bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The (Coarse) Fine-Grained Structure of NP-Hard SAT and CSP Problems
Authors: Lagerkvist Victor , Wahlström Magnus
Published: December 2021

We study the fine-grained complexity of NP-complete
satisfiability (SAT)
problems and
constraint satisfaction problems (CSPs)
in the context of the

strong exponential-time hypothesis

(SETH)
, showing non-trivial lower and upper bounds on the running time. Here, by a non-trivial lower bound for a problem SAT (Γ) (respectively CSP (Γ)) with constraint language Γ, we mean a value
c
0
> 1 such that the problem cannot be solved in time
O
(

c
n

) for any
c
<
c
0
unless SETH is false, while a non-trivial upper bound is simply an algorithm for the problem running in time
O
(
c

n

) for some
c
< 2. Such lower bounds have proven extremely elusive, and except for cases where
c
0
=2 effectively no such previous bound was known. We achieve this by employing an algebraic framework, studying constraint languages Γ in terms of their algebraic properties. We uncover a powerful algebraic framework where a mild restriction on the allowed constraints offers a concise algebraic characterization. On the relational side we restrict ourselves to Boolean languages closed under variable negation and partial assignment, called
sign-symmetric
languages. On the algebraic side this results in a description via partial operations arising from system of identities, with a close connection to operations resulting in tractable CSPs, such as
near unanimity operations
and
edge operations
. Using this connection we construct improved algorithms for several interesting classes of sign-symmetric languages, and prove explicit lower bounds under SETH. Thus, we find the first example of an NP-complete SAT problem with a non-trivial algorithm which also admits a non-trivial lower bound under SETH. This suggests a dichotomy conjecture with a close connection to the CSP dichotomy theorem: an NP-complete SAT problem admits an improved algorithm if and only if it admits a non-trivial partial invariant of the above form.
Digital System Design for Quantum Error Correction Codes
Authors: Khalifa Othman O. , Amirah bt Sharif Nur , Saeed Rashid A , Abdel-Khalek S. , Alharbi Abdulaziz N. , Alkathiri Ali A.
Published: December 2021

Quantum computing is a computer development technology that uses quantum mechanics to perform the operations of data and information. It is an advanced technology, yet the quantum channel is used to transmit the quantum information which is sensitive to the environment interaction. Quantum error correction is a hybrid between quantum mechanics and the classical theory of error-correcting codes that are concerned with the fundamental problem of communication, and/or information storage, in the presence of noise. The interruption made by the interaction makes transmission error during the quantum channel qubit. Hence, a quantum error correction code is needed to protect the qubit from errors that can be caused by decoherence and other quantum noise. In this paper, the digital system design of the quantum error correction code is discussed. Three designs used qubit codes, and nine-qubit codes were explained. The systems were designed and configured for encoding and decoding nine-qubit error correction codes. For comparison, a modified circuit is also designed by adding Hadamard gates.
UWB Indoor Localization Algorithm Using Firefly of Multistage Optimization on Particle Filter
Authors: Zhang Xiaoguo , Kuang Yujin , Yang Haoran , Lu Hang , Yang Yuan
Published: December 2021

With the increasing application potential of indoor personnel positioning, ultra‐wideband (UWB) positioning technology has attracted more and more attentions of scholars. In practice, an indoor positioning process often involves multipath and Non‐Line‐Of‐Sight (NLOS) problems, and a particle filtering (PF) algorithm has been widely used in the indoor positioning research field because of its outstanding performance in nonlinear and non‐Gaussian estimations. Aiming at mitigating the accuracy decreasing caused by the particle degradation and impoverishment in traditional Sequential Monte Carlo (SMC) positioning, we propose a method to integrate the firefly and particle algorithm for multistage optimization. The proposed algorithm not only enhances the searching ability of particles of initialization but also makes the particles propagate out of the local optimal condition in the sequential estimations. In addition, to prevent particles from falling into the oscillatory situation and find the global optimization faster, a decreasing function is designed to improve the reliability of the particle propagation. Real indoor experiments are carried out, and results demonstrate that the positioning accuracy can be improved up to 36%, and the number of needed particles is significantly reduced.
Frequent‐Pattern‐Based Broadcast Scheduling for Conflict Avoidance in Multichannel Data Dissemination Systems
Authors: Lai Chuan-Chi , Lin Yu-De , Liu Chuan-Ming
Published: December 2021

With the popularity of mobile devices, using the traditional client‐server model to handle a large number of requests is very challenging. Wireless data broadcasting can be used to provide services to many users at the same time, so reducing the average access time has become a popular research topic. For example, some location‐based services (LBS) consider using multiple channels to disseminate information to reduce access time. However, data conflicts may occur when multiple channels are used, where multiple data items associated with the request are broadcasted at about the same time. In this article, we consider the channel switching time and identify the data conflict issue in an on‐demand multichannel dissemination system. We model the considered problem as a data broadcast with conflict avoidance (DBCA) problem and prove it is NP‐complete. We hence propose the frequent‐pattern‐based broadcast scheduling (FPBS), which provides a new variant of the frequent pattern tree, FP∗‐tree, to schedule the requested data. Using FPBS, the system can avoid data conflicts when assigning data items to time slots in the channels. In the simulation, we discussed two modes of FPBS: online and offline. The results show that, compared with the existing heuristic methods, FPBS can shorten the average access time by 30%.
A Switching‐Based Interference Control for Booster Separation of Hypersonic Vehicle
Authors: Zhong Qin , Wu Wenbin
Published: December 2021

