bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
[Retracted] Analysis of International Competitiveness of Multinational Corporations Based on Rough Sets
Authors: Zhao Jing , Qi Ning
Published: May 2021

Modern business judgment is mostly faced with complex, unclear nature, and not fully confirmed research objects and needs a lot of relevant data investigation, inherent contradiction retrieval, and the discovery and extraction of potential laws. Formulation of rules and evaluation of system uncertainty: Appropriate decisions can be made based on this. Rough set theory is a new mathematical tool to deal with uncertain knowledge. Therefore, the theory of rough set is helpful for decision‐makers to solve the decision problems of complex systems. The simplification of knowledge of information systems and incomplete information systems and the theoretical and methodological study of rule acquisition are the central issues of rough set theory and applied research. A variety of simplified theories and methods have been proposed from a variety of viewpoints. However, there are still many theoretical problems that need to be investigated and solved in these aspects. In addition, the investment environment is a complex organic system that includes economic environment, social environment, resource environment, infrastructure, and other factors. There are a variety of data to measure these factors, which are mutually restrictive and interdependent. At present, domestic and foreign scholars have basically formed a series of assessment methods and models of investment environment assessment, but most of these assessment methods are affected by the differences in the degree of subjective factors of evaluators and the establishment of index weights in the assessment process. In most cases, more reliance is placed on subjective, artificial assignments and scoring loops. Therefore, it is an appropriate and reasonable method to evaluate the investment environment through data to evaluate all the factors affecting the investment environment and reach a comprehensive evaluation conclusion, which can effectively avoid human subjective factors to a certain extent.
Motion Direction Inconsistency‐Based Fight Detection for Multiview Surveillance Videos
Authors: Yao Chuang , Su Xiaoyan , Wang Xuehua , Kang Xinyi , Zhang Jun , Ren Jiankang
Published: May 2021

Nowadays, with the increasing number of surveillance cameras, human behavior detection is of importance for public security. Detection of fight behavior using video surveillance is an essential and challenging research field. We propose a multiview fight detection method based on statistical characteristics of the optical flow and random forest. Cyberphysical systems for monitoring can obtain timely and accurate information from this method. Two novel descriptors named Motion Direction Inconsistency (MoDI) and Weighted Motion Direction Inconsistency (WMoDI) are defined to improve the performance of existing methods for videos with different shooting views and solve the misjudgment on nonfight, such as running and talking. First, YOLO V3 algorithm is applied to mark the motion areas, and then, the optical flow is computed to extract descriptors. Finally, Random Forest is used for classification based on statistical characteristics of descriptors. The evaluation results on CASIA dataset demonstrate that the proposed method can improve the accuracy and reduce the rate of missing alarm and false alarm for the detection, and it is very robust against videos with different shooting views.
Treatment of Yunnan Baiyao plus Kangfuxin Solution Reduces Inflammatory Response and Prevents Patients with Nasopharyngeal Carcinoma against Radiation-Induced Oral Mucositis
Authors: Tang Xiuyu , Sun Jiahui , Deng Jie , Shi Bin
Published: May 2021

Oral mucositis refers to secondary mucosal damage, which usually occurs during cancer treatment. Generally, patients with head and neck cancers receiving radiotherapy will develop mucositis. Oral mucositis usually begins with mucosal inflammation and is characterized by erythema and confluent ulcers. The purpose of the study is to explore the therapeutic effects of Yunnan Baiyao combined with Kangfuxin solution on radiation-induced oral mucositis and the influence on production of inflammatory factors in patients with nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC) after radiotherapy. Clinical variables of 90 NPC patients were retrospectively analyzed. All patients underwent combined treatment (normal saline and inhalation of dexamethasone, gentamicin, and vitamin B12) 1st after radiotherapy, among which 45 patients received additional treatment of Yunnan Baiyao plus Kangfuxin solution and assigned as the study group. We found that additional treatment of Yunnan Baiyao plus Kangfuxin solution remarkably attenuated pain and dry mouth and reduced the degree of mucosal hyperaemia, edema, and ulceration in NPC patients undergoing radiotherapy (

P
<
0.05

). It was also found that additional treatment of Yunnan Baiyao plus Kangfuxin solution notably inhibited the release of inflammatory factors and cancer-related markers, as evidenced by lower serum levels of C-reactive protein (CRP), tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), interleukin-1 (IL-1), matrix metalloproteinase-9 (MMP-9), serum hypoxia-inducible factor-1 α (HIF-1α), and vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) detected in the study group than the control group (

P
<
0.05

). Additionally, the numbers of CD+3 and CD+4 subpopulations of T lymphocytes and the ratio of CD+4/CD+8 in the study group were significantly higher than those in the control group (

P
<
0.05

), and the number of CD+8 subpopulations in the study group was significantly lower than those in the control group (

P
<
0.05

). In conclusion, these results indicated that additional treatment of Yunnan Baiyao plus Kangfuxin solution reduces inflammatory response and prevents patients with NPC against radiation-induced oral mucositis.
Effects of Skeletally Supported Anterior en Masse Retraction with Varied Lever Arm Lengths and Locations in Lingual Orthodontic Treatment: A 3D Finite Element Study
Authors: Ghannam Mohammad , Kamiloğlu Beste
Published: May 2021

