bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Evaluation of Corneal Endothelial Cells and Morphology in Mitomycin-C Augmented Trabeculectomy
Authors: Dhiman Shalini , Kumar Ankur , Kumar Kishor
Published: November 2020

Purpose:

To evaluate the effect of Mitomycin-C (MMC) on corneal endothelial cells and morphology in Mitomycin-C augmented trabeculectomy

Methods:

In this study, 40 eyes of patients underwent trabeculectomy with Mitomycin-C (group 1) and 40 eyes of patients underwent trabeculectomy without Mitomycin-C (group 2). Specular microscopy was performed at 1 month and 3 month postoperatively. Outcome variables included corneal endothelial cell density (CECD), coefficient of variation of cell size (CV), central corneal thickness (CCT), hexagonality.

Results:

Overall, mean preoperative CECD was 2538.21+/-259.98 mm2, postoperatively at 1 month and 3 month it was significantly reduced to 2377.11+/-270.36 mm2 and 2340.56+/-272.39 mm2 respectively. (p <0.05). Overall, mean preoperative CV was 31+/-5.93%, postoperatively at 1 month and 3 month it was non-significantly increased to 33.19+/-6.02% and 34.30+/-5.97% respectively. (p>0.05). Overall, mean preoperative hexagonality was 53.63+/-4.47%, postoperatively at 1 month and 3 month it was non significantly reduced to 51.54+/-4.50% and 50.41+/-4.49% respectively (p>0.05). Overall, mean preoperative CCT was 514.41+/-13.786um, postoperatively at 1 month and 3 month it was significantly increased to 523.58+/-14.99um and 520.69+/-14.80 um respectively. (p<0.05).

Conclusion:

Mitomycin-C application in trabeculectomy cause significant corneal endothelial loss. Most of the damage occurs intraoperatively, or in the early postoperative period.
Evaluation of the Prevalence and Risk Factors of Dry Eye in Young Population
Authors: Bhatt Rupal , Prajapati Vaishali , Viramgami Urvi
Published: November 2020

Purpose:

To evaluate prevalence and causative risk factors of dry eye in pediatric population.

Methods:

It was a prospective observational study, conducted in 500 patients (1000 eyes), who visited at outpatient department of pediatric ophthalmology of our tertiary eye care center. All patients were screened for ocular surface disease index. Of those, having score >13 were further evaluated for the dry eye tests. The 60 eyes of 30 patients were selected and studied for the causes, types of dry eye.

Results:

Out of 500 out patients, 30 patients (60 eyes) have >13 score, with clinically proven bilateral dry eye. The most commonly affected age group was 7-18 years. The most common association were Vernal Kerato-Conjunctivitis (VKC), Meibomian Gland Dysfunction (MGD) & Computer Vision Syndrome (CVS)- as over use of mobile.

Conclusion:

The evaporative dry eye due to MGD & CVS is common in pediatric age group, while the aqueous deficiency dry eye is not so. The use of mobiles, tablets, computers leads to increase the rate of dry eye in children, which also affect the outdoor activity, study of child & child over all development.
Idiopathic, Isolated, Recurrent, Ipsilateral Sixth Nerve Paresis in An Older Adult - A Rare Case Report
Authors: Nambula Srinivasa Rao , Karanam Sai Rani , Vankireddy Mahathi , Gujjula Shalini
Published: November 2020

Recurrent, unilateral, isolated, idiopathic lateral rectus muscle paresis is an uncommon but well-recognized disorder in children but has not been recognized as well in other age groups. Here we are reporting a case of idiopathic, isolated, recurrent, ipsilateral sixth nerve paresis in an otherwise healthy older adult. A 46 years gentle man presented with double vision since 3 years. He had similar episodes of double vision 5 times all of which recovered completely, except the last time. On examination there was right esotropia, limitation of right abduction and a normal fundus. Diplopia and Hess charting verified partial 6th nerve paresis. The patient was investigated with a wide range of investigations to rule out tumors, demyelinating, infectious, restrictive and neuromuscular junctional causes all of which were normal. Patient underwent surgical correction of esotropia and he is asymptomatic till date and is under a close follow up.
Decoding the Snellen's Chart
Authors: Bahkir Fayiqa Ahmed
Published: November 2020

This article deals with the basis of visual acuity and the Snellen's Chart. The principles of trigonometry are applied in order to break down the science behind the Chart, and the laws of optics and refraction are used to build back the chart from scratch. The principle behind the construction of each optotype, and using the Snellen's chart in the clinic are explored.
Integrating Services for People Who Use Opioids in a Rural Primary Care Setting: The ROOT Program
Authors: Buck-McFadyen Ellen , Lee-Popham Sean , White Ashley
Published: November 2020

In response to an emerging substance use crisis in rural Ontario, a Family Health Team initiated the Rural Outpatient Opioid Treatment program. This program includes access to an interdisciplinary team, opioid agonist therapy, counselling, and peer support. Patients report they appreciate the “seamless” integration of medical, social, and peer support.
A Review on Perspectives of Cluster Formation in Promoting Competitive Advantage for Small and Medium Enterprises and Sustainable Economic Growth
Authors: Mahendran K. , Olive P. Flowrine , Lavanya S. Moghana
Published: November 2020

