bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Driving energetically unfavorable dehydrogenation dynamics with plasmonics
Authors: Sytwu Katherine , Vadai Michal , Hayee Fariah , Angell Daniel K. , Dai Alan , Dixon Jefferson , Dionne Jennifer A.
Published: January 2021

Coaxing unreactive sites

Optical excitation of localized surface plasmon resonances can confine light and create electromagnetic (EM) “hotspots” that can increase catalytic reaction rates. Sytwu
et al.
show how optical excited plasmons can also control the location of the active site. A crossed-bar gold-palladium hydride (Au-PdH

x

) plasmonic antenna-reactor system localized EM radiation away from the more reactive PdH

x

tips. Using in situ environmental transmission electron microscopy, the authors show that changing the illumination wavelength and intensity, along with the surrounding hydrogen gas pressure, could shift dehydrogenation away from the sharp PdH

x

nanorod tips to the flat middle faces.

Science
, this issue p.
280
Learning the language of viral evolution and escape
Authors: Hie Brian , Zhong Ellen D. , Berger Bonnie , Bryson Bryan
Published: January 2021

Natural language predicts viral escape

Viral mutations that evade neutralizing antibodies, an occurrence known as viral escape, can occur and may impede the development of vaccines. To predict which mutations may lead to viral escape, Hie
et al.
used a machine learning technique for natural language processing with two components: grammar (or syntax) and meaning (or semantics) (see the Perspective by Kim and Przytycka). Three different unsupervised language models were constructed for influenza A hemagglutinin, HIV-1 envelope glycoprotein, and severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) spike glycoprotein. Semantic landscapes for these viruses predicted viral escape mutations that produce sequences that are syntactically and/or grammatically correct but effectively different in semantics and thus able to evade the immune system.

Science
, this issue p.
284
; see also p.
233
Controlled hydroxylations of diterpenoids allow for plant chemical defense without autotoxicity
Authors: Li Jiancai , Halitschke Rayko , Li Dapeng , Paetz Christian , Su Haichao , Heiling Sven , Xu Shuqing , Baldwin Ian T.
Published: January 2021

Diterpenoids inhibit lipid biosynthesis

Plants make a variety of molecules that serve to protect them against hungry insects. Li
et al.
analyzed the balance between plants defending themselves and plants poisoning themselves. In wild tobacco (
Nicotiana attenuata
), two cytochrome P450 enzymes work within the biosynthetic pathway of 17-hydroxygeranyllinalool diterpene glycosides to help prevent the accumulation of toxic diterpene derivatives. Those same diterpene derivatives are formed in an insect herbivore after ingestion and cause toxicity by inhibiting sphingolipid biosynthesis in both plant and insect.

Science
, this issue p.
255
Development of a Simian RNA Polymerase I Promoter-Driven Reverse Genetics System for the Rescue of Recombinant Rift Valley Fever Virus from Vero Cells
Authors: Ikegami Tetsuro
Published: January 2021

RVF is a mosquito-transmitted, viral, zoonotic disease endemic to Africa and the Arabian Peninsula, and its spread outside the area of endemicity will potentially cause devastating economic damage and serious public health problems. Different from classical live-attenuated vaccines, live-attenuated recombinant vaccines allow rational improvement of vaccine production efficiency, protective efficacy, and vaccine safety via genetic engineering.
Consequences of Phosphorylation in a
Mononegavirales
Polymerase-Cofactor System
Authors: Gould Joseph R. , Qiu Shihong , Shang Qiao , Dokland Terje , Ogino Tomoaki , Petit Chad M. , Green Todd J.
Published: January 2021

Polymerase-cofactor interactions such as those addressed in this study are absolute requirements for mononegavirus RNA synthesis. Although cofactor phosphorylation is present in most of these interactions, its effect, if any, on this protein-protein interaction had not been addressed.
Search on a Line by Byzantine Robots
Authors: Czyzowicz Jurek , Georgiou Konstantinos , Kranakis Evangelos , Krizanc Danny , Narayanan Lata , Opatrny Jaroslav , Shende Sunil
Published: January 2021

We consider the problem of fault-tolerant parallel search on an infinite line by [Formula: see text] robots. Starting from the origin, the robots are required to find a target at an unknown location. The robots can move with maximum speed [Formula: see text] and can communicate wirelessly among themselves. However, among the [Formula: see text] robots, there are [Formula: see text] robots that exhibit byzantine faults. A faulty robot can fail to report the target even after reaching it, or it can make malicious claims about having found the target when in fact it has not. Given the presence of such faulty robots, the search for the target can only be concluded when the non-faulty robots have sufficient evidence that the target has been found. We aim to design algorithms that minimize the value of [Formula: see text], the time to find a target at a (unknown) distance [Formula: see text] from the origin by [Formula: see text] robots among which [Formula: see text] are faulty. We give several different algorithms whose running time depends on the ratio [Formula: see text], the density of faulty robots, and also prove lower bounds. Our algorithms are optimal for some densities of faulty robots.
Technical Report Column
Authors: Kelley Dean
Published: January 2021

Welcome to the Technical Reports Column. If your institution publishes technical reports that you'd like to have included here, please contact me at the email address above.
Modeling Electrochemical Transport within a Three-Electrode System
Authors: Garrick Taylor R. , Gao Jing , Yang Xingyi , Koch Brian J.
Published: January 2021

