bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Tapping Global Potential of Pakistan in Merchandise Trade: Evidence from PPML Based Gravity Model and Trade Potential Index
Authors: Gul Nazia , Iqbal Javed
Published: June 2021

This study aims to assess the trade potential of Pakistan in terms of destinations and products against 101 potential trading partners while applying the gravity model and the trade potential index. The findings indicate that Pakistan’s trade/export potential is maximum with the countries which are not its traditional trading partners. On the other hand, “manufactured goods”, “misc manufactured articles” and “food groups” are the products where maximum trade/export potential exists. Results indicate that Pakistan should not only adopt proactive measures to tap non-traditional partners but it is equally important to strengthen the level of trade with its traditional trading partners.
Tacit Knowledge and Innovation: Insights from the Public Sector in Delta State, Nigeria
Authors: Ononye Uzoma Heman
Published: June 2021

This study empirically investigated the relationship between tacit knowledge and innovation from the public sector context in Delta State, Nigeria. The use of tacit knowledge for innovation has been theoretically analysed in previous studies, but empirical studies in this field have only begun to emerge. Even so, very little research has been conducted in the public sector, even less in developing countries. Using the tacit-linked processes in the Nonaka and Takeuchi’s [Nonaka, I and K Takeuchi (1995). The Knowledge Creating Company. New York: Oxford University Press] knowledge conversion model, the study hypothesised that socialisation, externalisation and internalisation (SEI) relate with each other positively, and all have a significant positive effect on innovation. The study made use of the partial least square method for hypotheses testing with data collected from 169 mid-level health professionals from the Delta State Ministry of Health. Whilst the results show a positive relationship amongst the SEI processes, only socialisation and internalisation were found to have significant positive effects on innovation. However, despite externalisation non-significant effect on innovation, a significant indirect effect was achieved through internalisation. Together, these results provide important implications for public managers and public organisations to utilise the SEI processes in applying the tacit knowledge that has been created and shared to innovation.
Large-dimensional random matrix theory and its applications in deep learning and wireless communications
Authors: Ge Jungang , Liang Ying-Chang , Bai Zhidong , Pan Guangming
Published: June 2021

Large-dimensional (LD) random matrix theory, RMT for short, which originates from the research field of quantum physics, has shown tremendous capability in providing deep insights into large-dimensional systems. With the fact that we have entered an unprecedented era full of massive amounts of data and large complex systems, RMT is expected to play more important roles in the analysis and design of modern systems. In this paper, we review the key results of RMT and its applications in two emerging fields: wireless communications and deep learning. In wireless communications, we show that RMT can be exploited to design the spectrum sensing algorithms for cognitive radio systems and to perform the design and asymptotic analysis for large communication systems. In deep learning, RMT can be utilized to analyze the Hessian, input–output Jacobian and data covariance matrix of the deep neural networks, thereby to understand and improve the convergence and the learning speed of the neural networks. Finally, we highlight some challenges and opportunities in applying RMT to the practical large-dimensional systems.
Additivity violation of quantum channels via strong convergence to semi-circular and circular elements
Authors: Fukuda Motohisa , Hasebe Takahiro , Sato Shinya
Published: June 2021

Additivity violation of minimum output entropy, which shows non-classical properties in quantum communication, had been proved in most cases for random quantum channels defined by Haar-distributed unitary matrices. In this paper, we investigate random completely positive maps made of Gaussian Unitary Ensembles and Ginibre Ensembles regarding this matter. Using semi-circular systems and circular systems of free probability, we not only show the multiplicativity violation of maximum output norms in the asymptotic regimes but also prove the additivity violation via Haagerup inequality for a new class of random quantum channels constructed by rectifying the above completely positive maps based on strong convergence.
Fractal Properties of Various Clay Minerals Obtained from SEM Images
Authors: Golsanami Naser , Fernando Shanilka Gimhan , Jayasuriya Madusanka Nirosh , Yan Weichao , Dong Huaimin , Cui Likai , Dong Xu , Barzgar Ehsan
Published: June 2021

Clay minerals significantly alter the pore size distribution (PSD) of the gas hydrate-bearing sediments and sandstone reservoir rock by adding an intense amount of micropores to the existing intragranular pore space. Therefore, in the present study, the internal pore space of various clay groups is investigated by manually segmenting Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) images. We focused on kaolinite, smectite, chlorite, and dissolution holes and characterized their specific pore space using fractal geometry theory and parameters such as pore count, pore size distribution, area, perimeter, circularity, and density. Herein, the fractal properties of different clay groups and dissolution holes were extracted using the box counting technique and were introduced for each group. It was observed that the presence of clays complicates the original PSD of the reservoir by adding about 1.31-61.30 pores/100 μm2 with sizes in the range of 0.003-87.69 μm2. Meanwhile, dissolution holes complicate the pore space by adding 4.88-8.17 extra pores/100 μm2 with sizes in the range of 0.06-119.75 μm2. The fractal dimension (

D

) and lacunarity (

L

) values of the clays’ internal pore structure fell in the ranges of 1.51-1.85 and 0.18-0.99, respectively. Likewise,

