bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Exposure to Childhood Healthcare Discrimination and Healthcare Avoidance among Transgender and Gender Independent Adults during a Global Pandemic
Authors: Mason Kyle Liam , Smout Shelby A. , Wall Catherine S. J. , Coston B. Ethan , Perrin Paul B. , Benotsch Eric G.
Published: June 2022

Transgender and gender-independent individuals (TGI) encounter myriad barriers to accessing affirming healthcare. Healthcare discrimination and erasure exposure among TGI individuals is vital to understanding healthcare accessibility, utilization behaviors, and health disparities in this population. Exposure to gender identity-related healthcare discrimination and erasure in childhood may contribute to TGI adults’ healthcare utilization behaviors. The commonality of childhood exposure to gender identity-related healthcare discrimination and its relationship to healthcare avoidance during the early months of the COVID-19 pandemic among TGI adults were explored. TGI adults aged 18 to 59 (N = 342) in the United States were recruited online during the summer of 2020. Among individuals who reported childhood exposure to gender identity-related healthcare discrimination, 51% reported experiencing two or more distinct forms of discrimination. Hierarchical logistic regression indicated that exposure to healthcare discrimination in childhood significantly increased the odds of healthcare avoidance during the early months of the COVID-19 pandemic, after accounting for demographic factors and self-reported COVID-19 symptoms (odds ratio = 1.30, 95% confidence interval = 1.10, 1.54). These findings suggest that childhood exposure to gender identity-related healthcare discrimination is a prominent barrier to the utilization of healthcare for TGI adults, even during a global pandemic.
Evaluating Outdoor Nature-Based Early Learning and Childcare Provision for Children Aged 3 Years: Protocol of a Feasibility and Pilot Quasi-Experimental Design
Authors: Traynor Oliver , McCrorie Paul , Chng Nai Rui , Martin Anne
Published: June 2022

Systematic reviews have demonstrated the scarcity of well-designed evaluations investigating outdoor nature-based play and learning provision for children in the early learning and childcare (ELC) sector among global Western countries. This study will examine the feasibility and acceptability of the programme and the evaluation design of outdoor nature-based play and learning provision across urban ELC settings in a Scottish metropolitan city. Six ELC settings with different outdoor nature-based play delivery models will be recruited. One trial design will be tested: a quasi-experimental comparison of children attending three different models of outdoor play and learning provision. Measures will be assessed at baseline and five weeks later. Key feasibility questions include: recruitment and retention of ELC settings and children; suitability of statistical matching based on propensity score; completeness of outcome measures. Process evaluation will assess the acceptability of trial design methods and provision of outdoor nature-based play among ELC educators. These questions will be assessed against pre-defined progression criteria. This feasibility study will inform a powered effectiveness evaluation and support policy making and service delivery in the Scottish ELC sector.
BIG Modulates Stem Cell Niche and Meristem Development via SCR/SHR Pathway in Arabidopsis Roots
Authors: Liu Zhongming , Zhang Ruo-Xi , Duan Wen , Xue Baoping , Pan Xinyue , Li Shuangchen , Sun Peng , Pi Limin , Liang Yun-Kuan
Published: June 2022

BIG, a regulator of polar auxin transport, is necessary to regulate the growth and development of Arabidopsis. Although mutations in the BIG gene cause severe root developmental defects, the exact mechanism remains unclear. Here, we report that disruption of the BIG gene resulted in decreased quiescent center (QC) activity and columella cell numbers, which was accompanied by the downregulation of WUSCHEL-RELATED HOMEOBOX5 (WOX5) gene expression. BIG affected auxin distribution by regulating the expression of PIN-FORMED proteins (PINs), but the root morphological defects of big mutants could not be rescued solely by increasing auxin transport. Although the loss of BIG gene function resulted in decreased expression of the PLT1 and PLT2 genes, genetic interaction assays indicate that this is not the main reason for the root morphological defects of big mutants. Furthermore, genetic interaction assays suggest that BIG affects the stem cell niche (SCN) activity through the SCRSCARECROW (SCR)/SHORT ROOT (SHR) pathway and BIG disruption reduces the expression of SCR and SHR genes. In conclusion, our findings reveal that the BIG gene maintains root meristem activity and SCN integrity mainly through the SCR/SHR pathway.
Does Application of Lymphatic Drainage with Kinesiology Taping Have Any Effect on the Extent of Edema and Range of Motion in Early Postoperative Recovery following Primary Endoprosthetics of the Knee Joint?
Authors: Sobiech Magdalena , Czępińska Agata , Zieliński Grzegorz , Zawadka Magdalena , Gawda Piotr
Published: June 2022

Background: The surgery of knee replacement due to degenerative changes is the last step of the treatment. After surgery, a major problem in patients is pain, swelling, intraarticular hematoma, and the restriction of the mobility of the joint. The aim of this work was to determine the effect of Kinesio Taping (KT) on reducing edema of the subcutaneous tissue and improving the range of motion in the joint. Methods: 82 patients were qualified for the study. After surgery, 42 patients received postoperative edema treatment with KT bands, and 40 patients did not receive the treatment. The swelling thickness and range of mobility were measured on the third and eighth days after the operation. Results: A statistical difference between the longitudinal measurements of the KT group and the group without KT application was shown at the level of the fibula head, 25 mm below the fibula neck, and 50 mm below the fibular neck. There were no statistically significant differences in the change in knee angle between the applied and non-applied patients. Conclusion: The lymphatic application technique KT influences the absorption of subcutaneous edema after primary knee joint replacement surgery but has no influence on mobility.
Assessment of Serum Urea, Creatinine and Uric Acid in Oral Cancer
Authors: Caruntu Ana , Moraru Liliana , Ciubotaru Diana Alina , Tanase Cristiana , Scheau Cristian , Caruntu Constantin
Published: June 2022

