bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
INFERRING CAPILLARY PRESSURE CURVE FROM 2D ROCK IMAGES BASED ON FRACTAL THEORY IN LOW-PERMEABILITY SANDSTONE: A NEW INTEGRATED APPROACH
Authors: SAAFAN MUHAMMAD , GANAT TAREK
Published: April 2021

Reliable capillary pressure data are required for reservoir simulation and fluid flow characterization in porous media. The capillary pressure is commonly measured in the laboratory, which is costly, challenging, and accompanied by measurement uncertainties, especially for low-permeability core samples. Besides laboratory measurements, two-dimensional (2D) rock images reveal another prospect to obtain capillary pressure curves. This paper presents a new integrated approach combining image processing and fractal theory to infer the capillary pressure curve from 2D rock images in low-permeability sandstone. Our approach’s unique feature is its new representation of the pore structure based on information extracted from 2D cross-sections using image processing techniques (i.e. image segmentation and watershed partitioning). Furthermore, we derived an innovative analytical fractal model to calculate the capillary pressure from the newly proposed pore system representation. A new tortuous length equation is introduced to eliminate the developed fractal models’ dependency on the straight capillary length. The pore fractal dimension is computed using the box-counting method from the processed 2D image. The tortuosity fractal dimension is obtained from solving the developed fractal equations of porosity and permeability with the corresponding laboratory measurements. Additionally, a procedure for inferring capillary pressure from multiple cross-sections is proposed. The good accuracy in predicting capillary pressure for five low-permeability sandstone core samples demonstrates the developed approach’s robustness.
The Effect of “Wuhan Closure” on the COVID-19 Pandemic in China
Authors: Wang Jian , Shao Wei , Yan Yan , Kim Junseok
Published: April 2021

In this study, we analyzed daily records of newly diagnosed cases in Wuhan, Hubei excluding Wuhan (HEW), and China excluding Hubei (CEH) to investigate the impact of the new coronavirus outbreak in Wuhan on cities around it and throughout China. We used multifractal detrended cross-correlation analysis (MF-DXA) method to investigate the correlations between the daily number of patients in Wuhan and HEW as well as in Wuhan and CEH. We concluded that the cross-correlations between the daily number of patients in Wuhan and HEW were higher than those between the daily number of patients in Wuhan and CEH because the multifractal features of Wuhan and HEW are greater than those of Wuhan and CEH. We also found that the “Wuhan closure” conducted on January 23 resulted in a decrease in cross-correlations between Wuhan and CEH.
Hochschild cohomology, finiteness conditions and a generalization of d-Koszul algebras
Authors: Jawad Ruaa , Snashall Nicole
Published: April 2021

Given a finite-dimensional algebra [Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text], we construct a new algebra [Formula: see text], called the stretched algebra, and relate the homological properties of [Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text]. We investigate Hochschild cohomology and the finiteness condition (Fg), and use stratifying ideals to show that [Formula: see text] has (Fg) if and only if [Formula: see text] has (Fg). We also consider projective resolutions and apply our results in the case where [Formula: see text] is a [Formula: see text]-Koszul algebra for some [Formula: see text].
Synthesis of 5,15-meso-bis(2-chlorothiophen-3-yl)porphyrin as a building block for further functional materials
Authors: Ullah Safi , Ogumi Keisuke , Zhen Xuelin , Wang Huan , Matsuo Yutaka
Published: April 2021

A Suzuki–Miyaura coupling reaction was performed to synthesize 5,15-meso-bis(2-chlorothiophen-3-yl)porphyrins in order to obtain a building block for further functional porphyrins. Photophysical and electrochemical properties were investigated to understand the effect of 2-chloro substituted thiophenes which are connected at their 3-position to the meso-position of the porphyrin. A computational calculation with counterpoise method was demonstrated to estimate the relative intermolecular interaction in order to compare solubility. Installed chloro atoms at the 2-position of thiophen-3-yl decreased in intermolecular interaction which caused an increase in solubility.
Luteolin alleviates polycystic ovary syndrome in rats by resolving insulin resistance and oxidative stress
Authors: Huang Yue , Zhang Xiang
Published: April 2021

Luteolin normalizes the estrus cycle, ovarian morphological changes, improves serum sexual hormone levels, reduces insulin resistance, prompts PI3K/Akt signaling, improves antioxidative response, and upregulates Nrf2 signaling in PCOS rats. Luteolin has a potential to serve as a therapeutic agent in preventing and treating PCOS.
Analysis and Optimization of Static Contact Characteristics of Heavy-Duty Tracked Vehicle Rollers
Authors: Tian He , Fang Yi , Wang Shuai , Chen Zeren , Yan Chuliang
Published: April 2021

The static contact characteristics of heavy-duty tracked vehicle roller and track plate contact structure are analyzed, and the influence mechanism of the roller’s shape parameters on the contact stress is studied. According to the Hertz contact theory, a mathematical model of the roller and track plate contact is established. The contact structure model is established in ANSYS software, and the simulation results are compared with the Hertz theory results to verify each other. In the parameter optimization section for the roller and track plate, based on the Hertz stress calculation formula, a new method is proposed to establish a roller and track plate Kriging model and to globally optimize the model by the genetic algorithm (GA). After that, the relationship among the track roller radius

