bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Multistep Prediction of Bus Arrival Time with the Recurrent Neural Network
Authors: Xie Zhi-Ying , He Yuan-Rong , Chen Chih-Cheng , Li Qing-Quan , Wu Chia-Chun
Published: March 2021

Accurate predictions of bus arrival times help passengers arrange their trips easily and flexibly and improve travel efficiency. Thus, it is important to manage and schedule the arrival times of buses for the efficient deployment of buses and to ease traffic congestion, which improves the service quality of the public transport system. However, due to many variables disturbing the scheduled transportation, accurate prediction is challenging. For accurate prediction of the arrival time of a bus, this research adopted a recurrent neural network (RNN). For the prediction, the variables affecting the bus arrival time were investigated from the data set containing the route, a driver, weather, and the schedule. Then, a stacked multilayer RNN model was created with the variables that were categorized into four groups. The RNN model with a separate multi-input and spatiotemporal sequence model was applied to the data of the arrival and leaving times of a bus from all of a Shandong Linyi bus route. The result of the model simulation revealed that the convolutional long short-term memory (ConvLSTM) model showed the highest accuracy among the tested models. The propagation of error and the number of prediction steps influenced the prediction accuracy.
Fixed Point Theorems for Generalizedθ−ϕ−Expansive Mapping in Rectangular Metric Spaces
Authors: Rossafi Mohamed , Kari Abdelkarim , Marhrani El Miloudi , Aamri Mohamed
Published: March 2021

In this paper, we present the notion ofθ−ϕ−expansive mapping in complete rectangular metric spaces and study various fixed point theorems for such mappings. The presented theorems extend, generalize, and improve many existing results in the literature.
Characterization and Quantification of Luteolin-Metal Complexes in Aqueous Extract of Lonicerae Japonicae Flos and Huangshan Wild Chrysanthemum
Authors: Cai Weilan , Xiong Yunhao , Han Manman , Li Zhimin , Peng Liang , Zhang Hongyi , Zou Qin , Wu Lin , Ye Qingling , Liao Linfeng
Published: March 2021

Luteolin is a flavonoid compound widely found in vegetables, fruits, and medicinal plants. In this study, the reaction conditions for luteolin and five metal ions (Ca2+, Mg2+, Zn2+, Fe3+, and Cu2+) to form complexes in hot water were optimized, which was at a molar ratio of 1 : 1 for luteolin and metal ions at 90°C in a volume of 20 mL for 2 h, and the ability of luteolin to form complexes with Cu2+ was the strongest. The DPPH scavenging test showed that luteolin exerted a dose-dependent effect on the clearance of free radicals; luteolin-Cu2+ complexes and luteolin-Fe3+ complexes accentuated the clearance of free radicals. Furthermore, we used high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) to analyze luteolin in samples from two medicinal plants, obtained from the dissolution of aqueous extracts in two different solvents. The results showed that the peak areas for luteolin in the samples dissolved in 20% formic acid-methanol were significantly larger than those from the samples dissolved in methanol alone, with increases in the peak area being 135.6% (Lonicerae Japonicae Flos), and 161.16% (Huangshan wild chrysanthemum). The aforementioned results indicate that complexes formed from organic compounds and metal ions are present in the decoction of a plant.
Value Analysis of Using Urinary Microalbumin in Artificial Intelligence Medical Institutions to Detect Early Renal Damage in Diabetes
Authors: Lin Sitong , Guo Yushan
Published: March 2021

As the scale and depth of artificial intelligence network models continue to increase, their accuracy in albumin recognition tasks has increased rapidly. However, today’s small medical datasets are the main reason for the poor recognition of artificial intelligence techniques in this area. The sample size in this article is based on the data analysis and research on urine albumin detection of diabetes in the EI database. It is assumed that the observation group has at least 20 mg UAER difference from the control group, and the standard deviation of the UAER change from baseline to 12 weeks is 30 mg. Therefore, the sample size of the two groups is 77 cases. Assuming that the rate of loss to follow-up during the follow-up period is 20%, at least 92 patients are needed. The final enrollment in this study is 100 patients. Studies have shown that DR is used as an indicator to diagnose NDRD, and its OR value is as high as 28.198, indicating that non-DR can be used as an indicator to distinguish DN from NDRD. The meta-analysis found that DR has a sensitivity of 0.65 and a specificity of 0.75 in distinguishing DN from NDRD in patients with type 2 diabetes, and it is emphasized that PDR is highly specific in the diagnosis of DN. Using a meta-analysis to systematically analyze 45 studies, it was found that the sensitivity of DR to diagnose DN was 0.67, the specificity was 0.78, and the specificity of PDR to predict DN was 0.99, indicating that DR is a good indicator for predicting DN, and the team’s latest research has also verified this point of view. They have established a new model for diagnosing DN. In addition to including traditional proteinuria, glycosylated hemoglobin, FR, blood pressure, and other indicators into the diagnostic model, it will also include the presence or absence of DR. The final external verification accuracy rate of this model is 0.875.
Predicting Obesity Using Facial Pictures during COVID‐19 Pandemic
Authors: Chanda Arnab , Chatterjee Subhodip
Published: March 2021

