bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Word Sequential Using Deep LSTM and Matrix Factorization to Handle Rating Sparse Data for E‐Commerce Recommender System
Authors: Hanafi  , Mohd Aboobaider Burhanuddin
Published: December 2021

Recommender systems are essential engines to deliver product recommendations for e‐commerce businesses. Successful adoption of recommender systems could significantly influence the growth of marketing targets. Collaborative filtering is a type of recommender system model that uses customers’ activities in the past, such as ratings. Unfortunately, the number of ratings collected from customers is sparse, amounting to less than 4%. The latent factor model is a kind of collaborative filtering that involves matrix factorization to generate rating predictions. However, using only matrix factorization would result in an inaccurate recommendation. Several models include product review documents to increase the effectiveness of their rating prediction. Most of them use methods such as TF‐IDF and LDA to interpret product review documents. However, traditional models such as LDA and TF‐IDF face some shortcomings, in that they show a less contextual understanding of the document. This research integrated matrix factorization and novel models to interpret and understand product review documents using LSTM and word embedding. According to the experiment report, this model significantly outperformed the traditional latent factor model by more than 16% on an average and achieved 1% on an average based on RMSE evaluation metrics, compared to the previous best performance. Contextual insight of the product review document is an important aspect to improve performance in a sparse rating matrix. In the future work, generating contextual insight using bidirectional word sequential is required to increase the performance of e‐commerce recommender systems with sparse data issues.
Performance Evaluation of Different Control Methods for an Underactuated Quadrotor Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (QUAV) with Position Estimator and Disturbance Observer
Authors: Mustafa Abro Ghulam E. , Ali Zain Anwar , Zulkifli Saiful A. , Asirvadam Vijanth Sagayan
Published: December 2021

The main aim of this manuscript is to design and demonstrate the performance of different control algorithms with position estimator and disturbance observer to track the helical trajectory by an underactuated quadrotor craft under the influence of unmodelled dynamic factors and external disturbances. The manuscript consists of the derivations related to the kinematics and dynamics of quadrotor dully derived using the Newton Euler approach. It is one of the strenuous tasks to stabilize and control the quadrotor for helical trajectory tracking since it is an underactuated mechatronic system. In addition to this, with inclusion of unmodelled dynamic factors, it faces some of the serious transient and steady-state issues including Zeno noise. In this research manuscript, dual-loop single-dimension fuzzy sliding mode control (DLSDF-SMC) is proposed to improve the helical trajectory tracking performance, and to tackle the unmodelled dynamic factors, a state feedback controller is proposed consisting of a position estimator and disturbance observer design. The entire system is distributed into two subsystems such that within the angular subsystem, the attitude control is proposed using DLSDF-SMC, and for the translational subsystem, the paper proposes the position control design based on the hyperbolic function to avoid the gimbal lock issue. The overall stability of the proposed closed-loop control scheme is also proved. The simulation work for the proposed algorithm is performed using MATLAB and Simulink software and compared with the conventional sliding mode control (SMC) and fuzzy-based SMC control designs. This work demonstrates that the DLSDF-SMC control technique with position estimator and disturbance observer design in feedback not only improves the aggressive maneuvers while tracking the helical trajectory but also tackles the transient and steady-state issues.
Multiresponse Particle Swarm Optimization of Wire-Electro-Discharge Machining Parameters of Nitinol Alloys
Authors: Yunus Mohammed , Alsoufi Mohammad S.
Published: December 2021

The conventional process of machining of nitinol alloy which possesses excess strain hardening and low thermal conductivity makes a complex process that leads to extensive wear on the tool and inadequate surface quality. Wire-electro-discharge machining (WEDM) is widely accepted for machining this alloy involving various input factors, namely, P (pulse-on-duration), Q (pulse-off-duration), C, (maximum-current), and V (voltage). Using the PSO (particle swarm optimization) method, the effect of WEDM process factors on multiresponses such as MRR (metal removal rate) and SR (surface roughness) has been investigated. ANOVA was used to create a relationship model between input factors and response characteristics, which was then optimized using response surface methods (RSM). ANOVA revealed that variables A and C are the most significant. When investigated individually, the influence of WEDM process parameters on SR and MRR is contradictory, as no response provides the best process quality. To find the optimal ideal condition for decreasing SR and maximizing MRR, the MOOPSO approach was used. P = 25.47051 μs, Q = 10.84998 μs, C = 2.026317 A, and V = 49.50757 volts were used to calculate the optimal universal solution for machining characteristics (MRRmax = 3.536791 mm3/min and SRmin = 1.822372 μm). PSO enhanced MRR and SR for every optimal combination of variables, according to the findings. Based on the findings, a wide range of optimal settings for achieving maximum MRR and minimum SR are given, depending on the product requirements.
Preliminary Characterization of Predictive Factors of the Visual Change after Epi-On and Epi-Off Corneal Collagen Crosslinking Techniques
Authors: Hamida Abdelkader Sidi Mohamed , Fernández Joaquín , Sebastián Javier , Piñero David P.
Published: December 2021

