bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Genesis and propagation of exogenous sediment pulses in mountain channels: insights from flume experiments with seismic monitoring
Authors: Piantini Marco , Gimbert Florent , Bellot Hervé , Recking Alain
Published: April 2021

Abstract. In the upper part of mountain river catchments, large amounts of loose debris produced by mass wasting processes can accumulate at the base of slopes and cliffs. Sudden destabilizations of these deposits are thought to trigger energetic sediment pulses that may travel in downstream rivers with little exchange with the local bed. The dynamics of these exogenous sediment pulses remain poorly known because direct field observations are lacking, and the processes that control their formation and propagation have rarely been explored experimentally. Here we carry out flume experiments with the aims of investigating (i) the role of sediment accumulation zones in the generation of sediment pulses, (ii) their propagation dynamics in low-order mountain channels, and (iii) the capability of seismic methods to unravel their physical properties. We use an original set-up where we supply with liquid and solid discharge a low slope storage zone acting like a natural sediment accumulation zone, and connected to a downstream 18 % steep channel equipped with geophones. We show that the ability of the self-formed deposit to generate sediment pulses depends on the sand content of the mixture. In particular, when a high fraction of sand is present, the storage area experiences alternating phases of aggradation and erosion strongly impacted by grain sorting. The upstream processes also influence the composition of the sediment pulses, which are formed by a front made of the coarsest fraction of the sediment mixture, a body composed of a high concentration of sand corresponding to the peak of solid discharge, and a diluted tail that exhibits a wide grain size distribution. Seismic measurements reveal that the front dominates the overall seismic noise, but we observe a complex dependency between seismic power and sediment pulses’ transport characteristics, which questions the applicability of existing simplified theories in such context. These findings challenge the classical approach for which the sediment budget of mountain catchments is merely reduced to an available volume, since not only hydrological but also granular conditions should be considered to predict the occurrence and propagation of such sediment pulses.
Magnetostatic reciprocity for MR magnet design
Authors: Silva Pedro Freire , Jouda Mazin , Korvink Jan G.
Published: April 2021

Abstract. Electromagnetic reciprocity has long been a staple in MR radio-frequency development, offering geometrical insights and a figure of merit for various resonator designs. In a similar manner, we use magnetostatic reciprocity to compute manufacturable solutions of complex magnet geometries, by establishing a quantitative metric for the placement and subsequent orientation of discrete pieces of permanent magnetic material. Based on magnetostatic theory and nonlinear FEM simulations, it is shown how assembled permanent magnet setups perform in the embodiment of a variety of designs, and how magnetostatic reciprocity is leveraged in the presence of difficulties associated with self-interactions, to fulfil various design objectives, including self-assembled micro magnets, adjustable magnetic arrays, and an unbounded magnetic field intensity in a small volume, despite realistic saturation field strengths.
Workshop report: Exploring deep oceanic crust off Hawai`i
Authors: Umino Susumu , Moore Gregory F. , Boston Brian , Coggon Rosalind , Crispini Laura , D'Hondt Steven , Garcia Michael O. , Hanyu Takeshi , Klein Frieder , Seama Nobukazu , Teagle Damon A. H. , Tominaga Masako , Yamashita Mikiya , Harris Michelle , Ildefonse Benoit , Katayama Ikuo , Kusano Yuki , Suzuki Yohey , Trembath-Reichert Elizabeth , Yamada Yasuhiro , Abe Natsue , Xiao Nan , Inagaki Fumio
Published: April 2021

Abstract. For more than half a century, exploring a complete sequence of the oceanic crust from the seafloor through the Mohorovičić discontinuity (Moho) and into the uppermost mantle has been one of the most challenging missions of scientific ocean drilling. Such a scientific and technological achievement would provide humankind with profound insights into the largest realm of our planet and expand our fundamental understanding of Earth's deep interior and its geodynamic behavior. The formation of new oceanic crust at mid-ocean ridges and its subsequent aging over millions of years, leading to subduction, arc volcanism, and recycling of some components into the mantle, comprise the dominant geological cycle of matter and energy on Earth. Although previous scientific ocean drilling has cored some drill holes into old (> 110 Ma) and young (< 20 Ma) ocean crust, our sampling remains relatively shallow (< 2 km into intact crust) and unrepresentative of average oceanic crust. To date, no hole penetrates more than 100 m into intact average-aged oceanic crust that records the long-term history of seawater–basalt exchange (60 to 90 Myr). In addition, the nature, extent, and evolution of the deep subseafloor biosphere within oceanic crust remains poorly unknown. To address these fundamentally significant scientific issues, an international workshop “Exploring Deep Oceanic Crust off Hawai`i” brought together 106 scientists and engineers from 16 countries that represented the entire spectrum of disciplines, including petrologists, geophysicists, geochemists, microbiologists, geodynamic modelers, and drilling/logging engineers. The aim of the workshop was to develop a full International Ocean Discovery Program (IODP) proposal to drill a 2.5 km deep hole into oceanic crust on the North Arch off Hawai`i with the drilling research vessel Chikyu. This drill hole would provide samples down to cumulate gabbros of mature (∼ 80 Ma) oceanic crust formed at a half spreading rate of ∼ 3.5 cm a−1. A Moho reflection has been observed at ∼ 5.5 km below the seafloor at this site, and the workshop concluded that the proposed 2.5 km deep scientific drilling on the North Arch off Hawai`i would provide an essential “pilot hole” to inform the design of future mantle drilling.
Kinematics of subduction in the Ibero-Armorican arc constrained by 3D microstructural analysis of garnet and pseudomorphed lawsonite porphyroblasts from Île de Groix (Variscan belt)
Authors: Aerden Domingo G. A. M. , Ruiz-Fuentes Alejandro , Sayab Mohammad , Forde Aidan
Published: April 2021

