bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Empiric Evidences On The Relationship Between Tax Revenues and Income Distribution Inequality: Kónya Panel Causality Test
Authors: GÜRDAL Temel , İNAL Veysel , İZGİ ŞAHPAZ Kadriye
Published: October 2020

The purpose of the study is to determine whether tax revenues have any effect on income distribution. Taxes have a social purposes besides their economic purposes. In line with these purposes, it also aimed to reduce the inequality in income distribution through policy. This situation, which is expressed as secondary income distribution, is an application that can be encountered in almost every country in the world. Kónya (2006) Panel causality analysis was preferred as a method in the study that examined the 1991-2016 period of 16 OECD countries whose datasets are accessible. The data used in the study was derived from the OECD database and SWIID database that calculated by Frederic Solt in 2009. The results revealed the corrective effect of taxes on income distribution inequality in some countries for the sample group. While taxes in France and Luxembourg reduced income distribution inequality, the decrease in income distribution inequality in Italy resulted in a positive impact on tax revenues. As the most important reason for this situation is that the tax policies of the countries may be different from each other.
A proposal for the future of medical education accreditation in Korea
Authors: Lim Ki-Young
Published: October 2020

For the past 20 years, the medical education accreditation program of the Korean Institute of Medical Education and Evaluation (KIMEE) has contributed significantly to the standardization and improvement of the quality of basic medical education in Korea. It should now contribute to establishing and promoting the future of medical education. The Accreditation Standards of KIMEE 2019 (ASK2019) have been adopted since 2019, with the goal of achieving world-class medical education by applying a learner-centered curriculum using a continuum framework for the 3 phases of formal medical education: basic medical education, postgraduate medical education, and continuing professional development. ASK2019 will also be able to promote medical education that meets community needs and employs systematic assessments throughout the education process. These are important changes that can be used to gauge the future of the medical education accreditation system. Furthermore, globalization, inter-professional education, health systems science, and regular self-assessment systems are emerging as essential topics for the future of medical education. It is time for the medical education accreditation system in Korea to observe and adopt new trends in global medical education.
Marketplace Sentiment Analysis Using Naive Bayes And Support Vector Machine
Authors: Azhar Muhamad , Hafidz Noor , Rudianto Biktra , Gata Windu
Published: October 2020

Abstract

 

Technology implementation in the marketplace world has attracted the attention of researchers to analyze the reviews from customers. The Klik Indomaret application page on GooglePlay is one application that can be used to get information on review data collection. However, getting information on consumer’s opinion or review is not an easy task and need a specific method in categorizing or grouping these reviews into certain groups, i.e. positive or negative reviews. The sentiment analysis study of a review application in GooglePlay is still rare. Therefore, this paper analysis the customer’s sentiment from klikindomaret app using Naive Bayes Classifier (NB) algorithm that is compared to Support Vector Machine (SVM) as well as optimizing the Feature Selection (FS) using the Particle Swarm Optimization method. The results for NB without using FS optimization were 69.74% for accuracy and 0.518 for Area Under Curve (AUC) and for SVM without using FS optimization were 81.21% for accuracy and 0.896 for AUC. While the results of cross-validation NB with FS are 75.21% for accuracy and 0.598 for AUC and cross-validation of SVM with FS is 81.84% for accuracy and 0.898 for AUC, while there is an increase when using the Feature Selection (FS) Particle Swarm Optimization and also the modeling algorithm SVM has a higher value compared to NB for the dataset used in this study.

 

Keywords: Naive Bayes, Particle Swarm Optimization, Support Vector Machine, Feature Selection, Consumer Review.
Expert System for Areca Plant Disease Detection Using Forward Chaining Method
Authors: Irawan Muhammad Dedi , Siregar Helmi Fauzi , Simargolang Muhammad Yasin , Liana Tika
Published: October 2020

Areca palm has been widely planted by the people of the Asahan Regency. This plant is cultivated not only by the farmers, but also by many people living in this regency. Therefore, an expert system is needed to help villagers in detecting areca palm desease. In areca palm cultivation, pests and diseases attack always happen. The purpose of this research is to apply an expert system as a tool to diagnose and also provide advice for control. This expert system, in the form of a consultation scenario, can be done by answering every question (yes or no); all answers are compared to the areca palm plants needs based-on expert experience. The inference method used is forward chaining. The output of this system is the types of diseases, percentages, symptoms, definitions, treatment, and prevention.

 

Keywords: Areca Palm, Expert System, Forward Chaining.
Idiopathic normal pressure hydrocephalus and Alzheimer's disease in clinical practice: comorbidity and differentiation
Authors: Lobzin V. Yu. , Alizade M. R.o. , Lapina A. V. , Lobzin S. V. , Kolmakova K. A. , Gavrilov G. V. , Emelin A. Yu. , Alekseeva L. A. , Monakhova N. E.
Published: October 2020

