bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Full‐field PIV/DIA and local concentration measurements of ozone decomposition in riser‐flow
Authors: Carlos Varas Alvaro E. , Peters E. A. J. F. , Kuipers J. A. M.
Published: December 2020

A full‐field PIV‐DIA technique has been coupled to concentration measurements in order to characterize the riser performance at different gas superficial velocities and reaction rates for ozone decomposition. Experiments under riser flow conditions were performed with the use of a compact pseudo‐2D lab‐scale riser reactor. The purpose of this work is to generate reliable experimental data to validate computational models for mass transfer in riser flow conditions. The catalytic activity of the particles was characterized. To analyze the reaction rate effect over the performance of a riser reactor, two catalyst batches with different activities were used and their kinetics were measured. The hydrodynamics of the gas‐solid flow was determined using the PIV‐DIA technique. Particle clusters were identified and characterized. By correlating the cluster information and mass concentration measurements, it was shown that a higher frequency of local flow heterogeneities near the walls led to higher conversion rates than in the core of the riser. Reaction rate and gas superficial effects are analyzed.
Mass transfer around a compound drop in an extensional flow
Authors: Favelukis Moshe
Published: December 2020

Mass transfer around a spherical compound drop in an extensional creeping flow and at large Peclet numbers is theoretically studied. The compound drop, embedded in an external fluid (fluid 1), is composed from a spherical inner drop (fluid 3), which is engulfed by a spherical fluid shell (fluid 2). The study is governed by four dimensionless parameters: two viscosity ratios, shell over external fluid (λ21) and internal drop over shell (λ32); the radii ratio, inner over outer (κ); and the large Peclet number (Pe). For very fast mobile interfaces, the rate of mass transfer is proportional to Pe1/2, it increases as λ21 or κ decrease, and in the limit of a very small internal drop (κ → 0) it reduces to the case of a single drop. For very slow mobile interfaces or immobile interfaces, the rate of mass transfer is proportional to Pe1/3, it increases as λ21 or κ increase, and in the limit of a very thin shell (κ → 1) it behaves like a single solid particle. For both interface speed cases, the effect of the other viscosity ratio (λ32) on the external mass transfer is practically negligible.
Blood‐based biomarkers of human papillomavirus–associated cancers: A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Balachandra Sanjana , Kusin Samuel B. , Lee Rebecca , Blackwell James‐Michael , Tiro Jasmin A. , Cowell Lindsay G. , Chiang Cheng‐Ming , Wu Shwu‐Yuan , Varma Sanskriti , Rivera Erika L. , Mayo Helen G. , Ding Lianghao , Sumer Baran D. , Lea Jayanthi S. , Bagrodia Aditya , Farkas Linda M. , Wang Richard , Fakhry Carole , Dahlstrom Kristina R. , Sturgis Erich M. , Day Andrew T.
Published: December 2020

Background

Despite the significant societal burden of human papillomavirus (HPV)–associated cancers, clinical screening interventions for HPV‐associated noncervical cancers are not available. Blood‐based biomarkers may help close this gap in care.

Methods

Five databases were searched, 5687 articles were identified, and 3631 unique candidate titles and abstracts were independently reviewed by 2 authors; 702 articles underwent a full‐text review. Eligibility criteria included the assessment of a blood‐based biomarker within a cohort or case‐control study.

Results

One hundred thirty‐seven studies were included. Among all biomarkers assessed, HPV‐16 E seropositivity and circulating HPV DNA were most significantly correlated with HPV‐associated cancers in comparison with cancer‐free controls. In most scenarios, HPV‐16 E6 seropositivity varied nonsignificantly according to tumor type, specimen collection timing, and anatomic site (crude odds ratio [cOR] for p16+ or HPV+ oropharyngeal cancer [OPC], 133.10; 95% confidence interval [CI], 59.40‐298.21; cOR for HPV‐unspecified OPC, 25.41; 95% CI, 8.71‐74.06; cOR for prediagnostic HPV‐unspecified OPC, 59.00; 95% CI, 15.39‐226.25; cOR for HPV‐unspecified cervical cancer, 12.05; 95% CI, 3.23‐44.97; cOR for HPV‐unspecified anal cancer, 73.60; 95% CI, 19.68‐275.33; cOR for HPV‐unspecified penile cancer, 16.25; 95% CI, 2.83‐93.48). Circulating HPV‐16 DNA was a valid biomarker for cervical cancer (cOR, 15.72; 95% CI, 3.41‐72.57). In 3 cervical cancer case‐control studies, cases exhibited unique microRNA expression profiles in comparison with controls. Other assessed biomarker candidates were not valid.

