bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Uma Aproximação para o Problema de Alocação de Terminais com Capacidade
Authors: Pedrosa Lehilton L. C. , de Souza Vinícius Balbino
Published: February 2020

Consideramos o Problema de Alocação de Terminais com Capacidade. Uma instância é composta de um espaço métrico V, um conjunto de demandas D ⊆ V2, um número de terminais p e uma capacidade L. Uma solução é um multiconjunto S de locais para instalar terminais com |S| ≤ p, para cada demanda, um terminal associado de forma que nenhum deles receba mais de L demandas. O objetivo é encontrar uma solução que minimiza o maior custo de servir uma demanda através do terminal atribuído. Neste trabalho, obtemos o primeiro algoritmo de aproximação para o problema, com fator 7.
Uma formulação para a máquina de aprendizagem mínima baseada em programação linear
Authors: Pereira Tamara Arruda , de Souza Junior Amauri Holanda
Published: February 2020

A máquina de aprendizagem mínima (MLM) é um método de aprendizado supervisionado que consiste na utilização de um mapeamento linear entre distâncias dos espaços de entrada e saída, seguido de um processo de otimização para, a partir das distâncias estimadas, estimar a saída. A etapa de teste da MLM envolve a resolução de um problema de otimização não-convexo, e pode sofrer com problemas associados a mínimos locais. Com isso em vista, neste artigo e apresentada uma formulação nessa etapa utilizando programação linear. Os experimentos mostram que o método proposto atinge desempenho semelhante aquele obtido com o algoritmo original, adicionalmente produzindo resultados com menor variância.
Recognizing Falls and Surfaces Using Mobile Devices
Authors: Amorim Vicente J. P. , Mion Carlos A. L. , Pereira Igor M. , Camara Ricardo C. , Bianchi Andrea G. C. , Oliveira Ricardo A. R.
Published: February 2020

Mobile devices are getting much more relevance during the users' day, in a way that they are paying to increase device security and durability though external cases or insurance plans. However, these approaches are useless if the individuals does not properly take care of their devices. This paper describes an approach to monitor and classifies a surface where a smartphone falls, making possible to categorize this crash into a range of dangerousness. The authors collected empirical data from device falls to make possible the development of an optimal classifier. Our results reached up to 88% recognition rate of surfaces considering a specific features subset, letting us conclude that it is possible to infer user care level through the analysis of how a device is being treated.
Vortices on Sound Generation and Dissipation in Musical Flue Instruments
Authors: Yoshikawa Shigeru
Published: February 2020

Musical flue instruments such as the pipe organ and flute mainly consist of the acoustic pipe resonance and the jet impinging against the pipe edge. The edge tone is used to be considered as the energy source coupling to the pipe resonance. However, jet-drive models describing the complex jet/pipe interaction were proposed in the late 1960s. Such models were more developed and then improved to the discrete-vortex model and vortex-layer model by introducing fluid-dynamical viewpoint, particularly vortex sound theory on acoustic energy generation and dissipation. Generally, the discrete-vortex model is well applied to thick jets, while the jet-drive model and the vortex-layer model are valid to thin jets used in most flue instruments. The acoustically induced vortex (acoustic vortex) is observed near the amplitude saturation with the aid of flow visualization and is regarded as the final sound dissipation agent. On the other hand, vortex layers consisting of very small vortices along both sides of the jet are visualized by the phase-locked PIV and considered to generate the acceleration unbalance between both vortex layers that induces the jet wavy motion coupled with the pipe resonance. Vortices from the jet visualized by direct numerical simulations are briefly discussed.
Tigecycline Versus Colistin in the Treatment of Carbapenem-resistant Acinetobacter baumannii Complex Osteomyelitis
Authors: Oliveira Priscila R. , Carvalho Vladimir C. , Saconi Eduardo S. , Leonhardt Marcos C. , Kojima Kodi E. , Santos Jorge S. , Rossi Flavia , L.M. Ana Lucia
Published: February 2020

Abstract. Background: Acinetobacter baumannii complex is an increasingly important cause of osteomyelitis. It is considered a difficult to treat agent, due to increasing antimicrobial resistance and few available therapeutic options.Objective: To compare effectiveness and tolerability of tigecycline and colistin in patients with osteomyelitis caused by carbapenem-resistant A. baumannii complex (CRABC).Methods: This retrospective review included all patients admitted to a 150-bed tertiary hospital from 2007 to 2015 with microbiologically confirmed CRABC osteomyelitis for which they received tigecycline or colistin. Data on demographic and clinical characteristics, adverse events, and outcomes 12 months after the end of antimicrobial treatment were analysed and stratified according to the antimicrobial used.Results: 65 patients were included, 34 treated with colistin and 31 with tigecycline. There were significantly more men (P = 0.028) in the colistin group, and more smokers (P = 0.021) and greater occurrence of chronic osteomyelitis (P = 0.036) in the tigecycline treatment group. Median duration of therapy was 42.5 days for colistin and 42 days for tigecycline, with no significant difference. Overall incidence of adverse events was higher in the colistin group (P = 0.047). In particular, incidence of renal impairment was also higher in this group (P = 0.003). Nausea and vomiting were more frequent with tigecycline (P = 0.046). There were no significant differences between groups in relapse, amputation, or death.Conclusions: Tigecycline had a better safety profile than colistin in the treatment of osteomyelitis due to CRABC, with no significant difference in outcomes after 12 months of follow-up.
La revolución de nuestro tiempo
Authors: Serna Alonso Justo
Published: February 2020

