bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Methoden für inverse dynamische Spiele zur Identifikation des Verhaltens kooperativer Systeme
Authors: Inga Charaja Juan Jairo
Published: August 2021

Diese Arbeit behandelt inverse dynamische Spiele, welche eine Verallgemeinerung des inversen Problems der optimalen Regelung darstellen. Ziel dabei ist die Identifikation von Kostenfunktionen auf Basis von beobachteten optimalen Trajektorien. Die identifizierten Kostenfunktionen können individuelles Verhalten in kooperativen Systemen beschreiben, beispielweise menschliches Verhalten während der haptischen Interaktion mit anderen Menschen oder mit Maschinen.
Distribution of HOMA-IR in a population-based cohort and proposal for reference intervals
Authors: Matli Bassel , Schulz Andreas , Koeck Thomas , Falter Tanja , Lotz Johannes , Rossmann Heidi , Pfeiffer Norbert , Beutel Manfred , Münzel Thomas , Strauch Konstantin , Wild Philipp S. , Lackner Karl J.
Published: August 2021

Objectives

Insulin resistance (IR) is a hallmark of type 2 diabetes mellitus (DM). The homeostatic model assessment of insulin resistance (HOMA-IR) provides an estimate for IR from fasting glucose and insulin serum concentrations. The aim of this study was to obtain a reference interval for HOMA-IR for a specific insulin immunoassay.

Methods

The Gutenberg Health Study (GHS) is a population-based, prospective, single-center cohort study in Germany with 15,030 participants aged 35–74 years. Fasting glucose, insulin, and C-peptide were available in 10,340 participants. HOMA-IR was calculated in this group and three reference subgroups with increasingly more stringent inclusion criteria. Age- and sex-dependent distributions of HOMA-IR and reference intervals were obtained. In a substudy three insulin assays were compared and HOMA-IR estimated for each assay.

Results

Among the 10,340 participants analyzed there were 6,590 non-diabetic, 2,901 prediabetic, and 849 diabetic individuals. Median (interquartile range [IQR]) HOMA-IR was 1.54 (1.13/2.19), 2.00 (1.39/2.99), and 4.00 (2.52/6.51), respectively. The most stringently selected reference group consisted of 1,065 persons. Median (IQR) HOMA-IR was 1.09 (0.85/1.42) with no significant difference between men and women. The 97.5th percentile was 2.35. There was a non-significant trend towards higher values with older age. Comparison of three immunoassays for insulin showed an unsatisfactory correlation among the assays and systematic differences in calculated HOMA-IR.

Conclusions

We present HOMA-IR reference intervals for adults derived by more or less stringent selection criteria for the reference cohort. In addition we show that assay specific reference intervals for HOMA-IR are required.
Aqueous synthesis of Nb-modified SnO2 quantum dots for efficient photocatalytic degradation of polyethylene for in situ agricultural waste treatment
Authors: Shao Jia , Deng Kai , Chen Le , Guo Chaomeng , Zhao Congshan , Cui Jiayuan , Shen Tongan , Li Kewei , Liu Jianqiao , Fu Ce
Published: August 2021

Low density polyethylene is widely used in agricultural production. It is of low cost and able to significantly improve the quality of fruits. However, its decomposition under natural circumstances needs more than one hundred of years. If not removed in time, it is hazardous to the ecological environment and crops. Up to now, the removal techniques of polyethylene films are polluted, expensive, and difficult to employ. A novel method is proposed for in situ removal of polyethylene by an effective and environmental friendly technique with low cost. The Nb-modified SnO2 quantum dots are prepared for the efficient photocatalytic degradation of polyethylene under visible light. The green synthesis of the photocatalyst includes the procedures of hydrolysis, oxidation, and hydrothermal treatment in aqueous solution. The Nb-modified SnO2 has a band gap of 2.95 eV, which enhances its absorption of visible light. A degradation efficiency of 29% is obtained within 6 h under visible irradiation. The hydroxyl radicals (•OH) are main active species in the degradation process. The prepared Nb-SnO2 quantum dots demonstrate a promising application in the photocatalytic degradation of polyethylene, contributing a novel strategy for the in situ treatment of agricultural wastes.
Distant recurrence of endometrial cancer more than 10 years after hysterectomy: a case report
Authors: Khoo Boom Ping , Chew Kah Teik , Hing Erica Yee , Kampan Nirmala , Shafiee Mohamad Nasir
Published: August 2021

Objectives

Endometrial cancer is the sixth most common cancer among women and recurrence of after 10 years is extremely rare.

Case presentation

We reported a comprehensive review of histopathology, investigations and treatment regarding a woman with distant recurrence of endometrial cancer to rectus abdominis muscle after 23 years from the primary surgery. Previous published literatures of similar case were included into the review analysis. A total of 11 similar cases had been reported. Overall, 9 (81.8%) cases were stage 1 disease and only 2 cases were classified as stage II disease. The majority, 6 (54.5%) cases were endometrial adenocarcinoma. Majority of the cases shared the similarity of low grade endometrial cancer with positive oestrogen receptor immunophynetype.

