bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Wind Tunnel Tests and Numerical Simulations of Wind‐Induced Snow Drift in an Open Stadium and Gymnasium
Authors: Jiang Xintong , Yin Zhixiang , Cui Hanbo
Published: November 2020

A long‐span sports centre generally comprises multiple stadiums and gymnasiums, for which mutual interference effects of wind‐induced snow motion are not explicitly included in the specifications of various countries. This problem is addressed herein by performing wind tunnel tests and numerical simulations to investigate the snow distribution and mutual interference effect on the roofs of long‐span stadiums and gymnasiums. The wind tunnel tests were used to analyse the influences of the opening direction (0°, 90°, 180°, and 270°) and spacing (0.3 L, 0.5 L, 1 L, 1.5 L, 2 L, and 2.5 L, where L is the gymnasium span) of the stadium and gymnasium. The wind tunnel tests and numerical simulations were used to analyse the influence of the wind direction angle (from 0° to 315°, there are a total of eight groups in 45° intervals). The following results were obtained. The stadium opening had a significant effect on the snow distribution on the surface of the two structures. An even snow distribution was obtained when the stadium opened directly facing the gymnasium, which corresponded to the safest condition for the structures’ surfaces. As the spacing between the buildings increased, the interference effect between the two structures was reduced. The interference was negligible for a spacing of 2 L. The stadium had the most significant amplification interference effect on the gymnasium for a wind direction angle of 45°, which was extremely unfavourable to the safety of the structure. The most favourable wind direction angle was 270°, where there were both amplification interference and blockage interference.
Modeling Analysis of the Upper Limit Water Level Mechanism in the Upstream Reservoir of a Dam Embankment
Authors: Xu Shiqiang , Chen Chaoran , Xu Fu , Li Jie , Zhang Zhipeng , Xu Tianyu , Zhu Linxuan
Published: November 2020

The dam embankment (DE) is a highway structure used in the Loess Plateau to integrate the functions of a highway embankment and a dam. This paper studies the upper limit water level mechanism of the reservoir in the upstream of the DE to determine the criterion for setting upper culverts on the DE. A reservoir model is first established, and then the replenishment and loss of the reservoir water is simulated. The principle of water balance is employed to obtain water level formulas for the reservoir. Finally, an engineering example is used to verify the upper limit water level mechanism. The results show that the water level of the reservoir fluctuates near an ideal balance water level and an upper limit water level exists. Moreover, the upper limit water level has no relation to the water storage time, and is only related to the reservoir shape with big upper and small bottom, the small amount of water entering the reservoir each year, and the large water loss caused by evaporation and leakage. The upper culvert setting criterion is obtained through the upper limit water level mechanism, and it will provide important reference significance for the necessity of the DE culvert setting.
Causes and Clinical Characteristics of Small Bowel Bleeding in Northern Vietnam
Authors: Nguyen Cong Long , Pham Khac Khiem , Nguyen Canh Hiep , Nguyen Hoang Nam , Dao Tran Tien , Nguyen Hoai Nam , Nguyen The Phuong , Pham Van Tuyen , Nguyen Tuan Thanh , Vu Anh Tuan , Vu Truong Khanh
Published: November 2020

Aim. Causes, clinical features, and diagnostic approaches for small bowel (SB) bleeding were analyzed to derive recommendations in dealing with this clinical condition. Methods. We included 54 patients undergoing surgical treatment for SB bleeding, from January 2009 to December 2019. Detailed clinical data, diagnosis procedures, and causes of bleeding were collected. Results. Among 54 cases with SB bleeding, the most common causes were tumors (64.8%), followed by angiopathy (14.8%), ulcers (9.3%), diverticula (5.6%), tuberculosis (3.7%), and enteritis (1.9%). Most tumors (32/35 cases, 91.4%) and vascular lesions (8/8 cases, 100%) were located in the jejunum. The incidence of tumors was higher in the older (30/41 cases, 73.1%) than that in patients younger than 40 years of age (5/13 cases, 38.5%,

P
<
0.01

). Common initial findings were melena (68.5%) and hematochezia (31.5%). The overall diagnostic yield of computed tomographic enterography (CTE) was 57.4% (31/54 cases), with the figures for tumors, vascular lesions, and inflammatory lesions being 71.4% (25/35 cases), 62.5% (5/8 cases), and 12.5% (1/8 cases), respectively. Double-balloon enteroscopy (DBE) definitively identified SB bleeding sources in 16/22 (72.7%) patients. Conclusion. Tumors, angiopathy, ulcers, and diverticula were the most common causes of SB bleeding in Northern Vietnamese population. CTE has a high detection rate for tumors in patients with SB bleeding. CTE as a triage tool may identify patients before double-balloon enteroscopy because of the high prevalence of SB tumors.
Usual-Type Endocervical Adenocarcinoma with a Microcystic, Elongated, and Fragmented Pattern of Stromal Invasion: A Case Report with Emphasis on Ki-67 Immunostaining and Targeted Sequencing Results
Authors: Choi Sangjoon , Hwang Soohyun , Do Sung-Im , Kim Hyun-Soo
Published: November 2020

