bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Philosophieren mit Kindern als Pädagogik für eine offene und ungewisse Zukunft
Authors: Michalik Kerstin
Published: November 2021

Welchen Beitrag kann das Philosophieren mit Kindern dazu leisten, Kinder auf eine Welt vorzubereiten, die durch rapiden Wandel, eine Zunahme von Ungewissheiten und insbesondere durch eine immer bedrohlicher erscheinende ökologische Krise gekennzeichnet ist? Die Frage, wie Bildungs- und Lernprozesse im Hinblick auf eine offene und ungewisse, immer weniger vorhersehbare Zukunft gestaltet und wie Kinder darauf vorbereitet werden können, mit Ungewissheit und Komplexität konstruktiv umzugehen, wird in der Erziehungs­wissenschaft seit längerer Zeit in verschiedenen Kontexten diskutiert. Es sind „Zukunfts-“ oder auch „Ungewiss­heitskompetenzen” definiert worden, es gibt jedoch bislang wenig konkrete Vorstellungen, wie solche Kompeten­zen bei Kindern und Jugendlichen entwickelt werden können. Und angesichts des Umstandes, dass eine ungewisse Zukunft nicht vorhersehbar ist, werden auch Erziehungsziele und -prozesse als solche zunehmend ungewiss und fraglich.
Kropač, Ulrich / Riegel, Ulrich (Hg.) (2021). Handbuch Religionsdidaktik. Stuttgart: Kohlhammer. ISBN 978-3-17-039031-7. 616 Seiten.
Authors: Fuchs Monika E.
Published: November 2021

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Vogt, Markus (2021). Christliche Umweltethik. Grundlagen und zentrale Herausforderungen. Freiburg: Herder. ISBN 978-3-451-39110-1. 782 Seiten.
Authors: Bederna Katrin
Published: November 2021

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İDEOLOJİK BİR TEMA PARKI OLARAK ESKİŞEHİR
Authors: FINDIKLI Erhan Berat
Published: November 2021

Bu makalede Eskişehir’de Yılmaz Büyükerşen döneminde (1999-2020) gerçekleştirilen kentsel mekân düzenlemelerinin toplumsal, kültürel ve siyasi dinamikleri, turizm endüstrisi ve ideolojik imge üretim süreçleri bağlamında ele alınmakta olup, söz konusu şehirde bulunan kentsel göstergeler diğer dünya kentlerine ve Ankara’ya referans verilerek analiz edilmektedir. Peyzaj mimarisinin bir parçası olan öğelerin, heykel grupları ve anıtların niyet edilen veya edilmeyen ideolojik tema parkı fragmanlarına dönüşerek belirmesini sağlayan sosyo-politik ve kültürel süreçlerin nasıl şekillendiği, post-modernist mimarlık kuramıyla ilişkisinin nasıl yapılandırıldığı, ideolojik bir ifade aracı olarak tasarımda ve mimarlıkta tarihselcilik tercihini sağlayan beğeni frekansı ve siyasi koşulların nasıl oluştuğu, bu süreçte belediye başkanlarının rolünün toplumsal olarak nasıl kurulduğu sorularına cevap aranmaktadır. Bu metinde Eskişehir’deki kentsel düzenlemelerin oluşturduğu göstergelerin Barthes’cı anlamda bir mitoloji yapı sökümü gerçekleştirilmekte; Charles Jencks’in parodi olarak tarihselci mimarlık ve postmodernizm, Jean Baudrillard’ın simülasyon, Walter Benjamin’in çocuksuluk, Henri Lefebvre’in anıta karşı ve anıttan yana, Umberto Eco’nun mimari bildirişim ve tarih kavramlarıyla kuramsal bir çerçeve oluşturulmaktadır.
The Effect of Using Schoology-Assisted Inquiry-Based Student Worksheet on Student Learning Outcomes
Authors: Nyeneng I Dewa Putu , Agesta Ni Made Dilla , Maulina Hervin
Published: November 2021

This study aimed to determine the effect of Schoology-assisted inquiry-based student worksheets on Newton's Law II material on students’ learning outcomes. The population in the study were all students of class X IPA. There are only two classes of X IPA at SMA Yadika Bandar Lampung, so the two classes were used as controlled and experimented classes. Controlled and experimented classes were chosen randomly, so it was determined that class X IPA 1 was the controlled class and X IPA 2 was the experimented class. The research method used was a quasi-experiment with a non-equivalent control group research design. The experimented class used a Schoology-assisted inquiry-based student worksheet, while the controlled class was given conventional learning. The two classes were given a different treatment, the experimented class implemented learning using guided inquiry-based worksheets, and the controlled class used a learning model that the physics teacher had implemented in the class. Before and after learning in both classes, five questions with HOTS level were given so that pretest and posttest data would be obtained as learning outcomes data. The data were analyzed by three tests: N-Gain, Independent Sample T-Test, and Effect Size Test. Based on the results of data analysis, there was an increase in cognitive learning outcomes in the controlled class, which was 0.21 included in the low category, while learning outcomes of the experimented class increase were 0.47 included in the moderate category. Besides that, the independent sample T-Test earned a value of sig. 2-tailed of 0.000, so it can be seen that there was an effect of using guided inquiry-based worksheets assisted by Schoology on Newton's Second Law towards students’ learning outcomes. In addition, the effect size test results showed a moderate category, so it can be concluded that Schoology-assisted inquiry-based student worksheet on Newton's second law material affects student learning outcomes. Based on the effect size test, the cohend's d value was 0.98 with a large category. This proved that the use of Schoology-assisted inquiry-based student worksheets had a moderate effect on students' cognitive learning outcomes.
Properties of the aggregated quasi-hydrodynamic system of equations for a homogeneous gas mixture with a common regularizing velocity
Authors: Zlotnik Alexander Anatolievich , Fedchenko Anna Sergeevna
Published: November 2021

