bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Ultrasound-Based Fluid-Structure Interaction Modeling of Abdominal Aortic Aneurysms Incorporating Pre-stress
Authors: Fonken Judith H. C. , Maas Esther J. , Nievergeld Arjet H. M. , van Sambeek Marc R. H. M. , van de Vosse Frans N. , Lopata Richard G. P.
Published: August 2021

Currently, the prediction of rupture risk in abdominal aortic aneurysms (AAAs) solely relies on maximum diameter. However, wall mechanics and hemodynamics have shown to provide better risk indicators. Patient-specific fluid-structure interaction (FSI) simulations based on a non-invasive image modality are required to establish a patient-specific risk indicator. In this study, a robust framework to execute FSI simulations based on time-resolved three-dimensional ultrasound (3D+t US) data was obtained and employed on a data set of 30 AAA patients. Furthermore, the effect of including a pre-stress estimation (PSE) to obtain the stresses present in the measured geometry was evaluated. The established workflow uses the patient-specific 3D+t US-based segmentation and brachial blood pressure as input to generate meshes and boundary conditions for the FSI simulations. The 3D+t US-based FSI framework was successfully employed on an extensive set of AAA patient data. Omitting the pre-stress results in increased displacements, decreased wall stresses, and deviating time-averaged wall shear stress and oscillatory shear index patterns. These results underline the importance of incorporating pre-stress in FSI simulations. After validation, the presented framework provides an important tool for personalized modeling and longitudinal studies on AAA growth and rupture risk.
Interventional Planning for Endovascular Revision of a Lateral Tunnel Fontan: A Patient-Specific Computational Analysis
Authors: Ahmed Yunus , Tossas-Betancourt Christopher , van Bakel Pieter A. J. , Primeaux Jonathan M. , Weadock William J. , Lu Jimmy C. , Zampi Jeffrey D. , Salavitabar Arash , Figueroa C. Alberto
Published: August 2021

Introduction

A 2-year-old female with hypoplastic left heart syndrome (HLHS)-variant, a complex congenital heart defect (CHD) characterized by the underdevelopment of the left ventricle, presented with complications following single ventricle palliation. Diagnostic work-up revealed elevated Fontan pathway pressures, as well as significant dilation of the inferior Fontan pathway with inefficient swirling flow and hepatic venous reflux. Due to the frail condition of the patient, the clinical team considered an endovascular revision of the Fontan pathway. In this work, we performed a computational fluid dynamics (CFD) analysis informed by data on anatomy, flow, and pressure to investigate the hemodynamic effect of the endovascular Fontan revision.

Methods

A patient-specific anatomical model of the Fontan pathway was constructed from magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) data using the cardiovascular modeling software CardiovasculaR Integrated Modeling and SimulatiON (CRIMSON). We first created and calibrated a pre-intervention 3D-0D multi-scale model of the patient’s circulation using fluid-structure interaction (FSI) analyses and custom lumped parameter models (LPMs), including the Fontan pathway, the single ventricle, arterial and venous systemic, and pulmonary circulations. Model parameters were iteratively tuned until simulation results matched clinical data on flow and pressure. Following calibration of the pre-intervention model, a custom bifurcated endograft was introduced into the anatomical model to virtually assess post-intervention hemodynamics.

Results

The pre-intervention model successfully reproduced the clinical hemodynamic data on regional flow splits, pressures, and hepatic venous reflux. The proposed endovascular repair model revealed increases of mean and pulse pressure at the inferior vena cava (IVC) of 6 and 29%, respectively. Inflows at the superior vena cava (SVC) and IVC were each reduced by 5%, whereas outflows at the left pulmonary artery (LPA) and right pulmonary artery (RPA) increased by 4%. Hepatic venous reflux increased by 6%.

Conclusion

Our computational analysis indicated that the proposed endovascular revision would lead to unfavorable hemodynamic conditions. For these reasons, the clinical team decided to forgo the proposed endovascular repair and to reassess the management of this patient. This study confirms the relevance of CFD modeling as a beneficial tool in surgical planning for single ventricle CHD patients.
Comparative Proteomic Analysis of the Defense Response to Gibberella Stalk Rot in Maize and Reveals That ZmWRKY83 Is Involved in Plant Disease Resistance
Authors: Bai Hua , Si Helong , Zang Jinping , Pang Xi , Yu Lu , Cao Hongzhe , Xing Jihong , Zhang Kang , Dong Jingao
Published: August 2021

Fusarium graminearum is the causal agent of Gibberella stalk rot in maize stem, resulting in maize lodging, yield, quality, and mechanical harvesting capacity. To date, little is known about the maize stem defense mechanism in response to the invasion of F. graminearum. This study represents a global proteomic approach to document the infection by F. graminearum. A total of 1,894 differentially expressed proteins (DEPs) were identified in maize stem with F. graminearum inoculation. Functional categorization analysis indicated that proteins involved in plant-pathogen interaction were inducible at the early stages of infection. We also found that the expression of proteins involved in phenylpropanoid, flavonoid, and terpenoid biosynthesis were upregulated in response to F. graminearum infection, which may reflect that these secondary metabolism pathways were important in the protection against the fungal attack in maize stem. In continuously upregulated proteins after F. graminearum infection, we identified a WRKY transcription factor, ZmWRKY83, which could improve the resistance to plant pathogens. Together, the results show that the defense response of corn stalks against F. graminearum infection was multifaceted, involving the induction of proteins from various immune-related pathways, which had a directive significance for molecular genetic breeding of maize disease-resistant varieties.
A Path Analysis Model of Protection and Risk Factors for University Academic Stress: Analysis and Psychoeducational Implications for the COVID-19 Emergency
Authors: de la Fuente Jesús
Published: August 2021

