bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Genomics and the Evolutionary History of Equids
Authors: Librado Pablo , Orlando Ludovic
Published: November 2020

The equid family contains only one single extant genus, Equus, including seven living species grouped into horses on the one hand and zebras and asses on the other. In contrast, the equine fossil record shows that an extraordinarily richer diversity existed in the past and provides multiple examples of a highly dynamic evolution punctuated by several waves of explosive radiations and extinctions, cross-continental migrations, and local adaptations. In recent years, genomic technologies have provided new analytical solutions that have enhanced our understanding of equine evolution, including the species radiation within Equus; the extinction dynamics of several lineages; and the domestication history of two individual species, the horse and the donkey. Here, we provide an overview of these recent developments and suggest areas for further research.
Control of adipogenic commitment by a STAT3-VSTM2A axis
Authors: Al Dow Manal , Silveira Maruhen Amir Datsch , Poliquin Audrée , Tribouillard Laura , Fournier Éric , Trébaol Eva , Secco Blandine , Villot Romain , Tremblay Félix , Bilodeau Steve , Laplante Mathieu
Published: November 2020

cAMP-dependent and PI3K-mTOR signaling pathways promote the expression of Vstm2a. STAT3 is a key transcription factor that controls Vstm2a expression in preadipocytes. STAT3 is activated in the early phases of WAT development, an effect that strongly associates with Vstm2a expression.
Connexin43 is differentially distributed within renal vasculature and mediates profibrotic differentiation in medullary fibroblasts
Authors: Xu Yan , Hu Junda , Yilmaz Duygu Elif , Bachmann Sebastian
Published: November 2020

Connexins (Cxs) form gap junctions for intercellular exchange of inorganic ions and messenger molecules. In the kidney, Cxs play essential roles within its compartments, but data on the precise cellular localization and cell type-related function of their isoforms are scarce. We tested whether Cx43 distribution is restricted to vascular and interstitial cells and whether medullary fibroblasts express Cx43 to coordinate profibrotic signaling. Confocal immunofluorescence techniques, ultrastructural labeling, and functional experiments in cell culture were performed. Cx43 was chiefly expressed in the vasculature but was absent from tubular epithelia. All arterial, arteriolar, and lymphatic endothelia showed continuous Cx43 signal along their borders. In the inner medulla, only the interstitium showed Cx43 signals, which were assigned to fibroblasts and their processes. Cultured Cx43-expressing medullary fibroblasts served to study the role of gap junctions in a profibrotic context. In a dye spreading assay, Cx43-sensitive diffusion of Lucifer yellow was dependent on gap junctional passage. The addition of transforming growth factor-β1 (5 ng/mL for 48 h) activated Cx43 biosynthesis and caused Cx43-sensitive transformation of the fibroblasts into a myofibroblast phenotype. This suggested that Cx43 gap junctional channels enable the coordination of profibrotic signaling between cells of the medullary interstitium. In summary, we demonstrate the presence of Cx43-expressing gap junctions within the two major renal compartments, the vasculature and interstitium. Endothelial Cx43 likely provides functions of an earlier-defined “electrical syncytium” within the vascular wall. Additionally, Cx43 facilitates profibrotic signaling between medullary interstitial fibroblasts.
Flood Detection and Susceptibility Mapping Using Sentinel-1 Time Series, Alternating Decision Trees, and Bag-ADTree Models
Authors: Mohammadi Ayub , Kamran Khalil Valizadeh , Karimzadeh Sadra , Shahabi Himan , Al-Ansari Nadhir
Published: November 2020

Flooding is one of the most damaging natural hazards globally. During the past three years, floods have claimed hundreds of lives and millions of dollars of damage in Iran. In this study, we detected flood locations and mapped areas susceptible to floods using time series satellite data analysis as well as a new model of bagging ensemble-based alternating decision trees, namely, bag-ADTree. We used Sentinel-1 data for flood detection and time series analysis. We employed twelve conditioning parameters of elevation, normalized difference’s vegetation index, slope, topographic wetness index, aspect, curvature, stream power index, lithology, drainage density, proximities to river, soil type, and rainfall for mapping areas susceptible to floods. ADTree and bag-ADTree models were used for flood susceptibility mapping. We used software of Sentinel application platform, Waikato Environment for Knowledge Analysis, ArcGIS, and Statistical Package for the Social Sciences for preprocessing, processing, and postprocessing of the data. We extracted 199 locations as flooded areas, which were tested using a global positioning system to ensure that flooded areas were detected correctly. Root mean square error, accuracy, and the area under the ROC curve were used to validate the models. Findings showed that root mean square error was 0.31 and 0.3 for ADTree and bag-ADTree techniques, respectively. More findings illustrated that accuracy was obtained as 86.61 for bag-ADTree model, while it was 85.44 for ADTree method. Based on AUC, success and prediction rates were 0.736 and 0.786 for bag-ADTree algorithm, in order, while these proportions were 0.714 and 0.784 for ADTree. This study can be a good source of information for crisis management in the study area.
Analyzing Indicators Affecting Commercial Property Value in Metro Station Accessible Area Using Walking Time Consumption: Case of Xi’an, China
Authors: Cao Zhen , Liu Xingliang , Lei Bin , Liu Changjiang , Jing Lizhu
Published: November 2020