R

1

, the track roller rim radius

r

1

, and the track plate rim radius

r

2

is analyzed. The results show that the difference between the radius of the rim of the roller and the track plate and the radius of the roller rim both affect the maximum contact stress. Changing the plane contact into the curved surface contact can reduce the maximum contact stress by 33%. This study can provide a reference for the design and manufacture of supporting track rollers and track plates.
Field Measurement and Numerical Modelling Study on Mining‐Induced Subsidence in a Typical Underground Mining Area of Northwestern China
Authors: Zhang Kai , Bai Lu , Wang Pengfei , Zhu Zhuang
Published: April 2021

Mining‐induced subsidence is a great concern for environmental protection in underground mining areas in China and all over the world. In view of the fact that the research on land degradation above underground coal mines are completely or partially independent of coal mining activity and the fact that the mechanism behind mining‐induced subsidence has not been well understood, this study presents a field measurement and numerical study of mining‐induced subsidence with respect to mining activity of three adjacent longwall panels in a coal mine in Northwest China. This study shows that surface subsidence lags far behind panel extraction or mining activity. The profiles of ground surface are dominated and manifested by the subsurface strata structures. The subsidence influence throughout the whole length of a longwall panel varies. Stability of strata structures within overburden before the final subsidence controls the stability of ground surface land. Chain pillars of 20 m between panels of 240 m wide with cover depth of 600 m have been crushed in the gob and do not have any function in supporting the overburden strata. The final subsidence of the three adjacent panels is far to come in the future and the land reuse above underground coal mines should be carefully planned by making sure that the gob is completely compacted or no potential secondary subsidence occurs in the future.
The Evaluation Method of Rock Mass Stability Based on Natural Frequency
Authors: Xie Mowen , Liu Weinan , Du Yan , Li Qingbo , Wang Hongfei
Published: April 2021

The limit equilibrium method’s analysis index cannot be measured by on‐site monitoring equipment and cannot be used for monitoring and early warning of rock instability. The existing rock stability evaluation methods based on vibration information cannot evaluate the stability of rocks quantitatively. In this paper, the slope’s constraints on the rock were simplified to springs and a three‐dimensional analysis model of rock vibration was established. The equation for calculating the natural frequency of rock that includes the spring stiffness as an indicator was derived. The rock stability calculation function containing the index of natural frequency was brought into the traditional rock stability coefficient calculation equation, and a new rock stability analysis method based on natural frequency was established. The experiment proved the measurability of the index of the natural frequency of rock and the method’s effectiveness for the stability analysis of the rock based on natural frequency.
Study on Crack Propagation of the Tunnel Model under Dynamic Loading
Authors: Li Chengxiao , Zhang Yuantong , Xu Peng , An Chen
Published: April 2021

Crack defects make it difficult to predict the dynamic fracture of tunnel specimens under an impact load. To study the impact of the velocity and crack location on a roadway under dynamic load, specimens with tunnel‐type voids were made using polymethyl methacrylate. The split‐Hopkinson bar was used as the loading method, and a digital laser dynamic caustics system was used to observe the fracture process of the specimens. The dynamic fracture process was evaluated by the crack propagation velocity, displacement, and dynamic stress intensity factor. To predict and verify the test results, ABAQUS was used to simulate the test process. It was found that the results of the simulated combinations of the crack propagation path and initial fracture toughness change law are consistent with the test results. The initial fracture toughness and the peak value of the crack propagation velocity increased with the increase of the impact velocity. The crack propagation law and trajectory were affected by the location of the prefabricated cracks.
Analytical Solutions for the Mechanical Responses of Shallow Double‐Arched Tunnel Subjected to Symmetric Loads
Authors: Yang Song , Dai Rui , Ai Zubin , Li Xiaochang , Zhang Chao , Huang Xin
Published: April 2021

Double‐arched tunnel is a special kind of tunnel structure which is widely adopted for shallow rock tunnels. The internal forces within a double‐arched tunnel are difficult to be determined due to its special geometry and complex interactions with surrounding rock masses. This paper presents a set of analytical solutions for determining the internal forces within the lining structure of shallow double‐arched tunnel subjected to symmetric external loads. The double‐arched tunnel is decomposed into three main parts, i.e., the arch rings, the side walls, and the middle wall. The force method and the elastic foundation beam model are employed for the arch rings and the side walls, respectively, while the middle wall is treated as a cantilever beam fixed at the bottom. Analytical solutions for the internal forces of the three parts are derived separately, which are continuous at the conjunctions of different parts. The derived analytical solutions are verified by comparing with the FEM simulation results. Finally, parametric studies are performed to investigate the influences of burial depth, elastic resistance coefficient, opening angle, and tunnel span on the internal forces based on which some recommendations are provided for the construction and design of the double‐arched tunnels. The derived analytical solutions provide fast estimations for the internal forces and deformation of the double‐arched lining structures, which will be a useful tool for design optimization.
Catheter-Based Radiofrequency Renal Sympathetic Denervation Decreases Left Ventricular Hypertrophy in Hypertensive Dogs
Authors: Tu Shan , Shen Zhi-Jie , Wang Xiao-Yan , Zeng Li-Xiong , Zhang Zhi-Hui
Published: April 2021

