bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Siła przekonywania – wykorzystanie ekonomii behawioralnej i architektury wyboru w działaniach na rzecz ochrony środowiska w samorządach = The power of persuasion – the use of behavioural economics and choice architecture in local government policy on environmental protection
Authors: Sokołowicz Mariusz E.
Published: February 2021

The review conducted in this paper provides for closer identification of social, psychological and economic determinants of effectiveness where environmental-protection instruments are concerned. It further supplies conclusions as to which of these instruments may prove most effective. Reference to research achievements in social psychology and behavioural economics sustains the idea that so-called “choice architecture” may enhance the effectiveness of local-government units’ environmental protection instruments. Analysis further sustains the conclusion that – on account of the psychological impact – efforts to specify environmental costs in money terms yield better results than the (verbal or written) discussion of these costs as left unquantified. Beyond that, analysis of relevant literature points to best results being achieved where instruments translate into costs incurred individually, as well as perceived benefits. Adaptation of different instruments to different societal targets renders environmental policy more effective, providing that people are left aware of the fact that other members of their community behave in a similar way. The integration of environmental policy with other sectoral policies (e.g. spatial or health policy) offers another means of raising effectiveness. Finally, environment policy should be based on a culture of participation an consensus-building between the often-conflicting interests of municipal stakeholders, and supported by frequent and legible public-communication campaigns.
Les déterminants des différents types d’innovation publique locale : une analyse nationale multi facteurs
Authors: Favoreu Christophe , Maurel Christophe , Queyroi Yoann , Marin Pierre
Published: February 2021

Bien que l’innovation soit aujourd’hui considérée comme le principal levier d’amélioration de la performance publique locale, rares sont les recherches portant sur sa dynamique et ses déterminants. L’objectif de cet article, qui appréhende l’innovation comme un phénomène multidimensionnel est d’analyser l’impact des déterminants organisationnels, environnementaux et managériaux sur les différentes formes d’innovations publiques locales, en s’appuyant sur une recherche quantitative menée auprès de collectivités locales françaises. En mettant en évidence des déterminants communs mais aussi des déterminants propres à certaines formes d’innovation, cette recherche apporte un éclairage sur les dynamiques de changement et d’innovation au sein des organisations publiques.
La publicitude de l’environnement de travail influence-t-elle l’engagement des agents publics ? Étude de cas dans l’administration suisse
Authors: Kouadio Armand Brice , Emery Yves
Published: February 2021

Cet article analyse le lien entre la publicitude de l’environnement de travail et l’engagement des employés publics suisses. Plus d’un millier de salariés de différentes organisations et échelons institutionnels ont été interrogés en mobilisant un questionnaire permettant d’évaluer notre modèle multiancres d’engagement au travail. Nous montrons que comparativement à la publicitude théorique, la publicitude perçue de l’environnement où travaillent les employés publics est bien plus liée à leur engagement; particulièrement pour les ancres à forte publicitude. D’autre part, nous proposons une approche innovante de la congruence Personne-environnement de travail, potentiellement intéressante pour les chercheurs et praticiens du management public.
Mission Drift and the Sustainability of Hybrid Organizations in Extreme Institutional Contexts: The Case of a Communitarian Microfinance Institution in Brazil
Authors: Marconatto Diego , Barin Cruz Luciano , Aguilar Delgado Natalia
Published: February 2021

Hybrid organizations are those striving to balance business operations with social and environmental goals. The previous literature has largely disregarded the strategies that these organizations use to avoid mission drift, or the risk of losing sight of their social missions in their efforts to generate revenue. In this paper, we draw on the case of a communitarian bank in Brazil to investigate what strategies hybrid organizations mobilize to avoid mission drift in extreme institutional contexts. We argue that by developing the ability of “embedding within the local community”, hybrid organizations are better equipped to guarantee the sustainability of their hybrid nature.
Une histoire de l’École des sciences de l’information de l’Université d’Ottawa
Authors: Gordon Ross
Published: February 2021

L’École des sciences de l’information de l’Université d’Ottawa a ouvert ses portes en 2009. Fruit de la détermination des cadres supérieurs de l’Université, et tout spécialement de la bibliothécaire universitaire Leslie Weir, elle est devenue la seule école bilingue du genre au Canada. L’École répond à un grand besoin dans la région de la capitale nationale en produisant des diplômés bilingues pour les nombreuses institutions qui y résident. Elle a reçu l’agrément de l’American Library Association en 2014, une réalisation remarquable.

Mais il y a aussi l’histoire de sa prédécesseure, une école de bibliothécaires bilingue construite et en grande partie dirigée par le bibliothécaire universitaire Père Auguste Morisset, de 1938 à 1976. C’est une histoire d’opportunités manquées, particulièrement en rapport aux grands efforts déployés et à l’échec pour obtenir l’agrément.

Cet article examine les deux itérations de l’École.
La compétence pédagogique dans la formation des personnels de bibliothèques universitaires : enjeux et réalités
Authors: Kennel Sophie , Laplanche Damien , Boraud Anne
Published: February 2021

L’évolution des modes d’accès à l’information, des publics étudiants et des manières d’apprendre au cours des dernières décennies a amené les professionnels des bibliothèques à se questionner sur l’intérêt, ou la nécessité, d’investir le champ de la formation des usagers, tant il est apparu que l’information literacyétait un véritable enjeu de la réussite académique. La compétence pédagogique est ainsi devenue une nouvelle attente du milieu des bibliothèques universitaires.

