bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Chemical and Structural Characterization of Poplar and Black Pine Wood Exposed to Short Thermal Modification
Authors: Kamperidou Vasiliki
Published: May 2021

In this study, poplar and black pine wood was exposed to short thermal treatments, aiming to improve some crucial properties. Using wet chemical analyses and Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR), the influence of these treatments on the chemical composition of the modified species was investigated, as well as on the wood structure, using scanning electron microscopy. With the increase of heat treatment intensity, a mass loss of both species was recorded, attributed to the moisture loss and degradation of volatile compounds, as well as thermally less stable components. In the first treatment stages, the extractives presented a decrease, whereas with the duration and temperature increase, new extractives were formed. Lignin increased its network through ramification, especially at 200 ºC, while holocellulose was found lower in all modified wood categories of both species than in unmodified wood due to the intense decomposition of hemicelluloses. The findings of FT-IR analyses were in line with the chemical analysis results. The thermal modification process made wood materials more hydrophobic and dimensionally stable, providing protection against decomposing factors. At the same time, they were not intensively thermo-degraded, which increased their utilization perspectives and application range as solid wood of enhanced properties, or as wood particles/fibers participating as raw materials in wood-based composite products, wood-polymers composites etc., enhancing their materials compatibility, properties and performance.
Charakterystyka emisji elektromagnetycznych związanych z użytkowaniem nasobnych urządzeń działających w technologii Internetu Rzeczy
Authors: Zradziński Patryk , Karpowicz Jolanta , Gryz Krzysztof
Published: May 2021

Internet Rzeczy (IoT) jest coraz powszechniej wykorzystywaną technologią w przemyśle, w tzw. inteligentnych miastach i domach czy w monitoringu stanu zdrowia. Artykuł prezentuje charakterystykę emisji elektromagnetycznych różnych technologii łączności bezprzewodowej wykorzystywanych w IoT (WiFi, Bluetooth, RFID, Zig-Bee, sieci komórkowe itp.). Przedstawiono w nim również kryteria i metody oceny zawodowych zagrożeń elektromagnetycznych związanych z użytkowaniem takich urządzeń.
Phase transitions in the Fe/NH3/H2 and Fe-N systems
Authors: Michalski Jerzy , Frączek Tadeusz
Published: May 2021

In the article, based on the literature, the phase changes in iron nitrides on iron powders and on solid samples were discussed. Phase transformations in NH3/H2 atmosphere and in inert atmospheres are discussed. The similarity of phase transformations in different atmospheres used during annealing were indicated. The conditions of phase transformations in iron nitrides during annealing in NH3/H2 atmosphere, argon and vacuum were discussed. Phase transformations occurring during annealing in the NH3/H2 atmosphere are reversible and there is a hysteresis phenomenon. During the phase transformation ɛγ' in the NH3/H2 atmosphere until the transformation is completed, nitrogen emission to the atmosphere takes place. On the other hand, the condition for the course of the transformation of γ'ɛ is the nitrogen flow from the atmosphere to the surface.
Phase changes during heating in vacuum and argon are irreversible. During continuous heating at a rate of 30 K / min in vacuum and argon, nitrided iron powders, two phase transformations may occur, which are not accompanied by weight loss, the first (α+γ')γN in the temperature range 540÷550°C in a vacuum and 620÷630°C in argon and the second (γ+γ')ɛ in the range of 610÷620°C in vacuum and 690÷710°C in argon. In the case of heating in argon, the onset of weight loss was recorded at a temperature of about 860°C. Whereas in vacuum the denitration of nitrogen austenite γN ends at this temperature.
During annealing at the temperature of 360°C, the phase change ɛγ′ in the ɛ/γ′ layer is accompanied by an increase in the thickness of the γ′ phase, which is at the expense of the thickness of the ɛ zone, while the total thickness of the layer after the transformation is the same as its initial thickness. At the temperature of 420°C, after the completion of the γ′ transformation, the formed monophasic layer γ′ is thicker than the ɛ/γ′ layers in the initial state.
Museums, Artefacts and Cultural Heritage Sites
Authors: Liestøl Gunnar
Published: May 2021

The relationships between museums, artefacts and original sites are complex. How may we use mobile augmented reality (AR) to bridge the gaps between both indoors and outdoors exhibitions as well as the opposition between central collections and the more peripheral sites of the original artefacts? In this paper we present two main cases (the Viking Ship Museum in Oslo and the Calmecac Museum in Mexico City) where we have experimented with bringing a digital copy of the displaced artefact back to its original environment, as well as bringing a digital copy of the original environment into the displaced or isolated object in the museum exhibition. Further, we report on a solution to solve the problem with indoor positioning (IPS) and how it can be seamlessly combined with GPS–based outdoor positioning for smooth transitions between inside and outside. Finally, these cases were tested with three different hardware platforms - tablets, smartphones and smartglasses.
The Use of Digital Solutions in Museums Today and in the Future
Authors: Clements Johanna , Vermehren Anna Insa , Fossli Ida , Bogomolov Jaroslav
Published: May 2021

In this paper we look at digital solutions in museums today and with a view to the future. We believe that they have a potential to innovate museum practices and reach audiences with relevant content. We have found the Norwegian Government’s Museum Framework (Kulturdepartementet 2009) a useful starting point to consider ‘digital’ through the lens of the areas of collection care, research, content dissemination, innovation and business development. In this paper, our focus is on smaller museums and heritage organisations. We contribute our thoughts, experiences and give some practical ideas how small museums can better utilise digital media and digital solutions. 