Conclusions

HPV‐16 E6 antibodies and circulating HPV‐16 DNA are the most robustly analyzed and most promising blood‐based biomarkers for HPV‐associated cancers to date. Comparative validity analyses are warranted. Variations in tumor type–specific, high‐risk HPV DNA prevalence according to anatomic site and world region highlight the need for biomarkers targeting more high‐risk HPV types. Further investigation of blood‐based microRNA expression profiling appears indicated.
Molecular profile of pancreatic neuroendocrine neoplasms (PanNENs): Opportunities for personalized therapies
Authors: Arakelyan Jemma , Zohrabyan Davit , Philip Philip A.
Published: December 2020

Pancreatic neuroendocrine neoplasms (panNENs) are the second most common epithelial tumors of the pancreas. Despite improvements in prognostic grading and staging systems, it remains a challenge to predict the clinical behavior of panNENs and the response to specific therapies given the high degree of heterogeneity of these tumors. Most panNENs are nonfunctional and present as advanced disease. However, systemic therapies provide modest benefits. Therefore, there is a need for predictive biomarkers to develop personalized treatment and to advance new drug development. The somatostatin receptors remain the only clinically established prognostic and predictive biomarkers in panNENs. Oncogenic drivers are at a very low frequency. Commonly mutated genes in panNENs include MEN1, chromatin remodeling genes (DAXX and ATRX), and mammalian target of rapamycin pathway genes. In contrast, poorly differentiated neuroendocrine carcinomas (panNECs), which carry a very poor prognosis, have distinctive mutations in certain genes (eg, RB1 and p53). Ongoing research to integrate epigenomics will provide tremendous opportunities to improve current understanding of the clinical heterogeneity of pancreatic neuroendocrine tumors and provide invaluable insight into the biology of these tumors, new drug development, and establishing personalized therapies.
What do these sounds tell us about the therapeutic alliance: Acoustic markers as predictors of alliance
Authors: Nof Aviv , Amir Ofer , Goldstein Pavel , Zilcha‐Mano Sigal
Published: December 2020

Predicting the trajectories of alliance formation that the patient is likely to establish with the therapist during treatment, even before their first meeting, can help prevent the potentially harmful consequences of deterioration in alliance, such as poor outcome and premature dropout. The present study aimed to examine the ability of four pretreatment acoustic markers to predict the alliance that is likely to be formed in the course of treatment: F0 span, speech rate, pause proportion and jitter. Data from 560 observations of 38 patients were collected as part of an ongoing randomized clinical trial of short‐term psychotherapy for major depressive disorder. The acoustic markers were measured using high‐quality recordings at baseline, before the patient and therapist ever met or had any type of communication. A multilevel model was used to examine the ability of the four acoustic markers to predict the slopes of alliance formation in the course of treatment, all markers being introduced in the same model. The clinical utility of the acoustic markers was explored in two case studies. The model explained 22% of the variance in alliance formation. Higher levels of both jitter and pause proportion at baseline predicted less strengthening of the alliance in the course of treatment. The findings, which should be replicated in larger samples, suggest that much of the therapeutic alliance can be predicted based on the acoustic characteristics of the patient's voice in the first 3 min of their intake, before they even meet their therapist.
How does greenwashing influence managers' decision‐making? An experimental approach under stakeholder view
Authors: Ferrón‐Vílchez Vera , Valero‐Gil Jesus , Suárez‐Perales Inés
Published: December 2020

Greenwashing is a communication practice that consists of the deliberate and voluntary disclosure of environmentally misleading (or even false) information by a firm and which the public understands to be deceptive. Although prior literature analyzes greenwashing effects from the greenwasher perspective, the underlying perceptions of managers in the decision‐making process related to maintaining (or contracting a new) a commercial partner, client, supplier, or other stakeholder who is a greenwasher, remain underexplored. This work empirically examines how greenwashing could influence managers' decision‐making and whether a moderation effect of attitude toward environmental management exists in this relationship. In doing so, this work relies on experimental design.
Vehicle video surveillance system based on image fusion and parallel computing
Authors: Liu Shan , Lyu Chengang , Gong Haotian
Published: December 2020

Autonomous driving has gradually moved towards practical applications in recent years. It is particularly critical to provide reliable real‐time environmental information for autonomous driving systems. At present, vehicle video surveillance systems based on multi‐source video and target detection algorithms can effectively solve these problems. However, the previous vehicle video surveillance systems are often unable to balance the surveillance effect and the surveillance frame rate. Therefore, we will introduce a vehicle video surveillance system based on parallel computing and computer vision in this article. First, multiple fisheye cameras are used to collect surround‐view environmental information. Second, we will use a low‐light camera, infrared thermal imager, and millimeter‐wave radar to provide forward‐view environmental information at night. Correspondingly, we designed the surround‐view image fusion algorithm and the forward‐view image fusion algorithm based on parallel computing. At last, a monocular camera and detection algorithms are used to provide forward‐view detection results. In a word, this vehicle video surveillance system will benefit the practical application of autonomous driving.
An optimized SDS‐PAGE protocol with a new blotting system for the initial testing procedure of ESAs in doping control
Authors: Martin Laurent , Martin Jean‐Antoine , Audran Michel , Marchand Alexandre
Published: December 2020

