bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Reactive Oxygen Species as a Link between Antioxidant Pathways and Autophagy
Authors: Li Dan , Ding Zongxian , Du Kaili , Ye Xiangshi , Cheng Shixue
Published: July 2021

Reactive oxygen species (ROS) are highly reactive molecules that can oxidize proteins, lipids, and DNA. Under physiological conditions, ROS are mainly generated in the mitochondria during aerobic metabolism. Under pathological conditions, excessive ROS disrupt cellular homeostasis. High levels of ROS result in severe oxidative damage to the cellular machinery. However, a low/mild level of ROS could serve as a signal to trigger cell survival mechanisms. To prevent and cope with oxidative damage to biomolecules, cells have developed various antioxidant and detoxifying mechanisms. Meanwhile, ROS can initiate autophagy, a process of self‐clearance, which helps to reduce oxidative damage by engulfing and degrading oxidized substance. This review summarizes the interactions among ROS, autophagy, and antioxidant pathways. The effects of natural phytochemicals on autophagy induction, antioxidation, and dual‐function are also discussed.
Data Reliability Analysis of Wireless Sensor Nodes considering Perturbation
Authors: Jin Shukun , Xie Yawen , Gao Yanzi , Zhou Guohui , Zhang Wei , Tang Shuaiwen , He Wei
Published: July 2021

Wireless Sensor Network (WSN) is widely used in precision engineering, which requires strict data accuracy. Therefore, it is of practical value to evaluate the reliability of WSN data. Considering the complexity of the real environment, the sensor is bound to be affected by the disturbance factors. Currently, the research result of WSN data disturbance is not ideal. Because the results of reliability analysis are not necessarily credible under a disturbance environment. Thus, it is necessary to judge the reliability of sensor nodes in the disturbance environment. Therefore, disturbance analysis is introduced. In this paper, the temporal correlation and spatial correlation of measured data of WSN nodes are taken as reliability indicators. Through the disturbance analysis method to simulate the disturbance in the working process of nodes, a data reliability evaluation model of WSN nodes is proposed, which is based on the evidence reasoning (ER) rule in the disturbance environment. Based on the wireless sensor experiment of the Intel Berkeley research laboratory, the rationality of the model is explained in this paper. ER rule considering disturbance provides an effective method to analyze the reliability of WSN data.
Percutaneous Kyphoplasty Guided by CT Images Based on SEPB Algorithm in the Treatment of Elderly Osteoporotic Thoracolumbar Vertebral Compression Fractures
Authors: He Yanming , Zhang Shujun , Liu Xueguang , Mao Dong , Sun Zhenzhong
Published: July 2021

The paper uses the SEPB algorithm to explore the value of X-ray and CT diagnosis in elderly patients with osteoporotic lumbar compressive fractures, while observing percutaneous kyphoplasty (PKP) in the treatment of elderly osteoporotic compression fractures with clinical efficacy. 38 elderly patients with fractured osteoporotic compression fractures who came to our hospital for treatment were included. All patients were diagnosed by X-ray and CT, the clinical data of all patients were analyzed, the imaging findings related to X-ray and CT diagnosis were clarified, and the diagnostic coincidence rate was analyzed. At the same time, PKP treatment was applied for clinical efficacy and Imaging analysis. And, follow-up was conducted for 2 months after operation. The results showed that compared with the X-ray diagnosis, the accuracy of CT diagnosis was 88.89% (32/38), and the difference between the groups was significant (

P
<
0.05

). 35 cases of low back pain disappeared after operation, and 3 cases of pain were significantly reduced without bone cement leakage. Postoperative imaging examination showed no space occupied in the spinal canal, and kyphosis deformity was significantly improved. The average height of the anterior vertebral column after injury was significantly increased (

P
<
0.05

). The Cobb angle returned to normal level, which was statistically significant compared with that before the operation (

P
<
0.05

). In conclusion, in the diagnosis of elderly patients with osteoporotic lumbar compression fractures, the coincidence rate of CT diagnosis is better than that of X-ray diagnosis. Therefore, the application rate of CT diagnostic methods in diagnosis is higher, which provides an effective basis for clinical diagnosis and treatment. PKP surgery is less invasive, safe, and has good clinical efficacy. It can quickly relieve pain and effectively restore the height of injured vertebrae. It is an ideal treatment method for elderly osteoporotic thoracolumbar vertebral compression fractures.
Characterization of the Modulatory Effect of Hydroxychloroquine on ACE2 Activity: New Insights in relation to COVID‐19
Authors: Tichauer Juan E. , Soto Dagoberto , Andresen Max
Published: July 2021

Chloroquine (CQ) and hydroxychloroquine (HCQ) have shown the ability to inhibit in vitro viral replications of coronaviridae viruses such as SARS‐CoV and SARS‐CoV‐2. However, clinical trial outcomes have been disparate, suggesting that CQ and HCQ antiviral mechanisms are not fully understood. Based on three‐dimensional structural similarities between HCQ and the known ACE2 specific inhibitor MLN‐4760, we compared their modulation on ACE2 activity. Here we describe, for the first time, in a cell‐free in vitro system that HCQ directly and dose‐dependently inhibits the activity of recombinant human ACE2, with a potency similar to the MLN‐4760. Further analysis suggests that HCQ binds to a noncompetitive site other than the one occupied by MLN‐4760. We also determined that the viral spike glycoprotein segment that comprises the RBD segment has no effect on ACE2 activity but unexpectedly was able to partially reverse the inhibition induced by HCQ but not that by MLN‐4760. In summary, here we demonstrate the direct inhibitory action of HCQ over the activity of the enzyme ACE2. Then, by determining the activity of ACE2, we reveal that the interaction with the spike protein of SARS‐CoV‐2 leads to structural changes that at least partially displace the interaction of the said enzyme with HCQ. These results may help to explain why the effectiveness of HCQ in clinical trials has been so variable. Additionally, this knowledge could be used for to develop techniques for the detection of SARS‐CoV‐2.
[Retracted] Emergency Optimization Decision‐Making with Incomplete Probabilistic Information under the Background of COVID‐19
Authors: Fu Ming , Wang Lifang , Zhu Jiaming , Zheng Bingyun
Published: July 2021