D

and

L

of the dissolution holes were in the ranges of, respectively, 1.63-1.65 and 0.56-0.62. The obtained results of the present study lay the foundation for developing improved fractal models of the reservoir properties which would help to better understand the fluid flow, irreducible fluid saturation, and capillary pressure. These issues are of significant importance for reservoir quality and calculating the accurate amount of producible oil and gas.
Augmentation of Antipsychotic Medications with Low-Dose Clozapine in Treatment-Resistant Schizophrenia—Case Reports and Discussion
Authors: Harrison Zoe , Haeney Owen , Brereton William
Published: June 2021

Treatment resistance in schizophrenia is often encountered in clinical practice, with clozapine usually recommended as the appropriate therapy. However, where clozapine proves ineffective or cannot be tolerated due to side effects, treatment options are limited. In patients within forensic mental health services, residual symptomatology often presents a barrier to discharge and can have lasting effects on prospects for rehabilitation as well as risk to self and others. This paper presents a review of the relevant literature and three cases of a novel approach, utilising clozapine in doses usually considered subtherapeutic, in combination with the primary antipsychotic treatment. In all three patients, it improved clinical efficacy as well as tolerability, resulting in improvement that allowed discharge from the forensic hospital.
Unified Approach for Robust Stability Analysis of Buck Converters with Discrete-Time Sliding Mode Control
Authors: Wang Yanmin , Ge Yang , Zhang Ping , Duan Guangxin
Published: June 2021

This paper proposes a novel discrete-time sliding mode (DTSM) control approach to address the robust stability problem of buck converters with multiple disturbances. The contributions lie in the “unified” modelling and controller design. In modelling, all the possible model uncertainties and external disturbances are considered and further classified into two cases. It can also be extended to the situations with individual/several disturbances. While for the controller design, differing from the traditional DTSM based on the nominal model, the disturbances are directly introduced in the process, giving the robust stability condition and four new regulation subranges. It is suitable for both nominal and perturbed systems. Finally, the influences of the sampling time and disturbances on the control performance are investigated. Simulations and experiments confirm the benefits of the unified approach with greater accuracy and wider applications.
G Protein-Coupled Estrogen Receptor 1 (GPER1) Mediates Aldosterone-Induced Endothelial Inflammation in a Mineralocorticoid Receptor-Independent Manner
Authors: Tang Ziwei , Li Qifu , Cheng Qingfeng , Mei Mei , Song Ying , Du Zhipeng , He Wenwen , Hu Jinbo , Yang Shumin , Wang Zhihong
Published: June 2021

Objective. It has been increasingly appreciated that G protein-coupled estrogen receptor 1 (GPER1) mediates both proinflammatory and anti-inflammatory response of estrogen. It is also involved in some rapid vascular effects of aldosterone in a mineralocorticoid receptor (MR) independent manner. However, whether GPER1 mediates aldosterone-induced inflammation response in endothelial cells and its relationship with MR are yet undetermined and therefore require further explanation. Method. Based on the hypothesis that GPER1 plays a role in the aldosterone-related vascular inflammation, the present study utilized a model of human umbilical vein endothelial cells transfected with MR siRNA and induced for inflammatory response with increasing concentration of aldosterone. Results. It was discovered that induction of aldosterone had no effect on the expression of GPER1 but promoted the expression of MR. Suppression of MR did not influence GPER1 expression, and GPER1 was capable of mediating part of aldosterone-induced endothelial inflammatory response. This effect may involve phosphoinositide 3-kinases (PI3K) pathway signaling. Conclusion. These findings not only demonstrated the role of GPER1 in aldosterone-induced vascular inflammation but also suggested an alternative for pharmaceutical treatment of hyperaldosteronism considering the unsatisfying effect on cardiovascular risks with MR antagonists.
A Narrative Review of Nutritional Malpractices, Motivational Drivers, and Consequences in Pregnant Women: Evidence from Recent Literature and Program Implications in Ethiopia
Authors: Kibr Gesessew
Published: June 2021

Maternal nutrition is very important for the wellbeing of pregnant women, childbirth, and lactating women, which are crucial and meant for the wellbeing of a mother and newborn baby. This narrative review discusses nutritional malpractices, motivational drivers, and their consequences typically from Ethiopian pregnant women’s context. Different studies (regarding less of study design and type) done among pregnant women (aged 15–49 years) by considering pregnancy-related outcomes and timing of nutritional malpractices were included mostly. Accordingly, taboos of healthy diets, craving for unhealthy foods (sweet, fat, raw, and salty/spicy foods), and nonfood items (soil, coffee residue, stone, and ash) were practiced majorly by the women. The birth difficulty, fetal head plastering, fetus discoloration, fetus burns, abortion, and abdominal cramp are the primary drivers of taboos of healthy diets. Hormonal change and social and nutrient-seeking behavior are the most prevalent drivers to the consumption of unhealthy foods. Additionally, personal interest, flavor, and color of items are important motivators to practice pica. Such pica practice hurts nutrient intake, absorption of iron/zinc, abdominal health, and diarrhea occurrence. Food taboos are high predictors of health disorders, such as intrauterine growth restriction, infection, bleeding, preeclampsia, stillbirth, early birth, low birth weight, retarded development of cognitive, and anemia. Craving and eating unhealthy foods were interconnected with chronic disease development (hypertension, diabetes, heart disease, and cancer), discomforts, preterm labor, preeclampsia, and intrauterine growth restriction in women. Additionally, it is also associated with stillbirth, low birth weight, obesity, birth defect/deficit, hypertension, cancer, diabetes, metabolic syndrome, renal disease, decreased fetal growth, behavioral change, heart failure, and poor cognitive development in the infant. Overall, these nutritional malpractices are significantly associated with many argumentative pregnancies as well as developmental consequences leading to the direction of infant and maternal mortality and morbidity. Therefore, urgent implementation of health and nutrition education programs considering food misconceptions and beliefs regarding pregnancy and use of ground-breaking ways to play down the negative and maximize potential positive dietary effects designed by the government of Ethiopia could also serve as a long-term solution to the problem.
Numerical Simulation Study on Waterflooding Heavy Oil Based on Variable Threshold Pressure Gradient
Authors: Liu Fan , Ni Qingdong , Zhang Chunguang , Zhou Wensheng , Lin Jingqi , Jiang Ruizhong
Published: June 2021