This article reviews the currently available literature to examine how clusters provided competitive advantage for small and medium businesses, in what ways it led to economic growth and directs the policy interventions of the Indian government. The evolution of clusters and the contribution of researchable issues in evolution are examined. The role of clusters in creating competitive advantage and the research related to redefining the evolution is presented. External economies are the benefits that occur to a business from the external environment of the business, which are beyond its control and results in cost benefits. The firms in cluster promoted the establishment of suppliers around their customers. This in turn benefitted both the supplier and the firm by reduced transportation cost and increased physical accessibility. The firms are also able to avail customized and specialized inputs from the supplier. Cost economies benefitted the firms and led to improved economic growth. Cluster approach has positive implication and important place in economic development of the country. The review of literature clearly brings up the developments in the concept of clustering as experienced across the world and the initiatives of the Government of India matching the developmental needs in this area of entrepreneurship development. The clusters have made better availability of information, in acquiring specialized resources, creation of innovation and competitiveness in the world markets.
Productivity and Fruit Quality Influenced by Bioestimulant in Olive under Hot and Arid Environment of Mexico
Authors: Contreras Raúl Leonel Grijalva- , Duarte Rubén Macías- , Carvajal Arturo López- , Contreras Fabián Robles- , Ruiz Manuel de Jesús Valenzuela-
Published: November 2020

Actually modern fruit trees physiology is focused on the stimulation of plant cell development and fruit production using bioestimulant. This study evaluated the effect of bioestimulant ‘Engordone’ under two doses (0.5 and 1.0 L ha-1) and two times (pea-size fruit and 28 days later) in olive tree cv Manzanilla under hot and arid environment of Mexico. The experiment was carried out during 2018 and 2019 at National Research Institute for Forestry, Agriculture and Livestock (INIFAP) in the Experimental Station Coast of Hermosillo, Sonora, Mexico. The experiment was carried out on olive tree of eight years old, planted at distance of 10 x 5 m (200 trees ha-1) and under drip irrigation system. The experiment was analyzed using a randomized complete block design and four replications. The variables evaluated were olive yield, classification by size and fruit characteristics (fruit weight and pulp-pit ratio). The results showed that bioestimulant application had little effect on olive yield which increased the yield by 14.1 and 6.5% in 2018 and 2019, respectively compared to untreated trees, but without statistical difference. Fruit characteristic were no affected by treatments. Only the percentage of non-marketable fruit was statistically (P<0.05) reduced in the first year. Finally, new biostimulants and times of application are necessary to carried out to improve the size of table olives.
Effect of Environmental Protection Cost on Return on Equity of Petroleum Marketing Companies in Nigeria?
Authors: Kaoje Abdulsalam Nasiru, , Idris Sani, , Danrimi Mohammed Lawal, , Kurfi Shafiu Abubakar , Abubakar Aminu,
Published: November 2020

This paper evaluates the effect of environmental protection cost on return on equity of petroleum marketing companies in Nigeria. A panel data spanning a period of fifteen years from 2004-2018 was used, which was sourced from Nigerian Stock Exchange Factbook and annual account and report of twelve (12) petroleum  marketing companies in Nigeria. Regression was used in testing the hypothesis of the paper. The paper found that environmental protection cost has positive and significant effect on return on asset of petroleum marketing companies in Nigeria. Therefore, the paper recommends that management of petroleum marketing companies in Nigeria should increase their participation on Environmental protection and Environmental remediation and pollution control to their host communities in order to maximized profitability most especially the return on asset of the sampled petroleum marketing companies in Nigeria.
Addition of Nilem Fish Protein Concentrate to Find Its Preferred Level in Cakwe
Authors: Alifah Tahira , Junianto . , Rostini Iis , Pratama Rusky Intan
Published: November 2020

Nilem fish (Osteochilus hasselti) are native Indonesian fish that live in freshwaters, such as rivers and swamps. This research aims to determine the right level of nilem fish protein concentrate addition to the preferred level of cakwe. The design is using a non-factorial Completely Randomized Design (CRD), with four levels of treatment like 0% or without the addition of nilem fish protein concentrate, 2.5% addition of nilem fish protein concentrate, 5% addition of nilem fish protein concentrate, and 7.5% addition of nilem fish protein concentrate. The parameters tested are organoleptic showing color, aroma, texture, and taste carried out by 20 semi-trained panelists. The results showed that cakwe with 5% nilem fish protein concentrate is mostly preferred by consumers with organoleptic values (color 6.9, aroma 7.3, texture 6.5, and taste 7.3).
Effect of Project Design on Sustainability of World Vision Community Development Projects in North Rift Kenya
Authors: Pkassan Agneta Chepchumba , Kimutai Geoffrey Kiptum
Published: November 2020