We study a quasi-hydrodynamic system of equations for a homogeneous (with common velocity and temperature) multicomponent gas mixture in the absence of chemical reactions, with a regularizing velocity common for the components. We derive the entropy balance equation with a non-negative entropy production taking into account the diffusion fluxes of the mixture components. In the absence of diffusion fluxes, a system of equations linearized at a constant solution is constructed by a new technique, In the absence of diffusion fluxes, a system of equations linearized on a constant solution is constructed by a new technique. It is reduced to a symmetric form, the L^2-dissipativity of its solutions is proved, and a degeneration (with respect to the densities of the mixture components) of the parabolicity property for the original system is established. Actually, the system has the composite type. The obtained properties strictly reflect its physical correctness and dissipative nature of the quasi-hydrodynamic regularization.
The Fate of Periprosthetic Joint Infection Following Megaprosthesis Reconstruction
Authors: Sukhonthamarn Kamolsak , Tan Timothy L. , Strony John , Brown Scot , Nazarian David , Parvizi Javad
Published: November 2021

Background:

A megaprosthesis may be used for reconstruction in patients with massive bone loss or a periprosthetic fracture. Periprosthetic joint infection (PJI) may occur after a megaprosthesis reconstruction and may pose a major challenge. The outcomes of managing PJI in patients with a megaprosthesis is relatively unclear. The aim of this study was to investigate the clinical course and outcomes of PJI in patients with a megaprosthesis in place.

Methods:

From a total of 219 patients who underwent megaprosthesis replacement for non-oncologic conditions, 38 (17.4%) developed subsequent PJI. A retrospective review of the medical record was performed to ascertain the course of the PJI and treatment outcomes. Kaplan-Meier analysis was performed to evaluate the survival function, and the log-rank test was used to assess differences in outcome measures.

Results:

The surgical management of 33 patients with PJI included debridement, antibiotics, and implant retention (DAIR) (82%), consisting of DAIR with modular component exchange (19 patients) and DAIR without component exchange (8 patients); 2-stage exchange arthroplasty (9%); resection arthroplasty (6%); and a single-stage revision arthroplasty (3%). The Kaplan-Meier survivorship analysis demonstrated that the overall survival rate was 65.1% at 2 years. The mortality rate was 15%, with many patients undergoing salvage procedures including amputation (18%), arthrodesis (6%), and resection arthroplasty (6%).

Conclusions:

The rate of PJI after megaprosthesis reconstruction, 17% in this study, appears to be very high. The management of PJI in these patients is challenging, with 1 of 3 patients undergoing failed treatment. Despite the limited options available, DAIR seems to be an appropriate treatment strategy for some of these patients. Further data on a larger cohort are needed to assess the success of various surgical procedures and predictors of failure in this challenging patient population.

Level of Evidence:

Therapeutic Level IV. See Instructions for Authors for a complete description of levels of evidence.
Graft-Augmented Repair of Irreparable Massive Rotator Cuff Tears with Latissimus Dorsi Transfer to Treat Pseudoparesis
Authors: Imai Shinji
Published: November 2021

Background:

Irreparable massive rotator cuff tears are characterized by a poor prognosis with high failure rates following repair. Numerous strategies, such as partial repair, graft interposition, latissimus dorsi (LD) transfer, balloon arthroplasty, and superior capsular reconstruction, have been proposed. We have adopted a graft-augmented LD-transfer procedure, in which partial repair, graft interposition, and LD transfer are performed simultaneously.

Methods:

Thirty-nine patients underwent the graft-augmented LD-transfer procedure using autologous fascia lata from 2007 to 2016. All patients underwent a 5-year assessment at a mean (and standard deviation) of 54.8 ± 3.5 months. Of 20 patients with a history of >10 years, 14 underwent a 10-year assessment at a mean of 112.6 ± 5.6 months. To characterize the therapeutic effects of the procedure, the patients were divided into 3 groups according to the tear pattern: superior-posterior tears (Group A), superior-anterior tears (Group B), and global tears (Group C).

Results:

The overall mean Constant-Murley score improved from 33.8 ± 5.3 preoperatively to 63.1 ± 9.4 at the 5-year assessment (p < 0.001). The overall mean active anterior elevation (AE) improved from 57.3° ± 13.2° preoperatively to 131.3° ± 18.2° at 5 years (p < 0.001). Preoperatively, AE was significantly different between Groups A and C (p < 0.001) and between Groups B and C (p < 0.001), reflecting the difference in cuff tear patterns. Postoperatively, AE was significantly higher in Group A than in Groups B (p < 0.001) and C (p < 0.001). The present study also showed that AE was electromyographically synchronized to the contraction of the transferred LD. The transferred LD was kinetically more potent at a slower speed, but it was easier to exhaust, than the native rotator cuff. Osteoarthritis progression was radiographically found to occur during the first 5 years.

Conclusions:

The graft-augmented LD-transfer procedure may be a treatment option for massive rotator cuff tears, especially for active patients who are <60 years old.