The microcystic, elongated, and fragmented (MELF) pattern is a unique myometrial invasion pattern occasionally found at the invasive front of endometrial endometrioid carcinoma (EEC). Herein, we report an uncommon case of usual-type endocervical adenocarcinoma (UEA) with a MELF pattern. We comprehensively analyzed its clinicopathological and molecular features, which has not been previously documented. A 67-year-old woman presented with a cervical mass and underwent radical hysterectomy. Histologically, the MELF pattern of UEA was almost identical to that of EEC. Tumor glands exhibited a microcystic appearance or elongated structures with compression forming a slit-like lumen. The tumor glands were irregularly fragmented into small clusters or single cells. Cells lining the tumor glands possessed conspicuous eosinophilic cytoplasm with squamoid or flattened endothelium-like appearance. These glands or cells were accompanied by a prominent fibromyxoid stromal reaction. Lymphovascular invasion was occasionally observed. Immunostaining revealed diffuse and strong cytokeratin 7 expression and block p16 positivity in both conventional and MELF components. However, the MELF component displayed a very low Ki-67 proliferation index compared to that of the conventional component, which showed markedly increased Ki-67 expression. Targeted sequencing analysis revealed that the MELF component harbored pathogenic mutations in ARID1A, KRAS, and PTEN, identical to those detected in the conventional component. In summary, the morphological features of the MELF pattern in UEA were similar to those in EEC. We found significant differences in Ki-67 expression status between conventional and MELF components, but the mutational profiles were identical. Our findings should be confirmed in larger cohorts of patients with UEA showing a MELF pattern.
Cell-Extracellular Matrix Interactions Play Multiple Essential Roles in Aortic Arch Development
Authors: Warkala Michael , Chen Dongying , Ramirez AnnJosette , Jubran Ali , Schonning Michael , Wang Xia , Zhao Huaning , Astrof Sophie
Published: November 2020

Rationale:

Defects in the morphogenesis of the fourth pharyngeal arch arteries (PAAs) give rise to lethal birth defects. Understanding genes and mechanisms regulating PAA formation will provide important insights into the etiology and treatments for congenital heart disease.

Objective:

Cell-ECM (extracellular matrix) interactions play essential roles in the morphogenesis of PAAs and their derivatives, the aortic arch artery and its major branches; however, their specific functions are not well-understood. Previously, we demonstrated that integrin α5β1 and Fn1 (fibronectin) expressed in the
Isl1
lineages regulate PAA formation. The objective of the current studies was to investigate cellular mechanisms by which integrin α5β1 and Fn1 regulate aortic arch artery morphogenesis.

Methods and Results:

Using temporal lineage tracing, whole-mount confocal imaging, and quantitative analysis of the second heart field (SHF) and endothelial cell (EC) dynamics, we show that the majority of PAA EC progenitors arise by E7.5 in the SHF and contribute to pharyngeal arch endothelium between E7.5 and E9.5. Consequently, SHF-derived ECs in the pharyngeal arches form a plexus of small blood vessels, which remodels into the PAAs by 35 somites. The remodeling of the vascular plexus is orchestrated by signals dependent on the pharyngeal ECM microenvironment, extrinsic to the endothelium. Conditional ablation of integrin α5β1 or Fn1 in the
Isl1
lineages showed that signaling by the ECM regulates aortic arch artery morphogenesis at multiple steps: (1) accumulation of SHF-derived ECs in the pharyngeal arches, (2) remodeling of the EC plexus in the fourth arches into the PAAs, and (3) differentiation of neural crest-derived cells adjacent to the PAA endothelium into vascular smooth muscle cells.

Conclusions:

PAA formation is a multistep process entailing dynamic contribution of SHF-derived ECs to pharyngeal arches, the remodeling of endothelial plexus into the PAAs, and the remodeling of the PAAs into the aortic arch artery and its major branches. Cell-ECM interactions regulated by integrin α5β1 and Fn1 play essential roles at each of these developmental stages.
Intrauterine Exposure to Diabetic Milieu Does Not Induce Diabetes and Obesity in Male Adulthood in a Novel Rat Model
Authors: Schütte Till , Kedziora Sarah M. , Haase Nadine , Herse Florian , Busjahn Andreas , Birukov Anna , Alenina Natalia , Müller Dominik N. , Bader Michael , Schupp Michael , Dechend Ralf , Kräker Kristin , Golic Michaela
Published: November 2020

Several studies show an association of maternal diabetes during pregnancy with adverse offspring metabolic health. Other studies, however, suggest that this effect might be biased by obesity, which is independently associated with offspring metabolic disease and often coexistent to maternal diabetes. We performed a prospective study in a rat model to test the hypothesis that the burden of a diabetic pregnancy without obesity deteriorates metabolic health in male offspring. We generated maternal type 2 diabetes before conception that persisted during pregnancy by knockdown of the insulin receptor in small hairpin RNA–expressing transgenic rats. Male WT (wild type) offspring were followed up until adulthood and metabolically challenged by high-fat diet. Blood glucose was measured continuously via a telemetry device. Glucose and insulin tolerance tests were performed, and body composition was analyzed. Weight gain and glucose levels during adolescence and adulthood were similar in male offspring of diabetic and control pregnancies. Body weight and fat mass after high-fat diet, as well as glucose and insulin tolerance tests, were unaltered between male adult offspring of both groups. Glycemic control consisting of up to 49 000 individual glucose measures was comparable between both groups. Intrauterine exposure to maternal hyperglycemia and hyperinsulinemia without obesity had no impact on male offspring metabolic health in our model. We conclude that the intrauterine exposure itself does not represent a mechanism for fetal programming of diabetes and obesity in our model. Other maternal metabolic parameters during pregnancy, such as obesity, might impact long-term offspring metabolic health.
Prevalence, Features, and Prognosis of Artery‐to‐Artery Embolic ST‐Segment–Elevation Myocardial Infarction: An Optical Coherence Tomography Study
Authors: Takahata Masahiro , Ino Yasushi , Kubo Takashi , Tanimoto Takashi , Taruya Akira , Terada Kosei , Emori Hiroki , Higashioka Daisuke , Katayama Yosuke , Khalifa Amir Kh. M. , Wada Teruaki , Ozaki Yuichi , Shimamura Kunihiro , Shiono Yasutsugu , Kashiwagi Manabu , Kuroi Akio , Fujita Suwako , Tanaka Atsushi , Hozumi Takeshi , Akasaka Takashi
Published: November 2020

