bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Economic costs of invasive alien ants worldwide
Authors: Angulo Elena , Hoffmann Benjamin D. , Ballesteros-Mejia Liliana , Taheri Ahmed , Balzani Paride , Bang Alok , Renault David , Cordonnier Marion , Bellard Céline , Diagne Christophe , Ahmed Danish A. , Watari Yuya , Courchamp Franck
Published: April 2022

Invasive ants are amongst the most destructive and widespread invaders across the globe; they can strongly alter invaded ecosystems and are responsible for the loss of native ant species. Several studies have reported that invasive ants can also lead to substantial economic costs. In this study, we search, describe and analyse 1342 reported costs of invasive ants compiled in the InvaCost database. Economic costs, reported since 1930 for 12 ant species in 27 countries, totalled US$ 51.93 billion, from which US$ 10.95 billion were incurred, and US$ 40.98 billion were potential costs (i.e., expected or predicted costs). More than 80% of total costs were associated with only two species, Solenopsis invicta and Wasmannia auropunctata; and two countries, the USA and Australia. Overall, damage costs amounted to 92% of the total cost, mainly impacting the agriculture, public and social welfare sectors. Management costs were primarily post-invasion management (US$ 1.79 billion), with much lower amounts dedicated to prevention (US$ 235.63 million). Besides the taxonomic bias, cost information was lacking for an average of 78% of the invaded countries. Moreover, even in countries where costs were reported, such information was available for only 56% of the invaded locations. Our synthesis suggests that the global costs of invasive ants are massive but largely biased towards developed economies, with a huge proportion of underreported costs, and thus most likely grossly underestimated. We advocate for more and improved cost reporting of invasive ants through better collaborations between managers, practitioners and researchers, a crucial basis for adequately informing future budgets and improving proactive management actions of invasive ants.
Left atrial inflow propagation velocity derived by color M-mode Doppler in acute heart failure
Authors: Johannessen Øyvind , Myhre Peder L. , Claggett Brian , Lindner Moritz , Lewis Eldrin F. , Rivero Jose , Cheng Susan , Platz Elke
Published: April 2022

Left atrial (LA) inflow propagation velocity from the pulmonary vein (LAIF-PV) has been proposed as a novel measure of LA reservoir function and is associated with pulmonary capillary wedge pressure in critically ill patients. However, data on LAIF-PV in acute heart failure (AHF) are lacking. We sought to examine the feasibility of measuring LAIF-PV and evaluate clinical and echocardiographic correlates of LAIF-PV in AHF. In a prospective cohort study of adults hospitalized for AHF, we used color M-mode Doppler of the pulmonary veins to obtain LAIF-PV in systole. Among 142 patients with appropriate images and no more than moderate mitral regurgitation, LAIF-PV measures were feasible in 76 patients (54%) aged 71 ± 14 years, including 68% men with left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) 38% ± 13. Mean LAIF-PV was 24.2 ± 5.9 cm/s. In multivariable regression analysis adjusted for age, sex, systolic blood pressure, heart rate, body mass index, New York Heart Association class, LA volume and LVEF, the only independent echocardiographic predictors of LAIF-PV were right ventricular (RV) S’ [ß 0.46 cm/s per cm/s (95% CI 0.01–0.91), p = 0.045] and tricuspid annular plane systolic excursion (TAPSE) [ß 0.28 cm/s per mm (95% CI 0.02–0.54), p = 0.039]. Notably, LAIF-PV was not significantly correlated with measures of LV function, LA function or E/e’. In conclusion, LAIF-PV was measurable in 54% of patients with AHF, and lower values were associated with measures of impaired RV systolic function but not LV or LA function.
Risk stratification using coronary artery calcium scoring based on low tube voltage computed tomography
Authors: Bechtiger Fabiola A. , Grossmann Marvin , Bakula Adam , Patriki Dimitri , von Felten Elia , Fuchs Tobias A. , Gebhard Catherine , Pazhenkottil Aju P. , Kaufmann Philipp A. , Buechel Ronny R.
Published: April 2022

To determine if coronary artery calcium (CAC) scoring using computed tomography at 80 kilovolt-peak (kVp) and 70-kVp and tube voltage-adapted scoring-thresholds allow for accurate risk stratification as compared to the standard 120-kVp protocol. We prospectively included 170 patients who underwent standard CAC scanning at 120-kVp and 200 milliamperes and additional scans with 80-kVp and 70-kVp tube voltage with adapted tube current to normalize image noise across scans. Novel kVp-adapted thresholds were applied to calculate CAC scores from the low-kVp scans and were compared to those from standard 120-kVp scans by assessing risk reclassification rates and agreement using Kendall’s rank correlation coefficients (Τb) for risk categories bounded by 0, 1, 100, and 400. Interreader reclassification rates for the 120-kVp scans were assessed. Agreement for risk classification obtained from 80-kVp and 70-kVp scans as compared to 120-kVp was good (Τb = 0.967 and 0.915, respectively; both p < 0.001) with reclassification rates of 7.1% and 17.2%, respectively, mostly towards a lower risk category. By comparison, the interreader reclassification rate was 4.1% (Τb = 0.980, p < 0.001). Reclassification rates were dependent on body mass index (BMI) with 7.1% and 13.6% reclassifications for the 80-kVp and 70-kVp scans, respectively, in patients with a BMI < 30 kg/m2 (n = 140), and 2.9% and 7.4%, respectively, in patients with a BMI < 25 kg/m2 (n = 68). Mean effective radiation dose from the 120-kVp, the 80-kVp, and 70-kVp scans was 0.54 ± 0.03, 0.42 ± 0.02, and 0.26 ± 0.02 millisieverts. CAC scoring with reduced tube voltage allows for accurate risk stratification if kVp-adapted thresholds for calculation of CAC scores are applied.