Cette compétence reste cependant peu travaillée dans la formation initiale en France. Elle constitue par contre un axe qui se développe dans l’offre de formation tout au long de la vie. Les principaux organismes de formation se sont ainsi associés pour élaborer un catalogue de modules articulés avec un référentiel de compétences du formateur et de la formatrice en bibliothèques universitaires. Un label national, expérimenté dans un premier temps dans plusieurs établissements de l’est de la France, permet à présent de valider ces acquis d’apprentissage.

L’évolution de la formation des bibliothécaires-formateurs gagne ainsi en maturité, mais elle mérite d’être sans cesse réinterrogée au regard de l’évolution des besoins et des usages, ainsi que des transformations des identités professionnelles des personnels des bibliothèques.
La formation des professionnels de l’information documentaire au Mali : enjeux, problèmes et perspectives
Authors: Diarra Mohamed
Published: February 2021

Ouverte en 2004 à l’Université de Bamako, au Mali, la filière Métiers du livre, des archives et de la documentation a formé plusieurs promotions de bibliothécaires, documentalistes et archivistes pour l’administration publique, les entreprises publiques et privées. Après seize années d’existence, où en est-on ? Telle est la principale question à laquelle répond l’article, qui expose les enjeux, les problèmes et les perspectives d’une expérience de formation courte, professionnalisante et toujours porteuse d’espoir au Mali et en France, chez les partenaires de l’IUT2, composante de l’Université Grenoble Alpes.
Du document au dossier : changement de paradigme dans la formation en archivistique au Bénin
Authors: Ogui Jupiter , Sounnouvou Etienne , Azanmavo Jérôme , Osséni Kadidjath Kouboura , Mahoussi Wenceslas , Mêgnigbeto Eustache
Published: February 2021

Le programme de formation en archivistique mis en place au début des années 1980 en République du Bénin s’est inspiré du modèle élaboré au lendemain de la Révolution française et longtemps mis en oeuvre par l’École nationale des chartes. Une évaluation récente a révélé trois absences fondamentales dans l’enseignement : 1) compétences en gestion des documents actifs ; 2) normes de description archivistique ; et 3) outils d’indexation matière. En réponse, un nouveau programme de formation a été conçu.

L’article décrit les difficultés rencontrées dans la gestion des archives dans l’administration et dans les entreprises au Bénin, et la solution qu’apporte l’Université d’Abomey-Calavi.
De l’expérience ouvrière des risques au problème public des déchets nucléaires
Authors: Ghis Malfilatre Marie
Published: February 2021

L’expérience des risques du travail ouvrier dans l’usine de traitement des combustibles nucléaires de La Hague, l’une des principales installations nucléaires en France, se constitue comme problème public dans les années 1970. Un des moments forts en est la réalisation clandestine du film Condamnés à réussir qui précipite la formation d’un public élargi autour des risques de cette industrie, dans un moment de compétition accrue pour la propriété du problème nucléaire. En renforçant la conscience des intérêts communs de ceux qui travaillent dans ce secteur et leur sentiment de responsabilité à l’égard de la population, en exprimant cette expérience collective dans une oeuvre diffusée hors de La Hague auprès de divers auditoires, ce document a contribué, par le recours à un mélange d’enquête et de reconstitution fictionnelle, à dramatiser autrement le problème public de la production nucléaire.
A-t-il jamais existé un modèle de l’étiquetage ?
Authors: Becker Howard , Cefaï Daniel
Published: February 2021

La sociologie des problèmes sociaux a connu un tournant dans les années 1960
avec l’émergence d’une nouvelle façon de traiter la « déviance » dans des livres et
des articles de Howard Becker, Erving Goffman, Joseph Gusfield, Fred Davis, Aaron
Cicourel et quelques autres. Cet article revient sur ce moment clé. En dépouillant
la revue Social Problems (1961-1965), il remet en cause l’idée qu’aurait
existé une « école de l’étiquetage » bien unifiée. Il rappelle l’importance de la
Société pour l’étude des problèmes sociaux et du Centre d’études sur le droit et la
société de Berkeley comme cadres institutionnels de ce tournant. Il examine la
nouveauté des approches que l’on qualifiera plus tard d’interactionnistes et
d’ethnométhodologiques. Il passe en revue les catégories de réaction sociétale,
carrières et cultures, croisade morale et contrôle social — depuis devenues
classiques. Et il repose une série de questions qui vaudront désormais pour l’étude
des problèmes publics : qui subit et qui agit ? Qui compte et mesure ? Qui accuse et
condamne ? Qui surveille et punit ?
Pour une histoire de l’imaginaire social
Authors: Gagnon Alex
Published: February 2021

Longtemps associée à des perspectives archétypologiques soucieuses de débusquer les matrices universelles du fait symbolique, la notion d’« imaginaire » a souvent été suspectée par les historiens ; avec l’émergence de l’histoire culturelle dès les années 1980, elle a pourtant fini par s’imposer, avec sa déclinaison « sociale », dans l’arsenal conceptuel de la recherche historique, où elle suscite depuis un engouement manifeste. Cette entrée de l’« imaginaire social » dans l’éventail des préoccupations de l’histoire sociale et culturelle n’a cependant jamais été véritablement accompagnée par un effort de clarification conceptuelle, les mises au point faisant encore aujourd’hui défaut. En partant d’un survol des usages du concept d’imaginaire social au sein des sciences humaines et sociales, s’inspirant par ailleurs des apports fondamentaux venus de la philosophie et de la sociocritique du texte littéraire, cet article entend combler cette lacune : offrant une synthèse théorique utile autour de la notion, il en propose une théorisation susceptible de définir et d’unifier ce champ de la recherche qu’on appelle parfois aujourd’hui « histoire des imaginaires sociaux ».
An investigation of the aerodynamic parameters for Solar Plane wing profile using CFD modelling
Authors: Jaszczur Marek , Papis Karolina , Książek Michał , Czerwiński Grzegorz , Wojtas Gabriel , Koncewicz Wojciech , Nabożna Sylwia , Wójcik Marcin
Published: February 2021

