bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Distributed Load Shedding considering the Multicriteria Decision-Making Based on the Application of the Analytic Hierarchy Process
Authors: Le Nghia T. , Nguyen An T. , Hoang Thi Trang , Vu Nguyen Hoang Minh , Quyen Anh H. , Phan Binh T. T.
Published: October 2021

This paper shows an analytic hierarchy process (AHP) algorithm-based approach for load shedding based on the coordination of the load importance factor (LIF), the reciprocal phase angle sensitivity (RPAS), and the voltage electrical distance (VED) to rank the load buses. This problem is important from a power system point of view, and the AHP method is able to support the decision-making process in a simple and intuitive way in a three-criterion environment. This satisfies the multicriteria decision-making to meet economic-technical aspects. The ranking and distributed shedding power at each demand load bus are based on this combined weight. The smaller overall weights of the load buses show the lesser importance of the load bus, the smaller reciprocal phase angle sensitivity, and the closer voltage electrical distance. Therefore, these load buses cut a larger amount of capacity, and vice versa. By considering the generator control, the load shedding consists of the primary and secondary control features of the generators to minimize the load shedding capacity and restore the system frequency value back to the allowable range. The efficiency of the suggested load-shedding scheme was verified via the comparison with the under-frequency load shedding (UFLS). The latter result is that the load shedding power of the suggested approach is 22.64% lower than the UFLS method. The case studies are experienced on the IEEE 9-generator; the 37-bus system has proven its effectiveness.
Spatial Prediction of COVID-19 in China Based on Machine Learning Algorithms and Geographically Weighted Regression
Authors: Shao Qi , Xu Yongming , Wu Hanyi
Published: October 2021

COVID-19 has swept through the world since December 2019 and caused a large number of patients and deaths. Spatial prediction on the spread of the epidemic is greatly important for disease control and management. In this study, we predicted the cumulative confirmed cases (CCCs) from Jan 17 to Mar 1, 2020, in mainland China at the city level, using machine learning algorithms, geographically weighted regression (GWR), and partial least squares regression (PLSR) based on population flow, geolocation, meteorological, and socioeconomic variables. The validation results showed that machine learning algorithms and GWR achieved good performances. These models could not effectively predict CCCs in Wuhan, the first city that reported COVID-19 cases in China, but performed well in other cities. Random Forest (RF) outperformed other methods with a

CV
‐

R

2

of 0.84. In this model, the population flow from Wuhan to other cities (WP) was the most important feature and the other features also made considerable contributions to the prediction accuracy. Compared with RF, GWR showed a slightly worse performance (

CV
‐

R

2

=
0.81

) but required fewer spatial independent variables. This study explored the spatial prediction of the epidemic based on multisource spatial independent variables, providing references for the estimation of CCCs in the regions lacking accurate and timely.
Triptolide Attenuates Neuropathic Pain by Regulating Microglia Polarization through the CCL2/CCR2 Axis
Authors: Bao Xubin , Chen Cai , Yuan Liyong
Published: October 2021

Triptolide (T10) is a common anti-inflammatory and analgesic drug. However, the activation of microglia and elimination of the corresponding inflammatory response are new targets for the treatment of neuropathic pain. Chemokine CCL (CCL2) is a key mediator for activating microglia. In this study, the effects of triptolide on the activation and polarization of microglia cells and CCL2 and its corresponding receptor, chemokine receptor 2 (CCR2), were mainly discussed. Microglia were stimulated with 1 μg/mL lipopolysaccharide (LPS) and pretreated with 10, 20, and 40 nM T10 and CCR2 antagonist (RS102895), respectively. The quantitative polymerase chain reaction (QPCR) and western blot results showed that T10 could obviously inhibit the upregulation of CCL2 and CCR2 induced by LPS stimulation in microglia cells, inhibit the fluorescence intensity of glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP) and inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) antibody immunostaining in cells, and upregulate the fluorescence intensity of arginase 1 antibody in cells. The expression of interleukin-6 (IL-6), interleukin-1β (IL-1β), and tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) was inhibited in a dose-dependent manner. RS102895 can significantly reverse the activation and M2 polarization of microglia pretreated with 40 nM T10 and weaken the anti-inflammatory effect of T10. The addition of CCL2 did not extremely affect the function of RS102895. T10 may inhibit microglia activation and M1 polarization by inhibiting the expression of CCL2 and CCR2, promoting M2 polarization, reducing the level of inflammatory factors in cells, and exerting its analgesic effect, which is worthy of clinical promotion as a drug for neuropathic pain.
Endogenous Retroelements and the Viral Mimicry Response in Cancer Therapy and Cellular Homeostasis
Authors: Chen Raymond , Ishak Charles A. , De Carvalho Daniel D.
Published: October 2021

Features of the cancer epigenome distinguish cancers from their respective cell of origin and establish therapeutic vulnerabilities that can be exploited through pharmacologic inhibition of DNA- or histone-modifying enzymes. Epigenetic therapies converge with cancer immunotherapies through “viral mimicry,” a cellular state of active antiviral response triggered by endogenous nucleic acids often derived from aberrantly transcribed endogenous retrotransposons. This review describes the initial characterization and expansion of viral mimicry–inducing approaches as well as features that “prime” cancers for viral mimicry induction. Increased understanding of viral mimicry in therapeutic contexts suggests potential physiologic roles in cellular homeostasis.

