bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Identification of bone morphogenetic protein 4 in the saliva after the placement of fixed orthodontic appliance
Authors: Grgurevic Lovorka , Novak Ruder , Salai Grgur , Trkulja Vladimir , Hamzic Lejla Ferhatovic , Popovic Vojka Zgombic , Bozic Darko
Published: July 2021

Background

This study was conducted in order to explore the effects of orthodontic tooth movement (OTM) on the changes of salivary proteome. This prospective observational pilot study recruited 12 healthy teenage boys with malocclusion treated with a fixed orthodontic appliance and 6 appropriate control participants. Saliva samples were collected a day before and at 0, 2, 7, and 30 days after initialization of treatment, corresponding to the initial, lag, and post-lag phases of OTM. Pooled samples were analyzed by liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry, ELISA, and Western blotting. To date, there is no published data on the presence of BMP molecules or their antagonists in the saliva or in the gingival cervical fluid related to orthodontic conditions.

Results

A total of 198 identified saliva proteins were classified based on their functional characteristics. Proteins involved in bone remodeling were observed exclusively 30 days post appliance placement, including bone morphogenetic protein 4 (BMP4), a BMP antagonist BMP-binding endothelial regulator, insulin-like growth factor-binding protein 3, cytoskeleton-associated protein 4, and fibroblast growth factor 5. Based on the analysis of protein interactions, BMP4 was found to have a central position in this OTM-related protein network.

Conclusions

The placement of a fixed orthodontic appliance induced occurrence of proteins involved in bone remodeling in the saliva at a time corresponding to the post-lag period of OTM. Limitations of this study include a relatively small sample size, limited time of monitoring patients, and the lack of interindividual variability assessment.
Deforestation and fragmentation trends of seasonal dry tropical forest in Ecuador: impact on conservation
Authors: Rivas Carlos A. , Guerrero-Casado José , Navarro-Cerillo Rafael M.
Published: July 2021

Background

Fragmentation and deforestation are one of the greatest threats to forests, and these processes are of even more concern in the tropics, where the seasonal dry forest is possibly one of the most threatened ecosystems with the least remaining surface area.

Methods

The deforestation and fragmentation patterns that had occurred in Ecuadorian seasonal dry forests between 1990 and 2018 were verified, while geographic information systems and land cover shapes provided by the Ecuadorian Ministry of the Environment were employed to classify and evaluate three types of seasonal dry forests: deciduous, semi-deciduous, and transition. The study area was tessellated into 10 km2 hexagons, in which six fragmentation parameters were measured: number of patches, mean patch size, median patch size, total edge, edge density and reticular fragmentation index (RFI). The RFI was also measured both outside and inside protected natural areas (unprotected, national protected areas and protected forest). Moreover, the areas with the best and worst conservation status, connectivity and risk of disappearance values were identified by means of a Getis-Ord Gi* statistical analysis.

Results

The deforestation of seasonal dry forests affected 27.04% of the original surface area still remaining in 1990, with an annual deforestation rate of − 1.12% between 1990 and 2018. The RFI has increased by 11.61% as a result of the fact that small fragments of forest have tended to disappear, while the large fragments have been fragmented into smaller ones. The semi-deciduous forest had the highest levels of fragmentation in 2018. The three categories of protection had significantly different levels of fragmentation, with lower RFI values in national protected areas and greater values in protected forests.

Conclusions

The seasonal dry forest is fragmenting, deforesting and disappearing in some areas. An increased protection and conservation of the Ecuadorian seasonal dry forest is, therefore, necessary owing to the fact that not all protection measures have been effective.
Probabilistic analysis of the active earth pressure on earth retaining walls for c-ϕ soils according to the Mazindrani and Ganjali method
Authors: Osorio Julian , Viviescas Juan Camilo , Osorio Juan Pablo
Published: July 2021

The determination of the earth pressure coefficients (K) in geotechnical engineering is one of the most critical procedures in designing earth retaining walls. However, most earth pressure theories are made for either clay or sands, where the c-ϕ soils are the least analysed. In this paper, an analysis of the earth pressure for drained mixed soils based in Mazindrani and Ganjali (J Geotech Geoenviron Eng 123:110–112, 1997) theory was carried out. Earth pressure coefficients are generally used in a deterministic way and can represent designs under an inadmissible risk. Therefore, Reliability-based design arises as an essential tool to deal with soil variability as one of the main aspects of the geotechnical uncertainties. The influence of the soil variability in the active earth pressure for a c-ϕ soil was performed through probabilistic analysis concerning the Ka coefficient of variation (Cv) of both shear strength parameters. The sensitivity analysis shows a Cv in which the cohesion begins to have a more significant correlation with Ka than the friction angle. The results show an increase of the statistical Ka concerning the deterministic value as the soil variability and the soil slope (β) increase. Although the statistical value does not increase significantly, a statistical analysis on gravity walls and sheet pile walls in c-ϕ soils shows a significant probability of failure (pf) increase. The pf obtained through the c-ϕ variability can be considered inadmissible even if the required FS are met.
Management of Schneiderian membrane perforations during maxillary sinus floor augmentation with lateral approach in relation to subsequent implant survival rates: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Díaz-Olivares Luis Alfredo , Cortés-Bretón Brinkmann Jorge , Martínez-Rodríguez Natalia , Martínez-González José María , López-Quiles Juan , Leco-Berrocal Isabel , Meniz-García Cristina
Published: July 2021

Background

This systematic review aimed to propose a treatment protocol for repairing intraoperative perforation of the Schneiderian membrane during maxillary sinus floor augmentation (MSFA) procedures with lateral window technique. In turn, to assess subsequent implant survival rates placed below repaired membranes compared with intact membranes and therefore determine whether membrane perforation constitutes a risk factor for implant survival.