Background: Oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) is a common malignancy worldwide, leading to significant disease-associated social and financial burdens. The investigation of underlying mechanisms involved in carcinogenesis and tumor progression in OSCC might provide new therapeutic perspectives with an impact on disease control and patient survival. Our study aims to investigate the interrelation between metabolic processes, expressed through final catabolism products and clinicopathological characteristics in OSCC. Materials and methods: This is a single cancer comparative retrospective study investigating metabolic byproducts, namely serum urea, creatinine and uric acid, detected at the moment of diagnosis in patients with OSCC, in comparison to healthy controls. Clinical and paraclinical data regarding exposure to risk factors, disease staging and pathological characteristics were collected for all patients. Subjects with co-existing systemic or metabolic diseases, or with a history of malignancy, were excluded from the study. Subsequently, the metabolic byproducts revealing significant changes in OSCC patients were considered for a correlation analysis with the disease clinico-pathological characteristics. Results: Blood levels for urea, creatinine and uric acid were determined in a total of 225 subjects: 145 patients diagnosed with OSCC and 80 healthy control subjects admitted to our hospital between 2016 and 2021. The comparative analysis between groups revealed that the serum urea level was significantly lower in OSCC patients (p = 0.0344). Serum creatinine and uric acid did not reveal significant differences between groups. Furthermore, in advanced stages of the disease (stages III and IV), the blood level of urea was significantly lower compared to incipient OSCC (stages I and II) (p = 0.003). We found a negative correlation of serum urea levels with smoking (p = 0.0004) and cervical lymph node metastasis (p = 0.0070), and a positive correlation with aging (p = 0.0000). We found no significant correlation of serum urea with primary tumor size (p = 0.5061) and patient survival (p = 0.2932). Conclusions: Decreased serum urea levels are detected in patients with advanced OSCC, in correlation with lymph node metastasis. The invasive features of tumor cells in OSCC might be promoted in association with dysregulation of protein catabolism processes, facilitating aggressive behavior in OSCC.
A Newly Defined CHA2DS2-VA Score for Predicting Obstructive Coronary Artery Disease in Patients with Atrial Fibrillation—A Cross-Sectional Study of Older Persons Referred for Elective Coronary Angiography
Authors: Wojszel Zyta Beata , Kuźma Łukasz , Rogalska Ewelina , Kurasz Anna , Dobrzycki Sławomir , Sobkowicz Bożena , Tomaszuk-Kazberuk Anna
Published: June 2022

Purpose: Atrial fibrillation (AF) can be a valuable indicator of non-obstructive coronary artery disease (CAD) among older patients indicated for elective coronary angiography (CAG). Appropriate stratification of AF patients is crucial for avoiding unnecessary complications. The objective of this study was to identify independent predictors that can allow diagnosing obstructive CAD in AF patients over 65 years who were indicated to undergo elective CAG. Patients and methods: This cross-sectional study included 452 (23.9%) AF patients over 65 years old who were directed to the Department of Invasive Cardiology at the Medical University of Bialystok for elective CAG during 2014–2016. The participants had CAD and were receiving optimal therapy (median age: 73 years, interquartile range: 69–77 years; 54.6% men). The prevalence and health correlates of obstructive CAD were determined, and a multivariate logistic regression model was generated with predictors (p < 0.1). Predictive performance was analyzed using a receiver-operating characteristic (ROC) curve analysis. Results: Stenosis (affecting ≥ 50% of the diameter of the left coronary artery stem or ≥70% of that of the other important epicardial vessels) was significant in 184 (40.7%) cases. Multivariate regression analysis revealed that only the male sex (odds ratio [OR]: 1.80, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.14–2.84, p = 0.01) and the newly created CHA2DS2-VA score (OR: 3.96, 95% CI: 2.96–5.31, p < 0.001) significantly increased the chance of obstructive CAD, while controlling for chronic kidney disease and anemia. The ROC curve analysis indicated that the CHA2DS2-VA scale may be a useful screening tool for the diagnosis of obstructive CAD (area under the ROC curve: 0.79, 95% CI: 0.75–0.84, p < 0.001), with ≥4 being the optimal cutoff value. Conclusions: Our study has proven that several older AF patients who are advised to undergo elective CAG have nonobstructive CAD. The CHA2DS2-VA score can contribute to improving the selection of patients for invasive diagnosis of CAD, but further investigation is required.
En-bloc Laser Resection of Bladder Tumors: Where Are We Now?
Authors: Creta Massimiliano , Celentano Giuseppe , Califano Gianluigi , La Rocca Roberto , Longo Nicola
Published: June 2022