At present, the whole world is facing the serious challenge of COVID‐19, and it has reached a consensus that taking appropriate measures timely is the key to prevent and control infectious diseases. This paper proposes an algorithm to solve the problem of how to choose the most appropriate alternative from numerous alternatives in the limited time from the perspective of management. First of all, we have compared various data structures for keeping the comparison results of alternatives. After comparisons, we adopt the hesitant fuzzy incomplete probabilistic linguistic preference relation matrix to save the information which can keep the first‐hand valuable collected data to the maximum extent; then, we can obtain the missing values with the help of the fault tree analysis method, which can consider both subjective evaluation data and objective historical data simultaneously. Meanwhile, the fault tree analysis method can find development laws with the help of similar infectious diseases that have occurred in the past. The definition of consistency index is also introduced which can measure whether there are contradictions and the degree of contradiction in the decision results. Only those data that meet the consistency requirements can be used for decision‐making and then a method is proposed to effectively reduce the degree of inconsistency. The information aggregation method will be adopted subsequently, and we can obtain the ranking of alternatives. An instance with specific execution steps is also introduced to illustrate the feasibility and efficiency of the algorithm proposed in this paper; in the end, several types of comparisons with typical algorithms proposed by other scholars are carried out, and all the experimental results show that the algorithm proposed in this paper is effective and innovative in some aspects.
A 24-Year-Old Female Transplant Recipient with Type 2 Membranoproliferative Glomerulonephritis and Disseminated Shingles: A Cautionary Tale of Deferring to Primary Care
Authors: Burdorf Benjamin T.
Published: July 2021

In this report, the case of a 24-year-old Caucasian female with type 2 membranoproliferative glomerulonephritis status-post living donor kidney transplant managed on triple regimen immunosuppressive therapy who developed shingles is discussed. With its onset, she promptly reached out to her nephrologist who deferred her to primary care. Prior to seeing her primary provider, she developed disseminated herpes zoster. She consulted emergency services where she was given inadequate care and again deferred to primary care. One day later, the dissemination included her entire torso, face, oral cavity, and all extremities. Fortunately, the patient had the insight to again reach out to her nephrologist who arranged for her to be admitted for appropriate care 6 days after her initial inquiry that carried 6 days of zoster progression. This case demonstrates how it is pertinent that specialists recognize potentially lethal complications associated with the conditions they follow. Although convenient to defer to primary care, if specialists were to take on the responsibility of providing a broader scope of care for their unique subsets of patients, it would likely result in a reduction in the 80% of serious medical errors that occur as a result of miscommunication, or lack thereof, between care providers.
Improved Carrier Frequency-Shifting Algorithm Based on 2-FFT for Phase Wrap Reduction
Authors: Zhang Zhouqiang , Wang Feilei , Xu Guangshen , Jia Jiangtao , Liu Xuejing , Cao Yabin
Published: July 2021

The number of phase wraps that result from the carrier component can be completely eliminated or reduced by first applying a fast Fourier transform (FFT) to the image and then shifting the spectrum to the origin. However, because the spectrum can only be shifted by an integer number, the phase wraps of the carrier component cannot be completely reduced. In this paper, an improved carrier frequency-shifting algorithm based on 2-FFT for phase wrap reduction is proposed which allows the spectrum to be shifted by a rational number. Firstly, the phase wraps are reduced by the conventional FFT frequency shift method. Secondly, the wrapped phase with residual carrier components is filtered and magnified sequentially; the amplified phase is transformed into the frequency domain using an FFT, and then, the wrapped phase with the residual carrier components can be further reduced by shifting the spectrum by a rational number. Simulations and experiments were conducted to validate the efficiency of the proposed method.
Deep Learning Approach for Discovery of In Silico Drugs for Combating COVID-19
Authors: Jha Nishant , Prashar Deepak , Rashid Mamoon , Shafiq Mohammad , Khan Razaullah , Pruncu Catalin I. , Tabrez Siddiqui Shams , Saravana Kumar M.
Published: July 2021

Early diagnosis of pandemic diseases such as COVID-19 can prove beneficial in dealing with difficult situations and helping radiologists and other experts manage staffing more effectively. The application of deep learning techniques for genetics, microscopy, and drug discovery has created a global impact. It can enhance and speed up the process of medical research and development of vaccines, which is required for pandemics such as COVID-19. However, current drugs such as remdesivir and clinical trials of other chemical compounds have not shown many impressive results. Therefore, it can take more time to provide effective treatment or drugs. In this paper, a deep learning approach based on logistic regression, SVM, Random Forest, and QSAR modeling is suggested. QSAR modeling is done to find the drug targets with protein interaction along with the calculation of binding affinities. Then deep learning models were used for training the molecular descriptor dataset for the robust discovery of drugs and feature extraction for combating COVID-19. Results have shown more significant binding affinities (greater than −18) for many molecules that can be used to block the multiplication of SARS-CoV-2, responsible for COVID-19.
Experimental Study of the Influence of Moisture Content on the Mechanical Properties and Energy Storage Characteristics of Coal
Authors: Liu Nan , Li Chuanming , Feng Ruimin , Xia Xin , Gao Xiang
Published: July 2021