Purpose. To investigate the potential predictive factors of the visual change achieved with accelerated epi-on and epi-off corneal collagen crosslinking (CXL) in keratoconus. Methods. This retrospective comparative study analyzed 67 eyes treated with an accelerated epithelium-on (epi-on group) and epithelium-off (epi-off group) CXL. The clinical outcomes were evaluated and compared during a 1-year follow-up. Likewise, the relationship of the change achieved with both CXL techniques in the corrected distance visual acuity (CDVA) with different preoperative data was investigated. Results. The mean CDVA change at 3 months postoperatively was −0.04 ± 0.19 and −0.07 ± 0.25 in the epi-on and epi-off groups, respectively (

p

 = 0.809). In the epi-on group, this change was significantly correlated with the preoperative apical (r = −0.375,

p

 = 0.045) and central corneal thickness (r = −0.402,

p

 = 0.031). In the epi-off group, the CDVA change was significantly correlated with not only the preoperative apical (r = 0.402,

p

 = 0.028) and central corneal thickness (r = 0.367,

p

 = 0.046) but also with some topometric and aberrometric indices (r ≤ −0.374,

p

 ≤ 0.042). Furthermore, the change in CDVA in the epi-on group could be predicted from age, preoperative refractive astigmatism J45 component, anterior corneal asphericity, and posterior corneal high order aberration root mean square (

p

 = 0.002, R2 = 0.503). In the epi-off group, the CDVA change could be predicted from the preoperative minimum corneal thickness and magnitude of the vertical anterior corneal primary coma component (

p

 = 0.001, R2 = 0.446). Conclusions. Clearly, different predictive factors of the visual change induced with the accelerated epi-on and epi-off CXL techniques are present, suggesting a different mechanism of action for stiffening the cornea and inducing changes in this structure.
Novel SNX13 Frameshift Variant in an Individual with Developmental Delay
Authors: Tao Xicheng , Che Yueping , Li Chenxi , Ruan Wencong , Xu Jialu , Yu Yonglin , Yang Fan , Wang Jia , Li Haifeng
Published: December 2021

Recently, an increasing number of genes have been associated with global developmental delay (GDD) and intellectual disability (ID). The sorting nexin (SNX) protein family plays multiple roles in protein trafficking and intracellular signaling. SNXs have been reported to be associated with several disorders, including Alzheimer disease and Down syndrome. Despite the growing evidence of an association of SNXs with neurodegeneration, SNX13 deficiency has not been associated with GDD or ID. In this study, we present the case of a 4-year-old boy with brain dysplasia and GDD, including language delay, cognitive delay, and dyskinesia. Exome sequencing revealed a 1-bp homozygous deletion in SNX13 (NM_015132.5: exon8: c.742_743del; p.Tyr248Leufs*20), which caused a frameshift and predicted early termination. Sanger sequencing confirmed that the variant was inherited from his parents respectively. Our findings associate SNX13 variation with GDD for the first time and provide a new GDD candidate gene.
Effect of Mineralocorticoid Receptor Antagonists on the Prognosis of Patients with Ventricular Tachyarrhythmias
Authors: Schupp Tobias , von Zworowsky Max , Reiser Linda , Abumayyaleh Mohammad , Weidner Kathrin , Mashayekhi Kambis , Bertsch Thomas , Abba Mohammed L. , Akin Ibrahim , Behnes Michael
Published: December 2021

Introduction: The study sought to assess the effect of treatment with mineralocorticoid receptor antagonists (MRAs) on long-term prognosis of patients with systolic heart failure (HF) surviving index episodes of ventricular tachyarrhythmias. Methods: A large retrospective registry was used including consecutive HF patients with left ventricular ejection fraction <45% and index episodes of ventricular tachyarrhythmias from 2002 to 2015. The primary endpoint was all-cause mortality at 3 years and secondary endpoints were rehospitalization, as well as the composite endpoint consisting of recurrent ventricular tachyarrhythmias, sudden cardiac death and appropriate implantabe cardioverter defibrillator (ICD) therapies at 3 years. Results: 748 patients were included, 20% treated with MRA and 80% without. At 3 years, treatment with MRA was not associated with improved all-cause mortality (22% vs. 24%, log-rank p = 0.968; hazard ratio (HR) = 1.008; 95% CI 0.690–1.472; p = 0.968). Accordingly, risk of the composite endpoint (28% vs. 27%; HR = 1.131; 95% CI 0.806–1.589; p = 0.476) and first cardiac rehospitalization (24% vs. 22%; HR = 1.139; 95% CI 0.788–1.648; p = 0.489) were not affected by treatment with MRA. Conclusion: In patients with ventricular tachyarrhythmias, treatment with MRA was not associated with improved all-cause mortality at 3 years. The therapeutic effect of MRA treatment in patients with ventricular tachyarrhythmias needs to be reinvestigated within further randomized controlled trials.
ESSFN Conference Proceedings, Marseille, France, September 8-11, 2021
Authors: Régis Jean , Gonçalves-Ferreira António
Published: December 2021

NA
Abstract 109: Can Resting VO
2
be Accurately Estimated in a Contemporary Clinical Setting?
Authors: Narang Nikhil , Levine Benjamin D , Gore M. Odette , Ayers Colby R , Lange Richard A , Cigarroa Joaquin E , Turer Aslan T , de Lemos James A , McGuire Darren K
Published: December 2021

Background:
The Fick principle (cardiac output (Qc) = oxygen uptake (VO
2
) / arterio-venous oxygen difference) is used to determine Qc in numerous clinical situations such as ICU care, assessment of the severity of heart failure, pulmonary hypertension, and valvular heart disease. However, complexities of VO
2
measurement have led to the common use of estimated rather than measured VO
2
via the use of equations derived primarily from studies of either infants/children, or lean, healthy adults. The purpose of the present study was to investigate the accuracy of estimated VO
2
in a contemporary clinical setting.

