bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Text and metadata extraction from scanned Arabic documents using support vector machines
Authors: Qin Wenda , Elanwar Randa , Betke Margrit
Published: October 2020

Text information in scanned documents becomes accessible only when extracted and interpreted by a text recognizer. For a recognizer to work successfully, it must have detailed location information about the regions of the document images that it is asked to analyse. It will need focus on page regions with text skipping non-text regions that include illustrations or photographs. However, text recognizers do not work as logical analyzers. Logical layout analysis automatically determines the function of a document text region, that is, it labels each region as a title, paragraph, or caption, and so on, and thus is an essential part of a document understanding system. In the past, rule-based algorithms have been used to conduct logical layout analysis, using limited size data sets. We here instead focus on supervised learning methods for logical layout analysis. We describe LABA, a system based on multiple support vector machines to perform logical Layout Analysis of scanned Books pages in Arabic. The system detects the function of a text region based on the analysis of various images features and a voting mechanism. For a baseline comparison, we implemented an older but state-of-the-art neural network method. We evaluated LABA using a data set of scanned pages from illustrated Arabic books and obtained high recall and precision values. We also found that the F-measure of LABA is higher for five of the tested six classes compared to the state-of-the-art method.
Book review: Alessandra Mezzadri, The Sweatshop Regime: Labouring Bodies, Exploitation, and Garments Made in India
Authors: Reddy Ketan
Published: October 2020

Alessandra Mezzadri, The Sweatshop Regime: Labouring Bodies, Exploitation, and Garments Made in India (New York: Cambridge University Press, 2016), xii + 246 pp.
Book review: Amit Ranjan, India–Bangladesh Border Disputes: History and Post-LBA Dynamics
Authors: Khan Sonia Z.
Published: October 2020

Amit Ranjan, India–Bangladesh Border Disputes: History and Post-LBA Dynamics (Singapore: Springer Nature, 2018), xiii + 159 pp.
Accuracy of multiparametric MRI in distinguishing the breast malignant lesions from benign lesions: a meta-analysis
Authors: Zhu Chun-Rong , Chen Ke-Yu , Li Pan , Xia Zhi-Yang , Wang Bin
Published: October 2020

Background

The sensitivity of dynamic contrast-enhanced magnetic resonance imaging (DCE-MRI) for detecting breast cancer was high and the specificity was relatively low. However, diffusion-weighted imaging (DWI) has a high specificity in the diagnosis of malignant lesions.

Purpose

To evaluate the accuracy of the multiparametric MRI (mp-MRI) in distinguishing the breast malignant lesions from the benign lesions.

Material and Methods

A comprehensive search of the PubMed, Embase, and Cochrane Library electronic databases was conducted up to March 2020. Data were analyzed for the following indexes: pooled sensitivity and specificity; positive likelihood ratio; negative likelihood ratio; diagnostic odds ratio; and the area under the curve.

Results

A total of 2356 patients with 1604 malignant and 967 benign breast lesions were included from 22 studies. The pooled sensitivity, specificity, positive likelihood ratio, negative likelihood ratio, diagnostic odds ratio, and area under the curve for mp-MRI were 0.93, 0.85, 6.3, 0.08, 81, and 0.96, respectively. The pooled sensitivity, specificity, and area under the curve for DCE-MRI alone were 0.95, 0.71, and 0.92, respectively. The pooled sensitivity, specificity, and area under the curve for DWI alone were 0.88, 0.84, and 0.93, respectively.

Conclusion

The mp-MRI did not improve the sensitivity but increased the specificity for the diagnosis of breast malignant lesions.
Outcomes of laparoscopic common bile duct exploration (LCBDE) after failed endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography versus primary LCBDE for managing cholecystocholedocholithiasis
Authors: Kim Hanbaro , Shin Suk Pyo , Hwang Ji Woong , Lee Jung Woo
Published: October 2020

Objective

This study was performed to compare the outcomes of laparoscopic common bile duct exploration (LCBDE) after failed endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) versus primary LCBDE for managing cholecystocholedocholithiasis.

Methods

We retrospectively analyzed data from 59 patients who underwent LCBDE during laparoscopic cholecystectomy (LC) for managing cholecystocholedocholithiasis from January 2013 to August 2019. The patients underwent either primary LCBDE plus LC (Group I) or LCBDE plus LC after failed ERCP (Group II). The demographics, reason for ERCP failure, perioperative details, and postoperative outcomes were evaluated.

Results

CBD stone removal using preoperative ERCP failed in 31 patients (Group II) because of remaining stones after ERCP (n = 9), failed cannulation (n = 6), failed sedation (n = 6), a periampullary diverticulum (n = 5), previous Billroth II gastrectomy (n = 3), a huge stone (n = 1), and an impacted stone (n = 1). The CBD stone clearance rate was >96% in both groups. The mean operative time, hospital stay, overall complication rate, and open conversion rate were not significantly different between the two groups.

