bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
FFU‐Net: Feature Fusion U‐Net for Lesion Segmentation of Diabetic Retinopathy
Authors: Xu Yifei , Zhou Zhuming , Li Xiao , Zhang Nuo , Zhang Meizi , Wei Pingping
Published: January 2021

Diabetic retinopathy is one of the main causes of blindness in human eyes, and lesion segmentation is an important basic work for the diagnosis of diabetic retinopathy. Due to the small lesion areas scattered in fundus images, it is laborious to segment the lesion of diabetic retinopathy effectively with the existing U‐Net model. In this paper, we proposed a new lesion segmentation model named FFU‐Net (Feature Fusion U‐Net) that enhances U‐Net from the following points. Firstly, the pooling layer in the network is replaced with a convolutional layer to reduce spatial loss of the fundus image. Then, we integrate multiscale feature fusion (MSFF) block into the encoders which helps the network to learn multiscale features efficiently and enrich the information carried with skip connection and lower‐resolution decoder by fusing contextual channel attention (CCA) models. Finally, in order to solve the problems of data imbalance and misclassification, we present a Balanced Focal Loss function. In the experiments on benchmark dataset IDRID, we make an ablation study to verify the effectiveness of each component and compare FFU‐Net against several state‐of‐the‐art models. In comparison with baseline U‐Net, FFU‐Net improves the segmentation performance by 11.97%, 10.68%, and 5.79% on metrics SEN, IOU, and DICE, respectively. The quantitative and qualitative results demonstrate the superiority of our FFU‐Net in the task of lesion segmentation of diabetic retinopathy.
Nsd2 Represses Endogenous Retrovirus MERVL in Embryonic Stem Cells
Authors: Gao Tingting , Chen Fuquan , Zhang Wenying , Zhao Xuan , Hu Xiao , Lu Xinyi
Published: January 2021

The facilitates chromatin transcription (FACT) complex is a histone H2A/H2B chaperone, which represses endogenous retroviruses (ERVs) and transcription of ERV-chimeric transcripts. It binds to both transcription start site and gene body region. Here, we investigated the downstream targets of FACT complex to identify the potential regulators of MERVL, which is a key 2-cell marker gene. H3K36me2 profile was positively correlated with that of FACT component Ssrp1. Among H3K36me2 deposition enzymes, Nsd2 was downregulated after the loss of Ssrp1. Furthermore, we demonstrated that Nsd2 repressed the expression of ERVs without affecting the expression of pluripotency genes. The expression of MERVL and 2-cell genes was partially rescued by Nsd2 overexpression. The enrichment of H3K36me2 decreased on MERVL-chimeric gene in ESCs without Ssrp1. Our study discovers that Nsd2 is a repressor of MERVL, and FACT partially represses MERVL expression by regulating the expression of Nsd2 and its downstream H3K36me2.
Evaluation of Rheological Parameters of Slag‐Based Paste Backfill with Superplasticizer
Authors: Zhang Zhonghui , Li Yuanhui , Ren Lei , Guo Zhenbang , Jiang Haiqiang , Liu Na
Published: January 2021

The use of blast furnace slag‐based binders in cemented paste backfill (CPB) has become increasingly popular in China, due to its low cost and superior early‐age strength. Increasing the solid content can increase the strength of CPB, but it will lead to a decrease in its fluidity. As a chemical admixture that can improve CPB slurry fluidity, superplasticizer is gaining increased interest in the field of CPB. In this study, the effects of superplasticizer types and dosages, curing time, solid content, and binder content on the rheological properties of fresh CPB made of blast furnace slag‐based binder (Slag‐CPB) were studied. For Slag‐CPB samples, polycarboxylate (PC) has the best water‐reducing effect, followed by polymelamine sulfonate (PMS) and polynaphthalene sulfonate (PNS). In the absence of a superplasticizer, the shear yield stress and plastic viscosity of Slag‐CPB are lower than those of CPB made of ordinary Portland cement (OPC‐CPB). The water‐reducing effect of PC on OPC‐CPBs samples is stronger than that of Slag‐CPB samples. The degradation rate of the water‐reducing effect in slag‐based samples is higher than that in cement‐based samples. The effect of PC is affected by solid content and binder content. These results will contribute to a better understanding of the rheological behavior of Slag‐CPB with superplasticizer.
Stem Cells from Human Exfoliated Deciduous Teeth Attenuate Trigeminal Neuralgia in Rats
Authors: Bai Xiaofeng , Zhang Xuedi , Wang Chun , Liu Yao , Liu Xuemei , Fan Yu , Zhang Xia
Published: January 2021

