bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Making RDBMSs efficient on graph workloads through predefined joins
Authors: Jin Guodong , Salihoglu Semih
Published: May 2022

Joins in native graph database management systems (GDBMSs) are predefined to the system as edges, which are indexed in adjacency list indices and serve as pointers. This contrasts with and can be more performant than value-based joins in RDBMSs. Existing approaches to integrate predefined joins into RDBMSs adopt a strict separation of graph and relational data and processors, where a graph-specific processor uses left-deep and index nested loop joins (INLJ) for a subset of joins. In this paper we study and experimentally evaluate this technique's performance against an alternative technique that is based on using hash joins that use system-level row IDs (RIDs). In this alternative approach, when a join between two tables is predefined to the system, the RIDs of joining tuples are materialized in extended tables and optionally in RID indices. Instead of using the RID index to perform the join directly, we use it primarily in hash joins to generate filters that can be passed to scans using sideways information passing (sip), ensuring sequential scans. We further compare these two approaches against: (i) the default value-based joins of an RDBMS; and (ii) using materialized views that can avoid evaluating predefined joins completely and instead replace them with scans. We integrated our alternative approach to DuckDB and call the resulting system
GRainDB.
Our evaluation demonstrates that existing INJL-based approach can be very efficient when entity relations contain very selective filters. However, GRainDB's approach is more robust and is either competitive with or outperforms the INLJ-based approach across a wide range of settings. We further demonstrate that GRainDB far improves the performance of DuckDB, which uses default value-based joins, on relational and graph workloads with large many-to-many joins, making it competitive with a state-of-the-art GDBMS, and incurs no major overheads otherwise.
User-defined operators
Authors: Sichert Moritz , Neumann Thomas
Published: May 2022

In recent years, complex data mining and machine learning algorithms have become more common in data analytics. Several specialized systems exist to evaluate these algorithms on ever-growing data sets, which are built to efficiently execute different types of complex analytics queries.

However, using these various systems comes at a price. Moving data out of traditional database systems is often slow as it requires exporting and importing data, which is typically performed using the relatively inefficient CSV format. Additionally, database systems usually offer strong ACID guarantees, which are lost when adding new, external systems. This disadvantage can be detrimental to the consistency of the results.

Most data scientists still prefer not to use classical database systems for data analytics. The main reason why RDBMS are not used is that SQL is difficult to work with due to its declarative and set-oriented nature, and is not easily extensible.

We present User-Defined Operators (UDOs) as a concept to include custom algorithms into modern query engines. Users can write idiomatic code in the programming language of their choice, which is then directly integrated into existing database systems. We show that our implementation can compete with specialized tools and existing query engines while retaining all beneficial properties of the database system.
Spontaneous contractions of the human thoracic duct—Important for securing lymphatic return during positive pressure ventilation?
Authors: Kelly Benjamin , Smith Christopher L. , Saravanan Madhumitha , Dori Yoav , Hjortdal Vibeke E.
Published: May 2022

The thoracic duct is responsible for the circulatory return of most lymphatic fluid. The return is a well‐timed synergy between the pressure in the thoracic duct, venous pressure at the thoracic duct outlet, and intrathoracic pressures during respiration. However, little is known about the forces determining thoracic duct pressure and how these respond to mechanical ventilation. We aimed to assess human thoracic duct pressure and identify elements affecting it during positive pressure ventilation and a brief ventilatory pause. The study examined pressures of 35 patients with severe congenital heart defects undergoing lymphatic interventions. Thoracic duct pressure and central venous pressure were measured in 25 patients during mechanical ventilation and in ten patients during both ventilation and a short pause in ventilation. TD contractions, mechanical ventilation, and arterial pulsations influenced the thoracic duct pressure. The mean pressure of the thoracic duct was 16 ± 5 mmHg. The frequency of the contractions was 5 ± 1 min−1 resulting in an average increase in pressure of 4 ± 4 mmHg. During mechanical ventilation, the thoracic duct pressure correlated closely to the central venous pressure. TD contractions were able to increase thoracic duct pressure by 25%. With thoracic duct pressure correlating closely to the central venous pressure, this intrinsic force may be an important factor in securing a successful return of lymphatic fluid. Future studies are needed to examine the return of lymphatic fluid and the function of the thoracic duct in the absence of both lymphatic complications and mechanical ventilation.
Sex and limb comparisons of neuromuscular function in the morning versus the evening
Authors: Augsburger Garrett R. , Soloveva Alisa , Carr Joshua C.
Published: May 2022

The time‐of‐day influence on neuromuscular function is well‐documented, but important details remain elusive. It is currently unknown whether males and females differ in their diurnal variation for optimal neuromuscular performance. The purpose of this study is to identify the time‐of‐day influence on neuromuscular function between sexes and determine whether these responses differ for the upper versus lower limbs. A group of males (n = 12) and females (n = 15) completed neuromuscular performance testing in the morning (07:00–09:00) and evening (17:00–19:00) on separate days in a randomized order. Maximal force, the normalized rate of force development, EMG, normalized EMG rise, and submaximal force steadiness were compared between morning and evening hours. The main findings show that maximal force was greater in the evening for the knee extensors (d = 0.570, p < 0.01) but not the elbow flexors (d = 0.212, p = 0.281), whereas maximal muscle excitation was greater in the evening for the biceps brachii (d = 0.348, p < 0.01) but not the vastus lateralis (d = 0.075, p = 0.526) with no influence of sex. However, force steadiness during knee extension was superior in the evening versus the morning for males (d = 0.734, p = 0.025) and compared to evening values for females (g = 1.19, p = 0.032). Overall, these findings show that time‐of‐day affects the knee extensors more than the elbow flexors and that diurnal variability between sexes appears to be task‐dependent.
Differences in the expression of DNA methyltransferases and demethylases in leukocytes and the severity of pulmonary arterial hypertension between ethnic groups
Authors: D’Addario Catherine A. , Lanier Gregg M. , Jacob Christina , Bauer Natalie , Hewes Jenny L. , Bhadra Aritra , Gupte Sachin A.
Published: May 2022