The aim of this research was to empirically validate hypothesized predictive relationships of protection and risk factors for experiencing academic stress. A synthesis of models—the presage–process–product model; the studying, learning and performing under stress competency model; and self- vs. external-regulatory theory—underlies the investigation and is important for assessment and guidance in stress situations within the university context. Over the course of an academic year, a sample of 564 Spanish university students voluntarily completed validated questionnaires, in an online format, on several psychological variables connected to academic stress. Correlational analysis and the path analysis model, within anex post factodesign, were used to build empirical models of the presage–process–product factors that constitute protection or risk factors in academic stress. Two statistically acceptable models appeared: one with protection factors and another with risk factors in predicting and preventing academic stress at a university. These results support the need for psychology units at university that have a preventive, health and education focus, going beyond the merely clinical. Focus on an individual is insufficient, given that there are also contextual factors that predispose academic stress. Discussion, conclusions, and implications for assessment and intervention in academic stress in university students and teachers, within the present COVID-19 crisis, are offered.
Decoy Effect on Consumers' Purchase Behaviors in Relation to Meat Products: Comparison of Pork and Chicken
Authors: Xu Lingling , Yu Meidan , Chen Xiujuan
Published: August 2021

Few studies have analyzed the behaviors of consumers in relation to their purchase of meat products produced with animal welfare in consideration under different decoy scenarios; thus, it is difficult to accurately understand consumer behaviors and to reduce the bias in the conclusions of this study regarding consumption preferences in relation to meat products that had been produced with animal welfare in consideration. With the frequent occurrence of cases connected with the quality and safety of meat in China, the welfare conditions of livestock and poultry urgently need to be improved. We used 810 consumers in Wuxi City, Jiangsu Province, China as our study sample, chose pigs and chickens, i.e., the two common species of livestock and poultry, as study cases, and set four types of decoy scenarios based on breeding time, breeding model, diet cleanliness label, and price attributes, to explore the purchasing options of consumers for meat produced with high levels of animal welfare, under different decoy conditions. A decoy effect was observed in a bounded rational consumption situation in relation to the purchasing behaviors of both chicken and pork. In a situation of chicken purchase, the decoy effect of the breeding model was the strongest, followed by that of price, diet cleanliness label, and breeding time. In the case of pork purchase, the decoy effect of the diet cleanliness label was the strongest, followed by price, breeding model, and breeding time. In a comprehensive comparison between the two types of consumption experiments, price decoy constantly played a significant role, while the decoy effect of breeding time was the weakest. Accordingly, we proposed that in addition to strengthening the knowledge of people in the welfare of livestock and poultry, designing a breeding model decoy or price decoy in the process of chicken sales and designing a diet cleanliness label decoy or price decoy in the process of pork sales can guide the demand of consumers for meat produced with high levels of animal welfare. The welfare of livestock and poultry should thus be improved.
The Future of Evidence-Based Temperance Interventions
Authors: Worthington Everett L. , van Zyl Llewellyn E.
Published: August 2021

Positive psychology has accumulated a large and ever-growing body of scientific knowledge about human strengths and virtues. However, research on positive psychology interventions (PPIs) to develop such is still in its infancy. In this brief position paper, we summarize the status of PPIs in one of the positive psychology’s most important virtues: temperance. Temperance refers to the capacity to manage habits and protect against excess and is composed of forgiveness, humility, and (we include) patience. Specifically, we examine the current state-of-the-science in the conceptualization of temperance, explore the efficacy of temperance interventions, and reflect upon what the future may hold in this research domain. In this paper, we first highlight the challenges and opportunities for expanding the theoretical conceptualization of temperance and reflect upon the challenges in temperance-related PPIs. For each aspect of temperance, we propose a specific research agenda. Second, we explore what is needed for PPIs to promote temperance and how growth in temperance intervention research can be fostered. Generally, while forgiveness interventions are well established, we recommended that both humility and patience interventions need more viable evidence-based research on existing and new interventions. Third, we advanced several recommendations regarding how to promote more research in new interventions. These recommendations included attracting more funders to the area, developing new interventions, and employing new technology. Because intervention research in temperance is in its infancy, the future looks rosy for PPI researchers as we move into a second generation of positive psychology research.
CD-1 Outbred Mice Produce Less Variable Ultrasonic Vocalizations Than FVB Inbred Mice, While Displaying a Similar Developmental Trajectory
Authors: Binder Matthew S. , Shi Hannah D. , Bordey Angelique
Published: August 2021