Objective. This study is aimed at analyzing different points of force application during miniscrew supported en masse retraction of the anterior maxillary teeth to identify the best line of action of force in lingual orthodontic treatment. Materials and Methods. Three‐dimensional (3D) finite element models were created to stimulate en masse retraction with different heights and positions of the miniscrew and lever arm to change the force application points; a 150 g retraction force was applied from the miniscrew to the lever arms, and the initial tooth displacements were analyzed. Results. Lingual crown tipping and occlusal crown extrusion were seen at all heights and positions of the miniscrew and lever arm, but when the miniscrew height was at 8 mm and the power arm was located between the lateral incisors and canines, these tipping patterns were less than those obtained with a 4.5 mm high miniscrew and a lever arm located distal to the canines. Conclusion. All miniscrew heights and lever arm positions showed initial lingual crown tipping and labial root tipping with occlusal crown extrusion. However, the 8 mm miniscrew height and the lever arm located between the lateral incisor and canine showed fewer amounts of these tipping patterns than a 4.5 mm miniscrew height and lever arm located distal to the canines. Therefore, this could be the preferred point of force application during en masse retraction in lingual treatment with additional torque control methods.
Blocking Wnt/β-catenin Signal Amplifies Anti-PD-1 Therapeutic Efficacy by Inhibiting Tumor Growth, Migration, and Promoting Immune Infiltration in Glioblastomas
Authors: Zhang Hui , Bi Yongyan , Wei Yuxi , Liu Jiayang , Kuerban Kudelaidi , Ye Li
Published: May 2021

Glioblastoma (GBM), as the immunologically cold tumor, respond poorly to programmed cell death 1 (PD-1) immune checkpoint inhibitors because of insufficient immune infiltration. Herein, through the analysis of The Cancer Genome Atlas data and clinical glioma samples, we found Wnt/β-catenin signal was activated in GBM and inversely related to the degree of immune cell (CD8+) infiltration and programmed cell death ligand 1 (PD-L1) expression. Blockade of Wnt/β-catenin signal could inhibit GBM U118 cells' growth and migration, and upregulate their PD-L1 expression which indicated the possible better response to anti-PD-1 immunotherapy. Besides, in a co-culture system comprising U118 cells and Jurkat cells, Wnt inhibition alleviated Jurkat cell's apoptosis and enhanced its cytotoxic function as evidenced by obviously increased effector cytokine IFNγ secretion and lactate dehydrogenase release. Moreover, the enhanced anti-GBM effect of PD-1 antibody triggered by Wnt inhibition was observed in GL261 homograft mouse model, and the upregulation of immune cell (CD4+/CD8+) infiltration and IFNγ secretion in tumor tissues suggested that Wnt/β-catenin inhibition could inflame cold tumor and then sensitize GBM to PD-1 blockade therapy. Taken together, our study verified the blockade of Wnt/β-catenin signal could augment the efficacy of PD-1 blockade therapy on GBM through directly inhibiting tumor proliferation and migration, as well as facilitating T-cell infiltration and PD-L1 expression in tumor microenvironment.
Symptoms of Depression in Patients with Chemosensory Disorders
Authors: Chen Ben , Benzien Cara , Faria Vanda , Ning Yuping , Cuevas Mandy , Linke Jana , Croy Ilona , Haehner Antje , Hummel Thomas
Published: May 2021

Introduction: Patients with chemosensory dysfunction frequently report symptoms of depression. The current study aims to clarify whether the type (smell dysfunction, taste dysfunction, and mixed smell and taste dysfunction), severity, duration, or cause of dysfunction have differential impacts on the symptoms of depression. Methods: 899 patients with chemosensory disorders and 62 controls were included. Following a structured interview and an otorhinolaryngological examination, subjects underwent olfactory tests (Sniffin’ Sticks), gustatory tests (taste sprays) and an assessment of depressive symptoms (Beck Depression Inventory). Information on the cause and duration of disorders was also collected. Results: Patients with combined olfactory/gustatory dysfunction had higher depression scores than patients with smell dysfunction only and controls, and no significant difference was found between the smell dysfunction and controls. Anosmia patients, but not hyposmia patients, exhibited higher depression scores than controls. Among various causes of chemosensory disorders, patients from the posttraumatic group had higher depression scores than patients with other causes of chemosensory dysfunction (sinonasal, idiopathic, or postinfectious). Multiple linear regression analyses suggested that reduced olfactory function was associated with enhanced depression scores in the olfactory disorders group (B = −0.326, t = −2.294, and p = 0.02) and in all patients with chemosensory disorders (B = −0.374, t = −2.550, p = 0.017). Discussion/Conclusion: Simultaneously decreased input of olfaction and gustation seems to have an additive effect on the exacerbation of emotional dysfunction. Early intervention should be considered for depression symptoms in patients with mixed olfactory/gustatory dysfunction in clinical practice.
The Modified Healthy Ageing Index Is Associated with Mortality and Disability: The Rugao Longevity and Ageing Study
Authors: Zhang Hui , Zhu Yinsheng , Hao Meng , Wang Jiucun , Wang Zhengdong , Chu Xuefeng , Bao Zhijun , Jiang Xiaoyan , Shi Guoping , Wang Xiaofeng
Published: May 2021

