bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Distribution of injectate administered through a catheter inserted by three different approaches to ultrasound-guided thoracic paravertebral block: a prospective observational study
Authors: Termpornlert Sivaporn , Sakura Shinichi , Aoyama Yuki , Wittayapairoj Aumjit , Kishimoto Koji , Saito Yoji
Published: August 2020

Background

Despite the popularity of continuous thoracic paravertebral block (TPVB), there is a paucity of information on catheter tip position and distribution of injectate through the catheter. We observed, in real time, the spread of dye, the catheter tip position and sensory block levels produced with three different (intercostal (IC), transverse process sagittal (TS) and paralaminar (PL)) approaches to ultrasound-guided TPVB in patients undergoing video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery.

Methods

After the induction of general anesthesia, ultrasound-guided TPVB was conducted with a patient in the lateral decubitus position. During surgery, 10 mL of dye was injected through a catheter to observe the catheter tip and the dye distribution under thoracoscopy. Dermatomal sensory block levels were measured postoperatively.

Results

Ten patients for each of three different approaches completed the study. There were a variety of dye spreading patterns. The median (range) number of segmental levels stained with dye was 1.5 (1–4), 3 (1–4) and 3 (1–5) with the IC, TS and PL approaches, respectively. We observed that a catheter tip was present at the same segmental paravertebral space as intended in 50%–90% of patients using these approaches. The median (range) number of dermatomes with sensory blockade at 6 hours after block was 2.5 (1–4), 3 (2–8) and 3 (1–8) with the IC, TS and PL approaches, respectively.

Conclusions

Although a bolus injection through a catheter for ultrasound-guided TPVB produced multiple levels of spread and sensory blockade in more than half the patients, considerable differences existed in the spread regardless of approach.
Investigating the transferability of Bayesian hierarchical extreme value model for traffic conflict-based crash estimation
Authors: Zheng Lai , Sayed Tarek , Essa Mohamed
Published: August 2020

The use of the extreme value theory to estimate crashes from traffic conflicts has been gaining popularity in road safety analysis. A recent advancement is the development of Bayesian hierarchical extreme value models (BHEVM) which can combine conflict extremes of different sites and account for non-stationarity and unobserved heterogeneity for crash estimation. This paper investigated the transferability of BHEVM developed based on actual vehicle trajectory data collected from the city of Surrey, Canada to two corridors of signalized intersections in Los Angeles and Georgia, USA. Two approaches were used to transfer the models: (i) through the recalibration of the random error terms and (ii) using informative priors. The results show that the Surrey model is more transferable to Georgia than to Los Angeles, and using informative priors significantly improves the transferability. The results suggest that the BHEVM is transferable if there are similarities in the base and application contexts.
Safe hologram
Authors: Bajc Borut , Lugo Adrián , Sannino Francesco
Published: August 2020

We propose to describe the gauge sector of an asymptotically safe field theory in [Formula: see text] dimensions as a scalar theory on fixed AdS in [Formula: see text]-dimensions using the holographic dictionary.
Impact Analysis About Response Time Considering Deployment Change of SaaS Software
Authors: Dong Bo , Ying Shi , Li Lin , Luo Hui , Yang Zhe
Published: August 2020

The deployment change of SaaS (Software as a Service) software will influence its response time, which is an important performance metric. Therefore, studying the impact of deployment change on the response time of SaaS software could contribute to performance improvement of the software. However, there are few performance analysis methods which can directly analyze the relationship between deployment change and response time of SaaS software. In this paper, we propose an approach which provides the impact analysis of specific deployment change operations on response time of SaaS software explicitly. Specifically, we present an evaluation method for the response time of SaaS software in specific deployment scheme by leveraging queueing theory. With mathematical derivation based on the proposed evaluation method, we qualitatively analyze the variation trend of response time with respect to deployment change. Furthermore, we study the relationship between two specific types of deployment change operations and response time variation of SaaS software, which is used to propose a response time improvement method based on deployment change. Finally, the effectiveness of the analysis conclusions and the proposed method in this paper is validated by practical cases, which indicates that adjusting deployment scheme according to the conclusions obtained in this paper can be helpful in improving the response time of SaaS software.
On the notion of ranked complementedness in a lattice
Authors: van Niekerk Francois Koch
Published: August 2020

Not every element in a lattice has a complement. In this paper we introduce a notion of ranked complement, which depends on a natural number [Formula: see text], so that for every element [Formula: see text] in a lattice with finite height there exists [Formula: see text] such that [Formula: see text] has a complement of rank [Formula: see text]. One of the main results we establish is that in a modular lattice having finite height, every element has a complement of rank less than [Formula: see text] if and only if there is a chain [Formula: see text] of elements such that each interval [Formula: see text] is a complemented lattice.
On the Relevance of Reporting Water Content in Highly Concentrated Electrolytes: The LiTFSI-Acetonitrile Case
Authors: Généreux Simon , Gariépy Valérie , Rochefort Dominic
Published: August 2020

