bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Artificial Intelligence Is Reshaping Healthcare amid COVID-19: A Review in the Context of Diagnosis & Prognosis
Authors: Saha Rajnandini , Aich Satyabrata , Tripathy Sushanta , Kim Hee-Cheol
Published: September 2021

Preventing respiratory failure is crucial in a large proportion of COVID-19 patients infected with SARS-CoV-2 virus pneumonia termed as Novel Coronavirus Pneumonia (NCP). Rapid diagnosis and detection of high-risk patients for effective interventions have been shown to be troublesome. Using a large, computed tomography (CT) database, we developed an artificial intelligence (AI) parameter to diagnose NCP and distinguish it from other kinds of pneumonia and traditional controls. The literature was studied and analyzed from diverse assets which include Scopus, Nature medicine, IEEE, Google scholar, Wiley Library, and PubMed. The search terms used were ‘COVID-19’, ‘AI’, ‘diagnosis’, and ‘prognosis’. To strengthen the overall performance of AI in COVID-19 diagnosis and prognosis, we segregated several components to perceive threats and opportunities, as well as their inter-dependencies that affect the healthcare sector. This paper seeks to pick out the crucial fulfillment of factors for AI with inside the healthcare sector in the Indian context. Using critical literature review and experts’ opinion, a total of 11 factors affecting COVID-19 diagnosis and prognosis were detected, and we eventually used an interpretive structural model (ISM) to build a framework of interrelationships among the identified factors. Finally, the matrice d’impacts croisés multiplication appliquée á un classment (MICMAC) analysis resulted the driving and dependence powers of these identified factors. Our analysis will help healthcare stakeholders to realize the requirements for successful implementation of AI.
How to Promote the Performance of Parametric Volatility Forecasts in the Stock Market? A Neural Networks Approach
Authors: Su Jung-Bin
Published: September 2021

This study uses the fourteen stock indices as the sample and then utilizes eight parametric volatility forecasting models and eight composed volatility forecasting models to explore whether the neural network approach and the settings of leverage effect and non-normal return distribution can promote the performance of volatility forecasting, and which one of the sixteen models possesses the best volatility forecasting performance. The eight parametric volatility forecasts models are composed of the generalized autoregressive conditional heteroskedasticity (GARCH) or GJR-GARCH volatility specification combining with the normal, Student’s t, skewed Student’s t, and generalized skewed Student’s t distributions. Empirical results show that, the performance for the composed volatility forecasting approach is significantly superior to that for the parametric volatility forecasting approach. Furthermore, the GJR-GARCH volatility specification has better performance than the GARCH one. In addition, the non-normal distribution does not have better forecasting performance than the normal distribution. In addition, the GJR-GARCH model combined with both the normal distribution and a neural network approach has the best performance of volatility forecasting among sixteen models. Thus, a neural network approach significantly promotes the performance of volatility forecasting. On the other hand, the setting of leverage effect can encourage the performance of volatility forecasting whereas the setting of non-normal distribution cannot.
On α-Limit Sets in Lorenz Maps
Authors: Cholewa Łukasz , Oprocha Piotr
Published: September 2021

The aim of this paper is to show that α-limit sets in Lorenz maps do not have to be completely invariant. This highlights unexpected dynamical behavior in these maps, showing gaps existing in the literature. Similar result is obtained for unimodal maps on [0,1]. On the basis of provided examples, we also present how the performed study on the structure of α-limit sets is closely connected with the calculation of the topological entropy.
Energy Savings Analysis in Logistics of a Wind Farm Repowering Process: A Case Study
Authors: Jezierski Andrzej , Mańkowski Cezary , Śpiewak Rafał
Published: September 2021

The process of wind farm operation requires proper logistics services, consisting of the supply of all resources necessary in this process. A critical moment in the operation of wind farms is the implementation of the repowering process, in the form of replacement of the basic elements of wind farms: blades, hub rotors, nacelles or even towers. The replacement of these basic elements of the wind farm relates to the necessity to provide logistics services for heavy and oversized deliveries. Therefore, this article presents a unique analysis of logistics processes related to wind farms. Therefore, the aim of the article is to identify the most energy-saving variant of logistics service of the wind farm repowering process. However, the criterion of selecting the optimal variant is based on the original methodology of energy consumed during logistics services, as opposed to the traditionally used cost-effectiveness criterion. The SolidWorks software with other methods and tools were used for this purpose. As a result of the conducted research, it was found that the differences in individual variants of logistics service implementation may range from 4.7% to even 19.4% in terms of energy savings. Due to the increasingly common need to implement the process of repowering wind farms, the presented original methodology for the analysis and selection of the delivery variant with lowest energy consumption fills the literature gap and formulates a model of business practice, thus constituting both theoretical and practical value.
Evolution of Fundamental Price Determination within Electricity Market Simulations
Authors: Wyrwoll Lothar , Nobis Moritz , Raths Stephan , Moser Albert
Published: September 2021