Methods:
The study included adult patients undergoing right-heart catheterization at our institution for any indication from 1996-2005, with resting VO
2
measured by the gold-standard Douglas bag technique. Resting VO
2
was estimated by a formula derived at our institution (Parkland): VO
2
(ml/min)= 125 (ml/min/m
2
) × body surface area (m
2
); and also by published formulae of LaFarge and Bergstra. Overall agreement between estimated and measured VO
2
was assessed by mean absolute difference using ordinary least products regression, and t-test or trend testing across strata of BMI, sex, and age.

Results:
The study comprised 535 subjects, mean age 55 yrs, mean BMI 28.4 kg/m
2
; 47% men; 36% White, 31% Black, and 27% Hispanic. Overall, mean measured VO
2
was 241.0 ± 56.6 ml/min; estimated vs. measured VO
2
differed significantly using the Parkland formula, with a mean absolute difference of 35.6 ± 29.9 ml/min (14.8% error; p<0.0001). Significant overall disagreement between estimated and measured VO
2
was also evident using both the LaFarge and Bergstra formulae (45.6 ± 35.3 ml/min & 38.0 ± 29.6 ml/min, respectively; p<0.0001 for each). Using the Parkland formula, 17% of subjects had >25% error; even greater proportional disagreement was observed using the LaFarge and Bergstra formulae (Figure). With the Parkland formula, mean absolute difference was significantly greater for BMI ≥40 kg/m
2
vs. <25 kg/m
2
(53.9 ml/min vs. 31.6 ml/min; p
trend
=0.001), with qualitatively similar results observed using both the LaFarge and Bergstra formulae. Mean absolute differences differed negligibly in analyses stratified by sex and by median-split age (55 yrs) using each formula.

Conclusions:
Resting VO
2
estimates are inaccurate, especially in severely obese individuals, and translate into the same proportional errors in Qc estimation. When accurate hemodynamic assessment is important for clinical decision-making, VO
2
should be measured and not estimated.
Abstract 119: Are There Demographic Differences In Arterial Access Sites For Cardiac Catheterization?
Authors: Patel Ankitkumar , Kabadi Rajesh , Martin Fern , Dolan Matthew , Patel Ankita , Iliadis Elias
Published: December 2021

Background:
Though cardiac catheterization via the radial artery (RA) as compared to the femoral artery (FA) access site is on the rise in the United States, most centers perform less than <10% cases via radial approach based on the National Cardiovascular Data Registry. RA catheterization is associated with lower rates of complications; however, it has been reported to be underutilized in women and elderly patients. The cardiac catheterization laboratory at Cooper University Hospital performs RA catheterization more frequently than national average. Our study is to investigate whether gender and age differences exist in a large volume RA center.

Methods:
Patients presenting to a large urban, tertiary care hospital for cardiac catheterization were included from January 2011 to November 2011. Vascular access site (radial or femoral) is defined as the site of successful vascular entry; failed attempts are not included. Statistical analysis included percentages and Chi-square analysis.

Results:
Of the 2275 procedures performed during the study period, 611 (27%) were performed via RA access. The study population was 41% females and had a median age of 63 years. There was a trend towards more RA access in females as compared to males (29% vs 25%, p=0.06). Older patients (age >63 years) were significantly less likely to have RA access as compared to younger patients (23% vs 30%, p<0.001).

Conclusions:
At our center which performs RA access cardiac catheterization in one-fourth of all cases, there is an increased frequency in female patients which differs from other centers. However, older patients are more likely to have a FA access site. Given the increased safety profile and overall quality of care associated with RA access, greater use should be implemented in the elderly population.
NRSF-
GNAO1
Pathway Contributes to the Regulation of Cardiac Ca
2+
Homeostasis
Authors: Inazumi Hideaki , Kuwahara Koichiro , Nakagawa Yasuaki , Kuwabara Yoshihiro , Numaga-Tomita Takuro , Kashihara Toshihide , Nakada Tsutomu , Kurebayashi Nagomi , Oya Miku , Nonaka Miki , Sugihara Masami , Kinoshita Hideyuki , Moriuchi Kenji , Yanagisawa Hiromu , Nishikimi Toshio , Motoki Hirohiko , Yamada Mitsuhiko , Morimoto Sachio , Otsu Kinya , Mortensen Richard M. , Nakao Kazuwa , Kimura Takeshi
Published: December 2021

Background:

During the development of heart failure, a fetal cardiac gene program is reactivated and accelerates pathological cardiac remodeling. We previously reported that a transcriptional repressor, NRSF (neuron restrictive silencer factor), suppresses the fetal cardiac gene program, thereby maintaining cardiac integrity. The underlying molecular mechanisms remain to be determined, however.

Methods:

We aim to elucidate molecular mechanisms by which NRSF maintains normal cardiac function. We generated cardiac-specific NRSF knockout mice and analyzed cardiac gene expression profiles in those mice and mice cardiac-specifically expressing a dominant-negative NRSF mutant.