Introduction: The Healthy Ageing Index (HAI) has been shown not only to have wider applicability and predictive ability but also to adequately predict mortality in Western populations. There is still a lack of studies validating the applicability of the HAI in China. Objective: To evaluate the applicability of the HAI and validate whether the HAI is suitable for monitoring ageing in the elderly population in China. Methods: Data were obtained from the Rugao Longevity and Ageing Study. The modified HAI was constructed based on systolic blood pressure, chronic pulmonary diseases, cognitive function, fasting glucose, and kidney function. It was calculated in 1719 individuals aged 70–84 years at baseline. The adverse outcomes were mortality and disability. Demographic, physiologic, and clinical data were collected. Cox proportional hazards and logistic regression models were used to analyze the relationship between the modified HAI and adverse outcomes. Results: A total of 1,719 older adults were analyzed in our study. A total of 793 (46.13%) males were recruited. The mean age was 75.69 ± 3.93 years. At the 5-year follow-up, there were 266 deaths and 275 individuals with disabilities. In the multivariable models, the modified HAI was associated with mortality (hazard ratio = 1.11, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.03–1.20) and disability (odds ratio = 1.11, 95% CI: 1.05–1.18). In the sensitivity analyses, similar associations remained after imputing missing data using multiple imputation and excluding participants with major cardiovascular disease at baseline. Conclusion: The modified HAI was a robust and independent predictor of adverse outcomes. It is a valid and feasible tool for monitoring ageing in older adults.
The Effect of Solutions Containing Extracts of Vochysia tucanorum Mart., Myrcia bellaCambess., Matricaria chamomilla L. and Malva sylvestris L. on Cariogenic Bacterial Species and Enamel Caries Development
Authors: Braga Aline Silva , de Melo Fernanda Pereira de Souza Rosa , Saldanha Luiz Leonardo , Dokkedal Anne Lígia , Meissner Tobias , Bemmann Maximilian , Schulz-Kornas Ellen , Haak Rainer , Abdelbary Mohamed Mostafa Hefny , Conrads Georg , Magalhães Ana Carolina , Esteves-Oliveira Marcella
Published: May 2021

This study evaluated the effect of experimental solutions containing plant extracts on bacterial species and enamel caries prevention. Microcosm biofilm was produced from human saliva mixed with McBain saliva (0.2% sucrose) on bovine enamel for 5 days (3 days under anaerobiosis and 2 days under aerobiosis) at 37°C. From the 2nd day, the following treatments were applied (1 × 60 s/day): Vochysia tucanorum (10 mg/mL); Myrcia bella (5 mg/mL); Matricaria chamomilla (80 mg/mL); Malva sylvestris, fluoride, and xylitol (Malvatricin Plus®); 0.12% chlorhexidine (CHX, PerioGard®); and PBS (negative control). The medium pH was measured. Quantitative polymerase chain reaction was performed for the detection of Streptococcus mutans and Lactobacillus spp. Enamel demineralization was measured by spectral-domain optical coherence tomography. The data were compared by means of the Kruskal-Wallis/Dunn, two-way ANOVA/Bonferroni, and ANOVA/Tukey tests (p < 0.05). The pH decreased after sucrose exposure; only CHX reestablished pH >5.5 by the last day. CHX also eliminated Lactobacillusspp., but the other treatments did not differ significantly from PBS. Malvatricin Plus® and CHX eliminated S. mutans, but the other treatments did not differ from PBS. Similar results were seen concerning the reduction of lesion depth and reflectivity. The experimental natural-extract solutions were ineffective against cariogenic bacteria and in preventing the development of enamel caries.
Antibodies against N-Methyl D-Aspartate Receptor in Psychotic Disorders: A Systematic Review
Authors: Murashko Alexey A. , Pavlov Konstantin A. , Pavlova Olga V. , Gurina Olga I. , Shmukler Alexander
Published: May 2021

Objective: The objective of this study was to provide comprehensive evidence synthesis including all available up-to-date data about the prevalence of N-methyl D-aspartate receptor (NMDAR) antibodies (ABs) in psychotic patients in order to evaluate the clinical relevance of ABs as well as to specify potential explanations of the heterogeneity of the findings and determine areas for further research. Methods: A literature search was conducted using the PubMed/Medline, Web of Knowledge, and Scopus databases. Results: Forty-seven studies and 4 systematic reviews (including 2 meta-analyses) were included in the present review. Studies that used cell-based assays (CBAs) provided heterogeneous results on AB prevalence, obviously depending on the type of detection assay and sample characteristics. Improvement of AB detection methods is necessary to determine the real prevalence of ABs across different groups of patients and healthy people. Live CBAs seem to have better sensitivity but probably poorer specificity than fixed CBAs. Moreover, some links between AB-positive status and acute symptoms are possible. A small amount of data on immunotherapy in AB-positive patients raises the possibility of its effectiveness but obviously require further research. Conclusions: NMDAR ABs are definitely present in a subset of psychotic patients. NMDAR ABs might shape psychosis and underlie some symptoms, and immunotherapy might be regarded as a treatment option for patients failing to respond to other therapies.
Characteristics and Endoscopic Classification of Ulcerative Lesions Affecting the Ileocecal Valve
Authors: Miyazaki Ryosuke , Sakurai Toshiyuki , Iwashita Yuko , Shimada Mariko , Shibuya Naoki , Akita Yoshihiro , Miyashita Haruna , Maruyama Yuki , Sawada Ryoichi , Toyonaga Takahiko , Takakura Kazuki , Saruta Masayuki
Published: May 2021

