bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Integrative analysis reveals mouse strain-dependent responses to acute ozone exposure associated with airway macrophage transcriptional activity
Authors: Tovar Adelaide , Crouse Wesley L. , Smith Gregory J. , Thomas Joseph M. , Keith Benjamin P. , McFadden Kathryn M. , Moran Timothy P. , Furey Terrence S. , Kelada Samir N. P.
Published: November 2021

Acute ozone (O3) exposure is associated with multiple adverse cardiorespiratory outcomes, the severity of which varies across individuals in human populations and inbred mouse strains. However, molecular determinants of response, including susceptibility biomarkers that distinguish who will develop severe injury and inflammation, are not well characterized. We and others have demonstrated that airway macrophages (AMs) are an important resident immune cell type that are functionally and transcriptionally responsive to O3 inhalation. Here, we sought to explore influences of strain, exposure, and strain-by-O3 exposure interactions on AM gene expression and identify transcriptional correlates of O3-induced inflammation and injury across six mouse strains, including five Collaborative Cross (CC) strains. We exposed adult mice of both sexes to filtered air (FA) or 2 ppm O3 for 3 h and measured inflammatory and injury parameters 21 h later. Mice exposed to O3 developed airway neutrophilia and lung injury with strain-dependent severity. In AMs, we identified a common core O3 transcriptional response signature across all strains, as well as a set of genes exhibiting strain-by-O3 exposure interactions. In particular, a prominent gene expression contrast emerged between a low- (CC017/Unc) and high-responding (CC003/Unc) strain, as reflected by cellular inflammation and injury. Further inspection indicated that differences in their baseline gene expression and chromatin accessibility profiles likely contribute to their divergent post-O3 exposure transcriptional responses. Together, these results suggest that aspects of O3-induced respiratory responses are mediated through altered AM transcriptional signatures and further confirm the importance of gene-environment interactions in mediating differential responsiveness to environmental agents.
Identification of lung innervating sensory neurons and their target specificity
Authors: Su Yujuan , Barr Justinn , Jaquish Abigail , Xu Jinhao , Verheyden Jamie M. , Sun Xin
Published: November 2021

Known as the gas exchange organ, the lung is also critical for responding to the aerosol environment in part through interaction with the nervous system. The diversity and specificity of lung innervating neurons remain poorly understood. Here, we interrogated the cell body location and molecular signature and projection pattern of lung innervating sensory neurons. Retrograde tracing from the lung coupled with whole tissue clearing highlighted neurons primarily in the vagal ganglia. Centrally, they project specifically to the nucleus of the solitary tract in the brainstem. Peripherally, they enter the lung alongside branching airways. Labeling of nociceptor Trpv1+ versus peptidergic Tac1+ vagal neurons showed shared and distinct terminal morphology and targeting to airway smooth muscles, vasculature including lymphatics, and alveoli. Notably, a small population of vagal neurons that are Calb1+ preferentially innervate pulmonary neuroendocrine cells, a demonstrated airway sensor population. This atlas of lung innervating neurons serves as a foundation for understanding their function in lung.
Ryanodine receptors mediate high intracellular Ca2+ and some myocyte damage following eccentric contractions in rat fast-twitch skeletal muscle
Authors: Tabuchi Ayaka , Tanaka Yoshinori , Takagi Ryo , Shirakawa Hideki , Shibaguchi Tsubasa , Sugiura Takao , Poole David C. , Kano Yutaka
Published: November 2021

Eccentric contractions (ECC) facilitate cytosolic calcium ion (Ca2+) release from the sarcoplasmic reticulum (SR) and Ca2+ influx from the extracellular space. Ca2+ is a vital signaling messenger that regulates multiple cellular processes via its spatial and temporal concentration ([Ca2+]i) dynamics. We hypothesized that 1) a specific pattern of spatial/temporal intramyocyte Ca2+ dynamics portends muscle damage following ECC and 2) these dynamics would be regulated by the ryanodine receptor (RyR). [Ca2+]i in the tibialis anterior muscles of anesthetized adult Wistar rats was measured by ratiometric (i.e., ratio, R, 340/380 nm excitation) in vivo bioimaging with Fura-2 pre-ECC and at 5 and 24 h post-ECC (5 × 40 contractions). Separate groups of rats received RyR inhibitor dantrolene (DAN; 10 mg/kg ip) immediately post-ECC (+DAN). Muscle damage was evaluated by histological analysis on hematoxylin-eosin stained muscle sections. Compared with control (CONT, no ECC), [Ca2+]i distribution was heterogeneous with increased percent total area of high [Ca2+]i sites (operationally defined as R ≥ 1.39, i.e., ≥1 SD of mean control) 5 h post-ECC (CONT, 14.0 ± 8.0; ECC5h: 52.0 ± 7.4%, P < 0.01). DAN substantially reduced the high [Ca2+]i area 5 h post-ECC (ECC5h + DAN: 6.4 ± 3.1%, P < 0.01) and myocyte damage (ECC24h, 63.2 ± 1.0%; ECC24h + DAN: 29.1 ± 2.2%, P < 0.01). Temporal and spatially amplified [Ca2+]i fluctuations occurred regardless of DAN (ECC vs. ECC + DAN, P > 0.05). These results suggest that the RyR-mediated local high [Ca2+]i itself is related to the magnitude of muscle damage, whereas the [Ca2+]i fluctuation is an RyR-independent phenomenon.
The Use of Complementary and Alternative Medicine in Thai Gynecologic Oncology Patients: Influencing Factors
Authors: Chukasemrat Nuntorn , Charakorn Chuenkamon , Lertkhachonsuk Arb-aroon
Published: November 2021