Conclusions

Thus, the phenomenon of ‘cell dormancy’ was hypothesized to explain the mechanism of late recurrence for these cases.
Data-based prediction of microbial contamination in herbs and identification of optimal harvest parameters
Authors: Anlauf Stefan , Haghofer Andreas , Dirnberger Karl , Winkler Stephan
Published: August 2021

The quality of freshly harvested herbs is affected by several crucial factors, such as weather, tillage, fertilization, drying, and the harvesting process, e.g. Our main goal is to learn models that are able to predict spore contaminations in different types of herbs on the basis of information about the harvesting process, transport conditions, drying, and storage conditions. This shall enable us to identify optimal processing parameters, which will allow more effective and cost efficient contamination prevention. Using machine learning, we have generated ensembles of models that predict the risk for spore contamination on the basis of harvest processing parameters. The training information about contamination in herbs is given as results of laboratory analysis data. We applied different modeling algorithms (random forests, gradient boosting trees, genetic programming, and neural networks). In this paper we report on modeling results for yeast and mold contaminations in peppermint and nettle; e.g., for yeast contamination in peppermint we obtained models with 78.13% accuracy. Additionally, we use descriptive statistics to identify those parameters that have a statistically significant influence on the contamination; for example, our analysis shows that there seems to be a relationship between mold in peppermint and information about harrowing and the growth height (p = 0.001).
Quilting emergent advanced practice nursing educator identity: an arts-informed approach
Authors: MacGregor Emma , Serre Nicole , Cozzella Teresa , McGovern Barbara , Schindel Martin Lori
Published: August 2021

Objectives

Arts-informed pedagogy in the graduate nursing classroom is used to support the integration of theory with advanced practice nursing (APN) competencies (Canadian Nurses Association, 2008, 2019).

Methods

Using the patterns of knowing (Carper, 1978; Chinn & Kramer, 2018), Iwasiw & Goldenberg’s curriculum development model (2015) and practice development (McCormack, Manley, & Titchen, 2013), two course professors facilitated the delivery of an innovative arts-informed approach in a nursing graduate program, the Quilt.

Results

The Quilt was meant to invite graduate students to critically reflect and create a visual depiction of their emergent identities as advanced practice nurse educators (APNEs). As three graduate student authors, we reflect on our experiences engaging with arts-informed pedagogy to explore the features of the collective APNE identity. The design and delivery of the Quilt is described.

Conclusions

Finally, we discuss the lessons learned, and the value of arts-informed pedagogy to support the meaningful integration of theory amongst graduate nursing students becoming APNEs.
Nursing student and faculty attitudes about a potential genomics-informed undergraduate curriculum
Authors: Dewell Sarah , Ginn Carla , Benzies Karen , Seneviratne Cydnee
Published: August 2021

Objectives

To explore attitudes about adding genomic content to an undergraduate nursing curriculum. Genomic knowledge is essential to nursing education, but challenges exist for curriculum innovation. Few countries have guiding documents from national nursing organizations on genomic competencies for practice or education. Information on attitudes about genomics may provide guidance for curriculum development.

Methods

Nineteen undergraduate nursing students and two faculty from a school of nursing with two sites in western Canada participated. Five focus groups and four interviews were conducted using a semi-structured focus group guide. Data were analysed using thematic analysis. Coding was inductive.

Results

Characteristics of participants, eight key themes, and four future focal areas were identified to guide future research and curriculum development.

Conclusions

Global development of genomics-informed curricula will require a focus on increasing knowledge, defining scope and role, increasing visibility of role models, and preparing to implement precision health.
Reflective writing pedagogies in action: a qualitative systematic review
Authors: Mitchell Kim M. , Roberts Tara , Blanchard Laurie
Published: August 2021

Objectives

Reflective practice is a core value of nursing education and emphasizes the self as a source of learning. Writing and reflection are often viewed as inseparable. The goal of this qualitative meta-study is to explore the mechanisms writing stimulates to promote learning transformation for nursing students in both clinical and classroom contexts.

Methods

A literature search using the CINHAL, Medline, ERIC, and Academic Search Complete databases, using systematic methods, identified 26 papers and dissertations which gathered narrative data from nursing students in pre- and post-registration undergraduate courses.

Results

Three themes were found describing: 1) Evolving through time and space to reflect; 2) Surfacing and absorbing; and 3) Trust, judgement, and social desirability in the feedback process.

Conclusions

Transformative learning is promoted through forming a bond with faculty during the writing process to normalize emotions, create critical self-awareness, and providing a safe, non-judgemental space to reflect on their practice and their learning.
Pandemic management by a spatio–temporal mathematical model
Authors: Lazebnik Teddy , Bunimovich-Mendrazitsky Svetlana , Shami Labib
Published: August 2021

Many researchers have tried to predict the impact of the COVID-19 outbreak on morbidity, in order to help policy-makers find optimal isolation policies. However, despite the development and use of many models and sophisticated tools, these forecasting attempts have largely failed. We present a model that considers the severity of the disease and the heterogeneity of contacts between the population in complex space–time dynamics. Using mathematical and computational methods, the applied tool was developed to analyze and manage the COVID-19 pandemic (from an epidemiological point of view), with a particular focus on population heterogeneity in terms of age, susceptibility, and symptom severity. We show improved strategies to prevent an epidemic outbreak. We evaluated the model in three countries, obtaining an average mean square error of 0.067 over a full month of the basic reproduction number (R
0). The goal of this study is to create a theoretical framework for crisis management that integrates accumulated epidemiological considerations. An applied result is an open-source program for predicting the outcome of an isolation strategy for future researchers and developers who can use and extend our model.
Human Capital and Economic Growth in OECD Countries Revisited: Initial Stock versus Changes in the Stock of Human Capital Effects
Authors: Eftimoski Dimitar
Published: August 2021