Conclusions

When extraction of CBD stones by ERCP is likely to be difficult or fail, primary LCBDE is an acceptable alternative treatment for managing cholecystocholedocholithiasis.
Evaluating the Emission and Energy Impacts of Automated Buses on Urban Expressways
Authors: Zhang Yixin , Chen Xumei , Yu Lei
Published: October 2020

In recent years, a series of traffic problems have emerged with continuously increasing traffic. Connected and autonomous vehicles (CAV) technology is considered to be an effective way to relieve these problems. It is believed that buses, trucks, and other special vehicles could be among of the first application areas to promote the development of CAV technology. Because of their features of high emissions of pollutants and high energy consumption, the improvement of environmental benefits for such heavy vehicles as buses is the focus in this research. Therefore, this paper aims to evaluate the impact of automated buses on emissions and energy consumption on urban expressways. To achieve the research objectives in this paper, the established automated buses model is embedded into the simulation platform with VISSIM dynamic link library. Models are developed for emissions and energy consumption calculations based on vehicle-specific power to quantify the environmental impact of automated buses. Two improvement strategies: dedicated managed lane and dedicated bus lane, are designed. Finally, a VISSIM simulation platform based on the Fourth Ring Road in Beijing (Xueyuan Bridge to Haidian Bridge) is built to conduct case studies. The results show that CAV technology in buses can reduce exhaust emissions and save energy. Moreover, the managed lane strategy brings a significant reduction in the emissions and energy consumption of automated buses. These findings can be used for the development of automated bus operational strategies focused on environmental benefits.
Testing a Model of How a Sexual Assault Resistance Education Program for Women Reduces Sexual Assaults
Authors: Senn Charlene Y. , Eliasziw Misha , Hobden Karen L. , Barata Paula C. , Radtke H. Lorraine , Thurston Wilfreda E. , Newby-Clark Ian R.
Published: October 2020

The Enhanced Assess, Acknowledge, Act (EAAA) program has been shown to reduce sexual assaults experienced by university students who identify as women. Prevention researchers emphasize testing theory-based mechanisms once positive outcomes related to effectiveness are established. We assessed the process by which EAAA’s positive outcomes are achieved in a sample of 857 first year university students. EAAA’s goals are to increase risk detection in social interactions, decrease obstacles to risk detection or resistance with known men, and increase women’s use of effective self-defense. We used chained multiple mediator modeling to assess the combined effects of the primary mediators (risk detection, direct resistance, and self-defense self-efficacy) while simultaneously assessing the interrelationships among the secondary mediators (perception of personal risk, belief in the myth of female precipitation, and general rape myth acceptance). The hypothesized multiple mediation model with three primary mediators met the criterion for full mediation of the intervention effects. Together, the mediators accounted for 95% and 76% of the reductions in completed and attempted rape, respectively, demonstrating full mediation. The hypothesized secondary mediators were important in achieving improvements in personal and situational risk detection. The findings strongly support the benefit of cognitive ecological theory and the Assess, Acknowledge, Act conceptualization underlying EAAA. This evidence can be used by administrators and staff responsible for prevention policy and practice on campuses to defend the implementation of theoretically grounded, evidence-based prevention programs. Online slides for instructors who want to use this article for teaching are available on PWQ's website at http://journals.sagepub.com/doi/suppl/10.1177/0361684320962561
Factors Related to 30-day Readmission following Hospitalization for Any Medical Reason among Patients with Mental Disorders: Facteurs liés à la réhospitalisation à 30 jours suivant une hospitalisation pour une raison médicale chez des patients souffrant de troubles mentaux
Authors: Gentil Lia , Grenier Guy , Fleury Marie-Josée
Published: October 2020

Objective:

This study evaluated the contributions of clinical, sociodemographic, and service use variables to the risk of early readmission, defined as readmission within 30 days of discharge following hospitalization for any medical reason (mental or physical illnesses), among patients with mental disorders in Quebec (Canada).

Methods:

In this longitudinal study, 2,954 hospitalized patients who had visited 1 of 6 Quebec emergency departments (ED) in 2014 to 2015 (index year) were identified through clinical administrative databanks. The first hospitalization was considered that may have occurred at any Quebec hospital. Data collected between 2012 and 2013 and 2013 and 2014 on clinical, sociodemographic, and service use variables were assessed as related to readmission/no readmission within 30 days of discharge using hierarchical binary logistic regression.

Results:

Patients with co-occurring substance-related disorders/chronic physical illnesses, serious mental disorders, or adjustment disorders (clinical variables); 4+ outpatient psychiatric consultations with the same psychiatrist; and patients hospitalized for any medical reason within 12 months prior to index hospitalization (service use variables) were more likely to be readmitted within 30 days of discharge. Patients who made 1 to 3 ED visits within 1 year prior to the index hospitalization, had their index hospitalization stay of 16 to 29 days, or consulted a physician for any medical reason within 30 days after discharge or prior to the readmission (service use variables) were less likely to be rehospitalized.