Presentación del número y reflexión sobre los textos.
Sigmund Freud como síntoma
Authors: Serna Alonso Justo
Published: February 2020

En este artículo, el autor repasa la obra de Sigmund Freud. Desde un punto de vista histórico. ¿Qué es el pasado? ¿Qué es un archivo? Sigmund Freud desarrolló un método para investigar el pasado y la memoria del pasado, para investigar lo sucedido y la memoria de lo sucedido. ¿El trabajo de Sigmund Freud tiene algún interés para los historiadores?
Epílogo. ¿Cómo funciona el mundo?
Authors: Serna Alonso Justo
Published: February 2020

Balance y reflexión final sobre los artículos publicados en el número.
Factor Path of Constraints to Adaptive Capacity on Climate Change among IFAD-VCDP Farmers in North Central Nigeria
Authors: Sallawu H. , Nmadu J. N. , Coker A. A. A. , Mohammed U. S.
Published: February 2020

Aim: Adaptive capacity is the ability of the farmer to adjust his farm plans and programmes in the face of emerging risks, constraints and currently available information. In this study, the various constraints faced by International Fund for Agricultural Development-Value Chain Development Programme’s farmers (IFAD-VCDP) in North Central Nigeria in adapting to climate change challenges were investigated.

Study Design: A multi-stage sampling technique was employed in the selection of respondents.

Place and Duration of Study: The study was conducted in Benue and Niger States of Nigeria in 2018.

Methodology: Data were collected from a total of 483 respondents using interview schedule and questionnaire. The data were analysed using exploratory (principal component analysis) and confirmatory (structural equation modelling) factor analysis.

Results: The results of the analysis revealed the significant constraints the farmers faced in order to improve their adaptive capacity to climate change which were institutional and technical (49.45%) and climate information (26.62%) constraints, although the factors differ slightly within the two states under study. In Benue State, institutional (31.26%), personal (14.63%), land and farm inputs (12.54%) and population (11.73%) while in Niger State, public and institutional (22.34%), land and farm inputs (14.78%), and personal (10.75) were the constraints to adaptive capacity.

Conclusion: These constraints make it harder to plan and implement adaptation actions by restricting the variety and effectiveness of options available to the farmers to improve their productivity and cope with the vagaries of climate change. It was therefore recommended that government and NGOs should intensify efforts on public, institutional, educational and climate policies, assist in increasing the adaptive capacity of the farmers in order to employ more adaptation measures, land governance systems should be strengthened in Nigeria to provide tenure security for all, financial institutions should help facilitate access to credit by farmers and assist in making reliable climate information accessible to all farmers.
PELATIHAN DAN PENGEMBANGAN KARIR SERTA PENGARUHNYA TERHADAP PENINGKATAN KINERJA KARYAWAN THE ST. REGIS BALI RESORT
Authors: Teja Vania Yuswanto , Oktavio Adrie
Published: February 2020

Di organisasi manapun tidak terkecuali di industri perhotelan, karyawan merupakan aset yang sangat berharga dan seringkali menjadi faktor kunci keberhasilan organisasi. Dengan demikian, setiap organisasi sudah selayaknya menginvestasikan waktu dan sumber daya yang memadai untuk meningkatkan kualitas dan kinerja tenaga kerjanya. Salah satu cara yang cukup efektif untuk memperbaiki kualitas SDM adalah melalui pelatihan. Pelatihan dipandang mampu meningkatkan pengetahuan, keterampilan dan kemampuan karyawan sehingga menjadi lebih mahir. The St. Regis Bali Resort sudah memiliki program-program pelatihan bagi karyawan namun hasil dari pelatihan tersebut jarang sekali untuk dievaluasi ketika karyawan menerapkannya dalam pekerjaan sehingga belum diketahui secara pasti efektifitas dari pelatihan tersebut. Di samping pelatihan, perancangan pengembangan karir juga cukup penting untuk menstimulasi karyawan agar semakin berprestasi dan pada akhirnya juga dapat meningkatkan kinerja karyawan. Penelitian ini berusaha untuk mengamati sejauhmana pengaruh pelatihan dan pengembangan karir dalam meningkatkan kinerja karyawan di salah satu hotel resort bintang lima di Bali. Kuesioner penelitian dirancang menggunakan pernyataan-pernyatan terstruktur dengan tujuan mendapatkan gambaran data persepsi karyawan terhadap variabel-variabel yang diamati dalam penelitian ini. Hasilnya menunjukkan bahwa pelatihan dan pengembangan karir memiliki pengaruh yang positif dan signifikan terhadap kinerja karyawan.
A Size‐Changeable Collagenase‐Modified Nanoscavenger for Increasing Penetration and Retention of Nanomedicine in Deep Tumor Tissue
Authors: Xu Funeng , Huang Xuehui , Wang Yi , Zhou Shaobing
Published: February 2020