The heavy-oil flow in porous media is characterized by non-Darcy law with variable threshold pressure gradient (TPG) due to the large fluid viscosity. However, available analytical and numerical models hardly consider this effect, which can lead to erroneous results. This paper is aimed at presenting an innovative approach and establishing a numerical simulator to analyze the heavy-oil flow behavior with waterflooding. The apparent viscosity of the oil phase and flow correction coefficient characterized by the TPG were applied to describe the viscosity anomaly of heavy oil. Considering the formation heterogeneity, the TPG was processed into a variable related to mobility and the directionality. The discretization and linearization of the mathematical model were conducted to establish a fully implicit numerical model; the TPG value on each grid node was obtained through oil phase mobility interpolation, and then, the Jacobi matrix was reassembled and calculated to solve pressure and saturation equations. The corresponding simulator was thus developed. The pre-/postprocessing module of the simulator is connected to ECLIPSE; then, an efficient algorithm is introduced to realize a fast solution. Results show that considering the TPG will not only reduce the waterflooding area but also reduce the oil displacement efficiency because of aggravating the nonpiston phenomenon and interlayer conflict. The numerical simulation study on the TPG of heavy oil provides theoretical and technical support for the rational development and adjustment of water-driven heavy oil.
“Se non scritto, almen dipinto”: The ethos of becoming in Purgatorio 28–33
Authors: Peterson Thomas E
Published: June 2021

A central question facing the reader of the Paradiso terrestre (Pg 28–33) concerns the selfhood of the protagonist, the character Dante. While the state of Dante’s soul was critical to the poem’s beginning in the dark wood, and remained implicit through the intervening cantos, it is only in the Paradiso terrestre that it becomes the poem’s central focus. This question is explored in cognitive and theological terms in a sequential reading of the six cantos that elucidates the learning process occurring in the character before and after his confession in Pg 31: in his encounter with Matelda, his sensory and perceptual experience of the procession, his dialogues with Beatrice, and his witnessing of her divine beauty as the analogia entis reflecting the beauty of God. The analysis acknowledges the changes in Dante’s style in this interval, which serves as a fulcrum of the entire Commedia, a spatio-temporal threshold in which the transition of one soul, from confession to redemption to instruction on the divine word, is linked to the destiny of humankind and the prospect of universal salvation. Throughout this process of becoming, the character’s cognitive limitations are exposed, not simply as flaws but as signs of his intrinsic humanity.
“Per tatto di vertù”: il tatto dell’anima e il tocco della Grazia nella Divina Commedia
Authors: Cuif Anne-Gaëlle
Published: June 2021

This contribution aims to identify the notions of “tatto” and “tocco” as main agents for soul health and as vectors of spiritual transcendence in Dante’s thought and in particular in the Divine Comedy. In his path from Hell to Paradise, the pilgrim transforms his physical ability “to touch” and “to be touched” in a form of spiritual sensoriality. In this way, the sensitive phenomenons participate to the intellectual processes, pleasure becomes salvation, and the perception of sweetness allows access to the intangible and ineffable realities of Paradise. We will analyze the functions of tactile feeling and experience in their pathological, pharmacological and finally spiritual aspects. First we show how touch feeling, for Christian thought, corresponds to a general modality through which Grace enters into the intellect and through which the intellect perceives the divine phenomena. In this case, pleasure is synonymous with communication with God and is no more related to a condemnable voluptuousness. From the symptomatic touch of physical suffering of Hell to the ineffable sweetness of Paradise, passing through the acquisition of a new spiritual touch in Purgatory, Dante develops this idea through many similarities. Poetic writing becomes itself the instrument through which the soul could taste the divine “stille” in order to turn back to the “stelle”.
Dante e i nomi di Dio per perifrasi
Authors: Ardissino Erminia
Published: June 2021

Il saggio studia le perifrasi (stranamente poco considerate dalla critica) che nella Commedia vengono impiegate per indicare Dio. Si sa che sul nome di Dio Dante interviene ben due volte, legandolo alla questione della prima parola umana, ma nel poema c’è anche una ricca varietà di perifrasi usate per indicare la divinità. Da un regesto di queste figure retoriche si ricavano le caratteristiche che Dante assegna al divino con qualche originalità. La trattazione discute anzitutto i fondamenti biblici e teologici delle opzioni poetiche di Dante, confrontando in particolare le perifrasi su Dio con il De divinis nominibus dello Pseudo-Dionigi. Si rileva però anche l’originalità di Dante per le qualità divine che fa emergere attraverso la creazione poetica.
Work-Related Risk Factors for Rotator Cuff Syndrome in a Prospective Study of Manufacturing and Healthcare Workers
Authors: Meyers Alysha R. , Wurzelbacher Steven J. , Krieg Edward F. , Ramsey Jessica G. , Crombie Kenneth , Christianson Annette L. , Luo Lian , Burt Susan
Published: June 2021

Objective

This prospective study assessed the risk of developing rotator cuff syndrome (RCS) with separate or specific combinations of biomechanical exposures measures, controlling for individual confounders.