Results:

We found that cardiac expression of Gα
o
, an inhibitory G protein encoded in humans by
GNAO1
, is transcriptionally regulated by NRSF and is increased in the ventricles of several mouse models of heart failure. Genetic knockdown of
Gnao1
ameliorated the cardiac dysfunction and prolonged survival rates in these mouse heart failure models. Conversely, cardiac-specific overexpression of
GNAO1
in mice was sufficient to induce cardiac dysfunction. Mechanistically, we observed that increasing Gα
o
expression increased surface sarcolemmal L-type Ca
2+
channel activity, activated CaMKII (calcium/calmodulin-dependent kinase-II) signaling, and impaired Ca
2+
handling in ventricular myocytes, which led to cardiac dysfunction.

Conclusions:

These findings shed light on a novel function of Gα
o
in the regulation of cardiac Ca
2+
homeostasis and systolic function and suggest Gα
o
may be an effective therapeutic target for the treatment of heart failure.
Effectiveness of a Workplace-Based, Multicomponent Hypertension Management Program in Real-World Practice: A Propensity-Matched Analysis
Authors: Zhou Yan-Feng , Chen Simiao , Wang Guodong , Chen Shuohua , Zhang Yan-Bo , Chen Jun-Xiang , Tu Zhou-Zheng , Liu Gang , Wu Shouling , Pan An
Published: December 2021

Limited studies had investigated the potential benefits of workplace-based hypertension management programs on long-term blood pressure (BP) control and health outcomes. This study used the propensity score matching to examine the effectiveness of a workplace-based hypertension management program on BP control and risks of major adverse cardiovascular events and all-cause mortality. Within the Kailuan study, a workplace-based hypertension management program was initiated in 2009 among men with hypertension, which included regular BP measuring (twice a month), free antihypertensive medications, and individualized health consultation. Participants were followed until loss to follow-up, death, or December 31, 2019. Among 17 724 male hypertensives aged 18 to 60 years, 6400 participated in the program. The propensity score matching yielded 6120 participants in the management group and 6120 participants in the control group. Both systolic and diastolic BPs were significantly lower in the management group than in the control group over follow-up, and the mean between-group difference at the 10th year was −7.83 (95% CI, −9.06 to −6.62) mm Hg for systolic BP and −4.72 (95% CI, −5.46 to −3.97) mm Hg for diastolic BP. Participants in the program were more likely to achieve BP control (odds ratio, 1.70 [95% CI, 1.41–2.06]) and had significantly lower risks of major adverse cardiovascular events (hazard ratio, 0.83 [95% CI, 0.72–0.94]) and all-cause mortality (hazard ratio, 0.71 [95% CI, 0.58–0.86]), compared with those who were not in the program. A workplace-based hypertension management program was related to reduced BP levels and lower risks of major adverse cardiovascular events and mortality in Chinese men with hypertension.
Long-Term Mortality in Children With Ischemic Stroke: A Nationwide Register-Based Cohort Study
Authors: Sundelin Heléne E.K. , Walås Anna , Söderling Jonas , Bang Peter , Ludvigsson Jonas F.
Published: December 2021

Background and Purpose:

Ischemic stroke is a common cause of death in adults, however, mortality after pediatric ischemic stroke is not well explored. We investigate long-term and cause-specific mortality in children with ischemic stroke and their first-degree relatives.

Methods:

Through nationwide Swedish registers, we identified 1606 individuals <18 years old with ischemic stroke between 1969 and 2016 and their first-degree relatives (n=5714). Each individual with ischemic stroke was compared with 10 reference individuals (controls) matched for age, sex, and county of residence. Our main analysis examined 1327 children with ischemic stroke still alive 1 week after the event. First-degree relatives to children with ischemic stroke were compared with first-degree relatives to the reference individuals. Using a Cox proportional hazard regression model, the risk of overall and cause-specific mortality was computed in individuals with pediatric ischemic stroke and their first-degree relatives.

Results:

The mortality rate in the first 6 months was 40.1 (95% CI, 24.7–55.6) per 1000 person-years compared with 1.1/1000 in controls (95% CI, 0.3–1.9). The overall mortality risk was hazard ratio (HR)=10.8 (95% CI, 8.1–14.3) and remained elevated beyond 20 years (HR=3.9 [95% CI, 2.1–7.1]). Children with ischemic stroke were at increased risk of death from neurological diseases (HR=29.9 [95% CI, 12.7–70.3]), cardiovascular diseases (HR=6.2 [95% CI, 1.8–22.2]), cancers (HR=6.5 [95% CI, 2.6–15.9]) and endocrine, nutritional and metabolic diseases (HR=49.2 [95% CI, 5.7–420.8]). First-degree relatives to children with ischemic stroke had an increased mortality risk (HR=1.21 [95% CI, 1.05–1.39]), with the highest risk among siblings (HR=1.52 [95% CI, 1.09–2.11]) and relatives to individuals with ischemic stroke >28 days of age (HR=1.23 [95% CI, 1.06–1.42]) compared with the relatives of the controls.