The idiopathic normal pressure hydrocephalus (Hakim – Adams syndrome) is characterized by the expansion of cerebrospinal cavities, which is clinically manifested by triad symptoms: cognitive impairment, impaired gait and urination. In this research the severity and modality of cognitive impairment, the pattern of gait changes and the levels of protein biomarkers of amyloidosis and neurodegeneration and neuroimaging changes was evaluated for idiopathic normal pressure hydrocephalus, Alzheimer's disease and their combination. It has been established that for patients with idiopathic normal pressure hydrocephalus the most characteristic is the dysregulatory type of disorders of higher brain functions, while for patients with a combination of Alzheimer's disease and idiopathic normal pressure hydrocephalus, mnemonic disorders are also detected. The specific changes of cerebrospinal fluid in patients with idiopathic normal pressure hydrocephalus are higher levels of amyloid beta, a decrease concentration of tau and phosphorylated tau-protein compared to patients with Alzheimer's disease. In the case of a combination of diseases (comorbidity), it was characterized by intermediate results by cerebrospinal fluid biomarkers. We also revealed patterns of transformation of moderate cognitive impairment into dementia (according to the ratio of tau/Aβ‑42 and ftau /Aβ‑42). The value of evaluating the results of magnetic resonance imaging using special techniques that evaluate both the expansion of the ventricular system and atrophy of the brain parenchyma. Comorbid patients are characterized by a combination of these processes based on the results of neuroimaging. That is why it is necessary to use complex visually analog neuroimaging scales for differential diagnosis and establishing diagnosis. Also, in the course of this work, an algorithm is proposed for mandatory clinical-neuropsychological and laboratory-instrumental examination of patients with cognitive impairment in idiopathic normal pressure hydrocephalus, Alzheimer's disease and their combination.
NETWORK OF PERMANENTLY OPERATING DIFFERENTIAL GEODESIC STATIONS AS A PART OF GENERAL INFORMATION SYSTEM FOR ALL-POPULATED TERRITORIES CREATED TO HOUSEHOLD RISKS AND EXPENSES
Authors: Kaveshnikov Maxim B. , Starostin Alexandr Yu. , Trifanova Ekaterina K.
Published: October 2020

The developing problems of Global Navigation Satellite System Networks in Russia are discussed. The specific of Russian territory is the areas, where the density of population is very small. The complex system approach, that reminds the network as a part of complex information system of region is offered.
EXPERIENCE IN DEVELOPING GIS "ELECTRONIC EPIDEMIOLOGICAL ATLAS"
Authors: Efimov Evgeniy I. , Pobedinsky Gennady G.
Published: October 2020

The paper considers main stages of developing a geoinformation project and results obtained. In 2019 the epidemiological Atlas of the Volga Federal District was among the 15 best Russian practices for implementing spatial data, remote sensing data, and geoinformation technologies. In order to effectively use the existing experience in developing and applying the geoinformation system, further improve it, and expand its functions for use in other federal districts, specialists of the Academician I. N. Blokhina Nizhny Novgorod Scientific Research Institute of Epidemiology and Microbiology perform research "Development of geographically distributed geoinformation software complex "Electronic epidemiological Atlas of the Russian Federation". As part of the new research, the Concept of creating a GIS "Epidemiological Atlas of Russia" was developed. In February 2020, preliminary tests of the GIS subsystem "Epidemiological Atlas of Russia. The territory of the federal district", work was completed to eliminate the comments and preparations for acceptance tests.
A VERSION OF AN INTRUSION DETECTION SYSTEM WITH A TRAP MODULE
Authors: Maxudov Midat O. , Doroshenko Ivan E. , Grehov Andrey S. , Makarova Diana G.
Published: October 2020

The article presents a variant of an intrusion detection system with a trap module. The proposed concept, consisting of several interacting modules (IDS Snort, SIEM SAGAN, trap module), allows dealing with various firewall threats from DoS attacks to attacks aimed at taking control of over the system.
A Renewal of Protest? Observing the Yellow Vests Through the Biographical Lens
Authors: Buton François , Reungoat Emmanuelle , Jouhanneau Cecile
Published: October 2020

Social movement literature shows that since the 1960s mobilization entrepreneurs have mainly originated from the middle and salaried classes, with strong cultural capital and previous politicization. However, recent mass protests such as the Yellow Vests movement in France have been characterized by unprecedented proportions of members of the working class and of destabilized middle classes, residents of suburban areas, who most often happened to be first-time protestors. These unexpected, inexperienced activists raise a conundrum for scholars of social movements and political participation alike, all the more so as they largely contribute to renewing the social movement repertoire as well as conceptions of citizenship. In order to account for first-time protestors’ crucial commitment, we build a case for a very qualitative method, namely ethnographic biographical interviews.
Multicenter Analysis of Liver Injury Patterns and Mortality in COVID-19
Authors: Chu Huikuan , Bai Tao , Chen Liuying , Hu Lilin , Xiao Li , Yao Lin , Zhu Rui , Niu Xiaohui , Li Zhonglin , Zhang Lei , Han Chaoqun , Song Shuangning , He Qi , Zhao Ying , Zhu Qingjing , Chen Hua , Schnabl Bernd , Yang Ling , Hou Xiaohua
Published: October 2020

Background and Aim: Liver test abnormalities are common in COVID-19 patients. The aim of our study was to determine risk factors for different liver injury patterns and to evaluate the relationship between liver injury patterns and prognosis in patients with COVID-19.

Methods: We retrospectively analyzed patients admitted between January 1st to March 10th, with laboratory-confirmed COVID-19 and followed them up to April 20th, 2020. Information of clinical features of patients was collected for analysis.

Results: As a result, a total of 838 hospitalized patients with confirmed COVID-19, including 48.8% (409/838) patients with normal liver function and 51.2% (429/838) patients with liver injury were analyzed. Abnormal liver function tests are associated with organ injuries, hypoxia, inflammation, and the use of antiviral drugs. Hepatocellular injury pattern was associated with hypoxia. The mortality of the hepatocellular injury pattern, cholestatic pattern and mixed pattern were 25, 28.2, and 22.3%, respectively, while the death rate was only 6.1% in the patients without liver injury. Multivariate analyses showed that liver injury with cholestatic pattern and mixed pattern were associated with increased mortality risk.