The loss of ten‐eleven translocation (TET2) methylcytosine dioxygenase expression contributes to the pathobiology of pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH). However, whether the expression and activity of other TETs and DNA methyltransferases (DNMTs) are altered in PAH remains enigmatic. Therefore, our objective was to determine the expression of DNMT (1, 3a, and 3b) and TET (1, 2, and 3) and their total activity. We assessed the expression of DNMT and TET enzymes in the leukocytes and their activity in extracellular vesicles (EVs). Expression of DNMT (1, 3a, and 3b), TET (2 and 3) in leukocytes, and total activity in EVs, from PAH patients was higher than in healthy controls. Additionally, we noticed there were difference in expression of these epigenetic enzyme based on ethnicity and found higher DNMT1 and lower TET2/TET3 expression in Caucasian than Hispanic/African American (combine) patients. Since loss‐of‐function mutation(s) and down‐regulation of TET enzymes are associated with hematological malignancies and cytokine production, we determined the expression of genes that encode cytokines in samples of Caucasian and Hispanic/African American patients. Expression of IL6, CSF2, and CCL5 genes were higher in the leukocytes of Caucasian than Hispanic/African American patients, and CSF2 and CCL5 negatively correlated with the decreased expression of TET3. Interestingly, the expression of gene encoding CD34, a marker of myeloid and lymphoid precursor cells, and CD163, a monocyte/macrophage protein, was higher in the leukocytes of Caucasian than Hispanic/African American patients. Furthermore, Hispanic/African American patients having higher TET2/TET3 expression had higher pulmonary capillary wedge pressure. In conclusion, our results revealed higher DNMT1 and lower TET2/TET3 in Caucasian than Hispanic/African American patients together potentially augmented genes encoding inflammation causing cytokines, and CD34+‐derived immunogenic cells, and the severity of PAH.
Heterozygous SOD2 deletion selectively impairs SERCA function in the soleus of female mice
Authors: Braun Jessica L. , Messner Holt N. , Cleverdon Riley E. G. , Baranowski Ryan W. , Hamstra Sophie I. , Geromella Mia S. , Stuart Jeffrey A. , Fajardo Val A.
Published: May 2022

The sarco(endo)plasmic reticulum Ca2+ ATPase (SERCA) restores intracellular Ca2+ ([Ca2+]i) to resting levels after muscle contraction, ultimately eliciting relaxation. SERCA pumps are highly susceptible to tyrosine (T)‐nitration, impairing their ability to take up Ca2+ resulting in reduced muscle function and increased [Ca2+]i and cellular damage. The mitochondrial antioxidant enzyme, superoxide dismutase 2 (SOD2), converts superoxide radicals into less reactive H2O2. Heterozygous deletion of SOD2 (Sod2+/−) in mice increases mitochondrial oxidative stress; however, the consequences of reduced SOD2 expression in skeletal and cardiac muscle, specifically the effect on SERCA pumps, has yet to be investigated. We obtained soleus, extensor digitorum longus (EDL), and left ventricle (LV) muscles from 6 to 7 month‐old wild‐type (WT) and Sod2+/− female C57BL/6J mice. Ca2+‐dependent SERCA activity assays were performed to assess SERCA function. Western blotting was conducted to examine the protein content of SERCA, phospholamban, and sarcolipin; and immunoprecipitation experiments were done to assess SERCA2a‐ and SERCA1a‐specific T‐nitration. Heterozygous SOD2 deletion did not alter SERCA1a or SERCA2a expression in the soleus or LV but reduced SERCA2a in the EDL compared with WT, though this was not statistically significant. Soleus muscles from Sod2+/− mice showed a significant reduction in SERCA’s apparent affinity for Ca2+ when compared to WT, corresponding with significantly elevated SERCA2a T‐nitration in the soleus. No effect was seen in the EDL or the LV. This is the first study to investigate the effects of SOD2 deficiency on muscle SERCA function and shows that it selectively impairs SERCA function in the soleus.
Global gradient estimates for Dirichlet problems of elliptic operators with a BMO antisymmetric part
Authors: Yang Sibei , Yang Dachun , Yuan Wen
Published: May 2022

Let

n
≥
2

n\ge 2

and

Ω
⊂

R

n

\Omega \subset {{\mathbb{R}}}^{n}

be a bounded nontangentially accessible domain. In this article, the authors investigate (weighted) global gradient estimates for Dirichlet boundary value problems of second-order elliptic equations of divergence form with an elliptic symmetric part and a BMO antisymmetric part in

Ω

\Omega

. More precisely, for any given

p
∈

(

2
,
∞

)

p\in \left(2,\infty )

