bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Description of a new flower fly species of the Copestylum vagum group (Diptera: Syrphidae) from pristine Amazonian rainforests of Colombia and Suriname
Authors: MONTOYA AUGUSTO LEÓN , PARADA-MARÍN HENRY MAURICIO , RAMOS-PASTRANA YARDANY
Published: January 2022

The adult stage of a new flower fly species, Copestylum enriquei sp. nov. (Diptera: Syrphidae) is described based on a single male collected in pristine rainforest in the Amazonian region of Colombia (type-locality: Florencia, Caquetá) and two females from a conserved forest in Suriname (Para and Brokopondo). Copestylum enriquei sp. nov. belongs to the C. vagum species group and is similar in appearance to Copestylum vagum (Wiedemann), C. musicanum (Curran), C. tenorium Ricarte & Rotheray, and C. chapadensis (Curran) from which it differs by the gena and face separated by a very broad brown vitta; scutum orange except for the wide medial vitta, which is dark and metallic, ending before the prescutellar region, with the apical margin M-shaped; tibiae dark-brown, except yellow on basal 1/4. The male genitalia of C. enriquei sp. nov. are unique and striking among the C. vagum species group, characterized by the epandrium and cercus black, contrasting with the colour of hypandrium and surstylus, which are orange; epandrium with a dorsal extension, a novel character among this species group, in addition to the L-shaped surstylus, with two pairs of rounded ridges in the dorsal edge, similar to a small deer antler in velvet. Images of type material, including photographs of male genitalia are provided. A comparison of the diagnostic characters is provided as well as modifications to the previous keys to distinguish C. enriquei sp. nov. from the other species of the C. vagum group. The species Copestylum araceorum Ricarte & Rotheray and C. tenorium Ricarte & Rotheray are recorded for the first time in the Amazonian rainforest in Colombia.
A new species of Clypeocaenis Soldán 1978 (Ephemeroptera: Caenidae) from Tamil Nadu, India
Authors: SRINIVASAN PANDIARAJAN , SIVARUBAN T. , BARATHY S. , ISACK RAJASEKARAN , JACOBUS LUKE M.
Published: January 2022

Clypeocaenis malzacheri sp. nov. is described from the Kottakudi River in southern India, based on larvae and eggs. Clypeocaenis malzacheri sp. nov. appears to be closely related to C. bisetosa Soldán. The new species is distinguished from this species and other congeners based on the structure of the frons; the structure, setation, and maculation of legs; the shape and orientation of the abdominal tergum II projection; and by the shape and denticulation of abdominal sternum IX. Updated couplets for an identification key to Clypeocaenis larvae in the Indomalayan region are provided. The total number of Clypeocaenis species is thereby increased to twelve in the world and seven in India.
Description of two new micropterous species of Monasavuhygia Brailovsky, 1996 from the Fiji and Solomon Islands and a key to species (Heteroptera: Coreidae: Colpurini)
Authors: BRAILOVSKY HARRY , BARRERA ERNESTO
Published: January 2022

The genus Monasavuhygia Brailovsky, 1996 is revised. Two new species collected in the Fiji Islands and Solomon Islands, respectively, are described in the Tribe Colpurini (Heteroptera: Coreidae). A key to the known species is included, with photographs of the dorsal habitus and female genital plates provided.
Glimepiride Loaded Poly(D,L-lactide-co-glycolide) Microspheres Improve Osseointegration of Dental Implants in Type 2 Diabetic Rats
Authors: Liu Changying , Wei Xuezhu , Li Jun , Liang Chao , Geng Wei , Ma Pan
Published: January 2022

The patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) have high dental implant failure frequency. This study explores the function of glimepiride local delivery on dental implant osseointegration in diabetes animal. Glimepiride loaded PLGA microspheres were loaded on the surface of the
dental implant, and transplanted into ten Goto-Kakizaki (GK) rats. Blood sugar level and Implant Stability Quotient (ISQ) were measured every week after surgery. Histological, osseointegration rate and bone-implant contact (BIC) rate analysis were performed to evaluate dental osseointegration.
The results showed that Glimepiride loaded Poly-lactide-co-glycolide (PLGA) microspheres have sustained-release curve. The glimepiride group exhibited greater ISQ than the control group. The BIC rate of the control and glimepiride group was 44.60%±1.95% and 59.80%±1.79%, respectively.
This study demonstrated that the glimepiride group has a significantly greater osseointegration rate than that of the control group. Thus, Glimepiride could provide an alternative drug release microspheres for enhance the dental implant osseointegration in diabetes patients.
LncRNA Neu Mediates Bone Marrow Mesenchymal Stem Cells (BMSCs) Growth and Promotes Cervical Cancer Progression Through Suppression of MicroRNA-625
Authors: Ning Qiuxiang , Guo Fa , Xiao Pengfei , Liu Xiulan , Ding Ya
Published: January 2022

