bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Exposures of Hypermasculinity: Aesthetic Portrayals of Disengaged “Hockey Boys” in a Specialized Sports Academy
Authors: Fowler Teresa Anne
Published: February 2021

The “boy crisis” in education has spurred responses to improve boy’s underachievement in schools, and one response has been to increase access to physical activity and sports. The rise in specialized sports academies within schools has created space for young elite male athletes to increase engagement in academics, as well as to meet the potential of athletes. This study, conducted with an elite U18 male hockey team, used photovoice as a means to enquire into male athlete experiences with the curriculum and disengagement in schools. When young male athletes use photography to document their experiences, through a Bourdieusian analysis, they reveal the ways in which an entrenchment of the “boys will be boys” and the “hockey boys” identities in schools perpetuate hypermasculine traits. Complacency by both participants and adults in the field of schooling contributes to elite male youth hockey players becoming both producers and products of these narratives, which are causing young men to be isolated within an exclusive heteronormative community.
Model-Optimized Fluconazole Dose Selection for Critically Ill Patients Improves Early Pharmacodynamic Target Attainment without the Need for Therapeutic Drug Monitoring
Authors: Sandaradura Indy , Wojciechowski Jessica , Marriott Deborah J. E. , Day Richard O. , Stocker Sophie , Reuter Stephanie E.
Published: February 2021

Fluconazole has been associated with higher mortality compared with the echinocandins in patients treated for invasive candida infections. Underexposure from current fluconazole dosing regimens may contribute to these worse outcomes, so alternative dosing strategies require study.
Engineering a Cysteine-Deficient Functional Candida albicans Cdr1 Molecule Reveals a Conserved Region at the Cytosolic Apex of ABCG Transporters Important for Correct Folding and Trafficking of Cdr1
Authors: Madani Golnoush , Lamping Erwin , Cannon Richard D.
Published: February 2021

Overexpression of the fungal pleiotropic drug resistance (PDR) transporter Cdr1 is a major cause of antifungal drug resistance in
Candida albicans
, a significant fungal pathogen that can cause life-threatening invasive infections in immunocompromised individuals. To date, no structure for any PDR ABC transporter has been solved.
How to manage: acute severe colitis
Authors: Conley Thomas Edward , Fiske Joseph , Subramanian Sreedhar
Published: February 2021

Acute severe ulcerative colitis (ASUC) is a medical emergency which is associated with significant morbidity and a mortality rate of 1%. ASUC requires prompt recognition and treatment. Optimal management includes admission to a specialist gastrointestinal unit and joint management with colorectal surgeons. Patients need to be screened for concomitant infections and thromboprophylaxis should be administered to mitigate against the elevated risk of thromboembolism. Corticosteroids are still the preferred initial medical therapy but approximately 30%–40% of patients fail steroid therapy and require rescue medical therapy with either infliximab or cyclosporine. Emergency colectomy is required in a timely manner for patients who fail rescue medical therapy to minimise the risk of adverse post-operative outcomes. We discuss current and emerging evidence in the management of ASUC and outline management approaches for clinicians involved in managing ASUC.
Role of PRPS2 as a prognostic and therapeutic target in osteosarcoma
Authors: Luo Yanli , Yuan Junqing , Huang Jin , Yang Tingting , Zhou Jun , Tang Juan , Liu Min , Chen Jie , Chen Chunyan , Huang Wentao , Zhang Huizhen
Published: February 2021

Aims

Osteosarcoma (OS) is the most common primary malignant tumour of the bone. However, further improvement in survival has not been achieved due to a lack of well-validated prognostic markers and more effective therapeutic agents. Recently, the c-Myc–phosphoribosyl pyrophosphate synthetase 2 (PRPS2) pathway has been shown to promote nucleic acid metabolism and cancer cell proliferation in malignant melanoma; phosphorylated mammalian target of rapamycin (p-mTOR) has been upregulated and an effective therapeutic target in OS. However, the p-mTOR–PRPS2 pathway has not been evaluated in OS.

Methods

In this study, the expression level of PRPS2, p-mTOR and marker of proliferation (MKI-67) was observed in a cohort of specimens (including 236 OS cases and 56 control samples) using immunohistochemistry, and the association between expression level and clinicopathological characteristics of patients with OS was analysed.

Results

PRPS2 protein level, which is related to tumour proliferation, was higher in OS cells (p=0.003) than in fibrous dysplasia, and the higher PRPS2 protein level was associated with a higher tumour recurrence (p=0.001). In addition, our statistical analysis confirmed that PRPS2 is a novel, independent prognostic indicator of OS. Finally, we found that the expression of p-mTOR was associated with the poor prognosis of patients with OS (p<0.05).