The technology of solar-powered aerial vehicles requires enormous financial support and further development. For this purpose, the computational fluid dynamic can be used. In order to carry out necessary analyses and model development in this research, ANSYS Fluent software was used. Using the first version of the AGH Solar Plane model, preliminary analysis of lift, drag and tearing off the stream were performed. Numerical experiments made it possible to verify many various profiles and final selection that the best suits the target model. Through these studies, it was also possible to analyse fluid flow at various speeds and angles of attack. This provided an insight into important aspects of vehiclesaerodynamic design, which should be taken into account when making the second model version. At this stage, the classical and laminar - Wortmann aerodynamic profiles were selected on the basis of the aerodynamic perfection criterion. Moreover, four new geometries were prepared on which the flattening of upper surfaces (for fixing solar panels) was tested. The results of the numerical analysis were validated in the aerodynamic tunnel using particle image velocimetry method. Taking into account all analyses, a number of recommendations have been prepared that will be implemented in order to create an aircraft, which meets all target requirements. Some of these hints were: testing new ways of connecting the wing to the nacelle, which would reduce the drag as well as considering the usage of winglets in order to minimize induced drag.
Report on seafood, food law, and food waste
Authors: Poto Margherita Paola
Published: February 2021

The overall objective for the Sjømat og rettssystemet project is to develop a multidisciplinary task team with a core of interest in food law-related research, and with a focus on the seafood industry in Norway. This work is based on the work carried out during the workshop on “Sjømat og rettssystemet” (Seafood and Food Law), on December 6th 2019, at the Faculty of Law, UiT The Arctic University of Norway. It contains an analysis of the current challenges of the food systems with regard to the problem of food loss and waste. It aims to serve as a basis for the development of a collection of best practices and solutions to food loss and waste.

The analysis provides the state-of-the-art on the international, European and national legislation on food waste, as well as a description of the solutions provided to the food waste emergency in the seafood field in Norway. Based on the analysis, we conclude that each component (the legal and practical perspectives) is relevant to build up a common framework on the problem of food loss and waste in Norway and beyond.
On automated RBAC assessment by constructing a centralized perspective for microservice mesh
Authors: Das Dipta , Walker Andrew , Bushong Vincent , Svacina Jan , Cerny Tomas , Matyas Vashek
Published: February 2021

It is important in software development to enforce proper restrictions on protected services and resources. Typically software services can be accessed through REST API endpoints where restrictions can be applied using the Role-Based Access Control (RBAC) model. However, RBAC policies can be inconsistent across services, and they require proper assessment. Currently, developers use penetration testing, which is a costly and cumbersome process for a large number of APIs. In addition, modern applications are split into individual microservices and lack a unified view in order to carry out automated RBAC assessment. Often, the process of constructing a centralized perspective of an application is done using Systematic Architecture Reconstruction (SAR). This article presents a novel approach to automated SAR to construct a centralized perspective for a microservice mesh based on their REST communication pattern. We utilize the generated views from SAR to propose an automated way to find RBAC inconsistencies.
Aetiological Pattern of Vulvovaginal Infections in Asymptomatic and Symptomatic HIV Seropositive Women on Antiretroviral Therapy
Authors: Garg Divya , Das Shukla , Radhika AG , Raizada Alpana , Gaurav Vishal , Saha Rituparna , Sonthalia Siddharth , Tigga Richa Anjleen
Published: February 2021

Introduction: Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) causes severe public health problems. Despite the use of Highly Active Antiretroviral Therapy (HAART), opportunistic infections remain a serious problem in HIV infection. HIV seropositive women are at a higher risk of acquiring Vulvovaginal Infections (VVI), compared to their HIV seronegative counterparts. Also, the large untreated asymptomatic populations remain a source for transmitting agent. Aim: To identify the occurrence of vaginitis in symptomatic and asymptomatic HIV seropositive women. Materials and Methods: HIV seropositive female patients (60 symptomatic and 60 asymptomatic for vulvovaginitis) in the reproductive age group of 18-60 years were screened for their vaginal flora in a tertiary care hospital in East Delhi, India. Wet mount, Gram stain, and culture were performed to screen the samples for vaginitis. Asymptomatic samples were processed to check for asymptomatic VVI. Nugent and Amsel’s score were calculated for Bacterial Vaginitis (BV), and Donders classification was used for Aerobic Vaginitis (AV). Sabouraud’s Dextrose Agar (SDA) was used for fungal cultures, and Fluconazole and Voriconazole sensitivity was tested. The descriptive analysis of compiled data with Chi-square tests where applicable to compare differences between proportions was done. Results: As per the Nugent's score, 90% of symptomatic and 86.66% asymptomatic HIV reactive females had BV. Nugent scoring was found to be a better diagnostic criterion for BV. AV was observed in 33.33% asymptomatic patients. Candida albicans (C.albicans)was the most common agent isolated from 68.75% of Vulvovaginal Candidiasis (VVC) cases. Dual infection of BV and Candidiasis was reported to be 18.33% in symptomatic and 15% in asymptomatic HIV seropositive females. Conclusion: In the present study, despite Antiretroviral Therapy (ART), attendees manifested significantly with BV infection in both groups. VVC due to C. albicans was also predominant in both groups. Co-infection with BV and VVC was the highlight of this study as dual infections of BV and AV remain under-diagnosed as per Sexually Transmitted Infection (STI) syndromic management protocols. The clinicians need to identify AV as a separate entity as treatment modalities are essentially different.
Can Intricate Modus Operandi of Interferons in Viral Diseases Bring Real Hope in COVID-19 Pandemic Situation?
Authors: Mukherjee Samarpita , Banerjee Ushasi , Saha Shubhrajit
Published: February 2021

