bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Fiber optic deployment challenges and their management in a developing country: A tutorial and case study in Ghana
Authors: Nyarko‐Boateng Owusu , Xedagbui Faith Edem Bright , Adekoya Adebayo Felix , Weyori Benjamin Asubam 
Published: February 2020

AbstractThe telecommunication industry in Ghana has undergone various stages of transformation. The industry has experienced exponential growth over the last decades. Sustaining this growth hinges on efficient infrastructural deployment and management. Fiber optics technology has become the primary network infrastructure and a communication medium, which provides higher bandwidth capacity high speed for current and emerging technologies. As the demand for new technology and services increases, fiber optics technology brings the promise of a flexible, scalability, full‐service network platform with potentially unlimited capacity. Although mobile network operators have invested significantly and strategically in fiber optic infrastructure, there has been an increase in the number of network outages caused by frequent failures in fiber optics networks such as fiber cable cuts. Fiber cable cuts have become the single most significant cause of transmission failure or disruption to telecommunication services in Ghana with an enormous impact on the subscriber's experience. This research seeks to investigate the challenges in fiber cable deployment in Ghana, with emphasis on the technical, regulatory, managerial challenges and recommend the appropriate solutions. The challenges of frequent fiber cuts can be attributed to external factors such as dig‐ups during road construction. Lack of regulatory guidelines and policies on fiber deployment and management poses a major threat to the fiber management in Ghana.
ICID VISION 2030—THE PRESENT STATUS AND PROSPECTS FOR IRRIGATED AGRICULTURE
Authors: Makin Ian W. 
Published: February 2020

AbstractPopulation growth and improving economic status will inevitably increase the demand for food. In 2012 the FAO estimated that global food production must increase 40% by 2050 in order to feed the expected population of 9 billion in 2050. Furthermore, developing countries would likely need to double food production to meet demands under the current market, institutional and economic systems. Irrigated agriculture is about twice as productive as rainfed. But increasing competition for land, water and labour from industry and municipalities will make meeting the growing demand for food, fibre and biofuels a major challenge for the irrigated agriculture subsector. The ICID Vision 2030 sets out an ambitious agenda for ICID and its members to revitalize the organization and to provide leadership to the irrigated agriculture subsector. This paper explores the current status of irrigated agriculture and identifies some critical areas for members to ensure ICID continues as the leading professional organization in agricultural irrigation and drainage. © 2020 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Dissimilar sintered calcium phosphate dental inserts as dentine substitutes: Shear bond strength to restorative materials
Authors: Ayoub Giuma , Zebic Maja Lezaja , Miletic Vesna , Petrović Rada , Veljovic Djordje , Janackovic Djordje 
Published: February 2020

AbstractThe application of sintered calcium phosphate dental inserts in the central part of tooth cavities can reduce amount of embedded dental composite and polymerization shrinkage of final dental fillings. The aim of this study was to analyze comparatively physico‐chemical and mechanical properties of dental inserts and shear bond strength (SBS) between three dissimilar hydroxyapatite‐based dental inserts and different restorative materials, after application of different clinical protocols. Starting from two different hydroxyapatite nano powders and nanostructured stabilized zirconia (YSZ), monophasic two‐step sintered dense HAp inserts (TSSHAp), biphasic single‐step sintered controlled porous inserts (HAp/TCp), and single‐step sintered reinforced HAp/YSZ inserts were processed and characterized. Obvious differences in the microstructure of inserts surface were visualized after etching with 37% phosphoric acid. Fracture toughness of sintered inserts was ranged between 1.01 and 1.85 MPam1/2 (maximum value in the case of HAp/YSZ), while hardness values were in the range of 3.71–5.22 GPa (maximum value in the case of TSSHAp). Acid etching before application improved SBS between inserts and Maxcem compared to direct cement application. TSSHAp and HAP/TCp inserts showed comparable and relatively high SBS values, certainly higher compared to HAp/YSZ inserts. Slightly higher SBS values were measured in the case of TSSHAp insert group, and the highest mean SBS value of 18.51 MPa was determined between TSSHAp inserts and Filtek Z250_SBU following the “self‐etch” protocol.
Talazoparib nanoparticles for overcoming multidrug resistance in triple‐negative breast cancer
Authors: Guney Eskiler Gamze , Cecener Gulsah , Egeli Unal , Tunca Berrin 
Published: February 2020