Transurethral resection of bladder tumors (TURBT) is a crucial procedure in the management of bladder cancer [...]
Impulsive Personality Traits Predicted Weight Loss in Individuals with Type 2 Diabetes after 3 Years of Lifestyle Interventions
Authors: Testa Giulia , Camacho-Barcia Lucía , Gómez-Martínez Carlos , Mora-Maltas Bernat , de la Torre Rafael , Pintó Xavier , Corella Dolores , Granero Roser , Cuenca-Royo Aida , Jiménez-Murcia Susana , Babio Nancy , Fernández-Carrión Rebeca , Esteve-Luque Virginia , Forcano Laura , Ni Jiaqi , Malcampo Mireia , De las Heras-Delgado Sara , Fitó Montse , Salas-Salvadó Jordi , Fernández-Aranda Fernando
Published: June 2022

Impulsivity has been associated with type 2 diabetes (T2D) and may negatively impact its management. This study aimed to investigate impulsive personality traits in an older adult population with T2D and their predicting role in long-term weight control and glycemic management, through glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c), following 3 years of intervention with a Mediterranean diet. The Impulsive Behavior Scale (UPPS-P) was administered as a measure of impulsive traits at baseline. Results showed higher total baseline scores of UPPS-P, and higher positive urgency in individuals with T2D, compared with those without T2D. The regression analysis in patients with T2D showed that sensation seeking and lack of perseverance predicted weight loss at follow-up. By contrast, impulsive traits did not predict follow-up levels of HbA1c. In conclusion, the present findings suggest that higher impulsive traits in individuals with T2D seem to affect long-term weight control, but not glycemic control.
Mediterranean Diet: The Beneficial Effects of Lycopene in Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease
Authors: Abenavoli Ludovico , Procopio Anna Caterina , Paravati Maria Rosaria , Costa Giosuè , Milić Nataša , Alcaro Stefano , Luzza Francesco
Published: June 2022

Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) presents the most common chronic liver disease globally; it is estimated that 25.24% of the world’s population has NAFLD. NAFLD is a multi-factorial disease whose development involves various processes, such as insulin resistance, lipotoxicity, inflammation, cytokine imbalance, the activation of innate immunity, microbiota and environmental and genetic factors. Numerous clinical studies have shown that the Mediterranean diet produces beneficial effects in NAFLD patients. The aim of this review is to summarize the beneficial effects of lycopene, a soluble pigment found in fruit and vegetables, in NAFLD.
A Comparative Analysis of Functional Status and Mobility in Stroke Patients with and without Aphasia
Authors: Guzek Zbigniew , Dziubek Wioletta , Stefańska Małgorzata , Kowalska Joanna
Published: June 2022

All researchers agree that aphasia is a serious consequence of a stroke, but they also report contradictory data regarding the functional outcome. The aim of this study was, therefore, to assess the functional outcomes of stroke patients with and without aphasia, who were undertaking a regular rehabilitation programme. Materials and Methods: The study group consisted of 116 post-stroke patients, including 54 patients without aphasia (G1) and 62 patients with aphasia (G2). The following tests were used before (T1) and after (T2) rehabilitation measurement points: Barthel Index (BI), Sitting Assessment Scale (SAS), Berg Balance Scale (BBS), Trunk Control Test (TCT), Test Up & Go (TUG) and the Timed Walk Test (TWT). Results: The group of post-stroke patients with aphasia had a significantly longer time since a stroke on admission, a significantly longer length of stay in the ward and significantly worse SAS and TCT scores at T2, compared to patients without aphasia. Both groups achieved significant improvement in all studied parameters (SAS, TCT, BI, BBS, TUG and TWT). Aphasia was a predictor of functional status in the stroke patients group, but only at the time of admission to the ward. Conclusions: Patients with and without aphasia have an equal likelihood of improving their functional status and returning to independence. Aphasia should not be an absolute factor that excludes stroke patients from research studies on their functional status.
A Randomized Pilot Study of Acceptance and Commitment Therapy to Improve Social Support for Veterans with PTSD
Authors: Kelly Megan M. , Reilly Erin D. , Ameral Victoria , Richter Stephanie , Fukuda Seiya
Published: June 2022

Veterans with PTSD often have substantial interpersonal difficulties and low levels of social support, which puts them at increased risk of mortality, but few treatments address global social impairment for veterans with PTSD. This study is a pilot randomized trial of Acceptance and Commitment Therapy to Improve Social Support for Veterans with PTSD (ACT-SS), a psychotherapy that targets social avoidance and eroded social relationships, compared to Person-Centered Therapy (PCT), a non-directive psychotherapy. Participants were randomized to twelve sessions of either ACT-SS (n = 21) or PCT (n = 19). The results showed that veterans with PTSD had high ratings of satisfaction for both treatments. Contrary to the PCT group, participants in the ACT-SS group showed a significant improvement in the quality of social relationships, engagement in social and leisure activities, and PTSD symptoms from the baseline assessment to the end of treatment and a three-month follow-up. Veterans in the ACT-SS group, but not the PCT group, also showed significant improvements in mindfulness and valued living and a reduction in experiential avoidance from baseline to the end of treatment, with sustained improvements in valued living at the three-month follow-up. Overall, the present study demonstrated the feasibility, acceptability, and positive preliminary outcomes of ACT-SS for veterans with PTSD.
Advances in Excimer Laser Trabeculostomy within the Landscape of Minimally-Invasive Glaucoma Surgery
Authors: Nguyen Anne , Simon Brian , Doan Rebecca , Chen Emily , Lamrani Ryan , Shakibkhou Jonathan , Berlin Michael S.
Published: June 2022