Background. To determine the factors influencing the use of complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) in gynecologic cancer patients and the prevalence and pattern of CAM use. Methods. This was a cross-sectional study of 370 gynecologic cancer patients conducted at the outpatient clinic, Ramathibodi Hospital, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand. After obtaining informed consent, participants were asked to complete a standardized questionnaire including sociodemographic and clinical characteristics, detail of CAM use, attitude of CAM use, and quality of life using EORTC-QLQ-C30. Results. The prevalence of CAM use was 25.13%. The most common type was herbal medicine (55.90%). The participants who resided or had a birthplace in rural areas presented with a higher proportion of CAM use than those in urban areas (

P
=
0.470

and

P
=
0.004

, respectively). Participants who received multiple modalities of cancer treatment reported a significantly higher proportion of CAM use (

P
=
0.024

). Most CAM users agreed that the CAM could be used in combination with standard treatment, and some rather disagreed that CAM could interrupt the treatment effect of the conventional treatment. CAM users had significantly higher role functioning in quality-of-life scores. Conclusion. Factors influencing CAM use in gynecologic cancer patients were rural area birthplace or residency, receiving multiple modalities of cancer treatment, having positive attitude toward CAM use. CAM users had better performance in role functioning in the quality-of-life score. Therefore, gynecologic oncologists should pay attention to these factors in order to communicate with gynecologic cancer patients about CAM use.
Pericardial Tamponade and Elevated Serum CA-125 Level in Inadequately Treated Hypothyroidism
Authors: Baghal Moaaz , Amrutiya Viralkumar , Patel Bhoomi , Patel Rutwik , Hernandez Jonathan , Ahmed Mohamed , Lo Abraham , Gabelman Mark
Published: November 2021

Cardiac tamponade is a medical emergency and must be managed promptly, and reaching a diagnosis is imperative to prevent recurrence. Herein, we present a case of a young female patient that presented with progressive shortness of breath and abdominal distension and was found to have cardiac tamponade with the finding of elevation of a blood tumor marker, CA-125, in the setting of nonadherence to thyroid replacement therapy. She was managed by surgical pericardial window and abdominal paracentesis, with replacement of thyroid hormones leading to resolution of the tamponade and ascites. CA-125 elevation associated with cardiac tamponade and myxedema ascites due to hypothyroidism is very rare, and we aim to shed light on the importance of having a broad differential when approaching cardiac tamponade and understand the association between CA-125 and hypothyroidism.
3D Modeling Design of Multirole Virtual Character Based on Visual Communication in Wireless Sensor Networks
Authors: Qu Meiting , Li Lei
Published: November 2021

In order to solve the problems of poor design effect and time consumption of traditional virtual character modeling design methods, a three‐dimensional (3D) modeling design method of multirole virtual characters based on visual communication is studied. Firstly, the wireless sensor network is used to locate, scan, and collect the human body structure information and convert the coordinates to bind the 3D skeleton. Secondly, according to different human postures, we switch the linear hybrid skin algorithm, spherical hybrid skin algorithm, and double quaternion hybrid skin algorithm; design the geometric surface; and attach it to the 3D skeleton to generate 3D modeling. Finally, based on the influence of visual communication on human eye observation and psychological feeling, the geometric surface is divided twice, and the virtual character is rendered in the way of display, coating, and splicing to obtain a complete 3D modeling of the virtual character. The results show that the positioning coverage of this method is higher, the rendering effect of the hand and head is better, the design time is significantly shortened, and the maximum time is no more than 35 min.
Efficient Multiuser Computation for Mobile-Edge Computing in IoT Application Using Optimization Algorithm
Authors: Hasanin Tawfiq , Alsobhi Aisha , Khadidos Adil , Qahmash Ayman , Khadidos Alaa , Ogunmola Gabriel Ayodeji
Published: November 2021

Mobile edge computing (MEC) is a paradigm novel computing that promises the dramatic effect of reduction in latency and consumption of energy by computation offloading intensive; these tasks to the edge clouds in proximity close to the smart mobile users. In this research, reduce the offloading and latency between the edge computing and multiusers under the environment IoT application in 5G using bald eagle search optimization algorithm. The deep learning approach may consume high computational complexity and more time. In an edge computing system, devices can offload their computation-intensive tasks to the edge servers to save energy and shorten their latency. The bald eagle algorithm (BES) is the advanced optimization algorithm that resembles the strategy of eagle hunting. The strategies are select, search, and swooping stages. Previously, the BES algorithm is used to consume the energy and distance; to improve the better energy and reduce the offloading latency in this research and some delays occur when devices increase causes demand for cloud data, it can be improved by offering ROS (resource) estimation. To enhance the BES algorithm that introduces the ROS estimation stage to select the better ROSs, an edge system, which offloads the most appropriate IoT subtasks to edge servers then the expected time of execution, got minimized. Based on multiuser offloading, we proposed a bald eagle search optimization algorithm that can effectively reduce the end-end time to get fast and near-optimal IoT devices. The latency is reduced from the cloud to the local; this can be overcome by using edge computing, and deep learning expects faster and better results from the network. This can be proposed by BES algorithm technique that is better than other conventional methods that are compared on results to minimize the offloading latency. Then, the simulation is done to show the efficiency and stability by reducing the offloading latency.
Surrounding Rock Stresses on a Working Face‐End Roof under Mining Influence
Authors: Wang Kang , Huang Xinglong , Li Haibo , Zhang Feng , Li Jiazhen , Zhu Zhijie
Published: November 2021