Abstract. The small island of Groix in southern Brittany, France, is well known for
exceptionally well-preserved outcrops of Variscan blueschists, eclogites, and
garnetiferous mica schists that mark a Late Devonian suture between Gondwana
and Armorica. The kinematics of polyphase deformation in these rocks is
reconstructed based on 3D microstructural analysis of inclusion trails
within garnet and pseudomorphed lawsonite porphyroblasts using differently
oriented thin sections and X-ray tomography. Three sets of inclusion trails
striking NE–SW, NNW–SSE, and WNW–ESE are recognized and interpreted to
witness a succession of different crustal shortening directions orthogonal
to these strikes. The curvature sense of sigmoidal and spiral-shaped
inclusion trails of the youngest set is shown to be consistent with
northwest and northward subduction of Gondwana under Armorica, provided
that these microstructures developed by overgrowth of actively forming
crenulations without much porphyroblast rotation. Strongly non-cylindrical
folds locally found on the island are reinterpreted as fold-interference
structures instead of having formed by progressive shearing and fold-axis
reorientation. Six samples of a lower-grade footwall unit of the Groix
ophiolitic nappe (Pouldu schists) were also studied. Inclusion trails in
these rocks strike E–W, similar to the youngest set recognized on Groix
island. They record Carboniferous N–S shortening during continental
collision. These new microstructural data from southern Brittany bear a
strong resemblance to earlier measured in inclusion-trail orientations in the
northwestern Iberia Massif. A best fit between both regions suggests not more than about
15∘ anticlockwise rotation of Iberia during the Cretaceous opening of
the Gulf of Biscay.
Deciphering the evolution of the Bleis Marscha rock glacier (Val d'Err, eastern Switzerland) with cosmogenic nuclide exposure dating, aerial image correlation, and finite element modeling
Authors: Amschwand Dominik , Ivy-Ochs Susan , Frehner Marcel , Steinemann Olivia , Christl Marcus , Vockenhuber Christof
Published: April 2021

Abstract. We constrain the Holocene development of the active Bleis
Marscha rock glacier (Err–Julier area, eastern Swiss Alps) with 15
cosmogenic nuclide exposure ages (10Be, 36Cl), horizontal surface
creep rate quantification by correlating two orthophotos from 2003 and 2012,
and finite element modeling. We used the latter to separate the control on
surface movement exerted by topography and material properties. Bleis
Marscha is a stack of three overriding lobes whose formation phases are
separated by time gaps expressed morphologically as over-steepened terrain
steps and kinematically as a sharp downslope decrease in surface movement. The
three discrete formation phases appear to be correlated to major Holocene
climate shifts: Early Holocene low-elevation lobes (∼8.9–8.0 ka, after the Younger Dryas), Middle Holocene lobe (∼5.2–4.8 ka, after the Middle Holocene warm period), and Late Holocene
high-elevation lobes (active since ∼2.8 ka, intermittently
coexisting with oscillating Bleis Marscha cirque glacierets). The formation
phases appear to be controlled in the source area by the climate-sensitive
accumulation of an ice-debris mixture in proportions susceptible to rock
glacier creep. The ongoing cohesive movement of the older generations requires
ice at a depth which is possibly as old as its Early–Middle Holocene debris
mantle. Permafrost degradation is attenuated by “thermal filtering” of the
coarse debris boulder mantle and implies that the dynamics of the Bleis
Marscha lobes that once formed persisted over millennia are less sensitive
to climate. The cosmogenic radionuclide inventories of boulders on a moving
rock glacier ideally record time since deposition on the rock glacier root
but are stochastically altered by boulder instabilities and erosional
processes. This work contributes to deciphering the long-term development
and the past to quasi-present climate sensitivity of rock glaciers.
Ice fabrics in natural flows: beyond pure and simple shear
Authors: Richards Daniel H. M. , Pegler Samuel S. , Piazolo Sandra
Published: April 2021