Background. Sedentary lifestyle and work from home schedules due to the ongoing COVID‐19 pandemic in 2020 have caused a significant rise in obesity across adults. With limited visits to the doctors during this period to avoid possible infections, there is currently no way to measure or track obesity. Methods. We reviewed the literature on relationships between obesity and facial features, in white, black, hispanic‐latino, and Korean populations and validated them against a cohort of Indian participants (n = 106). The body mass index (BMI) and waist‐to‐hip ratio (WHR) were obtained using anthropometric measurements, and body fat mass (BFM), percentage body fat (PBF), and visceral fat area (VFA) were measured using body composition analysis. Facial pictures were also collected and processed to characterize facial geometry. Regression analysis was conducted to determine correlations between body fat parameters and facial model parameters. Results. Lower facial geometry was highly correlated with BMI (R2 = 0.77) followed by PBF (R2 = 0.72), VFA (R2 = 0.65), WHR (R2 = 0.60), BFM (R2 = 0.59), and weight (R2 = 0.54). Conclusions. The ability to predict obesity using facial images through mobile application or telemedicine can help with early diagnosis and timely medical intervention for people with obesity during the pandemic.
Modified Masquelet Technique Using Allogeneic Graft for a Gustilo-Anderson Type III-A Open Fracture of the Femur with an 8 cm Bone Defect
Authors: Issaoui Hichem , Fekhaoui Mohammed Reda , Jamous Moheddin , Masquelet Alain-Charles
Published: March 2021

The induced membrane technique was initially described by Masquelet et al. in 1986 as a treatment for tibia nonunion; then, it became one of the established methods in the management of bone defects. Several changes have been made to this technique and have been used in different contexts and different methodologies. We present the case of a 16-year-old girl admitted to our department for a polytrauma after a motorcycle accident. She presented a Gustilo III-A open fracture of the right femoral shaft with a large bone defect of 8 centimeters that we treated with a modified Masquelet technique. In the first stage, an Open Reduction and Internal Fixation of the fracture was made using a 4,5 mm Dynamic Compression Plate and a PMMA cement was inserted at the bone defect area. The second stage was done after 11 weeks, and the defect area was filled exclusively with bone allograft from a bone bank. Complete bony union was seen at 60 weeks of follow-up. After the removal of the implants by another surgeon, the patient presented an atraumatic fracture of the neoformed bone that we treated with intramedullary femoral nailing associated with a local autograft using reaming debris. A complete bony union was achieved after 12 weeks with a complete range of motion of the hip and knee. The stability given to the fracture is essential because it influences the quality of the induced membrane and Masquelet has recommended high initial fixation rigidity to promote incorporation of the graft. It is recommended to delay the second stage of this technique after 8 weeks, especially in femoral reconstruction, to optimize the quality of the induced membrane. Several studies used a modified induced membrane technique to recreate a traumatic large bone defect, and all of them used an autologous bone graft alone or an enriched bone graft. In this case, the use of allograft exclusively seems to be as successful as an autologous or enriched bone graft. Now, with the advent of bone banks, it is possible to get an unlimited amount of allograft, so additional research and large studies are necessary before giving recommendations.
Cloning, Expression, and Characterization of Xylanase G2 from Aspergillus oryzae VTCC‐F187 in Aspergillus niger VTCC‐F017
Authors: Tuyen Do Thi , Cuong Nguyen Tien , le Thanh Nguyen Sy , Thao Nguyen Thi , Hoang Le Thanh , Trang Nguyen Thi Hien , Trung Nguyen Thi , Anh Dao Thi Mai
Published: March 2021

The study focuses on engineering of recombinant Aspergillus niger to produce highly active xylanase. The xylanase G2 encoding gene originating from Aspergillus oryzae VTCC‐F187 was cloned, amplified, and inserted into the pAN7.1GluA vector with specific primers possessing BamHI. The recombinant plasmid was introduced into Aspergillus niger VTCC‐F017 by chemical methods. The recombinant strain was checked by polymerase chain reaction method and Southern blot. Next, the recombinant protein was expressed and purified by His‐tag column. The molecular mass of the purified xylanase G2, as determined by sodium dodecyl sulphate polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis (SDS‐PAGE), was 21 kDa with a specific activity of 1025 IU/mg towards 0.5% (w/v) of birchwood xylan. The optimal temperature and pH were 55°C and pH 6.5, respectively. The enzyme was stable in a temperature ranges 25–40°C and a pH ranges 5–7. The presence of Tween 80 enhanced xylanase activity. Triton X‐100, however, had no impact on the function of the enzyme. The xylanase activity was reduced by Tween 20, SDS, and organic solvents. The enzyme was completely inhibited by Hg2+ and partially by Zn2+, Fe2+, and Ag+, while it was slightly stimulated by K+ and EDTA.
Smart Nursing Homes: Self‐Management Architecture Based on IoT and Machine Learning for Rural Areas
Authors: Flores-Martin Daniel , Rojo Javier , Moguel Enrique , Berrocal Javier , Murillo Juan M.
Published: March 2021