In support of GM’s traction battery efforts, we derive and implement a method to describe the electrochemical performance of a battery cell through the combination of a modified Newman Pseudo 2-Dimensional model and a three-electrode experimental apparatus. To assess the capability of the method, we compare model results with experimental data for a lithiated graphite and lithium nickel manganese cobalt oxide system. The model is applied to simulate the electrochemical and transport processes within the battery cell to predict the negative electrode potential and positive electrode potential with respect to a lithium iron phosphate reference electrode, as well as the terminal voltage. We also provide a commentary on the validity of the fitted parameters governing transport at the electrode level.
Communication—A Simple Empirical Method for Determination of CuOOH/CuO Redox Couple in Electrochemical Nonenzymatic Glucose Sensing
Authors: Dung Nguyen Quoc , Thi Thuy Duong Tran , Lam Tran Dai , Dung Dang Duc , Huy Nguyen Nhat , Thanh Dang Van
Published: January 2021

In this work, we introduced a model of glucose reaction at the electrode and determined the reduction potential of CuOOH/CuO redox couple at CuO nanowires/ITO electrode (CNIE) via an empirical study. The cyclic voltage scanning of CNIE to glucose in different concentrations of NaOH electrolyte solution was conducted using the background subtraction (BS-CV) method. By interpolating the glucose concentration to zero based on the curve of glucose concentration versus oxidation potential in different pH media of NaOH, the standard electrode potential of the CuOOH/CuO redox couple was calculated to be +0.433 (V vs SHE).
Reliability of PERC Solar Cells under Alpha Irradiation: A Simulation-Based Study for Space Applications
Authors: Siddiqui Amna , Usman Muhammad
Published: January 2021

The effects of alpha particles’ irradiation on the performance of simplified PERC silicon solar cells are studied through technology computer aided design (TCAD) simulations. The methodology adopted in this work incorporates the non-ionizing energy loss (NIEL) phenomenon to understand the radiation effects, which does not depend on extensive irradiation experimentations. Simulation results show that alpha particles in the range of ∼10 MeV and with fluence >1014 cm−2 lead to maximum performance degradation of the solar cell. Moreover, it is found that upon irradiating the solar cell with 1 MeV alpha particles, the output power reduces proportionally with increasing fluence due to the reduction of minority carrier lifetime in the base. On the other hand, the fill factor (FF) degrades by only <10% up to a fluence of ∼1013 cm−2, after which it decreases sharply. This trend reveals that the FF deteriorates significantly only when the irradiation process creates a Frenkel pair density that approaches the majority carrier density in the base. The methodology presented in this work opens new research avenues for potentially optimizing the solar cell design not only for better efficiency but also for improved reliability in radiation rich environments.
Integrating Network Pharmacology and Experimental Models to Investigate the Mechanism of Huanglian Jiedu Decoction on Inflammatory Injury Induced by Cerebral Ischemia
Authors: Li HuiMin , Lv Teng , Wang Bin , Li Min , Liu JiPing , Wang Chuan , Tang ZhiShu
Published: January 2021

Unlike single-target Western medicines, traditional Chinese medicines (TCMs) exhibit diverse curative effects against multiple diseases through their “multicomponent” and “multitarget” manifestations. However, the material basis of the major therapeutic diseases and TCM underlying molecular mechanisms remain to be challenged. In the current study, we applied, for the first time, an integrated strategy that combines network pharmacology and experimental evaluation and explored and demonstrated the underlying possible mechanisms of a classic TCM formula, Huanglian Jiedu Decoction (HLJD), in the treatment of cerebral ischemia. First, the herb compound, protein compound, and GO-BP and KEGG pathways were constructed to predict the material basis of HLJD in the treatment of cerebral ischemia and explore the underlying molecular mechanisms. Network pharmacology analysis showed that HLJD treats cerebral ischemia mainly through its anti-inflammatory effect. We used molecular docking to verify that HLJD components have good binding activities to the arachidonic acid pathway enzymes, cyclooxylipase-2 (COX-2) and 5-lipoxygenase (5-LOX). Next, based on the prediction by the network pharmacology analysis, the rat model of middle cerebral artery occlusion (MCAO) was established to verify the efficacy of HLJD. The results showed that HLJD reduces the degree of brain injury in MCAO rats, probably by inhibiting the expression of the 5-LOX pathway and inflammatory response. In conclusion, our study demonstrates the effectiveness of integrating network pharmacology with an experimental study for material basis of the major therapeutic diseases and the underlying molecular mechanisms of TCM.
A Machine Learning Approach to Evaluate the Performance of Rural Bank
Authors: Wei Jun , Ye Tao , Zhang Zhe
Published: January 2021

In the current performance evaluation works of commercial banks, most of the researches only focus on the relationship between a single characteristic and performance and lack a comprehensive analysis of characteristics. On the other hand, they mainly focus on causal inference and lack systematic quantitative conclusions from the perspective of prediction. This paper is the first to comprehensively investigate the predictability of multidimensional features on commercial bank performance using boosting regression tree. The dimensionality in the financial‐related fields is relatively high. There are not only observable price data, financial fundamentals data, etc., but also many unobservable undisclosed data and undisclosed events; more sources of income cannot be explained by existing models. Aiming at the characteristics of commercial bank data, this paper proposes an adaptively reduced step size gradient boosting regression tree algorithm for bank performance evaluation. In this method, a random subsample sampling is performed before training each regression tree. The adaptive reduction step size is used to replace the reduction step size setting of the original algorithm, which overcomes the shortcomings of low accuracy and poor generalization ability of the existing regression decision tree model. Compared to the BIRCH algorithm for classification of existing data, our proposed gradient boosting regression tree algorithm with adaptively reduced step size obtains better classification results. This paper empirically uses data from rural banks in 30 provinces in China to classify the different characteristics of rural banks’ performance in order to better evaluate their performance.
A Review on Multicriteria Decision Support System and Industrial Internet of Things for Source Code Transformation
Authors: Hao Qinxia , Nazir Shah , Gao Xiaoxu , Ma Li , Ilyas Muhammad
Published: January 2021

