bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Static and dynamic cues in vowel production in Hijazi Arabic
Authors: Almurashi Wael , Al-Tamimi Jalal , Khattab Ghada
Published: May 2020

Static cues such as formant measurements obtained at the vowel midpoint are usually taken as the main correlate for vowel identification. However, dynamic cues such as vowel-inherent spectral change have been shown to yield better classification of vowels using discriminant analysis. The aim of this study is to evaluate the role of static versus dynamic cues in Hijazi Arabic (HA) vowel classification, in addition to vowel duration and F3, which are not usually looked at. Data from 12 male HA speakers producing eight HA vowels in /hVd/ syllables were obtained, and classification accuracy was evaluated using discriminant analysis. Dynamic cues, particularly the three-point model, had higher classification rates (average 95.5%) than the remaining models (static model: 93.5%; other dynamic models: between 65.75% and 94.25%). Vowel duration had a significant role in classification accuracy (average +8%). These results are in line with dynamic approaches to vowel classification and highlight the relative importance of cues such as vowel duration across languages, particularly where it is prominent in the phonology.
A Trial of the Effect of 2-Step Orthosis Treatment for Mallet Finger Fractures
Authors: Saito Kazuo , Kihara Hitoshi
Published: May 2020

Context: Many patients report poor therapeutic outcomes following mallet finger fracture surgery. A more reliable technique is urgently needed. Objective: To present a novel treatment for mallet finger fractures using a 2-step orthosis method. Design: Prospective, observational study. Setting: Hospital. Participants: Patients with mallet finger fractures. Interventions: The finger is fixed with splints for 6 weeks, including 3 weeks for the proximal interphalangeal joint in the flexion position and the distal interphalangeal joint in the hyperextension position (first splint) and 3 weeks for the distal interphalangeal joint in the hyperextension position (second splint). Up to week 8, the second splint was attached at night and during physical exertion. Main Outcome Measures: Crawford criteria, Abouna–Brown criteria, bone fusion, grip strength, Doyle classification, Ishiguro classification. Results: Sufficient bone fusion was achieved 12 weeks after fixation; at which time, the range of motion with the distal interphalangeal joint flexed, and extended in the 3 patients was 50° and 0°, 70° and −3°, and 60° and 0°, respectively. The right and left hand grip strengths in the 3 patients were 58 and 55 kg, 62 and 58 kg, and 31 and 29 kg, respectively; there were no problems with respect to function or work. The first 2 patients could start sports again with partial return after 1 week and complete return after 12 weeks and 8 weeks, respectively. For the third patient, rehabilitation was complete after 16 weeks. Evaluation of the fracture sites based on the Crawford criteria showed the condition to be perfect, and evaluation based on the Abouna–Brown criteria showed success. Conclusions: This method provides satisfactory fixation and can prevent proximal interphalangeal joint contracture. Favorable long-term outcomes were confirmed in all patients, suggesting that this method may be effective for previously untreated mallet finger fractures with little displacement.
Does the Method of Administration Affect Reliability of the Foot and Ankle Ability Measure?
Authors: Burcal Christopher J. , Chung Sunghoon , Johnston Madison L. , Rosen Adam B.
Published: May 2020

Background: Region-specific patient-reported outcomes (PROs) are commonly used in rehabilitation medicine. Digital versions of PROs may be implemented into electronic medical records and are also commonly used in research, but the validity of this method of administration (MOA) must be established. Purpose: To determine the agreement between and compare the test–retest reliability of a paper version (FAAM-P) and digital version (FAAM-D) of the Foot and Ankle Ability Measure (FAAM). Study Design: Randomized, nonblinded, crossover observational study. Methods: A total of 90 adults were randomized to complete the FAAM-P or FAAM-D first, and then completed the second MOA (first day [D1]). The FAAM-D was a digital adaptation of both FAAM-P subscales on Qualtrics. Identical test procedures were completed 1 week later (D2). Data were removed if a participant scored 100% on both MOA, reported injury between D1 and D2, or did not complete both MOA. Agreement was assessed on 46 participants between the 2 MOA using intraclass correlation coefficients (ICC) at D1. There was good-to-excellent test–retest reliability for the FAAM activities of daily living. Results: The authors observed good agreement between the FAAM-P and FAAM-D for the activities of daily living (ICC = .88) and sport scales (ICC = .87). Test–retest reliability was good-to-excellent for the FAAM activities of daily living (FAAM-P: ICC = .87; FAAM-D: ICC = .89) and sport (FAAM-P: ICC = .71; FAAM-D: ICC = .91). Conclusions: The MOA does not appear to affect the responses on the FAAM; however, the authors observed slightly higher reliability on the FAAM-D. The FAAM-D is sufficient to be used for generating practice-based evidence in rehabilitation medicine.
Warm Circumpolar Deep Water transport toward Antarctica driven by local dense water export in canyons
Authors: Morrison A. K. , Hogg A. McC. , England M. H. , Spence P.
Published: May 2020

Mid-depth heat transport toward Antarctica is focused in “cold” regions, mechanically forced by overflowing dense water.
Enhanced therapeutic index of an antimicrobial peptide in mice by increasing safety and activity against multidrug-resistant bacteria
Authors: Di Y. P. , Lin Q. , Chen C. , Montelaro R. C. , Doi Y. , Deslouches B.
Published: May 2020

