bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
[Retracted] Digital Technology Empowers Grain Supply Chain Optimization Simulation
Authors: Xu Xiaoyan , Sun Zhongye
Published: June 2021

The issue of the balance of food supply and demand has always been the main issue of national and even world food security. There are many factors that affect food supply and demand, and the factors are interrelated. Therefore, it is necessary to study this complex issue in a systematic way in order to provide a reliable theoretical basis for the country to formulate effective policy measures. Based on the analysis of the current situation of grain supply and demand, this paper uses system dynamics (SD) to carry out digital elevation model (DEM) and latitude correction for land surface temperature (LST). The LST, combined with the normalized difference vegetation index (NDVI), has initially constructed a temperature vegetation dryness index (TVDI) model; it has constructed five subsystems including arable land, production capacity, import, population, and consumption. This paper proposes a food supply chain network construction model from the dimensions of the food supply chain network’s information flow, logistics, and business flow. Through detailed empirical analysis of each subsystem, we judge the development trend of the total grain system, perform operational tests and historical tests on the simulation results of the model to judge the rationality of the model system structure and simulation prediction, and give the simulation results. Finally, based on the forecast results, targeted countermeasures and suggestions are proposed.
Computing the Permanent of the Laplacian Matrices of Nonbipartite Graphs
Authors: Hu Xiaoxue , Kalaso Grace
Published: June 2021

Let

G

be a graph with Laplacian matrix

L

G

. Denote by

per 
L

G

the permanent of

L

G

. In this study, we investigate the problem of computing the permanent of the Laplacian matrix of nonbipartite graphs. We show that the permanent of the Laplacian matrix of some classes of nonbipartite graphs can be formulated as the composite of the determinants of two matrices related to those Laplacian matrices. In addition, some recursion formulas on

per 
L

G

are deduced.
S100A8/A9 Molecular Complexes Promote Cancer Migration and Invasion via the p38 MAPK Pathway in Nasopharyngeal Carcinoma
Authors: Xu Ning , Zhang Bei-Bei , Huang Xia-Ning , Yi Xiang , Yan Xue-Min , Cai Yan , He Qin , Han Zi-Jian , Huang Yuan-Jiao , Liu Wei , Jiao Ai-Jun
Published: June 2021

Nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC) is one type of malignancy associated with migration and invasion through a currently unclear mechanism. We previously discovered S100A8/A9 levels were roughly elevated in the plasma of NPC patients as the promising biomarkers. However, their expressions and underlying functions in NPC tissues are still unknown. In the present study, we analyzed 49 NPC tissues and 20 chronic pharyngitis (CP) tissues. Immunohistochemical staining was performed in different tissues and analyzed by the Mann–Whitney U test statistically. Transwell migration and invasion experiments were further performed to determine S100A8/A9 effects on NPC. Our results showed that S100A8/A9 in NPC tissues were significantly higher than those in CP tissues, closely associated with NPC clinical stages. Intriguingly, exogenous S100A8/A9 protein stimulation could dramatically enhance NPC migration and invasion abilities. In addition, p38 MAPK pathway blockade could diminish the migration and invasion of NPC cells stimulated by S100A8/A9 proteins. The downstream tumor invasion and migration associated proteins (e.g., MMP7) were also elevated in NPC tissues, consistent with S100A8/A9 overexpression. Taken together, our present findings suggest that the secreted soluble inflammatory factors S100A8/A9 might promote cancer migration and invasion via the p38 MAPK signaling pathway along with invasion/migration associated proteins overexpression in the tumor microenvironment of NPC. This may shed light on the mechanism understanding of NPC prognosis and provide more novel clues for NPC diagnosis and therapy.
Integral-Type Fractional Equations with a Proportional Riemann–Liouville Derivative
Authors: Mlaiki Nabil
Published: June 2021

In this paper, we present the necessary conditions where integral-type fractional equations with a proportional Riemann–Liouville derivative have a unique solution. Also, we give an example to illustrate our work.
Zebrafish Model for Screening Antiatherosclerosis Drugs
Authors: Han Jichun , Zhang Rui , Zhang Xiaofeng , Dong Jing , Chen Minghan , Pan Yumin , Liao Zixian , Zhong Min , He Jingwen , Wang Feiqiang , Yue Yunyun , Shang Jing
Published: June 2021

This study is aimed at establishing a zebrafish model of AS, which can be applied for high‐throughput screening anti‐AS drugs. A zebrafish AS model was induced by high cholesterol diet (HCD) and lipopolysaccharide (LPS). In the early stage of modeling, HCD induced zebrafish to show some early symptoms similar to human AS, mainly cholesterol accumulation, vascular inflammation, lipid metabolism disorder, and oxidative stress. In addition to lipid metabolism disorders, LPS also induced the same symptoms. And when HCD and LPS exist at the same time, these AS symptoms in zebrafish become more severe. When the modeling time reached 45 days, HCD and LPS induce the formation of plaques in zebrafish blood vessels, and these plaques contain fibrous tissue and lipids, which are similar to human AS plaques. We also evaluated the efficacy of some anti‐AS drugs (atorvastatin, aspirin, and vitamin C) through these zebrafish AS models. The results found that atorvastatin can significantly reduce the symptoms of AS induced by HCD and LPS, and aspirin and vitamins can significantly reduce the symptoms of AS induced by LPS. It is feasible to use zebrafish to establish an AS model, and the zebrafish AS model can be used for high‐throughput screening of anti‐AS drugs.
Fusobacterium Nucleatum Promotes the Development of Colorectal Cancer by Activating a Cytochrome P450/Epoxyoctadecenoic Acid Axis via TLR4/Keap1/NRF2 Signaling
Authors: Kong Cheng , Yan Xuebing , Zhu Yefei , Zhu Huiyuan , Luo Ying , Liu Peipei , Ferrandon Sylvain , Kalady Matthew F. , Gao Renyuan , He Jide , Yin Fang , Qu Xiao , Zheng Jiayi , Gao Yaohui , Wei Qing , Ma Yanlei , Liu Jun-Yan , Qin Huanlong
Published: June 2021