Highly concentrated electrolytes (HCE) are intensively studied as electrolytes in energy storage devices, with a focus on lithium-metal batteries. Despite the numerous combinations of solvent and salt reported, the relationships between the HCE composition and their properties are not fully understood, which hinders the use of more systematic approaches to their development. In order to address this need, we present here a study of the impact of water on the properties of HCE composed of LiTFSI salt and acetonitrile solvent. The physicochemical properties (density, viscosity and ionic conductivity) and on the electrochemical windows were determined for three electrolytes of different concentrations (1, 3 and 4.1 M) of LiTFSI in acetonitrile with different water contents (20, 200 and 1000 ppm). While the physicochemical properties are only depend on the salt concentration and not the water content, the latter has a significant effect on the electrochemistry of the electrolyte as the electrochemical windows decreased by up to 1.25 V for the 4.1 M HCE with 1000 ppm of water. These results highlight the fact than physicochemical properties cannot be used to assess the water levels and that even 200 ppm decreases the electrochemical windows of the electrolyte.
Genetic Diversity and Virulence Factors of S. aureus Isolated from Food, Humans, and Animals
Authors: Adame-Gómez Roberto , Castro-Alarcón Natividad , Vences-Velázquez Amalia , Toribio-Jiménez Jeiry , Pérez-Valdespino Abigail , Leyva-Vázquez Marco- Antonio , Ramírez-Peralta Arturo
Published: August 2020

Staphylococcus aureus is a commensal bacterium in humans and animals able to adapt to multiple environments. The aim of this study was to compare the genetic diversity and virulence profiles of strains of S. aureus isolated from food (29 strains), humans (43 strains), and animals (8 strains). 80 lipase-producing strains belonging to a biobank of 360 isolates, identified phenotypically as S. aureus, were selected. Confirmation of the species was made by amplifying the spA gene and 80% (64/80) of the strains were confirmed within this species. The virulence profile of each of the isolates was determined by PCR. The seA gene coding for enterotoxin A was found in 53.1% of the strains, the saK gene, which codes for Staphylokinase, was amplified in 57.8% of the strains, and, finally, the hlB gene coding for β-Hemolysin was amplified in 17.2%. The profile of antimicrobial resistance was determined by the Kirby Bauer method showing that the strains from food presented greater resistance to erythromycin (40.7%) and ciprofloxacin (18.5%) while in strains isolated from humans were to erythromycin (48.4%) and clindamycin (21.2%). Also, in strains from animals, a high resistance to erythromycin was observed (75%). The frequency of MRSA was 12.5% due to the presence of the mec gene and resistance to cefoxitin. Of the total strains, 68.7% were typed by PCR-RFLP of the coa gene using the AluI enzyme; derived from this restriction, 17 profiles were generated. Profile 4 (490 bp, 300 bp) was the most frequent, containing a higher number of strains with a higher number of virulence factors and antimicrobial resistance, which is associated with greater adaptation to different environments. In this study, a wide genetic diversity of strains of S. aureus from different foods, humans, and animals was found. This demonstrates evolution, genetic versatility, and, therefore, the adaptation of this microorganism in different environments.
In VitroDetermination of Genotoxicity Induced by Brackets Alloys in Cultures of Human Gingival Fibroblasts
Authors: Loyola-Rodríguez Juan Pablo , Lastra-Corso Ildelfonso , García-Cortés José Obed , Loyola-Leyva Alejandra , Domínguez-Pérez Rúben Abraham , Avila-Arizmendi David , Contreras-Palma Guillermo , González-Calixto Cecilia
Published: August 2020

Orthodontic brackets release ions that can be reabsorbed in the oral mucosa, potentially causing complications, including cytotoxic effects and mutagenic alterations. The aim was to evaluate the genotoxicity induced by orthodontic appliance alloys in cultures of human gingival fibroblasts by comet assay. Eluates were obtained from the following brackets alloys: EconoLine (SS: stainless steel), MiniMirage (Ni-Ti: nickel-titanium), Nu-Edge (Co-Cr: cobalt-chromium), In-Vu (PC-polycrystals (PC) aluminum oxide), and Monocrystal IZE (monocrystalline (MC) aluminum oxide). Each bracket was sterilized and exposed to a corrosive process for 35 days. The obtained eluates were tested for genotoxicity of human gingival fibroblasts (HGFA) by the alkaline comet assay. All study groups showed genotoxic effects; there was a significant difference (p<0.0001) among groups. The eluates obtained from Ni-Ti showed a 16-times greater genotoxic effect. There were differences in genotoxicity after comparing the Ni-Ti with SS (p<0.01) and Co-Cr brackets (p<0.001). The ceramic was more genotoxic than metallic brackets (SS and Co-Cr), but less than the Ni-Ti. Thisin vitromodel will be useful for further study of early DNA damage caused by brackets and other biomaterials used in the oral cavity before their introduction into the clinical setting.
Integrated Genomic Characterization of the Human Immunome in Cancer
Authors: Li Yongsheng , Burgman Brandon , McGrail Daniel J. , Sun Ming , Qi Dan , Shukla Sachet A. , Wu Erxi , Capasso Anna , Lin Shiaw-Yih , Wu Catherine J. , Eckhardt S. Gail , Mills Gordon B. , Li Bo , Sahni Nidhi , Yi S. Stephen
Published: August 2020

Alterations in immune-related pathways are common hallmarks of cancer. A comprehensive understanding of how cancer mutations rewire immune signaling networks and functional output across cancer types is instrumental to realize the full potential of immunotherapy. Here, we systematically interrogated somatic mutations involved in immune signaling that alter immune responses in patients with cancer. To do so, we developed a Network-based Integrative model to Prioritize Potential immune respondER genes (NIPPER). Identified mutations were enriched in essential protein domains and genes identified by NIPPER were associated with responsiveness to multiple immunotherapy modalities. These genes were used to devise an interactome network propagation framework integrated with drug-associated gene signatures to identify potential immunomodulatory drug candidates. Together, our systems-level analysis results help interpret the heterogeneous immune responses among patients and serve as a resource for future functional studies and targeted therapeutics.