The complex tumor microenvironment constitutes a variety of barriers to prevent nanoparticles (NPs) delivery and results in extremely low accumulation of nanomedicines in solid tumors. Here, a newly developed size‐changeable collagenase‐modified polymer micelle is employed to enhance the penetration and retention of nanomedicine in deep tumor tissue. The TCPPB micelle is first formed by self‐assembly of maleimide‐terminated poly(ethylene glycol)‐block‐poly(β‐amino ester) (MAL‐PEG‐PBAE) and succinic anhydride‐modified cisplatin‐conjugated poly(ε‐caprolactone)‐block‐poly(ethylene oxide)‐triphenylphosphonium (CDDP‐PCL‐PEO‐TPP). Next, Col‐TCPPB NPs are prepared through a “click” chemical combination of thiolated collagenase and maleimide groups on TCPPB micelle. Finally, biocompatible chondroitin sulfate (CS) is coated to obtain CS/Col‐TCPPB NPs for avoiding collagenase inactivation in blood circulation. In tumor acidic microenvironment, the hydrophobic PBAE segments of the resultant micelles become hydrophilic, leading to a dissociation and subsequent dissolution of partial collagenase‐containing components (Col‐PEG‐PBAE) from NPs. The dissolved Col‐PEG‐PBAE promotes the digestion of collagen fibers in tumor tissue like a scavenger, which enhances the NPs penetration. Simultaneously, the increased hydrophilicity of residual Col‐PEG‐PBAE in the micellar matrix causes an expansion of the NPs, resulting in an enhanced intratumoral retention. In tumor cells, the NPs target to release the cisplatin drugs into mitochondria, achieving an excellent anticancer efficacy.
Nested Inverse Opal Perovskite toward Superior Flexible and Self‐Powered Photodetection Performance
Authors: Tian Wei , Min Liangliang , Cao Fengren , Li Liang
Published: February 2020

Flexible and self‐powered perovskite photodetectors have attracted tremendous research interests due to their applications in wearable and portable devices. However, the conventional planar structured photodetectors are always accompanied with limited device performance and undesired mechanical stability. Herein, a nested inverse opal (NIO) structured perovskite photodetector via a facile template‐assisted spin‐coating method is reported. The coupling effect of enhanced light capture, increased carrier transport, and improved perovskite film quality enables NIO device to exhibit superior photoresponse performance. The NIO photodetector exhibits a high responsivity of 473 mA W−1 and detectivity up to 1.35 × 1013 Jones at 720 nm without external bias. The NIO structure can efficiently release mechanical stress during the bending process and the photocurrent has no degradation even after 500 cycles of bending. Moreover, the unencapsulated NIO device can operate for over 16 d under ambient conditions, presenting a significantly enhanced environmental stability compared to the planar device. This work demonstrates that deliberate structural design is an effective avenue for constructing self‐powered, flexible, and stable optoelectronic devices.
Reactions of NHC‐Boranes with Dibenzoyl Peroxide and Benzoic Acid
Authors: Bolt Daniel A. , Curran Dennis P.
Published: February 2020

NHC‐boranes (NHC−BH3) react slowly under thermal conditions with dibenzoyl peroxide to make mixtures of NHC‐boryl mono‐ and dibenzoates [NHC−BH2OBz and NHC−BH(OBz)2]. Reactions are much faster under radical conditions with AIBN of TBHN as initiators. The TBHN method is especially good to make the dibenzoate. These observations led directly to the discovery that NHC‐boranes also react with benzoic acid and related carboxylic acids under radical (but not thermal) conditions. Chain mechanisms for reactions with both reagents are suggested in which the key step is addition of an NHC‐boryl radical to the carbonyl oxygen of either the peroxide or the acid.

magnified image
Multi‐Scale Investigations of δ‐Ni0.25V2O5·nH2O Cathode Materials in Aqueous Zinc‐Ion Batteries
Authors: Li Jianwei , McColl Kit , Lu Xuekun , Sathasivam Sanjayan , Dong Haobo , Kang Liqun , Li Zhuangnan , Zhao Siyu , Kafizas Andreas G. , Wang Ryan , Brett Dan J. L. , Shearing Paul R. , Corà Furio , He Guanjie , Carmalt Claire J. , Parkin Ivan P.
Published: February 2020

Cost‐effective and environment‐friendly aqueous zinc‐ion batteries (AZIBs) exhibit tremendous potential for application in grid‐scale energy storage systems but are limited by suitable cathode materials. Hydrated vanadium bronzes have gained significant attention for AZIBs and can be produced with a range of different pre‐intercalated ions, allowing their properties to be optimized. However, gaining a detailed understanding of the energy storage mechanisms within these cathode materials remains a great challenge due to their complex crystallographic frameworks, limiting rational design from the perspective of enhanced Zn2+ diffusion over multiple length scales. Herein, a new class of hydrated porous δ‐Ni0.25V2O5.nH2O nanoribbons for use as an AZIB cathode is reported. The cathode delivers reversibility showing 402 mAh g−1 at 0.2 A g−1 and a capacity retention of 98% over 1200 cycles at 5 A g−1. A detailed investigation using experimental and computational approaches reveal that the host “δ” vanadate lattice has favorable Zn2+ diffusion properties, arising from the atomic‐level structure of the well‐defined lattice channels. Furthermore, the microstructure of the as‐prepared cathodes is examined using multi‐length scale X‐ray computed tomography for the first time in AZIBs and the effective diffusion coefficient is obtained by image‐based modeling, illustrating favorable porosity and satisfactory tortuosity.
Industrial system prioritization using the sustainability‐interval‐index conceptual framework with life‐cycle considerations
Authors: Ren Jingzheng , Ren Xusheng , Shen Weifeng , Man Yi , Lin Ruojue , Liu Yue , He Chang , Manzardo Alessandro , Toniolo Sara , Dong Lichun
Published: February 2020

This study aims to develop a sustainability‐interval‐index (SII) conceptual framework with life‐cycle considerations which can incorporate the opinions/preferences of multiple stakeholders in the complex decision‐making processes and address the decision‐making matrix composed by multiple types of data for multiactor life cycle ranking of industrial systems. The multiactor fuzzy best‐worst method which allows multiple groups of stakeholders to use fuzzy numbers to express their opinions and preferences was developed for determining the weights of the indicators in life cycle sustainability assessment. A multicriteria decision‐making method under hybrid information was developed for addressing the decision‐making matrix composed by multiple types of data. Five hydrogen production pathways were studied, and the results reveal that the developed SII is feasible for sustainability ranking of industrial systems in life cycle perspective.
Aspirin‐exacerbated respiratory disease: longitudinal assessment of a large cohort and implications of diagnostic delay
Authors: Kshirsagar Rijul S. , Chou David W. , Wei Julia , Liang Jonathan
Published: February 2020

