bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Generalized Lapse Rate Formulas for Use in Entraining CAPE Calculations
Authors: Peters John M. , Mulholland Jake P. , Chavas Daniel R.
Published: September 2021

Common assumptions in temperature lapse rate formulas for lifted air parcels include neglecting mixing, hydrostatic balance, the removal of all condensate once it forms (pseudoadiabatic), and/or the retention of all condensate within the parcel (adiabatic). These formulas are commonly derived from the conservation of entropy, which leads to errors when nonequilibrium mixed-phase condensate is present. To evaluate these assumptions, a new general lapse rate formula is derived from an expression for energy conservation, rather than entropy conservation. This new formula incorporates mixing of the parcel with its surroundings, relaxes the hydrostatic assumption, allows for nonequilibrium mixed-phase condensate, and can be formulated for pseudoadiabatic or adiabatic ascent. The new formula is shown to exactly conserve entropy for reversible ascent. Predictions by the new formula are compared to that of older and less general formulas. The errors in previous formulas arise from the assumption of hydrostatic balance, which results in considerable warm biases due to the neglect of the energy sink from buoyancy. Predictions of ascent with entrainment using the new formula are then compared to parcel properties along trajectories in large eddy simulations. Simulated parcel properties are better predicted by the formula using a diluted analogy to adiabatic ascent, wherein condensate is diluted at the same rate as other parcel properties, than by the diluted analogy to pseudoadiabatic ascent, wherein all condensate is removed. These results suggest that CAPE should be computed with adiabatic, rather than pseudoadiabatic, parcel ascent.
Increasing the Depth of a Land Surface Model. Part I: Impacts on the Subsurface Thermal Regime and Energy Storage
Authors: González-Rouco J. F. , Steinert N. J. , García-Bustamante E. , Hagemann S. , de Vrese P. , Jungclaus J. H. , Lorenz S. J. , Melo-Aguilar C. , García-Pereira F. , Navarro J.
Published: September 2021

The representation of the thermal and hydrological states in land surface models is important for a realistic simulation of land–atmosphere coupling processes. The available evidence indicates that the simulation of subsurface thermodynamics in Earth system models is inaccurate due to a zero-heat-flux bottom boundary condition being imposed too close to the surface. To assess the influence of soil model depth on the simulated terrestrial energy and subsurface thermal state, sensitivity experiments have been carried out in piControl, historical, and RCP scenarios. A deeper bottom boundary condition placement has been introduced into the JSBACH land surface model by enlarging the vertical stratification from 5 to 12 layers, thereby expanding its depth from 9.83 to 1416.84 m. The model takes several hundred years to reach an equilibrium state in stand-alone piControl simulations. A depth of 100 m is necessary, and 300 m recommendable, to handle the warming trends in historical and scenario simulations. Using a deep bottom boundary, warming of the soil column is reduced by 0.5 to 1.5 K in scenario simulations over most land areas, with the largest changes occurring in northern high latitudes, consistent with polar amplification. Energy storage is 3–5 times larger in the deep than in the shallow model and increases progressively with additional soil layers until the model depth reaches about 200 m. While the contents of Part I focus on the sensitivity of subsurface thermodynamics to enlarging the space for energy, Part II addresses the sensitivity to changing the space for water and improving hydrological and phase-change interactions.
Pro- and Anti-Angiogenic Factors: Their Relevance in Diabetic Foot Syndrome—A Review
Authors: Schönborn Martyna , Łączak Patrycja , Pasieka Paweł , Borys Sebastian , Płotek Anna , Maga Paweł
Published: September 2021

Peripheral arterial disease can involve tissue loss in up to 50% of patients with diabetic foot syndrome (DFS). Consequently, revascularization of narrowed or occluded arteries is one of the most common forms of comprehensive treatment. However, technically successful angioplasty does not always result in the healing of ulcers. The pathomechanism of this phenomenon is still not fully understood, but inadequate angiogenesis in tissue repair may play an essential role. Changes in pro- and anti-angiogenic factors among patients with DFS are not always clear and conclusive. In particular, some studies underline the role of decreased concentration of pro-angiogenic factors and higher levels of anti-angiogenic mediators. Nevertheless, there are still controversial issues, including the paradox of impaired wound healing despite high concentrations of some pro-angiogenic factors, dynamics of their expression during the healing process, and their mutual relationships. Exploring this process among diabetic patients may provide new insight into well-known methods of treatment and show their real benefits and chances for improving outcomes.
Adrenal glands of mice and rats: A comparative morphometric study
Authors: Siasios Athanasios , Delis Georgios , Tsingotjidou Anastasia , Pourlis Aris , Grivas Ioannis
Published: September 2021