Rock burst occurs frequently as coal mining depth goes deeper, which seriously impacts the safety production of underground coal mines. Coal seam water injection is a technique commonly used to prevent and control such accidents. Moisture content is a critical factor tightly related to rock burst; however, an in-depth insight is required to discover their relationship. In this study, the influence of moisture content on the mechanical properties of coal and rock burst tendency is explored via multiple measurement techniques: uniaxial compression test, cyclic loading/unloading test, and acoustic emission (AE) test. These tests were performed on coal samples using the MTS-816 rock mechanics servo testing machine and AE system. The testing results showed that with the increase in moisture content, the peak strength and elastic modulus of each coal sample are reduced while the peak strain increases. The duration of the elastic deformation phase in the complete stress-strain curves of coal samples is shortened. As the moisture content increases, the area of hysteretic loop and elastic energy index

W

ET

of each coal sample are reduced, and the impact energy index

K

E

is negatively correlated with the moisture content, whereas dynamic failure time is positively correlated with the moisture content, but this variation trend is gradually mitigated with the continuous increase of moisture content. The failure of the coal sample is accompanied by the sharp increase in the AE ring-down count, whose peak value lags behind the peak stress, and the ring-down count is still generated after the coal sample reached the peak stress. With the increase in moisture content, the failure mode of the coal sample is gradually inclined to tensile failure. The above test results manifested that the strength of the coal sample is weakened to some extent after holding moisture, the accumulative elastic energy is reduced in case of coal failure, and thus, coal and rock burst tendency can be alleviated. The study results can provide a theoretical reference for studying the fracture instability of moisture-bearing coal and prevention of coal and rock burst by the water injection technique.
Single‐Cell Transcriptomics‐Based Study of Transcriptional Regulatory Features in the Mouse Brain Vasculature
Authors: Lin Wei-Wei , Xu Lin-Tao , Chen Yi-Sheng , Go Ken , Sun Chenyu , Zhu Yong-Jian
Published: July 2021

Background. The critical role of vascular health on brain function has received much attention in recent years. At the single‐cell level, studies on the developmental processes of cerebral vascular growth are still relatively few. Techniques for constructing gene regulatory networks (GRNs) based on single‐cell transcriptome expression data have made significant progress in recent years. Herein, we constructed a single‐cell transcriptional regulatory network of mouse cerebrovascular cells. Methods. The single‐cell RNA‐seq dataset of mouse brain vessels was downloaded from GEO (GSE98816). This cell clustering was annotated separately using singleR and CellMarker. We then used a modified version of the SCENIC method to construct GRNs. Next, we used a mouse version of SEEK to assess whether genes in the regulon were coexpressed. Finally, regulatory module analysis was performed to complete the cell type relationship quantification. Results. Single‐cell RNA‐seq data were used to analyze the heterogeneity of mouse cerebrovascular cells, whereby four cell types including endothelial cells, fibroblasts, microglia, and oligodendrocytes were defined. These subpopulations of cells and marker genes together characterize the molecular profile of mouse cerebrovascular cells. Through these signatures, key transcriptional regulators that maintain cell identity were identified. Our findings identified genes like Lmo2, which play an important role in endothelial cells. The same cell type, for instance, fibroblasts, was found to have different regulatory networks, which may influence the functional characteristics of local tissues. Conclusions. In this study, a transcriptional regulatory network based on single‐cell analysis was constructed. Additionally, the study identified and profiled mouse cerebrovascular cells using single‐cell transcriptome data as well as defined TFs that affect the regulatory network of the mouse brain vasculature.
Application of Multiacoustic Data in Feature Extraction of Anemometer
Authors: Chen Dawei , Guo Xu
Published: July 2021

The acoustic characteristics of wind instruments are a major feature in the field of vocal music. This paper studies the application effect of wind power instrument feature extraction based on multiacoustic data. Combined with the acoustic data training model, the classification algorithm based on deep trust network is used to process multiple acoustic data. Using multiple acoustic data for feature extraction, the recognition and matching between multiple acoustic data and wind measuring instrument are realized. The experiment not only evaluates the error of the network classification algorithm but also describes the evaluation function of the deep belief network classification algorithm in the system. The traditional SNR evaluation method is used to improve the deficiency of evaluation function. Through the deep belief network classification algorithm for self‐learning, the instrument recognition method with strong applicability is established. Finally, the effectiveness of multiacoustic data in wind power instrument feature extraction is verified.
Reemergence of Yellow Fever in Brazil: The Role of Distinct Landscape Fragmentation Thresholds
Authors: Ilacqua Roberto C. , Medeiros-Sousa Antônio R. , Ramos Daniel G. , Obara Marcos T. , Ceretti-Junior Walter , Mucci Luis F. , Marrelli Mauro T. , Laporta Gabriel Z.
Published: July 2021