The large scale increase of communication and number of devices in the Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT) has rapidly enabled practitioners to make decisions based on multicriteria. Multicriteria decision support systems (MCDSSs) play an important role in decision-making for a particular situation based on several criteria. Making of decision based on multicriteria is the main issues for research community and practitioners of the IIoT. Several decision support systems (DSSs) are offered for making decisions which have the potentiality to support the activities of the decision-making process. The suggested study shows a review on the existing decision support systems for the IIoT for source code transformation which will enable research community and practitioners of the industry to use the existing methods, tools, approaches, and techniques and to provide novel solutions for the smooth industry of Internet of Things.
Enhance the Transfer Capacity of Multiplex Networks
Authors: Shao Fei , Zhao Wei , Cheng Binghua
Published: January 2021

Most complex real systems are found to have multiple layers of connectivity and required to be modelled as multiplex networks. One of the extremely critical problems is to reduce the congestion and enhance the transfer capacity, especially in real communication networks with a big data environment. A novel and effective strategy to improve traffic and control congestion is proposed by adding edges according to their weights which are defined by the topology structural properties. Furthermore, which layer is more effective when our strategy is applied is discussed based on its topology structure. Adding edges between nodes whose product of multiplex network betweenness is the highest is confirmed to be more effective, particularly in the layer with stronger community structure. Simulation experiments on both computer‐generated and real‐world networks demonstrate that our strategy can enhance the transfer capacity of multiplex networks significantly, which is in good agreement with our analysis.
On the Shrinking Projection Method for the Split Feasibility Problem in Banach Spaces
Authors: Cui Huanhuan , Zhang Haixia
Published: January 2021

In this paper, we consider the split feasibility problem in Banach spaces. By applying the shrinking projection method, we propose an iterative method for solving this problem. It is shown that the algorithm under two different choices of the stepsizes is strongly convergent to a solution of the problem.
A Staged Finite‐Time Control Strategy for Formation of Underactuated Unmanned Surface Vehicles
Authors: Ye Hui , Yang Xiaofei , Ge Chunxiao , Du Zhaoping
Published: January 2021

The formation control issue for a group of underactuated unmanned surface vehicles (USVs) is discussed in the paper, and a staged finite‐time control strategy for the USVs is proposed. Firstly, we try to steer each USV to its own starting point in the formation for a limited time, under the initial condition that each of these vehicles is parked at random. To deal with the nonholonomic behavior of the system, the dynamics of the USV is transformed into cascade systems. Then, the finite‐time controller is designed for each vehicle based on homogeneity theory. After each USV reaches its own starting point with desired orientation, the model of the vehicle is decomposed into two subsystems under the Serret‐Frenet frame. In order to maintain the formation pattern, two finite‐time distributed controllers are developed for the surge subsystem and the yaw subsystem, respectively. The settling time for the staged control strategy is limited. Numerical simulations are carried out to illustrate the effectiveness of the proposed formation control strategy.
Pinus thunbergii Parl. Extracts Reduce Acute Inflammation by Targeting Oxidative Stress
Authors: Yoon Chan Jong , Choi Won Seok , Kang Hyun Sik , Kim Hong Jo , Lee Wang Tae , Lee Jong Seok , Lee Sarah , Son Su Young , Lee Choong Hwan , Sohn Uy Dong , Lee Ji Yun
Published: January 2021

Pinus thunbergii Parl. (PTP) has traditionally been used for edible and medicinal purposes to treat several disorders, including diabetes and neuralgia. Therefore, this study sought to evaluate the inhibitory effects of PTP leaf ethanol extracts on acute inflammation. Moreover, the reactive oxygen species (ROS) scavenging activity, superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity, lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced nitric oxide (NO) generation, and H2O2-induced lipid peroxidation capacity of PTP were assessed in vitro in RAW 264.7 macrophages. Our results suggest that PTP prevents cell damage caused by oxidative free radicals and downregulates the expression of LPS-induced inflammation-associated factors including inducible nitric oxidase synthetase (iNOS), cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2), and prostaglandin E2 (PGE2). PTP inhibited NO production by 53.5% (

P
<
0.05

) and iNOS expression by 71.5% (

P
<
0.01

) at 100 µg/mL. PTP at 100 µg/mL also inhibited ROS generation by 58.2% (

P
<
0.01

) and SOD activity by 29.3%, as well as COX-2 expression by 83.3% (

P
<
0.01

) and PGE2 expression by 98.6% (

P
<
0.01

). The anti-inflammatory effects of PTP were confirmed in vivo using an arachidonic acid (AA)-induced ear edema mouse model. Ear thickness and myeloperoxidase (MPO) activity were evaluated as indicators of inflammation. PTP inhibited edema formation by 64.5% (

