bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Near real-time marine mammal monitoring from gliders: Practical challenges, system development, and management implications
Authors: Kowarski Katie A. , Gaudet Briand J. , Cole Arthur J. , Maxner Emily E , Turner Stephen P , Martin S. Bruce , Johnson Hansen D. , Moloney John E.
Published: September 2020

In 2017, an endangered North Atlantic right whale mortality event in the Gulf of St. Lawrence, Canada, triggered the implementation of dynamic mitigation measures that required real-time information on whale distribution. Underwater glider-based acoustic monitoring offers a possible solution for collecting near real-time information but has many practical challenges including self-noise, energy restrictions, and computing capacity, as well as limited glider-to-shore data transfer bandwidth. This paper describes the development of a near real-time baleen whale acoustic monitoring glider system and its evaluation in the Gulf of St. Lawrence in 2018. Development focused on identifying and prioritizing important acoustic events and on sending contextual information to shore for human validation. The system performance was evaluated post-retrieval, then the trial was simulated using optimized parameters. Trial simulation evaluation revealed that the validated detections of right, fin, and blue whales produced by the system were all correct; the proportion of species occurrence missed varied depending on the timeframe considered. Glider-based near real-time monitoring can be an effective and reliable technique to inform dynamic mitigation strategies for species such as the North Atlantic right whale.
Culturally Competent Sport Psychology: A Survey of Sport Psychology Professionals’ Perception of Cultural Competence
Authors: Quartiroli Alessandro , Vosloo Justine , Fisher Leslee , Schinke Robert
Published: September 2020

Cultural competence, identified as the ability to understand other cultures and being aware of one’s own cultural assumptions, has been found to be important for sport psychology professionals (SPPs). In the current study, one of a few exploring the SPPs’ own perceived cultural competence, a sample of 203 SPPs completed an online survey examining the perceptions of their own levels of cultural competence. Most participants reported receiving formal training in cultural competence. However, this training was perceived as only moderately effective and only able to predict the reported level of the SPPs’ perceived cultural competence in a limited way. These results could be attributed to the reported lack of support for SPPs engaging in culturally centered self-reflective practice and to the limited role that these factors have played in training programs. Additional findings are described and discussed, along with recommendations for professional development and applied training.
Supplemental Material: Deep decoupling in subduction zones: Observations and temperature limits
Authors: Abers G.A. , al. et
Published: September 2020

Details of the numerical methods, equations, code and model availability, full list of parameters used in the models, and a summary of previous attenuation studies.
Fifteen-minute consultation: What do I do with a baby born to a mother with tuberculosis?
Authors: Speirs Lynne , Whittaker Elizabeth
Published: September 2020

Tuberculosis (TB) remains a considerable disease burden, even in high-income countries such as the UK. In recent years, there has been a change in epidemiology with an increased incidence in those under 30 years old. This increases the proportion of women of childbearing age contracting tuberculosis. There is limited evidence around optimal management of the neonate who has been exposed to tuberculosis; however, we know that neonatal TB is fatal if untreated. It is therefore important to have a framework of how to manage the infants born to these mothers. Good communication between respiratory or infectious diseases physicians treating the expectant mother, maternity and paediatric teams is essential. Prompt assessment of the infant with input from paediatricians with an expertise in paediatric tuberculosis is essential.
Intractable chronic otitis media, rhinosinusitis and facial palsy: a case of active granulomatosis with polyangiitis
Authors: Goh Kwee Yen , Bannon Ross , Darat Helin Nie , Ram Bhaskar , Dwivedi Raghav C
Published: September 2020

Granulomatosis with polyangiitis (GPA) is a rare systemic disease of unknown aetiology, characterised by necrotising granuloma formation and diffuse vasculitis. It typically affects the upper and lower respiratory tract in addition to the kidneys. Without treatment, the 2-year mortality rate exceeds 90%. We describe a presentation of intractable serous otitis media, rhinosinusitis, fever and unilateral facial palsy in an 18-year-old man with learning difficulties, which highlights the need for a high index of suspicion in diagnosing and treating this enigmatic disease.
Recurrent anterior cutaneous nerve entrapment syndrome (ACNES) in three consecutive pregnancies
Authors: Wilson Joseph Lane , Lutz Evan
Published: September 2020

A 31-year-old G2P1001 woman at a 30-week gestation presented with a recurrence of pinpoint right upper abdominal wall pain. She had been diagnosed with an anterior cutaneous nerve entrapment syndrome (ACNES) during her first pregnancy at a similar gestational age, a well-described but frequently under-recognised entity. The pain during that pregnancy resolved immediately and completely following normal spontaneous vaginal delivery, however,the pain was worse with this presenting pregnancy. She underwent an ultrasound-guided rectus sheath nerve block at 30 weeks with complete and immediate relief for the remainder of the pregnancy. During a third pregnancy, she suffered another recurrence; however, it was less severe than in the prior pregnancies and was managed conservatively. It again resolved completely and immediately with normal spontaneous vaginal delivery. The pattern of ACNES recurrence during the same gestational age in all three pregnancies with total relief following deliveries demonstrates a clear primary mechanical aetiology.
Use of rituximab in lymphomatoid granulomatosis with isolated central nervous system involvement
Authors: Mooneyham Jesse , Gentille Cesar , Barbieri Andrea , Shah Shilpan
Published: September 2020

