bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Efficacy of Xuebijing Injection for Acute Pancreatitis: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials
Authors: Chen Hongxin , Bai Zhaohui , Li Hongyu , Wu Yanyan , Yao Haijuan , Wang Le , Lin Hanyang , Tong Zhenhua , Teschke Rolf , Qi Xingshun
Published: April 2021

Background and Aim. Xuebijing injection is a traditional Chinese medicine compound for the improvement of systemic inflammation response. This meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials (RCTs) aimed to explore the clinical efficacy and safety of Xuebijing injection for the treatment of acute pancreatitis (AP). Methods. PubMed Medline, Embase, Cochrane Library, China National Knowledge Infrastructure, China Biology Medicine disc, VIP, and Wanfang databases were searched. The primary outcome was treatment response. The secondary outcomes included changes in clinical and laboratory indicators and incidence of AP-related complications. Meta-analyses were performed by using a random-effect model. Risk ratios (RRs) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs) or weighted mean differences (WMDs) with 95% CIs were calculated. Results. Overall, 23 RCTs were included. The rates of overall (RR = 1.16; 95% CI = 1.12 to 1.20;

P
<
0.00001

) and complete (RR = 1.40; 95% CI = 1.30 to 1.50;

P
<
0.00001

) responses were significantly higher in the Xuebijing injection group. After treatment, the levels of interleukin-6 (WMD = −18.22; 95% CI = −23.36 to −13.08;

P
<
0.00001

), tumor necrosis factor-α (WMD = −16.44; 95% CI = −20.49 to −12.40;

P
<
0.00001

), serum amylase (WMD = −105.61; 95% CI = −173.77 to −37.46;

P
=
0.002

), white blood cell (WMD = −1.51; 95% CI = −1.66 to −1.36;

P
<
0.00001

), and C-reactive protein (WMD = −11.05; 95% CI = −14.32 to −7.78;

P
<
0.00001

) were significantly lower in the Xuebijing injection group. Abdominal pain (WMD = −1.74; 95% CI = −1.96 to −1.52;

P
<
0.00001

), abdominal distension (WMD = −1.56; 95% CI = −2.07 to −1.04;

P
<
0.00001

), gastrointestinal function (WMD = −2.60; 95% CI = −3.07 to −2.13;

P
<
0.00001

), body temperature (WMD = −2.16; 95% CI = −2.83 to −1.49;

P
<
0.00001

), serum amylase level (WMD = −1.81; 95% CI = −2.66 to −0.96;

P
<
0.0001

), and white blood cell (WMD = −2.16; 95% CI = −2.99 to −1.32;

P
<
0.00001

) recovered more rapidly in the Xuebijing injection group. The incidence of multiple organ dysfunction syndrome (RR = 0.18; 95% CI = 0.05 to 0.62;

P
=
0.006

), pancreatic pseudocyst (RR = 0.17; 95% CI = 0.04 to 0.77;

P
=
0.02

), and renal failure (RR = 0.16; 95% CI = 0.05 to 0.60;

P
=
0.006

) was significantly lower in the Xuebijing injection group. Conclusions. Xuebijing injection added on the basis of conventional treatment has a potential benefit for improving the outcomes of AP.
Development and Fault Prediction of a New Operating Mechanism of HTPPM
Authors: Yan Hongkui , Lin Xin , Xu Jianyuan
Published: April 2021

In this article, we take a 126 kV single-break vacuum circuit breaker as the research object and study the application of high-energy-density PM motor in the high-voltage circuit breaker for the first time. The PM motor maintains maximum power density and torque density during the start-up phase. Note that most of the faults of high-voltage circuit breakers are mechanical faults. We designed a set of mechanical fault prediction systems for high-voltage circuit breakers. We present the prediction method of the opening and closing action curve of the high-voltage circuit breaker. It is inspired by Chaos Ant Colony Algorithm (CAS) and an optimized Long- and Short-Term Memory (LSTM) cycle neural network. We constructed the main structure of the neural network expert system and established the fault prediction model of the high-voltage circuit breaker, based on the LSTM cycle neural network, optimized by CAS. We used the improved least-square method to achieve the operation accuracy of the phase control switch. Finally, we completed the development and experiment of the prototype.
Research on Output Waveform of Generator with Rectifier Load considering Commutation Overlap Angle
Authors: Zhang Bingyi , He Gongfei , Feng Guihong
Published: April 2021

The purpose of this paper is to study the influence of the uncontrolled rectifier circuit on the generator’s output waveform when considering the commutation overlap angle. Taking the nonsalient permanent magnet (PM) generator directly connected with the uncontrolled rectifier circuit as an example, the equivalent circuit of the generator with rectifier load is established, and the commutation process of the rectifier circuit is analyzed when the effect of the commutation overlap angle is considered. The output waveforms of generator’s output side are obtained by analytical method, circuit simulation method, field-circuit coupled simulation method, and experimental method. The validity of the analysis methods is demonstrated by comparison. According to the results of analytical analysis, we know the characteristics of the output waveform under the influence of the commutation overlap angle. The existence of the commutation overlap angle will cause the voltage waveform to concave or convex, prolong the conduction time of the winding, and result in phase difference between the voltage waveform and current waveform. The influence of synchronous inductance and extra inductance on the output waveforms and harmonic distortion rate is analyzed. The research of this paper provides a theoretical basis for improving the output waveform of the generator with rectifier load.
Research on Construction Methods for Ultralarge Y-Shaped Tunnel Sections
Authors: Cao Shiding , Xie Yongli , Tang Wei , Wang Wei , Zhou Qianru , Guo Aipeng
Published: April 2021

