bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Baryogenesis, magnetogenesis and the strength of anomalous interactions
Authors: Giovannini Massimo
Published: June 2021

The production of the hypermagnetic gyrotropy is investigated under the assumption that the gauge coupling smoothly evolves during a quasi-de Sitter phase and then flattens out in the radiation epoch by always remaining perturbative. In the plane defined by the strength of the anomalous interactions and by the rate of evolution of the gauge coupling the actual weight of the pseudoscalar interactions turns out to be always rather modest if major deviations from the homogeneity are to be avoided during the inflationary phase. Even if the gauge power spectra are related by duality only in the absence of anomalous contributions, an approximate duality symmetry constrains the late-time form of the hypermagnetic power spectra. Since the hypermagnetic gyrotropy associated with the modes reentering prior to the phase transition must be released into fermions later on, the portions of the parameter space where the obtained baryon asymmetry is close to the observed value are the most relevant for the present ends. For the same range of parameters the magnetic power spectra associated with the modes reentering after symmetry breaking may even be of the order of a few hundredths of a nG over typical length scales comparable with the Mpc prior to the collapse of the protogalaxy.
ONE SIZE DOES NOT FIT ALL — LEADER–MEMBER EXCHANGE AND INNOVATIVENESS
Authors: VANSKA ANU , HURMELINNA-LAUKKANEN PIA
Published: June 2021

Individual-level innovativeness is widely acknowledged to be critical to the success of an organisation’s innovation, and understanding the related nuances is therefore important. The goal of this study is to add to existing knowledge on how managerial characteristics influence employee innovativeness. Specifically, we address the role of leader–member exchange (LMX) in predicting the three components of employee innovative work behaviour (IWB) — idea generation, idea promotion, and idea implementation. LMX denotes the quality of the relationship between an employee and his/her immediate supervisor and is a significant predictor of many employee attitudes and behaviours. Studies examining the direct and joint effects of LMX and other organisational characteristics on employee creativity and employee IWB have shown the LMX construct has a significant effect on employee innovativeness. However, a more nuanced view on the effects of LMX on the various components of IWB — idea generation, idea promotion, and idea implementation — is missing. Moreover, most research to date on LMX and innovation has focused on the potential linear connections between LMX and employee innovation-related outcomes, leaving the possible opportunities associated with low-quality LMX under-explored. This is a shortcoming, as a growing body of literature demonstrates that, under specific conditions, not only high but also low-quality LMX can be conducive for various employee outcomes. Analysing survey data collected from 93 employees of a knowledge-intensive service company, our study shows U-shaped and linear relationships between LMX and varying components of IWB. We further test an earlier presented assumption that perceived organisational support for innovation may emerge as a powerful contextual condition in relationships between employee innovativeness and its antecedents. We find that LMX and organisational support for innovation have a joint positive effect on the components of employee IWB. These findings extend innovation management theorising and provide advice for managers.
Comment on: “Bi-interior ideals of semigroups”
Authors: Kehayopulu Niovi
Published: June 2021

This is about the paper “Bi-interior ideals of semigroups” by M. Murali Krishna Rao in Discuss. Math. Gen. Algebra Appl. 38 (2018) 69–78. According to Theorem 3.11 (also Theorem 3.3(8)) of the paper, the intersection of a bi-interior ideal [Formula: see text] of a semigroup [Formula: see text] and a subsemigroup [Formula: see text] of [Formula: see text] is a bi-interior ideal of [Formula: see text]. Regarding to Theorem 3.6, every bi-interior ideal of a regular semigroup is an ideal of [Formula: see text]. We give an example that the above two results are not true for semigroups. According to the same paper, if [Formula: see text] is a regular semigroup then, for every bi-interior ideal [Formula: see text], every ideal [Formula: see text] and every left ideal [Formula: see text] of [Formula: see text], we have [Formula: see text]. The proof is wrong, we provide the corrected proof. In most of the results of the paper the assumption of unity is not necessary. Care should be taken about the proofs in the paper.
Predictive Study of the Active Ingredients and Potential Targets of Codonopsis pilosula for the Treatment of Osteosarcoma via Network Pharmacology
Authors: Gong Yu-Bao , Fu Shao-Jie , Wei Zheng-Ren , Liu Jian-Guo
Published: June 2021

Osteosarcoma (OS) is the most common type of primary bone tumor in children and adults. Dangshen (Codonopsis pilosula) is a traditional Chinese medicine commonly used in the treatment of OS worldwide. However, the molecular mechanisms of Dangshen in OS remain unclear. Hence, in this study, we aimed to systematically explore the underlying mechanisms of Dangshen in the treatment of OS. Our study adopted a network pharmacology approach, focusing on the identification of active ingredients, drug target prediction, gene collection, gene ontology (GO) enrichment, Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) enrichment, and other network tools. The network analysis identified 15 active compounds in Dangshen that were linked to 48 possible therapeutic targets related to OS. The results of the gene enrichment analysis show that Dangshen produces a therapeutic effect in OS likely by regulating multiple pathways associated with DNA damage, cell proliferation, apoptosis, invasion, and migration. Based on the network pharmacology approach, we successfully predicted the active compounds and their respective targets. In addition, we illustrated the molecular mechanisms that mediate the therapeutic effect of Dangshen in OS. These findings may aid in the development of novel targeted therapies for OS in the future.
A Brief Review of Analytical Methods for the Estimation of Allopurinol in Pharmaceutical Formulation and Biological Matrices
Authors: Sharma Hemraj , Sapkota Hari Prasad , Dangi Nim Bahadur
Published: June 2021