In studies investigating the property value enhancements along metro lines, study ranges in most cases are measured in Euclidean distance. However, city roads are not always straight, and Euclidean distance sometimes does not equal to actual distance the passenger travels from the public transport station to their home or a commercial spot. To solve this problem, this study analyzed the indicators affecting commercial property value in metro station accessible area in Xi’an, using walking time consumption in measuring the study range. Following a conceptual framework, considering empirical evidences in related studies, information in city structure, and metro distribution, the initial indicator set is built. Using hedonic price model (HPM), spatial autoregressive model (SAR), and error term (SEM), significant indicators affecting commercial property value are investigated. In this study, 14 significant indicators are determined and quantified. Threshold distance equals to 900 m is found to be appropriate in addressing the autocorrelation problem with the weighted decision matrix tool. Compared to HPM and SEM, SAR is found to perform the best in evaluating the significant indicators with the largest R2 (0.415) and the lowest Akaike Info Criterion (AIC) (−395.214). Besides, it is discovered that the value of the commercial property lies in the study range of 20 min walking time and is obviously influenced by the metro station. The results discovered in this study could provide some empirical evidences to commercial property planning in Xi’an.
Mobile Phone Data in Urban Commuting: A Network Community Detection-Based Framework to Unveil the Spatial Structure of Commuting Demand
Authors: Yu Qing , Li Weifeng , Yang Dongyuan , Zhang Haoran
Published: November 2020

As the outcomes of rapid urbanization, the spatial separation of homes and workplaces extends the commuting distance and complicates the commuting demand of residents. To promote urban livability and sustainability, it becomes crucially important to understand the commuting patterns by decomposing and simplifying the diverse commuting demand. In this paper, a methodology framework is proposed to describe the spatial structure of commuting demand in a city using mobile phone data. Four steps are mainly included in the proposed methodology: the preprocessing of mobile phone data, the labeling of individuals and their activity points, the construction of the jobs-housing relationship network, and the network decomposition based on the community detection algorithm. To demonstrate the practical use of the proposed methodologies, a case study is carried out in Shanghai to explore the commuting patterns of Shanghai residents. The result indicates the regions with dense jobs-housing connections and cross-regional commuting demand. The result also finds that the administrative boundaries show a significant effect on the residential commuting behavior and the metro lines on the cross-regional commuting behavior. The results generated by the methodology proposed can be referenced by policymakers to support urban transportation planning and promote urban livability and sustainability.
Gas Outburst Prediction Model Using Improved Entropy Weight Grey Correlation Analysis and IPSO-LSSVM
Authors: Liu Haibo , Dong Yujie , Wang Fuzhong
Published: November 2020

This paper investigates the problem of gas outburst prediction in the working face of coal mine. Firstly, based on a comprehensive analysis of influence factors of gas outburst, an improved entropy weight algorithm is introduced into a grey correlation analysis algorithm; thus, the reasonable weights and correlation order of the influencing factors are obtained to improve the objectivity of the evaluation. The main controlling factors obtained are used as the input of the prediction model. Secondly, by utilizing the improved particle swarm optimization (IPSO), the penalty factor and kernel parameter of least square support vector machine (LSSVM) are optimized to enhance the global search ability and avoid the occurrence of the local optimal solutions, and a new prediction model of gas outburst based on IPSO-LSSVM is established. At last, the prediction model is applied in the tunneling heading face 14141 of Jiuli Hill mine in Jiaozuo City, China. The case study demonstrates that the prediction accuracy of the proposed model is 92%, which is improved compared with that of the SVM model and GA-LSSVM model.
Eribulin Provides a Remarkable Effect in Trabectedin-Resistant Myxoid Liposarcoma
Authors: Tamiya Hironari , Sabe Hideaki , Yamashita Katsunari , Imura Yoshinori , Wakamatsu Toru , Takenaka Satoshi
Published: November 2020

Adriamycin-based chemotherapy is commonly used for malignant soft tissue sarcoma including myxoid liposarcoma. However, in the case of unavailability or failure of the adriamycin-based regimen, trabectedin or eribulin can produce a good antitumor effect for myxoid liposarcoma. We relate the experience of a 64-year-old female with myxoid liposarcoma, who noticed a nodule on her left thigh and visited our institute. At initial presentation, the tumor was 18.7 cm in diameter, and the magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) showed a malignant lipomatous tumor with a myxoid component. We recommended that she undergo treatment; however, she refused. Three years later, the tumor had grown larger, so she finally decided to undergo treatment. A needle biopsy revealed a myxoid liposarcoma. The tumor massively involved the neurovascular structures; we thus determined that hip disarticulation was inevitable. Two years later, metastases in the right thigh, left lung, right ileum, and abdominal space were pointed out and chemotherapy was initiated. Adriamycin was unusable due to cardiac dysfunction, so trabectedin was administered; however, the tumors progressed. Eribulin was subsequently started and has been considerably effective for more than 2 years without severe adverse effects. In conclusion, we experienced a case showing the remarkable and long-lasting effect of eribulin against trabectedin-resistant myxoid liposarcoma.
Matrix Measure Approach for Stability and Synchronization of Complex-Valued Neural Networks with Deviating Argument
Authors: Zhou Wenbo , Li Biwen , Zhang Jin-E
Published: November 2020