This paper investigates the effect of human capital on economic growth in OECD countries by focusing on two different channels: (1) absorption of superior technologies, and (2) augmentation of factors of production. One recent empirical study found that in isolation each channel appears insignificant, which implies that estimates that emanate by restrictive specifications that account for only a subset of these channels are likely to suffer from an omitted variable bias. Using an augmented specification (with interaction terms between the initial level of real GDP per capita and the average years of schooling), we find that OECD countries that start with a higher stock of human capital grow faster, which implies that human capital influences economic growth through the first channel only. Our results differ from previous studies (that investigated both channels), which either confirmed the simultaneous (positive or neutral) effect from both channels, or found that only the second channel had an isolated positive effect. We use a broad array of measures as proxies for human capital (six measures for educational attainment, and two measures for health status). We also account for the quality of human capital.
Groups whose vanishing class sizes are prime powers
Authors: Mahmood Robati Sajjad , Hafezieh Balaman Roghayeh
Published: August 2021

For a finite group 𝐺, an element is called a vanishing element of 𝐺 if it is a zero of an irreducible character of 𝐺; otherwise, it is called a non-vanishing element.
Moreover, the conjugacy class of an element is called a vanishing class if that element is a vanishing element.
In this paper, we describe finite groups whose vanishing class sizes are all prime powers, and on the other hand we show that non-vanishing elements of such a group lie in the Fitting subgroup which is a proof of a conjecture mentioned in [I. M. Isaacs, G. Navarro and T. R. Wolf, Finite group elements where no irreducible character vanishes, J. Algebra
222 (1999), 2, 413–423] under this special restriction on vanishing class sizes.
A novel connected structure of all-optical high speed and ultra-compact photonic crystal OR logic gate
Authors: Derdour Roumaissa , Lebbal Mohamed Redha , Mouetsi Souheil , Hocini Abdesselam
Published: August 2021

A new connected structure of an all-optical “OR” logic gate realized with photonic crystals is proposed in this study. The structure is based on coupling the input guides with two microcavities; the unit cell of the structure is designed to achieve a band gap around the communication wavelength (i.e., 1.55 µm). The performance of the structure results in transmission efficiency and low losses. This compact size logic gate is considered an important element in the integration of a nanoscale photonic device.
Desmodilliscus braueri crania compared to Pachyuromys duprasi (Desmodilliscini, Gerbillinae, Rodentia)
Authors: Alhajeri Bader H.
Published: August 2021

Molecular phylogenies support the monophyly of Desmodilliscus braueri and Pachyuromys duprasi as a clade basally split from all other gerbillines. While this monophyly supports their placement in a single tribe (Desmodilliscini), no morphological synapomorphies exist among desmodilliscines. This study compares the scale-independent cranial shapes of these two species using geometric morphometrics to determine how they differ and/or converge. Tribal synapomorphies, should they exist, may appear as interspecifically invariable cranial regions. No such invariable cranial regions were detected. The two species significantly differed in cranial size and shape. A small part of shape variation was allometric, with a weak unique allometric effect. No sexual size nor shape dimorphism was found. The sister taxa greatly differed in almost all cranial features, with Pachyuromys (when compared to Desmodilliscus) having a larger-sized cranium, with a larger bulla and suprameatal triangle, a more posteriorly placed palatine foramina, and more anteriorly shifted (and reduced) rostral cranial structures, due to being crowded by the hypertrophied bulla. Cranial variation patterns are consistent with the literature. The extreme morphological divergence among these species is explained by the distant divergence time and ecological differences. Absence of cranial shape synapomorphies does not preclude synapomorphies in other craniodental morphological features (e.g., detailed morphology of the dentition and cranial foramina) or in other morphological structures, such as the postcranial skeleton.
Blow-up results of the positive solution for a class of degenerate parabolic equations
Authors: Dong Chenyu , Ding Juntang
Published: August 2021

This paper is devoted to discussing the blow-up problem of the positive solution of the following degenerate parabolic equations:

(

r

(

u

)

)

t

=
div

(

∣

∇

u

∣

p

∇

u

)

+
f

(

x
,
t
,
u
,
∣

∇

u

∣

2

)

,

(

x
,
t

)

∈
D
×

(

0
,

T

∗

)

,

∂
u

∂
ν

+
σ
u
=
0
,

(

x
,
t

)

∈
∂
D
×

(

0
,

T

∗

)

,

u

(

x
,
0

)

=

u

0

(

x

)

,

x
∈

D

¯

.

\left\{\begin{array}{ll}{(r\left(u))}_{t}={\rm{div}}(| \nabla u{| }^{p}\nabla u)+f\left(x,t,u,| \nabla u\hspace{-0.25em}{| }^{2}),& \left(x,t)\in D\times \left(0,{T}^{\ast }),\\ \frac{\partial u}{\partial \nu }+\sigma u=0,& \left(x,t)\in \partial D\times \left(0,{T}^{\ast }),\\ u\left(x,0)={u}_{0}\left(x),& x\in \overline{D}.\end{array}\right.