This review article represents the collection and discussion of various analytical methods available in the literature for the determination of allopurinol (ALLP) in pharmaceutical and biological samples consisting of HPLC, UV-visible method, near-IR spectroscopy, spectrofluorometry, capillary electrophoresis, polarography, voltammetry, and hyphenated techniques such as LC-MS, LC-MS/MS, UPLC-MS/MS, and GC-MS. The anticipated review provides details about the comparative utilization of various analytical techniques for the determination of ALLP. The present review article can be effectively explored to conduct future analytical investigation for the estimation of ALLP.
Research on Key Factors Influencing Surface Subsidence of Paste Backfilling Mining in Thick Coal Seam of Deep Mine
Authors: Zhang Meng , He Hui , Jin Xin , Qu Yonglong , Guo Hongjun
Published: June 2021

The research on the key factors of surface subsidence in paste backfilling mining of thick coal seam in deep mine is a complex system engineering, which involves mining, backfilling, support, subsidence, safety, and other aspects. At present, there is no systematic research on the key factors of surface subsidence in paste backfilling mining of thick coal seam more than 6 meters in a deep mine. In this paper, field research, laboratory experiments, theoretical analysis, and other research methods are used to carry out the research about 3# coal seam under buildings in the Lu’an area. The main conclusions are as follows: through the construction of the fuzzy extension model of surface subsidence in paste backfilling mining, five types of surface subsidence are obtained, including overburden structure, roof subsidence before backfilling, nonbackfilling account, the strength of filling body, and backfilling technology. It is the key factor to control the surface subsidence; the optimization measures are given to provide a reference for the reasonable design of paste backfilling mining in other working faces. The research conclusion has a certain reference value for solving a series of problems such as coal resources under buildings, solid waste disposal, controlling strata and surface movement, improving the recovery rate of mine resources, and extending the service life of mine.
Intelligent City Traffic Scheduling Optimization Based on Internet of Things Communication
Authors: Jiang Jingwen
Published: June 2021

The application of Internet of Things technology in the construction of smart city traffic system is the inevitable choice of smart city traffic system to promote the development of road traffic in the process of urban development. First of all, the traffic in the city, on the basis of the research background and significance, research on the Internet of Things, and wisdom of the construction of the urban traffic are summarized and analyzed; secondly, on the basis of requirement analysis and feasibility analysis, combined with the principles and goals of the construction of the system, the establishment of the model of urban traffic based on Internet of Things and the city’s architecture based on Internet of Things intelligent urban traffic system and design are put forward. Finally, an improved ant colony algorithm is proposed in the aspect of system optimal path algorithm, and its superiority is verified. The results show that complementary networks can significantly improve the robustness of networks. These conclusions provide a theoretical basis for the construction of smart city public transport network traffic scheduling and provide model support for the operation and management of smart city public transport.
Exploring the Mystery of Angiotensin-Converting Enzyme II (ACE2) in the Battle against SARS-CoV-2
Authors: Sharma Divakar , Sharma Juhi , Singh Amit
Published: June 2021

COVID-19 is the newly born pandemic caused by the SARS-CoV-2 virus, which is the recently emerged betacoronavirus that crosses the species barrier. It predominantly infects pneumocytes of the respiratory tract, but due to the presence of angiotensin-converting enzyme II (ACE2) on other cells like surface enterocytes of the upper esophagus and colon, these are also considered as the primary sites of infection. ACE2 receptor served as a cellular entry point for SARS-CoV-2. The expression of the ACE2 receptors is regulated by several factors such as age, tobacco smoking, inflammatory signaling, ACE inhibitors, angiotensin receptor blockers, and comorbidities (chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), tuberculosis, cerebrovascular disease, coronary heart disease, hypertension, and diabetes). Therefore, scientists are trying to explore the in-depth knowledge of ACE2 and considered it as a potential indirect target for COVID-19 therapeutics. In this focused review, we discussed in detail ACE2 expressions and regulation by different factors in the primary or vulnerable sites of SARS-CoV-2 infections. Clinical trials of rhACE2 in COVID-19 patients are ongoing, and if the outcome of the trials proves positive, it will be a breakthrough for the management of COVID-19. Finally, we suggest that targeting the ACE2 (a master regulator) in a balanced way could serve as a potential option against the management of COVID-19.
Ischemic Preconditioning for Liver Transplantation: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials
Authors: Jakubauskiene Lina , Jakubauskas Matas , Stiegler Philipp , Leber Bettina , Schemmer Peter , Strupas Kestutis
Published: June 2021

