bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Financial Development and Health Outcomes: Do Financial Globalization Matter in Selected Asian Economies?
Authors: Shi Guoxin , Wang Dawei , Altuntaş Mehmet
Published: April 2022

The importance of health is well documented in the development economics literature because of its increasing effects on economic growth in the long-run. Financial development and financial globalization are essential resources for health. This study examines the role of financial development and financial globalization in the rapid rise of life expectancy in China, India, and Japan by using the annual data covering the period of 1991–2019. The ARDL bounds testing approach confirm the long-run relationship between financial development, financial globalization, and life expectancy in the presence of GDP, health expenditure, and the internet. The long-run findings indicate that financial development positively affects life expectancy by 0.599% in China. The novel findings also indicate that financial globalization positively affects life expectancy by 1.247% in Japan and 1.121% in India. Our findings offer new empirical insights to policymakers crucial to improving life expectancy in China, India, and Japan.
Adaptive Renewal of Mountainous Historical Towns Based on the Stability of the Social Network Structure: A Case Study in Chongqing, China
Authors: Shi Yaling , Huang Yong , Zhang Ran , Jiang Di , Zhang Junxue
Published: April 2022

The stability of social network structure (SSNS) in historical towns is influenced by changes in built environments and demographic factors. The historical towns in China have evolved into massive rural-urban migration under the rapid urbanization over the past forty years. In this context, many of these historical towns experienced “declining built environment and disintegrating social networks,” which does not contribute to the adaptive renewal of the built environment and social networks in historical towns, as well as the psychological health of residents. This article intends to explore the adaptive renewal of the built environment and social networks of historical towns based on the SSNS. Data on “households” and “social ties” (i.e., kinship, geographic, and job relationship) among households were collected via a field survey in seven historical towns in Chongqing, China. K-core models of social network analysis (SNA) were calculated to analyze SSNS. The result shows that the social networks of historical towns with centripetal-shaped structures were more stable than historical towns with divergent-shaped structures. Moreover, spatial layout forms and functions of households might affect the stability of social networks in historical towns. Based on the results of the analysis of SSNS, strategies for adaptive renewal of the built environments and social networks were put forward in two aspects. The built environment, such as the classification of public spaces and service facilities, can be designed based on the k-core indicator for increasing the spatial connection of households in the historical towns. In addition, increased social activities in historical towns with weak SSNS may promote social connection of households, and are also helpful in boosting public health in psychological aspects.
Varicocele: An Endocrinological Perspective
Authors: Bellastella Giuseppe , Carotenuto Raffaela , Caiazzo Francesco , Longo Miriam , Cirillo Paolo , Scappaticcio Lorenzo , Carbone Carla , Arcaniolo Davide , Maiorino Maria Ida , Esposito Katherine
Published: April 2022

Varicocele affects 15% of male population but it is more frequently identified in patients searching medical care for infertility. The impact of varicocele on semen production and fertility is known, but the relationship between clinical varicocele and impaired hormonal production is not clear. In published literature there are some studies regarding hormonal alterations in patients with varicocele but no review in which all the hormonal findings are explained. The aim of this review is to evaluate, by most common search engine, what is known about hormonal alterations in varicocele-bearing patients, to verify if a cause-effect relationship is documented and to give a useful contribution to in clinical management of this kind of patients. We found contradictory results about hormonal status from literature. Some studies confirmed a decrease of testosterone levels and higher FSH and LH levels that normalize after varicocelectomy, others found lower than normal levels of dihydrotestosterone due to decreased activity of epididymal 5-α-reductase. Lower circulating Anti-Müllerian Hormone levels, accompanied by a decreased Inhibin-B level, were reported as indicators of the decreased Sertoli cells function in varicocele-bearing adult patients. The finding of higher basal 17-OH-progesterone concentrations in patients with varicocele was explained by some authors with a testicular C-17,20-lyase deficiency. There is no doubt that varicocele could led to hormonal alterations. This review proposes that the impaired free sexual steroid levels are the result of a slight, deep-rooted defect in the testes of a certain amount of men with varicocele but further multicentre, randomized controlled studies remain mandatory to better clarify the hormonal features of patients with varicocele and to assess the utility of hormonal evaluation for establishing the duration of varicocele and for better identifying patients who need surgical correction.
What Ice Cores can Tell us About Earth’s Past
Authors: Myers Anne L. , Criscitiello Alison S.
Published: April 2022

The glacial regions of Earth are extremely cold, and snow can accumulate in these regions over tens of thousands of years. Every new snowfall increases the pressure on the snow beneath it, eventually causing it to turn to ice, creating many ice layers. These ice layers contain information about Earth’s past at the time when the snow fell. By collecting these ice layers in long cylinders called ice cores, we can examine these layers to see how the Earth’s climate has changed over many years and the effects that Earth processes and human activity have had on our planet. Ice cores are unique because much of the information we learn from them cannot be found anywhere else. By complementing ice core information with other information like satellite and weather data and human knowledge and experience, we can learn even more about Earth’s past.
Preoperative Low Prealbumin Is Associated With Recurrence in Patients With Stage II/III Gastric Cancer After Laparoscopic D2 Gastrectomy
Authors: Gao Chun , Dan Zeng Ci Dian , Tong Yi Xin , Zhu Li , Zhang Sheng
Published: April 2022

Background

Postoperative recurrence is associated with poor prognosis in patients with gastric cancer. This study aimed to explore predictive factors contributing to recurrence in patients with stage II/III gastric cancer after laparoscopic D2 gastrectomy.

