bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
An Improved Sparsity Adaptive Matching Pursuit Algorithm and Its Application in Shock Wave Testing
Authors: Zhang Jiahui , Wang Xiao , Ju Mingchi , Han Tailin , Wang Yingzhi
Published: July 2021

In the compressed sensing (CS) reconstruction algorithms, the problems of overestimation and large redundancy of candidate atoms will affect the reconstruction accuracy and probability of the algorithm when using Sparsity Adaptive Matching Pursuit (SAMP) algorithm. In this paper, we propose an improved SAMP algorithm based on a double threshold, candidate set reduction, and adaptive backtracking methods. The algorithm uses the double threshold variable step-size method to improve the accuracy of sparsity judgment and reduces the undetermined atomic candidate set in the small step stage to enhance the stability. At the same time, the sparsity estimation accuracy can be improved by combining with the backtracking method. We use a Gaussian sparse signal and a measured shock wave signal of the 15psi range sensor to verify the algorithm performance. The experimental results show that, compared with other iterative greedy algorithms, the overall stability of the DBCSAMP algorithm is the strongest. Compared with the SAMP algorithm, the estimated sparsity of the DBCSAMP algorithm is more accurate, and the reconstruction accuracy and operational efficiency of the DBCSAMP algorithm are greatly improved.
Stem Cells from Human Exfoliated Deciduous Teeth (SHEDs) and Dental Pulp Stem Cells (DPSCs) Display a Similar Profile with Pericytes
Authors: Zhu Shao Yue , Yuan Chang Yong , Lin Yi Fan , Liu Hao , Yang Yan Qi , Wong Hai Ming , Zhang Cheng Fei , Wang Peng Lai , Gu Min
Published: July 2021

Background. Pericytes play an important role in forming functional blood vessels and establishing stable and effective microcirculation, which is crucial for vascular tissue engineering. The slow ex vivo expansion rate, limited proliferative capacity, and variability of tissue-specific phenotypes would hinder experimental studies and clinical translation of primary pericytes. In this study, the angiogenic and pericyte functions of stem cells from human exfoliated deciduous teeth (SHEDs) and postnatal human dental pulp stem cells (DPSCs) were investigated. Methods. Osteogenic and adipogenic induction assays were performed to evaluate the mesenchymal potential of SHEDs, DPSCs, and pericytes. An in vitro Matrigel angiogenesis assay was conducted to reveal the ability of SHEDs, DPSCs, and pericytes to stabilize vascular-like structures. Quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR) was performed to evaluate mRNA expression. Flow cytometry, western blotting, and immunostaining were used to assess the protein expression. Wound healing and transwell assays were performed to evaluate the migration ability of SHEDs, DPSCs, and pericytes. Results. The osteogenic and adipogenic induction assays showed that SHEDs, DPSCs, and pericytes exhibited similar stem cell characteristics. The mRNA expression levels of PDGFR-β, α-SMA, NG2, and DEMSIN in SHEDs and DPSCs cultured in EC medium were significantly higher than those in the control groups on day 7 (

P
<
0.05

), but significantly higher than those in the pericytes group on day 14 (

P
<
0.05

). Flow cytometry showed that high proportions of SHEDs and DPSCs were positive for various pericyte markers on day 7. The DPSCs, SHEDs, and pericytes displayed strong migration ability; however, there was no significant difference among the groups (

P
>
0.05

). Conclusion. The SHEDs and DPSCs display a profile similar to that of pericytes. Our study lays a solid theoretical foundation for the clinical use of dental pulp stem cells as a potential candidate to replace pericytes.
Exosomal lncRNA SCIRT/miR-665 Transferring Promotes Lung Cancer Cell Metastasis through the Inhibition of HEYL
Authors: Wang Zhengyang , Lin Minmin , He Lulu , Qi Hongyan , Shen Jing , Ying Kejing
Published: July 2021

Lung cancer remains the leading cause of cancer-related death worldwide. Recently, extracellular vesicles such as exosomes have attracted considerable interest both as a source for theranostic biomarkers and an essential participant in lung cancer progression. However, how specific exosomal cargos, such as noncoding RNAs, are selectively packaged into exosomes and promote lung cancer progression remains unclear. In this study, we identified miR-665 as the most elevated exosomal miRNA from both non-small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC) and small-cell lung cancer (SCLC) patients. We further demonstrated that lncRNA SCIRT was also increased in cancer cell exosomes and may facilitate the exosomal loading of miR-665 with the help of hnRNPA1. As a consequence, exosomal miR-665 promoted lung cancer cell invasion and migration by targeting Notch downstream transcription factor HEYL. In addition, we found that miR-665 and SCIRT were significantly upregulated in tumor tissue and plasma of patients with lung cancer, and both of them showed increased expression in metastatic disease samples. Our findings suggest that the exosomal transferring of miR-665 and SCIRT is a functional and mechanism-driven pathway that contributes to cancer progression and, thus, may provide novel diagnostic and therapeutic targets for lung cancer.
Dissipativity and Error Feedback Controller Design of Time-Delay Genetic Regulatory Networks
Authors: Ma Yonggang , Liu Junmei , Ai Jiao
Published: July 2021

