bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Equivalence of Operator Norm between the Hardy-Littlewood Maximal Function and Truncated Maximal Function on the Heisenberg Group
Authors: Li Xiang , Zhang Xingsong
Published: August 2021

In this article, we define a kind of truncated maximal function on the Heisenberg space by

M

γ

c

f

x

=

sup

0
<
r
<
γ

1
/
m

B

x
,
r

∫

B

x
,
r

f

y

d
y

. The equivalence of operator norm between the Hardy-Littlewood maximal function and the truncated maximal function on the Heisenberg group is obtained. More specifically, when

1
<
p
<
∞

, the

L

p

norm and central Morrey norm of truncated maximal function are equal to those of the Hardy-Littlewood maximal function. When

p
=
1

, we get the equivalence of weak norm

L

1

⟶

L

1

,

∞

and

M
̇

1
,
λ

⟶

W
̇

M

1
,
λ

. Those results are generalization of previous work on Euclid spaces.
Effect of Glass Fiber Post Surface Treatment on Bond Strength of a Self-Adhesive Resin Cement: An “In Vitro” Study
Authors: Santos Lairds Rodrigues dos , Lima Darlon Martins , Carvalho Edilausson Moreno , Rodrigues Vandilson Pinheiro , Alves Claudia Maria Coelho
Published: August 2021

Objective. This study evaluated the influence of different mechanical and chemical surface treatments alone and combined with silane on the bond strength (BS) of glass fiber posts (GFPs) using self-adhesive resin cement. Methods. Eighty-four single-rooted bovine teeth (six groups, n = 14) were submitted to BS analysis after GFP cementation. The treatments applied in the studied groups were no surface treatment (control), silane (S), 24% hydrogen peroxide (PER), 24% hydrogen peroxide and silane (PER + SIL), blasting with 50 μm aluminum oxide particles (BLAST), and blasting with 50 μm aluminum oxide particles and silane (BLAST + SIL). Results. BS differed significantly among groups (

p

 < 0.001). It was higher in the SIL (10.5 ± 3.5 MPa), BLAST + SIL (11.5 ± 3.2 MPa), and PER + SIL (11.6 ± 4.6 MPa) groups than in the control (6.5 ± 2.9 MPa), BLAST (8.6 ± 4.0 MPa), and PER (7.1 ± 2.8 MPa) groups, with no significant difference among groups receiving silanization. Cement post adhesive failure was more common in the SIL, BLAST, and PER + SIL groups, and cement-dentin adhesive failure was more common in the control, BLAST + SIL, and PER groups. Conclusion. These results show that silane application alone increases BS.
Experimental and Numerical Studies on the Inflatable Recyclable Anchor in the Tube Piece Type Based on the Soil‐Anchor Interaction Mechanism
Authors: Du Chenchen , Xiao Taoli , He Yunlong , Yang Xuexiang
Published: August 2021

This paper deeply studies the characteristics and “uplift bearing capacity” of a novel type of inflatable recyclable anchor in the tube piece. The proposed novel inflatable recyclable anchor in the tube piece type comprises a metallic rod, an inflatable anchorage device, and a recovery device. Fifteen field uplift tests are conducted to investigate the effects of inflation pressure, thickness of the steel disc, embedment length, and time lapse between anchor inflation and pullout on “the uplift bearing capacity.” The results show that “the uplift bearing capacity” of the novel inflatable anchor in the tube piece type increases with the increase of inflation pressure, thickness of the steel disc, and embedment length. With the increase of inflation time, “the uplift bearing capacity” of the novel inflatable anchor experiences an increase after first experiencing a decrease. The finite element analysis method is used to establish a numerical analysis model of the inflatable anchor, and the distribution law of the tensile stress of the surrounding soil during the pullout of the anchor is analysed. Compared with the traditional grouted anchor, the proposed anchor has an obvious superiority in recyclability, reusability, and swifter formation of anchorage force and thus is a resource‐saving and environmentally friendly anchor technology.
Genetic and Transcriptional Contributions to Relapse in Normal Karyotype Acute Myeloid Leukemia
Authors: Petti Allegra A. , Khan Saad M. , Xu Ziheng , Helton Nichole , Fronick Catrina C. , Fulton Robert , Ramakrishnan Sai M. , Nonavinkere Srivatsan Sridhar , Heath Sharon E. , Westervelt Peter , Payton Jacqueline E. , Walter Matthew J. , Link Daniel C. , DiPersio John , Miller Christopher , Ley Timothy J.
Published: August 2021

To better understand clonal and transcriptional adaptations after relapse in patients with acute myeloid leukemia (AML), we collected presentation and relapse samples from six normal karyotype AML cases. We performed enhanced whole-genome sequencing to characterize clonal evolution, and deep-coverage single-cell RNA sequencing on the same samples, which yielded 142,642 high-quality cells for analysis. Identifying expressed mutations in individual cells enabled us to discriminate between normal and AML cells, to identify coordinated changes in the genome and transcriptome, and to identify subclone-specific cell states. We quantified the coevolution of genetic and transcriptional heterogeneity during AML progression, and found that transcriptional changes were significantly correlated with genetic changes. However, transcriptional adaptation sometimes occurred independently, suggesting that clonal evolution does not represent all relevant biological changes. In three cases, we identified cells at diagnosis that likely seeded the relapse. Finally, these data revealed a conserved relapse-enriched leukemic cell state bearing markers of stemness, quiescence, and adhesion.