Significance:

Recent literature establishes elevated cytosolic double strand RNA (dsRNA) levels as a cancer-specific therapeutic vulnerability that can be elevated by viral mimicry–inducing therapies beyond tolerable thresholds to induce antiviral signaling and increase dependence on dsRNA stress responses mediated by ADAR1. Improved understanding of viral mimicry signaling and tolerance mechanisms reveals synergistic treatment combinations with epigenetic therapies that include inhibition of BCL2, ADAR1, and immune checkpoint blockade. Further characterization of viral mimicry tolerance may identify contexts that maximize efficacy of conventional cancer therapies.
Redox Regulation in Cancer Cells during Metastasis
Authors: Tasdogan Alpaslan , Ubellacker Jessalyn M. , Morrison Sean J.
Published: October 2021

Metastasis is an inefficient process in which the vast majority of cancer cells are fated to die, partly because they experience oxidative stress. Metastasizing cancer cells migrate through diverse environments that differ dramatically from their tumor of origin, leading to redox imbalances. The rare metastasizing cells that survive undergo reversible metabolic changes that confer oxidative stress resistance. We review the changes in redox regulation that cancer cells undergo during metastasis. By better understanding these mechanisms, it may be possible to develop pro-oxidant therapies that block disease progression by exacerbating oxidative stress in cancer cells.

Significance:

Oxidative stress often limits cancer cell survival during metastasis, raising the possibility of inhibiting cancer progression with pro-oxidant therapies. This is the opposite strategy of treating patients with antioxidants, an approach that worsened outcomes in large clinical trials.
The Role of Streptococcal Cell-Envelope Proteases in Bacterial Evasion of the Innate Immune System
Authors: McKenna Sophie , Huse Kristin Krohn , Giblin Sean , Pearson Max , Majid Al Shibar Mohammed Said , Sriskandan Shiranee , Matthews Stephen , Pease James Edward
Published: October 2021

Bacteria possess the ability to evolve varied and ingenious strategies to outwit the host immune system, instigating an evolutionary arms race. Proteases are amongst the many weapons employed by bacteria, which specifically cleave and neutralize key signalling molecules required for a coordinated immune response. In this article, we focus on a family of S8 subtilisin-like serine proteases expressed as cell-envelope proteases (CEPs) by group A and group B streptococci. Two of these proteases known as Streptococcus pyogenes CEP (SpyCEP) and C5a peptidase cleave the chemokine CXCL8 and the complement fragment C5a, respectively. Both CXCL8 and C5a are potent neutrophil-recruiting chemokines, and by neutralizing their activity, streptococci evade a key defence mechanism of innate immunity. We review the mechanisms by which CXCL8 and C5a recruit neutrophils and the characterization of SpyCEP and C5a peptidase, including both in vitro and in vivo studies. Recently described structural insights into the function of this CEP family are also discussed. We conclude by examining the progress of prototypic vaccines incorporating SpyCEP and C5a peptidase in their preparation. Since streptococci-producing SpyCEP and C5a peptidase are responsible for a considerable global disease burden, targeting these proteases by vaccination strategies or by small-molecule antagonists should provide protection from and promote the resolution of streptococcal infections.
Experiência “espiritual” de uma idosa sobrevivente de câncer sob cuidados paliativos: um relato de caso
Authors: Silva Arthur Fernandes da , Bezerra Mirella Rebello , Cavalcanti Zilda do Rego
Published: October 2021

É considerado sobrevivente de câncer o paciente com história de convivência com neoplasia, do diagnóstico da mesma até o fim de sua vida, não incluindo somente aqueles que se submeteram à realização de tratamentos oncológicos e sobreviveram. A vida após o câncer se converte numa experiência disruptiva que demanda resiliência do indivíduo, no sentido de transformar a experiência ameaçadora à integridade da vida em uma fonte de sentido. Este relato descreve a vivência de uma idosa sobrevivente enfrentando complicação do tratamento oncológico em internamento hospitalar, no qual apresentou experiência anômala. A relação da paciente descrita no relato com seu deus foi a característica preponderante de sua experiência, sendo este deus bondoso e misericordioso, uma fonte de amparo e segurança. Estudos recentes reforçam a importância da vinculação positiva com a divindade nesse contexto, demonstrando que tais relações são catalisadoras de paz, calma e esperança nesses pacientes. Evidências do impacto da espiritualidade na saúde de forma global e instrumentos para sua avaliação junto ao paciente têm sido descritos e merecem maiores investigações. Este trabalho objetivou apresentar uma temática complexa e de difícil inserção acadêmica, discutindo a dimensão espiritual do indivíduo como constituinte de suas vivências e chamando a atenção do setor saúde, com vistas ao cuidado integral do ser humano.
HDL (High-Density Lipoprotein) Subspecies, Prevalent Covert Brain Infarcts, and Incident Overt Ischemic Stroke: Cardiovascular Health Study
Authors: Koch Manja , Aroner Sarah A. , Fitzpatrick Annette L. , Longstreth W.T. , Furtado Jeremy D. , Mukamal Kenneth J. , Jensen Majken K.
Published: October 2021

Background:

Whether HDL (high-density lipoprotein) is associated with risk of vascular brain injury is unclear. HDL is comprised of many apo (apolipoprotein) species, creating distinct subtypes of HDL.