Conclusions:

Early hospital readmission was more strongly associated with clinical variables, followed by service use variables, both playing a key role in preventing early readmission. Results suggest the importance of developing specific interventions for patients at high risk of readmission such as better discharge planning, integrated and collaborative care, and case management. Overall, better access to services and continuity of care before and after hospital discharge should be provided to prevent early hospital readmission.
The effect of work environment on the biochemical profile of workers operating at the Ust-Kamenogorsk Titanium and Magnesium Plant
Authors: Dakieva Kulzipa Zh , Tsyganov Anatoliy P , Egorina Anna V , Sharipkhanova Anargul S , Sedelev Valeriy A , Sadykanova Gulnaz E , Chursin Anatoliy S
Published: October 2020

This study explored biochemical parameters of blood in workers operating in the main workshops at the Ust-Kamenogorsk Titanium and Magnesium Plant: magnesium (Mg) workshop (furnace operator, chlorinator operator, and electrolyzer operator), titanium tetrachloride workshop (mill operator and titanium (Ti) production operator), and Ti sponge workshop (reduction furnace operator, knockout operator, and crushing machine operator). The control group consisted of 112 male workers, whose duties were not related to similar occupational hazards (plumbers, electricians, janitors cleaning the administrative building, security guards, and carpenters). The activity of gamma-glutamyl transferase, aspartate aminotransferase, alanine aminotransferase, creatine phosphokinase, lactate dehydrogenase, cholinesterase, alkaline phosphate, and α-amylase and the concentration of serum calcium, Mg, phosphorus, and chloride ion were measured. To clarify the nature of pathological changes that occur in the body of mammals under the influence of toxic gases and dust, this study also included 130 sexually mature, white female rats. Animals and workers were exposed to examination of the same indicators. Changes in test results of enzymes and minerals indicated a negative impact that harmful production factors may have had on the bodies of workers. Findings showed significant fluctuations in enzyme and mineral blood profiles of workers as compared to controls. In the test animals, changes in the enzyme activity and mineral blood composition were as diverse as in the workers. These findings will be useful when identifying markers of a negative impact of harmful substances in an industrial workplace and when developing measures to prevent employees from developing an occupational disease.
The Role of Light Sensitivity and Intrinsic Circadian Period in Predicting Individual Circadian Timing
Authors: Stone Julia E. , McGlashan Elise M. , Quin Nina , Skinner Kayan , Stephenson Jessica J. , Cain Sean W. , Phillips Andrew J. K.
Published: October 2020

There is large interindividual variability in circadian timing, which is underestimated by mathematical models of the circadian clock. Interindividual differences in timing have traditionally been modeled by changing the intrinsic circadian period, but recent findings reveal an additional potential source of variability: large interindividual differences in light sensitivity. Using an established model of the human circadian clock with real-world light recordings, we investigated whether changes in light sensitivity parameters or intrinsic circadian period could capture variability in circadian timing between and within individuals. Healthy participants ( n = 12, aged 18-26 years) underwent continuous light monitoring for 3 weeks (Actiwatch Spectrum). Salivary dim-light melatonin onset (DLMO) was measured each week. Using the recorded light patterns, a sensitivity analysis for predicted DLMO times was performed, varying 3 model parameters within physiological ranges: (1) a parameter determining the steepness of the dose-response curve to light ( p), (2) a parameter determining the shape of the phase-response curve to light ( K), and (3) the intrinsic circadian period ( tau). These parameters were then fitted to obtain optimal predictions of the three DLMO times for each individual. The sensitivity analysis showed that the range of variation in the average predicted DLMO times across participants was 0.65 h for p, 4.28 h for K, and 3.26 h for tau. The default model predicted the DLMO times with a mean absolute error of 1.02 h, whereas fitting all 3 parameters reduced the mean absolute error to 0.28 h. Fitting the parameters independently, we found mean absolute errors of 0.83 h for p, 0.53 h for K, and 0.42 h for tau. Fitting p and K together reduced the mean absolute error to 0.44 h. Light sensitivity parameters captured similar variability in phase compared with intrinsic circadian period, indicating they are viable targets for individualizing circadian phase predictions. Future prospective work is needed that uses measures of light sensitivity to validate this approach.
Investigating the potential of redundant manipulators in narrow channels
Authors: Singla Ashish , Narayan Jyotindra , Arora Himanshu
Published: October 2020

In this paper, an attempt has been made to investigate the potential of redundant manipulators, while tracking trajectories in narrow channels. The behavior of redundant manipulators is important in many challenging applications like under-water welding in narrow tanks, checking the blockage in sewerage pipes, performing a laparoscopy operation etc. To demonstrate this snake-like behavior, redundancy resolution scheme is utilized using two different approaches. The first approach is based on the concept of task priority, where a given task is split and prioritize into several subtasks like singularity avoidance, obstacle avoidance, torque minimization, and position preference over orientation etc. The second approach is based on Adaptive Neuro Fuzzy Inference System (ANFIS), where the training is provided through given datasets and the results are back-propagated using augmentation of neural networks with fuzzy logics. Three case studies are considered in this work to demonstrate the redundancy resolution of serial manipulators. The first case study of 3-link manipulator is attempted with both the approaches, where the objective is to track the desired trajectory while avoiding multiple obstacles. The second case study of 7-link manipulator, tracking trajectory in a narrow channel, is investigated using the concept of task priority. The realistic application of minimum-invasive surgery (MIS) based trajectory tracking is considered as the third case study, which is attempted using ANFIS approach. The 5-link spatial redundant manipulator, also known as a patient-side manipulator being developed at CSIR-CSIO, Chandigarh is used to track the desired surgical cuts. Through the three case studies, it is well demonstrated that both the approaches are giving satisfactory results.
Dual-sliding mode approach for separated fault detection and tolerant control for functional safety of longitudinal autonomous driving
Authors: Song Taejun , Lee Jongmin , Oh Kwangseok , Yi Kyongsu
Published: October 2020

