area: A cross-sectional observational study
Authors: El-Haouly Abir , Dragomir Alice , El-Rami Hares , Liandier Frédéric , Lacasse Anaïs
Published: August 2020

Introduction: For the management of localized prostate cancer, patient treatment choice is poorly documented among people living in remote areas where access to certain treatments offered in large centres involves travelling several hundred kilometres. This study aimed to describe and identify the determinants of treatment decision-making in men with localized prostate cancer living in remote areas.

Methods: In this cross-sectional study, patients with prostate cancer were recruited from Rouyn-Noranda’s urology clinic (Quebec, Canada) between 2017 and 2019.

Results: A total of 127 men (mean age 68.34±7.23 years) constituted the study sample. Radiotherapy, a treatment not available locally, was chosen most frequently (67.7%), followed by options available locally, such as surgery (22.8%) and active surveillance (9.4%). Most patients preferred to play an active role in this choice (53.5%) and agreed with the statement, “I chose that treatment because it gives the best chance for a cure” (86.6%). Multiple logistic regression analysis revealed that cancer stage (odds ratio [OR] 10.15; 95% confidence interval [CI] 3.18–32.40) was the only factor associated with radiotherapy choice (patients with lower stage cancer were more likely to choose radiotherapy). The socioeconomic status was not associated with treatment choice.

Conclusions: While radiotherapy was not available locally, it was the most frequently chosen treatment, even though the available literature suggests that no one treatment option is superior in terms of cancer control. The choice of radiotherapy is not associated with patient income, but rather the cancer stage. This result could be explained by the patients’ desire to avoid surgery and its adverse effects.
Calculation methods of non-stationary temperature fields influence on foundation in cryolithozone
Authors: Sidnyaev Nikolay Ivanovich , Vasiliev Vasilii Ivanovich , Ilina Yuliya Sergeevna
Published: August 2020

  This article is devoted to the mathematical modeling and computing experiment in problems of temperature fields forecast in continuous foundations in cryolithozone, which will provide a qualitative approach to non-stationary thermal calculations for making design decisions to ensure the stability and reliability of bases and foundations of buildings in the Arctic zone.  The article formulates the problem of forecasting by determining changes in the temperature, areal distribution, thickness, and vertical structure of permafrost, seasonal and perennial freezing of the soil, their temperature strength state, and properties in connection with the construction of buildings. Presented mathematical calculations are based mainly on the assumption of a non-stationary process of heat exchange. Mathematical models for determining depth of thawing are considered. The problem of determining the temperature in the basement of the foundation, limited on the one side, in which the temperature depends on only one coordinate with the condition that the surface temperature of the permafrost soil undergoes periodic fluctuations around zero value under the influence of external influences, has been solved. It is demonstrated that the two-dimensional problem of permafrost ground with a semi-infinite foundation thickness can be generalized even more. The problem is formulated in the form of a differential equation of heat balance taking into account the heat flux, which varies according to the Fourier’s law.  
Rib Somatic Dysfunction Among General Surgical Patients
Authors: Baltazar Gerard A. , Kolwitz Christine E. , Florek Michael G.
Published: August 2020

Context

Upper abdominal or chest pain, tenderness, or sensation of the presence of a mass may lead to general surgery (GS) service referral. These symptoms may be related to rib somatic dysfunction (SD).

Objective

To describe rib SD in the GS setting and help build a foundation for additional osteopathic manipulative treatment (OMT) research in surgical care.

Methods

The authors retrospectively reviewed and analyzed the electronic medical records of patient encounters in a GS outpatient clinic or private office in Bronx, New York. Included patients had emergency department or inpatient GS consultations with the diagnosis of rib SD (ICD-9 739.8 or ICD-10 M99.08) initially made by the GS service from February 1, 2016, to January 31, 2019. Six-month follow-up data were also reviewed.

Results

Twelve patients had rib SD as the underlying cause of their chief concern upon presentation to the GS service. Only 1 also had an underlying operative GS disease. The GS service treated 11 patients (91.7%) with OMT; 1 patient refused OMT. Time spent on OMT ranged from 5 to 30 minutes, with a median of 10 minutes and a mean (SD) of 12.7 (9.05) minutes. The OMT techniques used included balanced ligamentous tension, counterstrain, muscle energy, myofascial release, rib-raising, and soft tissue. All patients who received OMT demonstrated improvement, and 3 patients required osteopathic manipulative medicine/neuromuscular medicine follow-up.