Methods

This retrospective study was conducted at a single tertiary referral hospital. Patients diagnosed with gastric cancer who met the inclusion criteria were included in the study. The clinicopathological characteristics of the patients were collected. The patients were divided into recurrence and non-recurrence groups. The predictive factors were investigated using univariate and multivariate analyses.

Results

In total, 462 patients were included. The incidence of recurrence was 26.4% (122/462) in all patients. The most common recurrence pattern was haematogenous recurrence. In the multivariate analysis, the independent predictive factors for recurrence were serum prealbumin level (p < 0.001), prognostic nutritional index (p = 0.001), carbohydrate antigen 19-9 (CA19-9) (p < 0.001), number of lymph node metastases (p < 0.001), signet-ring cell carcinoma (p = 0.001), tumor deposit (p = 0.001), and no/incomplete adjuvant chemotherapy (p < 0.001).

Conclusions

Our findings revealed that nutritional status was an independent predictive factor for recurrence in patients with gastric cancer after D2 gastrectomy. We suggest that patients with risk factors for recurrence receive both nutritional support and intense surveillance.
Differences in Sleep Patterns and Mental Health Problems During Different Periods of COVID-19 Outbreak Among Community-Dwelling Older Men in Hong Kong
Authors: Liao Gengze , Huang Bixia , Lee Priscilla Ming , Zhao Shi , Chan Chi Kuen , Tai Lai-Bun , Tsang Chun Yuk Jason , Leung Chi Chiu , Kwan Mei-Po , Tse Lap Ah
Published: April 2022

Objectives: To determine the association of sleep with mental health among Hong Kong community-dwelling older men in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Methods: This additional analysis was derived from the community-dwelling men aged >60 recruited during three COVID-19 outbreaks (i.e., pre-outbreak, between the second and third wave, and during the third wave) in Hong Kong from July 2019 to September 2020. Sleep and mental health were measured by Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index questionnaire and Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale, respectively. Multivariate logistic regression models were performed for the associations between sleep and mental health after considering the outbreaks’ impact.

Results: Subjects enrolled between the second and third wave tended to have better sleep but worse mental health. Positive associations between poor sleep and depression (AOR = 3.27, 95% CI: 1.60–7.03) and anxiety (AOR = 2.40, 95% CI: 1.07–5.76) were observed. The period “between second and third wave” was positively associated with depression (AOR = 2.65, 95% CI: 1.22–5.83), showing an additive interaction with poor sleep.

Conclusion: The positive association between poor sleep and depression was aggravated by the period “between the second and third wave” among community-dwelling older males in Hong Kong.
Measuring the Climate Risk Exposure of Financial Assets : Methodological Challenges and Central Bank Practices
Authors: Kolozsi Pál Péter , Ladányi Sándor , Straubinger András
Published: April 2022

In order to understand climate-related risks and opportunities, the availability and transparency of reliable financial information is essential. In this regard, the financial sector plays a special role owing to its ties to other economic sectors, and the exposure of financial institutions highlights the responsibility of central banks. This paper uses the literature related to environmental sustainability reporting as well as practical experience to describe the challenges encountered in assessing the green risks of financial assets (absence and heterogeneity of data, differences in definitions and requirements, lack of a uniform methodology, limits of rating schemes) and also details the climate risk measurement methodologies and practical solutions employed by central banks publishing their own climate-related financial disclosures, i.e. the Bank of England, the Banque de France and the Magyar Nemzeti Bank.
Positivity Rate Investigation and Anthelmintic Resistance Analysis of Gastrointestinal Nematodes in Sheep and Cattle in Ordos, China
Authors: Hou Bin , Yong Rong , Wuen Jiya , Zhang Yong , Buyin Buhe , Subu Dihua , Zha Huhen , Li Hong , Hasi Surong
Published: April 2022

Gastrointestinal nematodes (GINs), such as Trichostrongylidae, are important pathogens in small ruminants, causing significant losses in these livestock species. Despite their veterinary importance, GINs have not been studied in certain regions of the world. Therefore, much of their epidemiology and economic impact on production remain unknown. In the present study, a systematic epidemiological survey based on the modified McMaster technique was conducted to investigate the type and infection of GINs in sheep and cattle. In 9622 fecal samples from 491 sampling sites in the four main banner districts of Ordos, the prevalence of GIN infection was found to be 38.84% and 4.48% in sheep and cattle, respectively. At the same time, the effects of four pasture types on the distribution of GINs were analyzed. This study also found severe resistance to ivermectin and albendazole in GINs and suspected anthelmintic resistance in nitroxynil, levamisole and closantel. We report the type and infection of GINs in Ordos, with the aim to help the prevention and control of GINs. Based on the results of the questionnaire survey and GIN resistance test, we found several reasons for the anthelmintic resistance of GINs, consequently providing new ideas for controlling the occurrence of anthelmintic resistance.
Prognostic Value of the Largest Lesion Size for Progression-Free Survival in Patients with NET Undergoing Salvage PRRT with [177Lu]Lu-DOTATOC
Authors: Galler Markus , Rogasch Julian M. M. , Huang Kai , Jann Henning , Plehm Kristina , Wetz Christoph , Amthauer Holger
Published: April 2022

