bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Mining‐Induced Redistribution of the Abnormal Stress under the Close Bearing Coal Pillar for Entry Design
Authors: Liu Xudong , Shen Wenlong , Bai Jianbiao , Wang Rui , Kang Jizhong , Wang Xiangyu
Published: April 2021

Underground space is vulnerable to large deformation influenced by the abnormal stress induced by the bearing coal pillar. A numerical simulation model was established to determine the redistribution of the abnormal stress induced by the mining activities. The double‐yield model, the strain softening model, the interface model, and the Mohr–Coulomb model were determined to simulate the gob compaction effect, the pillar strength reduction effect, the structure plane discontinuity effect, and the rock mechanical behavior, respectively. This numerical simulation model is reliable to predict the abnormal stress under the bearing coal pillar by the comparison of the abutment stress from this model and the existing theoretical model as well as the entry roof surface displacement from this model and the field measuring method. The results from the validated numerical model indicate that the abnormal stress including stress concentration coefficient, stress gradient, and lateral pressure coefficient will redistribute to another state that the stress concentration coefficient and stress gradient increase gradually and then decrease, and the lateral pressure coefficient decreases gradually, then increases, and finally decreases sharply with the approach of the mining working face. Their maximum increasing rates are calculated as 121.05%, 198.56%, and 236.82%, respectively. This predicted mining‐induced redistribution of the abnormal stress is available for designing the underground entry layout in the determination of the entry position, determination of the driving operation time, mining disturbing range warning, and the prediction of the strengthening support area.
An Empirical Study for Green Transportation Scheme of Municipal Solid Waste Based on Complex Data Model Analysis
Authors: Xin Chunlin , Wang Lingjie , Liu Bin , Yuan Yu-Hsi , Tsai Sang-Bing
Published: April 2021

Solid waste management and air pollution are two pressing issues in the functioning of large cities. This paper studies the optimization problem of the green transportation route of municipal solid waste and establishes a mathematical planning model based on real-time traffic conditions of the city and consideration of a time window and multiple transfer stations with the goal of minimizing energy consumption. In the optimal green transportation process in this paper, comprehensive consideration of vehicle speed, vehicle load, road gradient, and driving distance in different road sections based on real-time traffic conditions is incorporated, which has a better fuel-saving potential than the shortest path. A green transportation program can alleviate the air pollution problem in big cities and promote energy conservation and emission reduction in solid waste transportation.
Effects of Supply Parameters of Stratum Ventilation on Energy Utilization Efficiency and Indoor Thermal Comfort: A Computational Approach
Authors: Zhang Lina , Mao Yanhui , Tu Qiu , Wu Xiaogang , Tan Lingyu
Published: April 2021

Stratum ventilation shows the significant potential on energy conservation and indoor thermal comfort under cooling applications. Yet, only limited researches focus on the thermal performance of stratum ventilation under heating condition. The heating and cooling operation characteristic of stratum ventilation is different due to the distinct airflow characteristics. Therefore, this paper investigated the parameters that affect energy utilization efficiency and indoor thermal comfort under heating condition served by stratum ventilation via CFD simulations approach. The supply air parameters included temperature, airflow rate, angle, and return air outlet positions. The evaluation indicators adopt ventilation effectiveness and effective draft temperature (EDT) for assessing the energy utilization efficiency and indoor thermal comfort served by stratum ventilation under heating condition. The results demonstrated that, under the heating mode of stratum ventilation, different effects on the thermal performance were made by the mentioned parameters. The ventilation effectiveness was higher when the air supply temperature is 26°C, airflow rate is 7 air change per hour (ACH), and the air supply angle is 45°. The EDT range of the occupied zone is closest to zero K when the air supply temperature is 28°C, airflow rate is 12 (ACH), and the air supply angle is 60°. The related conclusions obtained from this study provide the theoretical basis for the stratum ventilation design and promote its heating application.
The Manufacturer Decision Analysis for Corporate Social Responsibility under Government Subsidy
Authors: Chen Shibin , Yi Yuyin
Published: April 2021

Charitable donation and energy-saving R&D are two common approaches to fulfill corporate social responsibility (CSR). A recent survey in China shows that most firms prefer donating to investing in energy-saving research and development. To understand firms’ preference, we develop a game model to investigate the optimal CSR decisions and profit of the firm, which considers donation and energy-saving R&D approaches, respectively. Then, we analyze how the government subsidies for CSR, as well as the unit production cost and the R&D cost of energy-saving product, affect the firm’s CSR decisions and the CSR rate of return. Finally, we study the triple bottom line approach, i.e., considering donation and energy-saving R&D approaches simultaneously, and investigate the interaction between the above two approaches. The results show the following. (1) Government subsidy is an important driver for the firm’s CSR fulfillment and the triple bottom line approach is optimal if the government simultaneously provides two subsidies. (2) When the government subsidy for energy-saving product is moderate, the firm will choose the approach with high profit and high CSR rate of return. (3) The CSR rates of return of different approaches are also compared to reveal the efficiency of the CSR fulfillment and the firm may sometimes choose an approach with low CSR rate of return to pursue high profit. We identify why and when firms prefer charitable donation to energy-saving R&D approach and determine the threshold of the firm engaging CSR for the government to formulate CSR subsidy policies.
Analysis of Concrete‐Filled Steel Tube Reinforced Concrete Column‐Steel Reinforced Concrete Beam Plane Frame Structure Subjected to Fire
Authors: Bao Yanhong , Chen Bowen , Xu Lei
Published: April 2021