Objectives: The aim of this study was to propose an endoscopic classification system for ulcerative lesions on the ileocecal valve and investigate its relevance to the underlying etiology. Methods: Among the 60,325 patients who underwent colonoscopy at our hospital from January 2006 to December 2018, patients with ulcerative lesions on the ileocecal valve were included. The following data were obtained using the hospital’s medical records: sex, age, clinical diagnosis, laboratory data, and endoscopic and histological findings. Patients who have ulcerative colitis and who were not evaluated by histological examination were excluded. Ulcerative lesions on the ileocecal valve were classified into 3 groups according to their endoscopic appearance: small shallow ulcerative lesions without edematous change (group A), lateral spreading shallow ulcerative lesions with edematous change (group B), and deep deformed ulcerative lesions (group C). The association between this endoscopic classification and its clinical diagnosis, clinical course, and the interobserver reliability were evaluated. Results: Of 72 patients who were eligible for analysis, 18 were assigned to group A, 9 to group B, and 45 to group C. Infectious enteritis was mainly assigned to group A (group A, 12; group B, none; and group C, 6; p < 0.0001), inflammatory bowel disease was mainly assigned to group C (group A, none; group B, 5; and group C, 35; p < 0.0001), and malignant tumor was assigned to group C only. Interobserver reliability was extremely high among the 3 examining doctors (kappa value 0.7–0.8). Conclusion: Endoscopic classification was divided into 3 groups for ulcerative lesions on the ileocecal valve, and this system could be beneficial for presuming their clinical diagnoses.
Computational classification of animals for a highway detection system
Authors: Sato Denis , Zanella Adroaldo José , Costa Ernane Xavier
Published: May 2021

Vehicle-animal collisions represent a serious problem in roadway infrastructure. To avoid these roadway collisions, different mitigation systems have been applied in various regions of the world. In this article, a system for detecting animals on highways is presented using computer vision and machine learning algorithms. The models were trained to classify two groups of animals: capybaras and donkeys. Two variants of the convolutional neural network called Yolo (You only look once) were used, Yolov4 and Yolov4-tiny (a lighter version of the network). The training was carried out using pre-trained models. Detection tests were performed on 147 images. The accuracy results obtained were 84.87% and 79.87% for Yolov4 and Yolov4-tiny, respectively. The proposed system has the potential to improve road safety by reducing or preventing accidents with animals.
Fracture Load of Veneered and Monolithic Single-Unit Fixed Dental Prostheses Made from the High-Performance Thermoplastic Polyphenylene Sulfone
Authors: Mayinger Felicitas , Eichberger Marlis , Schönhoff Lisa , Stawarczyk Bogna
Published: May 2021

Purpose: To investigate the fracture loads of differently veneered and monolithic single-unit fixed dental prostheses (FDPs) made of a novel potential framework material, polyphenylene sulfone (PPSU). Materials and Methods: The fracture loads of four PPSU frameworks with different veneers (manual polymer veneer with Ceramage Body A3B; prefabricated polymer veneer with Novo.lign; digital polymer veneer with Telio CAD; digital ceramic veneer with IPS Empress CAD) and a monolithic control group (PPSU, Gehr) were examined initially and after 1,200,000 masticatory (50 N, 1.3 Hz) and 6,000 thermal cycles (5°C/55°C). Fracture analysis was performed using light microscope imaging. Fracture types were classified, and relative frequencies were determined. Univariate analysis of variance, post hoc Scheffé, partial eta squared (ηp2), Kruskal-Wallis test, and Weibull moduli using the maximum likelihood estimation method were calculated. The defined level of significance was adjusted by Bonferroni correction (P < .005). Results: Aging did not affect the fracture load values. Single-unit FDPs with a digital ceramic veneer showed lower values than monolithic and manual polymer veneer specimens. Single-unit FDPs with a prefabricated and digital polymer veneer were in the same value range as specimens with a manual polymer and digital ceramic veneer. No differences were observed between manual polymer veneer and monolithic single-unit FDPs. All veneered specimens showed a fracture of the veneer. For monolithic single-unit FDPs, plastic deformation was observed. Conclusion: Veneered and monolithic PPSU showed sufficient fracture load values to indicate successful clinical use in single-unit FDPs. The choice of veneering method and material may play a minor role.
Alcohol Consumption Reduction and Clinical Outcomes of Catheter Ablation for Atrial Fibrillation
Authors: Takahashi Yoshihide , Nitta Junichi , Kobori Atsushi , Sakamoto Yuichiro , Nagata Yasutoshi , Tanimoto Kojiro , Matsuo Seiichiro , Yamane Teiichi , Morita Norishige , Satomi Kazuhiro , Inaba Osamu , Murata Kazuya , Sasaki Yasuhiro , Yoshimoto Daisuke , Kaneko Masakazu , Tanimoto Yoko , Isogai Ryota , Yamashita Seigo , Sato Hiroyuki , Hanazawa Ryoichi , Hirakawa Akihiro , Goya Masahiko , Sasano Tetsuo
Published: May 2021

Background:

Abstinence from alcohol is effective for reduction of atrial fibrillation (AF) burden. However, effects of alcohol abstinence on clinical outcomes of catheter ablation for AF remain unknown. We sought to assess association of alcohol consumption reduction with clinical outcomes of catheter ablation for AF.

Methods:

In this multicenter prospective observational study, consecutive patients undergoing catheter ablation for AF were enrolled. All patients were requested to limit alcohol consumption to <20 g/wk after the ablation. The primary end point was AF/atrial tachycardia (AT) recurrence-free survival without antiarrhythmic drugs beyond a 3-month blanking period. Percent reduction of alcohol consumption from baseline to 1-year postablation, if freed from AF/AT for 1-year, or to AF/AT recurrence was assessed. Univariate and multivariate Cox regression analyses were performed to assess the association of the percent reduction of alcohol consumption with AF/AT recurrence-free survival as well as to determine the cutoff value for the percent reduction of alcohol consumption that yielded the largest difference in AF/AT recurrence-free survival.