Conclusions

PRPS2 is an independent prognostic marker and a potential therapeutic target for OS.
New life for old cellular pathology: a transformational approach to the upcycling of historic e-pathology records for contemporary clinical uses
Authors: Rew David Anthony , Hales Alan Arthur , Cable David , Burrill Keith , Bateman Adrian C
Published: February 2021

Aims

Cellular pathology (‘e-pathology’) record sets are a rich data resource with which to populate the electronic patient record (EPR). Accessible reports, even decades old, can be of great value in contemporary clinical decision making and as a resource for longitudinal clinical research. The aim of this short paper is to describe a solution in a major UK University Hospital which gives immediate visibility and clinical utility to 30 years of e-pathology records

Methods

Over the past decade, we have created a timeline structured and iconographic data framework for the ‘whole-of-life’ visualisation of the entirety of an EPR. We have enhanced this interface with the sequential extraction of 373 342 e-pathology reports from legacy Ferranti (1990–1997) and Masterlab (1997–2004) files. They have been uploaded into our SQL file servers, following appropriate data quality and patient identity reconciliation checks.

Results

We have restored a large repository of previously inaccessible e-pathology records to clinical use and to immediacy of access as a foundation element of our timeline structured EPR. This process has also allowed us to populate and validate an EPR-integral breast cancer data system of 20 000 cases with e-pathology records dating back to 1990.

Conclusions

The revitalisation of old e-pathology reports into a timeline structured EPR creates preserves and upcycles the investment in pathology reporting which is otherwise progressively lost to clinical use. E-pathology records provide reliable, life-long evidence of critical transition points in individual lives and disease progression for clinical and research use, when they can be instantly accessed.
Differential combination immunotherapy requirements for inflamed (warm) tumors versus T cell excluded (cool) tumors: engage, expand, enable, and evolve
Authors: Fabian Kellsye P , Padget Michelle R , Fujii Rika , Schlom Jeffrey , Hodge James W
Published: February 2021

Background

Different types of tumors have varying susceptibility to immunotherapy and hence require different treatment strategies; these cover a spectrum ranging from ‘hot’ tumors or those with high mutational burden and immune infiltrates that are more amenable to targeting to ‘cold’ tumors that are more difficult to treat due to the fewer targetable mutations and checkpoint markers. We hypothesized that an effective anti-tumor response requires multiple agents that would (1) engage the immune response and generate tumor-specific effector cells; (2) expand the number and breadth of the immune effector cells; (3) enable the anti-tumor activity of these immune cells in the tumor microenvironment; and (4) evolve the tumor response to widen immune effector repertoire.

Methods

A hexatherapy combination was designed and administered to MC38-CEA (warm) and 4T1 (cool) murine tumor models. The hexatherapy regimen was composed of adenovirus-based vaccine and IL-15 (interleukin-15) superagonist (N-803) to engage the immune response; anti-OX40 and anti-4-1BB to expand effector cells; anti-PD-L1 (anti-programmed death-ligand 1) to enable anti-tumor activity; and docetaxel to promote antigen spread. Primary and metastatic tumor growth inhibition were measured. The generation of anti-tumor immune effector cells was analyzed using flow cytometry, ELISpot (enzyme-linked immunospot), and RNA analysis.

Results

The MC38-CEA and 4T1 tumor models have differential sensitivities to the combination treatments. In the ‘warm’ MC38-CEA, combinations with two to five agents resulted in moderate therapeutic benefit while the hexatherapy regimen outperformed all these combinations. On the other hand, the hexatherapy regimen was required in order to decrease the primary and metastatic tumor burden in the ‘cool’ 4T1 model. In both models, the hexatherapy regimen promoted CD4+ and CD8+ T cell proliferation and activity. Furthermore, the hexatherapy regimen induced vaccine-specific T cells and stimulated antigen cascade. The hexatherapy regimen also limited the immunosuppressive T cell and myeloid derived suppressor cell populations, and also decreased the expression of exhaustion markers in T cells in the 4T1 model.

Conclusion

The hexatherapy regimen is a strategic combination of immuno-oncology agents that can engage, expand, enable, and evolve the immune response and can provide therapeutic benefits in both MC38-CEA (warm) and 4T1 (cool) tumor models.
Safety profile of anifrolumab in patients with active SLE: an integrated analysis of phase II and III trials
Authors: Tummala Raj , Abreu Gabriel , Pineda Lilia , Michaels M Alex , Kalyani Rubana N , Furie Richard A , Morand Eric F
Published: February 2021

Objective

In phase II and III trials, anifrolumab, a human monoclonal antibody that binds type I interferon receptor subunit 1, has shown efficacy in adults with moderate to severe SLE. We evaluated the safety and tolerability of anifrolumab using data pooled from these trials to more precisely estimate the rate and severity of adverse events (AEs).

Methods

Data were pooled from patients receiving monthly intravenous anifrolumab 300 mg or placebo in MUSE, TULIP-1 and TULIP-2. Key safety endpoints included percentages and exposure-adjusted incidence rates (EAIRs) of patients who experienced AEs, serious AEs (SAEs), AEs leading to discontinuation and AEs of special interest.

Results

During treatment, 86.9% of patients receiving anifrolumab 300 mg (n=459) experienced AEs (≥1) versus 79.4% receiving placebo (n=466), and 4.1% versus 5.2% experienced an AE leading to discontinuation of investigational product. SAEs (≥1) were experienced by 11.8% and 16.7% of patients receiving anifrolumab and placebo, respectively (EAIR risk difference (95% CI) −7.2 (−12.5 to –1.9)), including lupus exacerbations classified as SAEs (1.5% and 3%, respectively). Infections occurred in 69.7% and 55.4% of patients receiving anifrolumab and placebo, respectively; difference in reported rates was driven by herpes zoster (HZ) and mild and moderate respiratory (excluding pneumonia) infections. The risk of HZ was increased with anifrolumab versus placebo (6.1% vs 1.3%, respectively; EAIR risk difference (95% CI) 5.4 (2.8 to 8.4)); most HZ events were mild or moderate, cutaneous and resolved without treatment discontinuation. Serious infections occurred in 4.8% and 5.6% of patients receiving anifrolumab and placebo, respectively.