The tumorigenesis mechanism of cervical cancer (CC) is complicated as several pathways deserve exploration. LncRNAs are recently highlighted to be involved in various biological processes. The role of bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells (BMSCs) in tumor regulation is recently investigated. Herein, we aimed to explore the interaction between lncRNA Neu and microRNA (miR)-625 and BMSCs in CC. Expression levels of lncRNA Neu and miR-625 in CC cells and BMSCs were determined by RT-qPCR. The relationship between lncRNA Neu and miR-625 was analyzed by Pearson correlation analysis. After cancer cells were transfected with siRNA-Neu, CCK-8 assay and clone formation assay were conducted to determine cell proliferation and viability. LncRNA Neu was highly expressed in CC cells and poorly expressed in BMSCs. Knockdown of lncRNA Neu attenuated cell viability and proliferation while increased miR-625 expression. MiR-625 expression was negatively correlated with expression of lncRNA Neu in CC cells. Overexpression of miR-625 resulted in weakened CC cell viability. Collectively, lncRNA Neu was highly expressed in CC and promoted the development of CC through stimulating the growth of BMSCs and suppressing miR-625 expression. These findings provide a novel insight into targeted therapy for CC.
Curcumin Suppresses Colon Cancer In Vitro and In Vivo
Authors: Qin Xiaojing , Ding Bowen , Zhang Xueyan , Wang Lan , Zhang Qing , Jiang Bin
Published: January 2022

Objective: To discuss In Vitro and In Vivo the effects of curcumin on colon cancer. Material and Methods: SW620 cell and nude mice with tumor were respectively divided into 3 groups: NC, low, middle, high and 5-Fu groups. Measuring the cell activity by MTT,
the cell cycle and cell apoptosis using flow cytometry and relative proteins by WB assay in cell experiment. Evaluating tumor volume and weight, cell apoptosis rate by TUNEL assay and relative proteins by Immunohistochemistry (IHC). Results: Compared with NC group, the SW620 cell activity
was significantly depressed with cell apoptosis and G1 phase rates increasing and PI3K, AKT and P53 proteins expression were significantly differences in curcumin treated groups with dose-dependent by WB assay; In Vivo study, the tumor volume and size were significantly suppressed and
positive cell number were significantly up-regulation in curcumin treated groups with dose-dependent, and PI3K, AKT and P53 proteins expression were significantly differences in curcumin treated groups with dose-dependent by IHC. Conclusions: Curcumin had anti-tumor effects to colon
cancer via regulation PI3K/AKT/P53 pathway In Vivo and vitro study.
The Effects and Mechanisms of Improvement of Hydroxysafflor Yellow A in Pulmonary Fibrosis
Authors: Xu Peng , Sun Fang , Xiong Ming , Li Qun , Tu Peng , Zhan Hongxia , Du Leichao , Liu Jiajun
Published: January 2022

Purpose: To discuss the effects and mechanisms of improvement of Hydroxysafflor yellow A in pulmonary fibrosis by in vivo study. Material and Methods: In this study, dividing the C57BL/6 mice as 4 group, there were 10 mice in every group. Collecting the serum of
difference groups and measuring the Hyp, SOD, MDA, TNF-α and IL-6 levels. Lung tissues were taken out and evaluating the pathology by HE staining and fibrosis degree by Masson staining. The relative proteins (α-SMA and E-cadherin) were measured by IHC and WB in lung
tissues of difference groups. Results: With HSYA or DXM supplement, the Hyp, MDA, TNF-α and IL-6 concentrations significantly suppressed and SOD concentration significantly enhanced (P < 0.05, respectively). Compared with Sham group, the pathology injury and fibrosis
degree of Model group were significantly up-regulation (P < 0.001, respectively); With HSYA or DXM treatment, the pathology injury and fibrosis degree of HSYA and DXM groups were significantly improved (P < 0.05, respectively). By IHC and WB assay, the α-SMA
and E-cadherin proteins expressions of Model group were significantly differences (P < 0.001, respectively); however, the α-SMA and E-cadherin proteins expressions of HSYA and DXM groups were significantly improved with HSYA or DXM supplement (P < 0.05, respectively).
Conclusion: HSYA improves pulmonary fibrosis by regulation α-SMA and E-cadherin in vivo study.
miR-29b-3p’s Effects on Prostate Cancer
Authors: Hongyi Zhou , Zhiqiang Yan , Leilei Zhu , Maolin Li , Jianfeng Shao , Qiang Hu , Zhouqun Xu
Published: January 2022

Objection: Our research wanted to discuss miR-29b-3p in PCa occurrence and development and relative mechanisms. Methods: Collecting adjacent and cancer tissues from prostate cancer patients and measuring miR-29b-3p expressions by RT-qPCR and ISH assay. Using DU145 and
PC3 cell lines which the miR-29b-3p were high expression in our study. Using miR inhibitor to knockdown miR-29b-3p in DU145 and PC3. Using CCK-8 and flow cytometry to measure cell proliferation and cell apoptosis, invasion cell number by transwell and wound healing rate by wound healing assay.
The relative proteins expressions were measured using WB assay. p-AKT nuclear levels were evaluated using Cell immunofluorescence test. Using dual-luciferase reporter gene assay to analysis correlation miR-29b-3p and PTEN. Results: miR-29b-3p gene significantly increased. miR-29b-3p
knockdown had effects to depress cell proliferation, increase cell apoptosis, depress invasion cells number and wound healing rates. PTEN proteins were significantly up-regulation and p-AKT and MMP-9 proteins expressions were significantly down-regulation (P < 0.001, respectively).
And p-AKT nuclear volume were significantly depressed. And miR-29b-3p could target PTEN. Conclusion: miR-29b-3p played an oncology gene in prostate cancer via regulation PTEN/AKT pathway in vitro study.
Bone Marrow-Derived Mesenchymal Stem Cells (BMSCs)-Exosome Carrying MiRNA-312 Inhibits Sevoflurane-Induced Cardiomyocyte Apoptosis Through Activation of Phosphatidylinositol 3-Kinase/Protein Kinase B (PI3K/AKT) Pathway
Authors: Zhang Jun , Gao Yuying , Chen Peng , Zhou Yu , Guo Sheng , Wang Li , Chen Jie
Published: January 2022