Emerging research has revealed regulation of colorectal cancer metabolism by bacteria. Fusobacterium nucleatum (Fn) plays a crucial role in the development of colorectal cancer, however, whether Fn infection modifies metabolism in patients with colorectal cancer remains unknown. Here, LC-MS/MS-based lipidomics identified the upregulation of cytochrome P450 monooxygenases, primarily CYP2J2, and their mediated product 12,13-EpOME in patients with colorectal cancer tumors and mouse models, which increased the invasive and migratory ability of colorectal cancer cells in vivo and in vitro by regulating the epithelial–mesenchymal transition (EMT). Metagenomic sequencing indicated a positive correlation between increased levels of fecal Fn and serum 12,13-EpOME in patients with colorectal cancer. High levels of CYP2J2 in tumor tissues also correlated with high Fn levels and worse overall survival in patients with stage III/IV colorectal cancer. Moreover, Fn was found to activate TLR4/AKT signaling, downregulating Keap1 and increasing NRF2 to promote transcription of CYP2J2. Collectively, these data identify that Fn promotes EMT and metastasis in colorectal cancer by activating a TLR4/Keap1/NRF2 axis to increase CYP2J2 and 12,13-EpOME, which could serve as clinical biomarkers and therapeutic targets for Fn-infected patients with colorectal cancer.

Significance:

This study uncovers a mechanism by which Fusobacterium nucleatum regulates colorectal cancer metabolism to drive metastasis, suggesting the potential biomarker and therapeutic utility of the CYP2J2/12,13–EpOME axis in Fn-infected patients.
Updated Methodology for Projecting U.S.- and State-Level Cancer Counts for the Current Calendar Year: Part I: Spatio-temporal Modeling for Cancer Incidence
Authors: Liu Benmei , Zhu Li , Zou Joe , Chen Huann-Sheng , Miller Kimberly D. , Jemal Ahmedin , Siegel Rebecca L. , Feuer Eric J.
Published: June 2021

Background:

The American Cancer Society (ACS) and the NCI collaborate every 5–8 years to update the methods for estimating numbers of new cancer cases and deaths in the current year in the United States and in every state and the District of Columbia. In this article, we reevaluate the statistical method for estimating unavailable historical incident cases which are needed for projecting the current year counts.

Methods:

We compared the current county-level model developed in 2012 (M0) with three new models, including a state-level mixed effect model (M1) and two state-level hierarchical Bayes models with varying random effects (M2 and M3). We used 1996–2014 incidence data for 16 sex-specific cancer sites to fit the models. An average absolute relative deviation (AARD) comparing the observed with the model-specific predicted counts was calculated for each site. Models were also cross-validated for six selected sex-specific cancer sites.

Results:

For the cross-validation, the AARD ranged from 2.8% to 33.0% for M0, 3.3% to 31.1% for M1, 6.6% to 30.5% for M2, and 10.4% to 393.2% for M3. M1 encountered the least technical issues in terms of model convergence and running time.

Conclusions:

The state-level mixed effect model (M1) was overall superior in accuracy and computational efficiency and will be the new model for the ACS current year projection project.

Impact:

In addition to predicting the unavailable state-level historical incidence counts for cancer surveillance, the updated algorithms have broad applicability for disease mapping and other activities of public health planning, advocacy, and research.
Early Cost-effectiveness Analysis of Risk-Based Selection Strategies for Adjuvant Treatment in Stage II Colon Cancer: The Potential Value of Prognostic Molecular Markers
Authors: Jongeneel Gabrielle , Greuter Marjolein J.E. , Kunst Natalia , van Erning Felice N. , Koopman Miriam , Medema Jan P. , Vermeulen Louis , Ijzermans Jan N.M. , Vink Geraldine R. , Punt Cornelis J.A. , Coupé Veerle M.H.
Published: June 2021

Background:

To explore the potential value of consensus molecular subtypes (CMS) in stage II colon cancer treatment selection, we carried out an early cost-effectiveness assessment of a CMS-based strategy for adjuvant chemotherapy.

Methods:

We used a Markov cohort model to evaluate three selection strategies: (i) the Dutch guideline strategy (MSS+pT4), (ii) the mutation-based strategy (MSS plus a BRAF and/or KRAS mutation or MSS plus pT4), and (iii) the CMS-based strategy (CMS4 or pT4). Outcomes were number of colon cancer deaths per 1,000 patients, total discounted costs per patient (pp), and quality-adjusted life-years (QALY) pp. The analyses were conducted from a Dutch societal perspective. The robustness of model predictions was assessed in sensitivity analyses. To evaluate the value of future research, we performed a value of information (VOI) analysis.