Methods:

We utilized sandwich ELISA to determine HDL subspecies from plasma collected in 1998/1999 from 2001 CHS (Cardiovascular Health Study) participants (mean age, 80 years).

Results:

In cross-sectional analyses, participants with higher apoA1 in plasma and lower apoE in HDL were less likely to have prevalent covert magnetic resonance imaging–defined infarcts: odds ratio for apoA1 Q4 versus Q1, 0.68 (95% CI, 0.50–0.93), and odds ratio for apoE Q4 versus Q1, 1.36 (95% CI, 1.01–1.84). Similarly, apoA1 in the subspecies of HDL that lacked apoC3, apoJ, or apoE was inversely related to covert infarcts, and apoE in the subspecies of HDL that lacked apoC3 or apoJ was directly related to covert infarcts in prospective analyses. In contrast, the concentrations of apoA1 and apoE in the complementary subspecies of HDL that contained these apos were unrelated to covert infarcts. Patterns of associations between incident overt ischemic stroke and apoA1, apoE, and apoA1 and apoE in subspecies of HDL were similar to those observed for covert infarcts but less pronounced.

Conclusions:

This study highlights HDL subspecies defined by apo content as relevant biomarkers of covert and overt vascular brain injury.
The distribution and biogeography of slow worms (Anguis, Squamata) across the Western Palearctic, with an emphasis on secondary contact zones
Authors: Jablonski Daniel , Sillero Neftalí , Oskyrko Oleksandra , Bellati Adriana , Čeirāns Andris , Cheylan Marc , Cogălniceanu Dan , Crnobrnja-Isailović Jelka , Crochet Pierre-André , Crottini Angelica , Doronin Igor , Džukić Georg , Geniez Philippe , Ilgaz Çetin , Iosif Ruben , Jandzik David , Jelić Dušan , Litvinchuk Spartak , Ljubisavljević Katarina , Lymberakis Petros , Mikulíček Peter , Mizsei Edvárd , Moravec Jiří , Najbar Bartłomiej , Pabijan Maciej , Pupins Mihails , Sourrouille Patricia , Strachinis Ilias , Szabolcs Márton , Thanou Evanthia , Tzoras Elias , Vergilov Vladislav , Vörös Judit , Gvoždík Václav
Published: October 2021

The slow-worm lizards (Anguis) comprise five species occurring throughout most of the Western Palearctic. Although these species are relatively uniform morphologically – with the exception of A. cephallonica, which exhibits a quite unique morphology – they are genetically deeply divergent. Here, we provide detailed distribution maps for each species and discuss their biogeography and conservation based on updated genetic data and a robust distribution database. We pay particular attention to the so called ‘grey zone’, which typically represents secondary contact zones and in some cases confirmed or presumed hybrid zones. Four of the five species live in parapatry, while only two species, A. cephallonica and A. graeca from the southern Balkans occur in partial sympatry. Further research should focus on the eco-evolutionary interactions between species in contact, including their hybridization rates, to reveal deeper details of the slow-worm evolutionary and natural history.
Computational Sub-10 nm Plasmonic Nanogap Patterns by Block Copolymer Self-Assembly
Authors: Kim Sang-Kon
Published: October 2021

Plasmonic nanoparticle (NP) arrays with narrow gaps have been suggested as an effective light collection solution for plasmonic structures. For an effective low-cost bottom-up strategy, block copolymer (BCP) self-assembly with evaporative metal-deposition is mentioned as one of the
best effective ways to produce Au NP arrays with narrow gaps. In this paper, BCP self-assembly for nanopost-template arrays and metal-deposition over the nanotemplate surface for positional arrangement of Au NPs are described using a self-consistent field theory (SCFT) and a level-set method,
respectively. According to the of BCP self-assembly simulation results, both the diameter of the cylinder post and gap size become larger due to the increase of polymerization degree (N). However, these parameters become smaller in terms of the increase of the Flory-Huggins interaction parameter
χ. For plasmonic phenomena about a top-down incident wavelength of 600-nm, according to a rigorous coupled-wave analysis (RCWA), although the electric field around a single spherical post becomes larger at smaller diameter, there is no top-down plasmonic phenomenon at a gap size
of 10-nm between nanoposts.
Treatment of Acute Severe Asthma Exacerbation with Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation and Inhaled Volatile Anesthetic
Authors: Raff Lauren A. , Schneider Andrew B. , Charles Anthony G. , Gallaher Jared R.
Published: October 2021

Severe asthma affects approximately 1-2% of all asthmatic patients. Acute exacerbations are associated with high mortality in this population. There are many treatment options for asthma exacerbation; however, if these treatments fail, patients can develop progressive hypoxia, hypercarbia, respiratory acidosis, and hemodynamic instability. Extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) and inhaled anesthetic both have a role in the management of acute severe refractory asthma exacerbation, though there is limited information about the use of both together. We present the case of a patient with severe asthma who suffered a refractory asthma exacerbation and was successfully managed with veno-venous ECMO and inhaled anesthetic. ECMO and inhaled volatile anesthetic both have a role in the management of severe refractory asthma exacerbations. It is safe and beneficial to use these therapies together and more benefit is noted if initiated early in the course of the patient’s illness.
General Surgery Resident Operative Experiences in Solid Organ Injury: An Examination of Case Logs
Authors: Nordin Andrew B. , Wach Michael M. , Jalal Kabir , Cooper Clairice A. , Jordan Jeffrey M.
Published: October 2021

Background

Non-operative management (NOM) of traumatic solid organ injury (SOI) has become commonplace. This paradigm shift, along with reduced resident work hours, has significantly impacted surgical residents’ operative trauma experiences. We examined ongoing changes in residents’ operative SOI experience since duty hour restriction implementation, and assessed whether missed operative experiences were gained elsewhere in the resident experience.