Many problems are encountered in the construction of bifurcated tunnels due the abrupt change in section, small clear distance, and large section. Progress in the direction of tunnel construction is limited by the large-span section; therefore, a special method of construction that involves constructing a guiding tunnel first followed by reverse excavation was adopted to construct the large-span bifurcation section of the Liantang tunnel of Shenzhen Eastern Transit Expressway in China. The stability criterion of the surrounding rock of the middle wall in the section of multiple arch and small clear distance is studied by theoretical analysis, and the internal stress and corresponding ultimate strength of the middle wall under different buried depths and widths of the middle wall are calculated by the stability criterion. In this study, 3D finite-difference software was used to simulate the excavation process under forward and reverse excavation conditions. The results show that the displacement field and internal force field distribution are similar for both excavation methods, and the tunneling first and reverse excavation construction method is safe and reliable.
GPS Position Prediction Method Based on Chaotic Map‐Based Flower Pollination Algorithm
Authors: Yang Wanjun , Sun Zengwu
Published: April 2021

GPS position data prediction can effectively alleviate urban traffic, population flow, route planning, etc. It has very important research significance. Using swarm intelligence optimization algorithm to predict geographic location has important research strategies. Flower pollination algorithm (FPA) is a new swarm intelligence optimization algorithm (SIOA) and easy to implement and has other characteristics; more and more scholars have continuously improved it and applied it to more fields. Aiming at the fact that FPA leads to the local optimal value in cross‐pollination, the chaotic mapping strategy is proposed to optimize related issues that the population is not rich enough in the self‐pollination process. The improved flower pollination algorithm has better advantages in testing function convergence and geographic location prediction effect.
Construction of a Supply Chain Financial Logistics Supervision System Based on Internet of Things Technology
Authors: Wu Zhaoyang , Wang Shiyong , Yang Hong , Zhao Xiaokui
Published: April 2021

In recent years, with the rapid development of the global economy and the development trend of more and more stable, well-developed network communications, online shopping has become an increasingly common way; as a result, the logistics industry has emerged from many industries and has become one of the most popular industries. However, due to the extensive involvement of the logistics industry, the overly complex technology, and the huge amount of data and information, the security of logistics has become one of the hot topics of special concern. Based on the background of an intelligent environment, this paper constructs a supply chain financial logistics supervision system based on Internet of Things technology. This article refers to the research experience of previous scholars, briefly introduces the theoretical knowledge of the Internet of Things technology, smart environment, and supply chain finance, and makes a certain analysis of the logistics supervision system. We collect and calculate logistics data through the wolf group hunting and siege formula in the wolf group algorithm and analyze the application performance of the logistics supervision system in reality. Then, we briefly designed the system architecture diagram of the logistics supervision system and compared the freight situation of the logistics supervision system before and after and statistics on the deployment of the logistics supervision system in customs, docks, airports, stations, and other places from 2015 to 2019. Finally, a comparative analysis of the performance of wolf pack algorithm and other algorithms was performed under different path planning. The final result shows that the logistics supervision system has important practical value in the logistics industry; in addition, the deployment of logistics supervision systems in customs, terminals, and other places has increased year by year from 2015 to 2019.
The Comprehensive Evaluation of the National Higher Education System Based on EWM and ARMA Models
Authors: Xu Li-Jun , Liang Yan , Su Jin-Tao , Ouyang Tong , Zhu Jia-Ming
Published: April 2021

Different countries have different education systems and their advantages and disadvantages. It is necessary to optimize their own higher education system and formulate policy plans to fully realize the optimization of the higher education system. For this reason, we propose to establish a continuous evaluation model of higher education health. This study mainly uses principal component analysis (PCA) and entropy weight method (EWM) to determine the evaluation model of higher education health status and makes autoregressive moving average model (ARMA) time series analysis based on the higher education evaluation model, which is obtained by studying long‐term trends. The future development of education realizes the evaluation of sustainability. For Vietnam, that needs to be adjusted, the evaluation indicators based on the health status of the higher education system in developing countries will be added, tested, and adjusted and combined with the ARMA model prediction to determine the time period for the policy to meet reasonable expectations, and targeted development policies are proposed. Finally, we test the sensitivity of the established model, evaluate and analyze the advantages and disadvantages of the model, And combine the full text analysis to get the final conclusion.
¿Cómo gestionar, en tiempos de crisis, proyectos de transformación digital basados en innovaciones disruptivas para una organización?
Authors: Pino César
Published: April 2021

La pandemia global producto de COVID-19 y sus significativas consecuencias sociales y económicas ha generado un nuevo escenario de incertidumbre para las empresas y emprendedores. Esta situación puede ser abordada a través de la implementación de proyectos innovadores de transformación digital que se sustentan en la reconfiguración estratégica de las capacidades dinámicas existentes en una organización, para lo cual se presentan recomendaciones específicas.
CD40 Agonist Targeted to Fibroblast Activation Protein α Synergizes with Radiotherapy in Murine HPV-Positive Head and Neck Tumors
Authors: Labiano Sara , Roh Vincent , Godfroid Céline , Hiou-Feige Agnès , Romero Jackeline , Sum Eva , Rapp Moritz , Boivin Gael , Wyss Tania , Simon Christian , Bourhis Jean , Umaña Pablo , Trumpfheller Christine , Tolstonog Genrich V. , Vozenin Marie-Catherine , Romero Pedro
Published: April 2021