Conclusions: Our study confirmed that hepatocellular injury pattern that may be induced by hypoxia was not risk factor for mortality in SARS-COV-2 infection, while liver injury with mixed pattern and cholestatic pattern that might be induced by SARS-CoV-2 directly might be potential risk factors for increased mortality in COVID-19 patients.
Middle Meningeal Artery Embolization for Chronic Subdural Hematoma
Authors: Catapano Joshua S. , Nguyen Candice L. , Wakim Andre A. , Albuquerque Felipe C. , Ducruet Andrew F.
Published: October 2020

Chronic subdural hematoma (cSDH) is a common disease process associated with significant morbidity that occurs most often in elderly patients. Asymptomatic patients are typically treated conservatively, with surgical intervention reserved for patients with symptomatic and/or large hematomas that cause brain compression. However, conservatively managed cSDH cases frequently progress, and surgical evacuation of cSDH is associated with high rates of complication and recurrence. Recently, successful treatment of cSDH via middle meningeal artery (MMA) embolization has been reported in small case series and case reports. This article reviews the existing literature on MMA embolization for cSDH and discusses the need for randomized control trials and/or large prospective studies to establish the efficacy of MMA embolization for this disease.
Modelling and Prediction of Organic Carbon Dynamics in Arable Soils Based on a 62-Year Field Experiment in the Voronezh Region, European Russia
Authors: Husniev Ilshat , Romanenkov Vladimir , Minakova Olga , Krasilnikov Pavel
Published: October 2020

Organic carbon (OC) accumulation in soil mitigates greenhouse gases emission and improves soil health. We aimed to quantify the dynamics of OC stock in soils and to justify technologies that allow annual increasing OC stock in the arable soil layer by 4‰. We based the study on a field experiment established in 1936 in the 9-field crop rotation with a fallow on Chernozem in European Russia. The RothC version 26.3 was used for the reproducing and forecasting OC dynamics. In all fertilizer applications at FYM background, there was a decrease in the OC stock with preferable loss of active OC, except the period 1964–1971 with 2–5‰ annual OC increase. The model estimated the annual C input necessary to maintain OC stock as 1900 kg·ha−1. For increasing OC stocks by 4‰ per year, one should raise input to 2400 kg·ha−1. The simulation was made for 2016–2090 using climate scenarios RCP4.5 and RCP8.5. Crop rotation without fallowing provided an initial increase of 3‰ and 6‰ of stocks in the RCP8.5 and RCP4.5 scenarios accordingly, followed by a loss in accumulated OC. Simulation demonstrates difficulties to increase OC concentration in Chernozems under intensive farming and potential capacity to rise OC stock through yield management.
Antibacterial Property and Biocompatibility of Silver, Copper, and Zinc in Titanium Dioxide Layers Incorporated by One-Step Micro-Arc Oxidation: A Review
Authors: Shimabukuro Masaya
Published: October 2020

Titanium (Ti) and its alloys are commonly used in medical devices. However, biomaterial-associated infections such as peri-implantitis and prosthetic joint infections are devastating and threatening complications for patients, dentists, and orthopedists and are easily developed on titanium surfaces. Therefore, this review focuses on the formation of biofilms on implant surfaces, which is the main cause of infections, and one-step micro-arc oxidation (MAO) as a coating technology that can be expected to prevent infections due to the implant. Many researchers have provided sufficient data to prove the efficacy of MAO for preventing the initial stages of biofilm formation on implant surfaces. Silver (Ag), copper (Cu), and zinc (Zn) are well used and are incorporated into the Ti surface by MAO. In this review, the antibacterial properties, cytotoxicity, and durability of these elements on the Ti surface incorporated by one-step MAO will be summarized. This review is aimed at enhancing the importance of the quantitative control of Ag, Cu, and Zn for their use in implant surfaces and the significance of the biodegradation behavior of these elements for the development of antibacterial properties.
The Selenoprotein MsrB1 Instructs Dendritic Cells to Induce T-Helper 1 Immune Responses
Authors: Lee Ho-Jae , Park Joon Seok , Yoo Hyun Jung , Lee Hae Min , Lee Byung Cheon , Kim Ji Hyung
Published: October 2020

Immune activation associates with the intracellular generation of reactive oxygen species (ROS). To elicit effective immune responses, ROS levels must be balanced. Emerging evidence shows that ROS-mediated signal transduction can be regulated by selenoproteins such as methionine sulfoxide reductase B1 (MsrB1). However, how the selenoprotein shapes immunity remains poorly understood. Here, we demonstrated that MsrB1 plays a crucial role in the ability of dendritic cells (DCs) to provide the antigen presentation and costimulation that are needed for cluster of differentiation antigen four (CD4) T-cell priming in mice. We found that MsrB1 regulated signal transducer and activator of transcription-6 (STAT6) phosphorylation in DCs. Moreover, both in vitro and in vivo, MsrB1 potentiated the lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced Interleukin-12 (IL-12) production by DCs and drove T-helper 1 (Th1) differentiation after immunization. We propose that MsrB1 activates the STAT6 pathway in DCs, thereby inducing the DC maturation and IL-12 production that promotes Th1 differentiation. Additionally, we showed that MsrB1 promoted follicular helper T-cell (Tfh) differentiation when mice were immunized with sheep red blood cells. This study unveils as yet unappreciated roles of the MsrB1 selenoprotein in the innate control of adaptive immunity. Targeting MsrB1 may have therapeutic potential in terms of controlling immune reactions.
Effectiveness of Bacteriocin-Producing Lactic Acid Bacteria and Bifidobacterium Isolated from Honeycombs against Spoilage Microorganisms and Pathogens Isolated from Fruits and Vegetables
Authors: Voidarou Chrysa , Alexopoulos Athanasios , Tsinas Anastasios , Rozos Georgios , Tzora Athina , Skoufos Ioannis , Varzakas Theodoros , Bezirtzoglou Eugenia
Published: October 2020