(1) Background: retreatment with radionuclide-labeled somatostatin analogues following disease progression after initial treatment cycles is often referred to as salvage peptide receptor radionuclide therapy (salvage PRRT). Salvage PRRT is shown to have a favorable safety profile in patients with metastatic neuroendocrine tumors (NETs), but numerous questions about the efficacy and prognostic or predictive factors remain to be answered. The purpose of this study was to evaluate two parameters that have shown prognostic significance in progression-free survival (PFS) in initial PRRT treatment, namely the size of the largest lesion (LLS) and the De Ritis ratio (aspartate aminotransferase (AST)/alanine aminotransferase (ALT)), as prognostic factors in the context of salvage PRRT. In addition, the PFS after initial PRRT was evaluated as a predictor of the PFS following salvage PRRT. (2) Methods: retrospective, monocentric analysis in 32 patients with NETs (gastroenteropancreatic, 23; unknown primary, 7; kidney, 1; lung, 1) and progression after initial PRRT undergoing retreatment with [177Lu]Lu-DOTATOC. The prognostic values of LLS, the De Ritis ratio, and PFS after initial treatment cycles regarding PFS following salvage PRRT were evaluated with univariable and multivariable Cox regression. PFS was defined as the time from treatment start until tumor progression according to RECIST 1.1 criteria, death from any cause or start of a new treatment due to progression of cancer-related symptoms (namely carcinoid syndrome). (3) Results: progression after salvage PRRT was observed in 29 of 32 patients with median PFS of 10.8 months (95% confidence interval (CI), 8.0–15.9 months). A higher LLS (hazard ratio (HR): 1.03; p = 0.002) and a higher De Ritis ratio (HR: 2.64; p = 0.047) were associated with shorter PFS after salvage PRRT in univariable Cox regression. PFS after initial PRRT was not associated with PFS following salvage PRRT. In multivariable Cox regression, only LLS remained a significant predictor. (4) Conclusions: the size of the largest lesion is easy to obtain and might help identify patients at risk of early disease progression after salvage PRRT. Validation is required.
Biomarker-Based Models for Preoperative Assessment of Adnexal Mass: A Multicenter Validation Study
Authors: Watrowski Rafał , Obermayr Eva , Wallisch Christine , Aust Stefanie , Concin Nicole , Braicu Elena Ioana , Van Gorp Toon , Hasenburg Annette , Sehouli Jalid , Vergote Ignace , Zeillinger Robert
Published: April 2022

Ovarian cancer (OC) is the most lethal genital malignancy in women. We aimed to develop and validate new proteomic-based models for non-invasive diagnosis of OC. We also compared them to the modified Risk of Ovarian Malignancy Algorithm (ROMA-50), the Copenhagen Index (CPH-I) and our earlier Proteomic Model 2017. Biomarkers were assessed using bead-based multiplex technology (Luminex®) in 356 women (250 with malignant and 106 with benign ovarian tumors) from five European centers. The training cohort included 279 women from three centers, and the validation cohort 77 women from two other centers. Of six previously studied serum proteins (CA125, HE4, osteopontin [OPN], prolactin, leptin, and macrophage migration inhibitory factor [MIF]), four contributed significantly to the Proteomic Model 2021 (CA125, OPN, prolactin, MIF), while leptin and HE4 were omitted by the algorithm. The Proteomic Model 2021 revealed a c-index of 0.98 (95% CI 0.96, 0.99) in the training cohort; however, in the validation cohort it only achieved a c-index of 0.82 (95% CI 0.72, 0.91). Adding patient age to the Proteomic Model 2021 constituted the Combined Model 2021, with a c-index of 0.99 (95% CI 0.97, 1) in the training cohort and a c-index of 0.86 (95% CI 0.78, 0.95) in the validation cohort. The Full Combined Model 2021 (all six proteins with age) yielded a c-index of 0.98 (95% CI 0.97, 0.99) in the training cohort and a c-index of 0.89 (95% CI 0.81, 0.97) in the validation cohort. The validation of our previous Proteomic Model 2017, as well as the ROMA-50 and CPH-I revealed a c-index of 0.9 (95% CI 0.82, 0.97), 0.54 (95% CI 0.38, 0.69) and 0.92 (95% CI 0.85, 0.98), respectively. In postmenopausal women, the three newly developed models all achieved a specificity of 1.00, a positive predictive value (PPV) of 1.00, and a sensitivity of >0.9. Performance in women under 50 years of age (c-index below 0.6) or with normal CA125 (c-index close to 0.5) was poor. CA125 and OPN had the best discriminating power as single markers. In summary, the CPH-I, the two combined 2021 Models, and the Proteomic Model 2017 showed satisfactory diagnostic accuracies, with no clear superiority of either model. Notably, although combining values of only four proteins with age, the Combined Model 2021 performed comparably to the Full Combined Model 2021. The models confirmed their exceptional diagnostic performance in women aged ≥50. All models outperformed the ROMA-50.
Targeted Therapies for Perihilar Cholangiocarcinoma
Authors: Gray Simon , Lamarca Angela , Edeline Julien , Klümpen Heinz-Josef , Hubner Richard A. , McNamara Mairéad G. , Valle Juan W.
Published: April 2022