Background

Aspirin‐exacerbated respiratory disease (AERD) refers to the combination of asthma, chronic rhinosinusitis with nasal polyposis (CRSwNP), and acute respiratory tract reactions to ingestion of aspirin and nonsteroidal anti‐inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). There have been no in the literature investigating diagnostic delay in AERD. We aimed to investigate whether delay of diagnosis of AERD is associated with poorer clinical outcomes as well as to characterize the role of specialty evaluation in diagnosis.

Methods

We conducted a retrospective observational study of 254 subjects with incident AERD diagnoses between 2009 and 2016 among Kaiser Permanente Northern California (KPNC) members. Descriptive and bivariate statistics were employed to analyze clinical characteristics and outcomes of AERD subjects with and without delay in diagnosis (defined as 1 year or greater from symptom onset to diagnosis).

Results

Of the 254 patients in the AERD cohort, 24.4% had a delayed diagnosis. Patients with allergies were significantly less likely to have a delay in diagnosis (p < 0.01). Patients with a delay in diagnosis were more likely to have 2 or more courses of systemic steroids (p = 0.04). Allergists, otolaryngologists, and primary care physicians diagnosed 56%, 36%, and 8% of patients, respectively. There was no association between provider specialty at time of diagnosis and delay in diagnosis (p = 0.22).

Conclusion

A substantial proportion of AERD patients have a diagnostic delay. Patients with allergies have a lower risk for this delay. This study is the first to describe diagnostic delay in AERD patients.
High prevalence of human papillomavirus infection in sinonasal inverted papilloma: a single‐institution cohort of patients
Authors: Frasson Giuliana , Cesaro Sonia , Cazzador Diego , Traverso Giulia , Emanuelli Enzo , Borsetto Daniele , Munari Giada , Salmaso Roberta , Martini Alessandro , Boscolo‐Rizzo Paolo , Rugge Massimo
Published: February 2020

Background

Both the prevalence of sinonasal inverted papilloma (IP) and the causal association with alpha‐human papillomaviruses (alpha‐HPVs) are controversial. In this study we aimed to determine HPV status in histologically selected, microdissected, formalin‐fixed, and paraffin‐embedded tissue samples of IP.

Methods

HPV status was assessed retrospectively by polymerase chain reaction (PCR)‐bead‒based multiplex genotyping on tissue samples of patients diagnosed with IP and consecutively treated with endoscopic resection. Forty‐one HPV genotypes were considered, distinguishing between high risk and low risk. HPV status was correlated with demographics and clinical variables. Sixty sinonasal IP tissue samples were initially considered. After exclusion of 5 cases due to insufficient quality/quantity of the samples, 55 patients were included for analysis.

Results

HPV‐DNA sequences were identified in 34 of 55 (61.8%) IPs, with a higher prevalence of high‐risk than low‐risk HPV genotypes (19 [55.9%] and 15 cases [44.1%], respectively). HPV16 strongly prevailed among the high‐risk HPV cases (84.2%), and HPV54 prevailed among the low‐risk HPV cases (53.3%). IPs with origin within the maxillary sinus were significantly associated with high‐risk HPV (p = 0.019). No significant associations emerged between HPV status and demographics or clinical variables.

Conclusion

In a series of 55 IP tissue samples, HPV‐DNA sequences were identified in 61.8% of cases, which differs from the data of previous investigations. Further case‐control studies are advocated to confirm this prevalence in the Italian population addressed, and also to clarify any pathogenic involvement of HPV in the natural history of IPs.
Life cycle assessment of ethylene production from empty fruit bunch
Authors: Akmalina Rifkah , Pawitra Mayang Gitta
Published: February 2020

Empty fruit bunch (EFB), as the abundant residue of palm oil processing in Indonesia, is potential lignocellulosic biomass that can be converted into ethylene. The use of lignocellulosic biomass as feedstock may overcome the problem of fossil‐sources depletion in the long term. The Aspen Plus was employed to simulate the entire process of ethylene production. The environmental impact of the process was further evaluated through life cycle assessment (LCA) method in which the global warming potential, acidification, eutrophication, ozone depletion, and photochemical oxidant creation were considered. A cradle‐to‐gate LCA study of ethylene production from EFB revealed that global warming potential (GWP) had the largest impact to the environment with the value of 1.15 kg CO2 eq/kg ethylene. Utilizing biomass as the raw material for producing ethylene showed a lower impact of global warming compared with the fossil based. The presence of biogenic carbon and lignin content in lignocellulosic biomass may potentially reduce environmental burden. Taking lignin into account as a credited product in this study resulted in a considerable reduction on greenhouse gas (GHG) emission by 83.9%, while the sequestration of CO2 provided insignificant effect to offset GHG emission.
Physical filtration efficiency analysis of a polyaniline hybrid composite filter with graphite oxide for particulate matter 2.5
Authors: Park Charlotte , Johnston Anthonie S. , Kweon Hyukmin
Published: February 2020