Electricity prices are the key instrument for coordinating electricity markets. For long-term market analyses, price determination based on fundamental unit commitment simulations is required. Within the European wholesale market, electricity prices result from a market clearing, which finds a welfare-optimal price–quantity tuple considering a coupling of multiple market areas with limited transmission capacity. With increasing exchange capacities in Europe, the precise modeling of the market coupling is required. Many market simulation models use multi-stage approaches with a separation of market coupling and price determination. In this paper, we analyze a new single-stage approach that combines both steps and theoretically and empirically demonstrate its precision by a backtest. For this purpose, we compare a simulated versus a historical electricity price distribution. Moreover, we explain the necessary adjustments for future regulatory developments of the European electricity market regarding flow-based market coupling and propose a concept for the application of future regulatory developments. We demonstrate further developments using a future scenario.
Driving Factors and Future Prediction of Carbon Emissions in the ‘Belt and Road Initiative’ Countries
Authors: Sun Lili , Cui Huijuan , Ge Quansheng
Published: September 2021

‘Belt and Road Initiative’ (B&R) countries play critical roles in mitigating global carbon emission under the Paris agreement, but their driving factors and feasibility to reduce carbon emissions remain unclear. This paper aims to identify the main driving factors (MDFs) behind carbon emissions and predict the future emissions trajectories of the B&R countries under different social-economic pathways based on the extended STIRPAT (stochastic impacts by regression on population, affluence, and technology) model. The empirical results indicate that GDP per capita and energy consumption structure are the MDFs that promote carbon emission, while energy intensity improvement is the MDF that inhibits carbon emission. Population, as another MDF, has a dual impact across countries. The carbon emissions in all B&R countries are predicted to increase from SSP1 to SSP3, but emissions trajectories vary across countries. Under the SSP1 scenario, carbon emissions in over 60% of B&R countries can peak or decline, and the aggregated peak emissions will amount to 21.97 Gt in 2030. Under the SSP2 scenario, about half of the countries can peak or decline, while their peak emissions and peak time are both higher and later than SSP1, the highest emission of 25.35 Gt is observed in 2050. Conversely, over 65% of B&R countries are incapable of either peaking or declining under the SSP3 scenario, with the highest aggregated emission of 33.10 Gt in 2050. It is further suggested that decline of carbon emission occurs when the inhibiting effects of energy intensity exceed the positive impacts of other MDFs in most B&R countries.
Decomposition of Industrial Electricity Efficiency and Electricity-Saving Potential of Special Economic Zones in China Considering the Heterogeneity of Administrative Hierarchy and Regional Location
Authors: You Jianmin , Chen Xiqiang , Chen Jindao
Published: September 2021

Special Economic Zones (SEZs), an important engine of industrial economic development in China, consume large amounts of energy resources and emit considerable CO2. However, existing research pays little attention to industrial energy usage in SEZs and ignores the heterogeneity of administrative hierarchy and regional location. Considering the dual heterogeneity, this study proposes an improved two-dimension and two-level meta-frontier data envelopment analytical model to decompose the industrial electricity efficiency (IEE) and electricity-saving potential of SEZs in Guizhou Province, China, based on 4-year field survey data (2016–2019). Results show that the IEE rankings of three administrative hierarchies within SEZs are provincial administration SEZs, county administration SEZs, and municipality administration SEZs. The SEZs located in energy resource-rich areas and better ecological environmental areas have higher IEE than those in resource-poor areas and ecology fragile areas, respectively. This study can provide reference for policymakers to formulate effective policies for improving the electricity use efficiency of SEZs in China.
Analysis of Expected Skin Burns from Accepted Process Flare Heat Radiation Levels to Public Passersby
Authors: Log Torgrim
Published: September 2021

Hot flaring, even from quite high flare stacks, may result in significant heat radiation outside a facility to, e.g., public roads where random passersby may be exposed. The present study suggests a novel method for analyzing a typical flare heat radiation exposure and investigates skin burns that may be inflicted on an exposed person if a facility needs to depressurize in an emergency situation. A typical radiation field from an ignited natural gas vent was taken as the boundary condition, and these values were compared to radiation levels mentioned by the American Petroleum Institute (API 521), e.g., 1.58 kW/m2 and above. Due to facility perimeter fences along roads in larger industry areas, it was assumed that an exposed person may flee along a road rather than in the ideal direction away from the flare. It was assumed that naked skin, e.g., a bare shoulder or a bald head is exposed. The Pennes bioheat equation was numerically solved for the skin layers while the person escapes along the road. Sun radiation and convective heat exchange to the ambient air were included, and the subsequent skin injury was calculated based on the temperature development in the basal layer. Parameters affecting burn severity, such as heat radiation, solar radiation, and convective heat transfer coefficient, were analyzed. For small flares and ignited small cold vents, no skin burn would be expected for 1.58 kW/m2 or 3.16 kW/m2 maximum heat radiation at the skin surface. However, higher flare rates corresponding to, e.g., 4.0 kW/m2 maximum flare heat radiation to the skin, resulted both in higher basal layer temperatures and longer exposure time, thus increasing the damage integral significantly. It is demonstrated that the novel approach works well. In future studies, it may, e.g., be extended to cover escape through partly shielded escape routes.
Aging Behavior of Lithium Titanate Battery under High-Rate Discharging Cycle
Authors: Wang Chu , Liu Zehui , Sun Yaohong , Gao Yinghui , Yan Ping
Published: September 2021