The production of ultrasonic vocalizations (USVs) in neonatal mice is a critical means of communication that is used to elicit maternal care. Alterations in neonatal USV production is also an indicator of neurological deficits. However, USVs have been predominately assessed in inbred animals and are significantly understudied in outbred mice, even though outbred animals better represent the genetic diversity of humans and are used in several neurological disorder models. To determine the reproducibility of USVs across models, we compared male and female CD-1 (outbred) and FVB (inbred) mice on postnatal days (PD) 4, 8, 12, 16, and 20. We found that CD-1 and FVB mice displayed a similar developmental trajectory of USVs. However, CD1 mice emitted more USVs on PD 12 than FVB mice. In addition, FVB mice emitted a longer duration of calls on PD 4 and 8 and a higher overall maximum and minimum frequency of USVs than CD-1 mice. No differences in mean amplitude were found between groups. We also detected numerous significant differences between outbred and inbred mice when comparing each group's call composition. We next assessed the relative variability of mouse vocalizations between groups, finding that outbred mice were less variable than inbred mice. For the spectral and temporal characteristics of the USVs, variability was similar between groups. Altogether, we found that CD-1 outbred mice display a similar, if not lower, degree of variability than FVB inbred mice when assessing neonatal USVs.
Yoga-Based Group Intervention for In-patients With Schizophrenia Spectrum Disorders—A Qualitative Approach
Authors: Schulze Theresa , Hahn Eric , Hahne Inge , Bergmann Niklas , Fuchs Lukas Marian , Mähler Franziska , Zierhut Marco Matthäus , Ta Thi Minh Tam , Pijnenborg Gerdina Hendrika Maria , Böge Kerem
Published: August 2021

Background:Yoga may pose a promising complementary therapy in the multimodal treatment of in-patients with schizophrenia spectrum disorders (SSD). However, to date, no studies have qualitatively examined in-patients' with SSD experiences of Yoga as well as their perceptions of its limitations and benefits as a treatment component. This qualitative study aimed to explore for the first time the mechanisms and processes of Yoga-based Group Intervention (YoGI) for in-patients with SSD in Germany by asking for their subjective experiences. Findings could serve as a preliminary basis for developing an effective and evidence-based YoGI manual tailored to this patient group.

Materials and Methods:In total, 25 semi-structured interviews were conducted directly after YoGI, for which responses were either noted down by hand or audio-recorded. The interview guide was pilot-tested and consisted of 14 questions to explore the personal articulated experiences of participation in YoGI from in-patients with SSD. Positive, negative, depressive, and anxiety symptoms were assessed during a diagnostic interview and through questionnaires. The interview data was transcribed, coded by two independent researchers, and analysed using an inductive thematic approach. The research team collaboratively discussed emerging categories to reduce redundancy and form meaningful themes and subthemes.

Results:The analysis revealed seven main themes. YoGI was perceived as feasible and focusing on individual adaptation, captured by the themeinclusivity. Nevertheless, participants encounteredchallenges; thus, physical limitations need to be considered. While practising together, participants experiencedinterconnectednessand developed amindful stanceas they accepted their limitations and adapted exercises with self-compassion. Patients described that following the flow of the asanas required physical persistence, which ultimately led many participants to experienceconfidenceandrelaxation. YoGI affectedsymptom representationas heightened awareness led participants to notice impeding as well as improved symptoms.

Conclusion:YoGI showed various promising effects on in-patients with SSD. Future research should examine to what extent these effects can be sustained and how the mindful approach during YoGI can be transferred to areas outside the Yoga class. Furthermore, a randomised controlled trial could investigate the effectiveness of a manualised YoGI.
Size Perception Bias and Reach-to-Grasp Kinematics: An Exploratory Study on the Virtual Hand With a Consumer Immersive Virtual-Reality Device
Authors: Itaguchi Yoshihiro
Published: August 2021

While studies have increasingly used virtual hands and objects in virtual environments to investigate various processes of psychological phenomena, conflicting findings have been reported even at the most basic level of perception and action. To reconcile this situation, the present study aimed 1) to assess biases in size perception of a virtual hand using a strict psychophysical method and 2) to provide firm and conclusive evidence of the kinematic characteristics of reach-to-grasp movements with various virtual effectors (whole hand or fingertips only, with or without tactile feedback of a target object). Experiments were conducted using a consumer immersive virtual reality device. In a size judgment task, participants judged whether a presented virtual hand or an everyday object was larger than the remembered size. The results showed the same amplitude of underestimation (approximately 5%) for the virtual hand and the object, and no influence of object location, visuo-proprioceptive congruency, or short-term experience of controlling the virtual hand. Furthermore, there was a moderate positive correlation between actual hand size and perception bias. Analyses of reach-to-grasp movements revealed longer movement times and larger maximum grip aperture (MGA) for a virtual, as opposed to a physical, environment, but the MGA did not change when grasping was performed without tactile feedback. The MGA appeared earlier in the time course of grasping movements in all virtual reality conditions, regardless of the type of virtual effector. These findings confirm and corroborate previous evidence and may contribute to the field of virtual hand interfaces for interactions with virtual worlds.
Urgent Transcatheter Arterial Embolization for Wunderlich Syndrome With Hypovolemic Shock Secondary to Ruptured Renal Angiomyolipoma
Authors: Gong Maofeng , Liu Zhengli , Su Haobo , Zhao Boxiang , Kong Jie , He Xu
Published: August 2021

Purpose: Wunderlich syndrome (WS) with hypovolemic shock secondary to ruptured renal angiomyolipoma (rAML) represents an urgent condition. Hence, we reported our experience with transcatheter arterial embolization (TAE) using different embolic materials under this condition.