AbstractHerein, we investigated efflux pumps‐mediated talazoparib‐resistance in the treatment of triple‐negative breast cancer (TNBC). Furthermore, we produced a novel talazoparib‐solid lipid nanoparticles (SLNs) and then explored in vitro therapeutic efficacy of talazoparib‐SLNs to overcome talazoparib‐resistance in TNBC cells. Talazoparib‐SLNs formulation was produced and then characterized. Calcein and Rho‐123 were used to analyze the functional activity of drug efflux pumps in these cells. Additionally, RT‐PCR, western blot and immunofluorescence analysis were used to detect the messenger RNA, and protein expression level, and cellular localization of the multidrug resistance (MDR1), breast cancer resistance protein (BCRP), and MRP1. We found that talazoparib efflux was mediated by BCRP and MRP1 pumps in TNBC cells. Talazoparib‐SLNs could significantly enhance therapeutic efficacy of talazoparib. Furthermore, talazoparib‐SLNs were more effective in the suppression of MDR1, BCRP, and MRP1 gene and protein expression levels than talazoparib. Consequently, this study suggests that talazoparib‐SLNs formulation represents a promising therapeutic carrier to reverse MDR‐mediated resistance in TNBC.
Efficient synthesis of bio‐based monomer 2,5‐bishydroxymethylfuran by the solvent‐free hydrogenation of 5‐hydroxymethylfurfural‐based deep eutectic mixture
Authors: Wang Ting , Wei Junnan , Feng Yunchao , Liu Huai , Tang Xing , Zeng Xianhai , Sun Yong , Lei Tingzhou , Lin Lu 
Published: February 2020

AbstractBACKGROUNDBiomass holds the promise to provide a sustainable future for the chemical industry. 2, 5‐Bishydroxymethylfuran (BHMF) is a versatile bio‐based diol with a broad range of potential applications in many polymeric materials, artificial fibers and drugs. However, the controlling of the BHMF selectivity in hydrogenation of biomass‐derived 5‐hydroxymethylfurfural (HMF) with complex transformation pathways is always a great challenge especially under solvent‐free conditions in which many side reactions may occur due to its rich reducible groups.RESULTSA facile and effective approach was developed for the selective synthesis of BHMF by solvent‐free hydrogenation of a deep eutectic mixture consisting of HMF (75 wt%) and choline chloride (ChCl), by which a BHMF selectivity up to 94.6% was gained at full HMF conversion over Raney Co at 100 °C in 4 h. In addition, the HMF conversion and selectivity toward BHMF can be regulated and controlled through altering the strength of hydrogen‐bonding interactions of HMF‐based deep eutectic mixtures (ChCl–HMF mixtures).CONCLUSIONWe developed an effective approach that allows the solvent‐free synthesis of BHMF via hydrogenation of HMF‐based deep eutectic mixtures. The extraordinary BHMF selectivity in the solvent‐free hydrogenation of HMF is reasonably attributed to the hydrogen‐bonding interactions formed between ChCl and HMF/BHMF which greatly suppresses the side reactions of HMF and the over‐reduction of BHMF. © 2020 Society of Chemical Industry
Influence of head‐of‐bed elevation on the measurement of inferior vena cava diameter and collapsibility
Authors: Bondarsky Eric , Rothman Adam , Ramesh Navitha , Love Angela , Kory Pierre , Lee Young I. 
Published: February 2020