Here

p
>
0

p\gt 0

, the spatial region

D
⊂

R

n

(

n
≥
2

)

D\subset {{\mathbb{R}}}^{n}\hspace{0.33em}\left(n\ge 2)

is bounded, and its boundary

∂
D

\partial D

is smooth. We give the conditions that cause the positive solution of this degenerate parabolic problem to blow up. At the same time, for the positive blow-up solution of this problem, we also obtain an upper bound of the blow-up time and an upper estimate of the blow-up rate. We mainly carry out our research by means of maximum principles and first-order differential inequality technique.
Performance analysis of photo-electrochemical photodetector based on liquid-phase exfoliation few-layered graphdiyne nanosheets
Authors: Yin Peng , Bao Wenli , Gao Lingfeng , Kang Jianlong , Huang Rui , Wang Xin , Wei Songrui , Ge Yanqi , Zhang Han
Published: August 2021

The band gap of two-dimensional (2D) materials become a hot issue for photoelectric detection. Recently, public attention is thoroughly aroused as to the remarkable electrical transport characteristic and super photoresponse of 2D graphdiyne. The simulation results show that the photoresponse can be adjusted in various solutions based on the graphdiyne nanosheets with different sizes and thicknesses. Based on few-layered graphdiyne nanosheets prepared by a liquid-phase exfoliation method, a photoelectrochemical (PEC)-type few-layered graphdiyne photodetector is demonstrated in this paper. A group of PEC tests are carried out in neutral solution to verify the simulation results. The as-prepared graphdiyne photodetector possesses high photocurrent density, effective responsivity and excellent cycle stability in condition of KCl electrolyte and solar illuminance. The detectivity of the PEC-type graphdiyne photodetector can be easy to adjust by altering electrolyte concentration and other corresponding parameters, which indicates the proposed equipment can be a good candidate for photoelectric detection.
Spatial evaluation of environmental noise with the use of participatory sensing system in Singapore
Authors: Diong Huey Ting , Neitzel Richard , Martin William Hal
Published: August 2021

Existing studies in Singapore on environmental noise are scarce and limited in scale due to the need for expensive equipment and sophisticated modelling expertise. This study presents the approach of using participatory sensing and mobile phones to monitor environmental sound levels around Singapore. iPhones running the AmbiCiti application was adopted to sample equivalent continuous 30-second average outdoor sound levels (LAeq

,30

sec). The aggregated mean of each region was evaluated and the spatial distribution of environmental noise was analysed using noise maps generated from the measurement data. A total of 18,768 LAeq

,30

sec
measurements were collected over ten weeks. About 93.6% of the daytime measurements (07:00 – 19:00) exceeded the WHO recommended level of 55 dBA to minimise negative non-auditory health effects due to noise. The results of this study suggest that the population of Singapore is potentially at risk of adverse non-auditory health effects and, to a lesser extent, hearing loss due to community noise levels. However, the measurements exceeding 70 dBA were frequent enough to warrant concern about contributions to the cumulative lifetime sound exposure contributing to hearing loss. The work also demonstrates that sound maps of an area can be efficiently generated using calibrated applications running on smart phones.
Composite paper from an agricultural waste of bagasse sugarcane and pineapple leaf fibre: a novel random and multilayer hybrid fibre reinforced composite paper
Authors: Salleh Sarah , A. Majid Rohah , Yahya Wira Jazair , Abd Kadir Hasannuddin , Ezzat Chan Arif Fahim , Munthoub Dayangku Intan , Rusman Rafidah
Published: August 2021

Bagasse sugarcane (BSC) has low fibre strength due to low cellulose content. Hence, by adding a strong secondary fibre that is high in cellulose such as pineapple leaf fibre (PALF), the fibre strength of the system can be improved. High portion of PALF decreased the composite paper performance because the high composition of PALF tends to produce flocs and agglomerates fibres. The arrangement of the fibres in composite paper should be improved so that this agglomerate’s effect could be overcome. A novel multilayer hybrid fibre composite was used. BSC/PALF with several hybrid ratios was studied in terms of the mechanical and moisture properties of the produced paper sheet and the results showed that multilayer hybrid composite paper produced higher in hybrid composite paper’s properties compared with random hybrid composite paper. The colour of multilayer hybrid fibre composite paper resembled the natural bright colour of BSC and the multilayer hybrid fibre composite paper also shown a slightly low weight loss percentage compared with the random hybrid fibre composite paper after 60 days of soil burial test. As a conclusion, multilayer hybrid fibre composite produced the stronger interfibre bonding and overcome the agglomerate’s effect between BSC/PALF compared with random hybrid fibre composite.
Effects of talc, kaolin and calcium carbonate as fillers in biopolymer packaging materials
Authors: Helanto Karoliina , Talja Riku , Rojas Orlando J.
Published: August 2021