Yellow Fever Virus (YFV) reemergence in Brazil was followed by human suffering and the loss of biodiversity of neotropical simians on the Atlantic coast. The underlying mechanisms were investigated with special focus on distinct landscape fragmentation thresholds in the affected municipalities. An ecological study in epidemiology is employed to assess the statistical relationship between events of YFV and forest fragmentation in municipal landscapes. Negative binomial regression model showed that highly fragmented forest cover was associated with an 85% increase of events of YFV in humans and simians (RR = 1.85, CI 95% = 1.24–2.75,

p
=
0.003

) adjusted by vaccine coverage, population size, and municipality area. Intermediate levels of forest cover combined with higher levels of forest edge densities contribute to the YFV dispersion and the exponential growth of YF cases. Strategies for forest conservation are necessary for the control and prevention of YF and other zoonotic diseases that can spillover from the fragmented forest remains to populated cities of the Brazilian Atlantic coast.
Analysis of Laterally Loaded Piles in Undrained Clay Concave Slope
Authors: Jiang Chong , Li Xintai , Liu Pan , Pang Li
Published: July 2021

A concave slope is a common type of slope. This paper proposes a simplified method to study the effect of a clay concave slope on laterally loaded piles. The hyperbolic

p

-

y

curve model is selected as the lateral pile-soil interaction model of the concave slope. Considering the two angles of the concave slope, the variation of the ultimate soil resistance with depth is divided into two parts, and the ultimate soil resistance varies nonlinearly with depth. The reduction factor method and normalization method are used to obtain the initial stiffness. The theoretical results will be compared with the calculation results of the 3D FE analysis to prove the rationality of this method. Finally, the simplified method is used to analyze the response of laterally loaded piles under different parameters.
A Visual Grasping Strategy for Improving Assembly Efficiency Based on Deep Reinforcement Learning
Authors: Wang Yongzhi , Zhu Sicheng , Zhang Qian , Zhou Ran , Dou Rutong , Sun Haonan , Yao Qingfeng , Xu Mingwei , Zhang Yu
Published: July 2021

The adjustment times of the attitude alignment are fluctuated due to the fluctuation of the contact force signal caused by the disturbing moments in the compliant peg‐in‐hole assembly. However, these fluctuations are difficult to accurately measure or definition as a result of many uncertain factors in the working environment. It is worth noting that gravitational disturbing moments and inertia moments significantly impact these fluctuations, in which the changes of the peg concerning the mass and the length have a crucial influence on them. In this paper, a visual grasping strategy based on deep reinforcement learning is proposed for peg‐in‐hole assembly. Firstly, the disturbing moments of assembly are analyzed to investigate the factors for the fluctuation of assembly time. Then, this research designs a visual grasping strategy, which establishes a mapping relationship between the grasping position and the assembly time to improve the assembly efficiency. Finally, a robotic system for the assembly was built in V‐REP to verify the effectiveness of the proposed method, and the robot can complete the training independently without human intervention and manual labeling in the grasping training process. The simulated results show that this method can improve assembly efficiency by 13.83%. And, when the mass and the length of the peg change, the proposed method is still effective for the improvement of assembly efficiency.
Not “Much Room” in the Heart: A Rare Case of a Massive Intracardiac Candida Mass
Authors: Jafry Ali Haider , Ijaz Sardar Hassan , Mazhar Murtaza , Shahnawaz Areeba , Yousif Ali
Published: July 2021

Introduction. Coupled with the increasing use of indwelling vascular catheters and prosthetic cardiac valves is an uptrend in sepsis secondary to fungemia. An insidious onset often shrouds the initial diagnosis, contributing to poor outcomes. Candida infective endocarditis (CIE) is a feared complication of candidemia, associated with high mortality rates. It requires prolonged hospital stays for medical and, often, surgical management. We report a case of a massive intracardiac Candida mass in an adult with native valve CIE. Case. A 51-year-old male on chronic total parenteral nutrition (TPN) because of bowel resection presented with fevers, night sweats, and unintentional weight loss. He was febrile and tachycardiac on admission, with a benign physical examination. Laboratory workup showed elevated inflammatory markers and an acute kidney injury. Extended blood cultures showed growth of Candida glabrata (C. glabrata) and Candida dubliniensis (C. dubliniensis). Transthoracic (TTE) and transesophageal echocardiography revealed a large mobile right atrial mass (4 cm × 6 cm × 2.5 cm), extending to the right ventricular outflow tract. Since he was a poor surgical candidate, management with micafungin was initiated and continued for 8 weeks. He responded well to the regimen with resolution of the fungal mass on follow-up TTE 3 months later. In anticipation of the future need for TPN, he continues on lifelong suppressive oral fluconazole. Conclusion. CIE may be an insidious complication of indwelling central venous catheters, necessitating a high index of suspicion. Conservative management, with antifungal therapy, can yield favorable outcomes in poor surgical candidates.
Elucidating the Pivotal Neuroimmunomodulation of Stem Cells in Spinal Cord Injury Repair
Authors: Richard Seidu A. , Sackey Marian
Published: July 2021

Spinal cord injury (SCI) is a distressing incident with abrupt onset of the motor as well as sensory dysfunction, and most often, the injury occurs as result of high-energy or velocity accidents as well as contact sports and falls in the elderly. The key challenges associated with nerve repair are the lack of self-repair as well as neurotrophic factors and primary and secondary neuronal apoptosis, as well as factors that prevent the regeneration of axons locally. Neurons that survive the initial traumatic damage may be lost due to pathogenic activities like neuroinflammation and apoptosis. Implanted stem cells are capable of differentiating into neural cells that replace injured cells as well as offer local neurotrophic factors that aid neuroprotection, immunomodulation, axonal sprouting, axonal regeneration, and remyelination. At the microenvironment of SCI, stem cells are capable of producing growth factors like brain-derived neurotrophic factor and nerve growth factor which triggers neuronal survival as well as axonal regrowth. Although stem cells have proven to be of therapeutic value in SCI, the major disadvantage of some of the cell types is the risk for tumorigenicity due to the contamination of undifferentiated cells prior to transplantation. Local administration of stem cells via either direct cellular injection into the spinal cord parenchyma or intrathecal administration into the subarachnoid space is currently the best transplantation modality for stem cells during SCI.
A Loss Reduction Optimization Method for Distribution Network Based on Combined Power Loss Reduction Strategy
Authors: Xie Jihua , Chen Chang , Long Huan
Published: July 2021