The high-rate discharging performance of a lithium titanate battery is one of its main properties. In conditions that require ultra-high-rate discharging, a lithium titanate battery can be discharged continuously at a current of 50 C (50 times of its maximum capacity) or higher. In this paper, we take cylindrical steel shell lithium titanate cells as the research object and perform aging cycles at 66 C on these cells. The ultra-high-rate discharging cycles cause a rapid high-power capacity fading while the available capacity at normal current rate is not affected. The capacity at 66 C decreases to 80% of initial value in 10 cycles. This paper also analyzes the aging process of a lithium titanate battery at high-rate discharging with incremental capacity (IC) analysis, and presents the aging behavior of lithium titanate battery qualitatively, which is inconsistent with existing research. We attribute the aging mechanism of ultra-high-rate discharging cycles to the decrease of ionic mobility and increase of polarization resistance. Mechanical damage is observed in the CT scan of an aged cell, which we presume to be the result of rapid strain of cathode material.
Analysis of Forest Stand Resistance to Insect Attack According to Remote Sensing Data
Authors: Kovalev Anton , Soukhovolsky Vladislav
Published: September 2021

Methods for analyzing the resistance of large woodlands (such as Siberian taiga forests) to insect attacks based on remote sensing data are proposed. As an indicator of woodland’s resistance, we suggest a function of normalized difference vegetative index (NDVI) susceptibility to changes in the land surface temperature (LST). Both NDVI and LST are obtained via the TERRA/AQUA satellite system. This indicator function was calculated as the spectral transfer function of the response in the integral equation connecting the changes in NDVI and LST. The analysis was carried out for two test sites, both of which are fir stands of the Krasnoyarsk region taiga zone. In the first case, the fir stands have suffered damage inflicted by Siberian silk moth caterpillars, Dendrolimus sibiricus Tschetv. since 2015. Adjacent intact fir forest areas were also analyzed. In the second case, the object of the study was a fir tree site damaged by Black Fir Sawyer Monochamus urussovii Fischer in 2013. It is demonstrated that the above-mentioned indicator function changed significantly 2–3 years prior to the pest population outbreaks, and therefore this indicator function can be used to assess the risk of pest population outbreak. Thereby, the proposed indicator compares favorably with vegetation cover estimates using NDVI, which register significant defoliation of tree stands and cannot be used for forecasting.
Responses of Forest Ecosystems to Nitrogen Deposition
Authors: Gilliam Frank S.
Published: September 2021

Environmental legislation in countries around the world has led to notable recent declines in the atmospheric deposition of nitrogen (N), although most decreases relate to oxidized N, with reduced N increasing in many areas [...]
Talking with Strangers: Improving Serianthes Transplant Quality with Interspecific Companions
Authors: Marler Thomas E. , Callaway Ragan M.
Published: September 2021

Mixtures of species in natural or agricultural systems can increase the performance of individuals or groups relative to monocultures, often through facilitative mechanisms. Mechanisms include root communication by which plants can interrogate the identity of adjacent plants and respond negatively or positively. Alternatively, mixtures of species can ameliorate the harmful effects of soil biota that are pronounced in monocultures, thereby improving plant productivity. Limited investments into roots by shade-grown Serianthes plants in nurseries have been correlated with reduced survival after transplantation to forested habitats. We used companion container cultures in two studies to determine if heterospecific neighbor, or “stranger” roots could experimentally increase the root growth of Serianthes grandiflora plants used as surrogates for the critically endangered Serianthes nelsonii. In one study, native sympatric eudicot and pteridophyte companions increased relative root growth and conspecific companions decreased root growth in comparison to control plants that were grown with no companions. In a second study, the phylogeny of companion plants elicited different root growth responses following the order of congeneric < eudicot = monocot < gymnosperm < pteridophyte. We propose the use of stranger roots that are experimentally maintained in production containers as a passive protocol to improve relative and absolute root growth, leading to improved post-transplant growth and survival of container-grown Serianthes plants.
Cross-Cultural Adaptation and Validation of a French Version of the Genetic Counseling Satisfaction Scale (GCSS) as an Outcome Measure of Genetic Counseling for Hereditary Breast and Ovarian Cancer
Authors: Villafane-Bernier Célia , Lapointe Julie , Raîche Camille , Lauzier Sophie , Chiquette Jocelyne , Bouchard Karine , Pelletier Sylvie , Omeranovic Arian , Rhéaume Josée , Brousseau Claire , Hébert Johanne , Dorval Michel , Nabi Hermann
Published: September 2021

(1) Background: The Genetic Counseling Satisfaction Scale (GCSS) is a widely used tool to evaluate patient satisfaction. To our knowledge, a validated French-language version of this tool is not yet available. This article reports on the cross-cultural adaptation and validation of a French version of the Genetic Counseling Satisfaction Scale (GCSS) to evaluate genetic counseling services for patient consultation in hereditary breast and ovarian cancer (HBOC). (2) Methods: The scale was culturally adapted following guidelines from Beaton et al. (2000). Cognitive interviews were conducted to ensure items were understood according to the intended meaning. The internal consistency, floor and ceiling effects, and testing of group differences were assessed using a sample of 172 patients who attended a pretest group genetic counseling session. (3) Results: Participants understood all items according to the intended meaning. The internal consistency was high for the total scale (0.90) and for the corrected item-to-total correlations (varying between 0.62 and 0.78). No floor or ceiling effects were observed. Group difference analyses generally followed expectations. (4) Conclusion: This process generated a French version of the GCSS that is clearly understood by patients, and has psychometric properties adequately in line those reported for its original English version.
Advances and Challenges in RNA Interference Technology for Citrus Huanglongbing Vector Control
Authors: Marques Viviani Vieira , Angelotti-Mendonça Jéssika , Roberto Sergio Ruffo
Published: September 2021