This study was to explore the mechanism by how exosomes (exo) derived from BMSCs affects cardiomyocyte apoptosis. BMSCs were isolated and incubated with cardiomyocytes while the cardiomyocytes were exposed to sevoflurane or DMSO treatment. Apoptotic cells were calculated and level of
apoptosis related proteins was detected by Western blot. Through transfection with microRNA-(miRNA)-312 inhibitor, we evaluated the effect of BMSC-exo on the sevoflurane-induced apoptosis. Sevoflurane significantly inhibited the viability of cardiomyocytes and induced cardiomyocyte apoptosis.
Besides, sevoflurane decreased the expression of miR-312 and enhanced Bax expression in cardiomyocytes through restraining the phosphorylation of MAPK/ERK. Treatment with BMSC-exo, however, activated MAPK/ERK signaling by up-regulating miR-312, thereby inhibiting cardiomyocyte apoptosis, promoting
cardiomyocyte proliferation, and elevating the level of Bcl-2. In conclusion, BMSC-exo-derived miR-312 inhibits sevoflurane-induced cardiomyocyte apoptosis by activating PI3K/AKT signaling pathway.
Application of Pulsating Vacuum Cleaning Technology to Medical Devices Cleaning
Authors: Yang Yan-Qiu , Zhao Shuo-Yang
Published: January 2022

This study aims to solve existing problems in cleaning medical devices, such as the cumbersome loading of minimally invasive surgical instruments, the incomplete cleaning of instruments with complex structures, and the low cleaning efficiency of ordinary instruments. A pulsating vacuum
cleaning machine was combined with ultrasonic cleaning and boiling cleaning technology to clean various complex medical devices through a pressure pulsating process (i.e., repetitive pump-out and pumpin until the cleaning results meet the cleaning standards for medical devices). The cleaning
results of spay washing, ultrasound cleaning and pulsating vacuum cleaning were compared among four groups of medical devices, including silica gel hoses, chamber instruments, whole box of minimally invasive instruments and surgical instruments. The amount of protein residues was tested using
the spectrophotometric method. The testing results revealed that the loading capacity of a pulsating vacuum cleaning machine is 3–4 times as much as that of an ordinary spray cleaning machine, without manual placement and connection operation required, which reduced the workload of pretreatment.
The protein residue after cleaning meets the requirements of the YY/T0734 standard for the cleaning effect of medical devices. Pulsating vacuum cleaning technology has an overall better loading capacity, when compared to spay washing and ultrasound cleaning, and this can make up for the shortcomings
of commonly used cleaning machines, such as the low cleaning efficiency and unsatisfactory cleaning results of medical devices with complex structures.
A Deep Learning Approach for Basal Cell Carcinomas and Bowen’s Disease Recognition in Dermatopathology Image
Authors: Zhang Jiantao , Zhang Xiaobo , Qu Dong , Xue Yan , Bi Xinling , Chen Zhuo
Published: January 2022

Basal cell carcinomas and Bowen’s disease (squamous cell carcinoma in situ) are the most common cutaneous tumors. The early diagnoses of these diseases are very important due to their better prognosis. But it is a heavy workload for the pathologists to recognize a large
number of pathological images and diagnose these diseases. So, there is an urgent need to develop an automatic method for detecting and classifying the skin cancers. This paper presents a recognition system of dermatopathology images based on the deep convolutional neural networks (CNN). The
dermatopathology images are collected from the hospital. The deep learning model is trained using different image datasets. It can be found that the recognition accuracy of the system can be improved by using data augmentation even if the number of the clinical samples are not increased. But
the recognition accuracy of the system is the highest when the number of the original histological image is increased. The experimental results that the system can correctly recognize 88.5% of patients with basal cell carcinoma and 86.5% of patients with Bowen’s disease.
Bone Marrow Mesenchymal Stem Cells (BMSCs) Transplantation Ameliorates Joint Severity and Inflammation in Rats with Arthritis
Authors: Wu Liangbang , Hou Zhenhai , Zheng Longbao , Gu Zenghui
Published: January 2022

This study analyzed the action of Bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells (BMSCs) transplantation on arthritis rat model. Arthritis rat model was established using bovine type II collagen and CFA. BMSCs phenotype was assessed by flow cytometry and pathological changes was analyzed by H&E
staining along with analysis of joint severity by AI score, inflammation by ELISA as well as level of NPY, MMP-2, and MMP-9. The form of passaged BMSCs was spindle shaped with positive expression of CD29 and CD44. The structure of articular cavity in arthritis rats was disordered with infiltration
of inflammatory cells which were ameliorated by BMSCs transplantation. In addition, BMSCs treatment also significantly reduced AI value, the level of VEGF, IL-17 and TNF-α as well as decreased RANK/RANKL expression and increased OPG level. In conclusion, BMSCs transplantation
ameliorates inflammation and severity in arthritis rats possibly through regulation of RANK/OPG, indicating that it might be used for the treatment of arthritis patients.
The Detection, Genesis, and Modeling of Turbulence Intermittency in the Stable Atmospheric Surface Layer
Authors: Allouche Mohammad , Bou-Zeid Elie , Ansorge Cedrick , Katul Gabriel G. , Chamecki Marcelo , Acevedo Otavio , Thanekar Sham , Fuentes Jose D.
Published: January 2022