Particulate matter (PM) 2.5 pollution is a prevalent environmental and public health issue that has raised serious global concerns. Because standard heating, ventilation, and air conditioning filters are incapable of filtering out PM 2.5 particles efficiently, different methods of PM 2.5 filtration, such as physical filtration and electrostatic filtration, are under investigation to develop a filter with a high filtration efficiency and a low pressure drop. According to various studies, pressure drop has a significant influence on the filtration efficiency. An equation for the theoretical trend was generated based on the composite data gathered from similar filtration studies and was used to evaluate the relationship between pressure drop and filtration efficiency. Here, the theoretical equation indicated that the filtration efficiency increased as the pressure drop on a filter increased until 0.01 psi where the efficiency remained near constant at approximately 99.9%. In this study, we introduce a graphite oxide (GO) and polyaniline (PANi) composite hybrid filter in order to create a low‐pressure (1.2 psi) drop filter. By adding GO flakes to the PANi matrix, we not only produced a highly permeable filter while allowing continuous gas flow, but also achieved a remarkable and highly effective PM 2.5 filter with a filtration efficiency of 99.7 ± 0.08%.
Generalized discrete autoregressive moving‐average models
Authors: Möller Tobias A. , Weiß Christian H.
Published: February 2020

This article proposes the generalized discrete autoregressive moving‐average (GDARMA) model as a parsimonious and universally applicable approach for stationary univariate or multivariate time series. The GDARMA model can be applied to any type of quantitative time series. It allows to compute moment properties in a unique way, and it exhibits the autocorrelation structure of the traditional ARMA model. This great flexibility is obtained by using data‐specific variation operators, which is illustrated for the most common types of time series data, such as counts, integers, reals, and compositional data. The practical potential of the GDARMA approach is demonstrated by considering a time series of integers regarding votes for a change of the interest rate, and a time series of compositional data regarding television market shares.
CCD UBV(RI)KC photometry of the open clusters Juchert 9 and Berkeley 97
Authors: Oralhan İnci Akkaya , Michel Raúl , Karsli Yonca , Çakmak Hikmet , Sung Hwankyung , Karataş Yüksel
Published: February 2020

The CCD UBV(RI)KC photometry of the poorly studied open clusters Juchert 9 (Juc 9) and Berkeley 97 (Be 97), which are observed with the 0.84 m telescope at the San Pedro Mártir National Observatory, México has been analyzed. For the likely cluster members, we determined the reddenings, E(B‐V) = 0.82 ± 0.04 (Juc 9) and E(B‐V) = 0.87 ± 0.05 (Be 97), from the early type stars. Our distance moduli/distances for only (B − V) color are (V0‐MV, d[kpc]) = (13.40 ± 0.10, 4.8 ± 0.2 kpc) (Juc 9) and (12.40 ± 0.12, 3.0 ± 0.2 kpc) (Be 97), respectively. The Gaia DR2 distances are d = 4.5 ± 1.2 kpc (Juc 9) and d = 3.1 ± 0.7 kpc (Be 97) from the median parallaxes with σϖ/ϖ < 0.20, which are in good agreement with the photometric distances within the uncertainties. The solar abundance PARSEC isochrones give us the intermediate ages, 30 ± 10 Myr for Juc 9 and 100 ± 30 Myr for Be 97.
Constraints Shape Cell Function and Morphology by Canalizing the Developmental Path along the Waddington's Landscape
Authors: Bizzarri Mariano , Giuliani Alessandro , Minini Mirko , Monti Noemi , Cucina Alessandra
Published: February 2020

Studies performed in absence of gravitational constraint show that a living system is unable to choose between two different phenotypes, thus leading cells to segregate into different, alternative stable states. This finding demonstrates that the genotype does not determine by itself the phenotype but requires additional, physical constraints to finalize cell differentiation. Constraints belong to two classes: holonomic (independent of the system's dynamical states, as being established by the space‐time geometry of the field) and non‐holonomic (modified during those biological processes to which they contribute in shaping). This latter kind of “constraints”, in which dynamics works on the constraint to recreate them, have emerged as critical determinants of self‐organizing systems, by manifesting a “closure of constraints.” Overall, the constraints act by harnessing the “randomness” represented by the simultaneous presence of equiprobable events restraining the system within one attractor. These results cast doubt on the mainstream scientific concept and call for a better understanding of causation in cell biology.
Effective use of oral tofacitinib and phototherapy in a patient with concomitant alopecia areata, vitiligo, and plaque and inverse psoriasis
Authors: Tajalli Mahroo , Kabir Soodeh , Vance Terrence M. , Qureshi Abrar A.
Published: February 2020

This case presentation suggests that tofacitinib combined with phototherapy may be an effective treatment option for patients with concomitant alopecia areata, vitiligo, and different phenotypes of psoriasis including plaque and inverse psoriasis.
A Thermodynamic Approach for Selection of Anodizing Electrolytes in Aluminium–Holmium System
Authors: Shahzad Khurram , Mardare Cezarina Cela , Ionut Mardare Andrei , Hassel Achim Walter
Published: February 2020

Invited for this month's cover picture is the group of Achim Walter Hassel from Johannes Kepler University Linz (Austria). The cover picture shows the strategy involved in electrolyte selection for anodizing the Al–Ho system, based on combinatorial library screening by using scanning droplet cell microscopy. Read the full text of the Article at 10.1002/celc.201901634.
Does it pay to be an honest entrepreneur? Addressing the relationship between sustainable development and bankruptcy risk
Authors: Pizzi Simone , Caputo Fabio , Venturelli Andrea
Published: February 2020