Methods

We examined data from American College of Graduate Medical Education case log reports from 2003 to 2018. We collected mean case volumes in the categories of non-operative trauma, trauma laparotomy, and splenic, hepatic, and pancreatic trauma operations; case volumes for comparable non-traumatic solid organ operations were also collected. Solid organ injury operative volumes were compared against non-traumatic cases, and change over time was analyzed.

Results

Over the study period, both trauma laparotomies and non-operative traumas increased significantly ( P < .001). In contrast, operative volumes for splenic, hepatic, and pancreatic trauma all significantly decreased ( P < .001; P = .014; P < .001, respectively). Non-traumatic spleen cases also significantly decreased ( P < .001), but liver cases and distal pancreatectomies increased ( P < .001; P = .017). Pancreaticoduodenectomies increased, albeit not to a significant degree ( P = .052).

Conclusions

Continuing increases in NOM of SOI correlate with declining resident experience with operative solid organ trauma. These decreases can adversely affect residents’ technical skills and decision-making, although trends in specific non-traumatic areas may help to mitigate such losses. Further work should determine the impact of these trends on resident competence and autonomy.
Correlation and Difference Between Raman Spectral Characteristic and Feature Evaluation for Leukocytes and Tumor Cells
Authors: Dai Yixin , Li Wenxue , Wang Liu , Luo Chuan , Huang Qing , Pang Lin
Published: October 2021

Tumor detection supported by Raman spectroscopy is becoming increasingly popular, yet the relevance of spectral variation and feature selection retains unclear. Here we determined the correlation and difference between spectral characteristic and feature evaluation for leukocytes and tumor cells. Some peaks were found to show noticeable spectral differences, and their intensity distributions were investigated, finding using log-normal distribution to describe Raman intensity pattern may be more appropriate. Further the importance of all Raman features was calculated, where some other peak features occupied the top status. By surveying the intensity variation and feature evaluation for those peaks, we concluded the peak with the highest importance does not correspond to the peak location with the most noticeable intensity difference in spectra. Moreover, the peak intensity ratio of I1517/I719 associated with protein to nucleic acid level presented the maximum separation, thus, it can be recognized as a special indicator to develop an alternative cancer detection. It is inspiring to introduce advanced statistical models into bio-spectroscopic fields but those intrinsic spectral variations rather than classification performance should be valued. Our explorations can provide possibilities to reveal the essences within tumor carcinogenesis based on Raman spectroscopy, further overwhelming the obstacles during the translation into clinical applications.
Solvent Effect on Assembling and Interactions in Solutions of Phenol: Infrared Spectroscopic and Density Functional Theory Study
Authors: Singh Swapnil , Majer Mateusz , Czarnecki Mirosław Antoni , Morisawa Yusuke , Ozaki Yukihiro
Published: October 2021

This work provides new insight into assembling of phenol in various solvents and competition between different kinds of interactions. To examine both weak and strong interactions, we selected a series of non-aromatic and aromatic solvents. Infrared spectra were measured at low (0.05 M) and high (2 M) phenol content. In addition, we performed density functional theory calculations of the structures and harmonic vibrational spectra of 1:1 complexes of phenol with the solvents and the associates of phenol from dimer to tetramer. Based on these results, we divided the solvents into three groups. The first group consists of non-aromatic solvents weakly interacting with phenol. Depending on the concentration, molecules of phenol in these solvents remain non-bonded or self-associated. In diluted solutions of phenol in chlorinated non-aromatic solvents do not appear free OH groups, since they are involved in a weak OH···Cl interaction. It is of note that in diluted solutions of phenol in tetramethyl ethylene both the non-bonded and bonded OH coexists due to solvent–solvent interactions. The second group consists of aromatic solvents with methyl or chlorine substituents. At low concentration, the molecules of phenol are involved in the phenol–solvent OH···π interaction and the strength of these interactions depends on the solvent properties. At a higher phenol content an equilibrium exists between phenol–solvent OH···π and phenol–phenol OH···OH interactions. Finally, the third group includes the aromatic and non-aromatic solvents with highly polar group (C≡N). In these solvents, regardless of the concentration all molecules of phenol are involved in the solute–solvent OH···NC interaction. Comparison of the experimental and theoretical band parameters reveals that molecules of phenol in non-aromatic solvents prefer the cyclic associates, while in the aromatic solvents they tend to form the linear associates.
Chemical Characterization Using Laser-Induced Breakdown Spectroscopy of Products Released from Lithium-Ion Battery Cells at Thermal Runaway Conditions
Authors: Diaz Daniel , Hahn David W.
Published: October 2021