Intermittent transitions between turbulent and nonturbulent states are ubiquitous in the stable atmospheric surface layer (ASL). Data from two field experiments in Utqiaġvik, Alaska, and from direct numerical simulations are used to probe these state transitions so as to (i) identify statistical metrics for the detection of intermittency, (ii) probe the physical origin of turbulent bursts, and (iii) quantify intermittency effects on overall fluxes and their representation in closure models. The analyses reveal three turbulence regimes, two of which correspond to weakly turbulent periods accompanied by intermittent behavior (regime 1: intermittent; regime 2: transitional), while the third is associated with a fully turbulent flow. Based on time series of the turbulence kinetic energy (TKE), two nondimensional parameters are proposed to diagnostically categorize the ASL state into these regimes; the first characterizes the weakest turbulence state, while the second describes the range of turbulence variability. The origins of intermittent turbulence activity are then investigated based on the TKE budget over the identified bursts. While the quantitative results depend on the height, the analyses indicate that these bursts are predominantly advected by the mean flow, produced locally by mechanical shear, or lofted from lower levels by turbulent ejections. Finally, a new flux model is proposed using the vertical velocity variance in combination with different mixing length scales. The model provides improved representation (correlation coefficients with observations of 0.61 for sensible heat and 0.94 for momentum) compared to Monin–Obukhov similarity (correlation coefficients of 0.0047 for sensible heat and 0.49 for momentum), thus opening new pathways for improved parameterizations in coarse atmospheric models.

Significance Statement

Airflow in the lowest layer of the atmosphere is often modulated by a strong gradient of temperature when the surface is much cooler than the air. Such a regime results in weak turbulence and mixing, and is ubiquitous during nighttime and in polar regions. Understanding and modeling atmospheric flow and turbulence under such conditions are further complicated by “turbulence intermittency,” which manifests as periods of strong turbulent activity interspersed in a more quiescent airflow. The turbulent periods dominate the air–surface exchanges even when they occur over a small fraction of the time. This paper develops approaches to detect and classify such intermittent regimes, examines how the turbulent bursts are generated and advected, and offers guidance on representing such regimes in geophysical models. The findings have the potential to advance weather forecasting and climate modeling, particularly in the all-important polar regions.
Gender and Candidate Communication: An Analysis of Televised Ads in the 2020 US Senate Races
Authors: Banwart Mary C. , Bystrom Dianne G.
Published: January 2022

Recent studies of the content of television ads of female versus male political candidates have shown that women and men are increasingly similar in their communication styles and strategies, with some notable exceptions. However, few studies examining gender and political ad content have focused exclusively on US Senate races, considered the influence of the candidates’ political party, or compared the messages of women running against female versus male opponents. This study examines 236 political ads—160 from mixed-gender and 76 from female–female—U.S. Senate races in 2020 for their verbal and visual content. Results show gendered and partisan differences in the issues emphasized and the tone used. Candidates were similar in the images emphasized. Female candidates were more balanced between formal and casual attire compared to previous election cycles. And candidates in mixed-gender races used different strategies than those in female–female contests as to the issues and political actors mentioned.
Kathryn Tanner and the receptivity of Christ and the Church
Authors: Higton Mike
Published: January 2022

In conversation with Kathryn Tanner’s Christology, I argue that Jesus’ receptivity matters. He is who he is, and his story goes the way it goes, only because of what he receives and goes on receiving from all that surrounds him. Similarly, Jesus’ church grows and learns by what it encounters in the world. These encounters can be occasions for the work of the Spirit upon it, drawing it into the life that God has established in the world in Jesus. Neither Jesus’ incarnate life nor the life of the church should be conceived as involving preservation from creaturely interaction and dependence.
The Role of Educational Podcast Use Among Otolaryngology Residents
Authors: Vanstrum Erik B. , Badash Ido , Wu Franklin M. , Ma Harrison J. , Sarode Deepika N. , Chambers Tamara N. , Johns Michael M.
Published: January 2022

Objective:

Medical podcasts are becoming increasingly available; however, it is unclear how these new resources are being used by trainees or whether they influence clinical practice. This study explores the preferences and experiences of otolaryngology residents with otolaryngology-specific podcasts, and the impact of these podcasts on resident education and clinical practice.

Methods:

An 18-question survey was distributed anonymously to a representative junior (up to post-graduate year 3) and senior (post-graduate year 4 or greater) otolaryngology residents at most programs across the US. Along with demographic information, the survey was designed to explore the preferences of educational materials, podcast listening habits and motivations, and influence of podcasts on medical practice. Descriptive statistics and student t-tests were used to analyze the results.