Results:

Of 3474 patients enrolled in this study, analysis was performed in 1720 patients who consumed alcohol regularly before ablation (64±10 years, male 88%, paroxysmal AF 55.9%, persistent AF 31.6%, longstanding persistent AF 12.5%). Median baseline alcohol consumption was 140 g/wk (interquartile range, 70–280 g). Alcohol consumption during 1-year follow-up decreased to a median of 70 g (interquartile range, 13–162 g;
P
<0.0001). Multivariate Cox regression analysis demonstrated that alcohol reduction of ≥1% from baseline to 1-year follow-up (median reduction, 75% [interquartile range, 45%–100%]) was associated with lower risk of AF/AT recurrence (hazard ratio, 0.630 [95% C, 0.518–0.768],
P
<0.001), compared with alcohol reduction of <1% (median, 0% [interquartile range, −20% to 0%]).

Conclusions:

This study suggests that abstinence from alcohol improves clinical outcomes of catheter ablation for AF.
Dietary Pattern and Long-Term Effects of Particulate Matter on Blood Pressure: A Large Cross-Sectional Study in Chinese Adults
Authors: Xu Huan , Guo Bing , Qian Wen , Ciren Zhuoga , Guo Wei , Zeng Qibing , Mao Deqiang , Xiao Xiong , Wu Jialong , Wang Xing , Wei Jing , Chen Gongbo , Li Shanshan , Guo Yuming , Meng Qiong , Zhao Xing ,   on behalf of the China Multi-Ethnic Cohort (CMEC) collaborative group
Published: May 2021

Previous experimental studies have identified specific foods or nutrients are capable of mitigating adverse effects induced by air pollution. However, whether the dietary pattern can modify the associations between long-term particulate matter (PM) and increasing blood pressure (BP) among adults has not yet been assessed. We assessed whether the dietary pattern and various foods modify the associations between long-term exposure to PM (PM
1
, PM
2.5
, and PM
10
), hypertensive BP (BP≥140/90 mm Hg, HBP), and BP in Chinese adults. This study included 61 081 participants from China Multi-Ethnic Cohort. PM was assessed through satellite-based random forest approaches. Outcomes were analyzed with logistic regression models and linear regression models. The dietary approaches to stop hypertension (DASH) diet was calculated for each participant. This study founds long-term exposure to PM was associated with HBP, systolic BP, and pulse pressure. The DASH diet modified the associations between PM, HBP, and some BP components. For each 10 μg/m
3
increase in PM
1
, PM
2.5
, and PM
10
, the participants with the lowest quintile of DASH score had HBP risks with odds ratios (95% CI) of 1.196 (1.084–1.319), 1.145 (1.09–1.202), and 1.080 (1.045–1.117), whereas those with the highest quintile of DASH score had lower HBP risks with odds ratios (95% CI) of 1.063 (0.953–1.185), 1.074 (1.017–1.133), and 1.038 (1.000–1.077). Consuming more fresh fruits, vegetables, dairy, and whole grains would reduce the risk of raised BP caused by PM. In conclusion, the DASH diet rich in antioxidant compounds may be a wide-reaching intervention to reduce the deleterious impact of PM.
Natural History of Arrhythmia After Successful Isolation of Pulmonary Veins, Left Atrial Posterior Wall, and Superior Vena Cava in Patients With Paroxysmal Atrial Fibrillation: A Multi‐Center Experience
Authors: Mohanty Sanghamitra , Trivedi Chintan , Horton Pamela , Della Rocca Domenico G. , Gianni Carola , MacDonald Bryan , Mayedo Angel , Sanchez Javier , Gallinghouse G. Joseph , Al‐Ahmad Amin , Horton Rodney P. , Burkhardt J. David , Dello Russo Antonio , Casella Michela , Tondo Claudio , Themistoclakis Sakis , Forleo Giovanni , Di Biase Luigi , Natale Andrea
Published: May 2021

Background

We evaluated long‐term outcome of isolation of pulmonary veins, left atrial posterior wall, and superior vena cava, including time to recurrence and prevalent triggering foci at repeat ablation in patients with paroxysmal atrial fibrillation with or without cardiovascular comorbidities.

Methods and Results

A total of 1633 consecutive patients with paroxysmal atrial fibrillation that were arrhythmia‐free for 2 years following the index ablation were classified into: group 1 (without comorbidities); n=692 and group 2 (with comorbidities); n=941. We excluded patients with documented ablation of areas other than pulmonary veins, the left atrial posterior wall, and the superior vena cava at the index procedure. At 10 years after an average of 1.2 procedures, 215 (31%) and 480 (51%) patients had recurrence with median time to recurrence being 7.4 (interquartile interval [IQI] 4.3–8.5) and 5.6 (IQI 3.8–8.3) years in group 1 and 2, respectively. A total of 201 (93.5%) and 456 (95%) patients from group 1 and 2 underwent redo ablation; 147/201 and 414/456 received left atrial appendage and coronary sinus isolation and 54/201 and 42/456 had left atrial lines and flutter ablation. At 2 years after the redo, 134 (91.1%) and 391 (94.4%) patients from group 1 and 2 receiving left atrial appendage/coronary sinus isolation remained arrhythmia‐free whereas sinus rhythm was maintained in 4 (7.4%) and 3 (7.1%) patients in respective groups undergoing empirical lines and flutter ablation (
P
<0.001).