We compared the performance of bio-based and biodegradable polymers for packaging applications. Cost-effective inorganic fillers (talc, kaolin and calcium carbonate) were first melt-compounded with polylactic acid (PLA), poly(butylene adipate-co-terephthalate) (PBAT) and poly(hydroxy butyrate-co-valerate) (PHBV). Following this, injection- and compression-molded specimens were produced to test the effect of filler loading (0–30 wt%) in relation to the morphological, thermal, mechanical and barrier properties of the composites. All the fillers were homogeneously dispersed in the polymer matrices and suitable polymer–filler adhesion was observed for talc and kaolin. The elastic modulus increased at the expense of a reduced tensile and elongation. The most significant improvements in water vapor and oxygen barrier properties were achieved with talc in PLA, PBAT and PHBV films. Overall, the results point to the promise of the introduced compositions for food packaging materials.
Comparative studies on the adsorption of various radioactive nuclides from waste aqueous solutions on graphene oxide, inorganic and organic ion exchangers
Authors: El-Sweify Fatma H. , Mohamed Nora A. , Abd El-Monem Doaa A. , Ramadan Hala E. , Hegazy Wafaa S.
Published: August 2021

Adsorption of the radionuclides 141Ce, 140La, 140Ba, 137+134Cs, 131I, 125Sb, 103Ru, 95Nb and 95Zr are studied on graphene oxide from waste aqueous solution samples and their adsorption behaviors are compared to that on the inorganic ion exchanger Ceric tungstate as well as on the strong acidic cation exchanger Dowex-50X8 H+ form, the chelating resin Chelex-100 Na+ form and the strong basic anion exchanger AG-1X8 Cl− form. The waste samples are dilute aqueous solutions resulting from previous work. These solutions contained neither oxidizing nor reducing agents, consequently, it is expected that these radionuclides are existing in their most stable oxidation states, i.e. Ce(III), La(III), Ba(II), Cs(I), Ru(III) & (IV), Sb(III) & (V), Nb(V) and Zr(IV). The adsorption is studied under static conditions for all these radioactive nuclides in the presence of each other. Gamma radiometric analysis is carried out for these radionuclides. Effect of some factors on the adsorption is studied such as pH, graphene oxide particle sizes, contact time, temperature and other parameters. Complete removal of some radionuclides is achieved from these waste solutions by adsorption on graphene oxide. Some separation alternatives for some of these radionuclides are also achieved.
Low variability in the underlying cellular landscape adversely affects the performance of interaction-based approaches for conducting cell-specific analyses of DNA methylation in bulk samples
Authors: Meier Richard , Nissen Emily , Koestler Devin C.
Published: August 2021

Statistical methods that allow for cell type specific DNA methylation (DNAm) analyses based on bulk-tissue methylation data have great potential to improve our understanding of human disease and have created unprecedented opportunities for new insights using the wealth of publicly available bulk-tissue methylation data. These methodologies involve incorporating interaction terms formed between the phenotypes/exposures of interest and proportions of the cell types underlying the bulk-tissue sample used for DNAm profiling. Despite growing interest in such “interaction-based” methods, there has been no comprehensive assessment how variability in the cellular landscape across study samples affects their performance. To answer this question, we used numerous publicly available whole-blood DNAm data sets along with extensive simulation studies and evaluated the performance of interaction-based approaches in detecting cell-specific methylation effects. Our results show that low cell proportion variability results in large estimation error and low statistical power for detecting cell-specific effects of DNAm. Further, we identified that many studies targeting methylation profiling in whole-blood may be at risk to be underpowered due to low variability in the cellular landscape across study samples. Finally, we discuss guidelines for researchers seeking to conduct studies utilizing interaction-based approaches to help ensure that their studies are adequately powered.
Examining resting-state functional connectivity in key hubs of the default mode network in chronic low back pain
Authors: Ng Sin Ki , Urquhart Donna M. , Fitzgerald Paul B. , Cicuttini Flavia M. , Kirkovski Melissa , Maller Jerome J. , Enticott Peter G. , Rossell Susan L. , Fitzgibbon Bernadette M.
Published: August 2021

Objectives

Changes in brain connectivity have been observed within the default mode network (DMN) in chronic low back pain (CLBP), however the extent of these disruptions and how they may be related to CLBP requires further examination. While studies using seed-based analysis have found disrupted functional connectivity in the medial prefrontal cortex (mPFC), a major hub of the DMN, limited studies have investigated other equally important hubs, such as the posterior cingulate cortex (PCC) in CLBP.

Methods

This preliminary study comprised 12 individuals with CLBP and 12 healthy controls who completed a resting-state functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) scan. The mPFC and PCC were used as seeds to assess functional connectivity.

Results

Both groups displayed similar patterns of DMN connectivity, however group comparisons showed that CLBP group had reduced connectivity between the PCC and angular gyrus compared to healthy controls. An exploratory analysis examined whether the alterations observed in mPFC and PCC connectivity were related to pain catastrophizing in CLBP, but no significant associations were observed.