Conclusions

Rib somatic dysfunction may contribute to patient referral to a GS service, and OMT performed by general surgeons may help provide optimal surgical care.
Treatment of Metal and Textile Fabrics Surfaces Using Plasma
Authors: Mansour Rawia , Elshafei Ali Mohamed
Published: August 2020

In the next few years, the progresses in plasma technology will play an increasing role in our lives, providing new sources of energy. The studies conducted by scientists on plasma state not only accelerate technological developments, but also describe the characteristics and types of plasmas and improve the understanding of natural phenomena. Plasmas represent the recent fourth state of matter in addition to the three fundamental states namely solids, liquids and gases. Plasma is defined as a state of matter where the gas phase is energized until atomic electrons are no longer associated with any particular atomic nucleus or as a matter that exists as a mixture of neutral atoms, ions, electrons, molecular ions and molecules present in excited and ground states. Plasma is the result of the ionization of atoms and the level of ionization is mainly controlled by temperature, where an increase of temperature increases the degree of ionization. The term “plasma” introduced by the scientist Irving Langmuir (1928) and comes from a Greek word that means moldable or Jelly material. Plasma may be produced by either heating a gas at high temperature until it is ionized or by subjecting it to a strong electric or magnetic fields. Investigators categorized plasma as non-thermal and thermal plasma. In non-thermal plasma, the electrons are at a much higher temperature than the ions and neutral particles however, in thermal plasma, the electrons and heavier particles are in thermal equilibrium at the same temperature. Plasma treatment of surfaces is initiated when electrons, molecules or neutral gas atoms, positive ions, ions along with excited gas molecules and atoms come together and interact with a particular surface. Plasma treatments can be utilized to develop thin protective layers to metal surfaces, as surface pretreatment and cleaning are the most important operations of coating technologies, in addition to induce both surface modifications and bulk property enhancements of textile materials.
Investigating Students’ Academic Performance in Physics Based on Kolb’s Experiential Learning Model in Rivers State
Authors: Omeodu M. D.
Published: August 2020

The objective of the study was to determine the academic performance of students in physics based on their learning style. The population of the study was all science students (SS2) in Rivers state secondary schools. Sampling was done using cluster random technique. The total sample size of the study was one hundred and twenty (120) SS2 students. There were two instruments used in carrying out this study which were Kolbs’ learning style inventory/questionnaire developed by David Kolb (1984) and Physics Achievement Test (PAT) which was developed by the researcher. Percentage, Mean and standard deviation was used to analyze the data collected through the Physics achievement test. Analysis of variance was the statistical tool used to test hypothesis at 0.05 level of significance. Findings of the study showed that convergers and assimilators are high academic achievers in Physics than other kinds of learning styles. The study recommended that Physics teachers should strive to understand the learning styles that is more common in his/her class and design physics lessons in that direction so as to aid understanding of the majority in the class.
Histopathological Pattern of Fungal Infections Seen in Usmanu Danfodiyo University Teaching Hospital Sokoto from 2014 To 2018
Authors: Mohammed M. O. , Sirajo M. , Okechi O. O. , Muhammad A. T. , Tsamiya R. I. , Abubakar U. , Mohammed I. , Umar A. , Dallatu M. K. , Ajayi A. S. , Sani S. M. , Abdulazeez A. , Hali A. A. , Isah M. , Ma’aruf S. Y. , Bello B. A. , Bunza J. M. , Kabir H. , Dogondaji F. A. , Tambuwal H. M. , Sirajo M. , Okorie N. , Ngaski A. A. , Isah D. , Sani S. M. , Salisu A , Idris N. A. , Ya’u A. , Wasagu H. I. , Abdullahi H.
Published: August 2020

Introduction: Fungal infection is a common manifestation in this part of the country and worldwide. It is essential to define the epidemiology of fungal infection in a particular environment.

Aim: This study aims to analyze the diagnosis of fungal infection carried out in patients attending the histopathology department (UDUTH) Sokoto from 2014 to 2018.

Method: This study is a retrospective study of all fungal infection biopsies carried out from 2014 – 2019 in Usmanu Danfodiyo University Teaching Hospital, Sokoto, northwestern Nigeria, a referral centre for the neighbouring northern states Kebbi and Zamfara. Ethical clearance was obtained from the ethical committee of UDUTH, data was collected from histological report cards and analyze manually. Some tissue blocks of the case were retrieved to confirm the diagnosis. A total of 66 requests for fungal diagnosis were received from January 2014 to December 2018, which represent about 0.7% of the total biopsies received over the study period.

Result: Out of the 66 of request for fungal diagnosis 32(48.5%) were fungal positive. Subcutaneous mycosis was the most frequent fungal infection with a frequency of 18(56.25%). Males were more frequently affected than females with the frequencies of 18(56.25%) and 14 (43.75%) respectively.
Phenolic Content, Antioxidant Activity, 15-Lipoxygenase and Lipid Peroxidase Inhibitory Effects of two Medicinal Plants from Burkina Faso: Acacia macrostachya Reich. Ex Benth (Mimosaceae) and Lepidagathis anobrya NEES (Acanthaceae)
Authors: Coulibaly Adjaratou C. , Kabré W. L. M. Esther B. , Traoré Mariam N. , Traoré Tata K. , Nignan Nouhoun , Ouédraogo Noufou , Kiendrebeogo Martin , Sawadogo Richard W.
Published: August 2020