Conclusions:

Long-term mortality increased after pediatric ischemic stroke, even 20 years later, with neurological diseases as the most frequent cause of death.
Entrepreneurship and Decentralised Investment in a Planned Economy
Authors: Nieto Maxi
Published: December 2021

Since the 1980s, authors of the Austrian School have argued that the problem of rational allocation in a planned economy is not computational or technical in nature (static optimisation, with given information) but a question of dynamic efficiency (innovation and the creation of new information), and that this would be impossible without market processes and free entrepreneurship. In this article, we argue to the contrary that a planned economy can effectively drive dynamic efficiency. We first reveal that the Austrian thesis on the impossibility of dynamic efficiency in socialist planning is based on tautological arguments, or on problems already solved by technological development. Secondly, we present an institutional formula for promoting innovative activities and entrepreneurship within a framework of social ownership of the means of production and social control of investment.
Apocalyptic Visions and Anthems of Hope: Climate Change Communication and Future Possibilities
Authors: Shepherd Andrew
Published: December 2021

Within the emerging field of evolutionary psychology a consensus is developing that the triggering of emotions is integral to the human response to threats. This understanding of human psychology underlies a vigorous debate within the contemporary activity of climate change communication regarding the efficacy of the emotions of fear vis-à-vis hope for mobilising human behavioural change. Noting the contours of this debate and the paucity of radical future vision casting within contemporary western political discourse, the article examines how images of terror function within the ‘Little Apocalypse’ passage in Matthew 24 and potential insights this offers to our contemporary situation. Building upon this biblical reflection, the article contends that the Christian practices of preaching and singing have significant power to shape communal imaginative visions of alternative futures. As such, these practices are critical gifts that the church can offer the environmental movement and broader society in this moment of time.
Confronting the Ideology Behind the Post-Truth Phenomenon: Outlining a Public Theology of Ultimate Concern
Authors: Siu-pun Ho Ben
Published: December 2021

The neologism ‘post-truth’ was declared to be ‘the word of the year’ in 2016 by the Oxford Dictionary. It came to prominence in the presidential election of that year in the United States and during the Brexit referendum. It represents the eclipse of a sense of shared objective truths and has become associated with terms like ‘fake news’ and ‘alternative facts’ – and, with reference to Covid-19, conspiracy theories. The purpose of this article is to provide a theological engagement with this phenomenon; it does so by making a distinction between two types of response in the extant literature. Moreover, it offers a critique on the basis of theories of ideology and politics and draws upon the theology of Paul Tillich to offer a constructive proposal.
A Trauma-Ridden Body Lifted High: Eschatological Imagination in a Public Square
Authors: Park Hee-Kyu Heidi
Published: December 2021

Public demonstrations shed much meaning when the precarity of the human body’s standing in the public space is considered. This article seeks to decipher the complex messages such instances communicate through a case study of a one-person protest against a multinational conglomerate on a CCTV pole in Seoul. It describes how the body’s precarity generates transformative social imaginations through interdisciplinary analysis. Starting with a thick description of the protester’s and his community’s history, this article interprets the message conveyed in this particular public space through interdisciplinary analysis. The resulting interpretation allows the formation of an eschatological theological imagination which brews with the possibility to transform the public onlooker into participants in such imagination.
The Journal of Early Modern History, 1994–2010: Some Personal Recollections
Authors: Tracy Jim
Published: December 2021

When Simon Ditchfield asked me for a contribution to the anniversary issue, it seemed the right occasion for a brief origin story, with reference to some of the many colleagues who had a hand in launching The Journal of Early Modern History.
De doodstraf in het Scheldedepartement en de provincie Oost-Vlaanderen in de Franse en Hollandse tijd, 1796-1830
Authors: Monballyu Jos
Published: December 2021

The French revolutionary legislature imposed capital punishments for a number of serious crimes such as gang robbery, murder, poisoning, parental murder, infanticide, homicide and theft, arson and coin counterfeiting. These capital punishments reached their peak in the years 1798-1803, being the last two years of the Directoire and the first years under Napoleon. A total of 231 death sentences were handed down in the Scheldt Department and the Province of East Flanders, 70 in default and 161 contradictory, of which 129 were executed. Most death sentences were imposed for a property crime. Crimes against individuals then came only second.
The Centaurea parlatoris complex (Asteraceae): taxonomic checklist and typifications
Authors: DOMINA GIANNIANTONIO , BARONE GIULIO , DI GRISTINA EMILIO , RAIMONDO FRANCESCO M.
Published: December 2021

A taxonomic account of the Centaurea parlatoris complex (Asteraceae), endemic to Sicily, is presented. This complex includes six taxa, three described in the 19th century (C. parlatoris, C. parlatoris var. tomentosa and C. parlatoris var. virescens) and three recently described (C. sicana, C. giardinae and C. heywoodiana). Starting from the designation of the types for the oldest plant names that have not been typified yet, taxonomic considerations are formulated and C. parlatoris var. virescens is elevated to the rank of species. An identification key and a distribution map complete this account.
Catasetum × sheyllae (Orchidaceae: Catasetinae), a new natural hybrid from Brazilian Amazon
Authors: CANTUÁRIA PATRICK DE CASTRO , KRAHL DAYSE RAIANE PASSOS , KRAHL AMAURI HERBERT , CHIRON GUY , Da Silva João Batista Fernandes , DA SILVA JOÃO BATISTA FERNANDES
Published: December 2021

