bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Architecture exploration of recent GPUs to analyze the efficiency of hardware resources
Authors: Vo Viet Tan , Kim Cheol Hong
Published: March 2021

This study analyzes the efficiency of parallel computational applications with the adoption of recent graphics processing units (GPUs). We investigate the impacts of the additional resources of recent architecture on the popular benchmarks compared with previous architecture. Our simulation results demonstrate that Pascal GPU architecture improves the performance by 273% on average compared to old-fashioned Fermi architecture. To evaluate the performance improvement depending on specific hardware resources, we divide the hardware resources into two types: computing and memory resources. Computing resources have bigger impact on performance improvement than memory resources in most of benchmarks. For Hotspot and B+ tree, the architecture adopting only enhanced computing resources can achieve similar performance gains of the architecture adopting both computing and memory resources. We also evaluate the influence of the number of warp schedulers in the SM (Streaming Multiprocessor) to the GPU performance in relationship with barrier waiting time. Based on these analyses, we propose the development direction for the future generation of GPUs.
Robust large image steganography using LSB algorithm and 5D hyper-chaotic system
Authors: Shehab Jinan N. , Abdulkadhim Hussein A. , Al-Tameemi Taqwa F.H.
Published: March 2021

This paper contains a robust hiding system proposed to hide and reconstruct efficiently a large size secret image based on merging encrypting and hiding. This approach deals with a video utilized as a cover of frames to hide the blocks of large image inside it. Frames are selected according to 5D hyperchaotic algorithms and consequently change value of the pixel in the original image depends on it. Secret image will divide into many blocks and hide each block in one frame selected by 5D chaotic. This method will support and enhance the techniques of information security with less time and morecapacity of transmission. The results obtained are analyzed under criteria including: Peak signal to noise ratio, Mean square error, key space and sensitivity, correlation coefficient and capacity of hiding. The results demonstrate both of the secret color image and cover video, where retaining its explicitness and properties after reconstruction in the receiver. However, the results prove stability and reliability of the proposed system under several conditions and can avoid attacks.
Pre-convoluted neural networks for fashion classification
Authors: Obaid Mustafa Amer , Jasim Wesam M.
Published: March 2021

In this work, concept of the fashion-MNIST images classification constructed on convolutional neural networks is discussed. Whereas, 28×28 grayscale images of 70,000 fashion products from 10 classes, with 7,000 images per category, are in the fashion-MNIST dataset. There are 60,000 images in the training set and 10,000 images in the evaluation set. The data has been initially pre-processed for resizing and reducing the noise. Then, this data is normalized for ensuring that all the data are on the same scale and this usually improves the performance. After normalizing the data, it is augmented where one image will be in three forms of output. The first output image is obtained by rotating the actual one; the second output image is obtained as acute angle image; and the third is obtained as tilt image. The new data set is of 180,000 images for training phase and 30,000 images for the testing phase. Finally, data is sent to training process as input for training model of the pre-convolution network. The pre-convolution neural network with the five layered convoluted deep neural network and do the training with the augmented data, The performance of the proposed system shows 94% accuracy where it was 93% in VGG16 and 92% in AlexNetnetworks.
A comparative study of performance of AC and DC electric drive control systems with variable moment of inertia
Authors: Said Addasi E. , M. Eial Awwad Abdullah
Published: March 2021

In electric drive control systems, the main goal is to maintain the driving motor speed to meet the mechanism’s requirements. In some practical industrial applications the mechanically-coupled load to the motor shaft has a varying mass during the system operation. Therefore, the change of mass changes the value of the moment of inertia of the system. The moment of inertia impacts the system operation, particularly the transient performance. Therefore, the variation of moment of inertia on the motor shaft during its operation creates additional challenges to accomplish a high-quality speed control. The main purpose of the current work is to study the impact of the variation of moment of inertia on the performance of both AC and DC electric drive control systems and to make a comparison between them. A mathematical analysis and simulations of the control system models had been presented; one time with three-phase induction motor and another time with DC motor, both with variable moment of inertia. A simulation of both systems had been accomplished using the Simulink software in MATLAB. The simulation results of operation of these systems have been analysed in order to get useful conclusions and recommendations for the electric drive control system designer.
Performance evaluation for vehicular ad-hoc networks based routing protocols
Authors: Mahdi Hussain Falih , Abood Mohammed Salah , Hamdi Mustafa Maad
Published: March 2021

VANET is a branch of MANETS, where each vehicle is a node, and a wireless router will run. The vehicles are similar to each other will interact with a wide range of nodes or vehicles and establish a network. VANETs provide us with the infrastructure to build new solutions for improving safety and comfort for drivers and passengers. There are several routing protocols proposed and evaluated for improving VANET's performance. The simulator is preferred over external experience because it is easy, simple, and inexpensive. In this paper, we choose AODV protocol, DSDV protocol, and DSR protocol with five different nodes density. For each protocol, as regards specific parameters like (throughput, packet delivery ratio, and end- to- end delay). On simulators that allow users to build real-time navigation models of simulations using VANET. Tools (SUMO, MOVE, and NS-2) were used for this paper, then graphs were plotted for evaluation using Trace-graph. The results showed the DSR is much higher than AODV and DSDV, In terms of throughput. While DSDV is the best choice because of the low average end to end delay. From the above, we conclude that each strategy has its own negative and positive aspects that make it ideally suited to a particular scenario than other scenarios.
Publikationen der mexikanischen Germanistik im Wandel (1971-2018): Deutsch als Fremdsprache
Authors: Gruhn Dorit Heike
Published: March 2021