Citrus species, including sweet oranges, grapefruits, pomelos, and lemons, are the most widely cultivated trees and consumed fruits worldwide. In citrus orchard management, the control of Huanglongbing (HLB) disease and its insect vector Diaphorina citri (Asian citrus psyllid, ACP) represents a major global challenge. Consumers have been increasingly pushing the citrus production chain toward a more sustainable system, including stringent measures to prevent the use of chemical pesticides. In recent years, biotechnological advances have offered safe and environmentally friendly alternatives for crop production. Technologies such as RNA interference (RNAi)-mediated gene silencing have emerged as innovative tools for agricultural pest management. Here, we provide an overview of RNAi as a promising approach for ACP control and discuss the associated challenges. Despite the availability of specific silencing sequences aimed at a target gene of the insect pest, the uptake of double-stranded RNA is limited in hemipteran insects. In this context, improved delivery methods, stability maintenance, and RNAi response are considered the factors contributing to the increased effectiveness of exogenous RNAi against hemipteran pests. These approaches can serve as potential tools for efficient ACP control.
Research Advances in Allelopathy of Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs) of Plants
Authors: Xie Yiqi , Tian Libo , Han Xu , Yang Yan
Published: September 2021

Allelopathy is an ecological phenomenon in which organisms interfere with each other. As a management strategy in agricultural systems, allelopathy can be mainly used to control weeds, resist pests, and disease and improve the interaction of soil nutrition and microorganisms. Volatile organic compounds (VOCs) are allelochemicals volatilized from plants and have been widely demonstrated to have different ecological functions. This review provides the recent advance in the allelopathic effects of VOCs on plants, such as growth, competition, dormancy, resistance of diseases and insect pests, content of reactive oxygen species (ROS), enzyme activity, respiration, and photosynthesis. VOCs also participate in plant-to-plant communication as a signaling substance. The main methods of collection and identification of VOCs are briefly summarized in this article. It also points out the disadvantages of VOCs and suggests potential directions to enhance research and solve mysteries in this emerging area. It is necessary to study the allelopathic mechanisms of plant VOCs so as to provide a theoretical basis for VOC applications. In conclusion, allelopathy of VOCs released by plants is a more economical, environmentally friendly, and effective measure to develop substantial agricultural industry by using the allelopathic effects of plant natural products.
School Parks as a Community Health Resource: Use of Joint-Use Parks by Children before and during COVID-19 Pandemic
Authors: Lanza Kevin , Durand Casey P. , Alcazar Melody , Ehlers Sierra , Zhang Kai , Kohl Harold W.
Published: September 2021

Parks are settings for physical activity that can support the physical and mental health of children during the COVID-19 pandemic. We determined the impact of the pandemic on the use of joint-use parks outside of school hours by children in Austin, TX, United States. In autumn of 2019 and autumn of 2020 (i.e., before and during the COVID-19 pandemic), we used an adapted version of the System for Observing Play and Recreation in Communities to observe whether children aged 1–12 participated in physical activity (i.e., sedentary, light and moderate, vigorous) at three parks located at schools serving mostly economically disadvantaged Latinx families. In 2020, we also observed whether children maintained social distance and wore face coverings. Results of negative binomial regression modeling revealed the pandemic was associated with a 46% [95% CI: 20–63%] and 62% [95% CI: 39–76%] decrease in the number of girls and boys at parks, respectively, and a 42% [95% CI: 16–59%] and 60% [95% CI: 36–75%] decrease in the number of girls and boys engaging in physical activity, respectively (p < 0.01). In total, 60.6% of girls and 73.6% of boys were not social distancing, and 91.8% of the time no children wore masks. Interventions should be considered to safely reintroduce children to parks for health benefits during pandemics.
Development and Implementation of an HPV Vaccination Survey for American Indians in Cherokee Nation
Authors: Gopalani Sameer Vali , Janitz Amanda E. , Burkhart Margie , Campbell Janis E. , Martinez Sydney A. , White Ashley H. , Chen Sixia , Anderson Amber S. , Pharr Stephanie F. , Patrick Scott , Comiford Ashley
Published: September 2021

Improving human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccination rates is a public health priority and a crucial cancer prevention goal. We designed a survey to estimate HPV vaccination coverage and understand factors associated with HPV vaccination among American Indian adolescents aged 9 to 17 years in Cherokee Nation, United States. The final survey contains 37 questions across 10 content areas, including HPV vaccination awareness, initiation, reasons, recommendations, and beliefs. This process paper provides an overview of the survey development. We focus on the collaborative process of a tribal–academic partnership and discuss methodological decisions regarding survey sampling, measures, testing, and administration.
Is It Really Home-Based? A Commentary on the Necessity for Accurate Definitions across Exercise and Physical Activity Programmes
Authors: Denton Francesca , Power Sofie , Waddell Alexander , Birkett Stefan , Duncan Michael , Harwood Amy , McGregor Gordon , Rowley Nikita , Broom David
Published: September 2021