Abstract. Ice fabrics are key for understanding and predicting ice flow dynamics. Despite its importance, the characteristics and evolution of ice fabrics beyond pure and simple shear flow has largely been neglected. However, 80 % of the flow of ice in Antarctica is outside the regimes of pure and simple shear. We use a new validated numerical model (SpecCAF), which has been shown to accurately reproduce experimentally observed fabrics in both compression and simple shear, to explore the fabrics produced between pure and simple shear, as well as those that are highly rotational. We present a definitive classification of all fabric patterns. We find that intermediate deformations between pure and simple shear result in a smooth transition between a fabric characterised by a cone-shape and a secondary cluster pattern. Highly-rotational fabrics are found to produce a weak girdle fabric. In addition we obtain complete predictions for the strain required for any fabric under a 2D deformation to reach steady state at any given temperature. Use of our data in current ice flow models as well as for ice core fabric and seismic anisotropy interpretation will enhance the communities' ability to predict future ice flow in a changing climate.
Socio-economic Impact and Migration Due to Water Shortage in District Badin Sindh Province of Pakistan
Authors: Dahri Ghulam Nabi , Mangan Tehmina , Nangraj Ghulam Mustafa , Talpur Basit Ali , Jarwar Imran Ali , Sial Mehrunisa , Nangraj Abdul Nasir , Aamir Mr.
Published: April 2021

The agriculture sector is the backbone of Pakistan's economy. It contributes 18.9 percent to the national GDP (Gross Domestic Product), and 43.5 percent to the national labor force. The term ‘water scarcity’ depicts, the water demand that could not fulfill the human need. Some of the factors that cause water scarcity include dry spells, shortage of irrigation water, climate change, drought, excessive storage, and weather extremes. Another critical factor that causes scarcity is excessive population growth. Water stress directly impacts human migration because it affects the human lives and socio-economic conditions of the migrants. This study aimed to examine the impact of water shortage on the socioeconomic condition of growers in the study area. To examine how water scarcity is behind the migration and to analyze the impact of water shortage on agricultural production. The analysis of the data reveals that migration occurs due to the shortage of water in the last five years of Taluka, Tando Bago. The current scenario of the study depicted that Tando Bago is suffering from the worst condition of water shortage and about 60 percent of farmers were not in a condition to use the freshwater resources. According to the farmer's perception (88%), the quality of underground water is seen to be low as compared to taluka Matli. It is a big threat to the agriculture sector in terms of productivity, soil degradation, and fallow land. The study further reveals that per acre yield of crops is low that signifies the impact of water shortage on agriculture production. In taluka Matli, the net return of wheat crop and per-acre value of land (RS: 795,858), is high as compared to Tando Bago (RS: 225,428). The results of the study favours’ the significant impact of water shortage on socioeconomic and migration of the people in district Badin.
Fintech Innovations: The Impact of Mobile Banking Apps on Bank Performance in Vietnam
Authors: Le Tam T. , Mai Ha N. , Phan Duong T.
Published: April 2021

This paper is aimed at analyzing the impact of FinTech innovations on bank performance across mobile banking applications in Vietnam. Using the longitudinal panel data from 2010-2019 (with 220 observations) of 22 local commercial banks in Vietnam. Multivariate panel regression is chosen to experimentally test the research hypotheses. This research paper is one of the first quantitatively investigating the effects of fintech innovation (mobile banking apps) on bank performance in Vietnam. In addition, studies on financial indicators are shown quite comprehensively in the period 2010-2019. Our empirical study has shown the following results: (i) FinTech innovations’ positive impact on bank performance in Vietnam; (ii) Banks’ adoption of mobile banking technologies positively impacted banks’ fee-based income, consumer loans and money market deposits; (iii) The effect of mobile technologies on financial performance was much stronger for small banks than large banks; (iv) As for the balance sheet liabilities aspect, the money market fund of small banks is positively affected by the mobile banking application; (v) In terms of balance sheet assets, consumer loans by small banks are positively affected by the mobile banking application while large banks are not; (vi) GDP per capita has a positive effect on the ROE of both small and large banks; (vii) Mobile phone penetration rates positively affected bank ROA and ROE and its effect was larger on small banks. From the findings, key recommendations to Vietnamese commercial banks to improve bank performance in the context of an increasingly technological development are to: (1) Increase investment in mobile banking apps and the entire mobile banking technology; (2) Increase investment in financial technology, focus more on mobile banking users and the entire mobile banking services; (3) Take advantage of the technical support and consultancy of international organizations and bilateral cooperation with other countries' authorities in management of Fintech businesses; (4) Learn from commercial banks in other countries to draw experiences, thereby develop in own context. (5) Training human resources for the finance and banking industry to not only have professional knowledge and ability to analyze data, but also have to be proficient in operating digital technology.

Keywords: Fintech Innovations, mobile banking apps, bank performance, Vietnam, theories of Technological Innovation.
Cold and World War II: Understanding the Causes, Views and Conceptual Analysis
Authors: Nyuon Abraham Kuol
Published: April 2021

This article examines the theoretical framework of the cold war as the basis for comprehending the genesis of the Cold War. This author gave emphasizes to events which clearly elaborate the end of the war known as the superpowers struggle from 1945-1991 by focusing on factors which have speed up the collapse of the Cold War resulting into the new World Order. In this paper, the author argued that, the Cold War and World War II are inseparable because conflict among the Allies surfaced at the end of the World War II. This paper set out how World War II shaped the beginning of the Cold War through engaging with the major schools of thoughts that are considered as the cause of Cold War. Therefore, the blame for the escalation of the Cold war should be attributed to both the United States and the Soviet Union as both of them were serving their national interest.