Screening natural products for bacteriocin-producing bacteria may be the equilibrium point between the consumer demand for mild processing and the industry’s need for hazard control. Raw unprocessed honeycombs filled with oregano honey from the alpine mountainous territory of Epirus, Greece were screened for bacteriocinogenic lactic acid bacteria and Bifidobacterium spp., with inhibitory action towards some pathogens and spoilage microorganisms isolated from fresh fruits and vegetables (number and type of strains: three E. coli, two L. monocytogenes, two Salmonella spp., two B.cereus, two Erwinia spp., one Xanthomonas spp., L. innocua (ATCC 33090TM) and E. coli 0157:H7 (ATCC 69373)). Among the 101 collected isolates (73 Lactobacillus, 8 Lactococcus, 8 Leuconostoc and 12 Bifidobacterium species) from the oregano honeycombs (an original finding since there are no other reports on the microbial biodiversity of the flora of the oregano honey), 49 strains of lactic acid bacteria (LAB) and Bifidobacterium spp. were selected and tested for their bacteriocin-producing capacity (34 Lactobacillus, 6 Lactococcus, 5 Leuconostoc and 4 Bifidobacterium). The antibacterial activity exerted by the tested LAB and Bifidobacterium strains was not of the same potency. Our results suggest that the main molecules involved in the antimicrobial activity are probably bacteriocin-like substances (a conclusion based on reduced antibacterial activity after the proteolytic treatment of the cell-free supernatant of the cultures) and this antimicrobial activity is specific for the producing strains as well as for the target strains. The spoilage bacteria as well as the reference microorganisms showed increased resistance to the bacteriocin-like substances in comparison to the wild-type pathogens.
The Study of Facial Muscle Movements for Non-Invasive Thermal Discomfort Detection via Bio-Sensing Technology. Part I: Development of the Experimental Design and Description of the Collected Data
Authors: Marchenko Alla , Temeljotov-Salaj Alenka , Rizzardi Victor , Oksavik Odne
Published: October 2020

In the time of climate change, as heat waves become a more regular occurrence, indoor thermal comfort is an important factor in day to day life. Due to such circumstances, many researchers have focused their studies on finding an effective solution that will not only enable thermal comfort, but also increase satisfaction within the indoor environment and, as a result, productivity. The fast development of the biometrical field encouraged the study focused on the investigation of how bio-markers, in combination with artificial intelligence algorithms, can be collected within an experimental setting to create a new approach for non-invasive thermal discomfort detection. The developed experimental design provides synergy between automatic facial coding, pulse, and galvanic skin response measurements via iMotions software in a controlled environment. The iMotions software has built-in machine vision algorithms, and with Shimmer sensors and a post-processing tool through Affectiva AFFDEX, is able to collect facial action data through detection of the facial muscle movements and various bio-markers. The Zero Emission Building (ZEB) Test Cell laboratory was used as the control environment and transformed to imitate an office space for the data collection campaign at NTNU in Trondheim. The given experimental design provides an opportunity to create an immense database with bio-markers that are linked to the subcortical level of the brain, indoor parameters, and direct feedback on the comfort level of occupants within an office-like environment. In total, 111 data collection sessions were registered with iMotions. The discomfort button was pressed 240 times and 1080 planned indoor comfort evaluation surveys were held during experiment. The discomfort button was pressed 49 times to indicate that participant felt discomfort due to low temperature and 52 due to high temperature. Collected data revealed a big deviation in the discomfort temperature values for experiment participants with respect to performed temperature ramps. While it is common to use the same predefined temperature range for facility management, it became clear that the complexity of the task is greater and should not be approached on a human computational level. Implementation of AI can potentially provide higher value accuracy within thermal discomfort detection and enable unique personal user experience at the workplace.
Comparison of Iron Oxide Nanoparticles in Photothermia and Magnetic Hyperthermia: Effects of Clustering and Silica Encapsulation on Nanoparticles’ Heating Yield
Authors: Nemec Sebastjan , Kralj Slavko , Wilhelm Claire , Abou-Hassan Ali , Rols Marie-Pierre , Kolosnjaj-Tabi Jelena
Published: October 2020

Photothermal therapy is gathering momentum. In order to assess the effects of the encapsulation of individual or clustered superparamagnetic iron oxide nanoparticles (SPIONs) on nanoparticle light-to-heat conversion, we designed and tested individual and clustered SPIONs encapsulated within a silica shell. Our study compared both photothermia and magnetic hyperthermia, and it involved individual SPIONs as well as silica-encapsulated individual and clustered SPIONs. While, as expected, SPION clustering reduced heat generation in magnetic hyperthermia, the silica shell improved SPION heating in photothermia.
Identification of Tropical Cyclones’ Critical Positions Associated with Extreme Precipitation Events in Central America
Authors: Hidalgo Hugo G. , Alfaro Eric J. , HernÃandez-Castro Franklin , Pérez-Briceño Paula M.
Published: October 2020