Mice and rats are among the most used laboratory animals. They share numerous similarities along with differences, some yet unexplored. One of them is the morphometry of their adrenal glands, whose characteristics may be related to differences in energy management, immune response, drug metabolism, behaviour and temperament. The present study tries to fill this knowledge gap with the evaluation and comparison of adrenal gland anatomical/morphometric parameters of mice and rats. In groups of 10 ( n = 10) adult, male and female BALB/c mice and Wistar rats, one in every 20 sections transverse to the longitudinal axis of the gland was used for measuring entire gland area, capsule, entire cortex, cortex zones and medulla with the aid of an image analysis system and subjected to statistical analysis. Quotients of the individual areas were calculated and comparison between the resulting ratios was performed. Gland length and volume were also calculated. Statistically significant differences were revealed between the rat female and male cortex area, rat and mouse medulla/cortex, medulla/gland, zona glomerulosa/cortex and cortex/gland ratios, male and female rats’ medulla/cortex, medulla/gland, capsule/gland, zona glomerulosa/cortex, zona reticularis/cortex and zona glomerulosa/zona fasciculata ratios, length and volume. The correlation evaluation revealed that in male rats and in female mice the larger medulla area was accompanied by a larger cortex area and vice versa. In general, a larger cortex area was accompanied by larger areas of cortex zones. The collected data and the revealed differences can possibly contribute to the understanding of the physiology of the two species.
Failure analysis of anchorage of cable-stayed bridge with internal defects
Authors: Kryvko Andriy , Bautista González Erick Juán , Samayoa Ochoa Didier
Published: September 2021

The influence of the internal defects in the anchorages of cable-stayed bridges, generated either during the fabrication process or due to the usage time on their mechanical properties and failure probability is studied. Internal defects were distributed according to the probability density functions of types, sizes, quantities, and locations obtained from the experimental studies. The Finite Element Method (FEM) is applied to simulate the behaviour of the anchorages with and without internal defects under external forces, which affect the bridge, such as wind and traffic. It was shown that the mechanical properties of the anchorage without internal defects are in the range of its application, but in the case of an anchorage with internal defects, approximately 0.1% of the observed maximum stresses approximate the yield stress. The latter could result in permanent material deformation or fracture. The probability of failure of an anchorage is discussed.
A Cross-Sectional Study of the Effects of Physical Activity and Nutrient Intakes on Blood Glucose Control Rates in Middle-Aged and Elderly Diabetes Patients: Korean National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey 2015-2017
Authors: Kim Young Mi , Kim Jin Dong , Jung Hana
Published: September 2021

This study aimed to investigate factors affecting blood glucose control among middle-aged and older diabetic patients taking medications or receiving insulin therapy. In 2015–2017 data obtained from the Korean National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (KNHANES), 1257 patients with diabetes were divided into a controlled group and an uncontrolled group based on blood glucose levels (cutoff ≥126 mg/dL). After adjusting for confounding factors, the BMI, total cholesterol level, and triglycerides level of the uncontrolled group were significantly higher than the controlled group. The total amount of moderate-intensity activity in controlled patients was significantly higher than that of the controlled group. Total energy, fat, saturated fatty acids, and cholesterol intakes were found to be significantly higher in the uncontrolled than controlled group. Intakes of calcium, phosphorus, potassium, riboflavin, niacin, and vitamin C were significantly lower in the uncontrolled than controlled group. Adequate nutrition intake and physical activity of patients undergoing diabetes therapy are required for effective blood glucose management for both diabetic drug and insulin therapies.
Dependency Theory in the Academic Self-Reports of the Brasília Group
Authors: Wasserman Claudia
Published: September 2021

A group of Brazilian writers—Ruy Mauro Marini, Theotônio dos Santos, and Vânia Bambirra—met in Brasilia in the 1960s and 1970s and produced, predominantly in exile, theories about the reality of Latin America and the periphery. In the 1980s, with the amnesty, the group returned to Brazil and confronted a hostile atmosphere in the academy. Analysis of these writers’ trajectories based on the academic self-reports they produced in the 1990s for admission or reentry into Brazilian universities addresses their views of the 1964 coup, exile, and the return to Brazil after the amnesty, the identity assigned to the group, and the controversy over the authorship of dependency theory.

Um grupo de autores brasileiros—Rui Mauro Marini, Theotônio dos Santos e Vânia Bambirra—reuniu-se em Brasília e nos anos 1960 e 1970 e produziu, predominantemente no exílio, teorias acerca da realidade latino-americana e periférica. Nos anos 1980, com a anistia, o grupo retornou ao Brasil e foi hostilizado na academia. Um analisis da trajetória dos autores a partir de seus memoriais acadêmicos elaborados nos anos 1990 para ingresso ou reingresso nas universidades brasileiras abordam as visões a respeito do golpe de 1964, o exílio e o retorno depois da anistia, as denominações atribuídas ao grupo, e as polêmicas em torno da paternidade da teoria da dependência.
Flipped Classrooms in Undergraduate Statistics: Online Works Just Fine
Authors: Playfoot David
Published: September 2021

Background

The flipped classroom method requires that students engage with homework before coming to the classroom so that class time can be spent on active and collaborative learning exercises. Research has demonstrated that this can improve student performance versus traditional lecturer-led teaching methods.

Objective

During the COVID-19 pandemic, the vast majority of teaching has been entirely online such that even ‘in-class’ time has been virtual. The current article examined whether online-only delivery affects the efficacy of the flipped classroom approach.

Method

Grades for a research methods and statistics module and a statistics portfolio assignment were compared across consecutive cohorts of undergraduate psychology students taught by different methods.