Keywords: War, interest, power, ideology, determinants, cessation, orthodox, revisionist, realist, War, destruction, assured, mutually, weapon and competition.
Stem Cell Therapies and Treatment Advances for Heart Failure with Preserved Ejection Fraction
Authors: Soni Monica , Ferrell Brandon , Wikholm Colin , Wilson L Tamara
Published: April 2021

Heart failure with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF) is characterized by a left ventricular ejection fraction of 50% or greater. While heart failure with reduced ejection fraction (HFrEF) is well-characterized and has numerous treatment options, HFpEF remains poorly understood. HFpEF has long been termed diastolic dysfunction, because it was thought that fibrosis and impaired relaxation of the left ventricle could alone explain the underlying pathophysiology. However, recent research has identified additional mechanisms that influence HFpEF, specifically metabolic disorders and proinflammatory conditions. Despite this recent progress in elucidating the pathophysiology, there are still no approved treatment options that increase survival in patients with HFpEF. In the context of limited pharmacological options, stem cell therapy and cardiac biomarkers have emerged as potential breakthroughs in the treatment of HFpEF, but there has not yet been a review of their potential. This review evaluates the potential of cardiosphere-derived cells (CDCs), mesenchymal stromal cells (MSCs), and endothelial progenitor cells (EPCs) in the treatment of HFpEF. CDCs have shown promise, with a placebo-controlled animal trial demonstrating an increase in survival and a marked improvement in left ventricular end diastolic filling among the group treated with intracoronary infusion of CDCs. Additionally, with the newfound understanding of HFpEF pathophysiology, studies have also investigated the role MSCs and EPCs play in the inflammation associated with HFpEF, as well as the potential benefit these stem cells would bring to the treatment of HFpEF. While clinical trials are needed to confirm the safety and efficacy of these therapies, we offer insight into their potential, as well as a comprehensive summary of the pertinent clinical studies that are currently in progress. Embase, Ovid Medline, and PubMed were used to search all relevant literature for this review.
Cancer Care in the Era of COVID-19
Authors: Tenet Megan
Published: April 2021

The increased vulnerability of patients with cancer to COVID-19 and the implementation of stay-at-home orders have made delivery of the normal standard of care challenging. Innovative practices and new guidelines have been developed by cancer centers worldwide to provide high-quality care while also decreasing the risk of infection with the novel coronavirus.
An Update on In Utero Gene Therapy for Cystic Fibrosis
Authors: Chua Patrick , Zhou Suzanne , Richmond Miller , Romano Siena
Published: April 2021

Cystic fibrosis (CF) is an inherited, chronic disease caused by a gene mutation that leads to a malfunctioning CF transmembrane regulator (CFTR) protein channel in cells. The life expectancy for individuals with CF has continually increased in recent decades, but is still only around 40 years of age. Current treatment guidelines call for a focus on symptom management and complication reduction. New advances in scientific research with regard to prenatal screening, viral vectors for gene therapy, and CFTR-correcting treatments are making in utero gene therapy a possibility for the first time. In utero gene therapy would allow for an early correction of the gene mutation, preventing the subsequent complications in the development of the fetus and creating the opportunity for a cure for CF as opposed to only symptomatic treatment. In this article, we review recent developments in CF gene therapy and detail the current state of the science of CF screening as well as treatment.
Characterizing the Learning Curve for Anterior Total Hip Arthroplasties Using the Forgotten Joint Score
Authors: Berardino Kevin , Belilos Eleanor , Geng Xue , Korostyshevskiy Valeriy , Argintar Evan
Published: April 2021

There are 2 approaches to a total hip arthroplasty (THA) that are commonly used by orthopedic surgeons. While the posterior approach has traditionally been used more frequently, the anterior approach has recently gained popularity because it has been shown to improve patient outcomes. Still, the challenge of learning any new surgical approach during practice can pose its own complications. This study’s aim was to evaluate outcomes of the different approaches, overall and along a chronological timeline, in order to better understand the learning curve for transitioning from a posterior to an anterior approach for THAs. While other studies have examined this learning curve using operating room times and procedural-specific data, this study investigates this topic through the patient’s perspective by using the Forgotten Joint Score (FJS) questionnaire to evaluate patient-perceived pain. A total of 246 patients who underwent a THA procedure performed by a single orthopedic surgeon at MedStar Washington Hospital Center were contacted. FJS questionnaire data from 39 patients (47 THAs) were analyzed. Despite results showing a higher mean FJS for the anterior approach (mean score, 77.55; standard error of the mean [SEM], 5.27; n = 29 THAs) than the posterior approach (mean score, 69.42; SEM, 7.19; n = 18 THAs ), there was no significant difference found between groups (P = .38). Furthermore, based on 2-way analysis of variance, neither the surgical approach nor the surgery year were significantly associated with FJS. Overall, while there are still important considerations in surgical practice regarding learning a new procedure, our data did not suggest that the learning curve of transitioning from the posterior to the anterior approach for THAs significantly affected clinical outcomes; however, the data were limited by a small sample size due to poor survey response rate.
Diagnostic Value of Screening Questions for Vestibular Dysfunction in HIV Disease: A Pilot Study
Authors: Nguy Peter L , Ware Deanna , Kelly Cameron , Plankey Michael
Published: April 2021

Introduction: A number of vestibular function tests have been used to evaluate vestibular symptoms among people living with HIV (PLWH). However, these tests are inconsistent due to poor sensitivity and specificity. This study attempts to identify sensitive and specific vestibular symptoms that may be useful in selecting appropriate HIV-positive adults for clinical vestibular function tests.