Conclusions

These results may suggest alterations in the PCC are apparent in CLBP, however, the impact and functional role of these disruptions require further investigation.
Testing for exuberance in house prices using data sampled at different frequencies
Authors: Otero Jesús , Panagiotidis Theodore , Papapanagiotou Georgios
Published: August 2021

We undertake Monte Carlo simulation experiments to examine the effect of changing the frequency of observations and the data span on the Phillips, P. C. B., S. Shi, and J. Yu. 2015. “Testing for Multiple Bubbles: Historical Episodes of Exuberance and Collapse in the S&P 500.”International Economic Review56 (4): 1043–78 generalised supremum ADF (GSADF) test for explosive behaviour via Monte Carlo simulations. We find that when a series is characterised by multiple bubbles (periodically collapsing), decreasing the frequency of observations is associated with profound power losses for the test. We illustrate the effects of temporal aggregation by examining two real house price data bases, namely the S&P Case–Shiller real house prices and the international real house price indices available at the Federal Reserve Bank of Dallas.
Design and validation of a two-dimensional variable geometry inlet
Authors: Yuan Huacheng , Wang Yunfei , Liu Jun , Hua Zhengxu
Published: August 2021

The design of a two-dimensional variable geometry inlet which applied to a tandem type turbine-based combined cycle (TBCC) propulsion system was investigated in the present paper through three-dimensional simulations and wind tunnel tests. The operation Mach number range was between 0 and 3. A multi-ramp geometry scheme was adopted to achieve acceptable performance at different inflow Mach number. The first ramp angle was fixed whilst the angles of the second and the third ramps were variable at different inflow Mach numbers. The Mach numbers at throat region were maintained between 1.3 and 1.5 at different inflow Mach numbers according to this variable geometry scheme. A fixed geometry rectangular-to-circular shape diffuser was adopted to improve aerodynamic performance of the inlet. Three-dimensional numerical simulations were carried out between Ma1.5 and Ma3.0. The results indicated that good aerodynamic performance can be achieved at different inflow speed. At the design point, total pressure recovery of the inlet was 0.66 at critical condition. Wind tunnel validation experiment tests were conducted at Ma2.0, showing the movement of terminal shock wave from downstream to upstream as the back pressure increased. The inlet operated at supercritical, critical and subsonic conditions at different back pressure.
Two is too much…in the phonology!
Authors: Zimmermann Eva
Published: August 2021

A purely phonological account of reduplication based on the affixation of empty prosodic nodes predicts the attested typology of multiple reduplication. Languages that can combine more than one reduplication-triggering morpheme in a word differ in (1) whether all reduplicants surface faithfully, (2) whether they systematically avoid adjacent multiple reduplicants, or (3) whether one of the reduplicants is smaller than expected if another reduplicant is adjacent in multiple reduplication contexts. Morphological accounts of reduplication not only violate the modularity between phonology and morphology, they also fail to predict this attested typology.
Canstatin represses glioma growth by inhibiting formation of VM-like structures
Authors: Ma Yuqiang , Wu Tao , Zhou Houjie , He Guilu , Li Yifei , Wang Bocheng , Guo Qiang , Chen Baodong , Li Weiping
Published: August 2021

Vasculogenic mimicry (VM) is different from classical tumor angiogenesis and does not depend on endothelial cells. VM is closely related to the prognosis of various cancers. Canstatin was first identified as an endogenous angiogenesis inhibitor. In the present study, the inhibitory effect of canstatin on VM formation was evaluated. Human glioblastoma cell lines U87 and U251 were letivirally transduced to overexpress canstatin gene or GFP as control. In vitro assays showed that canstatin overexpression reduced the tube formation of U87 and U251 cells in Matrigel. A xenograft glioma model was created by subcutaneous injection of lentivirally modified U87 cells into nude mice. The results of in vivo experiments showed that canstatin gene introduction inhibited the growth of glioma xenografts. In tumor xenografts overexpressing canstatin, U87-mediated formation of VM-like structures and VM-related VEGF (vascular endothelial growth factor) expression were remarkably reduced. Canstatin overexpression also decreased the phosphorylation of Akt and reduced the expression of Survivin in vitro. In addition, HIF-1α production and MMP-2 secretion were decreased by canstatin overexpression. Therefore, these results suggested a protective role of canstatin during VM-like structure formation of glioma probably via inhibiting signaling pathways inducing vasculogenic mimicry.
Hematological changes after Röntgenray exposure in radiologic technologists
Authors: Tawfeeq Govand , Tawfeeq Rawaz , Ommar Aram , Ali Shakar
Published: August 2021

Background and objective: In view of the known health hazards of X-ray radiation, this study focuses on the outlined effect of prolonged accidental or work-related Röntgenray exposure to hematological parameters such as red blood cells (RBCs), white blood cells (WBCs), platelets count as well as serum malondialdehyde (MDA) and glutathione in X-ray technicians. Methods: In this cross-sectional study with a comparison group, blood samples were collected over six months period from X-ray technician assistants across Rizgary teaching hospital, maternity teaching hospital, Nanakaly hospital, Erbil teaching hospital, Ashty hospital, Hundreen hospital, and Harem hospital. A convenience sample was chosen for collecting subjects exposed to X-ray at the radiology department in the hospitals mentioned above. The results were analyzed and compared with a second control group of healthy unexposed individuals. Results: It was determined that prolonged Röntgenray exposure could lead to an increase in the amount of oxidative stress as denoted by the decrease in the levels of reduced glutathione in the plasma of our test subjects. Conclusion: Although there were changes in the mean levels of plasma RBC, WBC, platelets, and malondialdehyde, the differences of these parameters between the two groups were not significant statistically. However, there was a significant reduction in glutathione levels in plasma samples of the subjects, indicating elevated oxidative stress levels within the body. Keywords: X-ray; Blood cells; Malondialdehyde; Glutathione.
Evaluation of laparoscopic appendectomy proficiency in the management of acute appendicitis based on anatomy and pathologies
Authors: Najjar Suhel , Aumer Jawher , Muhamad Paiman
Published: August 2021