Level of Evidence:

Therapeutic Level IV. See Instructions for Authors for a complete description of levels of evidence.
Activity Level and Sport Type in Adolescents Correlate with the Development of Cam Morphology
Authors: Westermann Robert W. , Scott Elizabeth J. , Schaver Andrew L. , Schneider Anthony , Glass Natalie A. , Levy Steven M. , Willey Michael C.
Published: November 2021

Background:

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the influence of the volume and type of sport on the development of cam-type femoroacetabular impingement and acetabular dysplasia.

Methods:

The Physical Activity Questionnaire for Adolescents (PAQ-A) was administered to Iowa Bone Development Study participants at the age of 17 years to identify those who had participated in at least 2 seasons of high school interscholastic sports. Based on relative peak strain and ground reaction forces, subjects were grouped as power sport athletes (basketball, cheerleading, football, gymnastics, soccer, and volleyball), non-power sport athletes (wrestling, baseball, cross-country or track and field, softball, or tennis), or non-athletes. Using anteroposterior views of the left hip formatted from dual x-ray absorptiometry (DXA) scans, the alpha angle, head-neck offset ratio (HNOR), and lateral center-edge angle (LCEA) were evaluated longitudinally at the ages of 17, 19, and 23 years. Logistic regression was used to evaluate the odds of hip cam morphology (alpha angle >55° and/or HNOR <0.17) or acetabular dysplasia (LCEA <24°) at the age of 23 years in all athlete groups. The relationships between physical activity level and hip measures (alpha angle, HNOR, and LCEA) from the ages of 17 to 23 years were examined using linear mixed models adjusted for sex.

Results:

Compared with non-athletes at the age of 23 years, power sport athletes had significantly greater odds of cam morphology according to the alpha angle (odds ratio [OR], 2.93 [95% confidence interval (CI), 1.02 to 8.41]; p = 0.046) and HNOR (OR, 1.91 [95% CI, 1.01 to 3.60]; p = 0.047), but not greater odds of acetabular dysplasia (p > 0.05). There were no significant differences in the odds of cam morphology or acetabular dysplasia in non-power sport athletes compared with non-athletes (all p > 0.05). Higher physical activity levels were significantly associated with an increase in the alpha angle (beta and standard error, 0.77° ± 0.30°; p = 0.011) and a decrease in the HNOR (−0.003 ± 0.001; p = 0.003), but not the LCEA (−0.05 ± 0.15; p = 0.744).

Conclusions:

A higher volume of physical activity and participation in sports with higher peak strain and ground reaction forces during the process of skeletal maturation may increase the risk of developing cam morphology during late adolescence.

Level of Evidence:

Prognostic Level III. See Instructions for Authors for a complete description of levels of evidence.
Multivariate Versus Univariate Spectrum Analysis of Dentine Sialophosphoprotein (DSPP) for Root Resorption Prediction: A Clinical Trial
Authors: Zain Mohd Norzaliman Mohd , Yu Zalhan Md , Basri Katrul Nadia , Yazid Farinawati , Teh Yong Xian , Ashari Asma , Ariffin Shahrul Hisham Zainal , Wahab Rohaya Megat Abdul
Published: November 2021

Background: A force applied during orthodontic treatment induces inflammation to root area and lead to root resorption known as Orthodontically Induced Inflammatory Root Resorption (OIIRR). Dentine sialophosphoprotein (DSPP) is one of the most abundant non-collagenous protein in dentine that was released into gingival crevicular fluid (GCF) during OIIRR. The aim of this research is to compare DSPP detection using the univariate and multivariate analysis in predicting classification level of root resorption. Methods: The subjects for this study consisted of 30 patients in 3 group classified as normal, mild and severe groups of OIIRR. The GCF samples were taken from upper permanent central incisors in the normal and mild group while the upper primary second molars in the severe group. The DSPP qualitative detection limit was determined by analyzing the whole absorption spectrum utilizing multivariate analysis embedded with different preprocessing method. The multivariate analysis represents the multi-wavelength spectrum while univariate analyzes the absorption of a single wavelength. Results: The results showed that the multivariate analysis technique using Partial Least Square-Discriminate Analysis (PLS-DA) with the preprocess method has successfully improved in classification prediction for the normal and mild group at 0.88 percent accuracy. The multivariate using PLS-DA algorithm with Mean Center preprocess method was able to predict normal and mild tooth resorption classes better than the univariate analysis. The classification parameters have improved in term of the specificity, precision and accuracy. Conclusion: Therefore, the multivariate analysis helps to predict an early detection of tooth resorption complimenting the sensitivity of the univariate analysis.
Cortex-independent open-loop control of a voluntary orofacial motor action
Authors: Elbaz Michael , Demers Maxime , Kleinfeld David , Ethier Christian , Deschenes Martin
Published: November 2021