Primary open-angle glaucoma (POAG) is currently treated with a variety of surgical and non-surgical approaches. Minimally invasive glaucoma surgery (MIGS) involves several devices and procedures that lower intraocular pressure (IOP) by increasing aqueous outflow. The first laser-based MIGS procedure, Excimer Laser Trabeculostomy (ELT), has emerged as a safe and effective treatment option. This article reviews ELT within the context of alternative MIGS procedures and focuses on the historical development of ELT, principles and techniques of the ELT procedure, safety and efficacy data, comparison to other outflow procedures, and future augmentations to expand the use of ELT. Performed alone or as an adjunct to cataract surgery, ELT has minimal complications and has shown long-term effectiveness in lowering intraocular pressure in thousands of patients. The non-thermal laser-tissue interactions of excimer lasers minimize peripheral tissue damage and ensure outflow channel patency without requiring foreign body implants or creating blebs. The development of 2D optical and 3D optical coherence tomography (OCT) guidance systems will eliminate the need for a goniolens to visualize angle structures and enable thousands more surgeons to perform ELT in the future.
Early Structural and Vascular Changes after Within-24 Hours Vitrectomy for Recent Onset Rhegmatogenous Retinal Detachment Treatment: A Pilot Study Comparing Bisected Macula and Not Bisected Macula
Authors: D’Aloisio Rossella , Gironi Matteo , Verdina Tommaso , Vivarelli Chiara , Leonelli Riccardo , Mariotti Cesare , Kaleci Shaniko , Toto Lisa , Mastropasqua Rodolfo
Published: June 2022

Background: In this study we aimed at investigating macular perfusion/anatomical changes in eyes with early onset rhegmatogenous retinal detachment (RRD) after prompt surgery within 24 hours, comparing a bisected macula and not bisected macula RRD. Methods: In this prospective observational study, 14 eyes of 14 patients who underwent within-24 hours vitreoretinal surgery for early onset RRD were enrolled. Patients were further divided into two subgroups: the not bisected macula group (NBM group) and the bisected macula group (BM group). At baseline and 3-month follow up, macular architecture and vessel analysis were assessed using optical coherence tomography angiography (OCTA) imaging. In detail, quantitative and qualitative analyses of the macular area were performed to quantify topographical retinal perfusion changes after surgery, calculating the foveal avascular zone (FAZ), vessel density (VD) and vessel length density (VLD) at the superficial capillary plexus (SCP) and deep capillary plexus (DCP). Results: Most cases (43%) were superotemporal RRD. Primary retinal reattachment was obtained in all cases, without recurrences within 3-month follow up. After surgery, a significant FAZ enlargement was observed at both the SCP and DCP level (p < 0.001; p < 0.05), with a significant effect of time noted between the two time points in the NBM and BM subanalysis (F = 3.68; p < 0.017). An excellent functional outcome was maintained for the whole follow-up. On the other hand, after surgery, perfusion parameters did not change significantly apart from the vessel density of the inferior macular sector at the DCP level (p = 0.03). Conclusions: Our findings suggest that the macular perfusion of eyes with RRD is still preserved if the surgery is performed really promptly, thus highlighting the great importance of a correct timing for surgery. OCTA analysis allows for a better understanding of the pathophysiological mechanisms underneath early vascular microarchitecture modifications of the posterior pole in retinal detachment, differentiating the two types of RRD not completely involving the fovea (BM and NBM).
Systematic Cardiovascular Screening in Olympic Athletes before and after SARS-CoV-2 Infection
Authors: Maestrini Viviana , Filomena Domenico , Birtolo Lucia Ilaria , Serdoz Andrea , Fiore Roberto , Tatangelo Mario , Lemme Erika , Squeo Maria Rosaria , Mango Ruggiero , Di Gioia Giuseppe , Fedele Francesco , Gualdi Gianfranco , Spataro Antonio , Pelliccia Antonio , Di Giacinto Barbara
Published: June 2022

Conflicting results on the cardiovascular involvement after SARS-CoV-2 infection generated concerns on the safety of return-to-play (RTP) in athletes. The aim of this study was to evaluate the prevalence of cardiac involvement after COVID-19 in Olympic athletes, who had previously been screened in our pre-participation program. Since November 2020, all consecutive Olympic athletes presented to our Institute after COVID-19 prior to RTP were enrolled. The protocol was dictated by the Italian governing bodies and comprised: 12-lead ECG, blood test, cardiopulmonary exercise test (CPET), 24-h ECG monitoring, and spirometry. Cardiovascular Magnetic Resonance (CMR) was also performed. All Athletes were previously screened in our Institute as part of their periodical pre-participation evaluation. Forty-seven Italian Olympic athletes were enrolled: 83% asymptomatic, 13% mildly asymptomatic, and 4% had pneumonia. Uncommon premature ventricular contractions (PVCs) were found in 13% athletes; however, only 6% (n = 3) were newly detected. All newly diagnosed uncommon PVCs were detected by CPET. One of these three athletes had evidence for acute myocarditis by CMR, along with Troponin raise; another had pericardial effusion. No one of the remaining athletes had abnormalities detected by CMR. Cardiac abnormalities in Olympic athletes screened after COVID-19 resolution were detected in a minority, and were associated with new ventricular arrhythmias. Only one had evidence for acute myocarditis (in the presence of symptoms and elevated biomarkers). Our data support the efficacy of the clinical assessment including exercise-ECG to raise suspicion for cardiovascular abnormalities after COVID-19. Instead, the routine use of CMR as a screening tool appears unjustified.
Is Prehospital Assessment of qSOFA Parameters Associated with Earlier Targeted Sepsis Therapy? A Retrospective Cohort Study
Authors: Dankert André , Kraxner Jochen , Breitfeld Philipp , Bopp Clemens , Issleib Malte , Doehn Christoph , Bathe Janina , Krause Linda , Zöllner Christian , Petzoldt Martin
Published: June 2022