Der vorliegende Artikel bildet den zweiten Teil einer bibliographischen Studie, die die Entwicklung der Publikationen der mexikanischen Germanistik nachzeichnet, und umfasst den Bereich Deutsch als Fremdsprache. Aufgenommen wurden 480 Titel, beginnend mit dem Jahr 1971. Das Hauptinteresse der Analyse lag auf den Autoren und ihrer institutionellen Zugehörigkeit, den Publikationsmedien, thematischen Schwerpunkten sowie den Publikationssprachen und der Rolle der DAAD- und OeAD-Lektoren. Darüberhinaus wird auch eine vergleichende Perspektive eingenommen bezüglich einiger Daten, die aus dem ersten Teil der Studie hervorgingen, welcher sich auf die Germanistik im engeren Sinne, das heißt mit nicht sprachvermittlungsbezogenen Inhalten, bezieht. Sichtbar werden verschiedene quantitative Phasen der DaF-Veröffentlichungen, die ihren Höhepunkt in den Jahren 2000 bis 2009 finden. Es zeichnet sich auch eine wesentliche Konzentration weniger Autoren ab, die mehrheitlich mit der UNAM in Verbindung stehen. Lektoren stellen einen hohen Anteil der Titel. Beliebtestes Publikationsmedium sind Kongressakten, gefolgt von Zeitschriftenartikeln, wobei die von dem Mexikanischen Deutschlehrerverband AMPAL herausgegebenen Schriften fast die Hälfte aller Einträge ausmachen. Inhaltlich dominieren Themen rund um Didaktik und Evaluierung. Mehr als zwei Drittel der Texte sind auf Deutsch verfasst, und diese mehrheitlich von Autoren mit L1 Deutsch. Das quanitative Publikationsaufkommens der letzten Jahre zeigt eine stark abfallende Tendenz.
A integração da narrativa mítica das mulheres Amazonas e sua função estética na trilogia sul-americana Amazonas, de Alfred Döblin
Authors: Redel Elisângela
Published: March 2021

Este trabalho analisa a integração e a construção da narrativa mítica das mulheres Amazonas no primeiro volume da trilogia sul-americana Amazonas, de Alfred Döblin. Trata-se de um romance ainda pouco conhecido no Brasil, escrito entre 1935 e 1937, quando o autor esteve exilado em Paris. Sob a perspectiva de Jan Assmann em relação às noções de mitomotricidade fundacional e mitomotricidade contrapresente, focalizamos como a narrativa mítica das mulheres Amazonas é incorporada na trilogia e quais significações suscita. Consideramos que o autor opera de duas maneiras no romance: a primeira é a incorporação e funcionamento de certos mitos na representação ficcional da vida dos indígenas; a segunda é a adaptação de mitos na construção da trama ficcional, sendo que o leitor possui uma participação dupla na narrativa mítica: como observador no nível da realidade ficcional e como receptor no nível da narrativa romanesca. Nesse sentido, a mitologia indígena é introduzida no romance de maneira complexa, atua como elemento estético que busca reconfigurar a posição do homem na natureza e tem efeito “contrapresente” sobre os leitores, pois induz a uma reflexão crítica sobre o desenvolvimento da civilização humana e do seu poder destrutivo, sobretudo na primeira metade do século XX.
DaF, DaZ, DaT, Língua Adicional: Wissensordnungen und Subjektpositionen in der Didaktik des Deutschen als Nicht-L1
Authors: Uphoff Dörthe
Published: March 2021

O artigo tem por objetivo examinar os contextos de produção dos termos Alemão como Língua Estrangeira, Alemão como Segunda Língua, Alemão como Terceira Língua e Língua Adicional empregados na literatura científica para denotar uma L≠1. Mobiliza-se como base teórica desse estudo a abordagem discursiva SKAD (Sociology of Knowledge Approach to Discourse; KELLER 2011a, 2011b), que investiga regimes de saber em diferentes áreas e contextos e explora as condições de possibilidade de determinadas ordens do conhecimento. Argumenta-se que os termos Alemão como Língua Estrangeira e Alemão como Segunda Língua, cunhados nos países de língua alemã, atribuem aos aprendizes de alemão como não-L1 posições de sujeito que não são mais considerados apropriados e admissíveis por estes. Como contraposição, propõe-se o termo de língua adicional, a partir da perspectiva de quem não fala a língua como L1, com o objetivo de neutralizar certos efeitos de sentido hierárquicos que os outros dois termos implicam. Nesse ponto de vista, o fato de que a noção ampla de língua adicional não permite diferenciações conceituais em termos do local de aprendizagem e da qualidade do processo de apropriação da L≠1, não é visto como um problema e até mesmo considerado uma vantagem.
O acervo do Instituto Federal do Piauí – Campus Teresina Central: possibilidades de arquivamento da memória institucional
Authors: Oliveira Márcia Pereira de , Monti Ednardo Monteiro Gonzaga do , Grazziotin Luciane Sgarbi Santos
Published: March 2021