This paper was written by staff members of Museum Nord who are part of the Research and Development Team. Museum Nord was lead partner in the CINE project, 2017-2020 (CINE project 2017) which enabled the team to gain valuable insights into this area of knowledge and practice.
Effect of Self-care Training Program on Surgical Incision Wound Healing in Women Undergoing Cesarean Section: A Quasi-Experimental Study
Authors: Zarei Mohammad Reza , Rostami Farideh , Bozorghnejad Mehri , Mohaddes Ardebili Fatemeh , Mamashli Leila , Eliasi Sona , Khachian Alice
Published: May 2021

Background: Cesarean section is one of the most important and common surgeries, and surgical incision wound disorders are one of the medical problems. Self-care behaviors can be effective in accelerating the wound healing process. Objectives: This study was conducted to determine the effect of a self-care training program on surgical incision wound healing in women undergoing cesarean section. Methods: This study was a quasi-experimental clinical trial on 72 women undergoing cesarean section in 2017 at one of the medical centers of Sarpol-e Zahab. Sampling was continuous, and subjects were randomly assigned to control or intervention groups based on inclusion criteria. The mothers of the experimental group were given a surgical wound care booklet, and the contents were taught by the researcher in 45 - 60 minutes one day before cesarean section. The learning rate was measured before and after the intervention at the clinic. Cesarean section wound healing was assessed 24 hours and nine days after cesarean section using REEDA tools in both groups. The collected information was analyzed by statistical indices (standard deviation and mean) and tests (independent t-test, Fisher's exact test, Wilcoxon and Friedman tests) by using IBM SPSS software version 20. Results: The mean score of cesarean section wound healing 24 hours after surgery was 1.1 ± 39.38 in the intervention group and 1.1 ± 92.60 in the control group that had no significant differences (P < 0.13). However, the mean score of cesarean section wound healing nine days after surgery was 0.0 ± 53.65 in the intervention group and 1.1 ± 43.28 in the control group, which showed a significant difference (P = 0.001). Conclusions: According to the findings, it can be concluded that a self-care training program is effective in accelerating the surgical incision wound healing in women undergoing cesarean section. Thus, we propose to use this self-care training program in pregnant mothers undergoing cesarean section.
The Comparison of Pediatric Quality Of Life in 8 - 12-Year-Old Asthmatic Children Versus Healthy Controls
Authors: Abolnezhadian Farhad , Sabzali Soheila , Mirkarimi Seyed Mohammadreza
Published: May 2021

Background: Asthma is identified as the most prevalent chronic non-communicable childhood illness at any age worldwide, mainly affecting health, functioning, and pediatric quality of life (PedsQL) dimensions in children. Objectives: The current study aimed to evaluate the status of the PedsQL in asthmatic children versus healthy controls for the ultimate goal of developing childhood asthma community-based integrated preventive and management programs. Methods: This analytic cross‐sectional study was carried out on 96 children participants with asthma and 95 healthy children, aged eight to twelve years, from January to December 2019. The different aspects of quality of life (QoL) and demographic characteristics of all subjects with the same age and gender were examined using the standardized disease-specific PedsQL questionnaire (consisting of 23 items) and the personal information questionnaire, respectively. The P < 0.05 criterion was set as the significance threshold. Results: The outcomes of patients’ responses associated with the PedsQL subscale showed significantly lower mean scores in children with controlled asthma compared to healthy children (P < 0.001). This model covered physical, emotional (significantly lower mean scores), psychological, and social effects in addition to school functions, showing statistically significant differences between the two groups (P < 0.001). In contrast to physical and school-related activities, lesser social status, emotional characteristics, and an overall score of QoL were significantly associated with poor QoL in lower-income children (P < 0.001). No significant difference was found between the two groups regarding sex, maternal educational level, or family income, but the two groups were significantly different in terms of paternal educational level and smoking (P < 0.05). Conclusions: It was found that asthma had profound unfavorable effects on patients’ healthy lifestyles and activities, mostly concerning daily physical activities, socio-emotional functioning, intellectual performance, school productivity, and psychological harmonization.
Harm, Responsibility, and the Far-off Impacts of Climate Change
Authors: Shahar Dan ,   Center for Environmental Philosophy, The University of North Texas
Published: May 2021

Climate change is already a major global threat, but many of its worst impacts are still decades away. Many people who will eventually be affected by it still have opportunities to mitigate harm. When considering the avoidable burdens of climate change, it seems plausible victims will often share some responsibility for putting themselves into (or failing to get out of) harm’s way. This fact should be incorporated into our thinking about the ethical significance of climate-induced harms, particularly to emphasize the importance of differential abilities to get and stay out of harm’s way. Currently, many people face serious obstacles to reducing their vulnerability to climate change, such as poverty, lack of education, and political or legal obstacles to mobility. Climate policy discussions should do more to emphasize the alleviation of these sources of difficulties, thereby empowering people to choose what risks they will bear in a warming world.
The Personal Responsibility to Reduce Greenhouse Gases
Authors: Howe Benjamin ,   Center for Environmental Philosophy, The University of North Texas
Published: May 2021