The evolution process of the surrounding rock failure mechanism is studied because of spalling and roof fall accidents at the top corner of longwall top coal caving faces affected by mining and the difficulty of moving the advanced end support. Methods are proposed to improve the stability of surrounding rocks at the top corner of the end including cutting at the top corner of the end, reinforcing the anchor cable, changing the stress distribution of surrounding rocks at the top corner of the end, and transferring the stress concentration area of surrounding rocks to the deeper rock. Field observations of the surrounding rocks at the top corner of the 15107 fully mechanized caving face show that the stress value of the surrounding rocks at the corner between the roof of the return airway and the coal wall of the working face is 28.9 MPa when the surrounding rocks are in a stable state without mining. The stress value of surrounding rocks at the top corner of the end is 32.3 MPa when it is affected by mining, which results in spalling and roof fall. The surrounding rocks are in a stable state when the maximum stress of the surrounding rocks at the top corner of the reinforced anchor cable’s back‐end is 26.1 MPa. The results show that cutting of the surrounding rocks at the top corner of the end and the reinforcement of the anchor cable can avoid the spalling and roof fall when the top corner of the end is affected by mining and can ensure that the end support advances and working face moves forward.
Patterned Trichoteiromania in Androgenetic Alopecia
Authors: Sánchez-Dueñas Luis E. , Rocha-Méndez Leslie E. , Rudnicka Lidia
Published: November 2021

Trichotillomania is the most frequent reported cause of self-inflicted hair disorders, within which are included trichoteiromania, trichotemnomania, and trichocryptomania, also known as trichorrexomania. These conditions are commonly described in the context of psychiatric disorders. Nevertheless, there exists reports in otherwise healthy patients that suffer a form of no cicatricial alopecia, such as alopecia areata. We communicate 3 cases of male androgenetic alopecia with patterned miniaturization that coexisted with trichoscopic findings of trichoteiromania. The presence of brush-like ends or broom hairs is a highly suggestive feature of this entity. To the best of our knowledge, this association was not previously reported in the medical literature. The possibility of self-induced hair loss should be kept in mind during every follow-up visit in all types of alopecia, remembering that hair loss itself is already a distressing condition.
Dreijahresergebnisse der deutschlandweiten Umfrage zu Augenverletzungen durch Feuerwerkskörper
Authors: Gabel-Pfisterer Ameli , Böhringer Daniel , Agostini Hansjuergen
Published: November 2021

Hintergrund: Weltweit entstehen an Feiertagen schwere Augenverletzungen durch Feuerwerkskörper. Die Datenlage für Deutschland ist bislang unklar. Fragestellung: Wie häufig entstehen solche Verletzungen in Deutschland, wer ist gefährdet, wie schwer sind die Verletzungen, welche Therapien erfordern sie, und wie häufig treten Begleitverletzungen auf? Methode: Deutschlandweite standardisierte Online-Umfrage an bettenführenden, notdienstleistenden Augenkliniken und Auswertung der Ergebnisse über 3 Jahre. Ergebnisse: Die Beteiligung konnte von 2016 bis 2019 von 41 auf 51 Augenkliniken gesteigert werden. Von 1356 Patienten war mehr als ein Drittel (33–39%) minderjährig, rund 60% 25 Jahre oder jünger und rund 60% Bystander. Ein Viertel der Verletzungen war schwer und erforderte eine stationäre Therapie. Begleitverletzungen am Partnerauge, an Händen und Gesicht waren bei Minderjährigen häufiger als bei Erwachsenen. Bulbusrupturen wurden bei 10 Kindern und 38 Erwachsenen dokumentiert. Schlussfolgerungen: Vor allem Minderjährige und Zuschauer müssen besser geschützt werden.
Serum Nonesterified Fatty Acids and Incident Stroke: The CHS
Authors: Huang Neil K. , Biggs Mary L. , Matthan Nirupa R. , Djoussé Luc , Longstreth W. T. , Mukamal Kenneth J. , Siscovick David S. , Lichtenstein Alice H.
Published: November 2021

Background

Significant associations between total nonesterified fatty acid (NEFA) concentrations and incident stroke have been reported in some prospective cohort studies. We evaluated the associations between incident stroke and serum concentrations of nonesterified saturated, monounsaturated, polyunsaturated, and
trans
fatty acids.