, the authors prove that a weak reverse Hölder inequality with exponent

p

p

implies the global

W

1
,
p

{W}^{1,p}

estimate and the global weighted

W

1
,
q

{W}^{1,q}

estimate, with

q
∈

[

2
,
p

]

q\in \left[2,p]

and some Muckenhoupt weights, of solutions to Dirichlet boundary value problems. As applications, the authors establish some global gradient estimates for solutions to Dirichlet boundary value problems of second-order elliptic equations of divergence form with small

BMO

{\rm{BMO}}

symmetric part and small

BMO

{\rm{BMO}}

antisymmetric part, respectively, on bounded Lipschitz domains, quasi-convex domains, Reifenberg flat domains,

C

1

{C}^{1}

domains, or (semi-)convex domains, in weighted Lebesgue spaces. Furthermore, as further applications, the authors obtain the global gradient estimate, respectively, in (weighted) Lorentz spaces, (Lorentz–)Morrey spaces, (Musielak–)Orlicz spaces, and variable Lebesgue spaces. Even on global gradient estimates in Lebesgue spaces, the results obtained in this article improve the known results via weakening the assumption on the coefficient matrix.
Potential biomarkers and molecular mechanisms in preeclampsia progression
Authors: Li Guohua , Huang Shijia , Liu Xiaosong , Du Qiaoling
Published: May 2022

This study aimed to explore potential biomarkers and molecular mechanisms in preeclampsia (PE) progression. Gene expression profiles of GSE147776 and GSE96984 were downloaded, followed by the identification of common differentially expressed genes (co-DEGs) and common differentially expressed lncRNAs (co-DElncRNAs) in PE patients between the two datasets. Key genes were identified using gene set enrichment analysis (GSEA), followed by functional enrichment analyses. Subsequently, the miRNAs of key genes and miRNA-related lncRNAs were predicted, followed by the construction of the lncRNA–miRNA–gene ceRNA network. Furthermore, the key genes associated with different gestational stages were identified. As a result, 192 co-DEGs and 16 co-DElncRNAs were revealed from the two datasets. Based on two outstanding PE-associated pathways, including glaucoma and PE, identified by GSEA, ten key genes, including IGFBP1, CORIN, and C3, were revealed. Key genes, including IL1A and IL1B, were enriched in the developmental process involved in reproduction. Furthermore, ceRNAs, such as LINC00473-miR-4476-IL1A, LINC00473-miR-1291-IL1B, and NAV2-AS4-miR-6131-REN, were identified. Moreover, REN expression was significantly upregulated in the first- and second-trimester placentae compared to C-section-term placentae. In conclusion, these key genes may serve as novel biomarkers for PE. The detection of REN expression may help in the early prediction of PE and the initiation of prophylactic medical treatment.
Neural network method for the modeling of SS 316L elbow corrosion based on electric field mapping
Authors: Memon Azhar M. , Salman Umar T. , Hamzat Abdulhammed K. , AlHems Luai M.
Published: May 2022

Stainless steel is known for its superior corrosion resistance in industrial applications. In this work, corrosion modeling of stainless steel 316L is presented using artificial neural networks. The experimental setup consists of a loop containing stainless steel elbow with simulated seawater of known concentration continuously flowing at a specific flow rate, thus allowing to study the effect of flow dynamics and salt concentration on corrosion. Electric field mapping setup is used to collect the voltage and current information along with the temperature of the elbow section. In addition to modeling, characteristics of the observed scale deposits are also studied in-depth and briefly reported in this work.
On Dixon’s ‘dangerous idea’
Authors: Longa Víctor M. , López-Rivera Juan J.
Published: May 2022

In his book Are some languages better than others?, the leading linguist R.M.W. Dixon put forward what we refer to as ‘Dixon’s dangerous idea’, i.e. the idea that linguistics should evaluate the relative worth of languages and provide some general criteria for deciding whether certain languages can be taken to be better or worse than others. Although it is obviously licit to raise this question, Dixon’s arguments when answering it are inaccurate, thus spreading a dangerous idea. This article critically discusses Dixon’s proposals and shows how his arguments draw on arbitrary and decontextualized criteria, and on naive evolutionary ideas of absolute fitness.
Postoperative intensive care management and residual endocrinopathy of pediatric supratentorial brain tumors: a retrospective cohort study
Authors: Babiker Amir , Alaqeel Bothainah , Al-Eyadhy Ayman , Selayem Nawaf A , Alissa Sharifah , Alsofyani Areej , Masuadi Emad , Al Juraibah Fahad , Elwatidy Sherif , Maghnie Mohamad
Published: May 2022

Objectives

Endocrinopathy can occur as a postoperative sequel in children treated for supratentorial tumors (STTs). We assessed prediction of a residual hypothalamic/pituitary insufficiency (HPI) in these patients and factors associated with prolonged length of hospital stay (LOS).

Methods

This is a retrospective cohort study of children who had surgery for STTs in two tertiary centers in Saudi Arabia (2009–2019). We assessed PICU postoperative management and risk of HPI. Data were analyzed using SPSS V24.0 and a logistic regression model for a prediction of a prolonged LOS.