Significance:

This study demonstrates that integration of multi-omics data can help identify critical molecular determinants for effective targeted therapeutics.
Effect of a Prostate Cancer Screening Decision Aid for African-American Men in Primary Care Settings
Authors: Allen Jennifer D. , Filson Christopher P. , Berry Donna L.
Published: August 2020

Background:

African-American men have an elevated risk of developing and dying from prostate cancer. Shared decision-making (SDM) about prostate cancer screening is recommended but does not always occur.

Methods:

We pilot-tested an online decision aid (DA) in primary care settings using a pre/postevaluation design among African-American men ages 45 to 70 years. Men completed surveys before and after using the DA, which had interactive segments (e.g., values clarification) and provided individualized assessment of prostate cancer risk. Primary outcomes included prostate cancer knowledge, confidence in ability to make informed decisions, decisional conflict, and satisfaction with the decision. Immediately after the clinical visit, patients reported the degree to which they were engaged by their provider in SDM.

Results:

Among this sample of men (n = 49), use of the DA was associated with increased knowledge about prostate cancer [mean = 55.3% vs. 71.2%; 95% confidence interval (CI), 9.8–22.1; P < 0.001], reduced decisional conflict (mean = 33.4 vs. 23.6; 95% CI, −18.1 to −1.6; P = 0.002) on a scale from 0 to 100, and a decreased preference to be screened (88% vs. 69%; 95% CI, 0.09–0.64; P = 0.01). Most (89%) reported that the DA prepared them well/very well for SDM with their provider. Following the clinical visit with providers, scores on perceived involvement in SDM were 68.1 (SD 29.1) on a 0 to 100 scale.

Conclusions:

The DA improved men's knowledge, reduced decisional conflict, and promoted the perception of being prepared for SDM.

Impact:

Findings suggest that use of an online DA to improve SDM outcomes warrants further testing in a future trial.
Glycosylation of Anti-Thyroglobulin IgG1 and IgG4 Subclasses in Thyroid Diseases
Authors: Li Yuan , Zhao Chenxu , Zhao Keli , Yu Nan , Li Yan , Yu Yang , Zhang Yang , Song Zhijing , Huang Youyuan , Lu Guizhi , Gao Ying , Zhang Junqing , Guo Xiaohui
Published: August 2020

Objective: Thyroglobulin antibodies (TgAb), principally comprising immunoglobulin G (IgG), are frequently found in healthy individuals. Previously, we showed that the glycosylation levels of TgAb IgG differed across various thyroid diseases, suggesting an important role of glycosylation on antibodies in the pathogenesis of thyroid diseases. Since IgG1 and IgG4 are the primary TgAb IgG subclasses, this study aimed to investigate the glycosylation of TgAb IgG1 and IgG4 subclasses in thyroid diseases. Methods: TgAb IgG was purified by affinity chromatography from the serum of patients with Hashimoto’s thyroiditis (HT) (n = 16), Graves’ disease (GD) (n = 8), papillary thyroid carcinoma (PTC) (n = 6), and PTC with histological lymphocytic thyroiditis (PTC-T) (n = 9) as well as healthy donors (n = 10). TgAb IgG1 and IgG4 concentrations were determined by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay, and a lectin microassay was used to assess TgAb IgG1 and IgG4 glycosylation. Results: Significantly elevated mannose, sialic acid, and galactose levels on TgAb IgG1 were found in HT and PTC patients compared to GD patients and healthy controls (all p < 0.05). The mannose, sialic acid, and core fucose levels on TgAb IgG1 in PTC-T patients were higher than in healthy controls (all p < 0.05). Additionally, TgAb IgG1 from PTC-T patients exhibited lower sialylation than that from patients with PTC and higher fucosylation than that from patients with HT (both p < 0.05). However, TgAb IgG4 glycosylation did not differ among the five groups (p < 0.05). Conclusion: Our study describes different distributions of TgAb IgG1 glycosylation in various thyroid diseases. The aberrantly increased glycosylation levels of TgAb IgG1 observed in HT, PTC, and PTC-T might be indicative of immune disorders and participate in the pathogenesis of these diseases.
The Continuum from Temperament to Mental Illness: Dynamical Perspectives
Authors: Sulis William
Published: August 2020

Temperament in healthy individuals and mental illness have been conjectured to lie along a continuum of neurobehavioral regulation. This continuum is frequently regarded in dimensional terms, with temperament and mental illness lying at opposite poles along various dimensional descriptors. However, temperament and mental illness are quintessentially dynamical phenomena, and as such there is value in examining what insights can be arrived at through the lens of our current understanding of dynamical systems. The formal study of dynamical systems has led to the development of a host of markers which serve to characterize and classify dynamical systems and which could be used to study temperament and mental illness. The most useful markers for temperament and mental illness apply to time series data and include geometrical markers such as (strange) attractors and repellors and analytical markers such as fluctuation spectroscopy, scaling, entropy, recurrence time. Temperament and mental illness, however, possess fundamental characteristics that present considerable challenges for current dynamical systems approaches: transience, contextuality and emergence. This review discusses the need for time series data and the implications of these three characteristics on the formal study of the continuum and presents a dynamical systems model based upon Whitehead’s Process Theory and the neurochemical Functional Ensemble of Temperament model. The continuum can be understood as second or higher order dynamical phases in a multiscale landscape of superposed dynamical systems. Markers are sought to distinguish the order parameters associated with these phases and the control parameters which describe transitions among these dynamics.
Post-Marketing Safety Concerns with Esketamine: A Disproportionality Analysis of Spontaneous Reports Submitted to the FDA Adverse Event Reporting System
Authors: Gastaldon Chiara , Raschi Emanuel , Kane John M. , Barbui Corrado , Schoretsanitis Georgios
Published: August 2020