Background: In recent decades, liver transplantation (LTx) has increased the survival and quality of life of patients with end-stage organ failure. Unfortunately, LTx is limited due to the shortage of donors. A lot of effort is put into finding new ways to reduce ischemia-reperfusion injury (IRI) in liver grafts to increase the number of suitable organs procured from expanded-criteria donors (ECD). The aim of this study was to systematically review the literature reporting LTx outcomes when using ischemic preconditioning (IPC) or remote ischemic preconditioning (RIPC) to reduce IRI in liver grafts. Methods: A literature search was performed in the MEDLINE, Web of Science, and EMBASE databases. The following combination was used: “Liver” OR “Liver Transplantation” AND “Ischemic preconditioning” OR “occlusion” OR “clamping” OR “Pringle.” The following outcome data were retrieved: the rates of graft primary nonfunction (PNF), retransplantation, graft loss, and mortality; stay in hospital and the intensive care unit; and postoperative serum liver damage parameters. Results: The initial search retrieved 4,522 potentially relevant studies. After evaluating 17 full-text articles, a total of 9 randomized controlled trials (RCTs) were included (7 IPC and 2 RIPC studies) in the qualitative synthesis; the meta-analysis was only performed on the data from the IPC studies. RIPC studies had considerable methodological differences. The meta-analysis revealed the beneficial effect of IPC when comparing postoperative aspartate aminotransferase (AST) corresponding to a statistically lower mortality rate in the IPC group (odds ratio [OR] 0.51; 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.27–0.98; p = 0.04). Conclusion: IPC lowers postoperative AST levels and reduces the mortality rate; however, data on the benefits of RIPC are lacking.
Recuperação ativa favorece a retirada simpática pós-exercício máximo em jovens não treinadas
Authors: Araújo Jaqueline Alves de , Tricot Gabriel Kolesny , Arsa Gisela , Cambri Lucieli Teresa
Published: June 2021

O objetivo deste estudo foi avaliar a variabilidade da frequência cardíaca (VFC) após recuperação ativa de um exercício máximo em jovens não treinadas. Nove mulheres eutrófi cas (25,45 ± 5,41 anos; 22,23 ± 2,03 kg.m-2; 28,13 ± 5,0% de gordura corporal) foram avaliadas em repouso, exercício e na recuperação pós teste progressivo máximo em cicloergômetro realizada de forma ativa (A) ou passiva (P), com os índices da VFC (RMSSD e SDNN) avaliados durante os 5 min da recuperação e nos 5 min posteriores, janelados a cada 30 s. Os índices LnRMSSD30s e LnSDNN30s ao fi nal do exercício (A: 0,52 ± 0,13; P: 0,55 ± 0,25 / A: 0,42 ± 0,11; P: 0,48 ± 0,21 ms) reduziram em relação ao repouso (A: 1,49 ± 0,29; P: 1,46 ± 0,28 / A: 1,70 ± 0,21; P: 1,69 ± 0,20 ms) e permaneceram reduzidos (p<0,05) ao fi nal dos primeiros 5 min da recuperação (A: 0,53 ± 0,12; P: 0,45 ± 0,14 / A: 0,63 ± 0,12; P: 0,68 ± 0,24 ms) e após esse período (A: 0,48 ± 0,12; P: 0,55 ± 0,23 / A: 0,86 ± 0,20; P: 0,87 ± 0,20 ms), sem diferença entre os tipos de recuperação. Entretanto, após a recuperação ativa, o índice LnSDNN30s elevou-se em relação ao fi nal do exercício (p<0,05). Em conclusão, independentemente do tipo de recuperação, não houve reativação vagal nos 10 min após um exercício máximo em mulheres jovens não treinadas, contudo a recuperação ativa auxiliou no restabelecimento da modulação autonômica cardíaca pela retirada da atividade simpática.
Medida objetiva da atividade física em crianças
Authors: Gordia Alex Pinheiro , Quadros Teresa Maria Bianchini de , Andaki Alynne Christian Ribeiro , Mendes Edmar Lacerda , Santos Amanda , Santos Sandra , Mota Jorge , Silva Luciana Rodrigues
Published: June 2021

Objetivou-se analisar a correlação entre número de passos (pedometria) com atividades classificadas como leves, moderadas, vigorosas e atividade física total (acelerometria) entre escolares; comparar a proporção de escolares que não atingiram a recomendação de prática de atividade física estimada via pedometria vs. acelerometria; e comparar a atividade física entre os dias de semana vs. final de semana e entre os sexos. Participaram do presente estudo 52 crianças, de ambos os sexos, estudantes do 4º ano do ensino fundamental de duas escolas públicas da região metropolitana de Porto, Portugal. A prática de atividade física foi avaliada por meio de pedômetro e acelerômetro durante oito dias consecutivos. A recomendação diária de 60 minutos de atividade física moderada a vigorosa não foi cumprida por 63,5% das crianças, ao passo que 71,2% não realizaram o número mínimo de passos recomendado por dia. As crianças foram mais ativas durante a semana em detrimento aos finais de semana. Não houve diferença entre os sexos para quantidade de passos por dia e tampouco para diferentes intensidades de atividades avaliadas pelo acelerômetro. As correlações entre a prática de atividade física avaliada pela pedometria e pela acelerometria foram moderadas a fortes, com magnitude variando de 0,385 a 0,762. As evidências apresentadas sugerem que o pedômetro pode ser uma ferramenta interessante para estimar o nível de atividade física habitual de crianças e poderia ser uma opção a ser considerada quando a avaliação viaacelerometria não for possível. Contudo, o uso do pedômetro pode não ser adequado quando o objetivo é classificar crianças como suficiente e/ou insuficientemente ativos a partir da recomendação diária de pelo menos 60 minutos de AFMV.
A influência do board interlocking no custo de capital de terceiros
Authors: Santos José Éliton dos
Published: June 2021