Methods: This retrospective study consisted of 22 patients. Embolic materials including particles, microcoils, and liquid embolic agents were selectively used based on the decisions of interventional radiologists. Technical success was defined as the complete occlusion of bleeding vessels on the final renal angiogram. Clinical success was defined as the absence of re-hemorrhage needed for repeat endovascular or surgery treatment after TAE.

Results: The articulated materials were used when WS presented without aneurysms; a combination of particulate materials and microcoils or Glubran 2 alone were used for WS with aneurysms. The technical success based on 24 episodes of TAEs in 22 patients was 100% (24 of 24). Repeat TAE was achieved in two patients with hemorrhages re-occurring two days after the initial embolization with microcoils alone. The clinical success was 90.9% (20 of 22). No nontarget embolization or embolization-related complications occurred during the TAE procedure. Of the patients, 27.3% (6 of 22) experienced minor complications of post-embolization syndrome (PES). During a median follow-up time of 34 months, no recurrent hemorrhage that required repeat endovascular or surgical treatment for hemostasis occurred.

Conclusion: Urgent TAE with the selective use of different embolic materials is an effective alternative to control WS with hypovolemic shock secondary to ruptured rAML. The condition of presenting with or without aneurysms may determine the embolic materials employed.
Bovine Viral Diarrhea Virus in Cattle From Mexico: Current Status
Authors: Gomez-Romero Ninnet , Ridpath Julia F. , Basurto-Alcantara Francisco Javier , Verdugo-Rodriguez Antonio
Published: August 2021

Bovine viral diarrhea (BVD) is an infectious disease, globally-distributed, caused by bovine Pestiviruses, endemic of cattle and other ruminant populations. BVD leads to significant economic losses to the cattle industry due to the wide range of clinical manifestations, including respiratory and gastrointestinal diseases and reproductive disorders. Within thePestivirusgenus of the familyFlaviviridae threeviral species are associated with BVD;Pestivirus A(Bovine viral diarrhea virus 1, BVDV-1),Pestivirus B(Bovine viral diarrhea virus 2, BVDV-2),and Pestivirus H(HoBi-like pestivirus, atypical ruminant pestivirus). These species are subdivided into subgenotypes based on phylogenetic analysis. The extensive genetic diversity of BVDV has been reported for several countries, where the incidence and genetic variation are more developed in Europe than in the Americas. The first report of BVDV in Mexico was in 1975; this study revealed seropositivity of 75% in cows with a clinical history of infertility, abortions, and respiratory disease. Other studies have demonstrated the presence of antibodies against BVDV with a seroprevalence ranging from 7.4 to 100%. Recently, endemic BVDV strains affecting cattle populations started to be analyzed, providing evidence of the BVDV diversity in several states of the country, revealing that at least four subgenotypes (BVDV-1a, 1b, 1c, and 2a) are circulating in animal populations in Mexico. Little information regarding BVD epidemiological current status in Mexico is available. This review summarizes available information regarding the prevalence and genetic diversity viruses associated with BVD in cattle from Mexico.
Rural Healthcare Enterprises in the Vortex of COVID-19: The Impact of Public Policies on the Internal and External Environment
Authors: Apostolopoulos Nikolaos , Apostolopoulos Sotiris , Makris Ilias , Stavroyiannis Stavros
Published: August 2021

The public policies implemented in order to contain the spread of COVID-19 in the community have created issues both in the internal and the external environments of the Greek rural healthcare enterprises. This study aimed to investigate the full extent of the issues (internal and external) caused by the public policies. Regarding the external factors, we examined the state, the local authorities, the financial institutions, the social stakeholders and the citizens. Regarding the internal factors, we focused on turnover, liquidity, working conditions, internal changes related to patient care and the implementation of protective measures. A qualitative research was conducted among twelve rural healthcare business owners in the form of semi-structured interviews. The research was conducted in the fall of 2020 during the second phase of COVID-19. The research showed that these enterprises were severely impacted by the government’s public policies. Local authorities were not involved due to lack of competence. The business owners were unwilling to support their enterprises via bank lending. During the first phase of COVID-19, citizens postponed nonessential medical examinations, causing a reduction in these enterprises’ turnover. As a result, in the following periods, these enterprises faced liquidity problems. However, they developed social objectives and implemented protective measures for their employees and patients. The present study contributes to the mapping of the factors affecting the internal and external environments of rural healthcare enterprises along with the public policies developed in times of prolonged crisis. These kinds of data are crucial to the business world and government officials voting on social policies. One cannot rule out the possibility of a new financial or health crisis; the findings of this study can prove to be a useful tool in the process of decision making.
Microbiological Safety and Presence of Major Mycotoxins in Animal Feed for Laboratory Animals in a Developing Country: The Case of Costa Rica
Authors: Granados-Chinchilla Fabio , Valenzuela-Martínez Carol , García-Murillo Berny , Aguilar-Madrigal David , Redondo-Solano Mauricio , Molina Andrea
Published: August 2021