Results:

The survey was distributed to 198 current otolaryngology residents representing 94% of eligible residency programs and was completed by 73 residents (37% response rate). Nearly 3-quarters of respondents reported previous use of otolaryngology podcasts, among which 83% listen at least monthly. Over half of residents changed their overall clinical (53%) and consult (51%) practice based on podcast use. Residents rank-ordered listening to podcasts last among traditional options for asynchronous learning, including reading textbooks and watching online videos.

Conclusions:

While other asynchronous learning tools remain popular, most residents responding to this survey use podcasts and report that podcasts influence their clinical practice. This study reveals how podcasts are currently used as a supplement to formal otolaryngology education. Results from the survey may inform how medical podcasts could be implemented into resident education in the future.
How Voters Respond to Presidential Assaults on Checks and Balances: Evidence from a Survey Experiment in Turkey
Authors: Şaşmaz Aytuğ , Yagci Alper H. , Ziblatt Daniel
Published: January 2022

Why do voters support executive aggrandizement? One possible answer is that they do so because they think this will ease their preferred leader’s hand in putting their partisan vision into action, provided that the leader will continue winning elections. We study this phenomenon through a survey experiment in Turkey, by manipulating voters’ perceptions about the potential results of the first presidential election after a constitutional referendum of executive aggrandizement. We find that voters from both sides display what we call “elastic support” for executive aggrandizement; that is, they change previously revealed constitutional preferences in response to varying winning chances. This elasticity increases not only when citizens feel greater social distance to perceived political “others” (i.e., affective polarization) but also when voters are concerned about economic management in a potential post-incumbent era. Our findings contribute to the literature on how polarization and economic anxiety contribute to executive aggrandizement and democratic backsliding. 1
Responsibilities, Opportunities, and Challenges for Human Factors in the Digital Age
Authors: Radwin Robert G.
Published: January 2022

Today’s challenges for scientific publications require operating at a time when trust in science depends upon effective vetting of data, identifying questionable practices, and scrutinizing research. The Editor-in-Chief has an invaluable opportunity to influence the direction and reputation of our field but also has the responsibility to confront contemporary trends that threaten the publication of quality research. The editor is responsible for maintaining strict scientific standards for the journal through the exercise of good judgment and steadfast commitment to upholding the highest ethical principles. Opportunities exist to create and implement new initiatives for improving the peer review process and elevating the journal’s stature. The journal must address the challenges as well as effectively communicate with the public, who seek a reliable source of information.
Mapping Perceptions of Violence Across Asian Regions and Countries
Authors: Park Yangjin , Song Jingyeong , Sullivan Kathrine , Paik Seunghoon
Published: January 2022

Violence is increasing in Asia. However, limited research exists on the prevalence and types of violence across Asian regions and countries; a comprehensive study on a continental-scale in Asia has been understudied. Guided by the World Health Organization’s definition of violence, this study used World Values Survey Wave 7 ( n = 35,435) to map the perceptions of the justifiability of three categories of violence (self-inflicted, interpersonal, collective) with five subtypes (suicide, intimate partner violence against wife, child abuse, violence toward other people, political violence) in six regions and 24 countries in Asia. Findings indicate that perceptions of the justifiability of violence are significantly different across regions in Asia. Perceptions of the justifiability of various types of violence differed across Asian countries. Considering the complexity and diversity of violence across Asian regions and countries, this study may be a cornerstone for violence research in Asia.
Interaction between Phrasal Structure and Vowel Tenseness in German: An Acoustic and Articulatory Study
Authors: Belz Malte , Rasskazova Oksana , Krivokapić Jelena , Mooshammer Christine
Published: January 2022

Phrase-final lengthening affects the segments preceding a prosodic boundary. This prosodic variation is generally assumed to be independent of the phonemic identity. We refer to this as the ‘uniform lengthening hypothesis’ (ULH). However, in German, lax vowels do not undergo lengthening for word stress or shortening for increased speech rate, indicating that temporal properties might interact with phonemic identity. We test the ULH by comparing the effect of the boundary on acoustic and kinematic measures for tense and lax vowels and several coda consonants. We further examine if the boundary effect decreases with distance from the boundary. Ten native speakers of German were recorded by means of electromagnetic articulography (EMA) while reading sentences that contained six minimal pairs varying in vowel tenseness and boundary type. In line with the ULH, the results show that the acoustic durations of lax vowels are lengthened phrase-finally, similarly to tense vowels. We find that acoustic lengthening is stronger the closer the segments are to the boundary. Articulatory parameters of the closing movements toward the post-vocalic consonants are affected by both phrasal position and identity of the preceding vowel. The results are discussed with regard to the interaction between prosodic structure and vowel tenseness.
Studies on Positive Evidence Feedback in Second Language Writing: Status Quo and Implications
Authors: Cao Zhenhao , Mao Zhicheng
Published: January 2022

While a surge of research has investigated the use of reformulations and models as positive evidence feedback (PEF) in second language (L2) writing, so far no research synthesis seeking to review the status quo of this particular topic has been published. To fill the gap, the present study synthesized 23 studies on reformulations and models as PEF in L2 writing and examined the salient findings regarding three major research strands: (1) students’ noticing and incorporation from reformulations; (2) students’ noticing and incorporation from models; and (3) effects of PEF on L2 writing. Informed by the study findings, we suggest L2 teachers vary their feedback decisions with flexibility, consider individual and contextual factors in PEF practices, combine PEF and corrective feedback to maximize student learning, and provide guidance to support student actions in response to PEF. We also propose three areas for further research, namely going beyond linguistic issues to explore the potential of PEF, systematically investigating factors influencing students’ engagement with PEF, and collecting longitudinal data to examine the long-term effect of PEF. This study enhances our understanding of this emerging research area and provides implications for L2 pedagogy, as well as suggestions for future investigations.
Continuous sliding mode control for the translational oscillator with a rotating actuator system
Authors: Wang Liqiang , Wu Xianqing , Lei Meizhen
Published: January 2022