Purpose:

The incidence of human papillomavirus–associated head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HPV+-HNSCC) is rising worldwide and although current therapeutic modalities are efficient in the majority of patients, there is a high rate of treatment failures. Thus, novel combination approaches are urgently needed to achieve better disease control in patients with HPV+-HNSCC. We investigated the safety and therapeutic efficacy of a novel fibroblast activation protein (FAP)-targeted CD40 agonist (FAP-CD40) in combination with local hypofractionated radiation in a syngeneic HPV+-HNSCC model.

Experimental Design:

Using an established orthotopic model, we treated tumor-bearing mice with local hypofractionated radiotherapy (2 × 6 Gy) alone or in combination with a systemic administration of the FAP-CD40 antibody. Following up the mice, we evaluated the changes in the tumor microenvironment (TME) by immunofluorescence, FACS, and NanoString RNA analysis.

Results:

The suboptimal radiotherapy regimen chosen failed to control tumors in the treated mice. The FAP-CD40 administered in monotherapy transiently controlled tumor growth, whereas the combined therapy induced durable complete responses in more than 80% of the tumor-bearing mice. This notable efficacy relied on the radiotherapy-induced remodeling of the TME and activation of the CD8+ T-cell-cDC1 axis and was devoid of the systemic toxicity frequently associated with CD40-targeted therapy. Moreover, the robust immunologic memory developed effectively prevented tumor relapses, a common feature in patients with HNSCC.

Conclusions:

Our study provides proof of concept, as well as mechanistic insights of the therapeutic efficacy of a bispecific FAP-CD40 combined with local radiotherapy in a FAP+-HNSCC model increasing overall survival and inducing long-term antitumor immunity.
The Use of a Robot to Insert an Electrode Array of Cochlear Implants in the Cochlea: A Feasibility Study and Preliminary Results
Authors: Barriat Sébastien , Peigneux Nicolas , Duran Unal , Camby Severine , Lefebvre Philippe P.
Published: April 2021

Introduction: Cochlear implants (CIs) are commonly used for the rehabilitation of profound bilateral hearing loss. However, patients with substantial residual acoustic hearing are potential CI candidates. Because of both improvements in technology and advancements in surgical techniques, it may be possible to preserve hearing to some extent. For more than a decade, it has been suggested that robots are used to perform middle ear surgery. We evaluated the use of the RobOtol® otologic robot specifically to insert CI electrodes into the inner ear. Methods: CI surgery with the conventional approach was performed under general anesthesia. The MED-El Flex 24-electrode array was inserted using RobOtol®. Video recordings were used to calculate the speed of insertion. The positions of the electrodes were evaluated using a cone beam CT. All subjects underwent pure-tone audiometry tests before and after surgery, and the pure-tone average (PTA) was calculated from 250 to 4,000 Hz. Results: The robot inserted implants in 5 patients, and complete insertion of the electrode array was achieved. The speed of insertion of the electrode array was 0.88 ± 0.12 mm/s. The mean loss of the PTA for 5 frequencies (250, 500, 1,000, 2,000, and 4,000 Hz) was 13.60 ± 7.70 dB. Only 1 patient showed a loss of the PTA by >20 dB. For these 5 patients, the cone beam CT findings showed that all the electrode arrays were in the tympanic ramp and had a grade of 0. The results were compared with those obtained from a cohort of 17 patients who underwent manual implantation of a MED-El Flex 24-electrode array. Conclusion: To minimize disturbance to the cochlea while atraumatic electrode arrays are inserted, electrodes can be inserted at a constant, slow speed in the inner ear with the assistance of the RobOtol® robot in a normal clinical surgical setting.
Is Thermal Responsiveness Affected by Maternal Estrogens in Species with Temperature-Dependent Sex Determination?
Authors: Bowden Rachel M. , Paitz Ryan T.
Published: April 2021

In species with temperature-dependent sex determination (TSD), incubation temperatures regulate the expression of genes involved in gonadal differentiation and determine whether the gonads develop into ovaries or testes. For most species, natural incubation conditions result in transient exposure to thermal cues for both ovarian and testis development, but how individuals respond to this transient exposure varies and can drive variation in the resulting sex ratios. Here, we argue that variation in the timing to respond to temperature cues, or thermal responsiveness, is a trait needing further study. Recent work in the red-eared slider turtle (Trachemys scripta) has found that when embryos experience transient exposure to warm conditions (i.e., heatwaves), some embryos show high responsiveness, requiring only short exposures to commit to ovarian development, while others show low responsiveness, developing testes even after more extended exposures to warm conditions. We discuss how maternal estrogens might influence thermal responsiveness for organisms that develop under thermal fluctuations. Examining the interplay of molecular responses to more subtle thermal and endocrine environments may reveal significant insights into the process of sex determination in species with TSD.
Pemphigus Vulgaris and Bullous Pemphigoid of the Upper Aerodigestive Tract: A Review Article and Novel Approaches to Management
Authors: Hussain Mohammed Hassan , Tanweer Faiz , Sakagiannis Georgios , Mair Manish , Mahmood Sara , Ashokkumar Sithamparappillai
Published: April 2021