Results:

The Dutch guideline strategy resulted in 8.10 QALYs pp and total costs of €23,660 pp. The CMS-based and mutation-based strategies were more effective and more costly, with 8.12 and 8.13 QALYs pp and €24,643 and €24,542 pp, respectively. Assuming a threshold of €50,000/QALY, the mutation-based strategy was considered as the optimal strategy in an incremental analysis. However, the VOI analysis showed substantial decision uncertainty driven by the molecular markers (expected value of partial perfect information: €18M).

Conclusions:

On the basis of current evidence, our analyses suggest that the mutation-based selection strategy would be the best use of resources. However, the extensive decision uncertainty for the molecular markers does not allow selection of an optimal strategy at present.

Impact:

Future research is needed to eliminate decision uncertainty driven by molecular markers.
Intrusion Errors and Progression of Cognitive Deficits in Older Adults with Mild Cognitive Impairment and PreMCI States
Authors: Crocco Elizabeth A. , Curiel Cid Rosie , Kitaigorodsky Marcela , Grau Gabriella A. , Garcia Jessica M. , Duara Ranjan , Barker Warren , Chirinos Cesar L. , Rodriguez Rosemarie , Loewenstein David A.
Published: June 2021

Introduction: Among persons with amnestic mild cognitive impairment (aMCI), intrusion errors on subscales that measure proactive semantic interference (PSI) may be among the earliest behavioral markers of elevated Alzheimer’s disease brain pathology. While there has been considerable cross-sectional work in the area, it is presently unknown whether semantic intrusion errors are predictive of progression of cognitive impairment in aMCI or PreMCI (not cognitively normal but not meeting full criteria for MCI). Methods: This study examined the extent to which the percentage of semantic intrusion errors (PIE) based on total responses on a novel cognitive stress test, the Loewenstein-Acevedo Scales for Semantic Interference and Learning (LASSI-L), could predict clinical/cognitive outcomes over an average 26-month period in older adults initially diagnosed with aMCI, PreMCI, and normal cognition. Results: On the LASSI-L subscale sensitive to PSI, a PIE cut point of 44% intrusion errors distinguished between those at-risk individuals with PreMCI who progressed to MCI over time compared to individuals with PreMCI who reverted to normal on longitudinal follow-up. Importantly, PIE was able to accurately predict 83.3% of aMCI individuals who later progressed to dementia. Discussion: These preliminary findings indicate that PIE on LASSI-L subscales that measure PSI may be a useful predictor of clinical progression overtime in at-risk older adults.
GJB1 Gene Analysis in Two Extended Families with X-Linked Charcot-Marie-Tooth Disease
Authors: Kovale Sabine , Terauda Ruta , Millere Elina , Taurina Gita , Murmane Daiga , Isakova Jekaterina , Kenina Viktorija , Gailite Linda
Published: June 2021

X-linked Charcot-Marie-Tooth (CMT) disease type I (CMTX1) is the second most frequent type of CMT disease caused by pathogenic variants in the GJB1 gene. We described 2 extended cases (families) with CMTX1 with identified pathogenic variants – p.Val139Met and p.Arg215Trp. In both the families, neurological symptoms started earlier in male than in female patients. In some family members, molecular diagnostics was performed prior to neurological investigation due to family cascade screening. There was variable neurological phenotype representing CMT. Conclusions: There is a large clinical heterogeneity in CMTX, even amongst the family members.
Association of Serum Sclerostin Level, Coronary Artery Calcification, and Patient Outcomes in Maintenance Dialysis Patients
Authors: Ge Yifei , Wu Buyun , Yu Xiangbao , Wang Ningning , Xu Xueqiang , Zeng Ming , Zhang Bo , Mao Huijuan , Xing Changying
Published: June 2021

Objective: The objective of this study is to investigate the association between the serum sclerostin, the coronary artery calcification (CAC), and patient outcomes in maintenance dialysis patients. Methods: We performed a prospective cohort study of 65 maintenance dialysis patients in 2014, including 39 patients on peritoneal dialysis and 26 on hemodialysis, and followed up for 5 years. Parameters of mineral metabolism including bone-specific alkaline phosphatase, fibroblast growth factor 23, sclerostin, and other biochemical factors were determined at the baseline. Meanwhile, the CAC score was analyzed by cardiac computed tomography. Results: Serum sclerostin in hemodialysis patients was significantly higher than that in peritoneal dialysis patients (632.35 ± 369.18 vs. 228.85 ± 188.92, p < 0.001). The patients with CAC were older, receiving hemodialysis, lower Kt/V, and had longer dialysis vintage, as well as higher levels of serum 25-(OH)-vit D and sclerostin. In multivariate logistic regression analysis, older age and lower Kt/V were risk factors for CAC. The area under the receiver operating characteristic curves for prediction of CAC by sclerostin was 0.74 (95% confidence interval 0.605–0.878, p = 0.03), and the cutoff value of sclerostin is 217.55 pg/mL with the sensitivity 0.829 and specificity 0.619. After 5 years of follow-up, 51 patients survived. The patients in the survival group had significantly lower age, sclerostin levels, and low CAC scores than the nonsurvival group. Old age (≥60 years, p < 0.001) and high CAC score (≥50 Agatston unit, p = 0.031) were significant risk factors for the patient survival. Conclusions: Sclerostin is significantly elevated in dialysis patients with CAC. But sclerostin is not a risk factor for CAC. After 5 years of follow-up, patients in the survival group are younger and have lower sclerostin levels and CAC scores. But sclerostin levels are not independent risk factors for high mortality in dialysis patients.
Diagnosis of Fibrotic Distal Ileum Stenosis after Ischemic Enteritis Using Transabdominal Ultrasonography
Authors: Katsumata Ryo , Manabe Noriaki , Matsubara Masaki , Nakamura Jun , Kawahito Kazuma , Ayaki Maki , Fujita Minoru , Sunago Aya , Fujiwara Hideyo , Monobe Yasumasa , Kamada Tomoari , Kawamoto Hirofumi , Yamatsuji Tomoki , Naomoto Yoshio , Haruma Ken
Published: June 2021