Many theorists who argue that individuals have a personal responsibility to reduce greenhouse gases (GHGs) tie the amount of GHGs that an individual is obligated to reduce to the amount that an individual releases, or what is often called a carbon footprint. The first section of this article argues that this approach produces standards that are too burdensome in some contexts. Section two argues that this approach produces standards of responsibility that are too lenient in other contexts and sketches an alternative account of personal responsibility that treats it as an obligation to take certain kinds of opportunities to reduce GHGs, regardless of how little or much gas an individual releases through her own actions. Section three argues that this alternative conception of personal responsibility is well positioned to rebut the Argument from Inconsequentialism, widely considered the most significant challenge to the assumption that individuals are capable of bearing a responsibility to reduce GHGs.
Justice and Ecocide
Authors: Rodeiro Manuel ,   Center for Environmental Philosophy, The University of North Texas
Published: May 2021

According to an environmental application of Rawlsian principles of justice, the well-ordered society cannot tolerate the perpetration of certain environmental harms. This paper gives an account of those harms committed in the form of ecocide. The concept of ecocide is developed, as well as the ideal of eco-relational pluralism, as conceptual tools for defending citizens’ environmental interests. This paper aims to identify persuasive and reasonably acceptable justice claims for compelling states to curtail environmentally destructive activities through recourse to principles firmly established in the liberal tradition, while simultaneously exploring the limitations of such an approach.
Yacht Rating
Authors: Strohmeier Daniel D.
Published: May 2021

Yacht measurement and its necessary companion, time allowances, form the spice of the sport of yachting and cannot be over-looked,” - N.G Herreshoff. By sport of yachting he meant, of course, racing. Yacht measurement, rating, has had a continuous influence on yacht design since handicap yacht racing began a century and a half ago. Beginning with custom measurement, yacht ratings have evolved to linear ratings, thus lending themselves to a semi-rational system of time allowances based on speed-length ratio. The complex laws of yacht behavior preclude the probability of a perfect handicapping system under which skill alone will determine the winner among dissimilar yachts.
Measurements Parameters of the I.O.R Rule
Authors: Stephens Olin J.
Published: May 2021

The substance of this paper is the description of the measurement parameters of the I.O.R. Rule in the course of which the effort is made to cover their derivation and to indicate the reasons for the taking the measurements called for under the Rule. In the course of this review, suggestions are made in regard to the background of the rule, primarily in relation to the earlier C.C.A. Rule. The conclusion touches briefly on future possibilities.
The Performance of Sailing Yachts in Oblique Seas
Authors: Pedrick David R.
Published: May 2021

Differences in the effects that rough water has on similar sailing yachts has been one of the intriguing puzzles that sailors, designers, and researchers have long tried to understand, It is not uncommon that two yachts whose performance is equal in smooth sea conditions will have their speed or point­ing ability reduced by different amounts when encountering waves, To investigate the causes of such behavior, it is important to have a rational procedure to analyze how changes in hullform, weight distribution, rig, and other design features affect the speed and motions of sailing yachts.

This paper discusses the relationship of wind to rough water and of motions and added resistance to wave length and height, It then describes a procedure to predict motions, sailing speed, and speed-made-good to windward in realistic windward sailing conditions, The procedure utilizes results of heeled and yawed model tests of twelve meter yachts in oblique regular waves to predict performance in a Pierson-Moskowitz sea state corresponding closely to the equilibrium true wind speed.
Laboratory method for recording AWS-3 LTE waveforms
Authors: Sanders Aric W , Forsyth M Keith , Horansky Robert D , Kord Azizollah , McGillivray Duncan A
Published: May 2021

The focus of this work provides a library of actual long-term evolution (LTE) user equipment (UE) emissions with sufficient time resolution and dynamic range for use in spectrum sharing, and interference susceptibility studies. National Advanced Spectrum and Communications Test Network (NASCTN)'s AWS-3 LTE impacts on AMT study required the use of LTE waveforms from advanced wireless services 3 (AWS-3) equipment for playback in a susceptibility analysis. Thus, National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) and the NASCTN program office commissioned the work as part of the Edwards Air Force Base (EAFB) proposed and NASCTN steering committee approved test request to investigate the impact of LTE activities on aeronautical mobile telemetry (AMT) links. The recordings of the UE emissions are performed in the NIST Broadband Interoperability Testbed (NBIT) facility, where under laboratory conditions, a single UE (and subsequently a second UE) are in connection to a fully emulated LTE network with a carrier grade evolved Node B (eNB). NBIT's hybrid radio frequency (RF) testbed allows for a radiated free-space connection to the UE in conjunction with a cabled user equipment traffic generator (UTG) for control of cell loading conditions.
The Territorial Agenda 2030: Towards a common language? A review of a conceptual framework
Authors: Neto Henriques Carolina , Dragović Sonja , Auer Christine , Gomes Irina
Published: May 2021