Results

Data included 55 children (1–18 years, mean 9.5 ± 4.9 years) who required STT surgeries, 32 (54%) females. Craniopharyngioma (27.3%) was the commonest STTs and 20% of patients had initial symptoms of HPI. PICU management included the use of different types of intravenous fluids (IVFs) and medications such as steroids and desmopressin (DDAVP). An early postoperative DI was reported in 21.8% (n=12/55). Residual HPI included 24 (43.6%) presumed cortisol deficient and 18 (32.7%) central DI patients. Risk factors for postoperative HPI were female gender, age <6 years, headache and preoperative pituitary symptoms. LOS (Median=25.5 ± 12.2 days) was significantly prolonged in patients who required two or more doses of DDAVP [B=13; 95% CI= (1.7–24.3) days] and reduced in patients who had suspected preoperative HPI [B=−19.6; 95% CI= (−31.1, −8.2) days].

Conclusions

Prediction of postoperative HPI in pediatric STTs enhances an early initiation of treatment in PICU and reduces LOS. A meticulous use of IVF and medications supervised by a multidisciplinary team is essential for a favorable outcome.
A new threat for the rarest neotropical carnivore: the vulnerable Colombian weasel, Neogale felipei
Authors: Pisso-Florez Gustavo Adolfo , Cardona-Giraldo Alexandra , Pizo Héctor Miguel , Ramírez-Chaves Héctor E.
Published: May 2022

The Colombian weasel, Neogale felipei, previously included in the genus Mustela, is considered the rarest carnivore in the Neotropics and is known from only eight localities in Colombia and Ecuador. It is currently classified as Vulnerable, but little is known about the direct threats that the species faces. We present a new locality record for N. felipei in the Andes of southwestern Colombia based on a road-killed specimen. The record is relevant because it provides additional information about morphological variation and describe a new threat to its populations that even affects individuals within protected areas such as the Puracé National Park, where the specimen was found.
On-line monitoring of steel ball stamping by mechatronics cold heading equipment based on PVDF polymer sensing material
Authors: Wang Xing , Wu Mingming , Wang Jianglong
Published: May 2022

In order to explore the influence of cold heading equipment based on polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF) polymer sensing material on steel ball stamping, a new method was proposed to reflect the defects of cold heading forming of steel ball by load signal. PVDF piezoelectric film is used as the sensor design of force and support structure of steel ball cold heading electromechanical sensor model. PVDF piezoelectric thin film force sensor is used for the structural optimization and simulation. The structural parameters affecting the natural frequency are numerically analyzed by MATLAB software. The mapping relationship between the external load and the output load of the sensor is obtained by using ANSYS software, and the simulation curve of the natural frequency of the sensor is compared with the theoretical curve to verify the factors affecting the natural frequency. The results show that the nonlinear error of sensors refers to the measured curve and the maximum deviation between the fitting line and the percentage of full-scale output.
Semiconductor characteristics of tellurium and its implementations
Authors: Das Aparna , Banik Bimal Krishna
Published: May 2022

Tellurium (Te) gained worldwide attention because of its excellent properties, distinctive chained structures, and potential usages. Bulk Te is a p-type elemental helical semiconductor at room temperature and it also having a very limited band gap. Te presents fascinating characteristics such as nonlinear optical response, photoconductivity, good thermoelectric and piezoelectric properties. These charming characteristics induce Te a possible nominee for applications in field-effect transistors, IR acousto-optic deflectors, solar cells, self-developing holographic recording devices, photoconductors, gas sensors, radiative cooling devices, and topological insulators. The developments in these areas are incorporated in great detail. This study opens up the possibility of designing novel devices and considering modern applications of Tellurium.
The access to justice gap and the rule of law crisis in Poland
Authors: Winczorek Jan , Muszyński Karol
Published: May 2022

The article discusses selected problems of access to justice in Poland as an important context for the rule of law crisis since 2015. The difficulties in formally addressing justiciable problems were illustrated by the findings of empirical studies conducted in 2015 and 2018. The article argues that having experienced obstacles in addressing their justiciable issues, Polish society has developed what can be termed a highly rational stance towards the legal system, which can be expected to contribute to its reluctance to actively oppose the sweeping reforms of the judiciary introduced by populists. Understanding the effects of inaccessibility of justice combined with insufficient options to resolve justiciable problems outside of the law and legal institutions is an important addition to the prevailing politics- and culture-centred approaches to understanding of the long-standing multifaceted conflict around the judiciary in Poland.
Synthesis, crystal structure and magnetic properties of coordination compounds of Mn(NCS)2 with the 3-bromopyridine ligand
Authors: Krebs Christoph , Jess Inke , Ceglarska Magdalena , Rams Michał , Näther Christian
Published: May 2022

Reactions of Mn(NCS)2 with 3-bromopyridine in acetonitrile lead to the formation of Mn(NCS)2(3-bromopyridine)4 (1) and Mn(NCS)2(3-bromopyridine)2(MeCN)2 (2) that were characterized by single crystal X-ray diffraction. Compounds 1 and 2 consist of discrete complexes, in which the Mn(II) cations are octahedrally coordinated by two trans-N-bonding thiocyanate anions and four pyridine (1) or two pyridine and two acetonitrile ligands (2). Thermoanalytical measurements on 1 and 2 have shown that upon heating half of the 3-bromopyridine co-ligands from 1 or both acetonitrile ligands from 2 are removed leading to a crystalline phase with the composition [Mn(NCS)2(3-bromopyridine)2]
n
(3-II). From dry n-butanol a phase with the same composition was obtained (3-I) that corresponds to a polymorphic or isomeric form of 3-II. Crystal structure analysis of 3-I shows that in this form the Mn cations are linked by pairs of anionic ligands into linear chains. The results of magnetic measurements on 3-I show antiferromagnetic interactions along the chains and the analysis of the magnetic susceptibility using the Fisher model for chains gave a J value of −5.76(5) K.
Der angebliche Böhmenfeldzug von Ladislaus I. dem Heiligen im Kapitel 140 der Ungarischen Chronik-komposition des 14. Jahrhunderts
Authors: Bagi Dániel
Published: May 2022