Genetic regulatory networks (GRNs) play an important role in the development and evolution of the biological system. With the rapid development of DNA technology, further research on GRNs becomes possible. In this paper, we discuss a class of time-delay genetic regulatory networks with external inputs. Firstly, under some reasonable assumptions, using matrix measures, matrix norm inequalities, and Halanay inequalities, we give the global dissipative properties of the solution of the time-delay genetic regulation networks and estimate the parameter-dependent global attraction set. Secondly, an error feedback control system is designed for the time-delay genetic control networks. Furthermore, we prove that the estimation error of the model is asymptotically stable. Finally, two examples are used to illustrate the validity of the theoretical results.
Recurrent Nasal-Type Extranodal Natural Killer/T-Cell Lymphoma with Meningeal Involvement
Authors: Homsy Sylvester , Kamel Ralph , Raden Mark , Skaradinskiy Yevgeniy
Published: July 2021

Extranodal natural killer/T-cell lymphoma nasal type (NNKTL) is a type of non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma that has been associated with Epstein–Barr virus (EBV). It has an aggressive behavior, known for predilection to metastasize to different organs. Central nervous system (CNS) spread from a primary location has been reported. Different modalities of treatment such as chemotherapy and radiation therapy have been employed in the management of this disease. Severe toxicities of currently available treatment have made clinicians seek more targeted therapies using molecular profiling. We present a 44-year-old Hispanic patient who was diagnosed with an early-stage NNKTL and treated with the modified SMILE regimen for 6 cycles. His EBV DNA PCR turned undetectable and remained so throughout the treatment. He sustained complete right vision loss due to right optic nerve invasion by the tumor, leading to prophylactic intravitreal methotrexate to the contralateral eye. The patient achieved good response with minimal residual disease. He was supposed to start radiation as a sequential therapy. However, the acute development of severe headache and confusion lead to a complete workup showing leptomeningeal spread. He eventually succumbed to the disease.
Angle Estimation and Mutual Coupling Self‐Calibration in Bistatic MIMO System with Arbitrary Geometry
Authors: Zhang Tingping , Wan Di , Wang Xinhai , Wen Fangqing
Published: July 2021

Ideal array responses are often desirable to a multiple‐input multiple‐output (MIMO) system. Unfortunately, it may not be guaranteed in practice as the mutual coupling (MC) effects always exist. Current works concerning MC in the MIMO system only account for the uniform array geometry scenario. In this paper, we generalize the issue of angle estimation and MC self‐calibration in a bistatic MIMO system in the case of arbitrary sensor geometry. The MC effects corresponding to the transmit array and the receive array are modeled by two MC matrices with several distinct entities. Angle estimation is then recast to a linear constrained quadratic problem. Inspired by the MC transformation property, a multiple signal classification‐ (MUSIC‐) like strategy is proposed, which can estimate the direction‐of‐departure (DOD) and direction‐of‐arrival (DOA) via two individual spectrum searches. Thereafter, the MC coefficients are obtained by exploiting the orthogonality between the signal subspace and the noise subspace. The proposed method is suitable for arbitrary sensor geometry. Detailed analyses with respect to computational complexity, identifiability, and Cramer‐Rao bounds (CRBs) are provided. Simulation results validate the effectiveness of the proposed method.
O paradoxo protestante e o condicionamento do ‘espírito’ capitalista ocidental de tipo moderno: algumas observações sobre o pensamento weberiano
Authors: Andrade Lucas dos Santos
Published: July 2021

‘A ética protestante e o “espírito” do capitalismo’ pode ser considerada a obra mais lida deixada pelo intelectual alemão Max Weber. Por muitos anos – praticamente todo o século XX – as interpretações feitas a respeito da obra tomaram por base a segunda versão da obra, de 1920, deixando de lado pontos levantados inicialmente em sua primeira versão, publicada inicialmente entre os anos de 1904 – 1905. Tal escolha gerou certos anacronismo e leituras errôneas em alguns detalhes, mas, cada qual, foram importantes para a sobrevida e a divulgação das ideias do autor. O objetivo deste artigo será explorar de perto as palavras deixadas pelo intelectual alemão nas duas versões da obra, assim como atentar para outras deixadas em outros trabalhos planejados inicialmente para compor um grande compendio de sociologia compreensiva religiosa. Para tanto o artigo apresentado encontra-se dividido em três movimentos que – cada qual – funcionará como complemento para todo o movimento proposto.
Esdras-Neemias e a gestão da memória
Authors: Gandara Samuel de Barros
Published: July 2021

Esse artigo tem por objetivo fazer breves apontamentos das contribuições que os estudos em torno da relação entre trauma, memória e narrativa vêm proporcionando para o campo de pesquisa historiográfica dos reinos do Antigo Israel e de Judá. Para isso, tentar-se-á demonstrar que a narrativa de reconstrução do templo de Jerusalém, em Esdras 1-6, é um suporte para modalidades de conflito em torno do poder da memória na mediação das relações sociais dos grupos de judaítas no período pós-exilico.
O antissemitismo como ódio obstinado
Authors: Vita Mariana Rodrigues de
Published: July 2021