The stabilization and disturbance rejection of the translational oscillator with a rotating actuator (TORA) are considered in this paper. To deal with the control issues, a novel continuous sliding mode control method is designed for the TORA system. Compared with existing sliding mode control methods for the TORA system, the proposed method here is continuous. Specifically, first, a global diffeomorphism is introduced for the model of the TORA system. Then, an elaborate sliding manifold is constructed, and a continuous sliding mode control scheme is developed to ensure the convergence of the sliding manifold. Furthermore, rigorous theoretical analysis is given. Finally, simulation tests are carried out, and the obtained simulation results demonstrate that the proposed method exhibits superior stabilization control performance and strong robustness.
Enhancement of dynamic performance of wave energy converter by introducing a flow control
Authors: Geng Dazhou , Chen Qijuan , Zheng Yang , Yue Xuhui , Yan Donglin
Published: January 2022

The stabilization of power take-off (PTO) is imperative especially under circumstances of fluctuating input wave energy. In this paper, a flow control valve is introduced to optimize the transient process of the hydraulic PTO, which can contribute to a quicker adjustment and a stronger stability. Under variations of input power and load torque in transient process, an open-loop control method and a closed-loop control method are proposed as the opening law of the above valve, and the hydraulic motor speed, the pressure at the accumulator inlet and the generated power are chosen as indicators to examine the regulation performance. Then, the synergic effect of the flow control valve and the accumulator in the transient process is discussed. The effectiveness of the two presented control methods on the fluctuation suppression is respectively tested and compared in both regular wave and irregular wave situations via simulation. To validate the practical effectiveness of the proposed methods, field experiments are conducted. The results demonstrate that the open-loop control can only improve the damping ability of the hydraulic PTO in the speed raising stage, while the closed-loop control can improve the stability both in the speed raising stage and in the load increasing stage.
Child Sex Tourism: A Case Study in Surabaya, Indonesia
Authors: Bah Yahya Muhammed , Artaria Myrtati D. , Suen Mein-Woei
Published: January 2022

This article provides a case study of child sex tourism (CST) in Surabaya, Indonesia. CST cases are difficult to surface because the victims of CST are such vulnerable human beings. Victims of CST need a variety of forms of support for their recovery and reintegration. This article contends that social, economic, political, technological, and individual factors cause CST. It examines the negative impacts of CST, which are medical, social, psychological, and physical in nature. It also reveals that the techniques used for CST recruitment are fake promises, debt bondage, emotional abuse, counterfeit love, drug addiction, physical abuse, gifts and favors. The elimination of CST calls for ending certain depraved cultural practices and beliefs, rehabilitation and reintegration of the victims, proactive anti-CST government policies and programs, enactment and effective enforcement of tough laws prohibiting CST, prosecution of the offenders, raising public awareness about the ills of CST, providing education for all children, the provision of national identification documents to all children, and strict border controls to prevent the trafficking of children for sex tourism.
Dysphagia Outcomes Following Surgical Management of Unilateral Vocal Fold Immobility: A Systematic Review and Meta‐analysis
Authors: Coulter Michael , Marvin Kastley , Brigger Matthew , Johnson Christopher M.
Published: January 2022

Objective

To assess dysphagia outcomes following surgical management of unilateral vocal fold immobility (UVFI) in adults.

Data Sources

Ovid MEDLINE, Embase, Web of Science, and Cochrane Central.

Review Methods

A structured literature search was utilized, and a 2‐researcher systematic review was performed following PRISMA guidelines. Extractable data were pooled, and a quantitative analysis was performed with a random effects model to analyze treatment outcome and complications by procedure.

Results

A total of 416 publications were screened and 26 met inclusion criteria. Subjects encompassed 959 patients with UVFI who underwent 916 procedures (n = 547, injection laryngoplasty; n = 357, laryngeal framework surgery; n = 12, laryngeal reinnervation). An overall 615 were identified as having dysphagia as a result of UVFI and had individually extractable outcome data, which served as the basis for a quantitative meta‐analysis. In general, dysphagia outcomes after all medialization procedures were strongly positive. Quantitative analysis demonstrated a success rate estimate of 90% (95% CI, 75%–100%) for injection laryngoplasty and 92% (95% CI, 87%–97%) for laryngeal framework surgery. The estimated complication rate was 7% (95% CI, 2%–13%) for injection laryngoplasty and 15% (95% CI, 10%–20%) for laryngeal framework surgery, with minor complications predominating. Although laryngeal reinnervation could not be assessed quantitatively due to low numbers, qualitative analysis demonstrated consistent benefit for a majority of patients for each procedure.

