bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Hacktivism and Alternative Journalism
Authors: Premat Christophe Emmanuel
Published: February 2020

The article deals with the creation of a hacktivist channel in France in 2013. The channel pretends to evaluate the information and invite critical guests that are not considered in traditional media. The aim of the article is to study how this channel presents the guests and the topics to see if there is a journalistic innovation. By using the tools of critical discourse analysis and conversational analysis, it is possible to describe the way the guests are presented and connected to the topic promoted by the article. The scenography is also worth being described as the guests have long interviews with a hidden journalist without any montage. In reality, the technique is all the more interesting as it allows the guest to correct his/her reputation. The development of a prior ethos to a discursive ethos is important as the channel can take an advantage of its original position in the sphere of media. Last but not least, the focus on those techniques helps to see if this kind of critical media is a new form of alternative journalism.
International Cooperation and Legal Response to Cybercrime in Pakistan
Authors: Rehman Tansif Ur
Published: February 2020

According to Internet World Stats (IWS), the total number of internet users in in Pakistan during October 2018 was 44,608,065, which is 22.2% of the total population. More than 30 million of Pakistan's 212 million people use the internet via mobile devices. The literacy rate of the country is quite low as compared to other countries (i.e., 58%). This research focuses on the common patterns of cyber criminals and the required legislation and enforcement of existing laws along with the need of international cooperation to counter global cyber threat.
Drug Trafficking
Authors: Kaur Prabhjyot , Kaushal Puneet Kumar
Published: February 2020

In an increasingly intrusive era, the deep web is considered to be a bastion of privacy, while for others it is one of the most evil places to exist. The deep web is a part of the world wide web that cannot be readily accessed by conventional search engines, and a small part of it forms the dark web. The enshrouded nature and complex methodology required for access have made dark web a platform for carrying out numerous illicit activities, one of them being drug trafficking. This article explores how deep web and dark web operate, the trade of illegal drugs online in so-called cryptomarkets or dark net markets, the foundation and shut-down of Silk Road, the new cryptomarkets that popped up to take its place, the use of ‘the onion router' or TOR browser in this anonymous sale and purchase of illegal drugs, the role of encryption and cryptocurrencies, the existing and suggested tactics of the law enforcement to prevent internet-facilitated drug trafficking, and the future research areas.
Online Hate Crimes Against Women (CYBER VAWG)
Authors: Khan Tehmina
Published: February 2020

In this article, a review of Cyber VAWG is provided with its meaning, potential impacts, the state of legislation to address Cyber VAWG, and recommendations to improve processes and systems to tackle Cyber VAWG. A literature review of academic and nonacademic literature has been undertaken. It is found that legislation and enforcement are still in infancy and there are currently complexities and barriers that are discouraging the reporting of Cyber VAWG. The article serves as a starting point for further research which should address the actual implementation of legislative and system changes to avoid and punish (in cases where it does occur) Cyber VAWG.
Investigating Cybercrime in Nigeria
Authors: Lamidi Mufutau Temitayo
Published: February 2020

Advances in ICT have brought both joy and sadness to individuals and organizations. Cybercrime, a byproduct of advances in ICT, is a relatively new area where crime flourishes in Nigeria, and many such cases have been reported by victims at different social forums. This study investigates cybercrime as it affects individuals and the society at large with a view to exposing the tricks often used by fraudsters and offering possible solutions. Data were collected from personal experiences (phone calls and text messages), WhatsApp messages and stories posted on Facebook and Nairaland forums by victims. They were analysed descriptively. The article suggests that tougher legislative sanctions and strict law enforcement by government can curb this menace. Also, through grammatical competence, improved morality as dictated by culture, logical reasoning, and avoidance of greed, individuals can detect fraudulent proposals and escape cyberattacks.
Administrative Perspectives on Implementing a Mandatory Engaged Scholarship Project With Doctoral Students
Authors: Matteson Shirley M. , Arellano Irene , Sherrod Sonya E.
Published: February 2020

This chapter focuses on lessons learned from mandating community-engaged scholarship research projects for all doctoral students within a specific college of education prior to beginning their dissertations. Members of the administration of the college participated in semi-structured interviews that focused on capturing their thoughts about the 2 years in which a small group of faculty and students piloted the initiative. During the interviews, the administrators shared their perceptions and what they believed to be the varied reactions of both faculty and students who participated in the community engagement project. The chapter provides insights that may be useful for others wanting to initiate similar community engagement initiatives with doctoral students.
Service-Learning
Authors: Fitzpatrick Jacki
Published: February 2020

The purpose of this chapter is to provide an overview of service-learning (SL). It identifies the distinctions among SL, internship and volunteerism. A description of the key characteristics of service and learning is provided. In addition, three specific SL types (direct, indirect, advocacy) are delineated. Particular strengths and potential problems of each type are acknowledged. It should be noted that the types are not inherently exclusive. Across their time working with community partners, students can engage in multiple types simultaneously or sequentially. When SL is conducted successfully, it is a mutually beneficial experience for partners and students. Instructors can play a critical role in promoting such experiences.
The Transformative Nature of Community Engagement in the Arts
Authors: Quinn Robert D. , Arnold Alice , Littlewood Kerry Anne
Published: February 2020