Interferons (IFN), a family of naturally occurring proteins, are secreted mainly from White Blood Cells (WBC), Natural killer cells, fibroblasts and epithelial cells. They are the primary modulator of response of the immune system to viruses, bacteria, cancer and other foreign substances that invade the body. Three types of IFNs have been identified till date and commercially available now by recombinant DNA technology. Type 1 IFN especially IFN-β has already successfully passed the clinical trial against Middle East Respiratory Syndrome related Corona Virus (MERS-CoV) and also being tried in “Solidarity clinical trial for COVID-19 treatments” announced by World Health Organisation (WHO) in March, 2020. Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus-2 (SARS-CoV-2) emerged from China in December, 2019. It has rapidly spread out all over the world and become pandemic now. It has infected more than eight million and killing around four lac people worldwide up to June 17, 2020. Elderly persons and people with comorbidities like diabetes, chronic lung diseases, cardiovascular diseases and immune compromised states are the primary victim of this deadly virus. In this regard, we are trying to evaluate the potential benefits of type 1 IFN as a promising and safer treatment modality as well as specific prognostic marker when there are no specific and established vaccines, drugs or prognostic biomarkers available yet against SARS-CoV-2. We can hypothesise that thorough evaluation of these molecules against COVID-19 may open-up a new opportunity to successfully combat this evil.
Solitary Cysticercosis of Temporalis Muscle: A Rare and Challenging Diagnosis
Authors: Singh Sweta , Singh Uday Shanker
Published: February 2021

Taeniasis is an endemic parasitic infection of developing countries, including India. It is caused by pork (Taenia solium), beef (Taenia saginata), and Asian (Taenia asiatica) tapeworms and the route of transmission is faeco-oral. It usually occurs due to ingestion of uncooked green leafy vegetables, undercooked meat or unsafe drinking water contaminated with faeces. The mode of presentation can be severe in the form of Neurocysticercosis (brain) or Solitary Muscular Cysticercosis. Neurocysticercosis can prove to be fatal and life-threatening condition in the form of seizures and focal neurological signs. Diagnosis of cysticercosis is usually based on direct stool examination for eggs on three consecutive days or proglottids of the tapeworm, serological tests such as Enzyme Linked Immunosorbent Assay (ELISA) and radiological imaging for confirmation. Here, a rare and very interesting case of cysticercosis was reported in temporalis muscle in a young female. The patient presented with only a solitary swelling in preauricular region. Both radiological and microbiological investigations played a very vital role in the diagnosis and the patient was finally diagnosed as a case of muscular cysticercosis. She was started on conservative treatment with albendazole and steroids for two weeks. Repeat radiological scans showed improvement in her swelling and complete resolution in about a month. Cysticercosis of temporalis muscle is in itself a very rare event and there are only a few reported cases in literature. The present case was also unique in terms of localisation of the cyst as it was inside the superficial fibers and fascia of the muscle and not intramuscularly.
Effect of Different Kinds of Substrates on the Growth and Yield Performance of Pleurotus sapidus (Oyster Mushroom)
Authors: Khan Nasir Ahmed , Ahmed Waqar , Khan Muhammad Aslam , Yasin Owais , Asad Suhail , Munir Shahzad
Published: February 2021

Cultivation of edible fungi (mushrooms) is a useful method for bio-conservation in the agriculture industry. For the better production of mushrooms, we used the agricultural waste material as a substrate for the cultivation of mushrooms. After mushroom harvesting, these substrates are available as an excellent source of soil conditioner. In this study, we used the sawdust of a simbal tree (Bombax ceiba L.), office scrap paper, and poultry manure as a substrate to cultivate the Pleurotus sapidus (oyster mushroom). Data recorded from the inoculation of spawn to the harvesting of fruiting bodies by using different parameters. The results revealed that the Treatment-T4 (sawdust of simbal tree 50% + poultry manure 50%) required the least number of days (16 days) for 100% spawn-running, development of pinhead (6.5 days), and fruiting bodies (5.5 days), produced the maximum number of fruiting bodies (24.25), maximum yield (388.40 g), and highest biological efficacy (77.68%). The Treatment-T5 (office scrap paper 50% + poultry manure 50%) took the maximum number of days (32 days) for 100% spawn-running, development of pinhead (18 days) and fruiting bodies (17 days), produced least number of fruiting bodies (9.5), minimum yield (224.50 g), and lowest biological efficacy (44.90%). Therefore, the cultivation of oyster mushrooms is an excellent or environment-friendly technique because the substrate used for mushroom cultivation is economical and readily available.
Adverse Drug Effects and Non-Adherence to Antiretroviral Therapy in Nigeria: A Review
Authors: Okuku Mary Obidiya , Dan-Jumbo Alali
Published: February 2021

Objectives: This review aims to assess the link between adverse drug effects and non-adherence to antiretroviral therapy (ART) among people living with HIV/AIDS (PLWHA) in Nigeria.