Background

Compared with other musculoskeletal disorders, rates of work-related shoulder musculoskeletal disorders have been declining more slowly.

Method

We conducted up to 2 years of individual, annual assessments of covariates, exposures, and health outcomes for 393 U.S. manufacturing and healthcare workers without RCS at baseline. Task-level biomechanical exposures assessed exposure to forceful exertions (level, exertion rates, duty cycles), vibration, and upper arm postures (flexion, abduction). Hazard ratios (HRs) were calculated with Cox proportional hazard models.

Results

We observed 39 incident RCS cases in 694 person-years (incidence rate = 5.62 per 100 person-years). Adjusting for confounders, we found increased risk of incident RCS associated with forceful hand exertions per minute for three upper arm posture tertiles: flexion ≥45° (≥28.2% time, HR = 1.11, CI [1.01, 1.22]), abduction ≥30° (11.9–21.2%-time, HR = 1.18, CI [1.04, 1.34]), and abduction >60° (≥4.8% time, HR = 1.16, CI [1.04, 1.29]). We failed to observe statistically significant effects for other interactions or any separate measures of biomechanical exposure.

Conclusion

This study highlights the importance of assessing combinations of exposure to forceful repetition and upper arm elevation when developing interventions for preventing RCS.

Application

Based on these results, interventions that reduce exposure to forceful repetition (i.e., lower force levels and/or slower exertion rates) may reduce the risk of RCS, especially when upper arm elevation cannot be avoided.
CGRP release in an experimental human trigeminal pain model
Authors: Frese Achim , Summ Oliver , Evers Stefan
Published: June 2021

Background

Migraine and trigemino-autonomic cephalalgia attacks are associated with an increase of α-calcitonin-gene related peptide levels in the ipsilateral jugular vein. It is however unknown whether trigeminal pain stimulation in healthy subjects without headache disorders also induces increase of calcitonin-gene related peptide levels.

Findings

We measured α-calcitonin-gene related peptide levels in eight healthy subjects after subcutaneous injection of capsaicin in the forehead and in the mandibular region and after injection of sodium chloride in the forehead. We observed a significant increase of α-calcitonin-gene related peptide level only after injection of capsaicin in the forehead (i.e. first trigeminal branch). We also observed trigemino-autonomic activation (lacrimation, rhinorrhea etc.) only after injection of capsaicin in the forehead.

Conclusion

Increase of α-calcitonin-gene related peptide levels do not only occur in primary headache attacks but also after experimental trigeminal pain of the first branch. This finding suggests that α-calcitonin-gene related peptide elevation is, at least an additional, unspecific effect of first trigeminal branch stimulation following pain activation and not a specific mechanism of idiopathic headache disorders.
Dysregulation of the peripheral glutamatergic system: A key player in migraine pathogenesis?
Authors: Benbow Tarique , Cairns Brian E
Published: June 2021

Background

Although the role of glutamate in migraine pathogenesis remains uncertain, there has been significant interest in the development of drug candidates that target glutamate receptors. Activation of trigeminovascular afferent fibers is now recognized as a crucial step to the onset of a migraine episode. New evidence suggests a dysfunction in peripheral glutamate regulation may play a role in this process.

Objective

To provide a narrative review of the role of peripheral glutamate dysfunction in migraine.

Method

A review of recent literature from neurobiological, pharmacological and genomic studies was conducted to support peripheral glutamate dysfunction as a potential element in migraine pathogenesis.

Results

Studies in rats suggest that elevated blood glutamate mechanically sensitizes trigeminal afferent fibers and stimulates the release of calcitonin-gene related peptide and other neuropeptides to promote and maintain neurogenic inflammation. These effects may be driven by upregulation of glutamate receptors, and modifications to reuptake and metabolic pathways of glutamate. Furthermore, genome wide association studies have found polymorphisms in glutamate receptor and transporter genes that are associated with migraine.

Conclusion

The role of peripheral glutamate signalling in the onset and maintenance of migraine is not completely elucidated and future studies are still needed to confirm its role in migraine pathogenesis.
A brief diagnostic screen for cluster headache: Creation and initial validation of the Erwin Test for Cluster Headache
Authors: Parakramaweera Randika , Evans Randolph W , Schor Larry I , Pearson Stuart M , Martinez Rebecca , Cammarata Jacob S , Amin Amisha J , Yoo Seung-Hee , Zhang Wei , Yan Yuanqing , Burish Mark J
Published: June 2021

Objective

To use 1) newly generated data, 2) existing evidence, and 3) expert opinion to create and validate a new cluster headache screening tool.