Ischemic enteritis (IE) is a rare disorder which is caused by inadequate blood flow to small intestine. The diagnostic procedure of this disease has not sufficiently established because of its rarity. Here, we report a case of IE in a hemodialysis-dependent 70-year-old man and summarize the diagnostic options for IE. The patient was admitted to our hospital because of acute abdominal distention and vomiting. He presented with mild tenderness in the lower abdomen and slightly elevated C-reactive protein level as revealed by blood tests. Radiographic imaging showed small bowel obstruction due to a stricture in the distal ileum. Contrast-enhanced abdominal ultrasonography revealed a 7-cm stenotic site with increased intestinal wall thickening, which preserved mucosal blood perfusion. Elastography revealed a highly elastic alteration of the stenotic lesion, indicating benign fibrotic changes resulting from chronic insufficient blood flow. Based on a clinical diagnosis of IE with fibrous stenosis, a partial ileostomy was performed. After surgical treatment, oral intake was initiated without recurrence of intestinal obstruction. Pathological findings revealed deep ulceration with inflammatory cell infiltration at the stenotic site. Occlusion and hyalinization of the venules in the submucosal layer indicated IE. In addition to current case, we reviewed past case reports of IE. Through this case presentation and literature review, we summarize the usefulness and safety of transabdominal ultrasonography for diagnosing IE.
Identidad personal en niños y adolescentes: estudio cualitativo
Authors: Quiroga Flor , Capella Claudia , Sepúlveda Gabriela , Conca Bárbara , Miranda Jenniffer
Published: June 2021

(analytical)Construction of personal identity is a developmental process. Few research investigates this process in children. The research objective is to describe the personal identity construction of children and adolescents between 6 and 18 years old, from a developmental constructivist approach. Thematic analysis of autobiographical narratives written by 119 children and adolescents is performed. Results were organized around the three personal identity dimensions: unity of self, integration of self and integration with others. Results show from childhood there is a personal recognition, then different significant life events are integrated, and in adolescense this construction becomes more complex, integrating more reflection and ideological aspects. Implications are discussed to promote an adaptive development of identity through lifespam, validating a diversity of options.
Keywords: Personal Identity, personal image, narrative, child development, children, constructivism, Piaget.
Roles of Phytoestrogen in the Pathophysiology of Intracranial Aneurysm
Authors: Yokosuka Kimihiko , Rutledge Caleb , Kamio Yoshinobu , Kuwabara Atsushi , Sato Hiroki , Rahmani Redi , Purcell James , Eguchi Satoru , Baranoski Jacob F. , Margaryan Tigran , Tovmasyan Artak , Ai Jinglu , Lawton Michael T. , Hashimoto Tomoki
Published: June 2021

Background and Purpose:

The incidences of intracranial aneurysm and aneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhage are high in postmenopausal women. Although population-based studies suggest that hormone replacement therapy is beneficial for postmenopausal women with intracranial aneurysms, estrogen replacement may no longer be recommended for the prevention of chronic diseases given its association with adverse outcomes, such as cancer and ischemic stroke. The isoflavone daidzein and its intestinal metabolite equol are bioactive phytoestrogens and potent agonists of estrogen receptors. Given their estrogenic properties, we investigated whether the isoflavones daidzein and equol are protective against the formation and rupture of intracranial aneurysms in a mouse model of the postmenopausal state.

Methods:

We induced intracranial aneurysms in ovariectomized adult female mice using a combination of induced systemic hypertension and a single injection of elastase into the cerebrospinal fluid. We fed the mice with an isoflavone-free diet with/without daidzein supplementation, or in a combination of intraperitoneal equol, or oral vancomycin treatment. We also used estrogen receptor beta knockout mice.

Results:

Both dietary daidzein and supplementation with its metabolite, equol, were protective against aneurysm formation in ovariectomized mice. The protective effects of daidzein and equol required estrogen receptor-β. The disruption of the intestinal microbial conversion of daidzein to equol abolished daidzein’s protective effect against aneurysm formation. Mice treated with equol had lower inflammatory cytokines in the cerebral arteries, suggesting that phytoestrogens modulate inflammatory processes important to intracranial aneurysm pathogenesis.

Conclusions:

Our study establishes that both dietary daidzein and its metabolite, equol, protect against aneurysm formation in ovariectomized female mice through the activation of estrogen receptor-β and subsequent suppression of inflammation. Dietary daidzein’s protective effect required the intestinal conversion to equol. Our results indicate the potential therapeutic value of dietary daidzein and its metabolite, equol, for the prevention of the formation of intracranial aneurysms and related subarachnoid hemorrhage.
Militarizing Monopoly: Game Design for Wartime
Authors: Garvin Diana
Published: June 2021

This article tells the story of how Monopoly, a familiar object, was militarized on the eve of World War II. It will trace how game makers working for both Allied and Axis nations redesigned Monopoly to address their own political contexts, ranging from the Great Depression to Italian Fascism to Nazi German POW camps. To understand how different nations mobilized Monopoly for wartime, we first must turn to the historical origins of its design.
Influence of Graphene Oxide-Doped Bio-Gelatin Material on Hemodynamics of Sepsis
Authors: Lian Fu , Yang Xiaomin , Su Jingshen , Li Xiaojuan
Published: June 2021