Tropical cyclones are one of the most important causes of disasters in Central America. Using historical (1970–2010) tracks of cyclones in the Caribbean and Pacific basin, we identify critical path locations where these low-pressure systems cause the highest number of floods in a set of 88 precipitation stations in the region. Results show that tropical cyclones from the Caribbean and Pacific basin produce a large number of indirect impacts on the Pacific slope of the Central American isthmus. Although the direct impact of a tropical cyclone usually results in devastation in the affected region, the indirect effects are more common and sometimes equally severe. In fact, the storm does not need to be an intense hurricane to cause considerable impacts and damage. The location of even a lower intensity storm in critical positions of the oceanic basin can result in destructive indirect impacts in Central America. The identification of critical positions can be used for emergency agencies in the region to issue alerts of possible flooding and catastrophic events.
Kriging Interpolation in Modelling Tropospheric Wet Delay
Authors: Ma Hongyang , Zhao Qile , Verhagen Sandra , Psychas Dimitrios , Dun Han
Published: October 2020

This contribution implements the Kriging interpolation in predicting the tropospheric wet delays using global navigation satellite system networks. The predicted tropospheric delays can be used in strengthening the precise point positioning models and numerical weather prediction models. In order to evaluate the performances of the Kriging interpolation, a sparse network with 8 stations and a dense network with 19 stations from continuously operating reference stations (CORS) of the Netherlands are selected as the reference. In addition, other 15 CORS stations are selected as users, which are divided into three blocks: 5 stations located approximately in the center of the networks, 5 stations on the edge of the networks and 5 stations outside the networks. The zenith tropospheric wet delays are estimated at the network and user stations through the ionosphere-free positioning model; meanwhile, the predicted wet delays at the user stations are generated by the Kriging interpolation in the use of the tropospheric estimations at the network. The root mean square errors (RMSE) are calculated by comparing the predicted wet delays and estimated wet delays at the same user station. The results show that RMSEs of the stations inside the network are at a sub-centimeter level with an average value of 0.74 cm in the sparse network and 0.69 cm in the dense network. The stations on edge and outside the network can also achieve 1-cm level accuracy, which overcomes the limitation that accurate interpolations can only be attained inside the network. This contribution also presents an insignificant improvement of the prediction accuracy from the sparse network to the dense network over 1-year’s data processing and a seasonal effect on the tropospheric wet delay predictions.
Using Seasonal Forecast as an Adaptation Strategy: Gender Differential Impact on Yield and Income in Senegal
Authors: Diouf Ndeye Seynabou , Ouedraogo Mathieu , Ouedraogo Issa , Ablouka Gnalenba , Zougmoré Robert
Published: October 2020

The use of seasonal forecast has been demonstrated as a good option to reduce the effects of climate variability in sub-Saharan African countries. However, its use, benefits and interests may be different depending on gender. This paper aims at analyzing the gender differential impact of the use of seasonal forecast on the main crop yields (rice, maize, sorghum, millet and groundnut) and farm income in Senegal. We collected data from 1481 farmers (44% women) in four regions of Senegal. We applied the counterfactual outcomes framework of modern evaluation theory to estimate the local average treatment effect (LATE) of the use of the seasonal forecast on crop yield and farm income. The results showed a significant impact of the use of the seasonal forecast (SF) in the main crop yields and the agricultural income for farmers in Senegal. This impact varies according to the sex and the type of the crops. The users (men and women) of the seasonal forecast gained on average 158 kg/ha and 140 kg/ha more yield than the non-users, respectively, for millet and rice crops. The impact of the use of SF is greater for men on millet (202.7 kg/ha vs. 16.7 kg/ha) and rice (321.33 kg/ha vs. −25.3 kg/ha). However, it is greater for women on maize (210 kg/ha vs. −105 kg/ha). Potential users of seasonal forecast had also a positive and significant impact of 41$ per ha on the income. The additional income is more important for men (56$) than women (11$). These findings suggest that the use of seasonal forecast increases the productivity of rural communities and affects men and women differently. The access to and use of SF should therefore be widely promoted among farmers’ organizations; women’s associations should be particularly targeted.
Impact of Lightning NOx Emissions on Atmospheric Composition and Meteorology in Africa and Europe
Authors: Menut Laurent , Bessagnet Bertrand , Mailler Sylvain , Pennel Romain , Siour Guillaume
Published: October 2020

NOx emissions from lightning have been added to the CHIMERE v2020r1 model using a parameterization based on convective clouds. In order to estimate the impact of these emissions on pollutant concentrations, two simulations, using the online coupled WRF-CHIMERE models with and without NOx emissions from lightning, have been carried out over the months of July and August 2013 and over a large area covering Europe and the northern part of Africa. The results show that these emissions modify the pollutant concentrations as well as the meteorology. The changes are most significant where the strongest emissions are located. Adding these emissions improves Aerosol Optical Depth in Africa but has a limited impact on the surface concentrations of pollutants in Europe. For the two-month average we find that the maximum changes are localized and may reach ±0.5 K for 2 m temperature, ±0.5 m s−1 for 10 m wind speed, 10 W m−2 for short wave radiation surface flux, and 50 and 2 μg m−3 for dust and sea salt surface concentrations, respectively. This leads to maximum changes of 1 μg m−3 for surface concentrations of PM2.5.
Inverse Problem for a Mixed Type Integro-Differential Equation with Fractional Order Caputo Operators and Spectral Parameters
Authors: Yuldashev Tursun K. , Karimov Erkinjon T.
Published: October 2020