This paper describes model-based separated fault detection and fault tolerant control of longitudinal autonomous driving using dual-sliding mode observer for functional safety. Internal and environment sensors such as camera or radar are required to measure the acceleration information of the subject vehicle and the relative distance and velocity information between the preceding and subject vehicles in longitudinal autonomous driving. In order to detect the independent fault of each sensor, a dual-sliding mode observer (SMO) is used for fault reconstruction under the assumption that V2V (Vehicle to Vehicle) communication for vehicle driving state is available. The each SMO reconstructs the expected fault in sensor based on discontinuous injection term used for converging output error to zero. Based on the reconstructed fault by each SMO, faults are detected using threshold approach. When the fault is detected, the reconstructed fault is used for fault tolerant control by subtracting to faulty data. The proposed fault detection (FD) and fault tolerant control (FTC) algorithms were evaluated using actual driving data and a three-dimensional (3D) vehicle model with a linear quadratic regulator for following control. The evaluation results are presented and analyzed with regard to fault reconstruction, detection, and tolerant control in four cases wherein two types of faults were applied.
The mentally ill and how they were perceived in young Israel
Authors: Heilbronner Oded
Published: October 2020

The article constitutes a widely researched account of mental patients and their perceptions in the early history of Israel, especially its second decade. It focuses on a single generation, which experienced the traumas of war in Europe, followed by insecurity in Israel’s struggle for independence. The article claims that in the 1960s many suffered from depression, reflected in a record number of patients in mental hospitals and mentally sick people, mostly of European origin. This study describes Israeli society in the 1960s as disturbed, immersed in nightmarish dreams and close to madness; it also discusses the genetic and neurological vulnerabilities which induced the psychosis and the social response that converted it into a chronic illness.
Inorganic arsenic administration suppresses human neutrophil function in vitro
Authors: Islam Md Monirul , Takeyama Naoshi
Published: October 2020

Arsenic, a major environmental toxicant and pollutant, is a global public health concern. Among its many adverse effects, arsenic is immunotoxic, but its effects on human neutrophil functions are not yet well-defined. In this study, we aimed to evaluate the in vitro effects of acute low-dose NaAsO2 exposure on human polymorphonuclear neutrophils (PMNs) for 12 h on the following innate defense mechanisms: formation of neutrophil extracellular traps (NETs), production of reactive oxygen species (ROS), and phagocytosis. Phorbol myristate acetate (PMA) was added to induce NETs formation, which was quantified by measuring cell-free extracellular DNA (cf-DNA), myeloperoxidase-conjugated (MPO)-DNA and neutrophil elastase-conjugated (NE)-DNA, and confirmed by immunofluorescence labeling and imaging. Extracellular bactericidal activity by NETs was evaluated by co-culturing Escherichia coli and PMNs in the presence of a phagocytic inhibitor. Levels of NETs in the culture medium after PMA stimulation was significantly lower in PMNs pre-exposed to arsenic than those not exposed to arsenic. Immunofluorescence staining and extracellular bactericidal activity by NETs revealed similar results. Phagocytosis and ROS production by PMNs were also significantly reduced by arsenic pre-exposure. Together, our findings provide new insights in arsenic immunotoxicity and suggest how it increases susceptibility to infectious diseases in humans.
Clinical management of Lupus patients during the COVID-19 pandemic
Authors: Mason Alice , Rose Emily , Edwards Christopher J
Published: October 2020

Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus (SARS-CoV-2), the virus causing Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), has had a huge impact on health services with a high mortality associated with complications including pneumonia and acute respiratory distress syndrome. Historical evidence suggests that Lupus patients have a higher incidence of several viral infections. This is likely due to a combination of immune dysfunction, immunosuppressive therapy and excess co-morbidities. In this context there has been concern that Lupus patients may be at a higher risk of developing COVID-19 and suffering a severe disease course. As a result, many Lupus patients have been advised to ‘shield’ by isolating from social contact in the hope that this will reduce the likelihood of infection. Early clinical data does not appear to show that the incidence of COVID-19 is higher in Lupus patients. Reassuringly, the clinical course of COVID-19 in Lupus does not generally seem to be more severe than in the general population. There has been huge interest in repurposing existing drugs as potential treatments, including several used to treat Lupus. Of these, corticosteroids and hydroxychloroquine are the most well researched so far. The current evidence suggests that the corticosteroid dexamethasone improves outcome for the sickest COVID-19 patients requiring respiratory support. Initial reports suggested that hydroxychloroquine could have a positive impact on the course of COVID-19, however larger prospective studies have not supported this. Janus kinase inhibitors, currently being investigated for efficacy in lupus, have been shown to have anti-viral effects in vitro and inhibiting the JAK-STAT pathway may dampen down the host hyper-inflammatory response. Several trials are ongoing to assess the outcome of the use of JAK inhibitors in COVID-19 positive patients. For most patients continuing with their existing therapies to prevent a lupus flare or adverse events associated with sudden corticosteroid withdrawal is important whilst an Individualised risk assessment remains vital.
The Influences of Political Values Manifested in Advertisements on Political Participation: Moderating Roles of Self-transcendence and Conservation
Authors: Raza Syed Hassan , Adamu Adamu Abbas , Ogadimma Emenyeonu C. , Hasnain Amna
Published: October 2020

This study seeks to explain how political participation is influenced by cultural values manifested in political advertising. In this regard, this study proposes a model that encompasses the concepts of Schwartz’ basic human values in which self-transcendence and conservation interact with three political values manifested in advertisements, namely law and order, civil liberties and patriotism, to determine political participation. Analyses were performed on a random sample of 834 Pakistanis collected through a survey. Structural equation modelling (SEM) techniques were employed, and analysis of moment structures (AMOS) was used to determine political participation. The findings of this study revealed that self-transcendence and conservation, albeit varied intensity, interact with political values manifested in advertisements. The findings also provide theoretical and managerial implications, which are discussed in greater detail in this article.
Natural Resources, Conflict and Security Challenges in Africa
Authors: Olanrewaju Faith Osasumwen , Joshua Segun , Olanrewaju Adekunle
Published: October 2020

This article evaluates the impact of natural resource conflicts on Africa’s security. This study is qualitative and based on secondary data that were analysed textually. Hinged on the greed and grievance theory, the study argues that the mismanagement of resources, greed and grievance have had immeasurable negative implications on national security, national growth and development. The issues that have come to the fore in resource management in some selected African countries include rancorous intergroup relations, militancy, the proliferation of small arms and light weapons, leadership ineptitude, corruption, warlordism and money laundering. The article recommends that effective resource management strategies in Africa are key in curbing the plaguing security challenges and conflicts ensuing from resource ownership in the continent.
The Nasal Lift Technique in Primary Cleft Lip Surgery
Authors: Abdulrauf Badr M. I.
Published: October 2020

Whether it is a unilateral or bilateral cleft lip, the nose tends to act as a collapsing pyramid with a tilt in case of the former. This gives the nose a tethered and flattened look with varying degrees of asymmetries. No matter how aggressive soft tissue manipulations are made to the tip and columella, we believe unless the nose is lifted and secured to a stable structure, the correction is inadequate. Here, we are describing our approach. Initially closed nasal correction is considered utilizing method described by Mulliken. This is followed by lifting the entire cartilaginous framework with a suture being looped around tip cartilages and secured into the periosteum of the nasal bones in a “Cantilever” fashion.
Bridging the Gap between Electoral and Participatory Democracy: The Electoral Motivations behind Participatory Budgeting in Chicago
Authors: Pin Laura
Published: October 2020

This paper explores the electoral dynamics of participatory budgeting projects in Chicago, IL, a topic neglected in the participatory democracy literature. Combining qualitative fieldwork with electoral data, I argue participatory budgeting is more likely to be adopted by elected officials who identify as progressive, face strong electoral competition, and are non-incumbents. These officials mobilize support for participatory budgeting to enhance their democratic legitimacy and build their constituency networks. In contrast to research focused on participatory budgeting as a non-partisan deliberative initiative, I attribute the uneven emergence of participatory budgeting projects in Chicago to the strategic electoral interests of aldermen, suggesting explanations of participatory budgeting focused on the drivers of the process should assign a greater role to electoral interests. More broadly, this research suggests approaching policy transfer as a contextually embedded process that precludes normative assumptions about particular policies absent a consideration of the institutional and social environment.
A review of the interaction between anthocyanins and proteins
Authors: Li Jia , Wang Bixiang , He Yang , Wen Liankui , Nan Hailong , Zheng Fei , Liu He , Lu Siyan , Wu Manyu , Zhang Haoran
Published: October 2020