P
<
0.05

) at 1.0 mg/ear. A total of 16 metabolites were identified in PTP extracts and categorized into subgroups, including two phenolic acids (mainly quinic acid), seven flavonoids, five lignans, one sesquiterpenoid, and one long-chain fatty acid. Therefore, our results suggest that PTP possesses anti-inflammatory properties.
Efficient Sensorless Speed Estimation of Electrical Servo Drives Using a Full-Order Nonsingular Terminal Sliding Mode Observer
Authors: Nguyen Tan-No , Pham Thanh-Binh , Hoang Van-Trong , Nguyen Tan-Tien , Nguyen Viet-Long , Truong Nguyen-Vu
Published: January 2021

This paper proposes an efficient sensorless speed estimation approach for electric servo drives based on the full-order nonsingular terminal sliding mode observer (FONTSM) with the application of DC motor drives. In this method, a specific full-order terminal sliding mode manifold is utilised for the observer design which results in the elimination of the chattering and avoiding the singularity phenomenon of conventional and terminal sliding modes. Here, speed and armature back emf can be directly estimated from the relevant observer’s inputs which are continuous instead of being discontinuous high-frequency “switching” signals. The efficiencies and advantages of this approach have been proven and validated in both simulation and experimental results.
Meshing Contact Impact Properties of Circular Arc Tooth Trace Cylindrical Gear Based on Rotating Knife Dish Milling Process
Authors: Ma Dengqiu , Liu Yongping , Ye Zhenhuan , Wei Yongqiao , Li Dawei , Zhang Xu
Published: January 2021

Taking the circular arc tooth trace (CATT) cylindrical gear as a research object, in order to obtain the CATT cylindrical gear’s meshing contact impact properties, the meshing contact impact hypothesis of the CATT cylindrical gear was put forward based on the contact dynamics theory and gear transmission physical model, and the gear mesh contact impact model was set up further. The finite element solution algorithm for solving the impact problem was given. Then, the accurate 3D model was set up based on the gear tooth surface equation, and the finite element analysis models of the meshing contact impact with different impact positions were established further. The model was to study the distribution rule of the gear surface meshing contact impact stress and relationship between the impact velocity, impact position, and the impact stress. Moreover, the reason for the maximum impact stresses distribution rule of primary and secondary impact tooth surface was discussed. Research result shows the driven wheel dangerous areas of gear root impact are the gear top of the primary impact tooth surface and the gear root of the secondary impact tooth surface; the driven wheel dangerous areas of gear top impact are the gear root of the primary impact tooth surface and gear top of the secondary impact tooth surface; the driven wheel dangerous areas of pitch circle are the gear root and pitch circle of secondary impact tooth surface; and impact velocity and impact position have a major influence on the impact stress. The study results provide a theoretical basis for the dynamic design and industrial application of CATT cylindrical gears.
Berbamine Suppresses the Progression of Bladder Cancer by Modulating the ROS/NF‐κB Axis
Authors: Han Chenglin , Wang Zilong , Chen Shuxiao , Li Lin , Xu Yingkun , Kang Weiting , Wei Chunxiao , Ma Hongbin , Wang Muwen , Jin Xunbo
Published: January 2021

Berbamine (BBM), one of the bioactive ingredients extracted from Berberis plants, has attracted intensive attention because of its significant antitumor activity against various malignancies. However, the exact role and potential molecular mechanism of berbamine in bladder cancer (BCa) remain unclear. In the present study, our results showed that berbamine inhibited cell viability, colony formation, and proliferation. Additionally, berbamine induced cell cycle arrest at S phase by a synergistic mechanism involving stimulation of P21 and P27 protein expression as well as downregulation of CyclinD, CyclinA2, and CDK2 protein expression. In addition to suppressing epithelial‐mesenchymal transition (EMT), berbamine rearranged the cytoskeleton to inhibit cell metastasis. Mechanistically, the expression of P65, P‐P65, and P‐IκBα was decreased upon berbamine treatment, yet P65 overexpression abrogated the effects of berbamine on the proliferative and metastatic potential of BCa cells, which indicated that berbamine attenuated the malignant biological activities of BCa cells by inhibiting the NF‐κB pathway. More importantly, berbamine increased the intracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS) level through the downregulation of antioxidative genes such as Nrf2, HO‐1, SOD2, and GPX‐1. Following ROS accumulation, the intrinsic apoptotic pathway was triggered by an increase in the ratio of Bax/Bcl‐2. Furthermore, berbamine‐mediated ROS accumulation negatively regulated the NF‐κB pathway to a certain degree. Consistent with our in vitro results, berbamine successfully inhibited tumor growth and blocked the NF‐κB pathway in our xenograft model. To summarize, our data demonstrated that berbamine exerts antitumor effects via the ROS/NF‐κB signaling axis in bladder cancer, which provides a basis for further comprehensive study and presents a potential candidate for clinical treatment strategies against bladder cancer.
An Improved Parallel Inverse Design Method of EMU Wheel Profile from Wheel Flange Wear Viewpoint
Authors: Ren Wenjuan , Li Li , Cui Dabin , Chen Guangxiong
Published: January 2021