Material and methods

This review was conducted according to PRISMA guidelines. Two independent reviewers conducted an electronic search for articles published between 2008 and April 30, 2020, in four databases: (1) The National Library of Medicine (MEDLINE/PubMed) via Ovid; (2) Web of Science (WOS); (3) SCOPUS; and (4) Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (CENTRAL); also, a complementary handsearch was carried out. The Newcastle-Ottawa Quality Assessment Scale was used to assess the quality of evidence in the studies reviewed.

Results

Seven articles fulfilled the inclusion criteria and were analyzed. A total of 1598 sinus lift surgeries were included, allowing the placement of 3604 implants. A total of 1115 implants were placed under previously perforated and repaired membranes, obtaining a survival rate of 97.68%, while 2495 implants were placed below sinus membranes that were not damaged during surgery, obtaining a survival rate of 98.88%. The rate of Schneiderian membrane perforation shown in the systematic review was 30.6%. In the articles reviewed, the most widely used technique for repairing perforated membranes was collagen membrane repair.

Conclusions

Schneiderian membrane perforation during MFSA procedures with lateral approach is not a risk factor for dental implant survival (p=0.229; RR 0.977; 95% CI 0.941-1.015). The knowledge of the exact size of the membrane perforation is essential for deciding on the right treatment plan.
Prevalence of undernutrition and its associated factors among pregnant women in Konso district, southern Ethiopia: a community-based cross-sectional study
Authors: Gelebo Deyganto Gergito , Gebremichael Mathewos Alemu , Asale Gistane Ayele , Berbada Dessalegn Ajema
Published: July 2021

Background

Undernutrition during pregnancy is an important public health problem. It is highly prevalent in Ethiopia but not sufficiently addressed yet. Hence, this study aimed to assess the prevalence of undernutrition and its associated factors among pregnant mothers in Konso district, Ethiopia.

Methods

Community-based cross-sectional study was conducted with a qualitative inquiry from December 2018 to January 2019. A multistage stratified sampling technique was used to select 527 subjects and quantitative data were collected from these subjects using a structured interviewer-administered questionnaire and additionally qualitative data were generated through two focus group discussions among purposely selected discussants. Mid upper arm circumference (MUAC) was measured by standard non-stretchable MUAC tape. Data were entered into Epi-data version3.1 and analyzed by SPSS version 21. In multivariable binary logistic regression, a statistically significant association was declared at p-value < 0.05 while thematic framework analysis was employed for the qualitative data.

Results

Among 501 participants, the overall prevalence of undernutrition (MUAC < 23 cm) was 43.1% (95% CI 38.7–47.5%). Household food security (AOR = 3.1; 95% CI: 2.1–4.6), low dietary diversity score (AOR = 4.9; 95% CI: 2.6–9.2), medium dietary diversity score (AOR = 2.3; 95% CI: 1.2–4.7), absence of latrine (AOR = 1.8; 95% CI: 1.2–2.6) and having family resource decision making by husband only (AOR = 1.7; 95% CI: 1.1–2.6) were significantly associated factors. Traditional believes to restrict food such as egg, milk, and milk products, avocado for women, weak nutrition education and malnutrition screening program, daily consumption of locally prepared alcoholic drink called “Cheka”, drought-prone nature of this setting, traditional way of farming practices and low socio-economic status were found to be barriers for women’s undernutrition.

Conclusions

The prevalence of undernutrition was found to be higher than previously reported findings. Household food security, dietary diversity, latrine availability, family resource decision making, food restrictions, weak maternal nutrition education, and malnutrition screening program, the practice of depending on a local alcoholic drink called “Cheka”, drought, traditional way of farming and low socio-economic status were identified factors. Hence, interventions targeting maternal nutrition education, hygiene, and sanitation promotion, household food insecurity improvement strategies should be implemented to improve the nutritional status of pregnant women.
Mycoparasitic nature of Egyptian Trichoderma isolates and their impact on suppression Fusarium wilt of tomato
Authors: Nofal A. M. , El-Rahman Mohamed Abd , Abdelghany T. M. , Abd El-Mongy Mahmoud
Published: July 2021

Background

Plant disease administration is difficult due to the soil-borne nature of the phytopathogens. Biological control of plant disease is a safe mode to avoid the problems related to fungal diseases that affect crops productivity.

Results

Twenty-three Trichoderma isolates were isolated from soil, surrounding healthy tomato roots from different regions in the Egyptian Governorate of Menoufia. Using a dual culture method to test the efficiency of Trichoderma isolates, the most effective isolate identified as Trichoderma atrovirde with percentage inhibition against Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. lycopersici (92.11%) and scanning electron microscope examination documented the mycoparasitic nature of T. atrovirde to F. oxysporum. Treatments with 10% filtrate T. atrovirde improved the growth aspects of tomato plants than the control plants or infected only, as well as the increase in phenol content (15.09 ug. g-1dry weight) and decreased disease incidence percentage (8%) than the plants infected only (60%).