Conclusions

In this pooled analysis of 925 patients with moderate to severe SLE, monthly intravenous anifrolumab 300 mg was generally well tolerated over 52 weeks with an acceptable safety profile. Anifrolumab was associated with an increased incidence of HZ and respiratory tract infections and lower reported rate of SLE worsening as SAEs.
High ideals: the misappropriation and reappropriation of the heroic label in the midst of a global pandemic
Authors: Kinsella Elaine L. , Sumner Rachel C.
Published: February 2021

The purpose of this article is to offer an alternative, more nuanced analysis of the labelling of frontline workers as heroes than originally proposed. Here, we argue that the hero narrative in itself need not be problematic, but highlight a number of wider factors that have led to the initial rise (and subsequent fall) in support for labelling frontline workers as heroes. Through our related work, we have gathered similar stories from frontline workers where they feel betrayed, let down or otherwise short-changed by the hero label, and we have sought to make sense of this through understanding more about how the hero label is used rather than what it means. In this article, we propose a way forward where there is greater discussion around the hero label in this context where individuals can be heroes but still struggle, still fail and still feel vulnerable, and where heroism is viewed as a state of interdependence between heroic actor and the wider group. It is true that heroes can inspire, lead, guide and build morale and camaraderie, but collective responsibility is held with us all. We can draw hope and energy from our heroes, but we must dig deep and be proactive, particularly in the face of adversity. In doing so, we support the heroes to lead from the front and ensure that even though we cannot physically help; we are not making their situation worse.
Audit of oxygen administration to achieve a target oxygen saturation range in acutely unwell medical patients
Authors: Harper James , Kearns Nethmi , Bird Grace , McLachlan Robert , Eathorne Allie , Weatherall Mark , Beasley Richard
Published: February 2021

Purpose of the study

To evaluate documentation of a target oxygen saturation (SpO2) range and ability to achieve this range in acutely unwell inpatients.

Study design

In this single-centre audit, patients with discharge diagnoses of pneumonia, heart failure and exacerbation of asthma or COPD admitted to Wellington Regional Hospital, New Zealand between 1 June 2019 and 31 August 2019 who received oxygen were identified. In those with a documented target SpO2 range, the proportion of SpO2 measurements in the observation chart which were within, above and below range were determined as well as the maximum and minimum SpO2. Regression analysis was performed to determine whether these outcomes were influenced by the prescribed range, high-dependency care or the number of adjustments to oxygen administration.

Results

268 admissions were screened. Of the 100 eligible admissions who received oxygen, a target SpO2 range was documented in 62. The mean (SD) proportion of SpO2 measurements within range was 56.2 (30.6)%. A hypercapnic target SpO2 range was associated with a higher probability of an SpO2 above range; multivariate OR 5.34 (95% CI 1.65 to 17.3, p=0.006) and a lower probability of an SpO2 below range; multivariate OR 0.25 (95% CI 0.08 to 0.80) p=0.02. The mean (SD) maximum SpO2 was similar in those with a target range of 92%–96% versus a hypercapnic range; 96.2 (3.0)% and 95.2 (3.4)%, respectively.

Conclusions

Oxygen prescription and delivery in this clinical setting was suboptimal. SpO2 values above the designated range are common, particularly in patients with a hypercapnic target range.
Role of the IL-33/ST2 axis in cigarette smoke-induced airways remodelling in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease
Authors: Huang Qiong , Li Chen Duo , Yang Yi Ran , Qin Xiao Feng , Wang Jing Jing , Zhang Xin , Du Xiao Nan , Yang Xia , Wang Ying , Li Lun , Mu Mi , Lv Zhe , Cui Ye , Huang Kewu , Corrigan Chris J , Wang Wei , Ying Sun
Published: February 2021

Background

Efficient therapy and potential prophylaxis are confounded by current ignorance of the pathogenesis of airway remodelling and blockade in COPD.

Objective

To explore the role of the IL-33/ST2 axis in cigarette smoke (CS) exposure-induced airways remodelling.

Methods

C57BL/6, BALB/c andIL-1RL1-/-mice exposed to CS were used to establish an animal surrogate of COPD (air-exposed=5~8, CS-exposed=6~12). Hallmarks of remodelling were measured in mice. Cigarette smoke extract (CSE)-induced proliferation and protein production in vitro by fibroblasts in the presence of anti-interleukin-33 (anti-IL-33) or hST2 antibodies were measured. Expression of IL-33 and ST2 and other remodelling hallmarks were measured, respectively, in bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF) (controls=20, COPD=20), serum (controls=59, COPD=90) and lung tissue sections (controls=11, COPD=7) from patients with COPD and controls.