Background: This study aimed to determine whether prehospital qSOFA (quick sequential organ failure assessment) assessment was associated with a shortened ‘time to antibiotics’ and ‘time to intravenous fluid resuscitation’ compared with standard assessment. Methods: This retrospective study included patients who were referred to our Emergency Department between 2014 and 2018 by emergency medical services, in whom sepsis was diagnosed during hospitalization. Two multivariable regression models were fitted, with and without qSOFA parameters, for ‘time to antibiotics’ (primary endpoint) and ‘time to intravenous fluid resuscitation’. Results: In total, 702 patients were included. Multiple linear regression analysis showed that antibiotics and intravenous fluids were initiated earlier if infections were suspected and emergency medical services involved emergency physicians. A heart rate above 90/min was associated with a shortened time to antibiotics. If qSOFA parameters were added to the models, a respiratory rate ≥ 22/min and altered mentation were independent predictors for earlier antibiotics. A systolic blood pressure ≤ 100 mmHg and altered mentation were independent predictors for earlier fluids. When qSOFA parameters were added, the explained variability of the model increased by 24% and 38%, respectively (adjusted R² 0.106 versus 0.131 for antibiotics and 0.117 versus 0.162 for fluids). Conclusion: Prehospital assessment of qSOFA parameters was associated with a shortened time to a targeted sepsis therapy.
Expansion of Double-Negative T Cells in Patients before Liver Transplantation Correlates with Post-Transplant Infections
Authors: Lei Hong , Tian Min , Zhang Xiaogang , Liu Xuemin , Wang Bo , Wu Rongqian , Lv Yi
Published: June 2022

Liver transplantation (LTx) is currently the only effective therapy for patients with end-stage liver diseases, but post-transplant infection is a key issue for morbidity and mortality. In this study, we found that pre-transplant patients with an expansion of double-negative T (DNT) cells (CD3+CD4−CD8− T cells) had an increased incidence of infections within the first 6 months after LTx. These DNT cells also negatively correlated with their CD4/CD8 ratio. Compared to patients who had no infections after LTx, these DNT cells expressed more CD25, especially in the memory compartment. The receiver operating characteristic (ROC) analysis showed that the threshold area under the ROC curve of DNT cells which could be used to distinguish LTx patients with post-transplant infections from patients without infections after LTx was 0.8353 (95% CI: 0.6591–1.000). The cut-off for the pre-LTx DNT cell level was 11.35%. Although patients with post-transplant infections had decreased levels of CD4/CD8 T cells, CD8+ T cells in these patients were more exhausted, with higher PD-1 expression and lower IFNγ secretion. The increased levels of DNT cells in patients with post-transplant infections were still observed 2 weeks after LTx, with higher proportions of memory DNT cells. In conclusion, increased levels of DNT cells in pre-LTx patients may be valuable for the prognosis of post-transplant infections, especially within the first 6 months after LTx.
Shoal-to-Strata Ratio Technique and Its Use in Describing Carbonate Rock Sedimentary Facies in the Eastern Sichuan Basin
Authors: Hu Xiuquan , Liu Hong , Tan Xiucheng , Xiao Chenjing , Tan Qian , Li Jianghan , Yi Chi
Published: June 2022

The requirements for the accurate characterization of shoal sediments have increased in view of the fact that strata are eroded due to uplift and it is difficult to calculate the real thickness of granular shoal. To solve this problem, with the shoal-to-strata ratio, the type and distribution range of carbonate rock shoal facies are described, and the characterization of sedimentary facies is subsequently presented. Taking the P2m2a in Eastern Sichuan as an example, the following conclusions were obtained. (1) The primary rock types of the shoal facies of the P2m2a are bioclastic limestone and micrite limestone. The logging facies of platform margin shoals, intra-platform high-energy shoals, intra-platform low-energy shoals, and sloping low-energy shoals are large funnel-type, small funnel-type, box-type, and finger-like, respectively. The platform margin shoals and intra-platform high-energy shoals are imbricate seismic facies, and the intra-platform low-energy shoals and sloping low-energy shoals are S-type progradation seismic facies and oblique progradation. (2) The shoal-to-strata ratio of platform margin shoals is the highest, followed by intra-platform high-energy shoals, intra-platform low-energy shoals, and sloping low-energy shoals. (3) Shoal facies deposits have a certain controlling effect on gas production, and platform margin shoals have greater exploration potential. (4) This example shows that in the areas where carbonate rock strata are eroded, compared with the method of characterizing the sedimentary facies of carbonate rock using the shoal thickness, the shoal-to-strata ratios are more accurate. (5) The planar distribution diagram of the shoal-to-strata ratio can be used as a supporting map for compiling sedimentary facies maps. This method is worth applying in related research fields.
Improved RRT Algorithm for AUV Target Search in Unknown 3D Environment
Authors: Li Juan , Li Chengyue , Chen Tao , Zhang Yun
Published: June 2022