This study explored the effects of renal sympathetic denervation (RDN) on hyperlipidity-induced cardiac hypertrophy in beagle dogs. Sixty beagles were randomly assigned to the control group, RDN group, or sham-operated group. The control group was fed with a basal diet, while the other two groups were given a high-fat diet to induce model hypertension. The RDN group underwent an RDN procedure, and the sham-operated group underwent only renal arteriography. At 1, 3, and 6 months after the RDN procedure, the diastolic blood pressure (DBP) and systolic blood pressure (SBP) levels were markedly decreased in the RDN group relative to the sham group (

P
<
0.05

). After 6 months, serum norepinephrine (NE) and angiotensin II (AngII), as well as left ventricular levels, in the RDN group were statistically lower than those in the sham group (

P
<
0.05

). Also, the left ventricular mass (LVM) and left ventricular mass index (LVMI) were significantly decreased, while the E/A peak ratio was drastically elevated (

P
<
0.05

). Pathological examination showed that the degree of left ventricular hypertrophy and fibrosis in the RDN group was statistically decreased relative to those of the sham group and that the collagen volume fraction (CVF) and perivascular circumferential collagen area (PVCA) were also significantly reduced (

P
<
0.05

). Renal sympathetic denervation not only effectively reduced blood pressure levels in hypertensive dogs but also reduced left ventricular hypertrophy and myocardial fibrosis and improved left ventricular diastolic function. The underlying mechanisms may involve a reduction of NE and AngII levels in the circulation and myocardial tissues, which would lead to the delayed occurrence of left ventricular remodeling.
Time-Scale Version of Generalized Birkhoffian Mechanics and Its Symmetries and Conserved Quantities of Noether Type
Authors: Chen Jin-Yue , Zhang Yi
Published: April 2021

The time-scale version of Noether symmetry and conservation laws for three Birkhoffian mechanics, namely, nonshifted Birkhoffian systems, nonshifted generalized Birkhoffian systems, and nonshitfed constrained Birkhoffian systems, are studied. Firstly, on the basis of the nonshifted Pfaff-Birkhoff principle on time scales, Birkhoff’s equations for nonshifted variables are deduced; then, Noether’s quasi-symmetry for the nonshifted Birkhoffian system is proved and time-scale conserved quantity is presented. Secondly, the nonshifted generalized Pfaff-Birkhoff principle on time scales is proposed, the generalized Birkhoff’s equations for nonshifted variables are derived, and Noether’s symmetry for the nonshifted generalized Birkhoffian system is established. Finally, for the nonshifted constrained Birkhoffian system, Noether’s symmetry and time-scale conserved quantity are proposed and proved. The validity of the result is proved by examples.
COVID-19 Infection: Viral Clearance and Antibody Response in Dialysis Patients and Renal Transplant Recipients
Authors: Bruno Paolo Ferdinando , Cappuccilli Maria , Spazzoli Alessandra , De Liberali Matteo , Sejdiu Brunilda , Napoli Marianna , Minerva Vera , Semprini Simona , Dirani Giorgio , Sambri Vittorio , Buscaroli Andrea , Rigotti Angelo , Mancini Elena , Masperi Paolo , La Manna Gaetano , Mosconi Giovanni
Published: April 2021

Background/Aims: The coronavirus disease 2019 (CO­VID-19) pandemic is the major current health emergency worldwide, adding a significant burden also to the community of nephrologists for the management of their patients. Here, we analyzed the impact of COVID-19 infection in renal patients to assess the time to viral clearance, together with the production and persistence of IgG and IgM antibody response, in consideration of the altered immune capacity of this fragile population. Methods: Viral clearance and antibody kinetics were investigated in 49 renal patients recovered from COVID-19 infection: 7 of them with chronic decompensated renal failure, 31 under dialysis treatment, and 11 kidney transplant recipients. Results: The time span between the diagnosis of infection and recovery based on laboratory testing (2 negative nasopharyngeal swabs in consecutive days) was 31.7 ± 13.3 days. Three new positive cases were detected from 8 to 13 days following recovery. At the first serological determination after swab negativization, all the patients developed IgG and IgM antibodies. The semiquantitative analysis showed a progressive increase in IgG and a slow reduction in IgM. Discussion/Conclusion: In subjects with decompensated chronic kidney disease, under dialysis and in transplant recipients, viral clearance is lengthened compared to the general population. However, in spite of their common status of immunodepression, all of them were able to produce specific antibodies. These data might provide useful insights for monitoring and planning health-care activities in the weak category of patients with compromised renal function recovered from COVID-19.
A New Active Osseointegrated Implant System in Patients with Single-Sided Deafness
Authors: Willenborg Kerstin , Avallone Emilio , Maier Hannes , Lenarz Thomas , Busch Susan
Published: April 2021