Conclusion

Dysphagia due to UVFI can be improved in a majority of patients with surgical procedures intended to improve glottal competence, with a low risk of complications. Injection laryngoplasty and laryngeal framework surgery appear to be efficacious and safe, and laryngeal reinnervation may be a promising new option for select patients.
From Brick to Click Classrooms: A Paradigm Shift During the Pandemic—Identifying Factors Influencing Service Quality and Learners’ Satisfaction in Click Classrooms
Authors: Paposa Kamalpreet Kaur , Paposa Sukhvinder Singh
Published: January 2022

The most crucial determinant of success in any service environment is the perception of the customers about the service quality or the product quality as it derives satisfaction and loyalty. Considering this imperative, the present review focuses on the service quality of online teaching, which has become a new normal during the pandemic. The pandemic has resulted in a paradigm shift of imparting education from brick to click classrooms. Hence, this article reviews the literature on the factors influencing service quality of click classrooms and mentions the parameters that lead to learners’ satisfaction. The systematic review helps in understanding how the research in this field has progressed. It is evident from this review that creating an interactive learning environment, giving prompt feedbacks, providing rich digital resources and course content, competent and skilled faculty members and continuous student support play a crucial role in enhancing the service quality of click classrooms leveraging learners’ satisfaction. The findings of this study support the educational institutions towards developing a sound and sustainable online learning environment by comprehending the students’ expectations about the service quality of an online learning environment. The study aims to propel future research works towards improving the service quality of click classrooms and enriching learners’ experience to impart quality education for all the stakeholders.
Social Influence on Fad Diet Use: A Systematic Literature Review
Authors: Spadine Mandy , Patterson Megan S.
Published: January 2022

Background: A fad diet is a broad term used to describe dieting methods that recommend altering the intake of macronutrients to specific proportions or instruct people to intake or avoid particular foods, often with the goal of rapid weight loss. Previous literature reviews report social influence impacts general diet behaviour, but have yet to examine fad diets, specifically. Therefore, the purpose of this systematic review was to synthesize literature related to social influence on an individual's fad diet use and understand the sociocultural factors related to diet use. Methods: Using PRISMA guidelines, Medline, PsycInfo, Embase, CINAHL, and CENTRAL databases were searched to identify articles investigating the impact of social on fad diet use. Covidence was used to manage the review process and Garrard's Matrix Method was used to extract data from reviewed articles (n   =   13). Results: A majority of reviewed studies examined interpersonal influence (62%) and reported social influence impacting a variety of fad diet behaviours (92%). Interpersonal and media influence were highlighted as motivating factors for adopting unhealthy dieting methods (54%), and studies showed interpersonal support impacted adoption and maintenance of fad diet use (23%). Also, social norms were reported to influence unhealthy weight control behaviours (15%). Discussion: This review revealed social influence is associated with the adoption, adherence, and termination of fad diets. The prevalence of fad diets in society and the lack of research on this topic warrants further examination of factors related to fad diets use and the spread among interpersonal networks.
Effects of neuromuscular electrical stimulation on exercise capacity, muscle strength and quality of life in COPD patients: A Systematic Review with Meta-Analysis
Authors: Alves Iura Gonzalez Nogueira , da Silva e Silva Cássio Magalhães , Martinez Bruno Prata , de Queiroz Rodrigo Santos , Gomes-Neto Mansueto
Published: January 2022

Objective

To determine the effects of neuromuscular electrical stimulation on disabilities and activity limitation of individuals affected by chronic obstructive pulmonary disease.

Data sources

MEDLINE, PEDro database, Cochrane Controlled Trials Register, and SciELO, were searched from inception until October 2021.

Review methods

Inclusion criteria were patients with COPD, randomized controlled trials comparing neuromuscular electrical stimulation alone or combined conventional pulmonary rehabilitation and neuromuscular electrical stimulation versus control or sham or pulmonary rehabilitation in disabilities and activity limitation in COPD. There were no mandatory language or publication date restrictions. Two reviewers selected studies independently. Weighted mean differences and 95% confidence intervals were calculated. Results 32 studies met the study criteria, including 1.269 participants. Neuromuscular electrical stimulation improved exercise capacity (MD 1.10, 95% CI: 0.33, 1.86, N = 147), and muscle strength (0.53, 95% CI: 0.20, 0.87, N = 147) compared to sham group. Combined neuromuscular electrical stimulation and conventional rehabilitation improved exercise capacity (MD 34.28 meters, 95% CI: 6.84, 61.73, N = 262) compared to conventional rehabilitation alone. No adverse events were reported.

Conclusions

Neuromuscular electrical stimulation resulted in small improvement in disabilities and activity limitation (below the MCID) in COPD. Thus, the inclusion of neuromuscular electrical stimulation in rehabilitation programs must consider the cost Because of inadequate methodological conduction and reporting of methods, some studies were of low quality.
Physicians under Pressure: Evidence from Antibiotics Prescribing in England
Authors: Allen Thomas , Gyrd-Hansen Dorte , Kristensen Søren Rud , Oxholm Anne Sophie , Pedersen Line Bjørnskov , Pezzino Mario
Published: January 2022

Background

Many physicians are experiencing increasing demands from both their patients and society. Evidence is scarce on the consequences of the pressure on physicians’ decision making. We present a theoretical framework and predict that increasing pressure may make physicians disregard societal welfare when treating patients.