Methods and Results

CHS (Cardiovascular Health Study) participants (N=2028) who were free of stroke at baseline (1996–1997) and had an archived fasting serum sample were included in this study. A total of 35 NEFAs were quantified using gas chromatography. Cox proportional hazards regression models were used to evaluate associations of 5 subclasses (nonesterified saturated, monounsaturated, omega (n)‐6 polyunsaturated, n‐3 polyunsaturated, and
trans
fatty acids) of NEFAs and individual NEFAs with incident stroke. Sensitivity analysis was conducted by excluding cases with hemorrhagic stroke (n=45). A total of 338 cases of incident stroke occurred during the median 10.5‐year follow‐up period. Total n‐3 (hazard ratio [HR], 0.77 [95% CI, 0.61–0.97]) and n‐6 (HR, 1.32 [95% CI, 1.01–1.73]) subclasses of NEFA were negatively and positively associated with incident stroke, respectively. Among individual NEFAs, dihomo‐γ‐linolenic acid (20:3n‐6) was associated with higher risk (HR, 1.29 [95% CI, 1.02–1.63]), whereas
cis
‐7‐hexadecenoic acid (16:1n‐9
c
) and arachidonic acid (20:4n‐6) were associated with a lower risk (HR, 0.67 [95% CI, 0.47–0.97]; HR, 0.81 [95% CI. 0.65–1.00], respectively) of incident stroke per standard deviation increment. After the exclusion of cases with hemorrhagic stroke, these associations did not remain significant.

Conclusions

A total of 2 NEFA subclasses and 3 individual NEFAs were associated with incident stroke. Of these, the NEFA n‐3 subclass and dihomo‐γ‐linolenic acid are diet derived and may be potential biomarkers for total stroke risk.
The Reanalysis for the Global Ensemble Forecast System, Version 12
Authors: Hamill Thomas M. , Whitaker Jeffrey S. , Shlyaeva Anna , Bates Gary , Fredrick Sherrie , Pegion Philip , Sinsky Eric , Zhu Yuejian , Tallapragada Vijay , Guan Hong , Zhou Xiaqiong , Woollen Jack
Published: November 2021

NOAA has created a global reanalysis dataset, intended primarily for initialization of reforecasts for its Global Ensemble Forecast System, version 12 (GEFSv12), which provides ensemble forecasts out to +35-days lead time. The reanalysis covers the period 2000–19. It assimilates most of the observations that were assimilated into the operational data assimilation system used for initializing global predictions. These include a variety of conventional data, infrared and microwave radiances, global positioning system radio occultations, and more. The reanalysis quality is generally superior to that from NOAA’s previous-generation Climate Forecast System Reanalysis (CFSR), demonstrated in the fit of short-term forecasts to the observations and in the skill of 5-day deterministic forecasts initialized from CFSR versus GEFSv12. Skills of reforecasts initialized from the new reanalyses are similar but slightly lower than skills initialized from a preoperational version of the real-time data assimilation system conducted at the higher, operational resolution. Control member reanalysis data on vertical pressure levels are made publicly available.
African and Not Religious: The State of Research on Sub-Saharan Religious Nones and New Scholarly Horizons
Authors: Gez Yonatan N. , Beider Nadia , Dickow Helga
Published: November 2021

Sub-Saharan African societies are widely seen as highly religious. However, at least 30 million Sub-Saharan Africans identify themselves as “religious nones” and are supposedly not affiliated with any religious tradition. While research interest in religious nones has been growing in the United States, Canada, and Western Europe, there is a dearth of literature on nones in Sub-Saharan Africa. In this paper, we offer an overview of this understudied subject and dwell on key challenges for studying African nones, including preconceived notions and structural oppositions. We further muse on the identity of African nones and consider differences from the characteristics established concerning Western nones. The article draws on quantitative data from across the region (primarily from Afrobarometer and Pew Research Center) and supplements them with interview data collected in Chad, Kenya, and South Africa.
Learning progressions/trajectories in mathematics: Supporting reform at scale
Authors: Siemon Dianne
Published: November 2021

In recent years, attention has turned to the development of evidenced-based learning progressions/trajectories as a means of identifying the likely paths learners might take in developing a deep, well-connected understanding of key aspects of mathematics. However, the extent to which this work influences what happens in mathematics classrooms varies greatly depending on the prevailing relationship between curriculum, pedagogy and assessment. This article will draw on current policy documents and the literature to challenge current assumptions at the national level about what constitutes a learning progression. It will draw briefly on the results of a recently completed, large-scale study on mathematical reasoning in the middle years of schooling to make a case for evidenced-based learning progressions/trajectories as boundary objects in reconnecting and rebalancing the curriculum, pedagogy and assessment relationship to support reform at scale.
Comparison of the Epidemiological and Clinical Characteristics of Hospitalized Children With Pneumonia Caused by SARS-CoV-2, Influenza A, and Human Adenoviruses: A Case-Control Study
Authors: Liu Miao , Han Yuling , Sun Jing , Wei Xiaoling , Zhao Xiuxia , Wang Bing , Zhang Yun , Ma Xiang , Gai Zhongtao
Published: November 2021

