bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Lexical Influences on Categorical Speech Perception Are Driven by a Temporoparietal Circuit
Authors: Bidelman Gavin M. , Pearson Claire , Harrison Ashleigh
Published: January 2021

Categorical judgments of otherwise identical phonemes are biased toward hearing words (i.e., “Ganong effect”) suggesting lexical context influences perception of even basic speech primitives. Lexical biasing could manifest via late stage postperceptual mechanisms related to decision or, alternatively, top–down linguistic inference that acts on early perceptual coding. Here, we exploited the temporal sensitivity of EEG to resolve the spatiotemporal dynamics of these context-related influences on speech categorization. Listeners rapidly classified sounds from a /gɪ/-/kɪ/ gradient presented in opposing word–nonword contexts (GIFT–kift vs. giss–KISS), designed to bias perception toward lexical items. Phonetic perception shifted toward the direction of words, establishing a robust Ganong effect behaviorally. ERPs revealed a neural analog of lexical biasing emerging within ∼200 msec. Source analyses uncovered a distributed neural network supporting the Ganong including middle temporal gyrus, inferior parietal lobe, and middle frontal cortex. Yet, among Ganong-sensitive regions, only left middle temporal gyrus and inferior parietal lobe predicted behavioral susceptibility to lexical influence. Our findings confirm lexical status rapidly constrains sublexical categorical representations for speech within several hundred milliseconds but likely does so outside the purview of canonical auditory-sensory brain areas.
Computerized physical and cognitive training improves the functional architecture of the brain in adults with Down syndrome: A network science EEG study
Authors: Anagnostopoulou Alexandra , Styliadis Charis , Kartsidis Panagiotis , Romanopoulou Evangelia , Zilidou Vasiliki , Karali Chrysi , Karagianni Maria , Klados Manousos , Paraskevopoulos Evangelos , Bamidis Panagiotis D.
Published: January 2021

Understanding the neuroplastic capacity of people with Down syndrome (PwDS) can potentially reveal the causal relationship between aberrant brain organization and phenotypic characteristics. We used resting-state EEG recordings to identify how a neuroplasticity-triggering training protocol relates to changes in the functional connectivity of the brain’s intrinsic cortical networks. Brain activity of 12 PwDS before and after a 10-week protocol of combined physical and cognitive training was statistically compared to quantify changes in directed functional connectivity in conjunction with psychosomatometric assessments. PwDS showed increased connectivity within the left hemisphere and from left-to-right hemisphere, as well as increased physical and cognitive performance. Our findings reveal a strong adaptive neuroplastic reorganization as a result of the training that leads to a less-random network with a more pronounced hierarchical organization. Our results go beyond previous findings by indicating a transition to a healthier, more efficient, and flexible network architecture, with improved integration and segregation abilities in the brain of PwDS. Resting-state electrophysiological brain activity is used here for the first time to display meaningful relationships to underlying Down syndrome processes and outcomes of importance in a translational inquiry. This trial is registered with ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier NCT04390321.
Introduction: Objects, Circuits, and Southeastern Europe
Authors: Wasiucionek Michał
Published: January 2021

The scope of the paper is to provide the overview of the methodological developments that contributed to the growing interest in the nexus of material culture, circulation, and social networks, as well as the place of early modern Southeastern Europe, within the wider historiographical trends. To this end, it examines the very notion of Southeastern Europe and its impact on historical research in the region, while also providing a short discussion of the studies included in the issue.
Religious Identity in Athenian Forensic Oratory: Public Cases of Eisangelia Trials
Authors: Volonaki Eleni
Published: January 2021

Attic orators skillfully deployed reference to ancestral cults, sacred laws, traditional rites and other types of religious actions to construct religious identity as a means of persuasion. The present chapter explores the use of a variety of forms of religious argumentation and addresses issues of religious identity in public cases of eisangelia. Emphasis is placed on the question of how orators reconstruct ideal forms of religious identity in their arguments; particularly, the main interest of this chapter lies in the techniques by which orators use their religious argumentation to construct pictures of religious identity, both collective and individual, as well as their own identity.
Laminatubus (Serpulidae, Annelida) from eastern Pacific hydrothermal vents and methane seeps, with description of two new species
Authors: ROUSE GREG W. , KUPRIYANOVA ELENA K.
Published: January 2021