Laser-induced breakdown spectroscopy (LIBS) was used to characterize the ejecta released by lithium-ion (Li-ion) cells at thermal runaway conditions. Commercial AAA-size, rechargeable, 3.7 V, 350 mAh, Li-ion battery cells were heated in a N2 -atmosphere tubular chamber up to about 165 ℃ to induce thermal decomposition. Through measurements of the chamber internal temperature and LIBS emission intensities over, time the onset temperature of thermal runaway (≈143 ℃) and the duration of the cells outgassing (>40 minutes) were determined. Relatively high-intensity atomic emissions from C, F, H, Li, Na, and P were detected at different times during the heating experiments. The detection of analytes such as C and H was continuous over time. On the contrary, detection of F, Li, Na, and P was more irregular, indicating the presence of solid-phase analytes or analyte-bearing particles. A calibration scheme for estimation of the total mass/volume concentration of all carbon-based species sampled within the laser-induced plasma was developed.
Infrared Spectroscopy-Determined Bone Compositional Changes Associated with Anti-Resorptive Treatment of the oim/oim Mouse Model of Osteogenesis Imperfecta
Authors: Shanas No’ad , Querido William , Oswald Jack , Jepsen Karl , Carter Erin , Raggio Cathleen , Pleshko Nancy
Published: October 2021

Applications of vibrational spectroscopy to assess bone disease and therapeutic interventions are continually advancing, with tissue mineral and protein composition frequently investigated. Here, we used two spectroscopic approaches for determining bone composition in a mouse model ( oim) of the brittle bone disease osteogenesis imperfecta (OI) with and without antiresorptive agent treatment (alendronate, or ALN, and RANK-Fc). Near-infrared (NIR) spectral analysis using a fiber optic probe and attenuated total reflection Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (ATR FTIR) mode were applied to investigate bone composition, including water, mineral, and protein content. Spectral parameters revealed differences among the control wildtype (WT) and OIM groups. NIR spectral analysis of protein and water showed that OIM mouse humerii had ∼50% lower protein and ∼50% higher overall water content compared to WT bone. Moreover, some OIM-treated groups showed a reduction in bone water compared to OIM controls, approximating values observed in WT bone. Differences in bone quality based on increased mineral content and reduced carbonate content were also found between some groups of treated OIM and WT bone, but crystallinity did not differ among all groups. The spectroscopically determined parameters were evaluated for correlations with gold-standard mechanical testing values to gain insight into how composition influenced bone strength. As expected, bone mechanical strength parameters were consistently up to threefold greater in WT mice compared to OIM groups, except for stiffness in the ALN-treated OIM groups. Furthermore, bone stiffness, maximum load, and post-yield displacement showed the strongest correlations with NIR-determined protein content (positive correlations) and bound-water content (negative correlations). These results demonstrate that in this study, NIR spectral parameters were more sensitive to bone composition differences than ATR parameters, highlighting the potential of this nondestructive approach for screening of bone diseases and therapeutic efficacy in pre-clinical models.
The Sikkim–Tibet Convention of 1890 and the Younghusband Mission of 1904
Authors: Thejalhoukho
Published: October 2021

The controversy surrounding the Simla Conference of 1913–1914 and the legality of the McMahon line, which was produced by the Conference, has been at the centre of the boundary dispute between India and China. Amidst the diverging opinions amongst scholars and political commentators, the main issue rest on the unresolved question of Tibet’s political status. Was Lhasa authorised to sign treaties for Tibet? Was China the sovereign over Tibet? The answers to such questions are murky and complicated, made more so by the politics and conflicts in the post colonial period. This study attempts to highlight the complicated nature of political authority in Tibet through a study of British policy in Tibet towards the end of 19th and early 20th centuries. The signing of the 1890 Convention with China and the 1904 Convention with Tibet represents two extremes in British foreign policy which attest to the confounding situation presented before the British and the diverging opinions within the British official circles. The period between these two conventions provides a glimpse of the historical background in which the relations between British India, China and Tibet developed subsequently.
Catastrophic Health Expenditure before and after of the Implementation of Health Sector Evolution Plan in Iran
Authors: Ahmadi Razieh , Shafiei Milad , Ameri Hosein , Askari Roohollah , Fallahzadeh Hossein
Published: October 2021

Introduction: One of the fundamental goals of health transportation plan (HTP) in Iran is to improve household’s financial protection against catastrophic health expenditures (CHE). The aim of this study was to calculate the percentage of catastrophic health expenditures after implementing the plan and compare it with CHE before the plan for the same households. Methods: Data were collected through face-to-face interviews for 400 households. The CHE was calculated using the WHO approach, and relationships between CHE and the variables (having member ≥65 years old, having member ≤5 years old, having disabled member, economic status, health insurance status, dentistry services usage, and inpatient and outpatient services usage) were examined by the Fisher’s exact test. Moreover, the impacts of the variables on CHE were assessed by logistic regression model. Stata version 15 was used for data analyses. Results: The exposure of the households to CHE increased from 8.3% in 2011 to 14.2% in 2020, and percentage of the impoverished households due to health expenditures in 2020 was more than that of the 2011 (4.3% vs 7.5%). The economic status, having members ≥65 years, and using dental and inpatient services were the key factors determining the CHE. The most important determinant affecting the exposure to CHE was dental services utilization in 2011 (92.64) and 2020 (122.68). Conclusion: The results showed a negative incremental change for the households facing CHE in this period. The dental and inpatient services need to be more widely covered by basic health insurance and households having members ≥65 years along with the poor households should be exempted from paying some of the healthcare expenditures for improving their financial protection against CHE.
Geothermal potential and genetic mechanisms of the geothermal system in the mountainous area on the northern margin of north china
Authors: Liu Feng , Wang Guiling , Zhang Wei , Shi Yizuo , Yue Chen , Dou Baona
Published: October 2021