Natural hybridization has often been recorded within certain genera of orchids, one of them is Catasetum. During a field study in a forest de igapó in Brazilian Amazon, a new natural hybrid was found, it is here described as Catasetum × sheyllae. Its morphological features, mainly the structures of the lip, are intermediate between those of its putative parent species, C. boyi and C. garnettianum, both observed in sympatry.
Studies of Neotropical crickets: New Paragryllina taxa (Orthoptera: Phalangopsidae) with comments on several previously described species
Authors: CADENA-CASTAÑEDA OSCAR J. , PÁEZ GERALDINE , BUITRAGO OSCAR , QUINTANA-ARIAS RONALD FERNANDO , TAVARES GUSTAVO COSTA
Published: December 2021

Here, we contribute to the study of the subtribe Paragryllina, recovering as valid, taxa previously described as subfamilies or tribes of Paragryllidae (currently considered as a synonym of Phalangopsidae), but which are well delimited and can be considered as genera groups of Paragryllina: Paragryllae n. stat., Rumeae n. stat., and Benoistellae n. stat.. Alfarogryllus n. gen. is described to accommodate Eneoptera panoplos. Paragryllus is divided into three subgenera: Paragryllus s.s., Melloius n. subgen., and Souzaius n. subgen.. Paragryllus (Paragryllus) lyrae n. sp. (from southern Costa Rica) is described. Paragryllus cocos is considered as nomen nudum; Paragryllus arima n. syn. is synonymized under Paragryllus insolitus and transferred to the genus Ectecous, as the new combination Ectecous insolitus n. comb.; Eneoptera spodios n. syn. is synonymized under Lerneca digrediens, remaining only the Eneoptera species known before the contribution by Otte (2006). Dambachia is included in the subtribe Paragryllina. This genus stands out for the modification of its subapical spur of the hind tibia and its asymmetric genitalia. Keys for the genera and genera groups of Paragryllina, and subgenera of Paragryllus are provided. Finally, the taxonomy of Neotropical crickets is discussed.
Anticipated Changes in Alaska Extreme Precipitation
Authors: Bieniek Peter A. , Walsh John E. , Fresco Nancy , Tauxe Cameron , Redilla Kyle
Published: December 2021

Flooding from extreme precipitation can have major impacts on society in Alaska. Understanding how these extremes may change in the future is needed for better planning under climate change. Data on future changes in extreme precipitation over Alaska from dynamically downscaled output of two global climate models (GFDL and CCSM) were employed in this study. Threshold amounts for duration of the precipitation event (1 h, 1 day, and 30 days) and return intervals (2, 10, and 50 years) are evaluated and further downscaled onto NOAA Atlas 14. For each duration and return interval, the models’ fractional changes of threshold amounts are applied to the Atlas 14 estimates to remove the model bias. The threshold amounts for nearly all event durations and return intervals are projected to increase from present (1979–2005) amounts to higher values in later decadal periods (2020–49, 2050–79, and 2080–99), and the percentage increases generally exceed the changes in the mean amounts. The percentage increases are comparable in the various geographical regions of Alaska, but the increases in the actual amounts are greatest in the wetter southeast. Although the downscaled GFDL model shows larger increases than the CCSM model in amounts for nearly all durations and return intervals, both models indicate that convective precipitation will become an increasingly greater fraction of the total precipitation during the warm season. The increase in the proportion of convective precipitation is consistent with the more rapid increase in extreme amounts than in mean amounts.
Effect of Periodic Voluntary Interventions on Trapezius Activation and Fatigue During Light Upper Limb Activity
Authors: Kim Dongwon , Nicoletti Corine , Soedirdjo Subaryani D. H. , Baghi Raziyeh , Garcia Maria-Gabriela , Läubli Thomas , Wild Pascal , Botter Alberto , Martin Bernard J.
Published: December 2021

Objective

The effects of diverse periodic interventions on trapezius muscle fatigue and activity during a full day of computer work were investigated.

Background

Musculoskeletal disorders, including trapezius myalgia, may be associated with repeated exposure to prolonged low-level activity, even during light upper-extremity tasks including computer work.

Methods

Thirty healthy adults participated in a study that simulated two 6-hour workdays of computer work. One workday involved imposed periodic passive and active interventions aimed at disrupting trapezius contraction monotony (Intervention day), whereas the other workday did not (Control day). Trapezius muscle activity was quantified by the 3-dimensional acceleration of the jolt movement of the acromion produced by electrically induced muscle twitches. The spatio-temporal distribution of trapezius activity was measured through high-density surface electromyography (HD-EMG).

Results

The twitch acceleration magnitude in one direction was significantly different across measurement periods ( p = 0.0156) on Control day, whereas no significant differences in any direction were observed ( p > 0.05) on Intervention day. The HD-EMG from Intervention day showed that only significant voluntary muscle contractions (swing arms, Jacobson maneuver) induced a decrease in the muscle activation time and an increase in the spatial muscle activation areas ( p < 0.01).

Conclusion

Disruption of trapezius monotonous activity via brief voluntary contractions effectively modified the ensuing contraction pattern (twitch acceleration along one axis, active epochs reduction, and larger spatial distribution). The observed changes support an associated reduction of muscle fatigue.