The ABAQUS finite‐element analysis platform was used to understand the mechanical behavior of concrete‐filled steel tube reinforced concrete (CFSTRC) columns and steel reinforced concrete (SRC) beam plane frames under fire conditions. Thermal parameters and mechanical constitutive model of steel and concrete materials were reasonably selected, the correct boundary conditions were chosen, and a numerical model for the thermal mechanical coupling of CFSTRC columns and SRC beam plane frame structure was established. The finite‐element model was verified from related experimental test results. The failure modes, deformation, and internal force distribution of the CFSTRC column and SRC beam plane frames were analyzed under ISO‐834 standard fire conditions and with an external load. The influence of beam and column fire‐load ratio on the fire resistance of the frame structure was established, and the fire‐resistance differences between the plane frame structures and columns were compared. The CFSTRC column‐steel reinforced concrete beam plane frame may undergo beam failure or the column and beam may fail simultaneously. The frame structure fire‐resistance decreased with an increase of column and beam fire‐load ratio. The column and beam fire‐load ratio influence the fire resistance of the frames significantly. In this numerical example, the fire resistance of the frames is less than the single columns. It is suggested that the fire resistance of the frame structure should be considered when a fire‐resistant structural engineering design is carried out.
Mapping the Human Leukocyte Antigen Diversity among Croatian Regions: Implication in Transplantation
Authors: Grubic Zorana , Maskalan Marija , Stingl Jankovic Katarina , Burek Kamenaric Marija , Zunec Renata
Published: April 2021

In the present study, HLA allele and haplotype frequencies were studied using the HLA data of 9277 Croatian unrelated individuals, typed using high-resolution methods for the HLA-A, -B, -C, and -DRB1 loci. The total numbers of observed alleles were 47 for HLA-A, 88 for HLA-B, 34 for HLA-C, and 53 for HLA-DRB1. HLA-A

∗

02:01 (29.5%), B

∗

51:01 (10.5%), C

∗

04:01 (15.8%), and DRB1

∗

16:01 (10.4%) were the most frequent alleles in the Croatian general population. The three most frequent haplotypes were HLA-A

∗

01:01~C

∗

07:01~B

∗

08:01~DRB1

∗

03:01 (4.7%), HLA-A

∗

03:01~C

∗

07:02~B

∗

07:02~DRB1

∗

15:01 (1.7%), and HLA-A

∗

02:01~C

∗

07:01~B

∗

18:01~DRB1

∗

11:04 (1.5%). Allele and haplotype frequencies were compared between national and regional data, and differences were observed, particularly in the North Croatia region. The data has potential use in refining donor recruitment strategies for national registries of volunteer hematopoietic stem cell donors, solid organ allocation schemes, and the design of future disease and anthropological studies.
Prevalence of Hypertension and Associated Factors in Lubumbashi City, Democratic Republic of Congo: A Community-Based Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Musung Jacques Mbaz , Kakoma Placide Kambola , Kaut Mukeng Clarence , Tshimanga Stéphane Lubamba , Munkemena Banze Jeef Paul , Kaj Nathalie Kayomb , Kamuna Martin Kazadi , Mwamba Jimmy Kasali , Nkulu Dophra Ngoy , Katchunga Philippe Bianga , Mukuku Olivier , Muyumba Emmanuel Kiyana
Published: April 2021

Background. Hypertension is the leading cause of cardiovascular disease morbidity and mortality worldwide. Its struggle involves knowing its prevalence. Insufficient data on hypertension in adults in Lubumbashi, Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), prompted the conduct of this study. The objectives were to determine the prevalence of hypertension and to identify the associated factors in adults in Lubumbashi. Methodology. A cross-sectional study was carried out among 6,708 adults from October 15th to November 24th, 2018, in Lubumbashi. Anthropometric data, lifestyle, and medical history were collected. Hypertension was defined when the mean of the last two blood pressure (BP) measurements was greater than or equal for systolic (SBP) at 140 mmHg and for diastolic (DBP) at 90 mmHg or a history of taking antihypertensive medication whatever the value of the BP. Logistic regression was used to identify the relative effects of hypertension risk factors and all statistical tests were declared significant at a

p

value <0.05. Results. The female participants numbered 4479 (66.8%). The mean age of all participants was 47.9 ± 16.5 years. The mean SBP and DBP were 128.4 ± 25.9 mmHg and 79.1 ± 15.3 mmHg, respectively. The overall prevalence of hypertension was 33.6%. This prevalence was statistically higher in women than in men (34.5% vs. 31.7%;

p
=
0.024

). After logistic regression, the risk of hypertension increased with age >50 years (aOR = 5.85 [5.19–6.60]), overweight (aOR = 1.25 [1.11–1.41]), obesity (aOR = 1.25 [1.11–1.41]), central obesity (aOR = 1.37 [1.16–1.61]), diabetes mellitus (aOR = 2.19 [1.63–2.95]), alcohol consumption (aOR = 1.21 [1.05–1.39]), nonconsumption of vegetables (aOR = 1.35 [1.02–1.80]), and history of stroke (aOR = 2.57 [1.88–3.51]). Hypertension was inversely associated with being underweight (aOR = 0.68 [0.53–0.87]). Conclusion. The prevalence of hypertension in the city of Lubumbashi is high as in other cities of the DRC and Africa. This situation requires the implementation of prevention, detection, and treatment programs for hypertension.
High Methionine Diet-Induced Alzheimer’s Disease like Symptoms Are Accompanied by 5-Methylcytosine Elevated Levels in the Brain
Authors: Pi Tingting , Wei Shenjiao , Jiang Yongxuan , Shi Jing-Shan
Published: April 2021