Due to the complexity of the marine environment, underwater target search and interception is one of the biggest problems faced by an autonomous underwater vehicle (AUV). At present, there is quite a lot of research in terms of the two-dimensional environment. This paper proposes an improved rapidly exploring random trees (RRT) algorithm to solve the problem of target search and interception in an unknown three-dimensional (3D) environment. The RRT algorithm is combined with rolling planning and node screening to realize path planning in an unknown environment, and then the improved RRT algorithm is applied to the search and interception process in a 3D environment. Combined with the search decision function and the three-point numerical differential prediction method, the RRT algorithm can search for and effectively intercept the target. Numerical simulations in various situations show the superior performance, in terms of time and accuracy, of the proposed approach.
Number of Teeth and Nutritional Status Parameters Are Related to Intima-Media Thickness in Dalmatian Kidney Transplant Recipients
Authors: Dodig Novaković Maja , Lovrić Kojundžić Sanja , Radić Mislav , Vučković Marijana , Gelemanović Andrea , Roguljić Marija , Kovačević Katja , Orešković Josip , Radić Josipa
Published: June 2022

Although kidney transplantation significantly improves the quality of life of patients with end-stage renal disease (ESRD), the prevalence of cardiovascular disease (CVD) in kidney transplant recipients (KTRs) remains high. Atherosclerosis, post-transplantation metabolic changes, immunosuppressive therapy, and periodontitis contribute to elevated cardiovascular risk in this population. The aim of the study was to evaluate carotid intima-media thickness (IMT) as a surrogate marker of atherosclerosis and to analyze the possible risk factors for IMT in Dalmatian KTRs. Ninety-three KTRs were included in this study. Data on clinical and laboratory parameters, body composition, anthropometry, advanced glycation end-product (AGE) measurements, blood pressure, and arterial stiffness were collected. All participants underwent ultrasound examination of IMT and evaluation of periodontal status. KTRs with carotid IMT ≥ 0.9 were significantly older, had a lower level of total cholesterol, fat mass, end-diastolic velocity (EDV), and had fewer teeth. They also had significantly higher values of pulse wave velocity (PWV) and resistive index (RI). We found positive correlations between carotid IMT and duration of dialysis, age, PWV, AGE, RI, and average total clinical attachment level (CAL). The regression model showed that IMT in KTRs is associated with higher PWV, lower fat mass, and fewer teeth. The results of our study suggest that nutritional and periodontal status are associated with carotid IMT in KTRs.
Transformation of Rural Space under the Impact of Tourism: The Case of Xiamen, China
Authors: Yang Jinkun , Ma Haitao , Weng Lisheng
Published: June 2022

Tourism plays a key role in sustaining economic development. Previous research has established the connections between tourism and urban growth, as well as the influence of tourism on population and social structure, and the impact of tourism on the landscape. Fewer studies have been conducted on the impact of tourism on the process of rural development change, especially how rural spatial transformation and local community development are driven through tourism. This paper investigates the link between tourism and rural spatial development in China, using in-depth interviews. The research demonstrates that the ambiguity of collective land ownership in China is a key factor in the process of village development. The transformation of villages from “production space” to “consumption space” is driven by tourism based on the land institution arrangement. It is hoped that this research will contribute to a deeper understanding that tourism should be valued in the future as part of the village development process, especially when tourism plays a long-term role in promoting village development.
Land Use Change under Population Migration and Its Implications for Human–Land Relationship
Authors: Luo Xuan , Tong Zhaomin , Xie Yifan , An Rui , Yang Zhaochen , Liu Yanfang
Published: June 2022

With the rural-to-urban population migration under the new era of rapid urbanization, China has experienced dramatic rural land change, especially the change in cultivated land and rural residential land, resulting in the serious uncoordinated human–land relationships in rural areas. The efficient use of these two kinds of land resources becomes one of the paramount challenges for governments to achieve sustainable and balanced rural development. This challenge highlights the need for quantifying the formation mechanism of the relationship between cultivated land and rural residential land (RCR) and exploring the corresponding relation between human–land relationships with RCR to guide the high-efficiency rural land use structure and coordinated development of human–land relationships. This study aims to quantitatively characterize the matching modes of RCR and the underlying formation mechanism via a grid-based, integrated decoupling model and multiclass explainable boosting machine analysis method. The findings are as follows: (1) The variation in cultivated land and rural residential land is characterized by quantity match and spatial mismatch. The six matching modes of RCR are strong decoupling (SD) (33.36%), weak decoupling (9.86%), recessive decoupling (4.15%), expansive negative decoupling (15.05%), weak negative decoupling (4.92%), and strong negative decoupling (SND) (18.65%). (2) Average grain product per cultivated land and population variation have the highest relative importance and play the greatest role in determining the type of matching modes. A concomitant phenomenon is noted in the matching modes; that is, SD occurs with recessive decoupling and weak negative decoupling, and the weak decoupling and expansive negative decoupling occur with SND in the same conditions. (3) A significant corresponding relationship exists between the matching modes and human–land relationship, indicating that the six matching modes correspond to four different stages of the human–land relationship. The study could provide some decision-making guidance for sustainable rural development, so as to improve the differentiated land management and regional response strategies.
Mining Educational Trail in Slovakia
Authors: Ilkovičová Ľubica , Ilkovič Ján
Published: June 2022