Recombinant erythropoietins (rEPOs) are still among the substances endurance athletes use for doping. Detection methods are based on an electrophoretic separation of the proteins followed by a western blot and immunodetection with specific anti‐EPO antibodies. In addition to IEF‐PAGE, the SDS‐PAGE method has been used to differentiate endogenous EPO from rEPOs by their molecular weight (MW). However, to adapt to new generations of rEPOs exhibiting higher MW, which were not well detected after SDS‐PAGE, sodium lauroyl sarcosinate (SAR) is now used instead of sodium dodecyl sulfate (SDS) for the initial EPO testing procedure on doping control samples. The SAR‐PAGE method is nevertheless expensive as it requires frequent buffer preparations using highly purified sarkosyl powder. In addition, this reagent needs to be handled with care due to acute toxicity by inhalation. The aim of this work was to improve the SDS‐PAGE method by increasing its sensitivity and transfer of high‐MW rEPOs. First, using a biotinylated primary anti‐EPO antibody and avoiding the use of a secondary antibody increased the general sensitivity of both SDS‐PAGE and SAR‐PAGE to all rEPOs about four‐fold. Then, by changing the buffer system during the protein transfer, with a CAPS buffer and a discontinuous buffer transfer system, high‐MW rEPOs, EPO‐Fc and CERA were transferred with higher efficiency and detected with high sensitivity. This optimized SDS‐PAGE protocol could be adopted by anti‐doping laboratories as an alternative to SAR‐PAGE.
Spatial capture–recapture with multiple noninvasive marks: An application to camera‐trapping data of the European wildcat (Felis silvestris) using R package multimark
Authors: Maronde Lea , McClintock Brett T. , Breitenmoser Urs , Zimmermann Fridolin
Published: December 2020

In Switzerland, the European wildcat (Felis silvestris), a native felid, is protected by national law. In recent decades, the wildcat has slowly returned to much of its original range and may have even expanded into new areas that were not known to be occupied before. For the implementation of efficient conservation actions, reliable information about the status and trend of population size and density is crucial. But so far, only one reliable estimate of density in Switzerland was produced in the northern Swiss Jura Mountains. Wildcats are relatively rare and elusive, but camera trapping has proven to be an effective method for monitoring felids. We developed and tested a monitoring protocol using camera trapping in the northern Jura Mountains (cantons of Bern and Jura) in an area of 100 km2. During 60 days, we obtained 105 pictures of phenotypical wildcats of which 98 were suitable for individual identification. We identified 13 individuals from both sides and, additionally, 5 single right‐sided flanks and 3 single left‐sided flanks that could not be matched to unique individuals. We analyzed the camera‐trap data using the R package multimark, which has been extended to include a novel spatial capture–recapture model for encounter histories that include multiple “noninvasive” marks, such as bilaterally asymmetrical left‐ and right‐sided flanks, that can be difficult (or impossible) to reliably match to individuals. Here, we present this model in detail for the first time. Based on a “semi‐complete” data likelihood, the model is less computationally demanding than Bayesian alternatives that rely on a data‐augmented complete data likelihood. The spatially explicit capture–recapture model estimated a wildcat density (95% credible interval) of 26 (17–36) per 100 km2 suitable habitat. Our integrated model produced higher abundance and density estimates with improved precision compared to single‐sided analyses, suggesting spatially explicit capture–recapture methods with multiple “noninvasive” marks can improve our ability to monitor wildcat population status.
Relationship between baseline cardiac biomarkers and cardiovascular death or hospitalization for heart failure with and without sodium–glucose co‐transporter 2 inhibitor therapy in DECLARE‐TIMI 58
Authors: Zelniker Thomas A. , Morrow David A. , Mosenzon Ofri , Goodrich Erica L. , Jarolim Petr , Murphy Sabina A. , Bhatt Deepak L. , Leiter Lawrence A. , McGuire Darren K. , Wilding John , Bode Christoph , Lewis Basil S. , Gause‐Nilsson Ingrid , Langkilde Anna Maria , Fredriksson Martin , Raz Itamar , Sabatine Marc S. , Wiviott Stephen D.
Published: December 2020

Aims

Dapagliflozin reduced the risk of the composite of cardiovascular (CV) death or hospitalization for heart failure (HHF) in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus in DECLARE‐TIMI 58. We hypothesized that baseline N‐terminal pro B‐type natriuretic peptide (NT‐proBNP) and high‐sensitivity troponin T (hsTnT) levels would help identify patients who are at higher baseline risk and we describe the treatment effects of dapagliflozin in patients according to their baseline NT‐proBNP and hsTnT levels.

Methods and results

This was a pre‐specified biomarker study from DECLARE‐TIMI 58, a randomized, double‐blind, placebo‐controlled CV outcomes trial of dapagliflozin. Baseline NT‐proBNP and hsTnT levels were measured in the TIMI Clinical Trials Laboratory in 14 565 patients. Among the included patients, 9143 patients (62.8%) were male, 1464 (10.1%) had a history of heart failure and the mean age was 63.9 years. The median baseline NT‐proBNP and hsTnT levels were 75 pg/mL [interquartile range (IQR) 35–165] and 10.2 pg/mL (IQR 6.9–15.5), respectively. Patients with higher NT‐proBNP and hsTnT quartiles had higher rates of CV death/HHF (Q4 vs. Q1: NT‐proBNP: 4‐year Kaplan–Meier event rates 13.7% vs. 1.0%; hsTnT: 11.8% vs. 1.4%; P‐trend <0.001). Dapagliflozin consistently reduced the relative risk of CV death/HHF regardless of baseline NT‐proBNP (P‐interaction 0.72) or hsTnT quartiles (P‐interaction 0.93). Given their higher baseline risk, patients with NT‐proBNP and/or hsTnT levels above the median derived larger absolute risk reductions with dapagliflozin (NT‐proBNP 1.9% vs. 0%, P‐interaction 0.010; hsTnT 1.8% vs. 0.1%, P‐interaction 0.026).