Conclusions

This study clearly demonstrated that T. atrovirde had a significant inhibition against F. oxysporum. Greenhouse assays displayed the protective role of T. atrovirde inoculation directly against pathogen or indirectly related to the defense mechanism in the plant. So, this study recommends using T. atrovirde for biological control of wilt disease in tomato plants.
Pleomorphic xanthoastrocytoma at the pineal region: rare case report with successful surgical management
Authors: Singh Saraj Kumar , Sharma Krishan Kumar , Kumar Tarun
Published: July 2021

Background

Pineal region tumors are commonly present in the pediatric age group. However, pleomorphic xanthoastrocytoma (PXA) is very rare at this region, and only few case reports have been reported till now in literature.

Case presentation

Here, we report a rare case of pineal region, juxta-thalamic, pleomorphic xanthoastrocytoma (PXA) in an 11-year-old male child. The child presented with severe headache after which MRI was done. It was suggestive of pineal region low-grade tumor. The patient was operated in Parkbench position with SCIT (supracerebellar approach) in a retractor-free manner. Gross total resection was done. However, the patient developed postoperative left-sided hemiparesis. It got improved in 1 month, and the patient became ambulatory. Histopathology came out as pleomorphic xanthoastrocytoma.

Conclusion

Surgical management should include careful resection near the internal capsule to avoid postoperative hemiparesis. Also, shunt should be delayed in the cystic cavity created by resection of tumor.
Corticosteroids for spontaneous intracranial hypotension: a case-report and critical review focusing on pathophysiology and treatment
Authors: Angelopoulou Efthalia , Pantou Eirini , Zacharis Georgios , Rentzos Michail , Stefanis Leonidas , Zouvelou Vasiliki
Published: July 2021

Background

Spontaneous intracranial hypotension (SIH) is characterized by positional headache caused by low CSF pressure, without any major traumatic event. Optimal treatment is still debated; epidural blood patch (EBP) is usually used after unsuccessful conservative treatment with variable efficacy and potentially severe complications. Although steroids have been reported to be beneficial, their effectiveness is still controversial, and more clinical evidence is needed.

Case presentation

A 37-year-old woman was admitted to the neurology department due to severe orthostatic headache with nausea over the last 5 days. No trauma history or spinal manipulation were mentioned. On arrival, neurological examination, brain CT, and laboratory investigation were normal. Intracranial hypotension was clinically suspected, and lumbar puncture revealed low opening pressure. Brain MRI demonstrated pachymeningeal gadolinium enhancement and distended and rounded dural venous sinuses, while cervicothoracic spine MRI revealed thoracic CSF leakage, leading to SIH diagnosis. The patient was treated with high-dose intravenous methylprednisolone, with complete clinical resolution within 24 h.

Conclusions

Our case, combined with literature evidence, supports the high-dose intravenous corticosteroids as a reasonable treatment option in selected cases, before trying EBP or surgical repair. Randomized clinical trials are needed, in order to optimize SIH patients’ outcomes.
LSTM RNN: detecting exploit kits using redirection chain sequences
Authors: Burgess Jonah , O’Kane Philip , Sezer Sakir , Carlin Domhnall
Published: July 2021

While consumers use the web to perform routine activities, they are under the constant threat of attack from malicious websites. Even when visiting ‘trusted’ sites, there is always a risk that site is compromised, and, hosting a malicious script. In this scenario, the injected script would typically force the victim’s browser to undergo a series of redirects before reaching an attacker-controlled domain, which, delivers the actual malware. Although these malicious redirection chains aim to frustrate detection and analysis efforts, they could be used to help identify web-based attacks. Building upon previous work, this paper presents the first known application of a Long Short-Term Memory (LSTM) network to detect Exploit Kit (EK) traffic, utilising the structure of HTTP redirects. Samples are processed as sequences, where each timestep represents a redirect and contains a unique combination of 48 features. The experiment is conducted using a ground-truth dataset of 1279 EK and 5910 benign redirection chains. Hyper-parameters are tuned via K-fold cross-validation (5f-CV), with the optimal configuration achieving an F1 score of 0.9878 against the unseen test set. Furthermore, we compare the results of isolated feature categories to assess their importance.
The prognostic impact of Wilms tumor-1 polymorphism (rs16754) and human myeloid inhibitory C-type lectin-like receptor expression in cytogenetically normal-acute myeloid leukemia
Authors: Bedair Hanan M. , Attia Mohamed H. , Gohar Suzy F. , Khalaf Fatma M. , Badr El-DIN Sahar , Rabie Hatem
Published: July 2021

Background

There are several genetic mutations that carry prognostic and predictive values in acute myeloid leukemia (AML). They are also implicated in disease pathogenesis and patient outcome. They can be a target of novel therapies for AML. The aim of the current study was to investigate prognostic value of Wilms’ tumor-1 (WT1) genotypes and human myeloid inhibitory C-type lectin-like (hMICL) receptor expression in normal-cytogenetic group of patients with AML. Genotyping of WT1 mutations was done by Rotor Gene real-time polymerase chain reaction (PCR) while hMICL expression was detected using phycoerythrin (PE)-conjugated mouse monoclonal anti-human (MoAbs) by flow cytometry.