A 33-year-old woman presented to the emergency room with severe headaches. A CT scan of the head revealed two brain lesions with associated vasogenic oedema. Diagnostic resection of one of the lesions followed by pathological analysis revealed grade III lymphomatoid granulomatosis (LYG). Staging investigations elsewhere in the body were negative, isolating this case of LYG to the central nervous system, an atypical presentation. After the resection, she was treated with single-agent rituximab 375 mg/m2. The follow-up MRI demonstrated the resolution of brain lesions and no progression of the disease.
Primary hepatic neuroendocrine tumour masquerading as a giant haemangioma: an unusual presentation of a rare disease
Authors: Almas Talal , Inayat Faisal , Ehtesham Maryam , Khan Muhammad Kashif
Published: September 2020

Primary hepatic neuroendocrine tumour is an exceedingly rare entity. We hereby delineate the case of a 45-year-old Balti descent woman who hails from a land-locked village situated in the foothills of the Pakistani Himalayas. The patient presented to our medical centre with a hepatic mass. She underwent extensive diagnostic workup. The consistent findings of an abdominal CT scan, coupled with her clinical history, insinuated a preoperative diagnosis of atypical hepatic haemangioma. After a detailed discussion in a multidisciplinary meeting, a standard right hemihepatectomy was performed. She had an uneventful postoperative recovery and was discharged in stable condition after 1 week. Surprisingly, pathological examination and immunohistochemistry of the resected specimen divulged the diagnosis of a grade II primary hepatic neuroendocrine tumour. Her somatostatin-receptor scintigraphy and Gallium-68 DOTATATE positron emission tomography scan excluded residual hepatic or additional body lesions. Regular follow-ups over the past 4 years demonstrated unremarkable radiological findings with no recurrence to date.
Gastric metastasis presenting as an overt upper gastrointestinal bleeding treated with chemoembolisation in a patient diagnosed with papillary thyroid carcinoma
Authors: Olimba Lester Jan Alvarado , Maralit Ruter Magtibay , Pastrana Davidson Viar , Remotigue Jose Louie Dela Cerna
Published: September 2020

We present a case of a patient with known papillary thyroid carcinoma presenting with overt upper gastrointestinal bleeding from a metastatic gastric mass. The gastric mass was diagnosed through transnasal endoscopy with tissue biopsies, revealing papillary thyroid carcinoma cells on histopathological studies. Bleeding was persistent despite standard medical therapy. Chemoembolisation of the major feeding vessels of such tumour provided resolution of bleeding.
Peritonsillar abscess and concomitant COVID-19 in a 21-year-old male
Authors: Sideris Anders William , Ghosh Niladri , Lam Matthew Eugene , Mackay Stuart Grayson
Published: September 2020

Transoral drainage of peritonsillar abscess during the COVID-19 pandemic is a high-risk procedure due to potential aerosolisation of SARS-CoV-2. This case describes conservative management of peritonsillar abscess in a 21-year-old male with COVID-19.
Global strategies and local implementation of health and health-related SDGs: lessons from consultation in countries across five regions
Authors: Siddiqi Sameen , Aftab Wafa , Siddiqui Fahad Javaid , Huicho Luis , Mogilevskii Roman , Friberg Peter , Lindgren-Garcia Johanna , Causevic Sara , Khamis Anil , Shah Mashal Murad , Bhutta Zulfiqar Ahmed
Published: September 2020

Evidence on early achievements, challenges and opportunities would help low-income and middle-income countries (LMICs) accelerate implementation of health and health-related sustainable development goals (HHSDGs). A series of country-specific and multicountry consultative meetings were conducted during 2018–2019 that involved 15 countries across five regions to determine the status of implementation of HHSDGs. Almost 120 representatives from health and non-health sectors participated. The assessment relied on a multidomain analytical framework drawing on existing public health policy frameworks. During the first 5 years of the sustainable development goals (SDGs) era, participating LMICs from South and Central Asia, East Africa and Latin America demonstrated growing political commitment to HHSDGs, with augmentation of multisectoral institutional arrangements, strengthening of monitoring systems and engagement of development partners. On the other hand, there has been limited involvement of civic society representatives and academia, relatively few capacity development initiatives were in place, a well-crafted communication strategy was missing, and there is limited evidence of additional domestic financing for implementing HHSDGs. While the momentum towards universal health coverage is notable, explicit linkages with non-health SDGs and integrated multisectoral implementation strategies are lacking. The study offers messages to LMICs that would allow for a full decade of accelerated implementation of HHSDGs, and points to the need for more implementation research in each domain and for testing interventions that are likely to work before scale-up.
Communication tools in the COVID-19 era and beyond which can optimise professional practice and patient care
Authors: Clement Keiran David , Zimmermann Eleanor F , Bhatt Nikita R , Light Alexander , Gao Chuanyu , Kulkarni Meghana , Norris Joseph M , Gallagher Kevin M J , Cambridge William A , Shah Taimur T , Ratan Hari L , Smith Daron , Kasivisvanathan Veeru
Published: September 2020