Enantiomeric optimization markedly increased safety and efficacy of a cationic peptide against multidrug-resistant pathogens.
Sulfur K-edge micro- and full-field XANES identify marker for preparation method of ultramarine pigment from lapis lazuli in historical paints
Authors: Gambardella Alessa A. , Cotte Marine , de Nolf Wout , Schnetz Kokkie , Erdmann Rob , van Elsas Roel , Gonzalez Victor , Wallert Arie , Iedema Piet D. , Eveno Myriam , Keune Katrien
Published: May 2020

Identification of marker in ultramarine pigment for the heat treatment of lapis lazuli rock as used in historical paintings.
Nanovesicles derived from iron oxide nanoparticles–incorporated mesenchymal stem cells for cardiac repair
Authors: Lee Ju-Ro , Park Bong-Woo , Kim Jonghoon , Choo Yeon Woong , Kim Han Young , Yoon Jeong-Kee , Kim Hyeok , Hwang Ji-Won , Kang Mikyung , Kwon Sung Pil , Song Seuk Young , Ko In Ok , Park Ji-Ae , Ban Kiwon , Hyeon Taeghwan , Park Hun-Jun , Kim Byung-Soo
Published: May 2020

Increased therapeutic factors and retention of IONP-NVs substantially enhance therapeutic potential for cardiac repair.
Pulse-driven robot: Motion via solitary waves
Authors: Deng Bolei , Chen Liyuan , Wei Donglai , Tournat Vincent , Bertoldi Katia
Published: May 2020

Nonlinear waves can be harnessed to make flexible structures crawl.
Vanadium spin qubits as telecom quantum emitters in silicon carbide
Authors: Wolfowicz Gary , Anderson Christopher P. , Diler Berk , Poluektov Oleg G. , Heremans F. Joseph , Awschalom David D.
Published: May 2020

Observation of single vanadium telecom emitters with spin registers provides a promising platform for quantum communication.
Quantitative and correlative extreme ultraviolet coherent imaging of mouse hippocampal neurons at high resolution
Authors: Baksh Peter D. , Ostrčil Michal , Miszczak Magdalena , Pooley Charles , Chapman Richard T. , Wyatt Adam S. , Springate Emma , Chad John E. , Deinhardt Katrin , Frey Jeremy G. , Brocklesby William S.
Published: May 2020

Imaging using coherent extreme ultraviolet radiation from laser sources provides high-resolution images of biological samples.
Silicon nanomembrane phototransistor flipped with multifunctional sensors toward smart digital dust
Authors: Li Gongjin , Ma Zhe , You Chunyu , Huang Gaoshan , Song Enming , Pan Ruobing , Zhu Hong , Xin Jiaqi , Xu Borui , Lee Taeyoon , An Zhenghua , Di Zengfeng , Mei Yongfeng
Published: May 2020

Flexible phototransistors are integrated with stimuli-responsive materials for multimodal sensing via CMOS-compatible strategy.
Soft sensors for a sensing-actuation system with high bladder voiding efficiency
Authors: Arab Hassani F. , Jin H. , Yokota T. , Someya T. , Thakor N. V.
Published: May 2020

Helping a dysfunctional bladder in micturition requires a system capable of both fullness detection and complete emptying.
Magnetic excitation and readout of methyl group tunnel coherence
Authors: Šimėnas M. , Klose D. , Ptak M. , Aidas K. , Mączka M. , Banys J. , Pöppl A. , Jeschke G.
Published: May 2020

A nearby electron spin breaks symmetry of methyl protons and thus provides a handle on the tunnel transitions.
Recognising and managing the impostor phenomenon
Authors: Atkin Kate
Published: May 2020

Have you ever wondered when you would be ‘found out’, or concerned that you would be discovered to be the fraud you think you are? Perhaps you worry about making a mistake because it would ‘prove’ that you’re not perfect and, therefore, no good at what you do. Many people share similar feelings, and this article aims to provide ways of accepting and managing these.
The Predictability and Profitability of Simple Moving Averages and Trading Range Breakout Rules in the Pakistan Stock Market
Authors: Khand Salma , Anand Vivake , Qureshi Mohammad Nadeem
Published: May 2020

This paper inspects whether variable- and fixed-length moving averages (VMA and FMA), and trading range breakout (TRB) rules have prognostic capability and can earn profits superior to buy-and-hold plan, when applied on KSE-100 index of Pakistan stock market during the full sample period January 1, 1997 to December 31, 2013. Full sample results provided empirical evidence for VMA rule that it has significant predictive power and is able to generate profits superior to simple buy-and-hold plan even after inclusion of transaction costs. The highest mean buy returns yielded by VMA, FMA and TRB rules are seen in noncrises periods. The overall implication of this study is that traders in the Pakistan stock market can utilize this information to obtain excess returns on a regular basis.
Numerical Evaluation of the Thermal Properties of UD-Fibers Reinforced Composites for Different Morphologies
Authors: Saoudi Toufik , El-Moumen Ahmed , Kanit Toufik , Belouchrani Mohamed El Amine , Benseddiq Noureddine , Imad Abdellatif
Published: May 2020

In this paper, the numerical homogenization technique is used to evaluate the representative volume element and to compute the effective transverse thermal properties of unidirectional fibers reinforced composites. Three unit cells are constructed including square, hexagonal and random arrangement. The results obtained by finite element analysis showed the effect of unit cells configurations on the prediction of effective transverse thermal properties of unidirectional fibers composites for a wide range of fiber volume fractions and contrasts of properties. The numerical results are compared to available analytical models in the thermal conductivity of composites and experimental test results from the literature.
Taxation and the Superrich
Authors: Scheuer Florian , Slemrod Joel
Published: May 2020