Background. Excessive or insufficient intake of methionine (Met) causes neuronal dysfunction, neurodegeneration, cerebrovascular dysfunction, vascular leakage, and short-term memory loss, which result in the occurrence of Alzheimer’s disease- (AD-) like symptoms. Objective. To determine the relationship between high methionine diets (HMD) induced AD-like symptoms and 5-methylcytosine (5-mC) level. Methods. C57BL/6J mice were randomly divided into two groups: the control group (Maintain diets) and the model group (2% HMD). Mice were fed with 2% HMD for 9 weeks. Animals were weighed and food intake was recorded weekly. Open field test, nesting ability test, Y maze test, new object recognition test, and Morris water maze test were used to detect the motor, learning, and memory ability. Hematoxylin-eosin (HE) staining was used to observe the damage of cells in hippocampus and cortex. Immunofluorescence (IF) staining was used to detect the expression and distribution of amyloid-β 1-40 (Aβ1-40), amyloid-β 1-42 (Aβ1-42), and 5-methylcytosine (5-mC) in hippocampus and cortex. Western blotting (WB) was used to determine the expression of Aβ and DNA methyltransferases- (DNMTs-) related proteins in the cortex. Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) was performed to detect homocysteine (Hcy) level (ELISA). Results. Feeding of HMD decreased the body weight and food intake of mice. Behavioral testing revealed that HMD caused learning, memory, and motor ability impairment in the mice. HE staining results showed that HMD feeding caused damage of hippocampal and cortical neurons, along with disordered cell arrangement, and loss of neurons. Furthermore, HMD increased the contents of Aβ1-40, Aβ1-42, and 5-mC in the hippocampus and cortex. WB results showed that HMD increased the expression of Aβ production-related proteins, such as amyloid precursor protein (APP) and beta-secretase 1 (BACE1), and decreased the expression of Aβ metabolism-related protein in the cortex, including insulin-degrading enzyme (IDE) and neprilysin (NEP). Additionally, the decreased expression of DNA methyltransferase1 (DNMT1) was observed in HMD-treated mice, but there was no significant change of DNMT3a level. ELISA results showed that HMD increased the levels of Hcy in serum. Conclusion. Our result suggested that the HMD can cause neurotoxicity, leading to AD-like symptoms in mice, which may be related to 5-mC elevated.
The Influence of the Preservation Method and Gamma Irradiation Sterilization on TGF-β and bFGF Levels in Freeze-Dried Amnion Membrane (FD-AM) and Amnion Sponge
Authors: Suroto Heri , Aryawan Deny M. , Prakoeswa Camilla A.
Published: April 2021

Background. Amnion grafts can be preserved as freeze-dried amnion membrane (FD-AM) and amnion sponge. Preserved grafts require to be sterilized by gamma irradiation. However, each step of the process could affect its biological properties. Even so, there are only a few studies that report the influence of the preservation method and gamma irradiation on growth factor levels in preserved amniotic grafts. Methods. This was an in vitro experimental study with a pretest-posttest group design using a consecutive sampling technique in one batch of amnion donors at a particular time. The amnion was made into FD-AM and amnion sponge preparations, and they were sterilized with gamma irradiation (15 kGy and 25 kGy). Nonirradiated specimens served as controls, and 20 mg of each specimen was pulverized to evaluate the growth factors levels using ELISA. Results. There were significant decreases in amnion sponge compared to the FD-AM, both in transforming growth factor beta (TGF-β) and basic fibroblast growth factor (bFGF) levels and in the preirradiated and 25 kGy postirradiated preparations (

p
≤
0.05

). The growth factor levels in the preirradiated and postirradiated FD-AM (both 15 kGy and 25 kGy) showed significant differences (

p
≤
0.05

). Likewise, the preirradiated amnion sponge group’s growth factor levels compared with the postirradiated amnion sponge group also showed a significant decrease (

p
≤
0.05

). Conclusion. TGF-β and bFGF levels were lower in amnion sponge than FD-AM. The FD-AM and amnion sponge preparations’ growth factors levels were reduced following gamma irradiation sterilization. Although the decrease in growth factor levels is significant, the number of growth factor levels is still sufficient for tissue healing.
A Dynamic Day-To-Day Departure Time and Route Choice Model for Bounded-Rational Individuals
Authors: Chen Lingjuan , Wang Yu , Ma Dongfang
Published: April 2021

Accurate prediction of travellers’ day-to-day departure time and route choice is critical in advanced traffic management systems. There have been several related works about route choice with the assumption that the departure time for individual travellers is known beforehand. With real-time traffic state information provided by navigation systems and previous historical experience, travellers will dynamically update their departure time, which is neglected in existing works. In this study, we aim to describe travellers’ spatial-temporary choice behaviour taking navigation information into account and propose a bounded-rational day-to-day dynamic learning and adjustment model. The new model contains three steps. First, the real-time navigation guidance on each discrete day is obtained, and the self-learned experience of travellers’ choices with navigation information is presented; then, the day-to-day revision process of the choices is derived to maximize departure and route choice prospect; next, by aggregating each individual’s behaviour and calculating route choice probability, a bounded-rational continuous day-to-day dynamic model is provided. Numerical experiments suggest that the proposed model converges to a spatial-temporal oscillating equilibrium not a fixed-point stable status, and the final equilibrium trend is different from classical user equilibrium. The findings of the study are helpful to improve the prediction accuracy of traffic state in urban street networks.
Factors Associated with Modern Contraceptive Use among Married Women Attending Comprehensive Health Centers (CHCs) in Kandahar, Afghanistan
Authors: Saheem Mirwais , Stanikzai Muhammad Haroon , Rahimy Najeeb , Fazli Najibullah , Mudasir Ghulam Mohydin , Sayam Hadia
Published: April 2021