O objetivo desse artigo é historicizar o antissemitismo, ou seja, considerá-lo como objetivo de estudo não anacrônico, mas condizente com o tempo em que se insere, levando em consideração as divergências ao longo de sua existência na Europa, as rupturas em seu cerne discursivo, mas também as continuidades. Para isso, se faz necessário analisar a vigência do ódio aos judeus em longa duração; na Idade Média, sobre a ótica da religiosidade e com os moldes de conversão, passando brevemente pelo século XIX com o alicerce da raça, como uma característica inerente e irreversível dos judeus, e pelo darwinismo social presente originalmente a partir do fim do século XIX alinhado às teorias eugenistas, e adentrando finalmente no período nazista, mais especificamente na origem do Estado Racial Nazista, utilizando como documentação primária Programa de 25 pontos do NSDAP que foi promulgado pelo Partido Nacional-Socialista dos Trabalhadores Alemães em 1920, escrito por Hitler e Anton Drexler. A inserção do antissemitismo no núcleo do pensamento da sociedade é, de fato, uma construção social, mas se dá simbioticamente às relações sociais como um todo, ou seja, um axioma, parte significativa e motriz da mentalidade coletiva, logo o antissemitismo era tão presente que se tornara um senso comum e futuramente seria a base e justificativa de hediondos crimes contra a humanidade cujo ápice foi o holocausto.
A História no Mundo Digital: breves considerações sobre as tecnologias digitais e o Ensino de História
Authors: Wenderrosck Renan Carvalho
Published: July 2021

Resumo: Este trabalho tem como objetivo estabelecer algumas considerações sobre o ensino de história e o uso da tecnologia. Na era da hiperconexão, em um mundo cada vez mais conectado e o imediatismo pautando as novas relações dos sujeitos, faz-se necessário refletirmos sobre os métodos e instrumentos utilizados na educação e, especialmente, no ensino de História. Desta forma, as ferramentas digitais fornecem potencialidades para a estruturação de uma zona capaz de promover a apreensão dos diferentes contextos históricos e suas temporalidades. Esse artigo é divido em duas partes: a primeira busca compor uma breve história do Ensino de História no Brasil a partir dos eventos históricos e da historiografia produzida, compreendendo as diferentes influências que se manifestam no atual sistema de ensino. Já a segunda parte busca trazer breves considerações sobre os proveitos e os desafios da utilização das tecnologias digitais no ensino de história a partir da leitura das obras de Pierre Levy sobre a era digital.  Se “ensinar não é transmitir conhecimento, mas criar as possibilidades para sua própria construção” (FREIRE, 1996, p. 21), sem a menor dúvida as ferramentas digitais podem ajudar a construir novos caminhos a serem utilizados no processo de escolarização dos indivíduos.
Da ferrovia ao museu, uma viagem pelas memórias que constroem as identidades de Peirópolis (1970-2018)
Authors: Silva Karen Pereira Freitas , Pereira Laura de Barros
Published: July 2021

Peirópolis, o bairro rural uberabense, além do bucolismo, exala História, seja em suas memoriais edificações tombadas, seja no ritmo dos moradores que não negam uma boa prosa. A inquietação que norteou a pesquisa foi: quais identidades estão vinculadas a Peirópolis? Essa demanda se fez necessária em função da carência de pesquisa histórica específica sobre o local. Isso porque o levantamento de trabalhos que tratam de Peirópolis – direta ou indiretamente – revelou que as pesquisas envolvendo o bairro são de viés arquitetônico, urbanístico ou geográfico, não tratando, portanto, dos sujeitos e das relações estabelecidas para a configuração da identidade do lugar. As fontes utilizadas são de origem documental e oral, sendo que, cada uma recebeu o tratamento inerente à sua natureza. O intuito foi remontar a história de Peirópolis, no recorte temporal estabelecido, através das publicações formais, das memórias dos moradores e das transformações que ocorreram na comunidade de modo a compreender os aspectos que compõem suas identidades.
Relações sociopolíticas entre judeus e cristãos durante a Primeira Cruzada
Authors: Bendl Rafael Bello
Published: July 2021

O presente artigo é resultado da análise sobre as relações entre as comunidades judaicas, a população cristã e as autoridades cristãs nas cidades alemãs de Mogúncia, Espira, Vórmia e Colônia durante a Primeira Cruzada, no final do século XI. Através da localização e caracterização dos vários grupos sociais envolvidos na construção dessas cidades, acreditamos ser possível entender a dinâmica social existente entre eles e propor uma visão que abrigue a heterogeneidade e a complexidade das relações entre judeus e cristãos durante o século XI. Considerando a especificidade do momento histórico, os ataques contra a população judaica que foram comandados pela horda de cruzados que passavam pelas cidades, utilizamos a reação dos judeus, da população cristã e autoridades como um meio para analisarmos as relações sociopolíticas existentes entre esses atores, considerando a circunstância particular das agressões como um evento que exacerbou os contornos da teia social que definiam essas comunidades. Para isso, utilizamos como fontes primárias três crônicas judaicas que relatam o que aconteceu durante as perseguições, além de três decretos de autoridades cristãs, uma do bispo da cidade de Espira e duas do imperador Henrique IV, como um contraponto para ilustrar o papel institucional na criação e permanência dos judeus na região. A partir do estudo da documentação, encontramos um cenário complexo entre judeus, autoridades alemãs e população cristã, já que os sentimentos antijudaicos não foram expressos na mesma proporção pelos envolvidos, especialmente quando comparamos o papel das autoridades e a reação da população local.
Entre concessões e alianças: a articulação entre o bispo de Toulouse e Domingos de Gusmão no combate contra os cátaros no Languedoc (século XIII)
Authors: Ramos Junior Silvio Augusto da Silva
Published: July 2021