Art educators have engaged in various community-engagement experiences with undergraduate classes for many years. In addition to the curricular reward, the authors have found that students are experiencing community in new ways through these opportunities. In this study, researchers used a mixed methods approach to carefully examine several key aspects of community work in afterschool programs in two community centers. First, the context was explored, and ethnography was used to describe experiences with art, community, and engagement in an area facing severe socioeconomic challenges. Outcome data from one site helped to link community work to at-risk student achievement on end of grade testing. Outcome data from the second research site suggests that resilience increased in students engaged in afterschool programming, perhaps through the incorporation of visual art. Last, university students' response papers were content analyzed to illustrate gains achieved through these opportunities.
Smell Is All Around Us
Authors: Wilson-Brown Saskia
Published: February 2020

While much of today's immersive media claims to be “multi-sensory,” in actuality most such works have only audio and visual sensory cues. Scent, a powerful human modality that helps us to understand and derive meaning from the world, is often overlooked. However, scent in the service of art has a long and rich history, especially looking back to its ancient uses in establishing power, mystery, or memorability within religious or political domains. Early attempts at incorporating scent into artistic performances were not well received, perhaps due to inadequate technology of the time. Today a renaissance of olfactory art points to broader acceptance and appreciation of scent in artistic productions. Many artists are taking on the mantle of scent today, and the authors look forward to its increasing application in many forms of immersive media.
Learning From Place
Authors: O'Connor Kevin , Sterenberg Gladys , Vaughan Norman
Published: February 2020

This chapter investigates how teacher candidates' experiences in STEAM field studies with community partners can inform work in teacher education within an integrated practicum based on curriculum of place. The overall goal of the inquiry is to better understand and articulate the particular ways in which people value place-based knowledge. Through relationships with Indigenous communities, the team of educators has a deeply held conviction that sustained deliberations on the connections between Indigenous knowledge systems and place-based thinking can provide significant opportunities for reframing education. Learning from place emphasizes a relationship with the land, something deeply respected in Indigenous communities and something absent from much of place-based education. The research explores this tension as we come to a deeper and shared understanding of co-responsibility within Treaty 7 relationships. The project seeks to close this gap by considering varying perspectives of place as it informs STEAM teacher education pedagogy.
The Use of Augmented Reality in the Marketing Mix of Physical Products
Authors: Langaro Daniela , Martins Luis Bravo
Published: February 2020

The chapter explores current practices regarding the use of AR in the marketing mix of physical products and the implications for the future. Authors identify common aspects and recommend future studies and practices. Twenty cases of physical products using AR as part of their marketing mix were identified and analysed. The EPI Cube framework and its contextualization in the customer experience was used as a theoretical model for guiding the analysis. Findings are presented and implications for theory and practice are discussed.
Mass Media and Education
Authors: Sezgül İbrahim
Published: February 2020

This study mainly aims to analyze the relationship between mass media and education. The introduction part presents a brief explanation of what communication, mass communication, mass media television and radio, the internet, social media, and Whatsapp. In the second part, the use of those media tools in education and their effects on people's behaviors are discussed. In the following part, the relationship between mass media and education, the role of mass media in education, and also the educator, teacher, and administration roles are explained. Corporate communication in education and its importance are emphasized, and finally, negative and positive effects of main mass media on shaping behaviors of the target audience are discussed.
Evaluation of Studies on Technology in Religious Education Published in Turkey
Authors: Bayraktar Muhammet Mustafa
Published: February 2020

The aim of this study was to examine the studies conducted in Turkey on the use of technology in religious education. The Turkish National Academic Network and Information Center and the Journal of Theology Religious Foundation of Turkey's Islamic Research Center databases and the literature on religious education were screened (in February 2019) using the keywords “technology in religious education,” “technology in formal religious education,” “technology in non-formal religious education,” and “technology in the religious culture and moral knowledge course.” Relevant articles were first classified into two as “formal religious education” and “non-formal religious education.” However, investigating the articles in both classes would be beyond the scope of one study; therefore, this study focused only on the 17 studies (published between 2000 and 2018) in the “formal religious education” class. The aim of this study was to determine the direction, trends, and problems of religious education studies in Turkey in terms of technology.
Optimal Test Case Selection Using Ant Colony and Rough Sets
Authors: Gladston Angelin , Niranjana Devi N.
Published: February 2020