Background

The major underlying mechanisms contributing to acute coronary syndrome are plaque rupture, plaque erosion, and calcified nodule. Artery‐to‐artery embolic myocardial infarction (AAEMI) was defined as ST‐segment–elevation myocardial infarction caused by migrating thrombus formed at the proximal ruptured plaque. The aim of this study was to investigate the prevalence and clinical features of AAEMI by using optical coherence tomography.

Methods and Results

This study retrospectively enrolled 297 patients with ST‐segment–elevation myocardial infarction who underwent optical coherence tomography before percutaneous coronary intervention. Patients were divided into 4 groups consisting of plaque rupture, plaque erosion, calcified nodule, and AAEMI according to optical coherence tomography findings. The prevalence of AAEMI was 3.4%. The culprit vessel in 60% of patients with AAEMI was right coronary artery. Minimum lumen area at the culprit site was larger in AAEMI compared with plaque rupture, plaque erosion, and calcified nodule (4.0 mm
2
[interquartile range (IQR), 2.2–4.9] versus 1.0 mm
2
[IQR, 0.8–1.3] versus 1.0 mm
2
[IQR, 0.8–1.2] versus 1.1 mm
2
[IQR, 0.7–1.6],
P
<0.001). Lumen area at the rupture site was larger in patients with AAEMI compared with patients with plaque rupture (4.4 mm
2
[IQR, 2.5–6.7] versus 1.5 mm
2
[IQR, 1.0–2.4],
P
<0.001). In patients with AAEMI, the median minimum lumen area at the occlusion site was 1.2 mm
2
(IQR, 1.0–2.1), 40% of them had nonstent strategy, and the 3‐year major adverse cardiac event rate was 0%.

Conclusions

AAEMI is a rare cause for ST‐segment–elevation myocardial infarction and has unique morphological features of plaque including larger lumen area at rupture site and smaller lumen area at the occlusion site.
Deeply Felt Affect: The Emergence of Valence in Deep Active Inference
Authors: Hesp Casper , Smith Ryan , Parr Thomas , Allen Micah , Friston Karl J. , Ramstead Maxwell J. D.
Published: November 2020

The positive-negative axis of emotional valence has long been recognized as fundamental to adaptive behavior, but its origin and underlying function have largely eluded formal theorizing and computational modeling. Using deep active inference, a hierarchical inference scheme that rests on inverting a model of how sensory data are generated, we develop a principled Bayesian model of emotional valence. This formulation asserts that agents infer their valence state based on the expected precision of their action model—an internal estimate of overall model fitness (“subjective fitness”). This index of subjective fitness can be estimated within any environment and exploits the domain generality of second-order beliefs (beliefs about beliefs). We show how maintaining internal valence representations allows the ensuing affective agent to optimize confidence in action selection preemptively. Valence representations can in turn be optimized by leveraging the (Bayes-optimal) updating term for subjective fitness, which we label affective charge (AC). AC tracks changes in fitness estimates and lends a sign to otherwise unsigned divergences between predictions and outcomes. We simulate the resulting affective inference by subjecting an in silico affective agent to a T-maze paradigm requiring context learning, followed by context reversal. This formulation of affective inference offers a principled account of the link between affect, (mental) action, and implicit metacognition. It characterizes how a deep biological system can infer its affective state and reduce uncertainty about such inferences through internal action (i.e., top-down modulation of priors that underwrite confidence). Thus, we demonstrate the potential of active inference to provide a formal and computationally tractable account of affect. Our demonstration of the face validity and potential utility of this formulation represents the first step within a larger research program. Next, this model can be leveraged to test the hypothesized role of valence by fitting the model to behavioral and neuronal responses.
Machado de Lima, N.M. & Branco, L.H.Z. (2020) Biological soil crusts: new genera and species of Cyanobacteria from Brazilian semi-arid regions. Phytotaxa 470 (4): 263–281.
Authors: MACHADO DE LIMA NÁTHALI MARIA , BRANCO LUIS H.Z.
Published: November 2020

N/A
Gonolobus naturalistae (Apocynaceae; Asclepiadoideae; Gonolobeae; Gonolobinae), a New Species From México
Authors: ALVARADO-CÁRDENAS LEONARDO O. , CHÁVEZ-HERNÁNDEZ MARÍA G. , PÍO LEÓN JUAN F.
Published: November 2020