Methodology: Databases were searched namely PubMed, Web of science core collection, Science direct, Global Health (CABI) and MEDLINE. Fifteen (15) primary articles (studies carried out in Nigeria) met the inclusion criteria and were selected for the review. The primary articles selected for the review were analyzed and critiqued.

Results: The articles selected for review showed that adverse drug effects is a barrier to adherence to ART.

Conclusion: The review conclude that adverse drug effect is a barrier to adherence to ART among PLWHA in Nigeria and recommends patient education on side effects of ART, the need for regular exercises, eating healthy meals and the need for physicians to simplify the regimen with regards to the amount of medication to take and the timing.
Analysis of the Role of Fish Basket Women towards Household Income in Eretan Wetan Village, Indramayu District, West Java
Authors: Arman Ayodhia , Anna Zuzy , Afrianto Eddy , Nurhayati Atikah
Published: February 2021

The role of the fish basket woman is not only as a housewife but also as a breadwinner, thus the fish basket woman has a dual role in her family. Fish basket women help their husbands work to be able to meet family needs. This study aims to analyze household income as well know the motivation to work of women as fish baskets in increasing working household income and know the factors that affect the income of fish basket women in increasing household income in Eretan Wetan Village, Indramayu Regency, West Java. The research method used in this research is a case study and interviews using a questionnaire. The sampling technique used an accidental sampling method with a total of 50 respondents and collecting data using observation techniques, structured interviews, and documentation techniques. The results showed that the role of women with fish baskets on household income in Eretan Wetan Village, Indramayu Regency, West Java was quite significant by obtaining an average income of IDR 1,676,135 per month. Factors that affect the income of working basket women include helping their husbands, wages that are not appropriate, helping household income and the husband's income is uncertain. The coefficient of determination shown by Nagelkerke R-Square, age, education level, number of family members, husband's permission, and husband's income affect women's interest in working by 100.0%. Women’s interest in working is not influenced by any other factors included in the research mode.
Barnyard Millet (Echinochloa frumentacea) Varieties Performance under Different Fertility Levels in Rainfed Conditions of Garhwal Himalaya, India
Authors: Kumar Ajay , Paliwal Arunima , Shikha . , Shyam Radhey , Singh S. B.
Published: February 2021

A field experiment was conducted during Kharif season of 2017-18 at the College of Forestry, V.C.S.G. Uttarakhand University of Horticulture and Forestry, Ranichauri, Tehri Garhwal, Uttarakhand, India to study the effect of fertility levels on different high yielding cultivars of barnyard millet under rainfed conditions of hills of Uttarakhand. The experiment consisted of two factors viz. variety and fertilizer. The experiment had three fertility levels viz. 75% RDF (Recommended Dose of Fertilizer), 100% RDF and 125% RDF and four varieties viz. VL249, DHBMV23-3, VL172 and VL207. Total experiment has twelve treatment combinations. The three fertility levels were laid out in main plots and four varieties were in sub-plots of split plot design along with three replications. The results indicated that VL249 was the most economical high yielding cultivar of barnyard millet at 100% of the recommended dose of fertilizer with higher B:C ratio of 1.92 for rainfed conditions of Garhwal hills.
Pre-treatment Depression and Anxiety Disorder in Men with Cancer of the Prostate in South Western Nigeria
Authors: Temi Adegun Patrick , Usman Dada Mobolaji , Ademola Idowu , Emmanuel Omonisi Abidemi , Olutoyin Oluwole Lateef , Adetunji Obadeji
Published: February 2021

Aim: The aim of the study is to determine the pre-treatment prevalence and associated factors of anxiety and depression in men with cancer of the prostate.

Study Design: This is a prospective, cross-sectional study.

Place and Duration:  The urology unit of Ekiti State University Teaching Hospital, Ado-Ekiti. Ekiti State, Nigeria. The study period was from 1st January 2018 to 31st December 2019.

Methodology: A total of 46 consented male participants recently diagnosed with cancer of the prostate (CAP) were assessed for depression and anxiety disorders using the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS). Participants also completed a sociodemographic questionnaire, an 8-item International Prostate Symptoms Score (IPSS) and a quality of life questionnaire (BS).

Results: Forty-three and half percent (43.5%) of the participants suffered depression; anxiety disorder occurred in 21.7% of the participants. Only 2.2% of the participants had anxiety disorder without depression, while 23.9% had depression without anxiety disorder. Significant level of poor quality of life (QoL) was found among participants with depression and anxiety disorder. Having one psychiatric morbidity was associated with having another. Age of participants and other sociodemographic parameters were not associated with psychiatric morbidity.