An improved parallel inverse design method is proposed for wheel profile optimization. The dominant merit of this method is the ability to automatically search the target performance curve and obtain the optimized profile without artificial experience. With the help of vehicle system dynamic theory, an EMU model has been established in Simpack, and the dynamic performance is calculated with two profiles, i.e., optimization profile and original profile. The contact and mechanical characters are analyzed by Hertz’s theory, Kalker global algorithm, and CONTACT program. It is found that the rolling radius difference (RRD) with the optimization profile is higher than the original one, especially when the lateral displacement is greater than 3 mm. The creep force density with the optimization profile is significant with a wheelset displacement of 6∼9 mm. Compared with the original one, the distribution of contact points with the optimization profile is more uniform, and the contact position is more biased towards the root of the wheel flange. It means the optimization profile can provide higher RRD value and creep force with large lateral displacement, which is beneficial for reducing wheel flange wear. The dynamic simulation indicates that the optimization profile can help reduce the wheel flange force and wheel flange wear in a sharp curve. Meanwhile, the dynamic behaviors and wheel tread wear on a tangent track or a large curved track are also favorable with the optimization profile.
Amyloidosis in the Palpebral Conjunctiva Mimicking Lymphoproliferative Lesion
Authors: Kono Shinjiro , Lee Patricia Ann L. , Kakizaki Hirohiko , Takahashi Yasuhiro
Published: January 2021

A 47-year-old Japanese woman presented with a 1-year history of foreign body sensation in the right eye. Upon examination, a linear soft tissue lesion in the lower conjunctival fornix was noted. The mass resembled a conjunctival lymphoproliferative lesion but was pinkish-yellow rather than salmon pink in color. Histopathology of the biopsy specimens revealed amyloidosis. Systemic workup showed no other lesions. The conjunctival lesion did not recur at 3 months postoperatively. Since conjunctival amyloidosis mimics conjunctival lymphoproliferative lesions, it is important to keep conjunctival amyloidosis as a differential diagnosis in the diagnosis of a pinkish conjunctival lesion.
Life history traits of parental care in Crenicichla lepidota (Cichliformes, Geophagini) in the upper Paraguay River basin, Brazil
Authors: Strietman Matthijs , Lopes Douglas Alves , Barboza Thais Buzetti , Carvalho Fernando Rogério de
Published: January 2021

During focal observations carried out in the Olho d’Água River, upper Paraguay River basin, Brazil, we registered the defensive behaviour of one pair of Crenicichla lepidota attempting to protect their offspring from conspecific and non-specific predators. Adults exhibited substrate-guarding behaviour and displayed primary and secondary anti-predation mechanisms. The primary mechanisms (e.g., fin flicking and flaring, gill extending) were ineffective against conspecific predators or against other species. Secondary mechanisms included charging would-be predators of the offspring, and this tactic was successful against non-specifics. This record confirms, in the wild, agonistic behaviour as an effective secondary defence mechanism used in parental care in Crenicichla lepidota.
First record of egg sac predation of the fly Pseudogaurax cingulatus Sabrosky (Diptera, Chloropidae) upon spider Tetragnatha sp. (Araneae, Tetragnathidae) in northern Brazil
Authors: Riccardi Paula Raile , Pádua Diego Galvão de
Published: January 2021

Pseudogaurax Malloch is a worldwide genus of Chloropidae with 33 species in the Neotropical region and 12 occurring in Brazil. The genus is well-known for the feeding habits of its larvae which attack egg masses and larvae of several arthropods, usually breeding in the egg sacs of spiders. In this study, we expanded the distribution of P. cingulatus to northern Brazil and recorded for the first time the species preying on Tetragnatha egg sacs. In addition, diagnosis, digital images and a distribution map are provided.
Testicular features of semi-confined Nellore bulls subjected to immunocastration
Authors: Karolewski Luciana da Silva Leal , Fernandes Valmir , Souza Leonardo Acácio Ferreira de , Baise Gustavo de Freitas , Piau Júnior Ranulfo , Ribeiro Rita de Cássia Lima
Published: January 2021

This study aimed to evaluate the effect of immunocastration on the scrotal circumference, as well as in the macroscopic and microscopic testicular features in Nellore bulls bred under a semi-confining system for 91 days. Sixty animals were divided into two groups: 30 intact animals (non-vaccinated) and 30 immunocastrated animals. The immunocastrated animals were treated with two anti-GnRH vaccine doses (BoprivaTM - Zoetis Australia Pty Ltd). The scrotal circumference (SC) was measured on days 0 and 56. Testicular parameters: biometry traits (length, width, and height – cm; volume – cm3 ) and weight (g) was measured on day 91. Three testicles from each group were histologically processed to find the seminiferous tubule diameter and epithelium thickness (µm). Data were analyzed in the Minitab® 19 statistical software. The macroscopic features (SC, and testes weight, volume, length, width, and height) and the microscopic features (seminiferous tubule diameter and epithelium thickness) were compared between the two groups through Student’s t-test and Mann-Whitney test. All the values were lower (p<0.05) in animals immunized against GnRH, except for the right testis width and seminiferous tubule diameter. Results indicate that immunization against GnRH affected testicular development.
Representação social sobre saúde em uma escola no Rio de Janeiro
Authors: Zalfa Laila Maria Cardoso , Espirito-Santo Giannina do , Assis Monique Ribeiro de
Published: January 2021