This paper concentrates on global exponential stability and synchronization for complex-valued neural networks (CVNNs) with deviating argument by matrix measure approach. The Lyapunov function is no longer required, and some sufficient conditions are firstly obtained to ascertain the addressed system to be exponentially stable under different activation functions. Moreover, after designing a suitable controller, the synchronization of two complex-valued coupled neural networks is realized, and the derived condition is easy to be confirmed. Finally, some numerical examples are given to demonstrate the superiority and feasibility of the presented theoretical analysis and results.
Challenging the Adversarial Robustness of DNNs Based on Error-Correcting Output Codes
Authors: Zhang Bowen , Tondi Benedetta , Lv Xixiang , Barni Mauro
Published: November 2020

The existence of adversarial examples and the easiness with which they can be generated raise several security concerns with regard to deep learning systems, pushing researchers to develop suitable defence mechanisms. The use of networks adopting error-correcting output codes (ECOC) has recently been proposed to counter the creation of adversarial examples in a white-box setting. In this paper, we carry out an in-depth investigation of the adversarial robustness achieved by the ECOC approach. We do so by proposing a new adversarial attack specifically designed for multilabel classification architectures, like the ECOC-based one, and by applying two existing attacks. In contrast to previous findings, our analysis reveals that ECOC-based networks can be attacked quite easily by introducing a small adversarial perturbation. Moreover, the adversarial examples can be generated in such a way to achieve high probabilities for the predicted target class, hence making it difficult to use the prediction confidence to detect them. Our findings are proven by means of experimental results obtained on MNIST, CIFAR-10, and GTSRB classification tasks.
Research on Profit Maximization of New Retail E-Commerce Based on Blockchain Technology
Authors: Hu Xuan
Published: November 2020

With the development of science and technology and the extension of online users, e-commerce platforms gradually and effectively gather social resources such as manpower, technology, production, and capital. More and more traditional enterprises combine online and offline business as their operation and trade methods. E-commerce, as a new channel, has become one of the main transaction modes in the society. Under the background of reform of the supply side, and with the high-speed development of E-commerce, we will promote stock adjustment through incremental reform and optimize the structure of investment and financing in the process of increasing investment of e-commerce enterprises. High-quality products and diverse trading experience are the new development pattern in e-commerce. There are different profit maximization strategies for e-commerce enterprises when they face different economic situations. Besides, cross-border business is an advised way to expand business when the enterprise is under bigger profit. Via all these methods, e-commerce enterprise can help to optimize the structure of industries, circulation, and consumption and promote resource integration and optimization, and people’s living standards will be further improved. Finally, the e-commerce enterprise profit maximization will come true.
Menstrual Hygiene Management Practices and Associated Factors among Secondary School Girls in East Hararghe Zone, Eastern Ethiopia
Authors: Mohammed Gena Hussein
Published: November 2020

Background. Many adolescent girls in developing countries lack appropriate information, means or materials, and access to the right sanitary facilities to manage menstruation. Hence, they adopted unsafe hygienic practices during menstruation that in turn has a negative impact on their dignity, health, and education. Thus, this study aimed to assess the practices of menstrual hygiene management and associated factors among secondary school girls in East Hararghe Zone. Methods. A school-based cross-sectional study was conducted from April to May 2017 among secondary school girls in East Hararghe Zone, Eastern Ethiopia. A total of 672 girls were selected randomly and interviewed using a structured interviewer-administered questionnaire. Logistic regression analysis was employed to identify predictors of good menstrual hygiene management practices. Result. Overall, 58.3% of the girls had good menstrual hygiene management practices. Around two-thirds (66.1%) of them used commercial sanitary pads as absorbents, 56.4% changed sanitary materials more than three times a day, and 68.3% cleaned their external genitalia daily during their menstruation. During multivariate analysis, living in urban areas (AOR = 2.59, 95% CI: 1.77, 3.80), having moderate (AOR = 2.78, 95% CI: 1.64, 5.28) and good knowledge about menstruation (AOR = 3.87, 95% CI: 2.21, 6.77), and mothers’ secondary and above education (AOR = 1.83, 95% CI: 1.01, 3.30) showed a positively significant association with good menstrual hygiene management practices. Conclusion. In this study, the practice of good menstrual hygiene management of secondary schoolgirls was low. Factors independently influencing menstrual hygiene management practices were girls’ place of residence, knowledge status of menstruation and its hygiene management, and mothers’ educational status. This highlights a need for targeted interventions to raise awareness of school girls especially for rural residents and the public in general to improve the knowledge and practices of menstrual hygiene management.
RANKL-Targeted Combination Therapy with Osteoprotegerin Variant Devoid of TRAIL Binding Exerts Biphasic Effects on Skeletal Remodeling and Antitumor Immunity
Authors: Wang Hong , Ashton Reading , Hensel Jonathan A. , Lee Joo Hyoung , Khattar Vinayak , Wang Yong , Deshane Jessy S. , Ponnazhagan Selvarangan
Published: November 2020