Anthocyanins have good physiological functions, but they are unstable. The interaction between anthocyanins and proteins can improve the stability, nutritional and functional properties of the complex. This paper reviews the structural changes of complex of anthocyanins interacting with proteins from different sources. By circular dichroism (CD) spectroscopy, it was found that the contents of α-helix (from 15.90%−42.40% to 17.60%−52.80%) or β-sheet (from 29.00%−50.00% to 29.40%−57.00%) of the anthocyanins–proteins complex increased. Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy showed that the regions of amide I (from 1627.87−1641.41 cm−1 to 1643.34−1651.02 cm−1) and amide II (from 1537.00−1540.25 cm−1 to 1539.00−1543.75 cm−1) of anthocyanins–proteins complex were shifted. Fluorescence spectroscopy showed that the fluorescence intensity of the complex decreased from 150−5100 to 40−3900 a.u. The thermodynamic analysis showed that there were hydrophobic interactions, electrostatic and hydrogen bonding interactions between anthocyanins and proteins. The kinetic analysis showed that the half-life and activation energy of the complex increased. The stability, antioxidant, digestion, absorption, and emulsification of the complex were improved. This provides a reference for the study and application of anthocyanins and proteins interactions.
Industrialization of Nature in the Time of Complexity Unawareness: The Case of Chitgar Lake, Iran
Authors: Akhshik Arash , Rezapouraghdam Hamed , Ramkissoon Haywantee
Published: October 2020

To find answers to the challenges linked with ecological well-being, policymakers and authorities now prefer the ecosystem-based approach, as the solutions inspired by nature may deflect from ecological collapse. Nature-based solutions (NBS) are rhapsodized both in practice and academia as a means to achieve sustainable development. However, NBS, which inherently is supposed to bring forth positive outcomes, may also lead to unsustainable turmoil. On the other hand, the majority of the studies about NBS are from Western countries and studies focusing on the paradoxical functionality of NBS are scant, especially in the Middle East. In an attempt to bridge this gap, the current study uses one of the largest blue artificial infrastructures in the Middle East as a case. Following the phenomenological interpretive approach, the authors argue that NBS may fabricate unintended problems when the complexity of the supra systems are overlooked. Theoretical and practical contributions are discussed.
What Is Solidarity About? Views of Transnational Organisations’ Activists in Germany, Poland, and Greece
Authors: Zschache Ulrike , Theiss Maria , Paschou Maria
Published: October 2020

The notion of solidarity plays an important role in debates about the future of Europe. Yet, it can be used in a diverse or even contradictory manner as contemporary discussions about refugees in Europe or the implementation of social rights at the EU-level well illustrate. While the focus of public attention is often on political leaders, the goal of this article is to deepen our knowledge about the understanding of solidarity by its practitioners at the grassroots-level of solidarity work. Our study is based on 97 individual interviews with representatives of transnational solidarity organisations (TSOs) located in Germany, Poland, and Greece. We show how their understanding of solidarity varies across three basic themes: the rationale of action, the scope of beneficiaries, and relations with and among beneficiaries. Most strikingly, our research reveals that the core understanding of solidarity among the TSOs under review reflects a progressive, transnational type of solidarity that emphasises universalism, connection-building between targets of solidarity and establishing group identities based on collective action and not pre-defined features. At the same time, our study shows how TSOs adapt to complex country- and field-specific contextual conditions.
Conceptualising and addressing mental disorders amongst Muslim communities: Approaches from the Islamic Golden Age
Authors: Mitha Karim
Published: October 2020

Although Islam is the world’s second-largest religion, there continues to be misconceptions and an overall lack of awareness regarding the religious and social worlds that make up the global Muslim community. This is particularly concerning when examining notions of mental ill-health, where a lack of cultural awareness, understanding, and sensitivity can impede adequate treatment. As a global religion, Islam is practiced within various cultural milieus, and, given the centrality of faith amongst Muslim communities, a conflation of religion and culture can occur when attempting to understand mental health paradigms. Whilst much of the discourse regarding Muslim mental health centres on cultural formulations, this article discusses how, historically, conceptualisations relating to medicine and mental health were ensconced within the particular medical paradigm of the day. Specifically, it considers the frameworks within which mental health and illness were understood within the medieval Muslim medical tradition and their relevance to contemporary debates in psychology and psychiatry. In sum, this paper seeks to demonstrate that cultural formulations of mental illness, often viewed as “Islamic”, are distinct from historical Islamic approaches to mental health which employed contemporaneous medical discourse and which act as the reference marker for the emergent revivalist Islamic psychology movement seen today.
Vibration control by active integrated control system under bidirectional ground motions
Authors: Akyürek Osman , Suksawang Nakin
Published: October 2020

To improve the safety and security of the structures with irregular plan configuration, the new torsionally effective passive control system (ICS) was first proposed by the author, which utilizes a new design configuration to dissipate the unwanted energy from the structures in the lateral and torsional directions. In this research, a new active structural control approach, which is the active form of the ICS (or active integrated control system, AICS), is introduced as an alternative active control system, especially for the buildings with torsional sensitivity. In the design of active system configurations, two actuators driven by the linear quadratic regulator (LQR) are implemented and used to apply the optimum control forces to the ATMDs and AICS. For examining the performance of the proposed system configuration, the ﬁnal design is applied to the 9-story Benchmark steel structure subjected to bidirectional three historical earthquakes. The obtained results show the overall performance of structural performance by using the AICS is substantially improved as compared to conventional ones (ATMDs) under selected ground accelerations with a 3% to 6% improvement in the lateral directions and by nearly 20% in the torsional direction in terms of the peak and root mean square response reduction.
Deserving citizenship in Germany and The Netherlands. Citizenship tests in liberal democracies
Authors: van Oers Ricky
Published: October 2020