Background. Modern contraceptives are highly effective and reliable methods of preventing unintended pregnancies and reducing maternal deaths. Only 22 percent of currently married women use modern methods of contraceptives in Afghanistan. This study assessed the factors associated with modern contraceptive use among married women attending comprehensive health centers (CHCs) in Kandahar Province. Methods. This was an institution-based cross-sectional study that included 325 married women who attended randomly selected comprehensive health clinics in Kandahar between September and October 2019. The total sample size was allocated proportionally to selected health clinics based on the recent 3-month average patients load. We used a consecutive sampling method to select study participants. Data were collected in a structured questionnaire, which included information on respondents’ demographic, socioeconomic, reproductive, and contraceptive experiences. Data was analyzed using SPSS 21.00 statistical software. We used descriptive statistics such as tables and proportions to present data. Binary and multiple logistic regression analyses were carried out to determine factors associated with modern contraceptive use. Results. Out of 325 married women, 127 used modern contraceptives with a prevalence of 39.1% (

95
%
CI
=
33.7
%

–44.6%). The results indicated that the area of residence (

AOR
=
2.61

, 95% CI 1.43-4.78) and ever use of contraceptives (

AOR
=
14.92

, 95% CI 6.88-32.34) are associated with modern contraceptive use among married women attending comprehensive health centers in Kandahar. Conclusion. This study found that modern contraceptive use was higher than reported on the national level. The most persistent factors associated with modern contraceptive use in this study were urban residence and ever use of contraceptives. As a policy measure, family planning programs should be prompted to the rural residency in Kandahar Province.
Study of the Design and Assembly of a High Harmonic Fast Wave Antenna for an LAPD
Authors: Yu Chao , Yang Qingxi , Song Yuntao , Li Jiahao , Xu Hao , Yang Xiaokang , Binderbauer Michl , Schroeder Jon , Song Yuanxu , Goulding Richard , Van Compernolle Bart , Carter Troy , Li Ning , Wang Yongsheng , Song Wei
Published: April 2021

The simulation survey of TAE Technologies has demonstrated that high harmonic fast wave (HHFW) heating is a promising method for core electron heating of FRC plasma. This study mainly describes the HHFW antenna mechanical design and assembly on the basis of the results of electromagnetic simulations performed by Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL), the available port dimensions, and antenna installation position of the LAPD. Compared to the original scheme, this antenna is also optimized in the design. It is found that the E field distribution of optimized antenna becomes even, and the maximum electric field decreases by approximately 14%. The current on the antenna box and FS is reduced after optimization, whereas the maximum J density decreases from 53.3 kA to 14.5 kA. The reflection performance of the port at 30 MHz is also improved after the structural optimization; The k// spectrum distribution is sharper at the monopole phase (0, 0, 0, 0) and dipole phase (0, π, 0, π) and (0, 90, 270,180) than other phases. The optimized antenna can obtain a maximum |k//| spectrum, which peaks about |k//| = 30 m−1 at the dipole phase (0, π, 0, π). The analysis results and assembly strategy can provide useful reference and guidance for the study of HHFW antenna design and fabrication in LAPD or other magnetic confined fusion devices.
Modeling and Parameter Identification of MR Damper considering Excitation Characteristics and Current
Authors: Zhang Shuguang , Shi Wenku , Chen Zhiyong
Published: April 2021

Smart structures such as damping adjustable dampers made of magnetorheological (MR) fluid can be used to attenuate vibration transmission in vehicle seat suspension. The main research content of this paper is the nonlinearity and hysteresis characteristics of the MR damper. A hysteretic model considering both excitation characteristics and input current is proposed to fit the damper force‐velocity curve for the MR damper under different conditions. Multifactor sensitivity analysis based on the neural network method is used to obtain importance parameters of the hyperbolic tangent model. In order to demonstrate the fitting precision of the different models, the shuffled frog‐leaping algorithm (SFLA) is employed to identify the parameters of MR damper models. The research results indicate that the modified model can not only describe the nonlinear hysteretic behavior of the MR damper more accurately in fixed conditions, compared with the original model, but also meet the fitting precision under a wide range of magnitudes of control current and excitation conditions (frequency and amplitude). The method of parameter sensitivity analysis and identification can also be used to modify other nonlinear dynamic models.
Scleral Buckling with Viscoelastics or Gas Injection for Bulging Retinal Detachments: A Retrospective Cohort Study
Authors: Yi Quan-Yong , Li Wen-Die , Gui Qian , Wang Sang-Sang , Chen Li-Shuang , Mao Jing-Hai , Gong Yan , Wang Xia-Jun
Published: April 2021

Objective. To examine the use of a viscoelastic agent instead of air in the vitreous cavity during surgery for scleral buckling. Methods. This was a retrospective cohort study of patients who underwent scleral buckling surgery for bulging rhegmatogenous retinal detachment (RRD) at Ningbo Eye Hospital from 07/2016 to 12/2019. The patients were grouped into drainage, air injection, cryotherapy and explant (DACE) and drainage, viscoelastic injection, cryotherapy, and explant (DVCE) groups, which were comparatively assessed. Results. There were 25 and 22 patients in the DVCE and DACE groups, respectively. The surgery was significantly shorter with DVCE than DACE (

P
<
0.05

), with less intraoperative external pressure adjustment (

P
<
0.05

). BCVA was lower in the DVCE group at 1 week compared with the DACE group (

P
<
0.05

). Successful retinal reattachment was observed in 92.0% and 81.8% of the DVCE and DACE groups, respectively (