Sustainability of the funded projects is of utmost importance if the impact of funding these projects is to be realized. Despite project feasibility studies being done prior to commencement of the projects, sustainability is still not guaranteed. Thus, the main purpose of the study was to identify the effect of project design on sustainability of World Vision community development projects in North Rift Kenya. This study was guided by systems theory. The research used cross sectional survey design. The target population was 1500 respondents’ four County project managers, 20 project officers, 40 project coordinators, 20 accountants, 240 CDF facilitators and 240 community members. The researcher adopted stratified, simple random and purposive sampling technique to select respondent. The sample size was 316 respondents comprising of four County project managers, 11 project officers, 22 project coordinators, 11 accountants, 133 CDF facilitators and 133 community members to participate in the study. Data was analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics. Descriptive statistics included frequencies and percentages. Regression was used to test the hypotheses. Descriptive statistics included frequencies and percentages. Regression was used to test the hypotheses. Project design had a significant influence on sustainability of World Vision community development projects (β1=0.403, p<0.05). To improve Kenya’s rating on sustainability, the government needs to focus on the training of beneficiaries on sustainability so that they can take full control of the project when the financial support has come to an end. In addition, incorporation of sustainability into project design, and provision of support beyond the project completion is critical in ensuring that World Vision projects are sustainable.
Present day Agricultural Education Ecosystem and Assessment on Educational Aspirations of Farm Graduates
Authors: Anandaraja N. , Sivabalan K. C. , Lalson Molu T.
Published: November 2020

In the global ecosystem, swift changes are happening in the knowledge sphere. The present study aims to find out the aspirations of the agricultural graduates regarding their education and agriculture. The study was conducted in the three Agricultural Colleges of Kerala Agricultural University (KAU) through open online survey. Well-structured questionnaire was prepared using ‘Google forms’, an online application and data was collected by publishing it online in KAU Student’s Community through ‘Facebook’. Among the sixty four respondents, all the respondents were B.Sc. Agriculture degree holders from KAU and vast majority of the respondents were girls. Majority of the respondents are having medium level of educational, agricultural aaspirations. More than three fifth of the respondents (67.19%) are most interested doing post-graduation in agricultural sciences after completing their graduation. Over one third of respondents (39.10%) were mostly interested to become innovative and progressive farmers, where as less than one-third of the respondents (29.7%) are most interested in starting agricultural subsidiary enterprises.
Analysis of the Adverse Drug Reactions and Associated Cost Burden on the Patients in a South Indian Teaching Hospital
Authors: Venkatasubbaiah Meda , Reddy P. Dwarakanadha , Satyanarayana Suggala V.
Published: November 2020

Objectives: To analyse the adverse drug reactions (ADR) and related economic burden on the health care system and health seekers

Methods: A prospective observational study was conducted in a South Indian tertiary care teaching hospital from July 2016 – December 2018.ADRs were analyzed for their causality, severity, predictability, and preventability through standard scales and were reported to the Pharmacovigilance Program of India (PvPI) through a specified updated Indian Pharmacopoeia Commission (IPC) suspected ADR reporting form. The total cost burden including both direct and indirect were calculated by assessing the ADR management including the clinical investigations done. The indirect cost was calculated based on the per capita analysis by using the Gross Domestic Product (GDP) of our study area.

Results: Among 458 ADRs, 81.88% were reported in Adult population with an almost same incidence in both the genders, majority were probable (41.70%) and Antibiotics were most commonly involved (16.18%). Around 60% ADRs were treated with at least one drug, 27% ADRs required either hospitalization or increased length of Hospitalization. A total of 989164.5 Indian Rupee (INR) was spent by the hospital and the patients for the management of ADRs, of which 79% was direct cost and 21% was indirect cost.

Conclusion: In this hospital, 26.88% of patients were identified with ADRs that were associated with high direct costs, due to hospitalization/extended hospitalizations, which resulted in an extra economic burden to the healthcare sector and seekers for the management of ADRs.
Bad Gains: Effects of Fossil Fuel Energy on Africa
Authors: Nkumbe Enongene Rex
Published: November 2020

Energy is indispensable to global economic development and human development. Through the course of history, different energy sources have been used to fuel economic growth and better human life. The fossil economy fuelled unprecedented economic growth that was not possible with previous energy epochs. The development brought about by fossil fuels has not been beneficial for all and this paper argues that fossil fuel energy sources; specifically oil and gas have had more of negative political and socio-cultural implications for Africa. Using secondary data sources from books, articles and reports, the study finds out that oil resources have helped is sustaining dictatorships and socioeconomic hardship in oil producing countries in Africa.
A Tetra-Primer Amplification Refractory Mutation System–Polymerase Chain Reaction (T-ARMS-PCR) for Genotyping of rs8099917 & rs12979860 IL28B Polymorphisms and Its Correlation of Various Variables in Iranian HCV Patients
Authors: Bahari Ali , Hashemi Mohammad , Bahari Gholam Reza , Fakharian Tahereh , Gerayli Sina , Zadeh Abbas Esmail , Sima Hamid Reza , Mozaffari Hooman Mosannan , Bakhshipour Ali Reza , Bari Zohreh
Published: November 2020

Background: Selecting patients for new direct acting antiviral treatment of HCV has prompted a conflicting matter worldwide because of its high cost and limited availability. Genotyping of IL28B polymorphisms will aid clinical decision making for identifying priorities of urgent treatment in resource-limited countries.

Objectives: The aim of the present study was to design a simple tetra-primer amplification refractory mutation system–polymerase chain reaction (T-ARMS-PCR) for genotyping of the rs8099917 and rs12979860 IL28B gene polymorphisms. Furthermore, we identify the correlation of variables such as gender, serum ALT level, histology of liver and baseline viral load with these polymorphisms.

Patients and Methods: We efficiently designed a T-ARMS-PCR for detection of rs12979860 and rs8099917 IL28B gene polymorphisms. Using this method, we genotyped 148 hepatitis C patients. To ensure T-ARMS genotyping quality, we, regenotyped samples with the PCR- sequencing method.