The questions of the one-value solvability of an inverse boundary value problem for a mixed type integro-differential equation with Caputo operators of different fractional orders and spectral parameters are considered. The mixed type integro-differential equation with respect to the main unknown function is an inhomogeneous partial integro-differential equation of fractional order in both positive and negative parts of the multidimensional rectangular domain under consideration. This mixed type of equation, with respect to redefinition functions, is a nonlinear Fredholm type integral equation. The fractional Caputo operators’ orders are smaller in the positive part of the domain than the orders of Caputo operators in the negative part of the domain under consideration. Using the method of Fourier series, two systems of countable systems of ordinary fractional integro-differential equations with degenerate kernels and different orders of integro-differentation are obtained. Furthermore, a method of degenerate kernels is used. In order to determine arbitrary integration constants, a linear system of functional algebraic equations is obtained. From the solvability condition of this system are calculated the regular and irregular values of the spectral parameters. The solution of the inverse problem under consideration is obtained in the form of Fourier series. The unique solvability of the problem for regular values of spectral parameters is proved. During the proof of the convergence of the Fourier series, certain properties of the Mittag–Leffler function of two variables, the Cauchy–Schwarz inequality and Bessel inequality, are used. We also studied the continuous dependence of the solution of the problem on small parameters for regular values of spectral parameters. The existence and uniqueness of redefined functions have been justified by solving the systems of two countable systems of nonlinear integral equations. The results are formulated as a theorem.
Sensory Analysis of Post-Exercise Coffee or Cocoa Milk Beverages for Endurance Athletes
Authors: Teixeira Rafael M. , Oliveira Lívia de L. de , Loureiro Laís M. R. , von Borries George , da Costa Teresa H. M.
Published: October 2020

Beverage strategies with balanced carbohydrate and protein supply are important for athletes’ recovery. Cow’s milk with added bioactive compounds present in coffee and cocoa facilitates glucose metabolism and may help post-workout glycogen recovery. Home-prepared beverages are cost and nutritionally effective strategies. Thus, the objectives were: (1) To develop home-prepared beverages containing nonfat powdered milk and sugar combined with filtered coffee or cocoa powder in balanced amounts for recovery after endurance exercise; and (2) to perform sensory analysis. Sensory evaluation was conducted by an acceptance test, applying nine-point hedonic scale and descriptive analysis, using the check-all-that-apply method (CATA). McNemar’s test and logistic regression with the proportional odds model were employed. The sample included 44 triathletes and 56 runners, of both sexes, 31–70 years old. Both beverages were well accepted by runners and triathletes, with higher acceptance of the coffee beverage (odds ratio coffee vs cocoa 5.232, p=0.0038). There was no significant difference between acceptance of triathletes and runners for the two beverages. The descriptive sensory analysis (CATA) resulted in slightly different characterizations between the two beverages. Both beverages were well accepted and characterized by the athletes, who can supply different options of post-workout beverages according to individual tastes, composition, and characteristics.
CRP Is Transported by Monocytes and Monocyte-Derived Exosomes in the Blood of Patients with Coronary Artery Disease
Authors: Melnikov Ivan , Kozlov Sergey , Saburova Olga , Zubkova Ekaterina , Guseva Olga , Domogatsky Sergey , Arefieva Tatiana , Radyukhina Natalia , Zvereva Maria , Avtaeva Yuliya , Buryachkovskaya Lyudmila , Gabbasov Zufar
Published: October 2020

The objective of this work was to study the ability of blood cells and their microparticles to transport monomeric and pentameric forms of C-reactive protein (mCRP and pCRP) in the blood of patients with coronary artery disease (CAD). Blood was obtained from 14 patients with CAD 46 ± 13 years old and 8 healthy volunteers 49 ± 13.6 years old. Blood cells and microparticles with mCRP and pCRP on their surface were detected by flow cytometry. Messenger RNA (mRNA) of CRP was extracted from peripheral blood monocytes stimulated with lipopolysaccharide (LPS) and granulocyte-macrophage colony-stimulating factor (GM-CSF). mRNA of CRP in monocytes was detected with PCR. Monocytes were predominantly pCRP-positive (92.9 ± 6.8%). mCRP was present on 22.0 ± 9.6% of monocyte-derived exosomes. mCRP-positive leukocyte-derived microparticle counts were significantly higher (8764 ± 2876/µL) in the blood of patients with CAD than in healthy volunteers (1472 ± 307/µL). LPS and GM-CSF stimulated monocytes expressed CRP mRNA transcripts levels (0.79 ± 0.73-fold), slightly lower relative to unstimulated hepatocytes of the HepG2 cell line (1.0 ± 0.6-fold), but still detectable. The ability of monocytes to transport pCRP in blood flow, and monocyte-derived exosomes to transmit mCRP, may contribute to the maintenance of chronic inflammation in CAD.
Isoproterenol-Induced Permeability Transition Pore-Related Dysfunction of Heart Mitochondria Is Attenuated by Astaxanthin
Authors: Krestinin Roman , Baburina Yulia , Odinokova Irina , Kruglov Alexey , Fadeeva Irina , Zvyagina Alena , Sotnikova Linda , Krestinina Olga
Published: October 2020