Introduction: Esketamine nasal spray received approval for treatment-resistant depression in March 2019. Objective: Using the FDA Adverse Event Reporting System (FAERS) database (March 2019–March 2020), we analysed esketamine-related adverse events (AEs) to detect and characterize relevant safety signals. Methods: We used the consolidated case/non-case approach to estimate the reporting odds ratio (ROR) and information component (IC) with relevant confidence intervals (95% CI) for esketamine-related AEs with ≥4 counts. Comparisons between serious and non-serious AEs were performed using non-parametric tests. Results: The FAERS database contained 962 cases of esketamine-related AEs, with signals detected for several AEs, such as dissociation (ROR = 1,612.64, 95% CI = 1,354.63, 1,919.79; IC = 8.19, 95% CI = 7.96, 8.35), sedation (ROR = 238.46, 95% CI = 202.98, 280.15; IC = 7, 95% CI = 6.75, 7.18), feeling drunk (ROR = 96.17, 95% CI = 61.42, 150.57; IC = 4.84, 95% CI = 4.09, 5.36), suicidal ideation (ROR = 24.03, 95% CI = 18.72, 30.84; IC = 4.31, 95% CI = 3.9, 4.61), and completed suicide (ROR = 5.75, 95% CI = 3.18, 10.41; IC = 2.25, 95% CI = 1.23, 2.94). Signals for suicidal and self-injurious ideation, but not suicide attempt and completed suicide, remained when comparing esketamine to venlafaxine. Females and patients receiving antidepressant polypharmacy, co-medication with mood stabilizers, antipsychotics, benzodiazepines, or somatic medications were more likely to suffer from serious versus non-serious AEs (χ2 = 125.29, p < 0.001, χ2 = 9.08, p = 0.003, χ2 = 8.14, p = 0.004, χ2 = 19.48, p < 0.001, χ2 = 25.62, p < 0.001, and χ2 = 16.79, p < 0.001, respectively). Conclusions: Esketamine may carry a clear potential for serious AEs, which deserves urgent clarification by means of further prospective studies.
Aging-Associated miR-217 Aggravates Atherosclerosis and Promotes Cardiovascular Dysfunction
Authors: de Yébenes Virginia G. , Briones Ana M. , Martos-Folgado Inmaculada , Mur Sonia M. , Oller Jorge , Bilal Faiz , González-Amor María , Méndez-Barbero Nerea , Silla-Castro Juan Carlos , Were Felipe , Jiménez-Borreguero Luis J. , Sánchez-Cabo Fátima , Bueno Héctor , Salaices Mercedes , Redondo Juan Miguel , Ramiro Almudena R.
Published: August 2020

Objective:

microRNAs are master regulators of gene expression with essential roles in virtually all biological processes. miR-217 has been associated with aging and cellular senescence, but its role in vascular disease is not understood.

Approach and Results:

We have used an inducible endothelium-specific knock-in mouse model to address the role of miR-217 in vascular function and atherosclerosis. miR-217 reduced NO production and promoted endothelial dysfunction, increased blood pressure, and exacerbated atherosclerosis in proatherogenic apoE
−/
−
mice. Moreover, increased endothelial miR-217 expression led to the development of coronary artery disease and altered left ventricular heart function, inducing diastolic and systolic dysfunction. Conversely, inhibition of endogenous vascular miR-217 in apoE
−/−
mice improved vascular contractility and diminished atherosclerosis. Transcriptome analysis revealed that miR-217 regulates an endothelial signaling hub and downregulates a network of eNOS (endothelial NO synthase) activators, including VEGF (vascular endothelial growth factor) and apelin receptor pathways, resulting in diminished eNOS expression. Further analysis revealed that human plasma miR-217 is a biomarker of vascular aging and cardiovascular risk.

Conclusions:

Our results highlight the therapeutic potential of miR-217 inhibitors in aging-related cardiovascular disease.
The Spirit of God in Haggai 2:5: Prophecy as a Sign of God’s Spirit
Authors: Abernethy Andrew T.
Published: August 2020

In Hag 2:5b, a statement unique within the Hebrew Bible appears: ורוחי עמדת בתוככם (“my spirit is standing in your midst”). Some interpret this clause as stating that God will empower the entire community by his spirit to rebuild the temple. Others interpret this as a promise that God will be present to protect his people by his spirit, as he had with the Pillar of Cloud in exodus traditions. After a critique of these standard interpretations, the case is made to support a marginal view that Hag 2:5b refers to the spirit of God in prophetic activity in the post-exilic era.
Text- and Source-Criticism of 1 Samuel 17–18: A Complete Account
Authors: Chavel Simeon , DeGrado Jessie
Published: August 2020