The present paper analyses chapter 140 of the so called Hungarian Chronicle Composition. The chapter contains stories form the end of the 11th century, but ot belongs to that pats of the text pool, which must have been written on turn of the 12–13th century. In the present paper I try to explain, why two Bohemian princes, Konrad and Svatopluk appear in the story, which sources they might have been taken from.
Investigation of Aging Resistance of Asphalts from Different Crude Oils Based on Molecular Structure and Rheological Properties
Authors: Zhang Yichi , Yu Jianying , Huang Xiaoqiao , Han Xiaobin , Xu Shi , Zou Yang , Zeng Shangheng
Published: May 2022

This research aims to investigate the aging resistance of asphalts from different crude oils based on molecular structure and rheological properties. The average molecular structure of five types of asphalt from different crude oils were analyzed with the element analyzer, nuclear magnetic resonance, gel permeation chromatograph, and the improved Brown–Ladner method. The rheological properties of the asphalts were tested by the dynamic shear rheometer before and after laboratory aging. The antiaging properties of the asphalts were evaluated by the rheological aging index (RAI). The findings indicate that there were significant differences in the molecular structures among the five types of asphalt. The asphalt with the least hydrogen–carbon ratio (H/C), the largest aromatic carbon ratio (fA), and the largest condensation index (CI) had the lowest rate of decline in rheological properties and therefore, the best antiaging performance. The H/C, fA, and CI had good correlations with RAI, which indicated that it was feasible to use these molecular structure parameters to evaluate the differences in the aging resistance of various asphalts.
S-GRAS score performs better than a model from SEER for patients with adrenocortical carcinoma
Authors: Lin Wenhao , Dai Jun , Xie Jialing , Liu Jiacheng , Sun Fukang , Huang Xin , He Wei , Fang Chen , Zhao Juping , Xu Danfeng
Published: May 2022

Purpose

To externally validate the performance of the S-GRAS score and a model from the Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results (SEER) database in a Chinese cohort of patients with adrenocortical carcinoma (ACC).

Methods

We first developed a model using data from the SEER database, after which we retrospectively reviewed 51 ACC patients hospitalized between 2013 and 2018, and we finally validated the model and S-GRAS score in this Chinese cohort.

Results

Patient age at diagnosis, tumor size, TNM stage, and radiotherapy were used to construct the model, and the Harrell’s C-index of the model in the training set was 0.725 (95% CI: 0.682–0.768). However, the 5-year area under the curve (AUC) of the model in the validation cohort was 0.598 (95% CI: 0.487–0.708). The 5-year AUC of the ENSAT stage was 0.640 (95% CI: 0.543–0.737), but the Kaplan–Meier curves of stages I and II overlapped in the validation cohort. The resection status (P = 0.066), age (P=0.68), Ki67 (P = 0.69), and symptoms (P = 0.66) did not have a significant impact on cancer-specific survival in the validation cohort. In contrast, the S-GRAS score group showed better discrimination (5-year AUC: 0.683, 95% CI: 0.602–0.764) than the SEER model or the ENSAT stage.

Conclusion

The SEER model showed favorable discrimination and calibration ability in the training set, but it failed to distinguish patients with various prognoses in our institution. In contrast, the S-GRAS score could effectively stratify patients with different outcomes.
Differences in the presentation and evolution of primary aldosteronism in elderly (≥65 years) and young patients (<65 years)
Authors: Parra Ramírez Paola , Rojas-Marcos Patricia Martín , Paja Fano Miguel , González Boillos Marga , Pascual-Corrales Eider , García-Cano Ana , Ruiz-Sanchez Jorge Gabriel , Vicente Almudena , Gómez-Hoyos Emilia , Ferreira Rui , García Sanz Iñigo , Recasens Mònica , Pla Peris Begoña , Barahona San Millan Rebeca , Picón César María José , Díaz Guardiola Patricia , Jesús García González Juan , Perdomo Carolina , Manjón Laura , García-Centeno Rogelio , Percovich Juan Carlos , Rebollo Román Ángel , Gracia Gimeno Paola , Robles Lázaro Cristina , Morales Manuel , Hanzu Felicia , Araujo-Castro Marta
Published: May 2022

Objective

To compare the presentation and evolution of primary aldosteronism (PA) in the elderly (≥65 years) and young patients (<65 years).

Methods

A retrospective multicenter study was performed in 20 Spanish hospitals of PA patients in follow-up between 2018 and 2021.