Application

This study suggests that disruptive intervention activity is efficient in reducing the impact of trapezius muscle fatigue.
Extracellular Matrix in Human Craniofacial Development
Authors: Cruz Walma D.A. , Yamada K.M.
Published: December 2021

The extracellular matrix (ECM) is a highly dynamic amalgamation of structural and signaling molecules whose quantitative and qualitative modifications drive the distinct programmed morphologic changes required for tissues to mature into their functional forms. The craniofacial complex houses a diverse array of tissues, including sensory organs, glands, and components of the musculoskeletal, neural, and vascular systems, alongside several other highly specialized tissues to form the most complex part of the vertebrate body. Through cell-ECM interactions, the ECM coordinates the cell movements, shape changes, differentiation, gene expression changes, and other behaviors that sculpt developing organs. In this review, we focus on several common key roles of the ECM to shape developing craniofacial organs and tissues. We summarize recent advances in our understanding of the ability of the ECM to biochemically and biomechanically orchestrate major events of craniofacial development, and we discuss how dysregulated ECM dynamics contributes to disease and disorders. As we expand our understanding of organ-specific matrix functionality and composition, we will improve our ability to rationally modify matrices to promote regeneration and/or prevent degenerative outcomes in vitro and in vivo.
Improving Communicative Competence Levels of Pre-Service Teachers Through Spoken-Based Reflection Instruction
Authors: Ironsi Chinaza Solomon
Published: December 2021

This study investigated the use of spoken-reflection instruction to improve the communicative competence level of English as Foreign Language learners in a second language acquisition classroom. A listening and speaking test was administered before and after the study to determine the participants’ level of speaking competence. A quantitative research design was adopted for the study. A 3-credit unit language course was designed and implemented for the study. The course was built on the core principles of reflective practice. Participants were taught using the normal language teaching method and spoken-based reflection instruction. Purposive sampling technique was used to select 65 English as Foreign Language learners who willingly participated in the study. At the end of the course, a questionnaire was used to obtain information from the participants about their perceptions of using spoken-based reflection instruction to improve their speaking skills. In addition, participants were administered a Reflection-Listening, and Speaking Skills Test before and after each experimental phase to determine whether their listening and speaking skills had improved. Most learners found the use of spoken reflections to be a fun way to learn. However, they expressed anxiety about doing teacher-student reflection because they felt intimidated by the presence of their language teacher, although sending recordings of their reflections to their teachers was more convenient than interacting with them on a one-to-one basis.
Stabilization of a class of underactuated Euler Lagrange system using an approximate model
Authors: Yıldız Hüseyin Alpaslan , Gören-Sümer Leyla
Published: December 2021

The energy shaping method, Controlled Lagrangian, is a well-known approach to stabilize the underactuated Euler Lagrange (EL) systems. In this approach, to construct a control rule, some nonlinear and nonhomogeneous partial differential equations (PDEs), which are called matching conditions, must be solved. In this paper, a method is proposed to obtain an approximate solution of these matching conditions for a class of underactuated EL systems. To develop this method, the potential energy matching condition is transformed to a set of linear PDEs using an approximation of inertia matrices. Hence, the assignable potential energy function and the controlled inertia matrix both are constructed as a common solution of these PDEs. Subsequently, the gyroscopic and dissipative forces are determined as the solution for kinetic energy matching condition. Conclusively, the control rule is constructed by adding energy shaping rule and additional dissipation injection to provide asymptotic stability. The stability analysis of the closed-loop system which used the control rule derived with the proposed method is also provided. To demonstrate the success of the proposed method, the stability problem of the inverted pendulum on a cart is considered.
Opinion on the Optimal Histologic Evaluation of the Bone Marrow in Nonclinical Toxicity Studies
Authors: Biddle Kathleen E.
Published: December 2021

Identification of bone marrow toxicity is an important issue in drug development and toxicologic pathologists play a critical role in that identification. Knowledge of the general components of bone marrow, relevant anatomical and species differences, and the standard approach (routine systematic histological evaluation of the bone marrow in conjunction with analysis of the peripheral complete blood count data) will be reviewed. Specific morphologic features that anatomic pathologists should look for in the various components of bone marrow as well as suggested terminology for bone marrow findings will be discussed. Finally, an opinion on the limitations of the standard approach to bone marrow evaluation will be provided including general recommendations on when additional methods (image analysis of hematoxylin and eosin stained slides, flow cytometry or Sysmex XT 2000iV analysis, cytological evaluation of bone marrow smears, in vitro models, and transmission electron microscopy) might be useful in the detection or further characterization of bone marrow toxicity.