Between 2003 and 2008, Germany and the Netherlands have replaced informal interviews with local officials by formalised language and knowledge of society tests (‘citizenship tests’) to determine whether long-term resident immigrants have sufficiently integrated to become citizens. In this contribution, the questions of why the citizenship tests were introduced and of which effects these tests have produced in Germany and the Netherlands will be answered. By doing so, the author aims to contribute to answering the question of whether language and cultural requirements can be considered liberal, which, as has been claimed, remains an unresolved issue relating to civic integration policies. Scholars disagree on whether citizenship tests can be justified in the liberal model for citizenship. Liberal minimalists oppose the introduction of requirements barring permanent residents from full-fledged citizenship. Liberal nationalists think citizenship tests can be justified in case they encourage the acquisition of competences that play an important role in creating or sustaining a reasonably just society. The author concludes that proponents of introducing citizenship tests have indeed asserted that these tests are required for prospective citizens to be able to develop the competences that play an important role in creating or sustaining a reasonably just society. Far more important explanations for the introduction of citizenship tests can however be sought in the linking of naturalisation policy to integration policy, and in the desire to promote uniformity in the application of the language and integration requirement as a condition for naturalisation. As regards the effects produced by the tests, the author shows that the tests permanently exclude certain categories of immigrants from becoming full-fledged members of society. The conclusion can therefore be drawn that the citizenship tests applied by Germany and the Netherlands cannot be justified in the liberal model for citizenship.
Improving sensitivity and coverage of structural health monitoring using bulk ultrasonic waves
Authors: Mariani Stefano , Liu Yuan , Cawley Peter
Published: October 2020

Practical ultrasonic structural health monitoring systems must be able to deal with temperature changes and some signal amplitude/phase drift over time; these issues have been investigated extensively with low-frequency-guided wave systems but much less work has been done on bulk wave systems operating in the megahertz frequency range. Temperature and signal drift compensation have been investigated on a thick copper block specimen instrumented with a lead zirconate titanate disc excited at a centre frequency of 2 MHz, both in the laboratory at ambient temperature and in an environmental chamber over multiple 20°C–70°C temperature cycles. It has been shown that the location-specific temperature compensation scheme originally developed for guided wave inspection significantly out-performs the conventional combined optimum baseline selection and baseline signal stretch method. The test setup was deliberately not optimised, and the signal amplitude and phase were shown to drift with time as the system was temperature cycled in the environmental chamber. It was shown that the ratio of successive back wall reflections at a given temperature was much more stable with time than the amplitude of a single reflection and that this ratio can be used to track changes in the reflection coefficient from the back wall with time. It was also shown that the location-specific temperature compensation method can be used to compensate for changes in the back wall reflection ratio with temperature. Clear changes in back wall reflection ratio were produced by the shadow effect of simulated damage in the form of 1-mm diameter flat-bottomed holes, and the signal-to-noise ratio was such that much smaller defects would be detectable.
ESTAT3 Inhibitor AG-490 Inhibits the Growth of Prostate Cancer by miR-503-5p Both In Vivo and In Vitro
Authors: Tan Guangxing , Jiang Lin , Li Gangqin , Bai Kuan
Published: October 2020

Objective:

To explore the effect and the related mechanism of STAT3 inhibitor AG-490 on inhibiting the proliferation of prostate cancer cells.

Methods:

PC3 cells and DU145 cells were cultured stably and treated with AG-490 to detect the changes in the activity of PC3 cells and DU145 cells. Thirty 6-8 weeks male BALB/c nude mouse were randomly divided into a control group, a DMSO group, and an AG-490 group to detect differences in various indexes .

Results:

The overexpression of miR-503-5p depends on the activation of STAT3. After treatment with AG-490, The proliferation and invasion of PC3 cells and DU145 cells and the expression of miR-503-5p were all reduced. Luciferase reporter assay demonstrated that the target proteins of miR-503-5p include PDCD4, TIMP-3, and PTEN. After treatment with AG-490, the expression of PDCD4, TIMP-3, and PTEN in cells was significantly up-regulated. IL-6-induced overexpression of miR-503-5p and restored the expression of STAT3, demonstrating the correlation between STAT3 and miR-503-5p. AG-490 can inhibit tumor growth and induce tumor cell apoptosis in the PC3 BALB/c nude mouse xenograft model. Western blotting and immunohistochemical staining showed that the expression levels of STAT3, Ki67, Bcl-2 and MMP-2 in the AG-490 group were significantly reduced, and the expression of PDCD4, TIMP-3 and PTEN increased.