P
<
0.05

). Cases requiring laser replenishing after the operation were less in the DVCE group compared with the DACE group (

P
<
0.05

). There were no differences in complications and intraocular pressure between the two groups (all

P
<
0.05

). Conclusion. DVCE has better operative characteristics and faster vision recovery than DACE, with similar outcomes.
Multiligamentary Reconstruction in a Below-Knee Amputation Patient
Authors: Tuca María , Pineda Tomás , Valderrama Ignacio , Ferrer Gonzalo , Maass Sergio , Espinoza Gonzalo
Published: April 2021

Multiligament injuries in below-knee amputation patients are a severe condition, and its treatment is controversial. Its incidence is unknown, and it is highly underdiagnosed, representing a challenge for the physician. The case presented is about a patient with a left transtibial amputation secondary to a severe crushing of the ipsilateral lower limb to which during the process of physiotherapy, a multiligament injury was diagnosed. The patient underwent a tibiofibular fixation with a multiligament reconstruction with good functional results. In this complex situation, delay in diagnosis is frequent, ligament instability should always be suspected and explored further, allowing for proper rehabilitation and early treatment.
Elimination of Secondary Neutrons from Laser Proton-Boron Fusion
Authors: Hora Heinrich , Eliezer Shalom , Nissim Noaz
Published: April 2021

For low carbon energy generation, a very large exchange of electricity generators is existentially vital within the next number of years by power stations preferably at considerably low cost than the present installations. When considering the million times higher nuclear energy per reaction than chemical, the usual hydrogen fusion with abundant boron fuel is used for environmentally clean electricity generators. Instead of usually needed ignition temperatures of hundreds of million degrees Celsius, it is possible to use nonthermal ignition pressures from now available CPA laser pulses. In this non-LTE scheme, there is no need for high compression, the medium of hydrogen-boron-11 temperatures is low, and therefore the bremsstrahlung losses practically do not exist. The neutron, created by secondary reactions, elimination device includes tin and is arranged such that the neutrons are brought to nuclear reactions with the tin. We suggest adding the tin that has proven to be particularly advantageous because of its high effective cross section, and the neutron reactions with tin transform the tin nuclei into stable nuclei with a higher atomic weight.
Plasma KIM-1 Is Associated with Recurrence Risk after Nephrectomy for Localized Renal Cell Carcinoma: A Trial of the ECOG-ACRIN Research Group (E2805)
Authors: Xu Wenxin , Puligandla Mäneka , Halbert Brian , Haas Naomi B. , Flaherty Keith T. , Uzzo Robert G. , Dutcher Janice P. , DiPaola Robert S. , Sabbisetti Venkata , Bhatt Rupal S.
Published: April 2021

Purpose:

No circulating biomarkers are currently available to identify patients at highest risk of recurrence after nephrectomy for renal cell carcinoma (RCC). Kidney injury molecule-1 (KIM-1) is overexpressed in RCC and its ectodomain circulates in plasma. We investigated whether plasma KIM-1 is a prognostic biomarker in patients with localized RCC after nephrectomy.

Experimental Design:

The ECOG-ACRIN E2805 (ASSURE) trial evaluated adjuvant sunitinib, sorafenib, or placebo in resected high-risk RCC. KIM-1 levels were measured from banked plasma at trial enrollment 4–12 weeks after nephrectomy. Lognormal accelerated failure time models were used to test for association between KIM-1 and disease-free survival (DFS) as well as overall survival (OS).

Results:

Plasma from 418 patients was analyzed. Higher post-nephrectomy KIM-1 was associated with worse DFS across all study arms after adjustment for Fuhrman grade, T stage, N stage, and tumor histology [survival time ratio 0.56 for 75th vs. 25th percentile of KIM-1; 95% confidence interval (CI), 0.42–0.73; P < 0.001]. The association between KIM-1 and DFS was stronger among patients with pathologic nodal involvement (Pinteraction = 0.0086). The addition of post-nephrectomy KIM-1 improved the concordance of clinical prognostic models [Stage, Size, Grade, and Necrosis (SSIGN) concordance 0.57 vs. 0.43, P = 0.05; UCLA International Staging System (UISS) concordance 0.60 vs. 0.40, P = 0.0005]. Higher post-nephrectomy KIM-1 was also associated with worse OS after multivariable adjustment (survival time ratio 0.71 for 75th vs. 25th percentile of KIM-1; 95% CI, 0.56–0.91; P < 0.001).

Conclusions:

Post-nephrectomy plasma KIM-1 is associated with DFS and OS in RCC, and may be a biomarker for microscopic residual disease.
Orbital Apex Syndrome due to Orbital Mucormycosis after Teeth Infection: A Successful Case Report
Authors: Godinho Gonçalo , Abreu Isabel , Alves Gonçalo , Vaz Ricardo , Leal Vitor , Carvalho Ana Cláudia , Sarmento António , Falcão-Reis Fernando
Published: April 2021

Rhino-orbital-cerebral mucormycosis is a severe and rapidly progressive fungal infection associated with low survival rates. Early diagnosis and proper management are mandatory. We report the case of a 20-year-old female with diabetic ketoacidosis and teeth infection, who presented with sudden orbital apex syndrome. Several surgical procedures were necessary to provide a definite histopathological diagnosis of the fungal infection. Ultimately, given the progressive aggravation of the infection and the ineffectiveness of antifungal and antibiotic agents, an orbital exenteration was performed. A mycobacteriological examination revealed a polymicrobial culture with Mucorales. One year after the initial presentation, the patient is alive and with a good general health condition.
Control of isolated microgrid based renewable energy generation using PID controller
Authors: Brahim Regad Mohamed Sidi , Helaimi M'hamed , Taleb Rachid
Published: April 2021