This article addresses the modern optimal tax progressivity literature, which clarifies the key role of the behavioral response to taxation and accounts for the incomes of the superrich being qualitatively different from others. Some of the superrich may be “superstars” for whom small differences in talent are magnified into much larger earnings differences, while others may work in winner-take-all markets, such that their effort to climb the ladder of success reduces the returns to others. We stress that pivotal tax-rate elasticities are not structural parameters and will be smaller the broader and less plastic is the tax base and the more effective is the enforcement of tax evasion. For this reason, normative analysis of tax rates should be accompanied by attention to the tax base, with a special focus on capital gains, which comprise a large fraction of the taxable income of the superrich.
Does vascular stiffness predict white matter hyperintensity burden in ischemic heart disease with preserved ejection fraction?
Authors: Balestrini Christopher S. , Al-Khazraji Baraa K. , Suskin Neville , Shoemaker J. Kevin
Published: May 2020

This study found that patients with ischemic heart disease (IHD) with preserved ejection fraction and normal blood pressures exhibit greater carotid β-stiffness, as well as middle cerebral artery pulsatility and resistive indexes, than controls. White matter lesion volume (WMLv) was not different between vascular pathology groups. Cerebrovascular pulse wave transit time (ccPWTT) and carotid β-stiffness independently associate with WMLv in pooled participant data, suggesting that regardless of heart disease history, ccPWTT and β-stiffness are associated with structural white matter damage.
Univariate Time Series Analysis of Short-Term Forecasting Horizons Using Artificial Neural Networks: The Case of Public Ambulance Emergency Preparedness
Authors: Mapuwei Tichaona W. , Bodhlyera Oliver , Mwambi Henry
Published: May 2020

This study examined the applicability of artificial neural network models in modelling univariate time series ambulance demand for short-term forecasting horizons in Zimbabwe. Bulawayo City Councils’ ambulance services department was used as a case study. Two models, feed-forward neural network (FFNN) and seasonal autoregressive integrated moving average, (SARIMA) were developed using monthly historical data from 2010 to 2017 and compared against observed data for 2018. The mean absolute error (MAE), root mean square error (RMSE), and paired sample t-test were used as performance measures. Calculated performance measures for FFNN were MAE (94.0), RMSE (137.19), and the test statistic value p=0.493(>0.05) whilst corresponding values for SARIMA were 105.71, 125.28, and p=0.005(<0.05), respectively. Findings of this study suggest that the FFNN model is inclined to value estimation whilst the SARIMA model is directional with a linear pattern over time. Based on the performance measures, the parsimonious FFNN model was selected to predict short-term annual ambulance demand. Demand forecasts with FFNN for 2019 reflected the expected general trends in Bulawayo. The forecasts indicate high demand during the months of January, March, September, and December. Key ambulance logistic activities such as vehicle servicing, replenishment of essential equipment and drugs, staff training, leave days scheduling, and mock drills need to be planned for April, June, and July when low demand is anticipated. This deliberate planning strategy would avoid a dire situation whereby ambulances are available but without adequate staff, essential drugs, and equipment to respond to public emergency calls.
Epilepsy Detection in EEG Using Grassmann Discriminant Analysis Method
Authors: Yu Hongbin , Fan Chao , Zhang Yunting
Published: May 2020

Epilepsy is marked by seizures stemming from abnormal electrical activity in the brain, causing involuntary movement or behavior. Many scientists have been working hard to explore the cause of epilepsy and seek the prevention and treatment. In the field of machine learning, epileptic diagnosis based on EEG signal has been a very hot research topic; many methods have been proposed, and considerable progress has been achieved. However, resorting the epileptic diagnosis techniques based on EEG to the reality applications still faces many challenges. Low signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) is one of the most important methodological challenges for EEG data collection and analysis. This paper discusses an automated diagnostic method for epileptic detection using a Fréchet Mean embedded in the Grassmann manifold analysis. Fréchet mean-based Grassmann discriminant analysis (FMGDA) algorithm to implement the EEG data dimensionality reduction and clustering task. The method is resorted to reduce Grassmann data from high-dimensional data to a relative lower-dimensional data and maximize between-class distance and minimize within-class distance simultaneously. Every EEG feature is mapped into the Grassmann manifold space first and then resort the Fréchet mean to represent the clustering center to carry out the clustering work. We designed a detailed experimental scheme to test the performance of our proposed algorithm; the test is assessed on several benchmark datasets. Experimental results have delivered that our approach leads to a significant improvement over state-of-the-art Grassmann manifold methods.
Pneumonia among Under-Five Children in Northwest Ethiopia: Prevalence and Predictors—A Community-Based Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Andualem Zewudu , Adane Tsegaye , Tigabu Abiye , Yallew Walelign Worku , Wami Sintayehu Daba , Dagne Henok , Azanaw Jember , Guyasa Gebisa , Azene Zelalem Nigussie , Endalew Mastewal
Published: May 2020