Conclusions

Very late recurrence of atrial fibrillation after successful isolation of pulmonary veins, regardless of the comorbidity profile, was majorly driven by non‐pulmonary vein triggers and ablation of these foci resulted in high success rate. However, presence of comorbidities was associated with significantly earlier recurrence.
New record genus and a new species of Allodiatrype from China based on morphological and molecular characters

Authors: PENG MING-KAI , ZHANG BO , QU ZHI , LI YU , MA HAI-XIA
Published: May 2021

The genus Allodiatrype (Diatrypaceae, Xylariales) is reported for the first time collected in Taiyang River National Forest Park, Yunnan Province. An undescribed Allodiatrype species is described and illustrated as a new species based on a combination of morphological characteristics and sequences data of ITS, SSU and TUB2. The new species is characterized by its Y-shaped or cruciate-shaped ostiolar surface, yellowish-green to the green inner layer, and hyaline, ellipsoidal to cylindrical or elongate-allantoid ascospores. The differences between the new species and the related fungi are discussed.
Euphorbia sahyadrica (Euphorbiaceae), a new species of succulent shrub from the wet zone of the northern Western Ghats, Maharashtra, India

Authors: MALPURE NILESH V. , RAUT PRASHANT S. , SARDESAI MILIND M. , DE JONG BRUCE E.
Published: May 2021

Euphorbia sahyadrica (Euphorbiaceae), a new succulent species belonging to Euphorbia subg. Euphorbia sect. Euphorbia is described and illustrated from the Raigad district of Maharashtra, India. It is related to E. nivulia but differs in its shrub-like habit, bark with closely-packed horizontal branch scars, elliptical-shaped leaf with short petiole and easily visible lateral veins, protruding tubercles with two pairs of spines per spine shield, bisexual cyathia in the central sessile position on the cyme, and capsules that have laterally tapering cocci without bulging suture lines between the cocci.
Gross Discrepancies between Observed and Simulated Twentieth-to-Twenty-First-Century Precipitation Trends in Southeastern South America
Authors: Varuolo-Clarke Arianna M. , Smerdon Jason E. , Williams A. Park , Seager Richard
Published: May 2021

Southeastern South America (SESA; encompassing Paraguay, southern Brazil, Uruguay, and northern Argentina) experienced a 27% increase in austral summer precipitation from 1902 to 2019, one of the largest observed trends in seasonal precipitation globally. Previous research identifies Atlantic multidecadal variability and anthropogenic forcing from stratospheric ozone depletion and greenhouse gas emissions as key factors contributing to the positive precipitation trends in SESA. We analyze multimodel ensemble simulations from phases 5 and 6 of the Coupled Model Intercomparison Project (CMIP) and find that not only do Earth system models simulate positive SESA precipitation trends that are much weaker over the historical interval, but some models persistently simulate negative SESA precipitation trends under historical forcings. Similarly, 16-member ensembles from two atmospheric models forced with observed historical sea surface temperatures never simulate precipitation trends that even reach the lower bound of the observed trend’s range of uncertainty. Moreover, while future twenty-first-century projections from CMIP6 yield positive ensemble mean precipitation trends over SESA that grow with increasing greenhouse gas emissions, the mean forced response never exceeds the observed historical trend. Preindustrial control runs from CMIP6 indicate that some models do occasionally simulate centennial-scale trends in SESA that fall within the observational range, but most models do not. Results point to significant uncertainties in the attribution of anthropogenically forced influences on the observed increases in precipitation over SESA while also suggesting that internal decadal-to-centennial variability of unknown origin and not present in state-of-the-art models may have also played a large role in generating the twentieth-to-twenty-first-century SESA precipitation trend.
Evaluation of the in situ Sea Surface Temperature Quality Control in the NOAA in situ SST Quality Monitor (iQuam) System
Authors: Zhang Haifeng , Ignatov Alexander , Hinshaw Dean
Published: May 2021

In situ sea surface temperature (SST) measurements play a critical role in the calibration/validation (Cal/Val) of satellite SST retrievals and ocean data assimilation. However, their quality is not always optimal, and proper quality control (QC) is required before they can be used with confidence. The in situ SST Quality Monitor (iQuam) system was established at the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) in 2009, initially to support the Cal/Val of NOAA satellite SST products. It collects in situ SST data from multiple sources, performs uniform QC, monitors the QC’ed data online, and distributes it to users. In this study, the iQuam QC is compared with other QC methods available in some of the in situ data ingested in iQuam. Overall, the iQuam QC performs well on daily-to-monthly time scales over most global oceans and under a wide variety of environmental conditions. However, it may be less accurate in the daytime a when pronounced diurnal cycle is present, and in dynamic regions, due to the strong reliance on the “reference SST check”, which employs daily low-resolution level 4 (L4) analyses with no diurnal cycle resolved. The iQuam “performance history check”, applied to all in situ platforms, is an effective alternative to the customary “black/gray” lists, available only for some platforms (e.g., drifters and Argo floats). In the future, iQuam QC will be upgraded (e.g., using improved reference field(s), with enhanced temporal and spatial resolutions). More comparisons with external QC methods will be performed to learn and employ the best QC practices.
Under the Umbrella: Goal-Derived Category Construction and Product Category Nesting
Authors: Boghossian Johnny , David Robert J.
Published: May 2021