The rate of world population aging is increasing. This situation directly affects all countries socially and economically, increasing their compromise and effort to improve the living conditions of this sector of society. In environments with large influxes of elderly people, such as nursing homes, the use of technology has shown promise in improving their quality of life. The use of smart devices allows people to automate everyday tasks and learn from them to predict future actions. Additionally, smartphones capture a wealth of information that allows to adapt to nearby actuators according to people’s preferences and even detects anomalies in their behaviour. Current works are proposing new frameworks to detect these behaviours and act accordingly. However, these works are not focused on managing multidevice environments where sensor and smartphone data are considered to automate environments with elderly people or to learn from them. Also, most of these works require a permanent Internet connection, so the full benefit of smart devices is not completely achieved. In this work, we present an architecture that takes the data from sensors and smartphones in order to adapt the behaviour of the actuators of the environment. In addition, it uses this data to learn from the environment to predict actions or to extrapolate the actions that should be executed according to similar behaviours. The architecture is implemented through a use case based on a nursing home located in a rural area. Thanks to this work, the quality of life of the elderly is improved in a simple, affordable, and transparent way for them.
Energy Analysis of Commercial Buildings Using Artificial Neural Network
Authors: Uba Felix , Apevienyeku Holali Kwami , Nsiah Freda Dapaa , Akorli Alex , Adjignon Stephen
Published: March 2021

Energy consumption in buildings especially in offices is alarming and prompts the desire for more energy analysis work to be done in testing models that can estimate the energy situation of commercial buildings, and the key contributing factors are based on human factors, work load, and weather variables like solar radiation and temperature. In the research, the administration block of the University of Energy and Natural Resources, Ghana, was selected and modeled for energy analysis using SketchUp. Daily energy consumption of the building was generated with EnergyPlus indicating the electricity consumption of the block for the year 2018 for which 68.7% was used by equipment in the block, 26.98% on cooling, and the rest on lighting. The Artificial Neural Network model which had weather variable and days as input neurons and cooling, lighting, equipment, and total building electricity consumption as output neurons was modeled in MATLAB. The model after training had

R

values for training, validation, and testing to be 0.999 and validation performance of

1.7
∗

10

−
04

. It was able to predict the energy consumption for lighting, cooling, and equipment very close to the results with minimal. The results from the ANN model prediction were compared with the EnergyPlus simulations. The maximum deviation profile for the following parameters (lighting, cooling, and equipment) is 13%, 8%, and 4%, respectively. The large difference in the lighting and cooling is the difficulty involved in predicting human behaviour and weather conditions. The least value recorded for the equipment is due to its independence on external factors.
Physical Exercise as a Resilience Factor to Mitigate COVID-Related Allostatic Overload
Authors: Eöry Ajandek , Békési Dora , Eöry Ajandok , Rózsa Sandor
Published: March 2021

Introduction: The long-lasting threat of COVID-19 makes it necessary to explore strategies to improve coping skills which enable us to master a balanced life in the face of adversity. Objective: To unravel the most challenging aspects of COVID-19 in a nonclinical adult population and identify predictors of lost balance and consequent allostatic overload (AO). We examined the role of regular, moderate-intensity formula aerobic exercise (312 meridian exercise) in preventing allostatic overload through increasing well-being. Methods: An online survey was conducted to measure CO­VID-related allostatic overload according to clinimetric criteria. The Psychosocial Index (PSI), Kellner’s Symptom Questionnaire (KSQ), short Depression Anxiety Stress Scales (DASS-21), Public Health Surveillance Well-Being Scale ­(PHS-WB), and Whiteley-7 were used to explore mental health characteristics. Univariate statistics logistic regression analysis and a general linear model were used. Results: According to 442 valid answers, 217 adults practiced physical exercise (PE) frequently (fPE, 3–5 times/every day) while 120 did it less regularly (1–2 times/week), and 105 did not exercise/practiced irregularly (controls). Restriction-related stressors were most challenging, resulting in AO in 29% (n = 128) of the sample. The main predictors were additional stressors (p = 0.005) and anxiety symptoms (p < 0.001). The prevalence of AO was lower (p = 0.018) in the fPE group when compared to controls. KSQ distress symptoms were also lower in fPE (p < 0.0001), while total well-being was increased (p < 0.001) after adjusting for sex, age, and number of chronic diseases. According to the PHS-WB, both physical and mental well-being were higher (p = 0.003 and p = 0.004, respectively) in fPE. Conclusions: Frequent moderate exercise is associated with better mental and physical well-being and a lower prevalence of AO.
Um olhar sobre o Brasil: como Eliane Brum retrata o Brasil e os brasileiros
Authors: Quadros Ana Resende , Oliveira Luiz Ademir de , Leal Paulo Roberto Figueira
Published: March 2021

A mídia exerce um papel central na nossa sociedade. Ela, como um dos pilares da comunicação contemporânea, influencia a forma como compreendemos o mundo, a nós mesmos e ao grupo ao qual pertencemos. Devido às mudanças que o Brasil passou nos últimos cinco anos, este artigo propõe revisitar conceitos clássicos e contemporâneos do imaginário do País – propostos por Freyre, Hollanda, Souza, Schwarcz e Starling – e compará-los com o que é divulgado por uma das principais jornalistas brasileiras, Eliane Brum. O objetivo é avaliar de que forma a percepção de Brasil descrita pela jornalista se aproxima ou se afasta das propostas pelos estudiosos. Para atingir essa meta, foi feita uma análise de conteúdo, aos moldes de Laurence Bardin, dos textos publicados por Brum em 2019, em especial aqueles nos quais as palavras Brasil e brasileiro/a (s) eram mais utilizadas.
Renal Sympathetic Denervation in Patients With Heart Failure With Preserved Ejection Fraction
Authors: Kresoja Karl-Patrik , Rommel Karl-Philipp , Fengler Karl , von Roeder Maximilian , Besler Christian , Lücke Christian , Gutberlet Matthias , Desch Steffen , Thiele Holger , Böhm Michael , Lurz Philipp
Published: March 2021

Background:

Arterial hypertension is the most common comorbidity in patients with heart failure with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF) and mediates adverse hemodynamics through related aortic stiffness and increased pulsatile load. We aimed to investigate the clinical and hemodynamic implications of renal sympathetic denervation (RDN) in patients with HFpEF and uncontrolled arterial hypertension.