The Territorial Agenda 2030 aims to provide multi-level strategic orientation to increase cohesion and overcome the 21st century pressing challenges. In multilingual contexts, the ideas and concepts communicated in such agendas must be clear and well-defined. In our study, we conducted a content analysis of the concepts of environment, inequality, justice, sustainability, territory and transition in contrast with former versions of this agenda. We found that, since 1983, the Territorial Agenda conceptual framework changed significantly in its meaning and semantic universe of reference.
Effet des classes et des écoles sur les performances en mathématiques des élèves de 4e année du primaire de la Province orientale en République démocratique du Congo
Authors: Mokonzi Gratien Bambanota , Van Damme Jan , De Fraine Bieke , Asobee Gboisso Oscar , Legono Bela Jean-Paul
Published: May 2021

Cette étude examine l’impact des classes et des écoles sur les performances en mathématiques des élèves de 4e année du primaire dans deux villes de la République démocratique du Congo en recourant à l’analyse multiniveau. Elle révèle que 71  %, 16 % et 13 % de la variance totale se situent respectivement aux niveaux élève, classe et école. L’étude montre en outre qu’au-delà de l’effet des caractéristiques individuelles, les caractéristiques de la classe expliquent 2,9 % (niveau classe) et 3,4 % (niveau école) de la variance totale. Cependant, seules la moyenne de la classe au prétest et la taille de classe sont significativement associées aux performances des élèves. L’étude montre enfin que si les caractéristiques de l’école expliquent 1,5 % de la variance totale située au niveau de l’école, l’expérience du directeur est le seul prédicteur significatif des performances des élèves.
Enseignement du français aux personnes adultes immigrantes en apprentissage de la langue et de la littératie : mieux comprendre pour encore mieux intervenir
Authors: Fortier Véronique , Beaulieu Suzie , Amireault Valérie
Published: May 2021

La présence grandissante, au Québec, de personnes adultes immigrantes faisant face au double défi de l’apprentissage du français et de la littératie a forcé les milieux politiques, d’enseignement et de recherche à s’intéresser davantage à ces apprenant.e.s afin de leur offrir des services répondant le mieux à leurs besoins. Ainsi, afin de favoriser une meilleure connaissance de cette population présente dans les quatre coins de la province, nous proposons d’abord, dans cet article, un bref survol de la situation démographique et de l’offre scolaire au Québec. Nous ferons ensuite ressortir certaines caractéristiques, partagées par plusieurs de ces apprenant.e.s, qui permettent de mieux comprendre leur riche bagage linguistique et culturel ainsi que la manière dont ce bagage peut influencer leurs apprentissages. Nous offrons enfin des pistes pédagogiques adaptées à ces caractéristiques, et ce, dans l’objectif de créer des occasions d’apprentissage pouvant facilement être mises en oeuvre avec des apprenant.e.s peu familier.ère.s avec les attentes scolaires de leur nouveau milieu d’accueil.
Geochemical composition of Holocene and Late Pleistocene ice wedges in the yedoma of Stanchikovsky Yar and near the Chersky town, Northern Yakutia
Authors: Budantseva Nadine Arkad'evna , Vasil'chuk Yurij Kirillovich
Published: May 2021

The subject of this research is the Late Pleistocene and Holocene ice wedges exposed near Chersky settlement, lower Kolyma River, and in the yedoma strata of the Stanchikovsky Yar on the Maly Anyuy River. In the yedoma of the Stanchikovsky Yar, multi-tiered syngenetic ice wedges were exposed at different levels – from 10 to 35 m above river level. Ice wedge in the lower tier was sampled in detail. In the yedoma strata near Chersky relatively small fragments of ice wedges up to 1.5 m wide and up to 2 m high were exposed. 1.5-2 km from Chersky within the lacusrtine-paludal depression Holocene ice wedges were exposed. Ice wedges in these three sections was sampled to clarify the geochemical conditions of their formation. It is shown that concentration of Na+, K+, Mg2+, Cl- and SO42- in Holocene and Late Pleistocene ice wedges is very low and mean values do not exceed 5 mg/L. The highest values were obtained for Ca2+, which corresponds to the predominance of this ion in the modern snow of Yakutia and indicates that ice wedges were formed mainly from melted snow. Rather high values of NO3-, reaching 14-27 mg/L, are quite likely due to the swampy environment within polygonal landscapes, where organic matter of both plant and animal origin is decomposed. For comparison, in the water of the Kolyma and Maly Anyu rivers, concentration of nitrates is quite low and does not exceed 0.3 mg/L.
The Soviet–Japanese Neutrality Pact of April 13, 1941: China's response
Authors: Yang Yiting
Published: May 2021