Acacia macrostachya (Mimosaceae) and Lepidagathis anobrya (Acanthaceae) are two medicinal plants used in Burkina Faso folk medicine for the treatment of inflammatory diseases. The purpose of this study was to assess the phenolic content, the antioxidant, lipoxygenase and lipid peroxidaseinhibitory effects of Acacia macrostachya and Lepidagathis anobrya.The experimental results revealed that Acacia mascrostachya and Lepidagathis anobrya have respective total phenolic contents  varies from 240.13 ± 0.44 and 30.88 ± 0.30 mg GAE / 100 mg extract; and total flavonoids contents of 2.30 ± 0.002 and 4.24 ± 0.28 QE / 100 mg of extract. The two plants demonstrated anti-free radicals (ABTS) capacities of 0.06 and 0.14 TEAC while the FRAP reducing power of 2.24 ± 0.08 and 4.43 ± 0.12 mmol AAE per 100 mg respectively. Acacia macrostachya and Lepidagathis anobrya showed significant inhibitory effect on lipid oxidation with the inhibition percentage values of 55.45 ± 1.48 and 66.36 ± 0.65 respectively. In the 15-lipoxygenase inhibition, Acacia macrostachya demonstrated very important inhibitory effect with the IC50 value of 1.32 ± 0.16 while the effect of Lepidagathis anobrya is very moderate.The results of this work demonstrated the interest of Acacia macrostachya and Lepidagathis anobrya in the management of inflammatory diseases.
Newton‐based extremum seeking of higher‐derivative maps with time‐varying delays
Authors: Rušiti Damir , Oliveira Tiago Roux , Krstić Miroslav , Gerdts Matthias
Published: August 2020

We present a Newton‐based extremum seeking algorithm for maximizing higher derivatives of unknown maps in the presence of time‐varying delays. Dealing with time‐varying delays has impact in the predictor design in terms of the transport PDE with variable convection speed functions, the backstepping transformation as well as the conditions imposed on the delay. First, the delay can grow at a rate strictly smaller than one but not indefinitely, the delay must remain uniformly bounded. Second, the delay may decrease at any uniformly bounded rate but not indefinitely, that is, it must remain positive. We incorporate a filtered predictor feedback with a perturbation‐based estimate for the Hessian's inverse using a differential Riccati equation, where the convergence rate of the real‐time optimizer can be made user‐assignable, rather than being dependent on the unknown Hessian of the higher‐derivative map. Furthermore, exponential stability and convergence to a small neighborhood of the unknown extremum point are achieved for locally quadratic derivatives by using backstepping transformation and averaging theory in infinite dimensions.
Diffusion of Cation Impurities through Ceria Grain Boundaries
Authors: Kwak No Woo , Lim Dae‐Kwang , Jeong Seung Jin , Byeon Pilgyu , Chung Sung‐Yoon , Jung WooChul
Published: August 2020

Cerium oxide (ceria) is widely used in relation to solid electrolytes in multiple high‐temperature devices, allowing metal components in contact to penetrate into the ceria, especially along the grain boundaries. However, few researchers have concentrated on the migration of metal cations at the operating temperatures (e.g., 600–750 °C) of these devices. Here, the diffusion and solubility of transition metals are investigated through acceptor‐doped ceria grain boundaries as a function of the temperature, pO2, dopant type, and doping concentration. The use of thin‐film samples with high grain boundary density levels and time‐of‐flight secondary ion mass spectrometry with ppb‐level chemical resolution enables an accurate analysis of the concentration profiles of metal species present inside the grain boundaries at such low temperatures. Ni, Fe, and Pt migrate unexpectedly rapidly, and the amounts and types of rare‐earth dopants have a considerable effect on the diffusion of the transition metal. Furthermore, transition metals (Mn, Fe, Co, Ni, and, Cu) are present at the grain boundaries at substantial solubility levels of ≈1022 cm−3, i.e., 1–2 orders of magnitude greater than in the bulk lattice. The observed dynamic behaviors of transition metals present a new perspective on the performance and durability of ceria‐containing applications.
Toward BaSi2/Si Heterojunction Thin‐Film Solar Cells: Insights into Heterointerface Investigation, Barium Depletion, and Silicide‐Mediated Silicon Crystallization
Authors: Tian Yilei , Bento Montes Ana Rita , Vančo Ľubomír , Čaplovičová Mária , Vogrinčič Peter , Šutta Pavol , Satrapinskyy Leonid , Zeman Miro , Isabella Olindo
Published: August 2020

The knowledge of the structural and compositional details of Si/BaSi2/Si heterostructure annealed at high temperature is a prerequisite for BaSi2application in heterojunction thin‐film solar cells. For this purpose, Si/BaSi2/Si heterostructures deposited by magnetron sputtering with different Si layer thickness are submitted to systematic structural and compositional characterizations. Results reveal a BaSi2/Si heterointerfacial variation caused by surface oxidation and Ba diffusion at the high temperature. Its effects on the optical and electrical properties of Si/BaSi2/Si heterostructure are presented. The outcomes of this work can be extended to BaSi2deposited by other techniques, and generate substantial advantages in BaSi2development ranging from improvement on material qualities and eventual deployment in thin‐film solar cells.
Early defoliation effects on corn plant stands and grain yield
Authors: Thomason Wade , Battaglia Martín
Published: August 2020