Conclusion

Patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus and higher NT‐proBNP or hsTnT levels are at increased risk of CV death and HHF. Dapagliflozin reduced the relative risk of CV death/HHF irrespective of NT‐proBNP and hsTnT levels, with greater absolute risk reductions seen in patients with higher baseline biomarker levels.
Chewable Gelatin Emulsions for Oral Lipid Delivery: Elimination of Gastric Coalescence with κ‐Carrageenan
Authors: Dille Morten J. , Draget Kurt I.
Published: December 2020

Gelatin‐based chewable emulsions can be a convenient vehicle for oral delivery of oils or lipid soluble bioactive components. Gelatin‐stabilized emulsions do, however, rapidly flocculate and gradually coalesce in gastric fluids. This destabilization is caused by the combined action of pepsin and mucin and is most significant at pH 3, followed by pH 2, then pH 4. Through in vitro lipolysis experiments it is shown that this destabilization leads to a decrease in emulsion lipolysis rate after incubation in simulated gastric fluids (SGFs). In this paper a potential solution to this gastric instability is suggested: inclusion of 1 wt% sodium‐κ‐carrageenan (κ‐CGN) of intermediate Mw into the gelatin emulsions. The κ‐CGN used has minimal impact on gelatin gelled emulsion properties, preserving the soft elastic gelatin texture. When these gelled emulsions disintegrate in gastric fluids, electrostatic interactions between the gelatin and κ‐CGN occur. While these interactions lead to heavy flocculation, they also protect the gelatin from pepsin action, providing full stability against emulsion coalescence during at least 2 h in SGF at pH 2–4. When the pH is neutralized upon mixing with intestinal fluids, the emulsion fully deflocculates and the rate of in vitro lipolysis is not affected by gastric residence time.

Practical applications: Avoiding gastric coalescence in gelatin emulsions may lead to more reliable oral delivery of lipids or lipophilic components in gelatin‐based chewable supplements or functional foods. Keeping the emulsion droplet size stable and small until reaching the intestine may lead to more rapid and efficient intestinal lipolysis, potentially advantageous in regards to bioavailability of slowly digested oils (e.g., omega‐3 concentrate) or for people suffering from impaired lipid digestion. These findings may also be applicable to emulsion systems stabilized by other proteins.
Morphometric analysis program: Detection of epileptic foci in young children using an adult normative database: Initial experience
Authors: Stecher Ximena , Schonstedt Valeria , Manterola Carla , Carreño Fernando , Zamorano Francisco , Velasquez Alvaro , Castillo Mauricio
Published: December 2020

Objective

To report our initial experience using an adult‐template MAP in drug‐resistant focal epilepsy in five children with apparently normal MRI.

Methods

Patients selected were highly suspicious of harboring focal structural lesions and had negative brain MRI studies. MAP was performed using a locally obtained adult database as a template. Results were reviewed by two neuroradiologists. Pertinence of MAP‐positive areas was confirmed by the focal epileptic hypothesis or by pathology when possible (J Neuroradiol, 39, 2012, 87). Visual analysis was performed using Mango Software. MRI studies were reanalyzed at the workstation with knowledge of the clinical suspicion to confirm or discard the possibility of FCD.

Results

Five patients aged 19‐48 months were studied, all with initial 3T MRI studies interpreted as normal. All had focal epileptic hypothesis with coherence of clinical seizure characterization and electroencephalographic findings. In two patients, histology showed type 1 FCD. Due to the age of our subjects, the junction map always highlighted the subcortical white matter in relationship to maturity differences. FCD was identified as asymmetric U‐shaped highlighted regions in the junction map.

Significance

FCD is the most frequent pathology reported in pediatric epilepsy surgery series (Epileptic Disord, 18, 2016, 240). Significant number of FCDs may be overlooked on MRIs, reducing the odds of seizure freedom after surgery (Epilepsy Res, 89, 2010, 310). MAP is an image postprocessing method for enhanced visualization of FCD; however, when using an adult template in developing brains, normal subcortical regions may be highlighted as pathological. Creating a pediatric template is difficult, due to the need for general anesthesia to acquire the MRI database. Here, we were able to show that MAP identified FCDs as asymmetric “U‐” shaped highlighted regions in the junction maps of all five patients, which may indicate that obtaining childhood databases for this purpose may not be necessary and that adult ones suffice for diagnosis of FCD.
Fuel cells as an advanced alternative energy source for the residential sector applications in Malaysia
Authors: Zakaria Zulfirdaus , Kamarudin Siti Kartom , Wahid Khairul Anuar Abd
Published: December 2020

The growth of the world's population has increased energy demand. Malaysia, as a developing country, also requires significant energy to drive economic development and address population demand. Malaysian conventional power generation system is highly dependent on natural gas, coal, and oil power systems that have had significant environmental impacts. This paper explores the energy status in Malaysia to highlight the advantages of fuel cells as an advanced alternative energy source. The discussion on energy status in Malaysia involves population situation, energy demand, energy sources, and energy policies. Then, the ability and type of fuel cells to provide this advanced alternative energy source in Malaysia are described. The prospects for introducing portable fuel cell devices and residential applications have been comprehensively described as the most relevant application for the residential sector to implement this technology in Malaysia.

Highlights

A comprehensive review of fuel cell systems as a source of renewable energy for the residence sector in Malaysia is presented.

The introduction of fuel cell‐based portable devices and residential applications are the most relevant applications for the residence sector in Malaysia.