Power loss reflects the effective utilization rate of energy and the management level of power grids. In this paper, we propose a combined power loss reduction strategy optimization framework to improve the power loss reduction effect in a distribution network. The weak points of the distribution network are analyzed based on power flow calculation. The corresponding power loss reduction strategies are generated considering the following three aspects: replacing distribution lines, distribution transformers, and reactive power compensation. A combined power loss reduction strategy optimization model considering the comprehensive benefits of power loss reduction is established. A method for solving the optimization model based on the cost‐benefit ratio is also proposed. Experiments based on the dataset from Tianjin show that the proposed loss reduction optimization method can effectively reduce power loss and formulate a reasonable loss reduction modification scheme in the distribution network.
Abrus precatorius Leaf Extract Reverses Alloxan/Nicotinamide‐Induced Diabetes Mellitus in Rats through Hormonal (Insulin, GLP‐1, and Glucagon) and Enzymatic (α‐Amylase/α‐Glucosidase) Modulation
Authors: Boye Alex , Barku Victor Yao Atsu , Acheampong Desmond Omane , Ofori Eric Gyamerah
Published: July 2021

Background. Abrus precatorius is used in folk medicine across Afro‐Asian regions of the world. Earlier, glucose lowering and pancreato‐protective effects of Abrus precatorius leaf extract (APLE) was confirmed experimentally in STZ/nicotinamide‐induced diabetic rats; however, the underlying mechanism of antidiabetic effect and pancreato‐protection remained unknown. Objective. This study elucidated antidiabetic mechanisms and pancreato‐protective effects of APLE in diabetic rats. Materials and Methods. APLE was prepared by ethanol/Soxhlet extraction method. Total phenols and flavonoids were quantified calorimetrically after initial phytochemical screening. Diabetes mellitus (DM) was established in adult Sprague‐Dawley rats (weighing 120–180 g) of both sexes by daily sequential injection of nicotinamide (48 mg/kg; ip) and Alloxan (120 mg/kg; ip) over a period of 7 days. Except control rats which had fasting blood glucose (FBG) of 4.60 mmol/L, rats having stable FBG (16–21 mmol/L) 7 days post‐nicotinamide/Alloxan injection were considered diabetic and were randomly reassigned to one of the following groups (model, APLE (100, 200, and 400 mg/kg, respectively; po) and metformin (300 mg/kg; po)) and treated daily for 18 days. Bodyweight and FBG were measured every 72 hours for 18 days. On day 18, rats were sacrificed under deep anesthesia; organs (kidney, liver, pancreas, and spleen) were isolated and weighed. Blood was collected for estimation of serum insulin, glucagon, and GLP‐1 using a rat‐specific ELISA kit. The pancreas was processed, sectioned, and H&E‐stained for histological examination. Effect of APLE on enzymatic activity of alpha (α)‐amylase and α‐glucosidase was assessed. Antioxidant and free radical scavenging properties of APLE were assessed using standard methods. Results. APLE dose‐dependently decreased the initial FBG by 68.67%, 31.07%, and 4.39% compared to model (4.34%) and metformin (43.63%). APLE (100 mg/kg) treatment restored weight loss relative to model. APLE increased serum insulin and GLP‐1 but decreased serum glucagon relative to model. APLE increased both the number and median crosssectional area (×106μm2) of pancreatic islets compared to that of model. APLE produced concentration‐dependent inhibition of α‐amylase and α‐glucosidase relative to acarbose. APLE concentration dependently scavenged DPPH and nitric oxide (NO) radicals and demonstrated increased ferric reducing antioxidant capacity (FRAC) relative to standards. Conclusion. Antidiabetic effect of APLE is mediated through modulation of insulin and GLP‐1 inversely with glucagon, noncompetitive inhibition of α‐amylase and α‐glucosidase, free radical scavenging, and recovery of damaged/necro‐apoptosized pancreatic β‐cells.
Postoperative Changes in Tongue Area and Pharyngeal Airway Space following Mandibular Setback Surgery through Intraoral Vertical Ramus Osteotomy
Authors: Chen Kwei-Jing , Chen Ying-Ting , Hsiao Szu-Yu , Chen Michael Yuan-Chien
Published: July 2021