Whether using our eyes or our hands, we interact with our environment through mobile sensors. The efficient use of these sensory organs implies the ability to track their position; otherwise, perceptual stability and prehension would be profoundly impeded. The nervous system may be informed about the position of a sensory organ via two complementary feedback mechanisms: peripheral reafference (external, sensory feedback) and efference copy (internal feedback). Yet, the potential contributions of these mechanisms remain largely unexplored. By training rats to place their vibrissae within a predetermined angular range without contact, a task that depends on knowledge of vibrissa position relative to their face, we found that peripheral reafference is not required. The presence of motor cortex is not required either, even in the absence of peripheral reafference. On the other hand, the red nucleus, which receives descending inputs from motor cortex and the cerebellum and projects to facial motoneurons, is critical for the execution of the vibrissa task. All told, our results demonstrate the existence of an open-loop control by an internal model that is sufficient to drive voluntary motion. The internal model is independent of motor cortex and likely contains the cerebellum and associated nuclei.
Practical N-Alkylation via Homogeneous Iridium-Catalyzed Direct Reductive Amination
Authors: Wang Jing , Yang Xiongyu , Liu Jingwen , Gao Guorui , Huang Haizhou , Chang Mingxin
Published: November 2021

Direct reductive amination (DRA) is one of the most efficient methods for amine synthesis. Herein we report a practical homogeneous DRA procedure utilizing iridium catalysis. Applying simple, readily available and inexpensive PPh3 and alike ligands at as low as 0.003 mol%, aldehydes and ketones reductively coupled with primary and secondary amines to efficiently form structurally and functionally diverse amine products, including a set of drugs and their late-stage manipulation. The reaction conditions were exceptionally mild and additive-free, and they tolerated oxygen, moisture, polar protic groups and multiple other functional groups. For targeted products, this methodology is versatile and could offer multiple synthetic routes in regard to the selection of starting materials. The 10 gram-scale synthesis further demonstrated the potential and promise of this procedure in practical amine synthesis.
The Development of Support for People Following COVID-19 Infection in Kyrgyzstan: Survey Study of Patients and Clinical Workers
Authors: Taalaibekova Aijan , Oleinik Alena , Magdieva Kamila , Mirzalieva Gulzada , Yusuf Zainab K. , Mademilov Maamed , Akylbekov Azamat , Jones Amy V. , Miah Ruhme B. , Malcolm Dominic , Barton Andy , Sooronbaev Talant , Singh Sally J. , Orme Mark W.
Published: November 2021

Background: After the acute period from SARS-CoV-2 infection, many COVID-19 survivors continue to have ongoing symptoms. There is a need to render assistance to such COVID-19 survivors in Kyrgyzstan but it is unclear how support should be designed. This study aimed to examine what this support should look like, specifically the persisting post-COVID symptoms, views on the optimal timing, suitable delivery methods, content of the support, and obstacles to implementation. Methods: This study was conducted by using two cross-sectional online surveys in the Russian language. The first group included clinical workers of various specialties who worked in the places of treatment for patients with COVID-19. The second group consisted of patients aged ≥18 years who had recovered from COVID-19 who were recruited from family medicine centers using the database of COVID-19 survivors. The survey was conducted anonymously and voluntarily, and consisted of 16 questions. Results: 85 clinical workers and 132 COVID-19 survivors took part in the survey. COVID-19 survivors reported they would be willing to devote 1-3 sessions per a week (84%) with a duration of no more than 1 hour (90%) to post-COVID interventions. Respondents identified the Internet (43%) and separate smartphone applications (42%) as the best media via which to receive support at home. The greatest barrier to accepting help was the risk of re-infection (43%). According to clinical workers, the main goal of post-COVID-19 support should be the amelioration of breathing problems (70%), increased physical exercise (57%) and elements of psychological support (57%). Clinical workers reported that support should begin during treatment for COVID-19 (65%), or immediately after returning from the hospital (59%). Respondents stated that it would be better to carry out support at home via video conference (65%), or by means of telephone calls (47%). The cost of treatment (47%) and the individual’s employment at work (43%) were deemed potential barriers to COVID-19 survivors participating in support interventions.Conclusions: Clinical workers and COVID-19 survivors deemed post-COVID-19 support necessary. Our results will directly inform the development and delivery of post-COVID support interventions in Kyrgyzstan and Central Asia, in combination with the views and needs identified directly from people with persisting post-COVID symptoms.
Safety and Efficacy of Vacuum Bottle Plus Catheter for Drainage of Iatrogenic Pneumothorax
Authors: Chen Shih-Yu , Kuo Yao-Wen , Ho Chao-Chi , Wu Huey-Dong , Wang Hao-Chien
Published: November 2021

Iatrogenic pneumothorax is common after thoracic procedures. For pneumothorax larger than 15%, simple aspiration is suggested. This clinical trial (NCT03724721) assessed the safety and efficacy of vacuum bottle plus non-tunneled catheter air drainage, which has long been performed in many institutions. From August 2018 to February 2020, patients older than 20 years of age who developed iatrogenic pneumothorax were prospectively enrolled. Totally 21 patients underwent vacuum bottle plus catheter drainage. The median size of pneumothorax was 19.6%, as measured by Rhea’s method. Of the 21 patients, 15 had successful air drainage, and the remaining 6 patients required subsequent pigtail placement. The end-expiratory intrapleural pressure of all patients remained less than -20 cmH2O during drainage. The median duration of hospitalization was 2 (interquartile range [IQR], 1-4) days. No procedure-related complication was observed. A retrospective analysis of patients who received conservative treatment showed that the median duration of hospitalization was longer in patients with larger pneumothorax (1 day vs. 5 days [IQR, 1-1 day vs. 3-7 days]). This study showed that vacuum bottle plus catheter drainage of iatrogenic pneumothorax is a safe and efficient procedure. It is recommended as initial management of stable iatrogenic pneumothorax with size larger than 15%.
Welding Procedure Qualification Record (WPQR) for Welds Fabricated At Proximity
Authors: Bhardwaj Sachin , Ratnayake R.M. Chandima
Published: November 2021