Test case selection helps in improving quality of test suites by removing ambiguous, redundant test cases, thereby reducing the cost of software testing. Various works carried out have chosen test cases based on single parameter and optimized the test cases using single objective employing single strategies. In this article, a parameter selection technique is combined with an optimization technique for optimizing the selection of test cases. A two-step approach has been employed. In first step, the fuzzy entropy-based filtration is used for test case fitness evaluation and selection. In second step, the improvised ant colony optimization is employed to select test cases from the previously reduced test suite. The experimental evaluation using coverage parameters namely, average percentage statement coverage and average percentage decision coverage along with suite size reduction, demonstrate that by using this proposed approach, test suite size can be reduced, reducing further the computational effort incurred.
Perceiving Technology-Based Professional Development Practices for Teachers
Authors: Pan Xiaoquan , Gan Zhengdong
Published: February 2020

This study explored how 26 Chinese EFL teachers perceived community-based, technology-supported professional development practices. The methods of data collection in this study blend quantitative and qualitative techniques: 1) questionnaire survey of teachers' satisfaction about community-based technology-supported professional development practices; 2) online teacher discussion postings; 3) teacher self-reflection journals; and 4) semi-structured interviews. Data analysis revealed a generally positive attitude and empowering feelings in these Chinese EFL teachers who viewed technology-facilitated practices as affording constructive functions for their professional development. Results also revealed a range of factors that apparently mediated/limited EFL teachers' participation in the professional development activities. This study thus contributes to the understanding of the reality in relation to actual utilization of technological resources in second-language teacher development in the context of a developing country such as China.
Developing the Assessment Questions Automatically to Determine the Cognitive Level of the E-Learner Using NLP Techniques
Authors: Deena G.  , Raja K.  , Nizar Banu P.K.  , Kannan K.
Published: February 2020

The key objective of the teaching-learning process (TLP) is to impart the knowledge to the learner. In the digital world, the computer-based system emphasis teaching through online mode known as e-learning. The expertise level of the learner in learned subjects can be measured through e-assessment in which multiple choice questions (MCQ) is considered to be an effective one. The assessment questions play the vital role which decides the ability level of a learner. In manual preparation, covering all the topics is difficult and time consumable. Hence, this article proposes a system which automatically generates two different types of question helps to identify the skill level of a learner. First, the MCQ questions with the distractor set are created using named entity recognizer (NER). Further, based on blooms taxonomy the Subjective questions are generated using natural language processing (NLP). The objective of the proposed system is to generate the questions dynamically which helps to reduce the occupation of memory concept.
Early Sport Specialization and Subjective Hip and Groin Dysfunction in Collegiate Ice Hockey Athletes
Authors: Sheppard Marisa , Nicknair Jim , Goetschius John
Published: February 2020

Context

Sport specialization is a popular trend among youth athletes that has been associated with an increased risk for developing lower extremity overuse injuries. Early ice hockey specialization may contribute to the high rates of noncontact and overuse hip and groin injuries in collegiate ice hockey athletes.

Objective

To examine the effects of high, moderate, and low levels of sport specialization on subjective hip and groin dysfunction in collegiate ice hockey athletes.

Design

Retrospective cohort study.

Setting

Data were collected during the midseason of the 2018–2019 hockey season at a local ice hockey arena.

Patients or Other Participants

National Collegiate Athletic Association Division III and club ice hockey players from Midwestern college programs (n = 187; 81 women, 106 men).

Main Outcome Measure(s)

Participants were stratified into high-, moderate-, and low-specialization groups based on ice hockey participation before grade 9 of high school. The 6 subscales of the Hip and Groin Outcome Score questionnaire were used to assess current subjective hip and groin dysfunction.

Results

The high-specialization group had lower scores than the low-specialization group on the Symptoms (P = .001), Pain (P = .003), Activities of Daily Living (P = .001), Sport and Recreation (P = .014), and Quality of Life (P = .002) subscales. The moderate-specialization group had lower scores than the low-specialization group on the Symptoms (P = .015) and Activities of Daily Living (P = .006) subscales.

Conclusions

Collegiate ice hockey athletes who were highly specialized before high school reported greater current hip and groin pain, symptoms, and dysfunction during activities of daily living and sport and recreation and lower current hip- and groin-related quality of life compared with low-specialization ice hockey athletes. Early ice hockey specialization may be detrimental to hip and groin function in collegiate ice hockey athletes.
Bootstrap methods for inference in the Parks model
Authors: Moundigbaye Mantobaye , Messemer Clarisse , Parks Richard W. , Reed W. Robert
Published: February 2020