Following the outbreak of the novel SARS-CoV-2 (COVID-19), the World Health Organization made a number of recommendations regarding the utilisation of healthcare services. In general, there has been a reduction in elective healthcare services including outpatient clinics, diagnostic services and elective surgery. Inevitably these reductions for all but the most urgent clinical work will have a detrimental impact on patients, and alternative ways of working including the use of telemedicine may help to mitigate this. Similarly, electronic solutions may enable clinicians to maintain inter and intra-professional working in both clinical and academic settings. Implementation of electronic solutions to minimise direct patient contact will be new to many clinicians, and the sheer number of software solutions available and varying functionality may be overwhelming to anyone unfamiliar with ‘virtual communication’. In this article, we will aim to summarise the variety of electronic communication platforms and tools available for clinicians and patients, detailing their utility, pros and cons, and some 'tips and tricks' from our experience through our work as an international research collaborative.
How can we relieve gastrointestinal symptoms in people with cystic fibrosis? An international qualitative survey
Authors: Smith Sherie , Rowbotham Nicola , Davies Gwyneth , Gathercole Katie , Collins Sarah J , Elliott Zoe , Herbert Sophie , Allen Lorna , Ng Christabella , Smyth Alan
Published: September 2020

Introduction

Relieving gastrointestinal (GI) symptoms was identified as a ‘top ten’ priority by our James Lind Alliance Priority Setting Partnership in cystic fibrosis (CF). We conducted an online survey to find out more about the effect of GI symptoms in CF.

Methods

We co-produced an online survey distributed to the CF community via web-based platforms. The survey consisted of open and closed questions designed to help us learn more about the effects of GI symptoms for people with CF (pwCF). We analysed the data using descriptive statistics and thematic analysis. We promoted the survey via social media and web-based platforms which allowed respondents from any country to take part. Our participants came from the CF community, including: adults and children with CF, parents and close family of pwCF and healthcare professionals (HCPs) working with pwCF.

Results

There were 276 respondents: 90 (33%) pwCF, 79 (29%) family, 107 (39%) HCPs. The most commonly reported symptoms by lay respondents were stomach cramps/pain, bloating and a ‘combination of symptoms’. The top three symptoms that HCPs said were reported to them were reduced appetite, bloating and constipation. Almost all (94% (85/90)) HCPs thought medications helped to relieve GI symptoms but only 58% (82/141) of lay respondents agreed.

Conclusions

Our survey has shown that GI symptoms among our participants are prevalent and intrude on daily lives of pwCF. There is a need for well-designed clinical studies to provide better evidence for management of GI symptoms and complications.
FcγRIIB engagement drives agonistic activity of Fc-engineered αOX40 antibody to stimulate human tumor-infiltrating T cells
Authors: Campos Carrascosa Lucia , van Beek Adriaan A , de Ruiter Valeska , Doukas Michail , Wei Jie , Fisher Timothy S , Ching Keith , Yang Wenjing , van Loon Karlijn , Boor Patrick P C , Rakké Yannick S , Noordam Lisanne , Doornebosch Pascal , Grünhagen Dirk , Verhoef Kees , Polak Wojciech G , IJzermans Jan N M , Ni Irene , Yeung Yik Andy , Salek-Ardakani Shahram , Sprengers Dave , Kwekkeboom Jaap
Published: September 2020

Background

OX40 (CD134) is a costimulatory molecule of the tumor necrosis factor receptor superfamily that is currently being investigated as a target for cancer immunotherapy. However, despite promising results in murine tumor models, the clinical efficacy of agonistic αOX40 antibodies in the treatment of patients with cancer has fallen short of the high expectation in earlier-stage trials.

Methods

Using lymphocytes from resected tumor, tumor-free (TF) tissue and peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMC) of 96 patients with hepatocellular and colorectal cancers, we determined OX40 expression and the in vitro T-cell agonistic activity of OX40-targeting compounds. RNA-Seq was used to evaluate OX40-mediated transcriptional changes in CD4+ and CD8+ human tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes (TILs).

Results

Here, we show that OX40 was overexpressed on tumor-infiltrating CD4+ T cells compared with blood and TF tissue-derived T cells. In contrast to a clinical candidate αOX40 antibody, treatment with an Fc-engineered αOX40 antibody (αOX40_v12) with selectively enhanced FcγRIIB affinity, stimulated in vitro CD4+ and CD8+ TIL expansion, as well as cytokine and chemokine secretions. The activity of αOX40_v12 was dependent on FcγRIIB engagement and intrinsic CD3/CD28 signals. The transcriptional landscape of CD4+ and CD8+ TILs shifted toward a prosurvival, inflammatory and chemotactic profile on treatment with αOX40_v12.