Methods

In phase 1 of the study, we performed a prospective study of an English translation of an Italian screen on 95 participants (45 with cluster headache, 17 with other trigeminal autonomic cephalalgias, 30 with migraine, and 3 with trigeminal neuralgia). In phase 2, we performed a systematic review in PubMed of all studies until September 2019 with diagnostic screening tools for cluster headache. In phase 3, a 6-person panel of cluster headache patients, research coordinators, and headache specialists analyzed the data from the first two phases to generate a new diagnostic screening tool. Finally, in phase 4 this new screen was validated on participants at a single headache center (all diagnoses) and through research recruitment (trigeminal autonomic cephalalgias only, as recruitment was essential but was otherwise low).

Results

In total, this study included 319 unique participants including 109 cluster headache participants (95 total participants/45 cluster headache participants in phase 1, and 224 total participants/64 cluster headache participants in phase 4). It also found 123 articles on potential screening tools in our systematic review. In phase 1, analysis of the English translation of an Italian screen generated 7 questions with high sensitivity and specificity against migraine, trigeminal neuralgia, and other trigeminal autonomic cephalalgias, but had grammatical and other limitations as a general screening tool. In phase 2, the systematic review revealed nine studies that met inclusion criteria as diagnostic screening tools for cluster headache, including four where sensitivity and specificity were available for individual questions or small groups of questions. In phase 3, this data was reviewed by the expert panel to generate a brief (6-item), binary (yes/no), written screening test. In phase 4, a total of 224 participants completed the new 6-item screening test (81 migraine, 64 cluster headache, 21 other trigeminal autonomic cephalalgias, 35 secondary headaches, 7 neuralgias, 5 probable migraine, and 11 other headache disorders). Answers to the 6 items were combined in a decision tree algorithm and three items had a sensitivity of 84% (confidence interval or 95% confidence interval 73–92%), specificity of 89% (95% confidence interval 84–94%), positive predictive value of 76% (95% confidence interval 64-85%), and negative predictive value of 93% (95% confidence interval 88–97%) for the diagnosis of cluster headache. These three items focused on headache intensity, duration, and autonomic features.

Conclusion

The 3-item Erwin Test for Cluster Headache is a promising diagnostic screening tool for cluster headache.
If headache has any association with hypertension, it is negative. Evidence from a population-based study in Nepal
Authors: Manandhar Kedar , Risal Ajay , Koju Rajendra , Linde Mattias , Steiner Timothy J
Published: June 2021

Background

Hypertension and headache disorders are major contributors to public ill health, linked by a long-standing but questionable belief that hypertension is a conspicuous cause of headache. In Nepal, where hypertension is common and often untreated, we assessed the substance of this belief, hypothesising that, should hypertension be a significant cause of headache, a clear positive association between these disorders would exist.

Methods

In a cross-sectional, nationwide study, trained health workers conducted face-to-face structured interviews, during unannounced home visits, with a representative sample of the Nepalese adult population (18–65 years). They applied standard diagnostic criteria for headache disorders and measured blood pressure digitally. Hypertension was defined as systolic pressure ≥140 and/or diastolic ≥90 mm Hg.

Results

Of 2,100 participants (59.0% female, mean age 36.4 ± 12.8 years), 317 (15.1%) had hypertension (41.0% female) and 1,794 (85.4%) had headache (61.6% female; 728 migraine, 863 tension-type headache, 161 headache on ≥15 days/month [mutually exclusive diagnoses]; 42 unclassified headaches). All headache collectively was less prevalent among hypertension cases (78.9%) than non-cases (86.6%; p = 0.001). A negative association between hypertension and all headache was demonstrated in bivariate analysis (odds ratio: 0.6 [95% Confidence interval: 0.4–0.8]; p < 0.001), but did not maintain significance in multivariate regression analysis (adjusted odds ratio: 0.8 [95% Confidence interval: 0.5–1.1]; p = 0.09). The findings were reflected, without significance, in each headache type.

Conclusions

If any association exists between hypertension and headache disorders, it is negative. From the public-health perspective, headache disorders and hypertension are unrelated entities: they need distinct policies and programs for prevention, control and management.
Revisiting the hierarchical structure of the 24 VIA character strengths: Three global dimensions may suffice to capture their essence
Authors: Partsch Melanie V , Bluemke Matthias , Lechner Clemens M
Published: June 2021

The Values in Action (VIA) framework maps 24 character strengths onto six more abstract virtues through a theoretical classification. However, compared to other individual difference constructs, there is little consensus about the factor-analytic structure of the VIA trait space. Applying Horn’s parallel analysis, Goldberg’s Bass-ackwards approach, and cross-country congruency analysis, we scrutinize the factor-analytic solutions-hierarchy of the 24 VIA strengths with the aim to identify one or more useful global levels of abstraction (akin to the Big Five, HEXACO/Big Six, or personality metatraits). We assessed the 24 character strengths with the psychometrically refined IPIP-VIA-R inventory in two large and heterogeneous samples from Germany and the UK (total N ≈ 2,000). Results suggested that three global dimensions suffice to capture the essence of character strengths: Level III recovered more than 50% of the total variation of the 24 character strengths in well-interpretable, global/general, cross-culturally replicable dimensions. We provisionally labeled them positivity, dependability, and mastery. Their superordinate Level-II-dimensions were reminiscent of the “Big Two” personality metatraits Dynamism and Social Self-Regulation. Our results advance the understanding of the VIA character trait space and may serve as a basis for developing scales to assess these global dimensions.
Development of tropical mixed juice with low added-sugar content: Sensory and nutritional aspects
Authors: Martins Inayara Beatriz Araujo , Barbosa Isadora de Carvalho Costa , Rosenthal Amauri , Ares Gastón , Deliza Rosires
Published: June 2021