Multiple stresses can cause early defoliation in corn (Zea mays L.). Corn response to hail damage depends on defoliation timing and severity. Our objective was to evaluate the effect of defoliating plants at 2.5‐cm above the soil beginning at V3 and continuing for three weeks in a three‐year study. Treatments were imposed with a string trimmer once or twice a week in a full factorial arrangement with timing of V3, V4/V5 and V6. At maturity, ears and plants were counted and harvested from 3 m at the center rows in each plot and weighed. A subsample was then shelled, and test weight, moisture, plants, ears and yield per hectare were determined. Defoliating twice a week between V3 and V6 reduced stands, ears and yield between 24% and 41%, compared with one defoliation a week. Defoliation at V6 decreased yield up to 100%, regardless of the occurrence of previous defoliation. Defoliation at V3, V4/V5 or both (without a defoliation at V6), especially twice a week, began to have an additive detrimental effect, but maximum plant, ear and grain yield losses (ranging between 33 and 77%) were smaller and less consistent compared to V6 defoliation. Here, the additive effect of frequency of defoliation at a given stage was reported for the first time. In this study, using a string trimmer to impose defoliation proved an effective and realistic method to simulate a wide array of biotic and abiotic defoliation damages to corn foliage.
Genotype by environment analysis on multi‐canopy cropping system towards vertical harvest space in rice
Authors: Widyastuti Luh Putu Yuni , Suwarno Willy Bayuardi , Aswidinnoor Hajrial
Published: August 2020

The multi‐canopy cropping system is considered a novel idea for increasing rice yield, derived from the concept of vertical agriculture. This method utilizes short and tall genotypes planted in the same hill. The tall plants form a canopy, and therefore the vertical harvest space can be used. The objective of the study was to determine the potential of breeding programs to develop varieties for multi‐canopy cropping system in rice (Oryza sativa L.). The experiments were conducted at the IPB University Experimental Station at Babakan, Bogor, West Java, Indonesia, in four environments: (1) monoculture in the dry season 2018, (2) multi‐canopy in the dry season 2018, (3) monoculture in the wet season 2018/2019, (4) multi‐canopy in the wet season 2018/2019. Twenty‐two short rice genotypes and two check varieties were evaluated using a randomized complete block design in each environment. The genotype × canopy (G × C) interaction effect was significant (p < .05) for plant height, stem length, and number of tillers. Yield reductions of the short genotypes from the monoculture to the multi‐canopy system were varied (30.55–49.67%), eventhough the G × C was not significant. The average total yield of multi‐canopy (6.44 t ha−1) was higher (p < .05) than the monoculture (5.90 t ha−1), indicating that breeding for the development of suitable varieties for multi‐canopy system is possible. Results of this novel study, we hope, would inspire and stimulate new breeding objectives to develop varieties for multi‐canopy system and utilize vertical harvest space, as a new effort to increase rice production worldwide.
Consumer proximity and brand loyalty in craft soda marketing: A case study of Ale‐8‐One
Authors: Zare Samane , Asgari Mahdi , Woods Timothy , Zheng Yuqing
Published: August 2020

Craft soda has become increasingly popular among consumers. Local manufacturers have opportunities to use a variety of strategies to differentiate their products from nationally recognized brands, including the use of real or natural ingredients, premium ingredients, and locally sourced ingredients, handmade and small batches, and creative taste. Loyal consumers of craft sodas often live within the proximity of the production location, and the manufacturers are normally small with a limited distribution area. From the local manufacturer's standpoint, it is important to segment the market based on the closeness to their distribution territory when studying the market demand, or at least to recognize if such locational preferences exist with a view toward identifying market expansion strategies. In this paper, we focus on the case for a Kentucky local craft soda producer, Ale‐8‐One. We examine the demand for craft and noncraft soft drinks using Nielsen scanner data to test whether consumer behavior is different in the core markets. The results show that, in this case, craft soda consumers are less price responsive and more brand loyal in the core market, compared with the outside market. [EconLit Citations: C55, D12, Q13].
New classification‐oriented treatment strategy for portal vein thrombosis after hepatectomy
Authors: Onda Shinji , Furukawa Kenei , Shirai Yoshihiro , Hamura Ryoga , Horiuchi Takashi , Yasuda Jungo , Shiozaki Hironori , Gocho Takeshi , Shiba Hioaki , Ikegami Toru
Published: August 2020

Aim

This study sought to evaluate the incidence, risk factors, and clinical outcomes of portal vein thrombosis after hepatectomy. Furthermore, we proposed a novel classification and treatment strategy for portal vein thrombosis after hepatectomy.