Background. Acute respiratory infections in particular pneumonia constitutes the leading cause of morbidity and mortality among children under five years of age throughout the world. In Ethiopia, pneumonia continues to be the major childhood problem and killer, particularly in the study area. However, evidence dealing with the problem is still unavailable. The current study is aimed at determining the magnitude and risk factors of childhood pneumonia in Gondar City. Methods. A community-based cross-sectional study was employed in five randomly selected clusters/subcities of Gondar City. A total of 792 child-mother/caregiver pairs in the selected subcities/clusters were included. A pretested and validated questionnaire was used by trained supervisors through house-to-house visits to collect the data. Binary logistic regression (bivariable and multivariable) was employed. An adjusted odds ratio with 95% confidence interval was used to declare statistically significant variables on the basis of p<0.05 in the multivariable logistic regression model. Results. The prevalence of pneumonia among under-five children in the current study was found to be 12% with 95% CI: 10% to 14.4%. The presence of unpaved road within 100 m of the house (AOR=2.27, 95% CI: 1.41-3.66), living within 100 m of heavy traffic (AOR=1.94, 95% CI: 1.19-3.16), the habit of not opening doors while cooking (AOR=1.62, 95% CI: 1.01-2.62), the presence of cockroach infestation (AOR=1.98, 95% CI: 1.25-3.14), and new carpet in the house (AOR=1.75, 95% CI: 1.01-3.03) were statistically significant variables associated with childhood pneumonia. Conclusions. This study indicated that the prevalence of childhood pneumonia is still high. As such, enhancing strategies that would address unpaved roads within 100 m of the house, living within 100 m of heavy traffic, the habit of not opening doors while cooking, cockroach infestation, and new carpet in the house to reduce the burden of childhood pneumonia needs to be advocated.
Attenuation of Age-Related Hepatic Steatosis by Dunaliella salina Microalgae in Senescence Rats through the Regulation of Redox Status, Inflammatory Indices, and Apoptotic Biomarkers
Authors: El-Baz Farouk K. , Saleh Dalia O. , Abdel Jaleel Gehad A. , Hussein Rehab A.
Published: May 2020

Background. Hepatic steatosis is the most common type of chronic liver disease and is considered an established risk factor of major chronic diseases. Purpose. The present study aimed to investigate the effect of Dunaliella salina, a microalga and its isolated zeaxanthin on age-related hepatic steatosis as well as their underling mechanism. Study Design. Age-related hepatic steatosis was induced in rats by intraperitoneal injection of D-galactose (200 mg/kg/day) for eight consecutive weeks. D. salina biomass (BDS; 450 mg/kg), its polar fraction (PDS; 30 mg/kg), carotenoid fraction (CDS; 30 mg/kg), and isolated zeaxanthin heneicosylate (ZH; 250 μg/kg) were orally administered to D-galactose treated rats for two weeks. Methods. Blood samples were collected 24 hours after the last dose of D. salina treatments, animals were sacrificed, and liver tissues were isolated. Sera as well as hepatic tissue homogenates were used for further investigations. Liver tissues were also used for histopathological and immunohistochemical examinations. A computed virtual docking study for the biologically active candidates was performed to confirm the proposed mechanism of action. Results. Oral treatment of D-galactose-injected rats with BDS, PDS, CDS, or ZH ameliorated the serum hepatic function parameters as well as serum levels of adiponectin, apolipoprotein B 100, and insulin. Furthermore, D. salina decreased the hepatic lipid contents, redox status biomarkers, inflammatory cytokine, and showing antiapoptotic properties. Molecular docking of β-carotene and zeaxanthin on various receptors involved in the pathophysiological cascade of steatosis highlighted the possible mechanism underlying the observed therapeutic effect. Conclusion. D. salina carotenoids have beneficial effect on age-related hepatic steatosis in senescence rats through the regulation of redox status, inflammatory indices, and apoptotic biomarkers.
Solution of the Falkner–Skan Equation Using the Chebyshev Series in Matrix Form
Authors: Elnady Abdelrady Okasha , Abd Rabbo M. Fayek , Negm Hani M.
Published: May 2020

A numerical method for the solution of the Falkner–Skan equation, which is a nonlinear differential equation, is presented. The method has been derived by truncating the semi-infinite domain of the problem to a finite domain and then expanding the required approximate solution as the elements of the Chebyshev series. Using matrix representation of a function and their derivatives, the problem is reduced to a system of algebraic equations in a simple way. From the computational point of view, the results are in excellent agreement with those presented in published works.
Effects of Factors That Influence Out-of-Plane Lateral-Torsional Buckling on Freestanding Circular Arches
Authors: Tebo Emmanuel-Peters Teke , Masu Leonard , Nziu Patrick
Published: May 2020

This paper presents the effects of the several factors that influence lateral-torsional buckling on freestanding circular arches. The studied factors that attribute to the effects of lateral-torsional buckling include cross section type, included angle, slender ratio, imperfection, loading, and boundary conditions. From the reviewed studies, the misrepresentation of these factors to a certain extent may yield inaccurate results. Several studies and design codes have proposed different solutions to account for these factors in designs against lateral-torsional buckling for some structural elements. However, there were no studies reported on the out-of-plane lateral-torsional buckling of fixed circular arches made of structural aluminum channel sections subjected to central concentrated load. Therefore, there is a need for further research on the lateral-torsional buckling real behavior of fixed circular arches of structural aluminum channels.
A Two-Step Modified Explicit Hybrid Method with Step-Size-Dependent Parameters for Oscillatory Problems
Authors: Samat Faieza , Ismail Eddie Shahril
Published: May 2020