This paper investigates optimal PID controller tuning using particle swarm optimization for frequency control in the microgrid system. The proposed microgrid composed of renewable sources such as wind turbine generation and solar system with diesel engine generator and storage systems such as the battery, flywheel, aqua electrolyze, and fuel cell. The microgrid based on renewable energy sources faces different challenges in operation and stability due to the stochastic nature of solar radiation and wind speed that depend upon the weather conditions. Among these challenges, the frequency and power deviations are affected by the sudden unbalance between generation and load which require a suitable and adequate regulation. The principal objective of this study is to reduce the frequency and power deviation by the use of the PID controller optimized based particle swarm optimization due to its simplicity and flexibility to overcome this kind of issues. The simulation results show the better performances and robustness of the proposed controller against the disturbances in load and generations in comparison to using a genetic algorithm.
Induction motor drive based on direct torque controlled used multi-pulse AC-DC rectifier
Authors: Abdollahi Rohollah
Published: April 2021

This paper presents the direct torque-controlled induction motor drives (DTCIMDs) based on a retrofit 44-pulse rectifier (44PR). A 22-phase polygon autotransformer (PA) is designed to supply the rectifiers. The above structure improves the power quality standards in the power grid and complies with the requirements of the IEEE-519 standard for different loads. Besides, a power factor close to one is obtained for a wide range of DTCIMD performance. The results show that the total harmonic distortion (THD) of the input current under variable loads for 44PR is less than 3%.
A ampliação do conhecimento legal e técnico como estratégia para o desenvolvimento de projetos e ambientes mais justos
Authors: Rodrigues Julio Cezar Macedo , Bernardi Nubia
Published: April 2021

O aparato legal e técnico para a Acessibilidade é extenso e inversamente proporcional ao seu cumprimento na realidade das cidades brasileiras. Às dificuldades pela ausência de soluções arquitetônicas acessíveis somam-se a complexa leitura dos documentos legais, nem sempre de fácil e objetiva interpretação e aplicação. Como uma contribuição para alterar esse descompasso, foi desenvolvida uma pesquisa-ação voltada para a difusão de conhecimento aos profissionais responsáveis pela produção do espaço construído. A pesquisa discutiu os principais marcos legais nacionais relacionados à Acessibilidade e ao Desenho Universal, com atividades práticas evidenciando casos em que os requisitos mínimos e máximos legais atendem somente aos órgãos responsáveis pela aprovação de projetos e obras, e não às pessoas. A ação foi testada e aplicada junto aos arquitetos e engenheiros que verificam o atendimento dos itens de Acessibilidade previstos na Instrução Normativa nº 2 de 2017, em projetos e obras públicas realizados com recursos federais na Região Metropolitana de Campinas/SP. De acordo com os resultados alcançados, foi possível constatar que os participantes passaram a compreender a legislação e as normas de Acessibilidade ao meio físico não como um fim, mas como um dos instrumentos para o desenvolvimento de projetos e obras que de fato atendam a todos.
Análise de modelos de maturidade para medição da implementação do Building Information Modeling (BIM)
Authors: Lima Luciana de Oliveira , Catai Rodrigo Eduardo , Scheer Sergio
Published: April 2021

O Building Information Modeling (BIM) é considerado uma inovação disruptiva, pois modifica profundamente as soluções técnicas de uma organização. A implementação desta inovação, no entanto, é repleta de desafios. Avaliar o desenvolvimento da implementação BIM pela medição da maturidade pode auxiliar as organizações, que passam a conhecer as próprias competências e a identificar os próximos passos evolutivos. Porém, diante de diversos modelos de maturidade desenvolvidos internacionalmente, não há estudos que comprovem a aplicabilidade dessas ferramentas no contexto brasileiro. Desta forma, a presente pesquisa objetiva analisar três modelos - BIM Assessment Profile, BIM Maturity Matrix e VDC Scorecard - para disseminar o uso dessas ferramentas. Procedimentos comparativos e de estudos de campo foram os métodos de pesquisa utilizados.  Os modelos foram examinados com base na análise das métricas e dos princípios básicos, aplicados em nove organizações da AEC de Curitiba-PR, distinguidas as particularidades de aplicação, e por fim, foram apontadas as características de qualidade de cada um. Os resultados mostram que todos apresentam questões processuais, técnicas e de pessoas. O BIM Assessment Profile apresenta qualidades básicas, simples e flexíveis, adequado a organizações que estão em estágios iniciais de adoção do BIM. O BIM Maturity Matrix, também de caráter básico, simples e flexível, é indicado para organizações pequenas ou médias. Já o VDC Scorecard, o mais complexo, apresenta características básicas, descritivas e prescritivas, e apesar de ser o menos flexível, é o mais abrangente. As aplicações práticas geraram resultados ao identificar o grau de maturidade BIM das empresas e projetos avaliados.
Estrutura conceitual do integrated project delivery (IPD): princípios, catalisadores e proposições
Authors: Muianga Elisa Atália Daniel , Granja Ariovaldo Denis
Published: April 2021