Este artigo se propõe analisar os mecanismos que constituíram a parceria entre o bispo de Toulouse e Domingos de Gusmão no combate aos cátaros no Languedoc, durante os anos que marcaram a Cruzada Albigense (1209-1229). Tendo em vista que a repressão às heresias constitui um considerável momento dos séculos XII e XIII, o texto se objetiva debater e contribuir aos demais estudos sobre o combate ao Catarismo, partindo da lógica de criação de verdade do filósofo e historiador Michel Foucault na análise das fontes que constituem o corpus documental base para o trabalho. Partimos da assertiva de que a Cruzada Albigense não somente é fruto, como também possui continuidade possibilitada por variadas relações de poder entre os agentes envolvidos no combate, o que a nível local do Languedoc se destacam os bispos fiéis aos preceitos católicos e ao que ela iniciou naquela região. Fulco, o bispo de Toulouse, adotou em diferentes momentos uma política, que sob ótica da nossa interpretação, foi muito pautada em intermediações objetivadas a dar bases aos agentes inseridos naquela região para combater os cátaros, cujo um dos exemplos se encontra em Domingos de Gusmão, importante clérigo envolvido nas pregações e trabalhos de conversão direcionadas a estes hereges. Concluímos alegando que o bispo Fulco se interessou em dar continuidade ao combate, utilizando de sua importante posição eclesiástica para conseguir subsídios para a permanência de Gusmão na região, bem como destacamos o referido bispo como um ferrenho defensor dos discursos direcionadas pela Igreja Católica àqueles hereges.
A palavra como remissão da alma (Portugal no século XV)
Authors: Souza Eduardo Lima de
Published: July 2021

Um dos primeiros efeitos da imprensa de caracteres móveis, em Portugal, na segunda metade do século XV, foi a divulgação de obras de piedade popular, tais como os tratados religiosos e de moral prática. Essas obras concentravam diversas prédicas para iniciar os cristãos nos rudimentos da fé católica a partir, sobretudo, dos pecados mortais, dos sentidos do corpo e dos dez mandamentos da lei de Deus. O presente artigo tem como objetivo analisar o peso conferido, especificamente, às boas palavras, igualmente sustentadas sobre a explicitação na forma oral, nomeadamente no momento da confissão auricular e individual, expressos nos manuais impressos da doutrina cristã, de meados do século XV.
A guerra como estrutura: sua influência nas relações de poder no Final da Idade Média e na Idade Média Tardia.
Authors: Hungaro Andréa Grion
Published: July 2021

Este trabalho tem como objetivo analisar o papel da guerra, assim como sua influência nas relações de poder existentes durante o final da Idade Média e na Idade Média Tardia (séculos XII ao XVIII), por uma perspectiva combinada entre análise historiográfica e estudos de Relações Internacionais (RI). O presente artigo procura compreender as repercussões que a guerra tem tanto na esfera doméstica quanto internacional, ou seja, de maneira sistêmica; junto a isso, demonstra a ineficácia da utilização de conceitos e definições em sua forma pura e isolada. Para que se possa compreender os impactos da guerra, é necessário pensar a história através da ideia de longa duração, ou seja, é fundamental levar em conta o predomínio dos costumes, das divisões sociais e de poder, e das estruturas (ainda que com algumas transformações) que caracterizam a Idade Média. Por fim, constata-se uma crítica ao consenso sobre os Tratados de Vestfália como marco que daria início ao Sistema Internacional Moderno.
Distribution and habitat preferences of the Chinese Pangolin Manis pentadactyla (Mammalia: Manidae) in the mid-hills of Nepal
Authors: Acharya Suman , Sharma Hari Prasad , Bhattarai Rajeev , Poudyal Beeju , Sharma Sonia , Upadhaya Suraj
Published: July 2021

The Chinese Pangolin is a ‘Critically Endangered’ species, which is estimated to have declined by over 90% in the last 21 years due to increased anthropogenic activities on the species and its habitat. Only a few pieces of research on the Chinese Pangolin have been done throughout Nepal; there is little information among the mammal species of Nepal, especially on distribution and habitat preference. This study was set to assess the distribution and habitat preferences of the Chinese Pangolin in Panauti municipality, central Nepal. We identified the most preferred habitat of the Chinese Pangolin using different covariates. Its preferred habitat was found ranging 1,450–1,600 m of elevation within a moderate slope of 5–25° steepness, forested areas in west-facing slopes. The maximum number of burrows of the species were found to be distributed in open canopy (0–50 % coverage). The increase anthropogenic activities in the agricultural land and deforestation in forested land has negatively impacted the occurrence of the Chinese Pangolin. We recommend that the community-based conservation initiatives like community forestry programs should be robustly implemented in the study area for better conservation of species and habitat in the coming years.
Study on the impacts of LULC change on the wildlife habitat and the livelihood of people in and around Dampa Tiger Reserve, Mizoram, India
Authors: Gouda Sushanto , Sethy Janmejay , Chauhan Netrapal Singh , Bargali Harendra Singh
Published: July 2021