Firms' financial stability represents one of the most important aspects for entrepreneurs. In recent years, the European Commission have started to provide new recommendations for the Member States in order to sustain the “honest entrepreneurs” in their activities through new specific regulations on firms' insolvency. Furthermore, the Member States have favored these processes through the introduction in their legal systems of new tools to sustain the voluntary adoption of more ethical business models. A typical example is represented by the Italian context where the regulator introduced a legality rating (LR) to reward entrepreneurs that voluntarily act ethically. In order to evaluate the effects connected to the LR voluntary adoption, we have analysed the relationship between its adoption and firms' Z‐Score through a panel data analysis on 296 firms during the period between 2012 and 2017. Our findings suggest that LR adopters have been characterized by a lower degree of bankruptcy risk.
The rationale for subsidiarity as a principle applied within curriculum reform and its unintended consequences
Authors: Newton Nigel
Published: February 2020

Following trends across the developed world to devolve power and responsibility for public services to more local agencies, curriculum reforms in several countries have been characterised by policies designed to increase teacher agency and professionalism as a means of achieving successful change. In Wales, this approach has been promoted through adoption of a principle of subsidiarity. Four interconnected reasons are presented for its use within the development of a new curriculum. These can be summarised as follow: that it will encourage teacher professionalism; stimulate improvements in teaching; enhance the responsiveness of schools to local and national needs; lead to increased confidence in the reforms. This paper explores the extent to which these four justifications are reflected in teachers' experiences of curriculum development in schools involved in leading the reform process. Drawing on data from 10 in‐depth semi‐structured interviews with teachers and a survey of over 600 teachers, data reveal that although the principle of subsidiarity is broadly welcomed, whether or not its application fulfils the justification criteria presented is far from clear. Questions about the application of a subsidiarity principle in relation to curriculum reform are discussed.
Investigating the New Zealand policy response to methamphetamine‐contaminated houses
Authors: Sanchez Lozano Claudia Denisse , Wilkins Chris , Rychert Marta
Published: February 2020

The contamination of houses from clandestine methamphetamine manufacture emerged as an issue in New Zealand in the early 2000s. This perspective reviews and discusses the series of policies developed to address methamphetamine contamination in New Zealand houses over a 15‐year period, ending with the reversal of the established policy approach in 2018. The policies addressing methamphetamine contamination of New Zealand properties were influenced by a range of sources including overseas scientific guidelines, local scientific reviews, public housing agency policies, and the local methamphetamine testing industry. A post‐remediation methamphetamine level of 0.5 μg/100 cm2 was initially implemented in 2010, leading to the termination of public housing tenancies, suspensions from the public housing list, and financial charges for decontamination on public housing tenants. Subsequent reviews of the policy led to some increase in the thresholds (up to 1.5–3.8 μg/100 cm2) and the adoption of less punitive sanction processes. A scientific review in 2018 recommended a substantial threshold increase to 15 μg/100 cm2 (a 30‐fold increase on the 2010 standard), resulting in HNZ initiating a plan to compensate previously sanctioned tenants. Overreliance on the “precautionary principle”; strict interpretation of scientific guidelines; and the public housing agency's “zero tolerance approach” to drug use, contributed to an overly punitive policy approach to methamphetamine contamination in New Zealand that negatively impacted vulnerable public housing tenants, landlords, and property owners. Investigation into the extent that all possible influences had on the development of the policies, as well as the consequences of their implementation, should be undertaken.
Reductive Amination Routes in the Synthesis of Piperidine IminoSugars
Authors: Clemente Francesca , Matassini Camilla , Cardona Francesca
Published: February 2020

The reductive amination (RA) reaction plays a pivotal role in the synthesis of new C–N bonds, due to the availability of many different and low‐cost reagents and their operational simplicity. The introduction in a compound of a nitrogen‐containing moiety that can be reduced to an amine in the reaction medium allows to perform cascade reactions which further expand this method. The application of the intramolecular version of the RA to carbohydrates allows the synthesis of polyhydroxypiperidine iminosugars, which are among the most challenging and fascinating glycomimetics for a synthetic chemist. This minireview focuses on the use of RA and of the double reductive amination (DRA) reaction in the key ring‐closing step en route to the synthesis of these compounds.
Iron‐Catalyzed Regioselective Synthesis of 2‐Arylbenzoxazoles and 2‐Arylbenzothiazoles via Alternative Reaction Pathways
Authors: Henry Martyn C. , Abbinante Vincenzo Mirco , Sutherland Andrew
Published: February 2020

A one‐pot regioselective method for the preparation of 2‐arylbenzoxazoles from N‐arylbenzamides has been developed using iron(III)‐catalyzed bromination of the aryl ring, followed by copper(I)‐catalyzed O‐cyclization with the benzamide side chain. In contrast, reaction of N‐arylthiobenzamides with N‐bromosuccinimide and iron triflimide led directly to the isolation of the corresponding 2‐arylbenzothiazoles via intramolecular C–S bond formation. Mechanistic and control experiments suggest that in this case, bromination occurs at the sulfur atom, resulting in a reactive intermediate that can undergo electrophilic aromatic substitution and S‐cyclization. The scope of both processes was explored yielding a range of structural analogues, including a pharmaceutically active compound for the treatment of Duchenne muscular dystrophy and an affinity agent of the amyloid‐beta protein in Alzheimer's disease.
Removal of Cu(II) ions using bio‐adsorbents in fixed—Bed continuous bed mode—A comparative study and scale‐up design
Authors: Mitra Tania , Das Sudip Kumar
Published: February 2020