Background: There is wide discrepancy in how published research defines and reports home-based exercise programmes. Studies consisting of fundamentally different designs have been labelled as home-based, making searching for relevant literature challenging and time consuming. This issue has been further highlighted by an increased demand for these programmes following the COVID-19 pandemic and associated government-imposed lockdowns. Purpose: To examine what specifically constitutes home-based exercise by: (1) developing definitions for a range of terms used when reporting exercise and physical activity programmes and (2) providing examples to contextualise these definitions for use when reporting exercise and physical activity programmes. Methods: A literature search was undertaken to identify previous attempts to define home-based exercise programmes. A working document, including initial definitions and examples were developed, which were then discussed between six experts for further refinement. Results: We generated definitions for universal key terms within three domains (and subdomains) of programme design: location (home-based, community/centre-based, or clinical setting), prescription (structured or unstructured) and delivery (supervised, facilitated, or unsupervised). Examples for possible combinations of design terms were produced. Conclusions: Definitions will provide consistency when using reporting tools and the intention is to discuss the issues presented as part of a Delphi study. This is of paramount importance due to the predicted increase in emerging research regarding home-based exercise.
COVID-19 Impact on Adolescent 24 h Movement Behaviors
Authors: Dubuc Marie-Maude , Berrigan Félix , Goudreault Marylène , Beaudoin Sylvie , Turcotte Sylvain
Published: September 2021

This study aimed to examine the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the 24 h movement behaviors of adolescents. This was conducted to capture their evolution from February to December 2020, as well as to explore the use of technology for physical activity purposes by adolescents as a strategy to increase their physical activity during the pandemic. Physical activity, recreational screen time, sleep duration, and sleep quality were self-reported by 2661 adolescents using an online questionnaire. Participants also indicated, in comparison with the previous winter (regular in-class learning), how their different movement behaviors changed during the following 2020 periods: (1) spring (school closures), (2) summer (school break), and (3) autumn (hybrid learning). Finally, information about the use of technology during physical activity was collected. Results show that the 24 h movement behaviors of the participants varied across the different periods, and these variations were consistent with the restrictive measures imposed by the government. It was also observed that the negative effects of the COVID-19 pandemic on sleep duration and quality peaked in autumn. Finally, participants’ physical activity levels were associated with the use of physical activity-related tools and applications. In conclusion, the restrictive measures due to the COVID-19 pandemic worsened the situation of the 24 h movement behaviors in adolescents, which has become critical.
Physiological and Psychological Responses to a Maximal Swimming Exercise Test in Adolescent Elite Athletes
Authors: Almási Gábor , Bosnyák Edit , Móra Ákos , Zsákai Annamária , Fehér Piroska V. , Annár Dorina , Nagy Nikoletta , Sziráki Zsófia , Kemper Han C. G. , Szmodis Márta
Published: September 2021

Background: Continuously rising performances in elite adolescent athletes requires increasing training loads. This training overload without professional monitoring, could lead to overtraining in these adolescents. Methods: 31 elite adolescent athletes (boys: n = 19, 16 yrs; girls: n = 12, 15 yrs) participated in a field-test which contained a unified warm-up and a 200 m maximal freestyle swimming test. Saliva samples for testosterone (T) in boys, estradiol (E) in girls and cortisol (C) in both genders were collected pre-, post- and 30 min post-exercise. Lactate levels were obtained pre- and post-exercise. Brunel Mood Scale, Perceived Stress Scale and psychosomatic symptoms questionnaires were filled out post-exercise. Results: Lactate levels differed between genders (boys: pre: 1.01 ± 0.26; post: 8.19 ± 3.24; girls: pre: 0.74 ± 0.23; post: 5.83 ± 2.48 mmol/L). C levels increased significantly in boys: pre- vs. post- (p = 0.009), pre- vs. 30 min post-exercise (p = 0.003). The T level (p = 0.0164) and T/C ratio (p = 0.0004) decreased after field test which draws attention to the possibility of overtraining. Maximal and resting heart rates did not differ between genders; however, heart rate recovery did (boys: 29.22 ± 7.4; girls: 40.58 ± 14.50 beats/min; p = 0.008). Conclusions: Our models can be used to explain the hormonal ratio changes (37.5–89.8%). Based on the results this method can induce hormonal response in elite adolescent athletes and can be used to notice irregularities with repeated measurements.
Sort and Sieve: Pre-Triage Screening of Patients with Suspected COVID-19 in the Emergency Department
Authors: Hensgens Kirsten R.C. , van Rensen Inge H.T. , Lekx Anita W. , van Osch Frits H.M. , Knarren Lieve H.H. , Wyers Caroline E. , van den Bergh Joop P. , Barten Dennis G.
Published: September 2021