Results

Wild-type mice exposed to CS elevated expression of hallmarks of tissue remodelling in the lungs and also in the heart, spleen and kidneys, which were significantly abrogated in theIL-1RL1-/-mice. Fibroblasts exposed to CSE, compared with control, exhibited early cellular translocation of IL-33, accompanied by proliferation and elevated protein synthesis, all inhabitable by blockade of IL-33/ST2 signalling. Expression of IL-33 and ST2 and hallmarks of tissue remodelling were significantly and proportionally elevated in BALF, serum and tissue samples from patients with COPD.

Conclusions

Exposure to CS induces remodelling changes in multiple organs. The data support the hypothesis that CS-induced lung collagen deposition is at least partly a result of CS-induced IL-33 translocation and release from local fibroblasts.
Predicting distribution, production, recreational fishing demand, and conservation concern of Indigenous rainbow trout populations based on landscape characteristics
Authors: Cantin Ariane , Farineau Anne , Bender Darren J. , Post John R.
Published: February 2021

Landscape ecology has mainly been integrated in aquatic science to describe patterns and processes in stream networks, but many lakes are connected through their tributaries and are also impacted by their position and connectivity within the watershed. This information on lake characteristics can be used by inland fisheries managers that oversee large landscapes comprising many waterbodies to predict (i) species composition; (ii) population dynamics and productivity; (iii) recreational fishing pressure; and (iv) overall conservation concern. We developed a methodology to assess these four items for the rainbow trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss) fishery of British Columbia by presenting a case study focused on the Clearwater and North Thompson watersheds using the following: the connectivity of lakes within the stream network to predict rainbow trout presence, stream order and lake area to estimate habitat availability and predict population dynamics and productivity (supply), and travel time from population centres to predict recreational fishing pressure (demand). By incorporating connectivity and environmental proxies of habitat, we explore patterns in population dynamics that can be used by fisheries managers to identify populations sensitive to overfishing or disturbance.
Improving living biomass C-stock loss estimates by combining optical satellite, airborne laser scanning, and NFI data
Authors: Breidenbach Johannes , Ivanovs Janis , Kangas Annika , Nord-Larsen Thomas , Nilsson Mats , Astrup Rasmus
Published: February 2021

Policy measures and management decisions aimed at enhancing the role of forests in mitigating climate change require reliable estimates of carbon (C)-stock dynamics in greenhouse gas inventories (GHGIs). The aim of this study was to assemble design-based estimators to provide estimates relevant for GHGIs using National Forest Inventory (NFI) data. We improve basic expansion (BE) estimators of living-biomass C-stock loss using only field data, by leveraging with remote sensing auxiliary data in model-assisted (MA) estimators. Our case studies from Norway, Sweden, Denmark, and Latvia covered an area of >70 Mha. Landsat-based forest cover loss (FCL) and one-time wall-to-wall airborne laser scanning (ALS) served as auxiliary data. ALS provided information on the C stock before a potential disturbance indicated by FCL. The use of FCL in MA estimators resulted in considerable efficiency gains, which in most cases were further increased by adding ALS. A doubling of efficiency was possible for national estimates and even larger efficiencies were observed at the subnational level. Average annual estimates were considerably more precise than pooled estimates of the NFI data from all years at once. The combination of remotely sensed and NFI field data yields reliable estimators, which is not necessarily the case when using remotely sensed data without reference observations.
Reconstructing wormhole solutions in curvature based Extended Theories of Gravity
Authors: De Falco Vittorio , Battista Emmanuele , Capozziello Salvatore , De Laurentis Mariafelicia
Published: February 2021

Static and spherically symmetric wormhole solutions can be reconstructed in the framework of curvature based Extended Theories of Gravity. In particular, extensions of the General Relativity, in metric and curvature formalism give rise to modified gravitational potentials, constituted by the classical Newtonian potential and Yukawa-like corrections, whose parameters can be, in turn, gauged by the observations. Such an approach allows to reconstruct the spacetime out of the wormhole throat considering the asymptotic flatness as a physical property for the related gravitational field. Such an argument can be applied for a large class of curvature theories characterising the wormholes through the parameters of the potentials. According to this procedure, possible wormhole solutions could be observationally constrained. On the other hand, stable and traversable wormholes could be a direct probe for this class of Extended Theories of Gravity.
Distribution value of algebraic curves and the Gauss maps on algebraic minimal surfaces
Authors: Quang Si Duc , Thai Do Duc , Thoan Pham Duc
Published: February 2021

In this paper, we first establish a degeneracy second main theorem for algebraic curves from compact complex Riemann surfaces into projective varieties intersecting hypersurfaces in subgeneral position. We then use it to study the ramified values for the Gauss map of the complete (regular) minimal surfaces in [Formula: see text] with finite total curvature in the case where the Gauss map may be algebraic degenerate. Our results generalize and improve the previous results in the field.
GLOBALIZATION, TECHNOLOGY DISCREPANCY AND SPECIALIZATION
Authors: WU SHANG-FEN , LEE CHENG-TE
Published: February 2021

