bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Brief Report: No Differences Between Lopinavir/Ritonavir and Nonnucleoside Reverse Transcriptase Inhibitor–Based Antiretroviral Therapy on Clearance of Plasmodium falciparum Subclinical Parasitemia in Adults Living With HIV Starting Treatment (A5297)
Authors: Shaffer Douglas , Kumwenda Johnstone , Chen Huichao , Akelo Victor , Angira Francis , Kosgei Josphat , Tonui Ronald , Ssali Francis , McKhann Ashley , Hogg Evelyn , Stewart V. Ann , Murphy Sean C. , Coombs Robert , Schooley Robert ,   the A5297 Team
Published: October 2021

Background:

HIV protease inhibitors anti-Plasmodium falciparum activity in adults remains uncertain.

Methods:

Adults with HIV CD4+ counts >200 cells/mm3 starting antiretroviral therapy (ART) with P. falciparum subclinical parasitemia (Pf SCP) were randomized 1:1 to (step 1) protease inhibitor lopinavir/ritonavir (LPV/r)-based (arm A) or nonnucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitor (nNRTI)-based ART (arm B) for 15 days. In step 2, participants received nNRTI-based ART and trimethoprim/sulfamethoxazole prophylaxis for 15 days. P. falciparum SCP clearance was measured by polymerase chain reaction. The Fisher exact test [95% exact confidence interval (CI)] was used to compare proportions of P. falciparum SCP clearance (<10 parasites/μL on 3 occasions within 24 hours) between LPV/r and nNRTI arms at day 15. The Kaplan–Meier method and log-rank test were used to compare time-to-clearance.

Results:

Fifty-two adults from Kenya, Malawi, and Uganda with a median age = 31 (Q1, Q3: 24–39) years, 33% women, with baseline median CD4+ counts of 324 (259–404) cells/mm3, median HIV-1 RNA viremia of 5.18 log10 copies/mL (4.60–5.71), and median estimated P. falciparum density of 454 parasites/μL (83–2219) enrolled in the study. Forty-nine (94%) participants completed the study. At day 15, there was no statistically significant difference in the proportions of P. falciparum SCP clearance between the LPV/r (23.1% clearance; 6 of the 26) and nNRTI (26.9% clearance; 7 of the 26) arms [between-arm difference 3.9% (95% CI, −21.1% to 28.4%; P = 1.00)]. No significant difference in time-to-clearance was observed between the arms (P = 0.80).

Conclusions:

In a small randomized study of adults starting ART with P. falciparum SCP, no statistically significant differences were seen between LPV/r- and nNRTI-based ART in P. falciparum SCP clearance after 15 days of treatment.
Personality dimensions and disorders and coping with the COVID-19 pandemic
Authors: Starcevic Vladan , Janca Aleksandar
Published: October 2021

Purpose of review

The COVID-19 pandemic has tested people's coping and resilience. This article reviews research and scholarly work aiming to shed more light on personality-based factors that account for adjustment to the pandemic situation.

Recent findings

Most studies relied on a cross-sectional design and were conducted using personality dimensions based on the Big Five personality model. Findings suggest that high levels of neuroticism constitute a risk for pandemic-induced distress and poor overall coping. People with prominent extraversion, conscientiousness or agreeableness have generally demonstrated a good adjustment to the pandemic, including compliance with containment and mitigation measures imposed by the authorities to limit the spread of COVID-19. A few studies of individuals with borderline personality disorder identified social isolation as the most destabilising factor for them. Poor compliance with containment and mitigation measures has been strongly associated with various antisocial personality traits.

Personality-based factors account for some individual differences in coping with both COVID-19-related threat and distress and requirements to comply with containment and mitigation measures. Better understanding of these factors could contribute to a more effective adjustment to the challenges of future public health crises.
A computational model of direction selectivity in Macaque V1 cortex based on dynamic differences between ON and OFF pathways
Authors: Chariker Logan , Shapley Robert , Hawken Michael , Young Lai-Sang
Published: October 2021

This paper is about neural mechanisms of direction selectivity (DS) in Macaque primary visual cortex, V1. DS arises in V1 layer 4Cα which receives afferent input from the Magnocellular division of the Lateral Geniculate Nucleus (LGN). LGN itself, however, is not direction-selective. To understand the mechanisms of DS, we built a new computational model (DSV1) of 4Cα. DSV1 is a realistic, large-scale mechanistic model that simulates many V1 properties: orientation selectivity, spatial and temporal tuning, contrast response, and DS. In the model, DS is initiated by the dynamic difference of OFF and ON Magnocellular cell activity that excites the model’s layer 4Cα the recurrent network has no intra-cortical direction-specific connections. In experiments – and in DSV1 -- most 4Cα Simple cells were highly direction-selective but few 4Cα Complex cells had high DS. Furthermore, the preferred directions of the model’s direction-selective Simple cells were invariant with spatial and temporal frequency, in this way emulating the experimental data. The distribution of DS across the model’s population of cells was very close to that found in experiments. Analyzing DSV1, we found that the dynamic interaction of feedforward and intra-cortical synaptic currents led to cortical enhancement of DS for a majority of cells. In view of the strong quantitative agreement between DS in data and in model simulations, the neural mechanisms of DS in DSV1 may be indicative of those in the real visual cortex.