Results: Results of genotyping of rs12979860 and rs8099917 by T-ARMS PCR method were 100% concordant with the sequencing results. Among these 148 patients with chronic hepatitis C, the frequency of the rs12979860 CT, TT and CC genotypes was 72.3%, 14.2% and 13.5%, respectively and the frequency of the rs8099917 TT, GT and GG genotypes was 58.1%, 38.5% and 3.4%. Low frequency (2.7%) of association of two unfavourable homozygous genotypes (TT rs12979860 / GG rs809917) as well as 56.7% of association of 3 or 4 favorable alleles could explain good response of Iranians to HCV treatment with interferon-based regimens. About correlation of polymorphisms with different variables, only high viral load showed a statistically significant correlation to unfavorable genotype of TT rs12979860 ( p value = 0/05 ) and there was no correlation of  serum ALT level, gender and  histology of liver to IL28B genotypes.

Conclusions: We report that rs8099917 polymorphisms could predict outcomes better than rs12979860 in Iranian HCV patients.
Acute Renal Problems Still a Great Challenge in Obstetrics
Authors: Abbasi Madiha , Samreen Erum , Parveen Naheed , Nazia Shafaq , Naz Farah
Published: November 2020

Objective: To assess the early risk factors and outcomes of the patients presented with acute renal issues, at tertiary care Hospital.

Methodology: This descriptive study was conducted at gynaecology and obstetrics department of Liaquat University of medical and health Sciences. Study duration was six months from June 2019 to November 2019. Women having age more than 18 years, developed renal impairment as serum creatinine level more than 1.2 mg/dl were included. All data was collected via self-made proforma. SPSS version 20 was used for the data analysis.

Results: Total 58 women having renal problems during pregnancy were studied, their mean age was 28.40+4.68 years and mean gestational age was 28.40+4.68 years. Most of the women 70.2% were un-booked. Parity 1-3 was commonest. Anaemic women were on high risk of renal impairment as most of the patients had moderate anemia. Hypertension was in 35.1% patients, placental abruption was in 10.5% cases, tow patients had diabetes, 12.3% presented with pregnancy induced hypertension and postpartum haemorrhage was in 05.3% cases. There was a significant negative correlation between haemoglobin level and serum creatinine level, (r-value 0.029).

Conclusion: Anemia was the commonest reason for renal impairment during pregnancy. Most of the women were un-booked, having high parity and were presented with anemia. This morbidity can be decreased and prevented by stabilizing the haemoglobin level by taking proper antenatal care.
Self‐Driven WSe2/Bi2O2Se Van der Waals Heterostructure Photodetectors with High Light On/Off Ratio and Fast Response
Authors: Luo Peng , Wang Fakun , Qu Jingyu , Liu Kailang , Hu Xiaozong , Liu Kewei , Zhai Tianyou
Published: November 2020

Benefiting from the superior electron mobility and good air‐stability, the emerging layered bismuth oxyselenide (Bi2O2Se) nanosheet has received considerable attention with the promising prospects for electronics and optoelectronics applications. However, the high charge carrier concentration and bolometric effect of Bi2O2Se give rise to the high dark current and relatively slow photoresponse, which severely impede further improvement of the performance of Bi2O2Se based photodetectors. Here, a WSe2/Bi2O2Se Van der Waals p‐n heterostructure is reported with a pronounced rectification ratio of 105 and a low reverse dark current of 10−11 A, as well as an enhanced light on/off ratio up to 618 under 532 nm light illumination. The device also exhibits a fast response speed of 2.6 µs and a broadband detection capability from 365 to 2000 nm due to the efficient charge separation and strong interlayer coupling at the interface of the two flakes. Importantly, the built‐in potential in the WSe2/Bi2O2Se heterostructure offers a competitive self‐powered photodetector with the light on/off ratio above 105 and a photovoltaic responsivity of 284 mA W−1. The WSe2/Bi2O2Se heterostructure shows promising potentials for high‐performance self‐driven photodetector applications.
Seawater‐Degradable Polymers—Fighting the Marine Plastic Pollution
Authors: Wang Ge‐Xia , Huang Dan , Ji Jun‐Hui , Völker Carolin , Wurm Frederik R.
Published: November 2020

Polymers shape human life but they also have been identified as pollutants in the oceans due to their long lifetime and low degradability. Recently, various researchers have studied the impact of (micro)plastics on marine life, biodiversity, and potential toxicity. Even if the consequences are still heavily discussed, prevention of unnecessary waste is desired. Especially, newly designed polymers that degrade in seawater are discussed as potential alternatives to commodity polymers in certain applications. Biodegradable polymers that degrade in vivo (used for biomedical applications) or during composting often exhibit too slow degradation rates in seawater. To date, no comprehensive summary for the degradation performance of polymers in seawater has been reported, nor are the studies for seawater‐degradation following uniform standards. This review summarizes concepts, mechanisms, and other factors affecting the degradation process in seawater of several biodegradable polymers or polymer blends. As most of such materials cannot degrade or degrade too slowly, strategies and innovative routes for the preparation of seawater‐degradable polymers with rapid degradation in natural environments are reviewed. It is believed that this selection will help to further understand and drive the development of seawater‐degradable polymers.
Highly Stretchable Sound‐in‐Display Electronics Based on Strain‐Insensitive Metallic Nanonetworks
Authors: Cho Seungse , Kang Dong‐hee , Lee Hyejin , Kim Minsoo P. , Kang Saewon , Shanker Ravi , Ko Hyunhyub
Published: November 2020