The bathyal serpulid Laminatubus alvini ten Hove & Zibrowius, 1986 was described from the periphery of hydrothermal vents of the Galapagos Rift and has been recorded from other vent communities of the East Pacific Rise (EPR). Here we assessed the biodiversity of serpulids collected from eastern Pacific hydrothermal vents and methane seeps using DNA sequences and morphology. Laminatubus alvini showed little genetic variation over a wide geographic range from the Alarcon Rise vents in southern Gulf of California (~23°N), to at least a point at 38°S on the EPR. Specimens from several methane seeps off Costa Rica and the Gulf of California (Mexico) differed markedly from those of Laminatubus alvini on DNA sequence data and in having seven thoracic chaetigers and lacking Spirobranchus-type special collar chaetae, thus fitting the diagnosis of Neovermilia. However, phylogenetic analysis of molecular data showed that L. alvini and the seep specimens form a well-supported clade. Moreover, among the seep specimens there was minimally a ~7% distance in mitochondrial cytochrome b sequences between a shallow-water (1000 m) seep clade restricted to Costa Rica and a deep-water clade (1800 m) from Costa Rica to Gulf of California. We describe the seep taxa here as morphologically indistinguishable L. paulbrooksi n. sp. and L. joycebrooksae n. sp.
Redox-Sensitive Ultrashort Peptide Hydrogel with Tunable Mechanical Properties for Anti-Tumor Drug Delivery
Authors: Li Yiping , Zhu Ying , Luo Shiyao , He Yue , Huang Zhewei , Shen Juan , Yuan Xiaoli , Lu Zhuojian , Han Han , Ge Liang , Pan Lei
Published: January 2021

In this study, we report a new ultrashort peptide (LOC), which forms a redox-sensitive hydrogel after cross-linking with the mild oxidant H2 O2 and used it for tumor-targeted delivery of doxorubicin hydrochloride (DOX). LOC gelled within a few minutes in low-concentration
H2 O2 solution. The concentration of H2 O2 significantly altered the gelation time and mechanical properties of the hydrogel. The in vitro micromorphology, secondary structure and rheology characterization of cross-linked hydrogels confirmed the
sensitivity and injectability to reducing agent. The cross-linked hydrogel had a strong drug loading capacity, and the drug was released in a GSH concentration-dependent manner, following the Fick diffusion model. In addition, the cross-linked hydrogel showed no cytotoxicity to normal fibroblasts,
and no damage to the subcutaneous tissue of mice was observed. In vitro cytotoxicity experiments showed that the DOX-hydrogel system exhibited good anti-cancer efficacy. In vivo studies using 4T1 tumor-bearing mice showed that the DOX-hydrogel system had a significant inhibitory effect on
tumors. Therefore, the newly designed redox-sensitive hydrogel can effectively enhance the therapeutic efficacy of DOX and reduce toxicity, making it an attractive biological material.
Delivery of MicroRNA-let-7c-5p by Biodegradable Silica Nanoparticles Suppresses Human Cervical Carcinoma Cell Proliferation and Migration
Authors: Shao Liying , Wang Ranran , Sun Yunxiao , Yue Zhen , Sun Hang , Wang Xiao , Wang Pingyu , Sun Guangbin , Hu Jinxia , Sun Hongfang , Xie Shuyang , Li Youjie
Published: January 2021

Human cervical cancer is the most common gynecological malignancy. The continuous development of nanotechnology has allowed the wide use of nanomaterials in cancer treatment. Nanoparticles can be used as gene carriers because of their surface effect and small-size effect. MicroRNA-let-7c-5p
(miR-let-7c-5p) belongs to the let-7 family. Although it has been reported to exert a tumor suppressive effect in a variety of cancers, the exact role and mechanism of miR-let-7c-5p in the progression of cervical cancer are unclear. In this study, we synthesized flower-shaped SiO2
–PEI nanoparticles with high pDNA/siRNA loading rates. This nanoparticle with miR-let-7c-5p-expressed plasmid could effectively transfer miR-let-7c-5p to human epithelial carcinoma (HeLa) cells. In addition, the combination of nanomaterials and gene therapy could inhibit the development
of cancer under the conditions of extremely low cytotoxicity. These findings provided a new anticancer strategy based on F-SiO2 -polyethyleneimine/miR-let-7c-5p (FSP-let-7c-5p)nanoparticles and indicated that miR-let-7c-5p/IGF-1R/PI3K/AKT and β-catenin/SLUG could be used as
new potential targets for the treatment of cervical cancer.
Techniques and Applications of Animal- and Plant-Derived Exosome-Based Drug Delivery System
Authors: Man Fulong , Wang Junfeng , Lu Rong
Published: January 2021

Exosomes are a kind of extracellular vesicle, has a particle size of 50–150 nm. Exosomes derived from different cell types are thought to participate in the regulation of cellular communication. On account of the ability of exosomes to deliver various cargos to a corresponding
target site, they are often used to deliver therapeutic cargos for treatment. This review summarizes the origins and composition of exosomes, and provides a detailed overview of the current methods for exosome isolation and drug loading as well as the application of exosomes to drug delivery
systems (DDSs) to provide practical suggestions for exosome studies. Moreover, this review also highlights the research progresses on plant-derived exosomes in determining their commonalities with and distinctions from animal-derived exosomes, and the advantages and challenges faced by plant-derived
exosomes as drug delivery carriers are also discussed to contribute to the further application of plant-derived exosomes.
Cardiac Catheterizations in Patients With Prior Coronary Bypass Surgery: Impact of Access Strategy on Short-Term Safety and Long-Term Efficacy Outcomes
Authors: Groenland Frederik T. , Wilschut Jeroen M. , van den Oord Stijn C. , Kardys Isabella , Diletti Roberto , de Jaegere Peter P. , Zijlstra Felix , Daemen Joost , Van Mieghem Nicolas M. , Dekker Wijnand K. den
Published: January 2021