This article contributes to the debate about the two versions of 1 Samuel 17–18, the shorter one in the Greek Bible and the longer one in the Hebrew. The majority opinion holds that Vaticanus represents the earlier stage and the MT pluses comprise a second version of the main episode, along with harmonizations and additional material. Several of the pluses in chapter 18, however, have been overlooked in previous studies. Accounting for each plus through the end of chapter 18, this study recovers a complete and independent second story that concludes with David’s successful marriage to Saul’s daughter as the reward promised; it identifies and explains all harmonizing additions; and it categorizes an unusual set of unnecessary interpolations made to enrich the story. The study confirms that parallel stories existed and circulated in written form outside “biblical” scrolls; that scribes meticulously spliced written sources to incorporate perceived parallels; and that scribes inserted material to enrich plot-lines, apart from solving narrative problems.
The Wilderness Period without Generation Change: The Deuteronomic Portrait of Israel’s Forty-Year Journey
Authors: Stackert Jeffrey
Published: August 2020

The Deuteronomic authors (D) include several references to the Israelites’ forty-year sojourn in the wilderness. Yet even where it can be shown that these writers depend upon source material for this tradition, they seek to recast its purpose, a process that also requires modification of particular story elements. Specifically, D transforms the extended wilderness sojourn from a period of punishment to one of preparation. In so doing, it eliminates the tradition of Israelite generation change during this time. Subsequent interpolations were introduced non-systematically into Deuteronomy in order to harmonize D’s views with those found elsewhere in the Pentateuch.
Finding the Threads in Taiwan History and Historiography
Authors: Alsford Niki J.P.
Published: August 2020

The quest to situate Taiwan, and its history, as a field of study continues to accompany a flow of dirges. Taiwan Studies has been argued to occupy ‘a marginal position’ within the field of Chinese Studies, while at the same time it is acknowledged that those who are interested in China cannot ignore Taiwan entirely. Some argue that the study of Taiwan is ‘an impossible task’ since ‘Taiwan is already written out of mainstream Western discourse due its insignificance’. This survey (though by no means exhaustive) is an effort to chart the evolution of Taiwan history and historiography and argue that those engaging with the study of Taiwan have always sought ways to adapt and thrive. Attention to this is important as scholars of Taiwan seek to define the field as thing unto itself.
Striking a Balance between Free Association and Regulating Membership of a ‘Community’: Exploring s 235 of the Constitution of South Africa
Authors: De Villiers Bertus
Published: August 2020

Section 235 of the Constitution of South Africa contains a promise of potential self-determination of language and cultural communities. An essential question arising from this promise is how an individual’s freedom of association interacts with the ability of a community to determine its membership. This article reflects on this question with reference to standards developed in international law and practices in the constitutional law of selected case studies. Whereas international law sets a universal standard of free association, states have developed practices whereby the individual’s right to free association is recognised, but where there are also some measures allowed to ensure that an individual is indeed accepted by and part of the community. Any conflicts that arise are, generally speaking, subject to a form of judicial review.
Light, Time, Motion and Impulse in the Zoroastrian Pahlavi Texts
Authors: Panaino Antonio
Published: August 2020

The present investigation concerns the category of “Time” in its dialectical relation between a limitless eternity and the limited period of the direct antagonism with Ahreman’s forces. The eternal time being co-substantial with God is an ontological force a priori, which results determinant in the preventive fight against Ahreman, whose perception of time, on the contrary, seems to be absent, at least until he does not enter into the visual space of Ohrmazd. In particular, the article deals with the metaphysic development of the idea of time in the Zoroastrian theological tradition with special regard to the treatment of the relation between the beginning of the cosmic motion and the aggression of Ahreman, discussing some different, sometimes contradictory, doctrines attested in the sources. These alternative, sometimes antagonist, solutions reflect archaic Iranian traditions, but also the reception of new Western philosophical doctrines. The problem of the “visibility” of the limited time (in terms of its measurability) only after Ahreman’s invasion shows that the limited time in its mēnōg dimension had the same character of the eternal time, because it was perceived only by Ohrmazd, and despite that absence of any celestial motion, it was advancing as an abstract tempus mathematicus. The study also emphasizes the close relation among time, space and light as co-present in the divine ontology.
Evidentiality in the Rikvani Dialect of Andi
Authors: Verhees Samira
Published: August 2020

This paper presents a description of evidentiality marking in the Rikvani dialect of Andi. As a language spoken in the Caucasus, Andi is situated in the center of a large area within Eurasia where evidentiality is frequently expressed with a perfect or resultative form of the verb (general indirective), and special particles marking hearsay (and sometimes also inference). Both are attested in Andi and form independent evidential paradigms. I will explore the way these forms are used in natural texts and elicitation and how they interact with each other. An important issue is to what extent evidentiality can be considered grammaticalized as part of the verbal paradigm in Andi. I will compare my observations on Andi to the systems found in other East Caucasian languages.
Das Flugblatt im Medienverbund der Frühen Neuzeit
Authors: Bellingradt Daniel
Published: August 2020

One characteristic feature of the early modern media ensemble were the so-called ‘small’ and ‘occasional’ prints – a variety of pamphlet publications and single-sheet items that may be referred to as Flugpublizistik. In this article, one distinctive single-sheet variation, namely the early modern broadside with image and text parts, will be highlighted both as image transporting media and as a recycling product of the media ensemble. As is demonstrated using approaches from communication history and media economics, the early modern broadside with image and text parts is just another product of the most typical and constant processing of observed media-flows into new streams of media.
Entre histoire, droit et sciences sociales. Jochen Hoock : un parcours historien franco-allemand
Authors: Garner Guillaume
Published: August 2020