The growing importance of human–machine interfaces and the rapid expansion of the internet of things (IoT) have inspired the integration of displays with sound generation systems to afford stretchable sound‐in‐display devices and thus establish human‐to‐machine connections via auditory system visualization. Herein, the synchronized generation of sound and color is demonstrated for a stretchable sound‐in‐display device with electrodes of strain‐insensitive silver nanowires (AgNWs) and emissive layers of field‐induced inorganic electroluminescent (EL) phosphors. In this device, EL phosphors embedded in a dielectric elastomer actuator (DEA) emit light under alternating‐current bias, while audible sound waves are simultaneously generated via DEA actuation along with input sound signals. The electroluminescence and sound‐generation performances of the fabricated device are highly robust and reliable, being insensitive to stretch‐release cycling because of the presence of the AgNW stretchable electrodes. The presented principle of integrating light emission and acoustic systems in a single stretchable device can be further expanded to realize sound‐in‐display electronics for IoT and human–machine interface applications.
Mechanisms and Suppression of Photoinduced Degradation in Perovskite Solar Cells
Authors: Wei Jing , Wang Qiuwen , Huo Jiangding , Gao Feng , Gan Zhenyu , Zhao Qing , Li Hongbo
Published: November 2020

Solar cells based on metal halide perovskites have reached a power conversion efficiency as high as 25%. Their booming efficiency, feasible processability, and good compatibility with large‐scale deposition techniques make perovskite solar cells (PSCs) desirable candidates for next‐generation photovoltaic devices. Despite these advantages, the lifespans of solar cells are far below the industry‐needed 25 years. In fact, numerous PSCs throughout the literature show severely hampered stability under illumination. Herein, several photoinduced degradation mechanisms are discussed. With light radiation, the organic–inorgainc perovskites are prone to phase segregation or chemical decomposition; the oxide electron transport layers (ETLs) tend to introduce new defects at the interface; the commonly used small molecules‐based hole transport layers (HTLs) typically suffer from poor photostability and dopant diffusion during device operation. It has been demonstrated the photoinduced degradation can take place in every functional layer, including the active layer, ETL, HTL, and their interfaces. An overview of these degradation categories is provided in this review, in the hope of encouraging further research and optimization of relevant devices.
The Intrinsic Role of Molecular Mass and Polydispersity Index in High‐Performance Non‐Fullerene Polymer Solar Cells
Authors: Shi Mumin , Wang Tao , Wu Yao , Sun Rui , Wang Wei , Guo Jing , Wu Qiang , Yang Wenyan , Min Jie
Published: November 2020

The degree of polymerization can cause significant changes in the blend microstructure and physical mechanism of the active layer of non‐fullerene polymer solar cells, resulting in a huge difference in device performance. However, the diversity of stability issues, including photobleaching stability, storage stability, photostability, thermal stability, and mechanical stability, and more, poses a challenge for the degree of polymerization to comprehensively address the trade‐off between device efficiency and stability and reasonably evaluate the application potential of polymer materials. Herein, a series of PM6 polymers with different weight‐average molecular weights (Mw) and polydispersity index (PDI) are synthesized. The effects of the degree of PM6 polymerization on the efficiency and degradation behaviors of the photovoltaic systems based on Y6 as acceptor are investigated systematically. The findings regarding stability issues, together with the trade‐offs in the efficiency‐stability gap, formulate a complete guideline for the material design and performance evaluation in a way that relies much less on trial‐and‐error efforts.
Maize–legume strip cropping effect on productivity, income, and income risk of farmers in northern Ghana
Authors: Abdul Rahman Nurudeen , Larbi Asamoah , Kotu Bekele , Asante Mary Otiwaa , Akakpo Daniel Brain , Mellon‐Bedi Shaibu , Hoeschle‐Zeledon Irmgard
Published: November 2020

Maize (Zea mays L.)–legume intercropping is common cropping system among smallholder farmers in West Africa. However, little is known about the income risk reduction associated with maize–legume strip cropping in West Africa. A 3‐yr study was conducted in Upper West and Northern regions of Ghana to determine the effect of maize–legume strip cropping on productivity, income, and income risk using a randomized complete block design with five replications in each region. Seven treatments were used: sole crops of maize (M) cowpea [Vigna unguiculata (L.) Walp.] (C) and groundnut (Arachis hypogaea L.) (G), a combination of two rows of M and two rows of legumes (L) (2M:2C and 2M:2G), and two rows of M and four rows of L (2M:4C and 2M:4G). Maize–legume strip cropping options (2M:2L and 2M:4L) on the average saved 90–100% of agricultural land, significantly increased income by about threefold, and reduced risk of operating at a financial loss by 75% compared with sole cropping. Smallholder farmers, especially sole legume cropping farmers in the Guinea savanna of northern Ghana and similar agro‐ecologies in West Africa, could adopt maize–legume strip cropping systems (2M:4L or 2M:2L) to mitigate production risk and increase financial return.
Multi‐Layer π‐Stacked Molecules as Efficient Thermally Activated Delayed Fluorescence Emitters
Authors: Wang Xue‐Qi , Yang Sheng‐Yi , Tian Qi‐Sheng , Zhong Cheng , Qu Yang‐Kun , Yu You‐Jun , Jiang Zuo‐Quan , Liao Liang‐Sheng
Published: November 2020