ClinicalTrials.gov NCT03637231.
Atrioventricular plane displacement and regional function to predict outcome in pulmonary arterial hypertension
Authors: Lindholm Anthony , Kjellström Barbro , Seemann Felicia , Carlsson Marcus , Hesselstrand Roger , Rådegran Göran , Arheden Håkan , Ostenfeld Ellen
Published: April 2022

To investigate if left and right atrioventricular plane displacement (AVPD) or regional contributions to SV are prognostic for outcome in patients with pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH). Seventy-one patients with PAH and 20 sex- and age-matched healthy controls underwent CMR. Myocardial borders and RV insertion points were defined at end diastole and end systole in cine short-axis stacks to compute biventricular volumes, lateral (SVlat%) and septal (SVsept%) contribution to stroke volume. Eight atrioventricular points were defined at end diastole and end systole in 2-, 3- and 4-chamber cine long-axis views for computation of AVPD and longitudinal contribution to stroke volume (SVlong%). Cut-off values for survival analysis were defined as two standard deviations above or below the mean of the controls. Outcome was defined as death or lung transplantation. Median follow-up time was 3.6 [IQR 3.7] years. Patients were 57 ± 19 years (65% women) and controls 58 ± 15 years (70% women). Biventricular AVPD, SVlong% and ejection fraction (EF) were lower and SVlat% was higher, while SVsept% was lower in PAH compared with controls. In PAH, transplantation-free survival was lower below cut-off for LV-AVPD (hazard ratio [HR] = 2.1, 95%CI 1.2–3.9, p = 0.02) and RV-AVPD (HR = 9.8, 95%CI 4.6–21.1, p = 0.005). In Cox regression analysis, lower LV-AVPD and RV-AVPD inferred lower transplantation-free survival (LV: HR = 1.16, p = 0.007; RV: HR = 1.11, p = 0.01; per mm decrease). LV-SVlong%, RV-SVlong%, LV-SVlat%, RV-SVlat%, SVsept% and LV- and RVEF did not affect outcome. Low left and right AVPD were associated with outcome in PAH, but regional contributions to stroke volume and EF were not.
The effect of pulp type on the performance of microfibrillar lignocellulosic bismuth-based active packaging material
Authors: Maliha Maisha , Brammananth Rajini , Coppel Ross L. , Werrett Melissa V. , Andrews Philip C. , Batchelor Warren
Published: April 2022

The study aims to investigate the effect of the different lignocellulosic pulp on the composite properties for active packaging application. Microfibrillated cellulose from bleached and unbleached Kraft and thermomechanical pulp (TMP) having different cellulose, hemicellulose, lignin, and extractive content were used as the matrix phase with antimicrobial bis-phosphinato bismuth complex as the dispersed phase. The Kraft pulp has thinner fibres as observed in the SEM images and have higher aspect ratio (EMT 109–157) compared to TMP (EMT 43–51). So, it is more easily fibrillated resulting in a strong close network and therefore resulting in low water vapor transmission rate (WVTR) and high tensile index (20–91 g/m2.day and 59–78 Nm/g respectively) compared to the TMP ones (153–261 g/m2.day and 35–43 Nm/g respectively). While the physical dimension of the fibres controls the mechanical and barrier properties, the leaching and antibacterial performance is related to the bonding of the complex with the matrix. The high hydrophilicity of the bleached kraft pulp results in a weak bond with the hydrophobic bismuth complex, easing its release to kill the surrounding microbial population and thus resulting in larger zones of inhibition against both Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria. Therefore, bleached kraft pulp was found to be the most suitable with promising barrier, mechanical and antibacterial properties.
Movement ecology of the white seabream Diplodus sargus across its life cycle: a review
Authors: Giacalone Vincenzo Maximiliano , Pipitone Carlo , Abecasis David , Badalamenti Fabio , D’Anna Giovanni
Published: April 2022

The white seabream Diplodus sargus (L., 1758) (Osteichthyes, Sparidae) is a littoral species living mainly in rocky habitats and distributed in the eastern Atlantic and the Mediterranean. This species is targeted by artisanal and recreational fisheries and presents a high commercial importance. Although classified by IUCN as a “least concern” species, it has been the object of marine ranching and restocking initiatives to counteract locally intense exploitation. Here, we review the current knowledge on the movement ecology of white seabream given the relevance of animal movement in ecological and behavioral studies and their potential application in management and conservation. The literature on this topic was analyzed in order to summarize the results of past research and to identify the gaps that still exist on the matter. We reviewed a total of 27 papers focusing on the movement ecology of white seabream, where acoustic telemetry (n = 12), underwater visual observation and traditional tagging (n = 6), genetic analysis (n = 6), and otolith microchemistry (n = 3) were used. While the first three methods were applied to juvenile and adult fish, the last one was also used with larvae, which have been the object of experimental trials to ascertain their swimming abilities. The largest amount of information on activity rhythms (diurnal with a few exceptions), movement patterns (short distances), homing (ability to come back to the capture site), site fidelity (high), and home range (< 200 ha on average and highly related with seabed morphology) were obtained through acoustic telemetry, whose main limitation is the minimum body size required for its application. The environmental variables found to affect movement patterns in this species are water temperature (which triggers spawning-based vertical movements), local sea conditions (which affect short-scale movements in juveniles), and the main seabed features (orientation and habitat type). The main gaps identified, which need more extensive research and some technological improvements, include the study of the effects of environmental variables on fish movements and further investigations on the movement patterns of juveniles.
Is the genetic integrity of wild Coffea canephora from Ivory Coast threatened by hybridization with introduced coffee trees from Central Africa?
Authors: Gnapi Diane Estelle , Pokou Désiré N’Da , Legnate Hyacinthe , Dapeng Zhang , Montagnon Christophe , Bertrand Benoît , N’guetta Assonvo Simon-Pierre
Published: April 2022