Mining was part of the development of industrial society and a driving force of technological education and economic growth of the region. After mining ceased, many mining sites and their surrounding areas found themselves in a state of insecurity. Mining in Slovakia has had a long and rich history in the mountainous regions (e.g., Spiš, Gemer, a well-known area around Banská Štiavnica). This research is focused on the potential of the marginal mining areas Markušovce, Rudňany Poráč in the Spiš region and is oriented towards linking mining, landscape and tourism. The main analytical and synthetic research methods were supported by field research and participatory methods with a questionnaire and emotional maps. The results obtained were used in an alternative solution for eco-park case studies. The research results are operational trail models of geotourism. Further research results are concepts of eco-geoparks, which were based on the evaluation of case studies. In terms of landscape design, concepts have been specified in which landscape design dominates. Mining traces are an inseparable part of the landscape. Mining has brought its benefits but also its negatives. How do we deal with this heritage? This research responds that landscape revitalization, the development of educational tourism and the creation of a diverse environment is one of the good ways.
The Twelve Principles of Green Tribology: Studies, Research, and Case Studies—A Brief Anthology
Authors: Freschi Marco , Paniz Alessandro , Cerqueni Elena , Colella Gianmarco , Dotelli Giovanni
Published: June 2022

Sustainability has become of paramount importance, as evidenced by the increasing number of norms and regulations concerning various sectors. Due to its intrinsic trans-sectorial nature, tribology has drawn the attention of the supporters of sustainability. This discipline allows the environmental, economic, and social impacts to be decreased in a wide range of applications following the same strategies. In 2010, Nosonovsky and Bhushan drew up 12 approaches based on the 12 principles of green chemistry and the 12 principles of green engineering, defining the “12 principles of green tribology.” This review exploits the 12 principles of green tribology to fathom the developed research related to sustainability and tribology. Different approaches and innovative studies have been proposed in this short selection as references to consider for further development, pursuing the efforts of the scientific community for a sustainable future through the contribution also of tribosystems. The manuscript aims to provide practical examples of materials, lubricants, strategies, and technologies that have contributed to the overall progress of tribology, decreasing wear and friction and increasing efficiency, and at the same time promoting sustainable development, lowering toxicity, waste production, and loss of energy and resources.
2,6-Bis[bis(1,1-dimethylethyl)phosphinito-κP]phenyl-κC]-trans-chlorohydro(phenylphosphine)iridium(III)
Authors: Mucha Neil T. , Waterman Rory
Published: June 2022

The molecular structure of an iridium complex featuring a phenylphosphine ligand is described. The reaction of (POCOP)IrHCl (1, POCOP = 2,6-(tBu2PO)2C6H3–) with phenylphosphine gives (POCOP)IrHCl(PH2Ph) (2) under mild conditions. The structural features are consistent with a classic pseudo-octahedral iridium compound with three neutral phosphine donors. Compound 1 is unreactive at elevated temperatures and is unreactive toward excess phenylphosphine under the sampled conditions.
Study of Energy Dissipation in the Mixed-State YBa2Cu3O7-δ Superconductor with Partially Deoxygenated Structures
Authors: Jukna Artūras
Published: June 2022

Energy dissipation from vortex motion, which appears as a resistivity of the mixed-state superconductor, limits the range of type II superconductors in low- and high-power electronics and optoelectronics. The level of dissipation increases with the development of the vortex motion phase from that of the thermally activated flux flow to that of the flux creep and finally to that of the flux flow. The vortex motion regimes depend on the balance between bias current-self-produced Lorentz force, accelerating vortices, and the pinning force, which, together with a magnetic drag force from pinned vortices, tends to stop the vortex motion. The current paper reports on energy dissipation in YBa2Cu3O7-δ (YBCO) devices provided with partially deoxygenated structures mutually interacting by magnetic force with one another. The shape of the structure and the magnetic interaction between the trapped and moving vortices, as well as the magnetic interaction between neighboring structures, can cause the appearance of voltage steps in the device’s current–voltage characteristics observed in temperature range 0.94 ≥ T/Tc ≥ 0.98 (here, Tc = 91.4 K is the temperature of the superconducting transition in the YBCO material). Current findings demonstrate the potential of artificial structures to control vortex motion in a mixed-state YBCO superconductor by means of a temperature, bias current, and a specific configuration of the structure itself and a profile of the oxygen distribution in it.
Hydroxyapatite/L-Lysine Composite Coating as Glassy Carbon Electrode Modifier for the Analysis and Detection of Nile Blue A
Authors: Ngouoko Jimmy Julio Kouanang , Tajeu Kevin Yemele , Temgoua Ranil Clément Tonleu , Doungmo Giscard , Doench Ingo , Tamo Arnaud Kamdem , Kamgaing Théophile , Osorio-Madrazo Anayancy , Tonle Ignas Kenfack
Published: June 2022