Complexities in treating breast cancer with bone metastasis are enhanced by a vicious protumorigenic pathology, involving a shift in skeletal homeostasis toward aggressive osteoclast activity and polarization of immune cells supporting tumor growth and immunosuppression. Recent studies signify the role of receptor activator of NF-κB ligand (RANKL) beyond skeletal pathology in breast cancer, including tumor growth and immunosuppression. By using an osteoprotegerin (OPG) variant, which we developed recently through protein engineering to uncouple TNF-related apoptosis-inducing ligand (TRAIL) binding, this study established the potential of a cell-based OPGY49R therapy for both bone damage and immunosuppression in an immunocompetent mouse model of orthotopic and metastatic breast cancers. In combination with agonistic death receptor (DR5) activation, the OPGY49R therapy significantly increased both bone remolding and long-term antitumor immunity, protecting mice from breast cancer relapse and osteolytic pathology. With limitations, cost, and toxicity issues associated with the use of denosumab, bisphosphonates, and chemotherapy for bone metastatic disease, use of OPGY49R combination could offer a viable alternate therapeutic approach.
Ajuste urbano integrado: o caso da Linha 4 – Amarela do Metrô de São Paulo
Authors: Costanzo Daniela
Published: November 2020

Com a crise e o ajuste fiscal no Brasil pós-milagre econômico, alguns atores ganharam espaço no financiamento de políticas urbanas, dentre eles o Banco Mundial: sua forma de atuação influenciou a forma de implementar políticas urbanas aqui no Brasil, mas ainda se sabe pouco sobre o processo decisório de políticas com participação deste ator internacional e sobre os efeitos destas políticas. O artigo contribui com um caso sobre a Linha 4 – Amarela do Metrô de São Paulo para mostrar que os atores locais têm participação importante nas decisões sobre tais políticas e que elas constituem uma forma perversa de progresso, na qual as ideias mais modernas das agências multilaterais servem para repor o atraso aqui.
Art and Peace (1966)
Authors: Diop Alioune
Published: November 2020

In 1966, the multi-media celebration of African and diasporic art known as the Premier Festival Mondial des Arts Nègres attracted an international audience to the recently independent nation of Senegal. As performances and exhibitions took place throughout Dakar, politicians, artists, and intellectuals considered what roles art and culture could play in healing a world torn by colonialism, the World Wars, and increasing tensions between the Eastern and Western blocs. In “Art and Peace,” Alioune Diop, the president of the Festival's organizing committee, enlists the arts as vital tools in the ambitious project of world peace. For contemporary readers, his words foreshadow present-day debates concerning the effects of globalization on the arts and reveal understudied links uniting the mid-century cosmopolitanist visions of negritude, Catholicism, and UNESCO.
A molecular phylogeny of the long-horned bees in the genus Melissodes Latreille (Hymenoptera: Apidae: Eucerinae)
Authors: Wright Karen W. , Miller Kelly B. , Song Hojun
Published: November 2020

The genus Melissodes Latreille in the subfamily Eucerinae (Hymenoptera: Apidae) is a widespread and common group of bees. There are 129 described Melissodes species that range throughout the western hemisphere with the center of diversity in the warm deserts of southwestern North America. Despite its widespread nature and importance in agriculture, the evolutionary relationships among the species have never been investigated. Here, we present a molecular phylogeny using five loci for 89 species of Melissodes with representatives from all subgenera. We confirm all of the subgeneric delineations constructed by LaBerge, except for a paraphyletic M. (Tachymelissodes) and the placement of M. (Heliomelissodes), which renders M. (Eumelissodes) paraphyletic. We also discuss the unexpected placement of M. tristis Cockerell, M. paucipuncta LaBerge, M. dagosus Cockerell, and M. pexa LaBerge. Finally, we combine this analysis with previous data to support the placement of Melissodes within the subfamily Eucerinae.
Revisiting the Severe Classification of Abū Ḥātim al-Rāzī: an Analysis of Technical Terminology in Ḥadīth Transmitter Criticism
Authors: Jamilin Ahmad Kamil Bin , Muhammad Yusoff Muhammad Fawwaz Bin
Published: November 2020

Abū Ḥātim Muḥammad b. Idrīs al-Rāzī was a leading figure in the science of ḥadīth transmission and considered among the early generation in ḥadīth transmitter criticism (what are known as al-ǧarḥ wa al-taʿdīl, impugning and approving). However, later ḥadīth scholars classified Abū Ḥātim as a mutašaddid (severe) ḥadīth critic, based on his abundant evaluations and criticisms of the ḥadīth transmitters. The evaluation of his criticism is sometimes ambiguous and sometimes supplemented by clear statements and proofs. This ambiguity usually occurs as a result of the sophisticated terminologies, different uses of multiple meanings of a word, inconsistencies and the unusual presence of contradictions. This matter may lead to confusion and misunderstanding among contemporary scholars and students of ḥadīth transmitter criticism. Among the terms he used were ‘laysa bi al-qawī’ and ‘laysa bi qawī’, which literally means ‘not strong’ and deny the credibility of a transmitter, or totally rejects his or her ḥadīth. However, based on our exploratory analysis of how Abū Ḥātim employed those terms, they cannot be accepted in a literal sense. Therefore, this article aims to thoroughly scrutinize the severity of Abū Ḥātim when he evaluates a transmitter in comparison to other master ḥadīth critics. To summarize, Abū Ḥātim’s terminology is very important for understanding his methodology, which certainly has an impact on ḥadīth transmitter criticism as well as the ultimate goals of al-ǧarḥ wa al-taʿdīl, i.e., the authenticity of prophetic ḥadīth.
Loneliness from young adulthood to old age: Explaining age differences in loneliness
Authors: Hawkley Louise C. , Buecker Susanne , Kaiser Till , Luhmann Maike
Published: November 2020