Whether launching from the ground or in the air, hypersonic vehicles need the booster to accelerate to a predetermined window, so as to meet the requirements of scramjet engine ignition. Therefore, there is interference suppression between boosters and hypersonic vehicles under the high dynamic pressure, which has become a key technical problem that affects the success of flight tests, especially when the aircraft is statically unstable. A method of variable structure switching‐based control is proposed in this paper for rapid suppression on hypersonic vehicle booster separation interference. Switching control systems in real time according to state changes caused by flow field interference, the method can keep the attitude stability of hypersonic vehicle booster separation under the high dynamic pressure of static instability. The aerodynamic calculation model of the hypersonic vehicle booster separation process is established first, which adopts an unsteady solution and clarifies the aerodynamic interference characteristics of the afterbody on the vehicle in booster separation. Then, according to the characteristics of the flow field, the dynamics of the vehicle in and out of the interference area are converted into subsystems with switching characteristics. Using the dimension reduction and variable structure method, the switching control surface of the control system is established. On the basis of the vehicle state changes caused by flow field, the control system on the orbital change surface can be switched in real time to achieve stable attitude in the process of separation interference. Meanwhile, considering the additional interference torque generated by the afterbody to the vehicle in the separation process, a control system for interference suppression of the booster separation is designed. Simulation results verify that the designed control system can rapidly suppress the booster separation interference when the dynamic pressure is about 150 kPa and the vehicle has the static instability of 5%, thereby realizing the stable attitude of the vehicle.
The Impact of Using zSpace System as a Virtual Learning Environment in Saudi Arabia: A Case Study
Authors: Aljumaiah Afnan , Kotb Yasser
Published: December 2021

The use of virtual reality (VR) has increased in many different areas, especially in the learning process. One of the most important VR tools is zSpace platform, which can be used as a virtual learning environment. This paper aims to increase the awareness of applying VR technology in Saudi Arabia through using zSpace as a virtual learning environment in all Saudi schools rather than using traditional learning methods. As a case study, we chose Al-Hamra School in Jeddah. By analyzing tests and questionnaires with students and teachers, we examined the effect of using zSpace on students’ grades, educational achievement, and learning skills. We have demonstrated that using zSpace instead of traditional learning methods in the learning process had better effect students, which is considered to be a largely positive effect in the learning environment.
Study on Apoptosis of Prostate Cancer Cells Induced by IκBα Overexpression Synergistic with Poly (Lactic‐Co‐Glycolic Acid)‐Curcumin Nanoparticles
Authors: Guo Hui , Huang Jianwen , Li Hongbin , Yang Ranxing , Chen Rong
Published: December 2021

Objective. To investigate the synergistic effects of IκBα overexpression and poly (lactic‐co‐glycolic acid)‐curcumin nanoparticles (PLGA‐Cur‐NPs) on prostate cancer (PC) and reveal the underlying mechanisms of cooperative sensitization induced by curcumin. Methods. Proliferation and apoptosis rate in IκBα overexpressed and PLGA‐Cur‐NPs‐treated PC cells were detected by MTT and flow cytometry assay. The expression levels of IκBα, apoptosis‐related, and signaling proteins were measured by western blotting assay. Results. PC cell proliferation was significantly inhibited by the overexpression of IκBα. The apoptosis rate of PC cells was significantly increased at a high concentration of curcumin exposure, while the activation of NF‐κB pathway was obviously inhibited. In addition, PLGA‐Cur‐NPs treatment synergistic with IκBα overexpression enhanced the apoptosis of PC cells by suppressing the NF‐κB pathway activation. Conclusion. IκBα overexpression synergistic with PLGA‐Cur‐NPs could obviously inhibit proliferation, induce apoptosis, and suppress the activation of NF‐κB pathway in PC cells. These findings may provide an experimental basis to establish the tumor gene therapy combined with traditional Chinese medicine treatment, thus promoting the clinical application of both tumor gene therapy and anti‐tumor Chinese medicine.
Research on RFID Anticollision Algorithms in Industrial Internet of Things
Authors: Qian Haizhong
Published: December 2021

As a perception enabling technology of the Internet of Things, RFID can quickly identify target objects. The tag‐to‐tag collision problem seriously affects the identification performance of the RFID system, which causes the reader to be unable to accurately identify any tag within the specific time. The mainstream anticollision algorithms are limited by the performance bottleneck under the standard framework. In this paper, we analyze the features and merits of three kinds of algorithms in detail and propose a new algorithm architecture for RFID anticollision. Through the extensive experimental results comparison, we prove that the new architecture is effective to improve the performance of DFSA algorithms. Finally, we summarize the future research trends in the RFID anticollision algorithms.
Reversal of Myopic Correction for Patients Intolerant to LASIK
Authors: Gab-Alla Amr A.
Published: December 2021