This paper shows how to bootstrap hypothesis tests in the context of the Parks’s (1967) Feasible Generalized Least Squares estimator. It then demonstrates that the bootstrap outperforms FGLS(Parks)’s top competitor. The FGLS(Parks) estimator has been a workhorse for the analysis of panel data and seemingly unrelated regression equation systems because it allows the incorporation of cross-sectional correlation together with heteroskedasticity and serial correlation. Unfortunately, the associated, asymptotic standard error estimates are biased downward, often severely. To address this problem, Beck and Katz (1995) developed an approach that uses the Prais-Winsten estimator together with “panel corrected standard errors” (PCSE). While PCSE produces standard error estimates that are less biased than FGLS(Parks), it forces the user to sacrifice efficiency for accuracy in hypothesis testing. The PCSE approach has been, and continues to be, widely used. This paper develops an alternative: a nonparametric bootstrapping procedure to be used in conjunction with the FGLS(Parks) estimator. We demonstrate its effectiveness using an experimental approach that creates artificial panel datasets modelled after actual panel datasets. Our approach provides a superior alternative to existing estimation options by allowing researchers to retain the efficiency of the FGLS(Parks) estimator while producing more accurate hypothesis test results than the PCSE.
Cleopatra in Italian and English Renaissance Drama
Authors: Montanari Anna Maria
Published: February 2020

This book considers some of the main adaptations of the character of Cleopatra for the Renaissance stage, travelling from Italy to England to arrive finally to Shakespeare. It shows how each reading of the story of Cleopatra is unique to and expressive of the culture which produced it, even as writers drew from the same sources from Antiquity. For the first time texts belonging to different cultures, rigorously presented, are brought into dialogue on such questions as moral standpoint, gender and the representation of the exotic. Moreover, through the fascinating figure of Cleopatra, the reader is able to explore the development of Renaissance tragedy, in its commercial and non-commercial versions. Ultimately both questions at the heart of this study - concerning Cleopatra's identity and her translation into theatre - converge to be (dis)solved by Shakespeare.
Biomass-burning-derived particles from a wide variety of fuels – Part 1: Properties of primary particles
Authors: McClure Crystal D. , Lim Christopher Y. , Hagan David H. , Kroll Jesse H. , Cappa Christopher D.
Published: February 2020

Abstract. Relationships between various optical, physical, and chemical properties of
biomass-combustion-derived particles are characterized for particles
produced in the laboratory from a wide range of fuels and burn conditions.
The modified combustion efficiency (MCE), commonly used to parameterize
biomass particle emissions and properties, is shown to generally have weak
predictive capabilities, especially for more efficient combustion
conditions. There is, however, a strong relationship between many intensive
optical properties (e.g., single-scatter albedo, Ångström absorption
exponent, mass absorption efficiency) and the organic aerosol-to-black
carbon ([OA] ∕ [BC]) mass ratio over a wider range than previously considered
(0.3 to 105). The properties of brown carbon (BrC, i.e., light-absorbing organic carbon) also vary with [OA] ∕ [BC]. Coating-induced enhancements
(i.e., “lensing” effects) contribute only a minor amount to BC absorption
for all of the burns despite some burns producing particles having large
ensemble-average coating-to-core mass ratios. The BC–OA mixing state varies
strongly with [OA] ∕ [BC]; the fraction of OA that is internally mixed with BC
decreases with [OA] ∕ [BC] while the relative amount of OA coated on BC
increases. In contrast, there is little relationship between many OA bulk
chemical properties and [OA] ∕ [BC], with the O : C and H : C atomic ratios and
the relative abundance of a key marker ion (m/z=60, linked to
levoglucosan) all showing no dependence on [OA] ∕ [BC]. In contrast, both the
organic nitrate fraction of OA and the OA volatility do depend on the
[OA] ∕ [BC]. Neither the total particle nor BC-specific size distributions
exhibit any clear dependence on the burn conditions or [OA] ∕ [BC], although
there is perhaps a dependence on fuel type. Overall, our results expand on
existing knowledge to contribute new understanding of the properties of
particles emitted from biomass combustion.
Dimensions of marine phytoplankton diversity
Authors: Dutkiewicz Stephanie , Cermeno Pedro , Jahn Oliver , Follows Michael J. , Hickman Anna E. , Taniguchi Darcy A. A. , Ward Ben A.
Published: February 2020

Abstract. Biodiversity of phytoplankton is important for ecosystem
stability and marine biogeochemistry. However, the large-scale patterns of
diversity are not well understood and are often poorly characterized in
terms of statistical relationships with factors such as latitude,
temperature and productivity. Here we use ecological theory and a global
trait-based ecosystem model to provide mechanistic understanding of patterns
of phytoplankton diversity. Our study suggests that phytoplankton diversity
across three dimensions of trait space (size, biogeochemical function and
thermal tolerance) is controlled by disparate combinations of drivers: the
supply rate of the limiting resource, the imbalance in different resource
supplies relative to competing phytoplankton demands, size-selective
grazing and transport by the moving ocean. Using sensitivity studies we
show that each dimension of diversity is controlled by different drivers.
Models including only one (or two) of the trait dimensions will have
different patterns of diversity than one which incorporates another trait
dimension. We use the results of our model exploration to infer the controls
on the diversity patterns derived from field observations along meridional
transects in the Atlantic and to explain why different taxa and size classes
have differing patterns.
CNN BASED DETECTION OF BUILDING ROOFS FROM HIGH RESOLUTION SATELLITE IMAGES
Authors: Hang L. , Cai G. Y.
Published: February 2020