Trigeminal neuralgia is an incurable progressive nervous system disease that can last for several months or years. Stem cells from human exfoliated deciduous teeth (SHED) are a candidate source for cell-based therapy. Owing to their neuroprotective and immunomodulatory effects, these neural crest cells have potential roles in mediating chronic pain. In this study, we established a rat model of chronic constriction injury of the infraorbital nerve (CCI-ION) to evaluate the analgesic effect of SHED in neuropathic pain. The effects of local SHED transplantation on inflammatory cell infiltration in the trigeminal nerve were investigated based on hematoxylin and eosin staining. The levels of proinflammatory factors in the injured nerve and transient receptor potential vanilloid type 1 (TRPV1) expression in the trigeminal nerve and ganglion were quantified. The data showed that systemic or local injection of SHED attenuated the sensitivity of rats to mechanical stimuli after nerve injury, and this effect lasted throughout the observation period of 8 weeks. PKH26-labeled SHED were distributed to the ipsilateral trigeminal ganglions 24 and 72 hours after local injection. SHED transplantation at the lesion site led to reduced inflammatory cell infiltration and proinflammatory cytokine levels in the injured nerve and inhibited CCI-ION-induced upregulation of TRPV1 expression in the trigeminal nerve and ganglion in the early phase. Therefore, these results provide preclinical evidence that supports the use of SHED in the treatment of trigeminal neuralgia and potentially other chronic pain conditions.
Research on a Traceability Scheme for a Grain Supply Chain
Authors: Deng MiaoLei , Feng Pan
Published: January 2021

The frequent occurrence of food safety accidents and the globalization of food import and export circulation make it very important to establish a food traceability system. Due to the bulk and low‐value characteristics of grain, it is difficult to achieve traceability in a single unit like meat products; as grain has a longer supply chain, involving much more links and even more complicated factors, it is easy to cause information disconnection. In response to the above problems, this paper has done the following tasks: First, propose a RFID‐based grain supply chain traceability model, which mainly describes the information flow and grain flow in the grain traceability system, and secondly, in combination with the GTIN coding standard in the GS1 system, a stage traceability code is set for each batch of grains at each link, providing a method for uniquely identifying the batch of grains at that link, to improve the accuracy of grain traceability. In addition, in order to enable consumers to inquire all the detailed information of the grain in the supply chain through a traceability code, the PRESENT algorithm and the format‐preserving algorithm are used to encrypt the traceability codes of each link and generate a final traceability code. Finally, a security and performance analysis of the proposed traceability scheme was carried out. The results show that the proposed scheme is safe and effective, ensuring the safety and traceability of the traceability system of the grain supply chain.
May Measurement Month 2017–2019: A Community-Wide Opportunistic Blood Pressure Screening Campaign in Hong Kong
Authors: Li Joyce Tik Sze , Lam Amy Shuk Man , Tomlinson Brian , Lee Vivian Wing Yan
Published: January 2021

Introduction. Hypertension is a modifiable risk factor for multiple cardiovascular diseases. Early identification and intervention of new cases are crucial to improve patients’ outcomes. May Measurement Month (MMM) is an annual global synchronised blood pressure (BP) screening campaign. Participants can have their BP measured at the screening sites. It may be a possible way to identify undiagnosed hypertensive patients in the population. Methods. It was a cross-sectional study of BP among Hong Kong adults. Multiple screening sites were set in local community pharmacies and on the campus of the Chinese University of Hong Kong. Participants were asked to fill in a questionnaire regarding their demographics, medical history, and social history. Then, they took at least one BP reading using an automated sphygmomanometer after sitting at for 5 minutes. Up to three BP readings were taken and recorded for each participant, with one-minute intervals between readings. Results. A total of 3224 adults participated in MMM between 2017 and 2019. The average BP among the 3224 participants was 139.8/75.5 mmHg. The prevalence of hypertension was 2282 (70.8%), of which 635 (27.8%) were undiagnosed before MMM. Among the 1647 participants previously diagnosed with hypertension, 1007 (61.1%) had uncontrolled hypertension. Conclusion. A high number of cases can be identified with untreated, or treated but uncontrolled, hypertension from MMM. Citizens should be encouraged to check BP regularly and take follow-up actions if hypertension is suspected.
Oncogenic Ras Disrupts Epithelial Integrity by Activating the Transmembrane Serine Protease Hepsin
Authors: Tervonen Topi A. , Pant Shishir M. , Belitškin Denis , Englund Johanna I. , Närhi Katja , Haglund Caj , Kovanen Panu E. , Verschuren Emmy W. , Klefström Juha
Published: January 2021

Ras proteins play a causal role in human cancer by activating multiple pathways that promote cancer growth and invasion. However, little is known about how Ras induces the first diagnostic features of invasion in solid tumors, including loss of epithelial integrity and breaching of the basement membrane (BM). In this study, we found that oncogenic Ras strongly promotes the activation of hepsin, a member of the hepsin/TMPRSS type II transmembrane serine protease family. Mechanistically, the Ras-dependent hepsin activation was mediated via Raf–MEK–ERK signaling, which controlled hepsin protein stability through the heat shock transcription factor-1 stress pathway. In Ras-transformed three-dimensional mammary epithelial culture, ablation of hepsin restored desmosomal cell–cell junctions, hemidesmosomes, and BM integrity and epithelial cohesion. In tumor xenografts harboring mutant KRas, silencing of hepsin increased local invasion concomitantly with accumulation of collagen IV. These findings suggest that hepsin is a critical protease for Ras-dependent tumorigenesis, executing cell–cell and cell–matrix pathologies important for early tumor dissemination.