Results

Sixty-three patients with cytogenetically normal AML (CN-AML) were included in the study. The alternate allele of WT1 single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) rs16754 was found in 26.89%. At day 28 of therapy, complete remission was achieved in 100% of cases harboring mutant AG plus GG genotypes but only in 6.38% of cases harboring wild genotype (AA). After 6 months, 88.23% of patients harboring WT1 mutant genotype maintained complete remission, while only 23.40% of patients with wild type showed complete remission. The overall survival in patients harboring mutant WT1 genotypes was significantly longer than in those who carried the wild type gene (P-value, 0.001). Additionally, hMICL was overexpressed in approximately 87.3% of AML cases and inversely related to complete response. Similarly, overall survival was significantly shorter in patients with positive hMICL (P-value, 0.001).

Conclusion

Mutant WT1 genotypes (SNP rs16754) were conversely, associated with complete response, and hMICL overexpression had poor prognostic value in AML.
Design of technological schemes and equipment
Authors: Pogonin Anatoliy , Shrubchenko Ivan , Afanas'ev Aleksandr
Published: July 2021

The tutorial discusses the beginning of the technological design of the production of parts. The schemes of setting up the machines are presented. The basics of designing technological equipment are described. The recommended stages of design work, their content and sequence of execution, as well as the order and methods of performing various engineering calculations are given. Examples are given that allow to intensify practical classes.
For students of higher educational institutions.
Assessment of the Potential of the Arctic Zones of the Russian Federation: Development Prospects
Authors: Danko Tamara , Garnov Andrey , Vyazovikova A.
Published: July 2021

This article raises the urgent and at the same time little-studied issue of the Russian Arctic territories’ exploration and development. According to the authors, the Arctic territories’ development is partly the key to the future prosperity of Russia. The Arctic is not only a quite large territory of our country, but also a zone of economic interests of the whole world. Thus, an assessment of the development potential of the Arctic territories is necessary. The authors proposed their own methodology for assessing such potential. The article provides a comparative analysis of nine regions included in the Russian Federation Arctic zone, according to important social and economic parameters: GRP; GRP per capita; population; life expectancy; the land area; production of the mineral reserves (oil, gas); level of tourism development. In the conclusion of the study, based on the data obtained from a comparative country analysis, the authors identified the strengths and weaknesses of each Russian Arctic region, proposed some recommendations for improving the mechanisms for the development of the Russian Arctic regions.
What is the impact of COVID-19 on tissue viability services and pressure ulceration?
Authors: Vowden Kathryn , Hill Lisa
Published: July 2021

This paper explores and reviews the relevant literature and examines the impact that the first wave of the COVID-19 pandemic has had on the tissue viability service (TVS) and the incidence of pressure ulcers (PUs) in a large UK teaching hospital NHS trust. A comparison has been undertaken of referral data to the TVS during two time periods—Oct–Dec 2019 and April–June 2020. Data show that the PU rate per 1000 beds increased from a pre-pandemic level of around 1 to over 2.7 in the first month of the pandemic, with an increase in device and prone position-related PUs, particularly in the expanded critical care patient population. Even though the bed occupancy decreased, the proportion of ungradable PUs increased, but there was little change in the number of Category 1 and 2 PUs.
Development and assessment of a high-throughput biofilm and biomass testing platform
Authors: Kim Hosan , Aquino Matthew , Izadjoo Mina
Published: July 2021

Objective:

To develop and evaluate a simple platform technology for developing static biofilms in a 96-well microtitre plate for various downstream applications. The technology allows monitoring of growth rate, biofilm formation and quantifying biofilm biomass by using crystal violet (CV) and safranin O (SO) staining over seven-day time periods for pathogens including clinical isolates most commonly associated with hard-to-treat wound infections.

Method:

A total of 157 bacteria including Acinetobacter, Enterobacter, Klebsiella, Pseudomonas and Staphylococcus spp. were used in the study. Bacterial growth was measured at 600nm optical density (OD). Biofilm formation was monitored and assessed quantitatively with CV at 570nm and SO staining at 492nm for one-, two-, three- and seven-day incubation periods.

Results:

Bacterial growth rate and static biofilm biomass in the 96-well plates varied for various strains tested. Both CV and SO staining showed similar results in the biomass, with SO assay displaying more reproducible data throughout the study. Most of the strains were metabolically active even at the seven-day incubation period. Microbial adherences of all bacterial strains on the plastic surface was assessed with CV staining: 28 Acinetobacter, 17 Staphylococcus, 12 Pseudomonas and four Enterobacter strains were strong biofilm producers. Moderate biofilm-producing strains included 27 Staphylococcus, 14 Acinetobacter, eight Pseudomonas and three Enterobacter. Weak biofilm-producing strains included: 33 Staphylococcus, six Enterobacter, two Pseudomonas and one Acinetobacter. Only one Pseudomonas aeruginosa strain did not develop biofilm.