A new species of Gonolobus from northwestern Mexico with green and barbate corollas is described here. Gonolobus naturalistae is morphologically similar to G. barbatus, G. pectinatus, and G. sororius but differs in corolla and corona morphology and distribution. Descriptions, illustrations, morphological comparisons, and geographic distribution maps of these species, as well as their conservation status, are provided. This discovery highlights Mexico as a center of diversity for the genus, with around 40 species recorded, and highlights its endemism, with 48.7% of the species occurring in the country.
On the specific identity of Chinese endemic species Synotis longipes (Compositae-Senecioneae)
Authors: LIU YU-LIN , ZHANG RUI , REN CHEN , LIU BING , ZHANG YU , TANG MING
Published: November 2020

Careful examination of herbarium specimens and observations in the field demonstrate that the morphological features including the stature, the growing style of leaves, the shape of inflorescence as well as the length of peduncles of Synotis longipes are all within the variation range of S. duclouxii, thus S. longipes is morphologically non-distinct from S. duclouxii and should be placed as a synonym of the latter. Color plates, distribution map of S. duclouxii and its related species are provided; the description of S. duclouxii is also revised.
Nomenclatural revision of the Ficus sect. Americanae (Moraceae): Typification of F. citrifolia and allied species
Authors: PEDERNEIRAS LEANDRO CARDOSO , DUSSÁN CAMILA MONJE , MITIDIERI-RIVERA NICOLE , ROMANIUC-NETO SERGIO , MANSANO VIDAL DE FREITAS
Published: November 2020

Neotypes are designated for the following three names: Ficus populnea subvar. diversifolia, F. populnea subvar. longipetiolata, and F. populnea subvar. subcuspidata. Lectotypes are designated for following 20 names: Ficus expansa, F. foveata, F. glandulosa, F. laevigata, F. oblongata, F. pedunculata, F. populnea subvar. cerasicarpa, F. populnea subvar. flavicosta, F. populnea subvar. reticulosa, F. populnea subvar. sancti-eustachii, F. populnea subvar. sancti-joannis, F. populnea subvar. subcordata, F. populnea subvar. subdepressa, F. populnea subvar. subpyriformis, F. populnea var. bahamensis, F. populoides var. elongata, F. portoricensis, F. umbrifera, Urostigma angustifolium, and U. sancti‑crucis.
Ghosting history/historicizing the ghost: Time passage in T. C. Haliburton’s The Old Judge
Authors: Kliś-Brodowska Agnieszka
Published: November 2020

This article investigates the representation of time in T. C. Haliburton’s The Old Judge as shaped by the writer’s British North American context as well as his political background and agenda. It pays attention to the manner in which the text prepares the ground for native identity formation by providing a version of Nova Scotia’s recent history that is nonetheless presented as bygone and ancient. In The Old Judge, temporal distance of the past, apart from its richness — both confirmed by the presence of the properly historicized settler ghost — is the condition for cultural distinctiveness, maturity and heritage. Approaching The Old Judge from the perspective of Cynthia Sugars’ Canadian Gothic and Lorenzo Veracini’s settler colonialism, I argue that the text represents the past of the province as curiously extended in time in the Old World fashion, so that it may encompass the stages of cultural development required to gain the Empire’s recognition. Simultaneously, the text’s intricate play with heterochronies suggests that Haliburton’s Nova Scotia contains heterotopic spaces in Foucauldian terms, where the ordinary time passage is necessarily breached for the colony to attain proper legacy and distinct cultural status.
Shifting Roles in Families of Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) Recipients and Implications for the Transition to Adulthood
Authors: Aranda Elizabeth , Vaquera Elizabeth , Castañeda Heide
Published: November 2020

The 2012 Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) program enabled undocumented immigrant young adults to more freely participate in U.S. society. Guided by family systems theory, which emphasizes that individual actors are interdependent with others within family units, we analyze the experiences of young adult DACA recipients while members of their families remain deportable. We draw from 44 in-depth interviews with DACA recipients who are part of mixed-status families to answer three questions: How were the benefits of DACA distributed within mixed-status family units and discrepancies interpreted by recipients? How did obtaining DACA change recipients’ roles and responsibilities within their families? And to what extent did obtaining DACA shape young adults’ envisioned futures? We discuss potential results of the program, including changes in familial relationships, conflicting roles, and challenges in recipients’ efforts at individuation from their families.
Diagnostic and prognostic significance of aberrant miR-652-3p levels in patients with acute decompensated heart failure and acute kidney injury
Authors: Liu Jiaolei , Zhang Hongmei , Li Xin , Wang Lin , Yu Huining , Huang Jiaohong , Liu Qingjun , Wang Chao , Jiang Aili
Published: November 2020

Objective

This study aimed to examine a novel microRNA (miR-652-3p) biomarker to improve early diagnosis of acute kidney injury (AKI) in patients with acute decompensated heart failure (ADHF) and to evaluate the survival predictive value of miR-652-3p.

Methods

We retrospectively analyzed the data of 196 patients with ADHF, including 65 who developed AKI during hospitalization. Neutrophil gelatinase-associated lipocalin (NGAL) levels were measured in serum and urine samples. Real-time quantitative PCR was applied to evaluate miR-652-3p mRNA expression. The diagnostic performance of miR-652-3p was examined using receiver operating characteristic curve analysis. The prognostic value of miR-652-3p was also analyzed.

Results

Serum and urinary NGAL and miR-652-3p levels were elevated in patients with ADHF and AKI. Serum and urinary miR-652-3p expression had diagnostic value in predicting AKI onset in patients with ADHF, and it had improved diagnostic performance when used with NGAL. Patients with AKI and high miR-652-3p levels had a high failure rate of renal recovery and poor 180-day survival.