Methods: Participants were enrolled from the Baltimore-Washington, DC, site of the Multicenter AIDS Cohort Study and the Washington, DC, site of the Women’s Interagency HIV Study. A total of 246 participants were evaluated using the Dix-Hallpike (DH) maneuver and the eyes closed, standing on foam (ECF) position in the Romberg test, and completed the Adult Balance and Dizziness Supplemental questionnaire of the 2008 National Health Interview Survey. The sensitivity and specificity were calculated using self-reported vestibular dysfunction from the questionnaire data compared with vestibular dysfunction determined by clinical testing.

Results: Sixty participants (24.4%) reported vestibular dysfunction. The prevalence of abnormal tests was 40.8% for DH–any nystagmus, 1.5% for DH–classical nystagmus, 40.3% for DH–nonclassical nystagmus, 38.3% for gaze-evoked nystagmus, and 15.7% for Romberg ECF. Sensitivity of self-reported vestibular symptoms for all vestibular function tests reported ranged from 23.1% to 50.0%. These symptoms were moderately specific and ranged from 73.3% to 77.9%.

Conclusions: Despite adequate specificity, the low sensitivity of self-reported symptoms of vestibular dysfunction were not useful to rule out a vestibular disorder in this sample of middle-aged PLWH. Therefore, clinical testing is needed to confirm the diagnosis of a vestibular disorder in the management of HIV disease.
Current and Future Approaches to Stem Cell Treatment of Type I Diabetes
Authors: Yacoub* Michael , Webert* Matthew , Lindberg* Michael , Viola* Marissa
Published: April 2021

This review analyzes the efficacy of current and previous stem cell therapies for type 1 diabetes (T1D) and suggests the most viable stem cell–based treatments for the future. T1D is an autoimmune disease in which the β cells of the pancreas are destroyed. Currently, the only insulin replacement therapy options for T1D include insulin injection (which requires daily dosing) or organ transplantation (which has donor limitations and requires immunosuppression). Both options decrease a patient’s quality of life. After reviewing completed clinical trials using stem cell therapy, we found that the combination therapy of adipose-derived stem cells and hematopoietic stem cells offers the greatest benefit for generating insulin-producing cells and modulating the autoreactivity of the immune system. However, this therapy is limited in scope and requires immunosuppression. The most promising potential treatment is encapsulation (the enclosure of stem cell–derived β cells to prevent interactions with the immune system) because it can restore insulin production and does not require immunosuppression. Although encapsulation is in the early stages of development and has no completed clinical trials, it offers an ideal, long-term therapy option without compromising patients’ quality of life and without requiring immunosuppression.
Understanding the Therapeutic Potential of Bone Marrow Stem Cell Therapy in Ischemic Stroke
Authors: Carpenter Austin B. , Ahsan Hana , Kong Adrian , Regunathan Anup
Published: April 2021

Despite advances in clinical management, ischemic stroke remains one of the most significant causes of morbidity and mortality in the United States. Stem cell transplantation therapy is emerging as a promising solution to this problem. Ischemic stroke leads to the death of neurons and the surrounding glial cells, leaving patients with significant disabilities. Stem cell therapy has been proven effective in several preclinical studies of induced ischemic stroke, demonstrating neurogenesis, angiogenesis, and improved neural plasticity in animal models. Bone marrow–derived stem cells have shown particular promise in this regard, leading to their application in clinical trials that demonstrated safety and feasibility with limited efficacy. Here, we highlight the potential benefits of cell transplantation therapy for ischemic stroke and review potential mechanisms of action and delivery. We also examine the results of completed clinical trials and the scientific roadblocks that have prevented them from demonstrating greater efficacy. While progress in the clinic has been limited, the future of stem cell therapy is promising. There is still debate as to the methods and applications that would most improve the efficacy of stem cell therapy for ischemic stroke and we review proposed solutions that would address these issues and improve therapeutic designs for future studies.
Major Risk Factors Contributing to Split Thickness Skin Graft Failure
Authors: Turissini Jon D , Elmarsafi Tammer , Evans Karen K , Kim Paul J
Published: April 2021