Abstract. The detection and reconstruction of building have attracted more attention in the community of remote sensing and computer vision. Light detection and ranging (LiDAR) has been proved to be a good way to extract building roofs, while we have to face the problem of data shortage for most of the time. In this paper, we tried to extract the building roofs from very high resolution (VHR) images of Chinese satellite Gaofen-2 by employing convolutional neural network (CNN). It has been proved that the CNN is of a higher capability of recognizing detailed features which may not be classified out by object-based classification approach. Several major steps are concerned in this study, such as generation of training dataset, model training, image segmentation and building roofs recognition. First, urban objects such as trees, roads, squares and buildings were classified based on random forest algorithm by an object-oriented classification approach, the building regions were separated from other classes at the aid of visually interpretation and correction; Next, different types of building roofs mainly categorized by color and size information were trained using the trained CNN. Finally, the industrial and residential building roofs have been recognized individually and the results have been validated individually. The assessment results prove effectiveness of the proposed method with approximately 91% and 88% of quality rates in detection industrial and residential building roofs, respectively. Which means that the CNN approach is prospecting in detecting buildings with a very higher accuracy.
Direct Brachial Approach for Acute Basilar Artery Occlusion: Technical Note and Preliminary Clinical Experience
Authors: Shibata Teishiki , Oomura Masahiro , Nishikawa Yusuke , Mase Mitsuhito
Published: February 2020

In mechanical endovascular thrombectomy (MET) for acute basilar artery occlusion (ABAO) in the elderly, navigating a guide catheter via the femoral artery may be difficult due to the approach route’s significant tortuosity. To resolve this problem, we have been performing a technique that uses a direct brachial approach (DiBA) with a large-bore aspiration catheter. We reported our preliminary clinical experience with this technique. MET for ABAO using the DiBA technique was performed on 4 consecutive patients between August 2017 and December 2018. In all patients, thrombolysis in cerebral infarction 2B or 3 recanalization was achieved, but the modified Rankin Scale at 90 days was ≥4. There were no technical difficulties or complications with this technique. The DiBA technique is an effective and feasible approach in MET for ABAO. Although excellent clinical outcomes could not be achieved, the angiographic outcomes were excellent with no technical complications. This approach can be an alternative to the femoral artery approach, particularly for tortuous arteries in the elderly.
Personnel Differentiation for Competitive Advantage in the Private Tertiary Education Institutions in Botswana
Authors: Chiguvi Douglas , Tadu Ruramayi , Khumalo Sinesisa , Mahambo Collen
Published: February 2020

The primary objective of the study was to describe the extent to which personnel differentiation strategies may be used to gain competitive advantage among Private Tertiary Education Institutions in Botswana. The study examined how personnel differentiation may be employed by private tertiary education institutions in order to achieve competitive advantage. The study used descriptive survey research and the findings revealed that the private universities have to a certain extent employed personnel differentiation strategies. However, institutions have not done enough to clearly stand out as differentiated universities. The study recommends that the universities must appeal to prospective employers; hire, train and retain competent staff, and also get involved in activities that will enhance institutions’ credibility. Institutions need to work together with key stakeholders and continually seek ways to attain competitive advantage through personnel differentiation.
Enkephalin Therapy Improves Relapsing-Remitting Multiple Sclerosis
Authors: L. Patel Chirag , S. Zagon Ian , A. Thomas Gary , J. McLaughlin Patricia
Published: February 2020

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is accompanied by decreases in serum endogenous enkephalin/endorphins and alterations in inflammatory cytokines. This retrospective analysis of serum levels was conducted in 53 patients with established relapsing-remitting MS treated with the disease-modifying therapies (DMT) glatiramer acetate, dimethyl fumarate or with the biotherapeutic low dose naltrexone (LDN) to elevate enkephalins, an off-label alternative. Opioid growth factor (OGF), an inhibitory endogenous opioid involved in modulating cellular replication, was measured and correlated to serum β-endorphin, IL-17A and TNFα. Results revealed that MS leads to a significant reduction in OGF levels in subjects on DMTs, but patients on LDN had OGF levels comparable to non-MS controls. Individuals on DMTs had significantly elevated TNFα levels, while IL-17A levels were significantly elevated only in patients taking dimethyl fumarate. A direct correlation was established between OGF and IL17A indicating a potential interaction between the OGF-OGFr axis and pro-inflammatory T-helper cells providing insight into the disease etiology.
Uwarunkowania i formy instytucjonalnej polsUwarunkowania i formy instytucjonalnej polsko-czeskiej współpracy transgranicznej = Conditioning and forms of institutional cooperation across the Polish-Czech border
Authors: Lewkowicz Łukasz
Published: February 2020