Conclusion

Serum and urinary miR-652-3p may be a candidate biomarker for early diagnosis of AKI in patients with ADHF and for predicting the prognosis of AKI. The combination of NGAL and miR-652-3p may accurately predict AKI onset in ADHF.
Finite element and biomechanical analysis of risk factors for implant failure during tension band plating
Authors: Ding Jing , Wang Fei , Jin Fangchun , Wu Zhen-kai , Shen Pin-quan
Published: November 2020

Objective

Tension band plating has recently gained widespread acceptance as a method of correcting angular limb deformities in skeletally immature patients. We examined the role of biomechanics in procedural failure and devised a new method of reducing the rate of implant failure.

Methods

In the biomechanical model, afterload (static or cyclic) was applied to each specimen. The residual stress of the screw combined with different screw sizes and configurations were measured and compared by X-ray diffraction. With regard to static load and similar conditions, the stress distribution was analyzed according to a three-dimensional finite element model.

Results

The residual stress was close to zero in the static tension group, whereas it was very high in the cyclic load group. The residual stress of screws was significantly lower in the convergent group and parallel group than in the divergent group. The finite element model showed similar results.

Conclusions

In both the finite element analysis and biomechanical tests, the maximum stress of the screw was concentrated at the position where the screws enter the cortex. Cyclic loading is the primary cause of implant failure.
Toxic Colonialism in the Territorial Isles: A Geospatial Analysis of Environmental Crime Across U.S. Territorial Islands 2013–2017
Authors: Thomson Ryan , Samuels-Jones Tameka
Published: November 2020

The following study explores the geographic distribution of EPA environmental violations across the unincorporated territories within a criminological framework. Using data obtained from the EPA ECHO database, we conduct a geospatial legal analysis to identify island areas bearing a disproportionate number of green criminal activity between 2013 and 2017. Puerto Rico, the U.S. Virgin Islands, Guam, Mariana Islands, and American Samoa reflect a combination of green criminal patterns tied to tourism, commercial production, militarism, and nuclear testing. These remote and relatively biodiverse isles are consistently found to be bearing the burden of toxic waste which originated on the other side of the sea.
Mixed convective 3D flow of Maxwell nanofluid induced by stretching sheet: Application of Cattaneo-Christov theory
Authors: Ahmed Awais , Khan Masood , Ahmed Jawad , Anjum Asia , Nadeem Sohail
Published: November 2020

The present study invokes the application of Cattaneo-Christov theory for the thermal analysis in the buoyancy driven three dimensional flow of Maxwell nanofluid. The flow is induced above the vertical bidirectional stretching sheet. The phenomena of thermophoresis and Brownian diffusion of nanoparticles in the flow Maxwell liquid are deliberated with the help of Buongiorno model for nanofluid. The physical problem is formulated in the form of boundary layer partial differential equations (PDEs). Moreover, suitable ansatz for flow mechanism are employed to reduce the governing PDEs into the non-linear ordinary differential equations (ODEs). The flow mechanism of Maxwell fluid along with energy transport is analyzed in the form of homotopic solutions of the governing ODEs. The outcomes are presented graphically and discussed with physical explanation. The analysis revealed that both buoyancy and mixed convection parameters enhanced the [Formula: see text]-component of velocity field but declined the [Formula: see text]-component. Moreover, in assisting mode these two parameters also increased the thermal and solutal energy transport in nanofluid. It is noted that the thermophorectic force boosts up the thermal energy transport in the flow in the presence of thermal relaxation phenomenon. The validation of the present results are confirmed through tabular data with some previous studies.
The metaphysics of psychology and a dialectical perspective
Authors: Dafermos Manolis
Published: November 2020

This article aims to examine the relation between psychology and metaphysics. Despite psychology’s claim of being an exact science, like physics, it contains an implicit commitment to metaphysical assumptions, such as ahistorical universalism, ontological dualism, abstract individualism, and the fragmentation of the human mind. This paper proposes a dialectical perspective as a way to overcome the unidimensional examination of psychological phenomena as the sum of independent, fixed, and static elements. By revealing the shortcomings of reductionism and elementarism, dialectics highlight the complex and dynamic nature of psychological processes and provide an original way of conceptualizing crucial theoretical and methodological issues of psychology as a discipline.
Multi-profile fine-resolution palynology of Late Mesolithic to Bronze Age peat at Cat Stones, Rishworth Moor, Central Pennines, UK
Authors: Albert Bruce M , Innes James B , Blackford Jeff J
Published: November 2020

Palynological data from three radiocarbon dated peat profiles at Rishworth Moor in the Pennine hills of northern England provide a record of vegetation change and human impacts in the Late Mesolithic, Neolithic and Bronze Age periods. All three cultures have archaeological sites present in the vicinity, with Late Mesolithic sites by far the most abundant, comprising mainly very late assemblages dominated by ‘rod’-shaped microliths. Pollen evidence of vegetation disturbance occurs during all three archaeological periods, and is attributed to the results of human activity. Microscopic charcoal and non-pollen palynomorph analyses support the pollen evidence. Sites at Cat Stones 2 and Cat Stones 3 record evidence of Neolithic and Bronze Age date only. Cat Stones 1 extends into the Late Mesolithic period, and fine-resolution pollen analyses have been applied in this profile to the Mesolithic–Neolithic transition leading up to the mid-Holocene Elm ( Ulmus) Decline, which starts here at c. 4940 14C BP (5670 cal. BP), a typical date for it in the central Pennines. Bayesian age-depth modelling provides precise ages for the vegetation changes and their spatial correlation. The plateau was dominated by scrub and grassy Calluna heath from the Late Mesolithic onwards. Elevated microscopic charcoal levels and ruderal herb pollen record phases of fire disturbance below the Elm Decline, including a grain of Hordeum cereal-type. Whether this grain represents early cultivation requires further research. Bronze Age impacts are of greater intensity, but disturbances of all three cultural periods are low scale, agreeing with the results of previous research in the Pennines.
A Quiet Revolution in State Lobbying: Government Growth and Interest Populations
Authors: Strickland James M.
Published: November 2020