Methods

We retrospectively analyzed 398 patients who underwent hepatectomy and enhanced computed tomography imaging within 14 days after surgery in our hospital from 2009 to 2019. Portal vein thrombosis was classified into three categories according to the location of the thrombus – main, hilar, and peripheral – with main portal vein thrombosis further subclassified into three grades. Each patient's treatment strategy was determined based on their portal vein thrombosis classification and grading. From 2015, enhanced computed tomography imaging was performed routinely on patients who underwent anatomical hepatectomy on postoperative day 7.

Results

Portal vein thrombosis was diagnosed in 57 patients (14.3%) during the study period. Multivariate analysis revealed that a Pringle maneuver time of 75 minutes or longer was a significant predictor of portal vein thrombosis (P = .012). In total, 52 patients (91%) with portal vein thrombosis recovered by surgery, anticoagulant therapy, or without specific treatment. There was no instance of mortality recorded.

Conclusions

Patients who undergo hepatectomy are at high risk for portal vein thrombosis, especially when the Pringle maneuver time is long. The proposed classification and treatment strategy may be useful for clinical management of patients with portal vein thrombosis after hepatectomy.
Estimation of the critical properties of compounds using volume‐based thermodynamics
Authors: Hekayati Javad , Raeissi Sona
Published: August 2020

The importance, yet scarcity of the critical constants of thermally unstable fluids warrants the development of reliable methods for the estimation of these essential thermodynamic properties. A thorough investigation undertaken in this study on 1,589 compounds belonging to 83 chemical classes, indicated that the ratio of critical temperature to critical pressure of both low and high molecular weight compounds could be well expressed in terms of their volumetric properties. In addition, two new methodologies are presented for estimating Vc, as well as an indirect approach for prediction of Tc from surface tension data, altogether allowing the calculation of Zc. Moreover, comparative studies are made with five group contribution methods. It is also demonstrated that by employing the Peng‐Robinson EOS, and without prior knowledge of the critical properties, it is possible to calculate various thermophysical properties including Psat., Tb, , ∆Hvap., Cp, and even the Tc and Pc themselves.
Conjunctivodacryocystorhinostomy (CDCR) success rates and complications in endoscopic vs non‐endoscopic approaches: a systematic review
Authors: Eisenbach Netanel , Karni Ohad , Sela Eyal , Nemet Achia , Dror Amiel , Levy Einat , Kassif Yanir , Ovadya Relli , Ronen Ohad , Marshak Tal
Published: August 2020

Background

Epiphora due to refractory bicanalicular obstructions is typically managed by conjunctivodacryocystorhinostomy (CDCR) with or without the assistance of nasal endoscopy. However, the evidence for its benefit is unclear.

Methods

A systematic review of the literature on the treatment of epiphora by CDCR was performed (March 1, 2018). All studies reporting original data on patients suffering from epiphora treated with CDCR surgery were included. Primary outcomes were success and satisfaction rates. Secondary outcomes were CDCR complications. A comparison was made between the results obtained in patients undergoing CDCR with vs without assistance of nasal endoscopy.

Results

Fifty‐four studies representing information on 2555 CDCR procedures were included in the systematic review. All the studies are case series, most of them retrospective. Lester Jones tube (LJT) is the most commonly used in CDCR (66.7%). The overall success rate with all studies included (n = 2555) was 88.9%; 90.8% (n = 890) in CDCR with assistance of nasal endoscope and 87.7% (n = 1575) in the non‐endoscopic approach. The overall “tube displacement” rate, the most common complication, was 24.5% (n = 2522), 20.8% (n = 1575) tube displacement in CDCR with assistance of nasal endoscope vs 26.7% (n = 1575) in the non‐endoscopic approach. Only 3 studies (5.5%) used patient‐reported outcome measures (PROMs) to evaluate epiphora improvement. Due to the low level of evidence and the high bias of the studies, a meta‐analysis was not performed.

Conclusion

Based on the data available in the literature, CDCR is considered an effective procedure for treating epiphora due to proximal obstruction. Controlled and qualitative studies are needed to clarify the significance of the endoscope's contribution to CDCR.
From UV to NIR: A Full‐Spectrum Metal‐Free Photocatalyst for Efficient Polymer Synthesis in Aqueous Conditions
Authors: Allison‐Logan Stephanie , Fu Qiang , Sun Yongkang , Liu Min , Xie Jijia , Tang Junwang , Qiao Greg G.
Published: August 2020

Photo‐mediation offers unparalleled spatiotemporal control over controlled radical polymerizations (CRP). Photo‐induced electron/energy transfer reversible addition–fragmentation chain transfer (PET‐RAFT) polymerization is particularly versatile owing to its oxygen tolerance and wide range of compatible photocatalysts. In recent years, broadband‐ and near‐infrared (NIR)‐mediated polymerizations have been of particular interest owing to their potential for solar‐driven chemistry and biomedical applications. In this work, we present the first example of a novel photocatalyst for both full broadband‐ and NIR‐mediated CRP in aqueous conditions. Well‐defined polymers were synthesized in water under blue, green, red, and NIR light irradiation. Exploiting the oxygen tolerant and aqueous nature of our system, we also report PET‐RAFT polymerization at the microliter scale in a mammalian cell culture medium.
Design and Scalable Synthesis of N‐Alkylhydroxylamine Reagents for the Direct Iron‐Catalyzed Installation of Medicinally Relevant Amines**
Authors: Falk Eric , Makai Szabolcs , Delcaillau Tristan , Gürtler Laura , Morandi Bill
Published: August 2020