The aim of the present study was to develop a mixed tropical fruit juice of cashew apple, acerola and melon with low added-sugar content considering sensory and nutritional aspects. Five formulations were developed varying the concentration of the different fruits. A total of 172 consumers rated their overall liking using a 9-point hedonic scale and described their sensory characteristics using a Check-all-that-apply question. In addition, the functional properties of the juices were evaluated by analyzing vitamin C, total phenolic compounds and antioxidant capacity. Results showed that the addition of sugar and fruit composition affected the sensory characteristics and consumer liking of the formulations. Samples without added sugar and with higher melon concentration showed lower liking scores (p < 0.05). In addition, the highest concentration of acerola had a positive effect on nutritional characteristics. The formulation with 50% of fruit pulp (60% of cashew apple, 30% of acerola and 10% of melon), 47% of water, and 3% of added sugar achieved the best results. The effect of aroma on sweetness perception was investigated by adding identical to natural aromas of melon, apple and pineapple to the selected formulation. However, aroma did not significantly modify sweetness perception, evaluated using a rate-all-that-apply question.
Sensory analysis for stuffed cheese with Penicillium nalgiovense superficial growth
Authors: Moavro Alfonsina , Pino Fernando , Sanchez-Díaz Macarena , Delfederico Lucrecia , Ludemann Vanesa
Published: June 2021

Sensory analysis for stuffed cheese with Penicillium nalgiovense superficial growth using a descriptive analysis was performed. Cheeses were manufactured in a pilot plant. Penicillium nalgiovense was superficially inoculated and the cheeses were ripened at 12 °C and 90% relative humidity until packaged using a microperforated polyethylene film on day 14. The ripening process continued at either 5 °C or 12 °C for 21 days. Results showed that P. nalgiovense not only confers the external desirable appearance but also has a protective effect against dehydration process. Inoculated cheeses showed descriptors of odour and flavour associated with moulds. Ammonia notes were perceived only for inoculated cheeses on day 35 being more pronounced at 12 °C than 5 °C. The high fat content of the cheeses and the transparent and microperforated packaging might affect the oxidative stability of cheeses at the end of the ripening.
Manufacturing dissent: The racialization of opposition to animal advocacy in South Africa
Authors: Galgut Elisa , Glover Michael
Published: June 2021

In 2015, some members of the Humanities Faculty at the University of Cape Town proposed that animal products be taken off the menu at official Faculty functions. The proposal was rejected. Cordeiro-Rodrigues, in his paper “The racialization of animal advocacy in South Africa”, this journal, blames the proposers for this rejection, claiming that “the proposal’s approach neglects the racialized history of animal advocacy in South Africa, while also being carried out at an inopportune time and context.” We dispute Cordeiro-Rodrigues’ claims on a number of grounds, and argue that not only does he fail to substantiate his claims against the proposers, he also mischaracterizes the history of animal advocacy in South Africa, and, most worryingly, ignores the immense suffering perpetrated on animals in animal agribusiness.
“I don’t feel studied”: Reflections on power-consciousness in action research with college student sex workers
Authors: Stewart Terah J
Published: June 2021

An overarching component of PAR is that there should be participant engagement between researchers and other participants as members of a/the community under inquiry. This expectation while powerful, can also prove to be prohibitive for studies seeking to engage communities with stigmatized and/or criminalized identities, which was the case as I sought to engage a PAR methodology with college student sex workers. As such, along with study collaborators, we imagine and develop a power-conscious collaborative process that is useful for researchers wishing to embrace a collaborative ethic, when the community component of PAR might be unsuitable or unattainable. Specifically, this process creates conditions whereby the researcher can be cognizant of power relations and disrupt the prevalent researcher/researched dichotomy and more deeply invite subjects of research to become collaborators and share power within the inquiry.
Quantitative magnetic resonance angiography to assess post embolization hemodynamics following pipeline embolization
Authors: White Timothy G , Ryu Brendan , Shah Kevin A , Turpin Justin , Black Karen , Link Thomas , Dehdashti Amir R , Katz Jeffrey M , Woo Henry H
Published: June 2021

Introduction

Delayed intraparenchymal hemorrhage is a known complication of the Pipeline Embolization device (PED); however, its etiology is unclear and some have suggested it is a flow related phenomenon. Quantitative magnetic resonance angiography (QMRA) serves as a powerful tool to collect and analyze hemodynamic data. We report a detailed characterization of short-term hemodynamics after PED placement.

Methods

Patients who underwent PED placement for a distal internal carotid artery (ICA) aneurysm between 2017 to 2019 with post embolization QMRA were reviewed. Aneurysm characteristics, flow volume rate (ml/min), mean, systolic, and diastolic flow velocities (cm/s), vessel diameter (mm), pulsatility index, Lindegaard ratio, and wall shear stress (WSS) were collected.