Results

Overall grades on the module did not differ significantly across teaching methods but student performance on statistics tests did. Flipped classrooms, whether accompanied by on-campus or synchronous online classes, led to significantly better performance than traditional methods. No detriment was observed by teaching entirely online.

Conclusion

The key advantages of the flipped classroom method appear driven by active learning which can occur irrespective of classroom context.

Teaching Implications

Using flipped classrooms can be a useful tool, particularly in subjects where students may otherwise be less engaged with the content.
Remittances and the financial capabilities of migrant households in the Philippines
Authors: Opiniano Jeremaiah M.
Published: September 2021

This exploratory mixed methods study sought to determine the financial capabilities of remittance-receiving households from two rural municipalities in the Philippines: San Nicolas in Ilocos Norte province and Moncada in Tarlac province. The broader concept of financial capabilities not only looks at people’s financial literacy but also their financial inclusion (access to financial products) and financial functionings (actions on finance). Quantitative household surveys and qualitative data gathering methods that fall under a rapid qualitative inquiry (RQI) design were employed. Results and findings show that more remittance-receiving households from San Nicolas saved, invested, and did business in their hometown compared to counterpart migrant household respondents from Moncada. Differences in migrant households’ levels of financial literacy, as well as the geographic make-up and economic activities of the two municipalities, may help explain why one municipality had more migrant investors, savers, and entrepreneurs over the other.
Pinning synchronization control for multi-layer complex networks via adaptive fuzzy logic system
Authors: Sun Shixiang , Ren Tao , Xu Yanjie
Published: September 2021

In this paper, the pinning synchronization problem for the multi-layer networks with dynamic uncertainties is studied. The dynamical uncertainties can be approximated by a fuzzy logic system, based on which, the pinning synchronization scheme is proposed. By using Lyapunov stability theorem, the sufficient condition is given that can ensure that the multi-layer networks can synchronize to the reference trajectory with designed adaptive law. Finally, a numerical example is given to verify the effectiveness of the proposed pinning control scheme.
A semi-analytical two-phase flow model of fractured horizontal well with complex fracture networks in natural fractured reservoirs
Authors: Li Mengmeng , Bi Gang , Shi Yu , Zhao Kai
Published: September 2021

Complex fracture networks are easily developed along the horizontal wellbore during hydraulic fracturing. The water phase increases the seepage resistance of oil in natural fractured reservoir. The flow regimes become more intricate due to the complex fractures and the occurrence of two-phase flow. Therefore, a semi-analytical two-phase flow model is developed based on the assumption of orthogonal fracture networks to describe the complicate flow regimes. The natural micro-fractures are treated as a dual-porosity system and the hydraulic fracture with complex fracture networks are characterized explicitly by discretizing the fracture networks into multiple fracture segments. The model is solved according to Laplace transformation and Duhamel superposition principle. Results show that seven possible flow regimes are described according to the typical curves. The major difference between the vertical fractures and the fracture networks along the horizontal wellbore is the fluid “feed flow” behavior from the secondary fracture to the main fracture. A natural fracture pseudo-radial flow stage is added in the proposed model comparing with the conventional dual-porosity model. The water content has a major effect on the fluid total mobility and flow capacity in dual-porosity system and complex fracture networks. With the increase of the main fracture number, the interference of the fractures increases and the linear flow characteristics in the fracture become more obvious. The secondary fracture number has major influence on the fluid feed capacity from the secondary fracture to the main fracture. The elastic storativity ratio mainly influences the fracture flow period and inter-porosity flow period in the dual-porosity system. The inter-porosity flow coefficient corresponds to the inter-porosity flow period of the pressure curves. This work is significantly important for the hydraulic fracture characterization and performance prediction of the fractured horizontal well with complex fracture networks in natural fractured reservoirs.
Mothers’ Functional Limitations and Relationship Quality With Adult Children: Exploring the Moderating Roles of Race and Gender
Authors: Stepniak Catherine , Suitor J. Jill , Gilligan Megan
Published: September 2021

Theory and research on intergenerational relations emphasize the salient role that mothers and their adult children play in one another’s lives. However, little is known about how mothers’ health may shape mother–child relationship quality in later-life. We utilized data from the Within Family Differences Study to explore how mothers’ functional limitations affect multiple dimensions of mother–child relationship quality, as reported by mothers and their offspring, with particular emphasis on whether race, child’s gender, or generational position moderated these associations. Although mothers’ reports of relationship quality were not predicted by their functional limitations, adult children reported higher ambivalence when they perceived their mothers had limitations. Further, adult children in White families reported higher ambivalence when mothers had limitations than did those in Black families. This study highlights the importance of considering the roles of structural factors in shaping the conditions under which health limitations affect mother–child ties.
Proposition of quantitative parameters for pre- and early post-operative assessment in pulmonary thromboendarterectomy – An Indian prospective study
Authors: Bhosle Krishnarao N , Paul Saptarshi , Nagre Suraj W
Published: September 2021

Introduction

Chronic thromboembolic pulmonary hypertension results from the incomplete resolution of the vascular obstruction associated with pulmonary embolism. Symptoms are exertional dyspnoea and fatigue, and over a period of time, right ventricular dysfunction sets in. Pulmonary thromboendarterectomy is an effective surgical remedy for this condition. Our study is an initial post-operative experience of pulmonary thromboendarterectomy and we have also tried to formulate quantitative parameters for the prediction of the post-operative course in patients who are undergoing surgery.