To obtain astragalus polysaccharide (APS)-magnetic graphene oxide (MGO) nanoparticles (NPs), MGO was prepared by chemical co-precipitation, and then loaded with APS NPs. After the physical characterization of the material was analyzed, it was adopted to treat patients with sepsis injury
to study its mechanism. Then, changes in cytokine levels in the patient’s myocardial tissue were analyzed. Giving that septic myocardial injury-related neutrophil gelatinase (neutrophil gelatinase-associated lipocalin (NGAL) and cystatin) was related to hemodynamics, changes in the patient’s
hemodynamic indicators were analyzed before and after the addition of nanomaterials. Moreover, changes of the patient’s gelatinase markers before and after the preparation of nanomaterials were also analyzed. The results showed that the Fe3O4 magnetic NPs were coated
on the surface of GO while successfully adsorbing APS. The sample recovery rate was more than 100%, and the relative standard deviation was 0.48%. The in vitro release showed that the NPs were easily released in an acidic environment. Clinical trials showed that the levels of pro-inflammatory
cytokines (tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α, interleukin (IL)-β, etc.) in myocardial tissue were dramatically decreased (P < 0.05), while the levels of anti-inflammatory cytokines (IL-2, IL-4, etc.) were greatly increased (P < 0.05). The NGAL level
at the arterial and venous ends both decreased remarkably (P < 0.05). The total mass transfer ratio (Mtr) increased obviously while the mass adsorption rate (Mad) decreased significantly (P < 0.05). In addition, hemodynamic indicators such as cardiac output (CO) and diastolic
arterial pressure (DAP) all improved notably.
Preparation of Absorbable Suture Biomaterial Formed by Glycolide/Lactide and Its Application in the Congenital Thumb Deformity Surgery
Authors: Zhou Yang , Lou Xupeng , Zhao Jialin , Chen Zhe , Le Fuhuan , Fang Yousheng
Published: June 2021

Conducting polymers (CPs) can regulate cell behavior and promote the regeneration of damaged tissues, which are widely applied in tissue engineering. In this study, poly(3-hexylthiophene) (PHTP) was first obtained by the catalyst + transfer poly-condensation method, and then, it was
mixed with poly(lactide-co-glycolide) (PLGA) to obtain a composite material with superconductivity (PHTP/PLGA). Besides, ferric chloride (FeCl3) was selected as the dopant, and the doping time was changed, so as to obtain 5 PHTP/PLGA materials with different conductivity (10-7
S/cm, 10-6 S/cm, 10-5 S/cm, 10-4 S/cm, and 10-3 S/cm). While PHTP/PLGA was physically characterized, the cell proliferation ability and blood compatibility of this series of materials were further analyzed, and the materials were made into medical
sutures for the treatment of congenital thumb deformities. In the experiment, the surface morphology, hydrophilicity, and hydrophobicity of materials with different conductivity would not affect the difference in cell behavior. Using mouse embryonic osteoblasts (MC3T3-E1) as the research objects,
increasing PHTP/PLGA conductivity could promote MC3T3-E1 alkaline phosphatase activity cell mineralization, and collagen type I expression. PHTP/PLGA series materials had a low hemolysis rate and were not easily affected by platelet adhesion and activation, meaning that they would not cause
coagulation. The material was applied in the direct suture method of hammer deformity, and the results showed that the patient’s deformed thumb had a knot reaction and local skin edge necrosis. After dressing change, it gradually improved. Moreover, the excellent and good rate of deformed
thumb based on this material was higher than that of wire extraction method and Kirschner wire fixation method (P < 0.05).
Enhanced Negative Thermal Expansion Property Deduced by the Breaks of Superstructure
Authors: Zhang Niu , Wu Ming-Yi , Liu Ya-Ming , Yang Meng-Jie , Chao Ming-Ju , Liang Er-Jun
Published: June 2021

The HfV2O7/HfMo2O8 composite were prepared in situ. The phase, structure and thermal expansion property were analyzed. The results indicate the composite consist of cubic HfV2O7 and hexagonal HfMo2O8.
The two types of structures were coexisted and mixed uniformly, and interacted with each other. The mutual nested structure suppressed the formation of 3×3×3 superstructure in HfV2O7 (RT) introduced by the reaction in situ. The promoted coupled rotation
of quasi-rigid polyhedron units could enhance the negative thermal expansion (NTE) property. The HfV2O7/HfMo2O8 composite exhibits excellent NTE property from 250 to 673 K (at least) with CTE -3.09 × 10-6 K-1. The good
NTE property and thermal stability over a wide temperature range, especially near the RT range, bring a good potential application in designing zero thermal expansion materials.
On the Life Cycle of a Shallow Cumulus Cloud: Is It a Bubble or Plume, Active or Forced?
Authors: Romps David M. , Öktem Rusen , Endo Satoshi , Vogelmann Andrew M.
Published: June 2021

A cloud’s life cycle determines how its mass flux translates into cloud cover, thereby setting Earth’s albedo. Here, an attempt is made to quantify the most basic aspects of the life cycle of a shallow cumulus cloud: the degree to which it is a bubble or a plume, and active or forced. Quantitative measures are proposed for these properties, which are then applied to hundreds of shallow cumulus clouds in Oklahoma using data from stereo cameras, a Doppler lidar, and large-eddy simulations. The observed clouds are intermediate between active and forced, but behave more like bubbles than plumes. The simulated clouds, on the other hand, are more active and plumelike, suggesting room for improvement in the modeling of shallow cumulus.
Evaluating Diurnal Rainfall Signal Performance from CMIP5 to CMIP6
Authors: Lee Yu-Chi , Wang Yi-Chi
Published: June 2021