This paper sets up a theoretical monopolistic competition model to analyze the impact of globalization on specialization with different endogenous sunk-costs technologies between countries. We prove that the factors affecting the relationship between globalization and specialization include the country-size effect and the technology-advantage effect. We show that, in the case of a country with a smaller endogenous sunk-cost technology advantage, if the country-size effect dominates the technology-advantage effect, then the number of the firms in monopolistic competition or the level of specialization will rise after trade, and vice versa.
Improved Membrane Algorithm Under the Framework of P Systems to Solve Multimodal Multiobjective Problems
Authors: liu Chuang , Shen Wanghui , Zhang Le , Yang Hong , Du Yingkui , Yuan Zhonghu , Zhao Hai
Published: February 2021

Multimodal multiobjective problems (MMOPs) exist in scientific research and practical projects, and their Pareto solution sets correspond to the same Pareto front. Existing evolutionary algorithms often fall into local optima when solving such problems, which usually leads to insufficient search solutions and their uneven distribution in the Pareto front. In this work, an improved membrane algorithm is proposed for solving MMOPs, which is based on the framework of P system. More specifically, the proposed algorithm employs three elements from P system: object, reaction rule, and membrane structure. The object is implemented by real number coding and represents a candidate solution to the optimization problem to be solved. The function of the reaction rule of the proposed algorithm is similar to the evolution operation of the evolutionary algorithm. It can evolve the object to obtain a better candidate solution set. The membrane structure is the evolutionary logic of the proposed algorithm. It consists of several membranes, each of which is an independent evolutionary unit. This structure is used to maintain the diversity of objects, so that it provides multiple Pareto sets as output. The effectiveness verification study was carried out in simulation experiments. The simulation results show that compared with other experimental algorithms, the proposed algorithm has a competitive advantage in solving all 22 multimodal benchmark test problems in CEC2019.
Improved Electronically-Tunable Current-Mode Square-Root-Domain First-Order Multifunction Filter
Authors: Jain Manoj Kumar
Published: February 2021

Some time back, Kircay reported an electronically-tunable current-mode square-root-domain first-order filter capable of realizing low-pass (LP), high-pass (HP) and all-pass (AP) filter functions. When simulated in SPICE, Kircay’s circuit has been found to exhibit DC offsets in case of LP and AP responses and incorrect transient response in case of HP response. In this paper, an improved circuit overcoming these difficulties/deficiencies has been suggested and its workability of the improved circuit as well as its capability in meeting the intended objectives has been demonstrated by SPICE simulation results.
Efficient Designs of Reversible Shift Register Circuits with Low Quantum Cost
Authors: Noorallahzadeh Mojtaba , Mosleh Mohammad
Published: February 2021

Reversible computations have attracted a lot of attention in recent years due to the ability to reduce energy dissipation that is needed in nanocircuits. The main purpose of designing reversible circuits is to reduce the energy consumption that occurs due to the loss of input bits in irreversible circuits. In this paper, we initially proposed a new [Formula: see text] reversible block and then its quantum realization is given using the Miller et al. method. In the following, an effective reversible design of D flip-flop is introduced using the proposed reversible block. Finally, four types of reversible shift register including serial-in to parallel-out (SIPO), parallel-in to parallel-out (PIPO), parallel-in to serial-out (PISO) and shift counter are proposed using the proposed reversible flip-flop. The evaluation results show that the proposed circuits are superior compared to the existing designs in terms of quantum cost (QC).
Quandle coloring quivers of links using dihedral quandles
Authors: Taniguchi Yuta
Published: February 2021

Cho and Nelson introduced the notion of a quandle coloring quiver, which is a quiver-valued link invariant. This invariant is in general a stronger link invariant than the quandle coloring number. In this paper, we study quandle coloring quiver using dihedral quandle. We show that when we use a dihedral quandle of prime order, the quandle coloring quivers are equivalent to the quandle coloring numbers. We also discuss shadow versions of their invariants.
A detailed exploration of the EDGES 21cm absorption anomaly and axion-induced cooling
Authors: Li Chuang , Houston Nick , Li Tianjun , Yang Qiaoli , Zhang Xin
Published: February 2021

The EDGES collaboration’s observation of an anomalously strong 21 cm absorption feature around the cosmic dawn era has energised the cosmological community by suggesting a novel signature of dark matter in the cooling of cosmic hydrogen. In a recent paper, we have argued that by virtue of the ability to mediate cooling processes whilst in the condensed phase, a small amount of axion dark matter can explain these observations within the context of Standard Models of axions and axion-like particles. These axions and axion-like particles (ALPs) can thermalise through gravitational self-interactions and so eventually form a Bose–Einstein condensate (BEC), whereupon large-scale long-range correlation can produce experimentally observable signals such as these. In this context, the EDGES best-fit result favours an ALP mass in the (6, 400) meV range. Future experiments and galaxy surveys, particularly the International Axion Observatory (IAXO) and EUCLID, should have the capability to directly test this scenario. In this paper, we will explore this mechanism in detail and give more thorough computational details of certain key points.
E-REHABILITATION SOLUTION FOR ROTATOR CUFF SYNDROME IN COVID-19 PANDEMIC ERA
Authors: Lakhani Amit , Sharma Ena , Khadayat Sarita
Published: February 2021