The study presents the removal of Cu(II) ions using bio‐adsorbents. The applicability of the continuous column process using hyacinth root, rice husk, blackberry leaves, and guava leaves is reported in this study. The effects of solution pH were studied in batch mode, and other different process parameters such as bed depth, rate of flow, influent solution concentration were investigated and optimized in the continuous mode. The breakthrough curves were obtained for various initial metal concentrations (10, 20, and 30 mg.L−1), flow rates (10, 30, and 40 ml.min−1), and bed height (4, 6, and 10 cm). The optimum operating conditions were 10 cm bed depth, 10 ml.min−1 flow rate, 10 mg.L−1 influent concentration, and pH 6. The breakthrough time was increased with increasing bed height and decreasing flow rate and influent concentration. The Freundlich isotherm model was in good agreement (R2 = .9247–.9987) with the batch experimental data whereas, the continuous experimental data fitted well in the Thomas model to illustrate the best performance of the fixed‐bed process. FTIR spectra and SEM images verify the sorption capacity of the adsorbents. The Cu(II) adsorption capacities of the adsorbents were compared, and the hyacinth root gives the best result compare to the others. Hence, the results proved the effectiveness of the adsorbents for the removal of Cu(II) ions.
Freeze‐dried, oven‐dried, and microencapsulation of essential oil from Allium sativum as potential preservative agents of minced meat
Authors: Najjaa Hanen , Chekki Raja , Elfalleh Walid , Tlili Hajer , Jaballah Sana , Bouzouita Nabiha
Published: February 2020

The present study was conducted to compare the antibacterial activity of oven‐dried and freeze‐dried Allium sativum along with its spray‐dried microencapsulated essential oil in the preservation of minced beef meat. Allium sativum extracts were tested against mesophilic aerobic microorganisms, coagulase‐positive staphylococci, Escherichia coli, Salmonella sp., and the sulfite‐reducing anaerobes. A difference between the chemical compositions of powders obtained by the conventional oven‐drying and freeze‐drying has been verified by HPLC‐MS2, freeze‐dried fresh garlic powder contains 74% of allicin, and 12% cysteine sulfoxides comparing to the oven‐drying garlic powder in which is detected two thiosulfinate isomers: allicin (67%) and allyl‐1‐propenyl thiosulfinate (21%). CIELAB color analysis was performed to assess the effect of drying temperature on powders. The microflora‐inhibiting effect of freeze‐dried fresh garlic and the spray‐dried microencapsulated essential oil at a concentration of 20% represents a promising way to be used in food systems such as meat and meat products preservation, at 4–8°C.
Communication and understanding of mild cognitive impairment diagnoses
Authors: Dooley Jemima , Bailey Cate , Xanthopoulou Penny , Bass Nick , McCabe Rose
Published: February 2020

Background

Communication of mild cognitive impairment (MCI) diagnoses is challenging due to its heterogeneity and unclear prognosis.

Aim

To identify how MCI is communicated and to explore the relationship with patient and companion understanding.

Method

Conversation analysis identified whether MCI was named and explained in 43 video recorded diagnosis feedback meetings. Afterward, patients and companions were asked to name the diagnosis to assess understanding.

Results

Mild cognitive impairment was not named in 21% meetings. Symptoms were explained as (a) a result of vascular conditions (49%), (b) a stage between normal ageing and dementia (30%), or (c) caused by psychological factors (21%). Fifty‐four percentage of prognosis discussions included mention of dementia. There was no association between symptom explanations and whether prognosis discussions included dementia. Fifty‐seven percentage patients and 37% companions reported not having or not knowing their diagnosis after the meeting. They were more likely to report MCI when prognosis discussions included dementia.

Conclusions

Doctors offer three different explanations of MCI to patients. The increased risk of dementia was not discussed in half the diagnostic feedback meetings. This is likely to reflect the heterogeneity in the definition, cause and likely prognosis of MCI presentations. Clearer and more consistent communication, particularly about the increased risk of dementia, may increase patient understanding and enable lifestyle changes to prevent some people progressing to dementia.
Enhancing breast pectoral muscle segmentation performance by using skip connections in fully convolutional network
Authors: Ali Muhammad Junaid , Raza Basit , Shahid Ahmad Raza , Mahmood Fahad , Yousuf Muhammad Adil , Dar Amir Hanif , Iqbal Uzair
Published: February 2020

The precise detection and segmentation of pectoral muscle areas in mediolateral oblique (MLO) views is an essential step in the development of a computer‐aided diagnosis system to access breast malignant lesions or parenchyma. The goal of this article is to develop a robust and fully automatic algorithm for pectoral muscle segmentation from mammography images. This paper presents an image enhancement approach that improves the quality of mammogram scans and a convolutional neural network‐based fully convolutional network architecture enhanced with residual connections for automatic segmentation of the pectoral muscle from the MLO views of a digital mammogram. For this purpose, the model is tested and trained on three different mammogram datasets named MIAS, INBREAST, and DDSM. The ground truth labels of the pectoral muscle were identified under the supervision of experienced radiologists. For training and testing, 10‐fold cross‐validation was used. The proposed model was compared with baseline U‐Net‐based architecture. Finally, we used a postprocessing step to find the actual boundary of the pectoral muscle. Our presented architecture generated a mean Intersection over Union (IoU) of 97%, dice similarity coefficient (DSC) of 96% and 98% accuracy on testing data. The proposed architecture for pectoral muscle segmentation from the MLO views of mammogram images with high accuracy and dice score can be quickly merged with the breast tumor segmentation problem.
Synthesis and fluorescent properties of some Furan‐tagged Thieno[2,3‐d]pyrimidines and Thieno[2,3‐d:4,5‐d']dipyrimidines
Authors: Abdel Hamid Atef M. , Hamed Eman O.
Published: February 2020