AbstractPurposeInferior vena cava (IVC) diameter and variation are commonly measured in the supine position to estimate intravascular volume status of critically ill patients. Many scientific societies describe the measurement of IVC diameter in the supine position. However, critically ill patients are rarely placed supine due to concerns for aspiration risk, worsened respiratory mechanics, increases in intracranial pressure, and the time it takes to change patient position. We assessed the influence of head‐of‐bed (HOB) elevation on IVC measurements.MethodsWe conducted a prospective observational study of critically ill patients undergoing critical care ultrasound. With HOB at 0°, IVC maximum (IVCmax0°) and minimum (IVCmin0°) diameters were measured. Measurements were then repeated with HOB elevated to 30° and 45°. Collapsibility index (CI), defined as (IVCmax − IVCmin)/IVCmax, was calculated for each HOB elevation. Mean differences were then compared.ResultsA convenience sample of 95 patients was studied, of whom 45% were on vasopressors and 44% were spontaneously breathing. The CI did not significantly differ between the three positions. We found a significant difference (P ≤ .0001) between IVCmax at 45° (2.09 cm) and 0° (1.96 cm), IVCmin at 45° (1.75 cm) and 0° (1.59 cm), IVCmax at 45° (2.09 cm) and 30° (1.97 cm), and IVCmin at 45° (1.75 cm) and 30° (1.61 cm).ConclusionsIn a population of critically ill patients undergoing goal‐directed ultrasound examinations, elevating HOB to 30° did not significantly alter IVC measurements or CI. At 45°, however, IVCmax and IVCmin diameters increased significantly, albeit with no significant change in CI. Performing ultrasound measurements of the IVC with HOB elevated to 30° is unlikely to produce clinically meaningful changes.
Impacts of groundwater extraction on calcareous fen floristic quality
Authors: Bart David , Booth Eric , Loheide Steven P. , Bernthal Thomas 
Published: February 2020

AbstractGroundwater withdrawal has increased over the past several decades throughout the U.S. Upper Midwest, yet impacts of pumping on groundwater‐dependent wetlands remain understudied. Here, we compared measures of floristic quality, hydrologic conditions, and nutrient availability in pairs of more‐impacted fens and less‐impacted fens throughout Wisconsin. Floristic quality was significantly lower in more‐impacted fens than in less‐impacted fens, the result of the disappearance of rare and specialist species and the increase in richness and cover of non‐native and weedy species. Plots within more‐impacted fens generally had lower root‐zone volumetric water content, greater depth to water table, and higher available nitrogen and phosphorus than within less‐impacted fens, although nonuniformly among or within sites. Lower volumetric water content predicted plot‐level declines in floristic quality, richness of rare or specialist species, an increase in the number of non‐native or problematic species, and an increase in cover of non‐native and problematic species. Our results strongly suggest that groundwater withdrawals have substantial negative impacts on nearby fen quality and furthering imperilment of several species they contain.
Variation in mouse pelvic morphology maps to locations enriched in Sox9 Class II and Pitx1 regulatory features
Authors: Roseman Charles C. , Capellini Terence D. , Jagoda Evelyn , Williams Scott A. , Grabowski Mark , O'Connor Christine , Polk John D. , Cheverud James M. 
Published: February 2020

AbstractVariation in pelvic morphology has a complex genetic basis and its patterning and specification is governed by conserved developmental pathways. Whether the mechanisms underlying the differentiation and specification of the pelvis also produce the morphological covariation on which natural selection may act, is still an open question in evolutionary developmental biology. We use high‐resolution quantitative trait locus (QTL) mapping in the F34generation of an advanced intercross experiment (LG,SM‐G34) to characterize the genetic architecture of the mouse pelvis. We test the prediction that genomic features linked to developmental patterning and differentiation of the hind limb and pelvis and the regulation of chondrogenesis are overrepresented in QTL. We find 31 single QTL trait associations at the genome‐ or chromosome‐wise significance level coalescing to 27 pleiotropic loci. We recover further QTL at a more relaxed significance threshold replicating locations found in a previous experiment in an earlier generation of the same population. QTL were more likely than chance to harbor Pitx1 and Sox9 Class II chromatin immunoprecipitation‐seq features active during development of skeletal features. There was weak or no support for the enrichment of seven more categories of developmental features drawn from the literature. Our results suggest that genotypic variation is channeled through a subset of developmental processes involved in the generation of phenotypic variation in the pelvis. This finding indicates that the evolvability of complex traits may be subject to biases not evident from patterns of covariance among morphological features or developmental patterning when either is considered in isolation.
Constitutively expressed MHC class Ib molecules regulate macrophage M2b polarization and sepsis severity in irradiated mice
Authors: Yao Yunliang , Zhang Ting , Ru Xiaochen , Qian Jing , Tong Zhaowei , Li Xiaoyu , Kong Xiangyang , Yao Wenjia , Zhou Hongchang , Zhong Jianfeng 
Published: February 2020