Prior research in non-U.S. samples has found a complex nonlinear relationship between loneliness and age. This research has shown that established predictors of loneliness—poor health, being unmarried, living alone, and having infrequent social interactions—help to explain age differences in loneliness. However, while some variables were found to be universal predictors of loneliness at all ages, others were relevant in specific age groups only. In this study, we describe age differences in frequency of loneliness from age 18 to 89+ years in the U.S. and examine age differences in predictors of loneliness from age-specificity and age-normative perspectives. We used cross-sectional nationally representative data from the General Social Survey ( N = 2,477) and found a nonlinear relationship between age and loneliness that closely resembles prior research. However, we found no evidence for age-specific predictors of loneliness. Household income, household size, marital status, health, and frequency of socializing were “universal” predictors of loneliness; their associations with loneliness did not differ in strength with age. Our hypothesis that individuals who deviated from age-specific norms would experience more intense loneliness was not supported. Implications for research and loneliness interventions are discussed.
Perceived overparenting and developmental outcomes among Chinese adolescents: Do family structure and conflicts matter?
Authors: Leung Janet T. Y. , Shek Daniel T. L. , Fung Annis L. C. , Leung Grace S. M.
Published: November 2020

“Overparenting” refers to an inappropriate parenting style in which parents intervene intrusively in their children’s development and overprotect them from difficulties and challenges. However, there is scant research on the relationship between overparenting and developmental outcomes in early adolescence. Moreover, the moderating roles of parent–child conflict, family intactness, and the adolescent’s gender on the relationship are undetermined. This study examined the associations between overparenting and developmental outcomes (indexed by egocentrism and positive youth development) of a sample of 1,735 Grade 7 students in Hong Kong (mean age = 12.63; 47.4% females). The moderating effects of parent–child conflict, family intactness, and the adolescent’s gender on these relationships were also examined. The results indicated that paternal overparenting and maternal overparenting were positively related to egocentrism and positive developmental outcomes among young Chinese adolescents. Furthermore, father–child conflict moderated the associations of maternal overparenting with egocentrism and positive youth development. At higher levels of father–child conflict, egocentrism and positive youth development increased at higher levels of maternal overparenting. Family intactness and the adolescent’s gender were also found to have moderating effects. The results provide insights into how familial conditions alter the relationship between overparenting and adolescent development. As related studies using adolescent samples are sparse, this study is pioneering in examining the impacts of overparenting on adolescents.
Geographies of migration I: Platform migration
Authors: Collins Francis L.
Published: November 2020

This first report on research about the geographies of migration examines the sociotechnical platforms that enable migration and shape its outcomes. I begin by examining two areas of recent inquiry that analyse (1) commercial actors that form migration industries and (2) the broader infrastructures that underpin and direct migration. To elaborate on these insights, I also discuss observations of multinational (stepwise) migration as grounded evidence for the importance of sociotechnical systems in understanding the geographies of migration. Addressing platform migration reconfigures the spatialities and temporalities of migration, highlighting the diverse and distributed actors, networks and institutions generating, directing and constraining movement in the world.
Sports Medicine Considerations During the COVID-19 Pandemic
Authors: Mulcahey Mary K. , Gianakos Arianna L. , Mercurio Angela , Rodeo Scott , Sutton Karen M.
Published: November 2020

The outbreak of the novel coronavirus (COVID-19) has resulted in upward of 14 million confirmed cases and >597,000 deaths worldwide as of July 19, 2020. The current disruption in sports activities caused by COVID-19 presents a challenge to physicians, coaches, and trainers in discerning best practices for a safe return to sport. There is a distinct need to develop and adopt consistent measures for resumption of sports activities, including training and competition, in a way that places the health and well-being of athletes at the forefront while also protecting coaches, allied staff, and spectators. This article provides an overview of the effects of COVID-19 in the athletic population and presents considerations for training during the pandemic, as well as guidelines for return to sports as restrictions are lifted.
There’s No Such Thing as a Gay Bar: Co-Sexuality and the Neoliberal Branding of Queer Spaces
Authors: Branton Scott E. , Compton Cristin A.
Published: November 2020