Background. This case-control study aims to investigate the clinical characteristics in pediatric patients with pneumonia infected with severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), influenza A, and human adenoviruses (HAdVs). Methods. Hospitalized pediatric patients with pneumonia infected with SARS-CoV-2 at Wuhan Children’s Hospital and pneumonia infected with influenza A, and HAdVs at Qilu Children’s Hospital were compared. Clinical manifestations, laboratory examinations, and imaging characteristics were analyzed. Results. The proportions of hyperpyrexia (54.3%, 33.9%), cough (100%, 99.2%), wheezing (45.7%, 53.7%), diarrhea (31.4%, 14.9%), and fever (100%, 75.2%) in patients with influenza A and HAdVs were higher than those of patients with SARS-CoV-2 (9.4%, P < .001; 48.5%, P < .001; 0%, P < .001; 8.8%, P = .002; 41.5%, P < .001; respectively). Laboratory examinations revealed the proportions of leukocytosis (37.1%, 52.9%), abnormal rates of neutrophils (40%, 40.5%), and lymphocytosis (42.9%, 65.3%) in influenza A and HAdV pneumonia groups were significantly higher than coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) group (0%, P < .001; 0%, P < .001; 0%, P < .001; respectively). The proportion of elevated procalcitonin (5.7%, 14%) in patients with influenza A and HAdVs was significantly lower than those in patients with SARS-CoV-2 (64%, P < .001). In chest computed tomography, ground-glass opacities near the pleura were more common in patients with COVID-19 than those in patients with influenza A and HAdVs (32.7% vs 0% vs 0%, P < .001). Conclusion. Fever, cough, and wheezing are more common in the influenza A and HAdVs groups, whereas procalcitonin and computed tomography findings are likely to be pronounced in COVID-19 pneumonia. It provides a variety of methods except polymerase chain reaction for differentiating COVID-19 pneumonia from influenza A and HAdVs pneumonia.
Relationships and sexuality education: Key research informing New Zealand curriculum policy
Authors: Fitzpatrick Katie , McGlashan Hayley , Tirumalai Vibha , Fenaughty John , Veukiso-Ulugia Analosa
Published: November 2021

Background and purpose: In 2020, the New Zealand Ministry of Education updated the national curriculum policy for sexuality education, broadening the focus to ‘relationships and sexuality education’ and strengthening guidance for both primary (Years 1–8) and secondary (Years 9–13) schools. The resulting guides detail how schools might take a ‘whole school approach’ to this area, including dedicated curriculum time at all levels of compulsory schooling.

Methods and conclusions: This article summarises the key thinking and research that informs the latest curriculum policy update and provides justification for the content in the policy. Significant aspects include a framework based on Te Tiriti o Waitangi (The Treaty of Waitangi), Indigenous knowledges and human rights; attention to issues of bullying and inclusion; and the responsibility of schools to address gender and sexual diversity in programmes and the whole school. This background paper discusses the evidence that informs the curriculum policy update, as well as aspects of the policy context in New Zealand that precede these changes.
Patient voice and health education for familial hypercholesterolaemia
Authors: McIntosh Scott , Coykendall Cameron , Lin Yifei Sylvia , Caufield Matthew , Muller Joe , Rowe Tina , Block Robert C
Published: November 2021

Objective:

Familial hypercholesterolaemia (FH), an autosomal dominant disorder causing elevated low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol from birth resulting in premature cardiovascular disease, is only diagnosed in 10% of affected patients. This study involved partnering with patients with FH and with primary care providers (PCPs) to understand health priorities and translate them into hypotheses for future research and enhancement of health practices via electronic health records (EHRs). The goal was to strengthen genetic health education for clinicians and for patients and their families, including improved diagnosis, knowledge and treatment. Perceptions regarding genetic health education and healthcare related to FH facilitated by the use of an EHR for diagnosis and treatment have not been studied.

Design:

Mixed-methods exploratory qualitative research and surveys.

Setting:

Qualitative research included five focus groups, 34 semi-structured key informant interviews and open-ended survey items with patients and PCPs at a large medical centre in Western New York.

Method:

Data were thematically coded to identify themes as formative work for the improvement of relevant EHR features, diagnosis, treatment and genetic health education via information sharing between clinicians and patients.

Results:

Themes included genetic health knowledge; the importance of being diagnosed; communication between patients, family members and medical professionals; outreach via patients’ own advocacy; and treatment, technology, motivation, trust, outside resources (for further genetic health education and support) and awareness of effective treatments.

Conclusion:

Patients and clinicians can contribute to the development of EHR support for the genetic health education of patients and their families, and for improved diagnosis and treatment of FH. Using their ideas in the development of effective strategies could improve the currently low rate of FH diagnosis and cascade screening (for family members), as well as enhance physician and patient genetic health knowledge and self-empowerment.
In-situ damage sensing in intra-ply glass/carbon laminate composites under interlaminar shear loading
Authors: Pires Matthew , Chalivendra Vijaya
Published: November 2021

An experimental study is preformed to investigate the in-situ damage sensing capabilities of intra-ply hybrid carbon/glass laminate and epoxy composites under quasi-static interlaminar shear loading. A three-dimensional electrical sensory network is generated inside the composites through embedded carbon nanotubes (CNTs) in an epoxy matrix along with the carbon fibers in the intra-ply hybrid laminates. CNTs are dispersed in the epoxy matrix using a combination of ultrasonication and shear mixing techniques. Four circumferential ring probes are used to examine the electrical response under interlaminar shear load. The effect of four different intra-ply orientations (((0–90)C, where carbon fibers are oriented along the loading direction), ((0–90)G, where glass fibers are oriented along the loading direction), ((45/−45, where glass and carbon fibers are oriented at 45o/−45o and the laminates are repeated), and ((45/−45)A, where glass and carbon fibers are oriented at 45o/−45o and the laminates are alternated)) on the shear constitutive behavior and the damage detection are discussed. Intra-ply orientations of (45/−45) and (45/−45)A showed higher interlaminar shear strength and shear strain at break compared to (0/90)C and (0/90)G orientations. Out of all four orientations, (45/−45)A provided a better resolution of electrical response for damage sensing applications.
A review of applications of CT imaging on fiber reinforced composites
Authors: Gao Yantao , Hu Wenfeng , Xin Sanfa , Sun Lijuan
Published: November 2021