Significance:

These data enabled us to identify a relapse-enriched leukemic cell state with distinct transcriptional properties. Detailed case-by-case analyses elucidated the complex ways in which the AML genome, transcriptome, and immune microenvironment interact to evade chemotherapy. These analyses provide a blueprint for evaluating these factors in larger cohorts.

This article is highlighted in the In This Issue feature, p. 1
Amygdalin Attenuates Airway Epithelium Apoptosis, Inflammation, and Epithelial-Mesenchymal Transition through Restraining the TLR4/NF-κB Signaling Pathway on LPS-Treated BEAS-2B Bronchial Epithelial Cells
Authors: Si Zhenyang , Zhang Biao
Published: August 2021

Background: Cough-variant asthma (CVA) is a special type of asthma, solely manifesting with coughing. Studies suggest that airway inflammation is associated with CVA pathogenesis. Amygdalin is found to have an anti-inflammatory potential, while how it affects CVA remains unexplored. Methods: Cytotoxicity delivered by various concentrations of LPS and amygdalin on BEAS-2B cells was determined by Cell Counting Kit-8 assay. CVA in vitro models were established via LPS exposure on BEAS-2B cells which underwent amygdalin pretreatment. Cell apoptosis was determined by flow cytometry. Production of tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α, interleukin (IL)-6, IL-8, and mucin 5AC (MUC5AC) in BEAS-2B cells was measured by ELISA and qRT-PCR. Expressions of TLR4, E-cadherin, N-cadherin, α-smooth muscle actin (SMA), vimentin, phosphorylated-p65 (p-p65), p65, phosphorylated-IκBα (p-IκBα), and IκBα in BEAS-2B cells were measured by qRT-PCR or Western blot. Results: LPS and high concentrations of amygdalin (over 600 μg/mL) decreased BEAS-2B cell toxicity. Exposure to LPS inhibited toxicity, enhanced apoptosis; and promoted production of TNF-α, IL-6, IL-8, and MUC5AC, increased the levels of N-Cadherin, α-SMA, vimentin, p-p65, and p-IκBα, and decreased the levels of E-cadherin and IκBα in BEAS-2B cells. Amygdalin pretreatment counteracted the effects of LPS on BEAS-2B cells. Overexpressing TLR4 reversed amygdalin-exerted effects in LPS-exposed BEAS-2B cells. Conclusion: Amygdalin attenuated airway epithelium apoptosis, inflammation and epithelial-mesenchymal transition through restraining the TLR4/NF-κB signaling pathway in CVA.
Job Satisfaction and Intentions to Leave of Foreign-National Urologists Working at German Hospitals: Results of the Cross-Sectional EUTAKD Study
Authors: Braun Kay-Patrick , Shaar Mohammad , Gumz Antje , Shaar Atef , Pantenburg Birte , Deutsch Sebastian , Lebentrau Steffen , May Matthias
Published: August 2021

Background: Studies exist that identify factors associated with higher professional satisfaction among clinicians. However, there are no reliable findings for clinicians with a migration background as to whether there is a correlation between particular dimensions of professional satisfaction and the desire to leave their current specialty or country of employment. For the first time, these data were collected within a questionnaire-based study from urological clinicians with a migration background (UCMBs) working in Germany. Material and Methods: A SurveyMonkey® with 101 items relating to characterizing features of the study participants and questions about job satisfaction (n = 39) was opened for UCMBs between August and October 2020. The influence of different dimensions of job satisfaction on the desire to quit the urological specialty/leave Germany was analyzed (group A: neither want to leave urology nor Germany; group B: can at least imagine leaving the urological profession and/or Germany). Results: Eighty-one UCMBs were distributed almost equally in groups A (50.6%) and B (49.4%). Occupational satisfaction was higher in several respects in group A. Three dimensions that differed significantly with regard to occupational satisfaction were used to create an aggregate score ranging from 3 to 15 points as follows: (1) relationship to superiors (p = 0.014), (2) career opportunities in the clinic (p < 0.001), and (3) opportunities for the further development of surgical skills (p = 0.006). For each point value of this aggregate score, the UCMB’s desire to quit urology or leave Germany (or at least uncertainty about this question) decreased by a relative value of 34.6% (odds ratio: 0.654, 95% confidence interval: 0.496–0.861, p = 0.002). Conclusions: Various dimensions of job satisfaction have been identified, the improvement of which could contribute to the long-term retention of UCMBs at German urological clinics.
Bihemispheric Cortical Infarcts in an Adult Secondary to Escherichia coli K1 Meningitis
Authors: Gogia Bhanu , Young Angela L. , O’Brien Barbara J. , Okhuysen Pablo C. , Kumar Vinodh A.
Published: August 2021

Cerebral ischemia is a known complication of meningitis. Most Escherichia coli meningitis-induced infarcts have been reported in the neonatal and pediatric population. To the best of our knowledge, there have been no previous reports describing bilateral cortical infarcts in an adult secondary to a K1 strain of E. coli meningitis, and herein we report a case in a 25-year-old female. The challenge in treating this patient was determining the duration of systemic antibiotic treatment and whether or not to use steroids. This study demonstrates the necessity of early diagnosis and treatment of E. coli meningitis to prevent neurological complications, including stroke.
Carotid Cavernous Sinus Fistula with Contralateral Feed Not Diagnosed by Virtual Assessment or by Non-Invasive Vascular Imaging
Authors: Ing Edsel , Tyndel Felix , Tang Joyce , Marotta Thomas R.
Published: August 2021