The prospects for the introduction of fuel cells are discussed, including costs and maintenance, the plan and strategy, and the availability of a research center in Malaysia.
Surface velocity fields of active rock glaciers and ice‐debris complexes in the Central Andes of Argentina
Authors: Blöthe Jan Henrik , Halla Christian , Schwalbe Ellen , Bottegal Estefania , Trombotto Liaudat Dario , Schrott Lothar
Published: December 2020

Rock glaciers and transitional ice‐debris complexes predominate the Central Andean landform assemblage, yet regional studies on their state of activity and their kinematics remain sparse. Here we utilize the national glacier inventory of Argentina to quantify surface velocity fields of 244 rock glaciers and 51 ice‐debris complexes, located in the Cordón del Plata range, Argentina. Applying a feature‐tracking approach to repeated RapidEye satellite imagery acquired between 2010 and 2017/18, we find mean displacement rates between 0.37 and 2.61 m year−1 for 149 landforms, while for the remaining 146 features, surface movement remains below our level of detection. We compare our satellite‐derived velocity fields with ground‐truth data from two local field sites and find closely matching results in magnitude and spatial distribution. With average displacement of one‐third of the active rock glaciers and ice‐debris complexes exceeding 1 m year−1, the region hosts an exceptional number of fast‐flowing periglacial landforms, compared to other mountain belts. Using a random forest model, we test the predictive power of 25 morphometric and topoclimatic candidate predictors for modelling the state of activity of rock glaciers and ice‐debris complexes on two different scales. For entire landforms and individual landform segments, constructed along displacement centrelines, we can predict the state of activity with overall accuracies of 70.08% (mean AUROC = 0.785) and 74.86% (mean AUROC = 0.753), respectively. While topoclimatic parameters such as solar radiation and elevation are most important for entire landforms, geometric parameters become more important at the scale of landform segments. Despite tentative correlations between local slope and surface kinematics, our results point to factors integrating slope and distance to the source to govern local deformation. We conclude that feature tracking in optical imagery is feasible for regional studies in remote regions and provides valuable insight into the current state of the Andean cryosphere. © 2020 The Authors. Earth Surface Processes and Landforms published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd
Energy efficient optimal parent selection based routing protocol for Internet of Things using firefly optimization algorithm
Authors: Sennan Sankar , Somula Ramasubbareddy , Luhach Ashish K. , Deverajan Ganesh Gopal , Alnumay Waleed , Jhanjhi N. Z. , Ghosh Uttam , Sharma Pradip
Published: December 2020

Energy conservation is a major challenge in the Internet of Things (IoT) as the number of resource‐constrained devices is connected to the network. Routing plays a vital role in IoT to extend the lifespan of the network. Routing protocol for low‐power and lossy networks (RPL) is a standard routing protocol in IoT. The parent selection is a crucial role in the routing process to exchange the data. In RPL, the researchers have introduced a single metric, composite metric, and multiobjective optimization algorithm for parent selection. However, the improper parent selection causes the packet losses, congestion among the network nodes, depletes more energy, and increases the convergence time. To overcome these issues, this article proposes energy efficient optimal parent selection in RPL (EEOPS‐RPL) using firefly optimization algorithm to extend the lifespan of the IoT network. In EEOPS‐RPL, each node in the network is considered to be firefly and also calculates the current location of firefly, attraction of the fireflies, random function, velocity, and the global best values in the network. Residual energy and expected transmission count are attractiveness parameters and distance is a movement parameter to choose the optimum parent in the destination‐oriented directed acyclic graph for data transmission. The simulation is conducted using COOJA. The EEOPS‐RPL provides better performance in comparison to the efficient parent selection for RPL (EPC‐RPL) and the E‐RPL. The EEOPS‐RPL improves the packet transmission ratio and lifespan of the network by 2% to 5%, and 5% to 10%, respectively, compared with EPC‐RPL and E‐RPL.

In EEOPS‐RPL, each participant node applies the firefly algorithm over the parent node information such as distance, residual energy, and expected transmission count through DODAG information object control message to pick the best parent node in the DODAG. The firefly algorithm provides the fast convergence that able to choose the optimal parent quickly. Thus, it avoids the packet loss during the route establishment in network. Thus, EEOPS‐RPL extends the lifespan of the network and reduces the convergence time.
Generalized self‐tuning system for adaptive threshold estimators in cognitive radio systems using swarm and evolutionary‐based approaches
Authors: Onumanyi Adeiza J. , Abu‐Mahfouz Adnan M. , Hancke Gerhard P.
Published: December 2020