O objetivo desta pesquisa é analisar o impacto da formação de board interlocking no custo de capital de terceiros de empresas brasileiras não financeiras de capital aberto listadas na B3 no período entre 2010 e 2019. A motivação para esta pesquisa surge a partir da Teoria da Dependência de Recursos que diz que as empresas necessitam de recursos externos, inclusive capital financeiro e que tal teoria poderia explicar a formação de board interlocking. Os dados para esta pesquisa foram retirados da base de dados Economática © e do site da Comissão de valores mobiliários (CVM). Os resultados demonstraram que empresas que compartilham conselheiros com outras empresas possuem menor custo de capital de terceiros, e quando analisadas apenas as empresas que praticam board interlocking ficou constatado que o fato de compartilhar conselheiros com empresas do setor financeiro reduz o custo de capital de terceiros. Na prática, a pesquisa pode ser relevante para as empresas que possuem dificuldades em suas estruturas de endividamento pois há evidências que compartilhar conselheiros com outras empresas pode minimizar os custos de transações e facilitar o acesso a crédito em melhores condições.
“Matrena”, de Leopold Ritter Von Sacher-Masoch
Authors: Braga Guilherme da Silva , Von Sacher-Masoch Leopold Ritter
Published: June 2021

Tradução de: Guilherme da Silva Braga.
Na esfera da reimaginação
Authors: Faleiros Álvaro
Published: June 2021

Haroldo de Campos, ao traduzir poesia chinesa para o português, define sua prática como um ato de “reimaginação” pelo fato de se tratar de um processo de composição ideogramática. Neste artigo propomos um uso mais amplo para o termo “reimaginar” a partir da análise de algumas traduções de Emily Dickinson e Charles Baudelaire para o português.
REPRESENTAÇÃO E PRÁTICAS DE UTILIZAÇÃO DE PRODUTOS AGROQUÍMICOS NA PEQUENA AGRICULTURA FAMILIAR DO VALE DO RIBEIRA, ESTADO DE SÃO PAULO, BRASIL
Authors: Antuniassi Maria Helena Rocha , Almeida Luis Carlos Ferreira de
Published: June 2021

Trata-se de um estudo de sociologia realizado no âmbito de um programa de extensão rural desenvolvido no Vale do Ribeira – Estado de São Paulo-(2013/2014) por uma equipe do Centro de Estudos Rurais NAP/USP e da UNESP, Campus Experimental de Registro, tendo por objetivo disseminar junto aosprodutores rurais, sobretudo da agricultura familiar, conceitos e práticas relativas à saúde do trabalhador, principalmente a correta utilização do EPI e preservação do meio ambiente (solo e águas) para que suas atividadesse efetivem direcionadas para o desenvolvimento sustentado (socioeconômico e ambiental) de seu município e região. Tendo em vista os objetivos estabelecidos, o estudo foi realizado utilizando a observação participante, uma metodologia da pesquisa-ação que busca simultaneamente compreender e intervir; supõe familiaridade anterior com o objeto e tem, portanto, dois objetivos: produção de conhecimentos e mudança das práticas observadas, por meio de uma ação pedagógica, que tem por base não apenas o conhecimentoda experiência vivida dos agentes observados, mas as condições sociais de possibilidade dessa experiência (portanto, os efeitos e os limites). (BOURDIEU, 2003). Assim sendo, buscou-se apreender a representação dos agricultores sobre os produtos agroquímicos e sua utilização, tendo em vista a participaçãode suas associações e serviços de extensão rural nas suas práticas de utilização dos produtos.
História Oral nos estudos das migrações do Nordeste para o Sudeste: relato de pesquisa
Authors: Magalhães Valéria Barbosa de
Published: June 2021

Este artigo tratará do estágio parcial do projeto Nordestinos em São Paulo e História Oral: abordagem histórico-crítica, que vem sendo conduzido pela autora, desde começo de 2018, com o objetivo de inicial de realizar um levantamento da produção bibliográfica brasileira sobre as migrações procedentes do Nordeste para o Sudeste, especialmente para o Estado de São Paulo, e que tenha se valido do recurso das entrevistas, principalmente vinculadas à história oral. A partir do levantamento, a proposta visa caracterizar essa produção, inclusive verificando se os trabalhos que usam entrevistas são identificados ou não com o método da história oral e, caso se identifiquem, com quais linhas e autores. A pesquisa espera conhecer o tipo de uso que tem sido feito das entrevistas nesses estudos migratórios. Além disso, alguns trabalhos anteriores da autora serão retomados em articulação com a discussão da identidade migrante, especialmente a nordestina. Será discutido o estado atual da pesquisa em andamento, acompanhado da discussão dos procedimentos metodológicos e conceituais que orientam o trabalho.
Atherectomy and Drug-Coated Balloon Angioplasty for the Treatment of Long Infrapopliteal Lesions: A Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Rastan Aljoscha , Brodmann Marianne , Böhme Tanja , Macharzina Roland , Noory Elias , Beschorner Ulrich , Flügel Peter-Christian , Bürgelin Karlheinz , Neumann Franz-Josef , Zeller Thomas
Published: June 2021

Background:

Prospective, randomized, multicenter trials show no beneficial impact of drug-coated balloon (DCB) therapy alone on the technical and clinical outcomes of infrapopliteal artery lesions in comparison to plain old balloon angioplasty. The aim of this study was to evaluate the performance of directional atherectomy (DA) plus DCB angioplasty versus DCB alone in treatment of long infrapopliteal artery lesions.