A 67-year-old woman had delayed initial diagnosis of her right low flow carotid cavernous fistula (CCF) during the coronavirus disease (COVID-19) pandemic due to difficulty detecting ocular signs via online virtual examinations. Her right eye conjunctival erythema and proptosis with medial rectus enlargement on computed tomography scan was initially misdiagnosed as euthyroid thyroid-associated orbitopathy without lid retraction. She developed vision loss, and increasing episcleral venous congestion and CCF was suspected. Computed tomographic angiography did not show an obvious fistula. Digital subtraction angiography revealed the right-sided low flow CCF, which was fed from vessels from the contralateral side.
Chromoendoscopy Is Not Superior to White Light Endoscopy in Improving Adenoma Detection in Lynch Syndrome Cohort Undergoing Surveillance with High-Resolution Colonoscopy: A Real-World Evidence Study
Authors: Montale Amedeo , Buttitta Francesco , Pierantoni Chiara , Ferrari Clarissa , Cameletti Michela , Colussi Dora , Miccoli Sara , Bazzoli Franco , Turchetti Daniela , Ricciardiello Luigi
Published: August 2021

Background: Endoscopic surveillance in patients with Lynch syndrome (LS) is crucial due to a genetically based high risk of colorectal cancer (CRC). We aimed to compare the adenoma detection rate (ADR) between high-resolution white light endoscopy (WLE) alone and WLE plus dye chromoendoscopy (CE) in a cohort of LS patients. Methods: In a context of real-world data, we retrospectively enrolled 50 LS patients who had non-randomly undergone WLE versus CE surveillance examinations from 2007 to 2019. The 2 groups were compared at baseline (BL) in terms of the rate of patients with lesions and the number of lesions, and at follow-up (FU), to evaluate a possible enhanced detection rate. Longitudinal analysis of the effect of the endoscopy type on the main outcomes was performed by generalized linear mixed models. Results: Forty-two patients had undergone at least one diagnostic colonoscopy. At BL and at FU analysis, we found no significant differences in detection rates and clinical-pathological features between WLE and CE groups. At the longitudinal analysis, an increase in the endoscopy rank (i.e., the position of each colonoscopy for all the colonoscopies that a patient had undergone) was associated with an increase in polyp detection rate (p = 0.006) and ADR (p = 0.005), while a trend toward significance (p = 0.069) was found for endoscopy type (CE vs. WLE) in the detection of serrated lesions. Conclusions: CE is not superior to high-resolution WLE in increasing the ADR. Even under standard WLE, an active and careful endoscopic surveillance of LS patients can prevent CRC.
Neuropsychiatric Genetics of Psychosis in the Mexican Population: A Genome-Wide Association Study Protocol for Schizophrenia, Schizoaffective, and Bipolar Disorder Patients and Controls
Authors: Camarena Beatriz , Atkinson Elizabeth G. , Baker Mark , Becerra-Palars Claudia , Chibnik Lori B. , Escamilla-Orozco Raúl , Jiménez-Pavón Joanna , Koenig Zan , Márquez-Luna Carla , Martin Alicia R. , Morales-Cedillo Ingrid Pamela , Olivares Ana Maria , Ortega-Ortiz Hiram , Rodriguez-Ramírez Alejandra Monserrat , Saracco-Alvarez Ricardo , Basaldua Rebecca E. , Sena Brena F. , Koenen Karestan C.
Published: August 2021

No large-scale genome-wide association studies (GWASs) of psychosis have been conducted in Mexico or Latin America to date. Schizophrenia and bipolar disorder in particular have been found to be highly heritable and genetically influenced. However, understanding of the biological basis of psychosis in Latin American populations is limited as previous genomic studies have almost exclusively relied on participants of Northern European ancestry. With the goal of expanding knowledge on the genomic basis of psychotic disorders within the Mexican population, the National Institute of Psychiatry Ramón de la Fuente Muñiz (INPRFM), the Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, and the Broad Institute’s Stanley Center for Psychiatric Research launched the Neuropsychiatric Genetics Research of Psychosis in Mexican Populations (NeuroMex) project to collect and analyze case-control psychosis samples from 5 states across Mexico. This article describes the planned sample collection and GWAS protocol for the NeuroMex study. The 4-year study will span from April 2018 to 2022 and aims to recruit 9,208 participants: 4,604 cases and 4,604 controls. Study sites across Mexico were selected to ensure collected samples capture the genomic diversity within the Mexican population. Blood samples and phenotypic data will be collected during the participant interview process and will contribute to the development of a local biobank in Mexico. DNA extraction will be done locally and genetic analysis will take place at the Broad Institute in Cambridge, MA. We will collect extensive phenotypic information using several clinical scales. All study materials including phenotypic instruments utilized are openly available in Spanish and English. The described study represents a long-term collaboration of a number of institutions from across Mexico and the Boston area, including clinical psychiatrists, clinical researchers, computational biologists, and managers at the 3 collaborating institutions. The development of relevant data management, quality assurance, and analysis plans are the primary considerations in this protocol article. Extensive management and analysis processes were developed for both the phenotypic and genetic data collected. Capacity building, partnerships, and training between and among the collaborating institutions are intrinsic components to this study and its long-term success.
Transformative Child Rights Advocacy: An Ergonomic Conceptual Framework
Authors: Chibwana Musavengana
Published: August 2021