O estudo aqui apresentado tem como foco o processo de constituição de um espaço dedicado a arquivar e conservar a memória de uma instituição educacional centenária. O objetivo é refletir sobre a implementação do Memorial do Instituto Federal do Piauí, Campus Teresina Central, que abrange ensino técnico, graduações tecnológicas, licenciaturas, bacharelados, cursos de especialização lato sensu e programas de pós-graduação stricto sensu. Sob a perspectiva da História da Educação, busca-se problematizar esse processo em uma instituição pública e compreender as  potencialidades de um lugar de memória, na concepção de Pierre Nora (1993). Os questionamentos e as ponderações presentes nesse propósito de reunir o acervo estão conectados com conceitos da História Cultural, mobilizando ideias de Jacques Le Goff e Peter Burke, e com a utilização de fontes orais, hemerográficas, objetos da cultura material da escola edocumentos institucionais. A reflexão proposta está organizada em uma introdução, evidenciando a experiência de criação de uma unidade de memória numa instituição de ensino superior, técnico e tecnológico. Em seguida, abordam-se o percurso de constituição desse espaço e as questões acerca de seus desafios, suas realizações e intencionalidades. Segue-se com um segundo tópico, discutindo-se limites e potencialidades desse investimento de pesquisa, com suas tensões e intenções. Nas considerações finais, o artigo aponta que os primeiros passos em direção à construção doMemorial foram realizados; entretanto, há medidas de cunho operacional e administrativo que, para se efetivarem, dependem de vontade política, dotação orçamentária e sensibilidade da gestão do campus para designar uma equipe comprometida com os objetivos pretendidos.
Museu da Escola Catarinensese: patrimônio escolar em acervos, experiências e reflexões
Authors: Makowiecky Sandra , Goudard Beatriz
Published: March 2021

Este artigo pretende evidenciar as coleções do Museu da Escola Catarinense da Universidade do Estado de Santa Catarina e seu potencial museológico. A instituição está sediada no mesmo prédio que, em 1964, passou a abrigar a primeira Faculdade de Educação do Brasil, dando origem à Universidade para o Desenvolvimento do Estado de Santa Catarina – atualmente, Udesc. Podemos relacionar como problema o fato de que existe certa invisibilidade desse tipo de museu no Brasil, ainda que tais coleções sejam parte da nossa vida cotidiana. Pretendemos dar evidência às pesquisas, às experiências e às reflexões sobre a presença de nosso museu na comunidade, além de torná-lo mais conhecido entre o público especializado. Discorreremos, brevemente, sobre os avanços tecnológicos implantados no Museu da Escola Catarinense e sobre a contribuição do museu na preservação da educação escolar do estado. Além disso, será abordado o espaço escolar preservado, as ações e o desenvolvimento com sustentabilidade com foco no acervo do museu e na sua importância como patrimônio educativo. Em todo esse processo, coloca-se em evidência a trajetória de preservação deum patrimônio cultural catarinense ligado à educação e que se constitui como fonte de pesquisa ao conter, em seu acervo, materiais que não estão restritos aos suportes tradicionais de documentação histórica, mas são repletos de histórias para contar. Dessa forma, é apontado como o museu é um espaço educativo importante para desenvolver a capacidade crítica, reforçar e alimentar energias, e projetar o futuro.
Relevância da informação contábil e cultura nacional
Authors: Batistella Ana Julia , Dal Magro Cristian Baú , Mazzioni Sady , Paulo Edilson
Published: March 2021

O objetivo deste estudo é analisar a influência das diferenças culturais na relevância da informação contábil. A amostra compreendeu 15.902 empresas listadas nos 30 países com maior Produto Interno Bruto, no período de 2015 a 2017, totalizando 47.706 observações. Para atender ao propósito desta pesquisa, foram utilizadas a estatística descritiva, a análise de cluster e a regressão linear múltipla. Os resultados indicam que a relevância da informação contábil é mais acentuada em firmas localizadas em países com características culturais de maior distância do poder, mais coletivistas, com menor aversão à incerteza, maior feminilidade e maior complacência. Por sua vez, a dimensão cultural de orientação de longo prazo não apresentou resultados consistentes. Conclui-se que as dimensões culturais dos países interferem na atribuição da relevância concedida pelo mercado de capitais à informação contábil produzida pelas empresas.
Years of life lost by CNCD attributed to occupational hazards in Brazil: GBD 2016 study
Authors: Assunção Ada Ávila , França Elisabeth Barboza
Published: March 2021