Conclusions

OX40 is overexpressed on CD4+ TILs and thus represents a promising target for immunotherapy. Targeting OX40 with currently used agonistic antibodies may be inefficient due to lack of OX40 multimerization. Thus, Fc engineering is a powerful tool in enhancing the agonistic activity of αOX40 antibody and may shape the future design of antibody-mediated αOX40 immunotherapy.
Immune-checkpoint inhibitors plus chemotherapy versus chemotherapy as first-line treatment for patients with extensive-stage small cell lung cancer
Authors: Zhou Fei , Zhao Wencheng , Gong Xiaomei , Ren Shengxiang , Su Chunxia , Jiang Tao , Zhou Caicun
Published: September 2020

We performed a meta-analysis to comprehensively investigate the efficacy and safety of immune-checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) plus chemotherapy in patients with extensive-stage small cell lung cancer (ES-SCLC). The primary outcome was overall survival (OS). The secondary outcomes included progression-free survival (PFS), objective response rate (ORR) and ≥grade 3 adverse events (AEs). A total of six studies involving 2905 patients were identified, including 469 patients receiving program death ligand 1 (PD-L1) inhibitor plus chemotherapy, 308 receiving PD-1 inhibitors plus chemotherapy, 563 receiving CTLA-4 inhibitors plus chemotherapy, 268 receiving PD-L1/CTLA-4 inhibitors plus chemotherapy, and 1297 receiving chemotherapy alone. 10.8% (283/2615) patients had baseline brain metastases (BMs). Notably, ICIs plus chemotherapy was associated with significantly improved OS (HR, 0.82; 95% CI, 0.75 to 0.89). Subgroup analyses revealed that PD-1 inhibitors (HR, 0.77; 95% CI, 0.64 to 0.92) and PD-L1 inhibitors (HR, 0.73; 95% CI, 0.63 to 0.85) plus chemotherapy yielded a statistically significant improvement in OS while CTLA-4 inhibitors did not (HR, 0.92; 95% CI, 0.81 to 1.06). In patients with baseline BMs, ICIs plus chemotherapy showed no survival benefits over chemotherapy alone (HR, 1.23; 95% CI, 0.92 to 1.64). ICIs plus chemotherapy also significantly prolonged PFS (HR, 0.81; 95% CI, 0.75 to 0.87) while the pooled ORRs were comparable between ICIs plus chemotherapy and chemotherapy alone (RR, 1.04; 95% CI, 0.99 to 1.10). Patients treated with CTLA-4 inhibitors (relative risk (RR), 1.12; 95% CI, 0.99 to 1.28) experienced more≥grade 3 AEs than those treated with PD-1/PD-L1 inhibitors (RR, 1.03; 95% CI, 0.96 to 1.11). The addition of PD-1/PD-L1 inhibitors to chemotherapy resulted in significant improvements in both PFS and OS for patients with treatment-naïve ES-SCLC, not at the cost of increased AEs.
Impact of off-hour endovascular therapy on outcomes for acute ischemic stroke: insights from STAR
Authors: Tschoe Christine , Kittel Carol , Brown Patrick , Hafeez Muhammad , Kan Peter , Alawieh Ali , Spiotta Alejandro M , Almallouhi Eyad , Dumont Travis M , McCarthy David J , Starke Robert M , De Leacy Reade , Wolfe Stacey Q , Fargen Kyle M
Published: September 2020

Background

The off-hour effect has been observed in the medical care of acute ischemic stroke. However, it remains unclear if time of arrival affects revascularization rates and outcomes after endovascular therapy (EVT) for emergent large vessel occlusion (ELVO). We aimed to investigate the clinical outcomes of EVT between on-hour and off-hour admissions.

Methods

Patients who underwent EVT for ELVO from January 2013 to June 2019 from the STAR Registry were included. Patients were grouped based on time of groin puncture: on-hour period (Monday through Friday, 7:00 am–4:59 pm) and off-hour period (overnight 5:00pm–6:59am and the weekends). Primary outcome was final modified Rankin Scale (mRS) at 90 days on mRS-shift analysis.

Results

A total of 1919 patients were included in the study from six centers. The majority of patients (1169, 60.9%) of patients presented during the off-hour period. The mean age was 68.1 years and 50.5% were women. Successful reperfusion, as defined by a Thrombolysis In Cerebral Infarction (TICI) score of ≥2B, was achieved in 88.8% in the on-hour group and 88.0% in the off-hour group. Good clinical outcome (mRS 0–2) was obtained in 34.4% of off-hour patients and 37.7% of on-hour patients. On multivariable ordinal logistic regression analysis, time of presentation was not associated with worsened outcome (OR 1.150; 95% CI 0.96 to 1.37; P=0.122). Age, admission National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale (NIHSS), baseline mRS, and final TICI score were significantly associated with worse outcomes.

Conclusion

There is no statistical difference in functional outcome in acute ischemic stroke patients who underwent EVT during on-hours versus off-hours.
Influence of simultaneous pressor and vasodilatory agents on the evolution of infarct growth in experimental acute middle cerebral artery occlusion
Authors: Saadat Niloufar , Christoforidis Gregory A , Jeong Yong Ik , Liu Mira , Dimov Alexey , Roth Steven , Niekrasz Marek , Ansari Sameer A , Carroll Timothy
Published: September 2020

Background

This study sought to test the hypothesis that simultaneous central blood pressure elevation and potent vasodilation can mitigate pial collateral-dependent infarct growth in acute ischemic stroke.