Little data are available on access strategy outcomes for cardiac catheterizations in patients with prior coronary artery bypass graft surgery (CABG). We investigated the effect of transradial access (TRA) and transfemoral access (TFA) on short-term major vascular complications (MVC) and long-term major adverse cardiovascular events (MACE). In this single-center, retrospective cohort study, 1084 patients met our inclusion criteria (TRA = 469; TFA = 615). The cumulative incidence for the primary safety endpoint MVC at 30 days (a composite of major bleeding, retroperitoneal hematoma, dissection, pseudoaneurysm, and arteriovenous fistula) was lower with TRA (0.7% vs 3.0%, P < .01) and this difference remained significant after propensity score adjustment (odds ratio: 0.24; 95% CI, 0.07-0.83; P = .024). The cumulative incidence for the primary efficacy endpoint MACE at 36 months (a composite of all-cause mortality, myocardial infarction, stroke, and urgent target vessel revascularization) was 28.6% with TRA and 27.6% with TFA, respectively. Kaplan-Meier curves showed no difference for the primary efficacy endpoint ( P = .65). Contrast use (mL) was significantly lower with TRA (130 [100-180] vs 150 [100-213], P < .01). In conclusion, in patients with prior CABG, TRA was associated with significantly fewer short-term MVC and contrast use, but not with a difference in long-term MACE, compared with TFA.
Raman and Fluorescence Profiles Modifications of Muscular and Adipose Tissues Exposed to Low Energy X-ray Beams
Authors: Santos Noemy R. , Künzel Roseli , Freitas Marcelo B. , Levenhagen Ronaldo S. , Marques Ana Paula de A. , Courrol Lilia C.
Published: January 2021

This work aims to investigate changes induced by low-energy radiation in adipose and muscular tissues employing autofluorescence and Raman spectroscopic techniques. X-ray beams expositions with 25 and 35 kV at 0.11, 1.1, and 2.1 Gy radiation dose levels were applied. Changes in Raman line intensities at specific bands assigned to collagen, proteins, and lipids were observed. Autofluorescent analysis exhibit variations in the collagen and nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide emission (NADH), resulting from the structural modifications, variations on the reduced/oxidized fluorophores equilibrium followed by radiation exposure. Results show that Raman and fluorescence spectroscopy are suitable techniques to evaluate radiation effects on biomolecules even at low radiation doses and energies.
Policy capacity matters for capacity development: comparing teacher in-service training and career advancement in basic education systems of India and China
Authors: Yan Yifei , Saguin Kidjie
Published: January 2021

Capacity development is central to the study and practice of public policy and administration, but ensuring its effectiveness requires a substantial amount of policy capacity from government agencies tasked to design and implement it. Identifying the right mix of policy capacity that governments should possess has been made difficult due to conceptual and operational problems. This article addresses the gap by developing a framework that conceptualizes policy capacity as the ability of governments to perform analytical, operational, and political functions. Drawing on the results of an original teacher survey and complementary sources, the article shows that variations on different dimensions of policy capacity have led to significant differences in the effectiveness of capacity development initiatives, especially as perceived by teachers. Therefore, without understanding and catering to the needs of the targets whose capacity is supposedly being developed, capacity development initiatives meant to be supportive are likely to be dissatisfying and disappointing instead.

Points for practitioners

This article highlights the importance of policy capacity and further unpacks how its analytical, operational, and political dimensions are essential to the successful delivery of capacity development. Through a rich account of the comparative case of India and China, it illustrates that all these dimensions are important, without any one being a stand-alone panacea. Above all, it is important to pay attention to the recipients of capacity development programs; without doing so, top-down program delivery ignorant of their needs is likely to be poorly received despite the original intention of developing capacity.
Development of three-dimensional printing filaments based on poly(lactic acid)/hydroxyapatite composites with potential for tissue engineering
Authors: Bernardo Marcela Piassi , da Silva Bruna Cristina Rodrigues , Mattoso Luiz Henrique Capparelli
Published: January 2021

Injured bone tissues can be healed with scaffolds, which could be manufactured using the fused deposition modeling (FDM) strategy. Poly(lactic acid) (PLA) is one of the most biocompatible polymers suitable for FDM, while hydroxyapatite (HA) could improve the bioactivity of scaffold due to its chemical composition. Therefore, the combination of PLA/HA can create composite filaments adequate for FDM and with high osteoconductive and osteointegration potentials. In this work, we proposed a different approache to improve the potential bioactivity of 3D printed scaffolds for bone tissue engineering by increasing the HA loading (20-30%) in the PLA composite filaments. Two routes were investigated regarding the use of solvents in the filament production. To assess the suitability of the FDM-3D printing process, and the influence of the HA content on the polymer matrix, thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) were performed. The HA phase content of the composite filaments agreed with the initial composite proportions. The wettability of the 3D printed scaffolds was also increased. It was shown a greener route for obtaining composite filaments that generate scaffolds with properties similar to those obtained by the solvent casting, with high HA content and great potential to be used as a bone graft.
Impact of COVID-19 on the Indian agricultural system: A 10-point strategy for post-pandemic recovery
Authors: Cariappa AG Adeeth , Acharya Kamlesh Kumar , Adhav Chaitanya Ashok , Sendhil R , Ramasundaram P
Published: January 2021