Maintaining minimum allowable distance between proximity welds has always been considered a subject of debate between design engineers, welding engineers/inspectors and fabricators/engineering contractors. The scattered nature of guidelines available in welding codes and standards for maintain minimum allowable distance pose a significant challenge in the welding procedure and inspection criteria development process. This is especially critical for complex welded joints on submerged sections of offshore structures, in compact layouts/branched connections of topside piping components, and on topside structural joints (depending on the complexity). This manuscript presents the findings of an experimental study that was performed by fabricating two girth welds at a proximity on an S355 steel tubular section having diameter of 219.1 mm and thickness of 8.18 mm. Proximity girth welds were fabricated on S355 tubular sections at three different distances between their weld toe as 5, 10 & 15mm respectively using two different welding procedures. Welding procedure qualification record (WPQR) was performed, and all prescribed mechanical tests were recorded as per NORSOK M-101, a structural steel fabrication code. Although all results from mechanical test met minimum specified values as defined in the NORSOK code, research findings revealed noticeable difference in Charpy and hardness values for proximity region between adjacent welds. Considerable changes in final microstructure morphology were observed between proximity welds due to successive thermal cycles. These observations can form basis for future welding procedure qualification of critical welded joints, especially for proximity welds on critical welded joints of offshore structures and welds fabricated during replacement/repair procedures in compact piping layouts.
Evaluatiing the Effects of HIV Self-testing used Professional Rapid Test Kits among MSM in Some Areas of China.
Authors: He Xiaoxia , Ren Yanan , Ma Zhonghui , Guo Wenhui , Jin Cong , Xing Wenge
Published: November 2021

With rapid expanding of HIV self-testing (HIVST) among unprofessional people has many unknown hidden dangers. This research for the first to survey the feasibility of urine, oral mucosal transudate (OMT) and finger blood rapid HIV testing kits were used for HIVST by non-professionals MSM in China. Total 274 valid questionnaires were received from 313 MSM participants, including 263 completed urine HIVST, 61 completed OMT HIVST and 17 completed blood HIVST. The average age of participants was under 30, about 80% were unmarried, more than 80% with an education level above Grade 9 but more than 50% people had never heard of the rapid HIV test. There were significant differences in the key information understanding accuracy between HIVST. The accuracy rates were 18.0–80.6%. When the HIVST result was positive, more than 80% chose to seek confirmation. When the test was negative, 60.5% (159/263) participants of urine self-test and 32.8% (20/61) of OMT self-test chose regular retesting. When the test was ineffective, more than 80% chose to retest. In addition, 54.1% of the 146 voluntary participants to accept blood HIVST, followed by 15.8% accept blood and urine HIVST and 14.4% accept only urine HIVST. The main reason for choosing blood HIVST was "accuracy", while the main reason for choosing urine HIVST was "convenience". This findings lays a scientific theoretical basis for further carring out HIVST in China.
Multi-level Memristors based on Two-dimensional Electron Gases in Oxide Heterostructures for High Precision Neuromorphic Computing
Authors: Lee Sunwoo , Jeon Jaeyoung , Eom Kitae , Jeong Chaehwa , Yang Yongsoo , Park Ji-Yong , Eom Chang-Beom , Lee Hyungwoo
Published: November 2021

Memristors are essential elements for hardware implementation of artificial neural networks. The key functionality of the memristors is to realize multiple non-volatile conductance states with high precision. However, the variation of device conductance limits the number of allowed states. Since actual data for neural network training inherently have a non-uniform distribution, the insufficient number of conductance states and the resultant inaccurate weight quantization may generate significant errors in the memristor-based computation. Herein, we demonstrate a multi-level memristor based on two-dimensional electron gas in a Pt/LaAlO3/SrTiO3 heterostructure. By redistributing oxygen vacancies, we precisely controlled the tunneling conductance of the device, achieving multiple conductance states (more than 27). The multi-level switching capability and the high retention performance allow us to implement a variance-aware weight quantization (VAQ), designed for improved computing accuracy. We verify that the VAQ provides greater accuracy in image classification process, as compared to conventional uniform quantization. These results provide valuable insight into developing high-precision multi-bit memristors for practical neuromorphic processors.
Identifying Stage-Associated Hub Genes in Bladder Cancer via Weighted Gene Co-Expression Network and Robust Rank Aggregation Analyses
Authors: Feng Fu , Zhong Yu-Xiang , Huang Jian-Hua , Lin Fu-Xiang , Zhao Peng-Peng , Mai Yuan , Wei Wei , Zhu Hua-Cai , Xu Zhan-Ping
Published: November 2021

Background

Bladder cancer (BC) is among the most frequent cancers globally. Although substantial efforts have been put to understand its pathogenesis, its underlying molecular mechanisms have not been fully elucidated.
Methods

The Robust Rank Aggregation (RRA) approach was adopted to integrate four eligible bladder urothelial carcinoma (BLCA) microarray datasets from the GEO. Differentially expressed genes (DEGs) sets were identified between tumor samples and equivalent healthy samples. We constructed gene co-expression networks using WGCNA to explore the alleged relationship between BC clinical characteristics and gene sets, as well as to identify hub genes. We also incorporated the WGCNA and RRA to screen DEGs.
Results