Purpose. The aim of this study was to determine changes in the tongue area and pharyngeal airway space (PAS) after intraoral vertical ramus osteotomy (IVRO). Materials and Methods. Serial lateral cephalograms of 40 patients with mandibular prognathism who underwent IVRO were evaluated before (T1), immediately after (T2), and more than 1 year after (T3) surgery. Paired t‐tests and Pearson’s correlation analysis were used to evaluate the postoperative changes in the mandible, nasopharyngeal airway (NOP), retropalatal pharyngeal airway (RPP), retroglossal pharyngeal airway (RGP), hypopharyngeal airway (HOP), PAS, and tongue area (TA). The null hypothesis states that there are no significant correlations among the extent of mandibular setback and the changes in the TA and PAS after IVRO. Results. Immediately after the operation (T12), the mandible was set back by 12.6 mm. The NOP, HOP, and PAS were significantly reduced by 35.7 mm2, 116 mm2, and 185 mm2, respectively. The TA was increased by 69.6 mm2. The changes in PAS and TA revealed no significant difference between female and male patients at T12, T23, and T13. Moreover, no significant correlations were found among the extent of mandibular setback, TA changes, and PAS changes after IVRO. Thus, the null hypothesis was accepted. Conclusions. At the final follow‐up (T13), no significant change was found in the PAS (including NOP, RPP, RGP, and HOP) and TA. The changes in PAS and TA revealed no significant difference between female and male patients at T12, T23, and T13.
Failure of XEN Gel Stent Implantation as a Stand-Alone Procedure in Congenital Glaucoma: Case Report of Secondary Congenital Glaucoma in Neurofibromatosis Type 1
Authors: Schellhase Hannah , Fuest Matthias , Kuerten David , Walter Peter , Plange Niklas
Published: July 2021

A XEN gel stent implant procedure was performed in a one-year-old child with severe unilateral congenital glaucoma. At the age of 6 weeks, an uncomplicated 360° trabeculotomy had been performed, which resulted in intraocular pressure (IOP) control for only 4 months. The gel stent implantation was performed ab interno without complications. However, 1 month later, the stent was repelled into the anterior chamber due to the elasticity of Tenon’s layer. A first revision surgery was performed, with excision of Tenon’s layer and implantation of a new gel stent under sight. At the age of 18 months, a second revision surgery was performed because of an encapsulated Tenon cyst with insufficient IOP control, again with the implantation of a new stent. At that time, a progressive upper eyelid swelling was apparent. Eyelid biopsy led to the diagnosis of neurofibromatosis type 1, presenting with an orbital plexiform neurofibroma. Further insufficient IOP control resulted in a cyclodestructive procedure and loss of light perception during follow-up. XEN gel stent implantation in congenital glaucoma in infants is more challenging than that in adult patients. Gel stent implantation ab interno may be difficult due to the thickness and elasticity of Tenon’s layer. Gel stent dislocation may occur, even months after surgery. Trabeculectomy might be a better approach after failed trabeculotomy in congenital glaucoma. An underlying systemic disease might become apparent late during follow-up.
In Vitro Effect of Acidic Solutions and Sodium Fluoride on Surface Roughness of Two Types of CAD-CAM Dental Ceramics
Authors: Farhadi Elham , Kermanshah Hamid , Rafizadeh Shiva , Saeedi Reza , Ranjbar Omrani Ladan
Published: July 2021

Objectives. This study assessed the effect of immersion in acidic solutions and sodium fluoride on surface roughness of dental ceramics. Materials and Methods. 40 blocks of Vitablocs Mark II and IPS e.max CAD (5 × 5 × 3) were prepared. The samples were divided into five groups (n = 8) for immersion in artificial saliva (control), artificially prepared gastric acid, acetic acid, 0.02% sodium fluoride + gastric acid, and 0.02% sodium fluoride + acetic acid. The samples were immersed for 168 hours in the respective solutions except for sodium fluoride, in which the samples were immersed for 69 hours. The surface roughness of samples was measured before and after immersion using a profilometer. The surface roughness changes of three specimens of each group were evaluated by scanning electron microscopy (SEM). Data were analyzed using one-way and two-way ANOVA, Tukey’s test, and independent t-test. Results. Significant changes were noted in Ra (P=0.002) and Rq (P<0.0001) in both types of ceramics. The lowest changes in Ra and Rq parameters were seen in artificial saliva and gastric acid and highest changes occurred following immersion in 0.02% sodium fluoride + acetic acid and 0.02% sodium fluoride + gastric acid, respectively. Changes in Rz were also significant following immersion in Vitablocs Mark II (P<0.05). Immersion in 0.02% sodium fluoride + gastric acid and 0.02% sodium fluoride + acetic acid produced a rougher surface on both types of ceramics (SEM). Conclusion. Exposure of Vitablocs Mark II CAD and IPS e.max CAD to 0.02% sodium fluoride + gastric acid and 0.02% sodium fluoride + acetic acid significantly increased their surface roughness, while for Vitablocs Mark II, lager defects were seen on its surface.
Predicting Canine and Premolar Mesiodistal Crown Diameters Using Regression Equations
Authors: Eliewy Saloom Jinan , Muslim Al Azzawi Arkan , Nahidh Mohammed , Chaffat Auliawi Al-Mayahi Sajid , Sahib Mahdi Baraa
Published: July 2021

Objectives. The current study aimed to predict the combined mesiodistal crown widths of maxillary and mandibular canines and premolars from the combined mesiodistal crown widths of maxillary and mandibular incisors and first molars. Materials and Methods. This retrospective study utilized 120 dental models from Iraqi Arab young adult subjects with normal dental relationships. The mesiodistal crown widths of all teeth (except the second molars) were measured at the level of contact points using digital electronic calipers. The relation between the sum mesiodistal crown widths of the maxillary and mandibular incisors and first molars and the combined mesiodistal crown widths of the maxillary and mandibular canines and premolars was assessed using Pearson’s correlation coefficient test. Based on this relation, regression equations were developed to predict the sum widths of maxillary and mandibular canines and premolars; then, the predicted mesiodistal crown sum widths were compared with the actual one using a paired sample t-test. Results. Statistically, the predicted mesiodistal crown sum widths were nonsignificantly different from the actual ones. Conclusions. The combined mesiodistal widths of maxillary and mandibular canines and premolars can be predicted successfully from the combined mesiodistal widths of the maxillary and mandibular incisors and first molars with a high degree of accuracy reaching to more than 86%.
O efeito do perfil do diretor escolar sobre a proficiência dos alunos no estado de Minas Gerais
Authors: Benedicto Bianca Vieira , Teixeira Evandro Camargos
Published: July 2021