Multi‐layer π‐stacked emitters based on spatially confined donor/acceptor/donor (D/A/D) patterns have been developed to achieve high‐efficiency thermally activated delayed fluorescence (TADF). In this case, dual donor moieties and a single acceptor moiety are introduced to form two three‐dimensional (3D) emitters, DM‐BD1 and DM‐BD2, which rely on spatial charge transfer (CT). Owing to the enforced face‐to‐face D/A/D pattern, effective CT interactions are realized, which lead to high photoluminescence quantum yields (PLQYs) of 94.2 % and 92.8 % for the two molecules, respectively. The resulting emitters exhibit small singlet–triplet energy splitting (ΔEST) and fast reverse intersystem crossing (RISC) processes. Maximum external quantum efficiencies (EQEs) of 28.0 % and 26.6 % were realized for devices based on DM‐BD1 and DM‐BD2, respectively, which are higher than those of their D/A‐type analogues.
Ground penetrating radar and electrical resistivity tomography investigations in the southern sector of the Roman Forum: First results on the pre‐Augustan phases of the Basilica Julia
Authors: Scardozzi Giuseppe , Ismaelli Tommaso , Leucci Giovanni , De Giorgi Lara , Ditaranto Immacolata , Galli Marco , Inglese Carlo , Griffo Marika
Published: November 2020

A research project aimed at the study of the archaeological context of the Basilica Julia in the Roman Forum (Rome, Italy) and the transformation phases of the building involved the use of different techniques of geophysical prospecting. In particular, Ground‐penetrating Radar (GPR) and Electrical Resistivity Tomography (ERT) surveys were carried out in order to record the buried structures of the Basilica and the previous buildings laying in the southern part of the Forum. These geophysical methods have been chosen in order to guarantee a good compromise between resolution (GPR in the shallow subsurface) and depth of investigation (ERT in the deeper subsurface), with the aim of investigating up to a depth of about 10 m in a very conductive subsoil. In particular, GPR surveys were conducted in the five aisles of the monument, while ERT measurements were performed with nonstandard acquisition mode in order to include the entire perimeter of the building. These techniques allowed us to acquire new data on the structures buried in the sectors of the monumental complex that have never been excavated and on the paleosoil till a depth of about 10 m from the surface. Interesting data were acquired on the Basilica Julia itself, built during the late Republican period (54–46 BC) and rebuilt at the beginning of the first century AD, such as the technical features of the caementicium and travertine foundations, their relationship with the Cloaca Maxima and the traces of a design change occurred during the construction in the central aisle of the building; other buried remains of the previous Basilica Sempronia, constructed in 169 BC in the same area, were identified. Moreover, the investigations documented the paleosoil in the area between the Forum and the Velabrum to the south, between 7.5–8.5 and 5.5 m a.s.l. These data confirmed the general geological setting of the area, obtained from previous coring, but significantly specified the geomorphology of this border sector of the Roman Forum, which slopes down towards the south and the west.
Effect of Stereochemistry on Chirality and Gelation Properties of Supramolecular Self‐Assemblies
Authors: Qin Minggao , Zhang Yaqian , Xing Chao , Yang Li , Zhao Changli , Dou Xiaoqiu , Feng Chuanliang
Published: November 2020

Although chiral nanostructures have been fabricated at various structural levels, the transfer and amplification of chirality from molecules to supramolecular self‐assemblies are still puzzling, especially for heterochiral molecules. Herein, four series ofC2‐symmetrical dipeptide‐based derivatives bearing various amino acid sequences and different chiralities are designed and synthesized. The transcription and amplification of molecular chirality to supramolecular assemblies are achieved. The results show that supramolecular chirality is only determined by the amino acid adjacent to the benzene core, irrespective of the absolute configuration of the C‐terminal amino acid. In addition, molecular chirality also has a significant influence on the gelation behavior. For the diphenylalanine‐based gelators, the homochiral gelators can be gelled through a conventional heating–cooling process, whereas heterochiral gelators form translucent stable gels under sonication. The racemic gels possess higher mechanical properties than those of the pure enantiomers. All of these results contribute to an increasing knowledge over control of the generation of specific chiral supramolecular structures and the development of new optimized strategies to achieve functional supramolecular organogels through heterochiral and racemic systems.
Coordinated evolution of brain size, structure, and eye size in Trinidadian killifish
Authors: Howell Kaitlyn J. , Beston Shannon M. , Stearns Sara , Walsh Matthew R.
Published: November 2020