Parameter‐based adaptive threshold estimators (ATEs) are widely used for signal detection in cognitive radio (CR) systems. However, their performance deteriorates under dynamic spectra conditions owing to a lack of valid methods to accurately self‐tune the different parameters of such ATEs. In this article, we address this limitation by proposing a generalized system for self‐tuning the parameters of any ATE based only on the input signal measured per time. We adopt swarm and evolutionary‐based metaheuristic optimization techniques to effectively search for the optimal parameter values of any ATE. Our system controls the search process by applying the between‐class variance function adapted from Otsu's algorithm as the objective function. We tested the system using five different metaheuristic optimization algorithms (MOAs) to self‐tune two different ATEs, namely the recursive one‐sided hypothesis testing (ROHT) technique and the histogram partitioning algorithm under Rayleigh and Rician fading channels, as well as under different modulation schemes, including the 4‐quadrature amplitude modulation and 4‐phase shift keying schemes. Our findings suggest that our proposed system yields generally a small error rate irrespective of the MOA used. In addition, the ROHT‐cuckoo search optimization configuration yielded a reasonably high and low probability of detection and probability of false alarm, respectively, as a function of the signal‐to‐noise‐ratio of the input signal at a fast average processing time of 0.0699 seconds. We concluded that our system presents an effective mechanism that can be used to automatically tune the parameters of any ATE for useful signal detection in CR.
The Dementia Early Stage Cognitive Aids New Trial (DESCANT) intervention: A goal attainment scaling approach to promote self‐management
Authors: Chester Helen , Beresford Rebecca , Clarkson Paul , Entwistle Charlotte , Gillan Vincent , Hughes Jane , Orrell Martin , Pitts Rosa , Russell Ian , Symonds Eileen , Challis David ,   Members of the HoSt‐D (Home Support in Dementia) Programme Management Group
Published: December 2020

Objectives

This study investigated goals identified by people with dementia and their carers to promote the self‐management of symptoms and abilities; measured achievement using goal attainment scaling (GAS); and explored the reflections of Dementia Support Practitioners (DSPs) facilitating it.

Methods and design

Within this pragmatic randomised trial, DSPs gave memory aids, training and support to people with mild to moderate dementia and their carers at home. Data were collected across seven NHS Trusts in England and Wales (2016–2018) and abstracted from intervention records and semi‐structured interviews with DSPs delivering the intervention, supplemented by a subset of the trial dataset. Measures were created to permit quantification and descriptive analysis and interview data thematically analysed. A GAS measure for this intervention in this client group was derived.

Results

Engagement was high across the 117 participants and 293 goals were identified. These reflected individual circumstances and needs and enabled classification and assessment of their attainment. Seventeen goal types were identified across six domains: self‐care, household tasks, daily occupation, orientation, communication, and well‐being and safety. On average participants achieved nominally significant improvement regarding the specified goals of 1.4 with standard deviation of 0.6. Five interviews suggested that DSPs' experiences of goal setting were also positive.

Conclusions

GAS is useful for assessing psychosocial interventions for people with early‐stage dementia. It has a utility in identifying goals, promoting self‐management and providing a personalised outcome measure. There is a strong case for exploring whether these clear benefits translate to other interventions in other populations in other places.
Preliminary development and validation of a measure of fear of swallowing and swallowing‐related movement injury in head and neck cancer: Swallowing Kinesiophobia Scale
Authors: Carnaby Giselle D. , Chhabria Karishma
Published: December 2020

Background

Fear is an under‐recognized issue in intervention adherence in head and neck cancer (HNC). We developed and validated a patient reported outcome for swallowing fear in HNC patients.

Methods

Items were adapted from the Tampa Scale for Kinesiophobia to swallowing function. A beta version was completed by 51 HNC patients undergoing chemo +/− radiotherapy at baseline and post‐treatment. Psychometric and factor structure analyses were applied.

Results

Swallowing Kinesiophobia Scale (SWKS) demonstrated strong face and content validity, internal consistency, and test‐retest reliability. Factor analysis revealed three‐factors: somatic factor, swallow avoidance, and fear of harm. Factors correlated positively with depression score, worry scale, and anxiety and pain scales. Score differences between patient subgroups (dysphagic vs nondysphagic) confirmed discriminative validity.

Conclusion

The SWKS is a psychometrically valid tool to identify patients with fear of swallowing and swallowing‐related movement. It can help identify patients early in treatment who may need additional support.
Molecular Profiling of Decompensated Cirrhosis by a Novel MicroRNA Signature
Authors: Garcia de Paredes Ana Garcia , Manicardi Nicolo , Tellez Luis , Ibañez Luis , Royo Felix , Bermejo Javier , Blanco Carolina , Fondevila Constantino , Lanza Val Fernandez , Garcia-Bermejo Laura , Falcon-Perez Juan Manuel , Bañares Rafael , Gracia-Sancho Jordi , Albillos Agustin
Published: December 2020

Refractory ascites is characterized by severe circulatory dysfunction and increased sensitivity to renal impairment by non-selective beta-blockers (NSBB). A novel serum microRNA signature, identified in the secretome of human cirrhotic hepatocytes, allows for the molecular characterization of patients with decompensated cirrhosis more prone to develop significant cardiac impairment after NSBB, as well as those more likely to respond to NSBB in terms of HVPG reduction.