Methods

Twenty mongrel canines (20–30 kg) underwent permanent middle cerebral artery occlusion (MCAO). Eight subjects received continuous infusion of norepinephrine (0.1–1.5200 µg/kg/min; titrated to a median of 34 mmHg above baseline mean arterial pressure) and hydralazine (20 mg) starting 30 min following MCAO. Pial collateral recruitment was scored prior to treatment and used to predict infarct volume based on a previously reported parameterization. Serial diffusion magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) acquisitions tracked infarct volumes over a 4-hour time frame. Infarct volumes and infarct volume growth between treatment and control groups were compared with each other and to predicted values. Fluid-attenuated inversion recovery (FLAIR) MRI, susceptibility weighted imaging (SWI), and necropsy findings were included in the evaluation.

Results

Differences between treatment and control group varied by pial collateral recruitment based on indicator-variable regression effects analysis with interaction confirmed by regression model fit. Benefit in treatment group was only in subjects with poor collaterals which had 35.7% less infarct volume growth (P=0.0008; ANOVA) relative to controls. Measured infarct growth was significantly lower than predicted by the model (linear regression partial F-test, slope P<0.001, intercept=0.003). There was no evidence for cerebral hemorrhage or posterior reversible encephalopathy syndrome.

Conclusion

Our results indicate that a combination of norepinephrine and hydralazine administered in the acute phase of ischemic stroke mitigates infarct evolution in subjects with poor but not good collateral recruitment.
Is the minimal clinically important difference (MCID) in acute pain a good measure of analgesic efficacy in regional anesthesia?
Authors: Muñoz-Leyva Felipe , El-Boghdadly Kariem , Chan Vincent
Published: September 2020

In the field of acute pain medicine research, we believe there is an unmet need to incorporate patient related outcome measures that move beyond reporting pain scores and opioid consumption. The term “minimal clinically important difference” (MCID) defines the clinical benefit of an intervention as perceived by the patient, as opposed to a mathematically determined statistically significant difference that may not necessarily be clinically significant. The present article reviews the concept of MCID in acute postoperative pain research, addresses potential pitfalls in MCID determination and questions the clinical validity of extrapolating MCID determined from chronic pain and non-surgical pain studies to the acute postoperative pain setting. We further suggest the concepts of minimal clinically important improvement, substantial clinical benefit and patient acceptable symptom state should also represent aspirational outcomes for future research in acute postoperative pain management.
Fluoroscopically guided mandibular nerve block: a modified lateral approach
Authors: Mojica Jeffrey Jon , Kudur Vinay , Garza III Rudy , Eckmann Maxim S
Published: September 2020

Background and objectives

Mandibular nerve blocks are indicated for atypical face pain and trigeminal neuralgia. We hypothesized that a modified lateral approach, which entailed a combination of lateral and anterior approach techniques to the mandibular nerve block would lead to similar efficacy and improved safety profile rather than the typical lateral or anterior techniques.

Methods

This alternative approach was derived from anatomical investigation using the Radiology Anatomy Atlas Viewer and reconstructed axial cadaveric slices. We used axial slices at the level of the lateral pterygoid plate, and at the level of the temporomandibular joint to devise a needle path appropriate for this block.

Results

The modified lateral approach to the mandibular nerve block was verified theoretically through cadaveric reconstructed slices and has been successfully performed in our practice. Precise needle trajectory could avoid both periosteal contact and gross redirection, as well as other procedural complications.

Conclusion

The modified lateral approach to a mandibular nerve block avoids the respective risks associated with either the lateral and anterior approach. Facial intervention techniques typically pose increased safety challenges, however through cadaveric anatomic reconstruction, we have developed a safer approach for mandibular nerve blockade.
A new model for dark matter fluid sphere
Authors: Das Shyam , Sarkar Nayan , Mondal Monimala , Rahaman Farook
Published: September 2020

We develop a new model for a spherically symmetric dark matter fluid sphere containing two regions: (i) Isotropic inner region with constant density and (ii) Anisotropic outer region. We solve the system of field equation by assuming a particular density profile along with a linear equation of state. The obtained solutions are well-behaved and physically acceptable which represent equilibrium and stable matter configuration by satisfying the Tolman–Oppenheimer–Volkoff (TOV) equation and causality condition, condition on adiabatic index, Harrison–Zeldovich–Novikov criterion, respectively. We consider the compact star EXO 1785-248 (Mass [Formula: see text] and radius R[Formula: see text]8.8 km) to analyze our solutions by graphical demonstrations.
Ablowitz–Kaup–Newell–Segur system, conservation laws and Bäcklund transformation of a variable-coefficient Korteweg–de Vries equation in plasma physics, fluid dynamics or atmospheric science
Authors: Chen Yu-Qi , Tian Bo , Qu Qi-Xing , Li He , Zhao Xue-Hui , Tian He-Yuan , Wang Meng
Published: September 2020

For a variable-coefficient Korteweg–de Vries equation in a lake/sea, two-layer liquid, atmospheric flow, cylindrical plasma or interactionless plasma, in this paper, we derive the bilinear Bäcklund transformation, non-isospectral Ablowitz–Kaup–Newell–Segur system and infinite conservation laws for the wave amplitude under certain constraints among the external force, dissipation, nonlinearity, dispersion and perturbation.
Design of Low Power Speech Processor-Based Cochlear Implants Using Modified FIR Filter with Variable Frequency Mapping
Authors: Khaleelur Rahiman P. F. , Jayanthi V. S. , Jayanthi A. N.
Published: September 2020