Categories are organized vertically, with product categories nested under larger umbrella categories. Meaning flows from umbrella categories to the categories beneath them, such that the construction of a new umbrella category can significantly reshape the categorical landscape. This paper explores the construction of a new umbrella category and the nesting beneath it of a product category. Specifically, we study the construction of the Quebec terroir products umbrella category and the nesting of the Quebec artisanal cheese product category under this umbrella. Our analysis shows that the construction of umbrella categories can unfold entirely separately from that of product categories and can follow a distinct categorization process. Whereas the construction of product categories may be led by entrepreneurs who make salient distinctive product attributes, the construction of umbrella categories may be led by “macro actors” removed from the market. We found that these macro actors followed a goal-derived categorization process: they first defined abstract goals and ideals for the umbrella category and only subsequently sought to populate it with product categories. Among the macro actors involved, the state played a central role in defining the meaning of the Quebec terroir category and mobilizing other macro actors into the collective project, a finding that suggests an expanded role of the state in category construction. We also found that market intermediaries are important in the nesting of product categories beneath new umbrella categories, notably by projecting identities onto producers consistent with the goals of the umbrella category. We draw on these findings to develop a process model of umbrella category construction and product category nesting.
We the Animals and Honoring an Intimate Story of Brutal Love
Authors: Gupta Nisha , Greene Eric
Published: May 2021

In this edited interview, psychologists Nisha Gupta and Eric Greene interview filmmaker Jeremiah Zagar about We the Animals (2018), his film adaptation of the novel by Justin Torres. We the Animals is a coming-of-age story of an adolescent boy named Jonah who grows up with rambunctious brothers in a working class mixed-race family in upstate New York, and who must contend with both his volatile father and his emerging queer sexuality. Jonah’s mother and father have a volatile relationship that makes and unmakes the family many times over, often leaving the boys fending for themselves. As his brothers harden and grow into versions of their father, Jonah, who is the youngest, becomes increasingly aware of his desperate need to escape. Driven to the edge, Jonah embraces an imagined world all of his own. In this conversation, Jeremiah describes what it was like to honor novelist Justin’s intimate story by bringing it to screen, depict the nuanced realities of love interlaced with violence within family dynamics, and craft an immersive story that poses more questions than it answers.
Not for shameful gain: a Petrine theology of safeguarding
Authors: Sargent Benjamin
Published: May 2021

Safeguarding often appears to be practice in search of theology. Much of the theological work on safeguarding grounds good practice purely in theological anthropology. 1 Peter, while clearly not about safeguarding, offers a serious reflection on power and motivation for ministry, set within an ecclesiology which is both eschatological and publicly engaged. Good practice in safeguarding should also be an expression of ecclesiology: an activity of the Church which is to be a priestly presence in the world, demonstrating publicly observable goodness.
Safeguarding: why policies, training, lessons learned reviews and even good intentions are not enough
Authors: Gardner Fiona
Published: May 2021

This article, written by a former diocesan safeguarding officer, argues that, despite two decades of talk about better safeguarding, the Church of England has failed to protect children and young people under its care, failed to respond appropriately to abuse allegations, and failed to provide adequate safeguarding policies and practices. It illustrates this failure from the author’s direct experience of senior clergy responses to the abuse of adolescents by David Smith and Bishop Peter Ball – responses identified as a spiritual sickness linked to institutional narcissism.
Needle in the Haystack: Wire Bristle Foreign Body Presenting Deep Within the Tongue Base
Authors: Tripuraneni Priyanka , Wu Eric L. , Gao William Z. , Davidson Bruce J. , Giurintano Jonathan P.
Published: May 2021

Objectives:

To report a case of ingested wire bristle embedded within the extrinsic musculature of the tongue requiring a transcervical approach for removal and to provide a revised algorithm for the management of ingested wire bristles.

Methods:

The clinical record of 1 patient who ingested a grill brush wire bristle was reviewed. A literature review was also conducted to refine a treatment algorithm for managing ingested wire bristles.

Results:

We present a case of a 53-year-old male who accidentally ingested a grill brush wire bristle. After multiple unsuccessful endoscopic attempts at removal, the wire bristle migrated deep into the extrinsic musculature of the tongue, necessitating a transcervical approach for adequate visualization and retrieval.

Conclusions:

This is the first case reported of a wire bristle migrating deep into the tongue musculature that was successfully removed via a transcervical approach. Our proposed algorithm provides a comprehensive approach to the management of ingested wire bristles, specifically in cases where endoscopic retrieval is not feasible.
Sigmoid Sinus Thrombosis as a Complication of Acute Otitis Media in a 6-Year-Old Male
Authors: Poutoglidis Alexandros , Tsetsos Nikolaos , Keramari Stergiani , Skoumpas Ioannis , Vlachtsis Konstantinos , Kilmpasanis Adamantios , Fyrmpas Georgios
Published: May 2021

Sigmoid sinus thrombosis (SST) is a potentially life-threatening complication of otitis media which is nowadays rare due to the widespread use of antibiotics. A high index of suspicion is necessary to allow for a timely diagnostic and therapeutic intervention. Intravenous wide-spectrum antibiotics and a cortical mastoidectomy are the mainstay of treatment. There is no consensus regarding the necessity of anticoagulants in pediatric patients. We present a 6-year-old boy who presented with an SST as a result of acute otitis media.
Understanding Public Opinion Is Critical for Making Public Policy Democratically
Authors: Glackin Shane , Kim Mimi
Published: May 2021