Perihilar cholangiocarcinoma (pCCA) is the anatomical sub-group of biliary tract cancer (BTC) arising between the second-order intrahepatic bile ducts and the cystic duct. Together with distal and intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma (dCCA and iCCA; originating distal to, and proximal to this, respectively), gallbladder cancer (GBC) and ampulla of Vater carcinoma (AVC), these clinicopathologically and molecularly distinct entities comprise biliary tract cancer (BTC). Most pCCAs are unresectable at diagnosis, and for those with resectable disease, surgery is extensive, and recurrence is common. Therefore, the majority of patients with pCCA will require systemic treatment for advanced disease. The prognosis with cytotoxic chemotherapy remains poor, driving interest in therapies targeted to the molecular nature of a given patient’s cancer. In recent years, the search for efficacious targeted therapies has been fuelled both by whole-genome and epigenomic studies, looking to uncover the molecular landscape of CCA, and by specifically testing for aberrations where established therapies exist in other indications. This review aims to provide a focus on the current molecular characterisation of pCCA, targeted therapies applicable to pCCA, and future directions in applying personalised medicine to this difficult-to-treat malignancy.
Indirect Treatment Comparison of Larotrectinib versus Entrectinib in Treating Patients with TRK Gene Fusion Cancers
Authors: Garcia-Foncillas Jesus , Bokemeyer Carsten , Italiano Antoine , Keating Karen , Paracha Noman , Fellous Marc , Marian Marisca , Fillbrunn Mirko , Gao Wei , Ayyagari Rajeev , Lassen Ulrik
Published: April 2022

Information regarding the comparative efficacy of first-generation receptor tyrosine kinase inhibitors is limited. This matching-adjusted indirect comparison (MAIC) evaluated differences in efficacy and safety across larotrectinib and entrectinib trials. Data from clinical trials for larotrectinib (LOXO-TRK-14001 (NCT02122913), SCOUT (NCT02637687), and NAVIGATE (NCT02576431)) and entrectinib (ALKA-372-001 (EudraCT 2012-000148-88), STARTRK-1 (NCT02097810), and STARTRK-2 (NCT02568267)) were used. Adults (≥18 years) across trials were matched on available baseline characteristics. Outcomes evaluated included overall response rate (ORR), complete response (CR) rate, duration of response (DoR), overall survival (OS), progression-free survival (PFS), any serious treatment-related adverse events of grade ≥ 3 (TRAEs), and TRAEs leading to treatment discontinuation. The MAIC included 74 patients from entrectinib trials and 117 and 147 patients for the larotrectinib efficacy and safety populations, respectively. Post-matching, larotrectinib was associated with a significantly longer median duration of OS than entrectinib (p < 0.05) and a numerically longer median PFS (p = 0.07). ORR was similar for both agents (p = 0.63). The CR rate was higher (p < 0.05) and the DoR was longer for larotrectinib (p < 0.05). Safety outcomes were comparable and low for both treatments. Results were consistent in sensitivity analyses. These findings suggest favorable efficacy for larotrectinib and comparable safety profiles versus entrectinib in treating tropomyosin receptor kinase fusion cancer.
The Similarity of Floral Scent Composition in Two Breynia Species Pollinated by the Same Host-Specific Epicephala Moth
Authors: Huang Daihong , Mamut Jannathan , Yang Xiaofei , Shi Fuchen , Li Houhun
Published: April 2022