Significance:

These findings identify the cell-surface serine protease hepsin as a potential therapeutic target for its role in oncogenic Ras-mediated deregulation of epithelial cell–cell and cell–matrix interactions and cohesion of epithelial structure.
Clinical Evaluation of a New High-Sensitivity Cardiac Troponin I Assay for Diagnosis and Risk Assessment of Patients with Suspected Acute Myocardial Infarction
Authors: Shiozaki Masayuki , Inoue Kenji , Suwa Satoru , Lee Chien-Chang , Chiang Shuo-Ju , Sato Akihiro , Fukuda Kentaro , Kubota Naozumi , Tamura Hiroshi , Fujiwara Yasumasa , Yamaguchi Kentaro , Sato Tomoaki , Sumiyoshi Masataka , Daida Hiroyuki
Published: January 2021

Introduction: Current assays based on the 0-hour/1-hour (0-/1-h) algorithm using high-sensitivity cardiac troponin (hs-cTn) are limited to only Abbott Architect hs-cTnI, Siemens Vista hs-cTnI, and Roche Elecsys hs-cTnT. Objective: This study aimed to evaluate this new hs-cTnI assay, LumipulsePresto hs Troponin I, for diagnosis of acute myocardial infarction (AMI) on admission and on 0-/1-h algorithm to stratify AMI patients precisely. Methods: This prospective cohort study included 442 patients with suspected non-ST-elevation myocardial infarction in three hospitals in Japan and Taiwan from June 2016 to January 2019. We enrolled patients presenting to the emergency department with symptoms suggestive of AMI and collected blood samples on admission and 1 hour later. Two independent cardiologists centrally adjudicated final diagnoses; all clinical information was reviewed twice: first, using serial hs-cTnT (Roche-Elecsys, primary analysis) and Lumipulse Presto Lumipulse Presto, second, using the Lumipulse Presto hs-cTnI measurements. At first, we compared diagnostic accuracy quantified using receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves for AMI. Then, we evaluated major adverse cardiovascular events (cardiac death, AMI) in the rule-out group according to a 0-hour/1-hour algorithm at the 30-day follow-up. Results: Diagnostic accuracy at presentation by the ROC curve for AMI was very high and similar for the LumipulsePresto hs-cTnI and hs-cTnT,(area under the curve [AUC]: LumipulsePresto hs-cTnI, 0.89, 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.86–0.93; hs-cTnT, 0.89, 95% CI 0.85–0.93; p = 0.82). In early presenters, the LumipulsePresto hs-cTnI appeared to maintain the diagnostic performance of hs-cTn for patients with <3 h (AUC: LumipulsePresto hs-cTnI, 0.87, 95% CI 0.81–0.92; hs-cTnT, 0.86, 95% CI 0.80–0.92; p = 0.81). The algorithm using the LumipulsePresto hs-cTnI ruled out AMI in 200 patients with negative predictive value and sensitivity of 100% (95% CI 97.3%–100%) and 100% (95% CI 92.7%–100%), respectively, in the rule-out group. Conclusion: Diagnostic accuracy and clinical utility of the novel LumipulsePresto hs-cTnI assay are high and comparable with the established hs-cTn assays.
Tratamiento efectivo de hidrotórax asociado con la diálisis peritoneal en un niño: reporte de un caso
Authors: Ambarsari Cahyani Gita , Bermanshah Evita Karianni , Putra Muhammad Arza , Rahman Farhan Haidar Fazlur , Pardede Sudung Oloan
Published: January 2021

La diálisis peritoneal (DP) ofrece muchas ventajas, entre ellas una mejor calidad de vida para niños con enfermedad renal en fase terminal; sin embargo, el procedimiento está asociado con varias complicaciones, incluyendo filtraciones pleuroperitoneales. En este trabajo reportamos un caso inusual de hidrotórax causado por el uso prolongado de DP en un niño, complicado con neumonía. Un niño varón de 9 años que había recibido DP ambulatoria de manera continua (DPAC) por 22 meses presentó disnea, hinchazón e incremento de peso corporal. El drenaje del tórax produjo 500 mL de fluido trasudativo. La peritoneografía mediante tomografía computada reveló un incremento del flujo del peritoneo a la cavidad pleural. Se suspendió la DP y se inició la aplicación de hemodiálisis (HD). Se practicó cirugía toracoscópica asistida por video; sin embargo, luego de que el paciente sufrió neumonía durante la hospitalización se observaron adherencias pleurales con apariencia septada. Como resultado, fue difícil identificar una fístula pleuroperitoneal (FPP). El derrame pleural derecho se resolvió luego de la pleurodesis empleando bleomicina. Se realizó DH regular por 10 semanas y posteriormente se reinició la DP. No hubo recurrencia del hidrotórax durante el seguimiento a largo plazo. Sospechamos que el mecanismo subyacente del hidrotórax en nuestro paciente se asoció con una FPP resultante de un defecto congénito en el diafragma o a un defecto adquirido, que produjo la filtración del dializado. Nuestro caso demuestra que un cambio temporal de la DP a la HD, acompañado por pleurodesis, puede ayudar a resolver el hidrotórax que se presenta como complicación del uso prolongado de la DP.
Modelo BIM do Palácio Gustavo Capanema 1937-1945
Authors: Canuto Cristiane Lopes , Salgado Mônica Santos
Published: January 2021