Secondary and tertiary alkylamines are privileged substance classes that are often found in pharmaceuticals and other biologically active small molecules. Herein, we report their direct synthesis from alkenes through an aminative difunctionalization reaction enabled by iron catalysis. A family of ten novel hydroxylamine‐derived aminating reagents were designed for the installation of several medicinally relevant amine groups, such as methylamine, morpholine and piperazine, through the aminochlorination of alkenes. The method has excellent functional group tolerance and a broad scope of alkenes was converted to the corresponding products, including several drug‐like molecules. Besides aminochlorination, the installation of other functionalities through aminoazidation, aminohydroxylation and even intramolecular carboamination reactions, was demonstrated, further highlighting the broad potential of these new reagents for the discovery of novel amination reactions.
Anisotropic Gas Separation in Oriented ZIF‐95 Membranes Prepared by Vapor‐Assisted In‐Plane Epitaxial Growth
Authors: Ma Xixi , Wan Zheng , Li Yanhong , He Xiao , Caro Jürgen , Huang Aisheng
Published: August 2020

Control of the microstructure grain orientation, grain boundaries and thickness are crucial for MOF membranes. We report a novel synthesis strategy to prepare highly c‐oriented ZIF‐95 membranes through vapor‐assisted in‐plane epitaxial growth. In a mixed DMF/water vapor atmosphere, in‐plane epitaxial growth of a ZIF‐95 seeds layer was achieved to obtain an oriented and well‐intergrown ZIF‐95 membrane with a thickness of only 600 nm. Demonstrated by both experimental and simulation studies, the c‐oriented ZIF‐95 membrane displayed superior separation performance because a perfectly oriented structure resulted in a notable reduction of intercrystalline defects and transport pathways. For the separation of equimolar binary mixtures at 100 °C and 1 bar, the mixture separation factors of H2/CO2 and H2/CH4 were 32.2 and 53.7, respectively, with an H2 permeance of over 7.9×10−7 mol m−2 s−1 Pa−1, which was 4.6 times higher than that of a randomly oriented ZIF‐95 membrane.
Effect of ZnO nanoparticles loading in double‐layer polyvinylidene fluoride membrane for desalination via direct contact membrane distillation
Authors: Mat Radzi Nurul Hafifah , Ahmad Abdul Latif
Published: August 2020

In this study, double‐layer flat sheet membranes consist of nanocomposite polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF)–ZnO layer on the top, whereas pristine polymeric PVDF on the bottom was fabricated via the double‐casting phase inversion (DCPI) method. The nanocomposite layer was prepared by loading 0.5%, 1.0%, 1.5% and 2.0% of ZnO nanoparticles. The morphology of the membranes changed as ZnO nanoparticles were introduced in the top layer, where the structure is more rigid and porous than the bottom layer. The increment concentration of nanoparticles in the top layer of the double‐layer membrane gives an effect in increasing of water contact angle slightly, which is from 136° to 140°. Furthermore, the liquid entry pressure of water (LEPw) decreases gradually from 0.69 to 0.4 bar with a high concentration of ZnO due to the presence of large pores. The increment concentration of ZnO nanoparticles also resulted in high porosity and reduced pore size, which reduce the resistance of water vapour to pass through the pores as well as enhancing the performance of membrane distillation (MD). Direct contact membrane distillation (DCMD) experiments were carried out to evaluate the efficiency of the fabricated double‐layer membrane in the desalination of seawater from fish farm water for 6‐h operation. The optimal double‐layer membrane with 0.5% ZnO nanoparticles loading maintained a stable flux of 9.42 L/m2h with 99.9% salt rejection and has antifouling properties. The results indicated that the fabricated double‐layer membrane via the DCPI method fulfils the required properties for MD application with excellent salt rejection.
Impact of feeding fish as a tourist attraction on a coral reef invertivorous fish's diet and growth
Authors: Silva Fernanda Carolina da , Ferreira Júnior Augusto Luiz , Artoni Roberto Ferreira , Bessa Eduardo
Published: August 2020

Tourism in marine environments is growing each year, especially in regions with attractive coastlines. One of the main activities practised by tourists is offering food, normally bread, to fish. This activity can result in negative impacts that are still not fully understood. Such impacts were previously detected among omnivores, but fish at other trophic levels also respond to feeding by humans.