O objetivo do estudo foi identificar a representação social sobre saúde em um grupo formado por 186 jovens que cursavam o segundo ano do ensino médio em uma escola localizada no município do Rio de Janeiro. O estudo foi realizado no ano de 2016 e os dados foram coletados a partir de evocações livres ao termo indutor saúde. Para tal, utilizou-se a Teoria das Representações Sociais (TRS) elaborada por Moscovici, em especial, a técnica de associação livre de ideias baseada na Teoria do Núcleo Central (TNC) proposta por Jean Claude Abric. Os resultados encontrados em um primeiro momento apontaram para uma representação baseada em uma perspectiva biofi siológica da saúde, na qual o elemento central revelado foi Hospital, e os elementos periféricos de maior representatividade foram: Médico, Bem-estar, Exercício, Alimentação e Precariedade. Concluiu-se que a representação de saúde para o grupo estava subordinada principalmente a um contexto social medicalizado, em que as práticas corporais entendidas como saudáveis formavam o pano de fundo para interação com o mundo da estética. Finalizando, notou-se uma dicotomia existente entre a saúde privada e a pública, o que torna essa representação uma questão mais de caráter socioeconômico do que propriamente biológico.
Escola pública, projeto civilizatório burguês versus práxis emancipadora
Authors: Lombardi José Claudinei , Colares Anselmo Alencar
Published: January 2021

A escola é uma instituição social produzida historicamente, contemporânea ao surgimento da divisão de classes. As contradições atravessam as sociedades de classes e também atingem a escola e, desta forma, seu desenvolvimento aponta avanços resultantes de lutas reivindicatórias e de projetos societários contra-hegemônicos. Conhecer a história da escola é fundamental para a compreensão e defesa de uma escola pública qualitativamente superior à que nos foi legada. O artigo busca na historiografia educacional identificar e analisar, em linhas gerais, o desenvolvimento da educação pública de forma contextual à expansão do modo de produção capitalista e sua onda “civilizatória”. Concomitantemente, aponta para as contradições, lutas, avanços e obstáculos para a construção de uma escola pública que contribua efetivamente para a emancipação humana.
Em defesa da escola pública, um balanço sobre o Fundeb – avaliação, processos e perspectivas
Authors: Camargo Rubens Barbosa de
Published: January 2021

O artigo analisa o Fundeb e sua importância na sustentação da Educação Básica no Brasil. Apresenta dados e análises, para o período de 2007 a 2018, sobre a dinâmica das matrículas da Educação Básica no Brasil e sobre os montantes totais do Fundeb. Em seguida, discute o tenso processo de tramitação de emendas constitucionais de parlamentares sobre o Novo Fundeb, que resultou na Emenda Constitucional 108 de 26 de agosto de 2020 (EC 108/20), e finalmente apresenta elementos de tensão e disputa entre diferentes interesses econômicos, sociais, políticos e educacionais que estão presentes no processo de discussão sobre a regulamentação da EC 108/20.
Calcium Modification Techniques in Complex Percutaneous Coronary Intervention
Authors: Shah Mohammed , Najam Osman , Bhindi Ravinay , De Silva Kalpa
Published: January 2021

Percutaneous coronary intervention is the most common mode of revascularization and is increasingly undertaken in high-risk subsets, including the elderly. The presence of coronary artery calcification is increasingly observed and significantly limits technical success. The mechanisms for this are multi-factorial, including increased arterial wall stiffness and impaired delivery of devices, leading to suboptimal stent delivery, deployment, and expansion which are harbingers for increased risk of in-stent restenosis and stent thrombosis. Although conventional balloon pretreatment techniques aim to mitigate this risk by modifying the lesion before stent placement, many lesions remain resistant to conventional strategies, due to the severity of calcification. There have been several substantial technological advancements in calcium modification methods in recent years, which have allowed improved procedural success with low periprocedural complication rates. This review will summarize the current adjunctive modification technologies that can be employed to improve technical outcomes in percutaneous coronary intervention in calcific disease and the evidence supporting these tools.
Parent and Physician Understanding of Prognosis in Hospitalized Children With Advanced Heart Disease
Authors: Morell Emily , Miller Mary Katherine , Lu Minmin , Friedman Kevin G. , Breitbart Roger E. , Reichman Jeffrey R. , McDermott Julie , Sleeper Lynn A. , Blume Elizabeth D.
Published: January 2021

Background

The unpredictable trajectory of pediatric advanced heart disease makes prognostication difficult for physicians and informed decision‐making challenging for families. This study evaluated parent and physician understanding of disease burden and prognosis in hospitalized children with advanced heart disease.

Methods and Results

A longitudinal survey study of parents and physicians caring for patients with advanced heart disease age 30 days to 19 years admitted for ≥7 days was performed over a 1‐year period (n=160 pairs). Percentage agreement and weighted kappa statistics were used to assess agreement. Median patient age was 1 year (interquartile range, 1–5), 39% had single‐ventricle lesions, and 37% were in the cardiac intensive care unit. Although 92% of parents reported understanding their child's prognosis “extremely well” or “well,” 28% of physicians thought parents understood the prognosis only “a little,” “somewhat,” or “not at all.” Better parent‐reported prognostic understanding was associated with greater preparedness for their child's medical problems (odds ratio, 4.7; 95% CI, 1.4–21.7,
P
=0.02). There was poor parent–physician agreement in assessing functional class, symptom burden, and likelihood of limitations in physical activity and learning/behavior; on average, parents were more optimistic. Many parents (47%) but few physicians (6%) expected the child to have normal life expectancy.