Conclusion:

Our results demonstrate the feasibility of using 96-well microtitre plates as a high-throughput platform for quantitative measurement and assessment of biofilm development over time. Studying microbial adherence or biofilm biomass generated on various surfaces using a high-throughput system could provide valuable information for in vitro testing and developing therapeutics for biofilm infections. Employing the biofilm testing platform described in this study makes it possible to simultaneously develop different biofilms formed by specific pathogens, and study potential association between the quantity of bacterial biomass and strength of a biofilm formed by specific wound pathogens. In addition, the described testing approach could provide an optimal model for standardised and high-throughput screening of candidate antibiofilm therapeutics.
PCM Transformation: Properties and Their Estimation
Authors: Kumar Dinesh , Kumar Pawan , Kumar Pradip , Singh Sanjay Kumar , Singh Umesh
Published: July 2021

In the present piece of work, we are going to propose a new trigonometry based transformation called PCM transformation. We have been obtained its various statistical properties such as survival function, hazard rate function, reverse-hazard rate function, moment generating function, median, stochastic ordering etc. Maximum Likelihood Estimator (MLE) method under classical approach and Bayesian approaches are tackled to obtain the estimate of unknown parameter. A real dataset has been applied to check its fitness on the basis of fitting criterions Akaike Information criterion (AIC), Bayesian Information criterion (BIC), log-likelihood (-LL) and Kolmogrov-Smirnov (KS) test statistic values in real sense. A simulation study is also being conducted to assess the estimator’s long-term attitude and compared over some chosen distributions.
A Case and Brief Review of Bilious Ascites and Abdominal Compartment Syndrome from Pancreatitis-Induced Post-Roux-En-Y Gastric Remnant Leak
Authors:   Department of Internal Medicine, University of Colorado, Denver, CO USA, Martin Marissa , Lee Michael , Neumeier Anna , Huie Tristan
Published: July 2021

This is a case of a 55-year-old man with Roux-en-Y gastric bypass surgery 15 years prior who presented with acute pancreatitis and developed distributive shock, bacteremia, acute respiratory distress syndrome, anuric acute renal failure, and a distended abdomen with increasing ascitic fluid on imaging. An elevated bladder pressure, lactic acidosis, and anuria raised concern for abdominal compartment syndrome. Paracentesis was done and four liters of bilious ascitic fluid were drained. Intra-abdominal pressure was measured and improved from 27 cmH2O to 13 cmH2O with paracentesis. Mean arterial pressure and urine output also improved. The patient developed recurrent loculated intra-abdominal fluid collections, though ultrasound, CT scans with and without contrast, MRCP, ERCP, upper GI fluoroscopy, and small bowel enteroscopy failed to reveal a source of the bilious output. Ultimately, a gastrostomy tube was placed and delivery of contrast material through the tube revealed active extravasation from the remnant stomach. This case underscores the importance of considering post-surgical leak regardless of how remotely a Roux-en-Y surgery took place, confirms the importance of pursuing early gastrostomy tube placement and contrast administration when post-Roux-en-Y gastric remnant leaks are suspected, and demonstrates the role of paracentesis in critically ill patients with abdominal compartment syndrome.
Revisiting British Investment in Latin America: The River Plate Trust Group, 1879–1963
Authors: Lanciotti Norma Silvana
Published: July 2021

The article analyses the performance and profitability of the firms controlled by the River Plate Trust Group in Argentina and Uruguay from 1879 to 1960 to challenges the notion that British investments in the Southern Cone involved greater default or insolvency risks because of nationalism, expropriations, and over-taxation. Also known as Morris or Morrison group, River Plate Trust became the most important British business group in the region during the First Global Period, as it controlled a number of public utilities, mortgage and financial firms. Our case shows that the decline of British investment in mortgage and financial activities did not mark the end of this business cycle after WWI; rather, it signalled a change in the direction of capital flows. Capital outflows from host economies to Great Britain—via dividends—continued over the interwar period, with only a brief interruption between 1931 and 1934. The business cycle of British firms entered a new phase, characterized by stagnant British investments and increasing capital returns from Argentina and Uruguay to Great Britain.Moreover, British public utility firms continued to invest in the River Plate until the 1940s, because profits from the region supported the distribution of high dividends to shareholders.
Asian American Advertising, Multicultural Communication, and Inclusivity: An Interview with Jeff Lin, Maxwell Davidson, and Selina Guo from Admerasia
Authors: Lin Jeff , Guo Selina , Davidson Maxwell , Tsai Wan-Hsiu Sunny
Published: July 2021

Abstract: Jeff Lin, Selina Guo, and Maxwell Davidson from Admerasia, a multicultural marketing and advertising agency, talk with Wan-Hsiu Sunny Tsai (University of Miami) about Asian American advertising, multicultural communication, and inclusivity. Many topics were covered during their conversation: the journey of getting into multicultural advertising and marketing; advertising's move from one-way communication to two-way dialogues; brand activism and corporate social responsibility; multicultural agencies' impact on society's understanding of minority communities; Admerasia's Invisible PSA campaign drawing attention to the fact that three in five Asian Americans do not feel that they are represented in advertising; Admerasia's Racism is Contagious campaign centralizing information about anti-Asian hate crimes; how multicultural advertisers and brands should be sensitive to the similarities and differences among various Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) communities; fighting the model minority stereotype of Asians; how to bring various minority communities together; how multicultural agencies facilitate brand activism; the difference between organic and performative brand activism; multicultural agencies' increasing role in providing diversity, equity, and inclusion consulting to companies; and advice to students on how to work in an increasingly multicultural society.
Shot on iPhone: Apple's World Picture
Authors: Niessen Niels
Published: July 2021