This study provides a comprehensive overview of diurnal rainfall signal performance within the current collection of models in phase 6 of the Coupled Model Intercomparison Project (CMIP6). The results serve as a reference for understanding model physics performance to represent precipitating processes and atmosphere–land–ocean interactions in response to the diurnal solar radiation cycle. Performance metrics are based on the phase, amplitude, and two empirical orthogonal function (EOF) modes of the climatological diurnal rainfall cycle derived from a Tropical Rainfall Measuring Mission observational dataset. We found that the ensemble model biases of diurnal phase and amplitude over lands improved from CMIP5 to CMIP6; however, those over oceans are still highly uncertain among CMIP6 models. Evaluation with observed EOF modes shows that the CMIP6 models are bifurcated based on the second EOF (EOF2), which represents diurnal rainfall contrast of coastal regimes where large biases of phase and amplitude reside. While the model ensemble suggests that models benefit from higher resolution in simulating phase and amplitude biases, the most distinct difference between the bifurcations is that one group successfully captures prevailing nighttime rainfall over tropical islands and coasts, especially over the Maritime Continent. Convective rainfall diagnosed by cumulus parameterization is found to be responsible for such biases. Our results suggest that CMIP6 models have generally been improved in their representation of diurnal rainfall cycles; however, for coastal diurnal regimes, more study is needed to improve the model parameterization of precipitation processes interacting with islands and coastal regions as current model resolution is still too coarse to resolve them.
Using Acoustic Travel Time to Monitor the Heat Variability of Glacial Fjords
Authors: Sanchez Robert , Straneo Fiamma , Andres Magdalena
Published: June 2021

Monitoring the heat content variability of glacial fjords is crucial to understanding the effects of oceanic forcing on marine-terminating glaciers. A Pressure-sensor equipped Inverted Echo Sounder (PIES) was deployed mid-fjord in Sermilik Fjord in southeast Greenland from August 2011 to September 2012 alongside a moored array of instruments recording temperature, conductivity and velocity. Historical hydrography is used to quantify the relationship between acoustic travel time and the vertically-averaged heat content, and a new method is developed for filtering acoustic return echoes in an ice-influenced environment. We show that PIES measurements, combined with a knowledge of the fjord’s two-layer density structure, can be used to reconstruct the thickness and temperature of the inflowing water. Additionally, we find that fjord-shelf exchange events are identifiable in the travel time record implying the PIES can be used to monitor fjord circulation. Finally, we show that PIES data can be combined with moored temperature records to derive the heat content of the upper layer of the fjord where moored instruments are at great risk of being damaged by transiting icebergs.
A rare case of persistent hyperkalaemia
Authors: Lewis Thomas , Roberts Gareth , Zouwail Soha
Published: June 2021

Hyperkalaemia is a common biochemical finding that can allude to preanalytical or truly pathological causes. Here, we present a case of a 41-year-old female patient who has regularly presented with incidences of isolated hyperkalaemia since 2012, with otherwise normal renal function and no other associated symptoms. Investigations into the patient’s family history revealed similar biochemical findings in her brother and eldest son. Familial causes of hyperkalaemia were investigated and an eventual diagnosis of pseudo-hypoaldosteronism type 2C was established. This is a rare congenital renal tubular disorder – also known as Gordon syndrome – that can cause a characteristic triad of symptoms that include hyperkalaemia, metabolic acidosis and hypertension. The presence and severity of each of these symptoms is dependent upon the disease-causing mutation that occurs in WNK4, WNK1, CUL3 or KLHL3 genes. These mutations alter the regulation of sodium/chloride co-transporter (NCC) expression on the luminal membrane of the principal cells of the distal convoluted tubule, disrupting normal homeostatic regulation of electrolyte reabsorption and excretion. The resolution for treating this condition is the administration of a thiazide diuretic, which directly counteracts the effects of NCC co-transporter overexpression and consequently aims to resolve the symptoms that arise as a result of this aberrant signalling. The case described here uniquely presents an extremely rare pathogenic variant in the conserved acidic motif of WNK1 resulting in a clear electrolyte phenotype with no hypertension.
The effect of paraprotein polymerisation on quantitation by capillary zone electrophoresis and Hevylite®
Authors: Valentine Helen , Dawnay Anne
Published: June 2021

Objectives

Up to 3% of patients with monoclonal gammopathies have multiple serum paraproteins. This article investigates whether multiple isotype-matched paraproteins, as seen on capillary zone electrophoresis, are truly biclonal.

Methods

Serum samples containing multiple isotype-matched paraproteins were treated with the reducing agent dithiothreitol, and capillary zone electrophoresis was performed pre- and post-treatment. Band resolution and effect of resolution on quantitation of paraprotein burden were assessed. The Hevylite® turbidimetric assay was also evaluated for ability to quantify such paraproteins.