Methods

Twenty patients with chronic thromboembolic pulmonary hypertension underwent pulmonary thromboendarterectomy between July 2017 and January 2020. Pre-operatively, each patient was subjected to the (i) 6-min walk test, (ii) pre-operative brain natriuretic peptide values and (iii) pulmonary artery systolic pressure. Following the surgery and subsequent discharge, the patients were followed up at intervals of 15 days, 1, 3, 6, 9 months and at 1 year. At one year post-operatively, the same three quantitative tests were performed on each subject.

Results

Post-operatively, the mean 6-min walk distance was 499.75 m as against 341.35 m pre-operatively ( p < 0.0001). Mean brain natriuretic peptide was 8.69 pm/l as against 47.58 pm/l pre-operatively ( p < 0.0001). Mean pulmonary artery systolic pressure was 22.25 as against 67.1 pre-operatively ( p < 0.0001).

Conclusion

6-Min walk test, brain natriuretic peptide and pulmonary artery systolic pressure could be considered as useful predictors of the haemodynamic severity of disease and predict the post-operative outcome.
The effects of glucose-free and glucose-containing dialysate during dialysis in MHD patients: a prospective cross-over study
Authors: Li Minxia , Li Yuehong , Lv Jiaxuan , Xu Huiying , Wu Xianglan , Wen Wen , Wang Wei , Yang Hua
Published: September 2021

Objective:

To investigate the effects of glucose-free and glucose-containing dialysates during dialysis in maintenance hemodialysis (MHD) patients by the prospective cross-over study, and detect glucose control methods in MHD patients.

Methods:

A total of 66 MHD 18–75 years old patients in our hospital from Nov. 2019 to Mar. 2020 were recruited. All patients underwent HD with 4 hours per time, three times per week. Glucose-free dialysate (glucose-free group) and then 5.55 mmol/L glucose-containing dialysate (glucose-5.55 group) were used alternately in dialysis. The demographics and parameters of pre- and post-dialysis were recorded.

Results:

A total of 60 patients were analyzed, and 28 patients among them had type 2 diabetes. Serum glucose pre and post dialysis were 8.64 ± 4.18 mmol/L versus 5.74 ± 1.82 mmol/L (p < 0.01) in glucose-free dialysate, and 9.31 ± 4.89 mmol/L versus 7.80 ± 2.59 mmol/L (p < 0.01) in glucose-5.55 dialysate. The post-dialysis blood glucose of glucose-free group was lower than glucose-5.55 group (5.74 ± 1.82 vs 7.80 ± 2.59, p < 0.01). About 18 (30.00%) patients in glucose-free group and 1 patient (1.67%) in glucose-5.55 group whose blood glucose was lower than 4.44 mmol/L (p < 0.01). About 29 patients (48.33%) in glucose-free group and 17 patients (28.33%; p = 0.02) in glucose-5.55 group have hunger feeling. Serum sodium level in the glucose-free group was higher than that in Glucose-5.55 group (137.92 ± 1.64 vs 136.70 ± 1.64, p < 0.01). Post-dialysis blood glucose had no significant differences between patients not using diabetes-related medication (13 patients) and patients using diabetes-related medication (15 patients) in glucose-free group (7.13 ± 1.78 mmol/L vs 6.08 ± 2.84 mmol/L, p = 0.23) and glucose-5.55 group (9.22 ± 2.59 mmol/L vs 9.35 ± 2.88 mmol/L, p = 0.90).

Conclusions:

Glucose-free and glucose-5.55 dialysate both decrease the blood glucose post-dialysis. Dialysates containing 5.55 mmol/L glucose can reduce the incidence of hypoglycemia and lower serum sodium, but have no effect on blood pressure during dialysis. Stopping insulin and oral anti-diabetic drugs once before dialysis may not affect the control of blood glucose.
Association of thrombophilia prospective detection with hemocompatibility related outcomes in left ventricular assist device patients
Authors: Konarik Miroslav , Netuka Ivan , Ivak Peter , Riha Hynek , Tucanova Zuzana , Wohlfahrt Peter , Maly Jiri , Szarszoi Ondrej
Published: September 2021

Introduction:

Inherited thrombophilias represent a concerning risk factor due to a proclivity to an aberrant clot formation. However, in patients with left ventricular assist device (LVAD), their impact on bleeding and thrombotic complications remains still poorly understood. The aim of the present study was to evaluate the effect of thrombophilic mutation directed anticoagulation therapy on adverse clinical outcomes in LVAD patients.

Materials and methods:

About 138 consecutive patients indicated for LVAD implant (HeartMate II, Abbott, Plymouth, USA) were prospectively screened for three major thrombophilic mutations: factor II (prothrombin), factor V Leiden, and homozygous methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase (MTHFR). Subsequently, discordant individualized anticoagulation targets of INR 2.5–3.0 in thrombophilia positive and INR 1.8–2.2 in negative patients were established; notably without anti-platelet agents given the center standard of care.