OBJECTIVE: To assess the years of life lost due to premature death and disability-adjusted life years (DALY) as a result of chronic noncommunicable diseases attributable to occupational hazard factors, and to compare their position according to the risk ranking for chronic noncommunicable diseases in 1990 and 2016. METHODS: Data for the DALY indicator, estimated from the Global Burden of Disease 2016 (GBD 2016) study, were analyzed for noncommunicable chronic diseases attributable to occupational, and other risk factors, selected in Brazil. A descriptive analysis was performed comparing the proportion of DALY by sex and age group (15 to 49 and 50 to 69 years old), as well as the ranking of occupational hazard factors in 1990 and 2016. RESULTS: In 2016, ergonomic risk factors, carcinogenic agents, and noise in the workplace were among the 25 largest contributors to DALY for chronic noncommunicable diseases affecting the age group between 15 and 49 years. The contribution of all occupational hazard factors increased in 2016, except for occupational aerodispersoids affecting men. Concerning the age group between 50 and 69, occupational carcinogens stand out, with an increase of 26.0% for men, and 17.1% for women in 2016. Risk factors evaluated according to their 1990 and 2016 ranking show that occupational hazards have all scored higher on the second evaluation (2016), especially when compared with other risks. CONCLUSIONS: The global burden of chronic noncommunicable diseases attributed to occupational hazard factors has become increasingly important. We suggest the strengthening of the approach of occupational hazard factors in the agendas for tackling these diseases in Brazil.
Uncovered genetic diversity in Hemidactylus mabouia (Reptilia: Gekkonidae) from Madeira Island reveals uncertain sources of introduction
Authors: Rato Catarina , Martins Beatriz , Rocha Ricardo , Silva-Rocha Iolanda
Published: March 2021

Hemidactylus mabouia is one of the most widely distributed species within its genus. It was first reported to Madeira in 2002 and the first individuals were considered to have originated from Cape Verde. Almost 20 years later, we found that H. mabouia has substantially expanded its distribution and can now be found >10 km away from Funchal, where it was first reported. Based on a 12S phylogenetic analysis and using 29 individuals from Funchal and Câmara de Lobos we found that Madeira actually harbours two distinct lineages of H. mabouia: one exclusively South American and another widespread in America and Africa. However, the lack of genetic diversity typical of this species outside its native range and the obtained phylogenetic pattern prevent us to infer possible introduction routes or sources. Our study emphasizes that authorities should remain vigilant regarding the arrival of other non-natives and act to prevent their establishment as soon as they are detected.
Insightful behaviour in arthropods?
Authors: Soley Fernando G. , Rodríguez Rafael Lucas , Höbel Gerlinde , Eberhard William G.
Published: March 2021

Arthropod behaviour is usually explained through ‘hard-wired’ motor routines and learning abilities that have been favoured by natural selection. We describe observations in which two arthropods solved rare and perhaps completely novel problems, and consider four possible explanations for their behaviours: (i) the behaviour was a pre-programmed motor routine evolved to solve this particular problem, or evolved for other functions but pre-programmed to be recruited for this function under certain conditions; (ii) it was learned previously; (iii) it resulted by chance; or (iv) it was the result of insightful behaviour. Pre-programmed solutions can be favoured by natural selection if they provide solutions to common or crucial problems. Given the apparent rarity of the problems that these animals solved, the solutions they employed are unlikely to represent innate behaviour. Learning and random chance seem unlikely, although we cannot rule them out completely. Possibly these animals employed some degree of insight.
Diplomacy with Chinese Characteristics
Authors: Zhang Qingmin
Published: March 2021

Scholarship on what constitutes the major characteristics of China’s diplomacy lacks consensus. This essay argues that many of what have been considered the distinct features of China’s diplomacy are the common features of all diplomacy, rather than specifically those of China’s diplomacy. These distinctive characteristics can be understood from historical and cross-national comparisons, and include strong self-consciousness of and emphasis on its distinction, the declining significance of diplomacy accompanied by the rise of power, the unified leadership of the the Chinese Communist Party, remarkable cultural features and the Chinese leadership’s personal style.
Novelties in Cactaceae from Eastern Brazil: Adding two new species and one new nothospecies to Tacinga (Opuntioideae)
Authors: FREITAS JULIANA GOMES , ALVES LANIA ISIS FERREIRA , ZAPPI DANIELA CRISTINA , ALMEIDA ERTON MENDONÇA DE , PERAZA-FLORES LIZANDRO N. , AMARAL DANIEL OLIVEIRA JORDÃO DO , ARAÚJO DANIEL BRUNO PEREIRA , BATISTA FABIANE RABELO DA COSTA
Published: March 2021

Two new species and one new nothospecies of Tacinga from semi-arid Eastern Brazil are described. The new taxa were discovered on the basis of material collected during field trips carried out by staff of the Cactarium Guimarães Duque of the Instituto Nacional do Semiárido. A morphologic comparison of all the Tacinga species currently known, together with the cytogenetic analysis of the new taxa, are made. Full descriptions, illustrations, taxonomic discussions for all three new taxa are given as well as an identification key for all known Tacinga species. IUCN categories for the new taxa were assessed, resulting as endangered or critically endangered, due to their small population size and restricted distribution.
Dendrobium niveolabium (Orchidaceae, section Grastidium), a new Dendrobiinae species from Papua, Indonesia

Authors: NAIVE MARK ARCEBAL K. , HANDOYO FRANKIE , ORMEROD PAUL , CHAMPION JEFFREY
Published: March 2021

Dendrobium niveolabium Handoyo, Naive, Ormerod & Champion, a new species of Dendrobium section Grastidium is herein described and illustrated from Papua Province in Indonesia. Detailed description, colour plates, comparison with its allied taxa, phenology, distribution and a preliminary conservation assessment are provided.
Aβ Accumulation in Vmo Contributes to Masticatory Dysfunction in 5XFAD Mice
Authors: Kim H.B. , Kim D. , Kim H. , Kim W. , Chung S. , Lee S.H. , Kim H.R. , Oh S.B.
Published: March 2021