Conclusions

Parents and physicians caring for children with advanced heart disease differed in their perspectives regarding prognosis and disease burden. Physicians tended to underestimate the degree of parent‐reported symptom burden. Parents were less likely to expect limitations in physical activity, learning/behavior, and life expectancy. Combined interventions involving patient‐reported outcomes, parent education, and physician communication tools may be beneficial.
Levinsenia species (Annelida: Polychaeta: Paraonidae) from the Sea of Marmara with descriptions of two new species
Authors: ERDOĞAN-DERELI DENIZ , ÇINAR MELIH ERTAN
Published: January 2021

The present study deals with the diversity of the genus Levinsenia in the Sea of Marmara. The specimens of Levinsenia were collected on soft and hard substrata at depths ranging from 10 to 500 m at 98 stations in 2013. Among the material, two new species, namely Levinsenia longobranchiata n. sp. and L. vulgaris n. sp., and five already known species (L. demiri, L. kosswigi, L. materi, L. marmarensis, L. tribranchiata) were found. Levinsenia longobranchiata n. sp. is mainly characterized by having very long branchiae (longer than the body width) and five prebranchial chaetigers without notopodial postchaetal lobes. Levinsenia vulgaris n. sp. is mainly characterized by having short branchiae (shorter than the body width) and five prebranchial chaetigers with notopodial postchaetal lobes. The SEM images enabled us to define some previously neglected/indistinct characters in the taxonomy of Levinsenia such as the degree of the fusion of the branchiae with the notopodia; the morphology of dorso-lateral irregular pores, cheek organ, ciliated patches and lateral organs on the lateral sides of the prostomium; and the shape and distribution of the lateral sense organs along the body. All species found in the region were presented and described, by also taking these novel characters into account.
A new species of predaceous midge in the genus Stilobezzia Kieffer from Mexico (Diptera: Ceratopogonidae)
Authors: HUERTA HERON , GROGAN WILLIAM L. JR
Published: January 2021

The predaceous midges (Diptera: Ceratopogonidae; tribe Ceratopogonini) in the genera Schizonyxhelea Clastrier & Stilobezzia Kieffer in Mexico were recently addressed by Huerta & Grogan (2017) who described one new species in each of these genera. A re-examination of specimens in the Colección de Artrópodos con Importancia Medica (CAIM), from the states of Morelos and Yucatan, revealed an undescribed species that was previously identified as Stilobezzia (Stilobezzia) femoralis Lane & Forattini from Yucatan by Huerta (2002) and Huerta & Grogan (2017). Herein, we describe and illustrate this species from the states of Morelos & Yucatan, Mexico, as Stilobezzia (Stilobezzia) tobiasi Huerta & Grogan n. sp.
Evaluation of the Tail of the Probability Distribution of Daily and Subdaily Precipitation in CMIP6 Models
Authors: Norris Jesse , Hall Alex , Neelin J. David , Thackeray Chad W. , Chen Di
Published: January 2021

Daily and subdaily precipitation extremes in historical phase 6 of the Coupled Model Intercomparison Project (CMIP6) simulations are evaluated against satellite-based observational estimates. Extremes are defined as the precipitation amount exceeded everyxyears, ranging from 0.01 to 10, encompassing the rarest events that are detectable in the observational record without noisy results. With increasing temporal resolution there is an increased discrepancy between models and observations: for daily extremes, the multimodel median underestimates the highest percentiles by about a third, and for 3-hourly extremes by about 75% in the tropics. The novelty of the current study is that, to understand the model spread, we evaluate the 3D structure of the atmosphere when extremes occur. In midlatitudes, where extremes are simulated predominantly explicitly, the intuitive relationship exists whereby higher-resolution models produce larger extremes (r= −0.49), via greater vertical velocity. In the tropics, the convective fraction (the fraction of precipitation simulated directly from the convective scheme) is more relevant. For models below 60% convective fraction, precipitation amount decreases with convective fraction (r= −0.63), but above 75% convective fraction, this relationship breaks down. In the lower-convective-fraction models, there is more moisture in the lower troposphere, closer to saturation. In the higher-convective-fraction models, there is deeper convection and higher cloud tops, which appears to be more physical. Thus, the low-convective models are mostly closer to the observations of extreme precipitation in the tropics, but likely for the wrong reasons. These intermodel differences in the environment in which extremes are simulated hold clues into how parameterizations could be modified in general circulation models to produce more credible twenty-first-century projections.
Changes in TOA SW Fluxes over Marine Clouds When Estimated via Semiphysical Angular Distribution Models
Authors: Tornow F. , Domenech C. , Cole J. N. S. , Madenach N. , Fischer J.
Published: January 2021

Top-of-atmosphere (TOA) shortwave (SW) angular distribution models (ADMs) approximate—per angular direction of an imagined upward hemisphere—the intensity of sunlight scattered back from a specific Earth–atmosphere scene. ADMs are, thus, critical when converting satellite-borne broadband radiometry into estimated radiative fluxes. This paper applies a set of newly developed ADMs with a more refined scene definition and demonstrates tenable changes in estimated fluxes compared to currently operational ADMs. Newly developed ADMs use a semiphysical framework to consider cloud-top effective radius () and above-cloud water vapor (ACWV), in addition to accounting for surface wind speed and clouds’ phase, fraction, and optical depth. In effect, instantaneous TOA SW fluxes for marine liquid-phase clouds had the largest flux differences (of up to 25 W m−2) for lower solar zenith angles and cloud optical depth greater than 10 due to extremes in or ACWV. In regions where clouds had persistently extreme levels of (here mostly for and ) or ACWV, instantaneous fluxes estimated from Aqua, Terra, Meteosat-8, and Meteosat-9 satellites using the two ADMs differed systematically, resulting in significant deviations in daily mean fluxes (up to ±10 W m−2) and monthly mean fluxes (up to ±5 W m−2). Flux estimates using newly developed, semiphysical ADMs may contribute to a better understanding of solar fluxes over low-level clouds. It remains to be seen whether aerosol indirect effects are impacted by these updates.
A Revised Bourgouin Precipitation-Type Algorithm
Authors: Birk Kevin , Lenning Eric , Donofrio Kevin , Friedlein Matthew T.
Published: January 2021