Generally, cochlear implant system consists of one or more electrodes which directly activate the auditory nerve. The microphone transforms external speech processor input into stimuli for each electrode and transcutaneous the connection between the electrodes and processor. As a result, cochlear implants continue to improve the performance of speech processor. After the implantation, preservation gains importance in acoustic hearing to prevent the neural degradation from the loss of cells. Eventually, the possibility of preserving low-frequency and high-frequency hearing using modified surgical technique has been explored for hearing in cochlear implantation. The primary focus on the architecture is to reduce the major potential thread performance and power trade-off. So, frequency mapping function with modified FIR filter has been proposed. For this implementation, the values relative to the frequency range defines upper and lower stimulus limits of each electrode. The proposed FIR filter is designed with distributed arithmetic function where the reconfigurable FIR filter can change the filter input coefficients. By scaling both the frequency ranges and by assessing the deriving frequency parameters, the mapping function will be yielded. Mapping function is manipulated to rectify any mapping deviations. This results in favor of the development of frequency specific mapping function with flexible system. From the proposed results, it is evident that the speech recognition performance is improved significantly by better minimization of overall energy consumption based on effective and pipelined FFT architecture. This implementation also reduces the power and improves the accuracy by 90% and above for different frequency ranges.
Accelerating universe with the effect of anisotropy on dark energy model in the framework of Brans–Dicke theory
Authors: Hossienkhani H. , Azimi N. , Zarei Z.
Published: September 2020

This study set out to investigate the effect of anisotropy on the [Formula: see text]CDM model in the framework of Brans−Dicke theory. To this end, astrophysical constraints on this model using current available data including type Ia supernovae (SNIa), the Baryon Acoustic Oscillation (BAO), and the Hubble parameter [Formula: see text] data were deployed. Here, we present combined results from these probes, deriving constraints on [Formula: see text] of [Formula: see text]CDM model and its anisotropy energy density in an anisotropic universe. It is found that [Formula: see text] can be constrained by the [Formula: see text] data, with the best fitting value [Formula: see text] for the Brans–Dicke cosmology. We extend our study to the case of [Formula: see text]CDM model in an anisotropic universe and Brans–Dicke framework and find out that the equation of state parameter ([Formula: see text]) cannot cross the phantom line and eventually the universe approaches a quintessence era.
∗-Ricci tensor on almost Kenmotsu 3-manifolds
Authors: Dey Dibakar , Majhi Pradip
Published: September 2020

In this paper, we obtain the expressions of the ∗-Ricci operator of a three-dimensional almost Kenmotsu manifold [Formula: see text] and find that the ∗-Ricci tensor is not symmetric for [Formula: see text]. We obtain a necessary and sufficient condition for the ∗-Ricci tensor to be symmetric and proved that if the ∗-Ricci tensor of a non-Kenmotsu almost Kenmotsu 3-[Formula: see text]-manifold [Formula: see text] is symmetric, then [Formula: see text] is locally isometric to a three-dimensional non-unimodular Lie group equipped with a left invariant non-Kenmotsu almost Kenmotsu structure. Further, it is shown that the ∗-Ricci tensor of a non-Kenmotsu almost Kenmotsu 3-manifold [Formula: see text] is parallel if and only if [Formula: see text] is ∗-Ricci flat. In addition, [Formula: see text] satisfying [Formula: see text] is locally isometric to [Formula: see text]. Finally, we discuss about [Formula: see text]-parallel ∗-Ricci tensor on almost Kenmotsu 3-manifolds.
Dirac/Rarita–Schwinger plus Maxwell theories in ℝ × S3 spacetime in the Hopf coordinates
Authors: Dzhunushaliev Vladimir , Folomeev Vladimir
Published: September 2020

We consider the sets of Dirac–Maxwell and Rarita–Schwinger–Maxwell equations in [Formula: see text] spacetime. Using the Hopf coordinates, we show that these equations allow separation of variables and obtain the corresponding analytic and numerical solutions. It is also demonstrated that the current of the Dirac field is related to the Hopf invariant on the [Formula: see text] fibration.
Physics of Gauge Fields in Quantum Nanosciences
Authors: Tan Seng Ghee , Jalil Mansoor B. A. , Chang Ching-Ray , Murakami Shuichi
Published: September 2020

We review the formulation of gauge fields in terms of the frame of reference as well as the space in which the frame is defined. We highlighted some recent applications of gauge physics in the momentum space — in the modern fields of the spin Hall effect, the magnon Hall, the optical Magnus and the graphene valley Hall. General procedures of gauge transformation which lead to the construction of the gauge curvature and the equations of motion (EOM) are outlined. Central to this review is our intention to illustrate the impact of gauge physics on the past and future development of many new research fields emerging out of condensed matter physics, particularly in quantum nanosciences and nanoelectronics.
Book Review: 'E-Learning Provocateur: Volume 2' by Ryan Tracey
Authors: Layton-James Laura
Published: September 2020

Laura Layton-James reviews Ryan Tracey's latest offering of his most compelling blog post. In this curated volume Tracey share his observations, stories, and experience in the eLearning arena.
The Accidental Student
Authors: Hughes Maria L.
Published: September 2020