Anthropogenic activities are a matter of serious concern in the Indian Himalayan region due to adverse impacts on wildlife and habitats. This study examines resource use patterns by local people in relation to the habitat of Malayan Sun Bear in and around Dampa Tiger Reserve in Mizoram. Standard questionnaire surveys and vegetation sampling methods were used for data collection and analysis. It was found that 221.3 km2 (33.3%) of the forested areas have high human interference in the form of logging, indiscriminate tree falling and fuel wood collection, while 26% was moderately affected and 18% of the reserve had no impact. Among vegetation resources, fuel wood was used in the highest quantity (28%) followed by bamboo and edible plants (21%) and (11%), respectively. Ethno-zoological usage comprises of parts of animals like snake, bear, monitor lizard, and porcupine. Sun bears were considered pests that feed on maize, cucumber, sweet potato and pumpkins grown in ‘jhum’ crop fields. Anthropogenic pressures from farm-bush hunting, monoculture, and unplanned roads have contributed to severe biodiversity loss, and must be constrained for the conservation of sun bear and their habitat
in the region.  The Land Use/ Land Cover on human built-up, jhum land (current and abandoned jhum/shifting cultivation), forests (dense and open), bamboo forest, plantation etc. were used to develop maps for each village. The land use pattern for the eight villages studied. Information obtained from MIRSAC and its mapping in Arcview shows that highest number of agricultural land was in villages of West Phaileng (319sq.ha) and Damparengpui (283.8sq.ha). Closed or dense forest was in highest proportion in Phuldungsei and least in Tuipuibari (120sq.ha). Grazing activities was relatively low or absent in most part of DTR. Abandoned jhum fields were in largest number in Damparengpui (939.60sq.ha) followed by Silsuri (881.17sq.ha) and Serhmun (880.99sq.ha).
On the freshwater fish fauna of Krishna River, Sangli District, Maharashtra, India
Authors: Kumbar Suresh M. , Jadhav Shrikant S. , Lad Swapnali B. , Ghadage Abhijit , Patil Satyawan S. , Shankar C. Shiva
Published: July 2021

Freshwater fish fauna of Krishna River, Sangli district was studied from 2013 to 2017. A total of 73 species belonging to 10 orders, 22 families, and 49 genera were recorded, of which, 29 species are endemic to the Western Ghats and 11 species endemic to the Krishna River system. Labeo kontius, an endemic barb of the Cauvery River System was recorded for the first time from the Krishna River, Maharashtra. As per the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species, 54 species are assessed as ‘Least Concern’, four species as ‘Near Threatened’, three species as ‘Vulnerable’, five as ‘Endangered’, and two as ‘Data Deficient’. The conservation status of two species has not yet been assessed. Fish fauna of the Krishna River within the study area is threatened as a result of alien species, and several anthropogenic stressors such as pollution from industrial as well as agricultural sources, human settlements, and overfishing.  Since, this small study area harbours 28 endemic and eight threatened species, their conservation should be given high priority.
A new distribution record of Bianor angulosus (Karsch, 1879) (Araneae: Salticidae) from Kerala, India
Authors: Babu Nishi , Caleb John T.D. , Prasad G.
Published: July 2021

Bianor angulosus (Karsch, 1879)  is recorded from Kerala, India for the first time. The genital structures of the species are illustrated and a map detailing the updated distributional records of the species in India is also provided.
A preliminary checklist of dragonflies and damselflies (Insecta: Odonata) of Vakkom Grama Panchayath, Thiruvanthapuram District, Kerala, India
Authors: J. Arunima  , Nameer P.O.
Published: July 2021

A one-year study was conducted at Vakkom Grama Panchayath, Thiruvananthapuram district, Kerala, to assess the diversity of odonates. We report 49 species, which include 31 species of Anisoptera (dragonflies) and 18 species of Zygoptera (damselflies). Among dragonflies, the family Libellulidae dominated with 26 species, while Coenagrionidae with 10 species was the dominant family among the damselflies. The odonate diversity of Vakkom Grama Panchayath accounted for 28% of the odonates in Kerala and 25% of the odonates of the Western Ghats. Vakkom Grama Panchayath also recorded the presence of Mortonagrion varralli which is an uncommon species in Kerala. This study provides some important baseline information on the odonates of one of the grama panchayaths in Kerala, India. An updated checklist of 57 species of odonates of Thiruvananthapuram district, Kerala is also provided.
From Ethico-Religious Exhortation to Legal Paraenesis: Functions of Qur’anic Waʿẓ
Authors: Schmid Nora K.
Published: July 2021

This essay examines qur’anic “exhortation” and “legal paraenesis” in light of pre-Islamic Arabic poetry and late antique biblical traditions. It analyzes the verb waʿaẓa and related forms in narrative and legal/legislative sections of suras that can be assigned to different chronological stages of the Qur’an’s textual genesis. Qur’anic exhortations initially occur in narratives about messengers sent to unbelieving peoples. The word mawʿiẓa then becomes part of the self-referential vocabulary of the Qur’an and is used to characterize the contents of Moses’ Tablets. This linguistic development anticipates a process of legal and regulatory actualization, specification, and exposition: in the Medinan period, legal discourse is framed with the verb waʿaẓa. The emerging Medinan legal paraenesis puts emphasis on social applicability, but it is neither parochial nor does it break with Meccan ethics. Instead, it connects the communication and implementation of laws, rulings, and commands to human volition in a specific social context.
Chichimecactus (Cactoideae, Cactaceae), a new genus based on molecular characterisation of highly endangered Strombocactus species
Authors: BÁRCENAS ROLANDO T. , HERNÁNDEZ HÉCTOR M. , HERNÁNDEZ-LEDESMA PATRICIA , GÓMEZ LUIS MANUEL MONTOYA
Published: July 2021