Results:

Mean age was 50 ± 12.7 years, 83% male. Mean duration of support was 464.5 days (SD 482.9; SEM 41.1) and median of 310 days (IQR 162; 546). Full thrombophilia positive cohort analysis has not revealed any significant impact on event free survival. In contrast, detailed analysis of specific thrombophilias subsets has revealed Factor II prothrombin mutation as a significant predisposition for the pump thrombosis risk (SHR 10.48; p = 0.001) despite more aggressive prespecified anticoagulation target. Moreover, the incidence of bleeding events in prothrombin group was also significantly increased (SHR 6.0; p = 0.03).

Conclusions:

Our observations suggest that specific thrombophilias in LVAD patients may pose different intensity predisposition for thrombotic complications. Factor II (prothrombin) positive mutation was identified as significant risk factor associated with the pump thrombosis.
Exposure to glyphosate and tetrachlorvinphos induces cytotoxicity and global DNA methylation in human cells
Authors: Ergun Hacer , Cayir Akin
Published: September 2021

Two organophosphate pesticides—glyphosate and tetrachlorvinphos—have been announced as carcinogens to humans by various authorities, including the European Chemical Agency and the Environmental Protection Agency. We aimed to investigate molecular mechanisms associated with carcinogenicity and to examine changes in global m5C DNA methylation and cytotoxic potential in A549 lung epithelial cells in response to glyphosate and tetrachlorvinphos, and differential gene expression of m5C DNA methyltransferase genes in Sprague Dawley rats to Roundup (commercial formulation of glyphosate). Global m5C level significantly increased after 1500 μM glyphosate exposure for 24 h. We determined that exposure to tetrachlorvinphos did not significantly increase the m5C level in A549 cells for 24 h. Additionally, we did not observe significant DNA methylation alteration for both pesticides after 12 h exposure. In the animal study, we observed that DNA methyltransferase genes (DNMT3b and DNMT3a) showed significantly higher expression in Roundup-exposed rats than the control group in the liver and kidney. We also observed that a significant cytotoxic effect was determined after the treatment of the cells with higher concentrations of glyphosate and tetrachlorvinphos. Our results revealed that DNA methylation could be modified by exposure to glyphosate and that exposure to Roundup was associated with the differential expression level of m5C DNA methylation methyltransferase. Finally, exposure to both pesticides increased cytotoxicity.
Electrospun natural rubber latex biocomposite for scaffolds in tissue engineering
Authors: Carazzai Rafael , Brizuela Guerra Nayrim , Corbellini Henckes Nicole Andréa , dos Santos de Oliveira Fernanda , Obino Cirne-Lima Elizabeth , Loureiro dos Santos Luis Alberto
Published: September 2021

Fibrous scaffold along with seed cells are essential players for engineered tissue regeneration. Recently, PLGA/epoxidized poly(isoprene) dense membranes have been evaluated for cell growth and have shown satisfactory results. However, porous and fibrous structures suitable for obtaining 3D supports have not yet been evaluated for the PLGA/epoxidized poly(isoprene). The present work aimed to establish the electrospinning conditions for obtaining electrospun membranes with a smaller diameter of fibers and adequate morphology, which were characterized in vitro by their physical, chemical and biological properties. The best electrospun fibers were obtained from the following conditions: an applied voltage of 15 kV, a needle-collector distance of 20 cm and, a flow rate of 5 mL/h. The functional groups of the polymers involved in the blend did not show any changes. The mechanical properties of the electrospun membranes are within the lower limits known to human skin and some soft tissues. The in vitro degradation test showed a loss of mass of approximately 20% in 28 days. Significant adhesion and proliferation of human adipose–derived mesenchymal stem cells were demonstrated, indicating that there was cellular penetration into the scaffold and proliferation. Therefore, the preliminary results suggest that the electrospun PLGA/epoxidized poly(isoprene) membranes have high potential for application as a 3D tissue engineering scaffold.
Economic Growth Determinants in South-East European Countries: A System Generalized Method of Moments Approach
Authors: Lakić Slobodan , Ćetković Jasmina , Pejović Bojan , Žarković Miloš , Knežević Miloš
Published: September 2021

Economic growth is a key point of macroeconomic policy and is the subject of constant attention and debate by professional public and policy makers. Theoretical and empirical research indicates differences in the level and direction of determinants’ influence on the growth rate. The main goal of our article is to construct a model of economic growth determinants in South-East European countries. We used an unbalanced panel of 12 selected SEE countries over the period 2006–2019. Our empirical findings have shown that the most robust results can be obtained using a two-step generalized method of moments (GMM) model with dummy variable. In our dynamic model, we found that trade openness and gross fixed capital formation have a positive impact on economic growth, while government expenditures negatively determine economic growth. Gross fixed capital formation has the greatest positive impact on economic growth, while government expenditure has the greatest negative impact.
The Evolution of Professionalism as a Mode of Regulation: Evidence from the United States
Authors: Kirkpatrick Ian , Aulakh Sundeep , Muzio Daniel
Published: September 2021