Methods:

We conducted a prospective, randomized, 2-center trial comparing the performance of DA+DCB and DCB alone in treatment of 80 patients with de novo infrapopliteal artery lesions. The primary study end point was the 6-month primary patency of the target lesion detected by angiography and duplex ultrasound. Secondary end points included clinically driven target vessel revascularization, amputation rates, and changes in Rutherford-Becker class at 1 year. A core laboratory provides independent analyses for all scheduled and unscheduled duplex ultrasound examinations and angiographies, and a research institute ensured independent data collection.

Results:

The mean target lesion length was 179.7±98.2 mm. Nine patients (11.3%) died during the follow-up period. At 6 months, primary patency was 49% (n=18) with DA+DCB versus 34% (n=12) with DCB alone (
P
=0.241), and clinically driven target vessel revascularization was 8% (n=3) versus 14% (n=5;
P
=0.475), respectively. At 1 year, the target lesion revascularization rates were 30% (n=10) versus 43% (n=12;
P
=0.308), the median in Rutherford-Becker class was 2 (0.25–5) versus 5 (0.25–5;
P
=0.329), and amputation rates were 22% (n=8) versus 32% (n=11;
P
=0.618) in the DA+DCB group and the DCB group, respectively.

Conclusions:

Treatment of long infrapopliteal artery lesions with DA+DCB versus DCB alone leads to comparable clinical and technical results at 6 months and 1 year.

Registration:

URL:
https://www.clinicaltrials.gov
; Unique identifier: NCT01763476.
Ripple: An Investigation of the World's Most Advanced High-Yield Thermonuclear Weapon Design
Authors: Grams Jon
Published: June 2021

In 1962 the United States conducted its final atmospheric nuclear test series, Operation Dominic. The devices tested were designed and built by the Los Alamos Scientific Laboratory (LASL) and the Lawrence Radiation Laboratory (LRL). During the test series, LRL conducted four tests of a radically new design called the Ripple concept. Tests of the Ripple concept demonstrated performance characteristics that eclipse those of all nuclear weapons designed before or since. For numerous reasons discussed in the article, the Ripple concept was not pursued, but the technology it pioneered has been in continual development—for peaceful purposes—to this day. Until now, very little has been known about these tests and the concept behind them. This article, the result of a multiyear investigation, sheds light on the Ripple program for the first time, allowing for a largely complete account. Included are the origins of the concept and its designer, the technical characteristics, the significant role played by the geopolitical context, the test series in detail, and the cancellation and legacy of the program.
Analysis of EEG Data Using Complex Geometric Structurization
Authors: Kwessi E. A. , Edwards L. J.
Published: June 2021

Electroencephalogram (EEG) is a common tool used to understand brain activities. The data are typically obtained by placing electrodes at the surface of the scalp and recording the oscillations of currents passing through the electrodes. These oscillations can sometimes lead to various interpretations, depending on, for example, the subject's health condition, the experiment carried out, the sensitivity of the tools used, or human manipulations. The data obtained over time can be considered a time series. There is evidence in the literature that epilepsy EEG data may be chaotic. Either way, the Embedding Theory in dynamical systems suggests that time series from a complex system could be used to reconstruct its phase space under proper conditions. In this letter, we propose an analysis of epilepsy EEG time series data based on a novel approach dubbed complex geometric structurization. Complex geometric structurization stems from the construction of strange attractors using Embedding Theory from dynamical systems. The complex geometric structures are themselves obtained using a geometry tool, the α-shapes from shape analysis. Initial analyses show a proof of concept in that these complex structures capture the expected changes brain in lobes under consideration. Further, a deeper analysis suggests that these complex structures can be used as biomarkers for seizure changes.
NetPyNE Implementation and Scaling of the Potjans-Diesmann Cortical Microcircuit Model
Authors: Romaro Cecilia , Najman Fernando Araujo , Lytton William W. , Roque Antonio C. , Dura-Bernal Salvador
Published: June 2021

The Potjans-Diesmann cortical microcircuit model is a widely used model originally implemented in NEST. Here, we reimplemented the model using NetPyNE, a high-level Python interface to the NEURON simulator, and reproduced the findings of the original publication. We also implemented a method for scaling the network size that preserves first- and second-order statistics, building on existing work on network theory. Our new implementation enabled the use of more detailed neuron models with multicompartmental morphologies and multiple biophysically realistic ion channels. This opens the model to new research, including the study of dendritic processing, the influence of individual channel parameters, the relation to local field potentials, and other multiscale interactions. The scaling method we used provides flexibility to increase or decrease the network size as needed when running these CPU-intensive detailed simulations. Finally, NetPyNE facilitates modifying or extending the model using its declarative language; optimizing model parameters; running efficient, large-scale parallelized simulations; and analyzing the model through built-in methods, including local field potential calculation and information flow measures.
A Method for Efficient Implementation of a Radial-Based Noise Power Estimator for Weather Radars
Authors: Hurtado Martin
Published: June 2021