A new two-step modified explicit hybrid method with parameters depending on the step-size is constructed. This method is derived using the coefficients from a sixth-order explicit hybrid method with extended interval of absolute stability and then imposed each stage of the modified formula to exactly integrate the differential equations with solutions that can be expressed as linear combinations of sinwx and coswx, where w is the known frequency. Numerical results show the advantage of the new method for solving oscillatory problems.
Distributions of the Ratio and Product of Two Independent Weibull and Lindley Random Variables
Authors: Hassan N. J. , Nasar A. Hawad , Hadad J. Mahdi
Published: May 2020

In this paper, we derive the cumulative distribution functions (CDF) and probability density functions (PDF) of the ratio and product of two independent Weibull and Lindley random variables. The moment generating functions (MGF) and the k-moment are driven from the ratio and product cases. In these derivations, we use some special functions, for instance, generalized hypergeometric functions, confluent hypergeometric functions, and the parabolic cylinder functions. Finally, we draw the PDF and CDF in many values of the parameters.
Efficacy of Vitamin E in Methotrexate-Induced Hepatotoxicity in Rheumatoid Arthritis: An Open-Label Case-Control Study
Authors: Vaidya Binit , Bhochhibhoya Manisha , Nakarmi Shweta
Published: May 2020

Objective. To examine the efficacy of vitamin E in methotrexate- (MTX-) induced transaminitis in patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA).Methods. A case-control study was conducted at a tertiary rheumatology center for 12 months. Patients with RA on MTX and deranged aminotransferases were included. Patients with previous liver diseases, baseline transaminitis before methotrexate initiation, alcohol intake, muscle diseases, under hepatotoxic drugs, andaminotransferases>3times the upper normal limit were excluded. The patients were divided into treatment (vitamin E 400 mg bid for 3 months) and control groups (no vitamin E) using a random number table. The dose of MTX was unaltered. Follow-up was done after 3 and 6 months. Independentt-test was done to compare means of two groups. Pairedt-test was done to compare differences in mean.Results. Among 230 patients, 86.5% were female with a mean BMI of25.9±4.5 kg/m2. In the treatment group, SGPT and SGOT at baseline were73.1±20.4and60.2±24.5 IU/L, respectively; at 3-month follow-up44.6±34.2and38.3±20.8 IU/L, respectively; and at 6-month follow-up40.4±35.7and34.2±21.9 IU/L, respectively. In the control group, SGPT and SGOT at baseline were63.4±15.1and46.8±13.7 IU/L, respectively, and at 3-month follow-up55.8±45.9and45.5±30.9 IU/L, respectively. Significant decrease in the level of aminotransferases was seen in the treatment group (pvalue < 0.001) and not in the control group (pvalues 0.161 and 0.728, respectively). The change in levels of SGPT and SGOT from baseline to 3 months of follow-up was statistically significant in between two study groups (pvalues 0.007 and <0.001, respectively). From the control group, 29 patients were crossed over to vitamin E for the next 3 months. SGPT and SGOT decreased from97.6±44.1to46.1±40.9and69.3±34.9to29.1±11.6 IU/L, respectively (pvalues 0.031 and 0.017, respectively).Conclusion. Vitamin E significantly attenuates MTX-induced transaminitis.
Adsorption of Crystal Violet onto an Agricultural Waste Residue: Kinetics, Isotherm, Thermodynamics, and Mechanism of Adsorption
Authors: Loulidi Ilyasse , Boukhlifi Fatima , Ouchabi Mbarka , Amar Abdelouahed , Jabri Maria , Kali Abderahim , Chraibi Salma , Hadey Chaimaa , Aziz Faissal
Published: May 2020

Agricultural waste can be exploited for the adsorption of dyes, due to their low cost, availability, cost-effectiveness, and efficiency. In this study, we were interested in the elimination of crystal violet dye, from aqueous solutions, by adsorption on almond shell-based material, as a low-cost and ecofriendly adsorbent. The almond shells were first analyzed by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) and X-ray diffraction; then, the influence of adsorbent dose, initial dye concentration time, and pH were studied to assess adsorption capacity under optimal experimental conditions. Experimental results indicate that almond shell adsorbent removes about 83% of the dye from the solutions at room temperature and in batch mode; the kinetic study showed that the equilibrium time is about 90 min, and the model of pseudo-second order could very well describe adsorption kinetics. The modulation of adsorption isotherms showed that retention follows the Langmuir model. The thermodynamic study has shown that the adsorption is endothermic (ΔH° > 0) and spontaneous (ΔG° < 0).
Effects and Mechanism of lncRNA CRNDE on Sepsis-Induced Acute Kidney Injury
Authors: Wu Shen , Qiu Hengyi , Wang Qiao , Cao Zheng , Wang Jianmin
Published: May 2020

Objective. To investigate the effects of lncRNA CRNDE on sepsis-associated acute kidney injury in the human kidney 2 cell line and explore the potential mechanisms. Methods. HK-2 cells were treated with lipopolysaccharides to induce injuries. The expression of CRNDE and miR-146a in HK-2 cells were altered by a transient transfection assay. Cell apoptosis was detected by a flow cytometry assay, and the levels of inflammatory cytokines including TNF-α, IL-6, IL-8, and IL-1β were assessed by ELISA. Furthermore, western blot analysis was performed to detect the expression levels of TLR4/NF-κB pathway-related proteins. And a luciferase reporter gene assay was used to verify if miR-146a was the target of CRNDE. Results. LPS treatment increased CRNDE expression in HK-2 cells. CRNDE overexpression enhanced cell injuries in HK-2 cells significantly increasing inflammatory cytokine levels, including TNF-α, IL-6, IL-8, and IL-1β, and cell apoptosis. In addition, CRNDE overexpression further activated the TLR4/NF-κB pathways in HK-2 cells. Inversely, opposite results were observed in the miR-146a mimic treatment group, and the miR-146a inhibitor could reverse the protein expression changes of TLR4/NF-κB in the si-CRNDE and LPS treatment group. Conclusion. This study demonstrated that CRNDE overexpression could activate the TLR4/NF-κB signaling pathway by regulating miR-146a, which accelerated LPS-induced inflammation and apoptosis in HK-2 cells.
The Measures of Efficiency of Power Generation Plants in Sylhet of Bangladesh
Authors: Ferdushi Kanis Fatama , Kamil Anton Abdulbasah , Ahmed Saleh , Kawsar Luthful Alahi
Published: May 2020