Opinion is divided on how far and in what ways professionalism as a mode of regulation has evolved. To date, attention has focused on the impact of neoliberal political and economic ideologies that challenge the idea that professions should be trusted to regulate themselves. This article further examines the impact of these attacks on professionalism and assesses whether they have triggered a process of decline. Drawing on a range of documentary sources from the US, it suggests that, while professional modes of regulation are evolving, the dominant pattern is one of continuity. The analysis also draws attention to the path-dependent nature of professionalism and how it is associated with increasing returns for key stakeholders: producers, government regulators and employers. The article’s main contribution is to highlight these trends empirically and raise questions about the accuracy and value of grand narratives that over-emphasise change and understate the self-reinforcing nature of professional modes of regulation.
Study on structure optimization of a bubble cap against erosion wear of an S Zorb desulfurization reactor distribution plate
Authors: Jin HZ , Gao SQ , Zhao HL , Wang C , Ou GF
Published: September 2021

Bubble cap structures are researched for the particle erosion wear of the distribution plate (tray for short) in an S Zorb desulfurization reactor. The semi-empirical model of erosion wear prediction of gas–solid two-phase flow is revised by means of erosion wear experiments at high temperature and high speed. According to the revised erosion wear, the influence of the h0 (the distance from the bottom of the bubble cap to the tray), h1 (distance from the outlet of the lifting pipe to the top of the bubble cap interface), N (the number of cavities), d0 (the inner diameter of bubble cap) on erosion wear of trays are studied. The results show that a smaller h0 will make the erosion degree of the tray more serious; it is recommended to keep h0 = 17 mm. A larger h1 will alleviate the erosion wear degree of adsorbent particles on the tray, but considering the efficiency of the reaction, h1 = 36 mm is more appropriate. The increase of N reduces the erosion wear less but enhances the fluid disturbance and makes the erosion wear area unstable; so, N should be kept at 10. The increase of d0 reduces the velocity and density of fluid impacting the tray, thus reducing the erosion wear degree, which is an effective means.
Novel Drug Interaction index and Risk of Mortality in Older Patients With Atrial Fibrillation Receiving Non Vitamin K Oral Anticoagulants (NOEL Drug)
Authors: Ersoy İbrahim
Published: September 2021

Drug interactions with novel oral anticoagulants (NOACs) may decrease their advantages. We aimed to explore the drug interaction rates with NOACs and impacts of drug interaction index (DII) on mortality among older patients with atrial fibrillation (AF). In this retrospective cohort study, we enrolled 704 eligible patients aged 65≤ with AF between January 1, 2018 and December 30, 2019 in a tertiary outpatient cardiology clinic. We recorded demographic, clinical characteristics, and medications for the last 3 months. At the end of the evaluation visit (March 1, 2020), death events and dates were recorded. All medications were checked for drug interactions using Lexicomp® software. Each drug interaction was annotated according to risk grade. Moreover, we determined a new index ratio of C/D/X classes to total interactions called DII. The mean age was 75.19  ±  7.13 and 398 (56%) were male. Death events were observed in 106 (15%) patients. A total of 9883 drugs were analyzed for drug interactions. The majority of drug interactions were in class A (80.7%). Clinically relevant interactions were 14.6% (Class C/D/X). The area under receiver operating characteristic curve was 0.704 (95% confidence interval: 0.653-0.754) and 0.167 cutoff value (68.9% sensitivity and 80.2% specificity [3.11 positive likelihood ratio]) for DII to predict mortality. This study showed an overview of the NOACs interactions in older patients with AF. Additionally, the inappropriate NOAC dose and DII showed an association with mortality. NOAC treatment should be guided by drug interaction applications to reduce mortality.
Retrospective Comparison of Andexanet Alfa and 4-Factor Prothrombin Complex for Reversal of Factor Xa-Inhibitor Related Bleeding
Authors: Stevens Victoria M. , Trujillo Toby C. , Kiser Tyree H. , MacLaren Robert , Reynolds Paul M. , Mueller Scott W.
Published: September 2021

The aim of this retrospective study was to compare andexanet alfa and 4-factor prothrombin complex (4F-PCC) for reversal of factor Xa (FXa)-inhibitor bleeding. Patients that received andexanet alfa for reversal were included. An equivalent number of patients administered 4F-PCC for FXa-inhibitor bleeding were randomly selected as historical controls. The primary outcome was effective hemostasis achievement within 12 h, defined using ANNEXA-4 criteria. Thromboembolic events and mortality within 30 days were also evaluated. A total of 32 patients were included. Baseline characteristics were not statistically different between andexanet alfa (n = 16) and 4F-PCC (n = 16). Intracranial bleeding was the primary reversal indication in 43.8% versus 62.5% of patients, respectively. Effective hemostasis was reached in 75.0% of andexanet alfa patients compared to 62.5% of 4F-PCC patients ( P = .70). Thromboembolic events occurred in 4 (25.0%) patients and 3 (18.8%) patients, respectively ( P = .99). Mortality incidence was 12.5% and 31.3%, respectively ( P = .39). Andexanet alfa and 4F-PCC attained hemostasis in a majority of patients. A high, but a similar rate of thromboembolic events was seen with both treatments. Prospective studies are needed to elucidate comparative risks and benefits of the 2 agents.
“Writing nutritionistically”: A critical discourse analysis of lay people’s digital correspondence with the Swedish Food Agency
Authors: Bergman Karolin , Nowicka Paulina , Eli Karin , Lövestam Elin
Published: September 2021