An amperometric sensor was developed by depositing a film coating of hydroxyapatite (HA)/L-lysine (Lys) composite material on a glassy carbon electrode (GCE). It was applied for the detection of Nile blue A (NBA). Hydroxyapatite was obtained from snail shells and its structural properties before and after its combination with Lys were characterized using X-ray diffraction (XRD), Fourier-transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy, scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and Brunauer–Emmett–Teller (BET) surface area analyses. The coupling of Lys to HA was attributed to favorable interaction between negatively charged -COO− groups of Lys and divalent ions Ca2+ of HA. Electrochemical investigations pointed out the improvement in sensitivity of the GCE/Lys/HA sensor towards the detection of NBA in solution. The dependence of the peak current and potential on the pH, scan rate, and NBA concentration was also investigated. Under optimal conditions, the GCE/Lys/HA sensor showed a good reproducibility, selectivity, and a NBA low detection limit of 5.07 × 10−8 mol L−1. The developed HA/Lys-modified electrode was successfully applied for the detection of NBA in various water samples.
The Effects of Ru4+ Doping on LiNi0.5Mn1.5O4 with Two Crystal Structures
Authors: Li Xinli , Su Ben , Xue Wendong , Zhang Junnan
Published: June 2022

Doping of Ru has been used to enhance the performance of LiNi0.5Mn1.5O4 cathode materials. However, the effects of Ru doping on the two types of LiNi0.5Mn1.5O4 are rarely studied. In this study, Ru4+ with a stoichiometric ratio of 0.05 is introduced into LiNi0.5Mn1.5O4 with different space groups (Fd3¯m, P4332). The influence of Ru doping on the properties of LiNi0.5Mn1.5O4 (Fd3¯m, P4332) is comprehensively studied using multiple techniques such as XRD, Raman, and SEM methods. Electrochemical tests show that Ru4+-doped LiNi0.5Mn1.5O4 (P4332) delivers the optimal electrochemical performance. Its initial specific capacity reaches 132.8 mAh g−1, and 97.7% of this is retained after 300 cycles at a 1 C rate at room temperature. Even at a rate of 10 C, the capacity of Ru4+-LiNi0.5Mn1.5O4 (P4332) is still 100.7 mAh g−1. Raman spectroscopy shows that the Ni/Mn arrangement of Ru4+-LiNi0.5Mn1.5O4 (Fd3¯m) is not significantly affected by Ru4+ doping. However, LiNi0.5Mn1.5O4 (P4332) is transformed to semi-ordered LiNi0.5Mn1.5O4 after the incorporation of Ru4+. Ru4+ doping hinders the ordering process of Ni/Mn during the heat treatment process, to an extent.
Rolling Bearing Fault Diagnosis Based on Multiscale Permutation Entropy and SOA-SVM
Authors: Zhang Xi , Wang Hongju , Ren Mingming , He Mengyun , Jin Lei
Published: June 2022

The service conditions of underground coal mine equipment are poor, and it is difficult to accurately extract the fault characteristics of rolling bearings. In order to better improve the accuracy of the fault identification of rolling bearings, a fault-detection method based on multiscale permutation entropy and SOA-SVM is proposed. First, the whale optimization algorithm is used to select the modal analysis number K and the penalty factor α of the variational mode decomposition algorithm. Then, the vibration signal of rolling bearings is dissolved according to the optimized variational mode decomposition algorithm, and the multi-scale permutation entropy of the main intrinsic mode function is calculated. Finally, the feature values of the matrix are entered into the SVM algorithm optimized by the seagull optimization algorithm to obtain the classification result. The experimental results based on the published rolling bearing datasets of Western Reserve University show that the identification success rate of the proposed method can reach 98.75%. The fault detection of the rolling bearings can be completed accurately and efficiently.
Effect of Strain Hardening and Ellipticity on Elastic–Plastic Contact Behaviour between Ellipsoids and Rigid Planes
Authors: Chen Jian , Zhang Wangyang , Wang Chenglong , Liu Di , Zhu Linbo
Published: June 2022

The contact behaviour between an ellipsoid and a rigid plane is significant in research on bearing and assembly joint surfaces. However, an empirical relationship between an elastic–plastic ellipsoid and a rigid plane has not been established. In this study, the elastic–plastic contact behaviour between a deformable ellipsoid and a rigid plane was investigated by establishing a new finite element model. The proposed elastic–plastic ellipsoid contact model was designed considering the effects of the ellipticity and strain-hardening rate of the ellipsoid. The strain-hardening rate and ellipticity of the ellipsoid affected the contact area, load and mean pressure. Furthermore, the effect gradually increased with an increase in interference. New dimensionless empirical formulas for determining the contact load and contact area were proposed based on the analysis. The proposed model was validated by comparing the obtained results with previous experimental results and those of theoretical models. This study can be used to predict the elastic–plastic contact parameters between a single ellipsoid and a rigid body, such as bearings, gears and cams. It can also be used to investigate the elastic–plastic contact behaviour between anisotropic rough surfaces composed of asperities with different radii of curvature.
The Properties of Harmonically cr-h-Convex Function and Its Applications
Authors: Liu Wei , Shi Fangfang , Ye Guoju , Zhao Dafang
Published: June 2022

In this paper, the definition of the harmonically cr-h-convex function is given, and its important properties are discussed. Jensen type inequality, Hermite–Hadamard type inequalities and Fejér type inequalities for harmonically cr-h-convex functions are also established. In addition, some numerical examples are given to verify the accuracy of the results.