The effects of supplementary fish feeding by tourists on the diet of a coral reef predatorial haemulid fish, a common reef fish in many tourist destinations, were analysed. Specimens were sampled from one location in which tourists frequently feed the fish and another in which fish maintain their natural diet, both in a marine protected area. The standard length, total weight, hepatosomatic index, condition factor, starch content, and diet composition of fish from the two locations were compared.

Specimens fed by tourists were generally larger than those consuming a natural diet, but weight, hepatosomatic index, and condition factor were not statistically different. Diet composition varied between the two areas, with almost half of the stomach contents from specimens collected in the supplementary feeding area composed of starch. Considering the natural diet of this species, carbohydrate ingestion can interfere with energy accumulation. Additionally, natural prey species were being consumed on a smaller scale.

These results shed light on the controversial issue of supplementary fish feeding as a tourist attraction and provide information to help shape effective ecotourism management. In this regard, the offered food volume should be banned in more sensitive environments, reduced in remaining areas and food quality should be controlled to make ecotourism a more sustainable activity globally.
Susceptibility to COVID‐19 in Patients Treated With Antimalarials: A Population‐Based Study in Emilia‐Romagna, Northern Italy
Authors: Salvarani Carlo , Mancuso Pamela , Gradellini Federica , Viani Nilla , Pandolfi Paolo , Reta Massimo , Carrozzi Giuliano , Sandri Gilda , Bajocchi Gianluigi , Galli Elena , Muratore Francesco , Boiardi Luigi , Pipitone Nicolò , Cassone Giulia , Croci Stefania , Marata Anna Maria , Costantini Massimo , Giorgi Rossi Paolo
Published: August 2020

Objective

To evaluate the susceptibility to coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‐19) in patients with autoimmune conditions treated with antimalarials in a population‐based study.

Methods

All residents treated with chloroquine (CQ)/hydroxychloroquine (HCQ) from July through December 2019 and living in 3 provinces of Regione Emilia‐Romagna were identified by drug prescription registries and matched with the registry containing all residents living in the same areas who have had swabs and tested positive for severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS–CoV‐2). Odds ratios (ORs) and 95% confidence intervals (95% CIs) were calculated.

Results

A total of 4,408 patients were identified. The prevalence of patients receiving antimalarials was 0.85 per 1,000 men and 3.3 per 1,000 women. The cumulative incidence of testing during the study period was 2.7% in the general population and 3.8% among those receiving CQ or HCQ, while the cumulative incidence of testing positive was 0.55% in the general population and 0.70% among those receiving CQ/HCQ. Multivariate models showed that those receiving CQ/HCQ had a slightly higher probability of being tested compared to the general population (OR 1.09 [95% CI 0.94–1.28]), the same probability of being diagnosed as having COVID‐19 (OR 0.94 [95% CI 0.66–1.34]), and a slightly lower probability of being positive once tested (OR 0.83 [95% CI 0.56–1.23]). None of the differences were significant.

Conclusion

Our findings do not support the use of antimalarials as a prophylactic treatment of COVID‐19.
Convenient Preparation and Structure Determination of Air‐ and Moisture‐Tolerant Difluoromethylborates
Authors: Yokawa Akitaka , Ito Shigekazu
Published: August 2020

Convenient and reliable synthetic methods for difluoromethylborates have been established. The intermediary generated difluoromethylsilicate species from TMSCF2H (TMS=trimethylsilyl) and potassium tert‐butoxide were allowed to react with pinBPh (Me4C2O2BPh) in the presence of 18‐crown‐6 to give the corresponding borate compound [pinB(Ph)CF2H]−K+(18‐crown‐6) as an air‐ and moisture‐tolerant solid. The unambiguously determined crystal structure of [pinB(Ph)CF2H]−K+(18‐crown‐6) revealed that the difluoromethylborate unit partially coordinated on the potassium ion. Reaction of [pinB(Ph)CF2H]–K+(18‐crown‐6) with potassium difluoride (KHF2) in acetic acid enabled substitution of the pinacol unit and phenyl group with fluorides, and gave (difluoromethyl)trifluoroborate [F3BCF2H]–K+(18‐crown‐6) in a good yield. The crystal structure of air‐ and moisture‐tolerant [F3BCF2H]–K+(18‐crown‐6), which would be a promising reagent for synthesis of various difluoromethylboron species, showed a polyrotaxane‐like polymeric structure based on the K⋅⋅⋅F interactions between the K+(18‐crown‐6), CF2H, and BF3 units.
Genomic Stress Responses Drive Lymphocyte Evolvability: An Ancient and Ubiquitous Mechanism
Authors: Swiatczak Bartlomiej
Published: August 2020