This paper proposes a practical transformative child rights advocacy conceptual framework that is anchored to the African Charter on the Rights and Welfare of the Child for normative guidance. The paper is premised on the understanding that the fulfilment of all rights for children requires a strong accountability mechanism, hence the need for an easy-to-use conceptual framework. The paper highlights tenets that will make an advocacy initiative to be transformative. To achieve the aspiration of a practical, transformative and rich conceptual framework, the paper draws from the structure-process-outcomes paradigm work of Avedis Donabedian on quality assessment. The framework provides a practical format for policy makers, practitioners and rights holders to hold the duty bearers to account.
Vulnerability and the Best Interests of the Child in Tobacco Control
Authors: Gispen Marie Elske C.
Published: August 2021

The vulnerability of individuals is often used as a springboard to call upon additional rights protection or to scale up interventions. This is also the case in child health and tobacco control research. While human rights law is generally a strong mechanism to support such calls, critics like Martha Fineman question specific understandings of vulnerability within human rights law. Against this backdrop, the article analyses the usefulness of relying on vulnerability in human rights law to argue for better rights protection. The article concludes that Article 3 crc – reflecting the best interests of the child norm – seems a suitable “solution” to Fineman’s critique on the notion of vulnerability in human rights law. Finally, the universal and particular vulnerabilities of children in relation to tobacco-related harm can be a springboard into rights protection but are not the principle legal source that require governments to break down structural health inequalities.
Responding to Epistemic Injustice against Child Soldiers
Authors: Kiyala Jean Chrysostome K.
Published: August 2021

This empirical study examines the impact of epistemic injustice on child soldiers while exploring the potential of the Baraza structure – a local jurisprudence in the Democratic Republic of Congo – to pursue the “the best interests of the child” principle, particularly in the process of holding young soldiers accountable. Epistemic injustice, conceptually developed by Miranda Fricker, consists of “testimonial injustice”, when the hearer gives a deflated level of credibility to a speaker’s word due to prejudice; “hermeneutical injustice”, which takes place when a structural breach in collective interpretive imagination resources unfairly disadvantages a person or social group when trying to render intelligible their social experiences; and “distributive epistemic injustice”, which happens when “epistemic goods” (education and information) are inequitably distributed. The research outcomes suggest that Baraza jurisprudence has the potential to avert epistemic injustice, and to promote a non-discriminatory treatment of accused former child and adolescent soldiers.
Child Participation in Estonian and Finnish Child Welfare Removals – Professionals’ Perceptions and Practices
Authors: Toivonen Virve , Muhonen Jatta , Kalliomaa-Puha Laura , Luhamaa Katre , Strömpl Judit
Published: August 2021

A child’s right to participate is one of the general principles of the Convention on the Rights of the Child (crc). It is an integral part of a child’s right to have his/her best interest taken into account as a primary consideration. Therefore, it is indispensable in the decision-making connected with child welfare removals, the effects of which on the child’s life are long lasting and profound. In this article we examine the perceptions and practices of child-welfare professionals in the context of children’s rights, especially participation rights, in two neighbouring countries: Finland and Estonia. The findings are based on a survey and suggest that in the context of children’s rights, legislation also has its role in making children’s rights a reality, both as a prerequisite for reform as well as in shaping attitudes. However, legal regulation is not enough – full realisation also reguires more information, education and resources.
Ottoman History and the Islamic-Ottoman Cultural Legacy in Bosnia in the First Edition of the Encyclopaedia of Yugoslavia (1950–1971)
Authors: Mujadžević Dino
Published: August 2021

The article analyses how the first edition of the Encyclopedia of Yugoslavia (1955–1971) treated the Ottoman history and Islamo-Ottoman cultural legacy. The article is based on encyclopedic articles, documents related to the editing and writing of the encyclopedia and marginalia written by the editor-in-chief of the project. The first edition of the EJ was affected – albeit inconsistently – by the officially sanctioned anti-Ottoman discourse that presented this era as the time of oppression and backwardness. The Ottoman history in Bosnia was seen as an important topic and it was given a large space. In contrast to the articles on ideologically important topics, a large portion of articles on Ottoman history was written in a neutral manner. The Islamo-Ottoman contributions to Bosnian cultural legacy were marginalized as part of the deliberate editorial policy. This policy changed only in the last, 8th, volume reflecting political changes in the country.
Additions to the microfungi in Taiwan: introducing Pseudorobillarda camelliae-sinensis sp. nov., (Pseudorobillardaceae) and new host records of pleosporalean taxa in mountainous habitats
Authors: RATHNAYAKA ACHALA R. , CHETHANA K.W. THILINI , TENNAKOON DANUSHKA S. , LUMYONG SAISAMORN , HYDE KEVIN D.
Published: August 2021