Purpose. To evaluate the outcome of the reversal of myopia correction in patients intolerant to LASIK. Methods. This study is a retrospective and case series of patients who decided to reverse their previous myopic LASIK correction between July 2012 and July 2020. It was conducted at a private refractive surgery centre, Ismailia, Egypt. The patients were followed up after reversal treatment for one year. Primary LASIK and reversal treatment were performed by a 500 kHz Amaris excimer laser platform. The main outcomes included refractive predictability, stability, efficacy, and safety and any reported complications. Results. This study included 48 eyes of 24 patients (6 male and 18 female patients). The average duration between the primary LASIK surgery and reversal treatment was 3.20 ± 0.30 months (range 3 to 4 months). Reversal treatment was bilateral in all patients. The mean age of the patients was 38 ± 1.9 years (range 37 to 45 yrs). After reversal, the mean postreversal cycloplegic refraction spherical equivalent was −1.82 ± 0.34 D (range −1.50 to −3.00 D). The mean ablation depth was 34.10 ± 7.36 μm (range 20 to 46 μm), and the mean of the central corneal thickness 12 months after reversal treatment was 510.2 ± 14.4 μm (range 515 to 487 μm). The mean keratometric reading was 42.6 ± 1.6 (range 42.5 to 44.8). The mean of CDVA was 0.2 ± 0.03 log MAR (range −0.10 to 0.4 log MAR). The mean optical zone of reversal treatment was 6.1 ± 0.3 mm (range 5.9 to 6.2 mm). UDVA was 0.4 log MAR in 87.5% of the patients, 0.5 log MAR in 8.3% of the patients, and 0.6 log MAR in 4.2% of the patients. CDVA remained unchanged in 83.3% of patients; 2.1% of the patients gained one line of CDVA (Snellen); 8.3% of the patients lost one line of CDVA; 6.3% of the patients lost two lines of CDVA. No cases of corneal ectasia were recorded. The only postoperative complications were flap microfolds in 3 eyes (6.25%). Conclusion. In conclusion, this study demonstrates that reversal of myopic LASIK treatment is a safe, stable, and effective option for intolerant patients.
Effect of Different Anesthesia Methods on Emergence Agitation and Related Complications in Postoperative Patients with Osteosarcoma
Authors: Zhang Minghuan , Wang Bo , Mao Wen
Published: December 2021

Purpose. To explore the effect of different anesthesia methods on emergence agitation (EA) and related complications in postoperative patients with osteosarcoma. Methods. According to the order of admission, 115 patients requiring osteosarcoma surgery treated in our hospital from January 2018 to December 2020 were selected as the research object and randomly divided into the control group (n = 57, accepted the general anesthesia with tracheal intubation) and the experimental group (n = 58, accepted the combined spinal-epidural anesthesia) to compare their anesthesia effect, incidence rates of agitation and complications, and other indexes. Results. In terms of the hemodynamic indexes (MAP, HR, and CVP values), both groups had lower ones at T1 than at T0, but the decline of the experimental group was generally lesser than that of the control group; at T2, no statistical difference was shown within the experimental group’s indexes when comparing with those at T1, but the control group obtained a significant increase; at T3 and T4, both groups had their hemodynamic indexes increased, but such increase within the experimental group showed no statistical difference when comparing with those at T0, while the control group achieved obviously higher values at T4 than at T0 (before the anesthesia); and the between-group difference in the hemodynamic indexes at T1 and T4 was significant. Compared with the control group, the experimental group achieved better VAS scores and anesthesia indexes and lower incidence rates of EA and complications such as the hypoxemia, cardiovascular response, delayed recovery, and headache. In addition, the differences in the incidence rates of hypotension and cognitive dysfunction between the two groups were not statistically significant. Conclusion. When comparing with tracheal intubation general anesthesia, the combined spinal-epidural anesthesia has a better effect in osteosarcoma surgery, with less hemodynamics influence on patients, reduced postoperative pain and stress reaction, and lowered incidence rates of postoperative EA and complications, which is worthy of wide application in clinical treatment.
Opioid Overdose and Serotonin Syndrome due to Gastric Bezoar in a Woman with Autism and Pica Behaviour
Authors: Palimaru Iolanda , Guetta Michaël , Cravero Cora , Fron Clémence , Cohen David , Giannitelli Marianna
Published: December 2021

We are presenting the case of a 38-year-old woman with nonverbal autism and intellectual disability, hospitalized in a neurobehavioural unit because of a pica behaviour for 3 years. During the hospitalization, the patient presented an episode of pain, agitation, restlessness, rhabdomyolysis, coma, tachycardia, hyperthermia, shivering, and diarrhoea. The main hypothesis raised was tramadol overdose because of the immediate antidote response to the injection of naloxone 0,4 mg/mL. Even if we did not exceed the recommended prescription dosage of tramadol, the presence of gastric bezoar slowed the absorption of the drug, and the consequence was an opioid overdose and serotonin syndrome.
Metabotropic Glutamate Receptor 8 Is Regulated by miR-33a-5p and Functions as an Oncogene in Breast Cancer
Authors: Zhang Chunxu , Xie Shuang , Yuan Shouxin , Zhang Yuanhao , Bai Yunhu , Chu Lijia , Wu Zuyin , Guo Ninghui , Wang Quanhui , Zhang Jixin
Published: December 2021

It has been reported that glutamate metabotropic receptor 8 (GRM8) is closely implicated in the progression of human neuroblastoma, lung cancer, and glioma, but its role in breast cancer remains unknown. Thus, the present study was performed to uncover it. Immunohistochemistry, real-time PCR (RT-PCR), and western blotting experiments were performed to test GRM8 expression levels in tissues and cells. Cell functions were assessed by Cell Count Kit 8 (CCK-8), flow cytometry, wound healing, transwell chambers, and in vivo xenotransplantation experiments. The relationship between miR-33a-5p and GRM8 was evaluated by luciferase gene reporter and western blotting assay. The results showed that GRM8 expression was increased in breast cancer tissues and cells, which was closely associated with lower overall survival rate. Ectopic expression of GRM8 significantly enhanced cell growth, migration, and invasion and tumorigenesis and repressed cell apoptosis. In addition, GRM8 was under the negative regulation of miR-33a-5p, which was downregulated in breast cancer tissues and served as a tumor suppressor. Moreover, overexpression of GRM8 abrogated the inhibitive role of miR-33a-5p played in breast cancer. Collectively, this study reveals that GRM8 functions as an oncogene in breast cancer and is regulated by miR-33a-5p.
A Study on the Mechanisms of Tension‐Shear Failure and the Estimation Model for Key Parameters of Free‐Face‐Assisted Rock Breaking
Authors: Tang Chongmao
Published: December 2021