Results

Three hundred fifty-two patients with PA <65 years and 88 patients ≥65 years were included. Older PA patients had a two-fold higher prevalence of type 2 diabetes, dyslipidemia, and cerebrovascular disease, but these differences disappeared after adjusting for hypertension duration. At diagnosis, diastolic blood pressure was lower than in young patients (83.3 ± 11.54 vs 91.6 ± 14.46 mmHg, P < 0.0001). No differences in the rate of overall correct cannulation (56.5% vs 42.3%, P = 0.206) or the diagnosis of unilaterality (76.9% vs 62.5%, P = 0.325) in the adrenal venous sampling (AVS) was observed between the elderly and young groups. However, there was a lower proportion of PA patients who underwent adrenalectomy in the elderly group than in the younger group (22.7% (n  = 20) vs 37.5% (n  = 132), P = 0.009). Nevertheless, no differences in the rate of postsurgical biochemical (100% (n  = 14) vs 92.8% (n  = 90), P = 0.299) and hypertension cure (38.6% (n  = 51) vs 25.0% (n  = 5), P = 0.239) were observed between both groups.

Conclusion

Older patients with PA have a worse cardiometabolic profile than young patients with PA that it is related to a longer duration of hypertension. However, the results of the AVS, and adrenalectomy are similar in both groups. Therefore, the management of elderly patients with PA should be based not only on age, but rather on the overall medical, physical, social, and mental characteristics of the patients.
New Technology Focus: Smart Polymer in Vascular Surgery
Authors: Milner Ross
Published: May 2022

A new smart polymer technology developed by Shape Memory Medical is available to endovascular specialists. The shape memory polymer is incorporated into vascular plugs and coils. Dr Ross Milner, a vascular surgeon at University of Chicago Medicine, gives his perspective on the properties of the shape memory polymer and how smart polymer devices may be used in vascular surgery.
COVID-19 en México. Reflexiones desde la escuela de la regulación
Authors: Vázquez Agustín , Villalobos Hernández Aremis
Published: May 2022

El enfoque de la regulación francesa analiza la reproducción social, integrando el régimen socioeconómico y las variedades del capitalismo. Este enfoque es utili­zado para reflexionar los efectos de la propagación del COVID-19 en México, e identificar si las acciones del Gobierno y empresarios durante la coyuntura, per­filan una trayectoria alternativa al neoliberalismo. Las acciones desplegadas en el nivel macroeconómico y mesoeconómico por parte de esos actores bloquean el cambio institucional, al tiempo que exhiben el desplazamiento de la soberanía popular por la judicialización, que se posiciona como fuente significativa de la construcción del espacio económico.
Influence of soil cover and herbicide application on weed control and corn yield
Authors: Rüdell Eduardo Carlos , Frandaloso Dieferson , Antoniolli Zanrosso Bianca , Santos Fernando Machado dos , Rossatto Novelli Maria Antônia
Published: May 2022

Crop management and herbicide rotation have influenced the sustainability of production systems. The cover crops use and pre-and post-emergence herbicides are important tools that help farmers’ strategies and conserve the agricultural system. In this context, the objective of this research was to evaluate the dry matter production of different cover crops before the establishment of corn, the effect on decreasing weed population, and the increase in corn yield. In addition, the influence of pre-and post-emergence herbicides on summer cultivation, observing the behavior concerning weeds, crop injury, and crop yield. The experiment was conducted during the years 2018-2019 in Sertão/RS - Brazil. The experimental arrangement was of randomized blocks with four replications. The treatments used were three different winter cover crops preceding corn cultivation × four preemergence herbicides × four post-emergence herbicides, totaling 192 experimental units. Going through the results, atrazine and atrazine + simazine used in pre-emergence had more influence on weed number reduction, and the post-emergence ammonium glufosinate herbicide promoted the highest weed control in post-emergence. Amicarbazone and glyphosate resulted in the best combination for corn yield using in pre-and post-emergence, respectively. Rye + turnip + vetch as cover crop resulted in higher biomass production, more significant weed number reduction, and increase corn yield.
Exploración geográfica e identidad nacional en Costa Rica (1833-1903)
Authors: Díaz Bolaños Ronald Eduardo
Published: May 2022

El objetivo del presente artículo es analizar el impacto que la exploración geográfica tuvo en la conformación de la identidad nacional de Costa Rica a lo largo del siglo XIX, época en que se dio el proceso de construcción del Estado costarricense. El trabajo de investigación se basó en una revisión bibliográfica de libros, artículos de revistas y fuentes documentales referentes al conocimiento geográfico y a las exploraciones geográficas efectuadas en Costa Rica en el siglo XIX y primeros años del siglo XX. Además, este artículo emplea la Historia Social de la Ciencia como enfoque que permitió contextualizar el aporte fundamental de la Geografía en la construcción de la identidad nacional en Costa Rica. Este aporte se expresó finalmente a través de la elaboración de mapas y libros que fueron la base de textos escolares que transmitieron descripciones de la configuración física del territorio costarricense como un elemento identitario.
Sistematización de la metodología disruptiva implementada en el curso de Reclutamiento y Selección de personal de la Carrera de Administración y Gestión de Recursos Humanos en la Universidad Técnica Nacional Costa Rica
Authors: Vasconcelos Vásquez Kattia Lizzett , Montero Ulate Betzaida
Published: May 2022