Floral scent has been thought to play a critical role in the obligate pollination–seed consumption mutualism between Breynia (Phyllanthaceae) species and Epicephala moths. The two closely related Breynia species, B. fruticosa and B. Rostrata are jointly pollinated by the same moth species (E. lativalvaris and E. mirivalvata), which has led to an obligate pollination mutualism of ‘two-to-two’ species specificity. However, empirical data on host floral volatiles as chemical cues maintaining the plant−moth specificity are missing. In the present study, 27 volatile compounds were identified from floral scents of the two Breynia species. A total of 25 compounds were shared jointly by the two species, and only one compound, β-humulene, was species specific and exclusively produced by B. fruticosa. The two Breynia species clearly showed no interspecific floral scent profiles within both sexes, especially in male flowers. Male and female flowers of floral scent from these plants exhibited major qualitative differences, and male flowers produced more scent than female flowers. For male flowers of B. fruticosa, there was significant temporal variation in the volatile chemical profiles and total floral scent emission before and after pollination. Interestingly, β-phenylethyl butyrate and phenylethyl alcohol were present in maximal amounts during pollination, but they rapidly reduced in concentration after pollination. The findings suggest that the similar floral scent profiles of the two Breynia species reflect adaptations to the same pollinator, Epicephala, for their pollination. Sexually dimorphic floral scent between male and female flowers has been selected to provoke pollinator’s active pollination behavior on host flowers. Temporal changes in floral scent of male flowers before and after pollination may have evolved to limit the overexploitation of the ovaries by seed predators, Epicephala moths. We speculate that the two most abundant compounds in the male flowers, β-phenylethyl butyrate and phenylethyl alcohol, may be two signal compounds to attract Epicephala in a species-specific manner.
Gravity, Quantum Fields and Quantum Information: Problems with Classical Channel and Stochastic Theories
Authors: Anastopoulos Charis , Hu Bei-Lok
Published: April 2022

In recent years an increasing number of papers have attempted to mimic or supplant quantum field theory in discussions of issues related to gravity by the tools and through the perspective of quantum information theory, often in the context of alternative quantum theories. In this article, we point out three common problems in such treatments. First, we show that the notion of interactions mediated by an information channel is not, in general, equivalent to the treatment of interactions by quantum field theory. When used to describe gravity, this notion may lead to inconsistencies with general relativity. Second, we point out that in general one cannot replace a quantum field by a classical stochastic field, or mock up the effects of quantum fluctuations by that of classical stochastic sources (noises), because in so doing important quantum features such as coherence and entanglement will be left out. Third, we explain how under specific conditions semi-classical and stochastic theories indeed can be formulated from their quantum origins and play a role at certain regimes of interest.
Performance Evaluation of Centrifugal Refrigeration Compressor Using R1234yf and R1234ze(E) as Drop-In Replacements for R134a Refrigerant
Authors: Yi Kexin , Zhao Yuanyang , Liu Guangbin , Yang Qichao , Yu Guoxin , Li Liansheng
Published: April 2022

With the increasing global requirements for environmental protection, refrigerants with ODP of 0 and low GWP are widely concerned and applied. In this paper, the CFD numerical method simulates the R134a centrifugal compressor directly replaced by R1234yf and R1234ze(E). The results show that at the same compressor rotational speed, using R1234yf to replace R134a directly can obtain a higher cooling capacity, but it reduces COP by about 12.5%; using R1234ze(E) to replace R134a directly reduces the cooling capacity under partial working conditions, the COP is reduced by about 7.0%. When the evaporation temperature, condensation temperature, and cooling capacity are the same, compared with the R134a unit, the COP of the R1234ze(E) unit is reduced by about 5.14%, and it is reduced by about 8.93% for the R1234yf unit. For the R134a centrifugal chiller, the drop-in replacement of R134a with R1234ze(E) can obtain better system performance compared with R1234yf.
Cooperation of an Electric Arc Device with a Power Supply System Equipped with a Superconducting Element
Authors: Komarzyniec Grzegorz
Published: April 2022

This paper analyses the validity of using superconductors in the power supply system of arc devices. Two cases were analysed: when an additional superconducting element was included in the conventional power supply system and when the total power supply system was made of a superconductor. The analysis was carried out by simulating the cooperation of the arc receiver with its simplified power supply system in Matlab Simulink software. The characteristics of the changes of the arc current, its conductance and voltage as a function of the arc length changes for selected superconductor parameters, i.e., different values of the critical current and different values of the resistance in the resistive state, are given. The time courses of these quantities as well as the courses of resistance changes in the superconductor at randomly varying arc lengths are presented. The analysis showed that by selecting the critical current and resistance in the resistive state of the superconductor, arc parameters such as arc current drawn and arc conductance can be influenced. By making the entire power system from a superconductor, the arc current can be increased by 1.8% for a 1 cm arc and by 1% for a 1 cm arc. The ability of the superconductor to lose its superconducting state and return to that state can be used to limit the value of the current drawn by the arc over certain ranges of arc length. The range of these lengths can be controlled by selecting the value of the critical current of the superconductor. By selecting the resistance of the superconductor in the resistive state, the value of the limited current can be influenced. In the case studied, for a 1 cm arc length, an arc current 45% lower was obtained when the superconductor was in the resistive state.
Parametric Investigation on the Performance of a Battery Thermal Management System with Immersion Cooling
Authors: Zhou Yuxin , Wang Zhengkun , Xie Zongfa , Wang Yanan
Published: April 2022