Cet article présente les recherches de Jochen Hoock (1939-2019) qui se situent au carrefour de l’histoire sociale, de l’histoire du droit et de l’histoire des savoirs. Après avoir analysé les débats autour de la réforme de l’État en France (1880-1936), Hoock a étudié la constitution de la bourgeoisie marchande à Rouen aux XVIIe et XVIIIe siècles en soulignant les tensions qui la traversaient et l’importance des institutions dans son affirmation. Ses recherches se sont également orientées vers l’étude du savoir commercial (avec le projet Ars Mercatoria sur les manuels à l’usage des marchands) et des savoirs économiques et statistiques en France et en Allemagne. Très impliqué dans le « tournant critique » des Annales à partir de la fin des années 1980. Hoock a également été un passeur entre les historiographies allemande et française comme en témoignent ses traductions et ses présentations de l’œuvre de Reinhart Koselleck.
Genizah within the Genizah
Authors: Zvi Stampfer Y.
Published: August 2020

This paper deals with passages from works by Muslim authors embedded within works of Jewish Law (Halakha) and biblical commentary; some passages are quoted verbatim, while others were reworked to fit the Jewish context by replacing references to the Qurʾān with references to the Jewish Bible. The Jewish works were written in Judeo-Arabic, making it easy to seamlessly adapt and integrate passages written in Arabic. Neither of the Jewish authors note that they are borrowing from earlier sources: sometimes one can recognize the embedded passage through a change in the linguistic register, but in other cases only familiarity with the borrowed texts can bring them to the reader’s attention. While scholars have noted this phenomenon in fields outside the Jewish legal context, such as philology and philosophy, it has not been recognized within judicial works. The sources discussed here survived only in the Cairo Genizah and have not previously been published.
The Literary Genizot
Authors: Stroumsa Sarah
Published: August 2020

In his reconstruction of what he believed to be a typical Mediterranean medieval society, Shlomo Dov Goitein gave prime of place to the documentary material found in the Cairo Geniza, and it is primarily through this prism that he sought to analyze the Geniza and the society it mirrored. Focusing, instead, on the literary material permits a different perspective on the genizot. The Cairo Geniza was shaped not only by the Jewish tradition, but also by contemporary practices, perhaps specifically Fāṭimid ones. The level of integration of scientists and philosophers within the broader Islamicate culture often surpassed what is usually described as “symbiosis.” The integration of Jewish intellectuals within this philosophic sub-culture requires that we correct our perception of their place in it, and that we modify our vocabulary accordingly.
Interpreting Islamic Dream Books of the Cairo Genizah
Authors: Villuendas Sabaté Blanca
Published: August 2020

This article is the result of a first-hand exploration of the relevance of the Cairo Genizah as a source for Intellectual history of the Middle Ages. It is not only significant for understanding Jewish thought, previously documented in numerous studies, but also to the Islamic world. Whereas S.D. Goitien’s oeuvre and the groundbreaking work of his disciples widely demonstrated the importance of Genizah documents as historical sources on the Mediterranean region, the relevance of its Islamic/Arabic literature is less often acknowledged. This topic will be addressed in the light of my doctoral research, which examined the legacy of dream interpretation preserved in Genizah fragments of dream books written in Judeo-Arabic during the pre-modern period. After a brief introduction to the history of dream books—manuals for dream interpretation—in the Near East, and to the epistemology of Jewish and Islamic dream interpretation, the main findings of the research will be listed and summarized. Finally, in a detailed case study, a synoptic edition of texts representing the Taʿbīr al-ruʾyā, a brief dream manual attributed to al-Kirmānī, demonstrates the importance of Cairo Genizah manuscripts to the literary history of the composition.
How the Present Can Inform the Past, Part I Ancient and Modern Analogues as Supplementary Evidence in Reconstructing an Ancient Instrument
Authors: Psaroudakēs Stelios
Published: August 2020

The present paper seeks to illustrate ways of making use of ancient and modern analogues in the process of reconstructing an ancient instrument. In particular, I argue that the elliptic organological information provided by the Protocycladic II statuettes of harpists can to a large extent be supplemented by a comparison with extant Pharaonic harps, and the saùng-gauk of Myanmar. The latter can, furthermore, throw light upon the playing technique of the obsolete Protocycladic harp.
Why Do We Believe Humans Matter More than Other Animals?
Authors: Hill Scott , Bertrand Michael
Published: August 2020

Some recent psychological studies suggest that the belief that humans matter more than other animals can be strengthened by cognitive dissonance. Jaquet (forthcoming) argues that some of these studies also show that the relevant belief is primarily caused by cognitive dissonance and is therefore subject to a debunking argument. We offer an alternative hypothesis according to which we are already speciesist but cognitive dissonance merely enhances our speciesism. We argue that our hypothesis explains the results of the studies at least as well as Jaquet’s. We then respond to a series of objections. Along the way, we highlight various respects in which further studies are needed to decide between Jaquet’s hypothesis and ours.
Curcumin Promotes Recovery of Motor Function After Spinal Cord Injury in Rats Through Mammalian Target of Rapamycin (mTOR)-Signal Transducer and Activator of Transcription 3 (STAT3) Signaling Pathway
Authors: Jiang Xianfeng , Tang Fengwu , Han Guang , Yun Chen , Chen Xuyi , Zhang Sai
Published: August 2020