One huge challenge TBM construction face is to improve the breaking ability of cutters for hard rocks, making the studies on new rock breaking approaches for cutters very important. Although a lot of previous tests have proved that it is feasible to reduce the cutter force by free‐face‐assisted rock breaking (FM), the mechanisms behind such feasibility and the estimation methods for key parameters involved, including the maximum free face distance, crushing angle, and cutting force, remain to be studied further, limiting its applications in cutterhead design and engineering construction practice. Based on the analysis of the phenomena and laws of FM tests, this paper proposes the tensile‐shear failure mechanism of FM and a piecewise linear failure criterion, which could explain the reason for the reduction of cutting force. Subsequently, a series of estimation models for the parameters above are proposed, and a series of FM tests were performed. By comparing the data obtained from the tests and calculations of the estimation model and CSM model, the estimation model in this paper is verified for its feasibility and limitations, which offered some insights on these aspects in follow‐up research.
Ultrasound Image Features under Decomposition Algorithm to Analyze the Nursing Intervention on Patients with Colon Polyps Undergoing Endoscopic Resection
Authors: Ma Na , Wang Xiujie , Zhao Xinxin , Zhao Xuehan , Liu Lin
Published: December 2021

Based on the ultrasonic imaging and endoscopic resection of the intelligent segmentation algorithm, this study is aimed at exploring whether nursing intervention can promote the good recovery of patients with colon polyps, hoping to find a new method for clinical treatment of the colon polyps. Patients with colon polyps were divided into an experimental group (fine nursing) and a control group (general nursing). The colonoscopy polyp ultrasound image was preprocessing to select the seed points and background points. The random walk decomposition algorithm was applied to calculate the probability of each marked point, and then, the marked image was outputted. The accuracy of the intelligent segmentation algorithm was 81%. The incidence of complications in the experimental group was 4.83%, which was lower than 16.66% in the control group, and the difference was statistically obvious (

P
<
0.05

). Perioperative refined nursing intervention for colon polyp patients undergoing endoscopic electrosurgical resection can decrease postoperative adverse reactions; reduce postoperative mucosal perforation, blood in the stool, abdominal pain, and small bleeding; lower the incidence of postoperative complications; and allow patients to recover quickly, enhancing the life comfort of patient.
Expression Profile Analysis and Image Observation of miRNA in Serum of Patients with Obstructive Sleep Apnea-Hypopnea Syndrome
Authors: Shao Haiyan , Shen Peihong , Chen Junfeng
Published: December 2021

The expression profile and image observation of miRNA in serum of patients with obstructive sleep apnea-hypopnea syndrome were investigated. Bioinformatics methods were used to explore the molecular mechanism of obstructive sleep apnea-hypopnea syndrome (OSAHS)-related hypertension and explore the differentially expressed core miRNAs and regulatory factors, providing a theoretical basis for seeking molecular targets for clinical diagnosis and treatment. The miRNA datasets of patients with OSAHS and those with hypertension were downloaded from the public database to obtain differentially expressed miRNAs and explore the biological processes and pathways involved in the target genes. The core miRNAs and competitive endogenous RNA (ceRNA) transcription factors (TFs) were obtained by database mining and Cytoscape network analysis. The results showed that 2,579 differentially expressed miRNAs were obtained from the GSE112093 dataset. Seven upregulated miRNAs (hsa-miR-7107-5p, hsa-miR-7110-5p, hsa-miR-595, hsa-miR-1268b, hsa-miR-3064-5p, hsa-miR-68565p, and hsa-miR-1180-3p) and one downregulated miRNA (hsa-miR-22-3p) were obtained from the GSE112093 dataset. It is proved that hsa-miR-22-3p, hsa-miR-595, hsa-miR-6856-5pKcnq1ot1, neat1, Tsix, ERG, kdm2b, and Runx1 may be involved in the pathogenesis of OSAHS-related hypertension, which provided a theoretical basis for the mechanism research and clinical treatment of OSAHS.
Tadalafil Enhances Immune Signatures in Response to Neoadjuvant Nivolumab in Resectable Head and Neck Squamous Cell Carcinoma
Authors: Luginbuhl Adam J. , Johnson Jennifer M. , Harshyne Larry A. , Linnenbach Alban J. , Shukla Sanket K. , Alnemri Angela , Kumar Gaurav , Cognetti David M. , Curry Joseph M. , Kotlov Nikita , Antysheva Zoya , Degryse Sandrine , Mannion Kyle , Gibson Michael K. , Netterville James , Brown Brandee , Axelrod Rita , Zinner Ralph , Tuluc Madalina , Gargano Stacey , Leiby Benjamin E. , Shimada Ayako , Mahoney My G. , Martinez-Outschoorn Ubaldo , Rodeck Ulrich , Kim Young J. , South Andrew P. , Argiris Athanassios
Published: December 2021

Purpose:

We hypothesize that the addition of the phosphodiesterase-5 inhibitor tadalafil to the PD-1 inhibitor nivolumab, is safe and will augment immune-mediated antitumor responses in previously untreated squamous cell carcinoma of the head and neck (HNSCC).