What explains contemporary numbers of interest groups in America? To answer this question and help address conflicting narratives in research, I examine the rise of interest groups in the states. Assembling an original dataset based on archival and secondary sources, I find that relatively few groups lobbied legislators prior to the 1960s or 1970s. During those decades, numbers of interest groups began to grow rapidly. I find that increases in lawmaking activities present inconsistent effects on the political mobilization of groups but increases in spending are strongly correlated with mobilization. In additional tests, I find that the effects of spending on group numbers vary by state and are not discernible in most states. In general, a historic transformation of state governments helps to account for the growth of state lobbying. Interest groups have remained active in state capitols ever since.
Adaptive neural network and nonlinear electrohydraulic active suspension control system
Authors: Al Aela Amhmed M , Kenne Jean-Pierre , Mintsa Honorine A
Published: November 2020

In this article, an adaptive neural network control system is proposed for a quarter car electrohydraulic active suspension system coping with dynamic nonlinearities and uncertainties. The proposed control system is primarily designed to stabilize a sprung mass position of the quarter car electrohydraulic active suspension. Linear controllers such as the proportional–integral–differential controller have limited control performances. The limited control performances are caused by dynamic phenomena such as nonlinearity, parametric uncertainties, and stiff external disturbances. To overcome these dynamic phenomena, we propose a combined adaptive radial basis function neural network with a backstepping control system for a quarter car active suspension system. This setup can handle the unmatched model uncertainty of the system, while the adaptive neural network can take care of its unknown smoothing functions. In general, radial basis function neural network can represent a complicated function, and therefore, semi-strict-feedback dynamic systems are considered to simplify the adaptive neural network control design. Simulation results are indicated to illustrate adaptive neural network control effectiveness.
Algorithmic Prediction of Restraint and Seclusion in an Inpatient Child and Adolescent Psychiatric Population
Authors: Magnowski Stefani R. , Kick Dalton , Cook Jessica , Kay Brian
Published: November 2020

BACKGROUND:

Restraint and seclusion in an inpatient child and adolescent psychiatric population adversely affects the overall value and safety of care. Due to adverse events, negative outcomes, and associated costs, inpatient psychiatric hospitals must strive to reduce and ultimately eliminate restraint and seclusion with innovative, data-driven approaches.

AIM:

To identify patterns of client characteristics that are associated with restraint and seclusion in an inpatient child and adolescent psychiatric population.

METHOD:

A machine learning application of fast-and-frugal tree modeling was used to analyze the sample.

RESULTS:

The need for restraint and seclusion were correctly predicted for 73% of clients at risk (sensitivity), and 76% of clients were correctly predicted as negative or low risk (specificity), for needing restraint and seclusion based on the following characteristics: having a disruptive mood dysregulation disorder and/or attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder diagnosis, being 12 years old or younger, and not having a depressive and/or bipolar disorder diagnosis.

CONCLUSIONS:

The client characteristics identified in the predictive algorithm should be reviewed on admission to recognize clients at risk for restraint and seclusion. For those at risk, interventions should be developed into an individualized client treatment plan to facilitate a proactive approach in preventing behavioral emergencies requiring restraint and seclusion.
Adapting to the postmodern medical paradigm: how The Daily Telegraph used emotion and anecdote to legitimise vaccination
Authors: Ward Sean , Budarick John
Published: November 2020

The postmodern medical paradigm is becoming increasingly relevant to vaccine communication. Government and health authorities pushing a pro-vaccine position often fall short in this climate due to a reliance unemotional and fact-based communication. The news media, however, often deviate from this norm by incorporating emotionality to legitimise vaccination. This article analyses how such emotionality manifests in pro-vaccination communication. Van Leeuwen’s typology of discursive legitimation strategies and Van Dijk’s ideological square were used to analyse The Daily Telegraph’ s No Jab No Pay(Play) campaign. The findings demonstrate a primary intention to polarise, as this may justify financial sanctions against vaccine-hesitant parents. However, several identified strategies could be effective at reducing hesitancy in a postmodern medical discourse if adapted under such an intention. Notably, in generating concern through parental and motherhood figures rather than expert authorities, naturalising safety through evaluations rather than counter-rationalisations, and communicating risk through stories that provoke immediate visceral reactions.
Developing Competencies for Emotional, Instrumental, and Informational Student Support During the COVID-19 Pandemic: A Human Relations/Human Resource Development Approach
Authors: Lloyd-Jones Brenda
Published: November 2020

The Problem

The COVID-19 pandemic required many college and university faculty members to transition quickly from traditional classroom instruction to virtual, online learning. Aside from mastering technical skills needed to maintain an uninterrupted learning environment, faculty were challenged with mastering social-emotional competencies for maintaining continuity in relationships (e.g. student/peer, student/instructor). This dilemma highlights transdisciplinary relationships between the fields of human relations (HRL) and human resource development (HRD).