Objective: The Cochlear™ Osia® System (Osia) is an active transcutaneous bone conduction implant system intended for patients with conductive and mixed hearing loss but can also be used in cases of single-sided deafness (SSD) for the contralateral routing of signal (CROS). The Osia implant is placed subcutaneously under the intact skin behind the ear with the piezoelectric actuator connected to an osseointegrated BI300 implant – a titanium screw used for a 2-stage Baha surgery – on the mastoid. The external processor is magnetically attached to the subcutaneous implant receiver coil. As the Osia has recently been CE certified and is new on the market, with limited patient outcome data for SSD available, the objective of this study was the evaluation of surgical procedure, audiological results, and patient satisfaction for the Osia in SSD patients. Study Design: In a prospective, monocentric clinical observation study, 6 patients (18 years of age or older) with SSD and bone conduction thresholds pure tone average 0.5, 1, 2, and 4 kHz ≤25 dB HL on the contralateral side were implanted with an Osia. Analysis of clinical outcome data with respect to surgical technique, adverse events, audiological measurement, and subjective benefit for SSD patients was conducted. Audiological measurements performed included hearing thresholds, sound field thresholds, word recognition scores (WRS; in %) in quiet, and speech recognition thresholds in noise (in dB SNR). All tests were performed unaided and aided with the Osia. The subjective benefit with the Osia was determined by using 2 questionnaires; the Abbreviated Profile of Hearing Aid Benefit (APHAB) and the Bern Benefit in Single-Sided Deafness (BBSSD). Results: Preliminary results indicate a straightforward surgical procedure with a low rate of complications and an improvement in speech perception in quiet, listening performance in everyday situations and patient satisfaction. However, in one of 6 subjects, a revision surgery had to be performed. Conclusion: Provided that SSD patients are open for CROS hearing, they can benefit from the Osia by reduced head shadow effects and better speech recognition. Special caution should be given to the skin at the site of implantation to avoid complications.
Coronal Gradient Echo MRI to Visualize the Zona Incerta for Deep Brain Stimulation Targeting in Parkinson’s Disease
Authors: Thaker Ashesh A. , Reddy Kartik M. , Thompson John A. , Gerecht Pamela David , Brown Mark S. , Abosch Aviva , Ojemann Steven G. , Kern Drew S.
Published: April 2021

Introduction: Deep brain stimulation of the zona incerta is effective at treating tremor and other forms of parkinsonism. However, the structure is not well visualized with standard MRI protocols making direct surgical targeting unfeasible and contributing to inconsistent clinical outcomes. In this study, we applied coronal gradient echo MRI to directly visualize the rostral zona incerta in Parkinson’s disease patients to improve targeting for deep brain stimulation. Methods: We conducted a prospective study to optimize and evaluate an MRI sequence to visualize the rostral zona incerta in patients with Parkinson’s disease (n = 31) and other movement disorders (n = 13). We performed a contrast-to-noise ratio analysis of specific regions of interest to quantitatively assess visual discrimination of relevant deep brain structures in the optimized MRI sequence. Regions of interest were independently assessed by 2 neuroradiologists, and interrater reliability was assessed. Results: Rostral zona incerta and subthalamic nucleus were well delineated in our 5.5-min MRI sequence, indicated by excellent interrater agreement between neuroradiologists for region-of-interest measurements (>0.90 intraclass coefficient). Mean contrast-to-noise ratio was high for both rostral zona incerta (6.39 ± 3.37) and subthalamic nucleus (17.27 ± 5.61) relative to adjacent white matter. There was no significant difference between mean signal intensities or contrast-to-noise ratio for Parkinson’s and non-Parkinson’s patients for either structure. Discussion/Conclusion: Our optimized coronal gradient echo MRI sequence delineates subcortical structures relevant to traditional and novel deep brain stimulation targets, including the zona incerta, with high contrast-to-noise. Future studies will prospectively apply this sequence to surgical planning and postimplantation outcomes.
Indications for and Risks of Noninvasive Respiratory Support
Authors: Glaser Kirsten , Wright Clyde J.
Published: April 2021

Within the last decades, therapeutic advances have significantly improved the survival of extremely preterm infants. In contrast, the incidence of major neonatal morbidities, including bronchopulmonary dysplasia, has not declined. Given the well-established relationship between exposure to invasive mechanical ventilation and neonatal lung injury, neonatologists have sought for effective strategies of noninvasive respiratory support in high-risk infants. Continuous positive airway pressure has replaced invasive mechanical ventilation for the initial stabilization and the treatment of respiratory distress syndrome. Today, noninvasive respiratory support has been adopted even in the tiniest babies with the highest risk of lung injury. Moreover, different modes of noninvasive respiratory support supplemented by a number of adjunctive measures and rescue strategies have entered clinical practice with the goal of preventing intubation or reintubation. However, does this unquestionably important paradigm shift to strategies focused on noninvasive support lull us into a false sense of security? Can we do better in (i) identifying those very immature preterm infants best equipped for noninvasive stabilization, can we improve (ii) determinants of failure of noninvasive respiratory support in the individual infant and underlying etiology, and can we enhance (iii) success of noninvasive respiratory support and (iv) better prevent ultimate harm to the developing lung? With increased survival of infants at the highest risk of developing lung injury and an unchanging burden of bronchopulmonary dysplasia, we should question indiscriminate use of noninvasive respiratory support and address the above issues.
Oxygen in the First Minutes of Life in Very Preterm Infants
Authors: Saugstad Ola Didrik , Kapadia Vishal , Oei Ju Lee
Published: April 2021