As tecnologias digitais estão cada vez mais integradas aos projetos arquitetônicos permitindo a criação de modelos geométricos mais fidedignos, ampliando as possibilidades de atuação profissional na área patrimonial e facilitando o acesso aos bens culturais. Nesse contexto, tornam-se um importante instrumento no estudo da preservação do patrimônio cultural arquitetônico, à medida que permitem diferentes abordagens como na aquisição de dados, com levantamentos digitais, e também na integração desses dados, no qual destaca-se a plataforma BIM (Building Information Modelling). Assim, o modelo BIM do patrimônio cultural edificado ou HBIM (Historic ou Heritage BIM) é uma forma de preservação da memória da edificação, podendo servir como base para projetos de restauração, intervenção e manutenção. Nesse sentido, esse artigo tem como objetivo apresentar as potencialidades oferecidas pelas ferramentas digitais na preservação do patrimônio cultural arquitetônico, com ênfase para o patrimônio moderno. Visando esse legado, realizou-se a modelagem BIM de um exemplar da arquitetura moderna carioca: o Palácio Gustavo Capanema, apresentando a reconstrução digital da edificação em sua fase de construção 1937-1945. O modelo é acessado publicamente por meio de um aplicativo, reunindo aspectos históricos, construtivos e cronológicos em um único modelo parametrizado. Os resultados demonstram as possibilidades oferecidas pela plataforma BIM não apenas para novas construções, mas principalmente para edifícios históricos.
Myocardial Ischemia in the Management of Chronic Coronary Artery Disease
Authors: Gibbons Raymond J.
Published: January 2021

For many years, stress-induced myocardial ischemia has been considered important in the management of chronic coronary artery disease. Early evidence focused on the exercise ECG and the Duke treadmill score. In the 1970s, randomized clinical trials, which compared coronary artery bypass surgery to medical therapy, enrolled patients who were very different from contemporary practice and had inconsistent results. Surgery appeared to be of greatest benefit in high-risk patients defined by anatomy (such as left main disease) or stress-induced ischemia. However, randomized clinical trials of revascularization versus contemporary medical therapy over the past 20 years have been surprisingly negative. Nuclear cardiology substudies from these trials reported inconsistent results. Two observational studies from a single-center provided the best evidence for the use of stress-induced ischemia to identify patients who were most likely to benefit from revascularization. The recently completed ISCHEMIA trial (International Study of Comparative Health Effectiveness With Medical and Invasive Approaches) was designed to test the hypothesis that revascularization would improve outcomes in patients with moderate-severe ischemia on stress testing. Unfortunately, 14.2% of the randomized patients had either mild or no ischemia on core lab review. Nearly one-quarter of the patients were randomized on the basis of an exercise ECG without imaging. The negative results of the trial reflect the long-term population decline in coronary artery disease and abnormal stress tests, as well as improvements in patient outcome due to optimal medical therapy. Topics requiring further research are presented. The implications of the trial for the use of both stress imaging and coronary computed tomography angiography in clinical practice are examined.
An integrative description of a new Cephalothrix species (Nemertea: Palaeonemertea) from the South China Sea
Authors: CHERNYSHEV ALEXEI V. , POLYAKOVA NEONILA E.
Published: January 2021

A new nemertean species of the genus Cephalothrix from intertidal calcareous red algae off the Vietnam coast is described based on histological sections, confocal laser scanning microscopy, and nucleotide sequences of three nuclear (18S rRNA, 28S rRNA, H3) and two mitochondrial (COI, 16S rRNA) DNA fragments. Cephalothrix suni sp. nov. is characterized by a unique body colour pattern consisting of transverse brown on ventral body side. A molecular phylogenetic analysis of the family Cephalotrichidae using a multigene approach has identified three clades for Cephalothrix: Cephalothrix, Procephalothrix, and interstitial cephalotrichids. The new species belongs to clade Procephalothrix sensu Chernyshev & Kajihara 2019 and a subclade of species with red, orange, or dark yellow anterior tip.
Career stability in turbulent times: A cross-cohort study of mid-careers in Finland
Authors: Riekhoff Aart-Jan , Ojala Satu , Pyöriä Pasi
Published: January 2021

In this article, we investigate whether the mid-career stability of Finnish men and women has changed for the birth cohorts 1958 to 1972 and, if so, what the driving forces are behind such changes. We analyse career stability during a 15-year period following the age of 30 using ‘career turbulence’ indicators. To identify the impact of cyclical and structural changes in the labour market, we analyse the association between initial employment status and sector with subsequent career stability. We distinguish between sectors that are exposed to a greater or lesser extent to global competition, those that are characterised by goods production or service provision, and those that are part of the market or non-market sector. In a series of OLS regression and regression decomposition analyses, we also control for the impact of education, regional unemployment and family-formation processes. The results show little change in mid-career stability across cohorts. Stability increased somewhat when only including transitions between employment and non-employment, whereas slight destabilisation was observed when accounting for changes between jobs. The findings indicate that the small changes in stability across cohorts were mostly driven by structural changes in the labour market, albeit with different mechanisms for men and women.
The Targeted “Solution” in the Spotlight: How a Product Focus Influences Collective Action Within and Beyond Cross-Sector Partnerships
Authors: Stadtler Lea , Karakulak Özgü
Published: January 2021