CDH11, COL6A3, EDNRA and SERPINF1 were selected from the key module and validated. Based on the results, significant downregulation of the hub genes occurred during the early stages of BC. Moreover, Receiver operating characteristics (ROC) curves and Kaplan-Meier (KM) plots showed that the genes exhibited favorable diagnostic and prognostic value for BC. Based on GSEA for single hub gene, all the genes were closely linked to BC cell proliferation.
Conclusions

These results offer unique insight into the pathogenesis of BC and recognize CDH11, COL6A3, EDNRA and SERPINF1 as potential biomarkers with diagnostic and prognostic roles in BC.
Age-related Dysregulation of Autophagy Contributes to Microglial Dysfunction and Chronic Neurobehavioral Deficits After Traumatic Brain Injury
Authors: Ritzel Rodney , Li Yun , Lei Zhuofan , Carter Jordan , He Junyun , Choi Harry , Khan Niaz , Li Hui , Allen Samantha , Lipinski Marta M , Faden Alan I , Wu Junfang
Published: November 2021

Background: Elderly patients with traumatic brain injury (TBI) have greater mortality and poorer outcomes than younger individuals. Given the critical role for autophagy in promoting the cellular degradation of damaged organelles and the negative impact of aging on this protective mechanism, we hypothesized that treatment with an autophagic inducer such as trehalose may be a promising therapeutic strategy for TBI aged animals. Methods: Controlled cortical impact was used to induce moderate TBI in male C57BL/6 mice. Young (10 weeks) or old (18 months) animals were evaluated behaviorally for 12 weeks after injury. Autophagy, inflammation, and neurodegeneration were examined using NanoString analysis, flow cytometry, and immunohistochemistry. Trehalose or sucrose as a control were administered in drinking water beginning day1 post-injury for 8 weeks. Results: Aged mice had a higher mortality rate than young mice at 12 weeks post-injury. At 12 weeks, aged mice showed greater cognitive deficits and depression than younger animals. There were also larger lesion volumes and increased microglial activation in aged TBI mice at 16 weeks post-injury. NanoString analysis identified several age- and TBI-specific genes changes that were differentially expressed in the chronically injured brain, including those involved with the complement, phagocytosis, and autophagy pathways. Flow cytometry demonstrated temporal dysregulation of phagocytosis and autophagy in microglia from injured mice that were exacerbated with age and accompanied by an increased inflammation and lymphocyte infiltration. Old TBI mice treated with trehalose exhibited either more delayed deficits or enhanced recovery in cognitive and motor tasks. In addition, Trehalose treatment modified expression of autophagy markers and attenuated the microglial response to TBI. Conclusions: Our data indicate that microglia undergo chronic changes in autophagic regulation with both normal aging and TBI that are associated with poorer functional outcome. Enhancing autophagy may therefore be a promising clinical therapeutic strategy for TBI, especially in older patients.
Neural Substrates for the Association Between Cigarette Smoking and Parkinson's Disease
Authors: Wang Chao , Zhou Cheng , Guo Tao , Huang Peiyu , Xu Xiaojun , Zhang Minming
Published: November 2021

Background: Mounting evidence revealed a causally protective effect of cigarette smoking on the risk of Parkinson’s disease (PD). Meanwhile, cigarette smoking also was found to be associated with cognitive impairment in PD patients. However, the neural substrates of the protective and harmful effects of cigarette smoking on PD are not fully illustrated. Therefore, in this study, we explored the neural substrates for the protective and harmful effects of cigarette smoking on PD.Methods: A total of 129 PD patients and 69 controls were recruited from the Parkinson’s Progression Markers Initiative (PPMI) cohort, including 39 PD patients with regular smoking history (PD-S), 90 PD patients without regular smoking history (PD-NS), 26 healthy controls with regular smoking history (HC-S) and 43 healthy controls without regular smoking history (HC-NS). Striatal dopamine transporter (DAT) binding and gray matter (GM) volume of the whole brain were compared among the four groups.Results: PD patients showed significantly reduced striatal DAT binding compared with healthy controls, and HC-S showed significantly reduced striatal DAT binding compared with HC-NS. Moreover, smoking and PD showed a significant interaction effect in the left medial prefrontal cortex (mPFC). PD-S showed reduced GM volume in the left mPFC compared with PD-NS.Conclusions: This study is the first to reveal the neural substrates for both the protective and harmful effects of smoking on PD. The degeneration of dopaminergic neurons in PD results in a substantial reduction of the DAT and dopamine levels. Nicotine may act as a stimulant to inhibit the action of striatal DAT, increasing dopamine levels in the synaptic gap. The inverse alterations of dopamine levels between PD and nicotine addiction may be the neural substrates for the protective effect of smoking on the risk of PD. In addition, the mPFC atrophy in PD-S may be the neural substrates for the harmful impact of smoking on PD.
Design and Simulation of Electrochemical Equivalent Circuit for Extended-gate FET pH Sensor Based on Experimental Value Using LTSPICE XVII
Authors: Hashim Shaiful Bakhtiar , Zulkifli Zurita , Herman Sukreen Hana
Published: November 2021