Objective: Curcumin possesses extensive therapeutic effects on several diseases and tumor cells, which has inhibitory effects on mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR)-STAT3 signaling. Our study aims to explore the influences of curcumin on promoting the recovery of motor function
after spinal cord injury (SCI) in rats through the mTOR-STAT3 signaling pathway. Methods : SCI rats were treated with rapamycin and curcumin followed by establishing rat models of SCI. The influences of rapamycin and curcumin on the protein expressions of PTEN, Akt, phosphorylated S6
and chondroitin sulphate proteoglycans (CSPGs) were measured by western blot. Means of Basso, Beattie and Bresnahan (BBB) locomotor rating scale was used to assess motor function. Results: After SCI, curcumin promoted the expression of PTEN, reduced the proliferation of neuroglia cells,
affected the expressions of CSPGs and improved the motor function. Conclusion: Curcumin can promote motor function recovery after SCI which is possibly by up-regulating the PTEN expression via the mTOR-STAT3 signaling pathway.
On the Protective Effect of Lycium Barbarum Polysaccharide (LBP) on Optic Nerve Tissue and Retinal Ganglion Cells
Authors: Wang Shuzhen , Xu Zelin , Zhao Yuanyuan , Liu Chao
Published: August 2020

Background: The present paper established a model of optic neuritis injury by intrathecal injection of lipopolysaccharide (LPS) into the optic nerve, then explored the protective effect of Lycium Barbarum Polysaccharide (LBP) on optic nerve tissue and RGCs after injury. Material
and methods: LPS was microinjected into the optic nerve of SD rats to induce optic neuritis. The histopathological variations of HE staining were observed in each group. The expressions of ED1/CD68 and GFAP were determined by immunofluorescence. The optic nerve repairment was evaluated
by lux solid blue staining. TUNEL detects retinal cell apoptosis. Western blot was used to detect differences in expressions of related proteins. Results: LBP can alleviate the degree of optic nerve damage in rats with optic neuritis injury, inhibit the increase of LPS-induced macrophages
and astrocytes in the optic nerve and retina, mitigate LPS-induced retinal RGC damage, inhibit LPS-induced expressions of proinflammatory cytokines TNF-α and IL-6, COX2 and iNOS in the optic nerve injury model of optic neuritis in rats, as well as inhibit the activation of STAT1, STAT3
and NF-κB pathways. Conclusion: LBP can ameliorate optic nerve damage, and the mechanism may be realized through inhibiting NF- B and STAT signaling pathways.
miR-425-5p Inhibits Rat Mesangial Cells (MCs) Proliferation by Targeting Transforming Growth Factor Beta (TGF-β)/RelA (p65) Under the Condition of Sitagliptin
Authors: Li Xia , Liu Yilan , Zhang Yi , Hong Zhenzhen
Published: August 2020

Objective: Sitagliptin (Sitagtin) is widely involved in the treating process for several diseases in humans, covering DN (Diabetic Nephropathy). In the present research, the aim was at examining the roles of the miR-425-5p/TGFβ /P65 pathway in a DN rat model treated by Sitagtin.
Methods: The subjects fed high-fat food were killed. Besides, new kidney specimens were placed in formaldehyde solution for histopathology-based observing process. Subsequently, Coomassie brilliant blue approach was used to determine urine protein excretion for 24 hours. Lastly, by
bicinchoninic acid protein assay, proteins harvested from kidney tissue were detected. Results: Firstly, it was identified that miR-425-5p showed the highest expression in Sitagtin treatment cells compared to PBS treatment through miRNA microarray analysis. In addition, Sitagtin suppressed
the HBZY-1 cell lines' proliferation, which may inhibit TGFβ /P65 expression through upregulating miR-425-5p. Furthermore, after HBZY-1 cells induced by high glucose (HG) were administrated with Sitagtin, miR-425-5p and si TGF /P65 inhibited HBZY-1 cells from proliferating. It was proved
that TGFβ /P65 was one of the targeted genes of miR-425-5p. Lastly, TGFβ /P65 expression was decreased in the DN administrated with Sitagtin; the 24 h urinary protein excretion was decreased in Sitagtin-administrated DN rats. Conclusion: The study demonstrated that Sitagtin
inhibited HBZY 1 cells through miR-4255p/TGFβ /P65 signaling.
Improvement in the Forecasting of Heavy Rainfall over South China in the DSAEF_LTP Model by Introducing the Intensity of the Tropical Cyclone
Authors: Chenchen Ding , Ren Fumin , Liu Yanan , McBride John L. , Feng Tian
Published: August 2020

The intensity of the tropical cyclone has been introduced into the Dynamical-Statistical-Analog Ensemble Forecast (DSAEF) for Landfalling Typhoon (or tropical cyclone) Precipitation (DSAEF_LTP) model. Moreover, the accumulated precipitation prediction experiments have been conducted on 21 target tropical cyclones with daily precipitation ≥ 100 mm in South China from 2012 to 2016. The best forecasting scheme for the DSAEF_LTP model is identified, and the performance of the prediction is compared with three numerical weather prediction models (the European Centre for Medium-Range Weather Forecasts, the Global Forecast System, and T639). The forecasting ability of the DSAEF_LTP model for heavy rainfall (accumulated precipitation ≥ 250 and ≥100 mm) improves when the intensity of the tropical cyclone is introduced, giving some advantages over the three numerical weather prediction models. The selection of analog tropical cyclones with a maximum intensity (during precipitation over land) equaling to or higher than the initial intensity of the target tropical cyclone gives better forecasts. The prediction accuracy for accumulated precipitation is higher for tropical cyclones with higher intensity and higher observed precipitation, with in both cases positive linear correlations with the threat score.
What is a scientific article? A principal-agent explanation
Authors: Fernández Carro Remo
Published: August 2020