COVID-19 pandemic has disrupted the Indian agricultural system extensively. Nevertheless, the recent quarterly GDP estimates post-COVID scenario showcase robustness and resilience in Indian agriculture, the only sector to register a positive growth of 3.4% during the financial year (FY here after) 2020–21 (Quarter 1: April 2020 to June 2020). At the same time, the immediate past quarter growth was estimated at 5.9% witnessing a decline by 2.5% point. In this context, we aim to synthesize the early evidence of the COVID-19 impact on the Indian agricultural system viz., production, marketing and consumption followed by a set of potential strategies to recover and prosper post-pandemic. Survey findings indicate that the pandemic has affected production and marketing through labour and logistical constraints, while the negative income shock restricted access to markets and increased prices of food commodities affecting the consumption pattern. The pandemic wreaked a substantial physical, social, economic and emotional havoc on all the stakeholders of Indian agricultural system. Seizing the crisis as an opportunity, the state announced a raft of measures and long-pending reforms. We propose a 10-point strategy ranging from social safety nets, family farming, monetizing buffer stock, staggered procurement to secondary agriculture to revive and prosper post-pandemic.
State- and County-Level Social Capital as Predictors of County-Level Suicide Rates in the United States: A Lagged Multilevel Study
Authors: Dev Saloni , Kim Daniel
Published: January 2021

From 1999 through 2017, age-adjusted suicide rates in the United States rose by 33% (from 10.5 to 14.0 per 100 000 population). Social capital, a key social determinant of health, could protect against suicide, but empirical evidence on this association is limited. Using multilevel data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, we explored state- and county-level social capital as predictors of age-adjusted suicide rates pooled from 2010 through 2017 across 2112 US counties. In addition, we tested for causal mediation of these associations by state-level prevalence of depression. A 1-standard deviation increase in state-level social capital predicted lower county-level suicide mortality rates almost 2 decades later (0.87 fewer suicides per 100 000 population; P = .04). This association was present among non-Hispanic Black people and among men but not among non-Hispanic White people and women. We also found evidence of partial mediation by prevalence of depression. Our findings suggest that elevating state- and county-level social capital, such as through policy and local initiatives, may help to reverse the trend of rising suicide rates in the United States.
Effect of fabric softener on crossing torque and compression properties of cotton yarn
Authors: Kim KyoungOk , Shimizu Kaori , Igarashi Takako , Nakamura Koichi , Takatera Masayuki
Published: January 2021

The effect of a fabric softener treatment on the properties of the crossing torque–intersecting angle behavior of yarns and the transverse compression properties of single and crossing yarns, which are related to the shear properties of a fabric, is investigated. The crossing torque required to change the intersecting angle between two yarns, the hysteresis in the crossing torque–intersecting angle curve (i.e., crossing torque hysteresis), and the compression properties of cotton yarns after water treatment with and without softener were measured. To measure those properties, the drying condition was varied after the treatment to comprise crossed yarns with an applied load and parallel yarns in a bundled state. The average crossing torque value of the sample with a softener treatment was less than that with a water treatment for yarns from a bundle. For yarns dried while crossed, the average crossing torque value of the sample with a softener treatment was somewhat less than that with a water treatment. For both drying conditions, the average crossing torque hysteresis value decreased after a softener treatment. The compressional resilience value of the sample with a softener treatment was greater (bouncier) than that with a water treatment for yarns dried while crossed. The results suggest that the softener treatment reduces the crossing torque and increases the compressional resilience of yarns. This is due to the reduction of hydrogen bonding between surface fibers via the softener. The softener treatment also decreased the crossing torque hysteresis, corresponding to decreased friction between fibers.
Predictors of completion and response to a psychological intervention to promote health behavior adherence in heart failure
Authors: Celano Christopher M , Golden Julia , Healy Brian C , Longley Regina M , Huffman Jeff C
Published: January 2021

Objective

Most individuals with heart failure (HF) struggle to adhere to one or more health behaviors, and interventions to promote adherence are time-intensive and costly. In this analysis, we examined the predictors of engagement and response related to a telephone-delivered health behavior intervention for individuals with HF.

Method

Using data from two pilot trials (N = 25) of a behavioral intervention for individuals with New York Heart Association (NYHA) class I-II HF, we examined predictors of intervention engagement and response using linear and mixed effects regression analyses. Predictors included medical (NYHA class, physical health-related quality of life [HRQoL], and HF symptoms) and intervention (ease and usefulness/utility ratings of the first intervention exercise) characteristics. Outcomes included percentage of sessions completed, accelerometer-measured physical activity, and sodium intake.

Results

Lower physical HRQoL and more frequent HF symptoms were associated with completion of more sessions. In contrast, more frequent HF symptoms and higher NYHA class were associated with less physical activity improvement. Finally, participants’ ratings of the first session’s utility were associated with greater improvements in physical activity at follow-up.