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A comparative study of piano performance programs at university-level institutions in China and the United States: From current faculty members’ and students’ perspectives
Authors: Jiang Yuan
Published: December 2021

This study investigated the perceptions of piano performance programs in higher education from current collegiate students and faculty members’ perspectives in China and the United States. Participants were from representative university-level institutions in the U.S. ( n = 41) and China ( n = 130). They were sent a questionnaire concerning (a) the factors that motivate students to pursue a piano performance degree, (b) the most important educational practices in their programs, (c) the most challenging tasks the students encounter, (d) students’ career goal, and (e) faculty members’ suggestions for prospective students and opinions on improving the piano performance programs. A summary of students and faculty members’ perceptions were outlined and the comparison between the two countries were explored. It is encouraging that not only students gave careful attention toward the applied lessons and performance opportunities in their studies, but also that a large percentage of the students believed they received excellent advice regarding practice strategies and artistry in their applied lessons in both countries. Most of the faculty participants in both countries expressed positive attitudes regarding the piano performance programs in their universities. By providing statistically significant data, this study provides a comprehensive vision for institutions to continue establishing piano programs.
Women’s participation and challenges to the liberal script: A global perspective
Authors: Lerch Julia C , Schofer Evan , Frank David John , Longhofer Wesley , Ramirez Francisco O , Wotipka Christine Min , Velasco Kristopher
Published: December 2021

Existing scholarship documents large worldwide increases in women’s participation in the public sphere over recent decades, for example, in education, politics, and the labor force. Some scholars have argued that these changes follow broader trends in world society, especially its growing liberalism, which increasingly has reconfigured social life around the choices of empowered and rights-bearing individuals, regardless of gender. Very recently, however, a variety of populisms and nationalisms have emerged to present alternatives to liberalism, including in the international arena. We explore here their implications for women’s participation in public life. We use cross-national data to analyze changes in women’s participation in higher education, the polity, and the economy 1970–2017. We find that women’s participation on average continues to expand over this period, but there is evidence of a growing cross-national divergence. In most domains, women’s participation tends to be lower in countries linked to illiberal international organizations, especially in the recent-most period.
Study on the scanning protocols for measuring bone mineral density by gemstone CT spectral imaging based on European spine phantom
Authors: Huang Shihao , Cui Xuan , Han Heli , Zhang Yuan , Gao Bing , Yu Wanjiang
Published: December 2021

Background

Gemstone spectral computed tomography (GSCT) has been used to measure bone mineral density (BMD) in human vertebrae and animal models gradually.

Purpose

To investigate the effect of scanning protocols for BMD measurements by GSCT using the European spine phantom (ESP) and its accuracy and precision.

Material and Methods

The ESP number 145 containing three hydroxyapatite (HAP) inserts with densities of 50, 100, and 200 mg/cm3 were labeled as L1, L2, and L3, respectively. Quantitative CT (QCT) protocol and 14 groups of scanning protocols configured by GSCT were used to repeatedly scan the ESP 10 times. Their measurements were compared with the true values of ESP and their relative standard deviation and relative error were calculated.

Results

The measured values of the three inserts at different exposure levels were statistically significant ( P < 0.05). The measured values in the 0.8 s/r 260 mA group, 0.5 s/r 630 mA group, and 0.6 s/r 640 mA group were not significantly different from the actual ESP values for L1 and L2. However, the measured values at all the parameters were significantly different from the actual values for the L3.

Conclusion

CT gemstone spectral imaging can accurately and quantitatively measure the HAP value of ESP, but the results of BMD will be affected by the scanning protocols. The best scanning parameter of ESP measured by GSCT was 0.8 s/r 260 mA, taking dose into consideration, and the measurement accuracy of vertebrae with low BMD was higher than that of QCT under this parameter.
Respiratory manifestation of yellow nail syndrome: a case report and literature review
Authors: Xu Shan , Wu Xiaohong
Published: December 2021

Yellow nail syndrome (YNS) is a rare disorder, and diagnosis is based on the clinical findings and the exclusion of other possible causes; the pathogenesis is poorly understood. YNS can be an isolated condition or associated with other diseases; however, YNS associated with multiple myeloma (MM) is rare. A 53-year-old male patient presented with coughing and shortness of breath, and he was diagnosed with YNS with MM. He underwent chemotherapy and achieved a good response. Although the etiology of YNS remains unknown, treating the underlying disease may help prevent or relieve the clinical signs.
Relaxing music and the self: Insights from the perception of spontaneous sensations
Authors: Ferreri Laura , Brelier Maëlys , Brunet Olivia , Michael George A.
Published: December 2021

Spontaneous sensations (SPS) are bodily sensations that can be perceived even in the absence of any external trigger and are related to self-referential and self-awareness processes. In this study, we investigated whether music, and in particular its emotional arousal dimension, could act as an external stimulus with the ability to modulate SPS. Thirty-two volunteers engaged in an SPS task (focusing on their hands) after having been exposed to high-arousing and low-arousing music. Results showed that after listening to low-arousing, relaxing music (compared to high-arousing, exciting music), participants perceived SPS more intensely, reported more numerous deep interoceptive sensations, and were more confident in specifying the location of these SPS, while their spatial characteristics decreased. These results suggest that relaxing music promoted increased perception by focusing attention on small areas of the hand. By showing for the first time that music can be used as an effective stimulus for modulating SPS, these findings suggest that, by promoting self-awareness processes, the relaxing nature of music can significantly increase the representation of the self.
The Aqedah as ‘template’? Genesis 22 and 1 Kings 17–18
Authors: Lyons Michael A
Published: December 2021

The story of Abraham’s willingness to give up his beloved son (Gen. 22) is a highly productive text – that is, it has triggered subsequent literary activity and played a significant role in the composition and shaping of other texts. In this essay, I want to first explore the possibility that 1 Kgs 17–18 is yet another text in which an author has alluded to Gen. 22 and then to reflect on the use of Gen. 22 as a source for narratives composed on analogies to it.