Paul Gugiu argues that Kaplan and Baron-Epel’s central idea or underlying premise is not merely wrong, but “dangerous with potentially dire consequences,” particularly in our current circumstances of a pandemic and a polarized political atmosphere. We disagree in the strongest terms and believe that nothing in Kaplan and Baron-Epel’s article can be fairly thought to support such a claim. We begin by addressing Gugiu’s framing of Kaplan and Baron-Epel’s position, before examining his criticisms of that position in turn.
Item Response Theory Analysis: PROMIS® Anxiety Form and Generalized Anxiety Disorder Scale
Authors: Liu Wen , Dindo Lilian , Hadlandsmyth Katherine , Unick George Jay , Zimmerman M. Bridget , St. Marie Barbara , Embree Jennie , Tripp-Reimer Toni , Rakel Barbara
Published: May 2021

Little research has compared item functioning of the Patient-Reported Outcomes Measurement Information System (PROMIS®) anxiety short form 6a and the generalized anxiety disorder 7-item scale using item response theory models. This was a secondary analysis of self-reported assessments from 67 at-risk U.S. military veterans. The two measures performed comparably well with data fitting adequately to models, acceptable item discriminations, and item and test information curves being unimodal and symmetric. The PROMIS® anxiety short form 6a performed better in that item difficulty estimates had a wider range and distributed more evenly and all response categories had less floor effect, while the third category in most items of the generalized anxiety disorder 7-item scale were rarely used. While both measures may be appropriate, findings provided preliminary information supporting use of the PROMIS® anxiety short form 6a as potentially preferable, especially for veterans with low-to-moderate anxiety. Further testing is needed in larger, more diverse samples.
Building Personal Resilience following an Online Resilience Training Program for BScN Students
Authors: Stoliker Bryce E. , Vaughan Adam D. , Collins John , Black Meridy , Anderson Gregory S.
Published: May 2021

The purpose of this study was to investigate the effectiveness of a self-paced online resilience training program on promoting personal resilience and positive coping styles, while reducing the severity of anxiety- and depression-related symptoms, in a sample of BScN students ( N = 70) studying to become registered nurses. Using a repeated-measures research design, results indicate that scores on the measure of personal resilience significantly improved from baseline to post-training follow-up assessment. While scores on measures of positive coping and anxiety/depression shifted in the expected direction, these findings were not statistically significant. This study presents evidence to suggest that a self-paced online resilience training program may be an effective strategy for promoting personal resilience among nursing students.
Preparation and performance of melamine-formaldehyde rigid foams with high closed cell content
Authors: Li Chunhui , Ma Haihong , Song Congqiang , Zhou Zhengfa , Xu Weibing , Song Qiusheng , Ren Fengmei
Published: May 2021

Melamine-formaldehyde (MF)rigid foams with high closed cell content were prepared via oven heating process, using MF prepolymer prepared from melamine and paraformaldehyde as a matrix, cyclohexane as the foaming agent, dimethyl silicon oil as the foam stabilizers, hydrochloric acid as the catalyst. The effect of MF prepolymer viscosity, foaming temperature, amount of catalyst on morphology, closed cell content, apparent density, water absorption and compressive strength of MF rigid foams were systematically studied. The optimized foaming conditions are as follows: the viscosity of MF prepolymer ranges from 35 Pa·s to 45 Pa·s, the foaming temperature is 125°C and the content of the catalyst is 0.65 wt%. The as-prepared MF foams showed the best comprehensive performance with closed cell content of 83.5%, apparent density of 62 kg·m−3, water absorption of 12.0%, compressive strength of 292kPa, thermal conductivity of 0.033 W m−1 K−1 and limiting oxygen index (LOI) of 36%. Compared to conventional organic foams, MF rigid foams possess low water absorption, excellent thermal insulation and flame retardancy due to high closed cell content, and can be expected to be used as thermal insulation material for building exterior walls.
The coparenting relationship in Chinese families: The role of parental neuroticism and depressive symptoms
Authors: Ju Jiawen , Liang Lichan , Bian Yufang
Published: May 2021

The current study aimed to examine whether parental neuroticism was related to the coparenting relationship directly and indirectly via parental depressive symptoms. Furthermore, this study aimed to explore the interdependency of the effects between parents in Chinese nuclear and extended families. Two waves of longitudinal data from a sample of 1,419 Chinese families were used (822 nuclear families and 597 extended families). Both fathers and mothers rated their levels of neuroticism, depressive symptoms at the first wave, and their perceived coparenting relationship 1 year later. Using the actor-partner interdependence model (APIM) in nuclear and extended families, both parental neuroticism and depressive symptoms predicted their coparenting relationship (i.e., actor effects). Maternal neuroticism and maternal depressive symptoms predicted paternal coparenting relationship in both nuclear and extended families. Partner effects of paternal neuroticism were significant only in extended families. Compared with fathers, the actor effects of depressive symptoms on the coparenting relationship were higher among mothers. Depressive symptoms played a partial mediating role between neuroticism and the coparenting relationship in dyadic ways. These findings improved our understanding of the underlying mechanisms involved in the coparenting relationship by showing the interrelation of personality and mental health factors. The specific implications of how therapists may intervene in parental mental health to promote the coparenting relationship were discussed.