The subject of this research is response of the government, political parties, and society of the Republic of China to signing the Neutrality Pact between the USSR and Japan on April 13, 1941 – one of the crucial bilateral agreements of the World War II, which entailed fundamental changes to the Far Eastern international system. The Soviet-Japanese Neutrality Pact negatively affected the relations between the Soviet Union and the Republic of China. The goal of this work is to objectively assess the impact of the Soviet-Japanese Neutrality Pact of April 13, 1941 upon the domestic and foreign policy of the Chinese government, as well as further development of the Sino-Soviet relations. The novelty of this work consists in the fact that based on the poorly studied Russian and foreign documentary materials, the author examines the questions that have been rarely touched upon within the Russian historiography, such as: China’s response to conclusion of the Neutrality Pact between the USSR and Japan; its effect upon Sino-Soviet relations. The conclusion is made that the Soviet-Japanese Neutrality Pact of April 13, 1941, which marked the most difficult moment of the Sino-Japanese War, was a psychological blow to China. The position of the Kuomintang government was ambivalent: on the one hand, it refrained from the public anti-Soviet propaganda; while on the other hand, used dissatisfaction of China’s population to enhance pressure on its major political opponent – China’s Communist Party. Therefore, the Sino-Soviet relations in general did not experience severe problems; however, the internal split in the Chinese society has worsened, which substantially undermined the formation of Second United Front.
Tax control over the computation and discharge of VAT in services rendered by foreign companies in electronic form on the territory of the Russian Federation: legal aspect
Authors: Eremkin Mikhail Aleksandrovich
Published: May 2021

This article is dedicated to the analysis of relevant problems of tax control in the e-commerce sector caused by digitalization and globalization of business. The author gives general characteristics to tax control as the key element of tax administration; examines the peculiarities of legal regulation of the value-added tax for services rendered by foreign companies in electronic form on the territory of the Russian Federation. Description is given to the amendments in the Russian legislation on taxes and fees related to the establishment of new rules of VAT taxation for electronic services provided by foreign suppliers, which have been enacted in the past five years. Attention is turned to such instrument of interaction of the Federal Tax Service of Russia with foreign companies as the “VAT office of a foreign Internet company”. Analysis is conducted on the major problems of tax control over the computation and discharge of VAT in rendering transboundary electronic services on the territory of the Russian Federation, which emerge also due to the gaps in legal regulation. The author outlines the vectors of improving tax control in this sphere. The conclusion is made on the need for amending the legislation of the Russian Federation on taxes and fees, further expansion of the use of digital technologies in tax administration, and creation of infrastructure necessary for automated interaction with various institutions and tax authorities of other countries, development of international cooperation, and formation of tax culture.
Ativismo patrocinado pelo Estado: burocratas e movimentos sociais no Brasil democrático
Authors: Rich Jessica A. J.
Published: May 2021

A autora analisa as políticas de HIV e Aids no Brasil para desvendar as relações complexas entre a sociedade e o Estado no contexto do Brasil democrático (e, mais amplamente, na teoria da ciência política sobre transições democráticas na América Latina). A autora enfatiza uma relação muito mais rica do que previamente percebida entre o ativismo da sociedade civil e a presença de um espírito ativista também na burocracia estatal devidamente renovada e empoderada pelo aprofundamento dos processos de redemocratização. No retrato revelado pelo trabalho de Jessica Rich, podemos enxergar a construção de uma coalizão ativista (ou, em inglês, uma coalizão de advocacy) em que ativistas se transformam em burocratas (não no sentido pejorativo muitas vezes associado com a palavra burocrata, mas no seu sentido técnico, como funcionário ou servidor público), enquanto burocratas se transformam em verdadeiros ativistas. É um processo de integração em que os processos políticos são construídos simultaneamente tanto de cima quanto de baixo, com o envolvimento significante de setores governamentais na mobilização social, e com a participação da sociedade civil e as suas organizações (neste caso, especialmente o setor das chamadas ONGs/Aids) na articulação e na implementação das políticas públicas.
The Beauty of Chemistry
Authors: Ball Philip
Published: May 2021

Images and text capture the astonishing beauty of the chemical processes that create snowflakes, bubbles, flames, and other wonders of nature.

Chemistry is not just about microscopic atoms doing inscrutable things; it is the process that makes flowers and galaxies. We rely on it for bread-baking, vegetable-growing, and producing the materials of daily life. In stunning images and illuminating text, this book captures chemistry as it unfolds. Using such techniques as microphotography, time-lapse photography, and infrared thermal imaging, The Beauty of Chemistry shows us how chemistry underpins the formation of snowflakes, the science of champagne, the colors of flowers, and other wonders of nature and technology. We see the marvelous configurations of chemical gardens; the amazing transformations of evaporation, distillation, and precipitation; heat made visible; and more.

The visuals in The Beauty of Chemistry are drawn from the online exhibition Envisioning Chemistry created by Wenting Zhu and Yan Liang in collaboration with the Chinese Chemical Society. These striking images are accompanied by accessible, engaging explanations by award-winning science writer Philip Ball.
A developmental framework linking neurogenesis and circuit formation in the Drosophila CNS
Authors: Mark Brandon , Lai Sen-Lin , Zarin Aref Arzan , Manning Laurina , Pollington Heather Q , Litwin-Kumar Ashok , Cardona Albert , Truman James W , Doe Chris Q
Published: May 2021

The mechanisms specifying neuronal diversity are well characterized, yet it remains unclear how or if these mechanisms regulate neural circuit assembly. To address this, we mapped the developmental origin of 160 interneurons from seven bilateral neural progenitors (neuroblasts) and identify them in a synapse-scale TEM reconstruction of the Drosophila larval central nervous system. We find that lineages concurrently build the sensory and motor neuropils by generating sensory and motor hemilineages in a Notch-dependent manner. Neurons in a hemilineage share common synaptic targeting within the neuropil, which is further refined based on neuronal temporal identity. Connectome analysis shows that hemilineage-temporal cohorts share common connectivity. Finally, we show that proximity alone cannot explain the observed connectivity structure, suggesting hemilineage/temporal identity confers an added layer of specificity. Thus, we demonstrate that the mechanisms specifying neuronal diversity also govern circuit formation and function, and that these principles are broadly applicable throughout the nervous system.
Different visual manipulations have similar effects on quasi-static and dynamic balance responses of young and older people
Authors: Schmidt Daniel , Carpes Felipe P. , Milani Thomas L. , Germano Andresa M.C.
Published: May 2021