Safety and quality of compound feed for experimental animals in Costa Rica is unknown. Some contaminants, such as Salmonella spp. and mycotoxins, could elicit confounding effects in laboratory animals used for biomedical research. In this study, different batches of extruded animal feed, intended for laboratory rodents in Costa Rica, were analyzed to determine mycotoxin and microbiological contamination (i.e., Salmonella spp., Escherichia coli, total coliform bacteria, and total yeast and molds enumeration). Two methods for Salmonella decontamination (UV light and thermal treatment) were assessed. Only n = 2 of the samples were negative (representing 12.50%) for the 26 mycotoxins tested. Enniatins and fumonisins were among the most frequent toxins found (with n = 4+ hits), but the level of contamination and the type of mycotoxins depended on the supplier. None of the indicator microorganisms, nor Salmonella, were found in any of the tested batches, and no mold contamination, nor Salmonella growth, occurs during storage (i.e., 2–6 months under laboratory conditions). However, mycotoxins, such as enniatins and fumonisins tend to decrease after the fourth month of storage, and Salmonella exhibited a lifespan of 64 days at 17 °C even in the presence of UV light. The D-values for Salmonella were between 65.58 ± 2.95 (65 °C) and 6.21 ± 0.11 (80 °C) min, and the thermal destruction time (z-value) was calculated at 15.62 °C. Results from this study suggest that laboratory rodents may be at risk of contamination from animal feed that could significantly affect the outcomes of biomedical experiments. Thus, improved quality controls and handling protocols for the product are suggested.
Effects of Condensed Tannins Supplementation on Animal Performance, Phylogenetic Microbial Changes, and In Vitro Methane Emissions in Steers Grazing Winter Wheat
Authors: Min Byeng R. , Pinchak William E. , Hume Michael E. , Anderson Robin C.
Published: August 2021

Eighteen growing rumen-cannulated steers, with initial body weight (BW) of 167.4 ± 7.10 kg, were randomly allocated to one of three treatments that included a control (0% CT) and two CT treatment levels (0.05% and 0.07% condensed tannins (CT)/kg BW) with two replicates each. Both in vivo and in vitro experiments were conducted. In Exp. 1, final BW and average daily gain were greater (p < 0.05) for the 0.07% CT treatment compared to either 0.05% CT or control groups. Rumen bacterial populations in steers fed winter wheat in the absence of CT represented large proportions of the moderate-guanines and cytosines (GC) containing bacterial clusters with similarity coefficient (SC) ranging from 64% to 92% In the presence of CT on day 0, day 20, and day 60, however, the SC was 60% or greater (90% SC) with multiple bacterial band clusters as shown by the denaturing gel gradient electrophoresis banding patterns. In Exp. 2, in vitro total gas, potential gas, and CH4 productions decreased (p < 0.01) as CT supplementation increased in steers grazing wheat forage. These results suggested that the administration of CT improved BW gain and induced bacterial community changes in the rumen of steers grazing wheat forage.
EPR Study of KO2 as a Source of Superoxide and •BMPO-OH/OOH Radical That Cleaves Plasmid DNA and Detects Radical Interaction with H2S and Se-Derivatives
Authors: Misak Anton , Brezova Vlasta , Chovanec Miroslav , Luspai Karol , Nasim Muhammad Jawad , Grman Marian , Tomasova Lenka , Jacob Claus , Ondrias Karol
Published: August 2021

Superoxide radical anion (O2•−) and its derivatives regulate numerous physiological and pathological processes, which are extensively studied. The aim of our work was to utilize KO2 as a source of O2•− and the electron paramagnetic resonance (EPR) spin trapping 5-tert-butoxycarbonyl-5-methyl-1-pyrroline N-oxide (BMPO) technique for the preparation of •BMPO-OOH and/or •BMPO-OH radicals in water solution without DMSO. The method distinguishes the interactions of various compounds with •BMPO-OOH and/or •BMPO-OH radicals over time. Here, we show that the addition of a buffered BMPO-HCl mixture to powdered KO2 formed relatively stable •BMPO-OOH and •BMPO-OH radicals and H2O2, where the •BMPO-OOH/OH ratio depended on the pH. At a final pH of ~6.5–8.0, the concentration of •BMPO-OOH radicals was ≥20 times higher than that of •BMPO-OH, whereas at pH 9.0–10.0, the •BMPO-OH radicals prevailed. The •BMPO-OOH/OH radicals effectively cleaved the plasmid DNA. H2S decreased the concentration of •BMPO-OOH/OH radicals, whereas the selenium derivatives 1-methyl-4-(3-(phenylselanyl) propyl) piperazine and 1-methyl-4-(4-(phenylselanyl) butyl) piperazine increased the proportion of •BMPO-OH over the •BMPO-OOH radicals. In conclusion, the presented approach of using KO2 as a source of O2•−/H2O2 and EPR spin trap BMPO for the preparation of •BMPO-OOH/OH radicals in a physiological solution could be useful to study the biological effects of radicals and their interactions with compounds.
Structure Optimization of Battery Thermal Management Systems Using Sensitivity Analysis and Stud Genetic Algorithms
Authors: Chen Jiahui , Xuan Dongji , Wang Biao , Jiang Rui
Published: August 2021