Noninvasive staging of decompensated cirrhosis is an unmet clinical need. The aims of this study were to characterize and validate a novel microRNA (miRNA) signature to stage decompensated cirrhosis and predict the portal pressure and systolic cardiac response to nonselective beta-blockers (NSBBs). Serum samples from patients with decompensated cirrhosis (n = 36) and healthy controls (n = 36) were tested for a novel signature of five miRNAs (miR-452-5p, miR-429, miR-885-5p, miR-181b-5p, and miR-122-5p) identified in the secretome of primary human hepatocytes and for three miRNAs (miR-192-5p, miR-34a-5p, and miR-29a-5p) previously discovered as biomarkers of chronic liver disease. All patients had ascites, which was refractory in 18 (50%), and were placed on NSBBs for variceal bleeding prophylaxis. In all patients, serum miRNAs, hepatic venous pressure gradient, and an echocardiogram study were performed before and 1 month after NSBBs. Patients with cirrhosis had lower serum levels of miR-429, miR-885-5p, miR-181b-5p, miR-122-5p, miR-192-5p, and miR-29a-5p (P < 0.05). Baseline serum miR-452-5p and miR-429 levels were lower in NSBB responders (P = 0.006). miR-181b-5p levels were greater in refractory ascites than in diuretic-sensitive ascites (P = 0.008) and correlated with serum creatinine. miR-452-5p and miR-885-5p were inversely correlated with baseline systemic vascular resistance (ρ = −0.46, P = 0.007; and ρ = −0.41, P = 0.01, respectively) and with diminished systolic contractility (ρ = −0.55, P = 0.02; and ρ = −0.55, P = 0.02, respectively) in patients with refractory ascites after NSBBs. Conclusion: Analysis of a miRNA signature in serum discriminates between patients with decompensated cirrhosis who show more severe systemic circulatory dysfunction and compromised systolic function after beta-blockade and those more likely to benefit from NSBBs.
Problem‐solving strategies used in anatomical multiple‐choice questions
Authors: Kolomitro Klodiana , MacKenzie Leslie W. , Lockridge Mackenzie , Clohosey Diandra
Published: December 2020

Background and Aims

Multiple‐choice questions (MCQ) in the anatomical sciences are often perceived to be targeting recall of facts and regurgitation of trivial details. Moving away from this assumption requires the design of purposeful multiple‐choice questions that focus on higher‐order cognitive functions as opposed to rote memorization. In order to develop such questions, it was important to first understand the strategies that students use in solving multiple‐choice questions. Using the think‐aloud protocol, this study seeks to understand strategies students use in solving multiple‐choice questions. Specifically, it seeks to uncover patterns in the reasoning process and tactics used when solving higher and lower order MCQ in anatomy. The research also provides insights onto how these strategies influence the student's probability of answering questions correctly.

Methods

Multiple‐choice questions were created at three levels of cognitive functioning based on the ideas, connections, extensions (ICE) learning framework. The think‐aloud protocol was used to unravel problem‐solving strategies used by 92 undergraduate anatomy students as they solved multiple‐choice questions.

Results

Sixteen strategies were identified through the oral and written think‐alouds that students used to solve MCQ. Eleven of these have been described and supported by the literature, while the rest were utilized by our students when solving MCQ in anatomy. Domain‐specific strategies of visualizing and recalling had the highest use. Personal connection was a strategy that allowed students to achieve success in all ICE levels in the oral think‐alouds and in the I and E levels in the written think‐alouds.

Conclusions

This research argues that it is upon us as educators to make learning visible to our students, specifically through the use of think‐alouds. It also raises awareness that when educators facilitate the process of students making personal connections, it aids students in new knowledge being integrated effectively and retrieved accurately.
Predicting high‐frequency variation in stream solute concentrations with water quality sensors and machine learning
Authors: Green Mark B. , Pardo Linda H. , Bailey Scott W. , Campbell John L. , McDowell William H. , Bernhardt Emily S. , Rosi Emma J.
Published: December 2020

Stream solute monitoring has produced many insights into ecosystem and Earth system functions. Although new sensors have provided novel information about the fine‐scale temporal variation of some stream water solutes, we lack adequate sensor technology to gain the same insights for many other solutes. We used two machine learning algorithms – Support Vector Machine and Random Forest – to predict concentrations at 15‐min resolution for 10 solutes, of which eight lack specific sensors. The algorithms were trained with data from intensive stream sensing and manual stream sampling (weekly) for four full years in a hydrologic reference stream within the Hubbard Brook Experimental Forest in New Hampshire, USA. The Random Forest algorithm was slightly better at predicting solute concentrations than the Support Vector Machine algorithm (Nash‐Sutcliffe efficiencies ranged from 0.35 to 0.78 for Random Forest compared to 0.29 to 0.79 for Support Vector Machine). Solute predictions were most sensitive to the removal of fluorescent dissolved organic matter, pH and specific conductance as independent variables for both algorithms, and least sensitive to dissolved oxygen and turbidity. The predicted concentrations of calcium and monomeric aluminium were used to estimate catchment solute yield, which changed most dramatically for aluminium because it concentrates with stream discharge. These results show great promise for using a combined approach of stream sensing and intensive stream discrete sampling to build information about the high‐frequency variation of solutes for which an appropriate sensor or proxy is not available.
Independence day: Political risk and cross‐sectional determinants of firm exposure after the Catalan crisis
Authors: Angosto‐Fernández Pedro L. , Ferrández‐Serrano Victoria
Published: December 2020

This article covers the relationship of one of the most uncertainty‐generating events in the recent history of Spain: the Catalan secessionist crisis, and the equity market. The research analyses the differences between Catalan companies and the rest of the country and it is focused on the determinants of the variability of returns after the illegal independence referendum. Determinants such as firm country risk concentration, measured as the level of internationalization or the growth opportunities, and others like size or financial constraints. An additional event study examines the impact of the flight of companies from the region. The general approach used in this article is the event study methodology. The experiment is divided in two parts (geographical and firm level). The market model is used to describe the returns, abnormal returns are obtained in one step using dummy variables and all equations are estimated together through a seemingly unrelated regressions framework. Then cross‐sectional regressions are employed to explain the abnormal returns' variance. Changes in sample, variables and volatility are also implemented. It demonstrates that larger and more internationalized firms were less exposed to this event, unlike those with higher growth opportunities and higher financial constraints. Lastly, the flight of companies served to mitigate the adverse effect. This research highlights investors' fear of drastic political changes and points out characteristics that make some securities a refuge in a unique case, as an attempt of unilateral independence.
Toxic compounds produced by cyanobacteria belonging to several species of the order Nostocales: A review
Authors: Nowruzi Bahareh , Porzani Samaneh Jafari
Published: December 2020