Mitochondria are key organelles of the cell because their main function is the capture of energy-rich substrates from the cytoplasm and oxidative cleavage with the generation of carbon dioxide and water, processes that are coupled with the synthesis of ATP. Mitochondria are subject to oxidative stress through the formation of the mitochondrial permeability transition pore (mPTP). Various antioxidants are used to reduce damage caused by oxidative stress and to improve the protection of the antioxidant system. Astaxanthin (AST) is considered to be a dietary antioxidant, which is able to reduce oxidative stress and enhance the antioxidant defense system. In the present investigation, the effect of AST on the functional state of rat heart mitochondria impaired by isoproterenol (ISO) under mPTP functioning was examined. It was found that AST raised mitochondrial respiration, the Ca2+ retention capacity (CRC), and the rate of TPP+ influx in rat heart mitochondria (RHM) isolated from ISO-injected rats. However, the level of reactive oxygen species (ROS) production increased. In addition, the concentrations of cardiolipin (CL), Mn-SOD2, and the proteins regulating mPTP rose after the injection of ISO in RHM pretreated with AST. Based on the data obtained, we suggest that AST has a protective effect in rat heart mitochondria.
Fabrication of Ni-Based Bimodal Porous Catalyst for Dry Reforming of Methane
Authors: Lyu Linghui , Han Yunxing , Ma Qingxiang , Makpal Shengene , Sun Jian , Gao Xinhua , Zhang Jianli , Fan Hui , Zhao Tian-Sheng
Published: October 2020

Dry reforming of methane (DRM) can effectively convert two greenhouse gases into high-valued chemicals, in which the syngas produced by the reaction can be directly used as raw gases for Fischer–Tropsch synthesis and methanol synthesis. Ni-based catalysts for the DRM reaction with comparable initial activity to noble metals are the focus of most researchers, but their poor carbon deposition resistance easily causes their low stability. More importantly, the nickel loading will affect the catalytic activity and carbon deposition resistance of the catalyst. Herein, a series of Ni/Al2O3 catalysts with bimodal pores was prepared and characterized by X-ray diffraction (XRD), N2 physical adsorption–desorption, H2-temperature programmed reduction (H2-TPR), temperature programmed hydrogenation (TPH), Raman, and thermogravimetric analysis (TG). The results show that the interesting bimodal structure catalysts could provide a high surface area and contribute to the mass transfer. Besides, the catalytic performance of the DRM reaction is sensitive to nickel loadings. In this study, the Ni/Al2O3 catalyst with nickel loadings of 6% and 8% exhibited excellent catalytic activity and carbon deposition resistance. These findings will provide a new strategy to design a highly efficient and stable heterogeneous catalyst for industry.
Ultrasensitive Label-Free Detection of Unamplified Multidrug-Resistance Bacteria Genes with a Bimodal Waveguide Interferometric Biosensor
Authors: Maldonado Jesús , González-Guerrero Ana Belén , Fernández-Gavela Adrián , González-López Juan José , Lechuga Laura M.
Published: October 2020

Infections by multidrug-resistant bacteria are becoming a major healthcare emergence with millions of reported cases every year and an increasing incidence of deaths. An advanced diagnostic platform able to directly detect and identify antimicrobial resistance in a faster way than conventional techniques could help in the adoption of early and accurate therapeutic interventions, limiting the actual negative impact on patient outcomes. With this objective, we have developed a new biosensor methodology using an ultrasensitive nanophotonic bimodal waveguide interferometer (BiMW), which allows a rapid and direct detection, without amplification, of two prevalent and clinically relevant Gram-negative antimicrobial resistance encoding sequences: the extended-spectrum betalactamase-encoding gene blaCTX-M-15 and the carbapenemase-encoding gene blaNDM-5 We demonstrate the extreme sensitivity and specificity of our biosensor methodology for the detection of both gene sequences. Our results show that the BiMW biosensor can be employed as an ultrasensitive (attomolar level) and specific diagnostic tool for rapidly (less than 30 min) identifying drug resistance. The BiMW nanobiosensor holds great promise as a powerful tool for the control and management of healthcare-associated infections by multidrug-resistant bacteria.
Hybrid Operating Room System for the Treatment of Thoracic and Abdominal Aortic Aneurysms: Evaluation of the Radiation Dose Received by Patients
Authors: Haga Yoshihiro , Chida Koichi , Sota Masahiro , Kaga Yuji , Abe Mitsuya , Inaba Yohei , Suzuki Masatoshi , Meguro Taiichiro , Zuguchi Masayuki
Published: October 2020