This article analyzes lay people’s use of nutritionistic discourse in written correspondence with the Swedish Food Agency, an authority responsible for dietary advice. Examining 60 food related written digital messages, we apply a critical discourse analysis to parse the lexical items and grammar people use when constructing “food” in scientific terms. The findings show how message writers place nutrients at the discursive center. Message writers’ grammatical constructions instrumentalize food and eating. This is reinforced by the message writers’ frequent use of terms that indicate preciseness, such as numbers and amounts. Messages therefore emphasize the what, but not the how, of eating, implying a focus on food as subject to regulation and control. As such, eating is discursively reduced to an act of ingesting nutrients that can be decontextualized and managed in isolation—as entities to increase or avoid separately. These discursive features preclude the conceptualization of food choice and eating as subjective experiences of feelings, taste, and tradition.
Representing suicide: Giving voice to a desire to die?
Authors: Marsh Ian , Winter Rachel , Marzano Lisa
Published: September 2021

Drawing on interview and online ethnographic data from a study of suicide on the railways, this paper describes the ways in which many of the concepts, assumptions and practices of mainstream suicide prevention are challenged in the accounts of those who are planning, or have enacted, a suicide attempt. We reflect on the ethical dilemmas which can arise for researchers (and practitioners) when lived experience accounts diverge – theoretically, morally and in terms of practical implications – from present-day expert ones. In online, ‘pro-choice’ suicide discussions, people describe beliefs, attitudes, ways of thinking and acting which stand in contrast to existing professional and clinical descriptions of suicide and suicidal behaviour. Most obviously, there is often a rejection of ‘pro-life’ positions, which are framed as ideological, oppressive and naïve. For researchers engaging in online ethnography of ‘pro-choice’ spaces, dilemmas can arise in relation to the representation of perspectives which fundamentally challenge not only prevailing norms within suicide research and prevention practice but socio-cultural norms more widely. Similar issues can arise when considering how best to represent research participants when their accounts diverge from accepted ‘expert’ knowledge and beliefs. In-depth qualitative interviews with those who have thought about or attempted to take their own life indicate that existing theories and models of suicide which start from assumptions of deficit and pathology underestimate the extent to which suicide, as the end result of an often-complex series of actions, requires a person to engage in logistical processes of planning, decision-making, imagination and adaptation. The accounts described here, gathered using two different methodological approaches, highlight the ethical issues which can surface when there are competing claims to (expert) knowledge, as well as differences in beliefs, attitudes and moral stance towards life and death. We argue that researchers need to reflect on their own ethical-moral position in relation to suicide, and on the practical consequences of their privileging of some voices at the expense of other, less well represented, ones.
Prompt location of indoor instantaneous air contaminant source through multi-zone model-based probability method by utilizing airflow data from coarse-grid CFD model
Authors: Chen Qianru , Wang Haidong , Dai Yuwei , Hu Yibing
Published: September 2021

In order to ensure indoor air quality safety, locating the airborne contaminant sources accurately and quickly is extremely important so that timely measures can be taken to undermine the spread of pollutant and even eliminate the negative effects. Previous studies have shown that the multi-zone model can greatly reduce the inverse calculation time. However, the multi-zone model cannot describe the details of the indoor velocity field, which limits its application in complex multi-zone or large space buildings. On the premise of the accuracy and computational speed, based on the joint probability method, this study adopted the coarse-grid CFD method to speed up the process of acquiring the indoor airflow field, together with the multi-zone model method, to perform the inverse calculation of indoor airborne contaminant source location. In the backward calculation process, we conducted the ‘transpose' of the velocity field to obtain adjoint matrix, instead of computing ‘negative' of the velocity vector to save the calculation time. A two-dimensional ventilation model was utilized to validate the method, which proved the accuracy and time-saving potential of it. This study provides theoretical and practical prospect for the real-time inverse calculation of locating the indoor airborne contaminant sources.
Effective voice: Beyond exit and affect in online communities
Authors: Frey Seth , Schneider Nathan
Published: September 2021

Online communities provide ample opportunities for user self-expression but generally lack the means for average users to exercise direct control over community policies. This article sets out to identify a set of strategies and techniques through which the voices of participants might be better heard through defined mechanisms for institutional governance. Drawing on Albert O. Hirschman’s distinction between “exit” and “voice” in institutional life, it introduces a further distinction between two kinds of participation: effective voice, as opposed to the far more widespread practices of affective voice. Effective voice is a form of individual or collective speech that brings about a binding effect according to transparent processes. Platform developers and researchers might explore this neglected form of voice by introducing mechanisms for authority and accountability, collective action, and community evolution.
Experimental comparison of summer thermal performance of green roof (GR), double skin roof (DSR) and cool roof (CR) in lightweight rooms in subtropical climate
Authors: Meng Erlin , Yang Jiawang , Cai Ruonan , Zhou Bo , Wang Junqi
Published: September 2021