With the development of X-ray computed tomography over the last few decades, it is gradually considered to be a powerful tool in the field of materials research. This paper presents a comprehensive review of applications of CT imaging on fiber reinforced composites, from polymer composites to ceramic matrix composites. The principle of X-ray CT and experimental tomography setups was described firstly. Then, in situ experimental devices developed in recent years were illustrated. Furthermore, the applications of X-ray CT imaging on manufacturing process, modeling, mechanical damage, physical, and chemical behaviors were reviewed in detail. Besides, advantages and limitations of X-ray CT imaging were pointed out and the future development was prospected.
Experimental and numerical investigations of the damages induced while drilling flax/epoxy composite
Authors: Ameur MF , Hadj Djilani A , Zitoune R , V Krishnaraj , Sheikh-Ahmad J , Toubal L , Bougherara H
Published: November 2021

The influence of the drilling parameters and the stacking sequence of flax/epoxy composite laminate on the cutting force and the damage induced were studied experimentally and numerically. Drilling tests were carried out based on full experimental design and the delamination at the entry and exit of the hole were quantified using an optical microscopy. Moreover, the damages at the wall of the hole were analyzed using scanning electron microscopy. Based on the experimental results, it was observed that the drilling forces and the machining quality are influenced on the one side by the spindle speed and feed and on the other side by the stacking sequence composite plate. In fact, the cutting forces recorded when drilling a composite plate with [90/0/90/0]2s is 30% higher to the one recorded when drilling a composite made with quasi-isotropic stacking sequence. A numerical model was developed in ABAQUS/Explicit using Hashin’s failure criteria in order to predict the cutting forces and the defects induced by the interaction of the drill and composite as a function of the machining parameters. The developed model has been validated at the macro-scale (thrust force) and the meso-scale (delamination at the entry and exit of the hole).
Interfacial, mechanical, and thermal behavior of PEI/glass fiber welded joints influenced by hygrothermal conditioning
Authors: Barbosa Marques Luís Felipe , Frank Reis Jonas , Ramos Moreira Abrahão Ana Beatriz , Oliveira Hein Luis Rogério D , Cocchieri Botelho Edson , Costa Michelle L
Published: November 2021

This work aims to characterize the influence of hygrothermal conditioning on the mechanical and thermal behavior as well as the fractographic aspects of the interface of poly(ether imide) and glass fiber composite joints welded by electrical resistance using 400 mesh of AISI 304 stainless steel. The composites were mechanically characterized by Lap Shear Strength (LSS) and End Notched Flexure (ENF) testing to investigate maximum shear stress and energy from mode II interlaminar fracture toughness. Fractography was performed by SEM, while the influence on glass transition temperature and working temperature were evaluated by Dynamic-Mechanical Analysis and thermogravimetry. In the conditioned samples, the mechanical properties reduced 23% in the LSS test and 28% in the ENF test, while the fractography studies revealed elements of interlaminar and intralaminar fracture in both conditions. Thermal properties did not change significantly to disqualify this composite when applied to welding.
Advancement of telemedicine in Africa and the current laws: A case study of Nigeria
Authors: Ikwu Amanze N , Komolafe David T , Ahaneku Gladys I , Nwawudu Sixtus E
Published: November 2021

Advancements in technology have heralded more than a few cutting-edge benefits. Medicine is a vital sector of every nation and it has benefitted from these advancements in delivering health care services at a distance. The increasing use of Information and Communication Technology (ICT) by a vast population worldwide has been pivotal for telemedicine in recent years. Many developed and developing countries of the world have embraced telemedicine as a proactive means of delivering health care services to their citizens, although at different rates of development. The challenges associated with health care service and delivery is numerous and telemedicine has become one solution to counter some of these challenges. This paper seeks to examine the state of telemedicine in Nigeria. It identifies the gaps that ought to be filled in the Nigerian legal system and proposes relevant policies and legislation that must be formulated by government alongside appropriate authorities in order to ensure an optimum telemedicine system that meets the standards of conventional medicine.
Rule extraction and optimization of fuzzy controllers in maximizing the captured power of wave energy converters
Authors: Jalali Mohamad , Kardehi Moghaddam Reihaneh
Published: November 2021

In recent years, the extraction of electrical energy from sea waves has been considered by researchers due to its advantages such as renewability and high amount of extracted energy, and in recent research studies, several scientific solutions have been presented to maximize the energy obtained from these converters. One of the major problems that is ignored in most articles is the existence of several uncertainties that occur as an uncertain parameter in the proposed models for various types of wave energy absorbers, including mechanical parts erosion, limescale deposition and algae on buoyant which causes it to change weight. Ignoring these uncertainties will reduce the accuracy of the controller performance. Therefore, in this paper, for the first time, a fuzzy control process with optimized extracted rules and parameters is applied to control the damper and spring coefficients of the mechanical model describing a power takeoff system, which not only uses fuzzy control properties but also covers uncertainties. Optimizing the number of rules and structure of membership functions provides acceptable controllable accuracy and speed as it is mentioned in simulation results.
The Student Self-Accommodation Strategy for Students With Visual Impairments
Authors: Nannemann Allison C.
Published: November 2021

Introduction

Accommodations are essential for the successful participation of individuals with visual impairments in post-secondary education and employment. Passive experiences with accommodations in school, plus a complex advocacy process warrant the need to support students to engage in the accommodations process.