A novel taxon, Pseudorobillarda camelliae-sinensis (Pseudorobillardaceae) and new host records of pleosporalean taxa viz. Neopyrenochaeta triseptatispora (Neopyrenochaetaceae), Ramusculicola thailandica (Teichosporaceae) and Vaginatispora palmae (Lophiostomataceae) resulted from our investigation of plant-associated microfungi in Alishan and Fenghuang Mountain ranges in Taiwan. These taxa were isolated from dicotyledonous hosts of Bignoniaceae, Caprifoliaceae, Meliaceae and Moraceae. Maximum likelihood and Bayesian inference analyses were performed using combined SSU, LSU, ITS, tef1-α and rpb2 sequence data to clarify the phylogenetic affinities of taxa. The newly described taxa of the current study are accompanied by comprehensive descriptions, micrographs and comparisons with similar species. In addition, the importance of exploiting fungi from mountain habitats in Taiwan is discussed.
Revisiting the taxonomy of Geranium kishtvariense (Geraniaceae) & notes on neotypification
Authors: HURRAH IMTIYAZ AHMAD , WAGH VIJAY VISHNU
Published: August 2021

The confusing delineation of G. kishtvariense from its close kins is discussed here. Detailed notes on updated taxonomy, important distinguishing characters, distribution, conservation status as well as field and microscopic photographs are also provided. Additionally, a neotype for this name has also been designated here.
Distinct heat treatments and powder size ratios affecting mechanical responses of Al/Si/Cu composites
Authors: Satizabal Luz M , Caurin Heloisa FN , Meyer Yuri A , Padilha Giovana S , Bortolozo Ausdinir D , Osório Wislei R
Published: August 2021

The aim in this investigation is focused on the evaluation of two distinctive powder size ratios of pure elements (Al, Si and Cu) powders. Heat treatments (T4 and T6) affecting the mechanical strengths of Al/Si/Cu composites are also investigated. The novelty concerns to pure elements to constituting the composites and no melting or stir casting route are used. It is found that the densifications and tensile strengths are similar when distinct powder size ratios are used. It is also found that T4 and T6 treatments increases and decreases the mechanical strengths, respectively. The Si content indicates a deleterious effect in mechanical behavior. The T6 aging provides θ-Al2Cu incoherent with Al matrix, and the compressive strength is decreased. This suggests that the examined Al/Cu composites (using pure powders) are potential materials considering economical and environmentally friendly aspects.
Effect of process parameters on mode-II interlaminar fracture toughness and fractographic features of automated fibre placement prepreg laminates
Authors: Liu Xin , Qian Shimeng , Ye Yaoyao , Xu Qiang , Li Xiangqian
Published: August 2021

The present study concerns the quantitive assessment of the influence of process parameters on the interlaminar properties of carbon fiber reinforced epoxy composites. Mode II interlaminar fracture toughness is evaluated based on the ENF test. Scanning electron microscopy images are used to evaluate the change in microstructures. The results indicate that the process parameters have a direct influence on the microstructural features and fracture toughness of laminates. Specifically, the elevation of layup speed leads to the increase of interlaminar porosity which results in a decline of fracture toughness. The moderate pressure could sufficiently evacuate air bubbles during the deposition which to a certain extent decreases the porosity; however, the excessive pressure squeezes resin out from the interlaminar region, which decreases the fracture toughness. Furthermore, the excessive temperature could both increase porosity and result in a thinner resin layer due to the change in resin flowability. In which case, the fracture toughness would be significantly decreased.
Hype News Diffusion and Risk of Misinformation: The Oz Effect in Health Care
Authors: Shi Zijun (June) , Liu Xiao , Srinivasan Kannan
Published: August 2021

Consumers’ choices about health products are heavily influenced by public information, such as news articles, research articles, online customer reviews, online product discussion, and TV shows. Dr. Oz, a celebrity physician, often makes medical recommendations with limited or marginal scientific evidence. Although reputable news agencies have traditionally acted as gatekeepers of reliable information, they face the intense pressure of “the eyeball game.” Customer reviews, despite their authenticity, may come from deceived consumers. Therefore, it remains unclear whether public information sources can correct the misleading health information. In the context of over-the-counter weight loss products, the authors carefully analyze the cascading of information post endorsement. The analysis of extensive textual content with deep-learning methods reveals that legitimate news outlets respond to Dr. Oz's endorsement by generating more news articles about the ingredient; on average, articles after the endorsement contain higher sentiment, so news agencies seem to amplify rather than rectify the misleading endorsement. The finding highlights a serious concern: the risk of hype news diffusion. Research articles react too slowly to mitigate the problem, and online customer reviews and product discussions provide only marginal corrections. The findings underscore the importance of oversight to mitigate the risk of cascading hype news.
The divergent logics of urban regeneration in Israel: A neoliberal toolkit and national rationales
Authors: Alster Tal , Avni Nufar
Published: August 2021

In recent years, urban regeneration policy in Israel has relied largely on market-based mechanisms to deliver its goals, seemingly in keeping with neoliberal trends. Whereas, in previous decades, the construction and renovation of housing was facilitated primarily by state-run projects, current urban regeneration policy relies heavily on private actors – developers and homeowners – motivated by profit and the allocation of building rights. In this article, we argue that while this policy appears to be consistent with neoliberal trends, the Israeli government, as well as the public, in fact continue to view urban regeneration as a project of national significance, deserving of public funding if market forces should prove inadequate. We describe the unique characteristics of urban regeneration policy in Israel, arguing that they derive from ‘moral economy’ logic as well as geopolitical considerations such as national security and commitment to the periphery. We make this argument by examining urban regeneration in the country’s geographical and economic ‘periphery’, where the state is expected to finance and incentivise regeneration in the absence of market incentives. We conclude that even in a supposedly heightened neoliberal era, Israel’s regeneration policy continues to be centralised and driven by national objectives and centre–periphery relations that reproduce the country’s path-dependent development trajectory.
COVID-19 and mental health: Anxiety disorders among immigrants due to COVID-19 outbreak in South Korea
Authors: Acharya Shiva Raj , Moon Deog Hwan , Chun Jin Ho , Shin Yong Chul
Published: August 2021

Background

The COVID-19 pandemic has affected various facets of health. While mental health became a major concern during the COVID-19 outbreak, the impact on the migrants’ mental health has still been neglected. The purpose of this study was to examine the COVID-19 outbreak's impact on the mental health of immigrants in South Korea.