Cyanobacteria are well recognised as producers of a wide range of natural compounds that are in turn recognised as toxins that have potential and useful applications in the future as pharmaceutical agents. The order Nostocales, which is largely overlooked in this regard, has become increasingly recognised as a source of toxin producers including Anabaena, Nostoc, Hapalosiphon, Fischerella, Anabaenopsis, Aphanizomenon, Gloeotrichia, Cylindrospermopsis, Scytonema, Raphidiopsis, Cuspidothrix, Nodularia, Stigonema, Calothrix, Cylindrospermum and Desmonostoc species. The toxin compounds (i.e., microcystins, nodularin, anatoxins, ambiguines, fischerindoles and welwitindolinones) and metabolites are about to have a destructive effect on both inland and aquatic environment aspects. The present review gives an overview of the various toxins that are extracted by the order Nostocales. The current research suggests that these compounds that are produced by cyanobacterial species have promising future considerations as potentially harmful algae and as promising leads for drug discovery.
Higher Undercarboxylated to Total Osteocalcin Ratio Is Associated With Reduced Physical Function and Increased 15-Year Falls-Related Hospitalizations: The Perth Longitudinal Study of Aging Women
Authors: Smith Cassandra , Lewis Joshua R , Sim Marc , Lim Wai H , Lim Ee Mun , Blekkenhorst Lauren C , Brennan-Speranza Tara C , Adams Leon , Byrnes Elizabeth , Duque Gustavo , Levinger Itamar , Prince Richard L
Published: December 2020

Evidence from animal models suggests that undercarboxylated osteocalcin (ucOC) is involved in muscle mass maintenance and strength. In humans, the ucOC to total (t)OC ratio may be related to muscle strength and perhaps physical function and falls risk, but data are limited. We tested the hypothesis that ucOC and ucOC/tOC ratio are associated with muscle function (muscle strength and physical function) in older women and 15-year falls-related hospitalizations. Serum tOC and ucOC were assessed in 1261 older women (mean age 75.2 ± 2.7 years) forming the Perth Longitudinal Study of Aging Women (1998 to 2013). Timed-up-and-go (TUG) and grip strength were assessed at baseline and at 5 years. Falls-related hospitalizations (14.5-year follow-up) were captured by the Hospital Morbidity Data Collection, via the Western Australian Data Linkage System. At baseline, women with higher ucOC/tOC ratio (quartile 4) had slower TUG performance compared with quartile 1 (~0.68 seconds, p < .01). Grip strength and 5-year change of TUG and grip were not different (p > .05) between quartiles. Fear of falling limiting house, outdoor, and combined activities was significantly different across quartiles (p < .05). Higher ucOC/tOC was significantly associated with poorer TUG performance at baseline and 5-year change in performance, increased walking aid use, and fear of falling (all p < .05). Higher ucOC was related to lower grip strength at baseline (p < .05) but not 5-year change in strength. Those with the highest ucOC/tOC had greater falls-related hospitalizations (unadjusted log rank, p = .004) remaining significant after adjusting for key variables (hazard ratio [HR] = 1.31, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.09–1.57, p = .004). We identified a large proportion of older women with high ucOC/tOC ratio who had reduced physical function, including its long-term decline and increased risk of falls-related hospitalizations. Early identification of women at higher risk can enable prevention and intervention strategies to occur, reducing risk for injurious falls. © 2020 American Society for Bone and Mineral Research (ASBMR)..
Bisecting GlcNAc modification diminishes the pro‐metastatic functions of small extracellular vesicles from breast cancer cells
Authors: Tan Zengqi , Cao Lin , Wu Yurong , Wang Bowen , Song Zhihui , Yang Juhong , Cheng Lanming , Yang Xiaomin , Zhou Xiaoman , Dai Zhijun , Li Xiang , Guan Feng
Published: December 2020

Small extracellular vesicles (sEVs) are enriched in glycoconjugates and display specific glycosignatures. Aberrant expression of surface glycoconjugates is closely correlated with cancer progression and metastasis. The essential functions of glycoconjugates in sEVs are poorly understood. In this study, we observed significantly reduced levels of bisecting GlcNAc in breast cancer. Introduction of bisecting GlcNAc into breast cancer cells altered the bisecting GlcNAc status on sEVs, and sEVs with diverse bisecting GlcNAc showed differing functions on recipient cells. Carcinogenesis and metastasis of recipient cells were enhanced by sEVs with low bisecting GlcNAc, and the pro‐metastatic functions of sEVs was diminished by high bisecting GlcNAc modification. We further identified vesicular integrin β1 as a target protein bearing bisecting GlcNAc. Metastasis of recipient cells was strongly suppressed by high bisecting GlcNAc levels on vesicular β1. Our findings demonstrate the important roles of glycoconjugates on sEVs. Modification of sEV glycosylation may contribute to development of novel targets in breast cancer therapy.