Even a few minutes of exposure to oxygen in the delivery room in very preterm and immature infants may have detrimental effects. The initial oxygenation in the delivery room should therefore be optimized, but knowledge gaps, including initial fraction of oxygen (FiO2) and how FiO2 should be changed to reach an optimal oxygen saturation measured by pulse oximetry (SpO2) target within the first 5–10 min of life, remain. In order to answer this question, we therefore reviewed relevant literature. For newly born infants with gestational age (GA) <32 weeks in need of positive pressure ventilation (PPV) immediately after birth, we identified 2 fundamental issues: (1) the optimal initial FiO2 and (2) the target SpO2 within the first 5–10 min of life. For newly born infants between 29 and 31 weeks of GA, an initial FiO2 of 0.3 hit the target defined by the International Liaison Committee on Resuscitation (ILCOR) best. Newborn infants with GA <29 weeks in need of PPV and supplementary oxygen, we suggest starting with FiO2 0.3 and adjusting the FiO2 to reach SpO2 of 80% within 5 min of life for best outcomes. Prolonged bradycardia (heart rate <100 bpm for >2 min) is associated with increased risk of adverse outcomes, including death. The combination of strict control of development of SpO2 in the first 10 min of life and a heart rate >100 bpm represents the best tool today to achieve the most optimal outcome in the delivery room of very preterm and immature newborn infants.
Two new light attracted rove beetle species of Astenus Dejean, 1833 (Coleoptera: Staphylinidae: Paederinae) from Kerala, India
Authors: Sreevidhya P. , Akhil S.V. , Sebastian C.D.
Published: April 2021

Two new light attracted species of rove beetles of the genus Astenus Dejean, 1833 (Astenus keralensis sp. nov. and Astenus rougemonti sp. nov.) from Malabar coastal plains of northern Kerala in southern India are described, illustrated, and compared to closely related species.  First report of Astenus kraatzi Bernhauer, 1902 from Indian mainland and a checklist and key to all 41 species of Astenus recorded from the Indian mainland are provided.
Deep Learning Algorithm for Automated Cardiac Murmur Detection via a Digital Stethoscope Platform
Authors: Chorba John S. , Shapiro Avi M. , Le Le , Maidens John , Prince John , Pham Steve , Kanzawa Mia M. , Barbosa Daniel N. , Currie Caroline , Brooks Catherine , White Brent E. , Huskin Anna , Paek Jason , Geocaris Jack , Elnathan Dinatu , Ronquillo Ria , Kim Roy , Alam Zenith H. , Mahadevan Vaikom S. , Fuller Sophie G. , Stalker Grant W. , Bravo Sara A. , Jean Dina , Lee John J. , Gjergjindreaj Medeona , Mihos Christos G. , Forman Steven T. , Venkatraman Subramaniam , McCarthy Patrick M. , Thomas James D.
Published: April 2021

Background

Clinicians vary markedly in their ability to detect murmurs during cardiac auscultation and identify the underlying pathological features. Deep learning approaches have shown promise in medicine by transforming collected data into clinically significant information. The objective of this research is to assess the performance of a deep learning algorithm to detect murmurs and clinically significant valvular heart disease using recordings from a commercial digital stethoscope platform.

Methods and Results

Using >34 hours of previously acquired and annotated heart sound recordings, we trained a deep neural network to detect murmurs. To test the algorithm, we enrolled 962 patients in a clinical study and collected recordings at the 4 primary auscultation locations. Ground truth was established using patient echocardiograms and annotations by 3 expert cardiologists. Algorithm performance for detecting murmurs has sensitivity and specificity of 76.3% and 91.4%, respectively. By omitting softer murmurs, those with grade 1 intensity, sensitivity increased to 90.0%. Application of the algorithm at the appropriate anatomic auscultation location detected moderate‐to‐severe or greater aortic stenosis, with sensitivity of 93.2% and specificity of 86.0%, and moderate‐to‐severe or greater mitral regurgitation, with sensitivity of 66.2% and specificity of 94.6%.

Conclusions

The deep learning algorithm’s ability to detect murmurs and clinically significant aortic stenosis and mitral regurgitation is comparable to expert cardiologists based on the annotated subset of our database. The findings suggest that such algorithms would have utility as front‐line clinical support tools to aid clinicians in screening for cardiac murmurs caused by valvular heart disease.

Registration

URL:
https://clinicaltrials.gov
; Unique Identifier: NCT03458806.
Using ‘heat tagging’ to understand the remote influence of atmospheric diabatic heating through long-range transport
Authors: Fajber Robert , Kushner Paul J.
Published: April 2021

In the circulating atmosphere, diabatic heating influences the potential temperature content of air masses far from where the heating occurs. Budgets that balance local diabatic sources with local heat divergence and storage do not retain information about this remote influence, which requires air-mass tracking. In this study, a process based, passive-tracer diagnostic, called heat tagging, is introduced. Heat tagging locally decomposes the potential temperature into contributions from the distinctive diabatic processes that generate them, wherever they occur. The distribution, variability and transport of atmospheric heat tags are studied in the relatively simple setting of an idealized aquaplanet model. Heat tags from latent heating are generated in the deep tropics and the midlatitude storm track and then transported throughout the troposphere. By contrast dry sensible heat tags are enhanced near the surface, and radiative tags are mainly confined to the stratosphere. As a result, local heat transport, variability of potential temperature and global poleward heat transport are dominated by heat tags related to latent heating, with heat tags from sensible and radiative heating only making contributions in the polar near surface and the stratosphere respectively. Heat tagging thus quantifies how water vapor and latent heating link the structural characteristics of the atmosphere and illustrates the importance of the hydrological cycle in poleward energy transport.
Exuberant Proclivity toward Non-Standard Employment: Evidence from Linked Employer–Employee Data
Authors: Arrighetti Alessandro , Bartoloni Eleonora , Landini Fabio , Pollio Chiara
Published: April 2021