Geothermal resources as clean and renewable energy can be utilized for agriculture, tourism, and industry. The assessment of geothermal potential and the study of genetic mechanism of the geothermal system is an essential part of geothermal resource development. In this study, 16 steady-state temperature logs are obtained in the mountainous area on the northern margin of North China. Thermal conductivity and heat production rates are tested or collected from more than 200 rock samples of these wells and outcrops around the study area. Based on these data, for the first time, the detailed delineations of temperature distributions, genetic mechanisms of geothermal systems, and resource potential of Hot Dry Rock in the study area are achieved. The heat flow map indicates a low heat flow state with an average value of 53.1 mW/m2 in the study area, which is lower than the average value of 62.5 mW/m2 in mainland China. The distribution of hot springs in the area is mainly controlled by fault systems. Heat flow only exhibits a minor effect on the temperature of hot springs and geothermal wells. On this basis, the deep temperature distribution within 3–10 km depths of the study area is calculated using the one-dimensional steady-state heat conduction equation. With it, the reservoir depths of hot springs are estimated to be 3–5 km with temperatures ranging from 70°C to 110°C. Furthermore, a conceptual model for the geothermal system in the study area is derived. According to the results, Northeastern Chengde and northern Beijing exhibit the highest temperatures at all depths. Similar patterns are observed in the temperature distribution maps and the heat flow map, which suggest that the deep temperature distribution is mainly controlled by regional heat flow. With the depth increases, the temperature shows larger variation at each depth level, which is possibly caused by the heterogeneity of crustal composition. According to our resource assessment by volumetric method, the exploitable potential of Hot Dry Rock within the depth of 7–10 km of the study area is equivalent to about 3.1 × 1011 tons of standard coal, but the barrier is still existing for development under the current technical and economic conditions.
Efficacy of Montelukast as Prophylactic Treatment for Seasonal Allergic Rhinitis
Authors: Li Lisha , Wang Ruiqi , Cui Le , Guan Kai
Published: October 2021

The evidence supporting the prophylactic treatment of seasonal allergic rhinitis before the start of pollen dispersal is still lacking. We conducted a study to investigate the efficacy of prophylaxis with montelukast for seasonal allergic rhinitis and to evaluate its influence on the inflammatory condition of the lower airway. Our final study population was made up of 57 adults who were randomized to a prophylactic treatment group and a control group. The prophylaxis group was made up of 31 patients—10 men and 21 women, aged 18 to 54 years (mean: 36.9)—who were administered montelukast for 2 weeks before the cypress pollen season and subsequently throughout the remainder of the season. The control group was made up of 26 patients—11 men and 15 women, aged 24 to 63 years (mean: 39.2)—who took montelukast during the pollen season only. During the pollen season, the mean daily rescue medication score was significantly lower in the prophylaxis group (3.22 vs. 3.89; p = 0.001). However, there was no statistical difference in the two groups’ mean daily rhinoconjunctivitis symptom scores. Also, the fraction of exhaled nitric oxide in the prophylaxis group tended to be lower than that of control group, but again the difference was not significant (29.8 vs. 42.1 ppb; p = 0.189). We conclude that antileukotriene prophylaxis started 2 weeks before the cypress pollen dispersal was effective in reducing the need for rescue medication during the pollen season and showed a trend toward alleviating the eosinophilic inflammation in the lower airway induced by the pollen.
Does Social Interaction Improve Emotional Experience Across Different Relationships? A Study Using Experience Sampling in Older Chinese Adults
Authors: Zhang Xingyu , Liu Jing , Li Xiying , Ling Hongjuan , Shao Jingjin , Peng Huamao
Published: October 2021

Social interaction is an important way that we as humans connect with others. Socioemotional selectivity theory emphasizes the importance of close relationships, and Chinese culture attaches great importance to family members. As such, this study aimed to examine the differences in the quality of interactions that older Chinese adults have with close partners (e.g., children, friends, and relatives) as well as with other partners (e.g., neighbors, colleagues, and strangers) and to examine the association between interaction quality and emotional experience across these interactions. We collected data from 213 older adults over the course of 14 days. Results indicate that (1) compared to other partners, interactions with close partners are considered to be of higher quality; (2) in interactions with children and relatives, interaction quality is positively associated with positive affect (PA) and negatively associated with negative affect (NA); in interactions with friends and neighbors, interaction quality is only associated with PA; in interactions with colleagues and strangers, interaction quality is not associated with either PA or NA. Overall, interactions with close partners were shown to be considered to be of higher quality, and that the quality of interactions with family members was closely associated with emotional experience.
An agent of change against all odds? The case of Ledger in Vierzon, France
Authors: Morisson Arnault , Mayer Heike
Published: October 2021