Patients and Methods:

We conducted a two-arm multi-institutional neoadjuvant randomized trial in any-stage resectable HNSCC (NCT03238365). Patients were stratified at randomization by human papillomavirus (HPV) status. Patients in both arms received nivolumab 240 mg intravenously on days 1 and 15 followed by surgery on day 28. Those in the combination therapy arm also received tadalafil 10 mg orally once daily for 4 weeks. Imaging, blood, and tumor were obtained pretreatment and posttreatment for correlative analysis.

Results:

Neoadjuvant therapy was well-tolerated with no grade 3 to 5 adverse events and no surgical delays. Twenty-five of 46 (54%) evaluable patients had a pathologic treatment response of ≥20%, including three (7%) patients with a complete pathologic response. Regardless of HPV status, tumor proliferation rate was a negative predictor of response. A strong pretreatment T-cell signature in the HPV-negative cohort was a predictor of response. Tadalafil altered the immune microenvironment, as evidenced by transcriptome data identifying enriched B- and natural killer cell gene sets in the tumor and augmented effector T cells in the periphery.

Conclusions:

Preoperative nivolumab ± tadalafil is safe in HNSCC and results in more than 50% of the patients having a pathologic treatment response of at least 20% after 4 weeks of treatment. Pretreatment specimens identified HPV status-dependent signatures that predicted response to immunotherapy while posttreatment specimens showed augmentation of the immune microenvironment with the addition of tadalafil.
Leitura argumentativa na escola: propostas didáticas fundadas na perspectiva interacional da argumentação
Authors: Azevedo Isabel Cristina Michelan de , Reis Louriane Ribeiro , Monte Nadija Santos
Published: December 2021

A leitura argumentativa é um campo que, atualmente, ainda carece de estudos específicos no Brasil e no mundo. Neste artigo, pretende-se discutir como esse tipo de leitura pode ser concebida e concretizada em classes de língua portuguesa no ensino fundamental, tematizando-a nos âmbitos teórico e prático com base em duas pesquisas realizadas no Mestrado Profissional em Letras/UFS, campus São Cristóvão. Metodologicamente, as pesquisas exploratórias e intervencionistas realizadas entre 2018 e 2019, por duas professoras-pesquisadoras, foram combinadas a fim de indicar como a leitura em perspectiva interacional pode ser articulada ao modelo dialogal da argumentação com vistas a promover práticas de leitura de textos marcados pela argumentação. Os resultados permitiram compor seis princípios orientadores para o desenvolvimento da leitura argumentativa na educação básica.
Videoclipe no ensino médio e o desafio de integrar os modos semióticos
Authors: Azambuja Flávia , Dornelles Clara , Simioni Taíse
Published: December 2021

Este artigo analisa como os modos semióticos foram mobilizados em uma tarefa de leitura e interpretação de um videoclipe realizada por alunos do Ensino Médio. Os dados foram gerados a partir de uma tarefa elaborada para uma WebQuest e das atividades desenvolvidas em aula, registradas em áudio e transcritas. O referencial teórico problematiza a multimodalidade e o videoclipe como gênero. A análise demonstrou que, em alguns momentos, a tarefa permitiria a almejada integração de diferentes semioses. A análise da leitura dos alunos, por sua vez, revelou que a construção de sentidos pode se pautar (i) em pistas verbais e imagéticas (o que demonstra que os alunos compreenderam que um texto pode ser composto por outras semioses, além da verbal) tomadas como entidades discretas ou (ii) na integração entre as diferentes semioses, embora a segunda forma tenha sido menos frequente. Assim, confirmamos o desafio de uma interpretação que integre modos semióticos.
Relações entre estratégias metacognitivas de leitura e desempenho escolar: possibilidades para o ensino de leitura
Authors: Ribeiro Maria Clara Maciel de Araújo , Franco Thiago Loyola , Campos Anne Caroline Lima
Published: December 2021

Avaliações em larga escala indicam que ainda é preciso atuar em prol do desenvolvimento de habilidades de leitura no Brasil. Nesse contexto, o ensino de estratégias metacognitivas de leitura pode oferecer importantes contribuições. Assim, este estudo objetiva delinear quais são as relações entre a mobilização de estratégias metacognitivas de leitura e o desempenho escolar, sob uma perspectiva sociocognitiva. Para tanto, aplicou-se uma escala de estratégias de leitura a estudantes do Ensino Médio com alto e baixo desempenho escolar, comparando-se os resultados. A pesquisa demonstra que estudantes com alto desempenho escolar utilizam-se de mais estratégias de leitura que alunos com baixo desempenho, o que corrobora o entendimento de que metacognição, leitura e desempenho escolar são fatores interrelacionados.
Análise multitemporal da variação da linha de costa no setor centro-sul da Ilha de Santa Catarina, Brasil
Authors: Estevam Cristian Nunes , Osako Liliana Sayuri , Francisco José Arthur Antonio
Published: December 2021