The social and political transitions taking place in Central and Eastern Europe post-1989 allowed Poland to develop cross-border cooperation with neighbouring counties. At local-government level in particular, the Czech Republic then became a key partner. Today, the Polish-Czech borderland resembles those between Poland and Germany, and between Poland and Slovakia, in constituting a model example of innovative cross-border cooperation. While the area first played hosted to Euroregions, it later also fell within European Groupings of Territorial Cooperation. And while collaboration between one local authority and another over the border has evolved particularly dynamically, as-yet untapped potential would seem to remain. Overall, this article seeks to analyse the actors currently operating across the Polish-Czech border, from a political-science perspective. These are Euroregions (of Nysa, Glacensis, Pradziad, Silesia, Cieszyn Silesia and the Beskids), as well as European Groupings of Territorial Cooperation (of Tritia and Novum), and selected units at local government level. The analysis of the transboundary entities, and those engaging in cross-border activity was of a genetic, structural and functional nature, and this facilitated the identification of similarities and differences between the actors concerned, making clear what their specifics are, and what the prospects for cooperation.
Cavity treatment in primary molars and malocclusion: quasi-randomised clinical trial
Authors: Gomide Rafael T. , Frencken Jo E. , Faber Jorge , Kuijpers-Jagtman Anne Marie , Leal Soraya C.
Published: February 2020

Background

An innovative caries treatment protocol for primary teeth, termed Ultra-Conservative Treatment (UCT), restores small cavities through the Atraumatic Restorative Treatment (ART) protocol and cleans medium to large open cavities with toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste. However, UCT-treated primary molars were found to exfoliate earlier than amalgam (CRT) and ART-restored cavities, which may lead to unacceptable loss of space for normal eruption of permanent successors. The null-hypothesis tested was that there is no difference between the three treatment protocols and the intra-arch distances, and index of orthodontic treatment need (IOTN) after 4 years.

Methods

Dental casts were taken at baseline (T0) and four (T4) years. The space of the premolars (D + E space), arch perimeter, anterior and total arch depth were measured using a morphometric computer programme. The presence and level of malocclusion were assessed according to the IOTN index. Dependent variables were all intra-arch distances and the IOTN while the independent variable was treatment protocol (CRT, ART and UCT). Data were analysed using linear and logistic regression.

Results

The sample consisted of 867 pairs of casts of 272 initial 6–7-year-olds. No difference was observed between the UCT protocol and the two restorative protocols for the intra-arch variables in both maxilla and mandible over the 4 year period. There was no difference between the UCT and the CRT and ART protocols regarding the occurrence of orthodontic treatment need (malocclusion). In conclusion, the UCT treatment protocol does not differ significantly from the traditional amalgam (CRT) and ART restorative protocols with respect to intra-arch distances and malocclusion. The earlier exfoliation of UCT-treated primary molars does not lead to a worsening of the eruption pattern of permanent successors.
Reforming teaching methods by integrating dental theory with clinical practice for dental students
Authors: Wang Wei , Bi Xuewei , Zhu Yuhe , Li Xiaoming
Published: February 2020

Background

Transitioning from theoretical medicine to clinical practice is both an important and difficult process in dental education. Thus, there is an urgent need for teaching methods that can improve the ability of dental students to integrate dental theory with clinical practice.

Methods

First, we conducted training for problem-based learning based on real clinical cases for dental students. The students were then assigned to dentist/patient roles to rehearse and perform simulated clinical scenarios. Finally, questionnaires, clinical patient care scores, and performance assessments were utilized to evaluate and compare the effectiveness of this training with that of traditional teaching methods.

Results

Students’ abilities to treat and communicate with patients markedly improved after using this reformed teaching method. Among the 30 enrolled students, 29 liked the method, found it time-efficient, and believed that it could help enhance their problem-solving confidence and interest in prosthodontics. They also believed that this teaching method could help them gain a good understanding of related theoretical material, generally thought that the reformed teaching method was more valuable than the traditional approach, and would like to introduce it to others.

Conclusion

After the reformed teaching method was implemented, the students not only achieved better scholastically, but also demonstrated greater accuracy in diagnosing the conditions of patients and formulating treatment plans. They were also more frequently acknowledged by patients, indicating that this method is effective for dental students.
Comparison of the Oil Composition of Clarias gariepinus Collected from Four Lagoons in Lagos, South Western Nigeria
Authors: Abosede Bello Adunola , Abosede Bello Adunola , Soliu Muniru Oluwasegun
Published: February 2020

Oil composition of Clarias gariepinus collected from various locations were studied and compared. Oils contained in the fishes were extracted using Soxhlet extraction method. The physiochemical properties of the oils were determined using official methods of analysis while the fatty acid composition was analysed using Gas Chromatography- Mass Spectrophotometer. The functional groups present in the oils were also detected using Fourier Transform Infra-red Spectroscopy (FTIR). The oil content for the fishes was in the range of 30.65%-40.57%. The oil extracted from C. gariepinus collected from Badagry lagoon had the highest peroxide and iodine values (5.12 mg KOH/g and 129 mgI2/100 g). The fatty acid composition shows that the oils contains large number of essential polyunsaturated fatty acids except for the oil extracted from C. gariepinus collected from Ikorodu lagoon that contains large number of monounsaturated fatty acids. The FTIR spectra show the presence of carboxylic acid, methylene, esters, ketone and alcohol functional group. It was deduced from this study that habitat had strong impact on the oil composition of C. gariepinus.
Contribution to Improving the Quality of Traffic in Mobile Networks
Authors: Aballo Onyonkiton Théophile , Déguénonvo Roland , Vianou Antoine
Published: February 2020