Gay bars have historically functioned as communal spaces for the LGBTQ+ community. Because of neoliberalism, LGBTQ+ acceptance continues to rise as “post-gay’’ discourses, coupled with the inclusion of heterosexual audiences, have repositioned gay bars as inclusive spaces. In this study, we explore how the meaning of “gay bar” is communicatively negotiated. Specifically, we employed a co-sexuality lens with spatiality to understand how the “gay bar brand” is constructed and perceived. We used ethnographic methods including observation, 25 semi-structured interviews, and documents at two gay bars in a Midwestern college town. We demonstrate how gay bars, through neoliberal branding, reopened the meaning of gay bars as spaces for “all” sexualities. Three tensions emerged: (1) who gay bars are for (queer or general communities); (2) sexual autonomy (contested meanings around “safety” and “being yourself”); and (3) viable marketing (tension between “community” and “commodification”). This study contributes to the literature on sexuality, space, and branding by moving beyond utopian depictions of gay bars. Instead, it encourages scholars to understand the bars as destabilized and contested queer spaces.
Poly(ether ether ketone)s containing benzene pendant in the molecular chain: Synthesis, characterization and optical properties
Authors: Chen Yan , Ren Fajian , Dai Jian gang , Li Dongmei , Luo Shajie
Published: November 2020

A series of modified poly(ether ether ketone)s containing different content of benzene pendant group in the molecular chain have been successfully synthesized with 1,1-bis(4-hydroxyphenyl)-1-phenylethane, bisphenol A and 4,4′-difluorobenzophenone by nucleophilic substitution. The inherent viscosities of obtained polymers were in the range of 0.261–0.889 dLg−1. They were found to have high glass transition temperatures (Tg) of 150–168°C and 148–169°C (examined by DSC and DMA, respectively), good thermal stability with 5% weight-loss temperature (T5%) of 439–469°C. The tensile strengths of the obtained polymers were 67.7–86.6 MPa, and the storage modulus was over 0.9 GPa at about 140°C. The modified poly(ether ether ketone)s showed the excellent solubility property, they could be processed by solution method. Additionally, the obtained polymers had good optical transmittance (>70%) at 400 nm, suggesting that they have potential to be applied to the heat-resistant optical films.
Effect of incidence angle on cavity blockage and flow stability in the net positive suction head drop of mixed-flow pumps
Authors: Kim Yong-In , Kim Sung , Lee Kyoung-Yong , Choi Young-Seok
Published: November 2020

The cavitation is an inevitable factor in pumps used in the whole industry, which is a major cause of energy loss and mechanical breakdown. In this study, the cavitation phenomena at the design flow rate were numerically analyzed for two pumps with different incidence angles. The design flow rate for both models was located near the best efficiency point (BEP). The incidence angle was determined with the impeller inlet diameter and the blade angle. A pump with a smaller incidence angle consistently showed a stable flow pattern as the inlet pressure decreased, whereas a pump with a larger incidence angle contained non-uniform flow streamlines despite a very small amount of the generated cavities. The flow pattern at the impeller inlet was handled by the shape and thickness of the generated cavities which could act as an additional blockage in the pumps. The inception and growth of the cavity with a decrease of inlet pressure were also inferred, which was specifically quantified as the blockage ratio. A pump with a larger incidence angle performed poor cavitation characteristics and obtained the pressure fluctuation and cavity oscillation. The magnitude of pressure fluctuation was indicated using the fast Fourier transform (FFT) analysis. The experimental tests were performed on both pumps to validate the numerical results.
Susceptibility to Being Lured Away by a Stranger: A Real-World Field Test of Selective Trust in Early Childhood
Authors: Li Qinggong , Zhang Wenyu , Heyman Gail D. , Compton Brian J. , Lee Kang
Published: November 2020

In this preregistered field study, we examined preschool children’s selective trust in a real-life situation. We investigated whether 3- to 6-year-old children (total N = 240) could be lured to a new location within their school grounds by an unfamiliar adult confederate. In a between-subjects manipulation, the confederate established either a high or a low level of personal credibility by providing information that the child knew to be either true or false. In Experiment 1, in which the confederate was female, children showed sensitivity to informational accuracy by being less willing to leave with an uninformed confederate, and this effect increased with age. In Experiment 2, in which the confederate was male, children were reluctant to leave regardless of informational accuracy. These findings point to real-world implications of epistemic-trust research and provide the first evidence regarding the early development of selective trust in a high-stakes naturalistic context.
Analysis of Inpatient Hospital Falls with Serious Injury
Authors: Costantinou Eileen , Spencer Julie A.
Published: November 2020

Fall-related serious injuries pose risks to patients and healthcare organizations. This retrospective, single-hospital study used a 38 variable instrument to understand characteristics of those who sustained a fall with serious injury. Analyses included descriptive statistics, frequency, and Chi-square tests of associations between key variables and outcomes of moderate versus major injury. Age range 25–91 years, predominantly 60–69 years (23.3%), and mostly male (50.9%). Highest percentage occurred between 0:00 and 06:59 (39.6%), and on Oncology service (28.3%). Fallers were in the room, (81.1%), sustained major injury (73.6%), fractured a major bone (43.4%), had altered mobility prior to the fall (67.9%), and had received at least one narcotic dose within 24 hours before the fall (43.2%). The associations between injury severity and age, gender, altered mobility, fall risk assessment pre-fall, and unit service line are not statistically significant, however have small-to-moderate clinical significance. This study adds to the literature in identifying characteristics of patients who sustain a fall-related serious injury.
Exploring the Dimensionality of the Social Skills Improvement System Using Exploratory Graph Analysis and Bifactor-(S − 1) Modeling
Authors: Panayiotou Margarita , Santos Joãο , Black Louise , Humphrey Neil
Published: November 2020