Subtropical climate is characterized by high solar altitude angle in summer which causes the roof get more heat through solar radiation. GR, DSR, and CR all can decrease solar radiation heat gain of the roof. However, few researches have been done to the comparison of the thermal performance of these three roofs, especially in subtropical climate. In this study, four rooms were built separately with GR, DSR, CR, and ordinary roof (OR). The experiment was done from July 23 to August 4. Results showed that stabilities of the indoor air temperature of the four rooms were: DSR room > GR room > CR room > OR room. The GR, CR, and DSR can reduce the external surface temperature by 13.7°C, 12.0°C, and 4.8°C during the day while bring a temperature rise of 2.3°C, 1.9°C, and 0.9°C at night. Correlation analysis results showed that the internal surface heat flux of GR and DSR were negative correlated with weather factors while internal surface heat flux of OR and CR were positive correlated with weather factors. This study can give support to the selection between GR, DSR, and CR.
Sensitivity to misinformation retractions in the continued influence paradigm: Evidence for stability
Authors: McIlhiney Paul , Gignac Gilles E , Weinborn Michael , Ecker Ullrich KH
Published: September 2021

Research has consistently shown that misinformation can continue to affect inferential reasoning after a correction. This phenomenon is known as the continued influence effect (CIE). Recent studies have demonstrated that CIE susceptibility can be predicted by individual differences in stable cognitive abilities. Based on this, it was reasoned that CIE susceptibility ought to have some degree of stability itself; however, this has never been tested. The current study aimed to investigate the temporal stability of retraction sensitivity, arguably a major determinant of CIE susceptibility. Participants were given parallel forms of a standard CIE task 4 weeks apart, and the association between testing points was assessed with an intra-class correlation coefficient and confirmatory factor analysis. Results suggested that retraction sensitivity is relatively stable and can be predicted as an individual-differences variable. These results encourage continued individual-differences research on the CIE and have implications for real-world CIE intervention.
Healthcare providers’ perception of faecal microbiota transplantation with clostridium difficile infection and inflammatory bowel disease: a quantitative systematic review
Authors: Liu Yanghua , Alnababtah Kal , Cook Simon , Yu Ying
Published: September 2021

Background:

Clostridioides difficile infection (CDI) and inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) are global gastroenterological diseases that cause considerable burden on human health, healthcare systems, and society. Faecal microbiota transplantation (FMT) is an effective treatment for recurrent Clostridioides Difficile Infection (rCDI) and a promising therapy for IBD. However, indication for FMT in IBD is still unofficial. Consequently, the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) is seeking healthcare providers’ advice on whether to update FMT guidelines.

Methods:

A systematic review methodology was adopted for this study. Five databases (CINAHL, MEDLINE, Cochrane Library, Scopus, Web of Science) and grey literature were systematically searched for English language literature to 14 May 2021. The quality of the included studies was then appraised using the Institute for Public Health Sciences cross-sectional studies tool, after which the findings of the studies were narratively synthesised.

Results:

Thirteen cross-sectional studies with 4110 validated questionnaire responses were included. Narrative synthesis found that 39.43% of respondents were familiar with FMT (N = 3746, 95%CI = 37.87%–41%), 58.81% of respondents would recommend FMT to their patients (N = 1141, 95%CI = 55.95%–61.67%), 66.67% of respondents considered lack of clinical evidence was the greatest concern regarding FMT (N = 1941, 95%CI = 64.57%–68.77%), and 40.43% respondents would not implement FMT due to concerns about infection transmission (N = 1128, 95%CI = 37.57%–43.29%).

Conclusion:

Healthcare providers’ knowledge of FMT is relatively low and education is an effective strategy to improve it. As knowledge of FMT increases, willingness to recommend it also increases. Strengthening FMT clinical efficacy and reducing infection can enhance its public acceptance, application and popularity. However, further research is required to explore the donor screening procedure.
Three-dimensional computed tomography is effective in diagnosing uterine arterial pseudoaneurysm, a cause of secondary postpartum hemorrhage: A case report
Authors: Iwahata Yuriko , Tamura Midori , Yamada Takayuki , Harada Satoshi , Kotoku Akiyuki , Suzuki Nao
Published: September 2021

Uterine artery pseudoaneurysm is a rare cause of secondary postpartum hemorrhage. Herein, we report a case of uterine artery pseudoaneurysm, with postpartum hemorrhage commencing 22 days after uncomplicated vaginal delivery. Intermittent bleeding occurred during conservative observation. Transvaginal ultrasound color Doppler imaging revealed swollen vascular structures that suggested arteriovenous malformations, and a saccular dilatation of blood vessels. However, it was insufficient to definitively diagnose the condition as pseudoaneurysm. Meanwhile, the three-dimensional computed tomography angiogram was effective in demonstrating a pseudoaneurysm in the uterus, and an absent early venous return sign, leading to the final diagnosis of a pseudoaneurysm. The patient was successfully treated with transarterial embolization using gelatin sponge pledgets. No bleeding or recurrence of the pseudoaneurysm was observed 2 months after embolization.