Significance Statement

Motion perception is a vital part of our visual experience of the world. In monkeys, whose vision resembles that of humans, the neural computation of the direction of a moving target starts in the primary visual cortex, V1, in layer 4Cα that receives input from the eye through the Lateral Geniculate Nucleus (LGN). How Direction-Selectivity (DS) is generated in layer 4Cα is an outstanding unsolved problem in theoretical neuroscience. In this paper, we offer a solution based on plausible biological mechanisms: We present a new large-scale circuit model in which DS originates from slightly different LGN ON/OFF response time-courses and is enhanced in cortex without the need for direction-specific intra-cortical connections. The model’s DS is in quantitative agreement with experiments.
Work-life enablers for job satisfaction in healthcare: moderating role of organization type
Authors: Zaman Sumbul , Ansari Amirul Hasan , Chaturvedi Shakti
Published: October 2021

Purpose

This paper aims to examine how the quality of work-life (QWL) factors influence job satisfaction and tests if organization type moderates this relationship.

Design/methodology/approach

The study adopts a quantitative cross-sectional research design using survey administration among resident doctors used in the Indian health-care sector. Drawing on the person-environment fit theory, leader-member exchange theory and action learning theory, the authors discuss the results.

Findings

Results depicted that in addition to the direct relationship between QWL and job satisfaction, this association is moderated by organization type.

Practical implications

The study provides critical information for health-care managers to prioritize three QWL attributes, namely, meaningful development, supervision, working conditions to enhance job satisfaction among resident doctors.

Originality/value

The study contributes to the limited empirical scholarly research adding a deeper understanding of pertinent factors influencing resident doctor’s QWL-job satisfaction relationship.
Viewpoint: internet revolution lessons applied to post-pandemic service delivery (a North American perspective)
Authors: Meuter Matthew L.
Published: October 2021

Purpose

This study aims to propose research directions for service providers to most effectively navigate through (and beyond) the post-pandemic service delivery challenges from a North American perspective.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper is based on the personal reflections of an academic researcher who has focused on the intersection of technology in services marketing for nearly 25 years.

Findings

The paper takes the position that much of what was learned through the internet revolution (early 2000s) can help us to understand the process of evolving into a post-pandemic environment. Both situations completely altered the way services are typically produced and consumed, and academic researchers can (and should) play a role by addressing these important business issues. Two major themes from early Self-Service Technology (SST) research include consumer adoption of new technologies and the consumer experience with SSTs. Pandemic requirements for service providers forced a very similar adaptation as experienced during the internet revolution with SSTs, thus our pandemic experiences can be viewed through a similar lens.

Research limitations/implications

This paper urges service researchers and business professionals alike to consider the potential improvements in service delivery from the adjustments to the COVID-19 pandemic and, as appropriate, incorporate those into service provision in the future. Just as firms who were best able to adapt to the internet revolution dynamics were most successful, those that are able to adjust most quickly in the post-pandemic environment are likely to be the most successful.

Originality/value

The insights provided here are intended to stimulate research and continued exploration of the post-pandemic service environment.
Fighting climate change: soil bacteria communities and topography play a role in plant colonization of desert areas
Authors: Sun Xiao , Pei Jin , Zhao Lei , Ahmad Bashir , Huang Lin‐Fang
Published: October 2021

Global warming has exacerbated desertification in arid regions. Exploring the environmental variables and microbial communities that drive the dynamics of geographic patterns of desert crops is important for large‐scale standardization of crops that can control desertification. Here, predictions based on future climate data from CMIP6 show that a steady expand in the suitable production areas for three desert plants (Cistanche deserticola, Cynomorium songaricum and Cistanche salsa) under global warming, demonstrating their high adaptability to future climate change. We examined the biogeography of three desert plant soil bacteria communities and assessed the environmental factors affecting the community assembly process. The α‐diversity significantly decreased along elevated latitudes, indicating that the soil bacterial communities of the three species have latitude diversity patterns. The neutral community model evaluated 66.6% of the explained variance of the bacterial community in the soil of desert plants and Modified Stochasticity Ratio <0.5, suggesting that deterministic processes dominate the assembly of bacterial communities in three desert plants. Moreover, topography (longitude, elevation) and precipitation as well as key OTUs (OTU4911: Streptomyces eurythermus and OTU4672: Streptomyces flaveus) drive the colonization of three desert plants. This research offers a promising solution for desert management in arid areas under global warming.
Assessment of biomarkers in pediatric atopic dermatitis by tape strips and skin biopsies
Authors: Andersson Anna Maria , Sølberg Julie , Koch Anders , Skov Lone , Jakasa Ivone , Kezic Sanja , Thyssen Jacob Pontoppidan
Published: October 2021

Background

The cytokine profile of atopic dermatitis (AD) depends on age, ethnicity, and disease severity. This study examined biomarkers in children with AD collected by tape strips and skin biopsies, and examined whether the levels differed with filaggrin genotype, disease severity, and food allergy.

Methods

Twenty‐five children aged 2–14 years with AD were clinically examined. Skin biopsies were collected from lesional skin and tape strips were collected from lesional and non‐lesional skin. We analyzed natural moisturizing factor (NMF) and 17 immune markers represented by mRNA levels in skin biopsies and protein levels in tape strips. Common filaggrin gene mutations were examined in all children.