Since its development over a decade ago, the Social Skills Improvement System (SSIS) has been one of the most widely used measures of social skills in children. However, evidence of its structural validity has been scant. The current study examined the original seven-factor and more recent five-factor structure (SSIS-SEL) of the self-report SSIS in a sample of English elementary school students ( N = 3,331) aged 8 to 10 years ( M = 8.66, SD = 0.59). A problematic fit was found for both structures with poor discriminant validity. Using exploratory graph analysis and bifactor-( S − 1) modeling, we found support for a four-factor structure, the variation of which was captured by a general factor defined by “empathy and prosocial skills.” Future researchers, particularly those interested in using specific domains of the SSIS, are urged to assess its structure in their studies, if their findings are to be theoretically meaningful.
Experimental, numerical, and multi-objective optimization investigations on the energy absorption features of single- and bi-layer deep-drawn cups
Authors: Ghasemabadian Mohammad A , Kadkhodayan Mehran , Altenhof William
Published: November 2020

In this article, the energy absorption features of single- and bi-layer deep-drawn cups (S- and B-cups, respectively) under a quasi-static axial loading are investigated experimentally and numerically. The S-cups were made of 304L stainless steel and explosively welded B-cups were composed of aluminum and 304L stainless steel layers. A multi-objective optimization was performed on specific energy absorption and initial peak force based on the polynomial response surface method. Furthermore, to compare the energy absorption features of deep-drawn cups, two groups of 304L stainless steel tubes (with the same mass or the same height as the S-cups) were axially compressed. The experimental results indicated that the S-cups experienced total energy absorption and mean crush force approximately 24% and 51% greater than those of tubes with the same mass and thickness, respectively. Furthermore, the total efficiency and specific total efficiency of the S-cups were approximately 0.23 and 1.82 times greater than those of tubes with the same height and thickness. Moreover, the energy absorbing effectiveness factor of B-cups was approximately twice of the S-cup.
Telehealth, friend and foe for health care social work
Authors: Cristofalo Margaret A
Published: November 2020

The author describes her experience as a health care social worker with the proliferation of telehealth as the standard medium of intervention with patients since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic. As a practicing health care social worker for more than twenty years, she describes the advent of telehealth, her introduction to it, and current experience in her outpatient practice setting. She delineates the surprising benefits it has provided to patients during the pandemic. She also outlines the threats it poses in the increasingly corporatized US health care environment to social work values and the well-being of social work's focal populations, the vulnerable, oppressed, and those living in poverty. She emphasizes the need for vigilance and advocacy by social workers as the pandemic progresses and recedes.
Pharmacists’ experiences with the Bloom Program application process
Authors: Murphy Andrea L. , Jacobs Lisa M. , Gardner David M.
Published: November 2020

Background:

The Bloom Program, which began as a demonstration project, is an ongoing community pharmacy–based mental illness and addictions program funded by the government of Nova Scotia. To be eligible to offer the Bloom Program, interested pharmacists were required to complete a 9-part application on behalf of their pharmacies. A process evaluation was conducted to inform future program implementation changes of program components, including the application process.

Methods:

Qualitative interviews from 24 pharmacists were inductively analyzed to determine the challenges and opportunities in the program’s application process.

Results:

Key and impactful components of the application process included training, providing a mental health and addictions resource centre within the pharmacy and completing outreach activities with local mental health and addictions services and support organizations. The training content and format for the program was highly valued. Community outreach to local mental health and addictions resources, and other health care resources in the community, was particularly valuable in supporting patient navigation of the health care system and extending the pharmacists’ networks. Components of the application process were challenging for many pharmacists but were beneficial personally and professionally. Dedicated resources (e.g., time and staffing) are required for the efficient completion of the application process.

Conclusion:

Pharmacists viewed the Bloom Program application process as intensive yet necessary and relevant for preparing to deliver the Program. The demonstration project process evaluation was essential for elucidating the strengths of the application process and, importantly, identifying areas for improvement. Can Pharm J (Ott) 2021;154:xx-xx.
Extracellular matrix remodelling in COPD
Authors: Karakioulaki Meropi , Papakonstantinou Eleni , Stolz Daiana
Published: November 2020

The extracellular matrix (ECM) of the lung plays several important roles in lung function, as it offers a low resistant pathway that allows the exchange of gases, provides compressive strength and elasticity that supports the fragile alveolar–capillary intersection, controls the binding of cells with growth factors and cell surface receptors and acts as a buffer against retention of water.