Methods:

Patients undergoing RDN between 2011 and 2018 in a single-center were retrospectively analyzed and classified as HFpEF (n=99) or no HF (n=65). Stroke volume index and aortic distensibility were measured through cardiac magnetic resonance imaging, and left ventricular (LV) systolic and diastolic properties were assessed echocardiographically.

Results:

At baseline, patients with HFpEF had higher stroke volume index (median 40 [interquartile range, 33–48] versus 33 [26–40] mL/m
2
,
P
=0.002), pulse pressure (69 [63–77] versus 61 [55–67] mm Hg,
P
<0.001), but lower LV-VPES
100mm Hg
(18 [10–28] versus 24 [15–40] mL,
P
=0.007) and aortic distensibility (1.5 [1.1–2.6] versus 2.7 [1.1–3.5] 10
−3
mm Hg
−1
,
P
=0.013) as compared to no-HF patients. Systolic blood pressure decreased comparable in patients with HFpEF and no-HF patients following RDN (−9 [−16 to −2],
P
<0.001). After RDN stroke volume index (−3 [−9 to +3] mL/m
2
,
P
=0.011) decreased and aortic distensibility (0.2 [−0.1 to +1.1] 10
−3
mm Hg
−1
,
P
=0.007) and systolic stiffness (
P
<0.001) increased in HFpEF patients. LV diastolic stiffness and LV filling pressures as well as NT-proBNP (N-terminal pro-B-type natriuretic peptide) decreased after RDN in patients with HFpEF (
P
=0.032,
P
=0.043, and
P
<0.001, respectively).

Conclusions:

Patients with HFpEF undergoing RDN showed increased stroke volume index, vascular, and LV stiffness as compared to no-HF patients. Following RDN those hemodynamic alterations and reduced systolic and diastolic LV stiffness were partly normalized, implying RDN might be a potential therapeutic strategy for arterial hypertension and HFpEF.
Replacement Myocardial Fibrosis in Patients With Mitral Valve Prolapse
Authors: Constant Dit Beaufils Anne-Laure , Huttin Olivier , Jobbe-Duval Antoine , Senage Thomas , Filippetti Laura , Piriou Nicolas , Cueff Caroline , Venner Clément , Mandry Damien , Sellal Jean-Marc , Le Scouarnec Solena , Capoulade Romain , Marrec Marie , Thollet Aurélie , Beaumont Marine , Hossu Gabriella , Toquet Claire , Gourraud Jean-Baptiste , Trochu Jean-Noël , Warin-Fresse Karine , Marie Pierre-Yves , Schott Jean-Jacques , Roussel Jean-Christian , Serfaty Jean-Michel , Selton-Suty Christine , Le Tourneau Thierry
Published: March 2021

Background:

Mitral valve prolapse (MVP) is a frequent disease that can be complicated by mitral regurgitation (MR), heart failure, arterial embolism, rhythm disorders, and death. Left ventricular (LV) replacement myocardial fibrosis, a marker of maladaptive remodeling, has been described in patients with MVP, but the implications of this finding remain scarcely explored. We aimed at assessing the prevalence, pathophysiological and prognostic significance of LV replacement myocardial fibrosis through late gadolinium enhancement (LGE) by cardiac magnetic resonance in patients with MVP.

Methods:

Four hundred patients (53±15 years of age, 55% male) with MVP (trace to severe MR by echocardiography) from 2 centers, who underwent a comprehensive echocardiography and LGE cardiac magnetic resonance, were included. Correlates of replacement myocardial fibrosis (LGE+), influence of MR degree, and ventricular arrhythmia were assessed. The primary outcome was a composite of cardiovascular events (cardiac death, heart failure, new-onset atrial fibrillation, arterial embolism, and life-threatening ventricular arrhythmia).

Results:

Replacement myocardial fibrosis (LGE+) was observed in 110 patients (28%; 91 with myocardial wall including 71 with basal inferolateral wall, 29 with papillary muscle). LGE+ prevalence was 13% in trace-mild MR, 28% in moderate MR, and 37% in severe MR, and was associated with specific features of mitral valve apparatus, more dilated LV and more frequent ventricular arrhythmias (45% versus 26%,
P
<0.0001). In trace-mild MR, despite the absence of significant volume overload, abnormal LV dilatation was observed in 16% of patients and ventricular arrhythmia in 25%. Correlates of LGE+ in multivariable analysis were LV mass (odds ratio, 1.01 [95% CI, 1.002–1.017],
P
=0.009) and moderate-severe MR (odds ratio, 2.28 [95% CI, 1.21–4.31],
P
=0.011). LGE+ was associated with worse 4-year cardiovascular event–free survival (49.6±11.7 in LGE+ versus 73.3±6.5% in LGE–,
P
<0.0001). In a stepwise multivariable Cox model, MR volume and LGE+ (hazard ratio, 2.6 [1.4–4.9],
P
=0.002) were associated with poor outcome.