Background and objective: Laparoscopic appendectomy entered a controversial dilemma for choosing a perfect approach for appendectomy. Evaluation studies may resolve this controversy. This study aimed to evaluate laparoscopic appendectomy proficiency depending on anatomy and pathology. Methods: A total of 148cases managed by laparoscopic appendectomy were studied from 2014 to 2015.These cases were diagnosed clinically and by investigations. Parameters studied were operation duration, conversion rate, complications, associated pathology, rehabilitation, and histopathology. Results: By laparoscopy, the anatomical position of the appendix was easily recognized in 83.78%of cases, while the position of 16.22 %of cases was difficult because of the hidden appendix by adhesions, complications, and technical causes. The operation duration ranged between 34 and 60 minutes. Associated pathologies were demonstrated in 8% of cases. Regarding discharge from the hospital, 30% were on the same day, 50% on the first postoperative day, and 20% on the second postoperative day. Postoperative complications were 3% due to pelvic hematoma, port site infection, and bleeding. Postoperative pain was experienced in 3% of cases. The conversion rate was 4.7%. Rehabilitation was within 8-10 days. Conclusions: Laparoscopic appendectomy is safe and suitable for various anatomical positions of the inflamed appendix, suspicious, hidden, and in the presence of other pathologies with a properly placed port can play diagnostic and therapeutic roles. Significant superiority of laparoscopic appendectomy was observed in this study for the management of acute appendicitis and its pathological consequences. The conversion rate was 4.7% due to other pathologies. Keywords: Laparoscopic; Appendectomy; Anatomy; Pathology.
Full-Band EEG Recordings Using Hybrid AC/DC-Divider Filters
Authors: Nasretdinov Azat , Evstifeev Alexander , Vinokurova Daria , Burkhanova-Zakirova Gulshat , Chernova Kseniya , Churina Zoya , Khazipov Roustem
Published: August 2021

Full-band DC recordings enable recording of slow electrical brain signals that are severely compromised during conventional AC recordings. However, full-band DC recordings may be limited by the amplifier’s dynamic input range and the loss of small amplitude high-frequency signals. Recently, Neuralynx has proposed full-band recordings with inverse filtering for signal reconstruction based on hybrid AC/DC-divider RRC filters that enable only partial suppression of DC signals. However, the quality of signal reconstruction for biological signals has not yet been assessed. Here, we propose a novel digital inverse filter based on a mathematical model describing RRC filter properties, which provides high computational accuracy and versatility. Second, we propose procedures for the evaluation of the inverse filter coefficients, adapted for each recording channel to minimize the error caused by the deviation of the real values of the RRC filter elements from their nominal values. We demonstrate that this approach enables near 99% reconstruction quality of high-potassium-induced cortical spreading depolarizations (SDs), endothelin-induced ischemic negative ultraslow potentials (NUPs), and whole-cell recordings of membrane potential using RRC filters. The quality of the reconstruction was significantly higher than with the existing inverse filtering procedures. Thus, RRC filters with inverse filtering are optimal for full-band EEG recordings in various applications.
Nature's “Disturbing Influence”: Sound and Temperature in the Age of Empire
Authors: Gribenski Fanny
Published: August 2021

Today, knowledge concerning the relationship between temperature and musical pitch shapes many dimensions of Western musical practice, from the ambient conditions of performance sites to the design of musical instruments, and performers’ routines and techniques. But the history of how temperature came to play such a defining role in musical cultures remains unexamined. This article lays the foundations for such work by approaching musical instruments as sites of negotiation between acousticians, instrument makers, and players on the one hand, and music's variegated environments on the other. First, the article shows that the conceptualization of pitch in relation to temperature was a by-product of nineteenth-century international negotiations over musical standardization. These debates reveal that, while assessing the relation between pitch and temperature may seem like a decisive step toward the regulation of musical frequencies, in fact it was the source of countless epistemological and sociopolitical problems. Next, the article turns to David J. Blaikley, a British maker of wind instruments, whose experiments on the influence of extreme temperature variations on army-band instruments revealed the limits of Western attempts to control sound on a global scale, including in colonial contexts. Finally, I trace the implications of this new awareness of the interplay between sound and the environment to expose the silent ways in which that awareness continued to inform Western musical practice into the 1940s and beyond.
Toward a Black Ecomusicology, 1853? Listening to Enslavement with Solomon Northup
Authors: Mcmurray Peter
Published: August 2021