A SPICE model for extended-gate field-effect transistor (EGFET) based pH sensor was developed using standard discrete components. Capacitors and resistors were used to represent the sensing and reference electrodes in the EGFET sensor system and the values of the discrete component were varied to see the output of the transistor. These variations were done to emulate the EGFET sensor output in different pH values. It was found that the experimental transfer and output characteristics of the EGFET were very similar to those from the SPICE simulation. Other than that, the changes of value components in the equivalent circuit did not affect the transfer and output characteristics graph, but the capacitor value produced significant output variation in the simulation. This can be related to the modification on the equivalent circuit was done with additional voltage, VSB (source to bulk) to produce the different VT values at different pH.
Identifying Long-Term Effects of SARS-CoV-2 and Their Association with Social Determinants of Health in a Cohort of Over One Million COVID-19 Survivors
Authors: Mukherjee Sumit , Kshirsagar Meghana , Becker Nicholas , Xu Yixi , Weeks William B , Patel Shwetak , Ferres Juan Lavista , Jackson Michael L.
Published: November 2021

Background: Despite an abundance of information on the risk factors of SARS-CoV-2, large scale studies of long-term effects are lacking. In this paper we analyzed a large medical claims database of US based individuals to identify common long-term effects as well as their associations with various social and medical risk factors.Methods: The medical claims database was obtained from a prominent US based claims data processing company, namely Change Healthcare. In addition to the claims data, the dataset also consisted of various social determinants of health such as race, income, education level and veteran status of the individuals. A self-controlled cohort design (SCCD) observational study was performed to identify ICD-10 codes whose proportion was significantly increased in the outcome period compared to the control period to identify significant long-term effects. A logistic regression-based association analysis was then performed between identified long-term effects and social determinants of health.Results: Among the over 1.37 million COVID patients in our datasets we found 36 out of 1,724 3-digit ICD-10 codes to be statistically significantly increased in the post-COVID period (p-value <0.05). We also found one combination of ICD-10 codes, corresponding to ‘other anemias’ and ‘hypertension’, that was statistically significantly increased in the post-COVID period (p-value <0.05). Our logistic regression-based association analysis with social determinants of health variables, after adjusting for comorbidities and prior conditions, showed that age and gender were significantly associated with the multiple long-term effects. Race was only associated with ‘other sepsis’, income was only associated with ‘Alopecia areata’, while education level was only associated with ‘Maternal infectious and parasitic diseases’ (p-value <0.05). Conclusion: We identified several long-term effects of SARS-CoV-2 through a self-controlled study on a cohort of over one million patients. Furthermore, we found that while age and gender are commonly associated with the long-term effects, other social determinants of health such as race, income and education levels have rare or no significant associations.
A Tensor Based Stacked Fuzzy Networks for Efficient Data Regression
Authors: Li Jie , Hu Jiale , Zhao Guoliang , Huang Sharina , Liu Yang
Published: November 2021

Random vector functional link and extreme learning machine have been extended by the type-2 fuzzy sets with vector stacked methods, this extension leads to a new way to use tensor to construct learning structure for the type-2 fuzzy sets-based learning framework. In this paper, type-2 fuzzy sets-based random vector functional link, type-2 fuzzy sets-based extreme learning machine and Tikhonov-regularized extreme learning machine are fused into one network, a tensor way of stacking data is used to incorporate the nonlinear mappings when using type-2 fuzzy sets. In this way, the network could learning the sub-structure by three sub-structures' algorithms, which are merged into one tensor structure via the type-2 fuzzy mapping results. To the stacked single fuzzy neural network, the consequent part parameters learning are implemented by unfolding tensor-based matrix regression. The newly proposed stacked single fuzzy neural network shows a new way to design the hybrid fuzzy neural network with the higher order fuzzy sets and higher order data structure. The effective of the proposed stacked single fuzzy neural network are verified by the classical testing benchmarks and several statistical testing methods.
Novel Method to Remove Bilirubin from the Blood of Jaundiced Rats: A Preliminary Study
Authors: Lu Qiang , Ding Hong-Fan , Wan Yong , Yu Jia-Wei , Ren Lu , Zhang Xu-Feng , Lv Yi , Hao Jie
Published: November 2021

BACKGROUND The removal of bilirubin from serum is the primary method for treating hyperbilirubinemia. However, currently used treatment methods have several limitations.AIMTo introduce a novel method to remove bilirubin from the blood of jaundiced rats.METHODS This novel therapy involved cross-circulation of blood between a rat liver preserved in vitro and a rat with hyperbilirubinemia. The liver was perfused with blood from the model animal, resulting in the clearance of serum bilirubin. Twenty rats with jaundice caused by acute liver failure induced using D-galactosamine were treated. All model animals were randomly divided into two groups based on whether they received the novel therapy. Serum samples were collected before modelling, at the beginning of treatment, and 2 hours after treatment. The levels of serum transaminase and bilirubin were detected and compared between different time points. Histological examination of the liver in vitro was also performed after the treatment. Long-term survival was compared by Kaplan-Meier analysis between rats who did and did not receive the novel treatment.RESULTSIn vitro, the liver could be perfused with the blood from the model animal through the portal vein. The bile produced by the liver after 1 hour of therapy was darker than the bile produced while harvesting. Across different hyperbilirubinemia models, serum total bilirubin level was significantly improved (24.8 ± 1.2 vs. 17.4 ± 1.2 μmol/L, P<0.05), despite a rise serum transaminase levels after treatment (AST: 4612 ± 382 vs. 5144 ± 390 U/L, P＞0.05; ALT: 5051 ± 722 vs. 5488 ± 707 U/L, P＜0.05). No necrosis was found in the preserved liver tissue after treatment, and the hepatic lobule structure was normal. Hepatocyte necrosis was not found on histological examination. This novel treatment significantly raised the long-term survival rates of jaundiced rats (P <0.05).CONCLUSIONThis novel method could safely and effectively help eliminate bilirubin from the blood of jaundiced rats.
Histone Demethylase KDM5B Catalyzed H3k4me3 Demethylation to Promote Differentiation of Bone Marrow Mesenchymal Stem Cells into Cardiomyocytes
Authors: li Hongxiao , Zhong Chenlu , Wang Zhen
Published: November 2021