Results

The cytokine profile in lesional skin was dominated by a T helper (Th) 2 response in skin biopsies, and by a general increase in innate inflammation markers (interleukin (IL)‐1α, IL‐1β, IL‐8, IL‐18) along with TARC and CTACK in tape strips. The levels of TARC, CTACK, IL‐8, IL‐18 showed significant correlation with AD severity in both lesional and non‐lesional tape stripped skin, while no significant correlations were observed in skin biopsy data. In tape strips from lesional and non‐lesional skin, the levels of NMF and selected cytokines differed significantly between children with and without FLG mutations and food allergy.

Conclusion

Sampling of the stratum corneum with non‐invasive tape strips can be used to identify biomarkers that are associated with disease severity, food allergy and FLG mutations. Skin biopsies showed robust Th2 signature but was inferior for association analysis regarding severity.
Outcomes after extracorporeal membrane oxygenation support in COVID‐19 and non‐COVID‐19 patients
Authors: Kurihara Chitaru , Manerikar Adwaiy , Gao Catherine Aiyuan , Watanabe Satoshi , Kandula Viswajit , Klonis Alexandra , Hoppner Vanessa , Karim Azad , Saine Mark , Odell David D. , Lung Kalvin , Garza‐Castillon Rafael , Kim Samuel S. , Walter James McCauley , Wunderink Richard G. , Budinger G. R. Scott , Bharat Ankit
Published: October 2021

Background

Veno‐venous extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (V‐V ECMO) support is increasingly used in the management of COVID‐19‐related acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS). However, the clinical decision‐making to initiate V‐V ECMO for severe COVID‐19 still remains unclear. In order to determine the optimal timing and patient selection, we investigated the outcomes of both COVID‐19 and non‐COVID‐19 patients undergoing V‐V ECMO support.

Methods

Overall, 138 patients were included in this study. Patients were stratified into two cohorts: those with COVID‐19 and non‐COVID‐19 ARDS.

Results

The survival in patients with COVID‐19 was statistically similar to non‐COVID‐19 patients (p = .16). However, the COVID‐19 group demonstrated higher rates of bleeding (p = .03) and thrombotic complications (p < .001). The duration of V‐V ECMO support was longer in COVID‐19 patients compared to non‐COVID‐19 patients (29.0 ± 27.5 vs 15.9 ± 19.6 days, p < .01). Most notably, in contrast to the non‐COVID‐19 group, we found that COVID‐19 patients who had been on a ventilator for longer than 7 days prior to ECMO had 100% mortality without a lung transplant.

Conclusions

These findings suggest that COVID‐19‐associated ARDS was not associated with a higher post‐ECMO mortality than non‐COVID‐19‐associated ARDS patients, despite longer duration of extracorporeal support. Early initiation of V‐V ECMO is important for improved ECMO outcomes in COVID‐19 ARDS patients. Since late initiation of ECMO was associated with extremely high mortality related to lack of pulmonary recovery, it should be used judiciously or as a bridge to lung transplantation.
Therapies for inflammatory bowel disease do not pose additional risks for adverse outcomes of SARS‐CoV‐2 infection: an IG‐IBD study
Authors: Bezzio Cristina , Armuzzi Alessandro , Furfaro Federica , Ardizzone Sandro , Milla Monica , Carparelli Sonia , Orlando Ambrogio , Caprioli Flavio Andrea , Castiglione Fabiana , Viganò Chiara , Ribaldone Davide Giuseppe , Zingone Fabiana , Monterubbianesi Rita , Imperatore Nicola , Festa Stefano , Daperno Marco , Scucchi Ludovica , Ferronato Antonio , Pastorelli Luca , Balestrieri Paola , Ricci Chiara , Cappello Maria , Felice Carla , Fiorino Gionata , Saibeni Simone ,   the Italian Group for the Study of Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IG‐IBD)
Published: October 2021

Background

Older age and comorbidities are the main risk factors for adverse COVID‐19 outcomes in patients with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). The impact of IBD medications is still under investigation.

Aims

To assess risk factors for adverse outcomes of COVID‐19 in IBD patients and use the identified risk factors to build risk indices.

Methods

Observational cohort study. Univariable and multivariable logistic regression was used to identify risk factors associated with pneumonia, hospitalisation, need for ventilatory support, and death.

Results

Of the 937 patients (446 with ulcerative colitis [UC]) evaluated, 128 (13.7%) had asymptomatic SARS‐CoV‐2 infection, 664 (70.8%) had a favourable course, and 135 (15.5%) had moderate or severe COVID‐19. In UC patients, obesity, active disease and comorbidities were significantly associated with adverse outcomes. In patients with Crohn's disease (CD), age, obesity, comorbidities and an additional immune‐mediated inflammatory disease were identified as risk factors. These risk factors were incorporated into two indices to identify patients with UC or CD with a higher risk of adverse COVID‐19 outcomes. In multivariable analyses, no single IBD medication was associated with poor COVID‐19 outcomes, but anti‐TNF agents were associated with a lower risk of pneumonia in UC, and lower risks of hospitalisation and severe COVID‐19 in CD.