Introduction. To reduce the risk of nosocomial transmission, suspected COVID-19 patients entering the Emergency Department (ED) were assigned to a high-risk (ED) or low-risk (acute medical unit, AMU) area based on symptoms, travel and contact history. The objective of this study was to evaluate the performance of our pre-triage screening method and to analyse the characteristics of initially undetected COVID-19 patients. Methods. This was a retrospective, observational, single centre study. Patients ≥ 18 years visiting the AMU-ED between 17 March and 17 April 2020 were included. Primary outcome was the (correct) number of COVID-19 patients assigned to the AMU or ED. Results. In total, 1287 patients visited the AMU-ED: 525 (40.8%) AMU, 762 (59.2%) ED. Within the ED group, 304 (64.3%) of 473 tested patients were COVID-19 positive, compared to 13 (46.4%) of 28 tested patients in the AMU group. Our pre-triage screening accuracy was 63.7%. Of the 13 COVID-19 patients who were initially assigned to the AMU, all patients were ≥65 years of age and the majority presented with gastro-intestinal or non-specific symptoms. Conclusion. Older COVID-19 patients presenting with non-specific symptoms were more likely to remain undetected. ED screening protocols should therefore also include non-specific symptoms, particularly in older patients.
The Influence of Media Exposure on Anxiety and Working Memory during Lockdown Period in Italy
Authors: Fabio Rosa Angela , Suriano Rossella
Published: September 2021

The rapid spread of the coronavirus pandemic has caused anxiety around the world. During lockdown, the media became a point of reference for people seeking information. However, little is known on the relationships between anxiety resulting from persistent media exposure to coronavirus-related programs and the effects produced on working memory. In this work, a total of 101 Italian citizens (53.7% female) aged between 18 and 45 years old, who were from 14 provinces in Italy, participated in an online survey. Participants were presented with media exposure and anxiety questionnaires and they were instructed to carry out working memory tasks (visual and auditory n-back). The results showed that media exposure is related to anxiety. It was also found that high levels of anxiety have a negative influence on the performance of both visual and auditory working memory tasks in terms of increased reaction times of responses and decreased accuracy. The results were critically discussed in the light of the Social Compensation Hypothesis.
Is Technological Progress Selective for Multiple Pollutant Emissions?
Authors: Liu Weijiang , Du Mingze
Published: September 2021

Current research on technological progress does not focus on whether there is a biased selection of technological progress based on the resulting pollutant emissions and the emission reduction effect. This paper measures green total factor productivity for 30 provinces in China from 2004–2018 and tests whether technological progress is selectively biased towards the pollutants emitted. The results find a selective bias of technological progress on pollutant emissions, and there is also heterogeneity in the selective bias across regions. The current level of technological progress is on the right side of the inverted U-shaped inflection point for SO2 and PM2.5 and the left side of the inverted U-shaped inflection point for CO2. The improvement of technological progress can reduce the emissions of SO2 and PM2.5. Still, the results indicate that the reduction effect of these two pollutants originates from the treatment process rather than reducing the source of the production side. The inability of technological advancement to reduce CO2 emissions suggests some carbon lock-in in China’s technological advancement. The Chinese government should increase the proportion of new energy applications and reduce the production methods of polluting industries to reduce pollutants effectively.
Alisporivir Treatment Alleviates Mitochondrial Dysfunction in the Skeletal Muscles of C57BL/6NCrl Mice with High-Fat Diet/Streptozotocin-Induced Diabetes Mellitus
Authors: Belosludtsev Konstantin , Starinets Vlada , Talanov Eugeny , Mikheeva Irina , Dubinin Mikhail , Belosludtseva Natalia
Published: September 2021

Diabetes mellitus is a systemic metabolic disorder associated with mitochondrial dysfunction, with mitochondrial permeability transition (MPT) pore opening being recognized as one of its pathogenic mechanisms. Alisporivir has been recently identified as a non-immunosuppressive analogue of the MPT pore blocker cyclosporin A and has broad therapeutic potential. The purpose of the present work was to study the effect of alisporivir (2.5 mg/kg/day i.p.) on the ultrastructure and functions of the skeletal muscle mitochondria of mice with diabetes mellitus induced by a high-fat diet combined with streptozotocin injections. The glucose tolerance tests indicated that alisporivir increased the rate of glucose utilization in diabetic mice. An electron microscopy analysis showed that alisporivir prevented diabetes-induced changes in the ultrastructure and content of the mitochondria in myocytes. In diabetes, the ADP-stimulated respiration, respiratory control, and ADP/O ratios and the level of ATP synthase in the mitochondria decreased, whereas alisporivir treatment restored these indicators. Alisporivir eliminated diabetes-induced increases in mitochondrial lipid peroxidation products. Diabetic mice showed decreased mRNA levels of Atp5f1a, Ant1, and Ppif and increased levels of Ant2 in the skeletal muscles. The skeletal muscle mitochondria of diabetic animals were sensitized to the MPT pore opening. Alisporivir normalized the expression level of Ant2 and mitochondrial susceptibility to the MPT pore opening. In parallel, the levels of Mfn2 and Drp1 also returned to control values, suggesting a normalization of mitochondrial dynamics. These findings suggest that the targeting of the MPT pore opening by alisporivir is a therapeutic approach to prevent the development of mitochondrial dysfunction and associated oxidative stress in the skeletal muscles in diabetes.
Comparison Study of Cytotoxicity of Bare and Functionalized Zinc Oxide Nanoparticles
Authors: Król-Górniak Anna , Rafińska Katarzyna , Monedeiro Fernanda , Pomastowski Paweł , Buszewski Bogusław
Published: September 2021