In this editorial, Maria L. Hughes discusses her first-hand experience with MOOCs as a Coursera student.
Synchronous Learning: Is there a future?
Authors: Sivula Martin
Published: September 2020

Over the last several years many studies have addressed eLearning, and 'distance education,' by asynchronous learning methods. This survey research study applies principles of augmented or mediated reality together with Blackboard's Wimba collaborative tool to explore students perceptions of the effectiveness of the synchronous classroom. Students were able to self-select their favored method of instruction by using principles of observation research: full participant (on a computer at home); participant-observer (on laptop in class); and observer-participant (in class observing and participating, no laptop). Davis (1986) Technology Acceptance Model (TAM) and Rogers' (1995) Diffusion of Innovations (DOI) were used to guide the creation of a survey instrument utilizing Google Drive's Form tool. Several of the TAM model's constructs were used: perceived usefulness (PU), perceived ease of use (PEU), behavioral intention to use, and attitude towards use of the software (Wimba). It was determined real-time, synchronous instruction within a self-selection of augmented reality seems to offer much for the student.
An Interview with Dr. Rouel Belleza
Authors: Cozart Joe
Published: September 2020

Cherokee County is a suburban school district northwest of Atlanta, GA. In the last several years, the district has seen an explosion of interest in online learning. The district is attempting to leverage digital resources in a way that can enable growth of blended learning district wide as well.
Debunking The Myth of the Average Learner: A review of The End of Average
Authors: Quinn Clark
Published: September 2020

The concept of average is flawed. We need a fundamental change in how we help learners achieve and contribute their best so they can move beyond average. In "The End of Average" Todd Rose argues the metrics we use to assess success--test scores, performance reviews, and grades--are antiquated and doing more harm than good.
An algebraic manipulator using SLIP
Authors: Lapidus A. , Goldstein M. , Greenspan S.
Published: September 2020

The notation for representing algebraic expressions to be manipulated by a SLIP type list processor is described in detail. This notation in general allows algebraic expressions to be represented in the form of list structures used for algebraic manipulation.
PANON-1B
Authors: Caracciolo Di Forino A. , Spanedda L. , Wolkenstein N.
Published: September 2020

PANON-IB is a Universal Programming Language for Symbol Manipulation based on a particular extension of Markov Normal Algorithms. It consists essentially of a sequence of Labelled Structural Transformation Rules to be applied to an arbitrary argument string, according to appropriate sequencing rules. PANON-1B includes also specifications for input/output operations. The basic principles are discussed. Some details of a particular complete hardware representation are given.
Format-directed list processing in LISP
Authors: Bobrow D. , Teitelman W.
Published: September 2020

This paper describes a notation and a programming language for expressing, from within a LisP system, string transformations such as those performed in CoMIT or SNOBOL. A simple transformation (or transformation rule) is specified by providing a pattern which must match the structure to be transformed, and a format which specifies how to construct a new structure according to the segmentation specified by the pattern. The patterns and formats are greatly generalized versions of the left-half and right-half rules of CoMIT and SNOBOL. For example, elementary patterns and formats can be variable names, results of computations, disjunctive sets, or repeating subpatterns; predicates can be associated with elementary patterns which check relationships among separated elements of the match; it is no longer necessary to restrict transformations to linear strings since elementary patterns can themselves match structures. The FLIP language has been implemented in LISP 1.5, and has been successfully used in such disparate tasks as editing LisP functions and parsing Kleene regular expressions.
Models for mathematical systems
Authors: Morris Alfred H.
Published: September 2020

A program, written for the IBM 7090, which defines a model for a finite collection of associative algebras for the computer, is described and illustrated. The program contains a structure broad enough in scope to allow one to perform operations on such diverse mathematical concepts as differential equations, infinite series and differential forms in a simple yet comprehensive manner, while also serving in a foundation upon which a variety of higher level symbol manipulation languages can be developed.

The development of the structure of this model is given. In particular, it is assumed that a family of not necessarily commutative algebras defined over a collection of commutative rings is given, where the algebras are algebras of modules generated by recursive sets. A brief discussion is given on how the vectors and scalars of these algebras should be represented, and how their basic algebraic operations (addition and multiplication) can be handled in a systematic manner without regard to the specific underlying scalar rings involved. Functional expressions are treated by developing a procedure for assigning an arbitrary list of operators to an algebra, and then assigning to each operator a list of assumptions that it is to satisfy. The latter is accomplished through the use of what are called "axiom" or "partial evaluation" functions. The resulting structure, which is called ALGEBRA, is shown to serve as a model for a family of associative algebras, where the resulting families of equivalence classes of representations for the vectors are uniquely representable. Various related notions, such as topological and decision considerations, are also briefly discussed.