Brain size, brain architecture, and eye size vary extensively in vertebrates. However, the extent to which the evolution of these components is intricately connected remains unclear. Trinidadian killifish, Anablepsoides hartii, are found in sites that differ in the presence and absence of large predatory fish. Decreased rates of predation are associated with evolutionary shifts in brain size; males from sites without predators have evolved a relatively larger brain and eye size than males from sites with predators. Here, we evaluated the extent to which the evolution of brain size, brain structure, and eye size covary in male killifish. We utilized wild‐caught and common garden‐reared specimens to determine whether specific components of the brain have evolved in response to differences in predation and to determine if there is covariation between the evolution of brain size, brain structure, and eye size. We observed consistent shifts in brain architecture in second generation common garden reared, but not wild caught preserved fish. Male killifish from sites that lack predators exhibited a significantly larger telencephalon, optic tectum, cerebellum, and dorsal medulla when compared with fish from sites with predators. We also found positive connections between the evolution of brain structure and eye size but not between overall brain size and eye size. These results provide evidence for evolutionary covariation between the components of the brain and eye size. Such results suggest that selection, directly or indirectly, acts upon specific regions of the brain, rather than overall brain size, to enhance visual capabilities.
Evaluating a modified behavioral skills training procedure for teaching poison prevention skills to children with autism
Authors: Petit‐Frere Paula , Miltenberger Raymond G.
Published: November 2020

Accidental poisonings can occur for children with disabilities as a result of ingesting household products, such as medications and cleaning chemicals, if the products are not stored safely. Behavioral approaches such as behavioral skills training (BST) have been used in previous research to teach safety skills to children with disabilities. However, research suggests that BST is not always effective for teaching safety skills to children with and without disabilities. Thus, the purpose of this study was to evaluate the efficacy of a modified BST package that incorporated a system of least prompts. A nonconcurrent multiple baseline design across participants was used to evaluate the effects of intervention with three 6‐8‐year‐old children with autism. Results showed that BST with the prompt sequence increased poison prevention skills for all 3 participants and the skills maintained at follow‐up.
RAB5A is associated with genes involved in exosome secretion: Integration of bioinformatics analysis and experimental validation
Authors: Gorji‐bahri Gilar , Moghimi Hamid Reza , Hashemi Atieh
Published: November 2020

Exosomes, as cell–cell communicators with an endosomal origin, are involved in the progression of various diseases. RAB5A, a member of the small Rab GTPases family, which is well known as a key regulator of cellular endocytosis, is expected to be involved in exosome secretion. Here, we found the impact of RAB5A on exosome secretion from human hepatocellular carcinoma cell line using a rapid yet reliable bioinformatics approach followed by experimental analysis. Initially, RAB5A and exosome secretion‐related genes were gathered from bioinformatics tools, namely, CTD, COREMINE, and GeneMANIA; and published papers. Protein–protein interaction (PPI) was then constructed by the Search Tool for Retrieval of Interacting Genes (STRING) database. Among them, several genes with different combined scores were validated by the real‐time quantitative polymerase chain reaction (RT‐qPCR) in stable RAB5A knockdown cells. Thereafter, to validate the bioinformatics results functionally, the impact of RAB5A knockdown on exosome secretion was evaluated. Bioinformatics analysis showed that RAB5A interacts with 37 genes involved in exosome secretion regulatory pathways. Validation by RT‐qPCR confirmed the association of RAB5A with candidate interacted genes and interestingly showed that even medium to low combined scores of the STRING database could be experimentally valid. Moreover, the functional analysis demonstrated that the stable silencing of RAB5A could experimentally decrease exosome secretion. In conclusion, we suggest RAB5A as a regulator of exosome secretion based on our bioinformatics approach and experimental analysis. Also, we propose the usage of PPI‐derived from the STRING database regardless of their combined scores in advanced bioinformatics analysis.
The relationship between neighborhood racial composition and African American parents’ racial socialization
Authors: Varner Fatima A. , Mandara Jelani , Scott Lorraine E. , Murray Carolyn B.
Published: November 2020

This study assessed the degree to which the racial composition of one's neighborhood was related to the racial socialization messages parents communicated to their children in a sample of 307 African American families. Linear regression analyses were conducted. Neighborhoods were classified as predominantly African American, predominantly European American, or racially integrated. Even after controlling for parents’ education, mental health, and family income, parents in predominantly European American and racially integrated neighborhoods gave more preparation for bias messages than those in predominantly African American neighborhoods. Parents of boys conveyed more cultural empowerment messages in racially integrated and predominantly European American neighborhoods than in predominantly African American neighborhoods. Older girls were more likely to receive egalitarian messages than older boys. African American parents may use more empowerment and preparation for bias messages when they feel their children are culturally isolated or likely to experience racial discrimination.
Reducing prejudice toward Syrian refugee children: A vicarious contact intervention among Turkish elementary school children
Authors: Tercan Mustafa , Bisagno Elisa , Cocco Veronica Margherita , Kaçmaz Tarkan , Turnuklu Abbas , Stathi Sofia , Vezzali Loris
Published: November 2020

We conducted an experimental intervention to test the effectiveness of vicarious contact in the relationship between Turkish and Syrian elementary school children; the participants were Turkish children. We used a mixed‐methods approach, investigating effects by using both quantitative and qualitative methodologies. Participants in the experimental condition were asked to read stories on positive contact between Turkish and Syrian children over the course of six weekly sessions. The results revealed that vicarious contact, compared to a control condition where participants did not engage in any activity, led to greater intentions to help outgroup members. Importantly, effects only emerged among children who reported higher initial negative outgroup attitudes. Results from qualitative data revealed that vicarious contact produced richer, more positive, and complex representations of the relationships and friendships between groups. We discuss the theoretical and practical implications of these findings.
Central Cognitive Processing Speed Is an Early Marker of Huntington's Disease Onset
Authors: Corey‐Bloom Jody , Williams McKenna E. , Beltran‐Najera Ilex , Mustafa Andrea I. , Snell Chase M. , Castleton Jordan , Smith Haileigh , Wright Brenton , Gilbert Paul E.
Published: November 2020

Background

Several studies have suggested that cognitive processing speed may be useful for assessing early cognitive change in premanifest Huntington's disease (HD); however, current measures lack the ability to control for the effects of motor dysfunction commonly found in HD. The Computerized Test of Information Processing (CTiP) is a rapidly administered computerized tool that allows for the examination of central cognitive processing speed by using motor‐corrected scores to account for motor dysfunction.