Abstract: When in 2007 Steve Jobs launched the iPhone, he quickly skipped over the fact that the device is also a camera. Apple's marketing of its phone-as-camera took flight in 2015 with its World Gallery advertising campaign. The campaign displayed photographs shot by iPhone users from around the globe on billboards around the globe. This essay asks: What do the images in the World Gallery have in common, other than the camera on which they were shot? Starting from that question, the essay explores Apple's Polaroid-inspired American Dream of technology as second nature, while keeping a view on the material reality of the digital age, including Apple's labor practices in China. The essay argues that at Apple, more than with any other company in the world, reality distortion is integral to its core business operations.
Author Meets Critics: Quantum Marketing: Mastering the New Marketing Mindset for Tomorrow's Consumers
Authors: Rajamannar Raja , Kurnit Paul , Lerman Dawn , Lindsey-Warren Tyrha M. , Truss Mark , Timke Edward
Published: July 2021

Abstract: This Author Meets Critics conversation focuses on Raja Rajamannar's book Quantum Marketing: Mastering the New Marketing Mindset for Tomorrow's Consumers (HarperCollins Leadership, 2021). Rajamannar met with marketing and advertising specialists to discuss the following topics: his theory of the five paradigms of marketing; his definition of quantum marketing; quantum marketing's impact on culture and society; the changing role of the chief marketing officer (CMO); why the tenure of the CMO has declined in recent years; the skills required by marketers to work in a quantum marketing world; the importance of trust, ethics, and authenticity in marketing; biases and discrimination in technology and how to overcome them; and key takeways from the book.
Key Concepts in Advertising: Ideology
Authors: Timke Edward
Published: July 2021

Abstract: Key Concepts in Advertising articles provide short lectures on an important concept to help understand advertising's place in society, culture, history, and the economy. This article provides background information about the concept of ideology, defines ideology, and encourages viewers to apply the concept in their own analysis of advertisements. Examples to ground the discussion include Pink Floyd's song "Another Brick in the Wall (Part II)," a scene from the game show The Price is Right , a recitation of parts of Camille Rainville's poem "Be A Lady They Said," and a video from advertising executive Madonna Badger's #WomenNotObjects campaign. In the end, viewers learn that ideologies and the institutions through which they are expressed, such as advertising, buttress and reproduce distributions of power in society that privilege certain visions of the world over others. A recommended reading list provides other sources to learn more about the concept and its associated topics.
What Drives Young Consumers to Drink?: Attitudinal, Normative, and Advertising Drivers of Adolescents' Intentions to Consume Beer and Alcohol
Authors: Brodowsky Glen H. , Sciglimpaglia Donald
Published: July 2021

Abstract: Underage drinking is prevalent and a major public health issue in the United States and elsewhere around the world. This study provides a Theory of Reasoned Action (TRA)-based examination of how peer drinking, parental drinking, and adolescents' attitudes toward the people they see portrayed in beer advertisements influence their attitudes toward beer consumption, their intentions to drink beer, and ultimately, their beer drinking behaviors. As alcohol, especially beer brands and products, is promoted heavily on sports broadcasting, we examine the impact that viewership by adolescents of major televised sports may have on their attitudes regarding drinking behavior. The results show that gender, age, parental influence, having peers who drink, attention to beer advertising, having more positive attitudes toward people portrayed in beer advertising, and having more positive attitudes toward drinking portrayed in advertising, all contribute to drinking intention and, ultimately, underage drinking behavior.
Digital Collection: Erase COVID Posters
Authors: Buchmiller Michael , Timke Edward
Published: July 2021

Abstract: This Digital Collection presents 169 posters from the Erase COVID project, a global artist collective that formed around the time COVID-19 was declared a pandemic in March 2020. Artists from about a dozen countries came together to make a series of visually rich public service announcements (PSAs) to recommend important health safety practices and draw attention to major concerns impacting society. The Erase COVID project sells posters, cards, postcards, apparel, and other items on its website, EraseCOVID.com, which distributes proceeds equally among the artists, the printer/distributor, and its charity partner MusiCares, an organization supporting music industry workers in need. This Digital Collection is a follow up to Spring 2020 interviews with the Erase COVID co-founder Michael Buchmiller and seven artists contributing to the project. Artist biographies and studio descriptions are provided in addition to the poster collection. The artists have made their posters available in this Collection for research and teaching purposes.
Roundtable on Disability and Advertising, Part II
Authors: Ellis Katie , Hall Kathleen , Haller Beth , Loebner Josh , Mallon Christina , Timke Edward
Published: July 2021

Abstract: A panel of academics and industry leaders came together to discuss the topic of disability and advertising. In Part II of this roundtable, participants discuss many topics: considerations of disability in the creative design process; the need to consider disabled people's experiences with advertising; representing disability with authenticity; casting disabled people in advertising; the power of ads to inform about disabilities as well as accessible technologies; ways to engage the disabled community; and advice to practitioners, faculty, and students.
Why Do Ads Go Viral?
Authors: Gopal Yasmin , Yagnik Arpan
Published: July 2021