Robusta coffee (Coffea Canephora) is an important source of income and employment, contributing significantly to the economies of many developing countries. This species is split into two genetic groups: Guinean and Congolese. Côte-d’Ivoire is the primary diversification center of the Guinean pool, which offers great potential for genetic improvement. However, genetic erosion of this group is currently a threat in this country because of the massive introduction of Congolese accessions done in the previous decades. In this work, we analyzed the progenies of isolated population of C. canephora composed of a mix of Guinean and Congolese using SNP markers. The analysis is focus on the male parents’ contribution in open pollination. The results show that the introduction of cultivars from the Congolese gene pool threat the genetic integrity of wild populations from the Guinean gene pool. Indeed, this analysis showed that Congolese pollens have more ability to pollinate the Guinean group than the Guinean pollen perform on Congolese trees. We recommend that a program be put in place to ensure the conservation of wild population of C. canephora through in situ or ex situ conservation.
Fire Prevention Targeting by Merseyside Fire and Rescue Service in UK
Authors: Taylor M. , Oakford G. , Appleton D. , Fielding J.
Published: April 2022

In this article, we examine fire prevention targeting by Merseyside Fire and Rescue Service in the North West of England. We examine social group, spatial, and lifestyle and behaviours targeting, and the targeted use of fire prevention approaches including home fire safety checks, community, and educational engagement events, websites, social media, and home fire safety self-assessment software tools. In particular, we examine the fire prevention approaches used by Merseyside Fire and Rescue Service, the approaches that were used to identify those most at risk of accidental dwelling fire incidents, injuries, and fatalities, and the strategies adopted for the targeting of fire prevention resources.
Towards better home design for people in temporary accommodation: exploring relationships between meanings of home, activities, and indoor environmental quality
Authors: Overtoom Marjolein E. , Elsinga Marja G. , Bluyssen Philomena M.
Published: April 2022

People living in short-term rental housing, henceforth temporary housing, are rarely consulted by professionals involved in the design process, whether regarding new or refurbished buildings. Knowing what is required for temporary dwellers to feel at home and how their meanings of home relate to household characteristics, activities, and indoor environmental quality, might result in better designs for these commonly small dwellings. To explore the views of temporary occupants about their home environment, we designed and conducted a survey directed to young people in the Netherlands, likely to be familiar with living in temporary accommodation (141 university students, 58 refugees who have received a permit to stay; henceforth named permit holders), 23 persons who were working 4 days and studying 1 day; henceforth named starters). Through factor analysis, six meanings of home were found to be statistically significant: Representation, privacy, sociability, rootedness, future, and appropriation. Multiple regression analyses and analyses of variance indicated that meanings of home were related to some household characteristics and the presence of light and cleanliness. Our study showed that measuring meanings of home might help understand not only how dwellings are used but also how to improve the design of small temporary dwellings. For instance, more possibilities for good or natural light, storage, and the display of personal possessions should be incorporated into the design of these small dwellings.
Effect of Oxidizer on PANI for Producing BaTiO3@PANI Perovskite Composites and Their Electrical and Electrochemical Properties
Authors: Qasim Khaled F. , Mousa Mahmoud A.
Published: April 2022

Polyaniline (PANI) has received significant attention in basic and applied studies because it has electrical and electrochemical properties comparable to conventional semiconductors and metals. PANI's electrical and electrochemical properties can be controlled through its preparation methods. Accordingly, in the present work, two different samples of PANI were prepared by the polymerization of aniline monomer via in situ polymerization method using two different oxidizers of dichromate (PANI (1)) and persulphate (PANI (2)). The products were blended with BaTiO3 (BTO) to form BTO@PANI composites. The composites were characterized by scanning electron microscopy (SEM), Fourier transforms infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), X-ray powder diffraction (XRD), and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS). SEM illustrated the covering of PANI layers on the BTO nanoparticles. The electrical and electrochemical properties of the prepared composites were studied. The BTO@PANI(2) composite sample showed a conductivity of 1.2 × 10–3 S/cm higher than that found for each BTO@PANI(1) 9.1 × 10–4 S/cm and its constituents. The supercapacity showed higher capacity values of 70 F/g, and 76 F/g for BTO@PANI(1), and BTO@PANI(2), respectively, which are higher than its constituents.
Vortex Shedding from a Microsphere Oscillating in Superfluid $$^4$$He at mK Temperatures and from a Laser Beam Moving in a Bose–Einstein Condensate
Authors: Schoepe W.
Published: April 2022