Ao longo dos anos, pesquisas têm enfatizado a necessidade de adoção de alternativas da gestão de empreendimentos, como forma de superar os problemas vinculados aos métodos de contratação tradicionais. Métodos de contratação, como o Integrated Project Delivery (IPD) vêm ganhando interesse no setor da construção civil. Apesar do potencial do IPD, a introdução deste método na indústria da construção civil é desafiadora e se encontra em estágios iniciais. Os limites de conhecimento do IPD, até o momento, têm dificultado a sua aplicação em ambientes de produção de empreendimentos com pouca experiência sobre esta prática. Assim, considerando a necessidade de expandir o conhecimento sobre o tema, esta pesquisa objetiva analisar e sintetizar a informação relacionada ao IPD, identificar as associações entre os seus elementos e desenvolver proposições que orientam a sua aplicação. Como método de pesquisa, considerou-se a abordagem qualitativa exploratória, com pesquisa de associação, sem interferência entre as variáveis. Foi também proposto o desenvolvimento de um mapa conceitual para compreensão da teoria. Os resultados da pesquisa apresentam a disposição dos elementos do IPD no processo de produção do empreendimento, quer seja no contexto contratual, operacional, organizacional e gerencial. As proposições reúnem informações sobre os benefícios possíveis de serem alcançados com a efetivação dos elementos do IPD.
PALAVRAS-CHAVE: Integrated Project Delivery; Integração; Colaboração; Acordo multipartes; Gestão de empreendimentos
Algoritmização do projeto arquitetônico em BIM: uma aplicação na indústria de banheiros pré-fabricados
Authors: Côco Júnior Verley Henry , Celani Gabriela
Published: April 2021

Os benefícios da Modelagem da Informação da Construção e dos algoritmos no projeto de arquitetura já são conhecidos e amplamente divulgados na literatura. Entretanto, a consolidação de um fluxo de trabalho no dia a dia dos escritórios integrando esses dois campos do conhecimento ainda não está plenamente estabelecido, mesmo em países com maior grau de industrialização. Este artigo tem como objetivo descrever um procedimento que integra essas duas tecnologias no projeto arquitetônico, em uma aplicação voltada para a pré-fabricação. A indústria de banheiros pré-fabricados, especificamente, foi utilizada como estudo de caso de aplicação. Para tanto, adotou-se uma metodologia exploratória e incremental de desenvolvimento de software em uma abordagem baseada em regras para a geração automatizada de layouts de banheiros pré-fabricados. Os resultados demonstram que a definição de regras por meio de algoritmos permite evitar trabalhos repetitivos e desnecessários, bem como mitigar erros de montagem. Deste modo, novos horizontes se abrem para a atuação dos arquitetos mais próxima da manufatura, orientando-se para a otimização de processos e para a redução de custos desde as etapas iniciais de projeto.
Altered Responsiveness to TGFβ and BMP and Increased CD45+ Cell Presence in Mitral Valves Are Unique Features of Ischemic Mitral Regurgitation
Authors: Castillero Estibaliz , Howsmon Daniel P. , Rego Bruno V. , Keeney Samuel J. , Driesbaugh Kathryn H. , Kawashima Takayuki , Xue Yingfei , Camillo Chiara , George Isaac , Gorman Robert C. , Gorman Joseph H. , Sacks Michael S. , Levy Robert J. , Ferrari Giovanni
Published: April 2021

Objective:

Ischemic mitral regurgitation (IMR) often develops after an ischemic event, which results in distortion of the valvulo-ventricular complex and incomplete mitral valve (MV) leaflet coaptation. After left ventricular ischemic events, only some patients develop IMR. The susceptibility of the MV to remodel may influence whether IMR develops. We hypothesized that impaired signaling response in MV cells may contribute to IMR development by inducing maladaptive tissue remodeling.

Approach and Results:

Sheep (n=14) were subjected to ligation of the circumflex coronary artery to induce myocardial infarction. IMR was reported by echocardiography. MV leaflets and MV interstitial cells (MVICs) were collected at baseline (control, n=10), 4 and 8 weeks post-myocardial infarction. RNA sequencing highlighted differences in TGFβ (transforming growth factor beta) signaling between MV with/without IMR. SMAD6/7 and ID2 (inhibitor of DNA binding 2) were the highest increased TGFβ-signaling genes associated with IMR. MVICs from myocardial infarction sheep were less responsive to BMP (bone morphogenic protein) 4 pro-osteogenic stimulation (ID2, OPN [osteopontin], and OC [osteocalcin] mRNA) than control. MVICs from IMR sheep had a diminished COL (collagen) 1A1 mRNA response to TGFβ1 and enhanced prochondrogenic RUNX2 (runt-related transcription factor 2) and SOX9 mRNA response to BMP4 versus non-IMR MVICs. Baseline CD45 (cluster of differentiation) expression was detectable only in IMR MVICs. Upon TGFβ1 stimulation, CD45 expression was detected in all groups. Immunostaining confirmed increased presence of CD45+ cells in IMR MV interstitium.

Conclusions:

MVs from sheep with IMR had an altered TGFβ/BMP response, associated with increased CD45+ cell presence within the tissue interstitium. Pharmacological strategies aimed to modulate TGFβ/BMP signaling after myocardial infarction may protect from pathological MV remodeling leading to IMR.
Early Thrombectomy Protects the Internal Capsule in Patients With Proximal Middle Cerebral Artery Occlusion
Authors: Kaesmacher Johannes , Kaesmacher Mirjam , Berndt Maria , Maegerlein Christian , Mönch Sebastian , Wunderlich Silke , Meinel Thomas R. , Fischer Urs , Zimmer Claus , Boeckh-Behrens Tobias , Kleine Justus F.
Published: April 2021

Background and Purpose:

Proximal middle cerebral artery (MCA) occlusions impede blood flow to the noncollateralized lenticulostriate artery territory. Previous work has shown that this almost inevitably leads to infarction of the dependent gray matter territories in the striate even if perfusion is restored by mechanical thrombectomy. Purpose of this analysis was to evaluate potential sparing of neighboring fiber tracts, ie, the internal capsule.