Background: Autoimmune bullous diseases are rare conditions characterized by blistering of the skin and mucous membranes. The 2 commonest forms are pemphigus vulgaris and bullous pemphigoid. The oral cavity or oropharynx may be the initial site of presentation or often the only site involved. Summary: These conditions are often misdiagnosed or overlooked leading to poorer patient outcomes. Due to the chronic nature of these conditions and the systemic effects of treatment, there is a significant associated morbidity and mortality. As such, an understanding of the fundamentals of autoimmune bullous diseases is vital to those working in otolaryngology. The mainstay of management in both conditions is topical and systemic corticosteroids. There is also a role for immunomodulating and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs as adjunct or alternative therapies. Surgical intervention may be required to protect the airway. Often multimodality treatment is required involving multidisciplinary input from otolaryngologists, oral surgeons, dermatologists, and rheumatologists. This review article will highlight the aetiology, pathology, clinical features, investigations, and management of both pemphigus vulgaris and bullous pemphigoid including recent advances in management.
Measuring and Modelling the Epithelial- Mesenchymal Hybrid State in Cancer: Clinical Implications
Authors: Jolly Mohit Kumar , Murphy Ryan J. , Bhatia Sugandha , Whitfield Holly J. , Redfern Andrew , Davis Melissa J. , Thompson Erik W.
Published: April 2021

The epithelial-mesenchymal (E/M) hybrid state has emerged as an important mediator of elements of cancer progression, facilitated by epithelial mesenchymal plasticity (EMP). We review here evidence for the presence, prognostic significance, and therapeutic potential of the E/M hybrid state in carcinoma. We further assess modelling predictions and validation studies to demonstrate stabilised E/M hybrid states along the spectrum of EMP, as well as computational approaches for characterising and quantifying EMP phenotypes, with particular attention to the emerging realm of single-cell approaches through RNA sequencing and protein-based techniques.
A new record of an endangered and endemic rare Rein Orchid Habenaria rariflora from Gujarat, India
Authors: Bhatt Mital R.
Published: April 2021

Habenaria rariflora A.Rich., a species endemic to the southern and western parts of India, is reported for the first time from Gujarat State, western India.  A detailed description and photographs are provided here for easy recognition in the field.  Further, morphology, distribution, habitat, ecology, anatomy of leaf, rarity index, and conservation status of the species are provided.
Legumes of Kerala, India: a checklist
Authors: Balan Anoop P. , Predeep S.V.
Published: April 2021

A checklist of the legumes of Kerala State is presented.  This exhaustive checklist is an outcome of extensive field surveys, collection, identification and documentation of family Leguminosae carried out across Kerala State during the period 2006–2019.  A total of 448 taxa were recorded under five subfamilies and 115 genera.  The majority of the legumes are herbs and shrubs, the rest being trees and woody climbers.  About 81 taxa are endemic to India, especially confined to the Western Ghats biodiversity hotspot, out of which 17 are endemic to  Kerala.  The state is home to two Critically Endangered and six Endangered legumes, facing severe threat of extinction.  Crotalaria is the dominant legume genus in the state with 62 taxa followed by Desmodium and Indigofera.  About 57 genera are represented by single species each.  Legumes are treated according to the latest phylogenetic classification of the Legume Phylogeny Working Group (LPWG).  Updated nomenclature, habit, native countries, voucher specimens, and images of endemic and lesser known legumes found in the state are provided.  Crotalaria multiflora var. kurisumalayana (Sibichen & Nampy) Krishnaraj & N. Mohanan is reduced as a synonym to C. multiflora (Arn.) Benth.
Ecological niche modelling predicts significant impacts of future climate change on two endemic rodents in eastern Africa
Authors: Srinivasulu Aditya , Assefa Alembrhan , Srinivasulu Chelmala
Published: April 2021

The impact of climate change on rodents is well studied, however, many of these studies are restricted to the Americas.  Small- to medium-sized rodents, especially murids, are restricted in their home range and microclimatic niche breadth, and are known to be more sensitive to changes in bioclimatic conditions over time.  We analyzed the effect of future climatic scenarios in the near and distant future, using two global climate models (CanESM5 and MIROC-ES2L) for two shared socio-economic pathways (SSP2-4.5 and SSP5-8.5), on two eastern Africa endemic small-bodied mice: Stenocephalemys albipes and Mastomys awashensis. Our results indicate that while S. albipes showed increases in area of climatic suitability in the future, M. awashensis is predicted to suffer severe decline in the area of its fundamental niche.
Conservation ecology of birds in Mt. Hilong-hilong, a Key Biodiversity Area on Mindanao Island, the Philippines
Authors: Gracia Jr. Arturo G. , Mohagan Alma B. , Burlat Janezel C. , Yu Jr. Welfredo L. , Mondalo Janine , Acma Florfe M. , Lumista Hannah P. , Calising Riah , Tanalgo Krizler Cejuela
Published: April 2021