Turbulent drag of an oscillating microsphere that is levitating in superfluid $$^4$$

4

He at mK temperatures, is unstable slightly above a critical velocity amplitude $$v_c$$

v
c

. The lifetime $$\tau$$
τ
of the turbulent state is determined by the number n of vortices shed per half-period. It is found that this number is identical to the superfluid Reynolds number. The possibility of moving a levitating sphere through superfluid $$^3$$

3

He at microkelvin temperatures is considered. A laser beam moving through a Bose–Einstein condensate (BEC) (as observed by other authors) also produces vortices in the BEC. In particular, in either case, a linear dependence of the shedding frequency $$f_v$$

f
v

on $$\Delta v = v - v_c$$

Δ
v
=
v
-

v
c

is observed, where v is the velocity amplitude of the sphere or the constant velocity of the laser beam above $$v_c$$

v
c

for the onset of turbulent flow: $$f_v = a \,\Delta v$$

f
v

=
a

Δ
v

, where the coefficient a is proportional to the oscillation frequency $$\omega$$
ω
above some characteristic frequency $$\omega _k$$

ω
k

and assumes a finite value for steady motion $$\omega \rightarrow 0$$

ω
→
0

. A relation between the superfluid Reynolds number and the superfluid Strouhal number is presented that is different from classical turbulence.
What is Intergenerational Storytelling? Defining the Critical Issues for Aging Research in the Humanities
Authors: Charise Andrea , Pang Celeste , Khalfan Kaamil Ali
Published: April 2022

Intergenerational storytelling (IGS) has recently emerged as an arts- and humanities-focused approach to aging research. Despite growing appeal and applications, however, IGS methods, practices, and foundational concepts remain indistinct. In response to such heterogeneity, our objective was to comprehensively describe the state of IGS in aging research and assess the critical (e.g., conceptual, ethical, and social justice) issues raised by its current practice. Six databases (PsycINFO, MEDLINE, PubMed, Scopus, AgeLine, and Sociological Abstracts) were searched using search terms relating to age, intergenerational, story, and storytelling. Peer-reviewed, English-language studies conducted with participants residing in non-clinical settings were included. One thousand one hundred six (1106) studies were initially retrieved; 70 underwent full review, and 26 fulfilled all inclusion criteria. Most studies characterized IGS as a practice involving older adults (> 50 years old) and conventionally-aged postsecondary/college students (17–19 years old). Typical methodologies included oral and, in more recent literature, digital storytelling. Critical issues included inconsistently reported participant data, vast variations in study design and methods, undefined key concepts, including younger vs. older cohorts, generation, storytelling, and whether IGS comprised an intentional research method or a retrospective outcome. While IGS holds promise as an emerging field of arts- and humanities-based aging research, current limitations include a lack of shared data profiles and comparable study designs, limited cross-cultural representation, and insufficiently intersectional analysis of widespread IGS practices. To encourage more robust standards for future study design, data collection, and researcher reflexivity, we propose seven evidence-based recommendations for evolving IGS as a humanities-based approach to research in aging and intergenerational relations.
The use of respiratory muscle training in patients with pulmonary dysfunction, internal diseases or central nervous system disorders: a systematic review with meta-analysis
Authors: Cacciante Luisa , Turolla Andrea , Pregnolato Giorgia , Federico Sara , Baldan Francesca , Rutkowska Anna , Rutkowski Sebastian
Published: April 2022

Objective

The aim of this systematic review with meta-analysis was to evaluate the effectiveness of RMT in internal and central nervous system disorders, on pulmonary function, exercise capacity and quality of life.

Methods

The inclusion criteria were (1) publications designed as Randomized Controlled Trial (RCT), with (2) participants being adults with pulmonary dysfunction caused by an internal disease or central nervous system disorder, (3) an intervention defined as RMT (either IMT or EMT) and (4) with the assessment of exercise capacity, respiratory function and quality of life. For the methodological quality assessment of risk of bias, likewise statistical analysis and meta-analysis the RevMan version 5.3 software and the Cochrane Risk of Bias Tool were used. Two authors independently analysed the following databases for relevant research articles: PubMed, Scopus, Cochrane Library, Web of Science, and Embase.

Results

From a total of 2200 records, the systematic review includes 29 RCT with an overall sample size of 1155 patients. Results suggest that patients with internal and central nervous system disorders who underwent RMT had better quality of life and improved significantly their performance in exercise capacity and in respiratory function assessed with FVC and MIP when compared to control conditions (i.e. no intervention, sham training, placebo or conventional treatments).

Conclusion

Respiratory muscle training seems to be more effective than control conditions (i.e. no intervention, sham training, placebo or conventional treatment), in patients with pulmonary dysfunction due to internal and central nervous system disorders, for quality of life, exercise capacity and respiratory function assessed with MIP and FVC, but not with FEV1.
The Role of Legal System and Socioeconomic Aspects in the Environmental Quality Drive of the Global South
Authors: Alola Andrew Adewale , Dike Glory Chiyoru , Alola Uju Violet
Published: April 2022