In most industrialized countries, temporary and non-standard forms of employment have become a pervasive feature of the labor market. At the firm level, however, their diffusion is less uniform than expected. While some firms exhibit high propensity to use non-standard labor, others make no use of it. The most conventional explanations (market uncertainty, production regimes, competitive pressure) fail to account for such heterogeneity. In this article, the authors develop an alternative explanation that links non-standard employment to the firm-specific availability of managerial resources: Whenever the latter are relatively scarce, firms make larger use of non-standard labor to reduce coordination and operating costs. Using a linked employer–employee panel of manufacturing firms from the Emilia-Romagna region (Italy), the authors provide empirical support for this explanation. The result is robust to different estimation strategies and controlling for alternative drivers of non-standard employment. This finding suggests that the use of non-standard labor is motivated by the firm’s needs to compensate for specific managerial scarcities.
Extracurricular activities can play a central role in K-12 education
Authors: Lang Chad
Published: April 2021

Schools are pivoting to rebound from the negative effects the COVID-19 pandemic created for student development, academic achievement, and school culture. As all school constituencies collaborate to reinstitute normalcy, support student development, and maximize academic achievement, extracurricular activities may become more essential than ever. Chad Lang proposes that educators include extracurricular participation in their overall school improvement vision by increasing stakeholder collaboration in goal setting, broadening student participation, and providing professional development for teachers and program sponsors.
A DEVS-based engine for building digital quadruplets
Authors: Niyonkuru Daniella , Wainer Gabriel
Published: April 2021

Development of Embedded Real-Time Systems is prone to error, and developing bug-free applications is expensive and no guarantees can be provided. We introduce the concept of Digital Quadruplet which includes: a 3D virtual representation of the physical world (a Digital Twin), a Discrete-Event formal model of the system of interest (called the “Digital Triplet”), which can be used for formal analysis as well as simulation studies, and a physical model of the real system under study for experimentation (called the “Digital Quadruplet”). We focus on the definition of the idea of a Digital Quadruplet and how to make these four apparati consistent and reusable. To do so, we use the Discrete-Event formal model as a center for both simulation and execution of the real-time embedded components with timing constraints, as well as a common mechanism for interfacing with the digital counterparts, providing model continuity throughout the process. Here we focus on a principal part of the Digital Quadruplet idea: the provision of an environment to allow models to be used for simulation (in virtual time), visualization, or execution in real-time. A Discrete-EVent Systems specifications (DEVS) kernel runs on bare-metal hardware platforms, avoiding the use of an Operating RTOS in the platform, and the combination with discrete-event modeling engineering.
Exploring Factors Associated with Self-Management Compliance among Rural Elders with Diabetes
Authors: Lu Ruoyan , Li Yueping , Zheng Zhenquan , Yan Zi
Published: April 2021

The purpose of the study was to examine the social-ecological factors associated with diabetic self-management compliance among elders with diabetes in China. A total of 2,586 rural elderly residents who were 60-years-old or above participated in the survey. Socio-demographic factors, social support, healthcare accessibility and health risk factors were measured, along with self-reported medication and blood glucose monitoring data. Among the 117 individuals with diabetes, the medication compliance rate was 79.49%. The elderly who had high economic status were more likely to meet medication treatment compliance. Only 58.97% of study participants monitored blood glucose once a month. Younger age (<70-year-old), higher economic status, more social support and better healthcare accessibility were associated with higher blood glucose monitoring compliance odds. Diabetic medication and blood glucose testing tools should be more comprehensively covered by the national insurance program. Healthcare accessibility should be increased through transportation support, building more local facilities, such as mobile labs, and promoting affordable home-visit care. Self-management education programs about diabetes for rural elders should be promoted.
Outreach to Indonesian domestic workers in Singapore: Understanding partnerships in diaspora mission between church and parachurch organizations
Authors: Hwang Jackie Jia Chyi
Published: April 2021

The existence of a church–parachurch network for diaspora mission to Indonesian domestic workers offers a fresh perspective on the possibilities for church–parachurch partnership in Singapore and beyond. The four themes that characterize this network are: (1) a common vision; (2) generosity in resources; (3) camaraderie in partnership; and (4) collaboration for improvement. In this partnership model, the traditional categories of sodality and modality have undergone a reconfiguration. The partnership dynamic also witnesses a greater overlap of roles between the church and parachurch. Furthermore, communication in the church–parachurch network has gone beyond the usual church–parachurch relationships to include church-to-church connections. This church–parachurch network can therefore be a model for diaspora mission in other places.
Cultural factors that influence the adoption of e-commerce: A Palestinian case study
Authors: Rabayah Khaled S. , Maree Mohammed , Alhashmi Saadat M.
Published: April 2021