Conclusion:

AG-490 can inhibit the growth of prostate cancer cells in a miR-503-5p-dependent manner by targeting STAT3. AG-490 is expected to become a new candidate drug for the treatment of prostate cancer.
Do Relationships Matter? Investigating the Link Between Supervisor and Subordinate Dedication and Cynicism via the Quality of Leader–Member Exchange
Authors: Mäkelä Liisa , Tanskanen Jussi , De Cieri Helen
Published: October 2020

Drawing on leader–member exchange and conservation of resources theories, we investigate the role of the quality of leader–member exchange in the relationships between supervisors’ and subordinates’ cynicism and dedication. Survey responses were collected from 104 supervisors and 971 subordinates nested within 104 work-units in five organizations in Finland. A multilevel structural equation model and cross-level mediation were utilized to test the hypotheses. The results show that the quality of leader–member exchange mediates the association between supervisor cynicism and subordinate cynicism and dedication. However, supervisor dedication does not appear to have an influence on leader–member exchange or subordinate cynicism and dedication. The findings related to the influence of supervisor cynicism on the cynicism and dedication of subordinates point toward the value of management interventions that directly address supervisor psychological well-being. Practical interventions might include training for supervisors and employees to enhance relationship-building skills, team-building activities, and leadership development. This empirical study is novel in its focus on how a supervisor’s cynicism and dedication may affect their relationships at work and how this, in turn, may have an effect on their subordinates.
Methods to measure and track population perception and support within a manual wargame
Authors: Smith Jeremy , Barker Stephen
Published: October 2020

The outcomes of military campaigns depend to a large extent on the support of local and other wider population groups, so it is important to understand their perceptions. Here we briefly describe the approach used to represent support for organizations and factions in a professional wargame designed to represent military campaigns. This specific approach was developed originally using a simple marker track system that used a basic quantified set of relationships between military campaign effects and changes to the track levels. This marker track system was developed for military campaign wargames in the UK as a means to portray support or dissent in population groups relevant to the operations, but there was originally no mechanism to drive changes other than by expert judgment. Our improved approach continues the use of marker tracks but attempts to develop a more defensible method based on Maslow’s hierarchy of needs for linking events to changes and levels on the tracks. We conducted experiments to quantify the relative importance of each element in Maslow’s hierarchy. We then continued by conducting a further experiment to identify the impact of a set of effects seen in a wargame against the Maslow elements. This has led to a set of quantified scores that may be used to drive the modifications to the marker tracks when wargame events occur. These scores are based on our initial experiments and may be updated for a specific application, perhaps for a specific setting or location in the world. The revised or enhanced approach aims to produce a transparent solution that can be understood by a military or security analyst, thus facilitating refinement, updating, and change.
The Effect of Multimorbidity Patterns and the Impact of Comorbid Anxiety and Depression on Primary Health Service Use: The Men Androgen Inflammation Lifestyle Environment and Stress (MAILES) Study
Authors: Ng Shu-Kay , Martin Sean A. , Adams Robert J. , O’Loughlin Peter , Wittert Gary A.
Published: October 2020

This study sought to determine patterns of multimorbidity and quantify their impact on use of primary health services in the presence and absence of anxiety and depression among a cohort of urban community-dwelling men in Australia. The analytic sample consisted of men ( n = 2039; age 38–85) from the follow-up wave of a prospective cohort study of all participants of the Florey Adelaide Male Ageing Study (FAMAS; Stage 2 [2007–2010]) and age-matched men from the North-West Adelaide Health Study (NWAHS; Stage 3 [2008–2010]). Self-reported data and linkage with a national universal health coverage scheme (Medicare) provided information on the prevalence of eight chronic conditions and health service utilization information (including annual GP visits). Obesity and cardiovascular disease (CVD) were associated with the highest number of comorbid conditions. Two nonrandom multimorbidity “clusters” emerged: “CVD, Obesity, Diabetes” and “CVD, Obesity, Osteoarthritis.” Participants with conditions comorbid with CVD were more likely to have 10 or more annual GP visits, compared to multimorbidity involving other conditions. In comparison to participants without CVD, the presence of CVD increased the chance of having 10 or more annual GP visits (adjusted risk ratio: 3.7; 95% CI [2.8, 4.8]). When CVD was comorbid with anxiety and depression, having 10 or more annual GP visits was more common (adjusted risk ratio: 1.8; 95% CI [1.2, 2.5]). Multimorbidity patterns involving CVD, especially for multimorbidity that includes CVD with comorbid anxiety and depression, should be considered in developing clinical trials to better inform medical decision-making and care for patients with CVD and comorbid conditions.
Intelligent batch process method for analyzing the effect of the suspension parameters on the vibration of the suspended monorail
Authors: Jiang Yongzhi , Wu Pingbo , Zeng Jing , Wu Xingwen , Wang Xing , He Qinglie
Published: October 2020

As for the batch process, it is needed to carry out a unique simulation for each group of parameters. The simplest method to achieve this goal is to uses the Simulink as the integration space. It cannot solve some complicated dynamic model set up in dynamic software. This paper introduces an intelligent batch program to enable the model solved in the dynamic software during the simulation. This paper also put forward the road equation for the suspended monorail, which has not been introduced before. The results of multi rigid body dynamics and vehicle bridge coupling dynamics are compared in this paper. It proves that the bridge vibration has little effect on the vehicle system. Through the batch process method, the effect of different parameters on the vehicle system could be obtained.