Conclusion: There is a high prevalence of anxiety disorder and depression among patients with cancer of the prostate. Assessment of these disorders should be included in the management of patients with prostate cancer to enhance early detection and prompt treatment for better patients’ clinical outcome.
Theoretical Analysis of the Bladeless Wind Turbine Performance
Authors: Adeyanju A. Anthony , Boucher D.
Published: February 2021

A bladeless wind turbine utilizes vortex formation to extract energy from the wind. Vortex formation are small swirls of air which occur as a result of the geometric shape of the device. This study designed a bladeless wind turbine which incorporates a structural support at a distance offset from the center axis of the cylindrical mast. Springs were added to the final design as means to provide the stiffness required to obtain resonance with the vortex shedding frequency and to also assist in supporting the structure. The analysis was conducted at wind speeds 1m/s, 4m/s and 7m/s, where the geometrical properties of the device remained constant. MATLAB was used to analyze the equation of motion derived for the device. The variables of interest in the studies were mainly the angular acceleration, power coefficient and the resonant frequency. The results obtained showed that for wind speeds above and below the designed wind speed of 4m/s the angular velocity remained the same. Results of this model showed that high amplitudes occur only at resonance. Results showed that with the current power generating mechanism, the average efficiency attainable is approximately 2% at steady state. This is the theoretical efficiency which could be achieved based on the current model. It was discovered that for linearly tapered cylinders, increased oscillations occurred during the ‘lock-in range’ for a range of reduced velocities. The reduced velocity of the designed wind speed is approximately Vr = 5m/s. This value lies within the theoretical range lock in range where increased oscillations are expected to occur between reduced velocities of 4.75m/s and 8m/s [1].
Features of the learner, task, and instructional environment that predict cognitive load types during patient handoffs: Implications for instruction
Authors: Young John Q. , Thakker Krima , John Majnu , Friedman Karen , Sugarman Rebekah , Sewell Justin L. , O'Sullivan Patricia S.
Published: February 2021

We used the cognitive load inventory for handoffs (CLIH) to identify predictors of cognitive load types during patient handoffs in order to identify opportunities to improve instruction. In 2019, out of a total of 1,807 residents and fellows within a 24‐hospital health system, 693 (38.4%) completed the CLIH after a patient handoff. Multivariable regression yielded predictors for each cognitive load type. Intrinsic load associated with features of the learner (fatigue positively associated) and task (higher complexity clinical setting, number of patients, and handoff length positively associated). Extraneous load associated with learner (fatigue positively associated, and number of times trained in the verbal protocol negatively associated) and task design (number of sources of written information positively associated). Germane load associated with learner (level of training negatively associated, and fatigue positively associated) and instructional environment (interruptions negatively associated and formal feedback positively associated). Implications for instructional design are explored.
Biopolymer Nanoscale Assemblies as Building Blocks for New Materials: A Review
Authors: Pei Ying , Wang Lu , Tang Keyong , Kaplan David L.
Published: February 2021

Biopolymers, a class of fascinating polymers from biomass provide sustainability, biodegradability, availability, biocompatibility, and unique properties. A ubiquitous feature of biopolymers is their hierarchical structure, with the presence of well‐organized structures from the nanoscale to macroscopic dimensions. This structural organization endows biopolymers with toughness, defect resistance, and bucking adaptability. To retain these inherent structural features, nano‐structural assemblies isolated from biomass have been applied as building blocks to construct new biopolymer‐based materials. This top‐down processing strategy is distinct from the more traditional molecular‐level bottom‐up design and assembly approach for new materials. In this review, the hierarchical structures of several representative biopolymers (cellulose, chitin, silk, collagen) are introduced with a focus on these nanoscale building blocks, as well as highlighting the similarities and differences in the respective chemistries and structures. Recent progress in production strategies of these natural building blocks are summarized, covering methods and treatments used for isolations. Finally, approaches and emerging applications of biopolymer‐based materials using these natural nano‐ and meso‐scale building blocks are demonstrated in areas of biomedicine, electronics, environmental, packaging, sensing, foods, and cosmetics.
NSCs Migration Promoted and Drug Delivered Exosomes‐Collagen Scaffold via a Bio‐Specific Peptide for One‐Step Spinal Cord Injury Repair
Authors: Zhang Lulu , Fan Caixia , Hao Wangping , Zhuang Yan , Liu Xiru , Zhao Yannan , Chen Bing , Xiao Zhifeng , Chen Yanyan , Dai Jianwu
Published: February 2021

Spinal cord injury (SCI) is plaguing medical professionals globally due to the complexity of injury progression. Based on tissue engineering technology, there recently emerges a promising way by integrating drugs with suitable scaffold biomaterials to mediate endogenous neural stem cells (NSCs) to achieve one‐step SCI repair. Herein, exosomes extracted from human umbilical cord‐derived mesenchymal stem cells (MExos) are found to promote the migration of NSCs in vitro/in vivo. Utilizing MExos as drug delivery vehicles, a NSCs migration promoted and paclitaxel (PTX) delivered MExos‐collagen scaffold is designed via a novel dual bio‐specificity peptide (BSP) to effectively retain MExos within scaffolds. By virtue of the synergy that MExos recruit endogenous NSCs to the injured site, and PTX induce NSCs to give rise to neurons, this multifunctional scaffold has shown superior performance for motor functional recovery after complete SCI in rats by enhancing neural regeneration and reducing scar deposition. Besides, the dual bio‐specific peptide demonstrates the capacity of tethering other cells‐derived exosomes on collagen scaffold, such as erythrocytes‐derived or NSCs‐derived exosomes on collagen fibers or membranes. The resulting exosomes‐collagen scaffold may serve as a potential multifunctional therapy modality for various disease treatments including SCI.
Dual Laser Study of Non‐Degenerate Two Wavelength Upconversion Demonstrated in Sensitizer‐Free NaYF4:Pr Nanoparticles
Authors: de Prinse Thomas J. , Karami Afshin , Moffatt Jillian E. , Payten Thomas B. , Tsiminis Georgios , Teixeira Lewis Da Silva , Bi Jingxiu , Kee Tak W. , Klantsataya Elizaveta , Sumby Christopher J. , Spooner Nigel A.
Published: February 2021