The identification of key areas for conservation and protection according to science-based evidence is an important component to circumvent the negative impacts of environmental changes within geopolitical territories and across the globe.  Priority areas for biodiversity played an important role to ensure the protection of many species particularly those that are unique and threatened.  There are more than 200 Key Biodiversity Areas (KBAs) in the Philippines, yet many important research and biodiversity data are either unpublished or unconsolidated.  Birds are commonly studied indicators for KBA identification due to their high species richness, diversity, and sensitivity to forest ecosystems.  By combining data from past and present surveys, we accounted for a total of 148 bird species of 51 families, with 20 new records from recent field surveys.  Our analysis showed a high level of endemism within Mt. Hilong-hilong with 36% Philippine endemic, 14% restricted to Mindanao faunal region and 11% migrant. In terms of conservation, 8% of the species were considered in threatened categories.  The species richness and endemism were higher in lowland to mid-elevation areas compared to higher elevation areas of the KBA.  Endemism (i.e., Mindanao endemic) and increasing body mass were important determinants of binary extinction risk for bird species in Mt. Hilong-hilong.  The high biodiversity in Mt. Hilong-hilong indicates an example of the vital role of KBAs in preserving nationally and globally important bird species.  Lastly, we emphasise the importance of collaboration and integrating past and present information to synthesise relevant information to complement ongoing conservation efforts in Mt. Hilong-hilong and other key habitats in the Philippines.
Impact of Hormonal Therapies for Treatment of Hormone-Dependent Cancers (Breast and Prostate) on the Cardiovascular System: Effects and Modifications: A Scientific Statement From the American Heart Association
Authors: Okwuosa Tochi M. , Morgans Alicia , Rhee June-Wha , Reding Kerryn W. , Maliski Sally , Plana Juan-Carlos , Volgman Annabelle Santos , Moseley Kendall F. , Porter Charles B. , Ismail-Khan Roohi ,   on behalf of the American Heart Association Cardio-Oncology Subcommittee of the Council on Clinical Cardiology and the Council on Genomic and Precision Medicine; Council on Arteriosclerosis, Thrombosis and Vascular Biology; and Council on Cardiovascular Radiology and Intervention
Published: April 2021

Cardiovascular disease and cancer are the leading causes of death in the United States, and hormone-dependent cancers (breast and prostate cancer) are the most common noncutaneous malignancies in women and men, respectively. The hormonal (endocrine-related) therapies that serve as a backbone for treatment of both cancers improve survival but also increase cardiovascular morbidity and mortality among survivors. This consensus statement describes the risks associated with specific hormonal therapies used to treat breast and prostate cancer and provides an evidence-based approach to prevent and detect adverse cardiovascular outcomes. Areas of uncertainty are highlighted, including the cardiovascular effects of different durations of hormonal therapy, the cardiovascular risks associated with combinations of newer generations of more intensive hormonal treatments, and the specific cardiovascular risks that affect individuals of various races/ethnicities. Finally, there is an emphasis on the use of a multidisciplinary approach to the implementation of lifestyle and pharmacological strategies for management and risk reduction both during and after active treatment.
Using KDP Cores as a Downburst Precursor Signature
Authors: Kuster Charles M. , Bowers Barry R. , Carlin Jacob T. , Schuur Terry J. , Brogden Jeff W. , Toomey Robert , Dean Andy
Published: April 2021

Decades of research have investigated processes that contribute to downburst development, as well as identified precursor radar signatures that can accompany these events. These advancements have increased downburst predictability, but downbursts still pose a significant forecast challenge, especially in low-shear environments that produce short-lived single and multicell thunderstorms. Additional information provided by dual-polarization radar data may prove useful in anticipating downburst development. One such radar signature is the KDP core (where KDP is the specific differential phase), which can indicate processes such as melting and precipitation loading that increase negative buoyancy and can result in downburst development. Therefore, KDP cores associated with 81 different downbursts across 10 states are examined to explore if this signature could provide forecasters with a reliable and useable downburst precursor signature. The KDP core characteristics near the environmental melting layer, vertical gradients of KDP, and environmental conditions were quantified to identify any differences between downbursts of varying intensities. The analysis shows that 1) KDP cores near the environmental melting layer are a reliable signal that a downburst will develop; 2) while using KDP cores to anticipate an impending downburst’s intensity is challenging, larger KDP near the melting layer and larger vertical gradients of KDP are more commonly associated with strong downbursts than weak ones; 3) downbursts occurring in environments with less favorable conditions for downbursts are associated with higher magnitude KDP cores, and 4) KDP cores evolve relatively slowly (typically longer than 15 min), which makes them easily observable with the 5-min volumetric updates currently provided by operational radars.
The Political Context and Infant Health in the United States
Authors: Torche Florencia , Rauf Tamkinat
Published: April 2021

Most social determinants of health are shaped by political decisions. However, beyond specific policies, there is limited empirical investigation into the consequences of the changing political context on population health in the United States. We examine a salient political factor—the party of the president and governor—as a determinant of infant health between 1971 and 2018 using a battery of fixed-effects models. We focus on infant health because it has far-reaching implications for future population health and inequality. Our analysis yields three findings: (1) Democratic presidents have a beneficial effect on infant health outcomes, with stronger effects for Black infants compared to White infants. (2) The president’s party effect materializes after two years of a Democratic transition, and remains elevated until the end of the party’s tenure in office. (3) Specific measurable social policies appear to play a minor role in explaining the beneficial effect of Democratic administrations. Our findings suggest the party in power is an important determinant of infant health, particularly among vulnerable populations, and they invite a deeper examination of mechanisms.
Decreased Flow-Mediated Dilatation in Children With Type 1 Diabetes: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Cao Lei , Hou Miao , Zhou Wanping , Sun Ling , Shen Jie , Chen Ye , Tang Yunjia , Wang Bo , Li Xuan , Lv Haitao
Published: April 2021