The objective of this study is to explore the impact of various cultural dimensions on the acceptance of E-commerce in the Palestinian context. The developed theoretical framework is a modified version of the Technology Acceptance Model (TAM), wherein the trust, perceived usefulness and perceived ease of use act as mediators for the intention to use E-commerce. As such, five cultural dimensions were employed in the proposed model. These are; uncertainty avoidance, power distance, masculinity, collectivism, and long-term orientation. Data was collected from a non-probabilistic sample of 418 participants using a pre-tested and validated questionnaire. Findings demonstrate that the hypothesized model was able to explain 62% of the variability of the intention towards the use of E-commerce. In particular, they signify a strong correlation between acceptance of E-commerce and the domestic culture of consumers, where uncertainty avoidance and power distance are the most vital cultural dimensions influencing the decision to transact online.
Nrf2-Keap-1 imbalance under acute shear stress induces inflammatory response in venous endothelial cells
Authors: Ward Alexander O , Sala-Newby Graciela B , Ladak Shameem , Angelini Gianni D , Caputo Massimo , Suleiman M.-Saadeh , Evans Paul C , George Sarah J , Zakkar Mustafa
Published: April 2021

Vascular endothelial cell stimulation is associated with the activation of different signalling pathways and transcription factors. Acute shear stress is known to induce different pro-inflammatory mediators such as IL-8. Nrf2 is activated by prolonged high shear stress promoting an antiinflammatory and athero-protective environment. However, little is known about the impact of acute shear stress on Nrf2 and Keap1 function and its role in IL-8 regulation. We aimed to examine Nrf2-Keap1 complex activation in-vitro and its role in regulating IL-8 transcripts under acute arterial shear stress (12 dyn/cm2) in venous endothelial cells (ECs). We note that acute high shear stress caused a significant upregulation of Nrf2 target genes, HO-1 and GCLM and an increased IL-8 upregulation at 90 and 120 minutes. Mechanistically, acute high shear did not affect Nrf2 nuclear translocation but resulted in reduced nuclear Keap1, suggesting that the reduction in nuclear Keap1 may result in increased free nuclear nrf2 to induce transcription. Consistently, the suppression of Keap1 using shRNA (shKeap1) resulted in significant upregulation of IL-8 transcripts in response to acute shear stress. Interestingly; the over expression of Nrf2 using Nrf2-Ad-WT or Sulforaphane was also associated with significant upregulation of IL-8 compared to controls. This study highlights the role of Keap1 in Nrf2 activation under shear stress and indicates that activation of Nrf2 may be deleterious in ECs in the context of acute haemodynamic injury.
Differential pial and penetrating arterial responses examined by optogenetic activation of astrocytes and neurons
Authors: Hatakeyama Nao , Unekawa Miyuki , Murata Juri , Tomita Yutaka , Suzuki Norihiro , Nakahara Jin , Takuwa Hiroyuki , Kanno Iwao , Matsui Ko , Tanaka Kenji F , Masamoto Kazuto
Published: April 2021

A variety of brain cells participates in neurovascular coupling by transmitting and modulating vasoactive signals. The present study aimed to probe cell type-dependent cerebrovascular (i.e., pial and penetrating arterial) responses with optogenetics in the cortex of anesthetized mice. Two lines of the transgenic mice expressing a step function type of light-gated cation channel (channelrhodopsine-2; ChR2) in either cortical neurons (muscarinic acetylcholine receptors) or astrocytes (Mlc1-positive) were used in the experiments. Photo-activation of ChR2-expressing astrocytes resulted in a widespread increase in cerebral blood flow (CBF), extending to the nonstimulated periphery. In contrast, photo-activation of ChR2-expressing neurons led to a relatively localized increase in CBF. The differences in the spatial extent of the CBF responses are potentially explained by differences in the involvement of the vascular compartments. In vivo imaging of the cerebrovascular responses revealed that ChR2-expressing astrocyte activation led to the dilation of both pial and penetrating arteries, whereas ChR2-expressing neuron activation predominantly caused dilation of the penetrating arterioles. Pharmacological studies showed that cell type-specific signaling mechanisms participate in the optogenetically induced cerebrovascular responses. In conclusion, pial and penetrating arterial vasodilation were differentially evoked by ChR2-expressing astrocytes and neurons.
Delayed diagnosis of hyperimmunoglobulin E syndrome with STAT3 mutation in mainland China: a case report and literature review
Authors: Fang Jiazhui , Yang Qiao , Pi Borui
Published: April 2021

Hyperimmunoglobulin E syndrome (HIES) is a rare immunologic disorder. Typical clinical features of HIES include recurrent bacterial pneumonia, lung cysts, characteristic facial features, and newborn dermatitis. The varied clinical presentation can lead to a delayed diagnosis. We herein present a sporadic case of HIES in a man who initially presented with a longstanding history of intractable skin abscesses.
CAD/CAM Designed Framework for Bone-Anchored Pendulum Appliance
Authors: Nagesh Shweta , Aravind M , Rekhawat Amit
Published: April 2021

This article describes the use of a computer-aided design and manufacturing (CAD/CAM) 3D metal printed adjunctive orthodontic appliance that can be used with palatal miniscrews for molar distalization. CAD/CAM technology was used to fabricate a customized framework for bone-anchored pendulum appliance effectively based on the patient’s palatal contour, location, and the number of implants to be placed.
Comparing Commercial Vehicle Fuel Consumption Models using Real-World Data under Calibration Constraints
Authors: Yeow Lih Wei , Cheah Lynette
Published: April 2021