Battery thermal management systems (BTMS) are hugely important in enhancing the lifecycle of batteries and promoting the development of electric vehicles. The cooling effect of BTMS can be improved by optimizing its structural parameters. In this paper, flow resistance and heat dissipation models were used to optimize the structure of BTMS, which were more efficient than the computational fluid dynamics method. Subsequently, five structural parameters that affect the temperature inside the battery pack were analyzed using single-factor sensitivity analysis under different inlet airflow rates, and three structural parameters were selected as the constraints of a stud genetic algorithm. In this stud genetic algorithm, the maximal temperature difference obtained by the heat dissipation model was within 5K as the constraint function, where the objective function minimized the overall area of the battery pack. The BTMS optimized by the stud genetic algorithm was reduced by 16% in the maximal temperature difference and saved 6% of the battery package area compared with the original BTMS. It can be concluded that the stud genetic algorithm combined with the flow resistance network and heat dissipation models can quickly and efficiently optimize the air-cooled BTMS to improve the cooling performance.
Evaluation of Patient’s Perception and Acceptance of Tele(oral)Medicine for Care during the COVID-19 Pandemic: A Cross-Sectional Pilot Survey
Authors: Tenore Gianluca , Podda Gian Marco , La Torre Giuseppe , Rocchetti Federica , Palaia Gaspare , Di Paolo Carlo , Polimeni Antonella , Romeo Umberto
Published: August 2021

The aim of this cross-sectional pilot survey was to assess patients’ perception and acceptance of a tele(oral)medicine program during the COVID-19 pandemic. We conducted a telephone survey on 84 patients of MoMax ambulatory at the Department of Oral Sciences and Maxillofacial Surgery at “Sapienza” University of Rome, Polyclinic Umberto I. Demographic characteristics of the patients were recorded, and a 24 question-survey was completed. A Chi-square test and an ANOVA test were performed with a significance level of 5% to determine the association between two target questions of the survey (Q22 and Q23) and specific variables such as computer skills, conditions influencing the experience of the conventional visit, and the difficulty in taking intraoral photos. Sixty-two (73.8%) patients declared an interest in the use of a tele(oral)medicine program. Furthermore, 41 (48.8%) participants preferred this type of visit to a conventional odontostomatological visit. Significative statistical associations were found between patients’ interest in a tele(oral)medicine service and computer skills, conditions influencing the experience of the conventional visit, and the difficulty in taking intraoral photos. Our study showed that the tele(oral)medicine program appears to meet the expectations and needs of our patients.
Evaluating Reactivity Control Options for a Chloride Salt-Based Molten Salt Zero-Power Reactor
Authors: Merk Bruno , Detkina Anna , Atkinson Seddon , Litskevich Dzianis , Cartland-Glover Gregory
Published: August 2021

Molten salt reactors have gained substantial interest in recent years due to their flexibility and their potential for simplified closed fuel cycle operation for massive net-zero energy production. However, a zero-power reactor experiment will be an essential first step in the process of delivering this technology. The topic of the control and shutdown for a zero-power reactor is, for the first time, introduced through a literature review and a reduction in the control approaches to a limited number of basic functions with different variations. In the following, the requirements for the control and shutdown systems for a reactor experiment are formulated, and based on these assessments, an approach for the shutdown, i.e., splitting the lower part of the core with a reflector, and an approach for the control, i.e., a vertically movable radial reflector, are proposed. Both systems will be usable for a zero-power system with a liquid as well as a solid core, and even more importantly, both systems somehow work at the integral system level without disturbing the central part of the core which will be the essential area for the experimental measurements. Both approaches were investigated as a singular system, in addition to their interactions with one another and the sensitivity of the control system. This study demonstrates that both proposed systems are able to deliver the required characteristics with a sufficient shutdown margin and a sufficiently wide control span. The interaction of the system is shown to be manageable, and the sensitivity is at a very good level. The multi-group Monte Carlo approach was cross-evaluated by a continuous energy test, leading to good results, but they also demonstrate that there is room for improvement.
Design and Implementation of Split-Leg Type Elliptical Whole-Body Birdcage RF Coil at 1.5 T MRI
Authors: Kumar Suchit , Chung Han-Jae , Jeong You-Jin , Lee Heung-Kyu , Oh Chang-Hyun
Published: August 2021

The feasibility and the development of a four-port elliptical birdcage radio frequency (RF) coil for generating a homogenous RF magnetic (B1) field is presented for a space-constrained narrow-bore magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) system. Optimization was performed for the elliptical birdcage RF coil by adjusting the position and the structure of the legs to maximize the B1+-field uniformity. Electromagnetic (EM) simulations based on RF coil circuit co-simulations were performed on a cylindrical uniform phantom and a three-dimensional human model to evaluate the B1+-field uniformity, the transmission efficiency, and the specific absorption rate (SAR) deposition. An elliptical birdcage RF coil was constructed, and its performance was evaluated through network analysis measurements such as S-parameters and Q-factor. Quadrature transmit and receive MRI experiments were conducted using both phantom and in vivo human for validation. The EM simulation results indicate reasonable B1+-field uniformity and transmission efficiency for the proposed elliptical birdcage RF coil. The signal-to-noise ratio and the flip angle maps of the uniform phantom and the in vivo human MR images acquired using an elliptical birdcage (62 cm × 58 cm) were similar to those of a commercial circular birdcage (diameter, 58 cm), thereby indicating acceptable performance. In conclusion, the proposed split-type asymmetric elliptical birdcage RF coil is useful for whole-body MRI applications and can be used for imaging larger human subjects comfortably in a spacious imaging space.
CFD Analyses: The Effect of Pressure Suction and Airflow Velocity on Coronavirus Dispersal
Authors: Obeidat Bushra , Alrebei Odi Fawwaz , Abdallah Ibrahim Atef , Darwish Eman F. , Amhamed Abdulkarem
Published: August 2021