BACKGROUND: Studies have shown that histone H3 methylation is involved in regulating the differentiation of Bone Marrow Mesenchymal Stem Cells (BMSCs). KDM5B can specifically reduce the level of histone 3 lysine 4 trimethylation (H3K4me3), thereby activating the expression of related genes and participating in biological processes such as cell differentiation, embryonic development and tumor formation. Whether KDM5B is involved in the regulation of BMSCs differentiation into cardiomyocytes through the above manner has not been reported.OBJECTIVE: To investigate the effect of KDM5B on the induction and differentiation of swine BMSCs into myocardial cells in vitro.METHODS: Swine bone marrow BMSCs were isolated and cultured, and the overexpression, interference expression and blank vector of KMD5B were constructed and transfected by lentivirus. BMSCs was induced to differentiate into cardiomyocytes by 5-azacytidine (5-AZA) in vitro, and the differentiation efficiency was compared by immunofluorescence, RT-PCR, Western Blot and whole-cell patch clamp detection.RESULT: Compared with the control group, the expression levels of histone H3K4me3 and pluripotency gene Nanog in KDM5B overexpression group were significantly decreased, while the expression level of key myocardial gene HCN4 was significantly increased, and the Na+ current density on the surface of differentiated myocardial cell membrane was significantly increased. Meanwhile, the corresponding results of the KDM5B silent expression group were just opposite. CONCLUSIONS: It indicated that enhanced KDM5B expression could promote the differentiation of BMSCs into cardiomyocytes and improve the differentiation efficiency by controlling H3K4 methylation levels..
Genetic Variability Screening of the Leptolyngbya Boryana with Expressed ChrR Gene for the Biotransformation of Cr (VI) to Cr (III) Reduction
Authors: Yadav Ajit Pratap Singh , Dwivedi Vinay , Kumar Satyendra
Published: November 2021

Chromium is well known pollutant for its mutagenicity, and carcinogenicity in humans. Excessive uses of chromium in leather tanning industries, stainless-steel production, and wood preservatives have resulted as chromium contamination in soil and water. This investigation indicates the effective use of Leptolyngbya boryana as an eco-friendly option to overcome Chromium (VI) toxicity in tannery effluents. The main objective of this research was to find out ChrR gene and its variability in the context of Cr (VI) stress. This is a novel study in the relation of Leptolyngbya boryana. Industrial polluted soil samples were collected and processed according to the standard protocols for ChrR variation and 16S rRNA gene. DNA was isolated and amplified through PCR. Amplified DNA was sequenced and aligned with the known sequences. In this study a strong co-relation was established in the nucleotide sequences of ChrR and 16S rRNA genes. MIC was determined for Cr (VI) and pure strains of Leptolyngbya boryana were identified and isolated from soil. In the present study presence of ChrR gene variability was recorded in Leptolyngbya boryana which is a cyanobacterium in the soil of tannery effluent under Cr (VI) stressed condition and its gene variability was confirmed by sequencing. We can conclude that Leptolyngbya boryana strain could be eco-friendly option to overcome Chromium (VI) toxicity in tannery effluents.
In Utero Exposure to Simulated Complex Urban Air Pollution Disturbs Intestinal Suckling-to-Weaning Transition in Mice
Authors: Guilloteau Eva , COLL Patrice , LU Zhuyi , DJOUINA Madjid , CAZAUNAU Mathieu , WAXIN Christophe , BERGE Antonin , CABOCHE Ségolène , GRATIEN Aline , HOT David , DUBUQUOY Laurent , LAUNAY David , VIGNAL Cécile , LANONE Sophie , Body-Malapel Mathilde
Published: November 2021

Background

Emerging data indicate that prenatal exposure to air pollution may lead to higher susceptibility to several non-communicable diseases. Limited research has been conducted due to difficulties in modelling realistic air pollution exposure. In this study, pregnant mice were exposed from gestational day 10 to 17 to an atmosphere representative of a 2013 pollution event in Beijing, China. Intestinal homeostasis and microbiota were assessed in both male and female offspring during the suckling-to-weaning transition.
Results

Sex-specific differences were observed in progeny of gestationally-exposed mice. In utero exposed males exhibited decreased villus and crypt length, vacuolation abnormalities, and lower levels of tight junction protein ZO-1 in ileum. They showed an upregulation of absorptive cell markers and a downregulation of neonatal markers in colon. Cecum of in utero exposed male mice also presented a deeply unbalanced inflammatory pattern. By contrast, in utero exposed female mice displayed less severe intestinal alterations, but included dysregulated expression of Lgr5 in colon, Tjp1 in cecum, and Epcam, Car2 and Sis in ileum. Moreover, exposed female mice showed dysbiosis characterized by a decreased weighted UniFrac β-diversity index, a higher abundance of Bacteroidales and Coriobacteriales orders, and a reduced Firmicutes/Bacteroidetes ratio.
Conclusion

Prenatal realistic modelling of an urban air pollution event induced sex-specific precocious alterations of structural and immune intestinal development in mice.