In this paper, a study of the cytotoxicity of bare and functionalized zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnO NPs) is presented. The functionalized ZnO NPs were obtained by various types of biological methods including microbiological (intra- and extracellular with Lactobacillus paracasei strain), phytochemical (Medicago sativa plant extract) and biochemical (ovalbumin from egg white protein) synthesis. As a control, the bare ZnO NPs gained by chemical synthesis (commercially available) were tested. The cytotoxicity was measured through the use of (3-(4,5-dimethyl-2-thiazolyl)-2,5-diphenyl-2H-tetrazolium bromide (MTT) dye as well as lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) assays against murine fibroblast L929 and Caco-2 cell lines. As a complementary method, scanning electron microscopy (SEM) was performed to assess the morphology of the tested cells after treatment with ZnO NPs. The microscopic data confirmed the occurrence of apoptotic blebbing and loss of membrane permeability after the administration of all ZnO NPs. The reactive oxygen species (ROS) concentration during the cell lines’ exposure to ZnO NPs was measured fluorometrically. Additionally, the photocatalytic degradation of methylene blue (MB) dye in the different light conditions, as well as the antioxidant activity of bare and functionalized ZnO NPs, is also reported. The addition of all types of tested ZnO NPs to methylene blue resulted in enhanced rates of photo-degradation in the presence of both types of irradiation, but the application of UV light resulted in higher photocatalytic activity of ZnO NPs. Furthermore, bare (chemically synthetized) NPs have been recognized as the strongest photocatalysts. In the context of the obtained results, a mechanism underlying the toxicity of bio-ZnO NPs, including (a) the generation of reactive oxygen species and (b) the induction of apoptosis, is proposed.
Molecular Network Approach Reveals Rictor as a Central Target of Cardiac ProtectomiRs
Authors: Makkos András , Ágg Bence , Varga Zoltán V. , Giricz Zoltán , Gyöngyösi Mariann , Lukovic Dominika , Schulz Rainer , Barteková Monika , Görbe Anikó , Ferdinandy Péter
Published: September 2021

Cardioprotective medications are still unmet clinical needs. We have previously identified several cardioprotective microRNAs (termed ProtectomiRs), the mRNA targets of which may reveal new drug targets for cardioprotection. Here we aimed to identify key molecular targets of ProtectomiRs and confirm their association with cardioprotection in a translational pig model of acute myocardial infarction (AMI). By using a network theoretical approach, we identified 882 potential target genes of 18 previously identified protectomiRs. The Rictor gene was the most central and it was ranked first in the protectomiR-target mRNA molecular network with the highest node degree of 5. Therefore, Rictor and its targeting microRNAs were further validated in heart samples obtained from a translational pig model of AMI and cardioprotection induced by pre- or postconditioning. Three out of five Rictor-targeting pig homologue of rat ProtectomiRs showed significant upregulation in postconditioned but not in preconditioned pig hearts. Rictor was downregulated at the mRNA and protein level in ischemic postconditioning but not in ischemic preconditioning. This is the first demonstration that Rictor is the central molecular target of ProtectomiRs and that decreased Rictor expression may regulate ischemic postconditioning-, but not preconditioning-induced acute cardioprotection. We conclude that Rictor is a potential novel drug target for acute cardioprotection.
Fibrin Network Formation and Lysis in Septic Shock Patients
Authors: Larsen Julie Brogaard , Aggerbeck Mathies Appel , Larsen Kim Michael , Hvas Christine Lodberg , Hvas Anne-Mette
Published: September 2021

Background: Septic shock patients are prone to altered fibrinolysis, which contributes to microthrombus formation, organ failure and mortality. However, characterisation of the individual patient’s fibrinolytic capacity remains a challenge due to a lack of global fibrinolysis biomarkers. We aimed to assess fibrinolysis in septic shock patients using a plasma-based fibrin clot formation and lysis (clot–lysis) assay and investigate the association between clot–lysis parameters and other haemostatic markers, organ dysfunction and mortality. Methods: This was a prospective cohort study including adult septic shock patients (n = 34). Clot–lysis was assessed using our plasma-based in-house assay. Platelet count, activated partial thromboplastin time (aPTT), international normalised ratio (INR), fibrinogen, fibrin D-dimer, antithrombin, thrombin generation, circulating fibrinolysis markers and organ dysfunction markers were analysed. Disseminated intravascular coagulation score, Sequential Organ Failure Assessment (SOFA) score and 30-day mortality were registered. Results: Three distinct clot–lysis profiles emerged in the patients: (1) severely decreased fibrin formation (flat clot–lysis curve), (2) normal fibrin formation and lysis and (3) pronounced lysis resistance. Patients with abnormal curves had lower platelet counts (p = 0.05), more prolonged aPTT (p = 0.04), higher lactate (p < 0.01) and a tendency towards higher SOFA scores (p = 0.09) than patients with normal clot–lysis curves. Fibrinogen and fibrin D-dimer were not associated with clot–lysis profile (p ≥ 0.37). Conclusion: Septic shock patients showed distinct and abnormal clot–lysis profiles that were associated with markers of coagulation and organ dysfunction. Our results provide important new insights into sepsis-related fibrinolysis disturbances and support the importance of assessing fibrinolytic capacity in septic shock.
Preventing Return Fraud in Reverse Logistics—A Case Study of ESPRES Solution by Ethereum
Authors: Shih Dong-Her , Huang Feng-Chuan , Chieh Chia-Yi , Shih Ming-Hung , Wu Ting-Wei
Published: September 2021