Molecular characterisation of the three taxa currently circumscribed under Strombocactus (Cactaceae, Cactoideae) based on the analysis of the plastid matK, psbA-trnH and atpB-rbcL datasets, provided unambiguous identification of the two endangered and highly wanted cacti species: S. corregidorae and S. disciformis (including subsp. disciformis and subsp. esperanzae). The combined autapomorphies in each of the three markers and even the autapomorphies in each of the single molecular datasets provide a positive and clear-cut identification for each of the taxa. The Bayesian, maximum likelihood and parsimony phylogenetic analyses of the three datasets including 46 terminals of cacti, recover a paraphyletic Strombocactus with S. corregidorae as sister to a clade containing Ariocarpus, Turbinicarpus, and Strombocactus disciformis subsp. disciformis + subsp. esperanzae. Autapomorphies for each of the three taxa for every dataset are identified, and as a consequence, the new genus Chichimecactus, based on S. corregidorae, is proposed.
Indian species of Shirozuellini (Coleoptera: Coccinellidae), including a new species of Sasajiella Miyatake from Tamil Nadu
Authors: POORANI J. , THANIGAIRAJ R.
Published: July 2021

The tribe Shirozuellini (Coleoptera: Coccinellidae) is represented by only four species in the Indian Subcontinent. The two species found in mainland India, Promecopharus andrewesi Sicard and Ghanius karachiensis Ahmad, are briefly reviewed: the species are diagnosed, key characters illustrated, and information provided on their distribution and hosts. The genus Sasajiella Miyatake (Coccinellidae: Shirozuellini), is reported for the first time from mainland India and a new species, Sasajiella boothi sp. n., collected from the state of Tamil Nadu, is described and illustrated. The male genitalia and larva of Sasajiella are illustrated for the first time. This is one of only five species in the tribe Shirozuellini known from the Indian subcontinent.
Cloud Microphysical Implications for Marine Cloud Brightening: The Importance of the Seeded Particle Size Distribution
Authors: Hoffmann Fabian , Feingold Graham
Published: July 2021

Marine cloud brightening (MCB) has been proposed as a viable way to counteract global warming by artificially increasing the albedo and lifetime of clouds via deliberate seeding of aerosol particles. Stratocumulus decks, which cover wide swaths of Earth’s surface, are considered the primary target for this geoengineering approach. The macroscale properties of this cloud type exhibit a high sensitivity to cloud microphysics, exposing the potential for undesired changes in cloud optical properties in response to MCB. In this study, we apply a highly detailed Lagrangian cloud model, coupled to an idealized parcel model as well as a full three-dimensional large-eddy simulation model, to show that the choice of seeded particle size distribution is crucial to the success of MCB, and that its efficacy can be significantly reduced by undesirable microphysical processes. The presence of even a small number of large particles in the seeded size spectrum may trigger significant precipitation, which will reduce cloud water and may even break up the cloud deck, reducing the scene albedo and hence counteracting MCB. On the other hand, a seeded spectrum comprising a large number of small particles reduces the fraction of activated cloud droplets and increases entrainment and evaporation of cloud water, which also reduces the efficiency of MCB. In between, there may exist an aerosol size distribution that minimizes undesirable microphysical processes and enables optimal MCB. This optimal size distribution is expected to be case dependent.
The Diurnal Cycle of Entrainment and Detrainment in LES of the Southern Ocean Driven by Observed Surface Fluxes and Waves
Authors: Large William G. , Patton Edward G. , Sullivan Peter P.
Published: July 2021

Empirical rules for both entrainment and detrainment are developed from LES of the Southern Ocean boundary layer when the turbulence, stratification, and shear cannot be assumed to be in equilibrium with diurnal variability in surface flux and wave (Stokes drift) forcing. A major consequence is the failure of downgradient eddy viscosity, which becomes more serious with Stokes drift and is overcome by relating the angle between the stress and shear vectors to the orientations of Lagrangian shear to the surface and of local Eulerian shear over 5 m. Thus, the momentum flux can be parameterized as a stress magnitude and this empirical direction. In addition, the response of a deep boundary layer to sufficiently strong diurnal heating includes boundary layer collapse and the subsequent growth of a morning boundary layer, whose depth is empirically related to the time history of the forcing, as are both morning detrainment and afternoon entrainment into weak diurnal stratification. Below the boundary layer, detrainment rules give the maximum buoyancy flux and its depth, as well a specific stress direction. Another rule relates both afternoon and nighttime entrainment depth and buoyancy flux to surface layer turbulent kinetic energy production integrals. These empirical relationships are combined with rules for boundary layer transport to formulate two parameterizations; one based on eddy diffusivity and viscosity profiles and another on flux profiles of buoyancy and of stress magnitude. Evaluations against LES fluxes show the flux profiles to be more representative of the diurnal cycle, especially with Stokes drift.
Psychopathy, Borderline Personality Disorder, and Substance Use in Incarcerated Females
Authors: Edwards Bethany G. , Maurer J. Michael , Harenski Carla L. , Kiehl Kent A.
Published: July 2021

Psychopathy and borderline personality disorder (BPD) are commonly associated with an increased propensity toward substance use. However, few studies have accounted for shared variance between psychopathy and BPD when examining relationships with unique forms of substance use, particularly in justice-involved females. This study investigated psychopathic and BPD traits in relation to alcohol and drug use in a sample of 274 incarcerated adult females. Results revealed that psychopathic and BPD traits were differentially related to alcohol and drug use. Specifically, unique variance in BPD traits was related to alcohol use, whereas unique variance in lifestyle-antisocial psychopathic traits was related to drug use. Findings support unique relationships between psychopathic and BPD traits and problematic and prolonged alcohol and drug use in incarcerated adult females. Results may inform methods of tailoring specific substance use treatments for use in females with distinct personality profiles.
Indoleamine 2,3 dioxygenase (IDO) level as a marker for significant coronary artery disease
Authors: Wongpraparut Nattawut , Pengchata Ploy , Piyophirapong Sudarat , Panchavinnin Pariya , Pongakasira Rungtiwa , Arechep Noppadol , Kasetsinsombat Kanda , Maneechotesuwan Kittipong
Published: July 2021

Background

Indoleamine 2,3 dioxygenase (IDO), the rate-limiting enzyme in the kynurenine (Kyn) pathway of tryptophan (Trp) degradation, is modulated by inflammation, and is regarded as a key molecule driving immunotolerance and immunosuppressive mechanisms. Little is known about IDO activity in patients with active coronary artery disease (CAD).