Results

Among patients with biclonal isotype-matched paraproteins, 23/24 (96%) IgA paraproteins resolved into a single band following treatment with dithiothreitol compared with only 1/12 (8%) IgG paraproteins. Daratumumab therapy accounted for the second band in 5/9 non-resolving IgGκ paraproteins. Where initially quantified as a single IgA ‘complex’ (multiple bands in close proximity), the single postdithiothreitol band averaged 2.8 g/L less ( P<0.001), likely due to inclusion of lower amounts of underlying serum proteins (y = 0.97x–2.03, R2=0.993). Quantitating IgA biclonal isotype matched ( n = 58) using the Hevylite® assay gave higher results ( P = 0.002) than capillary zone electrophoresis (y = 1.48x–7.13, R2=0.959). In contrast, single IgA paraprotein results ( n = 48) did not differ between the two methods ( P = 0.466; y = 1.24x–2.74, R2=0.898), suggesting that polymerisation enhances Hevylite® quantitation.

Conclusions

These results suggest that disulphide-mediated polymerisation of IgA paraproteins is more common than true biclonal gammopathy and support dithiothreitol treatment of samples with isotype-matched IgA bands before quantifying by capillary zone electrophoresis. The Hevylite® assay should be utilized with caution where polymerisation is likely. Where IgGκ biclonal isotype-matched paraproteins appear on capillary zone electrophoresis, daratumumab therapy should be considered.
Dante as a Florentine lyrical author
Authors: Indizio Giuseppe
Published: June 2021

As one of the outstanding authors of medieval literature, Dante Alighieri has enjoyed seven centuries of close scholarly attention. 1 The immense success of his  Comedy has prompted some modern Dante scholars to assume that such success came easily during his life, even though the  Comedy was fully issued only after the poet’s death. Similar claims for rapid success are also made for the  Vita nuova and some of Dante’s lyric poetry. However, although much ancient source material has been lost, the surviving evidence does not support the view that success came to Dante during his life. Close scrutiny of the manuscript sources suggests a quite different scenario: Dante as an author had to survive in a dynamic and ruthlessly competitive environment (which, by analogy with the theory of natural selection, may have helped to elicit his finest achievements). His goal was to persuade the highly educated and affluent Florentine upper class to abandon its attachment to the prevailing lyrical school, represented by the authoritative and apparently indomitable Guittone d’Arezzo and his followers. Only then would Dante and the new poets (the  Stilnovisti) stand a chance of seeing their work collected in the prestigious and expensive  canzonieri. Probably, on the evidence of the surviving collections and other manuscripts (Escorialense, Laur. Martelli 12, etc), Dante did not fully achieve his goal — a situation which changed, dramatically, only after the  Comedy was published.
Scaling Up: Multisite Open-Label Clinical Trials of MDMA-Assisted Therapy for Severe Posttraumatic Stress Disorder
Authors: Wang Julie B. , Lin Jessica , Bedrosian Leah , Coker Allison , Jerome Ilsa , Feduccia Allison , Lilienstein Alia , Harrison Charlotte , Heimler Elizabeth , Mithoefer Michael , Mithoefer Annie , Ot’alora G. Marcela , Poulter Bruce , Carlin Shannon , Matthews Rebecca , Yazar-Klosinski Berra , Emerson Amy , Doblin Rick
Published: June 2021

Background: Posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is a debilitating mental health condition associated with serious adverse health outcomes and functional impairment. Previous MDMA–assisted therapy (MDMA-AT) studies have shown promising results in single site studies. Two open-label studies tested this modality in multisite clinical trials to assess the feasibility of scaling this manualized therapy across 14 North American sites. Method: Cotherapist dyads were trained in the manualized MDMA-AT protocol and administered three experimental sessions 3 to 5 weeks apart among participants with severe PTSD. Cotherapist dyads were provided clinical supervision and evaluated for protocol adherence by centralized raters. Clinician-Administered PTSD Scale for DSM-5 (CAPS-5) assessed change in symptoms severity. Results: Adherence rating scores were high across cotherapist dyads ( M = 95.08%, SD = 3.70%) and sites ( M = 95.23%, SD = 2.20%). CAPS-5 scores decreased following 3 MDMA-AT sessions at 18 weeks post baseline (Δ M = −29.99, Δ SD = 13.45, p < .0001, n = 37, Cohen’s d = 2.2, confidence interval [1.97, 2.47]). MDMA was well tolerated. Conclusions: These findings corroborate previous results that MDMA-AT can achieve significant improvements in PTSD symptom severity and demonstrate scalability of manualized therapy across clinic sites in the United States and Canada.
Developmental Impact of Early Parental Death: Sustaining Posttraumatic Growth Throughout the Lifespan
Authors: Tuazon Victor E. , Gressard Charles F.
Published: June 2021

Impacting millions of youth across the globe, early parental death is an important topic to investigate. This causal-comparative study ( N = 256) examined a group of young adults who experienced a parental death during adolescence and a group of young adults who had not experienced an early parental death. The researchers examined the psychosocial developmental impact of early parental death and developed a predictive model of posttraumatic growth (PTG) for young adults who have experienced early parental death. When compared to non-bereaved peers, young adults who experienced an early parental death had lower psychosocial developmental strength. The findings of the study emphasized social support, spirituality, and psychosocial development as significant predictors of PTG in young adults who experienced an early parental death. The study also provided insight into sustaining PTG throughout the lifespan. Implications for the counseling profession are considered.
Predicting unsteady heat transfer effect of vehicle thermal management system using steady velocity equivalent method
Authors: Guoquan Xiao , Huaming Wang , Lin Chen , Xiaobin Hong
Published: June 2021