Abstract: Viral advertising has given tremendous boosts to many brands and has thus become a holy grail for advertisers seeking to engage consumers. This article is a comprehensive review of literature that identifies salient factors in the ad, key human characteristics and proclivities as well as network affordances, which propel an ad toward achieving virality. On the basis of these characteristics or traits, the article presents a model which serves as a framework or an easy frame of reference for researchers and practitioners interested in viral propagation of ads. Among the contributing factors, content within the segment titled creativity and digitality within the segment titled network are the two relatively more important factors that attract and engage human agency in accomplishing virality.
Layer-based, depth-resolved computation of attenuation coefficients and backscattering fractions in tissue using optical coherence tomography
Authors: Cannon Taylor M. , Bouma Brett E. , Uribe-Patarroyo Néstor
Published: July 2021

Structural optical coherence tomography (OCT) images of tissue stand to benefit from greater functionalization and quantitative interpretation. The OCT attenuation coefficient µ, an analogue of the imaged sample’s scattering coefficient, offers potential functional contrast based on the relationship of µ to sub-resolution physical properties of the sample. Attenuation coefficients are computed either by fitting a representative µ over several depth-wise pixels of a sample’s intensity decay, or by using previously-developed depth-resolved attenuation algorithms by Girard et al. [Invest. Ophthalmol. Vis. Sci. 52, 7738 (2011). 10.1167/iovs.10-6925] and Vermeer et al. [Biomed. Opt. Express 5, 322 (2014). 10.1364/BOE.5.000322]. However, the former method sacrifices axial information in the tomogram, while the latter relies on the stringent assumption that the sample’s backscattering fraction, another optical property, does not vary along depth. This assumption may be violated by layered tissues commonly observed in clinical imaging applications. Our approach preserves the full depth resolution of the attenuation map but removes its dependence on backscattering fraction by performing signal analysis inside individual discrete layers over which the scattering properties (e.g., attenuation and backscattering fraction) vary minimally. Although this approach necessitates the detection of these layers, it removes the constant-backscattering-fraction assumption that has constrained quantitative attenuation coefficient analysis in the past, and additionally yields a layer-resolved backscattering fraction, providing complementary scattering information to the attenuation coefficient. We validate our approach using automated layer detection in layered phantoms, for which the measured optical properties were in good agreement with theoretical values calculated with Mie theory, and show preliminary results in tissue alongside corresponding histological analysis. Together, accurate backscattering fraction and attenuation coefficient measurements enable the estimation of both particle density and size, which is not possible from attenuation measurements alone. We hope that this improvement to depth-resolved attenuation coefficient measurement, augmented by a layer-resolved backscattering fraction, will increase the diagnostic power of quantitative OCT imaging.
Quantitative phase imaging in digital holographic microscopy based on image inpainting using a two-stage generative adversarial network
Authors: Ma Shujun , Liu Qi , Yu Yantao , Luo Yu , Wang Shiliang
Published: July 2021

Based on the hologram inpainting via a two-stage Generative Adversarial Network (GAN), we present a precise phase aberration compensation method in digital holographic microscopy (DHM). In the proposed methodology, the interference fringes of the sample area in the hologram are firstly removed by the background segmentation via edge detection and morphological image processing. The vacancy area is then inpainted with the fringes generated by a deep learning algorithm. The image inpainting finally results in a sample-free reference hologram containing the total aberration of the system. The phase aberrations could be deleted by subtracting the unwrapped phase of the sample-free hologram from our inpainting network results, in no need of any complex spectrum centering procedure, prior knowledge of the system, or manual intervention. With a full and proper training of the two-stage GAN, our approach can robustly realize a distinct phase mapping, which overcomes the drawbacks of multiple iterations, noise interference or limited field of view in the recent methods using self-extension, Zernike polynomials fitting (ZPF) or geometrical transformations. The validity of the proposed procedure is confirmed by measuring the surface of preprocessed silicon wafer with a Michelson interferometer digital holographic inspection platform. The results of our experiment indicate the viability and accuracy of the presented method. Additionally, this work can pave the way for the evaluation of new applications of GAN in DHM.
Modified phase-generated carrier demodulation of fiber-optic interferometric ultrasound sensors
Authors: Karim Farzia , Zhu Yupeng , Han Ming
Published: July 2021

We propose and demonstrate a modified phase-generated carrier (PGC) demodulation scheme optimized for detection of ultrasound using interferometric sensors with sinusoidal fringes. The sensor used in demonstration is made from a pair of weak fiber Bragg-gratings at the ends of a coiled fiber that form a low-finesse Fabry-Perot interferometer. The phase of the laser source is modulated using an electro-optic phase modulator to generate the carrier signal and obtain 2 quadrature (the sine and cosine) terms at the first and the second order carrier frequencies. The signal of interest (ultrasound) has much higher frequency than the environmental perturbation but a very small amplitude that causes only small phase shift. Using small-signal approximation, for each of the 2 quadrature terms, we separate the contributions from the environmental perturbations (quasi-DC component) and from the ultrasound (AC component). The AC components that contain the information of the ultrasound signal are then further amplified with a large gain. The signal of interest is constructed by simple algebraic operations on the 2 quasi-DC components and the 2 amplified AC components involving multiplying and summing. This work provides a simple and robust demodulation method with potentially high sensitivity for fiber-optic interferometric ultrasound sensors.
Special correlation model sources producing a self-focusing field
Authors: Mei Zhangrong
Published: July 2021