In a previous work, a weather radar algorithm with low computational cost has been developed to estimate the background noise power from the data collected at each radial. The algorithm consists of a sequence of steps designed to identify signal-free range volumes which are subsequently used to estimate the noise power. In this paper, we derive compact-closed form expressions to replace the numerical formulations used in the first two steps of the algorithm proposed in the original paper. The goal is to facilitate efficient implementation of the algorithm.
Primary Lung Hernia After Blunt Chest Trauma: Chest Wall Repair Strategies
Authors: Belyayev Leonid A. , Parker William J. , Madha Emad S. , Jessie Elliot M. , Bradley Matthew J.
Published: June 2021

Lung herniation is a rare pathology seen after trauma. A case of acquired lung hernia is presented after blunt thoracic trauma that was repaired primarily. Surgical management and decision-making for this process are discussed.
Support activities in Namie Town, Fukushima undertaken by Hirosaki University
Authors: Tokonami Shinji , Miura Tomisato , Akata Naofumi , Tazoe Hirofumi , Hosoda Masahiro , Chutima Kranrod , Kudo Hiromi , Ogura Koya , Fujishima Yohei , Tamakuma Yuki , Shimizu Mayumi , Kikuchi Kazutaka , Kashiwakura Ikuo
Published: June 2021

This paper does not necessarily reflect the views of the International Commission on Radiological Protection. Several radiation monitoring research projects are underway on dose assessment, biological analysis, and risk communication under an agreement with Namie Town. Indoor radon and thoron progeny concentrations have been measured using passive-type monitors to estimate internal doses due to inhalation. In addition, airborne radiocaesium concentrations at five points in Namie Town have been analysed using a high-purity germanium detector to estimate internal doses for comparison with radon. External radiation doses from natural and artificial radionuclides have also been estimated using an in-situ gamma-ray spectrometer. Other support activities are mentioned briefly in this article,
Reintegration of Ex-Offenders Convicted of Violent Crimes into the Community in the Iranian Context: A Qualitative Study
Authors: Sabzi Khoshnami Mohammad , Alipour Fardin , Arshi Maliheh , Rafiey Hassan , Javadi Mohhamad Hossein
Published: June 2021

Community reintegration of ex-offenders is a main issue for reducing recidivism. This article aims to explain the process of reintegration into the community based on the experiences of people who have been convicted of violent crimes in Iran. A qualitative study based on grounded theory was conducted in 2020 in Tehran/Iran. Data was collected through in-depth semi-structured interviews with 26 participants. An institutional review board approved the study. Results indicate that the “worry trap” is the main challenge that those convicted of violent crimes face upon reentry into society. If these individuals are provided with governmental and non-governmental services and support, they can move toward “restoring their lost social capital.” The “redefinition of an independent identity” is a consequence of released individuals’ struggle to restore their lost social capital. Further research exploring the causality of social capital and improved outcomes after release from prison and reentry to community is needed.
Beyond Neighborhood Design: Exploring the Effects of Smart Growth on Older Adults’ Travel Behavior over Time
Authors: Bai Xueyin , Steiner Ruth L. , Zhai Wei
Published: June 2021

Previous studies mainly substantiate the influence of neighborhood design on older adults’ travel behavior. This study goes beyond and examines how smart growth affects older adults’ travel behavior over time in the central Puget Sound. Using regression models for the years 1999, 2006, and 2014, we find that smart growth factors have significant but changing effects. The regional growth centers play a growing role in reducing older adults’ travel distance, trip frequency, and promoting non-car commuting modes. This study adds to the knowledge of how older adults’ travel behavior can be affected by the multilevel and long-term urban development strategies.
Health risk assessment of occupational exposure to heavy metals in a steel casting unit of a steelmaking plant using Monte–Carlo simulation technique
Authors: Dehghani Fatemeh , Omidi Fariborz , Fallahzadeh Reza Ali , Pourhassan Bahman
Published: June 2021

The present work aimed to evaluate the health risks of occupational exposure to heavy metals in a steel casting unit of a steel plant. To determine occupational exposure to heavy metals, personal air samples were taken from the workers’ breathing zones using the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health method. Noncancer and cancer risks due to the measured metals were calculated according to the United States Environmental Protection Agency procedures. The results indicated that the noncancer risks owing to occupational exposure to lead (Pb) and manganese were higher than the recommended value in most of the workstations. The estimated cancer risk of Pb was also higher than the allowable value. Moreover, the results of sensitivity analysis indicated that the concentration, inhalation rate, and exposure duration were the most influencing variables contributing to the calculated risks. It was thus concluded that the present control measures were not adequate and further improvements were required for reducing the exposure levels.
Social Comparison Orientation and Cyberbullying Perpetration and Victimization: Roles of Envy on Social Networking Sites and Body Satisfaction
Authors: Geng Jingyu , Wang Yuhui , Wang Hongxia , Wang Pengcheng , Lei Li
Published: June 2021