Alzheimer’s disease (AD) shows various symptoms that reflect cognitive impairment and loss of neural circuit integrity. Sensory dysfunctions such as olfactory and ocular pathology are also observed and used as indicators for early detection of AD. Although mastication is suggested to correlate with AD progression, changes in the masticatory system have yet to be established in transgenic animal models of AD. In the present study, we have assessed pathologic hallmarks of AD with the masticatory behavior of 5XFAD mice. We found that masticatory efficiency and maximum biting force were decreased in 5XFAD mice, with no significant change in general motor function. Immunohistochemical analysis revealed significant accumulation of Aβ (amyloid β), increased microglia number, and cell death in Vmo (trigeminal motor nucleus) as compared with other cranial motor nuclei that innervate the orofacial region. Masseter muscle weight and muscle fiber size were also decreased in 5XFAD mice. Taken together, our results demonstrate that Aβ accumulation in Vmo contributes to masticatory dysfunction in 5XFAD mice, suggesting a close association between masticatory dysfunction and dementia.
Novel REST Truncation Mutations Causing Hereditary Gingival Fibromatosis
Authors: Chen J.T. , Lin C.H. , Huang H.W. , Wang Y.P. , Kao P.C. , Yang T.P. , Wang S.K.
Published: March 2021

Hereditary gingival fibromatosis (HGF) is a rare genetic disorder featured by nonsyndromic pathological overgrowth of gingiva. The excessive gingival tissues can cause dental, masticatory, and phonetic problems, which impose severe functional and esthetic burdens on affected individuals. Due to its high recurrent rate, patients with HGF have to undergo repeated surgical procedures of gingival resection, from childhood to adulthood, which significantly compromises their quality of life. Unraveling the genetic etiology and molecular pathogenesis of HGF not only gains insight into gingival physiology and homeostasis but also opens avenues for developing potential therapeutic strategies for this disorder. Recently, mutations in REST (OMIM *600571), encoding a transcription repressor, were reported to cause HGF (GINGF5; OMIM #617626) in 3 Turkish families. However, the functions of REST in gingival homeostasis and pathogenesis of REST-associated HGF remain largely unknown. In this study, we characterized 2 HGF families and identified 2 novel REST mutations, c.2449C>T (p.Arg817*) and c.2771_2793dup (p.Glu932Lysfs*3). All 5 mutations reported to date are nonsenses or frameshifts in the last exon of REST and would presumably truncate the protein. In vitro reporter gene assays demonstrated a partial or complete loss of repressor activity for these truncated RESTs. When coexpressed with the full-length protein, the truncated RESTs impaired the repressive ability of wild-type REST, suggesting a dominant negative effect. Immunofluorescent studies showed nuclear localization of overexpressed wild-type and truncated RESTs in vitro, indicating preservation of the nuclear localization signal in shortened proteins. Immunohistochemistry demonstrated a comparable pattern of ubiquitous REST expression in both epithelium and lamina propria of normal and HGF gingival tissues despite a reduced reactivity in HGF gingiva. Results of this study confirm the pathogenicity of REST truncation mutations occurring in the last exon causing HGF and suggest the pathosis is caused by an antimorphic (dominant negative) disease mechanism.
The “Own” and the “Wise” Revisited: Physical Disability, Stigma, and Mental Health among Couples
Authors: Brown Robyn Lewis , Ciciurkaite Gabrielle
Published: March 2021

Utilizing data from a cross-sectional community survey of 455 heterosexual couples in which at least one partner has a physical disability, we examine the associations between stigma and psychological distress for both partners. We also assess whether these associations are moderated by gender. Findings from an actor-partner interdependence model analysis reveal that personally experienced stigma and vicarious stigma experiences have additive effects on psychological distress, but only among women. We discuss how these findings extend a relational understanding of stigma and its effects and implications for research and practice.
The geo-temporal evolution of violence in civil conflicts: A micro analysis of conflict diffusion on a new event data set
Authors: Kibris Arzu
Published: March 2021

Existing works on diffusion fail to account for the incapacitating effects conflict events may have on the operational capability of the combatant sides and how these effects may determine the evolution of a conflict. I hypothesize that it is those events with losses on the state side that are likely to be associated with geo-temporal spillovers, whereas events with insurgency losses are less likely to be associated with future mayhem in their vicinity. To test my arguments, I first introduce a new, comprehensive and detailed event dataset on the long-running civil conflict in Turkey. The Turkish State–PKK Conflict Event Database (TPCONED) includes the exact date and county-level location for the fatal events of the armed conflict between the Turkish state and the rebel organization PKK since its very beginning in 1984 with detailed information on combatant casualties. I then employ a split population bi-probit model which allows me to comprehensively depict the geotemporal evolution of the conflict by acknowledging, estimating and accounting for the variation in the underlying conflict proneness across locations as a latent variable that shapes the diffusion of events. The results of the statistical analyses offer support for my hypotheses and reveal that how events evolve over space and time is conditioned by the damages suffered by the combatant sides. I demonstrate the robustness of these results on a matched sample I obtain by employing the Coarsened Exact Matching (CEM) on the data.
Preparation of single-layer coating polyester cotton composites with electric loss of their electromagnetic properties
Authors: Liu Yuanjun , Wang Yi , Yin Guang
Published: March 2021