O reconhecimento e a quantificação de tendências da variação da linha de costa são de fundamental importância para o entendimento dos processos que moldam os ambientes costeiros, dando suporte à gestão dessas áreas. Este trabalho apresenta os resultados da análise da variação da linha de costa de um período de 78 anos em nove arcos praiais do setor centro-sul da Ilha de Santa Catarina com base em fotografias aéreas de 1938 a 2016. Três modelos espaciais foram gerados no Digital Shoreline Analysis System com a identificação de feições indicadoras de linha de costa: modelo E (limite entre praia-duna), modelo K (limite entre a área seca-molhada) e modelo M (linha de água instantânea). Os resultados mostram heterogeneidade entre os modelos espaciais com a variação média da linha de costa de 0,05 ± 0,12 m/ano para a linha E, 0,12 ± 0,25 m/ano para K e -0,20 ± 0,20 m/ano para M. O modelo E apresenta dispersão de 0,27 m e melhor ajuste às mudanças da linha de costa. O modelo K destaca-se pela alta dispersão (0,35 m) e retrata razoavelmente as mudanças costeiras. O modelo M mostra dispersão de 0,28 m e baixa confiabilidade na representação da variação da linha de costa. O processo de acreção é identificado nos arcos praiais dos Açores-Pântano do Sul e Campeche-Joaquina, sendo responsável pelo aporte contínuo de sedimentos para os sistemas eólicos adjacentes. O processo erosivo é identificado nos arcos praiais da Armação-Caldeirão e do Morro das Pedras-Campeche. Os arcos praiais de Naufragados, Lagoinha do Leste, Matadeiro, Mole e Galheta exibem relativa estabilidade.
A Brazilian Perspective on Audiobooks
Authors: de Oliveira Barbosa Rafael
Published: December 2021

This paper presents a Brazilian perspective on audiobooks. It contextualizes the past and current realities of the format in the country, on the basis of surveys coordinated by national associations connected to the book market and of archival research we have undertaken, and shows some examples of recorded literary works and recent initiatives in audiobook production. The ‘acoustic-editorial project’ idea is proposed as a way to highlight and deepen the materiality and production process of audiobooks, and to understand the editorial elements through which the listening experience is created. Authors from book history, bibliography, communication theory, and audiobook studies influenced this investigation and strengthened our construction of audiobooks as a research object.
Seven new species of Phyllocoptini from Tibet Autonomous Region, China (Acari: Eriophyidae: Phyllocoptinae)
Authors: SONG ZI-WEI , XUE XIAO-FENG , HONG XIAO-YUE
Published: December 2021

In this paper, seven new species of the Phyllocoptini (Acari: Eriophyidae: Phyllocoptinae) from China are described and illustrated. They are Calvittacus swidanus sp. nov. on Swida macrophylla (Cornaceae); Vasates desmodius sp. nov. on Desmodium sp. (Fabaceae); Epitrimerus nyingchicus sp. nov. on Cotoneaster ambiguus (Rosaceae); Calepitrimerus painus sp. nov. on Rhododendron sp. (Ericaceae); Calepitrimerus cotoneaster sp. nov. on Cotoneaster buxifolius (Rosaceae); Phyllocoptruta deutzianus sp. nov. on Deutzia sp. (Saxifragaceae) and Phyllocoptruta smilanus sp. nov. on Smilax sp. (Liliaceae). All the eriophyoid mite species described here are vagrants on the undersurface of host leaves.
Controlled Release Study on Bifidocin A from a Polyvinyl Alcohol/Chitosan Blend Particle-Based Biodegradable and Active Packaging Coupled with Mechanistic Assessment and Experimental Modeling
Authors: Nie Rong , Hao Xu , Liu Guorong , Wang Zhao , Zhu Zekang , Yuan Dongdong , Xu Duoxia
Published: December 2021

On the basis of PVA-CS, which is incorporated with Bifidocin A, anti-microbial biodegradable films were prepared, characterized by their abilities to control the Bifidocin A’s total release rate into foods as needed for packaging of active foods. This study aimed to explore the
anti-microbial effects and release kinetics of active substances in polyvinyl alcoholchitosan (PVA-CS) particle composite films added with Bifidocin A. Pseudomonas fluorescens was used as indicator bacteria to evaluate the anti-microbial activity of the films. Fick’s law, power
law and negative exponential growth model were applied to further study the release kinetics of Bifidocin A. The results revealed that the composite films of PVA and CS had better mechanical properties and anti-microbial activity when the content of Bifidocin A was 50% with 1:1 PVA/CS, but
it impairs the structure of the film, which can be resolved by including a suitable amount of grycerol. The anti-microbial was released faster at higher temperature and concentration of Bifidocin A, and the diffusion coeffcients increased significantlywith the increase of temperature and concentration.
According to the thermodynamic parameters, the release of Bifidocin A was endothermic and spontaneous. High correlation factors (R2 > 0.99) were acquired by fitting the release data of the Bifidocin A with the negative exponential growth model. The potential of Bifidocin
A to deliver from the films into the food analog appropriately at low temperatures favored the obtained active films to be applied on food packaging, especially suitable for refrigerated foods.
The Effect of Nano-Silica Gel on Biological Activity of Osteoblasts and Expression of Insulin-Like and Growth Factor-2
Authors: Zhou Xiaoling , Yang Ting , Li Xin , Wei Tingting , Xu Ying , Mao Yunyuan , Lei Chen
Published: December 2021