Conclusions

These findings suggest that while individuals with greater functional impairment are more engaged in a behavioral intervention, they may be less able to increase physical activity in response to the program. Furthermore, the perceived utility of an initial session may predict longer-term behavior change. Larger studies are needed to clarify the presence of additional predictors and determine how they can be used to better tailor health behavior interventions.
Application of Ashby’s Law of Requisite Variety to Interorganizational Conflicts in Nonprofit Organizations
Authors: Alojairi Ahmed S.
Published: January 2021

This study examines conflict that can co-determine the effectiveness of nonprofit organization performance. Based on Ashby’s law of requisite variety, interorganizational conflict is defined in terms of a lack of fit between input variety and variety-handling capabilities. The calculated organizational interaction effectiveness (IE) ratio of 2.04 is used to determine the quality of interactions. “Flexibility” is the dominant category for helpful incidents (49.03%). Within non-helpful incidents (45.67%), however, “Unreliability” is the dominant category. This major source of conflict commonly produces an imbalance between flexibility and reliability as manifest by a mismatch between input variety and variety-handling capabilities.
Intraosseous Cavernous Hemangioma of the Middle Turbinate: A Case Report
Authors: Bolous Yousef , Bullock Martin , Clarke David B. , Massoud Emad
Published: January 2021

Background:

We report a case of an intraosseous cavernous hemangioma originating from the middle turbinate that expanded into the anterior skull base, without traversing the cribriform plate.

Methods:

The mass was found incidentally after a computed tomography head was ordered for unrelated reasons. On questioning, the patient denied any nasal symptoms. Magnetic resonance imaging showed an enhancing mass and the radiological imaging supported a broad differential.

Results:

The lesion was removed by endoscopic image-guided surgery, and the pathology was that of a benign intraosseous cavernous hemangioma. There was no residual hemangioma on postoperative imaging and the nasal mucosa healed well. This is the first report of an intraosseous cavernous hemangioma of the middle turbinate showing superior expansion to the anterior skull base.

Conclusion:

This case demonstrates the extent to which cavernous hemangiomas may expand into surrounding tissues. While these lesions are uncommon, they can be considered as part of a broad differential diagnosis of sinonasal tumors.
Persistent Obstructive Sleep Apnea Burden on Family Finances and Quality of Life
Authors: Bergeron Mathieu , Ishman Stacey L.
Published: January 2021

Objective

We previously found that financial concerns negatively affect the quality of life of families of children with persistent obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) after tonsillectomy. The goal is to quantify the financial impact on families of children with persistent OSA and assess contributing factors.

Study Design

Cross‐sectional survey study with comparison group.

Setting

Upper airway center at a tertiary pediatric hospital.

Methods

Participants included consecutive children with persistent OSA from September to October 2017. Healthy children seen in a general otolaryngology clinic served as controls. Families of both groups completed the Family Impact Questionnaire and the modified Comprehensive Score for Financial Toxicity (COST).

Results

Families of the 50 patients (25 study and 25 control) completed the surveys: the mean age was 6.4 years (95% CI, 5.0‐7.8), and 19 (38%) were female. There were no differences in age, sex, race, or insurance status between groups (P >. 05). The mean apnea‐hypopnea index for the study group was 7.9 events/h (range, 5.5‐10.3), and 40% (10/25) had Down syndrome. Positive airway pressure and/or oxygen were used by 72% (18/25). The Comprehensive Score for Financial Toxicity for study patients (21.9; 95% CI, 14.8‐26.0) was significantly lower than for controls (30.2; 95% CI, 26.6‐30.8; P =. 003), reflecting elevated financial toxicity. Study families reported greater financial impact on the Family Impact Questionnaire (8.4; 95% CI, 6.1‐10.7) versus controls (3.6; 95% CI, 1.8‐5.4; P =. 002); concerns regarding missed days of work and school were common (30.7%).

Conclusion

Families of children with persistent OSA reported a high financial burden related to their children’s disease and were more likely to report financial toxicity than families of controls. Concern regarding missed work and school associated with appointments and treatment was a significant factor.
Integrating popular music into urban schools: Assessing the effectiveness of a comprehensive music teacher development program
Authors: Abeles Hal , Weiss-Tornatore Lindsay , Powell Bryan
Published: January 2021

As popular music education programs become more common, it is essential to determine what kinds of professional development experiences that are designed to help teachers include popular music into their music education classrooms are effective—keeping in mind that the inclusion of popular music in K–12 classrooms requires a change not only in instrumentation and repertoire but also pedagogical approaches. This study examined the effects of a popular music professional development initiative on more than 600 New York City urban music teachers’ musicianship, their pedagogy, and their leadership skills throughout one school year. Results revealed increases in all three areas, most notably in teachers’ musicianship. The study also showed an increase in teachers’ positive perceptions about their music programs, specifically, their level of excitement about the state of their music program and that their music program was more effective at meeting their students’ needs than it had been previously.
The effect of fucoidin on kidney and lung injury in a rat infrarenal aortic ischemia-reperfusion model
Authors: Güney Türkan , Kocman Atacan Emre , Ozatik Orhan , Akyüz Fahrettin
Published: January 2021

Background:

The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of fucoidin on rat kidney and lung in an infraaortic ishemia reperfusion model.