Esta sistematización es producto de la experiencia generada durante 6 años debido a la implementación de una estrategia metodológica en el curso de Reclutamiento y Selección de personal. El objetivo es desarrollar las habilidades técnicas en el estudiantado en el proceso de reclutamiento y selección de personal de la carrera de AGRH, la puesta en práctica del que hacer del proceso de reclutamiento y selección se inicia con la elaboración de un curriculum versión resumè, como se organiza y aplican pruebas técnicas desarrolladas por los participantes del curso, luego se trabaja en un proyecto de cierre que es la planificación y ejecución de una feria de empleo y que se ha realizado en cuatro ocasiones. Cabe mencionar que es la única feria de empleo 100% efectuada por estudiantes en el caso de Costa Rica y que se ha convertido en parte de su carta de presentación a la hora de adquirir trabajo.
Pierwsza dekada przemian. Polska szkoła na łamach tygodników opinii (1989–1999)
Authors:   Uniwersytet Opolski, Gołębiowski Dariusz
Published: May 2022

The turn of 1989 did not bring any structural changes in education. For the next decade there was a two-tier general education system based on an 8-year primary school and a 4-year high school. This was the shape of the Polish school as early as 1961 and it did not change until the end of the 20th century. However, this does not mean that there were no changes in the educational system. Discussions on the shape and needs of the Polish school in the new political and economic reality were also reflected in the opinion magazines. The article is a concise analysis of texts dealing with the broadly understood economic condition of Polish schools, social position of teachers and school problems of children and young people appearing in “Polityka”, “Wprost” and “Tygodnik Powszechny” in the years 1989–1999.
Songowska rewolucja w Cesarstwie Chińskim
Authors:   Ośrodek Debaty Międzynarodowej w Opolu, A. Niewiński Stanisław
Published: May 2022

The article is dedicated to the issue of Song’s dynasty transformation of imperial political system. The research is based on literature review. The study was carried on the political science standpoint. The crucial element of Song dynasty rule is final formation of meritocratic bureucracy – characteristic element of traditional chinese political system.
Wileński Oddział Polskiego Towarzystwa Historycznego
Authors:   Instytut Badań Kultury Litwy, Wilno, Litwa, Ilgiewicz Henryka
Published: May 2022

The Wilno branch of the Polish Historical Society was active from 1925 to 1939. Its purpose was to support the development of historical studies and establish a community of historians and history lovers. The number of members during its existence varied from 26 to 54. At the head of the society operated a board of directors that was elected at the annual meeting of members. Professor Alfons Parczewski was the branch’s Chairman from 1925 to 1933, and from 1933 to 1939 Professor Stefan Ehrenkreutz presided over the board. At the society’s meetings, members would present papers on various historical topics; they would publish works in local Wilno scholarly publications, and they would cooperate with historians from other scholarly centers around Poland. An important event for the Wilno branch of the Polish Historical Society, as well as for the entire Wilno scholarly community, was the VI General Congress of Polish Historians, convened in Wilno on September 17–20, 1935. Some 618 individuals participated in the event. More than 50 scholarly papers were presented, a wide series of important issues were discussed, and various resolutions were passed. The activities of the Wilno branch of the Polish Historical Society were interrupted by the outbreak of World War II in September 1939.
Szablą, piórem i... stetoskopem! Gen. Stefan Hubicki w walce o granice Odrodzonej Rzeczypospolitej w latach 1918–1920
Authors:   Uniwersytet Wrocławski, Piotrowski Jacek
Published: May 2022

The results of historical research sometimes need updating – especially if some valuable new historical resources turn up. This is often the case of 20th century history, where iconographic materials are important, which are being gradually submitted for publication by families. This way valuable information can be revealed about, for example, the hero of this article. Stefan Hubicki is an extremely interesting person – a soldier by choice, a publicist by temper, a doctor by profession. He was a versatilely gifted, openminded man, descended from a family of strong independence traditions. It was at the beginning of 20th century when he was imprisoned by tsarism for subversive activity. During the Great War in the Russian army and later in Polish military formations, he employed all his talents to the effort of rebuilding the independent Polish Republic. He was fighting as a soldier, then as a French intelligence agent in Bolshevik Russia, then working as a publicist and politician in Polish National Committee in Paris. Since spring 1919, back in Poland, in frontlines of border wars he helped soldiers as the chief of sanitary service. For his service he received the highest military medal of honour Virtuti Militari. In meantime his personal life rolled on in the background – highly complicated, because he was in danger of being convicted for bigamy. He was a colourful person, rising above the limitations of his era. Despite of his inconspicuous looks and average height he possessed a leadership charisma.
Alternative Autobiographical Practices On The Example Of Zami. A New Spelling Of My Name By Audre Lorde
Authors: Ostaszewska Aneta
Published: May 2022

The aim of this article is to present women’s alternative autobiographical practices on the example of Audre Lorde’s “Zami. A New Spelling of My Name”. The book, published in 1982, is one of the first non-canonical autobiographical writings by women. The author intentionally gives her autobiographical story a form that goes beyond the autobiography (rooted e.g. in Jean-Jacques Rousseau “Confessions”), both in terms of form and content. The alternative dimension of “Zami” is reflected mostly in Lorde’s attempt to break with a linear timeline of her story. She interweaved different threads of her life to focus on her process of emancipation and self-development as a Black woman, poet and feminist, growing up during the time of racial segregation in the United States (1950s and 1960s). “Zami” emerged from combining biography and myth, historical facts with her poems and dreams. This way of Lorde’s autobiographical writing was categorized as „biomythography”.
Bio/hagio/grafie czasu Zagłady – przypadek Stanisławy Leszczyńskiej
Authors: Tierling-Śledź Ewa
Published: May 2022