Intermolecular cyclization of pyrimidinethiol 1 with ethyl chloroacetate and chloroacetonitrile furnished thieno[2,3‐d]pyrimidines 2a,b. Hydrazinolysis of o‐aminoester 2a gave acid hydrazide 3, which was cyclized with various electrophilic reagents including formic acid, triethyl orthoformate, acetic anhydride, p‐chlorobenzaldehyde then triethyl orthoformate, carbon disulfide, and acetylacetone affording thienopyrimidine derivatives 4 to 10. Another thienopyrimidine series could be obtained via treatment of o‐aminocarbonitrile 2b with a variety of reagents giving derivatives 11 to 17. The fluorescent measurements for a group of the synthesized compounds at room temperature demonstrated high fluorescent properties.
Emotional Processing of Imaginal Exposures Predicts Symptom Improvement: Therapist Ratings Can Assess Trajectory in Prolonged Exposure for Posttraumatic Stress Disorder
Authors: Cox Keith S. , Wangelin Bethany C. , Keller Stephanie M. , Lozano Brian E. , Murphy Mark M. , Maher Edward K. , Cobb Adam R. , Tuerk Peter W.
Published: February 2020

Research on mechanisms of change in prolonged exposure therapy (PE), an evidence‐based treatment for posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD), is ongoing. Two putative mechanisms of change are engagement during imaginal exposure and trauma‐related belief change. The PE Therapist Questionnaire (PETQ), a novel measure based on the emotional processing theory underlying PE, was developed as a practical tool for therapists to use to assess (a) patient engagement during imaginal exposures and (b) perspective shifts during postimaginal processing. Patients (N = 151) at a U.S. Veterans Affairs medical center PTSD specialty clinic completed self‐report measures of PTSD and depression symptoms prior to sessions. Study therapists (n = 17) completed the PETQ postsession. Rational construction and psychometric analyses suggested a two‐component solution for the PETQ: imaginal and processing. The imaginal factor did not relate to PTSD and depression symptoms. The processing factor correlated with current and next‐session PTSD and depression symptoms, with medium effect sizes, rs = −.41 to −.45, ps < .001. Controlling for current‐session PTSD and depression, a higher level of processing predicted lower next‐session PTSD severity, with a small effect size, β = −.38, p < .04. Postexposure emotional processing, which supports positive changes in maladaptive trauma‐related beliefs and tolerance of emotional distress, predicted future symptom improvement, highlighting the importance of processing components in PE. Further, the use of therapist observations may offer ancillary methods less influenced by correlation of within‐patient subjective ratings and concomitant risk of construct overlap in mechanisms research.
A Cerberus‐Inspired Anti‐Infective Multicomponent Gatekeeper Hydrogel against Infections with the Emerging “Superbug” Yeast Candida auris
Authors: Kubiczek Dennis , Flaig Carolin , Raber Heinz , Dietz Steffen , Kissmann Ann‐Kathrin , Heerde Thomas , Bodenberger Nicholas , Wittgens Andreas , González‐Garcia Melaine , Kang Fan , Franco Octavio L. , Staendker Ludger , Otero‐González Anselmo J. , Walther Paul , Gottschalk Kay E. , Weil Tanja , Rosenau Frank
Published: February 2020

The pathogenic yeast Candida auris has received increasing attention due to its ability to cause fatal infections, its resistance toward important fungicides, and its ability to persist on surfaces including medical devices in hospitals. To brace health care systems for this considerable risk, alternative therapeutic approaches such as antifungal peptides are urgently needed. In clinical wound care, a significant focus has been directed toward novel surgical (wound) dressings as first defense lines against C. auris. Inspired by Cerberus the Greek mythological “hound of Hades” that prevents the living from entering and the dead from leaving hell, the preparation of a gatekeeper hybrid hydrogel is reported featuring lectin‐mediated high‐affinity immobilization of C. auris cells from a collagen gel as a model substratum in combination with a release of an antifungal peptide drug to kill the trapped cells. The vision is an efficient and safe two‐layer medical composite hydrogel for the treatment of severe wound infections that typically occur in hospitals. Providing this new armament to the repertoire of possibilities for wound care in critical (intensive care) units may open new routes to shield and defend patients from infections and clinical facilities from spreading and invasion of C. auris and probably other fungal pathogens.
A continuation principle for Fredholm maps I: theory and basics
Authors: Pötzsche Christian , Skiba Robert
Published: February 2020

We prove an abstract and flexible continuation theorem for zeros of parametrized Fredholm maps between Banach spaces. It guarantees not only the existence of zeros to corresponding equations, but also that they form a continuum for parameters from a connected manifold. Our basic tools are transfer maps and a specific topological degree. The main result is tailor‐made to solve boundary value problems over infinite time‐intervals and for the (global) continuation of homoclinic solutions.
Exchange rate (USD/INR) pass‐through and wholesale price index: A flexible least square approach
Authors: Vadivel Arjunan , Veeramani Sivalingam , Raghutla Chandrashekar
Published: February 2020

The paper explores the exchange rate (USD/INR) pass‐through and the wholesale price index in India. Exchange rate pass‐through (ERPT) has a stimulated effect on the wholesale prices over the period of time. We use flexible least square approach to estimate time varying approach of ERPT and wholesale price, monthly data for the period from April 1994 to May 2019, find exchange rate over the period of time as well as change the wholesale price. It implies that the ERPT provides heterogeneity information that change the whole price index, even both export/import goods and services play a vital role in fluctuating on exchange rate and also change whole price in the domestic market.