In his 1853 autobiographical narrative, Twelve Years a Slave, violinist Solomon Northup recounts his own experience of being abducted and sold into slavery for twelve years. Born as a free Black man with significant musical experience prior to enslavement, Northup offers considerable detail about his sonic (and musical) experiences, frequently situating them in a broader environmental context of slave plantations, land- and riverscapes of the American South, and their remediations in print/musical notation. In asserting a salient connection between environment, race, and sound, Northup's memoir points to possible limitations in conceptualizations of the environment that have predominated in recent ecomusicology but have tended to efface the issues of race. I sketch here a prehistory of ecomusicology that grapples directly with the sonic legacies of transatlantic slavery, underscoring how landscape might be understood not as a space of solitude or contemplation, but rather of economic exploitation and violence. Like other areas in musicology, ecomusicology has been hindered by its reliance on a “white racial frame” that tends to presume certain kinds of subjectivity and possible relationships with the environment. When considered from this perspective, Northup's account offers an important, if harrowing, reminder of the complex entanglements of environment, race, sound, economy, and violence.
Risk factors for intraoperative complications in pheochromocytomas
Authors: Araujo-Castro Marta , Garcia Centeno Rogelio , López-García María-Carmen , Lamas Cristina , Álvarez-Escolá Cristina , Calatayud Gutiérrez María , Blanco-Carrera Concepción , de Miguel Novoa Paz , Valdés Nuria , Gracia Gimeno Paola , Fernández-Ladreda Mariana Tomé , Mínguez Ojeda César , Percovich Hualpa Juan Carlos , Mora Mireia , Vidal Óscar , Serrano Romero Ana , Hanzu Felicia Alexandra , Gómez Dos Santos Victoria
Published: August 2021

We aimed to identify presurgical and surgical risk factors for intraoperative complications in patients with pheochromocytomas. A retrospective study of patients with pheochromocytomas who underwent surgery in ten Spanish hospitals between 2011 and 2021 was performed. One hundred and sixty-two surgeries performed in 159 patients were included. The mean age was 51.6 ± 16.4 years old and 52.8% were women. Median tumour size was 40 mm (range 10–110). Laparoscopic adrenalectomy was performed in 148 patients and open adrenalectomy in 14 patients. Presurgical alpha- and beta-blockade was performed in 95.1% and 51.9% of the surgeries, respectively. 33.3% of the patients (n = 54) had one or more intraoperative complications. The most common complication was the hypertensive crisis in 21.0%, followed by prolonged hypotension in 20.0%, and hemodynamic instability in 10.5%. Patients pre-treated with doxazosin required intraoperative hypotensive treatment more commonly than patients pre-treated with other antihypertensive drugs (51.1% vs 26.5%, P = 0.002). Intraoperative complications were more common in patients with higher levels of urine metanephrine (OR = 1.01 for each 100 μg/24 h, P = 0.026) and normetanephrine (OR = 1.00 for each 100 μg/24 h, P = 0.025), larger tumours (OR = 1.4 for each 10 mm, P < 0.001), presurgical blood pressure > 130/80 mmHg (OR = 2.25, P = 0.027), pre-treated with doxazosin (OR = 2.20, P = 0.023) and who had not received perioperative hydrocortisone (OR = 3.95, P = 0.008). In conclusion, intraoperative complications in pheochromocytoma surgery are common and can be potentially life-threatening. Higher metanephrine and normetanephrine levels, larger tumour size, insufficient blood pressure control before surgery, pre-treatment with doxazosin, and the lack of treatment with perioperative hydrocortisone are associated with higher risk of intraoperative complications.
Variability in the mechanical properties of commercially available thermally modified hardwood lumber
Authors: Gonzalez Juan J. , Bond Brian , Quesada Henry
Published: August 2021

Research indicates that users of thermally modified wood lack information regarding the improved performance and any variations that may exist for the “same” product when manufactured by different companies. The goal of this study was to evaluate the variability in mechanical properties of three thermally modified hardwoods and determine the variability between three different manufacturers. To determine the hardness, bending (modulus of elasticity and module of rupture) and shrinkage values, testing was conducted following ASTM standard D143. The samples were conditioned at 20 °C and a relative humidity of 65% until they reached an equilibrium moisture content before testing. Analysis of variance was used to determine the variability within and between the different processes used by each company. Seven out of 18 (39%) tests indicated that there were statistical differences regarding the mechanical performances of the wood samples. Yellow poplar had the least variation between companies (only difference in equilibrium moisture content, EMC) and red maple had the most (hardness, tangential shrinkage, and EMC). While the means for these properties were statistically different, the differences in application for hardness and EMC are slight. For example, the largest difference between processes in hardness was 83.6 kg, for tangential shrinkage, 0.45% and 1.37% for EMC. These differences are suggested to be inconsequential when compared to the values that exist between different species of untreated wood.
Flow under long two-dimensional dam sluice gate using WSPH
Authors: Monge Gapper Juan Gabriel , Serrano-Pacheco Alberto
Published: August 2021

An application of the weakly compressible Smoothed Particle Hydrodynamics (WSPH) numerical method is presented here for the case of two-dimensional flow in a long channel with a partially open sluice gate. The results are compared with an analytical solution provided by shallow water equations (SWE) and available experimental data. Of particular interest is the application of this numerical method to a sluice gate case with a high ratio of channel length to depth, which tends to amplify the effects of the chosen numerical resolution. Good model congruence was observed even for relatively low vertical resolution, and the effects of the equations used to describe the boundary conditions were identified.