The main thesis of this article is that the concept of “bio/hagio/graphy” is the key to understanding the communication mechanisms of the narrative on historical figures regarded as national heroes and/or saints of the Catholic Church in the context of recent Polish history. The author of this text, perceiving biography as a set of narrative practices, notices that in “bio/hagio/graphy” these practices are subordinate to the hagiographic attitude towards the protagonist of the story adopted by the author of the work. This phenomenon is exemplified by the process of shaping bio/hagio/ graphic narrative about Stanisława Leszczyńska. Various stages of reconstructing the biography of the “midwife from Auschwitz” were distinguished, in which the biographical narrative evolved from autobiographical testimony through hagiographic practices of the religious community to the popular circulation of literature, not necessarily of confessional nature.
Od idealisty do katolickiego Talleyranda Andrzej Micewski – ideolog, działacz i gracz polityczny w środowiskach katolickich w powojennej Polsce
Authors: Orzełek Ariel
Published: May 2022

The article focuses on the political and ideological evolution of Andrzej Micewski, with a particular study of the years 1945–1956. This journalist, initially associated with Tygodnik warszawski and Stronnictwo Pracy, made a connection with the group „Today and Tomorrow” after the fall of the independent Christian Democratic trend. Initially, he was a spokesman for the Catholic „third Road” there, but with time he became one of the most ardent supporters of „Catholic socialism” and ideologist of the „PAX” Association. His journalism fully supported the mainstream of official propaganda, expressing his enchantment with the system, incl. in assessing the internal and international situation, as well as in the context of the relationship between the state and the Church, in which he clearly stood on the side of the authorities repressing independent clergy. In 1956, however, he left PAX, founding the weekly magazine “For and Against” and co-creating the concept of a “non-partisan democratic left”. Its defeat probably caused him to believe that there were no prospects for ideological public activity. With time, his activities became more and more machiavellian, also he establishing cooperation with state security agencies. He was active in the “Znak” movement, trying unsuccessfully to build his own faction in it, and in the 1980s he collaborated with the Polish Episcopate and “Solidarity”. In the Third Polish Republic there was deputy to the Sejm, however, already expressing disappointment with political activity. His fascination with Prince Talleyrand was symbolic - it meant that he covered his opportunistic game with great ideas. Thus, he turned from an idealist, a believer in socialism, into a cynical official. He treated politics only as a zero-sum game, despite his excellent understanding of the arcana of politics, which he proved in his extensive historical journalism.
Nieznany galicyjski okres życia i twórczości Sygurda Wiśniowskiego (1881–1884) (na podstawie doniesień prasowych i korespondencji pisarza)
Authors: Rółkowska Maria , Gerasik Janusz
Published: May 2022

The aim of the article is to present a part of the biography of Sygurd Wiśniowski – a 19th-century traveler, writer and industrialist who appeared quite unexpectedly in the Polish press and was almost as quickly forgotten. The article is an attempt to present the possibility of using scattered press releases and epistolography in biographical studies. The value of press reports as a source of the facts is proved by a number of thematic studies. The atricle is based on a query of Polish press and Polish diaspora press and completed with an analysis of the traveler’s private letters, which allowed to verify the facts. Information obtained from the numerous press titles and letters suplement the current state of research with unknown or weakly known facts, making it possible to build an outline of a biography documented in the sources. The studies showed that a number of biographical findings about Sygurd Wiśniowski, which are established in the current literature on the subject, requires correction, and research in this field of press sources is promising.
Turkey’s European aspirations in the last decade. A real desire to become full EU member or a model example of reality of politics?
Authors:   Uniwersytet Szczeciński, Mszyca Piotr
Published: May 2022

The examples mentioned above show, that Turkey on its way to become full member of European Union does not make a clean breast of it. Officially Turkey wants to become a part of EU but unofficially the negotiation process by itself, gave Turkey many positives. So if we look at the obstacles that hamper Turkish accession, and some of them are almost impossible to overcome, we can reach a conclusion that only by the negotiations Turkey profits greatly. Doing balance sheet of profits and looses, we can advance a thesis that Turkey wouldn’t gain much more than already has. So why would Turkey want to join European Union? Isn’t that only an idée fixe for Ankara for over half a decade? It seems that for today, the negotiations with Brussels is kind of double-dealing. Nobody knows how would it affect Turkey, if broke of the negotiations or Ankara became a full EU’s member. So, for now, Ankara prefers to keep status quo with European Union, as long as it benefits. All the cases given above give evidence then, that Turkey performs politics according to the old iron rule of reality of politics in contacts with EU and it is not that obvious that Turkey really wants to totally join European family.
The so-called ‘political heuristics’ in the light of praxiology
Authors:   Uniwersytet Szczeciński, Zbigniew Szałek Benon
Published: May 2022

The aim of this article is to describe the concept of political heuristics. It is most often understood as : party identification, political ideology, personal qualities of the candidate, candidate’s relative viability, electability and momentum. In author’s opinion, it is obvious that the so-called political heuristics do not lead to the best solution / choice. Moreover, this concept suggests that politics / political activity = elections. Political heuristics, as described in this article, are political pseudoheuristics, as they do not help solving political problems: they only help ‘getting rid’ of certain electoral problems. Sets of such political heuristics could be regarded as variants of political / electoral marketing mix.