COPD is a chronic inflammatory respiratory condition, characterised by various conditions that result in progressive airflow limitation. At any stage in the course of the disease, acute exacerbations of COPD may occur and lead to accelerated deterioration of pulmonary function. A key factor of COPD is airway remodelling, which refers to the serious alterations of the ECM affecting airway wall thickness, resistance and elasticity. Various studies have shown that serum biomarkers of ECM turnover are significantly associated with disease severity in patients with COPD and may serve as potential targets to control airway inflammation and remodelling in COPD. Unravelling the complete molecular composition of the ECM in the diseased lungs will help to identify novel biomarkers for disease progression and therapy.
Genetic mapping for agronomic traits in a MAGIC population of common bean (Phaseolus vulgaris L.) under drought conditions
Authors: Diaz Santiago , Ariza-Suarez Daniel , Izquierdo Paulo , Lobaton Juan David , de la Hoz Juan Fernando , Acevedo Fernando , Duitama Jorge , Guerrero Alberto F. , Cajiao Cesar , Mayor Victor , Beebe Stephen E. , Raatz Bodo
Published: November 2020

Background

Common bean is an important staple crop in the tropics of Africa, Asia and the Americas. Particularly smallholder farmers rely on bean as a source for calories, protein and micronutrients. Drought is a major production constraint for common bean, a situation that will be aggravated with current climate change scenarios. In this context, new tools designed to understand the genetic basis governing the phenotypic responses to abiotic stress are required to improve transfer of desirable traits into cultivated beans.

Results

A multiparent advanced generation intercross (MAGIC) population of common bean was generated from eight Mesoamerican breeding lines representing the phenotypic and genotypic diversity of the CIAT Mesoamerican breeding program. This population was assessed under drought conditions in two field trials for yield, 100 seed weight, iron and zinc accumulation, phenology and pod harvest index.

Transgressive segregation was observed for most of these traits. Yield was positively correlated with yield components and pod harvest index (PHI), and negative correlations were found with phenology traits and micromineral contents. Founder haplotypes in the population were identified using Genotyping by Sequencing (GBS). No major population structure was observed in the population. Whole Genome Sequencing (WGS) data from the founder lines was used to impute genotyping data for GWAS. Genetic mapping was carried out with two methods, using association mapping with GWAS, and linkage mapping with haplotype-based interval screening. Thirteen high confidence QTL were identified using both methods and several QTL hotspots were found controlling multiple traits. A major QTL hotspot located on chromosome Pv01 for phenology traits and yield was identified. Further hotspots affecting several traits were observed on chromosomes Pv03 and Pv08. A major QTL for seed Fe content was contributed by MIB778, the founder line with highest micromineral accumulation. Based on imputed WGS data, candidate genes are reported for the identified major QTL, and sequence changes were identified that could cause the phenotypic variation.

Conclusions

This work demonstrates the importance of this common bean MAGIC population for genetic mapping of agronomic traits, to identify trait associations for molecular breeding tool design and as a new genetic resource for the bean research community.
Phase 2 study of lenvatinib monotherapy as second-line treatment in unresectable biliary tract cancer: primary analysis results
Authors: Ueno Makoto , Ikeda Masafumi , Sasaki Takashi , Nagashima Fumio , Mizuno Nobumasa , Shimizu Satoshi , Ikezawa Hiroki , Hayata Nozomi , Nakajima Ryo , Morizane Chigusa
Published: November 2020

Background

Biliary tract cancer (BTC) has a poor prognosis and lacks a standardized second-line therapy. Vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), fibroblast growth factor receptor (FGFR) 4, and platelet-derived growth factor receptor (PDGFR) are highly expressed in BTC. Therefore, lenvatinib (a known inhibitor of VEGF receptors 1–3, FGFRs 1–4, and PDGFR-α) was evaluated for second-line treatment of BTC.

Methods

In this single-arm, multicenter, open-label, phase 2 study, patients with BTC received lenvatinib 24 mg orally once daily in 28-day cycles. The primary endpoint was objective response rate (ORR). Secondary endpoints included overall survival (OS), progression-free survival (PFS), PFS rate at 12 weeks, disease control rate, clinical benefit rate, safety and pharmacokinetic profiles.

Results

Twenty-six Japanese patients were enrolled and treated; 3 had a confirmed partial response per investigator assessment and per independent imaging review (IIR); ORR was 11.5% (90% confidence interval [CI]: 3.2–27.2). Median PFS was 3.19 months (95% CI: 2.79–7.23) per investigator assessment and 1.64 months (95% CI: 1.41–3.19) per IIR. Median OS was 7.35 months (95% CI: 4.50–11.27). Grade ≥ 3 treatment-emergent adverse events (TEAEs) occurred in 21 patients (80.8%) and included hypertension (n = 10 [38.5%]), proteinuria (n = 3 [11.5%]), palmar-plantar erythrodysesthesia (n = 3 [11.5%]), decreased appetite (n = 3 [11.5%]), and anemia (n = 3 [11.5%]). Two deaths occurred due to TEAEs between treatment initiation and 30 days after last dose, but neither were considered treatment related.

Conclusions

Lenvatinib demonstrated antitumor activity in BTC, with a tolerable safety profile, and should be further evaluated as potential second-line therapy for this difficult to treat population.

Trial registration

ClinicalTrials.govNCT02579616. Date of registration: October 19, 2015.