Type 1 diabetes (T1DM) is a strong risk factor for the development of cardiovascular disease. Flow-mediated dilatation (FMD) is an early noninvasive marker of endothelial function and it predicts future cardiovascular disease. However, the changes in FMD among T1DM children are still controversial. The present meta-analysis aimed to investigate whether FMD is impaired in children with T1DM. PubMed, EMBASE, Cochrane library, and Web of Science were searched for studies comparing FMD in children with T1DM and healthy controls. The Newcastle-Ottawa quality assessment scale for case–control studies was used to assess study quality. Data were pooled using a random effects models to obtain the weighted mean differences (WMD) in FMD and 95% CIs. Overall, 19 studies with 1245 patients and 872 healthy controls were included in this meta-analysis. Children with T1DM had significantly lower FMDs compared with healthy controls (WMD: −2.58; 95% CI: −3.36 to −1.81; P < .001). Meta-regression analysis revealed that low-density lipoprotein cholesterol levels impacted the observed difference in FMD between T1DM and healthy children. This meta-analysis showed that T1DM children have impaired endothelial function, which indicates they are at higher risk of developing cardiovascular disease in later life.
Washington View: Stop blaming teachers for school closures
Authors: Ferguson Maria
Published: April 2021

The COVID-19 pandemic laid bare the public’s contradictory views about public education. At the beginning of the pandemic, Maria Ferguson explains, they were lauded as heroes for keeping kids connected after school buildings closed. But when schools were slower to reopen than many parents wanted, they were excoriated for selfishly protecting their own interests. Much of the public’s criticism was leveled at unions, which resisted reopening school buildings if their members could not be protected from the coronavirus. Blaming unions is not new, says Ferguson, but everyone involved in public education is responsible for its outcomes.
The Minorities of Chinese Philosophy: Ideology and Identity in the Academic Discipline of “Ethnic Minority Philosophy”
Authors: Van den Stock Ady
Published: April 2021

The academic discipline of “ethnic minority philosophy,” which emerged at the beginning of the 1980s in the People’s Republic of China, has thus far remained virtually unstudied in Western-language scholarship. The aim of this article is to place the genesis and development of this little-known discipline against the wider background of modern Chinese scholarly and political discourses on the interrelated issues of national, ethnic, cultural, philosophical, and religious identity. In doing so, this article analyzes what I call the “hierarchical inclusion” of minority traditions into the history of Chinese philosophy, the perceived proximity between ethnic minority philosophies and “primitive religion,” and the role of the problematic concept of “culture” in the reinvention of minoritarian traditions of thought as philosophy.
Trajectories of Recovery after Atrial Fibrillation Ablation
Authors: Wood Kathryn A. , Barnes Angel H. , Jennings Bonnie Mowinski
Published: April 2021

Ablation procedures are common for patients with atrial fibrillation (AF), yet evidence is limited about patient perceptions of their recovery following ablation. We sought to expand understanding of this recovery process. Twenty participants undergoing their first AF ablation completed semi-structured interviews prior to ablation (baseline) and at one, three, and six months post AF ablation. Pre-procedure education is modeled after education used for other ablation procedures, preparing patients to expect a single recovery trajectory. We identified two recovery trajectories that varied in speed of symptom resolution: sustained improvement and pseudo improvement. Recovery was slower than expected in both trajectories. Moreover, returning to desired activity levels consistently lagged behind other symptom resolution by approximately two months. A more accurate understanding of what patients experience post-ablation, as illustrated in these findings, serves as a beginning step to alter patient education prior to AF ablation to better prepare individuals for the recovery process.
Construction of novel amphiphilic chitosan-polylactide graft copolymer nanodroplets for contrast enhanced ultrasound tumor imaging
Authors: Wang Huili , Ding Liqiong , Xu Fengnan , He Liu , Ye Lin , Huang Lingping , Zhang Ling , Luo Binhua
Published: April 2021

In this experiment, a new amphiphilic chitosan-poly(lactide) graft copolymer was synthesized and characterized by IR, 1H-NMR, XRD, TGA. The obtained chitosan-poly (lactide) graft copolymer was used as the matrix material to prepare nanodroplets (NDs) encapsulating with liquid PFP by double-emulsion and solvent evaporation method. The resulting NDs were characterized by photon correlation spectroscopy and transmission electron microscopy (TEM). The biocompatibility was explored by cytotoxicity assay, cell migration assay and blood biochemistry analysis. The experiments of ultrasonic imaging in vitro and in vivo were carried out with a B-mode clinical ultrasound imaging system. The results of FI-IR and 1H-NMR confirmed the successful grafting reaction of polylactic acid(PLLA) to chitosan with a graft rate of 365%. The average size of the NDs was 101.1 ± 2.7 nm, with the polydispersity index (PDI) of 0.127 ± 0.020, and the zeta potential was −31.8 ± 1.5 mV. From the TEM results, NDs were highly dispersed and had a spherical shape with a distinct capsule structure. The NDs exhibited good stability during storage at 4°C. The NDs solution with different concentrations did not affect cell growth and showed good biocompatibility in cytotoxicity, cell migration and blood biochemistry studies. Under the irradiation of ultrasonic waves, the NDs formed an ultrasonic high signal, which could significantly enhance the ultrasound imaging of tumor tissue in vivo. Taken together, the NDs hold great potential for ultrasound imaging as a nanosized contrast agent.
“A Powerful Visual Statement”: Race, Class, and Gender in Uniform and Dress Code Policies in New Orleans Public Charter Schools
Authors: Knipp Hannah , Stevenson Rae
Published: April 2021