In recent years, endovascular treatment of aortic aneurysms has attracted considerable attention as a promising alternative to traditional surgery. Hybrid operating room systems (HORSs) are increasingly being used to perform endovascular procedures. The clinical benefits of endovascular treatments using HORSs are very clear, and these procedures are increasing in number. In procedures such as thoracic endovascular aortic repair (TEVAR) and endovascular aortic repair (EVAR), wires and catheters are used to deliver and deploy the stent graft in the thoracic/abdominal aorta under fluoroscopic control, including DSA. Thus, the radiation dose to the patient is an important issue. We determined radiation dose indicators (the dose–area product (DAP) and air karma (AK) parameters) associated with endovascular treatments (EVAR and TEVAR) using a HORS. As a result, the mean ± standard deviation (SD) DAPs of TEVAR and EVAR were 323.7 ± 161.0 and 371.3 ± 186.0 Gy × cm2, respectively. The mean ± SD AKs of TEVAR and EVAR were 0.92 ± 0.44 and 1.11 ± 0.54 Gy, respectively. The mean ± SD fluoroscopy times of TEVAR and EVAR were 13.4 ± 7.1 and 23.2 ± 11.7 min, respectively. Patient radiation dose results in this study of endovascular treatments using HORSs showed no deterministic radiation effects, such as skin injuries. However, radiation exposure during TEVAR and EVAR cannot be ignored. The radiation dose should be evaluated in HORSs during endovascular treatments. Reducing/optimizing the radiation dose to the patient in HORSs is important.
Online Delivery of Teaching and Laboratory Practices: Continuity of University Programmes during COVID-19 Pandemic
Authors: Gamage Kelum A. A. , Wijesuriya Dilani I. , Ekanayake Sakunthala Y. , Rennie Allan E. W. , Lambert Chris G. , Gunawardhana Nanda
Published: October 2020

A great number of universities worldwide are having their education interrupted, partially or fully, by the spread of the novel coronavirus (COVID-19). Consequently, an increasing number of universities have taken the steps necessary to transform their teaching, including laboratory workshops into an online or blended mode of delivery. Irrespective of the measures taken, universities must continue to maintain their high academic standards and provide a high-quality student experience as required for delivery of learning outcomes associated with each degree programme. This has created a challenge across the higher education landscape, where academics had to switch to remote teaching and different approaches to achieving laboratory delivery. As a result, students have not been receiving face-to-face teaching, and access to laboratory facilities has been limited or nearly impossible. This paper reviews numerous approaches taken by universities to deliver teaching and laboratory practices remotely, in consideration of the COVID-19 pandemic, whilst also considering the potential impacts on the student learning experience. This review is primarily focused on the fields of engineering, science and technology, based on published literature including books, reviewing web-based provision of selected universities, institutional and national policy documents.
Backstepping Fuzzy Sliding Mode Control for the Antiskid Braking System of Unmanned Aerial Vehicles
Authors: Zhang Xi , Lin Hui
Published: October 2020

This paper proposes a backstepping fuzzy sliding mode control method for the antiskid braking system (ABS) of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs). First, the longitudinal dynamic model of the UAV braking system is established and combined with the model of the electromechanical actuator (EMA), based on reasonable simplification. Subsequently, to overcome the higher-order nonlinearity of the braking system and ensure the lateral stability of the UAV during the braking process, an ABS controller is designed using the barrier Lyapunov function to ensure that the slip ratio can track the reference value without exceeding the preset range. Then, a power fast terminal sliding mode control algorithm is adopted to realize high-performance braking pressure control, which is required in the ABS controller, and a fuzzy corrector is established to improve the dynamic adaptation of the EMA controller in different braking pressure ranges. The experimental results show that the proposed braking pressure control strategy can improve the servo performance of the EMA, and the hardware in loop (HIL) experimental results indicate that the proposed slip ratio control strategy demonstrates a satisfactory performance in terms of stability under various runway conditions.
Seeing Sanctuary: Separation and Accompaniment
Authors: Hernández David
Published: October 2020

“Seeing Sanctuary” explores the practice and labeling of immigrant sanctuaries in the Trump era of migration enforcement and family separation. The essay utilizes the case of a class visit to a migrant sanctuary in Amherst, Massachusetts, and explores the challenges, rewards, and sense of futility from this flawed but necessary form of accompaniment. In March of 2018, my “History of Deportation” class visited Lucio Pérez, a Guatemalan migrant and nineteen-year resident of Massachusetts, who resides in sanctuary at the First Congregational Church. At this writing, in August 2020, thirty-five months since he entered the church, Pérez is still in sanctuary. Facing deportation in October 2017, Pérez sought refuge, five months prior to our class visit. The essay, drawing from the public narrative of Pérez, distinguishes the open defiance of Pérez’s sanctuary from the broader “sanctuary city” efforts at non-compliance with federal enforcement schemes.
Expression Profile of Porcine TRIM26 and Its Inhibitory Effect on Interferon-β Production and Antiviral Response
Authors: Huang Hui , Sharma Mona , Zhang Yanbing , Li Chenxi , Liu Ke , Wei Jianchao , Shao Donghua , Li Beibei , Ma Zhiyong , Cao Ruibing , Qiu Yafeng
Published: October 2020

TRIM26, a member of the tripartite motif (TRIM) family has been shown to be involved in modulation of innate antiviral response. However, the functional characteristics of porcine TRIM26 (porTRIM26) are unclear. In this study, we used a synthesized antigen peptide to generate a polyclonal antibody against porTRIM26 with which to study the expression and function of porTRIM26. We demonstrated that polyinosinic:polycytidylic acid (poly (I:C)) stimulation and viral infection (vesicular stomatitis (VSV) or porcine reproductive and respiratory syndrome virus (PRRSV)) induce expression of porTRIM26, whereas knock-down expression of porTRIM26 promotes interferon (IFN)-β production after poly (I:C) stimulation and virus infection (VSV or PRRSV). The importance of the porTRIM26-mediated modulation of the antiviral response was also shown in VSV- or PRRSV-infected cells. In summary, these findings show that porTRIM26 has an inhibitory role in IFN-β expression and the antiviral response.