This study assessed the effect nano-silica gel material on bioactivity of osteoblasts and expression of IGF-2. Methods: Silica gel nanoparticles (Nanjing Kike Company) were divided according to their concentrations as follows; 0 μg/mL a control group with cells without nanoparticle
treatment, 25 μg/mL as group 1, 50 μg/mL as group 2, and 100 μg/mL as group 3. The transmission electron microscope was used to measure morphology, while particle size analyzer was used to measure particle size, and potential analyzer measured Zeta potential,
and MTT measured proliferation.Moreover, ALP kit was used to measure ALP activity, and Alizarin red staining measured formation of wild flower nodules, while RT-PCR was used to measure expression of IGF-2. Results: The shape of silica gel nanoparticles was spherical, with uniform particle
size distribution, and particle size was between 50–800 nm. The average particle size was 383 nm, and Zeta potential was −12.3. The growth rate of control group and group 1 was relatively close (t = 0.95, P = 0.37), and growth rate of groups 2 and 3 was higher than
control (group t2 = 5.63, P < 0.05, group t3 = 10.38, P < 0.05). The value-added rate for group 3 was higher than group 2 (t = 4.41, P < 0.05). Group 1 had higher activity than control group (t = 10.29, P < 0.05) and lower
activity than group 3 (t = 9.85, P < 0.05) which had higher activity than group 2 (t = 4.16, P < 0.05). Groups 1, 2, and 3 induced the growth of osteoblasts, promoted calcium salt deposition, and produced red mineralized nodules where the cells converged.
The formation of mineralized nodules obviously depended on concentration of silica nanoparticles. Group 1 had higher IGF-2 expression than control (t = 19.99, P < 0.05) and lower level than group 2 (t = 16.69, P < 0.05). Silica gel nanoparticles promoted MC3T3-E1
cell proliferation and differentiation. The mechanism of action may be that, silica gel nanoparticles accelerate the growth of ALP activity and osteoblast extracellular matrix mineralization by promoting the level of IGF-2. The production of chemical nodules accelerates the proliferation and
differentiation of osteoblasts.
Development of Injectable Hydroxyapatite/2-(dimethylamino)Ethyl Methacrylate/Polyvinylpyrrolidone Aqua-Hydrogel System to Repair of the Shoulder Joint Head for Hemiarthroplasty
Authors: Zhang Jiangnan , Mo Tingting , Lin Meng , Chen Zhengbiao , Lian Chan , Zhang Guiqin , Li Jun
Published: December 2021

This study aimed to develop osteogenic structure assembly for modular bone treatment presentations, effect of 2-(dimethylamino)ethyl methacrylate and polyvinyl pyrrolidone combination as cell adhesive molecule with hydroxyapatite-based composite as osteoconductive constituent was inspected on bone fracture repair. The prepared injectable composite hydrogel showed significantly improved mechanical stability. The ternary composite gel was characterized for functional group modifications and chemical interactions using Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS). Moreover, X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and transmission electron microscopy (TEM) analyses were performed to observe surface appearances of the hydrogel. The hydroxyapatite/2-(dimethylamino)ethyl methacrylate/poly-N-vinyl-2-pyrrolidone hydrogel played key role in supporting osteoblastic cell spread due to their bioactivity and strength abilities. The present findings revealed the significance of hydroxyapatite concentration on proliferation and osteogenic purpose of the cells. The developed performances of hydrogel have been improved cell proliferation and functions to repair bone fracture.
Nitroreductase-Induced Aggregation of Gold Nanoparticles for “Off–On” Photoacoustic Imaging of Tumor Hypoxia
Authors: Li Xin , Fang Xueyang , Li Shiying , Lui Kwok-Ho , Lo Wai-Sum , Gu Yanjuan , Wong Wing-Tak
Published: December 2021

Hypoxia is an important phenomenon due to insufficient oxygen supply in tumor tissue, and nitroreductase (NTR) is a characteristic enzyme used for evaluating hypoxia level in tumors. In this work, we designed a smart gold nanoparticle (AuNPs), modified by 16-mercaptoundecanoic acid
(MHDA) and hypoxia-responsive 11-(2-nitro-1H-imidazol-1-yl)undecane-1-thiol (NI) ligand, that responds to the hypoxic environment in tumor sites. With proper surface ligand composition, the responsive nanoprobe exhibited aggregation through the bioreduction of the nitro group on NI ligands
under hypoxic conditions and the UV-vis absorption peak maximum would shift to 630 nm from 530 nm, which acts as an “off–on” contrast agent for tumor hypoxic photoacoustic (PA) imaging. In vitro and in vivo experiments revealed that AuNPs@MHDA/NO2
exhibited an enhanced PA signal in hypoxic conditions. This study demonstrates the potential of hypoxia-responsive AuNPs as novel and sensitive diagnostic agents, which lays a firm foundation for precise cancer treatment in the future.
Decadal Variability of the Upper-Ocean Salinity in the Southeast Indian Ocean: Role of Local Ocean–Atmosphere Dynamics
Authors: Wu Yue , Zheng Xiao-Tong , Sun Qi-Wei , Zhang Yu , Du Yan , Liu Lin
Published: December 2021

Ocean salinity plays a crucial role in the upper-ocean stratification and local marine ecosystem. This study reveals that ocean salinity presents notable decadal variability in upper 200 m over the southeast Indian Ocean (SEIO). Previous studies linked this salinity variability with precipitation anomalies over the Indo-Pacific region modulated by the tropical Pacific decadal variability. Here we conduct a quantitative salinity budget analysis and show that, in contrast, oceanic advection, especially the anomalous meridional advection, plays a dominant role in modulating the SEIO salinity on the decadal time scale. The anomalous meridional advection is mainly associated with a zonal dipole pattern of sea level anomaly (SLA) in the south Indian Ocean (SIO). Specifically, positive and negative SLAs in the east and west of the SIO correspond to anomalous southward oceanic current, which transports much fresher seawater from the warm pool into the SEIO and thereby decreases the local upper-ocean salinity, and vice versa. Further investigation reveals that the local anomalous wind stress curl associated with tropical Pacific forcing is responsible for generating the sea level dipole pattern via oceanic Rossby wave adjustment on decadal time scale. This study highlights that the local ocean–atmosphere dynamical adjustment is critical for the decadal salinity variability in the SEIO.
Weakening and Poleward Shifting of the North Pacific Subtropical Fronts from 1980 to 2018
Authors: Xu Lixiao , Wang Keyao , Wu Baolan
Published: December 2021