Conclusions:

LV replacement myocardial fibrosis is frequent in patients with MVP; is associated with mitral valve apparatus alteration, more dilated LV, MR grade, and ventricular arrhythmia; and is independently associated with cardiovascular events. These findings suggest an MVP-related myocardial disease. Last, cardiac magnetic resonance provides additional information to echocardiography in MVP.
Extracellular Tuning of Mitochondrial Respiration Leads to Aortic Aneurysm
Authors: Oller Jorge , Gabandé-Rodríguez Enrique , Ruiz-Rodríguez María Jesús , Desdín-Micó Gabriela , Aranda Juan Francisco , Rodrigues-Diez Raquel , Ballesteros-Martínez Constanza , Blanco Eva María , Roldan-Montero Raquel , Acuña Pedro , Forteza Gil Alberto , Martín-López Carlos E. , Nistal J. Francisco , Lino Cardenas Christian L. , Lindsay Mark Evan , Martín-Ventura José Luís , Briones Ana M. , Miguel Redondo Juan , Mittelbrunn María
Published: March 2021

Background:

Marfan syndrome (MFS) is an autosomal dominant disorder of the connective tissue caused by mutations in the
FBN1
(fibrillin-1) gene encoding a large glycoprotein in the extracellular matrix called fibrillin-1. The major complication of this connective disorder is the risk to develop thoracic aortic aneurysm. To date, no effective pharmacologic therapies have been identified for the management of thoracic aortic disease and the only options capable of preventing aneurysm rupture are endovascular repair or open surgery. Here, we have studied the role of mitochondrial dysfunction in the progression of thoracic aortic aneurysm and mitochondrial boosting strategies as a potential treatment to managing aortic aneurysms.

Methods:

Combining transcriptomics and metabolic analysis of aortas from an MFS mouse model (
Fbn1

c1039g/+

) and MFS patients, we have identified mitochondrial dysfunction alongside with mtDNA depletion as a new hallmark of aortic aneurysm disease in MFS. To demonstrate the importance of mitochondrial decline in the development of aneurysms, we generated a conditional mouse model with mitochondrial dysfunction specifically in vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMC) by conditional depleting Tfam (mitochondrial transcription factor A;
Myh11-Cre

ERT2

Tfam

flox/flox

mice). We used a mouse model of MFS to test for drugs that can revert aortic disease by enhancing Tfam levels and mitochondrial respiration.

Results:

The main canonical pathways highlighted in the transcriptomic analysis in aortas from
Fbn1

c1039g/+

mice were those related to metabolic function, such as mitochondrial dysfunction. Mitochondrial complexes, whose transcription depends on Tfam and mitochondrial DNA content, were reduced in aortas from young
Fbn1

c1039g/+

mice. In vitro experiments in
Fbn1
-silenced VSMCs presented increased lactate production and decreased oxygen consumption. Similar results were found in MFS patients. VSMCs seeded in matrices produced by Fbn1-deficient VSMCs undergo mitochondrial dysfunction. Conditional Tfam-deficient VSMC mice lose their contractile capacity, showed aortic aneurysms, and died prematurely. Restoring mitochondrial metabolism with the NAD precursor nicotinamide riboside rapidly reverses aortic aneurysm in
Fbn1

c1039g/+

mice.

Conclusions:

Mitochondrial function of VSMCs is controlled by the extracellular matrix and drives the development of aortic aneurysm in Marfan syndrome. Targeting vascular metabolism is a new available therapeutic strategy for managing aortic aneurysms associated with genetic disorders.
The Antinomies of Antonio Gramsci: A Rereading
Authors: Dal Maso Juan , Grinberg Gloria , Trevín Marisela
Published: March 2021

This essay discusses the main contentions of The Antinomies of Antonio Gramsci by Perry Anderson in a critical reading of both the positions of the British historian, and of his critics among ‘Togliattian Gramscianists’.
Reinstatement of Lonicera tricalysioides (Caprifoliaceae) as a distinctive species from China

Authors: ZENG YOU-PAI , LUO YU-FENG , YANG QIN-ER
Published: March 2021

Lonicera tricalysioides (Caprifoliaceae), a species described only on the basis of specimens with immature fruits from Chishui county in northern Guizhou province, China, has been previously reduced to the synonymy of L. ligustrina var. pileata. Upon the observations of both herbarium specimens and living plants in the field, we determine that L. tricalysioides is a distinctive species and thus reinstate its independent specific status herein.
Multisourced Flood Inventories over the Contiguous United States for Actual and Natural Conditions
Authors: Huang Zhijun , Wu Huan , Adler Robert F. , Schumann Guy , Gourley Jonathan J. , Kettner Albert , Nanding Nergui
Published: March 2021