Assessing commercial road vehicle fuel use at a high spatiotemporal resolution helps in understanding underlying usage patterns and informs future interventions toward fuel-efficient freight planning and operations. With the use of global navigation satellite systems in fleet tracking and advancements in driver activity surveys, instantaneous fuel consumption models can calculate fuel use in high resolution using inputs like speed and acceleration derived from GPS data. Given that several models exist, there is a need to compare fuel use estimates from different models, especially under the constraint of limited data for calibration. This study evaluates the accuracy of fuel use estimates from three fuel consumption models (COPERT 4, SIDRA TRIP, and MOVES) applied to 10 diesel commercial road vehicles in Singapore over a standardized drive cycle (NEDC) and real-world activity data derived from GPS traces using the method of space-time path segments and road grade obtained from a digital elevation model. Changes in model performance are examined when supplementary on-board diagnostics (OBD) data and payload information are used. The models gave varying fuel use estimates over the NEDC, especially for heavier vehicles in the sample. When applied to real-world data, SIDRA TRIP was found to be the most accurate for the context studied. SIDRA TRIP’s performance improved consistently when supplemented with OBD and payload information. This comparison approach allows analysts to select the most suitable model for a given context, and take steps toward more sustainable freight transportation.
Strategic Evacuation for Hurricanes and Regional Events with and without Autonomous Vehicles
Authors: Lee Jooyong , Kockelman Kara M.
Published: April 2021

A scheduling algorithm is developed for optimal planning of large-scale, complex evacuations to minimize total delay plus travel time across residents. The algorithm is applied to the eight-county Houston-Galveston region and land use setting under the 2017 Hurricane Harvey scenario with multiple destinations. Autonomous vehicle (AV) use under central guidance is also tested, to demonstrate the evacuation time benefits of AVs. Higher share of AVs delivers more efficient evacuation performance, thanks to greater reliability on evacuation order compliance, lower headways, and higher road capacity. Furthermore, 100% AV use delivers lower overall evacuation costs and network clearance times and less uncertainty in travel times (via lower standard deviation in). Based on evaluations of different evacuation schedules, a 50% compressed evacuation time span resulted in longer travel times and network congestion. A 50% longer evacuation time span reduced residents' total travel time and network congestion, but increased the evacuation cost. As expected, evacuation efficiency falls when evacuees do not comply with evaucation schedules. Large shares of AVs will not be possible in the near future, so methods to enhance evacuees' compliance behavior (e.g., enforced and prioritized evacuation orders) should be considered until a meaningful level of AV technical maturity and penetration rate is available. This paper demonstrates the benefits of scheduled departure times, AV use, and evacuation order compliance, which help balance conflicting objectives during emergencies.
A Narrative Critical Review of Research on Self-Sexualization
Authors: Johnson Kim K. P. , Yu Ui-Jeen
Published: April 2021

Self-sexualization is an emerging area of research relevant to clothing researchers as evaluations of sexual appeal often stem from specific items and uses of dress. Our research purpose was to systematically review the available research on self-sexualization. In our review we focused specifically on three topics: what precedes self-sexualizing? What outcomes are associated with self-sexualizing? And how has self-sexualization been operationalized? The time frame for this review was 2007–2020. To locate the 31 journal articles that supplied the data for this research, multiple data bases were searched using the following search terms: self-sexualization, self-sexualizing, and sexual self-presentation. Important precursors to self-sexualization include exposure to media and social media, self-objectification, internalization of sexualization, and desiring attention from others. Empowerment has been studied as an outcome of self-sexualization along with negative inferences concerning both young women and girls that self-sexualize. Operationalization of self-sexualization is varied and likely contributes to inconsistent findings.
Not merely the absence of disease: A genealogy of the WHO’s positive health definition
Authors: Larsen Lars Thorup
Published: April 2021

The 1948 constitution of the World Health Organization (WHO) defines health as ‘a state of complete physical, mental and social well-being and not merely the absence of disease or infirmity’. It was a bold and revolutionary health idea to gain international consensus in a period characterized by fervent anti-communism. This article explores the genealogy of the health definition and demonstrates how it was possible to expand the scope of health, redefine it as ‘well-being’, and overcome ideological resistance to progressive and international health approaches. The first part of the article demonstrates how the health definition was composed through a trajectory of draft ideas from scholars in the history of medicine, as well as political actors working to promote national health insurance. The definition was authored by League of Nations veteran Raymond Gautier, but secretly drew heavily on medical historian Henry E. Sigerist’s controversial book Socialized Medicine in the Soviet Union (1937). The second part analyses how it was possible to resist the ideological pushback against the WHO and secure US ratification. The WHO’s progressive constitution was not simply a deviation from dominant health ideas, but a direct outcome of the entrenched health conflict. The genealogy is based on original archival material from international organizations and US government archives. The article contributes to understandings of the political controversies surrounding the WHO and to scholarship on understandings of health. It also illustrates how influential health ideas cross the boundaries between politics and health sciences, as well as the boundaries between domestic health policy and global health.