The literature in economic geography is increasingly interested in the role of human agency in local and regional development. The understanding of the role of agents of change on path development is especially critical for small- and medium-sized towns (SMSTs), which tend to be less diversified and to have fewer localised capabilities. The town of Vierzon in the Centre-Val-de-Loire region in France is a medium-sized old industrial town in a structural crisis. It is suffering from deindustrialisation, population decline, unemployment and poverty. This article takes a micro-perspective with a case study approach to explore the creation and growth of Ledger – a frontier blockchain start-up that designs, produces and commercialises hardware wallets for cryptocurrencies – against all odds in Vierzon, France. It underlines the role of a Window of Locational Opportunity, agency, chance, the broader institutional context in the location of Ledger in an unlikely place and subsequent unrelated diversification and path creation. It contributes to the debate on the interplay between agency and structure by linking agents of change in SMSTs to the broader institutional context and to the understanding of the emergence of place-based leadership.
Using Macromarketing to Teach Business Sustainability
Authors: Peterson Mark
Published: October 2021

The first macromarketing seminar held in 1976 represented a first attempt to “hack the system” of business schools to bring a societal focus to the teaching of marketing. This effort resulted eventually in macromarketing becoming a major field of the marketing discipline. Today, forces outside the business school are pointing business schools to broaden their curricula to include social responsibility in the form of macromarketing, sustainability, and marketing for a better world. The purpose of this article is to discuss the challenges and opportunities of teaching macromarketing and sustainability concepts to business students so that more macromarketing managers would develop and exert their influence in marketplaces around the world. Important points include (a) the imperative for macromarketing-minded educators to advocate for curriculum changes in their own business schools, and (b) the need for macromarketing-minded educators to become more capable teachers of macromarketing and sustainability content with students more skeptical about such content. This article offers a constructivist approach to setting the stage for students engaging macromarketing and sustainability content for the first time. Embracing the paradox of managerial macromarketing and integrating experiential learning highlight this approach.
Quantifying image quality in chest computed tomography angiography: Evaluation of different contrast-to-noise ratio measurement methods
Authors: Chatzaraki Vasiliki , Kubik-Huch Rahel A , Thali Michael , Niemann Tilo
Published: October 2021

Background

Contrast-to-noise ratio is used to objectively evaluate image quality in chest computed tomography angiography (CTA). Different authors define and measure contrast-to-noise ratio using different methods.

Purpose

To summarize and evaluate the different contrast-to-noise ratio calculation formulas in the current literature.

Material and Methods

A systematic review of the recent literature for studies using contrast-to-noise ratio was performed. Contrast-to-noise ratio measurement methods reported by the different authors were recorded and reproduced in three patients who underwent chest CTA in our department for exploring variations among the different measurement methods.

Results

The search resulted in 109 articles, of which 26 were included. The studies involved 69 different measurements and overall, three different formula patterns. In all three, aorta and pulmonary arteries comprised the objects of interest in the numerator. In the denominator, standard deviation of the attenuation of the object of interest itself or of another background were used to reflect image noise. Some authors averaged the ratio values at different levels to obtain global ratio values. Using the object of interest itself for image noise calculation in the denominator compared to the usage of another background caused the most prominent variances of contrast-to-noise ratio between the two different protocols used for the reproduction of the measurements.

Conclusion

We recommend using the standard deviation of the attenuation of a background indicator as image noise rather than the object of interest itself for more reliable and comparative values. Global contrast-to-noise ratios based on averaging the values of different measurement levels should be avoided.
Aldehyde dehydrogenase 1 (ALDH1) immunostaining in axillary lymph node metastases is an independent prognostic factor in ALDH1-positive breast cancer
Authors: Guan Xin , Dong Yi , Fan Zhimin , Zhan Yue , Xie Xinpeng , Xu Gege , Zhang Yu , Guo Guoqiang , Shi Aiping
Published: October 2021

Objective

To determine whether aldehyde dehydrogenase 1 (ALDH1) immunostaining in axillary lymph node metastases in patients with breast cancer is associated with poor clinical prognosis.

Methods

This retrospective study reviewed data from the medical records of patients with immunohistochemistry-confirmed invasive ductal carcinoma (IDC) and 1–3 metastatic lymph nodes in the ipsilateral axilla between December 2012 and July 2015. The association between ALDH1 immunostaining in axillary lymph node metastases and clinical parameters and prognosis was analysed using χ2-test, Kaplan–Meier survival analysis, univariate and multivariate Cox regression analyses.

Results

A total of 229 patients with IDC were enrolled in the study. The median follow-up was 61 months (range, 20–89 months). Patients with ALDH1-positive axillary lymph node metastases had significantly shorter relapse-free survival and overall survival compared with those with ALDH1-negative axillary lymph node metastases. ALDH1 immunostaining in axillary lymph node metastases was a significant predictor of poor prognosis in univariate and multivariate analyses.