The Recommendation

In this article, a framework is introduced and recommended for understanding the experiences of a university faculty member who, in addition to mastering technical competencies (e.g., coaching, care, collaboration), was also challenged with developing social-emotional support behaviors (e.g., emotional, instrumental, informational) while maintaining continuity in established relationships as a transdisciplinary HRL/HRD response to the pandemic.

The Stakeholders

This article offers faculty, higher education administrators, human relations professionals, and human resource development scholars/practitioners a model for ways in which to work professionally within the “new normal.”
The paradox of the seed and soil: Cultivating inclusive leadership for a “new normal”
Authors: Caver Keith , Livers Ancella
Published: November 2020

Persistent evidence shows that African Americans, women, and other people of color are consistently overlooked in promotions, growth assignments, and other significant opportunities to scale the corporate ladder. Further, organizations tend to fault these diverse employees for their slower progress in achieving aspirational goals and ignore addressing the insufficiency of existing organizational systems and processes as the primary barrier to furthering inclusivity—especially in senior leadership roles. Using the metaphor of “the seed and the soil,” which was first articulated by David Thomas, PhD, the article examines corporate America through the lens of the “seed”; the employees of difference who most often must navigate corporate cultures without significant support; and the “soil,” the organizational leadership, mindset, and infrastructure that continue to overlook people of difference while suggesting the organization is working on their behalf. The article links national unrest to the mindset and actions that dismiss notions of societal justice. Further, the article clarifies the connection and support of the corporate–social perspective that helps to maintain the status quo. The article concludes by clarifying the steps required to create an inclusive ecosystem in which the soil is effectively cultivated so that all seeds have the potential to thrive as organizations prepare for a more diverse, inclusive, and profitable future.
Cold en bloc excision (CEBE) of bladder tumours using Zedd excision scissors: a prospective, pilot, safety and feasibility study
Authors: BMZ Hameed , Hegde Padmaraj , Shah Milap , Rai Bhavan Prasad , Thomas Joseph , Pai Kanthilatha , Naik Nithesh , Somani Bhaskar
Published: November 2020

Background:

Transurethral resection of bladder tumour (TURBT) is the traditional technique of choice for endoscopically suspected bladder tumours. Cold En Bloc Excision (CEBE) using novel Zedd scissors is proposed for endoscopic treatment of patients with non-muscle invasive bladder cancer (NMIBC). The aim of this study was to evaluate feasibility and safety of CEBE of bladder tumours using Zedd scissors.

Methods:

A pilot prospective study of patients who underwent a CEBE of suspicious bladder tumours using Zedd scissors was conducted. A total of 23 patients underwent CEBE for suspected bladder tumours using Zedd scissors. New and recurrent tumours <3 cm were included in the study. The outcome measures were the presence of detrusor muscle (DM) and obturator nerve reflex (ONR), bladder perforation rates, specimen cautery artefacts, recurrence rates and complication rates. The mean age was 64 years ± 10.41 (range: 49–83 years). The median follow up was 4 months (range 1–9 months). The mean tumour size was 1.8 cm ± 0.40 (range: 0.8–2.6 cm). Tumours were located in the lateral wall ( n = 11), dome ( n = 2), posterior wall ( n = 6), trigone ( n = 2), anterior wall ( n = 4) and the junction of lateral and posterior wall ( n = 4).

Results:

There was no ONR or bladder perforation and none of the patients had any complications. DM was present in 21 patients (91%). There was no tumour identified at the circumferential margins. There was no cautery artefact reported in any case. No patients had a recurrence at first follow up cystoscopy and two patients had out of field recurrence at subsequent cystoscopies.

Conclusion:

CEBE with Zedd scissors is a promising en bloc excision technique for bladder tumour. It is a safe and feasible for excision of tumours less than 3 cm. The early oncological outcomes are comparable with existing en bloc resection techniques (ERBT) for NMIBC.
Rasmussen’s encephalitis: mechanisms update and potential therapy target
Authors: Tang Chongyang , Luan Guoming , Li Tianfu
Published: November 2020

Rasmussen’s encephalitis (RE) is rare neurological diseases characterized as epilepsia partialis continua, invariably hemiparesis, and cognitive impairment. This disease is encountered frequently in childhood and presents with progressive atrophy of the unilateral hemisphere, and there are also sustained neurological complications. Owing to uncertain pathogenesis, the most effective way to limit the influence of seizures currently is cerebral hemispherectomy. In this review, we focus on four main lines of pathogenesis: virus infection, antibody-mediated, cell-mediated immunity, and microglia activation. Although one or more antigenic epitopes may give rise to infiltrating T cell responses in RE brain tissue, no exact antigen was confirmed as the definite cause of the disease. On the other hand, the appearance of antibodies related with RE seem to be a secondary pathological process. Synthetic studies have suggested an adaptive immune mechanism mediated by CD8+ T cells and an innate immune mechanism mediated by activated microglia and neuroglia. Accordingly, opinions have been raised that immunomodulatory treatments aimed at initial damage to the brain that are induced by cytotoxic CD8+ T cell lymphocytes and microglia in the early stage of RE slow down disease progression. However, systematic exploration of the theory behind these therapeutic effects based on multicenter and large sample studies are needed. In addition, dysfunction of the adenosine system, including the main adenosine removing enzyme adenosine kinase and adenosine receptors, has been demonstrated in RE, which might provide a novel therapeutic target for treatment of RE in future.
Regeneration of skeletal system with genipin crosslinked biomaterials
Authors: Wang Zhonghan , Liu He , Luo Wenbin , Cai Tianyang , Li Zuhao , Liu Yuzhe , Gao Weinan , Wan Qian , Wang Xianggang , Wang Jincheng , Wang Yanbing , Yang Xiaoyu
Published: November 2020