Although some studies have explored the psychological and behavioral outcomes of social comparison orientation (SCO), few have explored the associations of SCO with cyberbullying perpetration and victimization. The current study aimed to investigate the associations of SCO with cyberbullying perpetration and victimization, and considered envy on social networking sites (SNS) as a mediator and body satisfaction as a moderator in these relations. To test our expectations, 941 adolescents aged between 10 and 16 years ( M = 13.15, SD = 1.18) completed multiple questionnaires, namely the Social Comparison Orientation Scale, the Revised Cyber Bullying Inventory, an envy scale revised for the SNS context, and the Body Areas Satisfaction Scale. Correlation analysis revealed that cyberbullying perpetration and cyberbullying victimization were significantly and positively correlated with SCO and envy on SNS, and significantly and negatively correlated with body satisfaction. The results of structural equation modeling (SEM) revealed that envy on SNS played a mediating role in the associations of SCO with cyberbullying perpetration and victimization. The results of SEM and simple slope test analysis indicated that body satisfaction weakened the direct association of SCO with envy on SNS and further weakened the indirect associations of SCO with cyberbullying perpetration and victimization via envy on SNS. Specifically, individuals with high levels of SCO were more likely to feel envious on SNS, and further tended to bully others and be bullied online when they were dissatisfied with their bodies. In other words, positive body satisfaction protected individuals with high levels of SCO from cyberbullying perpetration and victimization by decreasing their feelings of envy on SNS.
CNS demyelination associated with immune dysregulation and a novel CTLA-4 variant
Authors: Kaninia Stefania , Grammatikos Alexandros , Urankar Kathryn , Renowden Shelley A , Patel Nikunj K , Gompels Mark M , Rice Claire M
Published: June 2021

Background:

The cytotoxic T-lymphocyte antigen-4 (CTLA-4) pathway acts as a negative immune regulator of T-cell activation and promotes self-tolerance.

Case:

We report the first case of biopsy-proven central nervous system inflammatory demyelination in the context of primary immunodeficiency and a novel CTLA-4 variant.

Conclusion:

This case has significant implications for the development of novel treatments for autoimmune conditions including multiple sclerosis and further emphasises the need for caution with clinical use of CTLA-4 immune checkpoint inhibitors in those with a history of inflammatory demyelination.
Immobilization of the Wrist After Dorsal Wrist Ganglion Excision: A Systematic Review and Survey of Current Practice
Authors: Wong Chloe R. , Karpinski Marta , Hatchell Alexandra C. , McRae Mark H. , Murphy Jessica , McRae Matthew C.
Published: June 2021

Background

Postoperative care after dorsal wrist ganglion (DWG) excision is highly varied. The effect of immobilization of the wrist on patient outcomes has not yet been examined.

Methods

A systematic review of the literature was performed to determine whether wrist immobilization after DWG surgical excision is beneficial. A survey of hand surgeons in Canada was performed to sample existing practice variations in current immobilization protocols after DWG excision.

Results

A systematic review yielded 11 studies that rigidly immobilized the wrist (n = 5 open excision, n = 5 arthroscopic excision, n = 1 open or arthroscopic excision), 10 studies that used dressings to partially limit wrist motion (n = 5 open, n = 5 arthroscopic), 1 study (open) that did either of the above, and 2 studies (arthroscopic) that did not restrict wrist motion postoperatively. This ranged from 48 hours to 2 weeks in open DWG excision and 5 days to 3 weeks in arthroscopic DWG excision. The survey of Canadian hand surgeons had a similarly divided result of those who chose to immobilize the wrist fully (41%), partially (14%), or not at all (55%). Most surgeons surveyed who immobilized the wrist postoperatively did so for 1 to 2 weeks.

Conclusion

The systematic review and survey of Canadian hand surgeons reveal that hand surgeons are divided regarding the need to immobilize the wrist after DWG excision. In terms of functional outcome, there is no compelling data to suggest 1 strategy is superior. The time frame for immobilization when undertaken was short at 2 weeks or less. The systematic review is registered in the PROSPERO database (PROSPERO 2016:CRD42016050877).
Human papillomavirus persistence or clearance after infection in reproductive age. What is the status? Review of the literature and new data of a vaginal gel containing silicate dioxide, citric acid, and selenite
Authors: Huber Johannes , Mueller Anna , Sailer Manuela , Regidor Pedro-Antonio
Published: June 2021

Cervical cancer, the third most common cancer in women, is caused in nearly all cases by a persistent infection with high-risk types of the human papillomavirus. Although human papillomavirus infections are 80%–90% transient and disappear spontaneously within 24 months, human papillomavirus infections that remain are at risk of developing cervical lesions. Different therapeutical approaches have been tested to promote the regression of low-grade lesions or prevent progression. They include the application of 5-fluorouracil, curcumin, imiquimod, interferons, Vitamin D, and others. Also, the effect of probiotics and vaginal therapy with carboxy-methyl-beta glucan was assessed. Review of the literature and presentation of the last study data are presented. Clearance of high-risk human papillomavirus seemed to be promoted by treatment with a new vaginal gel containing a highly disperse SiO2 and an anti-oxidative combination of citric acid and sodium. This gel showed, after 6 months, an improvement of cytological Pap findings (ASC-US, LSIL, ASC-H, or HSIL) in 80.9% of the participants. Similarly, there was a clearing of hr-human papillomavirus in 53% of cases after 3 months of gel administration. The percentage increased slightly in the non-treated control group from 78.3% at baseline to 83% after 3 months. The percentage of patients who were tested positive for p16/Ki67 reduced from 75% at baseline to 5.3% in the treatment group after 6 months, while the percentage decreased only slightly in the non-treated group (baseline: 91.5%; 6 months: 75.2%). The examined vaginal gel may support the healing of conspicuous cytological findings (ASC-US, LSIL, ASC-H, or HSIL) and clearance of hr-human papillomavirus positive results.
Empathy, Dehumanization, and Misperceptions: A Media Intervention Humanizes Migrants and Increases Empathy for Their Plight but Only if Misinformation About Migrants Is Also Corrected
Authors: Moore-Berg Samantha L. , Hameiri Boaz , Bruneau Emile G.
Published: June 2021