Diversas pesquisas abordam os determinantes do rendimento escolar, no entanto pouco se discute na literatura quanto ao efeito do perfil do diretor sobre o aprendizado dos alunos. Nesse sentido, este trabalho utiliza o modelo hierárquico de regressão com o objetivo de avaliar o impacto que as características pessoais e gerenciais dos diretores apresentam sobre a proficiência dos alunos do terceiro ano do ensino médio do estado de Minas Gerais em 2017. Verifica-se que o perfil dos diretores se relaciona positivamente ao desempenho escolar, o que sugere maior investimento em programas de educação continuada voltados a eles.
Pronatec e o mercado de trabalho: uma análise para os cursos oferecidos no IFRS campus Rio Grande
Authors: Silva José Felipe Duarte da , Teixeira Gibran da Silva , Halmenschlager Vinícius , Pereira Rafael Mesquita , Ely Régis Augusto
Published: July 2021

Este artigo tem por objetivo avaliar a efetividade do Pronatec sobre o salário de reinserção, tempo de emprego e empregabilidade dos trabalhadores que participaram dos cursos do programa no IFRS, campus Rio Grande em 2013 e 2014. Para tanto, foi aplicado o método de Diferenças em Diferenças com os dados identificados da Relação Anual de Informações Sociais – RAIS para o período de 2011 a 2018. Os resultados apontam que os cursos do Pronatec oferecidos pelo IFRS - campus Rio Grande, no período destacado, não geraram efeitos sobre as dimensões avaliadas, indicando assim, a falta de efetividade do programa.
Estudo sobre rigidez de preços no Brasil: uma abordagem setorial com informações agregadas
Authors: Bezerra Jocildo Fernandes , Maciel Silva Igor Ézio
Published: July 2021

Utilizando os componentes não observados dos produtos real e nominal estima-se modelo DSGE semi-estrutural de rigidez de preços que varia entre os setores. Exercício Monte Carlo testa a similitude da estrutura de preços do Brasil versus Estados Unidos e um modelo de Markov analisa a estabilidade da política monetária no período de 1996:1 a 2015:4. Revelam-se distribuições de rigidez de preços e graus de complementaridade estratégica e comparam-se as persistências dos efeitos dos choques nominais no produto e na inflação entre os cenários de homogeneidade e heterogeneidade estrutural. Neste último caso há vantagem substancial para identificar as propriedades dinâmicas dessas variáveis.
Impacts of loan-to-value ceilings in the Brazilian mortgage loans
Authors: Sá Nadiejda Deane , Zoghbi Ana Carolina , Menezes Rafael Terra de
Published: July 2021

This study aims to assess the impact of loan-to-value ceiling applied by Resolution BCB No. 4,271 on the mortgage market in September 2013. Based on public aggregated data, we assessed the effect of the regulatory change on the loan-to-value and on quality of the portfolio using impact evaluation techniques that aim to estimate true causal effects. Results suggest the intervention did not reduce total mortgage loans. Interrupted time series and differences-in-differences estimates show statistically significant effects on the quality of the portfolio measured by the proportion of poorly rated credits.
Assessing Brazil’s information diffusion power: a structural hole approach
Authors: Morrone Henrique , Marquetti Adalmir , Tatsch Ana , Dathein Ricardo
Published: July 2021

The objective of this article is to verify the sectors’ capacity to diffuse information and knowledge in the Brazilian economy between 2010 and 2015. The input-output technique is used with contributions in network theory and the Structural hole concept, developed by Burt (1992). The results indicate a relevant capacity to diffuse information and knowledge in the economy. This capacity declined in this period. There is a small decline in the diffusion power of the manufacturing and non-manufacturing sectors between the years 2010 and 2015. Low, medium-low and medium technological activities showed a strong capacity to disseminate information throughout the network.
A política tarifária como instrumento de gestão da demanda por água: estimando a elasticidade preço da demanda nos municípios do Rio Grande do Sul, 2010-2016
Authors: Ghinis Cristiano Ponzoni , Fochezatto Adelar , Kuhn Christian Velloso
Published: July 2021

Problemas de abastecimento de água no Brasil têm sido frequentes nos últimos anos, tornando-se alvo importante para políticas públicas. Entre os seus fatores causadores estão a poluição de rios e mananciais e o consumo descontrolado. Este estudo busca estimar a elasticidade preço da demanda por água nos municípios gaúchos no período 2010-2016. Para isso é usado um modelo de dados em painel com informações do SNIS. Os resultados apontam que a política tarifária pode ser usada como um instrumento eficaz para a redução do consumo de água no Rio Grande do Sul.
Efficacy of vocational education: a longitudinal analysis
Authors: Arraes Ronaldo de Albuquerque e , Mariano Francisca Zilania
Published: July 2021