Based on a comparative case study of six cross-sector partnerships (CSPs) in global health, we illustrate how a CSP’s aim to address a social issue on the basis of products influences the governance of collective action within the partnership and beyond, at the field level. We show how such product focus, through specialization, influences a CSP’s structures and interaction culture and, as a reflection of the partners’ underlying logics, generates different CSP-field effects. Specifically, if conceived as self-contained and without considering the implications for other field players and programs, a product focus may expedite collective action within the CSP, but spur fragmentation and disruption at the field level. Conversely, if designed to strengthen field capacity and integration at the product-field interlinkages, a product focus may take longer to form but helps avoid the above field effects. On this basis, we advance theory on CSPs’ product focus as a multilevel coordination mechanism and elaborate on the implications for designing product-based CSPs.
The effect of organofluorine additives on the morphology, thermal conductivity and mechanical properties of rigid polyurethane and polyisocyanurate foams
Authors: Brondi Cosimo , Maio Ernesto Di , Bertucelli Luigi , Parenti Vanni , Mosciatti Thomas
Published: January 2021

This study investigates the effect of liquid-type organofluorine additives (OFAs) on the morphology, thermal conductivity and mechanical properties of rigid polyurethane (PU) and polyisocyanurate (PIR) foams. Foams were characterized in terms of their morphology (density, average cell size, anisotropy ratio, open cell content), thermal conductivity and compressive as well as flexural properties. Based on the results, we observed that OFAs efficiently reduced the average cell size of both PU and PIR foams, leading to improved thermal insulating and mechanical properties.
Redrawing the Boundaries: The Adequacy of the Sexual Offences Act in Addressing Female Sexual Offending
Authors: Robson Jeremy , Newman Lucy , O’Hagan Andrew
Published: January 2021

Discussion around sexual offending traditionally focuses on the notion of male offenders and female victims. In this article, we argue that there is clear evidence that females commit offences and that males are often the victims of these offences. We discuss the evidence for this and the impact it has on the victims of these offences. We argue that the processes which have informed policy in this area have dismissed this class of offending and as a result the Sexual Offences Act and associated policies do not provide a clear enough framework for the prosecution of these offenders. We present some suggestions for how this lacuna could be addressed.
Plan, Act, Observe, Reflect, Identity: Exploring Teacher Identity Construction across the Stages of Action Research
Authors: Nazari Mostafa
Published: January 2021

Despite the accumulating body of knowledge on action research, the scope of research on teacher identity construction in action research is still limited. This study relied on the concept of identities-in-practice and examined four second language (L2) teachers’ identity construction across the plan, act, observe, and reflect stages of action research. Data were collected from semi-structured interviews, reflective journals, and classroom observations. Data analyses indicated that the teachers navigated their action research identity construction through the four stages as: plan (managing the misgivings); act (initial puzzlement, subsequent adaptability, and satisfaction); observe (positive emotions and increased agency); and reflect (further initiatives, greater knowledge generation, and enhanced reflexivity). The study concludes with implications for further empirical attention to the role of emotions in teacher-researchers’ action research engagement and the important role of teacher educators in assisting teacher-researchers with taking the initiative toward conducting action research.
A shortened development process method for warp-knitted yarn-dyed shirt fabric
Authors: Liu Haisang , Jiang Gaoming , Dong Zhijia
Published: January 2021

At present, warp-knitted yarn-dyed shirt fabric has become the research focus due to its comfort and highly efficient production. In order to shorten the development process of warp-knitted yarn-dyed shirt fabric, a computing method including theoretical modeling and simulation is proposed in this paper to simulate 2–5 guide bar warp-knitted yarn-dyed shirt fabric. Based on the structure model of warp-knitted fabric, a new model of geometric shape, including loops and underlap, is built according to size measurement results of the loops. In terms of the establishment of mathematical models, such as models of yarn-pressing, loop types, loop locations, guide bar threading, color and fineness, the transformation between knitting technology and mathematical language is realized. With the double buffer technique of HTML (Hypertext Markup Language), loops and underlaps of each bar are displayed separately on different canvases superposed in some order. Simulation is implemented for 2–5 bar warp-knitted yarn-dyed shirt fabric via JavaScript and C# programming languages. The results indicate that this method is able to simulate diverse 2–5 bar warp-knitted yarn-dyed shirt fabrics in a short time. The pattern effect can be seen with a high similarity and practicability before it is produced, thereby shortening the development.
Adaptive capacity of the Pearl River Delta cities in the face of the growing flood risk: Institutions, ideas and interests
Authors: Dąbrowski Marcin , Stead Dominic , He Jinghuan , Yu Feng
Published: January 2021

Although the cities in the Pearl River Delta (PRD) in China are amongst the world’s cities most exposed to flooding due to climate change, surprisingly little is done to address this problem. This article explores the barriers to the emergence of policies adapting to the growing flood risk in two PRD cities, Guangzhou and Shenzhen, underlining the importance of the Chinese territorial governance system for adaptive capacity at the local level. Focusing on institutions, ideas and interests as a heuristic device, the article contributes to the literature on urban climate adaptation and the nexus of spatial planning and flood risk management by exploring why and how the development of the adaptive capacity of cities is hampered, despite an urgent need for it.
Multimodal data fusion framework enhanced robot-assisted minimally invasive surgery
Authors: Qi Wen , Su Hang , Fan Ke , Chen Ziyang , Li Jiehao , Zhou Xuanyi , Hu Yingbai , Zhang Longbin , Ferrigno Giancarlo , De Momi Elena
Published: January 2021