Methods

We prospectively enrolled patients who were scheduled to undergo coronary angiography. Measurement of IDO, high-sensitivity troponin T (hs-TnT), and high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hs-CRP) levels was performed at baseline, and IDO activity was monitored at the 6-month follow-up.

Results

Three hundred and five patients were enrolled. Ninety-eight patients (32.1%) presented with recent acute coronary syndrome (ACS). Significant difference in IDO, kynurenine, and hs-TnT between patients with and without significant CAD was observed. Baseline IDO activity, kynurenine level, and hs-TnT level were all significantly higher in significant CAD patients with 3-vessel, 2-vessel, and 1-vessel involvement than in those with insignificant CAD [(0.17, 0.13, and 0.16 vs. 0.03, respectively; p = 0.003), (5.89, 4.58, and 5.24 vs. 2.74 µM/g, respectively; p = 0.011), and (18.27, 12.22, and 12.86 vs. 10.89 mg/dL, respectively; p < 0.001)]. One-year mortality was 3.9%. When we compared between patients who survived and patients who died, we found a significantly lower prevalence of left main (LM) disease by coronary angiogram (6.1% vs. 33.3%, p = 0.007), and also a trend toward higher baseline kynurenine (5.07 vs. 0.79 µM/g, p = 0.082) and higher IDO (0.15 vs. 0.02, p = 0.081) in patients who survived.

Conclusion

Immunometabolic response mediated via IDO function was enhanced in patients with CAD, and correlated with the extent and severity of disease. Patients with LM disease had higher 1-year mortality. Lower level of IDO, as suggested by inadequate IDO response, demonstrated a trend toward predicting 1-year mortality.

Trial registration TCTR Trial registration number TCTR20200626001. Date of registration 26 June 2020. “Retrospectively registered”.
Effect of COVID-19 on epidemiological characteristics of road traffic injuries in Suzhou: a retrospective study
Authors: Huang Wenjuan , Lin Qi , Xu Feng , Chen Du
Published: July 2021

Background

To present the new trends in epidemiology of road traffic injuries (RTIs) during the Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic in Suzhou.

Methods

Pre-hospital records of RTIs from January to May in 2020 and the same period in 2019 were obtained from the database of Suzhou pre-hospital emergency center, Jiangsu, China. Data were extracted for analysis, including demographic characteristics, pre-hospital vital signs, transport, shock index, consciousness, pre-hospital death. A retrospective study comparing epidemiological characteristics of RTIs in Suzhou during the 5-month period in 2020 to the parallel period in 2019 was performed.

Results

A total of 7288 RTIs in 2020 and 8869 in 2019 met inclusion criteria. The overall volume of RTIs has statistical difference between the 2 years (p < 0.001), with fewer RTIs in 2020 compared with 2019. Electric bicycle related RTIs increased during the pandemic (2641, 36.24% vs 2380, 26.84%, p < 0.001), with a higher incidence of RTIs with disorder of consciousness (DOC) (7.22% vs 6.13%, p = 0.006).

Conclusions

Under the impact of COVID-19, the total number of RTIs in Suzhou from January to May 2020 decreased. This observation was coupled with a rise in electric bicycle related injuries and an increase in the incidence of RTIs with DOC.
A multiyear systematic survey of the quality of reporting for randomised trials in dentistry, neurology and geriatrics published in journals of Spain and Latin America
Authors: Bachelet Vivienne C. , Navarrete María S. , Barrera-Riquelme Constanza , Carrasco Víctor A. , Dallaserra Matías , Díaz Rubén A. , Ibarra Álvaro A. , Lizana Francisca J. , Meza-Ducaud Nicolás , Saavedra Macarena G. , Tapia-Davegno Camila , Vergara Alonso F. , Villanueva Julio
Published: July 2021

Background

The Iberoamerican Cochrane Network is currently developing an extensive project to identify Spanish-language journals that publish original clinical research in Spain and Latin America. The project is called BADERI (Database of Iberoamerican Essays and Journal) and feeds the research articles, mainly randomised clinical trials (RCTs), into CENTRAL (Cochrane Collaboration Central Register of Controlled Trials). This study aims to assess the quality of reporting of RCTs published in Spanish and Latin American journals for three clinical fields and assess changes over time.

Methods

We did a systematic survey with time trend analysis of RCTs for dentistry, geriatrics, and neurology. These fields were chosen for pragmatic reasons as they had not yet been completed in BADERI. After screening RCTs from 1990 to 2018 for randomised or quasi-randomised clinical trials, we extracted data for 23 CONSORT items. The primary outcome was the total score of the 23 predefined CONSORT 2010 items for each RCT (score range from 0 to 34). The secondary outcome measure was the score for each one of these 23 items.