What is a scientific article? This paper proposes that the scientific article can be understood the main unit in a piece-rate system that solves research patrons’ problems of fairly evaluating and paying scientists. It is a solution for the evaluation of science given information asymmetries between lay people and scientists. To elucidate a definition in keeping with the principal-agent approach, this paper extends both former explanations of the research article and proposals of publications as attestations to science patrons.
Assessment of Transportation System Vulnerabilities to Tidal Flooding in Honolulu, Hawaii
Authors: Shen Suwan , Kim Karl
Published: August 2020

Tidal flooding, a tangible, present-day result of sea-level rise, has caused roadway damage and transportation system closures as well as delays, disruptions, and economic losses. There is a need for more research, understanding, and planning for the management of this threat to transportation services. Using data on tidal flooding, transportation networks, land use, and population characteristics, the vulnerability of transportation systems to tidal flooding is assessed for Honolulu, Hawaii. Accessibility measures coupled with population characteristics provide quantitative estimates of travelers’ underlying exposures and vulnerabilities to disruptions. Using GIS and overlay mapping techniques, at-risk roadway segments are identified and Traffic Analysis Zones (TAZs) are ranked in relation to accessibility changes. Trips to work and school, grocery shopping, recreational activities, and emergency services are analyzed. In addition to identifying critical, at-risk facilities, the analysis includes the consideration of vulnerable populations, such as the elderly, young people, those on low incomes, and those with limited transportation options. Using a nonparametric, mean-shift clustering method, TAZs are ranked and prioritized for potential mitigation actions. While 90% of TAZs suffered minimal effects, several experienced up to 100% accessibility reduction. High priority areas are located in Laie, Punalua, Kailua, Waimanalo, Hawaii Kai, and near Honolulu Harbor. The analysis is useful, not just for transportation system planners but also for first responders, emergency managers, and others working to increase transportation system resilience. Designed as a flexible planning and decision-support tool, the approach could be adapted to plan for other types of hazards such as tsunamis or storm surges as well.
Scalable and Actionable Performance Measures for Traffic Signal Systems using Probe Vehicle Trajectory Data
Authors: Waddell Jonathan M. , Remias Stephen M. , Kirsch Jenna N. , Young Stanley E.
Published: August 2020

Scalable and actionable performance measures for traffic signal systems provide opportunities for practitioners to measure and improve the transportation network. Historically, traffic signal improvements have relied on scheduled signal retiming based on limited data collection, or on the public to call and alert engineers of an issue. This inefficient method of improving signal timing led to the creation of automated traffic signal performance measures (ATSPMs). These metrics rely on expensive infrastructure, including detection and communications, which has produced barriers for numerous agencies to fully adopt. Recently, third-party data providers have begun to release vehicle trajectory data, which allows for enhanced signal metrics with no investment in physical equipment. The purpose of this study is to demonstrate the use of these data and summarize the scalability of the created metrics. This work builds on previous efforts to quantify signal performance on nine intersections in Michigan, U.S. Ten signalized corridors in Columbus, Ohio, were chosen to scale a performance assessment using crowdsourced trajectory data. A total of 136 intersections were assessed in 2-h intervals using data from all weekdays in 2017. High-level corridor summary metrics including average percent of vehicles stopping (18%–32%), average delay (9.4–20.5 s), and level of travel time reliability (1.23–2.73) were calculated for each corridor direction. Intersection-level metrics were also introduced, which can be used by practitioners to identify problems, improve signal timings, and prioritize future infrastructure investments.
Sydenham Chorea: Putaminal Enlargement
Authors: Karalok Zeynep Selen , Öztürk Zeynep , Gunes Altan , Gurkas Esra
Published: August 2020

Background:

Our aim in this study was to evaluate the efficacy of magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) studies in the detection of brain regions effected by Sydenham chorea and to determine whether they provided data regarding the pathogenesis of Sydenham chorea. To this end, we assessed basal ganglia structures in Sydenham chorea patients and control group by quantitative MRI volumetric analysis.

Methods:

Patients with a recent onset of chorea and control subjects matched for age and gender were included in the study. Medical history, laboratory tests, and physical and neurologic examinations were reviewed. All MRIs were considered within normal limits. High-resolution T1-weighted 3D magnetization-prepared rapid acquisition of gradient echo scans were used for quantitative volumetric assessment of the brain via the “volBrain” method.

Results:

Twenty-four subjects with Sydenham chorea (16 girls and 8 boys, aged between 7 and 16 years) and 35 control subjects were evaluated. Mean age was 11.25 ± 2.89 years for Sydenham chorea patients and 10.58 ± 2.53 years for the controls. No significant difference was found relative to globus pallidus, caudate, and thalamic volumes between patients with Sydenham chorea and controls. The relative mean total, left, and right putamen volumes were significantly larger in patients with Sydenham chorea compared to controls ( P = .003, P = .018, P = .001, respectively).

Conclusion:

Selective neuroanatomic differences in putamen among other basal ganglia structures and significant increases in size are consistent with a hypothesis of a cross-reactive antibody-mediated inflammation of the putamen as being the pathophysiologic mechanism for this disorder.