The increasing environmental challenges associated with the Global South is potentially associated with the socioeconomic changes amid potential institutional deficiencies such as the weak or inefficient environmental regulation. Thus, this twenty-first century challenge has increasingly necessitated more climate action from the Global South as championed by the developed economies. On this note, examines the environmental aspects of law and order (LO) vis-à-vis legal system and socioeconomic (SE) indexes of the Political Risk Services for a panel of 80 selected Global South countries over the period 1984–2014. Additionally, by employing the economic growth vis-à-vis the Gross Domestic Product per capita (GDPC) as additional explanatory variable, the study employs the more recent experimental techniques of Mean Group Estimator (MG), the Augmented Mean Group Estimator (AMG) and the Common Correlated Effects Mean Group (CCEMG). Importantly, with the more efficient CCEMG, the study found that the strength of the legal system in the Global South (although not statistically significant) is a crucial factor to mitigated carbon emission in the panel countries. However, the study found that an improved socioeconomic condition and economic expansion is detrimental to the Global South’s environmental quality. Furthermore, the Granger causality result implied that each of LO, SE and GDPC exhibits a feedback relationship with carbon emissions. Hence, the study suggests the need for a stronger implementation of environmental regulations through a revitalized legal system and some concerted socioeconomic policies that address poverty and unemployment among other factors.
A Novel Group Paging Control Method for Massive MTC Accesses in LTE Networks
Authors: Wang Cong , Wei Chengqiang , Li Ning , Ma Wenfeng , Tian Hui
Published: April 2022

The fifth-generation (5G) systems have to deal with massive deployment of machine-type-communication (MTC) devices. System overload may occur during a random access procedure under a limited number of preamble resources and physical uplink shared channel resources especially when there exist massive MTC devices in a cell. In order to resolve the system overload (caused by the massive MTC deployment), the 3GPP proposed the adopted a group paging (GP)-based uplink access technique. But its performances dramatically decrease as the number of MTC devices increases. In this paper we propose a novel method, named ACB-based group paging overload control method (AGO). To reduce the number of simultaneous access MTC devices, AGO first scatters the MTC devices over a GP interval, and then automatically adjusts ACB parameters according to the load conditions. By doing so, AGO achieves high-channel access probability for MTC devices. Simulation results show that this method is superior to the GP and Pre-backoff mechanisms in terms of success and collision probability, average access latency and resource utilization rate.
The New Explanatory Objection Against the Fitting Attitude Account of Value
Authors: Orsi Francesco , Garcia Andrés G.
Published: April 2022

The explanatory objection against the fitting attitude account of value states that if the properties of attitudes explain fittingness facts, but do not always explain value facts, then value facts cannot be identical with or reduced to fittingness facts. One reply to this objection is to claim that the constitutive properties of attitudes also explain value facts, for they are enablers for the value possessed by an object (the “enabling maneuver”). In this paper we argue that the enabling maneuver exposes FA to a new explanatory objection, to the extent that the explanatory role played by the constitutive properties of attitudes in value facts is assumed to be different from the explanatory role they play in fittingness facts.
Learning about latent dynamic trading demand $$^*$$
Authors: Chen Xiao , Choi Jin Hyuk , Larsen Kasper , Seppi Duane J.
Published: April 2022

We present an equilibrium model of dynamic trading, learning, and pricing by strategic investors with trading targets and price impact. Since trading targets are private, investors filter the child order flow dynamically over time to estimate the latent underlying parent trading demand imbalance and to forecast its impact on subsequent price-pressure dynamics. We prove existence of an equilibrium and solve for equilibrium trading strategies and prices as the solution to a system of coupled ODEs. Trading strategies are combinations of trading towards investor targets, liquidity provision for other investors’ demands, and speculation based on learning about latent underlying trading-demand imbalances.
Exploring synergies between the 2030 Agenda for sustainable development and involuntary resettlement guidelines: the case of Mozambique’s natural gas project
Authors: Otsuki Kei , Steel Griet , Panquene Celio
Published: April 2022

This paper explores synergies between the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, comprised of 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) as its roadmap, and existing involuntary resettlement guidelines. On one hand, the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development views displacement as a humanitarian problem but fails to address the potential effects of SDG-induced processes of economic and physical displacement and involuntary resettlement. On the other, involuntary resettlement guidelines pay limited attention to the sustainable development of resettled people as well as to the society in which resettlement becomes embedded. This paper explores possibilities to establish synergies between the SDGs and involuntary resettlement by drawing on the case of Mozambique’s liquefied natural gas (LNG) project, which was showcased in the Government of Mozambique’s 2020 Voluntary National Review (VNR) of SDG progress. The paper will critically analyse how Mozambique as a ‘donor darling’ remains silent about displacement and resettlement processes induced by an LNG project that is used to show its commitment to multiple SDGs. The paper shows that there is a misalignment between how SDGs are used to evaluate a development project and how involuntary resettlement guidelines are applied to the same project. The paper argues that, to truly ‘leave no one behind’, the SDGs and involuntary resettlement guidelines need to be realigned by integrating SDG-induced displacement and resettlement into SDG10 on migration and inequality, into SDG16 on conflicts, and SDG17 on global partnerships.
Treatment options in obstructive sleep apnea
Authors: Gambino Francesco , Zammuto Marta Maria , Virzì Alessandro , Conti Giosafat , Bonsignore Maria Rosaria
Published: April 2022