Hospital emergency departments (EDs) are hubs for highly transmissible infectious diseases, posing the highest risk of viral infection transmission. With the current COVID-19 outbreak, it has become clear that the ED design needs to be altered in order to be successful in containing the pandemic. The purpose of this study is to use a computational fluid dynamics (CFD) simulation to evaluate the ventilation system design for an emergency department at a university hospital. The kinetic energy and velocity patterns of turbulence were analyzed to determine which areas of the ED were most susceptible to viral transmission. Additionally, the impact of pressure suction on COVID-19 dispersion has been investigated. Three critical areas of the ED, overnight patient beds, surgical rooms, and resuscitation rooms, all had much higher air velocity, dispersion, and mixing levels than the rest of the department’s spaces, according to the simulation findings. Air transmission from these sites to adjacent regions is a possibility in the scenario studied, increasing the likelihood of the virus spreading from these locations and infecting people in the surrounding areas. The results of these simulations may be utilized to provide recommendations to the hospital administration about the placement of inlets and outlets, the separation of areas, and the interior design of the spaces and corridors.
The Role of Wetland Plants on Wastewater Treatment and Electricity Generation in Constructed Wetland Coupled with Microbial Fuel Cell
Authors: Li Ke , Qi Jingyao , Zhang Fuguo , Miwornunyuie Nicholas , Amaniampong Paulette Serwaa , Koomson Desmond Ato , Chen Lei , Yan Yu , Dong Yanhong , Setordjie Victor Edem , Samwini Abigail Mwin-nea
Published: August 2021

CWMFC is a novel technology that has been used for almost a decade for concurrent wastewater treatment and electricity generation in varying scopes of domestic, municipal, and industrial applications since its implementation in 2012. Its advantage of low-cost enhanced wastewater treatment and sustainable bioelectricity generation has gained considerable attention. Nevertheless, the overall efficiency of this novel technology is inclined by several operating factors and configuration strands, such as pH, sewage composition, organic loading, electrode material, filter media, electrogens, hydraulic retention time, and macrophytes. Here, we investigate the effect of the wetland plant component on the overall performance of CWMFCs. The macrophyte’s involvement in the oxygen input, nutrient uptake, and direct degradation of pollutants for the required treatment effect and bioelectricity production are discussed in more detail. The review identifies and compares planted and unplanted CWMFC with their efficiency on COD removal and electricity generation based on previous and recent studies.
Tree Growth Response to Low-Intensity Prescribed Burning in Pinus nigra Stands: Effects of Burn Season and Fire Severity
Authors: Espinosa Juncal , Martin-Benito Dario , Rodríguez de Rivera Óscar , Hernando Carmen , Guijarro Mercedes , Madrigal Javier
Published: August 2021

The study of the short-term post-burn tree growth in a mixed stand of Pinus nigra and Pinus pinaster and in a pure stand of P. nigra in the Cuenca Mountains (Spain) will enable us to determine the disturbance of prescribed burning conducted in two seasons. Dendrochronological methods and mixed modelling were used to investigate whether tree growth responses are influenced by stand and tree characteristics, fire season and fire severity variables. The findings revealed that prescribed burning scarcely affected tree growth. The type of stand (mixed or pure) was not critical for tree growth. The individual tree characteristics were significant factors in all the scenarios studied. The inclusion of some fire severity variables for the first time in tree growth models showed that the maximum scorch height determined a main part of the variability of tree growth. The time during which the temperature was above 60 °C in the cambium region and temperature was above 300 °C in the bark surface were only significant factors after spring burnings. The litterfall one year after the prescribed burning was not a significant factor in any of the models. Overall, the findings confirm the characteristic resistance of P. nigra to surface fires and favor the potential application of prescribed burning programs for this species in the Mediterranean Basin.
Differential Effects of Organic Amendments on Maize Biomass and Nutrient Availability in Upland Calcareous Soil
Authors: Raza Syed Turab , Wu Jianping , Ali Zulfiqar , Anjum Raheel , Bazai Nazir Ahmed , Feyissa Adugna , Chen Zhe
Published: August 2021

The current study is focuses on a sustainable agricultural ecosystem for soil fertility and human health improvement. To estimate the effects of applying organic amendments (compost, vermicompost, biochar, organic manure and rapeseed cake) on crop growth of maize and nutrient uptake in calcareous soil, eleven treatments were studied, which included compost (CM), cow manure vermicompost (CMV), pig manure vermicompost (PMV), biochar vermicompost (BCV), biochar (BC), conventional synthetic fertilizers (NPK), CMV in addition to NPK (CMV + NPK), and PMV in addition to NPK (PMV + NPK), organic manure (OM), rapeseed cake (RC) and control without any fertilization (CK). Maize above and belowground biomass were analyzed in glass greenhouse experiments. The results showed that nitrogen and carbon contents showed significant differences among treatments. Vermicompost significantly showed higher biomass as compared to inorganic fertilizers except for RC. All vermicompost treatments also showed better nutrient availability as compared to NPK and CK. In conclusion, vermicompost with all substrates are recommended for application as organic fertilizers. Our study will help promote the application of organic fertilizers alone or in combination with inorganic fertilizers rather than only inorganic fertilizers for environmental health and sustainability.
Synoptic Causes of Torrential Rainfall in the Balearic Islands (1941–2010)
Authors: Grimalt-Gelabert Miquel , Alomar-Garau Gabriel , Martin-Vide Javier
Published: August 2021