Methods:

Forty Wistar rats were randomly divided into five groups ( n = 8) as sham, control (IR), before ischemia (BI), before reperfusion (BR), and before ischemia and before reperfusion (BI/BR). Rats were subjected to 120 minutes ischemia followed by 120 minutes reperfusion with application of infrarenal aortic clamping. BI received intravenous fucoidin (25 mg/kg) ten minutes before establishing ischemia and BR received ten minutes before reperfusion. BI/BR group received half equal doses of fucoidin both before ischemia (12.5 mg/kg) and reperfusion (12.5 mg/kg) periods, respectively. After sacrification blood and tissue samples were obtained for biochemical (Malondialdehyde (MDA), Nitric oxide (NO), Myeloperoxidase (MPO), Catalase (CAT), Plasma Chitotriosidase (CHIT) and serum ischemia modified albumin (IMA)) and histologic examinations.

Results:

MDA, NO, MPO, CAT, and IMA levels were lower in BR and BI/BR groups compared to control group ( p < 0.001). Plasma CHIT levels in BR and BI/BR groups were lower than in control group ( p < 0.05). According to histological examination kidney and lung injury scores were lower in BR and BI/BR groups compared to control group ( p < 0.01 and p < 0.001, respectively).

Conclusion:

The study showed that fucoidin is effective in preventing kidney and lung injury if administered before reperfusion or both before ischemia and reperfusion. However, it has no effect if administered only before ischemia.
Achieving brain clearance and preventing neurodegenerative diseases—A glymphatic perspective
Authors: Kylkilahti Tekla Maria , Berends Eline , Ramos Marta , Shanbhag Nagesh C , Töger Johannes , Markenroth Bloch Karin , Lundgaard Iben
Published: January 2021

Age-related neurodegenerative diseases are a growing burden to society, and many are sporadic, meaning that the environment, diet and lifestyle play significant roles. Cerebrospinal fluid (CSF)-mediated clearing of brain waste products via perivascular pathways, named the glymphatic system, is receiving increasing interest, as it offers unexplored perspectives on understanding neurodegenerative diseases. The glymphatic system is involved in clearance of metabolic by-products such as amyloid-β from the brain, and its function is believed to lower the risk of developing some of the most common neurodegenerative diseases. Here, we present magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) data on the heart cycle’s control of CSF flow in humans which corroborates findings from animal studies. We also review the importance of sleep, diet, vascular health for glymphatic clearance and find that these factors are also known players in brain longevity.
Effect of image quality on myocardial extracellular volume quantification using cardiac computed tomography: a phantom study
Authors: Funama Yoshinori , Oda Seitaro , Kidoh Masafumi , Sakabe Daisuke , Nakaura Takeshi
Published: January 2021

Background

The image quality directly affects the accuracy of computed tomography (CT) extracellular volume (ECV) quantification.

Purpose

To investigate the effects of image quality and acquisition protocol on the accuracy of ECV quantification.

Material and Methods

One-volume scans were performed on a 320-row multidetector CT volume scanner using a multi-energy CT phantom. To simulate the blood pool and myocardium, solid rods representing blood and soft tissue were used in precontrast CT. Moreover, the solid rods including different iodine concentrations were used in postcontrast CT. The tube voltage was set at 120 kVp, and the tube current was changed from 750 mA (100% dose) to 190 mA (25% dose). All images underwent full- and half-scan reconstructions based on model-based iterative reconstruction. The ECV was calculated from the CT numbers between pre- and postcontrast.

Results

The mean ECV with full- and half-scan reconstructions at the central portion was 0.275 at 100% scan dose to 0.271 at 25% scan dose and 0.276 at 100% scan dose to 0.269 at 25% scan dose. Compared with that in the 100% scan dose, the variation in each ECV increased with decreasing radiation dose. The ECV at the center of the image along the z-axis had lower variation than that at outer portion of the images. On the reconstruction algorithm, there was no statistical difference in ECVs with full- and half-scan reconstructions.

Conclusion

For stable ECV quantifications, excessive radiation dose reduction may be inappropriate, and it is better to consider the variations in ECV values depending on the slice location.
Ironically enjoyed music: An investigation of the unique self-regulatory value of irony as part of the enjoyment of music
Authors: van den Tol Annemieke JM , Giner-Sorolla Roger
Published: January 2021

Ironic enjoyment occurs when people enjoy music despite or because of it being evaluated as bad. Although initial qualitative results suggest that this phenomenon fulfills a variety of self-regulatory functions that are also found in enjoyed music, to date no research has experimentally tested how important these functions are in ironically enjoyed music, in comparison to naturally enjoyed music. In two between-subjects experiments, participants ( N = 216 and N = 143) were instructed to think back to a recent occasion in which they listened to a piece of music which they either enjoyed ironically or enjoyed naturally. They then answered questions on the effects this had on them (Studies 1 and 2) and on the subjective qualities of the music (Study 2). The results suggested that ironically enjoyed music had less effect on personal identification and on managing positive or negative moods and was also appreciated less and judged as less novel than naturally enjoyed music. Differences in mood-management functions were associated with lower levels of subjective qualities of ironically enjoyed music, especially appreciation. Novelty was especially related to positive mood enhancement for ironically enjoyed music. Participants mentioned humor as an additional function of ironically enjoyed music listening.
Behavior Sequencing Violent Episodes in Forensic Youth Populations
Authors: Keatley David A. , Starritt James , Parke Adrian , Joyce Tara , Clarke David D.
Published: January 2021