A retrospective review was done for each wound (n = 223) in all patients (n = 191) who underwent Split Thickness Skin Graft (STSG) placement in the Wound Division at Georgetown University Hospital from January 2014 to March 2017 in order to determine the factors that significantly affect STSG take. In doing so, these factors that prove to significantly affect STSG take can be used to predict the possibility of graft failure, and, thus, determine if additional measures must be taken in order to improve the success of the skin graft. Patient medical records were examined for patient demographics, comorbidities, wound parameters, wound bed prep, post-operative dressing, 30 day graft outcomes, and 60 day graft outcomes. Statistical analysis was performed to determine the significance of each factor, and further analysis was done to determine the association and risk of the statistically significant factors. Statistical analysis showed a significant association between Negative Pressure Wound Therapy (NPWT) for wound bed dressing after STSG placement and successful STSG outcome compared to use of bolster only for the post-surgical wound (χ2 = 4.66, p=0.0308). The odds of STSG failure in patients who underwent NPWT were approximately 80% less than those who had bolster dressing used for their post-surgical dressing (OR = 0.203). These results indicate that NPWT after skin graft placement yields a greater success rate for split-thickness skin grafts than conventional bolster dressing. In terms of comorbidities, there was also a significant association between congestive heart failure (CHF) and STSG failure (χ2 = 4.12, p=0.0422). Patients with CHF were approximately 2.55 times more likely to have their STSG fail (OR = 2.55), indicating that CHF is a good predictor of split-thickness skin graft failure. It was also found that bacterial presence and STSG failure also showed an association (χ2 = 4.66, p=0.0308), in which patients with bacterial presence on the wound prior to debridement were approximately 2.89 times more likely to have STSG failure (OR = 2.89). Although bacterial presence prior to debridement showed an association with STSG failure, bacterial presence after debridement just prior to STSG placement did not show a significant correlation with STSG failure [nf = 52 (73.2%) versus ns = 95 (62.5%), (p = 0.1150)]. These results suggest that bacterial presence may also be a good predictor of graft failure, however it is possibly the strain of bacteria, not the presence of bacteria that predominantly affects skin graft take. In order to elucidate the role that bacteria plays in the success of STSG take, further experimental analysis is warranted.
Evaluating Risks, Reported Cases and Screening Recommendations for Breast Cancer in Transgender Patients
Authors: Dente Elizabeth , Farneth Richard , Purks Jennifer , Torelli Stefan
Published: April 2021

Breast cancer research has traditionally focused on biological females who identify as women. Less is known about the incidence of breast cancer in transgender populations who identify with a gender that does not correspond with their birth sex. There are data to suggest a potential link between hormone replacement therapy (HRT) and breast cancer in transgender patients. While there is a need for more robust studies in this area, current data suggest there is no increased risk in female-to-male transgender men, and a potential increased risk in male-to-female transgender women. These studies also suggest that transgender patients face significant disparities in care. Clinicians require improved education to understand the potential risks associated with HRT, standards of cancer screening for transgender patients, and proper sensitivity in communication with this patient population. This review examines the existing literature, outlines the current data on the potential risks associated with HRT, and provides a 3-pronged approach to communicate risk, screen, and diagnose breast cancer in transgender patient populations.

Note: All authors contributed equally to this manuscript.
BL Lacertae Objects: A Short Review
Authors: Kapanadze B.
Published: April 2021

BL Lacertae objects (BLLs) constitute a class of active galactic nuclei (AGNs) with extreme observational features explained by non-thermal radiation from a relativistic jet nearly pointed along the observer’s line-of-sight. Their spectral energy distribution (SED), extending over 17-19 orders of the frequency, is of non-thermal origin and shows a typical two-humped structure. The lower-energy component, ranging from the radio to X-rays, is explained via synchrotron radiation emitted by ultra-relativistic electrons/positrons/protons, to be initially accelerated via the Blandford-Znajek mechanism or magneto-hydrodynamic processes in the vicinity of a central supermassive black hole. Afterwards, the particles should undergo further acceleration to ultra-relativistic energies by means of different mechanisms (first and second-order Fermi processes, relativistic magnetic reconnection, shear acceleration, jet-star interaction etc.) locally, in the jet emission zone. Our intensive X-ray spectral study of TeV-detected, high-energy-peaked BLLs (HBLs) often show the signatures of an effective second-order Fermi (stochastic) acceleration close to the shock front, while the processes related to the first-order Fermi acceleration are relatively rarely presented. The TeV-undetected HBLs and low-energy-peaked BLLs (LBLs) mostly do not show the signatures of efficient stochastic acceleration in their jets. Concerning the higher-energy component, the most frequently considered scenario incorporates an inverse Compton (IC) scattering of synchrotron photons by their ”parent” electron-positron population (synchrotron self-Compton model, SSC). However, this simple scenario sometimes is challenged by uncorrelated X-ray and TeV variability, more easily explained by multizone SSC, external Compton (EC) and hadronic scenarios.
Investigations of the extended extragalactic radio sources: The quasars 1502+10 and 0923+39 and their environment
Authors: Hovhannisyan M. A. , Andreasyan R. R. , Paronyan G. M. , Abrahamyan H. V.
Published: April 2021

It was studied the environment of quasars 1502+10 and 0923+39. The investigation of the region with radius of 360 arcmin around these extended extragalactic radio sources shows that distribution of extragalactic objects around them is mainly homogeneous. This study is carried out in the framework of a large project, to find large regions with deficit of extragalactic sources around extragalactic radio sources with very large linear sizes, as it is in the case of DA240, NGC315 radiogalaxies.
Space Activities in Armenia: past, present and future
Authors: Mickaelian A. M. , Mikayelyan G. A.
Published: April 2021