Methods

A total number of 386 immigrants in South Korea participated in this quantitative cross-sectional study. The standardized e-questionnaire, including the General Anxiety Disorder (GAD-7) scale, was used to measure the anxiety level. Logistic regression analysis was performed to find out the determinants of anxiety disorders among immigrants.

Results

The prevalence of severe anxiety among immigrants was found to be 47.2%. Female immigrants (28.6%) had a lower anxiety disorder than males (71.4%). Immigrants who were married, living alone, had a low income, had a history of health problems were suffered from moderate to severe anxiety. Immigrants who were unemployed (OR 2.302, 95% CI = 1.353–3.917) and lost their jobs due to the COVID-19 outbreak (OR 2.197, 95% CI = 1.312–3.678) have a higher anxiety disorder. Immigrants aged over 30 years were found to suffer from a high level of anxiety (OR 2.285, 95% CI = 1.184–4.410). Relief support from the government was significantly associated with anxiety disorder among immigrants (p < 0.01, OR = 3.151, 95% CI = 1.962–5.061).

Conclusion

With very limited studies on immigrants’ mental health during the COVID-19 pandemic, this paper provides scientific research evidence of the COVID-19 outbreak's impact on the mental health of migrants. Our study has consequences for implementing integrated psychological interventions and health promotion strategies for the well-being of immigrants’ mental health.
A field programmable gate array-based biomedical noise reduction framework using advanced trilateral filter
Authors: Ramkumar Raja M , Naveen R , Palaniswamy Thangam , Mahendiran TV , Shukla Neeraj Kumar , Verma Rajesh
Published: August 2021

Filtering is one of the essential tools utilized to remove undesirable features in biomedical images. Most biomedical image denoising systems are used for clinical diagnosis. So, in this paper, we use the advanced trilateral filter in the field programmable gate array (FPGA) for removing noise in the biomedical image. Generally, the trilateral filter is used as an edge preserving smoothing filter. This advanced approach of trilateral filter gives the best noise diminution and enhances the image quality. This paper also proposes the hardware implementation of an efficient FPGA-based advanced trilateral filter on real time execution. In this manuscript, we intend to design and implement the FPGA architecture using an advanced trilateral filter. Biomedical images with different noises are used during implementation and compared with the existing bilateral and trilateral architecture to assess the proposed architecture performance. For evaluating the performance metrics of the proposed advanced trilateral filter on MATLAB platform, peak signal-to-noise ratio (PSNR), mean squared error (MSE) and structured similarity index (SSIM) are calculated for different biomedical images – such as brain (MRI), chest (x-ray) and lungs (CT) – with different noises – such as salt and pepper, Gaussian, Poisson and Speckle noises – compared with existing bilateral filter and trilateral filter, respectively. The proposed advanced trilateral filter implementations are checked on Virtex-6, Virtex-7 and Zynq FPGA development board using Verilog programming language in Xilinx ISE 14.5 design tools. The simulation outcomes display that the FPGA execution of the advanced trilateral filter contains better noise removal efficiency in biomedical images compared with the existing bilateral and trilateral filter.
Future-Proofing Geriatric Mental Health Care Services in India: Training and Policy Directions
Authors: Philip Sharad , Gajera Gopi , Nirisha P Lakshmi , Sivakumar Palanimuthu Thangaraju , Barikar Malathesh C. , Panday Praveen , Patley Rahul , Chander Rakesh , Sinha Preeti , Basavarajappa Chethan , Manjunatha Narayana , Kumar Channaveerachari Naveen , Math Suresh Bada
Published: August 2021

Background:

A burgeoning rise in the elderly subpopulation is being noted in India. This rise has already earned the designation as a shining nation by the United Nations/World Health Organization. This growth will take the elderly subpopulation to 324 million persons above 60 years by 2050. The mental health needs of this subpopulation are varied and nuanced compared to that of the general population. The risk and prevalence of mental health morbidity are also greater. There is an urgent need to gear up the health care systems.

Considerations:

Various aspects of the ongoing demographic transitions are considered alongside available health information. Legislative mandates and laws are also reviewed to provide context to qualify the action points and recommendations.  Recommendations, India must act urgently to strengthen health care delivery systems in a concurrent multipronged approach. These efforts should focus on developing trained Human Resources and adequate infrastructural resources. Review mechanisms to inform on required updates on best practices and evidence-based medicine must also be incorporated and developed to perform periodically.
Explanations as governance? Investigating practices of explanation in algorithmic system design
Authors: Powell Alison B
Published: August 2021

The algorithms underpinning many everyday communication processes are now complex enough that rendering them explainable has become a key governance objective. This article examines the question of 'who should be required to explain what, to whom, in platform environments'. By working with algorithm designers and using design methods to extrapolate existing capacities to explain aglorithmic functioning, the article discusses the power relationships underpinning explanation of algorithmic function. Reviewing how key concepts of transparency and accountability connect with explainability, the paper argues that reliance on explainability as a governance mechanism can generate a dangerous paradox which legitimates increased reliance on programmable infrastructure as expert stakeholders are reassured by their ability to perform or receive explanations, while displacing responsibility for understandings of social context and definitions of public interest
Changes in mortality patterns and place of death during the COVID-19 pandemic: A descriptive analysis of mortality data across four nations
Authors: O’Donnell Sean B , Bone Anna E , Finucane Anne M , McAleese Jenny , Higginson Irene J , Barclay Stephen , Sleeman Katherine E , Murtagh Fliss EM
Published: August 2021

Background:

Understanding patterns of mortality and place of death during the COVID-19 pandemic is important to help provide appropriate services and resources.