Background

Studies demonstrated that the older adults can be more susceptible to balance instability after acute visual manipulation. There are different manipulation approaches used to investigate the importance of visual inputs on balance, e.g., eyes closed and blackout glasses. However, there is evidence that eyes open versus eyes closed results in a different organization of human brain functional networks. It is, however, unclear how different visual manipulations affect balance, and whether such effects differ between young and elderly persons. Therefore, this study aimed to determine whether different visual manipulation approaches affect quasi-static and dynamic balance responses differently, and to investigate whether balance responses of young and older adults are affected differently by these various visual conditions.

Methods

Thirty-six healthy participants (20 young and 16 older adults) performed balance tests (quasi-static and unexpected perturbations) under four visual conditions: Eyes Open, Eyes Closed, Blackout Glasses, and Dark Room. Center of pressure (CoP) and muscle activation (EMG) were quantified.

Results

As expected, visual deprivation resulted in larger CoP excursions and higher muscle activations during balance tests for all participants. Surprisingly, the visual manipulation approach did not influence balance control in either group. Furthermore, quasi-static and dynamic balance control did not differ between young or older adults. The visual system plays an important role in balance control, however, similarly for both young and older adults. Different visual deprivation approaches did not influence balance results, meaning our results are comparable between participants of different ages. Further studies should investigate whether a critical illumination level may elicit different postural responses between young and older adults.
Morphological variability and genetic diversity in Carex buxbaumii and Carex hartmaniorum (Cyperaceae) populations
Authors: Więcław Helena , Szenejko Magdalena , Kull Thea , Sotek Zofia , Rębacz-Maron Ewa , Koopman Jacob
Published: May 2021

Background

Carex buxbaumii and C. hartmaniorum are sister species of the clade Papilliferae within the monophyletic section Racemosae. An unambiguous identification of these species is relatively difficult due to the interspecific continuum of some morphological characters as well as the intraspecific variability. The study was aimed at determining the range of variability, both morphological and genetic, within and between these two closely related and similar species.

Methods

The sedges were collected during botanical expeditions to Armenia, Estonia, the Netherlands, and Poland. The morphological separation of the two species and their populations was tested using the Discriminant Function Analysis (DFA). The genetic variability of the 19 Carex populations was assessed in the presence of eight Inter Simple Sequence Repeat (ISSR) primers.

Results

Results of the study indicate a considerable genetic affinity between the two sedge species (mean Si = 0.619). However, the populations of C. hartmaniorum are, morphologically and genetically, more homogenous than the populations of C. buxbaumii. Compared to C. hartmaniorum, C. buxbaumii usually has wider leaf blades, a shorter inflorescence, a lower number of spikes which are shorter, but wider, and longer bracts and utricles. The AMOVA showed a larger variation between the populations of C. buxbaumii, representing 25.65% of the total variation in the taxon. Two populations of C. buxbaumii (from Poland and Estonia) are separated from the remaining populations, both genetically and morphologically; their individuals show shorter utricles and glumes, compared to the typical specimens of C. buxbaumii, and correspond with the morphology of putative infraspecific taxa described by Cajander (var. brevisquamosa and var. confusa).

Conclusions

The taxonomic status of the putative infraspecific taxa within C. buxbaumii requires further studies throughout the distribution range of C. buxbaumii, addressing habitats, morphology and genetics (including a chromosome count or a combination of different genetic methods), particularly as the variability in C. buxbaumii may be associated with the species’ polyploid origin.
Eating habits, lifestyle behaviors and stress during the COVID-19 pandemic quarantine among Peruvian adults
Authors: Agurto Hellen S. , Alcantara-Diaz Ana L. , Espinet-Coll Eduardo , Toro-Huamanchumo Carlos J.
Published: May 2021

Background and aims

The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‐19) outbreak has led to an unprecedented public health crisis. In Peru, although the quarantine is no longer mandatory, it was during the first months of 2020. To date, no studies have assessed the impact of the COVID-19 on the eating patterns and lifestyle context in the country. We aimed to describe the eating habits, lifestyle behaviors and stress during the COVID-19 pandemic quarantine among Peruvian adults.

Methods

We conducted a cross-sectional study. We used an online survey to collect information regarding eating habits, self-perceived stress and sedentary lifestyle among adults over 18 years of age residing in Lima-Peru and who complied with strict home quarantine. We presented our data according to the weight variation of the participants.

Results

A total of 686 were finally included in the study. The 82.9% were female, the median BMI was 25.97 kg/m2 (IQR: 23.37–29.41) and 68.2% reported a significant variation in their weight (38.9% increased and 29.3% lost weight). All bad habits were significantly associated with weight gain, except for prolonged fasting. Additionally, a sitting time longer than usual (p = 0.001), being in front of a screen for more than five hours in the last week (p = 0.002), and most of the stressful scenarios were significantly associated with weight gain.