Setting

We test our prediction on general practitioners’ antibiotic-prescribing choices. Because prescribing broad-spectrum antibiotics does not require microbiological testing, it can be performed more quickly than prescribing for narrow-spectrum antibiotics and is therefore often preferred by the patient. In contrast, from a societal perspective, inappropriate prescribing of broad-spectrum antibiotics should be minimized as it may contribute to antimicrobial resistance in the general population.

Methods

We combine longitudinal survey data and administrative data from 2010 to 2017 to create a balanced panel of up to 1072 English general practitioners (GPs). Using a series of linear models with GP fixed effects, we estimate the importance of different sources of pressure for GPs’ prescribing.

Results

We find that the percentage of broad-spectrum antibiotics prescribed increases by 6.4% as pressure increases on English GPs. The link between pressure and prescribing holds for different sources of pressure.

Conclusions

Our findings suggest that there may be societal costs of physicians working under pressure. Policy makers need to take these costs into account when evaluating existing policies as well as when introducing new policies affecting physicians’ work pressure. An important avenue for further research is also to determine the underlying mechanisms related to the different sources of pressure.JEL-code: I11, J28, J45

Highlights

Many physicians are working under increasing pressure. We test the importance of pressure on physicians’ prescribing of antibiotics. The prescribed rate of broad-spectrum antibiotics increases with pressure. Policy makers should be aware of the societal costs of pressured physicians. [Formula: see text]
Interleukin-17 and vascular endothelial growth factor: new biomarkers for the diagnosis of papillary thyroid carcinoma in patients with Hashimoto’s thyroiditis
Authors: Li Shuiping , Li Shilin , Lin Min , Li Zuolin , He Jinghua , Qiu Jincheng , Zhang Jiantang
Published: January 2022

Objective

The incidences of papillary thyroid carcinoma (PTC) and Hashimoto’s thyroiditis (HT) have shown increasing trends. Numerous studies have shown a close relationship between the two diseases, but the exact mechanism linking PTC with HT is still unclear. Interleukin-17 (IL-17) plays an important role in the development of malignant tumors. However, information on the association between IL-17 and thyroid disease is lacking.

Methods

Tissue samples were collected from patients with thyroid diseases admitted to the thyroid surgery department of our hospital between May 2015 and December 2017. The characteristics of the thyroid were observed by ultrasonography, hematoxylin-eosin staining, enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays, and immunohistochemistry.

Results

We found that HT with carcinoma (HTC) showed unique characteristics in two-dimensional ultrasound images. Moreover, IL-17 and vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) levels showed gradually increasing trends during the process of HT malignant transformation, with a significant positive correlation between the two cytokines. Serum IL-17 and VEGF levels could distinguish between HTC and HT with benign adenoma.

Conclusion

Our data suggest that serum IL-17 and VEGF levels may represent novel biomarkers for the diagnosis of HT malignant nodules.
A retroperitoneal bronchogenic cyst clinically mimicking an adrenal mass: three case reports and a literature review
Authors: Hu Bi-yue , Yu Hong , Shen Jiang
Published: January 2022

Bronchogenic cysts are a congenital primitive foregut-derived developmental malformation, generally occurring in the posterior mediastinum. Their development in the retroperitoneum is extremely rare. Imaging techniques, such as multidetector computed tomography (MDCT), are typically effective in the detection of these lesions. Here, we describe three cases of a retroperitoneal cyst presenting as a para-adrenal mass. Only one boy presented with abdominal pain, and the other two showed no clinical symptoms. Endocrinological evaluation of all three cases was performed, and no adrenal hormone secretion was detected. All three cases were misdiagnosed preoperatively. Each patient underwent surgery, and one symptomatic patient became asymptomatic after surgery. Pathologic examination confirmed all three masses as bronchogenic cysts. The three cases showed some similar MDCT imaging features, including a complete adrenal structure, a cystic or solid mass in the adrenal region, and no obvious enhancement. Therefore, bronchogenic cysts should be considered in the differential diagnosis of retroperitoneal masses, even though accurate preoperative diagnosis remains difficult. A contrast-enhanced MDCT scan may be useful for differentiating hyper-attenuated cysts from other soft tissue masses.
Secondary hand infection with Eikenella corrodens and Staphylococcus aureus in a patient with Behcet's disease: a case report
Authors: Liu Yaoting , Zhong Jiayun , Hu Haiqing , Hou Qing , Chen Xianfeng , Weng Zhijun , Zhou Lin
Published: January 2022

We report the first case of a woman with Behcet's disease (BD) with multiple hand ulcers secondary to coninfection by Eikenella corrodens and Staphylococcus aureus resulting in necrotizing fasciitis. She had a long history of BD including long courses of prednisone and immunosuppressants. The patient was hospitalized for multiple superficial ulcers, swelling, and infection of the hands. After admission, pus culture examination revealed rare coinfection by E. corrodens and S. aureus. We administered moxifloxacin and vancomycin to control infection and methylprednisolone to control BD. We performed incision, drainage, and debridement of the ulcer surface on the hands to reduce the pus on the wound surface. E. corrodens infections occur in immunosuppressed patients and contribute to coinfections, particularly in patients with BD in whom destruction of the skin immune barrier increases risk to secondary infections. For severe and complicated hand infections, efforts should be made to identify pathogenic microorganisms so appropriate antibiotics and other interventions can be given to control the infection.