Results

A total of 67 patients were included. Post-procedure patients were found to have a significantly lower ICA flow on the side with flow diversion when compared to the side without flow diversion (218 vs. 236.3; P < 0.05). Average ICA flow after flow diversion for aneurysms >2 cm was significantly lower when compared to the untreated side (187.7 vs. 240.4; P < 0.05). There was no difference in MCA or ACA flow or velocity. WSS was significantly lower in the treated ICA (8.2 vs. 9.0; P < 0.05). Lindegaard ratio was not different in the treated vs. contralateral untreated sides.

Conclusion

PED placement for distal ICA aneurysms results in lower flow, mean velocity, and WSS when compared to the contralateral untreated ICA. This is not demonstrated distal to the Pipeline device in the ACA or MCA territories. Ultimately these findings suggest hemodynamic changes are not a cause of PED complications.
Explaining Crossmodal Correspondences Between Colours and Tastes
Authors: Spence Charles , Levitan Carmel A.
Published: June 2021

For centuries, if not millennia, people have associated the basic tastes (e.g., sweet, bitter, salty, and sour) with specific colours. While the range of tastes may have changed, and the reasons for wanting to connect the senses in this rather surprising way have undoubtedly differed, there would nevertheless appear to be a surprisingly high degree of consistency regarding this crossmodal mapping among non-synaesthetes that merits further consideration. Traditionally, colour–taste correspondences have often been considered together with odour–colour and flavour–colour correspondences. However, the explanation for these various correspondences with the chemical senses may turn out to be qualitatively different, given the presence of identifiable source objects in the case of food aromas/flavours, but not necessarily in the case of basic tastes. While the internalization of the crossmodal statistics of the environment provides one appealing account for the existence of colour–taste correspondences, emotional mediation may also be relevant. Ultimately, while explaining colour–taste correspondences is of both theoretical and historical interest, the growing awareness of the robustness of colour–taste correspondences would currently seem to be of particular relevance to those working in the fields of design and multisensory experiential marketing.
Foveal reorganization after treatment of acute foveal toxoplasmic retinochoroiditis
Authors: Abrishami Mojtaba , Hosseini Seyedeh Maryam , Momtahen Solmaz , Zamani Ghodsieh
Published: June 2021

Purpose

To report a patient with impaired vision due to foveal involvement of toxoplasmic retinochoroiditis, who was successfully treated with intravitreal clindamycin and dexamethasone and oral therapy with azithromycin, trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole, and prednisolone and led to successful visual and anatomic recovery.

Case presentation

A 32-year-old man presented with three-day history of gradually decreasing visual acuity, redness, pain and photophobia of the right eye. Anterior chamber cellular reaction, vitritis and a white retinochoroiditis patch with adjacent retinal vasculitis in the fovea was suggestive of the toxoplasmic retinochoroiditis. He was treated with intravitreal clindamycin and dexamethasone injection followed by six-week regimen of azithromycin, trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole, and prednisolone. In serial optical coherence tomography imaging, retinitis patch changed to cavitary foveal destruction. Fovea reorganized gradually, and visual acuity concurrently improved from counting finger 3 m to 20/25.

Conclusion

In foveal toxoplasmic retinochoroiditis lesions, timely treatment is associated with retinal reorganization and visual improvement.
Obtaining a faculty position in STEM at a research-intensive institution
Authors: Vigoreaux Jim O. , Leibowitz Michael J.
Published: June 2021

Progressing from postdoctoral training to a STEM faculty appointment at a Research Intensive Institution (RII) is a daunting transition, and may be especially challenging to those who have followed a less-than-conventional path or whose peers have lost interest in academic careers. This article describes how to prepare for and progress through the application process for institutions in the USA, which takes approximately 1 year, including what to expect at each step and recommendations for a successful transition. The odds of success for any individual application are low, making good preparation and careful planning the more important, as does managing expectations to avoid becoming discouraged early in the process. The rewards of landing the faculty appointment at an institution that matches your professional and personal needs and for which you are best suited more than exceeds the effort required to attain it.
Study on Reduction Effect of Vibration Propagation due to Internal Explosion Using Composite Materials
Authors: Park Sangwoo , Beak Jangwoon , Kim Kukjoo , Park Young-Jun
Published: June 2021

With the increasing installation cases of underground explosive facilities (e.g., ammunition magazines, hydrogen tanks, etc.) in urban areas in recent years, the risk of internal explosions is also increasing. However, few studies on the measures for reducing damage by the ground vibration have been conducted except for maintaining safety distance. In this study, a method for attenuating the vibration propagated outward by installing a blast-proof panel was numerically and experimentally investigated. Two cubical reinforced concrete structures were manufactured according to the concrete strength and a blast-proof panel was installed on only one side of the structure. Then, acceleration sensors were installed on the external surface to evaluate the propagation of vibration outward depending on the installation of a blast-proof panel. Before a field experiment, a preliminary numerical simulation was performed. The results showed that the acceleration propagated outward could be effectively reduced by installing a blast-proof panel. Even though the performance of a blast-proof panel on vibration reduction was also investigated in the field experiment, significantly larger absolute accelerations were estimated due to the different experimental conditions. Finally, the vibration reduction effect of the blast-proof panel was numerically evaluated according to its thickness and the internal explosion load. A blast-proof panel more effectively reduced the acceleration propagated outward as its thickness increased and the explosion load decreased.
Sexual dimorphism in the long-term stability (10 years) of skeletal Class III treatment
Authors: Tejedor Natalia , Martín Conchita , Alarcón José Antonio , Oteo-Calatayud María Dolores , Palma-Fernández Juan Carlos
Published: June 2021

Background

Class III malocclusion is associated with high sexual dimorphism, especially in individuals older than 13 years of age, with significant differences in growth between males and females during the pubertal and postpubertal stages, and in adulthood. The aim of this research was to examine differences between males and females in long-term stability (10 years) of treatment for skeletal Class III malocclusion.