Recent evidence shows that the North Pacific subtropical gyre and the Kuroshio Extension (KE) and Oyashio Extension (OE) fronts have moved poleward in the past few decades. However, changes of the North Pacific Subtropical Fronts (STFs), anchored by the North Pacific subtropical countercurrent in the southern subtropical gyre, remain to be quantified. By synthesizing observations, reanalysis, and eddy-resolving ocean hindcasts, we show that the STFs, especially their eastern part, weakened (20% ± 5%) and moved poleward (1.6° ± 0.4°) from 1980 to 2018. Changes of the STFs are modified by mode waters to the north. We find that the central mode water (CMW) (180°–160°W) shows most significant weakening (18% ± 7%) and poleward shifting (2.4° ± 0.9°) trends, while the eastern part of the subtropical mode water (STMW) (160°E–180°) has similar but moderate changes (10% ± 8%; 0.9° ± 0.4°). Trends of the western part of the STMW (140°–160°E) are not evident. The weakening and poleward shifting of mode waters and STFs are enhanced to the east and are mainly associated with changes of the northern deep mixed layers and outcrop lines—which have a growing northward shift as they elongate to the east. The eastern deep mixed layer shows the largest shallowing trend, where the subduction rate also decreases the most. The mixed layer and outcrop line changes are strongly coupled with the northward migration of the North Pacific subtropical gyre and the KE/OE jets as a result of the poleward expanded Hadley cell, indicating that the KE/OE fronts, mode waters, and STFs change as a whole system.
Achievement Goal Theory Review: An Application to School Psychology
Authors: Chazan Devon J. , Pelletier Gabrielle N. , Daniels Lia M.
Published: December 2021

Achievement Goal Theory (AGT) is one of the most popular theoretical frameworks in motivation research. Despite its application to a variety of contexts, including, school, work, and sport, it has not yet been referenced in the field of school psychology. First, we review the theoretical underpinnings as told through the theory’s evolving models, explore its impacts on cognition, emotion, and behavior, and introduce a multiple goals perspective. Second, we outline the leading research supporting AGT, both in terms of structural and individual intervention studies. Third, we apply the principles of AGT to the primary tasks of school psychology professionals, including assessment, intervention, and consultation practices. The students we support can greatly benefit from gearing our approaches toward ones that foster self-improvement and interest.
When Dogs Make the Difference: Jail-Based Parenting With and Without Animal-Assisted Therapy
Authors: Collica-Cox Kimberly , Day George J.
Published: December 2021

With 1.7 million children in the United States with an incarcerated parent, the need to provide evidence-based programming, which helps incarcerated mothers re-establish healthy relationships with their children, is essential. This study examines Parenting, Prison, and Pups, a jail-based parenting course for incarcerated women, integrated with the use of animal-assisted therapy (AAT). Utilizing a mixed-method quasi-experimental design, the authors examined differences between mothers who completed a parenting course with AAT, compared with those who completed the same course without AAT; statistically significant lower rates of parental stress and higher rates of self-esteem and parental knowledge among the AAT group were found. Based on qualitative data, the presence of therapy dogs appeared to encourage communication, trust, and connectedness between group members. These results indicate the importance of using innovative tools to help incarcerated women, who often have long histories of trauma and abuse, to develop healthy bonds with their children.
Increased Incidence of Injury Among Runners With COVID-19
Authors: Toresdahl Brett G. , Robinson James N. , Kliethermes Stephanie A. , Metzl Jordan D. , Dixit Sameer , Quijano Brianna , Fontana Mark A.
Published: December 2021

Background:

Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) affects multiple organ systems. Whether and how COVID-19 affects the musculoskeletal system remains unknown. We aim to assess the association between COVID-19 and risk of injury.

Hypothesis:

Runners who report having COVID-19 also report a higher incidence of injury.

Study Design:

Cross-sectional study.

Level of Evidence:

Level 4.

Methods:

An electronic survey was distributed from July through September 2020, by New York Road Runners, ASICS North America, race medical directors, and through social media. Inclusion criteria were runners 18 years or older who had participated in ≥1 race (running or triathlon) in 2019.

Results:

A total of 1947 runners participated and met inclusion criteria. Average age was 45.0 (SD, 12.2) years and 56.5% were women. A total of 123 (6.3%) runners self-reported having COVID-19; 100 (81%) reported their diagnosis was from a laboratory test (polymerase chain reaction or antibody) and 23 reported being diagnosed by a medical professional without confirmatory laboratory testing. Since March 2020, 427 (21.9%) reported an injury that prevented running for at least 1 week, including 38 of 123 (30.9%) who self-reported having COVID-19 and 389 of 1435 (21.3%) who did not report having COVID-19 ( P = 0.01). After adjusting for age, sex, the number of races in 2019, and running patterns before March 2020, runners who self-reported a diagnosis of COVID-19 had a higher incidence of injury compared with those who did not (odds ratio, 1.66; 95% CI, 1.11-2.48; P = 0.01).

Conclusion:

Injuries were more often self-reported by runners with laboratory-confirmed or clinically diagnosed COVID-19 compared with those who did not report COVID-19. Given the limitations of the study, any direct role of COVID-19 in the pathophysiology of injuries among runners remains unclear.

Clinical Relevance:

Direct and indirect musculoskeletal sequelae of COVID-19 should be further investigated, including the risk of exercise- and sports-related injury after COVID-19.