Abstract
Macrophages can change their physiology in response to microenvironmental signals. This differentiation into classically activated M1 or alternatively activated M2 macrophages is known as polarization. In this study, we isolated bone marrow-derived macrophages from β2m-deficient (deficient in both MHC class Ia and Ib) and KbDb-deficient (deficient only in MHC class Ia) mice and found that β2m-deficient macrophages showed a significantly lower M2b polarization efficiency. In addition, the absence of constitutive MHC class Ib expression decreased the stability of the Notch-1 intracellular domain. Finally, we found that β2m-deficient mice exposed to irradiation showed reduced bacterial translocation and sepsis severity. Overall, our study demonstrates that MHC class Ib molecules are essential for M2b macrophage polarization and suggests that MHC class Ib molecules play an important role during infection-induced innate immunity.
Cytomegalovirus burden improves a predictive model identifying measures of vascular risk in renal transplant recipients and healthy adults
Authors: Affandi Jacquita S. , Lee Silvia , Chih HuiJun , Brook Emily , Waters Shelley , Howson Prue , Reid Christopher M. , Irish Ashley , Price Patricia 
Published: February 2020

AbstractCytomegalovirus (CMV) has been implicated in vascular pathologies and may warrant inclusion in cardiovascular predictive algorithms. We addressed this in healthy older adults and renal transplant recipients (RTR) as they retain a high burden of CMV. RTR (n  =  45) stable more than 2 years after transplantation and 58 age‐matched healthy adults were assessed. Plasma inflammatory biomarkers (soluble isoform of the interferon‐β receptor [sIFNAR2], soluble tumour necrosis factorreceptor‐1 [sTNFR1], soluble cluster of differentiation 14 [sCD14], C reactive protein, P‐selectin, intracellular cell adhesion molecule‐1, vascular cell adhesion molecule‐1), and measures of CMV burden (antibodies, saliva CMV DNA, and interferon γ responses to CMV) were assessed in 2014 and evaluated in 2017 as predictors of vascular health—defined using flow‐mediated dilatation (FMD), pulse wave velocity (PWV), and augmentation indices (Aix@ 75). Linear regression models adjusted for age, sex, and body mass index (BMI) were optimized to identify risk factors. In 2017, RTR had inferior vascular health marked by impaired FMD and PWV. Detectable CMV DNA (P = .02) was associated with impaired FMD, whilst CMV glycoprotein B (gB) antibody attenuated this effect (P  =  .03) (adjusted R2 =  .42). In healthy adults, the optimal model for predicting FMD (R2 =.22) incorporated high P‐selectin (P  =  .03) and low ICAM‐1 (P  = .03) levels with no significant impact of CMV. Elevated sIFNAR2 (P  = .04) and gB antibody (P  =  .06) levels predicted increasing Aix@ 75 (poor vascular health) in healthy adults (R2 =  .4), whilst optimal models for RTR (R2 =  .37) linked low sIFNAR2 and CMV IE‐1 antibody levels with lower Aix@ 75 (better vascular health). CMV IE‐1 antibody was also protective in relation to PWV in healthy adults (R2 =  .55). Overall, measures of active CMV replication were more predictive of impaired FMD in RTR than standard biomarkers, but increased CMV gB antibodies may be protective.
Fetal Weight Estimation Using Automated Fractional Limb Volume With 2‐Dimensional Size Parameters
Authors: Lee Wesley , Mack Lauren M. , Sangi‐Haghpeykar Haleh , Gandhi Rajshi , Wu Qingqing , Kang Li , Canavan Timothy P. , Gatina Renata , Schild Ralf L. 
Published: February 2020