Conclusion

The course of COVID‐19 in patients with IBD is similar to that in the general population. IBD patients with active disease and comorbidities are at greater risk of adverse COVID‐19 outcomes. IBD medications do not pose additional risks. The risk indices may help to identify patients who should be prioritised for COVID‐19 re‐vaccination or for therapies for SARS‐CoV‐2 infection.
Placement stability and satisfaction with foster home as predictors of life satisfaction for young adults raised in foster care
Authors: Mabille Geraldine , Skoglund Jeanette , Thørnblad Renee , Holtan Amy
Published: October 2021

This study examines how history of care, on one hand, and social support, on the other hand, predict satisfaction with life after leaving care by focusing on a sample of young adults raised in foster care in Norway. When aged between 19 and 29, youths answered questionnaires that mapped their past history of care, living conditions, social relationships and life satisfaction. Results show that the 70 respondents had experienced a relatively stable history of care (mean number of placements ± SD: 1.7 ± 0.9) and reported life satisfaction scores similar to those measured in the general population (23.3 ± 7.0, mean ± SD). Placement stability (P = 0.001) and a high satisfaction with foster home (P = 0.030) were related to a higher life satisfaction. Moreover, having good social support, that is, persons that you can count on in case of major personal problems (P < 0.001) and a good contact with the foster family (P = 0.005), was associated with a higher satisfaction with life. Several health‐related variables and the working status were also linked to life satisfaction. Our work highlights the need to focus on promoting placement stability and a good relationship to the foster family in order to enhance well‐being after leaving care.
Systemic immune‐inflammation index predicted the clinical outcome in patients with type‐B aortic dissection undergoing thoracic endovascular repair
Authors: Su Sheng , Liu Jitao , Chen Lyufan , Xie Enmin , Geng Qingshan , Zeng Hongke , Yuan Qiong , Yang Fan , Luo Jianfang
Published: October 2021

Background

The systemic immune‐inflammation index (SII) has been reported to have prognostic ability in various cardiovascular diseases; however, it has not been studied in type‐B aortic dissection (TBAD). We aimed to explore the relation of SII with short‐term and long‐term outcomes in TBAD patients undergoing thoracic endovascular repair (TEVAR).

Methods

We performed a retrospective analysis of a prospectively maintained database from 2010 to 2017. The patients were divided into two groups (high SII and low SII) as per the optimal cut‐off value determined using the receiver operating characteristic curve. Multivariate logistic and Cox regression analyses were performed to analyse the relationship between the SII and the short‐term and long‐term outcomes.

Results

A total of 805 TBAD patients who underwent TEVAR were enrolled. Twenty‐six (3.2%) patients died during hospitalisation. At the end of a median follow‐up duration of 48.80 mon, 70 (9.8%) patients had died. The patients were divided into the high‐SII group [n = 333 (41.4%%)] and the low‐SII group [n = 472 (58.6%)] as per the optimal cut‐off value of 1,062. Multivariable logistic analyses showed that a high‐SII score was independently associated with major adverse cardiovascular events (MACEs) in‐hospital (odd ratio [OR], 1.67; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.13–2.47; p = .01). In addition, multivariable Cox analyses showed that a high‐SII score could be an independent indicator for follow‐up adverse events (hazard ratio [HR], 1.70; 95% CI, 1.14–2.56, p = .01).

Conclusions

Systemic immune‐inflammation index is associated with both in‐hospital and long‐term outcomes in patients with TBAD undergoing TEVAR. Therefore, SII may serve as valuable tool for risk stratification before intervention.
High dose rate interstitial 192‐Ir brachytherapy for the treatment of a recurrent dermal vascular hamartoma in a horse
Authors: Conti F. , Poujet L. , Delverdier M. , Lallemand E. A. , Benoit J.
Published: October 2021

The successful application of an interstitial brachytherapy course is reported in a 14‐month‐old male Anglo European Studbook (AES) foal for the treatment of a recurrent dermal vascular hamartoma at the dorsal aspect of the pastern on the right hindlimb. The lesion was irradiated four times over 4 days to a total dose of 28 Gy. Progressive tumour shrinkage and necrosis were observed over 2 months. No significant acute side effect was reported at the end of the treatment, with excellent and long‐lasting cosmetic results observed. The only reported late effect was permanent leukotrichia within the treated area, which remained otherwise tumour‐free 1224 days after treatment. Results of this report suggest the potential use of radiation therapy (and specifically brachytherapy techniques), as an effective and safe treatment modality for vascular malformations in horses.
A study on the relationship between language aptitude, vocabulary size, working memory, and L2 writing accuracy
Authors: Mujtaba Syed Muhammad , Kamyabi Gol Atiyeh , Parkash Rakesh
Published: October 2021

The area of individual differences (ID) in second language (L2) has been a point of interest for many researchers; however, the impact of ID on the writing performance of L2 learners has not been explored exhaustively. Only a limited number of studies have examined the role of language aptitude, vocabulary size, and working memory (WM) on L2 learners’ writing accuracy. The current study aimed to investigate the effects of language aptitude, vocabulary size, and WM on L2 learners’ writing accuracy. For that, fifty graduate first‐semester students were recruited and took the WM, LLAMA, and a vocabulary test. Subsequently, they completed two picture description writing tasks. The Pearson correlation result unveiled that all the independent variables excluding LLAMA D were significantly correlated with learners’ writing performance. The regression analysis result explained that LLAMA B, LLAMA E, receptive vocabulary size, and WM were strong predictors of learners’ L2 writing performance.
In‐situ synthesis of 15R‐Sialon from Al‐Si3N4‐Al2O3 composite at 1500°C via liquid‐phase sintering
Authors: Wu Xiaofang , Li Yong , Jiang Peng , Sun Jialin
Published: October 2021