Using vertical temperature profiles obtained from upper-air observations or numerical weather prediction models, the Bourgouin technique calculates areas of positive melting energy and negative refreezing energy for determining precipitation type. Energies are proportional to the product of the mean temperature of a layer and its depth. Layers warmer than 0°C consist of positive energy; those colder than 0°C consist of negative energy. Sufficient melting or freezing energy in a layer can produce a phase change in a falling hydrometeor. The Bourgouin technique utilizes these energies to determine the likelihood of rain (RA) versus snow (SN) given a surface-based melting layer and ice pellets (PL) versus freezing rain (FZRA) or RA given an elevated melting layer. The Bourgouin approach was developed from a relatively small dataset but has been widely utilized by operational forecasters and in postprocessing of NWP output. Recent analysis with a larger dataset suggests ways to improve the original technique, especially when discriminating PL from FZRA or RA. This and several other issues are addressed by a modified version of the Bourgouin technique described in this article. Additional enhancements include use of the wet-bulb profile rather than temperature, a check for heterogeneous ice nucleation, and output that includes probabilities of four different weather types (RA, SN, FZRA, PL) rather than the single most likely type. Together these revisions result in improved performance and provide a more viable and valuable tool for precipitation-type forecasts. Several National Weather Service forecast offices have successfully utilized the revised tool in recent winters.
Transmastoid Hydroxyapatite Resurfacing for Sigmoid Sinus Wall Anomalies Causing Pulsatile Tinnitus
Authors: Newberry Ian , Highland Julie , DeTorres Alvin , Gurgel Richard
Published: January 2021

Objective:

Comprising 4% of tinnitus, pulsatile tinnitus (PT) can be particularly difficult for affected patients as well as surgeons looking to address their symptoms. Often the cause is not identified but can be secondary to turbulent flow in or near the sigmoid sinus, particularly if there is an identifiable sigmoid sinus dehiscence (SSDe) and/or diverticulum (SSDi). These sigmoid sinus wall anomalies (SSWA) may be treated with transmastoid sigmoid sinus resurfacing; however, this intervention remains relatively novel and its technique, materials used, resolution success, and complications need to be continuously reviewed.

Methods:

A retrospective case series of patients with PT due to SSWA at a tertiary referral center was reviewed. A total of 6 patients (7 ears) treated by transmastoid resurfacing using hydroxyapatite (HA) were retrospectively assessed. Pre-operative demographics and symptoms, pre- and post-operative hearing results, and post-operative outcomes were reviewed.

Results:

All patients were female with an average BMI of 32.9 (±5.4) and a mean age of 45.5 years (±15.3). Mean follow-up was 648 days. Objective tinnitus was noted in all ears with SSDi (100%); however, no objective tinnitus was noted with purely SSDe. In 100% of ears, PT was diminished with ipsilateral jugular compression and was amplified with contralateral head turn. Pre-operative symptoms of PT resolved in all patients, but delayed recurrence (>1 year) occurred in 1 ear (14%). No patient had pre- or post-operative hearing loss. No major complications were encountered.

Conclusions:

Transmastoid resurfacing for SSWA with HA bone cement is a safe, reliable intervention in properly identified PT patients.
Images of Educational Leadership: How Principals Make Sense of Democracy and Social Justice in Two Distinct Policy Contexts
Authors: Trujillo Tina , Møller Jorunn , Jensen Ruth , Kissell René Espinoza , Larsen Eivind
Published: January 2021

Purpose: This article investigates how school leaders make sense of social justice and democracy in their practice in two settings, a high-stakes testing and accountability context, the San Francisco Bay Area, California, and a low-stakes testing and accountability context, Norway. It demonstrates how leaders view relationships among education, democracy, and social justice, when located in a neoliberal democracy with a minimalist welfare state or in a social democracy with a robust welfare state. Design and Evidence: Through a comparative design, we analyze qualitative data from two international principal exchanges designed to capture outsiders’ impressions of schools in each context. Participants included alumni from an American and a Norwegian university’s principal preparation programs. Through preobservation and postobservation interviews and focus groups, we explore observations by practitioners, who acted as coconstructors in the research. Findings and Implications: The article presents three findings: (1) While principals in both systems conceptualized equity similarly, their conceptions of democracy were aligned with the type of democracy in which they were embedded; (2) Schools’ norms, climate, structures, and leadership, as well as students’ daily lives, reflected the values implicit in their respective political contexts; (3) Principals perceived elements of their macro- and micro-level settings to enable or constrain their ability to craft democratic, socially just schools. These findings help scholars move beyond discourse about the need for leaders to advocate for equity, to deeper understandings about conditions that shape democratic schools, such as values about collectivism, welfarism, and the common good—tenets of a socially just civic society.