Results

A total of 392 articles from 1990 to 2018 were included as follows: dentistry (282), neurology (80), and geriatrics (30). We found that the overall compliance score for the CONSORT items included in this study for all 392 RCTs analysed was 12.6 on a scale with a maximum score of 34. With time, the quality of reporting improved slightly for all RCTs. None of the articles achieved the complete individual CONSORT item compliance score. The lowest overall compliance percentage was for item 10 (Randomisation implementation) and item 24 (Protocol registration), with a dismal 1% compliance across all included RCTs, regardless of country.

Conclusions

CONSORT compliance is very poor in the 392 analysed RCTs. The impact of the CONSORT statement on improving the completeness of RCT reporting in Latin America and Spain is not clear. Iberoamerican journals should become more involved in endorsing and enforcing adherence to the CONSORT guidelines.
Transcriptional landscape of PTEN loss in primary prostate cancer
Authors: Imada Eddie Luidy , Sanchez Diego Fernando , Dinalankara Wikum , Vidotto Thiago , Ebot Ericka M. , Tyekucheva Svitlana , Franco Gloria Regina , Mucci Lorelei Ann , Loda Massimo , Schaeffer Edward Matthew , Lotan Tamara , Marchionni Luigi
Published: July 2021

Background

PTEN is the most frequently lost tumor suppressor in primary prostate cancer (PCa) and its loss is associated with aggressive disease. However, the transcriptional changes associated with PTEN loss in PCa have not been described in detail. In this study, we highlight the transcriptional changes associated with PTEN loss in PCa.

Methods

Using a meta-analysis approach, we leveraged two large PCa cohorts with experimentally validated PTEN and ERG status by Immunohistochemistry (IHC), to derive a transcriptomic signature ofPTENloss, while also accounting for potential confounders due toERGrearrangements. This signature was expanded to lncRNAs using the TCGA quantifications from the FC-R2 expression atlas.

Results

The signatures indicate a strong activation of both innate and adaptive immune systems uponPTENloss, as well as an expected activation of cell-cycle genes. Moreover, we made use of our recently developed FC-R2 expression atlas to expand this signature to include many non-coding RNAs recently annotated by the FANTOM consortium. Highlighting potential novel lncRNAs associated with PTEN loss and PCa progression.

Conclusion

We created a PCa specific signature of the transcriptional landscape ofPTENloss that comprises both the coding and an extensive non-coding counterpart, highlighting potential new players in PCa progression. We also show that contrary to what is observed in other cancers, PTEN loss in PCa leads to increased activation of the immune system. These findings can help the development of new biomarkers and help guide therapy choices.
A pilot study of the impact of an integrated individual- and family therapy model for self-harming adolescents on overall healthcare consumption
Authors: Wijana Moa Bråthén , Feldman Inna , Ssegonja Richard , Enebrink Pia , Ghaderi Ata
Published: July 2021

Background

Self-harming behaviors in adolescents cause great suffering and can lead to considerable costs to the healthcare system. The aim of the current study was to investigate the cost of an integrated individual and family therapy (Intensive Contextual Treatment: ICT) and to compare the adolescent’s healthcare consumption 1 year before and 1 year after treatment.

Method

The study had a within group design with repeated measures. The clinical outcomes and the cost of ICT treatment are based on a sample of 49 participants who were previously enrolled in an intervention trial. Participants with significantly improved clinical outcomes (self-harm behavior, or general mental health symptoms) were defined as treatment responders. Calculation of changes in healthcare consumption is based on 25 participants who gave their consent to participate in a retrospective collection of healthcare data from medical records, including inpatient and outpatient care, and prescribed medication.

Results

The average estimated cost of ICT per person was €5293. There were no significant differences between the cost of healthcare consumption 1 year before and after ICT, but the results suggested that the adolescents consumed less inpatient and specialized care after treatment. There was a significantly higher cost of psychotropic medication after treatment explained by a higher consumption of central stimulants. Treatment responders (general mental health problems) reduced their consumption of healthcare resources significantly more than non-responders, especially regarding hospital visits and total health care costs.

Conclusions

Good response to the ICT in terms of improved general mental health symptoms seems to be associated with reduced healthcare consumption during the post-treatment period. However, controlled studies with larger sample sizes are needed to draw causal conclusions. The results of this study should be interpreted with caution as it is based on a small sample and attrition rate was high.

Trial registration

This study has been registered with the ISRCTN:15885573.
Increasing obesity odds among foreign-born New Yorkers are not explained by eating out, age at arrival, or duration of residence: results from NYC HANES 2004 and 2013/2014
Authors: Horlyck-Romanovsky Margrethe F. , Haley Sean J.
Published: July 2021

Background

Among the foreign-born in the United States (US) dietary acculturation and eating out may increase obesity risk.

Using the 2004 (N = 1952) and 2013/14 (N = 1481) New York City (NYC) Health and Nutrition Examination Surveys, we compared for the foreign-born and US-born by survey year: 1) odds of obesity; 2) association between eating out and obesity and 3) effect of age at arrival and duration of residence among the foreign-born. Weighted logistic regression estimated odds of obesity.

Results

Compared to the US-born, the foreign-born had lower odds of obesity in 2004, (aOR = 0.51 (95%CI 0.37–0.70), P = <.0001). Odds were no different in 2013/14. In 2013/14 the foreign-born who ate out had lower obesity odds (aOR = 0.49 (95%CI 0.31–0.77), P = 0.0022). The foreign-born living in the US≥10 years had greater odds of obesity in 2004 (aOR = 1.73 (95%CI 1.08–2.79), P = 0.0233) but not in 2013/14.

Conclusions

Eating out does not explain increasing obesity odds among the foreign-born.