After having outlined the development of the system ALGEBRA, polynomial, exterior and series algebras are given as examples to illustrate how the model can be used. It is observed that a wide variety of mathematical data can be handled fairly simply, depending only on the formulation of the problem under consideration. The possibility of constructing various higher level symbol manipulation languages that have a mathematical structure, broad enough in scope to allow an analyst to manipulate various problems in a variety of ways, is also discussed. A programming language called FLAP has already been developed, demonstrating that such a language can indeed be studied and formulated in a consistent manner.
Cellular, Molecular, and Physiological Adaptations of Hibernation: The Solution to Environmental Challenges
Authors: Mohr Sarah M. , Bagriantsev Sviatoslav N. , Gracheva Elena O.
Published: September 2020

Thriving in times of resource scarcity requires an incredible flexibility of behavioral, physiological, cellular, and molecular functions that must change within a relatively short time. Hibernation is a collection of physiological strategies that allows animals to inhabit inhospitable environments, where they experience extreme thermal challenges and scarcity of food and water. Many different kinds of animals employ hibernation, and there is a spectrum of hibernation phenotypes. Here, we focus on obligatory mammalian hibernators to identify the unique challenges they face and the adaptations that allow hibernators to overcome them. This includes the cellular and molecular strategies used to combat low environmental and body temperatures and lack of food and water. We discuss metabolic, neuronal, and hormonal cues that regulate hibernation and how they are thought to be coordinated by internal clocks. Last, we touch on questions that are left to be addressed in the field of hibernation research. Studies from the last century and more recent work reveal that hibernation is not simply a passive reduction in body temperature and vital parameters but rather an active process seasonally regulated at the molecular, cellular, and organismal levels.
Debt Structure
Authors: Colla Paolo , Ippolito Filippo , Li Kai
Published: September 2020

We review the literature on debt structure, which is a central element in a firm's capital structure. We first survey both theoretical and empirical research pertaining to debt characteristics—maturity and priority—and debt types—bank loans, corporate bonds, credit lines, commercial paper, and capital leases. We then present comprehensive empirical evidence on public US firms’ debt structure over the period 2002–2018, highlighting that more than three-quarters of US firms concentrate their borrowing in one debt type, and offer some suggestive explanations for the observed pattern. Finally, we discuss directions for future research, including a better understanding of debt structure choices by non-US firms and by private firms, the cross-sectional and temporal variations in debt structure, the corporate policy implications of firms’ debt structure choices, and the interaction between types of assets and debt structure.
What Has a Century of Quantitative Genetics Taught Us About Nature's Genetic Tool Kit?
Authors: Jakobson Christopher M. , Jarosz Daniel F.
Published: September 2020

The complexity of heredity has been appreciated for decades: Many traits are controlled not by a single genetic locus but instead by polymorphisms throughout the genome. The importance of complex traits in biology and medicine has motivated diverse approaches to understanding their detailed genetic bases. Here, we focus on recent systematic studies, many in budding yeast, which have revealed that large numbers of all kinds of molecular variation, from noncoding to synonymous variants, can make significant contributions to phenotype. Variants can affect different traits in opposing directions, and their contributions can be modified by both the environment and the epigenetic state of the cell. The integration of prospective (synthesizing and analyzing variants) and retrospective (examining standing variation) approaches promises to reveal how natural selection shapes quantitative traits. Only by comprehensively understanding nature's genetic tool kit can we predict how phenotypes arise from the complex ensembles of genetic variants in living organisms.
Shield Tunneling under Railway Station Throats in Soft Soil Areas: A Case Study
Authors: Liu Chengyu , Wang Binglong , Zhou Shunhua
Published: September 2020

Railway station throats have the most stringent standards for permissible deformation caused by adjacent construction. This paper describes the case of a safely implemented shield tunneling project beneath the throat of a large railway station with more than 11 tracks in soft soil areas. By identifying major design constraints, the route scheme and line alignment were established to balance the engineering conditions, which have a potential impact on the railway switches. Finite element model simulations were performed to estimate the track displacements. These simulations demonstrated the need for ground improvement. The ground improvement strategy involved the use of compact machinery to operate in the small area between the tracks. Furthermore, the earth‐pressure‐balanced shield machine, tunnel segments, and synchronized slurry were optimized to the site conditions. A trial section of tunnel boring was used before reaching the railway to confirm appropriate shield machine parameters. An automatic monitoring system provided continuous feedback for precise control of the construction parameters. Ultimately, the construction project achieved its goals, causing a maximum track displacement of 8.4 mm. This report also describes our experience in organizing a joint workshop consisting of the railway administration and operation teams, the metro design team, and construction, survey, and consulting companies to enhance project planning. This study provides valuable insight and can serve as an important reference for similar future projects.
Smart Contract-Based Cross-Domain Authentication and Key Agreement System for Heterogeneous Wireless Networks
Authors: Li Guangsong , Wang Yang , Zhang Bin , Lu Siqi
Published: September 2020

Nowadays, it is still a major challenge to design a secure cross-domain authentication protocol for heterogeneous wireless networks with different security parameters. As a new technology, blockchain has attracted people’s attention because of its tamper-proof and decentralized characteristics. In this paper, we propose a cross-domain authentication and key agreement system based on smart contract of blockchains. Public keys of the nodes are managed using the smart contracts, and the system parameters are confirmed by contract query. On this basis, a cross-domain authentication and key agreement protocol is designed. In this protocol, roaming users can select temporary authentication parameters according to the system parameters of the roaming domain to complete authentication and key agreement, and users are anonymous in the process. Security of the protocol is demonstrated under the CK model, and two formal analysis tools are used to further analyze the protocol. Since the protocol does not have complex cryptographic operations and certificate verification, it has lower computational and communication overhead.