Aims:

To analyse patterns of mortality including place of death in the United Kingdom (UK) (England, Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland) during the COVID-19 pandemic to date.

Design:

Descriptive analysis of UK mortality data between March 2020 and March 2021. Weekly number of deaths was described by place of death, using the following definitions: (1) expected deaths: average expected deaths estimated using historical data (2015–19); (2) COVID-19 deaths: where COVID-19 is mentioned on the death certificate; (3) additional non-COVID-19 deaths: above expected but not attributed to COVID-19; (4) baseline deaths: up to and including expected deaths but excluding COVID-19 deaths.

Results:

During the analysis period, 798,643 deaths were registered in the UK, of which 147,282 were COVID-19 deaths and 17,672 were additional non-COVID-19 deaths. While numbers of people who died in care homes and hospitals increased above expected only during the pandemic waves, the numbers of people who died at home remained above expected both during and between the pandemic waves, with an overall increase of 41%.

Conclusions:

Where people died changed during the COVID-19 pandemic, with an increase in deaths at home during and between pandemic waves. This has implications for planning and organisation of palliative care and community services. The extent to which these changes will persist longer term remains unclear. Further research could investigate whether this is reflected in other countries with high COVID-19 mortality.
Short regulatory DNA sequences to target brain endothelial cells for gene therapy
Authors: Graßhoff Hanna , Müller-Fielitz Helge , Dogbevia Godwin K , Körbelin Jakob , Bannach Jacqueline , Vahldieck Carl MG , Kusche-Vihrog Kristina , Jöhren Olaf , Müller Oliver J , Nogueiras Ruben , Prevot Vincent , Schwaninger Markus
Published: August 2021

Gene vectors targeting CNS endothelial cells allow to manipulate the blood-brain barrier and to correct genetic defects in the CNS. Because vectors based on the adeno-associated virus (AAV) have a limited capacity, it is essential that the DNA sequence controlling gene expression is short. In addition, it must be specific for endothelial cells to avoid off-target effects. To develop improved regulatory sequences with selectivity for brain endothelial cells, we tested the transcriptional activity of truncated promoters of eleven (brain) endothelial-specific genes in combination with short regulatory elements, i.e., the woodchuck post-transcriptional regulatory element (W), the CMV enhancer element (C), and a fragment of the first intron of the Tie2 gene (S), by transfecting brain endothelial cells of three species. Four combinations of regulatory elements and short promoters ( Cdh5, Ocln, Slc2a1, and Slco1c1) progressed through this in-vitro pipeline displaying suitable activity. When tested in mice, the regulatory sequences C- Ocln-W and C- Slc2a1-S-W enabled a stronger and more specific gene expression in brain endothelial cells than the frequently used CAG promoter. In summary, the new regulatory elements efficiently control gene expression in brain endothelial cells and may help to specifically target the blood-brain barrier with gene therapy vectors.
Malignant astrocyte swelling and impaired glutamate clearance drive the expansion of injurious spreading depolarization foci
Authors: Menyhárt Ákos , Frank Rita , Farkas Attila E , Süle Zoltán , Varga Viktória É , Nyúl-Tóth Ádám , Meiller Anne , Ivánkovits-Kiss Orsolya , Lemale Coline L , Szabó Írisz , Tóth Réka , Zölei-Szénási Dániel , Woitzik Johannes , Marinesco Stephane , Krizbai István A , Bari Ferenc , Dreier Jens P , Farkas Eszter
Published: August 2021

Spreading depolarizations (SDs) indicate injury progression and predict worse clinical outcome in acute brain injury. We demonstrate in rodents that acute brain swelling upon cerebral ischemia impairs astroglial glutamate clearance and increases the tissue area invaded by SD. The cytotoxic extracellular glutamate accumulation (>15 µM) predisposes an extensive bulk of tissue (4–5 mm2) for a yet undescribed simultaneous depolarization (SiD). We confirm in rat brain slices exposed to osmotic stress that SiD is the pathological expansion of prior punctual SD foci (0.5–1 mm2), is associated with astrocyte swelling, and triggers oncotic neuron death. The blockade of astrocytic aquaporin-4 channels and Na+/K+/Cl− co-transporters, or volume-regulated anion channels mitigated slice edema, extracellular glutamate accumulation (<10 µM) and SiD occurrence. Reversal of slice swelling by hyperosmotic mannitol counteracted glutamate accumulation and prevented SiD. In contrast, inhibition of glial metabolism or inhibition of astrocyte glutamate transporters reproduced the SiD phenotype. Finally, we show in the rodent water intoxication model of cytotoxic edema that astrocyte swelling and altered astrocyte calcium waves are central in the evolution of SiD. We discuss our results in the light of evidence for SiD in the human cortex. Our results emphasize the need of preventive osmotherapy in acute brain injury.
Integrated Train Timetabling and Rolling Stock Circulation Planning for a Metro Line with Multiple Depots
Authors: Zhao Kangqi , Wang Yihui , Zhu Songwei , Sun Di , Wei Guodong
Published: August 2021