Every year, more children and youths are sent to Secure Children’s Homes while moving through the criminal justice system. Aggressive and violent incidents in these settings are common, and staff are often required to intervene and restrain violent individuals. The research literature has many examples of aggression and violence questionnaires and measures; however, for staff in communal areas it is the observable behaviors that they react to most. The current research, therefore, analyzed observable behaviors leading-up to violent episodes, and used Behavior Sequence Analysis to highlight the typical chains of behaviors that tend toward violence. The outcomes of this research show pathways to violence that staff can use to highlight potential spirals of aggression and violence. The current results show the links between non-confrontational behaviors (e.g., talking) through to more confrontational (staring, approaching, and pushing others). Overall, the research forms the foundation for future investigation into these and similar settings and outlines a novel approach to understanding violence escalation in a way that can be interpreted and used by service staff.
Reducing wind farm power variance from wind direction using wind farm layout optimization
Authors: Gagakuma Bertelsen , Stanley Andrew P J , Ning Andrew
Published: January 2021

This paper investigates reducing power variance caused by different wind directions by using wind farm layout optimization. The problem was formulated as a multi-objective optimization. The [Formula: see text] constraint method was used to solve the bi-objective problem in a two-step optimization framework where two sequential optimizations were performed. The first was maximizing the mean wind farm power alone and the second was minimizing the power variance with a constraint on the mean power. The results show that the variance in power estimates can be greatly reduced, by as much as [Formula: see text], without sacrificing mean plant power for the different farm sizes and wind conditions studied. This reduction is attributed to the multi-modality of the design space which allows for unique solutions of high mean plant power with different power variances due to varying wind direction. Thus, wind farms can be designed to maximize power capture with greater confidence.
Performance of Machine Learning Algorithms in Predicting the Pavement International Roughness Index
Authors: Bashar Mohammad Z. , Torres-Machi Cristina
Published: January 2021

Significant research efforts have documented the capabilities of machine learning (ML) algorithms to model pavement performance. Several challenges, however, limit the implementation of ML by practitioners and transportation agencies. One of these challenges is related to the high variability in the performance of ML models as reported by different studies and the lack of quantitative evidence supporting the true effectiveness of these techniques. The objective of this paper is twofold: to assess the overall performance of traditional and ML techniques used to predict pavement condition, and to provide guidance on the optimal architecture and minimum sample size required to develop these models. This paper analyzes three ML algorithms commonly used to predict International Roughness Index (IRI)—Artificial Neural Network (ANN), Random Forest (RF), and Support Vector Machine (SVM)—and compares their performance to traditional techniques. An inverse variance heterogeneity based meta-analysis is performed on 20 studies conducted between 2001 and 2020. The results indicate that ML algorithms capture on average 15.6% more variability than traditional techniques. RF is the most accurate technique with an overall performance value of 0.995. ANN is also identified as a highly effective technique that has been widely used and provides accurate predictions with both small and large sample sizes. For ANN algorithms, a single hidden layer with nodes equal to 0.3–2 times the number of input features is found to be sufficient in predicting pavement deterioration. A minimum sample size equal to 50 times the number of input variables is recommend to model pavement deterioration using ML.
Effects of Anterolateral Structure Augmentation on the In Vivo Kinematics of Anterior Cruciate Ligament–Reconstructed Knees
Authors: Chen Jiebo , Wang Cong , Xu Caiqi , Qiu Jiayu , Xu Junjie , Tsai Tsung-Yuan , Zhao Jinzhong
Published: January 2021

Background:

Double-bundle anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction (ACLR) is a well-known treatment that restores the stability of ACL-deficient knees. However, some isolated ACL-reconstructed knees ultimately show rotatory laxity and develop osteoarthritis. Whether combined ACLR with anterolateral structure (ALS) augmentation (ALSA) can provide better improvement in the in vivo knee rotational kinematics remains unknown.

Hypothesis:

When compared with isolated double-bundle ACLR, combined double-bundle ACLR with ALSA can improve knee in vivo rotational kinematics and provide better restoration of knee kinematics.

Study Design:

Controlled laboratory study.

Methods:

Sixteen patients with unilateral ACL injury were randomly divided into 2 groups to receive either combined double-bundle ACLR and ALSA (ALSA group) or isolated double-bundle ACLR (ACLR group). All patients performed a single-leg lunge using the operative and nonoperative/contralateral legs under dual-fluoroscopic imaging system surveillance during a hospital visit at a minimum 1 year (12-13 months) of follow-up to assess the 6 degrees of freedom knee kinematics. Functional evaluation using the Lysholm and Marx rating scales and clinical examinations were also performed.