Objectives: COVID-19 pandemic has severely affected the health sector in the whole world. Routine OPDs including rehabilitation centers are partially functional to minimize the risk of cross-infection. In elderly patients, rotator cuff syndrome is a common cause of shoulder pain and daily physiotherapy is the main mode of management. To minimize the risk of cross-infection (COVID-19), we introduced E-rehabilitation services via various mobile apps to our patients. In developing countries like India, E-rehabilitation is still a new concept. Methods: This study evaluated 70 patients who had been enrolled for E-rehabilitation with a minimum of 4 weeks follow-up. Every patient was asked to use the rehabilitation App as per their requirement. Results were assessed with Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand (DASH), visual analogue scale (VAS) and active ranges of movement (forward flexion and external rotation). Results: The average age of enrolled patients at the time of surgery was 55.0 years (range, 40–65 years). In 2 and 4 weeks, the range of forward flexion and external rotation has improved significantly. DASH and VAS Score has also been decreased significantly at an average of 2 and 4 weeks with [Formula: see text]. Conclusion: In this paper, we summarized the management of rotator cuff syndrome by using various mobile apps and also the various challenges faced in the elderly population with the newer concept of E-rehabilitation in this pandemic.
Exploring the Structural and Dielectric Properties of Polymer Films Incorporating Carbon-Based Nanomaterials
Authors: Deepak A. , Cherian Pheba , Jenkins D. F. L.
Published: February 2021

This work explores the electrical, dielectric and physical characteristics of multi-walled carbon nanotube (MWCNT) and graphene reinforced Poly vinylidene fluoride (PVDF) polymer nanocomposite films, over a wide frequency range, ranging from 1 Hz to 1 MHz. Films are prepared with different weight percentage of MWCNTs or graphene powder within a PVDF host matrix and its intrinsic properties are compared with pure PVDF films. As the weight percentage increases, the material properties such as conductivity (electrical), permittivity (dielectric) and capacitance (dielectric) will change. PVDF is a dielectric and the fillers are conductors, and this gives rise to the phenomenon of percolation, as the weight percentage of conducting fillers increases. This paper explores film’s properties for different weight percentage of MWCNTs and graphene fillers. Tunneling current of graphene–PVDF films are also compared with MWCNT–PVDF films.
A Decision-Making Method for Boosting New Digitalization Technologies
Authors: Santarremigia Francisco E. , Poveda-Reyes Sara , Hervás-Peralta Miguel , Molero Gemma D.
Published: February 2021

Market acceptance of new digitalization technologies is low. To help to address this shortcoming, the following paper defines a quantitative decision-making methodology for the exante evaluation of the market acceptance of new digitalization solutions in the initial stages of design and development. The proposed decision-making methodology includes a first evaluation, using Volere methodology, for the quantification of how useful the new digitalization solution is for the end users, and a second method, the calculation of the net present value (NPV) based on potential benefits in terms of costs and intangible benefits of the new tool. A new tool for the management of freight transport was used as a case study. The usefulness of a new information technology tool was assessed in six different companies. It was designed to help developers and decision makers in information and communication technology (ICT) product development, and company managers in the evaluation of technical solutions that might better satisfy their needs. Further studies could measure the power of this methodology by comparing the implementation levels of two different prototypes designed for the same function and with different Volere and NPV scorings.
A CASE OF BILATERAL RENAL B-CELL LYMPHOMA WITH UVEITIS AND SECONDARY POLYCYTHEMIA IN A JACK RUSSELL TERRIER
Authors: Yang Shu-Fang , Yang Heng-Leng , Chang Hui-Wen , Hsieh Yu-Han , Wang Peng-Chen , Hu Kwo-Chen , Yu Jian-Xi , Liang Sao-Ling
Published: February 2021

An 8-year-old, castrated male, Jack Russell Terrier was presented with clinical signs of uveitis and glaucoma in the right eye (oculus dexter (OD)) for 2–3 months. Ophthalmic examination revealed OD episcleral congestion, corneal vascularization, aqueous flare, iris bombe, and vision loss. OD glaucoma and uveitis were under control by medical treatment. After 8 months, the dog had acute uveitis in the left eye (oculus sinister (OS)). General physical examination, blood examinations, radiography, and urinalysis were unremarkable. No improvement was observed after for 1 month of uveitis treatment, and more examinations were strongly suggested. Abdominal ultrasonography revealed several hypoechoic masses or cysts on both kidneys. Computed tomography (CT) showed diffuse nonenhancing hypodense patches in both kidneys. Renal tumor was highly suspected, but biopsy was declined by the owner. Ten days after CT examination, the dog suddenly developed anorexia, weakness, uremia, hyperkalemia, and polycythemia. The dog was euthanatized because of the worsening clinical condition, poor prognosis, and financial constraints, and both kidneys were biopsied for histopathology. Immunohistochemically, the neoplastic cells were positive for B-cell marker (CD20) and negative for T-cell marker (CD3). Bilateral renal B-cell origin lymphoma was diagnosed by histologic and immunophenotyping examinations. In conclusion, bilateral renal lymphoma may be diagnosed with no systemic signs except bilateral uveitis. Renal function impairment was acutely developed with severe clinical signs at the end stage of the disease. Early, aggressive, complete examinations, and treatments are strongly recommended.
Crystal Plasticity Finite Element Method for Cyclic Behavior of Single Crystal Nickel-Based Superalloy
Authors: Qin Xiaoyu , Han Guomin , Xia Shengxu , Liu Weijie , Lin De-Ye
Published: February 2021