The generous application of robot-assisted minimally invasive surgery (RAMIS) promotes human-machine interaction (HMI). Identifying various behaviors of doctors can enhance the RAMIS procedure for the redundant robot. It bridges intelligent robot control and activity recognition strategies in the operating room, including hand gestures and human activities. In this paper, to enhance identification in a dynamic situation, we propose a multimodal data fusion framework to provide multiple information for accuracy enhancement. Firstly, a multi-sensors based hardware structure is designed to capture varied data from various devices, including depth camera and smartphone. Furthermore, in different surgical tasks, the robot control mechanism can shift automatically. The experimental results evaluate the efficiency of developing the multimodal framework for RAMIS by comparing it with a single sensor system. Implementing the KUKA LWR4+ in a surgical robot environment indicates that the surgical robot systems can work with medical staff in the future.
A Rare Case of Extracranial Schwannoma of the Hypoglossal Nerve Located in the Parapharyngeal Space Mimicking a Deep Neck Abscess
Authors: Gilardi Antonio , Ciofalo Andrea , Colizza Andrea , Altomari Roger , de Vincentiis Marco
Published: January 2021

Schwannomas are neurogenic benign tumors originating from the myelin sheath of peripheral nerves, and hypoglossal Schwannomas account for 5% of nonvestibular ones. Extracranial localizations are substantially rare, especially those affecting exclusively the parapharyngeal space; for this reason, the retrostyloid neoformations could initially masquerade as a carotid tumor or deep organized neck abscess. The purpose of this report is to highlight the importance of a multidisciplinary approach in the correct management of differential diagnosis.
Evaluation of Inflammatory Blood Markers in Sinonasal Inverted Papilloma
Authors: Erdur Zülküf Burak , Özdoğan Hasan Ahmet , Yener Haydar Murat , Karaman Emin , Cansız Harun , Aliyeva Çınare , Batur Şebnem , İnan Hakkı Caner
Published: January 2021

Objective:

Sinonasal inverted papillomas are benign neoplasms of the nasal cavity and paranasal sinuses. They have characteristic features such as a high risk of recurrence and possible malignant transformation. This study was conducted to investigate the relationship between sinonasal inverted papilloma and inflammatory blood markers.

Patients and Methods:

Sixty-five patients who were diagnosed histologically as having sinonasal inverted papilloma and 65 age- and sex-matched healthy controls were included in the study. Inflammatory blood markers such as neutrophil–lymphocyte ratio (NLR), platelet–lymphocyte ratio (PLR), red cell distribution width (RDW), mean platelet volume (MPV), and platelet distribution width (PDW) of the patient and control groups were compared.

Results:

There were no statistically significant differences between the patients and controls for white blood cell, platelet, hemoglobin, neutrophil, and lymphocyte counts ( P > .05). No statistically significant difference was found between the patients and controls for NLR, PLR, RDW, MPV, and PDW ( P > .05). In the logistic regression analysis model, which was created to investigate the effects of inflammatory blood markers in determining the patient group, the increase in the NLR and decrease in the PLR were found to be statistically significant factors ( P = .008, P = .039).

Conclusion:

This is the first study in the literature to investigate the relationship between sinonasal inverted papilloma and inflammatory blood markers, and the results suggest that NLR and PLR may be used to distinguish patients with sinonasal inverted papilloma from controls.
Standardize routine angiography assessment of leg vasculatures before fibular flap harvest: lessons of congenital and acquired vascular anomalies undetected by color Doppler and physical examinations
Authors: Ma Chunyue , Wang Lei , Tian Zhuowei , Qin Xingjun , Zhu Dan , Qin Jinbao , Shen Yi
Published: January 2021

Background

Fibular flaps have been widely used for mandibular and maxillary reconstructions. On occasion, anatomical variants of fibular arteries (FA) will be encountered.

Purpose

Although anatomical variants of FA during fibular harvest have been reported, controversy exists regarding whether simple color Doppler ultrasonography (CDU) and physical examinations (PE) are sufficient for early preoperative detection.

Material and Methods

A 10-year retrospective analysis in our department was performed to find the patients with various FA anomalies confirmed by computed tomography angiography (CTA) or intraoperative findings.

Results

A total number of 19 FA anomalies were found either pre- or intraoperatively in 16 patients, in whom three cases were with bilateral FA variants. Type IIIC variants, also called arteria peronea magna (great peroneal artery), were confirmed in two legs, while the majority (13 legs) had type IIIA hypoplastic/aplastic posterior tibialis arteries (PTA). Four legs had new type IIID (low FA and PTA bifurcations). Preoperative CDU and PE only suspected anomalies in two legs. Six cases proceeded with using the affected fibulas, within whom vascular grafts were used in half of them for lengthening the FA pedicle. Local ischemia, partial soleus muscle necrosis, and claudication were reported in one.

Conclusions

Routine CTA before every fibular harvest, rather than simple PE and CDU, should be added for screening contraindications and ensuring safety for fibular flap harvest.
Variations ignored in routine wrist MRI reports: prevalence of the median nerve anatomical variations and persistent median artery
Authors: Dag Fatih , Dirim Mete Berna , Gursoy Merve , Uluc Muhsin Engin
Published: January 2021

Background

It is vital to know the anatomical variations of the wrist to avoid iatrogenic injuries during carpal tunnel (CT) surgery.

Purpose

To determine the anatomical variations of the median nerve (MN) and the prevalence of persistent median artery (PMA) on wrist magnetic resonance imaging (MRI).