Methods

Four high school students with visual impairments were taught the Student Self-Accommodation Strategy. A parallel multiple-case design was used to determine how and how well the participants learned and used the strategy and to investigate their development of metacognitive knowledge and self-regulated learning (SRL) skills.

Results

The participants all learned the strategy to varying extents. The cross-case analysis revealed that recall and understanding the purpose of the strategy supported strategy performance but were not associated with in-class use of the strategy. Additionally, participants did not experience changes with metacognition or SRL; however, they did demonstrate metacognitive knowledge on multiple data sources, with few demonstrations of SRL.

Discussion

Findings indicate that the Student Self-Accommodation Strategy is accessible to students with visual impairments. Three factors seemed to be associated with the learning and use of the strategy: verbal and reasoning skills, achievement, and emotional-behavioral regulation. Metacognition and SRL can positively affect students with visual impairments.

Implications

Future work with the Student Self-Accommodation Strategy should incorporate in-class strategy coaching and an explicit investigation of the factors that seemed to influence strategy learning and performance. Research and practice should give greater attention to metacognition and SRL for students with visual impairments.
Giant Pharyngeal Recess Cyst: A Case Report
Authors: Liu Dong , Li Maocai , Li Lianqing , Gong Lili , Zhang Zuping
Published: November 2021

A pharyngeal recess cyst is a benign lesion, located at the nasopharyngeal recess with limited development. Pharyngeal recess cysts rarely occur. This case report describes a young male patient presenting with a foreign body sensation in the pharynx. Electronic nasopharyngoscope examination revealed a large nasopharyngeal cyst, whose root was located in the left pharyngeal recess. Complete surgical resection was performed, and the patient successfully recovered.

Pharyngeal recess cysts are rare lesions that can be diagnosed based on imaging and endoscopy findings. It is treated surgically and has a favorable prognosis.
Bodies and Minds: Heavier Weight Targets Are De-Mentalized as Lacking in Mental Agency
Authors: Sim Mattea , Almaraz Steven M. , Hugenberg Kurt
Published: November 2021

Five experiments investigate the hypothesis that heavier weight individuals are denied mental agency (i.e., higher order cognitive and intentional capacities), but not experience (e.g., emotional and sensory capacities), relative to average weight individuals. Across studies, we find that as targets increase in weight, they are denied mental agency; however, target weight has no reliable influence on ascriptions of experience (Studies 1a–2b). Furthermore, the de-mentalization of heavier weight targets was associated with both disgust and beliefs about targets’ physical agency (Study 3). Finally, de-mentalization affected role assignments. Heavier weight targets were rated as helpful for roles requiring experiential but not mentally agentic faculties (Study 4). Heavier weight targets were also less likely than chance to be categorized into a career when it was described as requiring mental agency (versus experience; Study 5). These findings suggest novel insights into past work on weight stigma, wherein discrimination often occurs in domains requiring mental agency.
Impact of Tournament Incentives on Management Earnings Forecasts
Authors: Cheng Xin , Palmon Dan , Yang Yinan , Yin Cheng
Published: November 2021

This paper examines how rank-order tournament incentives in the top management team (TMT) influence the quality of management earnings forecasts (MEFs). Instead of breeding feelings of inequality and fostering peer sabotage, the large pay gap between the CEO and subordinates may motivate top executives to issue more accurate and precise forecasts to win the prize of promotion. The positive tournament effect on the quality of MEFs is weakened (strengthened) when the perceived probability of promotion for candidates is low (high). We find that firms with higher tournament incentives are more likely to issue supplementary forecasts to increase the credibility of MEFs. By examining the tournament effect at each subordinate manager level, we find that CFOs are the driving force in controlling the frequency and quality of management forecasts and chief marketing officers (CMOs) may also contribute to the quality of management forecasts. The results are robust to multiple measures of tournament incentives and multiple research designs.
Experiments in Strategy Research: A Critical Review and Future Research Opportunities
Authors: Bolinger Mark T. , Josefy Matthew A. , Stevenson Regan , Hitt Michael A.
Published: November 2021

We review extant experimental work in strategic management and argue that experiments constitute an underused methodology that has significant potential. We examine and categorize 179 experiments from 119 published articles over a 20-year period, delineating the contributions of these experiments to the strategic management literature. In doing so, we identify topic areas in which experiments have been effectively deployed as well as several literature streams that have a limited amount of prior experimental research. We discuss specific challenges of using experiments in strategy research, especially given its strong focus on the firm level of analysis. We also emphasize approaches for how experiments can be instrumental in extending management theories and accelerating behavioral microfoundations of strategy research. In light of past contributions and gaps, we discuss specific opportunities and means of designing innovative experiments, propose novel potential research questions, and provide a best practices methodological guide that scholars can use when considering experimental designs. Overall, our work documents experimental research and provides a methodological practicum, thereby offering a platform for future experiment-based research in strategic management.
A Natural-Language-Processing-Based Procedure for Generating Distractors for Multiple-Choice Questions
Authors: Baldwin Peter , Mee Janet , Yaneva Victoria , Paniagua Miguel , D’Angelo Jean , Swygert Kimberly , Clauser Brian E.
Published: November 2021