Treatment of OSA with CPAP is currently the recommended treatment and has the greatest evidence of efficacy on AHI, symptoms and comorbidities. Symptomatic patients with moderate-severe OSA generally have good adherence to CPAP therapy, while those with mild OSA, female, young and generally paucisymptomatic, have lower CPAP adherence, especially in the medium and long term. The recent identification of different clinical and pathophysiological phenotypes of OSA has paved the way for alternative treatments to CPAP, leading to an increasingly personalized therapy. Weight loss and lifestyle modifications are highly recommended in all obese or overweight patients. Mandibular advancement devices (MAD), positional therapy (PT) and hypoglossal nerve stimulation (HSN) are recent and personalized alternative therapies on which there is promising and encouraging data but with still little strong scientific evidence. The purpose of this review is to compare the efficacy, adherence and costs of various therapeutic options for OSA patients in the light of recent evidence and to provide useful guidance for specialists.
Correlation Between Ultrasound-Measured Diameter and Blood Flow Velocity of the Internal Jugular Veins with the Preoperative Blood Volume in Elderly Patients
Authors: Wang Wei , Liu Qingqing , Lan Zhijian , Wen Xiaohong
Published: April 2022

The study aimed to explore the correlation of the diameter and blood flow velocity of the internal jugular vein with the preoperative blood volume in elderly patients and to providence for rapid evaluation of preoperative blood volume with ultrasound in elderly patients. Thirty patients over 65 years old were recruited in the study. Patient’s central venous pressure (CVP) was recorded before anesthesia. The maximum diameter (Dmax) and the minimum diameter (Dmin) of the left internal jugular vein were measured by M type ultrasound and the respiratory variation index (RVI), defined as (Dmax − Dmin) / Dmax × 100%, was calculated. The maximum blood flow velocity (BVmax) and the minimum blood flow velocity (BVmin) were measured by Doppler ultrasound, and the blood flow variation index (BVI), defined as (BVmax − BVmin) / BVmax × 100%, was calculated. Then, each of the patients was given with 5 ml/kg crystalloid solution, and the relevant data were measured again and compared to that before infusion. The correlation between each measurement index and CVP, and their efficiency in predicting CVP > 6 mmHg were statistically evaluated. No matter before or after infusion, Dmax, Dmin, BVmax, and BVmin were positively correlated with CVP (Correlation is significant at the 0.01 level (2-tailed)); and RVI was negatively correlated with CVP (Correlation is significant at the 0.01 level (2-tailed)); however, BVI is negatively correlated with the CVP with no statistically significant difference. Through the analysis of ROC curve, Dmax, Dmin, RVI, BVmax, and BVmin could be used to predict the CVP > 6 mmHg in these patients, and the best index was BVmax; BVI diagnosis was not effective. Ultrasonic measurements of internal jugular vein diameter, respiratory variability, and blood flow velocity were correlated with preoperative CVP in elderly patients, indicating that these indexes could potentially be used to evaluate the preoperative blood volume in elderly patients.
Provenance study of potential Oligocene reservoirs in Nile Delta and offshore Mediterranean
Authors: Nassar Mohamed , Elbarkooky Ahmed , Ahmed Ezzat , Obaidalla Nageh
Published: April 2022

This study aims to investigate the provenance of the Oligocene sandstones exposed at Gebel Qatrani Formation at the Fayum Province and analogues subsurface Oligocene sandstone intervals cored from 2.7 to 5.12 km at the Nile Delta. The analysis and quantification of heavy mineral assemblages revealed that the two sites maintain similar heavy mineral suites but with variable concentrations and different patterns. The provenance reliable heavy mineral indices indicate that the exposed Oligocene sandstones at Gebel Qatrani Formation are much more mature than those of the Oligocene sandstone intervals at the Nile Delta. The lower and the upper members of Qatrani Formation display heavy mineral contents indicating more maturation than the middle member which reflects an influx of less mature sandstone. The middle member may reflect a tectonic reconfiguration of the hinterland during its deposition. The reliable heavy mineral indicators of the Oligocene sandstones at the Nile delta maintain their higher values at different depths along the entire wells indicating a significant rejuvenation of the source area and hence sand supply from a source(s) that was not far distant. In contrast, Habbar-1 well sand samples (cored from 3.8 to 4.5 km) display the highest pyroxene values along with considerable contents of amphibole, mica, sillimanite, and kyanite indicating transport from a shorter distant source including a metamorphic one. Thirty seismic cross sections are interpreted and used to construct isopach maps which revealed the diagenetic effect of the heavy mineral suits with depth. That will subsequently affect the reserving characteristics of Oligocene sand intervals. Moreover, according to the estimated petrophysical parameters, the Oligocene intervals in Habbar-1 and Port Fouad Marine Deep-1 wells are very promising.
Science-Based Buddhist Practice: an Illustration Using Doctrinal Charts of Won Buddhism
Authors: Krägeloh Chris , Kim Eunjin , Jo Seong-Hun
Published: April 2022

The recognition of mindfulness-based interventions as an effective approach to address psychological distress and improve well-being has stimulated the development of a multitude of programs, each designed for specific applications. While many mindfulness-based interventions are focused on addressing particular psychological needs, so-called second-generation mindfulness-based interventions typically include overtly spiritual content but also remain secular in their delivery. More recently, explicitly religion-themed mindfulness programs have emerged that are yet to be evaluated scientifically, raising questions as to how this to occur in the most appropriate manner. Referring to doctrinal charts in Won Buddhism, we illustrate an example of how the distinction can be made transparent between content that can be subjected to scientific inquiry and content related to religious and personal beliefs. By delineating elements of belief from practice, areas can be identified that are open for scientific verification without causing offense. Program participants and other practitioners can then clearly identify the specific aspects for which there is widely accepted evidence for their effectiveness, which may then also be communicated as science-based Buddhist practices.
Drug-Coated Balloon Treatment for Delayed Recanalization of Symptomatic Intracranial Artery Occlusion
Authors: Zhao Wei , Chu Xi , Song Yun , Zhang Jinping , Sun Lili , Zheng Meimei , Yin Hao , Zhang Jun , Wang Wei , Meng Yao , Han Ju
Published: April 2022