A review about Space related activities in Armenia is given, particularly in the Byurakan Astrophysical Observatory (BAO, Armenia), including the first Space Astronomy projects by Grigor Gurzadian in 1960s-1970s (Orion and Orion-2 UV observatories), research projects with USA (NASA) and European (ESA) Space observatories (IRAS, ROSAT, Hubble, Spitzer, WISE, etc.) by BAO scientists, Armenian participation in International Virtual Observatory Alliance (IVOA), International Planetary Data Alliance (IPDA), and UN Committee on the Peaceful Users of the Outer Space (COPUOS), “Roscosmos” station in Byurakan established in 2014 for monitoring of Space debris, Armenian participation in NASA Space Apps Hackathons, Armenian participation in the European H2020 project, including the Space field, organization of Space related meetings and schools in Byurakan, etc. Armenia with its astronomical and other related background has great potential in establishing collaborations and promoting Space Sciences and Space Technologies.
Conceptualizing Civic Renaissance as Social Movement
Authors: Wood John
Published: April 2021

Our nation is experiencing a convergence of social, political, and structural forces that threaten our democracy. Acknowledging our current moment, this article discusses the idea of “civic renaissance” as a movement to transform social and institutional life by regaining trust and friendship among the American people. Civic renaissance as a social movement stands in contrast to other social movements in that it focuses on means rather than ends of political engagement as the ultimate goal. Drawing on examples of nonviolent traditions lead by Martin Luther King and Mohandas Gandhi, this article explores the power of constructive nonviolence in catalyzing individuals, organizations, and institutions to serve the common good. A contemporary expression of these ideals and practices is seen in the work of Braver Angels, America's largest bi-partisan organization dedicated to the work of political depolarization. In describing the goals and initiatives of this organization, this essay articulates the hope, challenges, and possibilities of developing a “beloved community” that binds Americans together in creating and sustaining a common life. The idea of civic renaissance—building community and restoring integrity to our institutions—is an idea well suited to addressing the problems facing the United States in our current moment.
The American Democracy Project: Equipping Students with the Knowledge, Skills, and Experiences to be Informed and Engaged Citizens
Authors: Nudelman Felice
Published: April 2021

Preparing college and university students to be informed and engaged citizens is imperative for a healthy democracy. In our current reality of intense political polarization, today's college students are feeling increasingly isolated and disconnected from democratic structures where partisanship impedes their ability to address important societal challenges. In this essay, I introduce the work of the American Democracy Project (ADP)—a network of 297 public colleges and universities serving 2.7 million students—that is committed to equipping students with the ability to understand and employ interdisciplinary perspectives to address society's most pressing problems. In articulating the purposes and outcomes of various ADP projects, partnerships, and initiatives, I show how an association—working both nationally and with their member campuses—can both inspire and equip our students with the knowledge, skills, and experiences to build a flourishing democracy.
Seasonal and monthly variation in peak expiratory flow rate in children with asthma
Authors: Kim Minji , Kim Young-Min , Lee Ji Young , Yang Hea-Kyoung , Kim Hyunmi , Ahn Soohyun , Baek Sun-Young , Kim Jihyun , Ahn Kangmo
Published: April 2021

Background

Although understanding the seasonal patterns of asthma deterioration is important to prevent asthma exacerbation, previous approaches have limitations in evaluating the actual trend of asthma exacerbation.

Objective

This study aimed to evaluate the seasonal and monthly variations in the peak expiratory flow rate (PEFR) among children with asthma.

Methods

A total of 89 patients with asthma were enrolled between December 2012 and March 2015. The PEFR in the morning and evening was recorded daily, and the percentage change in PEFR from baseline was calculated. Generalized estimating equation models were constructed after adjusting for age, sex, body mass index, and sensitization to house dust mites or pollen.

Results

The PEFR records of 11,222 person-days showed a significant decrease in the morning and evening in autumn than in winter by −1.9% (95% confidence interval [CI], −3.73 to −0.15) and −2.1% (95% CI, −3.80 to −0.37), respectively. The morning PEFR was significantly lower in April, August, October, and December than in January with changes of −4.2% (95% CI, −7.08 to −1.23) in April, −3.1% (95% CI, −5.79 to −0.47) in August, −3.7% (95% CI, −6.09 to −1.21) in October, and −1.9% (95% CI, −3.62 to −0.12) in December. The percentage change of evening PEFR significantly decreased by −3.3% (95% CI, −6.38 to −0.25) in April and by −3.3% (95% CI, −5.56 to −1.07) in October.