ObjectivesTo develop new fetal weight prediction models using automated fractional limb volume (FLV).MethodsA prospective multicenter study measured fetal biometry within 4 to 7 days of delivery. Three‐dimensional data acquisition included the automated FLV that was based on 50% of the humerus diaphysis (fractional arm volume [AVol]) or 50% of the femur diaphysis (fractional thigh volume [TVol]) length. A regression analysis provided population sample–specific coefficients to develop 4 weight estimation models. Estimated and actual birth weights (BWs) were compared for the mean percent difference ± standard deviation of the percent differences. Systematic errors were analyzed by the Student t test, and random errors were compared by the Pitman test.ResultsA total of 328 pregnancies were scanned before delivery (BW range, 825–5470 g). Only 71.3% to 72.6% of weight estimations were within 10% of actual BW using original published models by Hadlock et al (Am J Obstet Gynecol 1985; 151:333–337) and INTERGROWTH‐21st (Ultrasound Obstet Gynecol 2017; 49:478–486). All predictions were accurate by using sample‐specific model coefficients to minimize bias in making these comparisons (Hadlock, 0.4% ± 8.7%; INTERGROWTH‐21st, 0.5% ± 10.0%; AVol, 0.3% ± 7.4%; and TVol, 0.3% ± 8.0%). Both AVol‐ and TVol‐based models improved the percentage of correctly classified BW ±10% in 83.2% and 83.9% of cases, respectively, compared to the INTERGROWTH‐21st model (73.8%; P < .01). For BW of less than 2500 g, all models slightly overestimated BW (+2.0% to +3.1%). For BW of greater than 4000 g, AVol (–2.4% ± 6.5%) and TVol (–2.3% ± 6.9%) models) had weight predictions with small systematic errors that were not different from zero (P > .05). For these larger fetuses, both AVol and TVol models correctly classified BW (±10%) in 83.3% and 87.5% of cases compared to the others (Hadlock, 79.2%; INTERGROWTH‐21st, 70.8%) although these differences did not reach statistical significance.ConclusionsIn this cohort, the inclusion of automated FLV measurements with conventional 2‐dimensional biometry was generally associated with improved weight predictions.
ACHIEVING EXECUTIVE PRESENCE: INTEGRATING THE SEVEN DIMENSIONS OF LEADERSHIP INTELLIGENCE
Authors: Heimann Nicole 
Published: February 2020

AbstractThis article notes that leaders want to develop their executive presence, a concept elaborated on by authors such as Sylvia Ann Hewlett and Suzanne Bates. The article also expands upon my concept of Seven Dimensions of Leadership Intelligence®: Physical Intelligence, Emotional Intelligence, Pragmatic Intelligence, Communication Intelligence, Heart Intelligence, Neuroscience Intelligence, and Consciousness Intelligence. It is stressed that there is no hierarchy in these dimensions; all carry equal importance. Transforming something in one dimension impacts the whole executive presence of the leader. Each dimension is described in detail; for instance, Pragmatic Intelligence relates to consensus reality: bringing together areas such as vision, goals, strategies, events, to‐do lists, and action plans. Research is cited from a 2015 Cornell University study, and the effectiveness of the Personality Pattern Inventory (PPI), developed by Dr. Taibi Kahler, is noted. Detailed case studies from my executive coaching practice are provided, with examples of how the seven dimensions are woven together; and readers are guided to greater awareness of authenticity in leadership. The article also explores the relationship between emotional sensitivity and vulnerability, within the context of leadership. Two illustrative figures are included, to further amplify the message.
An overview of international regulatory frameworks for mesenchymal stromal cell‐based medicinal products: From laboratory to patient
Authors: López‐Beas Javier , Guadix Juan A. , Clares Beatriz , Soriano‐Ruiz Jose L. , Zugaza José L. , Gálvez‐Martín Patricia 
Published: February 2020

AbstractHuman mesenchymal stromal cells (hMSCs) are emerging as one of the most important cell types in advanced therapies and regenerative medicine due to their great therapeutic potential. The development of hMSC‐based products focuses on the use of hMSCs as biological active substances, and they are considered medicinal products by the primary health agencies worldwide. Due to their regulatory status, the development of hMSC‐based products is regulated by specific criteria that range from the design phase, nonclinical studies, clinical studies, to the final registration and approval. Patients should only be administered hMSC‐based products within the framework of a clinical trial or after the product has obtained marketing authorization; in both cases, authorization by health authorities is usually required. Considering the above, this paper describes the current general regulatory requirements for hMSC‐based products, by jurisdiction, to be implemented throughout their entire development process. These measures may provide support for researchers from both public and private entities and academia to optimize the development of these products and their subsequent marketing, thereby improving access to them by patients.