Somatic diversification of antigen receptor genes depends on the activity of enzymes whose homologs participate in a mutagenic DNA repair in unicellular species. Indeed, by engaging error‐prone polymerases, gap filling molecules and altered mismatch repair pathways, lymphocytes utilize conserved components of genomic stress response systems, which can already be found in bacteria and archaea. These ancient systems of mutagenesis and repair act to increase phenotypic diversity of microbial cell populations and operate to enhance their ability to produce fit variants during stress. Coopted by lymphocytes, the ancient mutagenic processing systems retained their diversification functions instilling the adaptive immune cells with enhanced evolvability and defensive capacity to resist infection and damage. As reviewed here, the ubiquity and conserved character of specialized variation‐generating mechanisms from bacteria to lymphocytes highlight the importance of these mechanisms for evolution of life in general.
Ein Winzling lehrt das Fürchten
Authors: Vogt Heidrun
Published: August 2020

Die Kirschessigfliege (Drosophila suzukii), heimisch in Südostasien, ist ein invasiver Schädling. Sie gehört zu der Familie der Taufliegen (Drosophilidae). Wohl durch den globalen Handel in die USA und nach Europa verschleppt, konnte sie sich seit 2008 in kürzester Zeit enorm ausbreiten. Geeignete Klimabedingungen, die Verfügbarkeit einer Vielzahl von Wirtspflanzen und das Nutzen einer ökologischen Nische, nämlich der Befall intakter reifender und reifer weichschaliger Früchte, waren hierfür ideale Voraussetzungen. Der Schädling verfügt zudem über ein großes Vermehrungspotential bei kurzer Entwicklungszeit sowie ausgeprägte Überwinterungsstrategien. Die Kirschessigfliege ist schwer zu bekämpfen und verursacht enorme Schäden.
Die Tricks der Stinkenden Nieswurz
Authors: Bosch Stefan , Lurz Peter
Published: August 2020

Die Stinkende Nieswurz (Helleborus foetidus) wendet geniale Tricks an, um Bestäuber anzulocken und um später den Abtransport und die Verbreitung der Samen zu erzielen. Hefen in der Blüte erwärmen den Nektar durch ihre Stoffwechselaktivität und machen diesen für Bienen und Hummeln im kalten Frühjahr attraktiv. So werden Bestäuber in einem Zeitfenster angelockt, in dem die Konkurrenz durch andere Blüten noch gering ist. Durch die frühe Blüte fällt die Samenreife in den Spätfrühling oder Frühsommer. In dieser Zeit ist hochwertige Nahrung für Ameisen noch Mangelware, so dass diese gerne auf die Samen der Nieswurz zurückgreifen und diese verbreiten (Myrmechorie). Um die Samen für Ameisen unwiderstehlich zu machen, werden sie mit einem Ölkörperchen (Elasiosom) ausgestattet, das neben Ölen Zucker und Vitamine enthält. Als Duftlockstoff enthalten die Ölkörper außerdem eine Fettsäure. Aber was Ameisen anlockt, macht sie auch für Samenfresser wie Mäuse attraktiver. Deshalb hängt das Überleben (und Keimen) der Samen davon ab, dass das Elaiosom von den Ameisen abgetrennt wird. Die Bestäubung und Samenverbreitung der Nieswurz ist viel faszinierender als es auf dem ersten Blick den Anschein hat. Es ist ein Beispiel für die äußerst komplexen Verknüpfungen zwischen Pflanzen, ihren Blüten, unterschiedlichsten Tieren, Hefen und Bakterien.
Proteins on the move
Authors: Staiger Dorothee
Published: August 2020

Ein Protein der inneren Uhr aus dem Spross wandert in die Wurzel und synchronisiert die Uhr in Wurzelzellen mit der im Spross. Bei geringen Temperaturen wandert das Protein schneller, was zu einer Verlangsamung der Uhr in der Wurzel führt. Umgekehrt wandert das Protein bei hohen Temperaturen langsamer und die Uhr geht schneller. Ein Verständnis, wie Pflanzen sich an die Außentemperatur anpassen, kann helfen, Pflanzen zu entwickeln, die mit dem Klimawandel besser zurechtkommen.
Das Phantom aus den Wäldern Südostasiens
Authors: Lippe Dominik
Published: August 2020

Die Rettung bedrohter Arten stellt die Wissenschaft vor beträchtliche Herausforderungen. Doch wie gelingt der Schutz eines Tieres, das derart selten und schwer zu fassen ist, dass bereits jede Fotografie einen Triumph darstellt? In den fast undurchdringlichen Wäldern des Annamiten‐Gebirges im Grenzgebiet von Vietnam und Laos lebt das Saola. Die Größe der Population bleibt völlig spekulativ, doch mit dem WWF und der Saola Working Group arbeiten gleich zwei Organisationen an Schutzmaßnahmen für das scheue Huftier, das die Weltnaturschutzunion 2019 zu den 100 am stärksten vom Aussterben bedrohten Arten zählt.
Balzfüttern – Liebe geht durch den Magen
Authors: Irsch Wilhelm
Published: August 2020

Bei Singvögeln beteiligen sich viele Männchen wesentlich an der Aufzucht der Jungen. Auch solche Arten, die sich nicht an der Bebrütung der Eier beteiligen, können damit einen Beitrag zu dessen „Energiekosten“ leisten, indem sie das brütende Weibchen füttern.