This paper reports the modeling and simulation of cyclic behavior of single crystal nickel-based superalloy by using the crystal plasticity finite element method. Material constitutive model based on the crystal plasticity theory is developed and is implemented in a parallel way as user subroutine modules embedded in the commercial Abaqus[Formula: see text] software. For simplicity in calibration and without loss of generality, the crystal plasticity constitutive relationship used in this work takes the form that only contains a few parameters. The parameters are optimized by using the Powell algorithm. We employ the calibrated constitutive model with the finite element solver on a cuboid and a blade to simulate cyclic and anisotropic properties of single crystal superalloy. Results show that the predicted stress–strain curves are in good agreement with the experimental measurements, and anisotropic results are presented in both elastic and plastic regions.
Reduced-Order Model Description of Origami Stent Built with Waterbomb Pattern
Authors: Rodrigues Guilherme V. , Savi Marcelo A.
Published: February 2021

Origami-inspired structures have found many innovative applications in engineering fields. The expressive volume changes intrinsically related to their geometry is very useful for different purposes. Nevertheless, the mathematical description of origami structures is complex, which makes the design a challenging topic. This work deals with the use of reduce-order models for the origami description. A cylindrical origami structure with waterbomb pattern, called origami stent, is of concern. A reduced-order model (ROM) is developed based on kinematics and symmetry hypotheses. Afterward, a finite element analysis (FEA) is developed based on a nonlinear bar-and-hinge model. Numerical simulations are carried out evaluating the ROM validity range. Rigid and non-rigid situations are investigated showing that ROM is able to be employed for origami description.
A New Method for Predicting Double-Crack Propagation Trajectories of Brittle Rock
Authors: Shen Qingqing , Rao Qiuhua , Zhang Quan , Li Zhuo , Sun Dongliang , Yi Wei
Published: February 2021

Multi-crack propagation is investigated mainly by experimental measurement and little by theoretical prediction. The classical fracture criteria can better predict tensile fracture under arbitrary loading conditions (pure tensile, pure shear and mixed-mode), but have difficulty in predicting shear fracture. In this paper, Mode I and Mode II SIFs of branch-cracks initiated by the original cracks were calculated by the complex function and superposition method, and a new theory of multi-crack propagation was established based on the criterion of maximum tensile-shear SIF ratio. Theoretical results of two collinear cracks under uniaxial compression show that the cracks initiate more easily at [Formula: see text] (the crack inclination angle) than other angles. Coalescence of branch-crack only occurs at [Formula: see text] with the maximum crack propagation length. Peak stress [Formula: see text] reaches minimum when [Formula: see text] (inner friction angle of rock), and the larger the [Formula: see text], the closer to the compressive strength of rock the [Formula: see text]. Mechanism of the crack initiation and propagation are all Mode I under uniaxial compression. Uniaxial compressive test results of red sandstone (the rock material is assumed to be homogeneous) pre-cracked specimens agree well with predicted results of the crack initiation, stable and unstable propagation, which can prove the validity of the new multi-crack propagation prediction method.
Seismic Behavior of Unconnected Piles–Caisson Foundation Using Slow Cyclic Tests
Authors: Yang Luan , Feng Shengming , Gong Weiming , Dai Guoliang , Zhao Xueliang
Published: February 2021

The unconnected piles–caisson foundation (UPCF) consists of gravity caisson, mattress, and pile group. This foundation has been an attractive design for the mattress as it can reduce the seismic loads applied on the superstructure. However, a lack of understanding regarding its seismic behavior has hindered the application of this type of foundation. This paper reports on a series of slow cyclic tests (SCTs) conducted to investigate the seismic behavior of the UPCF. Six tests were conducted on model foundations on dry sand with the variables of mattress material, mattress thickness, vertical safety factor, and ground improvement. The experimental schemes, including the model design, the instrumentation, and the loading scheme, are illustrated in detail. The test results show that a large amount of energy was dissipated through the mattress during dynamic loading. With increasing loading displacement, the shear stiffness of these models decreased to a stable value. An empirical equation for the stiffness and loading displacement is developed. Below a drift ratio of 0.6%, there is no evident difference in the dynamic behavior of the foundation. After that, the aseismic behavior of the foundation depends on the mattress material, the mattress thickness, and the vertical pressure and is affected by the earthquake intensity and frequency.
Evidence from the U–Pb–Hf signatures of detrital zircons for a Baltican provenance for basal Old Red Sandstone successions, northern Scottish Caledonides
Authors: Strachan Rob A. , Olierook Hugo K. H. , Kirkland Christopher L.
Published: February 2021