We evaluate the modes for non-Schell-model sources whose degrees of spectral coherence depend on the difference of the special function values of the position coordinated of two points. It is shown that such sources modulated by various function possess different spatial coherence properties, and cause them to produce the self-focusing fields with different characteristics. The results suggest a convenient method for modeling novel classes of partially coherent self-focusing optical fields.
Near-field coupling of absorbing material to subwavelength cavities
Authors: Gemar Heath , Yetzbacher Michael K. , Driggers Ronald G. , Kyle Renshaw C.
Published: July 2021

In conjunction with our previous work on spectral transmission dependence on geometric parameters for subwavelength slits, we have investigated the optical behavior with the inclusion of an absorber on the extraordinary optical transmission of sliver slits resonant in the mid-wave infrared (MWIR). The placement of an absorbing layer causes a dramatic change to the dielectric environment of the subwavelength slit causing the cavity to become energetically leaky. We have found this broadens the spectral response of the cavity by increasing the imaginary component of the effective cavity index, reducing the cavity quality by a factor of more than seven. To mitigate this undesired effect, we have found that partially decoupling the absorber with a thin isolating layer helps restore the slit’s narrow spectral response and we explore the dependence of optical properties on the isolating layer’s depth. The optimum thickness of a silicon dioxide isolation layer for best quantum efficiency (Q.E.) was found to be 100 nm with a maximum Q.E. of 37.5%. This is more than double the Q.E. of the directly coupled absorber and the cavity Q increase is of the same order, with a corresponding narrowing of the resonance bandwidth. In addition, we explore the effect on the cavity of changing the dielectric environment at the input of the slit to improve the resonance properties in the propagation direction improving the Q by 20% and improving the Q.E. to 40.2%.
Sistémica de los medios de comunicación en la edad de las redes
Authors: Park Sol
Published: July 2021

El texto del exacadémico de la Facultad viene a complementar su anterior obra “Teoría cognitiva sistémica de la comunicación” (2002), que está centrada en el sujeto de la comunicación
El papel de las Tecnologías de la Relación, Información y Comunicación (TRIC) y el factor r-elacional en la educomunicación
Authors: Castelló-Martínez Araceli
Published: July 2021

Reseña del libro Comunicación digital. Un modelo basado en el factor r-elacional.
Las sexualidades femeninas en la pequeña pantalla
Authors: Rebollo-Bueno Sara
Published: July 2021

Sexo y series. Las sexualidades femeninas, una revolución televisiva es un análisis del tratamiento de la sexualidad femenina en las series de televisión estadounidenses. La obra ayuda a entender cómo se exponen las sexualidades femeninas en la pequeña pantalla y cómo esto está suponiendo una revolución, puesto que este tema ha estado rodeado de un halo de misterio y tabú en la cultura de masas.
[Editorial] Autorregulación publicitaria. La protección del consumidor frente a la comunicación comercial
Authors: Muela-Molina Clara , Agante Luisa
Published: July 2021

La mecánica del sistema judicial no resulta operativa frente a los casos de publicidad ilícita ya que, cuando se dictan las sentencias, los efectos de un anuncio o campaña no solo han cumplido su objetivo persuasivo influyendo en el público objetivo y condicionando la conducta del consumidor, sino que dichos mensajes ya se han sustituido por otros emitidos con posterioridad. Además, los jueces, expertos en derecho mercantil no están tan familiarizados con la publicidad como las asociaciones u organismos de autorregulación que se ocupan sólo de esta materia. Por tanto, toda esta dimensión comunicativa de la publicidad como herramienta subordinada al marketing, se entiende más acorde con la autorregulación que es más rápida, barata, eficiente y efectiva que la regulación estatal.
[Editorial] Nuevas formas de comunicación: publicidad integrada
Authors: Maestro-Espínola Lidia , Cordón-Benito David , Abuin-Vences Natalia
Published: July 2021

Editorial
Magias de la Ficción (Spoiler Warning!) [Reseña]
Authors: Mateu Fran
Published: July 2021

Raúl Rodríguez-Ferrándiz, profesor titular de la Universidad de Alicante, es autor de la obra que nos ocupa, con la que fue galardonado con el XX Premio Internacional de Ensayo Miguel de Unamuno del Ayuntamiento de Bilbao (2019). Este ensayo conecta con algunas de sus anteriores obras, como Máscaras de la mentira: el nuevo desorden de la posverdad (2018). En la presente obra, Rodríguez-Ferrándiz desarrolla un análisis mediante ejemplos procedentes de la industria cultural acerca de las fronteras entre realidad/ficción y verdad/mentira, citando a autores de especial relevancia. Combinando ejemplos clásicos junto a otros más recientes, se aporta un estudio sobre cómo el tejido con el que se «traman» las historias se puede entrecruzar, y donde la magia de la ficción se configura a través de un contexto específico.