This study measures the performance of power generation plants in Sylhet region of Bangladesh considering twenty-four-month monthly dataset during 2013-14. To measure the performance of those plants, gross electricity generation was considered as output for the stochastic frontier model, whereas fuel consumption, lube oil consumption, auxiliary consumption, cost, heat rate, and hours of run were considered as input variables. Based on the log-likelihood hypothesis test, trans-log production model is preferred over Cobb–Douglas (C-D) production model for this study. The average efficiency of the selected plants is above 90 percent, and there is Sylhet Combined Cycle Power Plant (CCPP) which has an efficiency of about 78.6 percent for truncated normal distribution. In the time-variant inefficiency effects model, fuel consumption, cost, square product of lube oil consumption, interaction between fuel consumption and lube oil consumption as well as auxiliary consumption, and hours of run have a significant positive influence on power generation. On the other hand, some input variables such as hours of run and interaction between cost and heat rate have a significant negative influence on power generation. The estimated values of the time-varying inefficiency parameter η are positive for both the truncated and the half-normal distribution. This result indicates that technical efficiency has declined over the reference period of the study.
Optimal Graphs in the Enhanced Mesh Networks
Authors: Shahzad Akhtar Muhammad , Imran Muhammad , Bokhary Syed Ahtsham ul Haq
Published: May 2020

The degree diameter problem explores the biggest graph (in terms of number of nodes) subject to some restrictions on the valency and the diameter of the graph. The restriction on the valency of the graph does not impose any condition on the number of edges (apart from taking the graph simple), so the resulting graph may be thought of as being embedded in the complete graph. In a generality of the said problem, the graph is taken to be embedded in any connected host graph. In this article, host graph is considered as the enhanced mesh network constructed from the grid network. This article provides some exact values for the said problem and also gives some bounds for the optimal graphs.
The Role of Antigen Spreading in the Efficacy of Immunotherapies
Authors: Brossart Peter
Published: May 2020

The introduction and the unexpected efficacy of checkpoint inhibitors (CPI) and more recently of chimeric antigen receptor T cells (CAR T-cells) in the treatment of malignant diseases boosted the efforts in the development and clinical application of immunotherapeutic approaches. However, the definition of predictive factors associated with clinical responses as well as the identification of underlying mechanisms that promote the therapeutic efficacy remain to be determined. Starting from the first immunotherapeutic trials, it became evident that vaccine-induced tumor-specific T cells or the adoptive transfer of ex vivo–expanded T lymphocytes can recognize and eliminate malignant cells leading to long-lasting remissions in some patients. In addition, a phenomenon called epitope spreading, which was observed in responding patients, seemed to increase the efficiency possibly representing an important predictive factor. This review will focus on experimental and clinical evidence for the induction of epitope spreading and its role in the maintenance of an efficient antitumor immune response in cancer immunotherapy.
Infection-Related Hospitalization in Heart Failure With Reduced Ejection Fraction
Authors: Drozd Michael , Garland Ellis , Walker Andrew M.N. , Slater Thomas A. , Koshy Aaron , Straw Sam , Gierula John , Paton Maria , Lowry Judith , Sapsford Robert , Witte Klaus K. , Kearney Mark T. , Cubbon Richard M.
Published: May 2020

Background:

Hospitalization is a common adverse event in people with heart failure and reduced ejection fraction, yet is often not primarily due to decompensated heart failure (HF). We investigated the long-term prognosis following infection-related hospitalization.

Methods:

We conducted a prospective observational cohort study of 711 people with heart failure and reduced ejection fraction recruited from 4 specialist HF clinics in the United Kingdom. All hospitalization episodes (n=1568) were recorded and categorized as primarily due to decompensated HF, other cardiovascular disease, infection-related, or other noncardiovascular disease. Survival was determined after the first hospitalization.

Results:

During 2900 patient-years of follow-up, there were a total of 14 686 hospital days. At least one hospitalization occurred in 467 people (66%); 25% of first hospitalizations were primarily due to infection and these were not associated with typical signs including tachycardia and pyrexia. Compared with other categories of hospitalization, infection-related was associated with older age, lower serum albumin, higher blood neutrophil counts, and greater prevalence of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease at recruitment. Median survival after first infection-related hospitalization was 18.6 months, comparable to that after first decompensated HF hospitalization, even after age-sex adjustment. The burden of all-cause rehospitalization was comparable irrespective of the category of first hospitalization, but infection more commonly caused re-hospitalization after index infection hospitalization.