Today, mobile networks are faced with congestion which results in regular slowness given the variation in the actual speed of the network, that is to say the time required to transmit all of the data from a point to another. In third and fourth generation mobile networks, actual throughput is not directly measurable, it actually consists of three separate indicators, latency, jitter and loss rate. Many studies have shown that these parameters have a particular influence on congestion problems. In practice, the effective speed on the network is inversely proportional to the latency. However, the bit rate is four times the latency. Next, jitter is the variation of latency over time, impacting the flow by influencing latency. In this article, we have examined the analysis of traffic congestion in third and fourth generation networks in order to make a comparative study of the congestion rate for good decision-making.
Relative Abundance and Status of Arthropod Pests and Diseases of Honey Bees at South Ari District of South Western Ethiopia
Authors: Ayalew Mulugeta , Hiruy Berhanu
Published: February 2020

Aim: To determine the species composition, relative abundance and status of honey bee pests and diseases in South Ari district of South Omo Zone of Southern Western Ethiopia.

Study Design: Four major honey producing peasant associations (PAs) representing diverse ecological zones were selected purposively, while the sub-localities, villages and beekeepers were selected randomly using a nested design.

Place and Duration of Study: Survey was conducted between 1, August – 30, December 2019 with the interval of one month in major honey producing peasant associations representing diverse ecological zones of Ari district of South Western Ethiopia.

Methodology: The assessment on abundance and status was made from of half kilogram of fresh and dry honey comb samples that were taken from 720 farmer’s hives of four peasant associations using taxonomic key of books related to arthropod pests and diseases of honey bee.

Results: Five species of predators and parasitoids belonging to four orders were recorded. Of these 76.63% accounts for small hive beetles, followed ants (38.31%) and wasps (19.92%). Besides, six type’s diseases of honey bee caused by different pathogens were recorded. Of which, Chalk brood, other virosis, European foulbrood and American foulbrood, respectively were the most frequently occurring. In terms of the status, the diseases of honey bee were in the following orders, i.e., Chalk brood > other virosis > European foulbrood > American foulbrood > Sac Brood Virus, while their pests were in the following orders, i.e., Small hive beetles > Ants > Wasps > Wax moths > Spiders.

Conclusion: Arthropod pests and diseases were the most important constraints of honey colony and honey production in the study areas. Thus, it is important to design and implement effective management strategies to reduce loss of honey colony and honey production in the study area.
Prognostic value of amplitude‐integrated EEG in neonates with high risk of neurological sequelae
Authors: Yuan Xiao , Kang Wenqing , Song Juan , Guo Jing , Guo Lanlan , Zhang Ruili , Liu Shasha , Zhang Yaodong , Liu Dapeng , Wang Yong , Ding Xue , Dong Huimin , Chen Xi , Cheng Yanchao , Zhang Xiaoli , Xu Falin , Zhu Changlian
Published: February 2020

Objective

To determine the efficacy and the prognostic value of amplitude‐integrated electroencephalography (aEEG) in term and near‐term neonates with high risk of neurological sequelae.

Methods

Infants of ≥35 weeks of gestation diagnosed with neonatal encephalopathy or with high risk of brain injury were included. All eligible infants underwent aEEG within 6 h after clinical assessment. The infants were followed up 12 months to evaluate neurological development.

Results

A total of 250 infants were eligible, of which 85 had normal aEEG, 81 had mildly abnormal aEEG, and 84 had severely abnormal aEEG. Of these infants, 168 were diagnosed with different neonatal encephalopathies, 27 with congenital or metabolic diseases, and 55 with high risk of brain injury. In all, 22 infants died, 19 were lost to follow‐up, and 209 completed the follow‐up at 12 months, of which 62 were diagnosed with a neurological disability. Statistical analysis showed that severely abnormal aEEG predicted adverse neurological outcome with a sensitivity of 70.2%, a specificity of 87.1%, a positive predictive value of 75.6%, and a negative predictive value of 83.7%.