Objective

To examine central cognitive processing speed as an early marker of HD onset using the CTiP.

Methods

The CTiP and other measures were administered to 102 HD gene carriers and 55 healthy adults (HA). Gene carriers included presymptomatic HD (pre‐HD; n = 33), prodromal HD (pro‐HD; ie, individuals close to disease onset; n = 23), and mild–moderate HD (HD; n = 46).

Results

The HD group performed significantly slower than all other groups (HA, pre‐HD, and pro‐HD) on most subtests (Ps < .05). Moreover, the pro‐HD group performed significantly slower than the HA group on both motor‐corrected subtests (Ps < 0.05). Effect sizes associated with significant group differences between the pro‐HD and HA groups on motor‐corrected CTiP subtests (d= 0.73 and 0.84) were similar to effect sizes associated with group differences on the Symbol Digit Modalities Test (d= .82) and other traditional cognitive assessments (Montreal Cognitive Assessment,d= .75; Mini‐Mental State Examination,d= .84).

Conclusions

The CTiP may be a useful marker of deficits in central cognitive processing speed in individuals close to manifest onset of HD.
Prevalence of Non‐Motor Symptoms and Non‐Motor Fluctuations in Parkinson's Disease Using the MDS‐NMS
Authors: Rodriguez‐Blazquez Carmen , Schrag Anette , Rizos Alexandra , Chaudhuri K. Ray , Martinez‐Martin Pablo , Weintraub Daniel
Published: November 2020

Background

Non‐motor symptoms (NMS) are frequent in Parkinson's disease (PD).

Objectives

To estimate the prevalence of NMS and of non‐motor fluctuations (NMF) using the Movement Disorders Society‐Non‐Motor Rating Scale (MDS‐NMS) and other scales assessing NMS, and their relationship with sex and PD severity.

Methods

Cross‐sectional study with a sample of 402 PD patients. The Hoehn and Yahr staging system (HY), Clinical Impression of Severity Index for PD (CISI‐PD), MDS‐NMS (including NMF‐ subscale), Non‐Motor Symptoms scale (NMSS), and MDS‐Unified Parkinson's Disease Rating Scale (MDS‐UPDRS) were applied. A NMS was considered present when scored ≥1. Differences in scores by sex and HY, CISI‐PD, and MDS‐UPDRS severity levels were calculated using Fisher's exact and chi‐squared tests.

Results

Using the MDS‐NMS, NMS were present in 99.7% of patients and the mean number of NMS was 16.13 (SD: 9.36). The most prevalent NMS was muscle, joint or back pain (67.4% of the sample) and the least prevalent was dopamine dysregulation syndrome (2.2%). Feeling sad or depressed was significantly more prevalent in women. Using the MDS‐NMS revealed more NMS than the other scales assessing NMS. NMF were present in 41% of the sample, with fatigue being the most prevalent symptom (68.5% patients with NMF), and no differences by sex. Patients with greater PD severity had higher prevalence of NMS than patients with lower severity.

Conclusions

Almost all patients with PD experience NMS, and many experience NMF. Prevalence rates for NMS using the MDS‐NMS are higher than on other scales used and increase with higher disease severity.
Failure analysis of thin‐film four‐junction inverted metamorphic solar cells
Authors: Long Junhua , Wu Dongying , Huang Xinping , Ye Sai , Li Xuefei , Ji Lian , Sun Qiangjian , Song Minghui , Xing Zhiwei , Lu Shulong
Published: November 2020

Inverted metamorphic solar cells play an important role in the field of photovoltaics, because it can directly grow stacked tandem junctions with different bandgaps according to the spectrum. We have found that the four‐junction AlGaInP/AlGaAs/InGaAs/InGaAs solar cells with the bandgap of 1.96/1.55/1.17/0.83 eV on the basis of the inverted metamorphic three‐junction AlGaInP/AlGaAs/InGaAs materials will cause a serious decrease in short‐circuit current density but with a normal open‐circuit voltage. The sharp decrease in short‐circuit current density is not attributed to the mismatched buffers dislocations penetrating into the active region of the InGaAs subcells but resulted from the minority carrier recombination due to defects in the AlGaInP subcell, which is observed directly from transmission electron microscopy, external quantum efficiency, electroluminescence, and secondary ion mass spectrometry measurements. The process of growing AlGaInP materials by metal–organic chemical vapor deposition easily introduces Al‐O deep‐level defects, resulting in the poor collection of minority carriers in AlGaInP materials. After improving the growth conditions of AlGaInP materials, a four‐junction solar cell with a photoelectric conversion efficiency of 34.9% and an open‐circuit voltage of 3.53 V was obtained.