Conclusion

Almost four out of ten participants gained weight during the quarantine. This was associated with unhealthy eating habits, physical inactivity, and stressful scenarios.
Anticonvulsant Effect of Nebivolol alone and in Combination with Phenytoin against Maximal Electroshock-Induced Seizures in Mice
Authors: Dhamodharan Anuranjani , Selvaraj Nitya , Meenakshi R
Published: May 2021

Introduction: Phenytoin is widely used in treatment of generalised tonic clonic seizures but its adverse effects make its usage limited. Hence forth, there is a need for newer antiepileptics. Studies have shown antiepileptic property for nebivolol in combination with phenytoin hence, reducing the dosage of phenytoin and its adverse effects and toxicities. Aim: To evaluate the anticonvulsant property of nebivolol alone and in combination with phenytoin against Maximal Electroshock Seizures (MES) in a mouse model. Materials and Methods: This was an experimental animal study on total of 36 swiss albino male mice were randomly assigned to six groups with six animals in each group in December 2019 at Sri Manakula Vinayagar Medical College and Hospital. Group 1 was considered as normal control, Group 2 received Phenytoin 25 mg/kg Intraperitoneal (IP); Group 3 & 4 received Nebivolol 0.25 mg/kg oral & 0.50 mg/kg oral, respectively; Group 5 received 12.5 mg/kg IP and nebivolol 0.25 mg/kg oral; Group 6 received Phenytoin 12.5 mg/kg IP and nebivolol 0.50 mg/kg oral. Anticonvulsant effect of the drugs nebivolol and phenytoin was elicited in mice by MES test. After induction following parameters were recorded for onset of Tonic Hind Limb Extension (THLE), duration of clonus, duration of THLE, number of jerks, recovery time. Statistical analysis was done by ANOVA followed by post-hoc Dunnett t-test. Results: Significant reduction in duration of THLE (p<0.01) and clonus (p<0.001) was observed in the group treated with phenytoin (12.5 mg/kg) and nebivolol (0.50 mg/kg). Conclusion: The present study concludes that the lower dose of phenytoin in combination with nebivolol can reduce seizures induced by MES in mice model.
Effect of reminder letters after health checkups on the consultation behavior of participants with possible hypertension, hyperglycemia, and dyslipidemia: A retrospective cohort study using administrative claims data in Japan
Authors: Hoshino Nobuaki , Xiuting Mo , Takahashi Yoshimitsu , Nakayama Takeo
Published: May 2021

Objectives

Prevention of and early treatment for noncommunicable diseases such as hypertension, hyperglycemia, and dyslipidemia are important, as these diseases are asymptomatic in early stages but can lead to critical conditions such as macro- and microvascular disorders later on. While screening is conducted worldwide, low rates of hospital visits after screening is a common issue. We aimed to investigate the effect of reminder letters on the consultation behavior of screened participants.

Methods

We used administrative claims data from a database managed by JMDC Inc for participants of health checkups in 2014, 2015, 2016, and 2017, who belonged to a health insurance society. Reminder letters were sent regularly 6 months after checkups to improve participant consultation behavior. Participants who screened positive for hypertension, hyperglycemia, and dyslipidemia, and who were not taking medication for any of these diseases at the time of health checkups, were included in the analyses.

Results

A total of 1739 participants in 2014, 1693 in 2015, 2002 in 2016, and 2144 in 2017 were included in the analysis for hypertension. The cumulative proportion of hospital visits gradually increased over the course of 12 months after checkups in all years. After 2015, spikes, albeit very small ones, were observed at 6 months after checkups in accordance with the timing of reminder letters. Similar trends were observed for hyperglycemia and dyslipidemia.

Conclusions

Sending reminder letters is a potentially effective approach to increase hospital visits, but further improvements (ie, multiple reminders) may be necessary to affect enhancements in participant consultation behavior.
Identifying Potential Classification Criteria for Calcium Pyrophosphate Deposition Disease: Item Generation and Item Reduction
Authors: Tedeschi Sara K. , Pascart Tristan , Latourte Augustin , Godsave Cattleya , Kundakci Burak , Naden Raymond P. , Taylor William J. , Dalbeth Nicola , Neogi Tuhina , Perez‐Ruiz Fernando , Rosenthal Ann , Becce Fabio , Pascual Eliseo , Andres Mariano , Bardin Thomas , Doherty Michael , Ea Hang‐Korng , Filippou Georgios , FitzGerald John , Guitierrez Marwin , Iagnocco Annamaria , Jansen Tim L. , Kohler Minna J. , Lioté Frédéric , Matza Mark , McCarthy Geraldine M. , Ramonda Roberta , Reginato Anthony M. , Richette Pascal , Singh Jasvinder A. , Sivera Francisca , So Alexander , Stamp Lisa K. , Yinh Janeth , Yokose Chio , Terkeltaub Robert , Choi Hyon , Abhishek Abhishek
Published: May 2021

Objective

Classification criteria for calcium pyrophosphate deposition (CPPD) disease will facilitate clinical research on this common crystalline arthritis. Our objective was to report on the first 2 phases of a 4‐phase process for developing CPPD classification criteria.