Material and Methods

A total of 300 wrists evaluated by MRI during 2013–2015 were retrospectively identified. While branching of the MN distal to the CT is accepted as the normal anatomy, proximal to the tunnel and within the tunnel were considered as variations. The prevalence of PMA was also evaluated. The patients were assigned to groups according to age, gender, and wrist side and compared to determine whether there was any significant difference in terms of these variations. All evaluations were assessed with the shared decision of a musculoskeletal radiologist and a radiology resident.

Results

Of the 300 wrists, 38 (12.7%) and 34 (11.3%) had a bifid MN proximal to the CT and within the CT, respectively. Only one nerve trifurcation was seen within the CT. The MN exhibited branching distal to the CT in 227 (76%) patients. PMA was observed in 44 (14.7%) patients. Of the 44 PMA cases, 28 (63.6%) also had a coexisting MN variation. There was no significant difference in the prevalence of MN variations and PMA in the subgroups ( P > 0.05).

Conclusion

Nearly one in four patients (24.4%) have MN variations and 14.8% had PMA. Preoperative evaluation of these common anatomical variations with MRI will be protective against postoperative complications of CT surgery.
Rare case of granular cell tumor of perianal region: a case report and literature review
Authors: Ma Jianhua , Cheng Yicheng , Li Xue , Liu Wei , Liu Renghai , Liu Chuanbo
Published: January 2021

Granular cell tumors (GCTs) are rare submucosal neoplasms, with tumors in the oral mucosa accounting for about a third of all cases. In contrast, GCT is a rare anal neoplasm, with fewer than 30 cases of perianal GCT reported in the literature. We report the case of a 36-year-old woman with a perianal lump with no obvious local lesion as the main clinical complaint. The tumor was completely resected and histologically confirmed as a GCT. The patient remained under continuous follow-up. GCT is difficult for surgeons and pathologists to diagnose, and biopsy and immunohistochemical analysis are prerequisites for an accurate diagnosis. An integrated understanding of GCT in terms of its differential diagnosis will contribute to better identification and more appropriate treatment of this disease.
A comparison of voxel- and surface-based cone-beam computed tomography mandibular superimposition in adult orthodontic patients
Authors: Han Gaofeng , Li Jing , Wang Shuo , Wang Linchuan , Zhou Yanheng , Liu Yan
Published: January 2021

Objective

To evaluate the accuracy, reliability, and efficiency of voxel- and surface-based registrations for cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) mandibular superimposition in adult orthodontic patients.

Methods

Pre- and post-orthodontic treatment CBCT scans of 27 adult patients were obtained. Voxel- and surface-based CBCT mandibular superimpositions were performed using the mandibular basal bone as a reference. The accuracy of the two methods was evaluated using the absolute mean distance measured. The time that was required to perform the measurements using these methods was also compared. Statistical differences were determined using paired t-tests, and inter-observer reliability was assessed by intraclass correlation coefficients (ICCs).

Results

The absolute mean distance on seven mandible surface areas between voxel- and surface-based registrations was similar but not significantly different. ICC values of the surface-based registration were 0.918 to 0.990, which were slightly lower than those of voxel-based registration that ranged from 0.984 to 0.996. The time required for voxel-based registration and surface-based registration was 44.6 ± 2.5 s and 252.3 ± 7.1 s, respectively.

Conclusions

Both methods are accurate and reliable and not significantly different from each other. However, voxel-based registration is more efficient than surface-based registration for CBCT mandibular superimposition.
Recognising Familiar Faces Out of Context
Authors: Laurence Sarah , Eyre Jordyn , Strathie Ailsa
Published: January 2021

Expertise in familiar face recognition has been well-documented in several studies. Here, we examined the role of context using a surprise lecturer recognition test. Across two experiments, we found few students recognised their lecturer when they were unexpected, but accuracy was higher when the lecturer was preceded by a prompt. Our findings suggest that familiar face recognition can be poor in unexpected contexts.
What do adults think of music across the lifespan?
Authors: Ripani Giulia
Published: January 2021

Using the Theory of Social Representations as theoretical and methodological framework, the purpose of this study was to analyze adults’ mental images (social representations) of music and musical selves across the lifespan. Participants ( N = 74) were chosen using purposive sampling in various sociocultural contexts in a large city in the Southeastern United States. As previous studies documented, projective techniques (drawings and linguist associations) can access the most latent dimensions of thinking. Accordingly, drawings and linguistic associations to the textual stimuli “me,” “music,” and “music and me” were used to gain insights into adults’ mental images of music and musical selves. Participants were also asked to provide socio-demographic data that might affect or correlate with their responses. The Correspondences Analysis technique was used to reconstruct representational fields associated with the stimuli. For each stimulus, a five-factor extraction identified hidden dimensions in adult musical thinking and summarized the links between socio-demographic variables and adults’ responses. From a developmental perspective, the comparison of drawings and linguistic associations revealed stable and changing elements in adults’ representations of music and musical selves across the lifespan. From a sociocultural perspective, this study documented the influence of the variable ethnicity on adults’ responses.
Are we there yet? Visualizing Indigenous culture in today’s library
Authors: Fullmer Millicent
Published: January 2021