Patients with medically refractory non-acute intracranial artery occlusion (ICAO) are difficult to treat. The optimal intervention for these patients is not known. We evaluated the feasibility and safety of drug-coated balloon (DCB) treatment for non-acute ICAO. Consecutive patients with symptomatic medically refractory atherosclerotic non-acute ICAO from January 2015 to July 2021 who underwent DCB treatment were retrospectively analyzed. The rates of stroke, transient ischemic attack, and death within 30 days and the follow-up results were evaluated. A total of 148 patients were enrolled in this study. The 30-day rate of stroke, transient ischemic attack, and death was 8.8%. During the 25.8 ± 15.8-month clinical follow-up period, the rate of outcome beyond 30 days was 4.7%. In the 66 patients with vessel imaging follow-up, 13.6% (9/66) had restenosis. The present study suggests that DCB dilatation is a feasible and effective alternative in carefully selected patients with symptomatic non-acute ICAO.
Determining the Impact of a Community-Based Intervention on Knowledge Gained and Attitudes Towards the HPV Vaccine in Virginia
Authors: Panagides Reanna , Voges Noelle , Oliver Janaye , Bridwell Debbie , Mitchell Emma
Published: April 2022

HPV vaccination series completion rates have increased steadily in the USA, yet specific areas continue to be burdened by HPV-related cancers, including rural areas of Virginia. The primary purpose of this study is to compare the impact of an community driven educational film about HPV on intention to vaccinate and knowledge gained in urban and rural areas of Virginia. From October 2016 to September 2019, the CDC-approved documentary “Someone You Love: The HPV Epidemic” was screened and followed by a Q&A session. Intention to vaccinate and knowledge gained after seeing the DVD intervention were measured through a pre-post-survey and analyzed data using chi-squared tests. The sample included males and females of all races and ages 18+ that identified as either student, parent/guardian, and/or healthcare provider from rural and urban geographical areas. Changes in knowledge about HPV were statistically significant in two out of seven questions (p < 0.05). Changes in attitude were statistically significant in every attitude-based question about HPV (p < 0.05). There were significant differences in knowledge gained and attitudes towards the HPV vaccine when comparing urban and rural locations as well. More research is needed to explore the efficacy of community-based interventions to increase uptake and series completion of HPV vaccination, particularly in rural areas most impacted by HPV-associated cancers.
Rhizobium rhizogenes infection in threatened Indian orchid Dendrobium ovatum mobilises ‘Moscatilin’ to enhance plant defensins
Authors: Pujari Ipsita , Babu Vidhu Sankar
Published: April 2022

The present study illustrates the transformation ability of two wild-type bacterial strains of Rhizobium rhizogenes (MTCC 532 and MTCC 2364) on the embryogenic callus and callus-derived plantlets of a threatened Indian orchid, Dendrobium ovatum. Co-culture of the bacterium with the explants gave marginal hairy root phenotype that failed to multiply in the culture medium. Some primary and secondary metabolites were subdued in infected explants. Moscatilin, the stilbenoid active principle in D. ovatum, was found below the detection limit. The presence of two metabolites viz., Laudanosine, a benzyltetrahydroisoquinoline alkaloid and Lyciumin B, a cyclic peptide, were detected exclusively in the infected explants. The subjugated amino acids and phenolics in the infected plantlets were routed to produce phytoanticipins, and phenanthrenes, strengthening the defence mechanism in infected tissues. This research implies that the plant's defence mechanism activation could have prevented the extensive hairy root formation in the explants, even though nodulations and phenotype transitions were witnessed. Moscatilin has a structural resemblance with Resveratrol, a phytoalexin that combats bacterial and fungal pathogens. The study favours the possibility of Moscatlin being a precursor for phenanthrene compounds, thereby serving as a ‘phytoanticipin’ during the infection phase.
Seroprevalence of SARS-CoV-2 in German secondary schools from October 2020 to July 2021: a longitudinal study
Authors: Kirsten Carolin , Kahre Elisabeth , Blankenburg Judith , Schumm Leonie , Haag Luise , Galow Lukas , Unrath Manja , Czyborra Paula , Schneider Josephine , Lück Christian , Dalpke Alexander H. , Berner Reinhard , Armann Jakob
Published: April 2022

Purpose

To quantify the number of SARS-CoV-2 infections in students and teachers in 14 Secondary schools in eastern Saxony, Germany. Seroprevalence of SARS-CoV-2 antibodies in study population. Number of undetected cases.

Methods

Serial seroprevalence study.

Results

The role of educational settings in the SARS-CoV-2 Pandemic is still controversial. Seroprevalence increases from 0.8 to 5.9% from October to December when schools remained open and to 12.2% in March/April during a strict lockdown with closed schools. The ratio of undetected to detected cases decreased from 0.76 to 0.44 during the study period.