Conclusion

This large study with long-term follow-up suggests that ALDH1 immunostaining in axillary lymph node metastases is an independent predictor of poor prognosis in patients with breast cancer. The clinical relevance of this finding should be confirmed in further well-designed prospective studies.
Negotiating the Wild West: Variegated neoliberalisation of the Swedish labour migration regime and the wild berry migration industry
Authors: Hedberg Charlotta , Olofsson Irma
Published: October 2021

Neoliberalisation processes have long permeated Western societies, including a common direction towards neoliberal migration regimes. This paper combines the perspective of variegated neoliberalisation with the recent literature on migration industries, to investigate the neoliberalisation of the Swedish labour migration regime and how it affected and interacted with the wild berry migration industry. It shows how neoliberalisation as a historical and spatially contingent process resulted in the distinct phases of intertwined policymaking and enactment of the industry. The ‘roll back’ phase included mutual interests and ‘intimate relations’ between state and industry, which both empowered and increased the number of private actors, creating structures that remained during the regular restructuring phase of ‘roll out’ neoliberalisation. While adding the perspective of variegated neoliberalisation, the paper deepens the analysis of migration industries by pointing at neoliberalisation as a spatial and temporal process, where the interplay between state and industry, an enlarged number of intermediaries and the increased responsibility of private actors are central cornerstones. The Swedish case shows how the role of intermediaries in the wild berry migration industry was reconstructed in order for the neoliberal migration regime to regulate a previously irregular migration industry. It is concluded that strong but spatially contingent links exist between neoliberal political economies, migration regimes and migration industries.
Can economic development policy trigger gentrification? Assessing and anatomising the mechanisms of state-led gentrification
Authors: Almeida Renan , Patrício Pedro , Brandão Marcelo , Torres Ramon
Published: October 2021

This paper aims to bridge universality – as gentrification stands as a global threat to vulnerable communities – and local circumstances and geographies, by investigating structural factors, such as deindustrialisation and land rent gaps, as well as local political economies and socio-spatial structures, which are all common in the Global South. We conducted research in Belo Horizonte, Brazil, to investigate whether a neoliberal economic development policy acted as a trigger for gentrification, relying on mixed methods research to analyse evidence of economic restructuring, land rent creation, changes in resident profiles and major urban development trends in the region. Findings indicate evidence of economic restructuring and that the policy triggered higher land values. However, we did not observe evidence of gentrification in the area and attribute this to a still-relevant manufacturing sector, the extensive presence of large informal settlements, the growing numbers of suburban gated communities, the low proportion of renters, and the fact that local elites are moving southwards while the policy took place in the northern peripheries of the metropolis. Federal policies such as minimum wage increases and housing programs partially contradicted neoliberal state policies. This case study offers a lens to investigate gentrification in different latitudes and illustrates how social policies may prevent gentrification processes.
Adipose-Derived Stem Cell Sheets Improve Early Biomechanical Graft Strength in Rabbits After Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction
Authors: Matsumoto Tatsuaki , Sato Yuiko , Kobayashi Tami , Suzuki Kunika , Kimura Atsushi , Soma Tomoya , Ito Eri , Kikuchi Toshiyuki , Kobayashi Shu , Harato Kengo , Niki Yasuo , Matsumoto Morio , Nakamura Masaya , Miyamoto Takeshi
Published: October 2021

Background:

Although various reconstruction techniques are available for anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injuries, a long recovery time is required before patients return to sports activities, as the reconstructed ACL requires time to regain strength. To date, several studies have reported use of mesenchymal stem cells in orthopaedic surgery; however, no studies have used adipose-derived stem cell (ADSC) sheets in ACL reconstruction (ACLR).

Hypothesis:

ADSC sheet transplantation can improve biomechanical strength of the autograft used in ACLR.

Study Design:

Controlled laboratory study.

Methods:

A total of 68 healthy Japanese white rabbits underwent unilateral ACLR with a semitendinosus tendon autograft after random enrollment into a control group (no sheet; n = 34) and a sheet group (ADSC sheet; n = 34). At 2, 4, 8, 16, and 24 weeks after surgery, rabbits in each group were sacrificed to evaluate tendon-bone healing using histological staining, micro–computed tomography, and biomechanical testing. At 24 weeks, scanning transmission electron microscopy of the graft midsubstance was performed.

Results:

The ultimate failure load for the control and sheet groups, respectively, was as follows: 17.2 ± 5.5 versus 37.3 ± 10.3 ( P = .01) at 2 weeks, 28.6 ± 1.9 versus 47.4 ± 10.4 ( P = .003) at 4 weeks, 53.0 ± 14.3 versus 48.1 ± 9.3 ( P = .59) at 8 weeks, 66.2 ± 9.3 versus 95.2 ± 43.1 ( P = .24) at 16 weeks, and 66.7 ± 27.3 versus 85.3 ± 29.5 ( P = .39) at 24 weeks. The histological score was also significantly higher in the sheet group compared with the control group at early stages up to 8 weeks. On micro–computed tomography, relative to the control group, the bone tunnel area was significantly narrower in the sheet group at 4 weeks, and the bone volume/tissue volume of the tendon-bone interface was significantly greater at 24 weeks. Scanning transmission electron microscopy at 24 weeks indicated that the mean collagen fiber diameter in the midsubstance was significantly greater, as was the occupation ratio of collagen fibers per field of view, in the sheet group.

Conclusion:

ADSC sheets improved biomechanical strength, prevented bone tunnel enlargement, and promoted tendon-bone interface healing and graft midsubstance healing in an in vivo rabbit model.

Clinical Relevance:

ADSC sheets may be useful for early tendon-bone healing and graft maturation in ACLR.