In this paper, single-layer coated polyester–cotton composites were prepared using PU-2540 waterborne polyurethane resin as the adhesive, graphite and silicon carbide as functional particles, and adopting a coating technology on the plain polyester–cotton fabric. First, the single-layer graphite-coated polyester cotton composite was prepared with graphite as the functional particle, and the influence of graphite content on the reflection loss and shielding effectiveness was studied. When the applied electric field frequency is 1610 MHz and the graphite content is 40 wt%, the minimum reflection loss is −26 dB; when the applied electric field frequency is 39.9 MHz and the graphite content is 50 wt%, the maximum shielding effectiveness is 12 dB. Then the single-layer silicon carbide-coated polyester–cotton composite was prepared with silicon carbide as the functional particle, and the influence of silicon carbide content on the reflection loss and shielding effectiveness was studied. With the applied electric field in the range 500∼3000 MHz the greater the content of silicon carbide, the smaller the reflection loss, the better the wave-absorbing ability, the larger the shielding effectiveness, and the better the shielding performance. Finally, the single-layer graphite/silicon carbide-coated polyester–cotton composites were prepared by doping graphite and silicon carbide in different proportions, and the influence of doping ratio on dielectric properties, reflection loss, and shielding effectiveness was investigated. The real part of the dielectric constant of the material was highest – that is, the polarization ability of the material was best when there were only graphite particles in the doping medium and the silicon carbide content was 0. The imaginary part of the dielectric constant and the tangent of loss angle of the material were the highest – that is, the loss and attenuation ability of the material were best – when the doping ratio of graphite to silicon carbide is 4:1. With the applied electric field in the range 500∼3000 MHz and with increasing graphite content, the reflection loss of the material became smaller, showing an enhanced wave-absorbing property, and the shielding effectiveness of the material increased, showing an enhanced shielding performance.
Childhood Material Hardship and Adolescent Mental Health
Authors: Edmunds Chrisse , Alcaraz Melissa
Published: March 2021

Adolescent mental health has implications for current and future wellbeing. While a link exists between poverty and mental health, little is known about how experiencing material hardship, such as insecurity of food, housing, utilities, and medical care, throughout early childhood affects adolescent mental health. We examine the relationship between material hardship in childhood and adolescent mental health. We use Poisson regression to examine the effect of material hardship experienced at different stages of childhood on adolescent depression and anxiety outcomes at age 15. We use longitudinal data from the Fragile Families and Child Wellbeing Study ( N = 3,222). We find that recently experiencing material hardship during childhood is positively and significantly associated with anxiety and depression symptoms at age 15, even when controlling for material hardship at age 15. Additionally, we find that insecurity during mid-childhood and the stress of lacking basic needs during a critical age may influence mental health in adolescence.
Thwarted Belongingness and PTSD Symptom Severity among Firefighters: The Role of Emotion Regulation Difficulties
Authors: Leonard Samuel J. , Vujanovic Anka A.
Published: March 2021

The present investigation examined the associations among thwarted belongingness (TB), emotion regulation difficulties (ERD), and posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) symptom severity among firefighters. First, the associations of TB and ERD with PTSD symptom severity were evaluated. Second, the indirect effect of TB on PTSD symptom severity through ERD was examined. The sample included 246 trauma-exposed firefighters ( M age = 40.21, SD = 9.93, 93.1% male) who completed an online questionnaire battery. Results demonstrate significant, positive associations among TB, ERD, and PTSD symptom severity; and an indirect effect of TB on PTSD symptom severity through heightened ERD (β = 0.17; CI [0.08, 0.29]). Alternate indirect effect models were also significant, underscoring the potentially bidirectional associations of these variables. These findings suggest that there is merit in investigating the role of interpersonal factors and ERD among firefighter populations to better understand PTSD symptomatology. Clinical and empirical implications are discussed.
Association Between Earwax‐Determinant Genotypes and Acquired Middle Ear Cholesteatoma in a Japanese Population
Authors: Hara Satoshi , Kusunoki Takeshi , Nakagawa Hiroshi , Toyoda Yu , Nojiri Shuko , Kamiya Kazusaku , Furukawa Masayuki , Takata Yusuke , Okada Hiroko , Anzai Takashi , Matsumoto Fumihiko , Ikeda Katsuhisa
Published: March 2021

Objective

A single‐nucleotide polymorphism 538G>A in the human ABCC11 gene is a determinant of the earwax morphotype. ABCC11 538GG and GA correspond to wet earwax and 538AA to dry earwax. Despite a putative positive correlation between the frequency of the 538G allele and the prevalence of cholesteatoma, minimal clinical information is currently available. We aimed to evaluate this association between the ABCC11 genotypes and acquired middle ear cholesteatoma.

Study Design

Case‐control study.

Setting

Single‐center academic hospital.

Methods

We recruited 67 Japanese patients with acquired middle ear cholesteatoma (cholesteatoma group) and 100 Japanese controls with no history of middle ear cholesteatoma. We assessed the ABCC11 genotypes for all participants. Clinical information was collected from the cholesteatoma group. The genotype data of 104 Japanese people from the 1000 Genomes Project who represent the general population were used.