In this study, alumina‐based composite with 12 wt% Al and 16 wt% Si3N4 was designed to achieve the synthesis of 15R‐Sialon reinforced alumina composite. To investigate the reaction mechanism, two‐step sintered Al‐Si3N4‐Al2O3 samples at different temperatures ranging from 600°C to 1500°C were prepared and characterized via X‐ray diffraction and scanning electron microscope (SEM). The results revealed that 15R‐Sialon was synthesized at 1500°C through a novel liquid Si phase sintering and Si3N4 played as a precursor and a reactant. First, Si3N4 precursor reacted with Al to form intermediate phases AlN and Si, which were not further transformed below 1400°C. When the sintering temperature was 1500°C, the formed Si presented as a liquid phase, under the influence of which plate‐like15R‐Sialon was generated from Al2O3, residual Si3N4, and derived AlN. The obtained Si was also involved in the synthesis of 15R‐Sialon and completely transformed. In addition to the AlN from Si3N4, the AlN deriving from the nitridation of Al may not react with liquid Si. Compared to 15R‐Sialon from liquid Si, plate‐like 15R‐Sialon with smaller size was generated from AlN, SiO, and O2.
Spatial externalities in big cities and duality of the labour market
Authors: Matano Alessia
Published: October 2021

This article investigates the dynamics of the spatial wage premium for workers employed on temporary and permanent contracts. We use an employer–employee database that covers the universe of young Italian employees for 2005–2016. On controlling for individual observed and unobserved heterogeneity and endogeneity of the relationship, our findings indicate that workers hired on a temporary basis do not enjoy the same benefits from agglomeration externalities as workers on permanent contracts. Nonetheless, the likelihood of a temporary worker switching to a permanent contract, as well as its wage premium, increases with city size, thus partially offsetting the spatial dynamics disadvantage.
When I say … Self
Authors: Abbiati Milena , Pelaccia Thierry
Published: October 2021

Reflecting on the "self" component of "the inevitable triad" around which this issue is built, the authors offer definitional considerations to consider the term's practical implications.
Does prepregnancy weight change have an effect on subsequent pregnancy health outcomes? A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Nagpal Taniya S. , Souza Sara C. S. , Moffat Malcolm , Hayes Louise , Nuyts Tinne , Liu Rebecca H. , Bogaerts Annick , Dervis Sheila , Piccinini‐Vallis Helena , Adamo Kristi B. , Heslehurst Nicola
Published: October 2021

International guidelines recommend women with an overweight or obese body mass index (BMI) aim to reduce their body weight prior to conception to minimize the risk of adverse perinatal outcomes. Recent systematic reviews have demonstrated that interpregnancy weight gain increases women's risk of developing adverse pregnancy outcomes in their subsequent pregnancy. Interpregnancy weight change studies exclude nulliparous women. This systematic review and meta‐analysis was conducted following MOOSE guidelines and summarizes the evidence of the impact of preconception and interpregnancy weight change on perinatal outcomes for women regardless of parity. Sixty one studies met the inclusion criteria for this review and reported 34 different outcomes. We identified a significantly increased risk of gestational diabetes (OR 1.88, 95% CI 1.66, 2.14, I2 = 87.8%), hypertensive disorders (OR 1.46 95% CI 1.12, 1.91, I2 = 94.9%), preeclampsia (OR 1.92 95% CI 1.55, 2.37, I2 = 93.6%), and large‐for‐gestational‐age (OR 1.36, 95% CI 1.25, 1.49, I2 = 92.2%) with preconception and interpregnancy weight gain. Interpregnancy weight loss only was significantly associated with increased risk for small‐for‐gestational‐age (OR 1.29 95% CI 1.11, 1.50, I2 = 89.9%) and preterm birth (OR 1.06 95% CI 1.00, 1.13, I2 = 22.4%). Our findings illustrate the need for effective preconception and interpregnancy weight management support to improve pregnancy outcomes in subsequent pregnancies.
Characterization of the novel HLA‐C*02:207 allele by two next‐generation sequencing methods
Authors: Walencik Alexandre , Calvo De Olmos Orane , Bonneville Francoise , Blanchet Gaelle , Cesbron‐Gautier Anne
Published: October 2021

The novel HLA‐C*02:207 allele was characterized using two next generation sequencing technologies.
Trade in Small Arms and Light Weapons: Are embargoes effective?
Authors: Baronchelli Adelaide , Caruso Raul , Ricciuti Roberto
Published: October 2021

This paper analyses the trade in Small Arms and Light Weapons (SALW) from 1990 to 2017. Our analysis relies on an unbalanced panel of 79,245 observations reporting SALW exports between 9275 pairs of countries. In particular, we study the impact of embargoes on trade in SALW. We use a gravity model framework including, in addition to traditional gravity variables, specifically SALW trade controls. The main results show that: (i) embargoes reduce SALW exports to sanctioned countries by 33%; (ii) an EU embargo appears to determine a decrease of 37% of SALW transfers, whereas for UN embargoes the impact is not significant. In addition, we found no warning signals of sanctions‐busting. First, countries do not seem to import a larger number of SALW if neighbours are under an embargo. Second, the findings show that embargoes have no statistically significant effect on the trade in sporting arms. Results are robust to some robustness checks, in particular to endogeneity.
The Effect of Increasing Blood Flow Restriction Pressure When the Contractions Are Already Occlusive
Authors: Nucci Vito V. , Jarrett David H. , Palmo Catherine M. , Razzano Brenna M. , Uygur Mehmet , Dankel Scott J.
Published: October 2021