A reliable flood event inventory that reflects the occurrence and evolution of past floods is important for studies of flood hazards and risks, hydroclimatic extremes, and future flood projections. However, currently available flood inventories are based on single-sourced data and often neglect underreported or less impactful flood events. Furthermore, traditional archives store flood events only at sparse geographic points, which significantly limits their further applicability. Also, few publicly available archives contain all-inclusive records of potential natural flooded area over time. To tackle these challenges, we construct two types of multisourced flood event inventories (MFI) for all river basins across the contiguous United States covering the period 1998–2013 on daily and subcatchment scales, which is publicly available at http://flood.umd.edu/download/CONUS/. These archives integrate flood information from in situ observations, remote sensing observations, hydrological model simulations, and five high-quality precipitation products. The first inventory (MFI-Actual) includes all actual floods that occurred in the presence of flood protection infrastructures, while the second, “natural (undefended)” inventory (MFI-Natural) reconstructs the possible “historical” floods without flood protection, which could be more directly influenced by climate variation. In the proposed two inventories, 2,755 and 4,661 flood events were estimated, respectively. MFI-Natural reconstructed 1,597 floods in ungauged basins, and recovered 608 extreme streamflow events in gauged subcatchments where floods would have happened if there were no flood protection. There is an average of four upstream dams located in these flood-recovered subcatchments, which indicates that modern flood defenses efficiently prevent significant flooding from extreme precipitation in many catchments over the country.
Perceived Discrimination and Increased Odds of Unmet Medical Needs Among US Children
Authors: Liu Sze Yan , Pabayo Roman , Muennig Peter
Published: March 2021

Our study examines the association between perceived discrimination due to race and unmet medical needs among a nationally representative sample of children in the United States. We used data from the 2016-2017 National Survey of Children's Health, a population-based cross-sectional survey of randomly selected parents or guardians in the United States. We compared results from the coarsened exact matching (CEM) method and survey-weighted logistic regression to assess the robustness of the results. Using self-reported measures from caregivers, we find that ∼2.7% of US children have experienced racial discrimination with prevalence varying significantly by race. While <1% of non-Hispanic whites have experienced some measure of racism, this increases to 8.8% among non-Hispanic blacks. Perceived discrimination was associated with significantly greater odds of unmet medical needs in the adjusted, survey-weighted multivariate-adjusted model (adjusted odds ratio [OR] = 2.4 and 95% confidence interval [CI] = 1.2, 4.9) as well as in the CEM-model estimate (OR = 2.8 and 95% CI = 1.8, 4.0). Children who have experienced perceived discrimination had higher odds of unmet medical needs. Awareness of discrimination among children may help inform future intervention development that addresses unmet medical needs during childhood.
Examining the Relationship between Social Class and Well-Being in Chinese Adolescents: The Mediating Role of Basic Psychological Needs
Authors: Zhang Yuzhuo , Zhao Wei , Jiang Tong , Chen Xuhai , Luo Yangmei
Published: March 2021

Considerable evidence has shown that social class has a positive relationship with well-being. However, little research has examined this connection in detail, particularly as it relates to the context of adolescence. The present study builds on the framework of Self-Determination Theory, to delineate the psychological mechanism underlying this relationship in adolescents. Study 1 explored the correlation between objective social class and hedonic well-being with national adolescent data ( n = 944) from the China Family Panel Studies. The results showed that objective social class was positively correlated with hedonic well-being. Study 2 more fully examined the correlation and potential mechanism of the relationship between social class and hedonic/eudaimonic well-being among 625 adolescents. The results confirmed that social class is correlated with hedonic/eudaimonic well-being and that basic psychological needs satisfaction (BPNS) fully mediates the relationships between them. These findings emphasize the role of BPNS in this relationship among adolescents.
Different types of deficient democracies: Reassessing the relevance of diminished subtypes
Authors: Lauth Hans-Joachim , Schlenkrich Oliver , Lemm Lukas
Published: March 2021

Typologies are widely applied tools in democracy research. There are two prominent ways of constructing subtypes of democracies: whereas the classical approach adds traits successively to gain regular subtypes, the radial approach subtracts traits from the concept to obtain diminished subtypes. Conceptually, we argue that radial types have distinct advantages over the classical approach. Diminished subtypes can deal with complex concepts with multiple interrelated dimensions without a clear hierarchy and can account for the gradual nature of political phenomena. We derive three diminished subtypes of democracy: illiberal, inegalitarian and unaccountable democracies. The empirical analysis draws on a customized version of the new Varieties of Democracy dataset. Contrary to the dominating criticism of the radial delusion by the classical approach, an elaborate cluster analysis with a strong focus on validation and robustness checks can identify empirically the deductively proposed diminished subtypes of democracies which could not be demonstrated so far.
An intervention to improve coping strategies in adult male prisoners with a history of traumatic brain injury: A pilot randomised clinical trial
Authors: Mitchell Tracey , du Preez Elizabeth , Theadom Alice
Published: March 2021

Objective:

To determine whether a psychological intervention improves coping, post-concussion symptoms and decreases in-prison infractions in adult males with a history of traumatic brain injury.

Design:

A single centre, randomised, wait-list, pilot study.

Setting:

A high security prison in New Zealand.

Subjects:

Fifty-five adult male participants who had experienced at least one traumatic brain injury in their lifetime (mean age 37.29 +/−9.81 years).

Intervention:

A manualised ten session, in-person, group based combined Cognitive Behavioural Therapy /Mindfulness Based Stress Reduction intervention versus wait list control.

Main measures:

The Negative Affect Repair Questionnaire and Rivermead Post-concussion Symptom Questionnaire were completed at baseline, post-intervention (five weeks) and at 12 week follow up. In-prison misconduct charges and negative file notes were reviewed for the previous five weeks at each assessment time point.

Results:

There was an improvement in the use of calming and distraction strategies in the intervention group from baseline ( x̄ = 17.38, SD = 3.57) to post-intervention ( x̄ = 18.67, SD = 3.84) and 12-week follow up ( x̄ = 18.13, SD = 2.63). Participants in the intervention group had significantly higher negative affect repair on the calming and distractive strategies subscale following completion of the intervention, compared to wait-list controls ( F = 4.69, P = 0.04) with a moderate effect size (ηp2 = 0.11). Improvements in use of calming and distractive strategies was not sustained at the twelve-week follow-up ( F = 0.87, P = 0.36). There was no-significant improvement on other negative affect subscales or for post-concussion symptoms or decrease in-prison infractions.