The provenance of Devonian Old Red Sandstone (ORS) continental successions in the northern Scottish Caledonides is poorly known: were they derived locally or from more distal sources? The integration of U–Pb and Hf isotope analyses in detrital zircon crystals reduces potential ambiguities arising from non-unique age populations and yields information on the crustal evolution of the source terranes. Samples of basal ORS successions yield zircon U–Pb age groupings of
c.
1800–1500 and
c.
1200–900 Ma, with minor Neoarchean, Tonian, Ediacaran and Ordovician contributions. SW Baltica provides the best match for detrital zircon ages and Hf isotopic signatures and much of the >900 Ma zircon population was probably recycled from Neoproterozoic successions.
ε
Hf

(
t
)

values in
c.
1800–1000 Ma grains reflect the assembly of Nuna, the development of a long-lived retreating subduction system along its margin and Grenville collisional orogenesis. These basal ORS successions were probably deposited within the same regional fluvial system as coeval sedimentary rocks in the Midland Valley, draining an area of positive relief in SW Baltica where continental convergence continued through the Early Devonian.

Supplementary material
: Isotopic data, statistical comparison of selected samples and TIMA heavy mineral data are available at
https://doi.org/10.6084/m9.figshare.c.5301780
Epigenetic Regulation of the Nuclear and Mitochondrial Genomes: Involvement in Metabolism, Development, and Disease
Authors: St. John Justin C.
Published: February 2021

Our understanding of the interactions between the nuclear and mitochondrial genomes is becoming increasingly important as they are extensively involved in establishing early development and developmental progression. Evidence from various biological systems indicates the interdependency between the genomes, which requires a high degree of compatibility and synchrony to ensure effective cellular function throughout development and in the resultant offspring. During development, waves of DNA demethylation, de novo methylation, and maintenance methylation act on the nuclear genome and typify oogenesis and pre- and postimplantation development. At the same time, significant changes in mitochondrial DNA copy number influence the metabolic status of the developing organism in a typically cell-type-specific manner. Collectively, at any given stage in development, these actions establish genomic balance that ensures each developmental milestone is met and that the organism's program for life is established.
Modeling Current Transients in a Reciprocal Motion Tribocorrosion Experiment
Authors: Olsson Claes-Olof A. , Munoz Anna Neus Igual , Cao Shoufan , Mischler Stefano
Published: February 2021

Tribocorrosion of passivating metals is a dynamic phenomenon causing degradation of materials by a combination of mechanical wear and electrochemical dissolution. The mechanical action typically produces a local removal of particles, metal as well as oxides, resulting in an exposure of the metal surface and is followed by a repassivation process, of which the time-dependent current response is a direct measure. Kinetics for interface-limited film growth were used to find an analytical expression for the current transients, including the conductivity of the electrolyte as well as the contribution from the confined geometry within the mechanical contact. The solution gave a good experimental fit to a series of experiments with a range of electrolyte conductivities, and also to correlate well with values obtained using electrochemical impedance spectroscopy. Parameters from the rubbing experiment were used to calculate curves that compared well with passivation transients recorded on a bare metal surface for the same electrolyte series. The evaluation procedure made it possible to assess the relative resistance contributions from the growing passive film, the confined mechanical contact geometry, and the electrolyte.
Human corticospinal-motoneuronal output is reduced with 5-HT2 receptor antagonism
Authors: Thorstensen Jacob R. , Taylor Janet L. , Kavanagh Justin J.
Published: February 2021

Voluntary contractions and responses to magnetic stimulation of the motor cortex are dependent on serotonin activity in the central nervous system. 5-HT2 antagonism decreased evoked potential size to high-intensity stimulation, and reduced torque and lengthened inhibitory silent periods during maximal contractions. We provide novel evidence that 5-HT2 receptors are involved in muscle activation, where 5-HT effects are strongest when a large number of descending inputs activate motoneurons.
InterPro (The Integrated Resource of Protein Domains and Functional Sites)
Authors: Southan Christopher
Published: February 2021

The family and motif databases, PROSITE, PRINTS, Pfam and ProDom, have been integrated into a powerful resource for protein secondary annotation. As of June 2000, InterPro had processed 384 572 proteins in SWISS-PROT and TrEMBL. Because the contributing databases have different clustering principles and scoring sensitivities, the combined assignments compliment each other for grouping protein families and delineating domains. The graphic displays of all matches above the scoring thresholds enables judgements to be made on the concordances or differences between the assignments. The website links can be used to analyse novel sequences and for queries across the proteomes of 32 organisms, including the partial human set, by domain and/or protein family. An analysis of selected HtrA/DegQ proteases demonstrates the utility of this website for detailed comparative genomics. Further information on the project can be found at the European Bioinformatics Institute at http://www.ebi.ac.uk/interpro/.
Consensus of the Distributed Multiagent System with the Framework of the Small-World Network
Authors: Mou Jinping , He Qinbin , Xia Zhile , Wang Jie
Published: February 2021

This paper investigates the consensus problem of the distributed multiagent system (MAS) with the small-world framework. A distributed consensus protocol is provided for the node-to-node communication. According to an error between every two neighbor agents, several consensus criteria among the agents are obtained firstly. Then, consensus criteria are obtained via the diameter of the graph of the MAS. Finally, based on the small-world framework, the consensus criteria are obtained; also, the relations among the consensus, the diameter of the path in the small-world framework, and the errors of agents are disclosed. Finally, one numerical example shows the reliability of the proposed methods.