Interpretation

aEEG can predict adverse outcomes in high‐risk neonates and is a useful method for monitoring neonates with high risk of adverse neurological outcomes.
The Use of Genipin as an Effective, Biocompatible, Anti‐Inflammatory Cross‐Linking Method for Nerve Guidance Conduits
Authors: Kočí Zuzana , Sridharan Rukmani , Hibbitts Alan J. , Kneafsey Simone L. , Kearney Cathal J. , O'Brien Fergal J.
Published: February 2020

A number of natural polymer biomaterial‐based nerve guidance conduits (NGCs) are developed to facilitate repair of peripheral nerve injuries. Cross‐linking ensures mechanical integrity and desired degradation properties of the NGCs; however, common methods such as formaldehyde are associated with cellular toxicity. Hence, there is an unmet clinical need for alternative nontoxic cross‐linking agents. In this study, collagen‐based NGCs with a collagen/chondroitin sulfate luminal filler are used to study the effect of cross‐linking on mechanical and structural properties, degradation, biocompatibility, and immunological response. A simplified manufacturing method of genipin cross‐linking is developed, by incorporating genipin into solution prior to freeze‐drying the NGCs. This leads to successful cross‐linking as demonstrated by higher cross‐linking degree and similar tensile strength of genipin cross‐linked conduits compared to formaldehyde cross‐linked conduits. Genipin cross‐linking also preserves NGC macro and microstructure as observed through scanning electron microscopy and spectral analysis. Most importantly, in vitro cell studies show that genipin, unlike the formaldehyde cross‐linked conduits, supports the viability of Schwann cells. Moreover, genipin cross‐linked conduits direct macrophages away from a pro‐inflammatory and toward a pro‐repair state. Overall, genipin is demonstrated to be an effective, safe, biocompatible, and anti‐inflammatory alternative to formaldehyde for cross‐linking clinical grade NGCs.
In Vivo Shaping of Inorganic Functional Devices using Microalgae
Authors: Santomauro Giulia , Stiefel Michael , Jeurgens Lars P. H. , Bill Joachim
Published: February 2020

The usage of biomineralization processes performed by living microalgae to create 3D nanostructured materials are advantageous compared to conventional synthesis routes. Exploitation of in vivo shaping using living cells leads to inorganic intricate biominerals, produced with low environmental impact. Since biomineralization processes are genetically controlled, the formation of nanostructured materials is highly reproducible. The shells of microalgae, like coccoliths, are particularly of great interest. This study shows the generation of mesoporous highly structured functional materials with induced optoelectronical properties using in vivo processes of the microalga species Emiliania huxleyi. It demonstrates the metabolically driven incorporation of the lanthanide terbium into the coccoliths of E. huxleyi as a route for the synthesis of finely patterned photoluminescent particles by feeding the microalgae with this luminescent element. The resulting green luminescent particles have hierarchical ordered pores on the nano‐ and microscale and may act as powerful tools for many applications; they may serve as imaging probes for biomedical applications, or in microoptics. The luminescent coccoliths combine a unique hierarchical structure with a characteristic luminescence pattern, which make them superior to conventional produced Tb doted material. With this study, the possibility of the further exploitation of coccoliths as advanced functional materials for nanotechnological applications is given.
Droplets Crawling on Peristome‐Mimetic Surfaces
Authors: Zhou Shan , Yu Cunlong , Li Chuxin , Jiang Lei , Dong Zhichao
Published: February 2020

Controlling the mobility of liquids along surfaces is widely exploited in various technologies to achieve self‐lubrication, phase‐change heat transfer, and microfluidics. Despite commendable progress in directional liquid transport on peristome‐mimetic surfaces, liquid merely spreads directionally with a wetted trail remaining. It is a challenge to achieve directional contracting of spreading liquid at the rear side and ultimately unidirectional motion in bulk from one site to another. Here it is shown that liquids resting on the peristome‐mimetic surfaces can crawl directionally and rapidly in an inchworms‐like way under the action of sudden spontaneous bubbles levitation. Vacuuming or chemical reaction induces sudden nucleation, growth, coalescence (Ostwald ripening process), and rupture of bubbles in the asymmetric microcavities of the peristome‐mimetic surface with directional overpressure beneath the liquid, resulting in the guided contracting and spreading of the liquid. Bubbles regulate this new mode of liquid directional motion. The strategy offers opportunities for liquids directional motion for various applications, such as in microfluidic devices, oil–water separation, and water collection systems.
Inverse Design of Mechanical Metamaterials That Undergo Buckling
Authors: Oliveri Giorgio , Overvelde Johannes T.B.
Published: February 2020

Metamaterials are man‐made materials which get their properties from their structure rather than their chemical composition. Their mesostructure is specifically designed to create functionalities not found in nature. However, despite the broad variety of metamaterials developed in recent years, a straightforward procedure to design these complex materials with tailored properties has not yet been established. Here, the inverse design problem is tackled by introducing a general optimization tool to explore the range of material properties that can be achieved. Specifically, a stochastic optimization algorithm is applied and its applicability to disjoint problems is demonstrated, with a focus on tuning the buckling properties of mechanical metamaterials, including experimental verification of the predictions. Besides this problem, this algorithm can be applied to a large variety of systems that, because of their complexity, would be challenging otherwise. Potential applications range from the design of optomechanical resonators, acoustic band gap materials, to dielectric metasurfaces.