Methods:

An observational single-center study of patients with proximal MCA occlusions treated with mechanical thrombectomy and receiving postinterventional high-resolution diffusion-weighted imaging was conducted. Patients were classified according to internal capsule ischemia (IC+ versus IC−) at the postero-superior level of the MCA lenticulostriate artery territory (corticospinal tract correlate). Associations of IC+ versus IC− with baseline variables as well as its clinical impact were evaluated using multivariable logistic or linear regression analyses adjusting for potential confounders.

Results:

Of 92 included patients with proximal MCA territory infarctions, 45 (48.9%) had an IC+ pattern. Longer time from symptom-onset to groin-puncture (adjusted odds ratio, 2.12 [95% CI, 1.19–3.76] per hour), female sex and more severe strokes were associated with IC+. Patients with IC+ had lower rates of substantial neurological improvement and functional independence (adjusted odds ratio, 0.26 [95% CI, 0.09–0.81] and adjusted odds ratio, 0.25 [95% CI, 0.07–0.86]) after adjustment for confounders. These associations remained unchanged when confining analyses to patients without ischemia in the corona radiata or the motor cortex and here, IC+ was associated with higher National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale motor item scores (β, +2.8 [95% CI, 1.5 to 4.1]) without a significant increase in nonmotor items (β, +0.8 [95% CI, −0.2 to 1.9).

Conclusions:

Rapid mechanical thrombectomy with successful reperfusion of the lenticulostriate arteries often protects the internal capsule from subsequent ischemia despite early basal ganglia damage. Salvage of this eloquent white matter tract within the MCA lenticulostriate artery territory seems strongly time-dependent, which has clinical and pathophysiological implications.
TÜRKİYE’DE GENEL VE BÖLGESEL İŞSİZLİK ORANINA ETKİ EDEN FAKTÖRLERİN GRİ İLİŞKİ ANALİZİ YOLUYLA BELİRLENMESİ
Authors: ESER Rüya
Published: April 2021

İstihdam, işsizlik ve ekonomik büyüme iktisadi karar birimlerinin önemsediği ekonomik değişkenlerdir. Genel ve bölgesel olarak işsizlik durumunun doğru bir şekilde değerlendirilmesi, Türkiye’nin ekonomik gelişmesinde ciddiye alması gereken nesnel gerçektir. Bu nedenle çalışmada Türkiye’de işsizlik oranını etkileyen makroekonomik faktörler gri ilişki analizi yoluyla incelenmiştir. Analizler 2009 ve 2019 yıllarını kapsayanyıllık verilerle işsizlik oranını etkileyen 13 adet makroekonomik faktör kullanılarak yapılmıştır. Çalışma sonucunda işsizlik oranı üzerinde en çok etkiye sahip olan faktörlerin, ihracat, kapasite kullanım oranı, yabancı sermaye yatırımı, döviz kuru ve ithalat olduğu; iktisadi büyüme ile enflasyon oranının ise işsizlik üzerinde etkisi bulunmadığı saptanmıştır. Bölgelere göre işsizlik oranını ön sıralarda etkileyen faktörler arasında temelde önemli bir farklılık bulunmamakta, sadece 7 bölgenin işsizlik oranını ilk sırada etkileyen faktörlerde değişiklik görülmektedir.
Exploring the Nation: Gender, Identity and Cuisine in the UAE
Authors: Khansaheb Ayisha
Published: April 2021

This article examines various heritage displays and festivals that have occurred in the United Arab Emirates and analyzes, in particular, the representation of women and cuisine. Over a two-year period (August 2015 to August 2017), I interviewed senior Emirati women and collected their oral histories, focusing mainly on cooking practices in the past and how those practices evolved with time. The article compares those oral histories with the representations shown in heritage festivals and spaces and concludes that the women I interviewed are inadequately represented and that the presentation of women, along with the culinary traditions in the region, has been marginalized or oversimplified.
The Quandary of Faith and Politics of Islamization: An Incursion into Experiences and Perspectives of Pakistani Christian Minority
Authors: Azmat Sania , Bilal Muhammad , Azam Shafia
Published: April 2021

The state of minorities in Pakistan has been the subject of much debate and controversy since the country’s conception in 1947. Although Christians played a pivotal role in the Pakistan Movement, the state-sponsored Islamization and exploitation of Blasphemy Laws created a precarious situation for Pakistan’s religious minorities. This article explores the perceptions of the Christian minority on the Islamization of the state asking how it has been affecting their life course. Qualitative research methods involving in-depth interviews and case studies explore the lived experiences of the Christian minority in Wah Cantonment city, Pakistan. Using purposive sampling techniques, 33 Christian respondents (16 males, 17 females) and eight senior Christian High Court lawyers (four males, four females) were interviewed. Based on empirical evidence, this article demonstrates that Islamic majoritarianism and lack of pluralist vision impedes minorities’ freedom in Pakistan, creating issues of safety, legal abuse and discrimination in their own homeland.
The Qumran Pesharim and Targum Jonathan to the Prophets
Authors: Hartog Pieter B.
Published: April 2021

This article argues that the Qumran pesharim and TgJon originate from a common, though internally varied, elite intellectual tradition with a priestly character. This tradition developed particular interests, e.g. messianism and eschatology, and transmitted individual textual and interpretative traditions. As it appears, this tradition has pre-70 CE roots, but continued after the destruction of the temple. Both the Qumran commentaries and TgJon reflect the interests of this priestly tradition and incorporate some of its textual and exegetical traditions, though not through literary dependence.