With the expansion of metro networks, it is common that a metro line is equipped with multiple depots. The operation costs of rail operators and the passenger satisfaction are highly dependent on train timetables and rolling stock circulation plans, which are closely related to each other. Therefore, it is important to investigate the integrated train timetabling and rolling stock circulation planning problem for metro lines with multiple depots. A mixed integer linear programming formulation is proposed to generate train timetables and rolling stock circulation plans simultaneously for a metro line with multiple depots, in which the capacity of each depot and the rolling stock balances between depots are considered. Several numerical experiments based on real-world data of Beijing Subway Line 5 and Beijing Subway Line 6 are carried out to demonstrate the effectiveness of the presented model.
Participation in Shared Mobility: An Analysis of the Influence of Walking and Public Transport Accessibility to Vehicles on Carsharing Membership in Montreal, Canada
Authors: Roblot Mathilde , Boisjoly Geneviève , Francesco Ciari , Martin Trépanier
Published: August 2021

In the context of sustainable mobility policies, carsharing services have gained importance as an alternative to personal vehicles. In an effort to increase the adherence to and use of such services, several studies have explored the key factors that determine use and membership. Although the ease with which individuals can access shared vehicles appears to be a central determinant, few studies have specifically investigated how to measure station and vehicle accessibility. To fill this gap, this study seeks to systematically assess and compare the contribution of different accessibility indicators to modeling carsharing membership rate, using 2016 data from the Montreal carsharing company Communauto and from the Canadian census. Three indicators of accessibility to in-station vehicles are generated: walking only, public transport only, and multimodal accessibility (walking and public transport), considering a variety of travel time thresholds and cost functions. A linear regression model is then generated to assess the contribution of the different indicators to modeling membership rates, while controlling for socio-economic and commuting characteristics. The results show that walking accessibility, within 20 minutes, and public transport accessibility, within 40 minutes, are both key determinants of membership rate and in a complementary manner. The influence of public transport accessibility is positive and highest when walking accessibility is low. The results also demonstrate that the use of a cumulative or weighted-opportunity indicator is equally sound from an empirical perspective. The study is of relevance to researchers and planners wishing to better understand and model the influence of vehicle accessibility.
Developing a Google Earth-Based Method to Measure Sight Distance for U-Turns at Unsignalized Intersections on Multilane Divided Highways
Authors: Quan Li , Zhang Beijia , Zhou Huaguo , Liu Pan
Published: August 2021

The median U-turn is one of the most popular access management techniques implemented by state transportation agencies. Sight distance (SD) is among the key elements for the safe operation of median U-turns. The traditional method of measuring SD is using sight rods in the field, which is inconvenient and unsafe; thus, it is important to develop a convenient and safer method to measure SD for U-turn movement. The objective of this study is to develop a safe and cost-effective method to measure SD for U-turn vehicles, without going into the field, using existing tools in Google Earth and a perspective grid method that can be generated by Kinovea software. The method can be used in two different road geometric conditions: (i) a straight segment with crest curves; (ii) a roadway with a combination of crest curves and horizontal curves. For Condition (i), an empirical equation was developed to estimate SD as a function of distance and elevation along the sight line measured using Google Earth. For Condition (ii), a perspective grid was first applied using Google Earth ground-level view; then the number of broken lines and gaps in each perspective grid cell was used to measure the SD. All inputs can be collected using Google Earth. Field measurements of SD for U-turns at 10 selected locations were conducted to verify the validity of the method. The results show that the differences between the model estimates and field measurements are all less than 10%.
Quantitative Multi-Criteria Decision Support Approach for Prioritizing Grade Crossings to Address the Problem of Blocked Crossings
Authors: Prodan Aleksandr , Sakhrani Vivek , Roy Marc-André , Dietrich Matthew , Phinney Scott N. , McClory Megan
Published: August 2021

How should an agency proactively identify and prioritize rail-highway grade crossings for intervention in relation to their likely performance benefits for the community and the system? Performance is mainly related to two factors: (i) the likelihood and duration of “blockage,” that is, the temporary obstruction of a road link when a train blocks the intersecting grade crossing, and (ii) the “hazard condition” of the crossing itself, with regard to its design and asset quality. Existing analytical grade crossing prioritization models focus almost solely on safety and crash prevention by addressing the “hazard condition” aspect of performance. The paper develops a quantitative multi-criteria approach that not only considers and builds on existing analytical safety-based approaches, but goes beyond and also includes considerations such as blocked crossings. The model calculates a multi-dimensional adaptive capacity score (ACS) for each crossing, which can then be used to rank a set of crossings, as well as test different policy scenarios and their effect on prioritization. The model is applied to approximately 5,700 grade crossings in the State of Ohio and detailed pilot validations with stakeholders in two counties conducted. Based on the validation process, the model provides comprehensive and cohesive results and is being deployed statewide. Next steps involve incorporating considerations for truck traffic and pedestrians/bicycles (non-motorized users) in calculating the ACS as well as developing mitigation measures for blocked crossings that can be considered from the model.