Results

The proportion of participants with ABCC11 538GG or GA was significantly higher in the cholesteatoma group than in the control group or general Japanese population (P <. 001). The ABCC11 538G allele frequency was also significantly higher in the cholesteatoma group than in the control group or general Japanese population (P <. 001). Multivariate logistic regression analyses revealed a significant association between the ABCC11 genotype and acquired middle ear cholesteatoma (odds ratio, 5.49; 95% CI, 2.61‐11.5; P <. 001).

Conclusion

Our results suggest that the ABCC11 genotypes could be associated with the development of acquired middle ear cholesteatoma among Japanese people.
Closed-loop control of soft continuum manipulators under tip follower actuation
Authors: Campisano Federico , Caló Simone , Remirez Andria A. , Chandler James H. , Obstein Keith L. , Webster Robert J. , Valdastri Pietro
Published: March 2021

Continuum manipulators, inspired by nature, have drawn significant interest within the robotics community. They can facilitate motion within complex environments where traditional rigid robots may be ineffective, while maintaining a reasonable degree of precision. Soft continuum manipulators have emerged as a growing subfield of continuum robotics, with promise for applications requiring high compliance, including certain medical procedures. This has driven demand for new control schemes designed to precisely control these highly flexible manipulators, whose kinematics may be sensitive to external loads, such as gravity. This article presents one such approach, utilizing a rapidly computed kinematic model based on Cosserat rod theory, coupled with sensor feedback to facilitate closed-loop control, for a soft continuum manipulator under tip follower actuation and external loading. This approach is suited to soft manipulators undergoing quasi-static deployment, where actuators apply a follower wrench (i.e., one that is in a constant body frame direction regardless of robot configuration) anywhere along the continuum structure, as can be done in water-jet propulsion. In this article we apply the framework specifically to a tip actuated soft continuum manipulator. The proposed control scheme employs both actuator feedback and pose feedback. The actuator feedback is utilized to both regulate the follower load and to compensate for non-linearities of the actuation system that can introduce kinematic model error. Pose feedback is required to maintain accurate path following. Experimental results demonstrate successful path following with the closed-loop control scheme, with significant performance improvements gained through the use of sensor feedback when compared with the open-loop case.
Adjuvant radiotherapy and radioiodine treatment for locally advanced differentiated thyroid cancer: systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Dicuonzo Samantha , Pedretti Sara , Mangoni Monica , Monari Fabio , Fanetti Giuseppe , Borsatti Eugenio , Lombardi Davide , Vianello Federica , Iacobone Maurizio , Corvò Renzo , Magrini Stefano M. , Pappagallo Giovanni , Arcangeli Stefano , D’Angelillo Rolando M.
Published: March 2021

Background:

Treatment for locally advanced differentiated thyroid cancer is surgery followed by radioiodine while the role of adjuvant external beam radiotherapy (EBRT) is debated.

Methods:

The panel of the Italian Association of Radiotherapy and Clinical Oncology developed a clinical recommendation on the addition of EBRT to radioiodine after surgery for locally advanced differentiated thyroid cancer by using the Grades of Recommendation, Assessment, Development, and Evaluation methodology and the Evidence to Decision framework. A systematic review with meta-analysis about this topic was conducted with a focus on outcome of benefits and toxicity.

Results:

Locoregional control was improved by EBRT while no considerable toxicity impact was reported.

Conclusion:

The panel judged uncertain the benefit/harms balance; final recommendation was conditional both for EBRT + radioiodine and radioiodine alone in the adjuvant setting.
Impact of multidisciplinary approach and radiologic review on surgical outcome and overall survival of patients with pancreatic cancer: a retrospective cohort study
Authors: Artioli Giulia , Besutti Giulia , Cassetti Tiziana , Sereni Giuliana , Zizzo Maurizio , Bonacini Stefano , Carlinfante Gabriele , Panebianco Michele , Cavazza Alberto , Pinto Carmine , Sassatelli Romano , Pattacini Pierpaolo , Giorgi Rossi Paolo
Published: March 2021

Aim:

To evaluate the impact of multidisciplinary team case discussion including computed tomography (CT) radiologic review on surgical outcome and overall survival (OS) of patients with pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC).

Methods:

Patients with PDAC evaluated in 2008–2011 and 2013–2016 (before and after multidisciplinary team introduction), aged <85 years and staged I–III, were included. Surgical failures and 2-year OS were compared in these periods. Available CT scans of preintervention period (2008–2011) cases were reviewed by two radiologists in consensus, assigning a resectability judgment to evaluate in how many cases a different recommendation would be achieved.

Results:

A total of 316 patients (49.3% female, age 71±10 years) were included: 132 in 2008–2011 and 184 in 2013–2016. The proportion of patients who underwent upfront surgery was similar in the two periods (51% vs 47% in 2008–2011 vs 2013–2016). Neoadjuvant referral increased from 7% to 21% and surgical resection was excluded for 42% patients in 2008–2011 vs 33% in 2013–2016 ( p = 0.002). Adjusting by age, sex, and stage, surgical failures slightly decreased in 2013–2016 (odds ratio 0.89, 95% confidence interval 0.53–1.51); the decrease was stronger when therapeutic choice complied with CT indications (odds ratio 0.76, 95% confidence interval 0.36–1.63); in both cases, the decrease could be due to chance. After correction for age, sex, and stage, the hazard ratio of 2013–2016 for OS was 0.83 (95% confidence interval 0.64–1.09). In 33/114 (29%) patients, CT retrospective review produced a change in resectability judgment.