Conclusions:

Infection is a common driver of hospitalization in heart failure and reduced ejection fraction and often presents without classical signs. It is associated with high mortality rates, comparable to decompensated HF, and a major burden of rehospitalization caused by recurrent episodes of infection.
Advanced Pulmonary and Cardiac Support of COVID-19 Patients
Authors: Rajagopal Keshava , Keller Steven P. , Akkanti Bindu , Bime Christian , Loyalka Pranav , Cheema Faisal H. , Zwischenberger Joseph B. , El Banayosy Aly , Pappalardo Federico , Slaughter Mark S. , Slepian Marvin J.
Published: May 2020

The severe acute respiratory syndrome-CoV-2 is an emerging viral pathogen responsible for the global coronavirus disease 2019 pandemic resulting in significant human morbidity and mortality. Based on preliminary clinical reports, hypoxic respiratory failure complicated by acute respiratory distress syndrome is the leading cause of death. Further, septic shock, late-onset cardiac dysfunction, and multiorgan system failure are also described as contributors to overall mortality. Although extracorporeal membrane oxygenation and other modalities of mechanical cardiopulmonary support are increasingly being utilized in the treatment of respiratory and circulatory failure refractory to conventional management, their role and efficacy as support modalities in the present pandemic are unclear. We review the rapidly changing epidemiology, pathophysiology, emerging therapy, and clinical outcomes of coronavirus disease 2019; and based on these data and previous experience with artificial cardiopulmonary support strategies, particularly in the setting of infectious diseases, provide consensus recommendations from American Society for Artificial Internal Organs. Of note, this is a living document, which will be updated periodically, as additional information and understanding emerges.
Casting Aside the Clutches of Conjecture: the Striving for Religious Certainty at Aligarh
Authors: Fuchs Simon Wolfgang
Published: May 2020

Why did the famous North Indian modernist and founder of the Muhammadan Anglo-Oriental College in Aligarh, Sayyid Aḥmad Khān (d. 1315/1898), lash out against emulation (taqlīd) in Islamic law (fiqh)? The usual explanation is that he wanted to shift religious authority away from the religious scholars (ʿulamāʾ) toward ordinary Muslims. Countering this claim, I argue that his goal and that of his followers and associates at Aligarh was not primarily to ‘democratize’ Islamic knowledge by doing away with the traditional edifice of Islamic law in general and the four established Sunni legal schools in particular. Rather, Sayyid Aḥmad Khān and his associates attacked taqlīd because, in their view, it failed to yield reliable, certain knowledge (yaqīn). Drawing on Urdu writings, I demonstrate that these modernist thinkers did not engage with the inner logic of Islamic law but rather measured it according to higher, theological, and philosophical standards. In their quest for certainty, they were inspired both by a scientific worldview as well as colonial conceptions of law.
Technological and Mediated Identity in American Multisite Churches
Authors: Campbell Heidi A. , Sheldon Zachary , Gibson Jhane , Guzman Giannina
Published: May 2020

This article explores how churches present their religious identity online through the digital and multi-media resources they produce to showcase their ministries. In this study we focus on the digital performances of religious identity of multisite churches, which are churches that meet in multiple locations. We argue technology plays a key role not only in facilitating their church services, but in shaping members’ and visitors’ understanding of what church is within these contexts. This investigation leads us to a close study of digital media use of these churches, in order to uncover what factors such churches need to consider about their use of digital media if they are to ensure they are communicating cohesive and consistent identities in both the online and offline aspects of their church.
Brazos Fellowship: A Case Study in Digitally Mediated Liturgical Design
Authors: Bajan Adam
Published: May 2020

This article examines how the liturgy in evangelical churches is influenced by digital media and digital culture. This was accomplished via an ethnographic study at a medium sized church in East Central Texas where participant observation was combined with qualitative interviews with four members of the church’s pastoral and media production team. Theorizing that decisions made about orchestrated liturgical design in churches of this type are strategic responses to social and technological developments rooted in the mediatization of society, the study revealed three key interconnected themes of significance. These are: media as intentionality, media as environment, and media as audience. A critical discourse analysis of these themes demonstrates that the unique liturgical approach in churches of this type is the result of an intentional, strategic orchestration of entertainment media and media techniques rooted in the mediatization of religion and the amplification of select elements of media logic.
Digitization in the Evangelical Church(es) in Germany: Exemplary Insights
Authors: Nord Ilona , Alt Katharina , Zeilinger Thomas
Published: May 2020

This article presents exemplary insights into the state of digitization and the corresponding efforts of selected Evangelical Churches in Germany (the federal ekd and three of its member churches) to address an array of challenges triggered by the digital transformation. Three short reports on broader studies demonstrate how the church is responding to these challenges as an actor within civil society, as well as an organization and a community of faith. This preliminary assessment suggests that the ekd is capable of both: taking part in the societal debate as well as designing and reinventing itself anew in the digital realm. Nevertheless, it will do well to figure out more context-sensitive solutions while stimulating both ethical and theological discussions.
University Managed Minds: The Colonial Reproduction of Students as Mental Health Problems
Authors: Titchkosky Tanya , De Welles Madeleine
Published: May 2020