Context: Blood flow restricted exercise involves the use of external pressure to enhance fatigue and augment exercise adaptations. The mechanisms by which blood flow restricted exercise limits muscular endurance are not well understood. Objective: To determine how increasing blood flow restriction pressure impacts local muscular endurance, discomfort, and force steadiness when the contractions are already occlusive. Design: Within-participant, repeated-measures crossover design. Setting: University laboratory. Patients: A total of 22 individuals (13 males and 9 females). Intervention: Individuals performed a contraction at 30% of maximal isometric elbow flexion force for as long as possible. One arm completed the contraction with 100% of arterial occlusion pressure applied, while the other arm had 150% of arterial occlusion pressure applied. At the end of the protocol, individuals were asked to rate their perceived discomfort. Main Outcome Measures: Time to task failure, discomfort, and force steadiness. Results: Individuals had a longer time to task failure when performing the 100% arterial occlusion condition compared with the 150% arterial occlusion pressure condition (time to task failure = 82.4 vs 70.8 s; Bayes factors = 5.77). There were no differences in discomfort between the 100% and 150% conditions (median discomfort = 5.5 vs 6; Bayes factors = 0.375) nor were there differences in force steadiness (SD of force output 3.16 vs 3.31 N; Bayes factors = 0.282). Conclusion: The results of the present study suggest that, even when contractions are already occlusive, increasing the restriction pressure reduces local muscle endurance but does not impact discomfort or force steadiness. This provides an indication that mechanisms other than the direct alteration of blood flow are contributing to the increased fatigue with added restrictive pressure. Future studies are needed to examine neural mechanisms that may explain this finding.
Effects of Troponoids on Mitochondrial Function and Cytotoxicity
Authors: Bradley Daniel P. , O’Dea Austin T. , Woodson Molly E. , Li Qilan , Ponzar Nathan L. , Knier Alaina , Rogers Bruce L. , Murelli Ryan P. , Tavis John E.
Published: October 2021

The α-hydroxytropolones (αHTs) are troponoid inhibitors of hepatitis B virus (HBV) replication that can target HBV RNase H with submicromolar efficacies. αHTs and related troponoids (tropones and tropolones) can be cytotoxic in cell lines as measured by 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-5-(3-carboxymethoxyphenyl)-2-(4-sulfophenyl)-2
H
-tetrazolium (MTS) assays that assess mitochondrial function. Previous studies suggest that tropolones induce cytotoxicity through inhibition of mitochondrial respiration.
Scalar and gauge sectors in the 3-Higgs Doublet Model under the $$S_3$$ symmetry
Authors: Gómez-Bock M. , Mondragón M. , Pérez-Martínez A.
Published: October 2021

We analyse the Higgs sector of an$$S_3$$S3model with three Higgs doublets and no CP violation. After electroweak breaking there are nine physical Higgs bosons, one of which corresponds to the Standard Model one. We study the scalar and gauge sectors of this model, taking into account the conditions set by the minimisation and stability of the potential. We calculate the masses, trilinear and quartic Higgs-Higgs, and Higgs-gauge couplings. We consider two possible alignment scenarios, where only one of the three neutral scalars has couplings to the gauge bosons and corresponds to the SM Higgs, and whose trilinear and quartic couplings reduce exactly to the SM ones. We also obtain numerically the allowed parameter space for the scalar masses in each of the alignment scenarios. We use the calculated trilinear and quartic couplings to find the analytical structure of the one-loop neutral scalar mass matrix, without fermionic contributions. We show that it is possible to have a compact mass spectrum where the contribution to the oblique parameters might be small. We explore some scenarios for the loop contributions to the neutral scalar masses.
Multi-Timescale Simulations of Temperature Elevation for Ultrasonic Welding of CFRP with Energy Director
Authors: Takamura Maruri , Uehara Kotaro , Koyanagi Jun , Takeda Shinichi
Published: October 2021

Ultrasonic welding is an energy-efficient technology that enables quick bonding of thermoplastic composite materials under normal temperature and pressure conditions. Here, numerical multi-timescale simulation is proposed to understand the welding principle, using numerical simulations of ultrasonic welding. The simulation results are validated by comparing with temperature measurements in welding tests. In the multi-timescale simulations, microsecond-scale simulations are performed first. The ultrasonic wave is modeled as a vibration load, and the energy dissipation per vibration at 25, 75, 125, 175, 225, and 275∘C is analyzed. Then, the time derivative of the temperature rise is obtained. In the normal scale simulations, the ultrasonic wave and holding pressure are replaced by a constant load, and the entire process of ultrasonic welding is simulated. The slope of the temperature rise is fitted to the time derivative of the temperature rise obtained from the microsecond-scale simulations, using the material constant as a parameter. Explicit multi-timescale simulations were performed to investigate the relationship between stress concentration and temperature rise due to ED geometry. The result reveals similar temperature behavior to the experimental one, indicating the validity of the multi-timescale method. It suggests that viscoelastic energy dissipation and stress concentration are responsible for the temperature spike.
On Category of Linear Codes
Authors: Keshavarzian N. , Borumand Saeid A. , Tehranian A.
Published: October 2021

Recently, a number of researches studied relationship between codes and BCK-algebras, dealing with the category codes in a BCK-algebra have not been considered in earlier works. This paper investigates a code constructed by a BCK-algebra and also a BCK-algebra constructed based on code. The suggested rendered algorithm constructs the code based on BCK-algebra, the fixed dimension of this code is guaranteed by a BCK-algebra with some condition. We introduce the category of linear codes and denoted by [Formula: see text]. In addition, a subcategory of BCK-algebra is described and denoted by [Formula: see text]. Finally, we prove that [Formula: see text] is equivalent to [Formula: see text].
The effect of initial water content on the swelling pressure of soils
Authors: Ongen Ali Samet , Erguler Zeynal Abiddin
Published: October 2021