The current study critically analyzes the dress code and uniform policies of 89 New Orleans public charter schools using content analysis. Dress code and uniform policies across the United States are deeply rooted in racism, sexism, and classism and, through their implementation, further contribute to these same oppressions. In this study, the dress code and uniform policies, including the justifications for policy, specific policy rules, and possible consequences for noncompliance, are the primary units of analysis. Drawing on intersectionality and the concept of misogynoir, this study attempts to dissect what school policies communicate about race, class, and gender. The racist, classist, and sexist language deployed within the policies is exposed while specifically centering the disproportionate regulation of young black female bodies in dress code policies. School social workers are uniquely positioned to advocate for more equitable dress code and uniform policies. This study contributes to the larger body of literature for its inclusion of data from an entire city as well as its intersectional approach.
Influence of Computer Knowledge and Level of Education on Spanish Citizens’ Propensity to Use E-Commerce
Authors: Jiménez-Rodríguez Enrique , Vázquez-Cano Esteban , Cebrián-Hernández Ángeles , López-Meneses Eloy
Published: April 2021

This article analyzes the influence of Spanish citizens’ computer knowledge and level of education on their tolerance of, or aversion to, risk in the online purchase of goods and services. To this end, annual survey data from Spain’s National Statistics Institute were used to know the incidence in e-commerce of the following variables: “computer knowledge,” “electronic commerce,” and “socioeconomic characteristics.” A method based on the design of a computer knowledge indicator was used, followed by a bivariate logistic regression to determine computer knowledge and level of education. The results show that the higher the level of computer knowledge, the greater the impulse to buy online and the higher the tolerance of risk. There was also a positive relation between level of education and propensity to buy; the higher the level of education, the greater the propensity.
Late-Holocene diatom community response to climate driven chemical changes in a small, subarctic lake, Northwest Territories, Canada
Authors: Hamilton Paul B , Hutchinson Scott J , Patterson R Timothy , Galloway Jennifer M , Nasser Nawaf A , Spence Christopher , Palmer Mike J , Falck Hendrik
Published: April 2021

The paleolimnological record of diatoms and climate, spanning the last 2800 years, was investigated in a small subarctic lake (Pocket Lake) that from AD 1948 to 2004 was contaminated by gold smelting waste. An age-depth model was constructed using a combination of 210Pb, 14C, and tephra to determine a 2800 year history of lake ontogeny (natural aging), biological diversity, and regional climate variability. Diatoms form six strong paleoecological assemblages over time in response to changes in local hydrological and sedimentological conditions (including metals). Selected environmental variables explained 28.8% of the variance in the diatom assemblages, with Fe, Ca, and sediment end member distribution being important indicators. The diatom assemblages correlated to the Iron Age Cold Epoch (2800–2300 cal BP), Roman Warm Period (2250–1610 cal BP), Dark Age Cold Period (1500–1050 cal BP), Medieval Climate Anomaly (ca. 1100–800 cal BP), and the Little Ice Age (800–200 cal BP). The disappearance of Staurosira venter highlights the change from the Iron Age Cold Epoch to the Roman Warm Period. After deposition of the White River Ash (833–850 CE; 1117–1100 cal BP), transition to circumneutral conditions was followed in tandem by a transition to planktic influenced communities. Ten discrete peaks of Cu, Pb, and Zn were observed and attributed to soluble mobility from catchment soils through enhanced seepage and spring snowmelt. The prominent metal spikes were aligned with increases in Brachysira neoexilis. Downward mobilization of arsenic and antimony from contaminated surficial sediments highlight the problem of post depositional industrial contamination of paleosediments. Results demonstrate that paleoclimatic changes in the region, modulated by solar radiation, impacted temperature and precipitation in the lake catchment, influencing temporal shifts in diatom ecology. Changes in diatom taxa richness provided valuable information on the relative influence of water quality (planktic taxa) and sediment input (benthic taxa). The diatom assemblage succession also provides evidence that natural aging over time has played a role in the ecological evolution of the lake.
Climate-induced treeline mortality during the termination of the Little Ice Age in the Greater Yellowstone Ecoregion, USA
Authors: Rochner Maegen L , Heeter Karen J , Harley Grant L , Bekker Matthew F , Horn Sally P
Published: April 2021