Methods

Thirty patients (15 males and 15 females) with skeletal Class III malocclusion, who had been treated with rapid maxillary expansion (RME) combined with face mask protraction followed by fixed appliances, were selected sequentially. Thirty patients (15 males and 15 females) with skeletal Class I and mesofacial patterns treated only with fixed appliances for dental problems served as the control group. Differences between groups and sexes were evaluated using lateral cephalograms taken at the start of treatment (T0), immediately after the end of treatment (T1), and after 10 years (T2). The long-term treatment success rate was calculated.

Results

Ten years after Class III treatment, overjet and overbite relapse occurred similarly in females (− 0.68 ± 0.7 mm; − 0.38 ± 0.75 mm, respectively) and males (− 1.09 ± 1.47 mm; − 0.64 ± 0.9 mm, respectively); the ANB angle and Wits appraisal became significantly more negative in males (− 1.37 ± 1.06°; − 2.7 ± 2.53 mm) than in females (− 0.18 ± 1.26°; − 0.46 ± 1.94 mm). The success rate was 73.3% in males and 80% in females.

Conclusions

Significant differences in the long-term stability of Class III treatment outcomes have been found between males and females, with a larger skeletal Class III relapse and lower long-term success rates in males.
Using Crash Outcome Data Evaluation System (CODES) to examine injury in front vs. rear-seated infants and children involved in a motor vehicle crash in New York State
Authors: Bauer Michael , Hines Leah , Pawlowski Emilia , Luo Jin , Scott Anne , Garnett Matthew , Uriell Morgan , Pressley Joyce C.
Published: June 2021

Background

In New York State (NYS), motor vehicle (MV) injury to child passengers is a leading cause of hospitalization and emergency department (ED) visits in children aged 0–12 years. NYS laws require appropriate child restraints for ages 0–7 years and safety belts for ages 8 and up while traveling in a private passenger vehicle, but do not specify a seating position.

Methods

Factors associated with injury in front-seated (n = 11,212) compared to rear-seated (n = 93,092) passengers aged 0–12 years were examined by age groups 0–3, 4–7 and 8–12 years using the 2012–2014 NYS Crash Outcome Data Evaluation System (CODES). CODES consists of Department of Motor Vehicle (DMV) crash reports linked to ED visits and hospitalizations. The front seat was row 1 and the rear rows 2–3. Vehicle towed from scene and air bag deployed were proxies for crash severity. Injury was dichotomized based on Maximum Abbreviated Injury Severity (MAIS) scores greater than zero. Multivariable logistic regression (odds ratios (OR) with 95% CI) was used to examine factors predictive of injury for the total population and for each age group.

Results

Front-seated children had more frequent injury than those rear-seated (8.46% vs. 4.92%, p < 0.0001). Children in child restraints experienced fewer medically-treated injuries compared to seat belted or unrestrained children (3.80, 6.50 and 13.62%, p < 0.0001 respectively). A higher proportion of children traveling with an unrestrained vs. restrained driver experienced injury (14.50% vs 5.26%, p < 0.0001). After controlling for crash severity, multivariable adjusted predictors of injury for children aged 0–12 years included riding in the front seat (1.20, 1.10–1.31), being unrestrained vs. child restraint (2.13, 1.73–2.62), being restrained in a seat belt vs. child restraint (1.20, 1.11–1.31), and traveling in a car vs. other vehicle type (1.21, 1.14–1.28). Similarly, protective factors included traveling with a restrained driver (0.61, 0.50–0.75), a driver aged < 25 years (0.91, 0.82–0.99), being an occupant of a later vehicle model year 2005–2008 (0.68, 0.53–0.89) or 2009–2015 (0.55, 0.42–0.71) compared to older model years (1970–1993).

Conclusions

Compared to front-seated children, rear-seated children and children in age-appropriate restraints had lower adjusted odds of medically-treated injury.
Craniofacial implants in a failed autologous reconstruction of microtia: a case report
Authors: Frias Vladimir
Published: June 2021

Plastic surgical reconstruction is considered to be the gold standard for the repair of microtia as the results are permanent and constructed from the patient’s own tissue; however, the multiple surgeries required and the difficulty in attaining adequate cosmetic results often result in patients choosing a prosthesis as a long-term rehabilitation. Advances in osseointegration in the craniofacial region have improved the outcomes with auricular prosthetics by providing a reliable method of attachment of the prosthesis and increasing patient acceptance. A case presentation illustrates the results of both treatment modalities and examines the outcomes on the same patient.