Lithium-ion batteries will generate a large amount of heat during high-rate charging and discharging. By transferring the heat to the environment in time, the batteries can be kept in a suitable temperature range. This allows them to work normally, prolongs their cycle life, and reduces the risk of thermal runaway. Immersion cooling is a simple and efficient thermal management method. In this paper, a battery thermal management system (BTMS) with immersion cooling was designed by immersing the lithium-ion cells in the non-conductive coolant—dimethyl silicone oil. The electric–thermal coupled model was adopted to obtain the heat production and temperature distribution of the cell during discharging, and the performance of the system was obtained by numerical calculation. It was found that, compared with natural cooling, immersion cooling could significantly reduce both the maximum temperature (MAT) of the cell and the temperature of the tabs during the 3C discharging process. However, the maximum temperature difference (MATD) of the cell was significantly increased. To solve this problem, the effects of the flow rate, viscosity, specific heat capacity, and thermal conductivity of the coolant on the performance of immersion cooling were further investigated and discussed, including the MAT and MATD of the cell, and the pressure drop of the coolant. The method and results could provide references for the design and application of the BTMS with immersion cooling in the future.
Latent-Space Dynamics for Prediction and Fault Detection in Geothermal Power Plant Operations
Authors: Liu Yingxiang , Ling Wei , Young Robert , Zia Jalal , Cladouhos Trenton T. , Jafarpour Behnam
Published: April 2022

This paper presents a latent-space dynamic neural network (LSDNN) model for the multi-step-ahead prediction and fault detection of a geothermal power plant’s operation. The model was trained to learn the dynamics of the power generation process from multivariate time-series data and the effects of exogenous variables, such as control adjustment and ambient temperature. In the LSDNN model, an encoder–decoder architecture was designed to capture cross-correlation among different measured variables. In addition, a latent space dynamic structure was proposed to propagate the dynamics in the latent space to enable prediction. The prediction power of the LSDNN was utilized for monitoring a geothermal power plant and detecting abnormal events. The model was integrated with principal component analysis (PCA)-based process monitoring techniques to develop a fault-detection procedure. The performance of the proposed LSDNN model and fault detection approach was demonstrated using field data collected from a geothermal power plant.
Effects of Precipitation and Soil Moisture on the Characteristics of the Seedling Bank under Quercus acutissima Forest Plantation in Mount Tai, China
Authors: Guo Longmei , Ni Ruiqiang , Kan Xiaoli , Lin Qingzhi , Mao Peili , Cao Banghua , Gao Peng , Dong Jinwei , Mi Wendong , Zhao Boping
Published: April 2022

Natural regeneration is crucial for the development of sustainable forestry practices in light of the current global climate changes. In this paper, we compared the size distributions of Quercus acutissima seedlings in the understory of Q. acutissima forest plantations in Mount Tai in 2010 and 2017, studied the physiological and morphological responses of seedlings to the microenvironment, and explored the maintenance mechanisms of the seedling bank. The results showed that the density of understory seedlings in 2017 was only 61.63% of that in 2010, especially in the 20–40 cm height class. Between 2011 and 2016, the precipitation and soil water content were the highest in 2011, followed by 2013. The 2–4-year seedlings (height < 40 cm) were not significantly different in seedling biomass, biomass allocation, and root morphology (root total surface area, root volume, and root average diameter), and were significantly different in total root length, specific root length, specific root surface area, and nonstructural carbohydrate content of root, stem, and leaves. However, 5–6-year seedlings (height > 40 cm) showed the largest biomass. Principal component analysis indicated that altering root morphology, nonstructural carbohydrate, and biomass allocation played significant roles in the drought adaptation of seedlings in the understory. In conclusion, drought stress together with seedling adaptation influenced the dynamics of seedling bank in the understory of Q. acutissima plantations.
Hydrocarbon Bio-Jet Fuel from Bioconversion of Poplar Biomass: Life Cycle Assessment of Site-Specific Impacts
Authors: Budsberg Erik , Parker Nathan , Bandaru Varaprasad , Bura Renata , Gustafson Rick
Published: April 2022

Hydrocarbon drop-in bio-jet fuels could help to reduce greenhouse gas emissions within the aviation sector. Large tracts of land will be required to grow biomass feedstock for this biofuel, and changes to the management of these lands could have substantial environmental impacts. This research uses spatial analysis and life cycle assessment methodologies to investigate potential environmental impacts associated with converting land to grow poplar trees for conversion to bio-jet fuel from different regions within the western United States. Results vary by region and are dependent on land availability, type of land converted, prior land management practices, and poplar growth yields. The conversion of intensively managed cropland to poplar production results in a decrease in fertilizer and a lower annual global warming potential (GWP) (Clarksburg CA region). Bringing unmanaged rangeland into production results in increases in fertilizers, chemical inputs, fuel use, and GWP (Jefferson OR region). Where poplar yields are predicted to be lower, more land is converted to growing poplar to meet feedstock demands (Hayden ID). An increased use of land leads to greater fuel use and GWP. Changes to land use and management practices will drive changes at the local level that need to be understood before developing a drop-in biofuels industry.
Population Differentiation in Acer platanoides L. at the Regional Scale—Laying the Basis for Effective Conservation of Its Genetic Resources in Austria
Authors: Lazic Desanka , George Jan-Peter , Rusanen Mari , Ballian Dalibor , Pfattner Stefanie , Konrad Heino
Published: April 2022