Results:

From full extension to approximately 90° of knee flexion at 5° intervals, the mean ± SD internal rotation of the reconstructed knees in the ALSA group (1.5°± 0.9°) was significantly smaller than that of the contralateral knees (8.2°± 1.9°; P = .008). The ALSA group knees also showed significantly ( P = .045) more medial translation than the contralateral knees. In the ACLR group, the mean internal rotation of the reconstructed knee (6.0°± 2.1°) was significantly smaller than that of the contralateral knees (8.9°± 0.6°; P < .001). At full extension, the tibia was significantly more externally rotated than that of the contralateral legs (0.5°± 7.4° vs 7.6°± 3.4°, P = .049).

Conclusion:

When compared with isolated double-bundle ACLR, double-bundle ACLR augmented with ALS reconstruction resulted in anterolateral rotatory overconstraint during the lunge motion.

Clinical Relevance:

Additional ALSA of double-bundle ACL-reconstructed knees overconstrained rotatory stability. Therefore, the use of ALSA for ACL-reconstructed knees should be considered with caution for patients with ACL deficiency and anterolateral rotatory instability. Longer-term follow-up to evaluate long-term outcomes and altered kinematics over time is recommended.
Over-sulfated soils and sediments treatment: A brief discussion on performance disparities of biological and non-biological methods throughout the literature
Authors: Mahamat Ahmat Adoum , Mamindy-Pajany Yannick
Published: January 2021

High sulfate concentrations in industrial effluents as well as solid materials (excavated soils, dredged sediments, etc.) are a major hindrance for circular economy outlooks. SO42- acceptability standards are indeed increasingly restrictive, given the potential outcomes for public health and ecosystems. This literature review deals with the treatment pathways relying on precipitation, adsorption and microbial redox principles. Although satisfactory removal performances can be achieved with each of them, significant yield differences are displayed throughout the bibliography. The challenge here was to identify the parameters leading to this variability and to assess their impact. The precipitation pathway is based on the formation of two main minerals (ettringite and barite). It can lead to total sulfate removal but can also be limited by aqueous wastes chemistry. Stabilizer kinetics of formation and equilibrium are highly constrained by background properties such as pH, Eh, SO42- saturation state and inhibiting metal occurrences. Regarding the adsorption route, sorbents’ intrinsic features such as the qmax parameter govern removal yields. Concerning the microbial pathway, the chemical oxygen demand/SO42- ratio and the hydraulic retention time, which are classically evoked as yield variation factors, appear here to be weakly influential. The effect of these parameters seems to be overridden by the influence of electron donors, which constitute a first order factor of variability. A second order variability can be read according to the nature of these electron donors. Approaches using simple monomers (ethanol lactates, etc.) perform better than those using predominantly ligneous organic matter.
Another Voice in the Room: Negotiating Authority in Multidisciplinary Writing Groups
Authors: Wilder Sara
Published: January 2021

Scholarship has shown that writing groups are important sites of authority negotiation for student writers, yet little empirical research has examined how groups negotiate authority through conversation or how these negotiations influence students’ developing expertise. Drawing on observations and interviews of an undergraduate thesis and a graduate dissertation writing group, I use the concept of “presentification” to analyze conversational moments in which group members referenced advisors, “making present” advisor authority to influence group collaborations. Specifically, I analyze these moments to show how writing groups can serve as low-stakes communities in which students negotiate their emerging sense of authority. I found that whereas less experienced writers looked to advisors to solve writing problems and used advisor authority to stand in for disciplinary expertise, more experienced writers voiced advisor guidance to help pose writing problems and negotiate their own stance as disciplinary experts. This study thus theorizes one process through which student writers negotiate emerging authority across sites of literate practice and in collaboration with others who may not themselves be members of the same disciplinary community.
Accuracy of Automated Written Expression Curriculum-Based Measurement Scoring
Authors: Mercer Sterett H. , Cannon Joanna E. , Squires Bonita , Guo Yue , Pinco Ella
Published: January 2021

We examined the extent to which automated written expression curriculum-based measurement (aWE-CBM) can be accurately used to computer score student writing samples for screening and progress monitoring. Students ( n = 174) with learning difficulties in Grades 1 to 12 who received 1:1 academic tutoring through a community-based organization completed narrative writing samples in the fall and spring across two academic years. The samples were evaluated using four automated and hand-calculated WE-CBM scoring metrics. Results indicated automated and hand-calculated scores were highly correlated at all four timepoints for counts of total words written ( rs = 1.00), words spelled correctly ( rs = .99–1.00), correct word sequences (CWS; rs = .96–.97), and correct minus incorrect word sequences (CIWS; rs = .86–.92). For CWS and CIWS, however, automated scores systematically overestimated hand-calculated scores, with an unacceptable amount of error for CIWS for some types of decisions. These findings provide preliminary evidence that aWE-CBM can be used to efficiently score narrative writing samples, potentially improving the feasibility of implementing multi-tiered systems of support in which the written expression skills of large numbers of students are screened and monitored.