The impact of vocational schools on student’s performance is controversial in the world literature. Thus, this paper contributes to such debate by evaluating the performance of Vocational Education State School (VESS) students on secondary education exams in a case study for the state of Ceará (Brazil). This is done through matching techniques applied to a unique longitudinal database. Among the results, it is highlighted that the mean effect of the VESS treatment is positive and significant in all knowledge areas of the exams, especially in Writing, for which the effect of VESSs on student performance exceeded that of students from regular schools by 40%.
Efeitos de curto e longo prazo das despesas públicas e das suas componentes sobre a renda dos estados brasileiros no período 1986-2013
Authors: Silva Cristiano da Costa da , Leite Natanael Soares , Bastos Felipe de Sousa , Maia Frankielison
Published: July 2021

O estudo das relações de longo prazo entre os gastos públicos e o nível de renda é fundamental para auxiliar os formadores de políticas públicas na tomada de decisão, sobretudo quando a análise se concentra nas componentes do gasto. Adotou-se como estratégia econométrica a metodologia CS-ARDL-DFE, para os estados brasileiros no período 1986-2013, nos moldes sugeridos por Chudik & Pesaran (2015). Os resultados apontam que as despesas públicas exercem impacto positivo sobre o crescimento econômico de longo prazo, com as despesas de capital e de segurança reportando influência significativamente maior quando confrontadas com as despesas correntes e de infraestrutura, respectivamente.
A pegada hídrica da economia brasileira e a balança comercial de água virtual: uma análise insumo-produto
Authors: Montoya Marco Antonio
Published: July 2021

O artigo avalia, com base na construção de um modelo insumo-produto ecológico, a pegada hídrica nacional e a balança comercial de água virtual no Brasil para o ano 2015. Verificou-se que a pegada hídrica do país alcança 22.012 hm3/ano de água virtual, o que equivale a um consumo per-capita de 107,66 m3/ano ou 294,97 litros/dia. Na balança comercial, verificou-se, em função dos setores da agropecuária e da agroindústria, um saldo exportador líquido de 8.542 hm3/ano de água virtual que abastece a cada ano 79,33 milhões de habitantes no mundo. Contudo, frente à escassez de água global, para proteger o meio ambiente de forma sustentável, é necessário criar um mercado formal de água virtual.
Avaliação comparativa dos sistemas de saúde do Brasil e de países da América Latina, do Caribe, e da OCDE com o uso de fronteiras estocásticas
Authors: Marinho Alexandre , Cardoso Simone de Souza , Almeida Vívian Vicente de
Published: July 2021

Avaliamos a eficiência técnica na provisão de serviços de saúde no Brasil, comparado com os países da América Latina, do Caribe e da OCDE. Estimamos um modelo econométrico em que outputs, entre os quais esperança de vida ao nascer; e índice de sobrevivência infantil, e uma variável de dispêndio, o gasto em saúde per capita, são utilizados para avaliar os serviços de saúde dos países. Foi utilizada a metodologia conhecida com Análise de Fronteiras Estocásticas (Stochastic Frontier Analysis - SFA). Nosso país apresenta indicadores de saúde desfavoráveis em relação aos países da amostra, e escores de eficiência muito baixos. Entretanto, em termos de posição no ranking de eficiência técnica relativa, o desempenho doBrasil é razoavelmente aceitável.
Sustentabilidade da conta corrente dos EUA e do Brasil e o papel da diferença entre as taxas de retorno de ativos e passivos externos
Authors: Godinho Renato Martins , Marçal Emerson Fernandes , Mendonça Diogo de Prince
Published: July 2021

Este trabalho analisa o comportamento das contas externas dos Estados Unidos e do Brasil em 1970-2017 para entender se a trajetória da conta corrente é sustentável no longo prazo. Há evidência de comportamento explosivo por parte dos ativos e passivos externos dos EUA. Se os ativos do país no exterior continuarem com uma taxa de retorno maior do que a taxa que remunera passivos externos, conseguirá prosseguir com uma Balança Comercial deficitária sem deixar de ser solvente. No caso brasileiro, a evidência é de solvência externa, mas sem diferença entre as taxas de retorno dos ativos e dos passivos externos.
Efeitos do Programa Inovar-Auto sobre a indústria de veículos no Brasil
Authors: Niquito Thais Waideman , Carraro André
Published: July 2021

O presente estudo analisa o efeito do programa Inovar-Auto sobre diversosindicadores da indústria de veículos no Brasil, buscando contribuir com a literatura nacional acerca da efetividade dos gastos tributários. Foram investigados os impactos sobre a produção de veículos, o pessoal ocupado, o custo das operações industriais, o ativo imobilizado e o valor adicionado. Os impactos capturados sobre a produção e os ativos imobilizados não se mostraram robustos. Por outro lado, o impacto verificado sobre o valor adicionado foi negativo e há indícios de efeitos também negativos sobre o emprego e os custos.
Determinantes do spread bancário no Brasil e os efeitos do Acordo de Basileia III
Authors: Cavalcanti Felipe De Oliviera , Gutierrez Carlos E. Carrasco , Figueiredo Jéssica Filardi Milker
Published: July 2021

Este artigo estuda os determinantes do spread bancário ex-post na economia brasileira, em particular evidências dos efeitos da implementação do acordo de Basileia III no spread. Baseados no modelo teórico de Ho & Saunders (1981), estimamos um modelo dinâmico para dados em painel para 73 bancos comerciais em operação no Brasil no período 2009:2-2016:2. Os resultados apontam evidências das novas exigências de capital de nível 1 e capital principal que afetam de forma positiva o spread bancário. Outras variáveis que foram identificadas como determinantes do spread são: despesas administrativas e operacionais, tributação, lucro líquido dos bancos, desemprego e taxa Selic.