Understanding the upconversion pathways of a rare‐earth dopant is crucial to furthering the use of that material, either toward applications in imaging or elsewhere. This work outlines a new analysis approach that consists of using two synchronized widely‐tunable laser sources to explore the properties of upconverting materials. By examining sensitizer‐free rare‐earth nanoparticles based on a matrix of hexagonal sodium yttrium tetrafluoride (β‐NaYF4) doped with praseodymium but no ytterbium sensitizer, a “non‐degenerate” two‐color upconversion fluorescence at a combined excitation of 1020–850 nm is shown. This insight demonstrates the ability of this technique to locate and interrogate novel upconversion pathways. The dopant level of the nanoparticles could be modified without altering other factors, such as the particle's shape or size, that would also change optical properties and this allows investigation of the dopant‐level dependency of the optical properties. The approach also allows exploration of the time delay domain between the arrival times of the two non‐degenerate excitation pulses, which allows modulation of the brightness from the visible light emissions. This work opens up the parameter space for the systematic synthesis and characterization of new materials with non‐degenerate upconversion emission.
Does Through‐Space Charge Transfer in Bipolar Hosts Affect the Efficiency of Blue OLEDs?
Authors: Macionis Simas , Gudeika Dalius , Volyniuk Dmytro , Bezvikonnyi Oleksandr , Andruleviciene Viktorija , Lee Jiun Haw , Fan Bo‐An , Chen Chia‐Hsun , Lin Bo‐Yen , Chiu Tien‐Lung , Grazulevicius Juozas V.
Published: February 2021

Additional energy loss pathways which occur in blue electrophosphorescent devices via through‐space charge transfer (TSCT) states of bipolar hosts are identified for the first time in this study. Blue phosphorescent organic light‐emitting diodes (PhOLEDs) with maximum external quantum efficiency from 22.7 to 30.5% are fabricated using new bipolar derivatives of benzimidazole, linked through phenyl spacer with different number of tert‐butyl substituted carbazoles, as hosts. Applicability of the newly synthesized compounds as hosts for blue PhOLEDs is justified by their high triplet levels (2.94–2.98 eV), bipolar charge‐transporting properties with charge mobilities up to 2.34 × 10−3 cm2 V−1 s−1 at electric field of 2.7 × 105 V cm−1, and high ionization potentials (5.63–5.81 eV). Weak microsecond‐lived emission, which is attributed to TSCT, is detected for the developed bipolar hosts. The different efficiencies of the fabricated PhOLEDs are partly related to energy losses via TSCT states, the presence of which is detected for the developed donor–acceptor hosts in both solution and solid‐state. To prevent energy losses through TSCT in PhOLEDs, the excited state energy of emitter has to be lower than triplet levels of bipolar host. It also has to be lower than the TSCT energy level of bipolar host for the fabrication highly efficient PhOLEDs.
LncRNA Lnc‐APUE is Repressed by HNF4α and Promotes G1/S Phase Transition and Tumor Growth by Regulating MiR‐20b/E2F1 Axis
Authors: Li Song‐Yang , Zhu Ying , Li Ruo‐Nan , Huang Jia‐Hui , You Kai , Yuan Yun‐Fei , Zhuang Shi‐Mei
Published: February 2021

Many long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) have been annotated, but their functions remain unknown. The authors found a novel lnc‐APUE (lncRNA accelerating proliferation by upregulating E2F1) that is upregulated in different cancer types, including hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), and high lnc‐APUE level is associated with short recurrence‐free survival (RFS) of HCC patients. Gain‐ and loss‐of‐function analyses showed that lnc‐APUE accelerated G1/S transition and tumor cell growth in vitro and allows hepatoma xenografts to grow faster in vivo. Mechanistically, lnc‐APUE binds to miR‐20b and relieves its repression on E2F1 expression, resulting in increased E2F1 level and accelerated G1/S phase transition and cell proliferation. Consistently, lnc‐APUE level is positively associated with the expression of E2F1 and its downstream target genes in HCC tissues. Further investigations disclose that hepatocyte nuclear factor 4 alpha (HNF4α) binds to the lnc‐APUE promoter, represses lnc‐APUE transcription, then diminishes E2F1 expression and cell proliferation. HNF4α expression is reduced in HCC tissues and low HNF4α level is correlated with high lnc‐APUE expression. Collectively, a HNF4α/lnc‐APUE/miR‐20b/E2F1 axis in which HNF4α represses lnc‐APUE expression and keeps E2F1 at a low level is identified. In tumor cells, HNF4α downregulation leads to lnc‐APUE upregulation, which prevents the inhibition of miR‐20b on E2F1 expression and thereby promotes cell cycle progression and tumor growth.
Colloidal HgTe Quantum Dot/Graphene Phototransistor with a Spectral Sensitivity Beyond 3 µm
Authors: Grotevent Matthias J. , Hail Claudio U. , Yakunin Sergii , Bachmann Dominik , Calame Michel , Poulikakos Dimos , Kovalenko Maksym V. , Shorubalko Ivan
Published: February 2021