This paper, informed by disability studies and de-colonial theory, examines the appearance of the counselling paradigm in the University of Toronto administrative archive. We begin from the assumption that an administrative treatment of the general student body as potentially disordered is a disabling orientation which makes student difficulties into individual problems to be managed through a mental health orientation. We show how this form of human resource management through the mental health regime is essentially tied to the “coloniality of power” as theorized by Mignolo. Such an analysis allows us to uncover the colonial machine from which the Modern University sprung as it remains hidden in place. We theorize how these mental health programs developed through the coloniality of our past are very much part of our present making the student body always potentially disabled and thus an administrative task to be governed while perpetuating Eurocentric ways of knowing, governing, and being.
Characidium chancoense, a new species of South American darter from the Río Cauca drainage, Colombia (Characiformes: Crenuchidae)
Authors: AGUDELO-ZAMORA HENRY D. , ORTEGA-LARA ARMANDO , TAPHORN DONALD C. B.
Published: May 2020

Characidium chancoense new species, is described from the transandean upper Río Cauca drainage in Colombia. It can be distinguished from all congeners by its pigmentation pattern that consists of 7–12 vertical bars, most of which are cuneate-shaped with the vertex ending on or just below the lateral-line scale series, except for the last 1–4, which are dorsoventrally elongate rectangular bars that extend well below the lateral line. Characidium chancoense is sympatric with C. caucanum Eigenmann, C. phoxocephalum Eigenmann, C. cf. zebra Eigenmann and C. cf. boavistae Steindachner. Unlike C. caucanum and C. cf. boavistae, C. chancoense does not appear to be sexually dimorphic.
DNA barcodes and morphology confirm a new species of Rheocricotopus (Psilocricotopus) orientalis group (Diptera: Chironomidae)
Authors: LIN XIAO-LONG , YU HAI-JUN , WANG QIAN , BU WEN-JUN , WANG XIN-HUA
Published: May 2020

Morphology and DNA barcodes confirm a new chironomid species within the Rheocricotopus (Psilocricotopus) orientalis group (Diptera: Chironomidae). Rheocricotopus (Psilocricotopus) kongi Lin et Wang sp. n. is described and illustrated based on adult male from Hainan, China. Key to adult males of the R. orientalis group is given.
Dielectric Study of Carboxyl (–COOH) Functionalized Multi-Walled Carbon Nano Tube-Silicone Oil Nanofluids at Different Temperatures
Authors: Premalatha M. , Preetha N. , Padmavathi S. , Jeevaraj A. Kingson Solomon
Published: May 2020

In this work, dielectric properties of carboxyl (–COOH) functionalized MWCNTs-Silicone oil (polydimethylsiloxanes) nanofluids have been studied at static frequency. Purchased carboxyl (–COOH)-f-multi-walled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) are purchased and characterized using
transmission electron microscopy (TEM) technique. Carboxyl (–COOH)-f-MWCNT-Silicone oil nanofluids are prepared by dispersing COOH-MWCNT in Silicone oil (base fluid) with the help of probe sonicator. At various concentrations and at different temperatures dielectric parameters like static
dielectric constant (ɛ0), excess dielectric constant (ɛE), dipole moment (μ), excess dipole moment (μE) and molar polarization (P) have been determined for COOH-f-MWCNT-Silicone oil nanofluids. The changes
in the dielectric parameters with respect to five different concentrations and various temperatures (303 K to 323 K) are analyzed in the presence of intermolecular interactions happening in the COOH-f-MWCNT-Silicone oil nanofluid system. Excess dielectric constant and excess dipole moment
values are found to be negative over entire concentration range of COOH-MWCNTs at every different temperature.
Efficient Node Deployment Algorithm for Enhancing Connectivity and Coverage in Underwater Sensor Networks
Authors: Gola Kamal Kumar , Gupta Bhumika
Published: May 2020

As deployment process is one of the major tasks in underwater sensor network due to its constraint like: acoustic communication, energy, processing speed, cost and memory and dynamic nature of water. As many researchers have proposed many algorithms for the deployment of nodes in underwater
sensor network. It was always a great issue in WSN as well as underwater sensor networks. This work proposes a node deployment technique based on depth. This work consists the following major components: (i) sensor nodes to sense the phenomena in underwater sensor networks, (ii) multiple surface
station on the water surface. Use of multiple surface station provides better area coverage and connectivity in the networks. This work is divided into three phase like: initialization where nodes are randomly deployed at water surface and from 2D network topology, second phase is depth calculation
for all the nodes and third is to distribute the depth to each node and send them to their designated depth to expand the 2D network into the 3D network. The proposed technique is simulated on Matlab for the analysis of area coverage and connectivity. Simulation results show better performance
in terms of area coverage and connectivity as compared to ADAN-BC.
Toward Political Explanation of Change in Corporate Responsibility: Political Scholarship on CSR and the Case of Palm Oil Biofuels
Authors: Sorsa Ville-Pekka , Fougère Martin
Published: May 2020

Corporate social responsibility (CSR) has been recently conceptualized and studied as a political phenomenon. Most debates in this scholarship have thus far focused on normative issues. Less attention has been paid to the explanatory potential of CSR research grounded in political theory and philosophy. In this article, we conduct a pragmatist reading of political scholarship on CSR and seek to deploy existing knowledge for research pursuing political explanation. We argue that the political ontologies that underlie scholarship on CSR can be used to transform normative and descriptive research also for explanatory uses. We show how ontologies vary in terms of potential research objects and scopes of political explanation, and argue that the main types of political-ontological stances adopted in scholarship on CSR, foundational and post-foundational stances, offer explanatory analysis of different schematic guidelines. Our pragmatist reading of previous research and an empirical case illustration of political explanation of change in corporate responsibility in the biofuel industry demonstrate the opportunities, limitations, and challenges different political-ontological commitments provide for political explanation.