While there has been notable progress in indigenous-led initiatives related to visual representation, issues of access and misrepresentation still exist and require ongoing advocacy work. In the virtual space, libraries, archives, and museums have an opportunity to increase decolonization efforts through wider dissemination of these images, improved dynamic presentation tools, and better organization of their collections. Nonetheless, online spaces come with their own challenges related to intellectual property ethics, the digital divide, and funding. This article examines issues of representation, organization, and access to digital images, and the role of visual literacy in libraries.
Epistemic Injustice and Indigenous Women: Toward Centering Indigeneity in Social Work
Authors: Johnstone Marjorie , Lee Eunjung
Published: January 2021

Using the theoretical framework of epistemic injustice articulated by philosopher Miranda Fricker as an analytic tool, we analyze recent victories of Indigenous feminist activism in gathering the stories of Indigenous women, challenging dominant meta-narratives and rewriting the herstory of Canada. We use the epistemic concept of the hermeneutic gap to consider the implications of this resistance in conjunction with the increased visibility of the intersectional positionality of Indigenous women. To illustrate our analysis, we focus on two case studies. Firstly, an individual perspective through the life journey of a feminist Anishinaabe Activist, Bridgett Perrier. Secondly, we conduct a systemic analysis of the recent Report on the National Inquiry into the Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls (MMIWG). We close with a discussion on how critical it is for social workers—especially non-Indigenous social workers—to relearn and document the meaning of the MMIWG issues. This includes recognizing Indigenous resistance, activism, and the newly formulated hermeneutic understandings that are emerging. Then, the final task is to apply these concepts to their practice and heed the calls to action which the report calls for.
Reliability and economic analysis in sustainable machining of Monel 400 alloy
Authors: Tayal Ashwani , Kalsi Nirmal Singh , Gupta Munish Kumar , Garcia-Collado A , Sarikaya Murat
Published: January 2021

Engineering field nurtures a variety of superalloys and its wide applications due to the inherent properties of such material. The prime concern of working engineers is to explore reliability, quality, economy, and machinability analysis of these superalloys. In this work, sustainable machining of Monel 400superalloy using PVD multilayer coated carbide tool under dry turning was studied. Surface roughness (Ra, Rz, and Rq), power (P) and cutting force (Fc) were addressed as responses. The subsequent effect of cutting speed, feed and depth of cut on the responses was explored through response surface methodology (RSM), statistical analysis of variance (ANOVA) and multiple regression analysis. Details of tool wear was observed via scanning electron microscope (SEM) to know the cutting behavior at interface. Further, the reliability and economic analysis were performed to substantiate the feasibility of cutting insert. The investigation reveals that surface roughness was affected by feed and cutting speed. The increase in cutting speed uncovers lower cutting forces with improved surface finish during dry turning which further reduces the power requirement. The economic analysis shows unit production time and unit production cost based on a single insert PVD coated carbide tool under optimum value condition. The reliability analysis exposes the meantime to repair (MTTR) (5 min), mean time between failure (MTBF) (28 min), availability (84.8%), failure rate (0.03), and reliability (80.5%) for the production system.
Holocene development of the Vistula Spit (Baltic Sea coast) based on multidisciplinary investigations
Authors: Uścinowicz Szymon , Adamiec Grzegorz , Bluszcz Andrzej , Jegliński Wojciech , Miotk-Szpiganowicz Grażyna
Published: January 2021

Coastal barriers are the first line of defense for the mainlands against the impacts of severe storms, therefore the need for better understanding how barriers evolve is arising. Spits (barriers) are the dominant landform type of the southern and south-eastern Baltic Sea coast. The aim of this paper is to gain present a better insight into problems of the Vistula Spit origin in general, and especially on the age of formation of the dune ridges. The Vistula Spit is one of the largest barriers on the southern Baltic coast. The analysis comprised: OSL dating of dune sands, radiocarbon dating of peat and palynological studies of peat and fossil soil profiles. Results shows that the onset of the oldest dunes formation begun ca. 7000–6000 years ago and the highest ridge were formed ca. 4000–2000 years ago. The youngest dunes, located closest to the modern shore, formed in the past 2000 years. Aeolian processes were also activated locally and periodically as a result of forest wildfires and human activities. Vistula Spit emergence and development is connected to two global events; beginning of the oldest dunes formation is related to slowing down in the sea level rise around 7000–6000 years ago, whereas the onset of the highest dunes building can be clearly connected with the climate cooling and aridification around 4200 years ago.
Carbon accumulation in peatlands along a boreal to subarctic transect in eastern Canada
Authors: Primeau Guillaume , Garneau Michelle
Published: January 2021

In this study, we investigated the links between peat carbon accumulation and past ecological and hydrological conditions in three peatlands (Bouleau, Mista, Auassat) which developed along a South-North transect within a watershed encompassing the boreal and subarctic domain in Eastern Canada. Peatland development and long-term apparent rates of carbon accumulation (LORCA) were asynchronous in the watershed, suggesting an influence of both latitude and topography (altitude) on the length of the growing season (GGD0). Results show that peat initiation within the three peatlands (respectively ca. 9070, 8400, and 6270 cal BP) was delayed after the deglaciation and that LORCA (respectively 35.5, 15.4, and 9.0 g C m−2 yr−1) decreased from South to North. Peatland development and fen to bog transitions were found to be almost synchronous for the two southernmost sites. The fen to bog transition in the northernmost subarctic site was delayed until the 20th century, owing to the less favorable climatic conditions. This suggests that recent warming has extended the length of the growing season and increased Sphagnum growth enough to potentially influence an ecosystem state-shift as observed in other Subarctic regions of eastern Canada.