Anti-migrant policies at the U.S. southern border have resulted in the separation and long-term internment of thousands of migrant children and the deaths of many migrants. What leads people to support such harsh policies? Here we examine the role of two prominent psychological factors—empathy and dehumanization. In Studies 1 and 2, we find that empathy and dehumanization are strong, independent predictors of anti-migrant policy support and are associated with factually false negative beliefs about migrants. In Study 3, we interrogated the relationship between empathy/dehumanization, erroneous beliefs, and anti-migrant policy support with two interventions: a media intervention targeting empathy and dehumanization and an intervention that corrects erroneous beliefs. Both interventions were ineffective separately but reduced anti-migrant policy support when presented together. These results suggest a synergistic relationship between psychological processes and erroneous beliefs that together drive harsh anti-migrant policy support.
Academic Dishonesty and Academic Adjustment Among the Students at University Level: An Exploratory Study
Authors: Clinciu Aurel Ion , Cazan Ana-Maria , Ives Bob
Published: June 2021

The tendency to cheat is consubstantial to any kind of education and training process involving work and effort. The study was conducted on 194 participants, first- and second-year students from the bachelor and master’s programs from several engineering and humanities faculties from Brasov. The Academic Adjustment Questionnaire and the Academic Ethics Questionnaire (AEQ) were applied. The aim of the research was to highlight the internal structure of the two questionnaires and to investigate the associations between academic adjustment, academic dishonesty. Several demographic variables were taken into consideration. The results showed good construct validity and reliability for the scales and significant correlations between academic adjustment and academic dishonesty. Future research should examine to what extent AEQ is able to capture the impact of information technology on dishonest behavior or whether the matter requires a special approach or whether AEQ can support effective intervention programs to stop the phenomenon of academic dishonesty.
Hormone Receptor Positive/HER2 Negative Breast Cancer With Isolated Bladder Metastasis: A Rare Case
Authors: Khan Noman Ahmed Jang , Abdallah Mahmoud , Tirona Maria Tria
Published: June 2021

Breast cancer is the most common cancer diagnosed in women in North America. Hormone receptor positive (HR+) and HER2 negative (HER2−) breast cancers account for at least 60% to 70% of all breast cancer cases. They usually metastasize to lymph nodes, bones, liver, lungs, and brain. Urinary bladder is a very unusual site for metastatic HR+/HER2− breast cancer and occurs in only 2% of all metastatic disease. In this article, we present a case of a 63-year-old female with locally advanced breast cancer who underwent mastectomy, adjuvant chemotherapy, radiation, and hormonal therapy. She was in remission for almost 17 years and subsequently presented with hematuria and lower abdominal pain. Cystoscopy was performed, which showed evidence of bladder wall thickening. Histopathology showed metastatic HR+/HER2− breast cancer consistent with her history of breast primary. Imaging studies did not show any other evidence of metastatic disease. She was started on cyclin D kinase 4/6 inhibitor, palbociclib, in combination with an aromatase inhibitor, letrozole. This is an exceedingly rare case of HR+ and HER2− breast cancer with metastasis to the urinary bladder. The late onset of recurrence with bladder metastasis makes this case very unique and to our knowledge only few similar cases have been reported in the literature.
Assessment of Columellar Widening with Columellar Strut Placement
Authors: Toman Julia , Benchetrit Liliya , Meyer Annika , Porterfield James Zachary , Lee Jonathan Y. , Lawson William , Lee Yan Ho
Published: June 2021

Objective:

The columellar strut is a frequently used technique to provide nasal tip support and projection that is commonly thought to increase columellar width. However, systematic review of the effect has not been reported in the literature. We report a quantitative evaluation of the effect of columellar strut placement on columellar width.

Methods:

A retrospective cohort study of changes in columellar width in base view photographs for patients who underwent primary rhinoplasty with columellar strut placement (n = 35) and the closely related septal extension graft (n = 9) and tongue-in-groove (n = 5) procedures at Mount Sinai Hospital between 2010 and 2017. The ratio of the columellar width to the intercanthal distance was used to standardize the results among patients. Comparisons were made at follow-up periods of <1 week, 2 to 4 weeks, 1 to 3 months, 3 to 6 months, 6 to 12 months, and >1 year of follow-up.

Results:

Forty-nine patients (41% female; average age of 43 ± 15 years) were reviewed. The columellar width showed a statistically significant increase for all follow-up date ranges with the exception of 1 week and 3 to 6 months post-operatively. At >1 year of post-operative follow-up, the mean increase in columellar width was 8.6% (95% CI, 2.6%-14.5%, P = .0098). No statistically significant differences were noted between open versus closed procedure for all followup visits after the 1 week followup, and no significant difference if a septocolumellar stitch was placed.

Conclusions:

A columellar strut was demonstrated to lead to an increase in columellar width. Though the effect was modest at a 8.6% increase, this is a potential cosmetic consideration for the surgeon employing its use to provide nasal tip support and projection.