Conclusion

During the second and third wave of the pandemic in Germany, students and teachers are not overrepresented in SARS-CoV-2 infections. The percentage of undetected cases is moderate and decreases over time. The risk of contracting SARS-CoV-2 within the household is higher than contracting it in educational settings making school closures rather ineffective in terms of pandemic control measures or individual risk reduction in children and adolescents.

Trial registration

DRKS00022455 (July 23rd, 2020).
Mediation models of anxiety and depression between temperament and drive for thinness and body dissatisfaction in anorexia nervosa
Authors: Jérolon Allan , Perduca Vittorio , Delsedime Nadia , Abbate-Daga Giovanni , Marzola Enrica
Published: April 2022

Purpose

Anorexia nervosa (AN) is a life-threatening condition in which temperament, anxiety, depression, and core AN body-related psychopathology (drive for thinness, DT, and body dissatisfaction, BD) are intertwined. This relationship has not been to date disentangled; therefore, we performed a multiple mediation analysis aiming to quantify the effect of each component.

Methods

An innovative multiple mediation statistical method has been applied to data from 184 inpatients with AN completing: Temperament Evaluation of Memphis, Pisa, Paris, and San Diego Autoquestionnaire, Eating Disorders Inventory-2, State-Trait Anxiety Inventory, and Beck Depression Inventory.

Results

All affective temperaments but the hyperthymic one were involved in the relationship with DT and BD. Only the anxious temperament had a significant unmediated direct effect on DT after the strictest correction for multiple comparisons, while the depressive temperament had a significant direct effect on DT at a less strict significance level. State anxiety was the strongest mediator of the link between affective temperament and core AN body-related psychopathology. Depression showed intermediate results while trait anxiety was not a significant mediator at all.

Conclusion

Affective temperaments had a relevant impact on body-related core components of AN; however, a clear direct effect could be identified only for the anxious and depressive temperaments. Also, state anxiety was the strongest mediator thus entailing interesting implications in clinical practice.

Level of evidence

V, cross-sectional study.
Study on the mechanism of rapid formation of ultra-thick tribofilm by CeO2 nano additive and ZDDP
Authors: Lei Xue , Zhang Yujuan , Zhang Shengmao , Yang Guangbin , Zhang Chunli , Zhang Pingyu
Published: April 2022

CeO2 nanoparticles are potential anti-wear additives because of their outstanding anti-wear and load-bearing capacity. However, the shear-sintering tribo-film formation mechanism of oxide nanoparticles limits the tribo-film formation rate and thickness greatly. In this study, by compounding with zinc dioctyl dithiophosphate (ZDDP), ultra-fine CeO2 nanoparticles modified with oleylamine (OM) can quickly form 2 µm ultra-thick tribo-film, which is 10–15 times thicker than that of ZDDP and CeO2, respectively. The ultra-thick tribo-film presents a nanocomposite structure with amorphous phosphate as binder and nano-CeO2 as filling phase, which leads to the highest loading capacity of composite additives. The results of adsorption experiments tested by dissipative quartz crystal microbalance (QCM-D) showed that the PB value of additive has nothing to do with its equilibrium adsorption mass, but is directly proportional to its adsorption rate in 10 s. The compound additive of CeO2 and ZDDP presented the co-deposition mode of ZDDP monolayer rigid adsorption and CeO2 viscoelastic adsorption on the metal surface, which showed the highest adsorption rate in 10 s. It is found that the tribo-film must have high film forming rate and wear resistance at the same time in order to achieve super thickness. Cerium phosphate was formed from ZDDP and CeO2 through tribochemistry reaction, which promotes the formation of an ultra-thick tribo-film with nanocomposite structure, which not only maintains the low friction characteristics of CeO2, but also realizes high PB and high load-carrying capacity.
The dopaminergic control of Cushing’s syndrome
Authors: Pivonello R. , Pivonello C. , Simeoli C. , De Martino M. C. , Colao A.
Published: April 2022

Cushing’s Syndrome (CS), or chronic endogenous hypercortisolism, is a rare and serious disease due to corticotroph pituitary (Cushing’s disease, CD) and extra-pituitary (ectopic CS) tumours overproducing ACTH, or cortisol-secreting adrenal tumours or lesions (adrenal CS). The first-line treatment for CS is represented by the surgical removal of the responsible tumour, but surgery might be unfeasible or ineffective and medical treatment can be required in a relevant percentage of patients with CS, especially CD and ectopic CS. Corticotroph pituitary and extra-pituitary tumours, as well as adrenal tumours and lesions responsible for CS express dopamine receptors (DRs), which have been found to mediate inhibition of hormone secretion and/or cell proliferation in experimental setting, suggesting that dopaminergic system, particularly DRs, might represent a target for the treatment of CS. Dopamine agonists (DAs), particularly cabergoline (CAB), are currently used as off-label treatment for CD, the most common form of CS, demonstrating efficacy in controlling hormone secretion and tumour growth in a relevant number of cases, with the improvement of clinical picture, and displaying good safety profile. Therefore, CAB may be considered a reasonable alternative treatment for persistent or recurrent CD after pituitary surgery failure, but occasionally also before pituitary surgery, as adjuvant treatment, or even instead of pituitary surgery as first-line treatment in case of surgery contraindications or refusal. A certain beneficial effect of CAB has been also reported in ectopic CS. However, the role of DAs in the clinical management of the different types of CS requires further evaluations.