In the process of vehicle development, the unsteady simulation of thermal management system is very important. A 3D-CFD calculation model of vehicle thermal management is established, and simulations were undertaken for uphill with full loads operations condition. The steady results show that the surface heat transfer coefficient increases to the quadratic parabolic relationship. The unsteady results show that the pulsating temperatures of exhaust and external airflow are higher than about 50°C and lower than 10°C, respectively, and the heat dissipating capacities are higher than about 11%. Accordingly, the conversion equivalent exhaust velocity increased by 1.67%, and the temperature distribution trend is basically the same as unsteady results. The comparison results show that the difference in the under-hood should be not noted, and that the predicted exhaust system surface temperatures using steady velocity equivalent method are low less 10°C than the unsteady results. These results show the steady velocity equivalent method can be used to predict the unsteady heat transfer effect of vehicle thermal management system, and the results obtained by this method are basically consistent with the unsteady results. It will greatly save computing resources and shorten the cycle in the early development of the vehicle thermal management system.
Between the Many and the One: Anticolonial Federalism and Popular Sovereignty
Authors: Sultan Nazmul S.
Published: June 2021

Recovering a marginal body of pluralist political thought from early twentieth-century India, this article explores how the question of popular sovereignty shaped the federalist reconfiguration of the anticolonial democratic project. The turn to federalism was facilitated by the Indian reckoning with Hegel in the late nineteenth century, which led to the diagnosis that the universality ascribed to monist sovereignty relies on a “unilinear” theory of development. Through a sustained engagement with British pluralist and American progressive thought, Indian federalist thinkers eventually developed a many-willed conception of the people. In so doing, they hoped to overcome the denial of Indian peoplehood on the ground of its lack of national unity and historical backwardness. However, the alternative source of sovereignty the federalists pointed to—plural and many-willed—stood in tension with their simultaneous pursuit of a people speaking in one voice. In this way, the constitutive tension of the pluralist conception of sovereignty came strikingly alive in the colonial world.
To Disclose or Conceal? Workplace Disability and Eldercare-Related Disclosure Decision-Making Strategies
Authors: Stewart Lisa Maureen , Charles Avelina
Published: June 2021

Using qualitative methods, this study explored workplace disclosure decisions made by employees caring for children and younger adults with disabilities or special healthcare needs and compared these experiences with those of employees caring for older adults when seeking family support at work. Nineteen semi-structured interviews included participants caring for children and younger adults with disabilities and older adults who were predominantly female, white, college-educated, and middle-aged. Employees in the sample had developed communication competence from prior experiences that impacted their ability to negotiate workplace supports to achieve positive outcomes. Differences found between the groups relate to the experiences of stigmatization and the use of formal flexibility supports. Findings highlight the need for employers to understand employees’ experiences of work-life fit when they care for children and younger adults with disabilities as well as those caring for older adults. Implications for work–family theory, workplace inclusion policies, and practices are discussed.
[11C]PBR28 radiotracer kinetics are not driven by alterations in cerebral blood flow
Authors: Sander Christin Y , Bovo Stefano , Torrado-Carvajal Angel , Albrecht Daniel , Deng Hongping , Napadow Vitaly , Price Julie C , Hooker Jacob M , Loggia Marco L
Published: June 2021

The positron emission tomography (PET) radiotracer [11C]PBR28 has been increasingly used to image the translocator protein (TSPO) as a marker of neuroinflammation in a variety of brain disorders. Interrelatedly, similar clinical populations can also exhibit altered brain perfusion, as has been shown using arterial spin labelling in magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) studies. Hence, an unsolved debate has revolved around whether changes in perfusion could alter delivery, uptake, or washout of the radiotracer [11C]PBR28, and thereby influence outcome measures that affect interpretation of TSPO upregulation. In this simultaneous PET/MRI study, we demonstrate that [11C]PBR28 signal elevations in chronic low back pain patients are not accompanied, in the same regions, by increases in cerebral blood flow (CBF) compared to healthy controls, and that areas of marginal hypoperfusion are not accompanied by decreases in [11C]PBR28 signal. In non-human primates, we show that hypercapnia-induced increases in CBF during radiotracer delivery or washout do not alter [11C]PBR28 outcome measures. The combined results from two methodologically distinct experiments provide support from human data and direct experimental evidence from non-human primates that changes in CBF do not influence outcome measures reported by [11C]PBR28 PET imaging studies and corresponding interpretations of the biological meaning of TSPO upregulation.
Student-led development of a lightboard to enhance future student learning
Authors: Swenson Matthew J , Spence Taylor , Smentkowski Brian
Published: June 2021

Lightboards are emerging technologies, helping to optimize online and flipped classroom environments by enabling the instructor to face the audience while writing on a transparent board. Although both commercial and do-it-yourself designs of lightboards are currently available, we have conducted a student-led engineering research and design project to optimize a lightboard design for broader use on campus to enhance the learning of future students. Through systematic side-by-side comparison, the team determined that Starphire Ultra-Clear™ glass is more appropriate than standard window glass for larger lightboard designs, despite its higher cost. The fully built and validated solution is housed in the campus Library for broad implementation into classroom environments throughout all institution outlets. The effectiveness of the lightboard is evaluated through a student comparison of short online videos generated using three separate formats: narrated slides, whiteboard, and the new lightboard. Students in a hybrid in-person and online class favored having the instructor facing the camera (76%), hand-written content (64%), and the use of more advanced technology (67%). Furthermore, through a pairwise polling comparison, students consistently favored the lightboard over narrated slides or simple whiteboard presentation formats.