Paleoclimate reconstructions for the western US show spatial variability in the timing, duration, and magnitude of climate changes within the Medieval Climate Anomaly (MCA, ca. 900–1350 CE) and Little Ice Age (LIA, ca. 1350–1850 CE), indicating that additional data are needed to more completely characterize late-Holocene climate change in the region. Here, we use dendrochronology to investigate how climate changes during the MCA and LIA affected a treeline, whitebark pine ( Pinus albicaulis Engelm.) ecosystem in the Greater Yellowstone Ecoregion (GYE). We present two new millennial-length tree-ring chronologies and multiple lines of tree-ring evidence from living and remnant whitebark pine and Engelmann spruce ( Picea engelmannii Parry ex. Engelm.) trees, including patterns of establishment and mortality; changes in tree growth; frost rings; and blue-intensity-based, reconstructed summer temperatures, to highlight the terminus of the LIA as one of the coldest periods of the last millennium for the GYE. Patterns of tree establishment and mortality indicate conditions favorable to recruitment during the latter half of the MCA and climate-induced mortality of trees during the middle-to-late LIA. These patterns correspond with decreased growth, frost damage, and reconstructed cooler temperature anomalies for the 1800–1850 CE period. Results provide important insight into how past climate change affected important GYE ecosystems and highlight the value of using multiple lines of proxy evidence, along with climate reconstructions of high spatial resolution, to better describe spatial and temporal variability in MCA and LIA climate and the ecological influence of climate change.
The Efficacy of the Hepatocyte Spheroids for Hepatocyte Transplantation
Authors: Shibuya Kazuaki , Watanabe Masaaki , Goto Ryoichi , Zaitsu Masaaki , Ganchiku Yoshikazu , Taketomi Akinobu
Published: April 2021

The safety and short-term efficacy of hepatocyte transplantation (HCTx) have been widely proven. However, issues such as reduced viability and/or function of hepatocytes, insufficient engraftment, and lack of a long-term effect have to be overcome for widespread application of HCTx. In this study, we evaluated hepatocyte spheroids (HSs), formed by self-aggregation of hepatocytes, as an alternative to hepatocytes in single-cell suspension. Hepatocytes were isolated from C57BL/6 J mice liver using a three-step collagenase perfusion technique and HSs were formed by the hanging drop method. After the spheroids formation, the HSs showed significantly higher mRNA expression of albumin, ornithine transcarbamylase, glucose-6-phosphate, alpha-1-antitrypsin, low density lipoprotein receptor, coagulation factors, and apolipoprotein E (ApoE) than 2 dimensional (2D)-cultured hepatocytes ( p < 0.05). Albumin production by HSs was significantly higher than that by 2D-cultured hepatocytes (9.5 ± 2.5 vs 3.5 ± 1.8 μg/dL, p < 0.05). The HSs, but not single hepatocytes, maintained viability and albumin mRNA expression in suspension (92.0 ± 2.8% and 1.03 ± 0.09 at 6 h). HSs (3.6 × 106 cells) or isolated hepatocytes (fSH, 3.6 × 106 cells) were transplanted into the liver of ApoE knockout (KO-/-) mice via the portal vein. Following transplantation, serum ApoE concentration (ng/mL) of HS-transplanted mice (1w: 63.1 ± 56.7, 4w: 17.0 ± 10.9) was higher than that of fSH-transplanted mice (1 w: 33.4 ± 13.0, 4w: 13.7 ± 9.6). In both groups, the mRNA levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines (IL-6, IL-1β, TNF-α, MCP-1, and MIP-1β) were upregulated in the liver following transplantation; however, no significant differences were observed. Pathologically, transplanted HSs were observed as flat cell clusters in contact with the portal vein wall on day 7. Additionally, ApoE positive cells were observed in the liver parenchyma distant from the portal vein on day 28. Our results indicate that HS is a promising alternative to single hepatocytes and can be applied for HCTx.
Exploratory Study of Advance Care Discussions Among Chinese American and White Stage IV Cancer Patients at an American Tertiary Medical Center
Authors: Glover Avery Caz , Schroeder Courtney , Ernst Emma , Vesel Tamara
Published: April 2021

Purpose:

Timely advance care discussions are essential components of quality care for diverse populations; however, little is known about these conversations among Chinese American cancer patients. This exploratory study describes differences in advance care discussions and planning between Chinese American and White advanced cancer patients.

Methods:

We collected data for 63 Chinese American and 63 White stage IV cancer patients who died between 2013 and 2018. We compared: frequency and timing of prognosis, goals of care (GOC), and end-of-life care (EOLC) discussions in the final year of life; family inclusion in discussions; healthcare proxy (HCP) identification; do not resuscitate (DNR) order, do not intubate (DNI) order, and other advance directive (AD) completion. We did not conduct statistical tests due to the study’s exploratory nature.

Results:

Among Chinese American and White patients, respectively, 76% and 71% had prognosis, 51% and 56% had GOC, and 89% and 84% had EOLC discussions. Prognosis, GOC, and EOLC discussions were held a median of 34.0, 15.5, and 34.0 days before death among Chinese American and 17.0, 13.0, and 24.0 days before death among White patients. Documentation rates among Chinese American and White patients were 79% and 76% for DNRs, 81% and 71% for DNIs, 79% and 81% for HCPs, and 52% and 40% for other ADs.

Conclusions:

Findings suggest that Chinese Americans had similar rates of advance care discussions, completed conversations earlier, and had similar to higher rates of AD documentation compared to White patients. Further studies are needed to confirm our preliminary findings.