Conclusion:

Although differences could be due to chance or generic improvement, the consistency between process and outcome indicators suggests that multidisciplinary team approach with radiologic review may improve outcomes.
Internal Fixation of Osteochondral Lesion of the Talus Involving a Large Bone Fragment
Authors: Rak Choi Young , Soo Kim Bom , Kim Yu Mi , Park Jae Yong , Cho Jae Ho , Cho Young Tak , Nyun Kim Hyong
Published: March 2021

Background:

Internal fixation of an osteochondral lesion of the talus (OLT) can restore the congruency of the talus and maintain the subchondral bone and innate hyaline cartilage. However, OLT that is indicated for fixation is rarely encountered; hence, not many studies report on the results after the procedure.

Purpose:

To evaluate the clinical and radiological outcomes after internal fixation of chronic OLT involving a large bone fragment of at least 10 mm in diameter and 3 mm in depth on computed tomography (CT).

Study Design:

Case series; Level of evidence, 4.

Methods:

We retrospectively reviewed the data of 26 patients with OLT treated with internal fixation between August 2014 and April 2018. Of the patients, 15 were male and 11 were female, with a mean age of 16 years (range, 11-29 years). The primary radiological outcome measurement was bone union assessed on the 6-month postoperative CT scan. Clinical outcomes were assessed at a mean of 27.7 months postoperatively.

Results:

Twenty patients (77%) achieved bone union on postoperative CT scan. The mean 100-mm visual analog scale (VAS) improved from 30.5 ± 8.5 preoperatively to 13.4 ± 9.7 postoperatively ( P < .001). The mean Foot Function Index (FFI) improved from 30.5 ± 6.7 preoperatively to 13.7 ± 9.8 postoperatively ( P < .001). A malleolar osteotomy was not necessary to approach the lesion in 88% of patients. A bone fragment with an irregular margin and low density on the preoperative CT scan was significantly associated with nonunion (odds ratio: 7.67, 95% confidence interval: 2.67 to 22.02, P = .008). The difference in clinical outcomes between patients with skeletally immature ankles and those with skeletally mature ankles was not statistically significant. Patient age did not correlate with postoperative 100-mm VAS (Pearson correlation coefficient, r = −0.07, P = 0.72) or the postoperative FFI (Pearson correlation coefficient, r = –0.05, P = .80).

Conclusion:

Internal fixation of an OLT involving a large bone fragment resulted in satisfactory clinical and radiologic outcomes. We found that patients with skeletally immature and mature ankles attained healing at comparable rates after the internal fixation of OLT.
Return-to-Play Outcomes in Professional Baseball Players After Nonoperative Treatment of Incomplete Medial Ulnar Collateral Ligament Injuries: A Long-Term Follow-up Study
Authors: Walker Clark M. , Genuario James W. , Houck Darby A. , Murayama Scott , Mendez Hanna , Noonan Thomas J.
Published: March 2021

Background:

Medial ulnar collateral ligament (UCL) injuries are common among baseball players. There is sparse literature on long-term results after nonoperative treatment of UCL injuries in professional baseball players.

Purpose:

The primary purpose was to assess long-term follow-up on reinjury rates, performance metrics, rate of return to the same level of play or higher (RTP), and ability to advance to the next level of play in professional baseball players after nonoperative treatment of incomplete UCL injuries. The secondary aim was to perform a matched-pair comparison between pitchers treated nonoperatively and a control group without a history of UCL injuries.

Study Design:

Cohort study; Level of evidence, 3.

Methods:

Twenty-eight professional baseball players (18 pitchers, 10 position players) treated nonoperatively were identified from a previous retrospective review of a single professional baseball organization between 2006 and 2011. UCL reinjury rates and player performance metrics were evaluated at long-term (minimum, 9 years) follow-up. Rates of RTP were calculated. A matched-pair comparison was made between the pitchers treated nonoperatively and pitchers without a history of UCL injuries.

Results:

Overall, 27 players (17 pitchers, 10 position players) were available for long-term follow-up at a mean follow-up of 12 years (SD, 2 years). The overall rate of RTP was 85% (23/27), with the rate of RTP being 82% (14/17) in pitchers and 90% (9/10) in position players. Of the 23 players who did RTP, 18 (78%) reached a higher level of play and 5 (21.7%) stayed at the same level. Of the 9 position players who did RTP, the median number of seasons played after injury was 4.5 (interquartile range, 3.3). Of the 14 pitchers who did RTP, the mean number of seasons played after injury was 5.8 (SD, 3.8). In the matched-pair analysis, no significant differences were observed in any performance metrics (P > .05). The overall reinjury rate was 11.1% (3/27), with no players requiring UCL reconstruction.

Conclusion:

There was a high rate of RTP for professional baseball players treated nonoperatively for incomplete UCL injuries. Compared with a matched cohort with no history of UCL injury, professional baseball pitchers treated nonoperatively had similar performance metrics. Reinjury rates were low, and no player had reinjury requiring UCL reconstruction. Nonoperative treatment of incomplete UCL injuries in professional baseball players, specifically pitchers, is a viable treatment option in the long term.