Norway maple (Acer platanoides L.) is a widespread forest tree species in Central and Northern Europe but with a scattered distribution. In the debate on climate change driven changes in species selection in the forest, Norway maple has recently received raised interest because of its comparatively high drought resistance (higher than in sycamore maple). Therefore, it is an interesting species for sites high in carbonates and where other native tree species have become devastated by pathogens (e.g., elm, ash). In Austria, the demand on saplings is currently rising, while there is only very little domestic reproductive material available (on average more than 95% of saplings are imported from neighboring countries). This study was undertaken to identify genetic diversity and population structure of Norway maple in Austria to lay the foundation for the establishment of respective in situ and ex situ conservation measures. In addition, samples from planted stands and imported reproductive material from other countries were included to study the anthropogenic influence on the species in managed forests. We used 11 novel microsatellites to genotype 756 samples from 27 putatively natural Austrian populations, and 186 samples derived from two planted stands and five lots of forest reproductive material; in addition, 106 samples from other European populations were also genotyped. Cross species amplification of the new markers was tested in 19 Acer species from around the world. Population clustering by STRUCTURE analysis revealed a distinct pattern of population structure in Austria and Europe, but overall moderate differentiation. Sibship analysis identifies several populations with severe founding effects, highlighting the need for proper selection of seed sources of sufficient genetic diversity in the species.
Bulk Density of Shrub Types and Tree Crowns to Use with Forest Inventories in the Iberian Peninsula
Authors: Nunes Leónia , Pasalodos-Tato María , Alberdi Iciar , Sequeira Ana Catarina , Vega José Antonio , Silva Vasco , Vieira Pedro , Rego Francisco Castro
Published: April 2022

Bulk density for shrubs and tree crowns is an important variable, useful for many purposes, namely estimations for biomass and carbon sequestration and potential fire behavior prediction. In the latter case, bulk density is required to predict the rate of spread and intensity of crown fires. However, bulk density information is scarce. The estimation of bulk density is crucial to help choosing proper pyrosilviculture options to decrease fire susceptibility. Due to the similar environmental conditions and fuel characteristics in Portugal and Spain, we modelled bulk density for the most common woody species in all the Iberian Peninsula. We used 10 different shrub type formations and a set of tree species or groups common to both countries. Equations for bulk density, in both forest canopy and understory layers, were fitted as a function of biometric variables commonly used in forest inventories for the selected species. Standardized estimates of bulk density can be associated with data from the National Forest Inventories from Portugal and Spain, to estimate biomass of the forest ecosystems and to evaluate potential fire behavior involving tree canopies and shrubs.
CEO Bias and Product Substitutability in Oligopoly Games
Authors: Schroeder Elizabeth , Tremblay Carol Horton , Tremblay Victor J.
Published: April 2022

We investigate why a firm might purposefully hire a chief executive officer (CEO) who under- or over-estimates the degree of substitutability between competing products. This counterintuitive result arises in imperfect competition because CEO bias can affect rival behavior and the intensity of competition. We lay out the conditions under which it is profitable for owners to hire biased managers. Our work shows that a universal policy that effectively eliminates such biases need not improve social welfare.
Integrating Sister Chromatid Cohesion Establishment to DNA Replication
Authors: Zuilkoski Caitlin M. , Skibbens Robert V.
Published: April 2022

The intersection through which two fundamental processes meet provides a unique vantage point from which to view cellular regulation. On the one hand, DNA replication is at the heart of cell division, generating duplicate chromosomes that allow each daughter cell to inherit a complete copy of the parental genome. Among other factors, the PCNA (proliferating cell nuclear antigen) sliding clamp ensures processive DNA replication during S phase and is essential for cell viability. On the other hand, the process of chromosome segregation during M phase—an act that occurs long after DNA replication—is equally fundamental to a successful cell division. Eco1/Ctf7 ensures that chromosomes faithfully segregate during mitosis, but functions during DNA replication to activate cohesins and thereby establish cohesion between sister chromatids. To achieve this, Eco1 binds PCNA and numerous other DNA replication fork factors that include MCM helicase, Chl1 helicase, and the Rtt101-Mms1-Mms22 E3 ubiquitin ligase. Here, we review the multi-faceted coordination between cohesion establishment and DNA replication. SUMMARY STATEMENT: New findings provide important insights into the mechanisms through which DNA replication and the establishment of sister chromatid cohesion are coupled.
Heavy Metal Pollution and Soil Quality Assessment under Different Land Uses in the Red Soil Region, Southern China
Authors: Yang Zhiping , Zhang Rong , Li Hongying , Zhao Xiaoyuan , Liu Xiaojie
Published: April 2022