Conclusion:

A manualised psychological intervention may have the potential to facilitate the development of positive coping strategies in prisoners with a history of traumatic brain injury.
Treatment with astragaloside IV reduced blood glucose, regulated blood lipids, and protected liver function in diabetic rats
Authors: Han Dong
Published: March 2021

Objectives

To investigate the effects of astragaloside IV on blood glucose, blood lipids, and liver function in diabetic rats.

Methods

Fifty diabetic rats were randomly placed into five groups (n = 10 each): the diabetes mellitus (DM) group received intragastric saline, the metformin hydrochloride group received intragastric metformin hydrochloride, and the astragaloside-30, -60, and -120 groups received intragastric astragaloside 30 mg/kg, 60 mg/kg, and 120 mg/kg for 28 days, respectively. Ten non-diabetic rats received intragastric saline as controls.

Results

Relative to the DM group, fasting blood glucose, triglyceride, total cholesterol, serum alanine transaminase, and serum aspartate aminotransferase levels decreased in the astragaloside-60 and astragaloside-120 groups; serum alkaline phosphatase decreased solely in the astragaloside-120 group. Serum superoxide dismutase (SOD), glutathione (GSH-Px), and catalase (CAT) levels were elevated, while maleic dialdehyde (MDA) decreased in the astragaloside-120 group, relative to the DM group. Relative to the DM group, the liver index and liver cell apoptosis rate were reduced, while histopathological changes in liver tissue were ameliorated in the astragaloside groups; moreover, liver tissue SOD, GSH-Px, and CAT levels were increased, while liver tissue MDA was reduced.

Conclusions

Astragaloside IV can lower blood glucose, regulate blood lipids, and protect liver function in diabetic rats.
Facial Expression Ambiguity and Face Image Quality Affect Differently on Expression Interpretation Bias
Authors: Kinchella Jade , Guo Kun
Published: March 2021

We often show an invariant or comparable recognition performance for perceiving prototypical facial expressions, such as happiness and anger, under different viewing settings. However, it is unclear to what extent the categorisation of ambiguous expressions and associated interpretation bias are invariant in degraded viewing conditions. In this exploratory eye-tracking study, we systematically manipulated both facial expression ambiguity (via morphing happy and angry expressions in different proportions) and face image clarity/quality (via manipulating image resolution) to measure participants’ expression categorisation performance, perceived expression intensity, and associated face-viewing gaze distribution. Our analysis revealed that increasing facial expression ambiguity and decreasing face image quality induced the opposite direction of expression interpretation bias (negativity vs. positivity bias, or increased anger vs. increased happiness categorisation), the same direction of deterioration impact on rating expression intensity, and qualitatively different influence on face-viewing gaze allocation (decreased gaze at eyes but increased gaze at mouth vs. stronger central fixation bias). These novel findings suggest that in comparison with prototypical facial expressions, our visual system has less perceptual tolerance in processing ambiguous expressions which are subject to viewing condition-dependent interpretation bias.
Comparative Evaluation of Adenoids and Airway Space in 12 to 14-Year-Old Children With Different Growth Patterns Using Cephalometric Methods Commonly Used by ENT Specialists
Authors: Choudhari Smita Mangesh , Shrivastav Sunita
Published: March 2021

Introduction:

Altered airway and growth are interrelated; hence, a study was planned to develop a diagnostic protocol that may help in diagnosing difficult airway by utilizing routine radiographic assessment.

Material and Methods:

Lateral cephalograms of 60 children aged 12 to 14 years who were grouped based on the growth pattern into 3 groups with 20 cases each (Group 1—normodivergent cases; Group 2—hypodivergent cases; Group 3—hyperdivergent cases) were observed. The diagnostic protocol included 3 diagnostic methods (Handelman–Osborne area method, Maw et al method, and Holmberg et al method) routinely used by ENT surgeons for altered airway evaluation, and their diagnostic efficacy was correlated with McNamara’s airway analysis.

Results:

Highest specificity and diagnostic accuracy were found with Holmberg et al method followed by Maw et al method. Poor specificity was observed with Handelman–Osborne area method.

Conclusion:

The new diagnostic protocol which includes commonly used cephalometric methods by ENT surgeons can be helpful for orthodontists in early evaluation of altered airways, so that preventive and interceptive procedures can be carried out to normalize the altered craniofacial growth. Among the methods used in this diagnostic protocol, Holmberg et al and Maw et al methods had better sensitivity and specificity.
Wind energy potential assessment in Nifas Mewucha, Amhara Province, Ethiopia
Authors: Eshete Sitotaw , Abate Tadesse
Published: March 2021

In recent years, Ethiopia has been developing different strategies to promote the installation of renewable energy plants. In this regard, evaluating territories to assess their potential and thus identify optimum sites for the installation of energy-generating facilities is a crucial task. This paper presents a comprehensive geographic information system (GIS)-based site-selection methodology for wind-power plants in the province of Amhara. High resolution wind speed data from Ethiopian National Metrology Agency (ENMA) and lower resolution daily wind speed data are combined and processed in order to obtain a fine wind speed distribution and thus wind energy production. This assessment is vital to elevate proper utilization of the energy sources into one step. According to the results we have obtained, in this paper, appreciated results are obtained to the power enhancement of the country.
Rural Abandonment in the Balkans: Case Study of a Serbian Village
Authors: Zora Živanović , Branka Tošić , Marina Vesić
Published: March 2021