Methods

CPPD classification criteria development is overseen by a 12‐member steering committee. Item generation (phase I) included a scoping literature review of 5 literature databases and contributions from a 35‐member combined expert committee and 2 patient research partners. Item reduction and refinement (phase II) involved a combined expert committee meeting, discussions among clinical, imaging, and laboratory advisory groups, and an item‐rating exercise to assess the influence of individual items toward classification. The steering committee reviewed the modal rating score for each item (range –3 [strongly pushes away from CPPD] to +3 [strongly pushes toward CPPD]) to determine items to retain for future phases of criteria development.

Results

Item generation yielded 420 items (312 from the literature, 108 from experts/patients). The advisory groups eliminated items that they agreed were unlikely to distinguish between CPPD and other forms of arthritis, yielding 127 items for the item‐rating exercise. Fifty‐six items, most of which had a modal rating of +/– 2 or 3, were retained for future phases. As numerous imaging items were rated +3, the steering committee recommended focusing on imaging of the knee and wrist and 1 additional affected joint for calcification suggestive of CPP crystal deposition.

Conclusion

A data‐ and expert‐driven process is underway to develop CPPD classification criteria. Candidate items comprise clinical, imaging, and laboratory features.
Rheumatic Disease Disclosure at the Early Career Phase and Its Impact on the Relationship Between Workplace Supports and Presenteeism
Authors: Jetha Arif , Tucker Lori , Backman Catherine , Kristman Vicki L. , Bowring Julie , Hazel Elizabeth M. , Perlin Louise , Proulx Laurie , Chen Cynthia , Gignac Monique A. M.
Published: May 2021

Objective

Young adults with rheumatic disease face challenges communicating health needs, accessing workplace support, and sustaining productivity. Our objective was to examine whether disclosure modifies the relationship between workplace support and presenteeism.

Methods

An online survey was administered to Canadian young adults with rheumatic disease and asked about presenteeism (0 = health had no effect on work; 10 = health completely prevented working), workplace support need, availability, and use and whether health details were disclosed to an immediate supervisor. A multivariable robust linear regression model was conducted and stratified by those who did and did not disclose the details of their health to their supervisor.

Results

A total of 306 participants completed the survey with a mean ± SD presenteeism score of 4.89 ± 2.65. More than 70% disclosed health details to their supervisor; those who disclosed reported greater presenteeism (mean ± SD 5.2 ± 2.5) when compared to those who did not disclose (mean ± SD 4.2 ± 2.61). Greater disease severity was associated with disclosure. Half of the participants reported unmet workplace support needs (53%), 32% reported that their workplace support needs were met, and 15% reported exceeded workplace support needs. The relationship between presenteeism and workplace support needs was modified by disclosure. For participants who disclosed, workplace support needs that were unmet (β = 1.59 [95% confidence interval (95% CI) 0.75, 2.43]) and that were met (β = 1.25 [95% CI 0.39, 2.11]) were associated with greater presenteeism when compared to those with exceeded workplace support needs.

Conclusion

To address presenteeism, strategies should be developed for young adults with rheumatic disease to foster access to available workplace supports and to navigate disclosure decisions.
Knee Confidence Trajectories Over Eight Years and Factors Associated With Poor Trajectories in Individuals With or at Risk for Knee Osteoarthritis
Authors: Chang Alison H. , Lee Jungwha (Julia) , Almagor Orit , Chmiel Joan S. , Hayes Karen W. , Moisio Kirsten C. , Sharma Leena
Published: May 2021

Objective

To identify distinct trajectories of lack of knee confidence over an 8‐year follow‐up period and to examine baseline factors associated with poor trajectories in individuals with or at risk for knee osteoarthritis (OA).

Methods

The Osteoarthritis Initiative is a prospective cohort study of individuals with or at high risk for knee OA. Confidence in the knees was assessed within the Knee Injury and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score instrument querying how much the individual is troubled by lack of confidence in his/her knee(s), rated as not‐at‐all (score = 0), mildly (score = 1), moderately (score = 2), severely (score = 3), and extremely (score = 4) troubled, reported annually from baseline to 96 months. Lack of knee confidence was defined as a score of ≥2. We used latent class models to identify subgroups that share similar underlying knee confidence trajectories over an 8‐year period and multivariable multinomial logistic regression models to examine baseline factors associated with poor trajectories.

Results

Among 4,515 participants (mean ± SD age 61.2 ± 9.2 years, mean ± SD BMI 28.6 ± 4.8 kg/m2; 2,640 [58.5%] women), 4 distinct knee confidence trajectories were identified: persistently good (65.6%); declining (9.1%); poor, improving (13.9%); and persistently poor (11.4%). Baseline predictors associated with persistently poor confidence (reference: persistently good) were younger age, male sex, higher body mass index (BMI), depressive symptoms, more advanced radiographic disease, worse knee pain, weaker knee extensors, history of knee injury and surgery, and reported hip and/or ankle pain.

Conclusion

Findings suggest the dynamic nature of self‐reported knee confidence and that addressing modifiable factors (e.g., BMI, knee strength, depressive symptoms, and lower extremity pain) may improve its long‐term course.