One of the most challenging aspects of writing multiple-choice test questions is identifying plausible incorrect response options—i.e., distractors. To help with this task, a procedure is introduced that can mine existing item banks for potential distractors by considering the similarities between a new item’s stem and answer and the stems and response options for items in the bank. This approach uses natural language processing to measure similarity and requires a substantial pool of items for constructing the generating model. The procedure is demonstrated with data from the United States Medical Licensing Examination (USMLE®). For about half the items in the study, at least one of the top three system-produced candidates matched a human-produced distractor exactly; and for about one quarter of the items, two of the top three candidates matched human-produced distractors. A study was conducted in which a sample of system-produced candidates were shown to 10 experienced item writers. Overall, participants thought about 81% of the candidates were on topic and 56% would help human item writers with the task of writing distractors.
Print Imprint: The Connection Between the Physical Newspaper and the Self
Authors: Mathews Nick
Published: November 2021

This research puts forward the theoretical concept “print imprint,” articulating the connection between the printed newspaper and its reader’s “Self.” This paper contends that the printed newspaper draws out the meaningfulness of ownership, touch and nostalgia, all influential ingredients of the self. This research centers on interviews with 19 former readers of a weekly newspaper that shuttered. The findings illustrate the significance, usefulness and uniqueness of the printed newspaper. In particular, participants expressed a relationship with the printed newspaper, calling it “my paper.” Ultimately, this research argues that the loss of the weekly newspaper prompted a loss or lessening of self of the abandoned readers. Finally, this article argues this “print imprint” extends beyond printed newspapers and should be considered for all print products, including magazines and books, pointing to future research possibilities.
Early post-septal myectomy outcomes for hypertrophic obstructive cardiomyopathy
Authors: Afanasyev Alexandr V , Bogachev-Prokophiev Alexandr V , Zheleznev Sergei I , Zalesov Anton S , Budagaev Sergei A , Shajahmetova Svetlana V , Nazarov Vladimir M , Demin Igor I , Sharifulin Ravil M , Pivkin Alexey N , Astapov Dmitriy A , Cherniavsky Alexandr M
Published: November 2021

Background

We aimed to evaluate early outcomes of septal myectomy in patients with hypertrophic cardiomyopathy.

Methods

We retrospectively analyzed data collected over a 9-year period from 583 patients who underwent septal myectomy for hypertrophic cardiomyopathy at our institution.

Results

The mean age was 55.7 ± 13.1 years, and 338 (58%) patients were in New York Heart Association class III or IV. There were 11 (1.9%) early deaths, including 3 (0.5%) intraoperative deaths. Early mortality was lowest after isolated septal myectomy (0.8%) and highest after concomitant mitral valve replacement (6.1%). There were 4 (0.7%) and 9 (1.5%) patients with left ventricular wall rupture and ventricular septal defect, respectively, after myectomy. New pacemaker implantation caused by atrioventricular disturbances was required in 29 (5.0%) patients, and was associated with previous alcohol septal ablation (odds ratio 3.34, 95% confidence interval 1.02–11.0, P = 0.047). Left ventricular wall rupture, intraoperative residual (15.5% moderate, 0.3% severe) mitral regurgitation, and pre-discharge residual outflow tract gradient >30 mm Hg (4.6%) occurrences were surgeon-dependent.

Conclusions

The early results are consistent with example targets reported in the 2020 American College of Cardiology/American Heart Association guidelines for septal reduction therapy outcomes. Septal myectomy safety and efficacy are surgeon-dependent. Previous alcohol septal ablation increases the risk of permanent pacemaker implantation due to postoperative complete atrioventricular block. Therefore, continuous education, mentoring, and learning by doing may play an important role in achieving reasonable septal myectomy safety and efficacy.
Familial Co-Aggregation of Dementia with Schizophrenia: A Cross Sectional Pedigree Analysis
Authors: Chawan Namdev , Jain Sanjeev , Garg Shobit
Published: November 2021

Background:

Cognitive impairment is the core outcome defining feature in schizophrenia. Schizophrenia, in the context of a broader neurodegenerative conceptualization, may have shared etiology with major neurocognitive disorders (MNCD). To elucidate this association there is definite need to explore the familial loading of dementia, in families of patients with schizophrenia.

Methods:

The authors compared relatives including parental generation and siblings of 100 cases (schizophrenia probands) and 100 controls (anxiety disorder) in order to assess the familial co-aggregation of MNCD. All cases and control were screened with Mini International Neuropsychiatric Interview screen for psychiatric morbidity. The pedigree analysis was conducted by family history method and Family Interview for Genetic Studies. Cognitive impairment in pedigree was screened by community screening instrument for dementia.

Results:

There was nonreporting of MNCD in the total 2538 relatives (proband siblings +parental generation) of both cases and controls. Diabetes mellitus was the most common somatic morbidity, found significantly more among the parental generation of cases than healthy controls ( χ2 (1, 1713) = 6.452, P < 0.05). The odds of having various psychiatric and medical morbidities in the schizophrenia families compared to control are less than 1.

Conclusion:

There is no familial co-aggregation of MNCD in schizophrenia probands and common etiology between the two is less likely. Either schizophrenia could be counter-intuitively protective for MNCD or a reversible risk factor that can be prevented by effective treatments