The process of rural neglect leads to massive abandonment of rural areas throughout the Balkans. The paper provides an insight into the situation in the rural environment of Serbia. The aim of the study is to identity the reasons for rural abandonment in Serbia in order to define the optimal ways to overcome the current situation. An integrated questionnaire was designed for all respondents, and there were also several separate questionnaires. The results indicate the difficult situation in the rural area of Serbia and that the current trend of rural abandonment will continue.
The anti-science in the culture of group analysis (2)
Authors: Luiker Henry
Published: March 2021

This is the second of two articles examining the pervasiveness of religious, primitive and magical thinking in the culture of group analysis. It commences with a brief outline of the standpoint from which I view supernatural ideas and the groups they animate. It then looks at the role Patrick de Maré’s writings appears to play in the culture of group analysis. It concludes with the sharp contrast between natural and supernatural approaches to understanding large group phenomena.
The Simple Views of Reading and Writing in the Kaufman Test of Educational Achievement, 3rd Edition
Authors: Parkin Jason R.
Published: March 2021

The simple views of reading (SVR) and writing (SVW) provide useful foundations for the interpretation of psychoeducational achievement batteries. Research has established that oral language, decoding, and transcription explain significant variance in reading comprehension and written composition, respectively. However, the specific task demands of subtests influence the relationships among these constructs. As a result, the degree to which the KTEA-3’s tasks conform to findings associated with the SVR and SVW are not known. These analyses evaluated the degree to which the KTEA-3 oral language and decoding or transcription tests explained variance in reading comprehension, and written expression. Results inform practitioners as to the relative contributions of each component and useful knowledge when determining which battery to use in psychoeducational evaluation.
Ventilated Patients With COVID-19 Show Airflow Obstruction
Authors: Koppurapu Vikas S. , Puliaiev Maksym , Doerschug Kevin C. , Schmidt Gregory A.
Published: March 2021

Objective:

Many patients with coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) need mechanical ventilation secondary to acute respiratory distress syndrome. Information on the respiratory system mechanical characteristics of this disease is limited. The aim of this study is to describe the respiratory system mechanical properties of ventilated COVID-19 patients.

Design, Setting, and Patients:

Patients consecutively admitted to the medical intensive care unit at the University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics in Iowa City, USA, from April 19 to May 1, 2020, were prospectively studied; final date of follow-up was May 1, 2020.

Measurements:

At the time of first patient contact, ventilator information was collected including mode, settings, peak airway pressure, plateau pressure, and total positive end expiratory pressure. Indices of airflow resistance and respiratory system compliance were calculated and analyzed.

Main Results:

The mean age of the patients was 58 years. 6 out of 12 (50%) patients were female. Of the 21 laboratory-confirmed COVID-19 patients on invasive mechanical ventilation, 9 patients who were actively breathing on the ventilator were excluded. All the patients included were on volume-control mode. Mean [±standard deviation] ventilator indices were: resistive pressure 19 [±4] cmH2O, airway resistance 20 [±4] cmH2O/L/s, and respiratory system static compliance 39 [±16] ml/cmH2O. These values are consistent with abnormally elevated resistance to airflow and reduced respiratory system compliance. Analysis of flow waveform graphics revealed a pattern consistent with airflow obstruction in all patients.

Conclusions:

Severe respiratory failure due to COVID-19 is regularly associated with airflow obstruction.
Does the Presence of a Physical Disability Affect Classification of Sexual Assault?
Authors: Dalton Alec , Henry Dayna , Blackstone Sarah , Passuth Julia , Gutowski Karlie , Birchfield Haley , Peterson Brett
Published: March 2021

The occurrence of sexual assault is common and problematic, especially among those with disabilities. While many other characteristics of the victim, perpetrator, and situation involving a sexual assault have been shown to affect perceptions, only one study has examined the impact of a hypothetical victim with a physical disability. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to explore the effect that a victim and/or perpetrator’s physical disability status has on individuals’ classification of encounters as sexual assault.

University students over the age of 18 ( n = 207) completed an anonymous online survey which included reading an ambiguous scenario involving a sexual assault in which either the victim, perpetrator or neither was in a wheelchair. Participants classified the scenario as either representing a sexual assault or not and completed the Illinois Rape Myth Acceptance scale and demographic information. A binary logistic regression model was conducted to examine the effects of conditions, participant gender and RMA score on sexual assault classification.

In the scenario with the victim in a wheelchair, 71.6% of participants agreed sexual assault occurred; when the perpetrator was in a wheelchair 58.6% classified the scenario as sexual assault. In the control condition 61.4% agreed sexual assault occurred. Condition was not associated with classification at a statistically significant level; however, the effect sizes indicate participants were more likely to classify sexual assault when the victim was in a wheelchair (OR = 1.41), but less likely to blame a perpetrator in a wheelchair (OR = 0.69) compared to the control condition.

Despite a lack of statistical significance, the data show a clear trend away from blaming individuals with disabilities in sexual assault scenarios. These findings can have implications within the legal system where incorrect decisions may be made due to bias based on disability status.