Swelling soils cause serious damage to engineering structures, and they pose a problem worldwide. The fluctuation of water content is one of the most important factors that cause the swelling pressure of soils, especially for soils in arid and semi-arid regions. The swelling soils in these regions are exposed to cycles of volume increase and decrease in the rainy and dry periods. Thus, low-rise buildings and infrastructure constructed on or in these soils are exposed to potential damage. Although the relationship between swelling parameters and the physical-index properties of soils have been investigated in detail in previous research, the effect of variations in the initial water content on the swelling pressure of soils has not yet been sufficiently studied. For this reason, samples were prepared at the same dry unit weight and with different initial water contents to examine the effect of water content on the swelling behaviour of soils. According to swelling test results reported here, there is a statistically significant linear relationship between initial water content and swelling pressure. Some predictive empirical models with high correlation coefficients are obtained. In addition, a new approach called swelling pressure designation (SPD) is recommended for prediction of the swelling pressure of soils of any water content.
Intercultural Computing Education: Toward Justice Across Difference
Authors: Arawjo Ian , Mogos Ariam
Published: October 2021

Even in the turn toward justice-oriented pedagogy, computing education tends to overlook the quality of intergroup relationships, which risks entrenching division. In this article, we establish an intercultural approach to computing education, informed by intercultural and peace education, prejudice reduction, and the sociology of racism and ethnicity. We outline three major concerns of intercultural computing: shifting from content toward relationships, from cultural responsiveness to cultural reflexivity, and from identity to identification. For the last, we complicate discourses of race and identity widespread in U.S. education. Drawing from studies of youth programming classes in East Africa and U.S. contexts, we then reflect on our attempts to address the first shift of fostering relationships across difference. We highlight three promising design tactics: intergroup pairing, interdependent programming, and making relational goals explicit. Overall, we find that computing can indeed be a site of intergroup bonding across difference, but that bonding can carry complications and tensions with other equity goals and tactics. Rather than framing justice-oriented CS primarily as changes to the aims of computational learning, we argue that future work should explore making relational goals explicit and teach students how to attend to friction.
Dynamic Forecasting Algorithm of Inbound Ice and Snow Tourism in China Based on Improved Deep Confidence Network
Authors: Zhao Yuguang , Jiao Chuanming , Li Jinhui , Yuan Zhigang , Li Xin , Gu Hanghai , Zhang Zhong
Published: October 2021

Ice and snow-based tourism is getting popular around the world and it is one of the major sources of revenue for a region with required facilities. According to a report by China Daily, China was expected to witness 230 million tourist visits in 2020-2021 with a total revenue generation surpassing 390 billion yuan. In order to promote the ice and snow tourism, proper arrangements such as accommodation, transport facility, and energy provision for heating and food need to be arranged as per the demand of the visitors at a certain period of time. A tourist prediction system can help in this regard for good estimation but considering the problems of traditional ice and snow tourism systems, specifically the prediction accuracy and long forecasting time, a dynamic forecasting algorithm for ice and snow inbound tourism based on an improved deep confidence network is proposed. The system analyzes the relationship between the demand for ice and snow inbound tourism and the level of national economic development, people’s living standards, demographic characteristics, traffic conditions, and tourism supply capacity. It then takes the influencing factors of ice and snow inbound tourism demand as sample data and arranges the sample data sequence. The inbound tourism demand dynamic prediction model uses an improved deep confidence network to learn and train the prediction model, input test data into the trained model, and output the dynamic prediction value of ice and snow inbound tourism demand in the output layer to obtain the prediction result. The simulation results show that the proposed algorithm has improved accuracy in predicting the demand of inbound tourism for ice and snow, whereas the forecasting time is reduced.
Mesh Migration into the Neobladder and Ileum with Complicated Fistula Formation following Incisional Hernia Repair
Authors: Kuroiwa Masatsugu , Kitazawa Masato , Miyagawa Yusuke , Muranaka Futoshi , Tokumaru Shigeo , Nakamura Satoshi , Koyama Makoto , Yamamoto Yuta , Hondo Nao , Ehara Takehito , Miyazaki Satoru , Tanaka Hirokazu , Soejima Yuji
Published: October 2021

Background. Tension-free repair using mesh has become the standard treatment for abdominal wall incisional hernias. However, its postoperative complications reportedly include mesh infection, adhesions, and fistula formation in other organs. Here, we report an extremely rare case of mesh migration into the neobladder and ileum with entero-neobladder and neobladder-cutaneous fistulas. Case Presentation. An 80-year-old male who had undergone radical cystectomy 5 years ago and abdominal wall incisional hernia repair 3 years ago presented with fever and abdominal pain. Computed tomography (CT) scan revealed mesh migration into the neobladder and ileum. He was treated conservatively with antibiotics for a month but did not show improvement; hence, he was transferred to our hospital. He was diagnosed with mesh migration into the neobladder and ileum with complicated fistula formation. He underwent mesh removal, partial neobladder resection, and partial small bowel resection. He developed superficial incisional surgical site infection, which improved with drainage and antibiotics, and he was discharged 40 days after the surgery. Conclusions. We reported a rare case of mesh migration into the neobladder and ileum with fistula formation. Successful conservative treatment cannot be expected for this condition because mesh migration into the intestinal tract causes infection and fistula formation. Hernia repair requires careful placement of the mesh such that it does not come into contact with the intestinal tract. Early surgical intervention is important if migration into the intestinal tract is observed.
Oral Motor Treatment Efficacy: Feeding and Swallowing Skills in Children with Cerebral Palsy
Authors: Widman-Valencia Maria E. , Gongora-Meza Luis F. , Rubio-Zapata Héctor , Zapata-Vázquez Rita E. , Lizama Elma Vega , Salomón Marco Ramírez , Estrella-Castillo Damaris
Published: October 2021