This article determines the atmospheric situation for the 53 days where any weather station in the Balearic Islands detected torrential rain (equal to or above 200 mm in a single day) during the period 1941–2010. To do this, the synoptic charts for each day were analysed, classifying them in accordance with the types established by Martín Vide (1984) and, in addition, through the automatic synoptic classifications from Jenkinson and Collison (1977). The analysis results demonstrate the importance of cyclonic situations over the Western Mediterranean Basin linked to favourable altitude configurations (earlier presence of cut-off lows—DANA—or troughs). These atmospheric conditions contrast with those that predominate in nearby Mediterranean areas, such as the south-eastern coast of the Iberian Peninsula. Days with torrential rain on the Iberian coastline tend to coincide with easterly advections—a less common occurrence in the Balearics.
The Unmanned Systems Research Laboratory (USRL): A New Facility for UAV-Based Atmospheric Observations
Authors: Kezoudi Maria , Keleshis Christos , Antoniou Panayiota , Biskos George , Bronz Murat , Constantinides Christos , Desservettaz Maximillien , Gao Ru-Shan , Girdwood Joe , Harnetiaux Jonathan , Kandler Konrad , Leonidou Andreas , Liu Yunsong , Lelieveld Jos , Marenco Franco , Mihalopoulos Nikos , Močnik Griša , Neitola Kimmo , Paris Jean-Daniel , Pikridas Michael , Sarda-Esteve Roland , Stopford Chris , Unga Florin , Vrekoussis Mihalis , Sciare Jean
Published: August 2021

The Unmanned Systems Research Laboratory (USRL) of the Cyprus Institute is a new mobile exploratory platform of the EU Research Infrastructure Aerosol, Clouds and Trace Gases Research InfraStructure (ACTRIS). USRL offers exclusive Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV)-sensor solutions that can be deployed anywhere in Europe and beyond, e.g., during intensive field campaigns through a transnational access scheme in compliance with the drone regulation set by the European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) for the research, innovation, and training. UAV sensor systems play a growing role in the portfolio of Earth observation systems. They can provide cost-effective, spatial in-situ atmospheric observations which are complementary to stationary observation networks. They also have strong potential for calibrating and validating remote-sensing sensors and retrieval algorithms, mapping close-to-the-ground emission point sources and dispersion plumes, and evaluating the performance of atmospheric models. They can provide unique information relevant to the short- and long-range transport of gas and aerosol pollutants, radiative forcing, cloud properties, emission factors and a variety of atmospheric parameters. Since its establishment in 2015, USRL is participating in major international research projects dedicated to (1) the better understanding of aerosol-cloud interactions, (2) the profiling of aerosol optical properties in different atmospheric environments, (3) the vertical distribution of air pollutants in and above the planetary boundary layer, (4) the validation of Aeolus satellite dust products by utilizing novel UAV-balloon-sensor systems, and (5) the chemical characterization of ship and stack emissions. A comprehensive overview of the new UAV-sensor systems developed by USRL and their field deployments is presented here. This paper aims to illustrate the strong scientific potential of UAV-borne measurements in the atmospheric sciences and the need for their integration in Earth observation networks.
miR-31-5p Promotes Oxidative Stress and Vascular Smooth Muscle Cell Migration in Spontaneously Hypertensive Rats via Inhibiting FNDC5 Expression
Authors: Zhou Bing , Wu Lu-Lu , Zheng Fen , Wu Nan , Chen Ai-Dong , Zhou Hong , Chen Jing-Yu , Chen Qi , Li Yue-Hua , Kang Yu-Ming , Zhu Guo-Qing
Published: August 2021

Oxidative stress and the migration of vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs) are important for vascular remodeling in a variety of vascular diseases. miR-31-5p promotes cell migration in colorectal cancer cells but inhibits cell migration in renal cell carcinoma. However, whether miR-31-5p is involved in oxidative stress and VSMC migration remains unknown. This study shows the crucial roles of miR-31-5p in oxidative stress and VSMC migration, as well as underlying mechanisms. Experiments were carried out in primary VSMCs from aortic media of Wistar–Kyoto rats (WKY) and spontaneously hypertensive rats (SHR), as well as the A7r5 cell line. Oxidative stress was assessed by NADPH oxidase (NOX) expression, NOX activity, and reactive oxygen species (ROS) production. Cell migration was evaluated with a Boyden chamber assay and a wound healing assay. The miR-31-5p mimic and inhibitor promoted and attenuated oxidative stress and cell migration in the VSMCs of SHR, respectively. A dual-luciferase reporter assay indicated that miR-31-5p targeted the 3’UTR domain of FNDC5. The miR-31-5p level was raised and FNDC5 expression was reduced in the VSMCs of SHR compared with those of WKY. The miR-31-5p mimic reduced FNDC5 expression in the A7r5 cells and the VSMCs of both WKY and SHR, while the miR-31-5p inhibitor only increased FNDC5 expression in the VSMCs of SHR. Exogenous FNDC5 attenuated not only the oxidative stress and VSMC migration in SHR but also the roles of the miR-31-5p mimic in inducing oxidative stress and VSMC migration. These results indicate that miR-31-5p promotes oxidative stress and VSMC migration in SHR via inhibiting FNDC5 expression. The increased miR-31-5p and reduced FNDC5 in the VSMCs of SHR contribute to enhanced oxidative stress and cell migration.