With the rapid development of e-commerce services, online retail has evolved from multi-channel to omni-channel in order to provide customers with more services. However, reverse logistics services (returns and exchanges) have become the target of many fraudulent activities, causing a lot of economic losses for many online retail companies. The current challenge of the traditional countermeasure is it requires a lot of manpower and training resources. In this study, we propose ESPRES, a system that adopts blockchain technology to prevent fraudulent behavior in the process of returns and exchanges with the smart contract and multi-attribute decision-support method to help consumers choose a suitable payment program. A practical implication of this study is that by adopting blockchain technology, a great amount of manpower used on determining whether each return or exchange is fraudulent can be reduced since merchants can check the product ownership. In addition, due to the fact that the footprint of goods cannot be forged, it can also prevent counterfeit or parallel imports of goods.
Trends in the Prevalence of Overweight and Obesity and Associated Socioeconomic and Household Environmental Factors among Women in Nepal: Findings from the Nepal Demographic and Health Surveys
Authors: Rana Kritika , Ghimire Puspa , Chimoriya Romila , Chimoriya Ritesh
Published: September 2021

This study aimed to examine the trends in the prevalence of overweight and obesity and to determine the associated socioeconomic and household environmental factors among women in Nepal. Using nationally representative data from the 1996, 2001, 2006, 2011, and 2016 cross-sectional Nepal Demographic and Health Surveys (NDHSs) (n = 33,507), the prevalence of overweight–obesity (body mass index (BMI) ≥ 25 kg/m2) and obesity (BMI ≥ 30 kg/m2) among women aged 15–49 years were examined. From the latest NDHS 2016, non-pregnant women with recorded anthropometric measurements (n = 6165) were included in the final analyses. Multivariate logistic regression models were used to determine the socioeconomic and household environmental factors associated with BMI ≥ 25 and BMI ≥ 30. Between 1996 and 2016, the prevalence of overweight–obesity increased from 1.8% to 19.7%, while the prevalence of obesity increased from 0.2% to 4.1%. Age, marital status, wealth index, province of residence, type of cooking fuel, and household possessions—refrigerator and bicycle were significantly associated with having overweight–obesity and obesity. Similarly, educational status, religion, type of toilet facility, and household possessions—television and mobile phone were significantly associated with having overweight–obesity. Given the alarming increase in the prevalence of overweight and obesity among Nepalese women, there is an urgent need for interventions addressing these critical socioeconomic and household environmental factors.
Use of laser technologies in surgical treatment of benign prostate hyperplasia
Authors: Volodin Mark Albertovich , Bolgov Evgeny Nikolaevich , Kuzmina Maya A. , Vasina Darya Dmitrievna
Published: September 2021

The use of laser technology in the surgical treatment of patients with benign prostatic hyperplasia has recently become widespread and introduced into practice. This area of surgery uses a large range of laser modifications and methods of their application when performing surgical interventions on the prostate. The article discusses laser devices for minimally invasive operations on patients with benign prostatic hyperplasia in comparison with traditional methods of BPH surgical treatment. The advantages of using laser technologies include the reduction of the time of surgical intervention, the decrease in the number of traumatic complications and bleeding, the absence of the damaging effect of the shock wave, the possibility of using it with surgical instruments of the minimum diameter, and the possibility of using it with flexible surgical instruments.
Minimally invasive surgery for benign prostatic hyperplasia: causes, forms, and prevention of urinary disorders (literature review)
Authors: Volodin Mark Albertovich , Malykhina Anastasiya Sergeevna , Semenychev Dmitriy Vladimirovich , Bolgov Evgeniy Nikolaevich , Perchatkin Vladimir Aleksandrovich
Published: September 2021

Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) ranks 4th among all diagnoses in the group of men 50 years of age and older. With an increase in prostate volume of more than 20 cm³, patients develop lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS), which negatively affect the quality of life of men. Currently, minimally invasive endovideosurgical methods of treating BPH have proven themselves successfully: transurethral resection (TUR) of monopolar or bipolar type, transurethral bipolar enucleation of the prostate (TUEP), holmium laser enucleation of the prostate (HoLEP). However, despite the clinical efficiency of endoscopic operations, the incidence of postoperative complications remains quite significant. After surgical intervention, the main causes of urinary disorders are detrusor overactivity or a decrease in its functional activity, as well as bladder obstruction. Prolonged bladder catheterization in the postoperative period prevents early recovery of independent urination, which is a risk factor for the development of urinary disorders. Stress urinary incontinence has a significant impact on patients, both physically and mentally. For the treatment of postoperative stress urinary incontinence, behavioral therapy, drug treatment of disorders, minimally invasive methods of treatment are used: injections of hyaluronic acid into the submucous layer of the urethra, botulinum toxin into the detrusor, as well as the technique of sacral neuromodulation. Surgical methods include the implantation of a synthetic sphincter or the installation of male sling.