The influences of different land uses associated with human activities on soil quality and the redistribution of heavy metal in soil have been widely concerned. Surface soil samples were obtained to assess comprehensive soil quality in a typical red soil region of southern China, combining the heavy metal pollution evaluation with fertility evaluation. It can be learned from the results that the overall level of soil fertility was at medium and lower level, and soil heavy metal pollution risk in the study area in a few regions had reached warning line and slight pollution line, and there was a risk of potential pollution. TOPSIS evaluation results showed that the comprehensive soil quality was mainly good quality and moderate quality, accounting for 31.7% and 29.0% of the total land area, respectively. Positive matrix factorization (PMF) model results showed that transportation source contributes a lot in terms of Cd and Pb. As for Cr, natural source contributes 53.8%. In terms of Cu and Zn, agriculture source contributes 50.7% and 38.7%, respectively. In a word, the comprehensive soil quality assessment in red soil region of southern China provides an important basis for the scientific management and sustainable utilization of soil resources.
An Integrated Fully Digital Prosthetic Workflow for the Immediate Full-Arch Restoration of Edentulous Patients—A Case Report
Authors: Sobczak Barbara , Majewski Piotr
Published: April 2022

Digital prosthetic workflows may significantly increase the efficiency and predictability of the immediate rehabilitation of implant-supported fixed complete dentures. Advanced digital prosthetic workflows require exact and detailed virtual planning models. The direct generation of these models via direct digital impressions remains technique sensitive and demanding. This report illustrates an advanced digital workflow for accurate and efficient immediate full-arch restoration, with an aesthetically and anatomically adapted natural tooth-like prosthesis. The workflow application to fully edentulous arches, and arches with residual failing dentition, is presented. A key characteristic was efficiently integrating and interlinking the prosthetic and surgical workflows via denture replica surgical guides as landmarks for scan registration. This approach allowed for accurate implant placement and efficient and detailed anatomy-based chairside prosthetic planning, and for the manufacturing of the provisional and final restorations under detailed consideration of implant restoration, and the patient’s macro-aesthetic and soft tissue anatomy.
Exploring Knowledge Domain and Emerging Trends in Climate Change and Environmental Audit: A Scientometric Review
Authors: Qu Guohua , Zhang Yue , Tan Kaichao , Han Jiangtao , Qu Weihua
Published: April 2022

Environmental audit is inevitably linked to climate change, one immediate target of the auditors is likely to be climate control, and the warming of the Earth and the consequent climatic changes affect us all. What is the link between environmental audit and climate change? What ties together some of these themes between environmental audit and climate change? The interaction between climate change and environmental audit has been one of the most challenging. In this paper, a scientometric analysis of 84 academic publications between 2013 and 2021 related to climate change and environmental audit is presented to characterize the knowledge domain by using the CiteSpace visualization software. First, we present the number of publications, the number of citations, research categories, and journals published through Web of Science database. Secondly, we analyze countries, authors, and journals with outstanding contributions through network analysis. Finally, we use keyword analysis and apply three types of knowledge mapping to our research, cluster view, timeline view, and time zone view, revealing the focus and future directions. We identify the most important topic in the field of climate change and environment audit as represented on the basis of existing literature data which include the Carbon Emissions, Social Capital, Energy Audit, Corporate Governance, Diffusion of Innovation Environmental Management System, and Audit Committee. The results show that climate change and environmental audit publications grew slowly, but the research are widely cited by scholars. Published journals are relatively scattered, but the cited journals are the world’s top journals, and most research countries are developed countries. The most productive authors and institutions in this subject area are in UK, Australia, USA, Spain, and Netherlands. There are no leading figures, but the content of their research can be divided into six clusters. Future research content involving city, policy, dynamics, information, biodiversity, conservation and clustering social capital, diffusion of innovation environmental management, and audit committee are the directions for future research. It is worth noting that cities, policies, and adaptability are closely linked to public health.
Reliability of a Qualitative Instrument to Assess High-Risk Mechanisms during a 90° Change of Direction in Female Football Players
Authors: Aparicio-Sarmiento Alba , Hernández-García Raquel , Cejudo Antonio , Palao José Manuel , Sainz de Baranda Pilar
Published: April 2022

Sidestep cuts between 60° and 180° and one-leg landings have been identified as the main mechanisms of ACL injuries in several sports. This study sought to determine intra- and inter-rater reliability of a qualitative tool to assess high-risk movements in a 90° change of direction when the test is applied in a real framework of sport practice. Female footballers from two teams (n = 38) participated in this study and were asked to perform 90° cutting trials to each side, which were simultaneously filmed from a frontal and a sagittal view. A total of 61 cases were selected for 2D qualitative observational analysis by three raters. Poor reliability was found among each pair of raters as well as moderate reliability when the Cutting Movement Assessment Score (CMAS) was given by the same rater at different moments, but with too high a minimum detectable change. On the other hand, raters presented a significant, as well as moderate-to-good intra-rater reliability for most items of the CMAS tool. There was, however, non-significant reliability between observers in rating most check-points of the tool. For these reasons, more objective guidelines and clearer definitions for each criterion within the CMAS, as well as a longer, standardised training period for novel observers, would be highly recommended to improve the reliability of this tool in an applied context with female footballers.