Natural biomaterials, such as collagen, gelatin, and chitosan, are considered as promising candidates for use in tissue regeneration treatment, given their similarity to natural tissues regarding components and structure. Nevertheless, only receiving a crosslinking process can these biomaterials exhibit sufficient strength to bear high tensile loads for use in skeletal system regeneration. Recently, genipin, a natural chemical compound extracted from gardenia fruits, has shown great potential as a reliable crosslinking reagent, which can reconcile the crosslinking effect and biosafety profile simultaneously. In this review, we briefly summarize the genipin extraction process, biosafety, and crosslinking mechanism. Subsequently, the applications of genipin regarding aiding skeletal system regeneration are discussed in detail, including the advances and technological strategies for reconstructing cartilage, bone, intervertebral disc, tendon, and skeletal muscle tissues. Finally, based on the specific pharmacological functions of genipin, its potential applications, such as its use in bioprinting and serving as an antioxidant and anti-tumor agent, and the challenges of genipin in the clinical applications in skeletal system regeneration are also presented.
Real-World Effectiveness of Therapy With Rosuvastatin Combined With Fenofibric Acid in a Sample of Colombian Patients With Mixed Dyslipidemia
Authors: Machado-Duque Manuel E. , Gaviria-Mendoza Andrés , Machado-Alba Jorge E.
Published: November 2020

Background

Ischemic heart disease is the leading cause of death in the world and is associated with dyslipidemia, high blood pressure, diabetes mellitus, and other factors.

Objective

To determine the clinical effectiveness on the lipid profile of the rosuvastatin + fenofibric acid combination in Colombian patients with high cardiovascular risk and mixed dyslipidemia.

Methods

Longitudinal observational study in a random sample of patients with a diagnosis of mixed dyslipidemia and moderate, high, or very high cardiovascular risk who were treated with rosuvastatin + fenofibric acid. Anthropometric, clinical, laboratory, comorbidity, and pharmacological variables were identified. Effectiveness on the lipid profile was determined.

Results

A total of 386 patients were analyzed. They had a mean age of 60.8 ± 11.4 years, 53.1% were female, and 75.6% had high/very high cardiovascular risk. The initial evaluation showed a mean LDL cholesterol of 138.4 ± 67.1 mg/dL and triglycerides of 679.7 ± 573.6 mg/dL. At the end of follow-up, mean LDL cholesterol was 87.5 ± 41.2 mg/dL (reduced by 43.3%; P < .001), and triglycerides were 243.5 ± 170.5 mg/dL (reduced by 64.2%; P < .001). Only 35.4% (n = 73) of patients with very high risk reached the goal of metabolic control, compared to 61.6% (n = 53) with high risk and 55.4% (n = 46) with moderate risk. Belonging to the very high-risk group was associated with a lower probability of achieving the control goal (OR: 0.32; 95%CI: 0.192-0.539).

Conclusion

The combination of rosuvastatin + fenofibric acid is an effective option in patients with mixed dyslipidemia and high cardiovascular risk, providing a therapeutic alternative for those conditions that require it.
What Support Can Higher Learning Institutions Provide to Motivate Students to Engagement in Self-Employment? Evidence from Tanzania
Authors: Nandonde Felix Adamu , Malaki Charles Omollo
Published: November 2020

Numbers of universities are increasing in developing economies. With a rise on the universities in developing economies, there is a call for more research on the role of universities in developing entrepreneurs. This article aimed at understanding the kind of support, which university students in developing economies need to engage in self-employment. The study recruited 230 students, who were provided with questionnaires during class sessions. Students were allowed to carry questionnaires and fill them in their hostels. After two weeks, the questionnaires were collected through the assistance of class representatives. Likert scale was used in the questionnaire with 5-point itemized scale. Factor analysis technique and varimax rotation method were employed for data analysis. Scree plot was used to evaluate the number of factors significant for the study. Four factors namely business education support, compulsory training, resource support and moral support loaded significantly. The results of the study can inform the ways in which university students want their institutions to assist them to become entrepreneurs.
Asymptomatic Severe Aortic Stenosis: Early Intervention in Perspective
Authors: Agrawal Anoop
Published: November 2020

Severe aortic stenosis (sAS) is a relentless disease, which carries significant morbidity and mortality. Definitive treatment of sAS in the form of aortic valve replacement (AVR) mostly revolves around the presence of symptoms. Last decade has witnessed a surge in observational data suggesting asymptomatic sAS associated with higher cardiovascular events than what was previously appreciated. While society guidelines endorse early AVR in a selected subgroup of asymptomatic sAS patients, the majority are still managed with traditional “watchful-waiting” approach. This article reviews the available literature on the natural history of asymptomatic sAS, associated risk modifiers, and identify patients who are at high-risk for future clinical events to offer them preemptive valve placement therapy.