This study is aimed at identifying the relationship between oral motor treatment and the improvement of abilities for feeding and swallowing in boys and girls with CP residing in the state of Yucatán. The sample consisted of 30 patients with a diagnosis of CP and the presence of ADT, with gross motor function levels from II to V, between 3 and 14 years old, of which 50% received oral motor treatment. The predominant diagnosis was spastic CP and tetraplegia. An interview was carried out with the tutor, the application of the gross motor skills scale, and an assessment of feeding skills. The feeding and swallowing skills that improved significantly with the oral motor treatment were mandibular mobility, tongue activity, abnormal reflexes, control of breathing, and general oral motor skills (

p
≤
0.05

). Within the sample that did not receive oral motor treatment, 46% presented low or very low weight and 40% referred recurrent respiratory diseases. In the end, it was concluded that feeding skills improve significantly with oral motor treatment, regardless of the severity of gross motor involvement. Likewise, oral motor treatment was associated with a lower presence of respiratory diseases and nutritional compromise.
Non-Coding RNAs: lncRNAs, miRNAs, and piRNAs in Sexual Development
Authors: Burgos Miguel , Hurtado Alicia , Jiménez Rafael , Barrionuevo Francisco J.
Published: October 2021

Non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs) are a group of RNAs that do not encode functional proteins, including long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs), microRNAs (miRNAs), PIWI-interacting RNAs (piRNAs), and short interfering RNAs (siRNAs). In the last 2 decades an effort has been made to uncover the role of ncRNAs during development and disease, and nowadays it is clear that these molecules have a regulatory function in many of the developmental and physiological processes where they have been studied. In this review, we provide an overview of the role of ncRNAs during gonad determination and development, focusing mainly on mammals, although we also provide information from other species, in particular when there is not much information on the function of particular types of ncRNAs during mammalian sexual development.
CARMN
Is an Evolutionarily Conserved Smooth Muscle Cell–Specific LncRNA That Maintains Contractile Phenotype by Binding Myocardin
Authors: Dong Kunzhe , Shen Jian , He Xiangqin , Hu Guoqing , Wang Liang , Osman Islam , Bunting Kristopher M. , Dixon-Melvin Rachael , Zheng Zeqi , Xin Hongbo , Xiang Meixiang , Vazdarjanova Almira , Fulton David J.R. , Zhou Jiliang
Published: October 2021

Background:

Vascular homeostasis is maintained by the differentiated phenotype of vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs). The landscape of protein coding genes comprising the transcriptome of differentiated VSMCs has been intensively investigated but many gaps remain including the emerging roles of noncoding genes.

Methods:

We reanalyzed large-scale, publicly available bulk and single-cell RNA sequencing datasets from multiple tissues and cell types to identify VSMC-enriched long noncoding RNAs. The in vivo expression pattern of a novel smooth muscle cell (SMC)–expressed long noncoding RNA,
Carmn
(cardiac mesoderm enhancer-associated noncoding RNA), was investigated using a novel
Carmn
green fluorescent protein knock-in reporter mouse model. Bioinformatics and quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction analysis were used to assess
CARMN
expression changes during VSMC phenotypic modulation in human and murine vascular disease models. In vitro, functional assays were performed by knocking down
CARMN
with antisense oligonucleotides and overexpressing
Carmn
by adenovirus in human coronary artery SMCs. Carotid artery injury was performed in SMC-specific
Carmn
knockout mice to assess neointima formation and the therapeutic potential of reversing
CARMN
loss was tested in a rat carotid artery balloon injury model. The molecular mechanisms underlying
CARMN
function were investigated using RNA pull-down, RNA immunoprecipitation, and luciferase reporter assays.

Results:

We identified
CARMN
, which was initially annotated as the host gene of the
MIR143/145
cluster and recently reported to play a role in cardiac differentiation, as a highly abundant and conserved, SMC-specific long noncoding RNA. Analysis of the
Carmn
GFP knock-in mouse model confirmed that
Carmn
is transiently expressed in embryonic cardiomyocytes and thereafter becomes restricted to SMCs. We also found that
Carmn
is transcribed independently of
Mir143/145
.
CARMN
expression is dramatically decreased by vascular disease in humans and murine models and regulates the contractile phenotype of VSMCs in vitro. In vivo, SMC-specific deletion of
Carmn
significantly exacerbated, whereas overexpression of
Carmn
markedly attenuated, injury-induced neointima formation in mouse and rat, respectively. Mechanistically, we found that
Carmn
physically binds to the key transcriptional cofactor myocardin, facilitating its activity and thereby maintaining the contractile phenotype of VSMCs.

Conclusions:

CARMN
is an evolutionarily conserved SMC-specific long noncoding RNA with a previously unappreciated role in maintaining the contractile phenotype of VSMCs and is the first noncoding RNA discovered to interact with myocardin.