Infrared light detection enables diverse technologies ranging from night vision to gas analysis. Emerging technologies such as low‐cost cameras for self‐driving cars require highly sensitive, low‐cost photodetector cameras with spectral sensitivities up to wavelengths of 10 µm. For this purpose, colloidal quantum dot (QD) graphene phototransistors offer a viable alternative to traditional technologies owing to inexpensive synthesis and processing of QDs. However, the spectral range of QD/graphene phototransistors is thus far limited to 1.6 µm. Here, HgTe QD/graphene phototransistors with spectral sensitivity up to 3 µm are presented, with specific detectivities of 6 × 108 Jones at a wavelength of 2.5 µm and a temperature of 80 K. Even at kHz light modulation frequencies, specific detectivities exceed 108 Jones making them suitable for fast video imaging. The simple device architecture and QD film patterning in combination with a broad spectral sensitivity manifest an important step toward low‐cost, multi‐color infrared cameras.
Machine‐Learning‐Assisted Autonomous Humidity Management System Based on Solar‐Regenerated Super Hygroscopic Complex
Authors: Zhang Xueping , Yang Jiachen , Qu Hao , Yu Zhi Gen , Nandakumar Dilip Krishna , Zhang Yaoxin , Tan Swee Ching
Published: February 2021

High levels of humidity can induce thermal discomfort and consequent health disorders. However, proper utilization of this astounding resource as a freshwater source can aid in alleviating water scarcity. Herein, a low‐energy and highly efficient humidity control system is reported comprising of an in‐house developed desiccant dehumidifier and hygrometer (sensor), with an autonomous operation capability that can realize simultaneous dehumidification and freshwater production. The high efficiency and energy saving mainly come from the deployed super hygroscopic complex (SHC), which exhibits high water uptake (4.64 g g−1) and facile regeneration. Machine‐learning‐assisted in‐house developed low cost and high precision hygrometers enable the autonomous operation of the humidity management system. The dehumidifier can reduce the relative humidity (RH) of a confined room from 75% to 60% in 15 minutes with energy consumption of 0.05 kWh, saving more than 60% of energy compared with the commercial desiccant dehumidifiers, and harvest 10 L of atmospheric water in 24 h. Moreover, the reduction in RH from 80% to 60% at 32 °C results in the reduction of apparent temperature by about 7 °C, thus effectively improving the thermal comfort of the inhabitants.
Kinetic Monte Carlo Simulation of Perovskite Solar Cells to Probe Film Coverage and Thickness
Authors: Bahrami Behzad , Mabrouk Sally , Gurung Ashim , Reza Khan Mamun , Elbohy Hytham , Pathak Rajesh , Saianand Gopalan , Adhikari Nirmal , Dubey Ashish , Rahman Sheikh Ifatur , Qiao Quinn
Published: February 2021

Perovskite solar cells (PSCs) have received considerable attention in recent years due to their low processing cost and high‐power conversion efficiency. However, the mechanisms of PSCs are not fully understood. A model based on a probabilistic and statistical approach needs to be developed to simulate, optimize, and predict the photovoltaic (PV) performance of PSC. Herein, the 3D model based on the kinetic Monte Carlo (KMC) approach is developed to simulate 3D morphology of perovskite‐based solar cells and predict their PV performances and charge dynamics. The developed 3D model incorporates the temporal and physical behavior of perovskites, such as charge generation, transport, and recombination. The KMC simulation results show that pin holes‐free perovskite films with a homogenous 400 nm thick perovskite capping layer achieve the highest power conversion efficiency of 20.85%. However, the shortest apparent charge transport time (τt) and the longest apparent charge carrier recombination lifetime (τr) are found for the champion device. PV performance from the fabricated device is used to validate this simulation model. This model can provide a significant conceptual advance in identifying bottlenecks and guiding novel device designs to further improve the performance of perovskite PVs.
Increased APOE ε4 expression is associated with the difference in Alzheimer's disease risk from diverse ancestral backgrounds
Authors: Griswold Anthony J. , Celis Katrina , Bussies Parker L. , Rajabli Farid , Whitehead Patrice L. , Hamilton‐Nelson Kara L. , Beecham Gary W. , Dykxhoorn Derek M. , Nuytemans Karen , Wang Liyong , Gardner Olivia K. , Dorfsman Daniel A. , Bigio Eileen H. , Mesulam Marek Marsel , Weintraub Sandra , Geula Changiz , Gearing Marla , McGrath‐Martinez Elisa , Dalgard Clifton L. , Scott William K. , Haines Jonathan L. , Pericak‐Vance Margaret A. , Young Juan I. , Vance Jeffery M.
Published: February 2021

Introduction

Apolipoprotein E (APOE) ε4 confers less risk for Alzheimer's disease (AD) in carriers with African local genomic ancestry (ALA) than APOE ε4 carriers with European local ancestry (ELA). Cell type specific transcriptional variation between the two local ancestries (LAs) could contribute to this disease risk differences.

Methods

Single‐nucleus RNA sequencing was performed on frozen frontal cortex of homozygous APOE ε4/ε4 AD patients: seven with ELA, four with ALA.

Results

A total of 60,908 nuclei were sequenced. Within the LA region (chr19:44‐46Mb), APOE was the gene most differentially expressed, with ELA carriers having significantly more expression (overall P < 1.8E–317) in 24 of 32 cell clusters. The transcriptome of one astrocyte cluster, with high APOE ε4 expression and specific to ELA, is suggestive of A1 reactive astrocytes.

Discussion

AD patients with ELA expressed significantly greater levels of APOE than ALA APOE ε4 carriers. These differences in APOE expression could contribute to the reduced risk for AD seen in African APOE ε4 carriers.