Conclusion

The PEFR in children with asthma was lower in autumn than in winter. In terms of monthly patterns, the PEFR was significantly reduced in April and October than in January. These results can serve as a basis for preventing asthma exacerbations by developing seasonal or monthly management strategies for children with asthma.
Factors associated with Health-Related Quality of Life in Hispanic population with mental disorders using medical expenditure panel survey 2013-2017
Authors: Chang Jongwha , Cho Jangkwon , Medina Mar , Falcon Stephanie , Soto-Ruiz Paulina , Shin Dong Yeong
Published: April 2021

There is a lack of U.S. population-based research surrounding the marked decrease in health-related quality of life (HRQoL) caused by the morbidity of mental disorders in the U.S. Hispanic demographic. This cross-sectional study utilized data from the 2013-2017 Medical Expenditure Panel Survey (MEPS) to identify Hispanic community-dwelling residents with mental disorders in the U.S. The independent variable was the presence of mental disorders, and the dependent variable was HRQoL. HRQoL was measured with the Short Form 12 (SF-12) Physical Health Composite Scale (PCS) and Mental Health Composite Scale (MCS). A total of 34,434 patients met the inclusion criteria, representing about 38,683,299 Hispanic individuals. Of this group, those older than 18 were stratified by the presence of mental disorders. The two groups were those with mental disorders: 4,122 individuals representing a sample size of 4,789,634; and those without mental disorders: 30,312 individuals representing a sample size of 33,893,665. Based on our study, Hispanic patients with mental disorders were associated with lower HRQoL scores. SF-12 PCS scores (95% CI) were 45.3 (44.5, 46.1) for those with mental disorders and 50.8 (50.5, 51.0) for those without mental disorders. SF-12 MCS scores (95% CI) were 42.6 (42, 43.3) in patients with mental disorders and 52.6 (52.3, 52.8) in patients without mental disorders. These differences in scores denote the impact of mental health disorders on HRQoL scores in the Hispanic demographic and mark the way for further research on identifying means of improving such scores for Hispanic patients.
Homeschooling – an escape from distance learning or a socio-educational need?
Authors: Poruszek Marta
Published: April 2021

The aim of the article is to show whether the changing educational reality in the time of the pandemic affects the motives for starting homeschooling, and if so, to what extent these motives are related to the disadvantages of distance learning. The reasons for choosing homeschooling so far were usually an expression of the socio-educational needs of families. The recruitment interviews for homeschooling conducted by the author in one of Warsaw's primary schools allowed to state that a new motive for starting homeschooling had emerged. It can be defined as an escape from the unstable situation in education and the inconvenience of distance learning. This inconvenience relates to the overload associated with many hours of study in front of a computer monitor. A noticeable effect of distance learning is a significant decrease in the effectiveness of education, a decrease in motivation to learn and the need for increased parental educational support for children. Families discovered the benefits of independent, school-independent home learning at a pace consistent with the child's predispositions and abilities. The gradual increase in the number of homeschooling students proves the growing awareness of parents about their right to choose alternative forms of educating their children, including the possibility of completing compulsory education outside the general school system.
"Monumental Picture" – an attempt to resolve the creative crisis in a non-homogeneous group
Authors: Kuryło-Pawliczek Marta
Published: April 2021

The article and the research presented in it are an attempt to resolve the creative crisis observed in students of grades 4-7 of primary school. The author tries to reawaken creative activity and the joy of creation by involving all students of the above-mentioned classes in a group art project. The task is to paint an abstract "Monumental Picture" together. The article is a description of the author's own research carried out on a non-homogeneous group of students using the case study method.
Role of Initial Crack Tip Shape, Plastic Compressibility and Strain Softening on Near-Tip Stress-Strain State in Fatigue Cracks during Simulation of a Finite Deformation based Elastic-Viscoplastic Constitutive Model
Authors: ALAM Md Intaf , KHAN Debashis , PANDEY Satyabrat , KUMAR Sandeep
Published: April 2021

This paper deals with the effect of initial crack tip shape, plastic compressibility, and strain softening on near-tip stress-strain fields for a mode I crack subjected to fatigue loading under plane strain and small scale yielding. A finite strain-based elastic-viscoplastic constitutive equation with bilinear hardening and hardening-softening-hardening hardness functions is taken up for simulation. It is observed that plastic compressibility and strain softening have a significant impact on crack tip opening displacement (CTOD) and tip propagation. Furthermore, it has been viewed that the initial shape of a crack tip can significantly influence both the CTOD and the crack tip extension for the bilinear hardening material; however, with identical conditions for the hardening-softening-hardening material, the initial crack tip shape affects the fatigue crack growth much lesser though the CTOD is influenced considerably. In comparison to the crack growth in the plastically incompressible hardening-softening-hardening solids, the variation of the crack growth (with respect to the tip curvature radius) is more and peculiar in the corresponding plastically compressible solid. To explain and to get a better insight of the crack tip deformation, the near-tip plastic strain and hydrostatic stress have been illustrated.
Cytotoxicity Study
Authors: R. Chavda Bhavin , N. Socha Bhavesh
Published: April 2021

The nature of being poisonous to cells is cytotoxicity. A number of cell fates can result in the treatment of cells with a cytotoxic compound. In this study, the nauplii were exposed to different concentrations of compounds for 24 hours. Experiments were concluded with control and different concentration of the compound. The whole set was triplicate to get an accurate result. The LC50 was determined from the best fit line, of a graph of % mortality vs. concentration of nauplii. The LC50 value was obtained from the antilogarithm of log [complex] at 50% mortality (LC50), all data were collected from three independent experiments.